Outdoor Play and Risk Assessment for Children Course

Outdoor Play and Risk Assessment for Children – Online Course

Course overview
This online course explores the importance of outdoor play and how to balance children’s opportunities for exploration and challenge with appropriate safety measures. Learners will examine different types of risky play, the benefits of outdoor activities, potential hazards and ways to manage risks. The course also introduces risk assessment principles and approaches to creating outdoor environments that encourage children to develop skills, explore their surroundings and take increasing responsibility for their safety. It takes approximately one hour to complete and is worth 1 CPD point.

Please note: This is an introductory Level 1 course providing awareness and theoretical knowledge of outdoor play and risk assessment. It does not replace any practical, regulated or role-specific training an employer may require.

What the course covers
• Understanding risky play and its characteristics
• Different types of risky play
• The importance of risk in children’s play experiences
• Levels of risk and the benefits of a balanced approach
• Developmental benefits of outdoor risky play
• Managed risks and barriers to balanced risk-taking
• Characteristics of a balanced approach to outdoor play
• Legal requirements relating to outdoor play and risk assessment
• Creating environments that support appropriate risk-taking
• Managing children’s risk-taking during play
• Potential hazards associated with outdoor activities
• Encouraging children to take responsibility for their safety
• The role of adult relationships in supporting risk and challenge
• How to carry out a risk assessment
• Strategies for encouraging safe risk-taking

Who is it for?
This course is suitable for people involved in providing, supervising or maintaining outdoor play opportunities for children. It may be particularly relevant for:
• Early years practitioners and childcare providers
• Nursery and preschool staff
• Childminders
• Playworkers and outdoor educators
• Teachers and school staff
• Professionals responsible for outdoor learning activities
• Local authority staff involved in public recreation areas and play spaces
• Health and safety officers responsible for recreational environments
• Individuals undertaking induction, refresher or awareness training

Practical benefits
• Understand the value of outdoor play in children’s development
• Recognise the benefits and potential challenges of risky play
• Develop awareness of hazards associated with outdoor activities
• Explore ways to balance children’s freedom to explore with appropriate safety measures
• Understand the principles of risk assessment in outdoor play settings
• Identify ways to create stimulating environments that support exploration and learning
• Encourage children to develop awareness of their own safety
• Recognise the importance of communication with parents, carers and other relevant people
• Strengthen knowledge for everyday practice and professional development
• Gain a free CPD-accredited certificate after successfully completing the course quiz

What learners will be able to do
• Explain key principles and terminology relating to outdoor play and risk assessment
• Recognise the importance of outdoor play in children’s everyday experiences
• Identify common risks and hazards associated with outdoor activities
• Understand individual responsibilities and role boundaries
• Explain why a balanced approach to risk and safety is important
• Recognise features of environments that support appropriate risk-taking
• Understand the main steps involved in carrying out a risk assessment
• Identify ways to manage risks while allowing children opportunities for challenge and exploration
• Encourage children to develop responsibility for their safety
• Communicate appropriately with relevant people about risks and safety concerns
• Recognise when further advice or escalation may be necessary

Is this training a legal requirement?
The supplied course information refers to legal requirements and relevant legislation, standards and guidelines governing outdoor play and safety in the UK. However, it does not identify specific laws or establish that this particular course is legally required for all staff. Organisations should consider the requirements relevant to their setting, activities and responsibilities when determining appropriate training.

Assessment and certificate
Learners complete an online quiz at the end of the course. Successful completion leads to a free CPD-accredited certificate that can be downloaded or printed. Unlimited assessment retakes are available. The course takes approximately one hour to complete and is delivered online for flexible study.