Newark Hill is a two-form entry primary school located in the north of Peterborough. There are approximately 438 children on roll (from reception to Y6). They have some tarmac and green space.

Diversity is at the heart of their community and curriculum. Their three values of respect, resilience and responsibility are ingrained in everything they do.

Newark wasted no time in powering to a platinum award as a result of their outstanding play provision!

They have a huge loose-parts shed, a large, natural sandpit, digging area, water play, den building with a gigantic number of cable drums, music, dressing up, arts and crafts, a beautiful forest area and a wheeled play area. Oh…and a car! The level of purposeful engagement of every child at playtime is awe-inspiring.

What were the main issues you were facing at playtime?

There was little to no stimulation; we had lots of first aid incidents and ongoing behavioural issues.

Why did you get OPAL to work with your school?

We wanted to add variety and make playtimes as inclusive as possible.

What measures had you tried already?

We tried buying different resources, but they did not last.

What did OPAL help with that you couldn’t do yourselves?

Our mentor helped with the ideas and forward thinking of small things being great stimuli.

How did the programme impact pupils’ physical, social, emotional, mental, and cognitive development?

Greatly. No child is ever without any play at lunchtime. All children are engaged in some activity or other; they have become so creative!

How did the programme meet the needs of all your children, in particular pupils with SEND?

It has made our playtimes much more inclusive!

How did the programme impact attendance?

Greatly as children have an incentive to come in because they do not want to miss out on the great play. They are curious about what might have been added to their new play, and they also want to feature on the OPAL play wall to celebrate play.

How did the programme impact communication, vocabulary, and imagination?

The different stimuli offered provide vast opportunities for this, and we see children working collaboratively from different ages to problem solve and create new play.

How did the school secure funding and resources?

We used some school funds, PTA events and asked for donations from families and friends.

What partnerships proved most valuable?

The OPAL partnership proved the most valuable, in particular, the support available.

What was the impact on parents and wider community members?

Parents saw that their children were happier and enjoying school because of OPAL play. They were reluctant at the start due to children getting dirty and being out in the rain. However, once the children said how much fun they were having, parents got on board.