PLAYLINK / Free Play Network

HELP

my new job in a large 3 form entry primary school is great, however we have one major problem - the outdoor space available for play. two of the reception classes have access to a small tarmac area which is fenced but not secure. we dearly want to make greater use of the outdoor environment but do not have the resources or the funds to make a real impact. I would appreciate advice on where best to try to get funding and also how best to invest any funds. thanks!
Posted by: Sue, early years teacher, primary school, -1 June 2020, 2-:04

I am able to provide support for funding issues, please do email me
Posted by: LMarshall, -1 June 2020, 2-:04

Hi Sue,
We have just completed a survey of primary schools in devon and what they curently do/have for outdoor learning. We also did case studies in two school where they have developed their outdoor learning environment. Funding seems to be a mixture of local firms, Learning through landscapes, PTFA and school budgets. Although adventure playgrounds were popular, felxible resources and wild spaces were also seen as very desirable and these can often be developed for learning with very little money, just willing helpers. Please email if you'd like electronic copies of the reports of the research.
Posted by: Sue Waite, Research fellow, University of Plymouth, -1 June 2020, 1-:24

Sue

You will be pleased to know that companies exist that can not only transform your bland tarmac space into a creative place to play but can also assist in accessing available funding to secure the project.

For further details please visit www. apfa.uk.com and if I can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Regards

Paul
Posted by: Paul Casey, Director, APFA Ltd, -1 June 2020, 1-:18

A question, Sue: when you say 'outdoor space available for play', does that imply that there is other space in the school's control but not available for children's use?
Posted by: Benard Spiegal, Principal, PLAYLINK, -1 June 2020, 1-:16