Cash strapped schools and colleges face an even tighter squeeze on budgets, forcing them to seek alternative cost saving measures. Sadly, in some cases, school sports grounds are feeling the pinch.

Statistics by the Department of Education (at the end of 2013) revealed that as many as 57 school playing fields had been sold off since May 2010. According to the Telegraph, this amounts to one sports field disposed of every three weeks.

However, with the rise of obesity in children, no one can underestimate the importance of sport in schools. Especially as studies show that regular activity improves pupils’ concentration, tackles weight gain and builds a sense of achievement – all major arguments for keeping UK playing fields intact.

So what’s the answer?…

…One solution could be the introduction of imitation grass in schools.

Dayco Artificial Grass are fake grass installers for schools and colleges and we have received excellent feedback for our high quality artificial play areas, pitches and courts. Our fake grass brings many benefits and here are just some of the ways that artificial turf could help save costs in schools:

Year Round Pristine Pitches

Natural grass pitches attract heavy footfall, so school grounds can get worn, potholed and boggy over time. As a result, they require constant upkeep. In addition to the ongoing works, an end of season maintenance programme is also needed to improve the quality of the surface. This involves various tasks including scarifying (removing thatch and other debris), top dressing, aeration, and reseeding. Keeping a school pitch in tip top shape adds up in the long run.

Artificial grass, however, eliminates the need for constant upkeep; once installed, that’s it! It doesn’t require resurfacing or reseeding as it keeps its immaculate green colour all year round. Plus it’s self-draining too – so no more boggy pitches!

Multi-Purpose Sports Grounds

A potholed pitch could be replaced by a multi-purpose synthetic turf sports ground that can be used by pupils throughout the year. These types of pitches are becoming more popular because they are so cost effective and versatile. They can host a variety of sports, such as football, hockey and athletics. They are characterised by coloured lines to mark the various pitches on one ground.

Just as you would expect, multi-purpose sports grounds are built to withstand heavy footfall. And as our turf is extremely durable, it will fit the purpose exactly! Dayco artificial grass is extremely long lasting. We are so confident in our product we offer a full, six year guarantee.

Fundraising Opportunities

Imitation turf in schools isn’t just suitable for pitches and sports fields but for other areas too, such as the gardens and grounds.

Our fake grass is of such high quality, that parents and pupils hardly know the difference! And, our feedback is that even the ones who do know it’s artificial, love it.

This, coupled with the fact that it is so hardwearing makes it suitable for large gatherings, such as school fétes or other fundraising activities. As it doesn’t require any mowing, schools don’t have to factor in these additional costs, so the grass will look perfect for any event.

Reducing Cleaning Bills

Dayco imitation grass not only reduces costs outside schools – but inside too! It is clean underfoot which means dirt and grime won’t be trailed indoors, leaving muddy patches on wet days.

As well as cutting down on cleaning costs, fake grass also reduces the need for constant laundering. For schools with laundry facilities (boarding schools for instance), it means that washing machines don’t have to be constantly on the go to tackle muddy sportswear and clothing. Fake grass is a win -win!

Dayco Artificial Grass for Schools – click here to find out more about imitation grass for schools.