Research shows that 37% of children are dissatisfied with their schoolyard. A green environment contributes to play, development and climate adaptation. Through the From Grey to Green campaign, three primary schools will have the opportunity to make their schoolyard greener, together with children, parents and teachers. This creates a green, inspiring environment – also for the neighbourhood after school hours.

From grey paving stones to green playgrounds

Research conducted last year on behalf of Jantje Beton and Praxis showed that 37% of primary school children are dissatisfied with their schoolyard and that almost half of parents feel there are too many paving stones. A green environment is very important, as it not only increases the enjoyment of play but also contributes to children’s physical and mental health. That is why Praxis and Jantje Beton are committed to helping schools make their schoolyards greener and giving children more space to discover, exercise and play. As a home improvement retailer, we not only help people with DIY projects in and around the home, but we are also committed to a greener living environment,” says Miranda Smit, Marketing Director at Praxis. "With 'From Grey to Green', we want to inspire schools and parents to take action together and contribute to a more playful and greener Netherlands."

The positive impact of greenery

The first edition of ‘From Grey to Green’ showed that making schoolyards greener not only improves children’s play experience, but also increases their interest in nature and the environment. Mascha van Werven of Jantje Beton: “A green schoolyard is much more than just beautiful. It invites children to adventure, movement and playing together. Together with Praxis, we are turning grey back into green, so that every child can play outside every day.”

Thanks to the campaign, the three winning schools – Basisschool Op Weg (Haarle), 1e Montessorischool (Alkmaar) and JFK Montessorischool (The Hague) – were given the opportunity to make their schoolyards greener and provide space for playing and learning outdoors. The impact was significant: “Thanks to the campaign, our school finally had the opportunity to transform the schoolyard into a green place where children can truly develop,” says Anneke van der Burg, internal coordinator at 1e Montessorischool in Alkmaar. Primary school Op Weg in Haarle also benefited from the greening project: “Making our schoolyard greener is truly a catalyst for other ideas. We can’t wait to expand the outdoor classroom and the small nature trail area further!” adds Emy van der Meer, a parent at the school.


Give your schoolyard a green makeover!

Primary schools can register for the second edition via www.schoolpleinvangrijsnaargroen.nl until and including 16 May 2025. Voting on all submitted drawings will take place from 09:00 on 19 May until 17:00 on 13 June. Public votes will account for 40% of the score. The jury’s assessment will account for 60% of the score.

Children can develop their ideas in drawings, after which three winning schools will be selected. Jantje Beton and Praxis will support them in creating their green schoolyard.

Participation is only possible if:

  • The schoolyard is accessible to the neighbourhood outside school hours.
  • A team of parents, children and teachers can be assembled to carry out the plans.
  • The drawing and motivation show why and how the schoolyard can be made greener.

The winners of this edition will be announced at the end of June, and the greening of the three selected schoolyards will begin in the new school year.