Commercial Trampolines for Schools in Ireland Explained

 

When it comes to choosing playground and sports equipment for schools in Ireland, trampolines are becoming an increasingly popular option. They’re fun, engaging, and promote both physical fitness and mental wellbeing. But while many families may be familiar with backyard trampolines, schools face a very different set of requirements.

Why Schools in Ireland Should Consider a Commercial Trampoline Rated for Public Use

 

For schools, safety, durability, inclusivity, and compliance with regulations are non-negotiable. This is where commercial trampolines rated for public use come in. These trampolines are specifically designed and manufactured to handle high traffic, ensure maximum safety, and withstand the test of time in busy school environments.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into why schools should consider investing in a commercial trampoline, what sets them apart from standard home models, and why sourcing them through Trampolines Ireland is the smartest move.


The Difference Between Home Trampolines and Commercial Trampolines

Most parents in Ireland are familiar with domestic trampolines—the type you might see in gardens across the country. While these are perfectly suited for family use, they simply don’t meet the demands of a school environment.

Here’s why:

  • Capacity and Durability: Home trampolines are designed for occasional use by a few children at a time. Commercial trampolines are built to withstand daily, repeated use by dozens or even hundreds of students.

  • Safety Standards: Commercial trampolines meet EN1176 and EN1177 safety standards for public play equipment in Europe. These certifications are essential for schools to remain compliant with health and safety regulations.

  • Materials and Build Quality: Public-use trampolines use stronger frames, heavy-duty springs, vandal-resistant padding, and reinforced mats that can handle extreme wear and tear.

  • Insurance and Liability: Schools must be covered for public liability. Installing equipment that isn’t rated for public use can create serious insurance risks in the event of an accident.

In short: while a home trampoline may look appealing due to its lower cost, it’s not designed for the rigours of a school setting. A commercial-grade trampoline is the only responsible choice for Irish schools.


Why Trampolines Make Sense for Schools

Before we explore why commercial trampolines are essential, let’s recap the key benefits trampolines bring to school life.

1. Physical Fitness

Trampolining is one of the most effective forms of cardiovascular exercise. It improves coordination, balance, agility, and core strength. A 10-minute trampoline session can burn the same number of calories as a 30-minute run—making it ideal for schools that want to maximise activity in limited time.

2. Student Engagement

Many children are reluctant to take part in traditional sports. Trampolining is universally appealing and encourages participation across different age groups and ability levels.

3. Inclusivity

Commercial trampolines can be designed flush with the ground, allowing easy access for children with additional needs. For SEN (Special Educational Needs) schools, trampolines are widely used in sensory therapy and physical development programmes.

4. Mental Health and Wellbeing

The simple act of bouncing reduces stress, lifts mood, and releases endorphins. At a time when schools are prioritising student wellbeing, trampolines provide a playful yet powerful tool to support mental health.


Why Schools Should Insist on Commercial Trampolines Rated for Public Use

1. Safety and Compliance Come First

When equipment is installed in a school setting, it must meet stringent EU standards for playground safety. Commercial trampolines rated for public use are specifically designed to meet these requirements.

This includes:

  • Anti-slip jumping surfaces.

  • Reinforced springs and frames to prevent breakages.

  • Extra-thick, tamper-proof safety padding.

  • Flush in-ground installations to minimise fall risks.

Choosing a domestic trampoline in a public school setting could expose pupils to unnecessary risks and put the school at odds with insurance and safety inspectors.

2. Durability for Daily Use

Hundreds of children bouncing daily is a far greater strain than weekend use in a garden. Commercial trampolines are engineered with high-strength steel, UV-protected mats, and weatherproof designs to endure constant, heavy use.

For schools, this means less maintenance, fewer repairs, and a trampoline that lasts for many years.

3. Insurance and Liability Protection

If a school installs non-commercial equipment, it could face challenges with liability claims in the event of an injury. Insurance companies may even refuse coverage. Commercial trampolines eliminate this issue, as they are certified for public environments and backed by manufacturer safety testing.

4. Accessibility for All Students

Commercial trampolines, especially in-ground trampolines, are designed with accessibility in mind. Students of all abilities—including wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges—can enjoy trampolining safely when the equipment is correctly installed. This makes trampolines a vital tool for inclusivity.

5. Long-Term Value

While the upfront cost of a commercial trampoline may be higher than a domestic model, the investment pays off in durability, safety, and compliance. Schools save money long-term by avoiding frequent replacements or costly liability issues.


In-Ground Commercial Trampolines: The Best Option for Schools

Among all public-use trampolines, in-ground models are the most practical for schools in Ireland. Here’s why:

  • Flush with the surface: No climbing required, which reduces fall risk.

  • Visually discreet: Blends neatly into playgrounds and sports fields.

  • Low maintenance: No need for enclosures or ladders.

  • All-weather resilience: Commercial in-ground trampolines are designed to handle Irish weather year-round.

At Trampolines Ireland, in-ground commercial trampolines are one of our most popular installations for schools, combining safety, inclusivity, and durability.


Case for Commercial Trampolines in Irish Schools

Primary Schools

For younger children, trampolines are a fun way to build motor skills, balance, and coordination. In-ground commercial trampolines provide a safe, low-height option that encourages group play.

Secondary Schools

For older students, trampolines are a great addition to PE classes. They can be incorporated into fitness circuits, warm-ups, or specialist gymnastics training. Having equipment rated for public use ensures durability for teenage use.

Special Education Schools

Trampolines are often used in SEN schools as a therapeutic tool. A commercial in-ground trampoline offers both safety and accessibility, giving every child the opportunity to engage in movement and sensory activities.


Why Choose Trampolines Ireland?

So why should schools partner with Trampolines Ireland when sourcing commercial trampolines?

1. Specialists in Trampolines

Unlike general sports suppliers, trampolines are our sole focus. We understand the nuances of safety standards, installation requirements, and school-specific needs better than anyone in the Irish market.

2. Nationwide Supply and Installation

We deliver and professionally install commercial trampolines across Ireland. From site preparation to safe installation, our team ensures the process is seamless and compliant with regulations.

3. Expert Consultation for Schools

Every school is different. We provide free consultations to help schools decide:

  • Which trampoline model is best.

  • Where it should be installed.

  • How to manage safety supervision.

  • What aftercare and maintenance will look like.

4. Safety and Compliance Guaranteed

All trampolines we supply are certified for public use, meeting EU safety standards. Schools can rest easy knowing they’re compliant and fully insured.

5. After-Sales Support and Maintenance

Our service doesn’t end at installation. We offer ongoing support, replacement parts, and maintenance advice to keep trampolines in excellent condition.

6. Competitive Pricing

Through strong supplier relationships, we offer schools the best possible value on commercial trampolines without compromising on quality or safety.


The Buying Process for Schools

We make it easy for schools to upgrade their facilities with a commercial trampoline:

  1. Consultation – Discuss your needs with our expert team.

  2. Recommendation – We suggest the best trampoline models for your school.

  3. Quotation – Transparent pricing, with options for different budgets.

  4. Installation – Professional setup by our team, nationwide.

  5. Ongoing Support – Long-term maintenance and aftercare.

Common Questions Schools Ask

Q: Are commercial trampolines safe for young children?
Yes. In-ground commercial trampolines are designed with safety in mind and are suitable for children of all ages, provided they are supervised.

Q: How long will a commercial trampoline last in a school setting?
With proper care, many commercial trampolines last 8–12 years or more, making them a long-term investment.

Q: Do we need planning permission?
Generally, no—especially for in-ground trampolines. However, we’ll guide you if local regulations require clarification.

Q: How many trampolines should our school install?
This depends on the size of your student body and available space. Many schools start with one in-ground trampoline and expand later.


Final Thoughts

For Irish schools, trampolines aren’t just a fun extra—they’re an investment in health, wellbeing, and inclusive play. But not just any trampoline will do. Schools need commercial trampolines rated for public use, designed to meet safety standards, withstand heavy traffic, and provide long-term value.

By choosing Trampolines Ireland, schools get access to the highest-quality commercial trampolines, expert guidance, and professional installation. More importantly, they get peace of mind knowing that their students are bouncing safely on equipment built to last.

If your school is ready to explore the benefits of a commercial trampoline, contact Trampolines Ireland today. Together, we’ll help you create a safe, fun, and inspiring space for learning and play.