The scheme transforms grey, paved schoolyards into green outdoor spaces with plants, trees and room for water. The number of greened schoolyards now stands at 441. More and more schools are using their schoolyard not only for playing, but also as a place to learn, exercise and come together.
“A green schoolyard has many positive effects at the same time,” says Hagar Roijackers, Provincial Executive for Nature. “It is good for the climate and biodiversity, and especially for children themselves. They exercise more, play differently and have more contact with one another. Because there is more variety in their play and more space to meet each other, we see in practice that there is less bullying. How wonderful would it be if today’s children could later look back on an inspiring time on their green schoolyard instead of on the paved space of the past? Children and young people also often have great ideas for their own schoolyard. We have already seen that.”
More space for nature and social development
Green schoolyards contribute to a healthy living environment. They provide cooling on hot days, help collect rainwater and increase biodiversity in the surrounding area. They also encourage cooperation and outdoor learning. Primary schools, secondary schools and vocational education institutions could apply for funding for plans covering both the construction and structural maintenance of the schoolyard. The contribution amounts to a maximum of 70% of the costs, up to €10,000 per project.
New application period
The Future Schoolyards scheme continues to develop as part of the broader ambition to make school environments in Brabant greener. A new application period will open in April 2027. More information, inspiration and examples can be found on the schoolpleinenvandetoekomst website.
PHOTO CAPTION
The green schoolyard of vmbo school Van Maerlaent from Den Bosch.