Gunthorpe Primary celebrates power of play and creativity with outdoor “Stay and Play” session
Parents and pupils at Gunthorpe Primary School in Peterborough came together on Tuesday ,10th February for an inspiring “Stay and Play” session at the school’s outdoor learning area, in a celebration of creativity, imagination and the joy of play.
The event forms part of the school’s ongoing participation in the national OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme, which helps schools transform playtimes by encouraging children to explore, build, and collaborate using natural materials and everyday objects.
Located in the heart of the Gunthorpe area in north Peterborough, Gunthorpe Primary is a friendly, one-form-entry school with a strong community feel. It is part of Soke Education Trust, a local multi-academy trust that supports schools across the Peterborough region.
Families joined pupils outdoors to experience first-hand how play supports confidence, social skills and wellbeing. Children proudly demonstrated their favourite play spaces, including the mud kitchen, small world area and outdoor climbing stack - all designed to create independence and creativity.
Charlotte Brattan, Acting Headteacher at Gunthorpe Primary School, said:
“Our OPAL journey has transformed playtimes into something truly special. The children’s imagination and teamwork shine through every day, and it was wonderful to invite families to share in that joy. Seeing parents join in the fun really reinforces how important play is for learning and happiness.”
Cathy Carlisle, CEO of Soke Education Trust, added:
“Gunthorpe’s commitment to outdoor learning and play reflects the Trust’s wider goal of developing confident, well-rounded learners. The OPAL approach shows that creativity and curiosity thrive when children are given the freedom to explore and take ownership of their learning.”
Gunthorpe’s involvement with OPAL has introduced new opportunities for exploration and environmental responsibility, from pupils in Years 3 and 4 acting as “Litter Champions” and new outdoor spaces that encourage teamwork and resilience.
The “Stay and Play” session was a reminder that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom and that play can be one of the most powerful ways to grow together as a school community.