Maple Cross: Our New Garden

Following the successful building renovations prior to Footsteps Maple Cross opening in January, it was now time to turn attention to the

outside space. And with plenty available, the team had big plans. Over the half term the dedicated staff were very busy making lots of improvements to their outside area.  With a focus on free-flow play and on spending quality time outside (whatever the weather), it was very important that their outside area provided plenty of opportunities for fun and learning.

With plenty of elbow grease, lots of creativity, a splash of paint and a whole lot of love, the team set to work on creating a place the children would love to spend time.  As a result of all off their efforts the children now have:

• A mud kitchen
• A music area
• A camouflage den
• Obstacle courses
• A construction themed area
• Sensory areas
• A fantastic outside theatre stage
• An area to practice gross and fine motor skills with a wall of locks and boats
• A large wooden ship
• Areas for role play
• Renovated areas for ride on toys
• Newly painted fences
• Bright colourful storage solutions
• Gardening area

The team were also very grateful to donations from parents, staff and local businesses such as Orbital Fasteners in Rickmansworth who provided the pallets. Manager Kathy Reynolds said “The garden looks absolutely fantastic I am thrilled. The team, which also included Laura, Zoe and Kellie, worked really hard and definitely bonded over creating something that will benefit the children for many years to come. It really was a team effort and we are very lucky to have staff that care so deeply about providing a fun and stimulating environment.”