The Daily Mile initiative has transformed how UK schools think about outdoor activity. But while the concept is simple – 15 minutes of daily movement – the right surface makes all the difference. Here’s everything schools need to know about Daily Mile Tracks: what they are, how they’re built, and how to install one that lasts.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Daily Mile Tracks are all-weather running routes designed for schools taking part in The Daily Mile initiative.
- Artificial grass systems offer soft, safe, and low-maintenance surfaces ideal for year-round use.
- As Good As Grass designs, manufactures, and installs certified Daily Mile Tracks across the UK tested for comfort, drainage, and Critical Fall Height (CFH) safety.
🧭 Jump to:
| 🏃 What Are Daily Mile Tracks? | 📏 Benefits for Schools |
| ⚙️ How They’re Built | 💷 Daily Mile Track Costs |
| 🧮 Design Options & Layouts | 🧠 FAQs |
What Are Daily Mile Tracks?
The Daily Mile is a nationwide initiative encouraging children to run or walk for 15 minutes each day – improving physical health, concentration, and wellbeing. A Daily Mile Track gives schools a simple, weatherproof way to make that happen. These purpose-built tracks provide a soft, slip-resistant surface for pupils to move safely throughout the year.
At As Good As Grass, our Daily Mile Tracks are made from durable artificial turf with optional shock pad underlays for added safety and comfort. Each section is pre-manufactured for quick installation – ready to use in days, not weeks.
Benefits of Daily Mile Tracks for Schools
- Promotes regular physical activity: Builds healthy habits and supports PE and wellbeing targets.
- All-weather design: No mud, puddles, or closures – pupils can use it year-round.
- Low maintenance: No repainting or resurfacing like thermoplastic markings.
- Inclusive for all pupils: Even, cushioned surfaces ideal for SEND and early years settings.
- Supports Ofsted wellbeing goals: Encourages outdoor movement and helps meet national physical activity recommendations.
Many schools also use their track for PE warm-ups, outdoor lessons, and fitness challenges, extending its value beyond the daily 15-minute run.
How Daily Mile Tracks Are Built
Each installation is designed for safety, longevity, and speed. Here’s what the process typically involves:
- Site Survey & Design: We assess your available space and plan a route that fits your playground or field layout.
- Ground Preparation: The surface is levelled, compacted, and fitted with a drainage base layer.
- Shock Pad Installation: Optional 25mm or 45mm pads add CFH-tested cushioning for younger pupils or uneven ground.
- Turf Fitting & Joins: Artificial grass lanes are installed, joined, and inlaid with start/finish lines or markings.
- Quality Check & Clean Finish: Every track is inspected to BS EN 1177:2018 standards before handover.
Our school surfacing systems are fully porous, CFH-tested, and backed by a 10-year warranty – giving schools peace of mind and pupils a safe, reliable track to run on every day.
How Much Does a Daily Mile Track Cost?
The cost of a Daily Mile Track depends on factors like layout, surface type, site preparation, and whether you’re opting for supply-only or full installation. Based on current UK market averages, here’s what schools can typically expect to pay:
| Package Type | Includes | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Supply-Only Kit (e.g. 4×12m section) | Pre-made artificial turf track with inlaid lines | From £80 per linear metre |
| Standard Installation (around 100–200m length) | Ground preparation, turf fitting, edging, and finishing | Typically £6,000–£12,000 |
| Shock Pad Upgrade | 25mm or 45mm CFH-rated safety underlay for added comfort | + £20–£40 per m² |
| Custom Layouts & Long Circuits | Looped or curved designs with logos, markings, or mixed surfacing | £8,000–£25,000+ depending on size and specification |
These figures are indicative and may vary depending on your ground conditions, access, and design preferences. A simple compact route can be delivered quickly and affordably, while larger or multi-surface circuits may require additional groundwork and drainage.
💡 Tip: Many schools use PE and Sport Premium or local authority grants to fund all or part of their Daily Mile installation — we can advise on eligibility and provide detailed, itemised quotes for funding applications.
To get a tailored quote for your school, book a free consultation with our team and we’ll design a layout that fits your space and budget.
Design Options & Layouts
No two school grounds are alike – that’s why every track is designed to suit your space. Choose from:
- Standard 4×12m kits – quick, affordable installation.
- Custom loops & circuits – designed around existing playgrounds or fields.
- Coloured inlays & markings – numbers, shapes, or school logos for added fun.
- Integrated play zones – combine tracks with playground turf systems for all-in-one outdoor areas.
Our tracks are also popular for community fitness spaces, parks, and early years areas – giving everyone a safe route to stay active.
FAQs
Still got questions about Daily Mile Tracks? Here are answers to what schools ask us most often:
Do you need a full mile of space to run The Daily Mile?
No most schools create shorter circuits that pupils complete several times. Even a small playground can host a 100–200m loop suitable for The Daily Mile initiative.
Can a Daily Mile Track be installed on grass, tarmac, or concrete?
Yes. Our systems can be fitted over almost any stable base including grass fields, asphalt playgrounds, and concrete yards with appropriate drainage layers and shock pads.
Is the surface safe for all ages?
Absolutely. Our tracks are CFH-tested and compliant with BS EN 1177:2018, offering soft, non-slip protection for children of all ages, including nursery and SEND pupils.
Can schools use funding or grants for installation?
Yes. Many use PE and Sport Premium, PTA fundraising, or council funding. We can provide itemised quotes suitable for grant applications.
How long does a Daily Mile Track last?
Typically 8–10 years with light brushing and routine inspection backed by our 10-year product guarantee.
Ready to Bring The Daily Mile to Your School?
Our team designs and installs Daily Mile Tracks built for safety, durability, and all-weather use — fully CFH-tested and compliant with BS EN 1177:2018.
Whether you need a compact playground loop or a full outdoor fitness route, we’ll tailor the design to your space and budget.
👉 Request a Free Consultation
or call 0161 207 3007 to speak with our experts.
