Thursday 4 March 2010

Willow Structures in School Grounds

This post has moved to a new location
http://creativestarlearning.co.uk/developing-school-grounds-outdoor-spaces/willow-structures-in-school-grounds/

7 comments:

Teacher Tom said...

There are many types of willows that grow around here as well. We already have plans to grow bamboo the use as a natural construction material. Maybe we need a little willow too!

Ms. Tonya said...

I love those structures. I have never seen anything like that here in California. Thanks for sharing such a neat idea.

Soph said...

We would LOVE to develop willow structures in our playgrounds but it is considered an environmental pest in Australia and we arn't allowed to grow it. We are trying to find something that can be used in the same way that is native to Australia. Any one know of any alternitives?

Juliet Robertson said...

Hello Everyone

Thanks for your comments. I'm learning a lot here! Generally willow likes damp places like river banks, etc. So I'm fascinated that it's a pest in Australia. However I bet there's a native tree that would do instead.

We're limited in Scotland - grape vine and sunflowers don't like our cool climate so making dens from these plants doesn't work as well.

Best wishes
Juliet

Unknown said...

We (parents and kids) planted a big willow house this winter on the schoolground. If you want to see it "grow": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UNpbAZHj2k

Now we're waiting for it to sprout... :-)

Best regards

Peter

Juliet Robertson said...

This is a super video. Thanks for sending the link Peter. I'll add it to my post!

willowpool said...

just come across this blog and thought that folks might like to know about our work.
We are Steve & Simone known as Willowpool Designs and have been working with schools to create willow features for many years! Some of the companies mentioned in the feature are direct copies of our work and have even used our images (apparently unwittingly) to promote themselves.
We have worked with willow for over 30 years and have created willow structures both in the UK and overseas. Many primary schools in the UK now have willow features. the new season starts in November.
checkout our website at www.willowpooldesigns.co.uk