Early Learning Unit

Forbo Flooring Systems’ integrated portfolio of solutions played a vital role in helping to achieve a welcoming, stimulating and caring learning environment for the early learners of a new purpose-built nursery in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire.

As part of South Lanarkshire Council’s Schools Modernisation Programme – a scheme first set out in 2004 to replace or improve every school in the area – the Early Learning Unit was the final education establishment to be completed after relocating to a larger site in the heart of Hamilton. The specialist nursery now accommodates 116 mainstream and Additional Support Needs (ASN) children in a modern, innovative and high-quality environment.

Neil Falconer, Team Leader (Architectural) at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “For many of our school projects, we tend to opt for a grey carpet but for the Early Learning Unit, a specialist, stand-alone nursery, we decided to take a softer approach and choose floor coverings that were warm and welcoming to help ease the children’s’ transition from home and before taking their next step to school."

“For many of our school projects, we tend to opt for a grey carpet but for the Early Learning Unit, a specialist, stand-alone nursery, we decided to take a softer approach and choose floor coverings that were warm and welcoming to help ease the children’s’ transition from home and before taking their next step to school.

“With Cadzow Glen, a beautiful woodland, on the building’s doorstep, the wood effect played a significant role in the interior design of the Early Learning Unit. We chose Forbo’s Eternal Wood for the main reception, corridors, circulation spaces and activity area as the rich tones of the Dark Walnut colourway helped to create a friendly and hospitable atmosphere for children, parents, carers and visitors alike. The vinyl also allows a smooth transition throughout the building, particularly for those with mobility aids and for parents and carers with prams. It can also be cleaned quickly as and when required, providing easy maintenance for the nursery.”

Neil Falconer, Team Leader (Architectural) at South Lanarkshire Council, concluded:
“Forbo has provided specifications and supplied floor finishes for the Council across various projects over the years and we find that the products are always well received by the flooring contractor and the client. Members of our education team and staff at the Early Learning Unit are really pleased with the integrated Forbo flooring scheme and it is hoped that we can now roll out a similar layout of products to future nurseries.”

For more information on Forbo’s work in the education sector please visit [ www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/education ](http:// www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/education ;css-nAr)