By Mrs Johnson, Junior School Deputy Head

Playtime is more than just a break from lessons - it’s a crucial part of a child’s school day where they socialise, move their bodies, and develop key interpersonal skills. In the playground, children learn to show kindness, build compassion, resolve conflicts, and form lasting friendships. What makes this kind of positive environment possible? At Robert Gordon’s College Junior School, it’s the collaborative effort of our dedicated playground supervisors and school staff, combined with shared values that guide every interaction. Together, these teams help create a happy, thriving playground where children feel safe and supported.

Supportive adults play a vital role in creating a positive playground experience. Our dedicated playground staff ensure that playtime is not only enjoyable but also safe. Trained to promote positive play, manage conflict with care, and recognise signs of emotional upset, they create a nurturing space where children can fully enjoy their playtime. Their presence builds a sense of security and trust - key ingredients for happy, confident children.

Each year group in our Junior School is supported by a consistent team made up of a Playground Supervisor, a Classroom Assistant, and a dedicated full-time Class Teacher. This structure allows meaningful relationships to develop, as staff understand individual needs and reinforce shared expectations. As a result, children develop a sense of security and confidence that extends from the playground to the classroom and beyond.

A culture of respect and understanding flourishes when everyone in the school community embraces shared values. At our Junior School, staff work together to maintain a consistent, positive approach, using a shared language. One of our core initiatives, Confident Staff, Confident Children, led by our two Deputy Heads, has established a shared framework that promotes kindness, inclusion and mutual respect. Through a three-year rolling programme, pupils explore ten key tools for mental health and wellbeing, covering Child Development, Emotional Resilience, and Positive Relationships. 

Delivered through assemblies, classwork, and home learning, this initiative actively involves pupils, families, and staff, raising awareness and deepening understanding of emotional wellbeing. Most importantly, it equips children with lifelong skills to navigate challenges with resilience and confidence, helping them support both themselves and others in a range of emotional situations. This consistent messaging helps children feel emotionally supported and connected to their school, encouraging positive behaviours that extend beyond the playground.

In addition, our playground supervisors take on vital tasks throughout the school day. They work alongside year groups, assisting with administrative and organisational tasks, helping to prepare lesson materials and classroom resources. This support allows class teachers and classroom assistants to focus on what they do best: teaching and learning. Once these tasks are complete, many of our playground staff also step into the classroom to support pupils directly. Whether it’s helping with reading groups, guiding individual pupils, or assisting with activities, their flexibility and commitment make a real difference. They bring consistency, familiarity, and an extra pair of hands when and where they are needed most.

Our playground supervisors are mentors and positive role models, nurturing play and encouraging positive behaviour with empathy and consistency. 

When dedicated adult support is combined with a strong set of shared values, the playground becomes much more than just a place to play – it becomes a space that nurtures both fun and fundamental life skills. This approach builds confidence in both staff and pupils, creating a positive cycle where children feel empowered to express themselves and engage meaningfully with others, laying the foundation for happy, confident children.

So, the next time your child talks about a fun game or a kind word shared during break, remember the caring adults who help make these joyful moments happen. They play an essential role in creating a safe, happy environment for every child.