We are thrilled to embark on an exciting multi-year journey across our primary schools: the implementation of OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning)! This initiative represents a significant step in our commitment to fostering well-rounded, joyful, and resilient children.

In today's digital age, we recognise the growing concerns surrounding excessive screen time and its impact on children's development. Research, such as that highlighted by Jonathan Haidt in his book "The Anxious Generation," underscores the critical importance of play-based learning for children's physical, emotional, and social well-being. We believe that a rich, engaging, and unstructured outdoor play experience is essential for nurturing healthy, happy, and confident children.

What is OPAL?

OPAL is a programme that transforms playtime into a vibrant, stimulating, and enriching experience. It's about empowering children to explore, create, and discover the world around them in a safe and supportive environment. We are purposefully shifting away from overly structured playtimes and instead providing children with a wide range of natural and recycled materials, encouraging them to use their imaginations and develop their own games and activities.

Why OPAL?

• Promoting Physical Health: OPAL encourages active play, helping children develop their gross motor skills, coordination, and overall fitness.
• Fostering Social and Emotional Development: Through collaborative play, children learn to negotiate, problem-solve, and build strong friendships. They develop resilience, empathy, and emotional intelligence.
• Stimulating Creativity and Imagination: OPAL provides children with the freedom to explore their creativity and imagination, fostering a love of learning and discovery.
• Developing Problem-Solving Skills: Children learn to overcome challenges, take risks, and find innovative solutions to problems.
• Reclaiming a Play-Based Childhood: In a world increasingly dominated by screens, OPAL provides children with the opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the joys of unstructured play. We are intentionally moving away from a phone-based childhood and returning to a play based one.

What will OPAL look like at our schools?

You will notice a transformation in our playgrounds. We will introduce a variety of loose parts, such as tyres, crates, pallets, and natural materials. Children will be encouraged to use these materials in imaginative ways, building dens, creating obstacle courses, and engaging in role-play. Our staff will facilitate play, ensuring safety and encouraging children to explore their creativity.

Our Commitment

We are committed to providing our children with the best possible start in life. OPAL is a vital part of this commitment. We believe that by fostering a love of play and exploration, we can help our children develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the 21st century.

We understand that change can sometimes be daunting, and we are committed to working closely with parents to ensure a smooth transition. We will provide regular updates and opportunities in our school newsletters for our families and communities to learn more about OPAL and find out how you can get involved. We encourage you to embrace this exciting initiative and support your children in their journey of discovery and play.

We are confident that OPAL will have a positive impact on our children, and we look forward to seeing them flourish in their new play environment.