A PRIMARY school in Carlisle has become the first in the county to receive the prestigious Gold OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) award.

The award-winning mentor-supported school improvement programme marks the culmination of a two-year initiative for Norman Street Primary School.

Deputy headteacher Karen Hodges said: "We're the first school in Cumbria to achieve this award so we're really proud." 

The OPAL programme was launched with the goal of reintroducing traditional, fun-filled play experiences for children that had perhaps been dwindling in previous years.

News and Star: Smiles all around as pupils enjoy OPAL initiative Smiles all around as pupils enjoy OPAL initiative (Image: Supplied)

The school's playgrounds have been transformed into diverse play zones, including areas for water play, mud kitchens, den building, dressing up, and musical activities, all available during lunchtime.

"It's designed to bring the fun playtimes back for children, all the things we did as children - den building, scooter riding, playing in the water which has sadly been missing in schools, especially since Covid. 

"It's been so positive, the children say how amazing lunchtimes are, it really has been a success," she said. 

Karen said one of the outcomes of the OPAL initiative has been a noticeable reduction in first-aid incidents and behavioural issues among students.

News and Star: The playground initiative has been well received by both parents and pupils The playground initiative has been well received by both parents and pupils (Image: Supplied)

Karen said the shift from traditional competitive games, like football, to a wider array of activities has contributed to a more inclusive lunchtime for all pupils.

"The benefits are seen through the children how they mix socially.

"Especially the older children, there's not this stigma to play, they're really allowed to be children again. 

"We've had people from other schools in Cumbria come visit to see what we're doing and see how we started it. We're really proud of it," she said. 

As part of the new interactive play, the school also has launched Family Fridays in which parents of children get involved in the fun at lunchtime.  

The initiative was made possible through funding from the Sports Premium.