A DOWNEND primary school has redesigned its playground and re-thought its approach to playtime.
The change is part of Stanbridge Primary School’s priority on ‘joyous play’, aiming to “inspire creativity, joy and a stronger sense of belonging”.
The playground now features sand and tyre zones, tennis and basketball areas, dance and running zones, and building and cycling spaces.
Children can mix freely across year groups, helping the school’s ‘buddy’ system to thrive.
A craft club and the reopening of the school’s PlayPod scrap store provide a wider variety of opportunities for creativity, collaboration and fun.
The initiative has been supported by the school’s parent teacher association, which has provided fundraising and support to make the new play opportunities happen.
Head teacher David Payne said: “Play is where children learn best – it’s where friendships grow, problems are solved, and creativity thrives.
“Our focus on ‘Joyous Play’ is part of who we are at Stanbridge.
“We want every child to experience a joyful, enriching childhood alongside academic success.”
Deputy head teacher Becky Hart said: “A real highlight for me has been seeing how wonderfully our Year 6 role models have supported their EYFS buddies in their first few weeks of school, helping them with their lunches in the hall and joining in their games on the playground.”
Key Stage One leader Becky Cunnington-Hall said the new play zones help children “live out the school’s values of aspiration, belonging, courage and creativity every day”.