OPAL's programme enables schools to provide every child with rich opportunities to be creative, collaborative and active in their outdoor play, in environments that are safe enough for 'health and safety' but challenging enough for children's ongoing development.

What Is OPAL Play at Our School?

At All Saints CEVA Primary, we are proud to be developing our playtimes through the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) approach. OPAL is a nationally recognised programme that helps schools transform the quality of play by creating rich, inclusive, and exciting outdoor experiences for every child.

Why We Are Using OPAL

Play is a vital part of children’s learning and development. Through the OPAL programme, we aim to ensure that all children:

• Enjoy happier, more active, and more creative playtimes

• Have access to a wide range of play opportunities every day

• Develop essential skills such as cooperation, resilience, problem-solving, and communication

• Build stronger friendships and feel a greater sense of belonging

• Benefit from time outdoors, whatever the season

What This Means for Your Child

With OPAL, every playtime becomes a chance to explore, imagine, and learn. Children may use a wide variety of equipment and loose parts—such as tyres, crates, fabric, water play, small world items, and natural materials—to create their own games and environments. This encourages:

• Imagination and creativity

• Physical activity

• Teamwork and negotiation

• Independence and responsibility

Playtimes will look busier, more varied, and more adventurous—because that’s how children learn best.

Safety and Supervision

Safety is always a priority. Staff receive OPAL training to support purposeful, safe, and enjoyable play, and all resources are risk-assessed. OPAL promotes a “risk-benefit” approach, helping children learn how to manage small risks confidently and safely.

How Families Can Support

As OPAL play happens in all weather, children will need suitable outdoor clothing throughout the year. We will keep parents updated on any requests for materials or recycled items that can enhance our play spaces.

Our Vision

Through OPAL, we want every child to look forward to playtime as a highlight of the school day—full of fun, friendships, and opportunities to learn in meaningful ways. We are excited to see the positive impact this will have across the whole school community.