St. Paul's C.E. Junior School in Barrow has launched a 'playtime revolution'.

The initiative, led by new headteacher Jane Newby, aims to encourage active, outdoor play.

Mrs Newby said: "I feel so privileged to be the headteacher of this fantastic school and to be leading this exciting project forwards.

"Research has consistently shown that active, outdoor play develops children’s social skills, cooperation, creativity, physical development and even their academic achievement.

"In a world dominated by screens, it is important that children have every opportunity to be active and play outside."

The school has a large playground, field, an acre of woodland, and a pond, all of which will be used to support the initiative.

Students at St. Pauls are showing 'greater focus and engagement' in class thanks to the scheme (Image: St. Paul’s C.E. Junior School) Mr Bailey, the playtime revolution coordinator, said: "We have already seen great examples of teamwork and creativity across year groups and most importantly lots of smiles and fun.

"Children are also showing greater focus and engagement in class.

"This playtime revolution fits into our school approach of taking learning outside and becoming active learners.

"Over the next year, we plan to increase the resources available for children to use at playtimes and expand our use of our woodland area."

The school will host its annual Harvfest event on Friday, October 4, from 3.45pm, featuring a bouncy castle, stalls, and other family-friendly entertainment.

An open day is also scheduled for Tuesday, October 8, from 3pm to 5.30pm, with talks from Mrs Newby at 3pm and 5pm.