South Cotswolds MP advocates for play-based learning in key stage one
Roz Savage leads calls for educational reforms in England
A Wiltshire MP is championing the introduction of play-based learning for key stage one students across England, underscoring its numerous benefits for young children's development.
While currently integrated into early years education, play-based learning tends to diminish as children enter key stage one, which Dr Roz Savage, MP for the South Cotswolds believes is a missed opportunity.
She notes its effectiveness in engaging children's brain development and embedding learning in a more embodied form.
Dr Savage emphasises that Scotland and Wales have already implemented play-based learning in key stage one, leaving England behind in this approach.
Learning through play a benefit for all
Teachers have voiced strong support for it, observing higher attendance, improved behaviour, and better academic results among students.
Roz said: "The teachers that I've spoken with say the kids can't wait to get to school and they're reluctant to go home!"
Over 100,000 people have signed an e-petition backing these calls, with almost 2,000 from constituencies including people living in Wiltshire.
Dr Savage suggests that wider school implementation could reduce special educational needs provision costs, easing financial pressures on local authorities.
She said, "Time and time again how play-based learning encourages the children to collaborate, boosts their confidence and improves their communication skills."
Hope of widespread introduction
In a parliamentary debate, Dr Savage received cross-party support, although the government has yet to adopt an official stance on this initiative.
She remains cautiously optimistic about a policy shift.
Roz hopes the government will include play-based learning in the English key stage one curriculum, aligning with Wales and Scotland to make play-based learning a standard educational practice.
She advocates for teacher training to guide play-based learning, suggesting online resources as an accessible means to equip educators.
Roz asserts that incorporating play into learning processes is not about playtime or sports but rather a structured and intentional way to foster learning through playful engagement with teachers acting as guides.
By supporting play-based learning as part of the national curriculum, Dr Savage is confident that it will form a crucial element of children's education, improving outcomes and creativity across England.
Government recognises role of play in learning
In responding to the petition, the Government said understands how influential play can be in learning.
The Government said: "The Department is working to make sure that all children and young people have access to a variety of enrichment opportunities at school, as an important part of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity. For some schools, these opportunities may be used to encourage children and young people to play.
"We recognise that play is critical to children’s wellbeing and development, as highlighted in the Centre for Young Lives’ Everything to Play For report. This is reflected in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, which is clear that play is essential for children’s learning and development. The EYFS emphasises the importance of creating opportunities for indoor and outdoor play, and enabling environments and cultures for high-quality play."
It added that it expects schools to organise how school days and weeks are structure to best fit the needs of their pupils, providing them with an education suitable to their age, aptitude and ability, and providing opportunities to include play and other activities.
The Government said it knows the KS1 curriculum needs reviewing.
"We recognise the current key stage 1 curriculum requires reform. This is why the Government established an independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, to look into issues, such as this, and make recommendations to improve the curriculum for children. The Review Group is currently looking across the existing national curriculum and statutory assessment system, to ensure they meet the needs of young people in your area and across England.
"The Review’s final report and recommendations will be published in autumn, at which point the Government will be in a position to consider any changes to the curriculum. The Government will consult with education experts, teachers, and parents to ensure the very best for children in England."