Ray Parry Playground Services Ltd

Budget pressures are limiting what schools can invest in outdoor play and learning.

Latest research from the Association of Play Industries found that 65% of schools spent less than £10,000 on outdoor play over the last three years, with many facing pressures around space, staffing and competing priorities.

As an API member, we understand the real-world challenges schools are facing when it comes to investing in outdoor provision.

That’s why long-term value matters. Schools need outdoor spaces that are durable, flexible and designed to evolve with pupils over time, making every pound work harder. But improvements don't have to come at a huge cost - simply adding a few play panels to your existing play area will help to make a space more inclusive.

API members are rigorously monitored for financial stability and professional standards, helping schools invest with confidence in projects built to last.

Find out more on our Funding Page about some of the opportunities and Grants available: https://rayparry.co.uk/funding/

🌳 Could outdoor play be one of the simplest ways to improve children's health?

Recent research suggests the answer is yes.

From boosting physical fitness and mental wellbeing to building confidence, resilience and social skills, quality outdoor play has never been more important.

We've taken a closer look at the latest research recently referenced in the Shropshire Star and evidence for why schools, councils and communities should be investing in outdoor play for the future.

👉 Read the full article on our website: https://rayparry.co.uk/blog/outdoor-play-is-more-than-fun-its-essential-for-childrens-health/

Latest research from the Association of Play Industries found that only 8% of primary teachers rate their outdoor play spaces as “excellent” and 1 in 5 schools rate their KS2 outdoor provision as poor or very poor.

As an API member, we know that great outdoor spaces don’t happen by accident. Schools need play environments that are safe, durable, inclusive and designed to support learning, wellbeing and active play for all ages.

That’s why API members work to the highest professional standards, providing evidence of previous work, case studies and references so schools can invest with confidence.

Find out more about how we can support your project at www.rayparry.co.uk and see how we've transformed other school playgrounds across Shropshire, Wrexham, Cheshire and Powys.

Outdoor play shouldn’t stop at EYFS. Yet that’s exactly what’s happening in many schools.

Latest research from the Association of Play Industries found that while 78% of EYFS settings use outdoor areas throughout the day, that drops to just 16% in KS2.

As an API member, we’re passionate about creating outdoor spaces that support children throughout their whole primary journey, not just in the early years.

As children grow, opportunities for active, imaginative outdoor play are shrinking, despite the proven benefits for physical health, wellbeing, resilience and learning.

Schools need outdoor spaces that evolve with pupils, not spaces children outgrow.

That’s why we design fun, engaging and age-appropriate play spaces with built-in challenge, helping all children stay active.

We believe schools deserve more than a playground supplier - they deserve a playground partner. From understanding your pupils and your vision to creating outdoor spaces that evolve with them, we’re with you every step of the way.

Contact us for a free, no obligation playground consultation at www.rayparry.co.uk

Proud to have been involved in this project for Welshpool Town Council

🎄 Wishing all our customers and friends a very Merry Christmas.

Thank you for your continued support throughout 2025. We’re looking forward to working with you on your play area projects in 2026.

We close on Friday 19th December and reopen on Monday 5th January. Contactable by phone and email throughout.