The school took an inclusive approach by involving students, staff, and friends of the school in the playground’s design process. A unique and creative method was employed, with Gilbert the Golden Retriever, a service dog who visits the school every Tuesday morning, posing questions to the girls in speech bubbles during a presentation to each class. “What would your dream playground look like?” and “What are your favourite types of equipment?” were just some of the questions that Gilbert asked. This approach ensured that the playground’s design was deeply informed by the students’ desires and requirements.

The selection of playground equipment was a thoughtful process that considered both student feedback and the developmental needs of the children. Key equipment choices included monkey bars, balance elements, slides, an obstacle course inspired by “The Floor is Lava,” and a creative element in the form of a Fale, which serves as a stage.

Later in the project, water play elements were added to cater to the preferences of younger students.The playground’s surface featured a combination of turf and wet pour surfacing around mounds, trampolines, and trees.

The intention was to create a comfortable, green space that could accommodate the sloped terrain of the site and facilitate child-directed play.