This episode of Early Learning Matters explores the value of play-based learning in early primary school. Jacqui Ward is joined by school leaders to discuss how play supports children's social, emotional and academic development, and why it's a more developmentally appropriate approach than traditional, lecture-style teaching. Through real school examples, the conversation highlights how play-based learning improves engagement, supports diverse learners, and helps create a smoother transition from preschool to school, while still meeting curriculum outcomes.