Living out our ethos of ‘Life in all its Fullness,’ Birchanger Primary School has brought the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme to life, turning lunchtimes into fun, exciting experiences. With loads of play opportunities, children learn to share, negotiate, compromise, and even manage their own risks. Our outdoor space now has tree climbing, a sandpit, water play, wheeled areas, tyres, wildflower zones, small-world play spaces, and a creative cabin—just to name a few! These areas give pupils the freedom to explore, invent games, create stories, and let their imaginations run wild, all while learning to keep themselves safe. Working with Stansted Airport, we’ve also embraced sustainability by recycling and upcycling lost property to boost our play resources. Plus, Play Leaders, Friendship Ambassadors, and Buddies help make playtimes kind and inclusive, so every child feels welcome and valued.