Thorney's Cosy Courtyard is Complete - And What a Transformation

We are absolutely delighted to share the fantastic news that the Thorney’s Cosy Courtyard is now complete – and what an incredible transformation it has been!  We would like to say a massive thank you to Made2play who have worked tirelessly over the last 10 days to create this amazing space, come rain or shine. Without the funding from The Armed Forces Covenant Fund transforming this space was only a dream, but it has now become a reality and we can’t wait to use the space to its full potential. 

What was once an unused area has been reimagined into a vibrant, welcoming space designed to spark imagination, encourage movement, and support learning through play in every season.

At the heart of Thorney's Cosy Courtyard, artificial grass has been laid around a playful track, complete with painted road markings. This exciting feature is already set to become a firm favourite, ready for oodles of fun with ride-on toys as children zoom, scoot, and explore their new mini roadway.

Tucked into one corner, you’ll find a beautiful wooden wigwam, offering the perfect hideaway for imaginative play, storytelling, or a quiet moment with friends. In another corner sits a covered seating area shaped like a charming wooden house – an inviting spot for rest, conversation, or small group activities, whatever the weather.

Thorney's Cosy Courtyard also celebrates curiosity and learning through nature. Planters with below-soil viewing windows are ready and waiting to be filled with plants, giving children a wonderful opportunity to observe roots growing and learn about the world beneath the soil. Along one side of the building, a covered lean-to creates a truly magical effect as its beautiful, coloured roof sheets cast vibrant patterns onto the ground below. At the end of this space, a water wall adds an extra sensory element, encouraging exploration, experimentation, and calm, focused play.

Finishing the area perfectly is wooden picket fencing, which not only enhances the charm of the courtyard but also ensures it is safe and secure for all children to enjoy with confidence. Once we have refreshed the brick wall in a lovely bright colour and the plants grow up the trellis, the planters are filled with vibrant flowers and fruits Thorney's Cosy Courtyard will truly be a wonderful space to enjoy.

Thorney's Cosy Courtyard is accessible from both the baby room and the preschool, making it a truly inclusive space. Being fully all-weather, it can be enjoyed throughout the year, encouraging outdoor play in every season. Most importantly, it provides a wonderful opportunity for greater interaction and mixing between rooms, supporting social development and a strong sense of community within the nursery.

Thorney's Cosy Courtyard is a delightful and fantastic addition to our nursery environment, and we can’t wait to see it filled with laughter, learning, and endless adventures.