A petition launched by play-based learning consultant Ruth Lue-Quee is urging the UK Government to make play and continuous provision statutory for children aged 5 to 7 in Key Stage 1 (KS1). With over 100,000 signatures secured, the campaign has secured a Parliamentary debate on Monday 26th January, and now the focus is on maintaining momentum and raising awareness.
Under the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, providers must embed play-based learning and offer “enabling environments” that support both child-initiated and adult-supported exploration. However, in Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2), this requirement disappears – creating what experts describe as a policy cliff edge.
“Play is essential for children’s development, building their confidence as they learn to explore, relate to others, set their own goals, and solve problems. Children learn by leading their own play, and by taking part in play and learning that is guided by adults.” – Department for Education (on EYFS). Why does this stop in the English education system the day they enter Year 1?
Why this matters:

• Play supports children’s learning and development: The UN recognises play as a legal right under Article 31 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and research from UNICEF and UNESCO shows that play-based learning remains crucial up to at least age 8 – precisely the KS1 years. Yet England is the only UK nation where play-based learning is not statutory in early primary.
• Many children are not thriving under the current system: Only 62% of pupils meet the expected standard in KS2 reading, writing, and maths, meaning nearly 40% of children are falling behind. Decades of research show that play-based learning improves these outcomes and reduces anxiety, yet children face earlier testing, reduced breaks and less time for exploratory learning.
• Play protects mental health: Around 15% of 7 – 10-year-olds have a probable mental health condition (NHS, 2022). Play is a protective factor against stress, helping children build resilience and emotional strength. Despite this, schools have gradually reduced playtime over the last 25 years, shortening lunchtimes, cutting breaks and increasing academic pressure.

Ruth explains:
“Play is not a luxury or enrichment – it is how children learn best. Protecting play in our classrooms gives children the skills, curiosity and confidence to thrive both academically and socially. That’s why I launched this petition and why I will continue campaigning for every child in KS1 to have access to play-based learning.”
Essential Parenting supports the #PlayIsLearning campaign to make play-based learning statutory in KS1.
What you can do to help:

• Sign the petition: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/729440
• Share the campaign hub page with your network, followers, or community
• Contact your local MPs or councillors to ask for their backing and attendance at the debate
• Reach out to Ruth directly at playislearningcampaign@mymummyteacher.com  to learn more or discuss collaboration and supporting opportunities

Together, we can ensure that children aged 5 – 7 continue to benefit from the power of play in their education.