“Play is the work of childhood”
– Jean Piaget
OPAL Play at Our School
At our school, we believe that play is not a break from learning — it is a fundamental part of childhood and a vital foundation for healthy development. Through our involvement in the Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) programme, we are transforming the quality of play opportunities available to every child, every day.
OPAL has helped us to re-connect children with rich, meaningful play experiences that support the whole child socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. In a world where children’s opportunities for free, adventurous outdoor play are increasingly limited, we see play as essential to children’s health, well-being and happiness.
Our approach encourages children to move, explore, build, imagine, create, problem-solve and collaborate. Through active outdoor play, children naturally develop strength, coordination, resilience and confidence, while also benefiting from improved mental wellbeing, reduced stress and stronger self-esteem.
OPAL also provides powerful opportunities for children to develop curiosity and creativity through real-life experiences linked to STEM learning. Whether constructing dens, designing obstacle courses, experimenting with materials, transporting objects or solving practical problems together, children are developing critical thinking, communication and innovation skills in authentic and engaging ways.
Importantly, play creates a shared language for children from all backgrounds and experiences. OPAL encourages children of different ages, abilities and needs to play together, helping to break down social barriers and build inclusion naturally. Children learn to cooperate, negotiate and communicate with others they may not usually work alongside in the classroom. Through play, children develop empathy, understanding and respect, while gaining confidence in themselves and their relationships with others.
OPAL also nurtures children’s relationship with the natural world. We want children to experience mud, water, trees, loose parts, open spaces and changing seasons — not simply observe them. Time spent outdoors helps children develop environmental awareness, emotional regulation and a deeper sense of connection to the world around them.
The impact of OPAL reaches far beyond playtimes. Children learn to negotiate, cooperate, take managed risks, include others and develop empathy. Relationships strengthen across year groups, independence grows and children return to class happier, calmer and more ready to learn.
We are proud to provide a culture where play is valued, childhood is protected and every child has the opportunity to flourish. OPAL is helping us create happier, healthier and more confident children through the simple, transformative power of play.