PLAYTIME has been given the official thumbs up at Telford Infant School in Leamington.
The school has been awarded the national OPAL Outdoor Play and Learning Gold Award for its commitment to providing high‑quality outdoor play opportunities for its pupils.
It began its OPAL journey two years ago and, since then, has worked to transform its play areas.
The school’s playgrounds now offer rich, varied and engaging play opportunities. These include building and construction using recycled loose parts, creative arts and crafts, sand and water play, mud kitchen activities, wheeled play and a wide range of sporting opportunities.
Headteacher Louise Roberts said: “We are incredibly proud to achieve the OPAL Gold Award. This journey has transformed how we approach play and has made a real difference to our children’s happiness, confidence and wellbeing. It has been a fantastic team effort involving staff, pupils and families, and we are delighted that this work has been recognised.”
John Coleman, Warwickshire County Council’s children’s spokesperson, added: “This is a fantastic achievement for Telford Infant School and a reflection of the commitment shown by staff, pupils and families. High‑quality play is essential to children’s wellbeing and development, and this gold award highlights what can be achieved when schools place children and their experiences at the heart of school life, fully reflecting the values of Child Friendly Warwickshire. Everyone involved should feel extremely proud.”
