OPAL – Outdoor Play and Learning
Perryfields Primary School
At Perryfields Primary School, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and enriching environment where every child can thrive. As part of this commitment, we are pleased to announce that we have embarked on the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Playtime Programme, beginning in Spring 2026.
We chose to work with OPAL because their philosophy strongly aligns with both our school values and Ofsted’s focus on personal development, behaviour and attitudes, and inclusion. OPAL recognises that high-quality play is essential to children’s physical health, emotional well-being and social development.
OPAL’s work shows that improving play provision does far more than improve playtimes. When children’s fundamental need to play is carefully planned for and valued, it leads to positive changes across the whole school culture. Children feel happier, safer and more confident, which in turn supports positive behaviour, strong relationships and readiness to learn in the classroom.
OPAL’s vision is that every child, in every school, has access to an hour of high-quality play every day, with no exceptions. If a child is not enjoying playtime, improvements are still needed. This approach reflects our belief that play is a right for all children and a vital part of their development and happiness.
Our journey towards achieving this vision has now begun.
How OPAL supports children’s development
Through the OPAL approach, children are supported to develop in ways that align closely with Ofsted’s Personal Development judgement:
- All children can access inclusive, purposeful and enjoyable play
- Improved mental health and emotional well-being
- Research shows children involved in OPAL are happier and more engaged
- Stronger social and emotional skills as children practise kindness, respect and cooperation
- Opportunities to build resilience, independence and problem-solving skills
- Positive links to learning, including increased creativity, imagination and collaboration
Quality play provides rich opportunities for children to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts honestly, show tolerance towards others and build respectful relationships.
What OPAL means for Perryfields Primary School
OPAL supports our aim to develop well-rounded, confident learners by promoting:
- Happier children with positive attitudes to school
- Children returning to class calm, focused and ready to learn
- A fully inclusive play environment where every child feels valued
- Opportunities for children to make choices and take responsibility
- Increased independence and resilience
- Improved social skills, including positive interaction across different age groups
Most importantly, OPAL ensures that playtimes are safe, purposeful and joyful, supporting children’s well-being and personal development alongside their academic learning.
To find out more, please click the links below: