ESP Play, a prominent playground design, manufacturing, and installation company based in the UK, is embarking on a transformative mission to revolutionise outdoor learning and play within schools across England and Wales. In response to recent research revealing a decline in outdoor learning for primary school pupils in Scotland, ESP Play champions the integration of outdoor classrooms into the school curriculum, recognising its profound impact on the holistic development of young learners.
A survey conducted by the University of Stirling shed light on the alarming reduction in time spent learning outdoors for primary school pupils in Scotland. The survey indicated a mere seven minutes ‘per pupil per week’ in 2022, compared to 30 minutes in 2014. While Covid-related restrictions played a role in this decline, the report also underscored the lack of confidence among practitioners in offering outdoor learning opportunities. Nevertheless, the early years witnessed a positive increase in outdoor play and learning, comprising 39% of the day compared to 36% in 2014.
ESP Play acknowledges the pivotal role of outdoor learning and play in fostering children’s physical and mental well-being, alongside their educational growth. The company firmly advocates that outdoor classrooms should be an integral part of the curriculum in England and Wales, just as they are in Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence.
Andrew Wood, the Managing Director of ESP Play, expressed his concern, stating, “We have witnessed the benefits of outdoor learning for years, and it is disheartening to observe a decline in outdoor play and learning opportunities. At ESP Play, we possess an unwavering passion for transforming outdoor spaces into interactive and engaging learning environments. We firmly believe that outdoor classrooms not only nurture a deeper connection with nature but also elevate the learning experience, making it more interdisciplinary, enjoyable, and meaningful for students.”
Aligned with the University of Stirling’s research, ESP Play urges educational institutions in England and Wales to invest in professional development for teachers, empowering them with the confidence to provide outdoor learning opportunities. This proactive approach enables learners to explore diverse curriculum areas, including mathematics, science, and literacy, while addressing crucial subjects such as sustainability, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
Drawing inspiration from Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services, and Skills, ESP Play shares a vision of outdoor learning as a vital component of a comprehensive and balanced curriculum. They advocate for schools to explicitly incorporate outdoor learning in their self-evaluation and other evidence presented during inspection visits.
With a steadfast commitment to the integration of outdoor learning into the school curriculum, ESP Play stands as an industry leader, dedicated to promoting the well-being and educational outcomes of young individuals across the country.
For further insights into ESP Play and their outdoor playground solutions, please visit www.espplay.co.uk.
