Playful Schools

Improving play in schools can have profound effects on how happy children are in school which in turn has multiple benefits for the entire school community.  There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that the outdoor play space in schools and early years settings is playing an increasingly important role on children’s development and making children happy with numerous benefits.

The Play Return: A Review of the wider impact of play initiatives found that exposure to good quality play opportunities supports:

Language development, problem solving, risk management and independent learning skills

Physical and mental health, as well as emotional well-being.  

Enhanced academic skills, attitudes and behaviour.

Whilst the notion of designing play spaces is an exciting prospect it does require knowledge, consideration and sensitivity to the environment as well as a sympathetic awareness of the users.  Scrapstore Play Services have spent the last ten years supporting schools in Bristol and beyond with their play, making suggestions about logistics and grounds development.