1. Purpose
This policy sets out the approach of First Kick Football to play. Play is central to children’s learning, development, and wellbeing. We are committed to providing safe, inclusive, and stimulating play opportunities that enable children to explore, imagine, and express themselves freely.
2. Legislative Framework
- Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS 2024) – Learning and Development & Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE 2025)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
- UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 31 – Right to Play)
- Equality Act 2010
3. Principles of Play
- Play is a fundamental right of every child.
- Play should be freely chosen, child-led, and supported by adults where necessary.
- Play contributes to children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development.
- All children are entitled to equal access to play opportunities, regardless of background or ability.
- Safe risk-taking is part of play and helps children develop resilience, problem-solving, and independence.
4. Our Approach
- Provide a variety of play opportunities including physical, creative, imaginative, and social play.
- Ensure both indoor and outdoor environments are stimulating, inclusive, and safe.
- Value children’s voices by involving them in shaping play activities.
- Encourage staff to support play sensitively, recognising when to step in and when to allow independent exploration.
- Use risk–benefit assessments to balance safety with the developmental benefits of challenging play.
5. Roles & Responsibilities
- Operations Director – ensures play is embedded within service planning and complies with EYFS requirements.
- Director of Office Operations (Claire) – ensures resources and administration support the delivery of quality play.
- Head of Foundation (Tom Hutton) – ensures play opportunities link with community projects and external partnerships.
- Head of Mini Kickers (Chris Ganner) – ensures play is central to the Mini Kickers programme and is age-appropriate.
- Holiday Club Managers – oversee daily play provision and risk assessments at site level.
- All Staff – promote inclusive, high-quality play opportunities and respond to children’s needs.
6. Monitoring and Review
Play provision will be monitored through observations, feedback, and evaluations. This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required.