What Sword Fighting in Scotland Teaches Us About Play
Article by Matt Scott
With play, nature and relationships at the heart of physical activity, Nature Moves provides a welcoming community where people of all ages can build confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.
Great coaching isn't about getting everyone to do the same thing. It's about creating environments where everyone feels they can belong, contribute and take part in a way that works for them.
Andrew Telfer and Gill Erskine of Nature Moves talk about their thriving community programme that helps people of all ages and abilities enjoy movement outdoors. By using playful activities and adapting experiences to individual needs, they have opened the door to people who might never have seen themselves as "sporty" or "active".
Their story is a powerful example of Purposeful Play in action. Whether it's foam sword battles that spark laughter and confidence, or conversations over coffee that build lasting friendships, every activity is designed to create positive experiences that keep people coming back.
Our video offers important lessons about inclusion, adaptability and the role play can have in helping people discover what they're capable of.
What this story tells us about Purposeful Play
Nature Moves demonstrates that play can be a powerful tool for inclusion.
A focus on individual needs rather than prescribed outcomes results in playful activities that help people build confidence, develop relationships and experience movement in ways that feel enjoyable, accessible and meaningful.
Explore more Purposeful Play
Understanding Purposeful Play
Find out what purposeful play really means and why it matters. Hear from Andrew Telfer, Gill Erskine and Gareth Williams as they share how play supports learning, wellbeing and long-term development across all ages.
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Purposeful Play Coaching Skills
Discover the coaching behaviours that bring purposeful play to life. From learning design to questioning and flexibility, learn how to create engaging environments that support deeper learning and development in your participants.
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Developing Play in Your Sessions
Ready to play? See practical ways to introduce fun into your sessions and overcome common barriers. This guide will help you design engaging, participant-centred experiences that drive development and, crucially, enjoyment.
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Play for Performance
Join Joel Enoch as he explores how purposeful play can support learning, develop skills and enhance performance. Discover practical approaches that challenge participants, encourage creativity and create engaging environments where players can thrive.
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Inclusion in Play
Hear from Rebecca Foster as she shares how purposeful play can help create more inclusive coaching environments. Learn practical ways to increase participation, build confidence and help every participant feel welcomed, valued and involved.
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How Playground Games for Adults Created a Community
What happens when adults are given permission to play? Gareth Williams discovered that a slice of childhood can spark laughter and positive experiences of physical activity.
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