NEW API report shows a steep decline in provision
A new national survey commissioned by the Association of Play Industries, and carried out by The Education Company, reveals a concerning picture of outdoor play provision in England’s primary schools.
The survey found a sharp drop-off in outdoor play as children move through primary school. While 78% of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) settings use outdoor areas throughout the day, only 16% of Key Stage 2 (KS2) classes do the same. Similarly, play-based outdoor learning is nearly universal in EYFS (98%) but falls to just 10% in KS2.
“Schools are telling us they want to do more,” says API Chair, Dr Amanda Gummer. “They understand the benefits but they need support, funding and guidance to make their outdoor ambitions a reality.
“Outdoor play should be protected, funded and celebrated at every stage of a child’s school journey. If we’re serious about improving physical health, mental wellbeing and education outcomes, we need to take play seriously.”
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