Year 2 Local Environment Visit

As part of our ‘Local Environment’ Science unit, Year 2 students went on an exciting school trip to Walpole Park in Ealing, with a special mission in mind. Before the trip, the class received an official-looking letter from the Mayor of Ealing asking for their help in inspecting the playground. The mayor wanted the children to investigate what materials and surfaces are used to build playgrounds and to think about how they help make the area safe for children. This letter turned the trip into a real-world challenge, making the students feel like important playground inspectors with a scientific task to complete.

During the visit, the children explored the different parts of the playground and examined what each piece of equipment was made from. They observed that the climbing frames and swings were made from rope and plastic, while the slides were made from metal. They noticed that the ground was covered in dirt granules and using their scientific knowledge of various surfaces, students believed that soft rubber matting, designed to protect children if they fall, would be a safer option! Benches were made of wood or metal, and fencing around the playground helped keep the area secure. The children used clipboards and worksheets to record their findings, writing down the types of materials they saw and discussing why each one might have been chosen. They would eventually design their own playgrounds with the safest materials possible. 

Each class discussed their findings and talked about how playgrounds can be made safer. They suggested using soft surfaces like rubber or bark chips to prevent injuries, choosing materials that are waterproof, don’t get too hot in the sun, and making sure there are no sharp edges on equipment. Some even recommended adding signs to remind children to play safely. Through this engaging activity, they learned how science helps shape the world around them, especially in places designed for fun and safety in their local environment.