Building Champions.
With the Euros kicking off, we’ve been discussing how important our school facilities and leisure centres were to us growing up.
When asked about their experience, Caitlin Morris, Southampton Women and Wales footballer said “Having access to local recreation grounds and sports fields was vital for my career. Not only did it ensure I had adequate space to attend scheduled training sessions with my clubs, but it also gave me an opportunity to do additional work as an individual to further develop”.
Landscape architects go beyond designing spaces; we create environments that nurture communities and well-being. Well-designed sports facilities in schools and leisure centres offer more than just a space for lunchtime games. They are champions for grassroots sports, providing a nurturing ground for young athletes to develop their skills and passion.
These facilities also act as hubs for community events, bringing people together. We ensure accessibility with features like ramps and multi-use courts, prioritise safety with proper drainage and lighting, and design age-appropriate playgrounds that promote physical development and social interaction.
The impact goes beyond the school day, encouraging students and visitors to spend more time outdoors, leading to improved physical health and a connection with nature. High-quality facilities like running tracks, pitches, and courts provide a nurturing environment for young athletes to hone their skills. This can be the springboard for future sporting success, feeding into local clubs and national teams. A great example is Olympic medallist Colin Jackson, who credits his local leisure centre for fostering his love for athletics.
Redcar & Cleveland Leisure
At OOBE we wonder how many future Euros heroes will be from some of our project work!
Supporting image of Hexham Middle School & Queen Elizabeth High School (with Galliford Try): This project showcases our expertise in designing inspiring learning environments that extend beyond the classroom and nurture a love for physical activity. The facilities have allowed grassroots football to continue through a very wet summer and winter where other clubs only have access to grass pitches resulting in many games & practice sessions being cancelled.
We are passionate about creating these spaces that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and celebrate the joy of sport.
Hexham Middle School & Queen Elizabeth High School (with Galliford Try)