Can You Spend Sports Premium on Playground Markings?

Can You Spend Sports Premium on Playground Markings?

Managing a school budget is no small task, especially when it comes to making the most of ring-fenced funds like the PE and Sport Premium. One question we’re often asked by school staff is: “Can I spend Sports Premium on playground markings?”

The good news is yes, you can. And in many cases, it’s an excellent use of the funding.

In this guide, we’ll explore why thermoplastic playground markings are a smart, long-lasting investment for your Sports Premium, how they align with the DfE criteria, and what other funding routes may be available to help enhance your school’s outdoor provision.

What Is the PE and Sport Premium?

The PE and Sport Premium is a government grant given to primary schools across England to improve the quality of PE, sport, and physical activity. Schools must use it to develop or add to their PE provision and build capacity for long-term improvements.

Spending must meet one or more of these key outcomes:

• Increased engagement in physical activity
• Raising the profile of PE and sport
• Enhanced staff knowledge and delivery of PE
• Broader experience of a range of sports
• Increased participation in competitive sport

Why Playground Markings Qualify for Sports Premium Funding

Thermoplastic playground markings align directly with the goals of the Sports Premium. Here’s how:

• Boost physical activity: Markings such as fitness trails, running tracks, and multi-sport courts encourage daily movement even outside of PE lessons.
• Support varied experiences: With options like basketball courts, circuit paths, and agility courses, children access a wider range of physical activities.
• Sustain long-term impact: Thermoplastic markings are durable, lasting up to 10 years. This supports the Sports Premium’s goal of sustainable improvement.
• Promote inclusive participation: Markings can be designed to include sensory trails and adaptable games for pupils with SEND, encouraging whole-school involvement.

By investing in playground markings, schools provide an engaging, active environment all day.

Examples of Sports Premium-Friendly Playground Markings

We’ve worked with hundreds of schools across the UK to create custom designs that support physical education. Popular Sports Premium-eligible options include:

• Multi-use games areas (MUGAs): For football, netball, basketball and more.
• Daily Mile tracks: Encourage regular, manageable fitness sessions.
• Agility or fitness circuits: Great for warm-ups and breaktime activity.
• Balance and coordination trails: Develop gross motor skills in younger pupils.
• Sport-specific court lines: Markings for tennis, rounders, or athletics to support curriculum PE.

Our team offers site surveys and bespoke design services to help schools get the most from their outdoor space and their funding.

Other Sources of Funding for Playground Markings

If your Sports Premium is already allocated or you want to expand your project further, there are other funding options worth exploring:

• PTA fundraising: Many schools combine PTA-raised funds with Sports Premium to deliver larger playground projects.
• Local authority grants: Depending on your borough, funding may be available for improving outdoor learning or wellbeing.
• National Lottery and charity grants: Organisations like Sport England and Awards for All offer grants that support active and healthy school environments.

Combining funding sources can help you create a richer, more inclusive play and learning space.

Make Every Penny Count

So, can you spend Sports Premium on playground markings? Absolutely. Not only is it permitted it’s one of the most effective ways to promote long-term physical activity and wellbeing for all pupils.

With our durable, curriculum-linked designs, you can maximise your Sports Premium while creating a safe, inclusive, and educational playground.