Courses | Workshops
We offer a range of professional courses and workshops, delivered both in person and online, designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of individuals, project teams and organisations involved in the planning, design and delivery of outdoor environments.
At Open Canopy Access, we are passionate about building industry capability and advancing best practice in inclusive design. Our training programs are tailored for landscape architects, designers, educators, local government professionals, playground providers, developers and community organisations seeking to create more accessible, inclusive and engaging spaces.
Drawing on extensive project experience and evidence-based design principles, our courses provide practical insights, real-world examples and actionable strategies that participants can immediately apply to their projects. The result is greater confidence in delivering outdoor environments that support play, recreation, learning, wellbeing and belonging for people of all ages and abilities.
We are currently delivering the below courses and workshops in 2026.
Select the course below to find out more and start learning.
Universal Design Principles in Playspace Design
This course explores how the Principles of Universal Design can be creatively applied to playspace design to create environments that are accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities. Participants will gain practical strategies for moving beyond minimum compliance and delivering meaningful play experiences for diverse communities.
Learning Outcomes
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Understand the seven Principles of Universal Design and their application to playspaces.
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Identify common barriers to participation within outdoor environments.
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Learn practical design approaches that support inclusive play and recreation.
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Create playspaces that encourage social interaction, independence and choice.
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Balance accessibility requirements with creative and engaging design outcomes.
Is it Visible or Invisible
Many disabilities are not immediately apparent, yet they can significantly influence how people experience and navigate outdoor environments. This half-day workshop explores how thoughtful design can support individuals with sensory, cognitive, neurological and other invisible disabilities.
Learning Outcomes
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Develop an understanding of invisible disabilities and their impact on outdoor experiences.
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Recognise common environmental barriers affecting participation and inclusion.
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Learn strategies for creating supportive, comfortable and welcoming public spaces.
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Understand the role of sensory design in reducing stress and improving user experience.
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Apply inclusive design principles to better meet the needs of diverse communities.
Playspace design Essential
This course is designed for emerging landscape architects, designers and professionals seeking a practical introduction to playspace design. Participants will learn the key principles that underpin successful play environments while avoiding common design mistakes that can result in underutilised or uninspiring spaces.
Learning Outcomes
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Understand the fundamentals of play and child development.
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Learn how to create engaging and diverse play opportunities.
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Identify common design pitfalls and how to avoid them.
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Understand the relationship between risk, challenge and safety in play.
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Gain confidence in developing practical and creative playspace concepts.
Planning for Access
This course focuses on planning and designing playspaces that support equitable access, participation and enjoyment for children with disability, their siblings, carers and families. Participants will learn how thoughtful planning can remove barriers and create environments that foster inclusion and belonging.
Learning Outcomes
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Understand the principles of open access and inclusive play.
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Identify physical, sensory and social barriers within playspaces.
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Learn how to plan accessible circulation, amenities and play opportunities.
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Develop strategies for supporting family participation and social inclusion.
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Apply best-practice approaches to create welcoming and inclusive community spaces.
Tailored Trainning
In addition to our standard courses, we can develop customised workshops and professional development sessions tailored to the needs of your organisation, project team or community.
Training can be delivered in-person or online and can be adapted for schools, local government, design professionals, developers and community organisations.