King Edward VI Preparatory School Opens New Natural Playscape for Pre Prep

King Edward VI Preparatory School in Romsey has recently opened a new natural playscape for pupils in Reception and Year 1, designed to encourage imagination, exploration and unstructured play.

At KES Prep, outdoor learning and play are a central part of the educational ethos, particularly in the early years and Pre-Prep. For Reception and Year 1 pupils, play is not simply a break from learning - it is learning. Through play, children develop confidence, resilience, communication skills and creativity. Climbing, balancing, building and exploring together helps pupils learn to take risks, solve problems and interact with others in meaningful ways.

Created in partnership with specialist play designers Earth Wrights, the space reflects a shared belief that children thrive when given the freedom to explore, experiment and invent their own games. 

Since opening, the response from pupils, staff and families has been overwhelmingly positive. Staff have already noticed a real shift in how children are playing together with more collaboration, creativity and confidence as they explore the space and create their own adventures.

Jo Humphries, Head of Pre Prep said: "It was a privilege to work with Earth Wrights to create a playscape that truly places children at its heart. Our vision was to design a space filled with limitless possibilities, somewhere where learning, imagination and adventure naturally unfold. By incorporating a wide range of moveable, open‑ended structures and resources, the environment can transform from one day to the next, shaped entirely by the children’s ideas and interactions. Watching them explore, collaborate and make the space their own is joyful and reflects the very best of childhood"

The project also reflects the school’s commitment to sustainability. Earth Wrights are pioneers in natural play design, using durable materials sourced responsibly and avoiding plastics wherever possible. Much of the equipment is built from FSC-certified Robinia wood, chosen for its natural strength and longevity, allowing structures to be created without chemical treatments.

By working with the natural landscape and using sustainable materials, the playscape not only provides a rich environment for play but also helps children develop an early appreciation for the natural world.