Peterborough primary school commended for improving outdoor playtimes
A Peterborough primary school is celebrating after receiving Platinum Award status for improving playtimes through the Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) Primary Programme.
The honour has been awarded to Gunthorpe Primary School, part of the Soke Education Trust, to celebrate their dedicated work in strategically and sustainably improving playtimes for all pupils. This marks the highest level of recognition in the initiative.
The OPAL Primary Programme aims to improve children’s wellbeing, social and emotional skills, and physical activity through encouraging creative outdoor play.
Charlotte Brattan, Headteacher at Gunthorpe Primary School, said: “I am absolutely delighted to receive this award. Since I started leading Gunthorpe Primary School’s OPAL journey two years ago, I have seen firsthand the way it has transformed outside play. The children have developed their teamwork skills, imagination and
inquisitiveness.”
OPAL CIC, the non-profit behind the award-winning OPAL Primary Programme, has been supporting schools in improving the quality of their playtimes since 2011. The organisation has worked with more than 1,500 schools to date and has seen first-hand the many benefits of planning for play.
Marianne Young, OPAL Play Coordinator, leads the play team at Gunthorpe Primary School. She said: “Outdoor play is a fundamental part of how children learn. When schools prioritise high-quality outdoor play, they’re not only supporting physical health, but also improving wellbeing, social skills, and readiness to learn back in the classroom.”
Charlotte added: “Every child has been able to discover new activities which they love. Some enjoy the hands-on digging and mud kitchen areas, whereas others prefer the dedicated areas for reading outside. It’s been wonderful to see children make new friends and build confidence through playtime.
“I’m so proud of the team here at Gunthorpe. We have all worked hard in making playtimes the very best they can be for every child.”
Michael Follett, OPAL CIC Founder and Director, said: “The benefits of play are well-documented, but it has virtually disappeared from children’s lives. That’s why we are working with schools across the country to improve playtimes. Congratulations to Gunthorpe Primary for your recent award and for everything you are doing to make sure children have amazing play every day.”