WAB’s Elementary Playground Reimagined for Exploration

Big changes are coming to the WAB Elementary School playground, and they’ve been inspired by the ideas of our learners.

Designed as a "Journey through China," the new playground includes a series of themed zones reflecting the country’s diverse landscapes, from panda forests and sand play in the Sichuan area to high slides and rope courses in the Zhangjiajie zone. Students will also enjoy trampolines, climbing structures, sensory domes, and even an ancient Chinese-style ship.

While the final design was developed by Vitality Design, the vision was shaped in part by our students. Elementary Student Council members collected feedback from their peers through posters and informal surveys during breaks and lunchtimes. Their suggestions, ranging from inclusive equipment to more adventurous challenges, were shared with the design team and helped guide decisions to ensure the playground reflects the spirit and dreams of our community.

Sustainability and safety were also top priorities. The new equipment is built to last, made in Europe with certified safety standards, and many components incorporate recycled materials. Multiple surfacing types, including soft EPDM rubber and astroturf, were chosen to balance environmental responsibility with comfort and safety. Most of the mature trees in the area will also be preserved, continuing to provide natural shade for both the play spaces and surrounding classrooms.

Phase 1 of the playground will open at the start of the 2025–26 school year, with Phase 2 set to follow in 2027–28.

"Play matters, so we've tried to create a space that's thoughtful, inclusive, and above all, full of possibility," said Catherine Pierre-Louis, WAB's Elementary School Principal. "The 'Journey through China' theme is also a fun way to help kids connect with our host country, bringing in that sense of place and staying true to WAB's commitment to China-global coherence."