
School recognised as one of best in UK for outdoor play and learning
- Date July 18, 2026
Fatfield Academy has received the prestigious OPAL Platinum Award, making it one of the best schools in the country for play.
On receiving the award, deputy headteacher Paula Kirby said:
“We are incredibly proud that we have achieved the platinum award, which recognises and reflects the hard work and commitment of our whole school community in creating a culture where every child can learn, grow, and thrive through play.”
“The impact of OPAL has been transformational. We’ve seen children become more confident, resilient, and creative whilst developing stronger friendships, teamwork, and problem solving skills.
“Playtimes are now an extension of our learning, supporting children’s wellbeing as well as their personal and social development.”
Read the full article in the Sunderland Echo.
About 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.
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