Play pedagogy is a powerful, child-centred approach that supports curiosity, creativity, and deep learning across early level and beyond. Aligned with the principles of Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition: Being Me, play offers rich opportunities for learners to explore, problem-solve, and develop key skills in a meaningful context. When teachers skilfully plan for and interact within playful environments, they extend thinking, promote language development, and foster independence. Play pedagogy is not limited to early years—it can be embedded across stages to support engagement, wellbeing, and progression. Understanding the role of purposeful play enables educators to create inclusive, responsive learning that meets the developmental needs of all children.