Commenting on the passing of Motion 9 at NEU Annual Conference in Brighton, Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union, said:
"Prioritising sufficient opportunities for play throughout the early years and primary curriculum is essential to supporting and enhancing children’s learning and development and supports cognitive growth.
"Play enables children to navigate social interactions, build relationships and develop empathy. It nurtures curiosity, creativity and imagination, allowing children to test ideas and explore new concepts. The skills developed through play lay the foundation for later success, building resilience, adaptability and confidence.
"To harness the full benefits of play, the government must invest in and embed play across the early years and primary curriculum."