Climbing and scrambling or playing quietly
A Green Schoolyard is more than just a few extra plants. It is a place where nature can develop and children can play happily and be themselves. Sanne Moes (project manager at IVN Overijssel) explains: “You can see that children can play in many more ways in a green schoolyard. Children who need to burn off energy can enjoy climbing and scrambling. Children who are looking for peace and quiet can retreat to a willow hut. Nothing is fixed in a green schoolyard. This also means that children move in more diverse ways, play more creatively, and it is good for language development.”
Reading outdoors
But it is not only about playing; the schoolyard is also the school’s largest and greenest classroom. Hannelore Börger (Education programme manager at Natuur en Milieu Overijssel): “It is a misconception that you can only teach biology in a Green Schoolyard. Young children can practise colours using autumn leaves. On a beautiful spring day, pupils can read their books outside. And in the outdoor classroom, you can also teach a history or geography lesson very effectively. The schoolyard really adds value. When the subject matter is sometimes presented outside in a rich environment, it is absorbed better.”
It takes time and effort
Is €10,000 enough to create an entirely green schoolyard? Unfortunately not. Sanne Moes: “A new green schoolyard soon costs €80,000. It is a substantial investment for schools and school boards.” Nevertheless, more than 200 schools in Overijssel have already made the switch. “Fortunately, many municipalities are also contributing. You can see that all the parties involved recognise the added value of a green schoolyard. And honestly: when you see those children playing like that, isn’t that what you do it for?”
Funding and support
In addition to the subsidy, the Green Schoolyards programme team also offers help and support. At www.groeneschoolpleinenoverijssel.nl you can find information for schools about Green Schoolyards, such as the benefits and characteristics of a high-quality green schoolyard. You will find tips for every phase of a Green Schoolyard: design, financing, management and educational use. The programme team also offers various (free) support sessions to help schools throughout the entire process. Schools considering a green schoolyard should be aware that there is a subsidy ceiling. This means: first come, first served. So do not wait too long to apply. Hannelore Börger: “So get in touch with us in good time!”
About Green Schoolyards Overijssel
In a green schoolyard, there is less bullying, and children can learn, play and discover at the same time. The trees and natural ground cover create a pleasant climate, even during hot summers. That is why Green Schoolyards Overijssel is delighted that there are already more than 200 Green Schoolyards in Overijssel. In 2026, Groene Pleinen Overijssel also hopes to be able to start developing Green Healthy School Grounds for secondary education. Let’s make all schoolyards and school grounds green! Green Schoolyards Overijssel is a collaboration between Natuur en Milieu Overijssel, IVN Overijssel and the Province of Overijssel. It is part of the Natuur voor Elkaar programme.