Schools recognised for their amazing playtimes at annual awards

On International Day of Play on 11 June, primary schools from across the North East and Cumbria gathered at Lingey House Primary School in Gateshead to celebrate their commitment to providing amazing playtimes. 

The schools in attendance all have one thing in common: They have all invested in their playtimes through the OPAL Primary Programme (OPAL). OPAL is a mentor-supported school improvement programme addressing all the areas a school must plan for if they want to sustainably improve the quality of play. From improving wellbeing and increasing physical activity, to helping children build friendships and making sure everyone is included, OPAL schools experience a wide-range of benefits. 

The awards, held annually by OPAL North East, are an opportunity to recognise the enormous impact that OPAL schools in the area are having for thousands of children. 

Ingrid Wilkinson, Director of OPAL North East, said: “These awards are an opportunity to celebrate everything that all of our OPAL schools have achieved over the past year, as well as recognise those that have had particularly significant impacts. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all the school teams for everything they do to improve children’s lives.”

Winners of the OPAL North East and Cumbria Play Awards 2026

Above and Beyond Award: Ian and Dale, Marton Manor Primary School

“Ian and Dale do not simply maintain our outdoor space; they reimagine it. They have taken the germ of small ideas—minor suggestions for improvement—and used their creativity and skill to turn them into spectacular, immersive play environments. Their vision has completely enhanced our play provision, turning ordinary areas into vibrant hubs of adventure, exploration, and joy for the children.”

Above and Beyond Award: Lynsey Powell, Esh Winning Primary School

“Lynsey has been a true catalyst for change, inspiring a shift in our school’s philosophy toward active play. She has coached staff who were initially hesitant about the logistics of outdoor play, providing them with the confidence and resources to enhance the outdoor play and learning. Her passion is most visible when watching the pupils in their play; Lynsey has inspired a sense of wonder and resilience in the children, teaching them that there is no such thing as bad weather, only new opportunities to explore.”

Champion Play Team Award: Great Corby Primary and Nursery School

“Marie and Kirsty together bring energy, boldness, and a willingness to take risks that has redefined what play can look like. They are not afraid to be a little ‘crazy’ in the best possible way, creating a culture that is vibrant, inclusive, and full of joy. 

“Katie has joined this dynamic team and fitted in seamlessly. Despite joining what could be seen as a daunting and energetic group, she has embraced the ethos immediately, contributing her own enthusiasm and commitment. 

“Most importantly, their impact is best captured by the children themselves. As one child said, ‘There is fun, but OPAL is fun on another level!’” 

Innovation Award: Kev Turner, Beaconside Primary School

“Kev has an exceptional ability to see potential where others might see waste. The impact on children’s play has been significant. Kev’s resources have enabled children to explore, invent and lead their own play in ways that simply were not possible before. The open-ended nature of what he builds encourages imagination and resourcefulness, allowing children to adapt and transform the equipment to suit their ideas.”

Communication Award: Gavin Brownless, Ayersome Primary School

“Gavin, as new to the role of Curricular Play lead, recognised that our success needed to be shared wider than our normal reach via social media. Therefore, he invited press and worked with our Trust to create a press release which has linked through to BBC Tees and Radio Tees for publication after being highlighted through our Trust.”

Longevity and Sustainability Award: Bridgewater Primary School

“Bridgewater have been on their journey for four years now, the team were keen to progress after their gold award and worked very hard not only to maintain the play provision but continue to invest, build on and create more playful spaces outdoors. The school commits to protected time and values the play offer they have and shows its at the heart of the school. Now being a platinum school has shown the continued work, commitment, investment and love of play.”

Proactive Child or Group of Children Award: Milvena, Cullercoats Primary School

“Milvena will take home soft teddies/fancy dress outfits that have ripped and sew them back to new so children can play/use them again.  She has found her role within OPAL and is proud to be able to help.”

Community Spirit Award: Michael Rogan, AESC (working with Seaburn Dene Primary School)

“Working entirely at cost for raw materials, Michael and his colleagues designed, built, and installed a remarkable range of high-quality, permanent play structures. What Michael and his team achieved goes far beyond construction. They have created a lasting legacy—that will serve generations of children. Their willingness to give their time, expertise, and energy for the benefit of our school community exemplifies the very best of partnership and civic pride.”

Awesome Award: Lingey House Primary School

“This year, Lingey House Primary School achieved the OPAL Platinum Award for the second time, cementing its reputation as one of the most exceptional advocates for high-quality play provision in schools across the North East of England. The achievement reflects almost five years of dedicated effort through sustained investment, careful planning, and a whole-school culture that places play at its heart. Lingey House has transformed its outdoor environment into a rich and diverse haven for children of all ages and abilities.

“Led by Play Lead Tom Burrell, Assistant Head Michaela Flowdy, and Headteacher Chloe Wilkinson, and supported by an enthusiastic play team, Lingey  House’s success powerfully demonstrates that developing excellent play provision is not an added burden — it is an investment that benefits the whole school community. It demands leadership, a willingness to embrace change, and the conviction that play is not a luxury, but a right. As schools across Gateshead and beyond are called upon to take play seriously, Lingey House stands as a proud and inspiring example of what can be achieved.”

Get started with OPAL

If you are interested in attending a showcase event, visit the OPAL North East and Cumbria Eventbrite page. Or, if you’re ready to start OPAL in your primary school, get started on the OPAL website.