A new report from the Association of Play Industries (API) has revealed worrying trends in the state of outdoor play across primary schools in England.
The Association of Play Industries (API) has released new findings on the state of outdoor play in primary schools. Based on responses from more than 400 schools, the study provides a snapshot of investment, access and inclusion in school play provision — and suggests that children’s right to play is increasingly under pressure.
Sharp decline in play for older pupils
The findings show a steep drop in outdoor play opportunities as children progress through primary school. While daily outdoor play is common in early years settings, provision falls significantly by Key Stage 2. At this stage, only around 10% of schools report offering daily outdoor play. The report suggests that as academic pressures increase, play is often squeezed out of the school day for older pupils.
Limited spending on play space
Investment in outdoor play areas also appears to be low. Nearly two-thirds of schools surveyed said they had spent less than £10,000 on outdoor play facilities over the past three years. The API warns that insufficient funding risks leaving children with limited or poor-quality play environments at a crucial stage in their development.
Inclusion concerns highlighted
The report also raises concerns about accessibility. It found that relatively few schools take the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) into account when designing or upgrading play spaces. Campaigners say this raises important questions about equality and whether all pupils are being given fair access to play opportunities.
Calls for action
The findings add to growing concerns that play is being marginalised within the education system. The report calls for greater recognition of play as a vital part of children’s learning, wellbeing and social development, and urges policymakers and schools to ensure that every child has the time, space and opportunity to play freely each day.
The full report (The State of Outdoor Play in Primary Schools – A Summary for Educators) can be found on the API website at https://www.api-play.org
If you are a school considering an outdoor grounds improvement project, contact our expert team and let’s reimagine your playground today.