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Constitution Guidance

Constitution of the Play in Education Association

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​1. Name

The name of the group shall be Play in Education (referred to in this document as “the Association”).

The Association is an ‘unincorporated association’ – This means we have been set up through an agreement between a group of people who have come together for a reason other than to make a profit (See purpose below).

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2. Purpose

The Association exists to connect, support, and inspire individuals and organisations interested in embedding play in education. We aim to:

  1. Share knowledge, research, and best practice.

  2. Provide a supportive network for members.

  3. Promote play as a powerful tool for learning and leadership.

  4. Encourage association across schools, community groups, and educational projects.

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3. Values

Our work is guided by the following values:

  • Playfulness – we value creativity, curiosity, and joy in learning.

  • Equity & Inclusion – we seek to create spaces where all voices are heard and respected.

  • Association – we work together, share generously, and celebrate diverse perspectives.

  • Transparency – we are open about our decisions and how we operate.

We follow the Pledge to Play which can be found in its entirety here.

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4. Membership

4.1 Eligibility – Membership is free and open to individuals and organisations who support our aims.
4.2 Joining – Members join via our website (hosted on Wix) and agree to the terms in our Privacy Notice.
4.3 Rights of Members – Members can:

  • Attend Networks

  • Receive Newsletters

  • Appear on our collaborative map (optional).

  • Contribute to discussions and Vote in decision-making processes (where applicable).
     

4.4 Ending Membership – Members may request removal from the Association at any time by contacting us.

 

5. Data Protection & Privacy

The Association is committed to protecting member’s personal information and complying with all relevant data protection laws, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the EU GDPR (where applicable).

We comply with GDPR and have a Privacy Notice published on our website

 

6. Governance & Decision-Making

6.1 The Association will be coordinated by a voluntary Steering Group.
6.2 Steering Group members will be selected by consensus or, if needed, by a member vote.
6.3 Key decisions will be made in consultation with members, using online polls or discussions.

 

7. Steering Group

7.1 The Steering Group will consist of between 8-15members, If vacancies arise this will be circulated within the wider membership group.

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7.2 The Steering Group is responsible for:

  • Coordinating the activities of the Association.

  • Ensuring the values and aims are upheld.

  • Overseeing data protection and financial responsibilities (if applicable).

  • Representing the interests of members in decision-making.

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7.3 Appointment and Term

  • Steering Group members will serve for a period of 3 years and may be reappointed. (Currently all due July 2028)

  • Members will be appointed through an open call and agreed by the steering group.

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7.4 Meetings

  • The Steering Group will meet at least quarterly.

  • Any steering group member can suggest agenda items

  • A quorum of 3 members is required to make decisions.

  • Decisions will normally be made by consensus, but where this is not possible, by a majority vote.

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7.5 Resignation or Removal

  • Any Steering Group member may step down by giving written notice.

  • If a member consistently fails to engage (e.g. misses two consecutive meetings without notice), the Steering Group may agree to end their term early.

  • The constitution is also able to vote on membership during a member's term should this be needed.

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7. 6 Roles

The Steering Group will include the following roles (one person may hold more than one role if agreed by the group):

  • Chair / Co-Chairs

  • ​Secretary​

  • Data & Privacy Lead​.

  • Communications & Engagement Lead​

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8. Working Groups

8.1 Purpose
Working Groups may be set up by the Steering Group or the wider membership to focus on specific areas of activity (e.g. research, events, communications, fundraising, or regional networks).

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8.2 Membership

  • Any member of the Association may join a Working Group.

  • Each Working Group should include at least two members of the Steering Group to ensure connection with the wider Association.

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8.3 Responsibilities

  • Plan and carry out activities within their focus area.

  • Report back to the Steering Group and membership on progress.

  • Work in line with the Association’s values and data protection commitments.

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8.4 Decision-Making

  • Working Groups may make decisions about their own activities, provided they do not conflict with the Association’s constitution or overall purpose.

  • Significant decisions (e.g. involving finances, partnerships, or public representation of the Association) must be approved by the Steering Group.

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8.5 Duration

  • Working Groups may be temporary (set up for a specific project) or ongoing.

  • The need for each Working Group will be reviewed at least annually by the Steering Group.

 

9. Other:

9.1 Conflict of Interest

Steering Group members must carefully consider and declare any conflict of interest where their personal, professional, or financial interests could improperly influence, or be perceived to influence, decisions of the Association. In specific cases, the member will be asked to withdraw from related discussions and decision-making. The constitution is also able to vote on membership during a member's term should this be needed.

 

Any work completed for Play in Education is done so at the member's discretion and is then used solely for Play in Education.

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When training and networks are offered the training belongs to the individual, however, Play in Education keep the right to use the recordings and/or resources made available for the training or network.

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9.2 Equity & Inclusion

The Association is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We actively seek to create an environment where all members feel respected, valued, and able to participate fully, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance.

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9.3 Responsible Use of AI

The Association is run by humans, they may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support communication, research, or administration. AI will only be used in ways consistent with our values, with human oversight, and with respect for privacy, data protection, and intellectual property. Members’ data will not knowingly be shared with AI systems without consent.

 

10. Finances

No finances or assets are currently linked to the Association.

If the Association handles funds in the future:

  • A bank account will be opened in the Association’s name.

  • At least two members will act as signatories.

  • An annual financial statement will be shared with members.

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11. Changes to the Constitution

This constitution may be amended at a meeting of members, provided that notice of the proposed changes has been given to all members at least 14 days in advance.

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12. Dissolution

If the Association closes, any remaining funds or resources will be donated to a like-minded organisation agreed by the members.

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January 2026

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Review: January 2027

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