A major new report has revealed concerns about the state of Scotland’s school grounds, highlighting significant challenges that could impact children’s learning, play, and wellbeing.
Find information, the survey summary report and key findings here.
Over 1,000 schools across all 32 local authority areas in Scotland voluntarily participated in the survey, reflecting the passion that schools have for their outdoor spaces. This year’s survey replicates a similar study conducted 20 years ago, offering a unique, long-term view of how school grounds have evolved.
The 2025 survey, led by Professor John McKendrick and commissioned by a partnership of Learning through Landscapes, NatureScot, and Play Scotland, found that:
- 15% of schools have lost outdoor space in recent years.
- Nearly half of schools consider their grounds as ‘low utility’ for supporting learning, play, and sport.
- 38% of schools have fewer than five trees, limiting opportunities for nature connection.
- Climate change is already affecting school grounds: schools are reporting increased flooding, overheating, and high winds that restrict outdoor use.
