Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)

Play is a fundamental part of children’s development. From a very young age, children learn about the world through play, helping them to build essential skills such as resilience, imagination and social understanding. At the heart of this is our Christian value to do everything in love — encouraging children to care for themselves, one another and the world around them.

Many children today do not have the same opportunities to play outdoors as previous generations did. As a result, chances to develop these vital skills can be limited. National research shows that children’s mental and physical health is deteriorating, and high-quality play has a powerful role to play in improving this. During their seven years at primary school, children spend approximately 1.4 years at play — time that we believe should be purposeful, joyful and rooted in kindness.

At our school, we view playtime as a valuable part of the curriculum. It is a real opportunity for children to practise doing everything in love — showing respect, forgiveness, cooperation and care as they play and learn alongside their friends.

Activities such as getting muddy, playing in sand and dressing up are often associated with younger children. However, we strongly believe that all children benefit from these experiences, regardless of age. These opportunities allow children to develop empathy, creativity and confidence in a safe, nurturing environment.

Mrs Potter is our OPAL lead and delivers play assemblies every second Wednesday. During these assemblies, children are encouraged to risk assess new equipment and activities, share ideas and discuss any issues that may arise. Through this process, children learn to listen to one another, take responsibility and make thoughtful choices — living out our Christian value to do everything in love in practical, meaningful ways.