New Hub To Support Schools Get Active

• Posted on Apr 29, 2016

Poor quality playgrounds and outside spaces may be holding schools back in the battle to tackle physical inactivity and childhood obesity.

Well-designed, high quality facilities for outdoor play and learning, sport, PE and physical activity make a huge impact on school life, children’s educational experiences, health and wellbeing. To help schools provide more opportunities for children to be active, the Association of Play Industries (API) has created Schools Get Active – an online hub packed with useful tips and advice guides, resources and inspiring case studies.

API Chair Mark Hardy says: “More and more schools are approaching API members asking for creative solutions to get children moving more throughout the school day, not just in PE and sport. We wanted to provide a great place for schools to find advice and inspiration to help them make the very most of their outside spaces. We’re surprised that some schools still risk using non API play companies. Choosing an API member guarantees peace of mind because it means working with a professional, reputable, experienced and financially stable company, backed by a professional association that is committed to raising industry standards.”

Recent research by the API showed that more than six in ten (61.4%) parents feel that schools should be given more funding for better playground facilities and equipment.

The API is the lead trade body within the UK play sector and campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition for the value of play.

The API operates under the umbrella of the Federation of Sports and Play Associations (FSPA), the national trade body responsible for representing 14 Associations in the UK’s sport and play industries.