North East and Cumbria showcase: Biddick Primary School

Thinking about starting the OPAL Primary Programme at your school? Join us and be inspired by observing one of the best school playtimes in the country. Where kids get muddy, build dens, take risks, explore, experiment and achieve every single day!

This event is for headteachers from schools interested in starting the OPAL Primary Programme. If the head is unable to attend, please send a suitable deputy. We allow for two tickets per school, so you are also welcome to bring a member of your teaching staff.

10am–10:30am Observation of playtime

Come and see an outstanding OPAL playtime in action - ask the children about how they manage risk and the grown-ups about the changes they have seen.

10:30am–11:15am Introduction to OPAL

Hear from the headteacher and other staff about their OPAL journey and learn more about the OPAL Primary Programme.

Biddick Primary School began their OPAL journey and achieved an OPAL Gold Award in October 2023. They were recently assessed for a second time and received an OPAL Platinum Award in September 2025. The school has worked incredibly hard to establish a wonderful culture of play, where play is highly valued by the entire school community. Without a doubt, they offer one of the most amazing playtimes of any school in the North East. Their play provision is outstanding, ensuring every child enjoys a fantastic playtime every single day.

Tea and coffee will be available.

There is limited parking onsite, so car sharing would be advisable.

Only two tickets per school. If you can no longer come, please let us know so we can release your place to another school.

The OPAL Primary Programme is an award-winning mentor supported school improvement programme that addresses all the areas that schools must plan for if they want to strategically and sustainably improve the quality of their play opportunities.

Find out more: www.outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk

Also check out other Kids events & activities in Washington.