Somers Park Primary School in Malvern, new OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) resources are changing the way children play, socialise and express themselves during breaktimes.
Thanks to a public health grant the school has expanded its outdoor provision with equipment that encourages both active and imaginative play. Staff say the changes have made playtimes more purposeful, inclusive and enjoyable for pupils across all year groups.
Wheelies and Go Karts have quickly become some of the most popular additions, giving children new ways to be active while practising turn‑taking and cooperation. Basketball hoops have also helped to create more structured games, with pupils describing how easy it now is to set up quick matches that attract children from different year groups. One Year 6 pupil said they enjoy helping younger children join in, even if “they find it hard to score”.
The funding has also strengthened opportunities for creative play. Crates and tarpaulin have inspired open‑ended building and problem solving, with pupils working together to design and construct their own spaces. A Year 3 pupil proudly explained how their group built a den big enough for everyone and shared their excitement about making an even bigger one the next day. Tuff trays have supported children who prefer calmer, focused activities, offering space for sensory play, small‑world setups and themed scenes throughout the year.
The atmosphere on the playground has also been lifted by simple additions that bring children together. Bubble machines have created shared moments of joy, with one pupil saying they love chasing and catching the bubbles as everyone gathers around. Music has become another positive influence thanks to Makita stereos, which have helped introduce music‑led play. A Year 5 pupil said they look forward to Move‑it Monday and Funky Friday, especially when their song request is played.
Staff have noticed clear changes since the new resources were introduced. They report more children taking part in a wider range of activities, more collaborative play, fewer low‑level issues and a reduction in first‑aid incidents, which they attribute to pupils being more engaged and purposeful during breaktimes.
The school says the grant has made a meaningful difference to daily life, widening opportunities for children to enjoy active, imaginative and inclusive play.
If you’d like to explore how a Public Health Community Wellbeing Grant could support wellbeing in your educational setting, visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants