Ahead of the wider opening of schools on the 8^th March, Boris Johnson visited St Mary’s Primary School in Tunstall to find out how they were preparing to open to more pupils next week.

During his visit, Boris Johnson also had a tour of the working site where the setting has invested in their outdoor space. The Prime Minister met with the team of experts who are installing the outdoor space and transforming the playground into an inclusive playground and sensory space.

Boris Johnson said ‘Absolutely wonderful for the kids.’

The PM then ventured up into the lookout tower, inspected the up and over tunnel and was wowed by the water play area too, providing his seal of approval of the outdoor space.

St Mary’s Primary School are investing in their outdoor space, which will enable children to play independently, learn in a fantastic outdoor environment and be able to access an inclusive enriched outdoor environment.

More, now than ever outdoor learning is key. The children have spent an extended amount of time indoors and not participating in sports, so when the children return to their educational settings then outdoor learning and exercising is going to be key.

Timotay Playscapes are incredibly proud of their contribution to outdoor learning and believe that every child has the right to play. Through each of its playground and outdoor space transformations, it is making a positive impact.

There is no better place for children to learn, than outdoors, and no better play resource than nature itself. Simply put, play is learning. The NHS also recommends that toddlers and preschool-aged children should have at least 3-4 hours per day of physical activity, so if this exercise can take place outside then this becomes even more of a benefit to a young child.

Here at Timotay Playscapes, we support the use of outdoor learning environments so that children can connect with nature and the wider outdoor and natural environment. We are here to help educational settings along with parks, public spaces and family attractions design, build and transform their outdoor spaces – and get our children more active and engaged in outdoor learning. Click here for your FREE consultation.