Allenton Community Primary School, Derbyshire

The new playground at Allenton Community Primary School gives pupils of all ages the chance to play and learn outdoors. Mrs Tilley tells us how the space and equipment has helped them receive an outstanding Ofsted report.

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Why did you want to develop your playground?

We wanted to provide the Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils with an area where they could challenge and test their physical skills, something that there wasn’t the equipment for before. We also wanted to further develop the outdoor space for the Foundation Stage.

What were they key elements that made Playforce stand out from other providers?

We had used Playforce before when previously developing the Key Stage 1 area of our playground and we were really pleased with the quality of the equipment and the service. We were confident that we would receive this again and we did! Another personal service with fantastic equipment.

The time spent outside has had a really positive effect on [the children] motivation and creativity.

How are we using the space to deliver outdoor learning and educational play?

The children in Key Stage 1 and 2 love the new outdoor space and the Timber Trail is particularly popular during play and lunchtimes. In Foundation Stage the space is used in many ways. From hidden phonics in the sand, science and numeracy activities in the water and performing different sounds with the musical instruments. We are learning and playing every day in a new environment.

What are the biggest benefits you have seen for the children?

The biggest benefit the new space has given the children is that they can continue to develop their skills and learn in the great outdoors. The time spent outside has had a really positive effect on their motivation and creativity.

Can you share any best practice insights you’ve gained?

We have put words around the equipment to help develop the use of language. This was commented on by Ofsted when we received our outstanding report.

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