OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) is an approach that recognises the importance of play in children’s development and wellbeing, and we are proud to have this on offer for children to enjoy – whatever the weather!
During OPAL playtimes, children have access to a wide range of exciting outdoor play oppourtunities. They are able to explore and play across our playground, field and forest area, choosing activities that interest them and encourage creativity, imagination and physical activity.
Our play spaces include a variety of resources such as:
- Lego and construction materials
- Dolls and small world play
- Kitchen role-play
- Dressing-up clothes
- Whiteboards
- Tyres and Crates
- Wheeled chairs and suitcases
- Creative and loose parts
- …and we are even introducing a real bus!
Our resources are open-ended meaning children can invent their own games, solve problems together build friendships and and develop confidence through play.
Learning Through Play
OPAL encourages open-ended, active and creative play; giving children opportunities to challenge themselves, work collaboratively and develop resilience. Through play, children learn to assess situations, make decisions and manage appropriate levels of risk. Children have regular OPAL assemblies demonstrating how to use equipment safely and our staff actively supervise our playtimes to support them. As with any active play, minor bumps, scrapes and accidents can happen as part of the children learning to judge and manage risk, develop independence and build confidence in their own abilities. As usual, incidents are assessed by our first aid team.
Being Ready for OPAL
A key principle of OPAL is that children enjoy the outdoors in all seasons and all weathers. We want every child to make the most of the fantastic outdoor spaces available throughout the year. To do this, it is essential that children come to school with appropriate outdoor clothing.
- Wellies: If the field is wet and your child does not have wellies in school, they will not be able to access the field during OPAL.
- Waterproof Coat or Rain Jacket: If it is raining and your child does not have a suitable waterproof coat, they will not be able to access the outdoor play areas.
- Sun Protection: In the sunnier weather we ask that children come to school already wearing sun lotion. They should also have a sun hat and water bottle.
Providing these items means your child can continue to enjoy the full range of OPAL experiences, whatever the weather. We recommend that children keep a named pair of wellies in school and bring a waterproof jacket every day, as the weather can change quickly.
Thank you for supporting OPAL and helping us provide rich, engaging play opportunities that allow every child to learn, grow and thrive through play.