Brookside Primary School in East Leake, has been awarded Platinum Status by the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Primary Programme – an honour reserved for schools across the world who demonstrate the very highest standards in outdoor play provision.
Even more impressively, Brookside is one of only a handful of schools nationwide to achieve a 100% score during the OPAL accreditation process—recognition of the school’s exceptional commitment to transforming play and learning outdoors.
This international accreditation reflects Brookside’s mission to ensure that every child enjoys high-quality, inclusive, and adventurous play every day, regardless of weather or season. The school now joins an elite group of UK schools to reach Platinum level, showcasing exemplary, sustainable practice.
Headteacher Gary Kenny said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive the OPAL Platinum Award—and even more proud to have achieved a 100% accreditation score. Play is a vital part of children’s development, and this recognition is a testament to the creativity, commitment and hard work of our staff, pupils, and wider school community. We believe every child deserves the time, space and freedom to play – and at Brookside, we make that happen.”
Parents and the local community have played a key role in the success of the OPAL programme at Brookside, contributing ideas, time, and materials to help bring the school’s play vision to life. One parent shared: “They love having so much choice and so much freedom to have fun. Opal has transformed playtime. Always something to do.”
This reflects the overwhelmingly positive feedback from families, who have witnessed the benefits of enriched outdoor play in their children’s confidence, happiness and wellbeing.
Over the past 18 months, the school has transformed its outdoor spaces and playtimes, introducing natural play elements, open-ended materials, and inclusive opportunities for children of all ages and abilities. This has not only enriched the children’s school experience but also supported their social, emotional, and physical development.
The OPAL Programme is endorsed by Sport England and recognised internationally for its impact on children’s wellbeing and behaviour. Achieving Platinum—particularly with a perfect score—means Brookside has embedded outdoor play into its ethos, curriculum, and daily practice in an outstanding and lasting way.
Brookside Primary School invites parents, community members and fellow educators to join in celebrating this achievement and to see first-hand what outstanding play looks like in action.