Outdoor Policy

Outdoor play is a vital component of a child's holistic development and supports their intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth. It provides valuable experiences that contribute to communication skills and instil positive attitudes toward a healthy lifestyle. Our goal, both indoors and outdoors, is to create a stimulating and safe environment that supports children's learning across all areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage. Close observation is crucial to assessing children's abilities and maintaining appropriate supervision.

 

When planning outdoor play, our staff will consider the following:

 

Safety: We prioritize the safety of children by providing a secure and risk-assessed outdoor area. Daily risk assessments and safety checks are conducted to ensure a safe play environment.

 

Challenging Play: We strive to offer an outdoor space that presents exciting and challenging play opportunities for children. Our outdoor space and activities are designed to stimulate their curiosity and engagement.

 

Age Groups and Abilities: We recognise the diverse age groups and varying levels of ability among children using the outdoor area. Our planning considers the individual needs and interests of each child.

 

Supervision and Delegation: Adequate supervision is essential during outdoor play. Our staff are responsible for ensuring proper supervision, and tasks are delegated appropriately to maintain an effective staff-to-child ratio.

 

Continuation of Indoor Activities: We promote a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor activities, allowing children to explore and extend their learning experiences across different environments.

 

Safety in the garden:

• Daily Risk Assessment: Before children enter the garden, a member of staff from the first room using the area conducts a thorough garden risk assessment.

• Weather-Related Hazards: Staff will monitor and assess weather conditions to identify any potential hazards in the garden. If necessary, certain areas may be temporarily closed for the safety of the children.

• Communication and Procedures: The daily risk assessment findings will be recorded and communicated to each of the rooms to keep all staff informed.

• Responsibility and Supervision: Deputy managers hold the responsibility for ensuring daily risk assessments are conducted. Staff members will be trained and familiarised with the procedures to effectively follow them.

• Vigilance and Supervision: Staff members supervising the garden will always remain vigilant, never leaving the area unless another staff member takes over responsibility. Each staff member will be positioned in designated areas to ensure comprehensive supervision and avoid unsupervised spaces.

• Returning to the Setting: At the end of each outdoor session, staff will ensure that all children are lined up at the door before entering the building and returning to their respective rooms. Children will be guided back into the setting one room at a time, always ensuring safety.

• Equipment Storage: All outdoor equipment will be stored safely and sensibly, facilitating easy removal for the following day's activities.

• Independent Play and Different Abilities: While encouraging children to explore climbing and balancing independently, staff members remain attentive to varying levels of ability and provide appropriate support and guidance.

• Accidents and Incidents: In the event of accidents or incidents, staff will respond promptly and appropriately, following established procedures. Detailed records will be documented on accident forms, and information will be shared with parents to ensure open communication and transparency.

 

CREATED: AUGUST 2023   REVIEWED: JANUARY 2025