Purposeful Role Play in EYFS & KS1 Theory, Research and Practical Classroom Application

Purposeful Role Play in EYFS & KS1 is a comprehensive, research-informed guide designed to support teachers, nursery practitioners and child minders in planning and delivering meaningful role play with real learning impact. Moving beyond simple role play ideas or printable labels, this resource explains why role play matters, how it supports children’s learning, and how to use it intentionally across both EYFS and KS1.

This 100 plus page pack combines clear theory, relevant research and practical classroom guidance to help teachers create purposeful role play experiences that are engaging, inclusive and educationally sound. It supports role play before, during and after learning experiences, enabling children to deepen understanding, develop language, and apply learning in meaningful contexts.

What’s Included

• Clear explanations of what role play is and why it is so important

• Research-informed insight into how role play supports learning and development

• Guidance on the adult’s role in sustaining and extending play

• Practical support for planning purposeful role play

• Assessment opportunities through role play

• Clear progression from EYFS into KS1

• A wide range of fully explained role play themes, each including:

• Purpose of the role play

• Suggested resources

• Adult role and language to model

• Curriculum links and learning opportunities

• Consideration of inclusion, SEND and EAL

• Practical templates and guidance to save time

Who This Resource Is For

• EYFS, Reception and Year 1 teachers

• Subject leaders and those supporting pedagogy

• Teachers wanting to strengthen their understanding of role play and justify practice

Pre-release special: £3.50 (regular price £6.99)

Note: This resource is currently sold as a pre-release special.  It will be emailed out automatically once complete and will then return to full price.  Current expected completion date: March 2026.