Vol. 439 No. 5
18 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education if she has satisfied herself that her Department's guidelines on space per pupil in primary school playgrounds are adequate; and the plans, if any, she has to survey the playground provision in each school with a view to alleviating the cramped conditions currently experienced in many schools.
The planning data for national schools lays down guidelines on pupil space in school playgrounds. The planning data for national schools was drafted and designed in accordance with the relevant British and European standards. These standards are determined by reference to extensive research and development of playareas for school children. The provision of a school site or the provision of a site extension where necessary is mainly a matter for the school authorities. The suitability and size offered by the school authorities is, however, inspected and approved by my professional advisers prior to the sanctioning of grant-aid for the new school or extension.
My Department is carrying out a pilot survey on the facilities of a limited number of national schools and a general survey is planned before the summer when the results of the limited pilot survey are assessed. Play areas will be included in both surveys.
