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OPAL: Self build skills workshop - Gayton Primary School, Wirral
Would you like to feel more confident using hand and power tools? If so, this hands-on workshop is ideal for play coordinators, curricular leads, and play team members. Held at a double platinum OPAL school, you’ll receive practical experience and training by building a mud kitchen, pallet house, loose parts storage unit, and a tyre structure, as well as observing an OPAL playtime in action. You’ll also discuss health and safety and risk management for self-build projects, leaving you well equipped to create engaging play structures on your own site.
9:15am–9:30am Welcome, introductions and networking
9:30am–10am Introduction to self-build techniques
10am–12pm Practical outdoor building session
12pm–1pm Observation of playtime
Come and see a platinum OPAL playtime in action – ask the children about how they manage risk and the grown-ups about the changes they have seen.
1pm–2:30pm Continued practical outdoor building session
“Every one one of us had a go of doing something whether this was sawing, drilling or holding something in place. Very easy going and it was nice to meet other people to bounce ideas off.”
“The skills learnt were accessible and manageable in that we’d be equipped to go away and have a go on our own!”
“Great day! I would definitely recommend this to all, especially fellow play co-ordinators!”
Bookings are limited to three participants per school, allowing Mike, Ben and Beth to work closely with participants in small, supportive hands-on groups.
● Please bring your own packed lunch, as catering will not be provided.
● To avoid disruption at drop off time please do not arrive at the school before 8:50am.
● Please car share if possible, local parking details will be shared in advance.
● Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear for your comfort and safety.
