A PRIMARY school is leading the way as a ‘play pioneer’ in the Torridge area after the introduction of a new initiative which sees children’s learning at an early age enhanced with play opportunities that boost well-being, learning and in the development of social skills.

Holsworthy Primary School is making waves with its recent redesign of play opportunities, thanks to the implementation of the Opal Play initiative. Committed to fostering ‘amazing play, every day, for every child,’ the school has revamped its outdoor areas to ensure that children’s playtime is as enriching as possible.

Its recently introduced ‘muddy play’ sessions led to an apology from the school to parents after children’s enthusiasm for the scheme was such that they brought the earth home with them.

However, the school has said that they are actively supporting families in need by purchasing extra waterproof trousers and wellies alongside installing extra hoses for rinsing the waterproof clothing afterwards.

Along with the outdoor play amenities, other play facilities include the introduction of a loose parts play area, wheelies zone and monkey bars and climbing equipment in addition to the already infamous mud zone.

Recognising that play makes up 20 per cent of a child's time in school — equivalent to 1.4 years of primary school — the school is determined to maximize this crucial period. In a time when childhood experiences are increasingly shaped by technology, with children spending an average of six hours a day on screens but only five hours a week playing outside, the school has taken proactive steps to meet the children’s play needs.

Headteachers, staff, and parents alike have noticed a rapid improvement in the children’s overall well-being since the program launched in September. “Children are happier, coming into school more easily, and learning better. Friendship issues have decreased, and well-being has soared,” shared several members of the school community. These remarkable changes have been noticed within just a few weeks of Opal’s introduction.

One of the most popular features is the ‘loose parts’ play, where children have created impressive dens and obstacle courses. The school's new mud area, complete with a digging pit and a ‘mud café’, encourages imaginative, tactile play. In the ‘wheelies zone’, children are building skills, speed, and stamina, while the newly installed monkey bars and climbing equipment have already boosted the children’s strength, confidence, and resilience.

Children of different age groups are now playing together more harmoniously, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. Even on rainy days, playtime is thriving. ‘Wet play’ has become a thing of the past, as children bring waterproofs and wellies to embrace outdoor play, rain or shine. The school is actively supporting families in need by purchasing extra waterproof trousers and wellies alongside installing extra hose attachments for rinsing waterproofs, and more covered drying areas to ensure everything is ready for the next day's play.

Parents are thrilled with the changes to the outdoor areas. One parent shared: “We have two children at Holsworthy, and we couldn’t be happier. It’s so refreshing to see them excited to go to school. We’d rather do extra laundry and see them thrive.”

Another parent commented on the transformation in their child’s behaviour: “My son is caked in mud, but he’s having fun! He’s more settled, and the hard work the school has put into this is evident.”

Children themselves are delighted with the new play opportunities. One pupil exclaimed: “School is so much better now! I used to really struggle leaving my mum and had nothing to make myself feel better but now I do! There’s something for everyone, and I love that different age groups are playing together.”

Teachers and staff also see the value of the Opal initiative, with one saying: “This is the best thing I’ve seen in schools in ten years. The children are fully engaged, no arguing, and just playing like children should.”

Holsworthy Primary’s play transformation is not just a short-term change, but part of a larger vision to give children the freedom and opportunity to play creatively and energetically. The school is proud of its efforts to create an environment where every child can flourish through outdoor play, improving their physical, social, and emotional development.

With plans to continue supporting children through additional resources and play areas, Holsworthy Primary School is setting a shining example of how schools can adapt to the changing needs of childhood, making playtime a key part of the school day. As one proud governor remarked: “The children love playtime so much now, and they go back to class feeling happy. Amazing job, Holsworthy Primary!”

This initiative is not just about play; it’s about giving children the tools to grow, learn, and thrive. Holsworthy Primary School is leading the way in prioritising the joy and developmental value of play for its pupils.