At BestStart Sir Tristram, we create a learning environment where every child feels a strong sense of belonging.
Through collaboration, access to quality resources, and opportunities to explore personal interests, our learners grow into confident, connected individuals.
Learning and development through sand play
Sand play is a powerful way to spark creativity and imagination. Children might bake cakes, build castles, dig winding rivers or set up excavation sites. Because sand is so easy to manipulate, it naturally invites hands-on exploration and is a favourite play choice for many children.
With purposeful setups and thoughtful observation, teachers can extend sand play into rich learning opportunities. Gross motor development is supported as children dig, shovel and transport sand, while fine motor skills are strengthened through sprinkling, shaping and detailed construction.
Imaginative play, such as cooking or creating earthworks, allows children to process and reflect on experiences from their own community and the wider world. Early algebra skills are developed as children create, recognise and repeat patterns in the sand. Scientific thinking emerges when sand is mixed with water, encouraging exploration of textures, weights and consistency.
As children build landscapes like volcanoes, rivers or tunnels, they are introduced to concepts in geology and environmental science. Teachers can build on this learning through conversations about caring for our environment, including topics such as pollution and climate change.
When children engage in sand play together, they also strengthen social and communication skills, learning to share ideas, negotiate roles and collaborate towards a shared goal.