Our philosophy is to provide children and staff alike with innovative and stimulating outdoor education areas. We see school grounds as an important part of the whole learning process and a resource which is often overlooked. The school outdoor area should be an extension of the classroom utilising all that the natural environment has to offer and acting as a catalyst for learning and creativity. The outdoor area should facilitate the principles of the 6 areas of learning and development as listed below and set out by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) in their national strategy for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Personal, Social and Emotional Development;- Communication, Language and Literacy;
- Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy;
- Knowledge and Understanding of the World;
- Physical Development;
- Creative Development.
Our gardens are designed and constructed with features to promote sustainability and healthy living and facilitate schools in achieving the DCSF Teaching Award for Sustainable Schools.
In many projects it is hoped that wildlife can be attracted into the garden or school ground so that it may be observed and studied by children. We seek to use as many varied and interesting natural materials as possible to stimulate the senses of those using the outdoor space, wherever possible using sustainable and recycled materials.
The following lists many of the items that could be included in the design for school garden or playground development:
Wildlife and nature areas, including ponds, wildflower areas, bird tables, nest boxes, ladybird houses, compost bins and planters;- Sensory and vegetable gardens;
- Living willow structures;
- Outdoor classrooms;
- Pergolas;
- Outdoor music making areas;
- Role-play areas;
- Activity panels / outdoor blackboards / dry-wipe boards;
Storage solutions;- Playground markings;
- Bicycle / Pushchair shelters;
- Parent waiting shelters;
- Fencing – playground or perimeter (security);
- Paths and paving.
