School grounds can provide opportunities to: 

• Devise and build technological solutions for developing alternative energy systems 
• Experiment and build with recycled materials 
• Use organic products and practise organic gardening 
• By providing good facilities such as secure cycle sheds and well-designed access routes, school grounds can also promote sustainable transport – cycling and walking – and should be a consideration within School Travel Plans 
• Design for minimum environmental impact. 
• Re-use materials on site and source recycled materials. 
• Design and build for the conservation of water resources, consider ponds. 
• Use locally-sourced materials & local contractors. 
• Maximise the positive capacity of the natural environment, including light, shade, ventilation and micro-climate. 
• Make optimal use of green technologies, such as renewable energy and reed bed filtration. 
• Appeal to children’s intellect and sense of fun with features designed to stimulate their senses and encourage physical and mental exploration. 

• Learning through Landscapes is a great resource, it highlights how imaginatively developed school grounds can contribute to curriculum teaching and learning. 
• Find out about building resilience through play with Playful Schools
• There are lots of creative solutions to create a more sustainable school. 

• Provide advice on biodiversity, food growing, sustainable design, energy solutions, recycling, and active travel.

Get inspired by Eco-School’s school grounds transformations and case studies, here. 

Experiences and Outcomes

Four capacities (successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens, effective contributors) 

Eco-Schools: School Grounds