North Tampa Christian Academy, USA
A playground as part of the learning
Often playgrounds are ‘add ons’ to existing plans, but with the North Tampa Christian Academy the opportunity to get in at the beginning of the project allowed KOMPAN to contribute to a greater learning experience. The new school in Florida broke with conventional design when they commissioned the architects who took a revolutionary approach to classrooms and space. When introduced to KOMPAN’s team of designers the prospect of making the playground an integral part of the whole educational entity was seized. Learning suddenly didn’t stop at the exit door, it expanded in the open air.
Active play and active learning
The Tampa project contains features from many of KOMPAN’s extensive range of playground equipment. There’s a natural feel with organic Robinia playing an important role bridging the gap between the futuristic classrooms and the great outdoors. The Forest Lake Boat, along with the Wizard’s Hideaways, stimulate young imaginations whilst the Explorer Dome with its 360 degree entry and slide exit is for the more physically energetic. Like a magnet, the Supernova attracts small groups who learn to communicate through balance.
Physical
Social/emotional
Cognitive
Creative
We want active play and active learning . . . . in fact we consider these playgrounds as outdoor learning spaces.
Orton Varona
President
North Tampa Christian Academy
