In Dundela we strive to provide children with high-quality play and activity-based opportunities to support all aspects of their learning. Through a cross-curricular approach we are able to ensure that children have access to a wide range of play both in the classroom and in the outdoors.

Each year group has their own play resource area where children can partake in a wide range of play opportunities including dramatic play, sensory play, construction, small world and creative play. Through careful planning, play is progressed throughout each year group, to ensure the children are provided with developmentally appropriate experiences.  

We are also continuing to develop our wonderful outside space. The children have access to a bug hotel, digging zone, story area, trim trail, water wall, music wall, mud kitchen and a wide range of loose parts. We recognise how vital outdoor learning is and we are striving to bring the children outside as much as possible. 

As well as play reinforcing the children’s learning, it also allows for children to develop their thinking skills and personal capabilities. These include progressing the children’s ability to manage information, to problem solve and make decisions, to be creative, to work with others as well as develop their self-management skills. Gaining these skills are vital for children to become more effective learners.

This year we are focusing on developing the following skills through Outdoor Learning:

Social skills will develop as the children work together, compromise, listen and share ideas and resources, negotiate and develop friendships.

Physical skills will be developed through lifting, transporting, stretching, speeding up, slowing movements down and positioning equipment. Fine motor skills will be enhanced and there will be lots of opportunities to develop hand eye coordination.

Intellectually, children will further develop thinking skills by problem solving, using trial and error and understand concepts.

Communication skills will be enhanced as children speak from their own experience, share their ideas, use gestures and use new vocabulary.

Emotionally, children will develop a sense of achievement, be proud of their creations, feel a sense of worthiness, and become more resilient, when they realise the importance of not giving up.