When it comes to playground equipment for schools, the focus is often on creating fun, safe, and engaging spaces for children to explore, run, and play. But increasingly, educators, parents, and playground designers are also asking bigger questions: should school playgrounds encourage competition? Or should every child feel like a winner, no matter the outcome?
This debate is more than philosophical – it affects how children experience play, sport, teamwork, and resilience. The opinions are mixed, and every school seems to handle it differently. At Everyday Play, we provide high-quality playground equipment for schools, from sports courts and trim trails to resurfacing and bespoke playground installations. But part of our work is helping schools think about how their outdoor spaces reflect their approach to competition and inclusion.
The Case for Winners and Losers
Some educators argue that learning to deal with winning and losing is a crucial life skill. Competitive play can teach children resilience, goal-setting, teamwork, and the emotional highs and lows of achieving or falling short. For schools that host sports days or inter-house competitions, having children experience the thrill of being crowned a winner – or the disappointment of coming second or third – can be invaluable.
This is where playground equipment like podiums for the top three places comes into play. Schools that embrace healthy competition often find that a podium adds excitement and structure to sports days, helping children celebrate their achievements and push themselves to reach personal goals. Even a simple sports court or trim trail can become a stage for friendly competition, where children measure progress, learn teamwork, and experience the natural consequences of trying their best.
The Modern “Everyone’s a Winner” Approach
On the other hand, there’s a growing trend in schools to foster inclusivity and avoid the emotional pitfalls of competition. In these environments, playgrounds are designed to ensure that all children feel capable and valued. Wooden stages, multi-use play equipment, or communal trim trails allow children to perform, explore, or engage in play without creating winners and losers.
For schools that adopt this approach, playground equipment for schools becomes more about shared experiences than rankings. Children can put on shows, participate in group challenges, or enjoy activities where everyone contributes and no one is left out. The focus shifts from achieving first place to learning skills, developing confidence, and having fun.
A Balanced Perspective
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each school, child, and community has its own approach to competition and inclusion. Some children thrive on challenges and enjoy the excitement of winning. Others may feel pressure or anxiety in competitive environments. For playgrounds, the challenge is creating spaces that can accommodate both perspectives.
A Balanced Perspective
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for school play. Each school, child, and community has its own approach to competition, inclusion, and fun. Some children thrive on challenges and enjoy the excitement of winning. Others may feel pressure or anxiety in competitive environments. For playgrounds, the challenge is creating spaces that can accommodate both perspectives.
This is where Everyday Play’s bespoke playground equipment comes into its own. Schools can design outdoor spaces that support every child, whether they seek competition, collaboration, or creative exploration.
Equipment for Every Kind of Play
Competitive and Physical Play:
Sports courts for team games and competitive matches
Multi-use games areas (MUGAs)
Daily Mile tracks for fitness and endurance
Trim trails and obstacle courses for physical challenges
Freestanding trim trails and climber stacks
Towers, swings, aerial runways, and ziplines
Inclusive and Imaginative Play:
Wooden stages and podiums for performances, storytelling, and celebrating achievements
Sand and water play
Play panels, interactive and sensory equipment
EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) play equipment
Forest school equipment
Themed and Creative Play:
Playground markings for games and imaginative play
Multi-pole climbers and bespoke themed equipment
Seating areas for social interaction and relaxation
Outdoor Learning and Community Spaces:
Amphitheatres for performances and outdoor assemblies
Wooden gazebos, log cabins, and canopies
Outdoor classrooms and reading dens
Shade sails for sun protection
Signage to guide and inspire students
Safety Surfacing Options:
Artificial grass, play carpets, wetpour, Conipave
Rubber mulch and matting
Bark and other natural surfaces
With such a diverse range of equipment, schools can tailor play experiences to match their philosophy, curriculum, and the unique needs of their students – ensuring every child has the chance to play, learn, and grow.
Learning from Play: Life Lessons in the Playground
Play isn’t just about physical activity – it’s a microcosm of life. Children experience teamwork, strategy, leadership, disappointment, creativity, and imagination while using playground equipment. Whether they are racing across a trim trail, performing on a wooden stage, or standing on a sports day podium, they learn valuable lessons.
For some, losing a race or a game can be a healthy way to build resilience and develop coping skills. For others, being included and celebrated can boost self-esteem and foster a love of participation. The ideal playground often provides opportunities for both.
Why Schools Choose Everyday Play
At Everyday Play, we specialise in playground equipment for schools in London and Kent, helping schools create spaces that are safe, durable, and versatile. Our team can provide everything from resurfacing and sports courts to trim trails, podiums, and wooden stages – all tailored to your school’s philosophy of play.
We work closely with schools to ensure every playground is:
Safe and compliant with UK standards
Durable and low-maintenance
Flexible to suit competitive or inclusive play
Tailored to the age, size, and needs of your students
Whether your school embraces the thrill of competition or believes that every child should feel like a winner, we can create the perfect playground to match your vision.
So, where does that leave us?
The debate over winners and losers in schools isn’t going away anytime soon. Some argue that competition teaches life lessons; others fear it can damage confidence or exclude children. The truth is, playgrounds can be designed to support both approaches.With the right playground equipment for schools, children can experience competition, celebrate achievements, and also enjoy collaborative, inclusive play. From podiums for sports days to wooden stages for imaginative play, schools can create a balanced outdoor environment that helps every child thrive.
At Everyday Play, we believe the best playgrounds are those that cater to all needs, supporting learning, growth, and fun – whether children are racing for first place or performing together on stage.
If you’re a school looking for high-quality playground equipment in London or Kent, contact Everyday Play today to discuss your project and create the perfect space for your students.
