News-School scoops prestigious prize for outdoor play

Roseberry Primary and Nursery School

Roseberry Primary and Nursery School in Newfield, near Chester-le-Street, has received a Platinum Award for Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) in recognition of the improvements it has made to playtime.

It is the highest award possible within the scheme, but the honours do not stop there. Earlier this month the school was asked to host the OPAL North East Regional Meeting to allow representatives from other schools to see playtime in action. Members of the school's play team have also secured a Champion Play Team Award.

Positive relationships

Emma Dunn, headteacher at Roseberry Primary and Nursery, said: "We introduced OPAL into school in May 2023 and it has completely changed the way children play. Children from Reception to Year 6 play alongside each other at lunchtime which promotes positive relationships across the school. We started off with grass and concrete and now we have many exciting OPAL zones.

"Children and staff love lunchtimes and it's one of the first things anyone talks about to visitors. The community has been very supportive too and we are grateful for the many donations we have received from parents and local families, the parish council, Karbon Homes and Tesco." 

Among the OPAL zones on offer are: a sand pit, mud kitchen, digging area, tunnel, mini golf, water play, role play, sports, climbing frames, sledge slide and a wildlife garden complete with wooden houses and den building. There is also a craft area, scooter and bike zone and a performance space where pupils can listen to music and dress up.

Fantastic achievement 

Cllr Ted Henderson, our Cabinet member for children and young people's services, said: "The team at Roseberry Primary School should feel incredibly proud of this fantastic achievement and I would like to say a big congratulations on behalf of everyone at the council.

"Outdoor play brings so much joy to children and supports their development. Not only does it fuel the imagination and help build confidence, but it promotes problem solving, collaboration and physical activity. The facilities on offer at Roseberry are second to none and it's easy to see why playtime is so popular there."