Lanesfield Primary School is celebrating after being awarded the Platinum OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Award – the highest level of accreditation – with an exceptional score of 94%.
The award recognises schools that provide outstanding play opportunities and environments for children. It places Lanesfield among the leading schools in the UK for high‑quality, inclusive and imaginative play.
Before Lanesfield began its OPAL journey, playtimes were challenging, with limited activities, restricted spaces and children separated by age. Since then, the school has transformed its approach to play, creating a vibrant, creative and collaborative environment for pupils of all ages.
Now, children can choose from a wide range of activities including, ball games, sand and water play, den building, scooters, role play, construction, creative arts and small‑world play.
Regular play assemblies also help reinforce positive play messages and ensure that play is valued as an essential part of school life.
Amy Campbell, OPAL Mentor for the West Midlands, praised the school’s achievement, highlighting the children’s teamwork, creativity and responsibility, as well as the dedication of staff, governors and parents in leading such a significant cultural shift.
Meanwhile, feedback has also been overwhelmingly positive, with parents confirming that their children enjoy their lunchtime play more now than before.
Headteacher Zoe Rollinson said: “This award reflects everything we believe in at Lanesfield.
“Our children play with creativity, explore with curiosity, persevere with resilience, act with integrity, and approach every day with aspiration and happiness. We are so proud of the environment we have built together.”
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “Lanesfield Primary School has created an environment where pupils thrive – where they can imagine, build, collaborate, take safe risks and enjoy a rich, meaningful childhood.”