How to Plan a School Fun Day
A school fun day is a highlight of the year for pupils, staff and families alike.
With the right planning, it can run smoothly, stay safe and offer activities that suit a wide range of ages.
This guide explains how to plan a school fun day step by step, from choosing suitable activities to managing layout, safety and weather considerations.
Define the Aim of the Fun Day
Start by deciding what the fun day is meant to achieve.
Some events focus on fundraising, others on end-of-term celebration or community engagement.
Clarifying the aim helps determine:
- The age groups involved
- The number and type of activities required
- How long activities should run
- Whether charging or wristbands are needed
Choosing Activities for Different Age Groups
Schools usually need activities that cater for multiple year groups.
A mix of inflatables and games helps ensure pupils of all ages are included.
Younger pupils often enjoy options from our Bouncy Castles range, while older children respond well to more physical challenges such as those found in our Obstacle Courses.
Adding items from our Inflatable Games selection can help spread pupils across the site and reduce queues.
Planning the Layout of the Site
A clear layout is essential for safety and smooth operation.
Activities should be spaced out to avoid congestion and allow for supervision.
When planning the layout, consider:
- Separate areas for different age groups
- Clear entry and exit points for inflatables
- Safe walkways between activities
- Access for staff and emergency services
Power & Practical Requirements
Many school fields and playgrounds do not have accessible power points.
Planning power requirements early helps avoid delays on the day.
If mains power is not available, a generator may be required to safely run inflatables.
We can advise on power needs based on the equipment selected.
Weather Planning & Backup Options
Outdoor school events should always include a weather plan.
Wind, rain or poor ground conditions can affect inflatable safety.
Our Adverse Weather Guidance for Bouncy Castle Hire explains how weather decisions are made and when adjustments may be needed.
Where possible, consider:
- Indoor backup spaces
- Flexible event timings
- Weather-appropriate inflatables
Safety, Supervision & Professional Setup
Safety is a priority at any school event.
All inflatables must be professionally installed, securely anchored and supervised throughout use.
Our Why Only Professionals Can Set Up Bouncy Castles guide explains why correct installation is essential, while our Bouncy Castle Safety Guide outlines supervision responsibilities.
Timings & Event Flow
School fun days often work best when activities run continuously rather than to strict time slots.
This allows pupils to move freely and reduces pressure on staff.
Consider:
- Staggered class visits if numbers are high
- Breaks for lunch and rest periods
- Clear staff roles for supervision and crowd control
Booking Early & Avoiding Common Issues
School fun days are often planned during busy periods such as late spring and summer.
Booking early helps secure suitable inflatables and allows time for proper planning.
Our Common Pitfalls in Bouncy Castle Hire guide highlights common issues that can cause delays if not addressed in advance.
Local Experience With School Events
We regularly support school fun days throughout Coleraine, Ballymoney,
Limavady and Ballycastle, working with primary schools, secondary schools and PTA groups.
Local experience allows us to advise on playground layouts, field conditions and access requirements specific to each area.
Final Tips for a Successful School Fun Day
The most successful school fun days are well planned but flexible.
Choosing age-appropriate activities, planning for weather and working with experienced providers all help the day run smoothly.
If you’re planning a school fun day and would like advice on suitable inflatables, layout or logistics, our team is always happy to help.
Need Help Planning Your School Fun Day?
If you’d like tailored advice or want to discuss availability for your event date, please get in touch.
You can contact us via our Contact Us page and we’ll be glad to support your school event planning.