​September 4th - PLAYWORK 101

9 am - 12 pm  Introduction to Loose Parts and Playwork Philosophy.
Topics will include:  

• Adventure playgrounds
• Playwork principles
• The play cycle
• Theory of loose parts
• Positive relationship building
• The role of the Playworker

1 - 4pm  Pop-Up Free Play Event
Observe free play and put the morning lessons into practice during this public free play day.  Bring kids if you have them!

September 5th - PLAYWORK 202

9 am - 4 pm   Deepening your Playwork Practice
Topics will include: 

• Managing Risk
• Conflict Resolution
• Mentoring & Advocacy
• Styles of Interventions
• Reflective Practice
• Developing Playwork in diverse settings

Location: To be determined.

Meet our Trainers!

Kirsty Wilson
Kirsty Wilson is the Play Manager for the Children’s Scrapstore, a UK-based non-profit, and has led the development and delivery of the Scrapstore PlayPod program since 2007.Scrapstore Playpods have brought scrap materials to recess at over 300 schools in the UK, to about 85,000 children a day presently. Access to loose parts during recess has led to some astounding outcomes for children’s social, emotional, physical and academic well-being.
Wilson’s entire working life has been focused on outdoor play and experiential learning including building and running a school grounds, forest school and the John Muir Programme.  She is a playworker, trainer and volunteer manager and has extensive experience working as a play advocate in a variety of environments.

​Gemma Saunders
Gemma Saunders is a Play Trainer and Mentor for Scrapstore Play Services and has worked for Children’s Scrapstore since 2011. She trains and mentors staff at over 100 schools and other settings in managing the use of loose parts for play at recess with Scrapstore Playpods.
Gemma has been a playworker for 12 years and has spent time teaching technology to ages 11-16, managing childcare for ages 4-11 and worked as an artist and designer. She has completed Forest School training and worked with Early Years and alternative educational provision settings.