Play pedagogy: Summary of inspection findings

This report summarises inspection findings regarding how effectively play pedagogy is being implemented within primary one (P1) classes across Scotland. It presents national inspection evidence, identifies emerging strengths in practice and highlights areas where further improvement is required.

His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI) routinely gather evidence on how Realising the Ambition: Being Me (2020) is understood and applied in P1 as part of the early level curriculum. This report is based on inspection findings from 196 primary schools in the academic year 2024-25 and 76 primary schools in 2025-26. 

Background and policy context

Play is an important feature of Scottish education policy and curriculum guidance. Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition: Being Me (2020) promote play across early level and support continuity and progression from early learning and childcare (ELC) into P1. Through active, meaningful play, children develop language, thinking, creativity, self-regulation, relationships and social skills.