As schools are responsible for the safety of their children, there are a number of important factors to consider when choosing your playground fencing.

Fencing is one of the most effective ways to keep children safe when they are outside. A physical barrier is something that is understood by all children, whatever their age. Fencing can be used for external perimeters or to differentiate areas within the school grounds. Not only will this help to keep children in the right place, it will also deter any unauthorised visitors.

Fencing around the perimeter of your school provides you with the opportunity to create access points. This means you can control where people enter and leave your premises, making it easier to keep track of who is on site. These access points can be strategically placed to control the flow of people, for example, keeping your main entrance near reception drives all visitors to your reception area.

Wooden fencing can also be used within the school grounds to designate different areas. This could be different zones such as outside classrooms, active areas, quiet places or nature sections. Fencing not only keeps children within the correct areas, it can also be used to protect them by fencing off ponds or other hazards. Fences can also be used in busy areas of the school to help organise children and prevent accidents.

Fencing can also be used to separate younger children from the rest of the school. All Early Years Foundation Stage settings need to be segregated in order to provide a safe environment for young children who are still perfecting their motor skills and balance.

You need to ensure that whilst your fencing is practical, it also remains attractive and fits in with your environment. Whilst this makes the premises seem more welcoming, it has also been shown that unattractive and imposing fencing can have a negative impact on the atmosphere.