North East schools lead the way with amazing play

The year has got off to a fantastic start of play in schools in the North East. Six schools received their OPAL awards in January and February, showing their commitment to providing amazing playtimes every day for every child.

One of those schools is Esh Winning Primary School in County Durham, which has been awarded the OPAL Platinum Award for the fourth time. This incredible achievement celebrates the school’s commitment to providing outstanding play opportunities for more than ten years.

In an article in the Northern Echo, Headteacher Caroline Hodgson said: 

“We’re so delighted to receive our fourth Platinum Award for outdoor play and learning and are incredibly proud to be classed as an Honours School.

“Our investment and commitment to outdoor learning and play has benefited the whole school community and our renewed status is testament to the hard work and dedication of our fabulous staff.

“Our pupils love to get outside whatever the weather, and this has a hugely positive impact on children’s overall learning and development, supporting their physical, emotional and social development.”

Congratulations to all newly awarded OPAL schools

The OPAL North East team would like to extend their congratulations to all schools that have received their OPAL award so far in 2026. In addition to Esh Winning, these are: 

• Ambleside C of E Primary School, Ambleside
• Bloemfontein Primary School, County Durham
• Brompton-on-Swale Church of England Primary School, Richmond
• Clavering Primary School, Hartlepool
• Mo Mowlam Academy, Redcar

Ingrid Wilkinson, Director of OPAL North East, said:

“I am delighted to welcome all the newly awarded schools into the OPAL family. A special congratulations to Esh Winning, one of the region’s first OPAL schools and one that continues to inspire us with their commitment to play. The difference you are all making to the lives of children is truly life-changing. The team and I look forward to working with you in the years to come as you continue your journey as leaders in play in schools in the UK.”

What is the OPAL Primary Programme?

The OPAL Primary Programme is an award-winning mentor supported school improvement programme that addresses all the areas that schools must plan for if they want to strategically and sustainably improve the quality of their play opportunities.

OPAL playtimes are a sight to behold. Where many schools that don’t have a plan for play find playtimes a struggle, staff and children in OPAL schools can’t wait to get out to play. Where groups of (typically) boys playing football might dominate the playground in other schools, OPAL playtimes have something for everyone. 

The impact of better playtimes

From giant sandpits and mud kitchens, to quiet corners and chillout spaces, to tree climbing and large loose parts, every child in an OPAL playground is engaged in something that they have chosen to do. Because there is something for everyone, every child in an OPAL school experiences a wide range of benefits.

Children in OPAL schools are significantly more active, self-report improved mental health, and can’t wait to come to school because they have so much fun. There are many benefits for schools too — from increased teaching time, improved staff wellbeing, and up to 80% less reported accidents.

Is your school ready to prioritise playtime?

If you would like to see OPAL in action, the North East team coordinates open days in OPAL schools across the region. You can find all our upcoming events on our Eventbrite page. If you are ready to get going with OPAL in your school, you can get started on the OPAL website.