Education Minister Paul Givan has officially launched the Inclusive Play Programme, as part of the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Delivery Plan, during a visit to Stepping Stones Playgroup at Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Belfast.
Delivered in partnership with PlayBoard, the first group of schools implemented the 8-week programme in May 2026. With specialist input from play therapists, it aims to enhance children’s social, emotional, behavioural and cognitive development through play.
Speaking during the visit, the Minister said:
“There is growing evidence that play is essential to children’s development, particularly for those with SEN. Embedding inclusive play into everyday school life will support the diverse needs of pupils, while strengthening relationships, improving engagement and enhancing learning outcomes. It is encouraging to see this programme working in practice here at Stepping Stones Playgroup.”
Funded by the Public Sector Transformation Fund (PSTF), the programme will be delivered in 48 settings over three academic years.
Attending the launch this morning, Alan Herron, Chief Executive of PlayBoard NI, said:
“I’m delighted to celebrate the launch of the Inclusive Play Programme, which will be rolled out over the next few years, delivering training and support for teaching and non-teaching staff in schools across Northern Ireland. The programme will also provide inclusive play opportunities within schools for children of all abilities. The programme has been supported by the Department of Education as part of the transformation agenda for SEN, and we welcome and thank the Department for their support in this area.”
Edwina Weiniger, Chair of the Stepping Stones committee, said:
“We are delighted to be one of the first schools to take part in this exciting programme, which supports children through engaging, hands-on play experiences. It also offers valuable training for staff, parents, and carers to strengthen inclusive practice. With its strong emphasis on outdoor learning, the programme aligns closely with our Forest School ambitions, building a lasting legacy of inclusive play within our pre-school nursery community in North Belfast.”
The Minister concluded:
“The Inclusive Play Programme will equip teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as parents, with the knowledge, tools and support needed to deliver high-quality, inclusive play, ensuring every child can develop, participate and thrive.
The Inclusive Play Programme aims to assist settings in creating empowering play environments where curiosity around diversity is cultivated, difference is celebrated, experiences are meaningfully inclusive, and opportunities are fully accessible to all children – because Everyone Plays!