playvolutionHQ Logo

Creating & Curating Collections Of Early Learning Resources

Playvolution HQ


Join Mailing List

Categories |

Simon Nicholson

Simon Nicholson

About Simon Nicholson

Simon Nicholson is known in the early learning world for his Theory Of Loose Parts.

According to a detailed write-up by creativestarlearning.co.uk:

  • Not much can be gleaned from an internet search around Nicholson’s life. He was born in London, one of triplets in 1934. It is likely that his upbringing will have been unorthodox, given that his parents were Barbara Hepworth, an internationally renowned sculptor, and Ben Nicholson, also a well-known artist. It also suggests that Simon’s comments about everyone being born creative and inventive are particularly pertinent, in the context of the hard work, drive and passion of his mother and her outstanding works. One biography suggests that the relationship between Simon and Barbara was difficult. She cut him out of her will because he sold a sculpture she had given him
  • Simon Nicholson received a scholarship to attend Dartington Hall. In 1953, he spent a year studying sculpture at the Royal College of Art in London. Between 1954-57 he read archaeology and anthropology at Trinity College, Cambridge.
  • In 1971, Nicholson returned to the UK and took up a lecturing position with the Open University, where he remained until 1989.
  • In 1990, aged 55, Simon Nicholson died from alcohol poisoning. Whilst this is a tragic ending to his life, hopefully his family and friends are proud of his positive impact and legacy which has enabled thousands of children to be active participants in modifying and designing their play landscapes and to enjoy countless hours of free play with loose parts.1

Contribute content to Playvolution HQ
Brought to you by Explorations Early Learning

Thoughts On This Entry?

We’d love to hear your thoughts on improving this entry, your reaction to it, and suggestions for additional glossary additions in the comments below. You can also contact us with comments or concerns.

Browse Trainings

Stay Updated

Receive regular play, professional development, and caregiver self-care updates.

Author

Jeff Johnson is an early learning trainer, podcaster, and author and the founder of Explorations Early Learning and Playvolution HQ.

Notes

  1. http://creativestarlearning.co.uk/early-years-outdoors/simon-nicholson-and-the-theory-of-loose-parts-1-million-thanks/

Thanks To Our Patrons

This post was made possible by patrons like these, who generously fund our work:

Supporters

Lissadell Greene      Stephanie Goloway

Lagina Kozak      Michelle Hankins    Marie Messinger

Fans

Jen Flemming      Lizz Nolasco

Susan Warner      Kelly Sigalove

Vittoria Jimerson      Codee Gilbert

Monica Morrell      Pam Soloman      Melissa Franklin

Teresa Watson      Erika Felt

Melissa Taylor      Jahmeela Robinson

Amber Maurina      Terra Calamari

Lagina Kozak      Samantha Yeager-Cheevers

Elizebeth McCoy      Sammy Cousens      Ellen Cogan

Explore Membership Options


Play Haven

Join Play Haven


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Don`t copy text!