As schools across the UK prepare for the summer term and holiday closures, many are recognising the critical importance of investing in playground infrastructure that can withstand intensive use and harsh weather. Rhino Play has seen a significant surge in enquiries from schools planning summer installations, driven by a growing trend towards durable, low-maintenance recycled plastic equipment over traditional timber solutions.
Two recent projects demonstrate why schools are making the sustainable switch ahead of the busier summer months.

Pencoys Primary School, Redruth, Cornwall
Pencoys Primary School replaced its deteriorating timber trim trail with a complete recycled plastic installation in December 2025. The school's old wooden trail had been falling apart for years, leaving large sections of the playground closed off and pupils without access to essential physical activity spaces.
Crofty MAT, which operates the school, made the deliberate choice to invest in non-rotting recycled plastic rather than replace timber with more timber. The new trim trail now provides pupils with year-round use in a sustainable, low-maintenance material - ideal for schools preparing for continuous summer use without unexpected maintenance headaches.

The Shoreline Academy, Barnstaple, Devon
The Shoreline Academy faced a different challenge when WAVE MAT approached Rhino Play earlier this year. With a sheltered, damp outdoor space surrounded by high fencing and trees(conditions that cause traditional timber to rot prematurely), the school needed equipment built to last.
Rhino Play designed a bespoke recycled plastic trim trail that not only maximises the tight space but also provides all-year-round access, thanks to wet pour rubber surfacing and durable HDPE plastic components. The pupils at Shoreline, many of whom arrive with complex needs, now have a fully accessible play facility they can use reliably throughout the summer season.

Stuart Hunt, Head of Sales, Advice and Design at Rhino Play, said:
"We're experiencing unprecedented demand for summer installations right now, and schools are increasingly choosing recycled plastic over timber because they understand the long-term value. With the busy summer ahead - intensive use, unpredictable UK weather, and minimal maintenance windows, investing in equipment that won't rot, doesn't need treating, and requires virtually no upkeep makes complete sense.
“We're already hearing wonderful feedback from schools that have made the switch, with children getting back into spaces that had been out of action for years, and that's what drives us at Rhino Play. Our summer schedule is filling fast - any school thinking about upgrading their play spaces should get in touch with us soon so we can get something in the diary before the slots are gone."

About Rhino Play
Rhino Play specialises in creating bespoke, sustainable, and inclusive playground designs that inspire learning, creativity, and physical development. Based in Devon, their experienced team works closely with schools, councils, and community groups across the UK to deliver high-quality playground solutions built to last.

With a growing focus on recycled plastic and eco-friendly materials, Rhino Play helps educational, local authorities and hospitality sectors invest wisely in outdoor infrastructure that performs year-round. The company provides a standard 15-year product guarantee and free consultation service nationally, with installation teams primarily covering Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Gloucestershire, and beyond across the South West and UK.