Sunderland school's pride in being recognised for improving quality of play

Staff and pupils at Broadway Junior School are celebrating after it was named as one of the best schools in the country for outdoor play and learning (OPAL).

The school recently received the OPAL Platinum Award for their lunchtime play provision after the school decided to make positive changes to the children’s experience of play.

The school’s OPAL journey saw staff working with pupils to develop different zones and assess the risks involved in their play for themselves.

These play zones include: a mud kitchen, a wheel zone, the school’s active trail, a construction zone, sand pit and the unique ‘Broadway Book Bus’.

Broadway Junior School launched OPAL at lunchtimes with the school reporting an immediate improvement in positive play and it helped in creating a culture of inclusion as there’s something for everyone.

David Walton-Jonas, Headteacher, has expressed his pride in the school’s community for working together to transform its lunchtime play provision.

He said: “We began our OPAL journey because we wanted to improve the quality of play for all children at Broadway Junior School. We recognised that play is essential for children’s wellbeing, development and happiness.

“Children needed more opportunities for creativity, physical activity, independence and social interaction during breaks. Our aim was to create a range of inclusive, active and meaningful play opportunities so that every child could enjoy their break times and return to class ready to learn.”

“The impact has been overwhelmingly positive. Playtimes are calmer, more purposeful and more enjoyable for everyone.

“Children return to lessons more engaged and ready to learn, staff relationships with pupils have strengthened and there is a much stronger sense of community across the school. OPAL has become an important part of our school culture.”