Question 1

What happens here?

Accepted Answer

At the Lollard Street Adventure Playground we run play sessions based on Free Play. This means that the play is child-initiated rather than adult led. We have several play structures outside such as a zipwire, tyre swings and a slide as well as indoor space with crash mats, toys and games - not to mention plenty of loose parts throughout the playground. Children can build dens, climb structures, play sports, roller skate, ride bikes, drum, interact with nature, and much, much more!

Question 2

What is Free Play?

Accepted Answer

Free Play means that children have the freedom to play however they want, following their own interests and wishes in the moment. It is unstructured, voluntary, and child-initiated. The role of our Playworkers is to create a dynamic, varied play environment and facilitate children’s play, rather than lead it.

Question 3

What is the age range?

Accepted Answer

Our age range is 6-16 years old.

Question 4

Are you a registered childcare facility?

Accepted Answer

No. It is important to know that we are not a childcare facility but an open access playground, which means that children are free to come and go as they please. Of course, if a young child wants to go home, we will always phone up a parent/carer to ask them to collect the child but we cannot physically prevent a child from leaving the playground.

Question 5

Is there a cost?

Accepted Answer

Nope! There is no cost to attend the playground or access any extra provisions (such as food and holiday trips).

Question 6

Can I/my child just turn up?

Accepted Answer

Children must be registered with us before attending a play session. Registration can be completed online (click here for registration form). If you are having trouble filling out the form online, you can come along to the playground on Wednesday - Friday 15:30 - 17:30 and we can help you register. Please note that all registrations take 24 hours to process.

Question 7

Are parents/carers allowed in during play sessions?

Accepted Answer

We do not allow parents/carers to attend play sessions with their children. This is in line with most adventure playgrounds across the country. We believe this allows children to play more freely.

Question 8

Where is the catchment area?

Accepted Answer

Our catchment area is the SE11 postcode. Children must either live or go to school in our catchment area to attend a play session. Here is a map of our catchment area:

Question 9

What clothes should I/my child wear?

Accepted Answer

Something that you are happy to get dirty! We encourage nature play and interactions with the elements and so children’s clothes can end up muddy and messy. Please also be sure to wear appropriate footwear and dress for the season!

Question 10

Will food be provided during play sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have our very own Playground Cook who prepares a fresh, hot meal at every play session. Meals are free for all children and you can find each week’s menu on our website and on our notice board.

Question 11

Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! It’s true that we encourage risky play at the playground, meaning that children can climb, jump and even sometimes use tools. However, this is all under the supervision of our trained Playworkers, who are there to ensure that, even while taking risks, children are safe from harm. We also have a robust risk assessment in place.

Question 12

How many staff do you have working during play sessions?

Accepted Answer

Staffing levels vary depending on the day but we will always have at least three Playworkers working during a play session. We have a ratio of 1 Playworker to 10 children.

Question 13

What happens when the playground is full?

Accepted Answer

As mentioned above, our staff to children ratio is 1:10 and so if we reach capacity, we cannot allow any more children in until others have left the playground. Children are welcome to line up outside and wait but we cannot guarantee them a space.

Question 14

What do you do during the holidays?

Accepted Answer

During the school holidays we deliver a programme of activities on top of our usual free play sessions. We plan 1-2 main activities per day that include arts & crafts, sports competitions, structured games and more. We also run free trips during the holidays, although places on the trips are limited. We publish our holiday programme schedule on our website a few weeks ahead of each school holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions