1 General

Governors and managers of schools and other County Council establishments have shown an increased interest in providing more stimulating play equipment for the children in their care. In many cases new play areas and equipment are the priority; in others it may be adding to or replacing existing equipment Whatever the specific requirements, the following advice should be used as a general guide to those involved in planning play areas.

2 Safety considerations

Whilst there needs to be the greatest care in selecting the best type of outdoor play equipment to meet the particular needs of children, experience shows that of far greater importance are the arrangements within the school for controlling their use.ï¿½ Without inhibiting the natural agility of children, especially at nursery and infant level, means should be devised to protect pupils from their own acts and indiscretions. Responsible supervision must be provided whenever such apparatus is in use.

A good system will ensure that:

2.1 The children are safely shod.ï¿½ Beware of slippery soled or loose footwear.ï¿½ Footwear should provide good traction between foot and frame.

2.2 Frames should not be used during inclement weather, thus obviating the problem of climbing in overcoats and other loose clothing. Where equipment is sited on grass this may mean it must be out of use some time after rain to allow the ground to dry if rapid wear and mud are to be avoided.

2.3 All staff must be familiar with the apparatus and the levels of response, which may be reasonably expected from children.

2.4 Any play-time use must be strictly arranged, understood and adequately supervised, especially where small children are concerned.

2.5 Consideration should be given to segregating older pupils from small children, especially nursery children.ï¿½ Separate play-times can achieve this end.

2.6 The number of children using any piece of apparatus will be limited by the size of and the type of activity allowed on the equipment. Both pupils and staff need to know the maximum number of children permitted to use the apparatus at any one time. Supervising staff should ensure that the number of pupils and the activities allowed are controlled at all times.

If governors or headteachers are in doubt concerning any aspect of use of climbing frames they should obtain suitable experienced advice before the purchase and use of the equipment.

3 Design considerations

3.1 Generally, long low elements are preferable to those where height is the dominant feature.ï¿½ The maximum suitable height will vary considerably with the age and ability of children.