Bright murals, seating and shelter, ponds and planters, and new play equipment have all been added to previously uninspiring grounds and many teachers have reported the benefits in developing their grounds as a stimulating teaching resource, with more creative play and improved behaviour in the playground. The teachers, parents and pupils from these schools have worked together to produce solutions to their own schools' problems and needs. They have also been able to draw upon the support of Learning through Landscapes. It is therefore important that these areas are designed to meet their needs in both the formal and informal curriculum. LTL's research has shown that involving the pupils in the process of development is critically important if projects are to be a success.
Children appreciate improvements more if they are involved throughout the project.
There is little point in creating a spectacular project if it then cannot be sustained. LTL has a local base in Thames Chase, the Community Forest serving the East of London. As the local LTL Officer I can provide advice, encouragement and resources to schools interested in developing and using their school grounds to their full potential. These can be on both the development process and the use of the grounds throughout the curriculum. Membership of LTL means that training can be arranged at a reduced cost as well as the benefits of a free termly national newsletter, information on grants and other funding opportunities, and news of national and regional conferences.