Ocklynge Junior School: A playful and biodiverse approach to SuDS learning
Client
Ocklynge Junior School and East Sussex Council
Location
Sectors
Products & Services
Project overview
As part of our work for the East Sussex Blue Heart SuDS for Schools programme, Meristem Design transformed Ocklynge Junior School into a vibrant and engaging climate-resilient learning zone with multiple playful SuDS features. Combining practical flood mitigation with fun, colourful and educational elements, the installations include a rain garden, Bio Habitat SuDS Planter, rainwater tanks, and multiple SuDS planters – encouraging interaction while enhancing biodiversity and sustainability on site.
Goal
At Ocklynge, the aim was to resolve surface water ponding in the playground while creating an inspiring and functional outdoor learning space that supports climate resilience, biodiversity and water reuse.
As a wider project, the SuDS for school initiative aims to address surface water flooding in the school environment through innovative, co-designed SuDS features that engage pupils in the importance of sustainable water management, with the aim of fostering a generation of environmental stewards.
Scope
Installation of:
- 20m² rain garden using Hydrorock to manage runoff
- 6 SuDS Planters and innovative features such as hoppers, watering cans and benches.
- Bio Habitat SuDS Planter, including a mini pond for wildlife engagement
- 7 water tanks for additional water storage, including 2 with playful and colourful downpipes
- Surface water pump for rainwater reuse
- Colourful, student-friendly designs supporting education and engagement
Solutions
With a focus on delivering custom SuDS systems that engage school children, Meristem integrated fun, functional and flood-resilient features across the school grounds.
Bio Habitat SuDS Planter
A new and unique SuDS feature with diverse wildlife habitats and a mini pond - designed to spark curiosity and support school biodiversity targets.
Rain Garden with additional Hydrorock
Intercepts surface water from grass and courts, with a perforated pipe leading to an existing soakaway.
Vibrant SuDS Planters and hoppers
Includes colourful clusters of planters with bright downpipes, a watering can, and bench for hands-on learning.
Water storage and reuse
Seven tanks, including two large 800L units with playful red, blue and clear pipes, support sustainable water use via a surface pump.
Impact
Ocklynge Junior School has been transformed into a flood-resilient and biodiverse environment, filled with playful and engaging features that create learning opportunities and long-lasting environmental benefits. As the first school to receive our Bio Habitat SuDS Planter, we involved the school children in the planting, teaching them how the system works, inspiring young minds and providing them fun chance to get their hands dirty through some hands-on experience.
Climate resilience
Captures and manages rainwater runoff, reducing surface flooding in the school grounds and alleviating pressure on the local drainage.
Biodiversity and engagement
Bio Habitat SuDS Planter and other sustainable drainage features like the rain garden support pollinators, amphibians, and small wildlife while offering learning opportunities.
Water reuse
Tanks allow the school to reuse collected rainwater for garden beds, cutting down on potable water use and promoting internal sustainability practices.
Playful learning environment
Bold visuals, tactile features and integrated seating foster curiosity, outdoor education, and school children interaction with nature.
Before
After
Testimonials
Thank you so much for the new bio habitat. We love it. I particularly love the pond and its ramp. The children will be fascinated. We really do appreciate all you have done for us. As you saw, the planters are looking gorgeous.
It makes such a big difference to the feel of the school!
Lynsey Swingler
Forest School Lead
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Featured products, landscapes & services
Bio Habitat SuDS Planter
The Bio Habitat SuDS Planter is an innovative sustainable drainage solution designed to deliver climate resilience while actively supporting urban biodiversity. Combining all the water management capabilities of our standard SuDS planter with integrated wildlife features, providing a multifunctional and engaging green infrastructure tool.
SuDS Planters
Our SuDS planters are designed to manage rainwater sustainably in urban environments. By incorporating natural elements like vegetation, these innovative systems slow the flow of water, reducing runoff and the risk of flooding.
Design
We specialise in designing beautiful, sustainable urban greening solutions and products that bring nature into public, commercial and residential spaces. From concept to final design, we work closely with clients to ensure that every element is crafted to meet their unique needs, aesthetic preferences, and sustainability goals.
Fabrication
We provide high-quality, in-house fabrication services tailored to the needs of urban greening projects. Composed of skilled welders and carpenters, our fabrication team brings each project from concept to completion using precision and exceptional craftsmanship.
Maintenance
We offer a full range of maintenance services to keep your green space looking healthy and vibrant. Tailored to the unique needs of your project, our horticultural team will provide specialised plant care and maintenance from a one-off basis to a customised schedule.
Nature Workshops
School nature workshops offer children the opportunity to get hands-on, engaging experience in the importance of nature and their environment. In our workshops, school children will delve into the fascinating world of plant science, focusing on the crucial roles soil, seeds and plants play in our lives, providing sensory practical integration exercises that ignite curiosity and a love for gardening and the environment.
Get in touch
If you like what you've seen in our case study and want to learn more about how this could work in your setting, please get in touch.
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