Bourne Westfield Primary Academy receives platinum Opal award for commitment to play

A school has been recognised for its commitment to letting children play as well as learn.

Bourne Westfield Primary Academy has received the platinum Opal award for their commitment to play. The platinum award follows two years working with a local play expert and Opal mentor to strategically and sustainably improve playtimes for all of the children.

According to Opal CIC, the non-profit organisation behind the programme, play is critical to children’s health, development, and wellbeing. Despite play taking up a fifth of the school day, very few schools plan strategically for this time, leaving many school yards and playing fields unused, uninspiring, and catering to only a minimal number of children.

Deputy headteacher at Bourne Westfield, Jo McCullough, said, “Before Opal our children spent 20% of their school day with few resources, confined to the playgrounds. Their play opportunities were limited, and the field and other areas of our school grounds were only used on dry days for a few months of the year.

“We have had a complete rethink and now have a curriculum lead for play, a play leader and a play team – supported by very keen play rangers who help to fund raise, source equipment and help to keep playtimes safe and happy for all. We have been so thrilled to see our pupils engaging in so many different types of play at lunchtime. Our regular play assemblies celebrate creativity, being resourceful, share new ideas and encourage children to take risks and try new activities.

“We are passionate about presenting children with opportunities to build resilience, to manage their feelings and sustain friendships - skills for life. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved as a school with the support of staff and the wider community.”

She thanked the Friends of Westfield group, saying they had been “amazing in fundraising for Opal” as well as parents and carers for supporting events.

Rob Francksen, OPAL mentor, said: “I was delighted to present Bourne Westfield with their platinum Opal award for their commitment to improving play opportunities for every child. When you step into the playground, you will witness a hive of activity.

“Children are playing in the giant sandpit, making concoctions in the mud kitchen and singing and dancing on the stage. There is so much choice that every child can find something they want to do. It is truly magical to watch.”

Michael Follett, Opal CIC founder and director, added: “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 Bourne Westfield for your recent award and for everything you are doing to make sure children have amazing play every day.”

Since it was founded in 2011, Opal CIC has worked with more than 1,500 schools.