The Bristol Standard

The Bristol Standard for Play Provision is an accredited quality improvement scheme piloted by Barnet Play for use in schools as a tool to evaluate the effectiveness of play opportunities throughout the school day. Following the success of the pilot project through 2011 we are now looking for expressions of interest from other schools in the Borough who may wish to gain this nationally recognised award for their play.

As a tool for self reflection, the Bristol Standard for Play Provision promotes discussion amongst the staff team as a way of celebrating what works well and identifying key targets to be achieved over the year which will most benefit the children.

For schools this tends to focus on the opportunities provided to children at lunchtimes and playtimes. Staff working with children at these times have ownership of the document and as paperwork is kept to a minimum, the time commitment required is not prohibitive.

There are 10 dimensions of quality:

• Values and Aims
• Relationships and Interactions
• Approaches to Play & Development
• The Physical Environment
• Play Experiences
• Observation, Planning & Record Keeping
• Leadership, Management & Staffing
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
• Partnerships with Parents & the Local Community
• Monitoring & Evaluation

Mentor support, materials and accreditation can be arranged through Barnet Play. Please contact the Quality Development Team if you have any questions about the Bristol Standard or would like more information.