What is OPAL?
At Audlem St James Primary School, we recognize that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom—play is an essential part of a child’s development, which is why we’ve decided to introduce OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning).
With 20% of a child’s school day dedicated to playtime, it’s crucial to make these moments enriching and purposeful. OPAL Play enhances creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience by providing children with diverse opportunities to explore, imagine, and collaborate. We believe that when play and learning go hand in hand, children thrive not only academically but also socially and emotionally. By fostering a love for play, we’re helping to build confident, well-rounded individuals who are ready to take on challenges inside and outside the classroom.
What do our playtimes look like?
Our playtimes are a vibrant and exciting part of the school day, filled with opportunities for every child to explore, create, and connect. Through OPAL Play, we’ve transformed our outdoor spaces into dynamic environments where children can engage in imaginative play, build structures, climb, dig, and even invent their own games. Our approach ensures that playtimes are inclusive and enriching, offering something for everyone—whether it’s collaborating with friends, discovering new interests, or simply enjoying moments of free play. By making play fun and stimulating, we are nurturing creativity, confidence, and joy in every child, ensuring that their time outdoors is as valuable as their time in the classroom.