OPAL – Outdoor Play and Learning 

At our school, we believe that play is a vital part of children’s learning and wellbeing. That’s why we are proud to be an OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) school. 

What is OPAL? 

OPAL is a programme that helps schools provide better quality outdoor play for all children. It encourages pupils to play creatively, use their imaginations, and enjoy being active outdoors every day, whatever the weather. 

Why outdoor play matters 

High-quality play helps children to: 

• Build confidence and independence 

• Develop social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and problem-solving 

• Improve physical health and coordination 

• Support emotional wellbeing and resilience 
• Return to lessons happier, calmer, and ready to learn 

What OPAL looks like at our school 

Through OPAL, children have: 

• More freedom and choice in how they play 

• Access to a wider range of open-ended resources (such as loose parts and natural materials) 

• Opportunities to take safe, supported risks and explore their creativity 

• Inclusive play opportunities so every child can join in 

Playtimes are carefully planned and supervised to ensure they are safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone. 

What about safety? 

Children’s safety is very important to us. Staff receive training, risk assessments are carried out, and play is closely supervised. OPAL focuses on managed risk, helping children learn how to make sensible decisions and stay safe. 

How parents can help 

We appreciate parents’ support by: 

• Ensuring children have appropriate clothes at school for outdoor play (including coats and wellington boots/old trainers) 

• Supporting the value of play as an important part of learning 

• Donating suitable items or loose parts when requested 

Want to know more? 

If you would like more information about OPAL or how it benefits your child, please speak to a member of staff or visit the official OPAL website. 

https://outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk/ 

OPAL – Frequently Asked Questions 

Will my child be safe? 

Yes. Children’s safety is a priority. OPAL is carefully planned and supervised by trained staff. Risk assessments are in place, and children are supported to take managed, age-appropriate risks, helping them learn how to make safe choices. 

Will children still be supervised at playtime? 

Yes. Staff are always on duty during playtimes. OPAL changes how children play, not the level of supervision. 

What if my child doesn’t like getting muddy or playing outdoors? 

OPAL is inclusive and offers a range of play opportunities, so children can choose activities that suit them. There is something for everyone, whether they enjoy active play, creative play, quiet social time, or imaginative games. 

What happens in bad weather? 

Outdoor play continues in most weather conditions, as long as it is safe to do so. Playing outside in different weather helps children build resilience and wellbeing. We ask parents to ensure children come to school with appropriate outdoor clothing. 

Will OPAL affect learning time? 

No. OPAL supports learning rather than taking away from it. Research shows that high-quality play helps children return to the classroom more focused, settled, and ready to learn. 

Why does OPAL include loose parts and recycled materials? 

Loose parts (such as crates, planks, tyres, and natural materials) encourage creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. There is no “right way” to use them, which allows children to use their imagination and develop important life skills. 

What if my child gets minor bumps or scrapes? 

Small bumps can occasionally happen, just as they do in any active play. Staff respond appropriately, and first aid procedures are always followed. Learning to manage small risks helps children grow in confidence and independence. 

How can parents support OPAL? 

Parents can help by: 

• Making sure children have appropriate clothing for outdoor play 

• Talking positively about play and outdoor learning 

• Supporting donations of suitable loose parts when requested