Design requirements

The outdoor learning environments standard (PDF 969 KB) addresses the principles, elements and objectives of an outdoor learning environment in an early childhood service and must be used when developing outdoor learning areas.

Elements are detailed in four sections:

• design principles, elements to be promoted and the desired outcomes
• features to be incorporated
• site-specific considerations
• features to be avoided.

Risk management

Site leaders must exercise their professional judgement to analyse the risks against the benefit of play activities to optimise learning outcomes for children.

The following templates help sites to assess the risks and benefits of an activity in consultation with staff, families, children and the community:

• Guide to the education risk benefit assessment template (PDF 126 KB)
• Completed template example (PDF 185 KB) .

This Risky Play article outlines how to balance safety with the benefits of allowing risk, and approaches to managing risks.