Play Leaders at SKiPPS

One of the most powerful things about a primary school playground is that it is not just a place for fun. It is a place where friendships are formed, confidence grows and young people learn how to include, support and lead one another.

Our PLAY Leaders program continues to be a central part of this work at SKiPPS.

PLAY stands for Positivity, Leadership and Activated Youth. 

The program is designed to enhance the resilience and wellbeing of young people while providing meaningful leadership opportunities for our senior students.

Year 5 Training Day

On Tuesday this week, our entire Year 5 cohort took part in Play Leaders training with Mel and Amy. This year, every Year 5 student has the opportunity to qualify as a Play Leader.

There was a real sense of excitement in the room, along with a few nerves, as students stepped into their roles as leaders within the school.

Throughout the training, students:

• Explored what positive leadership looks like in action
• Practised facilitating safe, structured playground games
• Learned strategies for encouraging inclusion and resolving minor conflicts
• Reflected on how to model our school values of Pride, Kindness and Perseverance

The day was active, practical and hands on. Students participated in the games themselves before practising how to explain rules clearly, organise teams and ensure everyone feels welcome. 

There was plenty of laughter, teamwork and thoughtful reflection along the way.

What Happens Next?

Our newly trained Play Leaders will soon begin running structured lunchtime sessions for younger students. These sessions will offer:

• Organised games and activities
• Support for students who may need help joining in

• A positive and inclusive space during break times

   

This program provides our Year 5 students with a genuine opportunity to lead. It asks them to take responsibility, show initiative and model the behaviours we value as a school community. At the same time, it supports our younger students to feel connected, included and confident in the playground.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 5 cohort for stepping up in this way. Their willingness to lead and support others is a wonderful example of our values in action and strengthens the sense of care and connection that defines life at SKiPPS.

We look forward to seeing Play Leaders sessions up and running across the school in the coming weeks.