Children in British primary schools spend around 20% of their time- equivalent to approximately 1.4 years of their school life– engaged in play. This is not time lost from learning; rather, it is a vital part of it.

Play is the natural process through which children explore, experiment, and make sense of the world. It enables them to develop skills and understanding that cannot be effectively taught through formal instruction alone. Through play, children build strong, adaptable bodies, develop problem-solving abilities, and form meaningful relationships with others.

In many ways, play lays the foundations for lifelong learning and wellbeing. 

At Beaconside, we recognise the essential role of play in children’s development and this is why we have adopted the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme. This approach allows us to provide all children with high-quality opportunities for outdoor play that are rich, varied and engaging. We aim to create an environment where children can be imaginative, work collaboratively, take appropriate risks and stay physically active. Our outdoor spaces are designed to be “as safe as necessary,” while still offering the level of challenge children need to grow in confidence, resilience and independence- whatever the weather. 

Our Christian values of joy, hope, compassion, faith and courage are at the heart of our play provision. These values shape not only what we provide, but how children interact with one another. They encourage children to play with kindness, to include and support others, to persevere through challenges and to approach new experiences with confidence and positivity. Through play, children live out these values in a meaningful and practical way every day.  

You can click on the link below to watch our outdoor play and learning in action!

https://m.facebook.com/beaconsideprimaryschool/videos/we-want-to-say-a-huge-thank-you-to-everyone-who-made-our-opal-stay-and-play-fant/26631490979819155/