‘It’s put the joy levels up’: the flood-prone London school with a climate-adapted playground
Summary
A primary school in north London that often flooded has improved its playground with new green areas that help manage rainwater. The school worked with a charity to create a space where children can play safely, even after heavy rain, and learn about nature and climate challenges.Key Facts
- St John’s Church of England primary school in Barnet, north London, had a playground that flooded regularly, making it hard for children to play outside.
- The school is located in a low-lying area with clay soil, causing water to pool on the playground’s tarmac.
- A parent governor led a climate action plan, which received funding from the Department for Education to improve the playground.
- The charity Trees for Cities helped design the new playground with rain gardens and stepping logs for children to play on.
- The rain gardens absorb excess water quickly, allowing the playground to dry in about 10 minutes after heavy rain.
- Native plants like bird cherry trees were added to support local wildlife and survive both wet and dry conditions.
- The project also helps reduce the heat caused by the “urban heat island” effect during hot summers.
- Trees for Cities runs educational programs in the school to teach children about plants, water cycles, and climate adaptation through hands-on activities.
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