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Schools & settings

Planning improvements to your grounds

Learning through Landscapes has years of experience working with schools, and we understand the need for a flexible approach to grounds improvement. A structured process of planning and implementing change, involving children throughout, will increase the success of your project.

We recommend a four-stage process:

  1. Stage 1: Where are we now?

    By the end of this stage you should have a good knowledge of: the existing layout and features of your school grounds; how the grounds are maintained and whether they are in good condition; how the grounds are used and viewed by the whole school community; and of any technical and legal constraints that exist.

  2. Stage 2: Where do we want to be?

    By the end of this stage you should have a vision plan showing what you would like to achieve; how you would like your grounds to function; and how you would like to be able to use them.

  3. Stage 3: How can we get there?

    By the end of this stage you should have detailed plans for the immediate changes you hope to make. You should also have considered the maintenance implications.

  4. Stage 4: Making the changes

    By the end of this stage you should have improved your grounds, and be ready to think about future projects.

Throughout this process, children and other members of the school community need to be meaningfully involved to ensure that the changes truly meet the school's needs, and will be respected by pupils.

Your school grounds project can provide an opportunity for parents to contribute their practical skills, as well as their opinions about the grounds. A skills survey of parents will uncover ways that your project can be helped – you may discover a landscape architect or builder who is willing to donate some time to a great cause!

Local businesses might be able to provide advice, funding, free or discounted materials, or labour as part of staff development or community involvement programmes. Your local council will be a source of advice on health and safety, planning requirements and funding. Voluntary groups and charities such as BTCV, Groundwork or the Wildlife Trust can provide technical advice, and may be able to work directly with you. Local media – newspapers, radio and TV – will be interested in helping you to celebrate your achievements.