School Playground Equipment in Hertfordshire | Natural Playground Design as an Educational Tool

The Sciences

Hands-On Exploration

Many natural playgrounds are teeming with plants, trees and ecosystems which children love to explore. Part of any biology curriculum is learning about bugs, animals and vegetation, and what better way to learn than to explore wild environments in a safe, hands-on manner? Environmental surveys are a fantastic way to help children develop an interest in the sciences.

Eco-Awareness

Another benefit of natural playground design, along with recyclable school playground equipment and climbing frames, is that they can help instil a sense of environmental responsibility in children. This is especially the case when Hertfordshire schools place the onus of looking after playgrounds on the children themselves. It is never too early to develop a respect for Mother Nature, but it is often hard to do so with plastic or metal playground equipment.

Physics Experiments

An effective natural playground design doesn’t just benefit the biology department. Large natural outdoor spaces can be used to conduct physics experiments with kites, rockets and even catapults. This is another fantastic way to show children the thrills that science can offer, and to get them interested in learning physics at an early age.

Physical Education

Outdoor P.E. Facility

Not every school has the interior space to create effective areas for P.E. lessons. Yet many of our clients view a playground design not only as a way to create a space for play but also as a place to encourage physical development and healthy, active lifestyles. Integrating sports pitches, bike tracks and running circuits into natural playgrounds can help in achieving this goal.

The Power of Play

Playtime offers the chance for pupils to run, jump and flex their muscles. By bringing in climbing frames or towers, for example, you can ensure that children aren’t solely getting their exercise during P.E. periods. School playground equipment gives them the freedom to stretch their legs whenever they want, while also being actively social.

Creative Arts

Staging

We often incorporate staging and performance areas within playground design concepts developed for Hertfordshire schools. These can be used for musical, theatrical or dance performances by students and teachers alike. Instead of being confined to a stuffy school hall, everyone can enjoy creative time outdoors in clean, fresh air and natural surroundings.

Interactive School Playground Equipment

Some additions to natural playgrounds, like chalkboards, interactive walls and loose construction materials, can encourage children to set about building structures, sculptures and works of art. Just as importantly, students can gain a clear understanding of how different elements and materials work together.

Art Integration

Incorporating permanent art fixtures within natural playgrounds, especially those created by local artists around Hertfordshire or the pupils themselves, can inspire a budding Picasso in your class. Seating areas where children can get fresh air, socialise and draw or paint with their peers are also a great idea for art lessons.