At Furrowfield School, we recognise that break times are a vital part of the school day. For our students, opportunities to socialise, regulate emotions, build positive relationships and develop independence are just as important as academic learning. Our structured break and recreation programme is therefore carefully designed to provide purposeful activities that support students' social, emotional and mental health whilst helping them develop the skills and attributes needed for future success.

Students can choose from a wide range of activities that reflect different interests, strengths and needs. Active opportunities such as football, american football, indoor sports and walk and talk encourage physical wellbeing, teamwork and healthy lifestyles. Creative and reflective activities including crafts, music, chess, logic puzzles, card games and magnetic construction provide opportunities for students to develop concentration, problem-solving skills, creativity and resilience. Our Tea, Toast and Talk provision offers a welcoming space where students can strengthen communication skills, build relationships and receive support from trusted adults. 

These activities are intentionally linked to the values of the Furrowfield Way. Through participation in break time activities, students learn to be:

• Imaginative through creative activities, construction challenges and music.
• Inquisitive through games, puzzles and opportunities to explore new interests.
• Collaborative through team sports, shared projects and positive social interaction.
• Resilient by learning new skills, overcoming challenges and managing success and disappointment positively.
• Reflective by developing self-awareness, making responsible choices and learning from experiences.

Our approach is also influenced by the research of Costa and Kallick's Habits of Mind, encouraging students to persist, think flexibly, listen with understanding and empathy, manage impulsivity and strive for accuracy in everyday situations. Break times provide authentic opportunities for students to practise these important life skills in a supportive environment.

By providing a range of structured and meaningful activities throughout the day, we help students develop confidence, independence and a sense of belonging within our school community. These experiences support wellbeing, strengthen relationships and ensure that every student has the opportunity to flourish socially, emotionally and personally, enabling them to be successful both in school and beyond.