More to do at Greater Horseshoe – Nest Swing in Heathfield, Devon – September 2026

During the summer holidays of 2026, Rhino Play completed another one of their much loved Birds Nest Swings at Greater Horseshoe School in Heathfield, Devon, part of our wider SEN playground equipment work. This independent special school is situated in a peaceful woodland setting near Newton Abbot in Devon. For students between the ages of 8-18, the school facilities include a nearby care farm, where they offer animal care, horticulture and a wide range of outdoor educational activities alongside academic and vocational programmes. The Birds Nest Swing was selected to help regulate the pupils by providing essential sensory stimulation through movement, swinging action, and both auditory and visual feedback. This type of specialised SEN playground equipment offers therapeutic benefits for children with sensory processing requirements. Our installation team carefully positioned the swing to maximise supervised use and safety at the site. This strategic placement also incorporates existing site features such as fencing that created natural barriers, preventing other children from inadvertently walking or running into the swing’s path during use.

Quality Installation Features

• Galvanised steel feet fitted to all posts, eliminating the risk of ground rot and damage from grounds maintenance equipment
• 24m² of Rubber Grass Mats safety surfacing, ensuring compliance with playground safety standards and providing appropriate fall protection
• The swing positioned to work with the school’s existing fencing, creating a natural supervision boundary
• Installed during the summer holidays, so there was no disruption to term-time use

Why This Combination Works

Another successful installation that demonstrates our commitment to creating inclusive playground solutions that support the specific needs of children in special educational settings.

• The wide, supportive nest shape lets children lie, sit or kneel while swinging, giving the vestibular and proprioceptive input many children with sensory processing needs benefit from
• Multiple children, or a child and a supporting adult, can use the swing together, encouraging shared and social play alongside the sensory benefit
• The natural, grass-like surfacing suits a school set in a peaceful woodland environment rather than looking like a typical playground retrofit

Take a look at our full SEN playground equipment range, our safety surfacing options, or our wider moving and dynamic equipment, including swings, roundabouts and see-saws.

Thinking About SEN Playground Equipment For Your School?

If you’d like to discuss any of the products featured in this case study or how we can help design the perfect playground for your pupils, email our helpful team on info@rhinoplay.co.uk or call 01803 873711 to arrange a free, no-obligation site visit. Take a look at our blog on choosing the right accessible swing for your playground, or browse more of our case studies.