At our school, we believe that play is not just a fun activity, it is a fundamental part of a child’s learning journey. That’s why we are proud to embrace OPAL play, an award-winning program that transforms our playgrounds into vibrant spaces for exploration, imagination, and development.
OPAL stands for Outdoor Play and Learning, and it is built on the ethos that children learn best when they are actively engaged and challenged in an open-air environment. Through imaginative play, exploration, and collaboration, children develop a wealth of skills that directly contribute to our school’s Aspiration Curriculum:
- Communication: OPAL encourages children to interact, negotiate, and share ideas as they build, explore, and role-play together.
- Resilience and Ambition: Overcoming challenges and persisting through difficulties are natural parts of OPAL play, fostering a growth mindset and a drive to succeed.
- Cooperation and Collaboration: Working together to build a fort, create a story, or solve a problem becomes an essential part of the OPAL experience, nurturing teamwork and collaboration skills.
- Personal Skills: Confidence, independence, and self-awareness blossom as children take ownership of their play experience, exploring their strengths and interests.
- Enterprise Skills: From planning and organisation to problem-solving and resourcefulness, OPAL play fosters the entrepreneurial spirit, equipping children with valuable life skills.
And the best part? OPAL play happens in all weathers! We believe that embracing the outdoors, rain or shine, strengthens children’s physical and mental well-being, fostering a love for nature and a sense of adventure.
