Ballymacash Primary School in Lisburn has scooped the first ever PlayBoard award for outdoor play.
![](https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/styles/inline-expandable/public/images/education/news/PLAYBOARD%20OUTDOOR%20AWARD%20MCOOPER2.jpg?itok=Ox0frAei×tamp=1465383648)
The ‘TOPS’ Quality Assurance Award for Outdoor Play in Schools recognises the significant work shown by the school in creating an outdoor space which encourages children to play.
Speaking at the event Peter Weir said:
“This is the first time this award has been presented and I am very pleased that Ballymacash Primary School is the first recipient.
“Play is essential to a child’s development. It is how friendships are made and provides an opportunity to learn and exercise in a fun way.
“Ballymacash is a school, which with the expert support of PlayBoard, has taken a truly creative and innovative approach to enhancing learning through play. The Principal, the staff and the children should all be congratulated for how they have transformed the outdoor school environment.”
The TOPS Award has been, developed and overseen by PlayBoard, the lead organisation for play in Northern Ireland.
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