Woodland Play in Schools

Across the UK, schools are re-discovering the importance of play and its ability to impact on some of the most significant aspects of child development. They are also discovering that natural environments and natural materials offer some of the richest play opportunities. While many schools are now developing playgrounds to create natural play spaces, hundreds of schools already have access to a wonderful, but unused, woodland playground right on their doorstep.
We wanted to find out how woodlands in or adjacent to schools could be made accessible for regular play. We have visited schools that have been doing this for years and worked with others that have recognised the potential of their woodlands for play but who needed help to turn their aspirations into reality.
This booklet shares what we have learned along the way. Not only does it illustrate the unique range of experiences and benefits offered by woodland play to children of all abilities, but also how the schools have managed the practical issues that might otherwise have prevented them from making the most of this wonderful resource.