Elizabeth Burbidge is Deputy Headteacher at Edward Wilson School and also its Extended Schools Coordinator.  She comments that Play Space has provided a wide range of stimulating and exciting activities that have engaged the children and provided opportunities to develop their learning and social and emotional skills in a creative way.

“I am very pleased to report that Play Space has been a fantastic experience both personally and for all the children involved,” says Elizabeth.  “The children who attended the club have been able to gain a deep understanding of important concepts including balanced diet and healthy eating, as well as developing art and ICT skills.  In addition to this they have been given rounded knowledge about the benefits of healthy eating and can talk confidently about what they have learnt.”

By the end of the sessions, the children have improved their self-confidence and self-esteem and been able to run a health foods café where they served home-made smoothies and milkshakes to their parents and members of staff. 

At the end of each term children complete evaluations about the clubs they have attended and these have all been very positive about Play Space.  The evaluation asks children to comment on what they think they have learnt.  All the children commented that they now have a better understanding of the importance of healthy eating and have learnt some ways that they can include healthy eating in their diets. 

Many of the children have talked about how they have become more confident working as part of a group and discussing their feelings and ideas about healthy eating.  “Class teachers have noticed an improvement in the confidence in some of the less sociable pupils,” adds Elizabeth.  “Play Space has been both effective and well-organised.  This has been supported by the professional attitude and interaction of Play Space staff.”

And what do the pupils think? “I chose this club because it would make me healthier and I enjoyed making the bags it was fun,” is the verdict of one young learner.