Research has shown that children spend 20% of their time in school playing. To ensure that this time and our fantastic school grounds are used to their full potential our school has adopted an OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) philosophy that allows the children freedom to explore play in their own imaginative ways, often using found and gathered resources in the natural outdoor environment. 

An OPAL approach promotes a more inclusive play environment in which all children can feel comfortable to express themselves. Our OPAL journey began in Spring 2026 and we are starting to build up our resources and expertise to transform our outdoor environment. A soft launch of OPAL happened in February, and we are looking to build on this offer. 

The children are excited about the new outdoor opportunities that OPAL will offer, with so much more for them to do, no matter the weather! From dressing up and dancing to music, to enjoying imaginative play in the small world area or building the next Eiffel Tower in our construction area, OPAL offers an exciting alternative to the standard playground activities. 

Through this approach to play children are not only more active at lunch times, but they  also have the opportunity to further develop life skills such as team work and problem-solving, helping them to prepare for the world that awaits them. They are becoming motivated and enthusiastic builders, engineers, explorers and designers. 

We are just at the start of our journey, but we know the positive impact this will have on our children and will work alongside what the children want to make this a rich, outdoor play and learning environment.  

OPAL Updates: 

• Our new play policy can be found below. This was agreed by governors in March 2026. 
• We are always in need of chalk and bubbles, so any donations of these gratefully received! 
• Donations of items to start a 'messy cafe' would be much appreciated (April 2026) - think pots, pans, spoons etc!