Coventry school wins major award

A Coventry primary school is celebrating after achieving a prestigious award for its commitment to improving playtimes for pupils.

St Patrick's Catholic Primary School, part of the Romero Catholic Academy, received the top-level accreditation from OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning), a national programme designed to support schools in transforming breaktimes.

The award follows 18 months of work to enhance the school's outdoor provision and embed a long-term strategy for high-quality play.

St Patrick's has introduced a wide range of outdoor play features to spark imagination and exploration - including a model wooden car made with donated parts, a reading hut, vegetable patch, musical area, and a popular mud kitchen built and donated by a former pupil's family.

A sandpit was also created with the help of family volunteers, with a wide range of items donated by the community.

The facilities are designed to support physical activity, creativity and wellbeing, and provide space for both energetic and quieter play. Pupils have also been taught how to use the spaces safely, and the school's growing welly bank means children without appropriate footwear can still get involved.

Assistant Vice Principal Elise Liggins said: "We're absolutely delighted to receive the Platinum OPAL Award. These outdoor spaces have completely transformed playtimes for our children, offering opportunities to play, create, imagine and connect in ways that support their learning and wellbeing.

"It's fantastic to see so many of our pupils engaged and happy outside. The support we've had from families and the community to make it all happen was heartwarming - and it's been incredible to see that pay off."

OPAL CIC has worked with more than 1,500 schools across the UK since 2011 to improve the quality of school playtime - which accounts for around 20% of pupils' time in school.

Rob Francksen, OPAL mentor, added: "I was delighted to present St Patrick's with their Platinum OPAL award for their commitment to improving play opportunities for every child.

"When you step into the playground, you will witness a hive of activity. Children are playing in the giant sandpit, making concoctions in the mud kitchen, and singing and dancing on the stage.

"There is so much choice that every child can find something they want to do. It is truly magical to watch."

Michael Follett, OPAL CIC Founder and Director, said: "The benefits of play are well-documented, but it has virtually disappeared from children's lives. That's why we are working with schools across the country to improve playtimes.

"Congratulations to St Patrick's for your recent award and for everything you are doing to make sure children have amazing play every day."