Hollywater School, Hampshire

The old playground at Hollywater School was lacking some outdoor inspiration. The staff wanted to add new equipment that would allow for messy, fun sand and water play. They tell us how variety in the school day has benefited staff and pupils.

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Why did you want to develop your playground?

Sand and water play is an important part of the curriculum and we wanted to find an innovative way to introduce it to our school. By taking the activities outside, we felt that it would be a good way to spend more time in the playground and give the children the opportunity to make as much mess as they want.

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

We could see just from the website and the brochure that Playforce really understand children. Their equipment is designed to make all aspects of the curriculum inspiring, productive and, most importantly, fun. We were really impressed with the equipment they had on offer for sand and water play and we knew it would fit perfectly into our school setup.

Sand and water play help make science lessons hands-on and we’ve noticed that the information we teach [the children] whilst using the equipment embeds into their minds much longer.

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

Our Sand Play Basin and Water Play Station take centre stage when the pupils head outside. We are using the equipment within lessons to help them develop their teamwork, coordination and discovery skills. When the bell rings for lunch it’s all hands on deck and the children love using what they have learnt in lessons to do some exploring and discovering of their own.

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

Adding a new element to the school routine has really inspired the children. Sand and water play help make science lessons hands-on and we’ve noticed that they information we teach them whilst using the equipment embeds into their minds much longer. Simply spending more time outdoors has also benefited the children, they are bright and motivated when they move back into the classroom.

Can you share any best practice insights you have gained?

We didn’t want to give our playground a complete makeover but needed to find a way to encourage our pupils to spend more time outside. By just adding a handful of new equipment we have been able to incorporate outdoor learning and play into a great mixture of lessons.

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