OPAL is founded on the understanding that children learn not only in the classroom but also through play. As playtimes make up around 20% of the school day – the equivalent of over a year of a child’s primary education – we want to ensure this time is as rich, purposeful and enjoyable as possible.

One of the reasons we are investing in this programme is that many children no longer have their play needs fully met outside of school. Research shows that children spend increasing amounts of time on screens and significantly less time playing outdoors. For many children, school is now the main place where they can play freely with others.

Schools that have already embedded the OPAL programme typically report:

• Happier children who enjoy school more

• Improved behaviour and fewer playground disputes

• Reduced accidents

• Greater engagement and resilience

 

 

 

 

Play is a powerful learning process. Through play, children develop skills and understanding that cannot be taught directly, while experiencing joy, challenge and creativity. To play well, children need:

• Appropriate clothing that allows freedom of movement

• A range of materials and resources to explore

• Time, space and permission to play freely

As part of developing play at Castleton Primary School, we will be introducing new resources, reorganising areas of the playground and seeking donations of ‘loose parts’ – everyday materials that children can move, combine and adapt in their play.

We will also be making changes to how children use the school grounds. Children may have access to more areas, for more of the year, and may experience greater freedom in how, where and with whom they play. This may mean they come home a little muddier, face new challenges and engage in more adventurous play. These experiences are vital for children’s physical and mental wellbeing and are fully aligned with current guidance on health, safety and child development. When taking part in messier play, children will be encouraged to wear wellies and waterproofs to protect their uniform as much as possible.

The school will be supported by an OPAL mentor over an 18-month period. There will be opportunities for parents and carers to meet with the mentor during the next academic year, with further details shared in due course. In the meantime, further information about the programme, including videos, can be found on the OPAL website.

Over the coming months, families will be invited to events where you can see the changes taking place and even join in with play yourselves.

We are extremely excited about this project and look forward to working with our school community to make playtimes at Castleton Primary School the very best they can be for every child.