OPAL: North East event - A day in the life of a playworker CPD session

Schedule

Thu Jun 11 2026 at 09:20 am to 02:45 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

Lingey House Primary School | Gateshead, EN

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OPAL supports schools to develop a culture where play is valued, embedded and enables children to have amazing playtimes every single day.
About this Event

Join the North East team at this CPD event, where you will explore a day in the life of a play coordinator.

This will be a valuable opportunity to reflect on what makes this role so vital within your school community, while gaining insight into the unique and impactful world of a playworker. The session will also provide a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with colleagues from other OPAL schools, allowing time to share experiences, ideas and insights.


Agenda

9:20am–9:30am Arrival

Please arrive between 9:20am and 9:30am to sign in and enjoy a hot drink.

9:30am–9:45am OPAL mentor's introduction

9:45am–10:15am Play coordinators

The play coordinators share a 'day in the life of a play coordinator' talk.

10:15am–10:45am Playwork presentation

Keeks McGarry will share a presentation about the playwork principles and share examples of the principles in practise.

10:45am–11am Refreshments

11am–11:15am SUEZ presentation

11:15am–12pm SUEZ loose parts

This session will take place outdoors, as SUEZ will lead a loose parts building practical session.

12pm–12:30pm Lunch

Please bring your own packed lunch.

12:30m–1:30pm Playtime observation

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.

1:30pm–2pm Workshops

There will be two 15 minute workshops led by the play coordinators.

2pm–2:45pm Presentation of play awards


About Lingey House Primary School

Lingey House has recently achieved a double OPAL Platinum Award, a prestigious recognition that celebrates both the high quality of their play provision and the long-term sustainability of their commitment to play. The school offers an outstanding variety of opportunities for children, including a giant sandpit, a bus or two, a mini woodland, and dedicated spaces to dig, build dens, and engage in creative play. Whether children choose to explore the extensive grounds or find a quiet space to relax, they benefit from true freedom and choice within a wonderfully rich environment.


Additional information

Please be advised that parking is not permitted on the school grounds. We encourage you to car share whenever possible to help reduce traffic.


Street parking is available a short distance from the school, so please allow plenty of time for your arrival.


Refreshments will be available onsite. Please bring your own lunch, as a dedicated space will be provided for you to eat.


We recommend sending play coordinators or other members of your play team.

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

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Where is it happening?

Lingey House Primary School, Millford, Gateshead, United Kingdom

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

GBP 27.80

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