Playground surface materials (sand, gravel,grass)

Gravitating to greenery

Following the playground surveys there has been much consultation, observation and discussion, and now we are ready to respond and continue to listen.

We heard concerns about the hygiene and mess associated with sand
We learned:
•       several other Edinburgh schools are extremely pleased with the benefits from introducing sand
•       how to maintain hygiene
•       drainage in winter was not a problem
•       to provide mats and brushes at the  school doors, part of children’s learning
•       sand and gravel are a key to successful sustained interest in loose materials play
•       sand is <2% of the whole playground

We heard concerns that grass areas would not survive and become a mud-bath
We learned:
•       grass on steep gradients often creates mud-slides; artificial grass may be more appropriate
•       grass on flatter areas, even with rubber matting will not thrive, but with good drainage still represents useful contact with the natural world.  Final decision not made.

Natural loose materials were selected to give our children daily contact with the natural world, together with their friends; promote healthy development; and make running more physically challenging (maybe slower).  No area of the playground will be out of bounds after wet weather.  Daily lunchtime access to the ‘nature strip’ will be available.

If you would like more information on the benefits of sand then check out this short Grounds for Learning video

http://youtu.be/f_bqZdggDD8

We hope that you are able to attend the Parent Consultation Evening on Thursday 19th 6pm-7pm.