Play Leader Scheme

At East Bergholt CEVC Primary School, we are committed to enabling every child to flourish as a confident, responsible and compassionate individual. One of the ways we nurture leadership and personal development is through our Play Leader Scheme.

Our Year 6 Play Leaders are carefully selected to take on this important role of service within the school community. They organise and lead games for younger pupils during lunchtimes, helping to create a playground culture that is active, inclusive and joyful.

Rooted in our Christian vision — “I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10) — Play Leaders actively promote wellbeing, friendship and positive relationships. They model kindness, fairness and respect, ensuring that every child feels valued and included.

Play Leaders are also Play Detectives

As part of their role, our Play Leaders will become Play Detectives. They will:

• look out for great examples of play across the school;
• observe how children are using different spaces and resources;
• talk to children about what they enjoy and what could make playtimes even better;
• identify new ideas and opportunities for play;
• share their findings with the OPAL Play Team and during CINI assemblies;
• help celebrate and promote fantastic play across our school.

This gives our Play Leaders an important role in shaping our OPAL journey. Their observations and conversations will help us understand what is working well and what we could develop next, ensuring that children’s voices remain at the heart of our play provision.

“We enjoy helping younger children join in games and make friends at playtime. Being a Play Leader has helped us become more confident, responsible and kind role models.” – Year 6 Play Leader

 

Developing Leadership and Character

Through this role, pupils develop:

• Organisation and communication skills

• Responsibility and reliability

• Teamwork and cooperation

• Confidence and resilience

• A strong sense of service to others

Play Leaders meet regularly to evaluate playtimes, share ideas and plan new activities. They receive training to deliver a range of structured games, including both traditional playground games and new initiatives. This ensures playtimes are purposeful, engaging and safe.

Promoting Wellbeing and Positive Behaviour

Our Play Leaders:

• Encourage physical activity and healthy lifestyles

• Support positive social interaction

• Help reduce playtime disputes through proactive engagement

• Promote inclusion by ensuring games are accessible to all

The impact of the scheme is seen in the happy, active and harmonious atmosphere on our playground. Younger pupils benefit from structured opportunities to play, while Year 6 pupils grow as role models who lead with integrity and care.

We are incredibly proud of our Play Leaders and the way they contribute to a culture where everyone can thrive.

Watch Our Training Slideshow

Would you like to see how we prepare our Play Leaders for their role?
Click below to watch our Play Leader training slideshow.