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The Fundamentals Of School Playground Design

The ULTIMATE School Playground Design Resource

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Where To Start When It Comes To A New Play Area?

The Fundamentals Of School Playground Design

Before selecting outdoor play equipment, it’s important to consider the core requirements of a school play space.

Beyond being fun, it should support physical development and key learning objectives.

Guides In This Section:

  • How To Align Your Play Area With The National PE Curriculum (12 Key Activities)
  • Choosing Outdoor Play Equipment For Skills Development
  • Starting Point: What Items Should Be In A Playground?
  • Understanding Playground Construction Materials
  • School Playground Safety
  • Case Study: South Harringay Infant Nursery School

Got a question while reading? Our Creative Play advisors are always on hand if you’d like to talk it through.

How To Align Your Play Area With The National PE Curriculum (12 Key Activities)

Two photos - one features two girls in white top pe kits smiling as they peer through playground equipment ropes, the other photo is of three bouys in green top school uniforms balancing on a jungle climber as they pose for a photA well-designed school playground supports the curriculum by promoting physical activity, social development, and inclusive play. Discover how to create a space that enhances learning and meets educational requirements.

 

 

12 Key Activities Your Play Area Needs To Meet The National Curriculum For Physical Education

Choosing Outdoor Play Equipment For Skills Development

Photo of girl and boy in school uniforms playing with blue plastic wall mounted outdoor waterplay equipment / Photo of a smug boy peering down at the camera from up high on a jungle climber

The right outdoor play equipment can support a child’s physical, social, and cognitive development. This guide explores how different play elements help build key skills while keeping children engaged and active.

Outdoor Play At Creative Play: Choosing Equipment For Skills Development

Starting Point: What Items Should Be In Your Playground?

Photo of a girl in a coat flying down a green slide / Photo of boys and girls in school uniforms posing for the camera atop a clatterbridge

What makes a playground truly engaging and beneficial for children? Dive into the essential elements that form a playground, exploring the key features that support play, development, and fun for all ages.

What Items Are In A Playground

Understanding Playground Construction Materials

Photo of bald man drilling wood in a factory / Photo of children in high-vis vests touring the timber section of a factory

The elements used to manufacture playground equipment play a crucial role in safety, durability, and sustainability. Explore the core materials commonly used in playground design (Timber, Plastics, Ropes), and understand what makes them suitable for long-term outdoor use.

Core Playground Manufacturing Materials

School Playground Safety

Photo of child giving a thumbs up while crouched in a net climbing tunnel / Photo of a bearded man drilling safety caps on a piece of timber play equipment

Learn of the key factors to consider when designing a safe school playground, from age-appropriate equipment and thoughtful layout to protective surfacing and proper installation.

School Playground Safety

Case Study: South Harringay Infant Nursery School

South Harringay Infant & Nursery School Playground Equipment Design

Explore this extraordinary case study of the fundamentals of playground design being put into practice at South Harringay Infant Nursery School

South Harringay Infant & Nursery School

Still have questions about the fundamentals of school playground design?

Get in touch – one of our play advisors will be happy to help!

Want to know even more? Check out our guide on How To Design Your Ideal School Playground

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