What changes have been made to our playtimes?

December 2024
 
What has happened so far 
 
We have already made some fun changes to lunchtimes:
 
  • Infant and junior children can now access all of the school grounds
  • New music system
  • Art and crafts zone
  • Dressing up costumes
  • Chalk
  • Small world- (cars, Lego, K'NEX)
  • Bubbles
  • Giant Jenga & Connect 4
 
 
All of the above have been added to complement the already available large open space, trim trail area and a basketball net.
 
The exciting path ahead
 
We are starting to implement new play opportunities into zones, ensuring the zones are fun, safe and we have suitable resources.
 
We are so excited to get out there and fulfill a long list of exciting additional play opportunities we have planned over the next 18 months which include:
 
  • Wheeled area- scooters
  • Further small world
  • Mud kitchen
  • A sand pit
  • Reading quiet spaces
  • Water area
  • Digging area
 
Wheeled zone
 
We have introduced a designated area for a new wheeled zone. Where our children can use a variety of scooters, scooter board, prams and scuttleboards to develop physical skills, balance and coordination. It has enhanced independance, gross motor skills and social interaction.This area is an inclusive actvity for children of all ages and has provided moments of endless fun!
 
 
New football nets
 
We appreciate the kindess from Pex Hill Football Club for generously donating two football nets to replace our well-worn ones. All year group have enjoyed partcipating in team games, taking penalties and dribbling and practising football skills.
 
 
June 2025 update
 
Sand pit
 
The construction of our new sand pit was finished in June. Thanks to the resources provided from our 'Dress for the beach day', the children have thoroughly enjoyed creating sandcastles, crafting sand ice creams and shaping star fish and shells with the sand toys.
 
 
July 2025 update
 
Mud kitchen
 
Our children are now enjoying  our new mud kitchen using recipes to make mud pies, leaf wraps and conker cakes.They are eager to explore and experiment with utensils, mud, water and nautral materils such as leaves, pine cones, twigs, and acorns. 
 
Water wall Zone
 
We have created and introduced a new double sided water wall which serves multiple educational purposes.
Our children will have enjoyed engaging with their peers by sharing, communicating and helping each other whilst enhancing their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordinaion . It provides a sensory experience by the sound and sensation of flowing water whilst enriching play, offering a stimulating environment for exploration and learnig.
 
 
Planters- 
Digging area, dinosaur world, fairy garden.
 
Thanks to the generous donations from families throughout the year, along with the kindness shown during our two OPAL loose parts bingos, we are excited to offer a diverse array of small world play items.
 
On the KS1 playground, you will find a digging area equipped with digger toys nestled in one of our planters. Additionally, we’ve created a vibrant dinosaur world featuring various dinosaurs and also a charming new fairy garden.
 
These areas foster independent, imaginative play where children decide how to use the space and materials.
 
 
Hammocks
 
Hammocks have been introduced into our woods area. They offer a quiet, relaxing and  peaceful environment for children who may want to step away energetic activities.
 
 
Digging area
 
We are currently creating a designated digging area that will encourage sensory exploration and creativity allowing our children to use tools to dig and investigate. This area will encourage mastering skills like digging holes, building, and using tools, which will improve core strength and upper body strength.