OPAL

“All the research says time playing outdoors is time well spent. Children who play outdoors move more, sleep more, eat better, are happier and care about the planet more. They are even less likely to need glasses!”
Michael Follett (Director of Outdoor Play and Learning, OPAL)

The Galfrid School is an OPAL school.  OPAL stands for ‘Outdoor Play and Learning’ and acknowledges our recognition that playtime is one of the most important parts of our school day. Play makes up 20% of school life and we know that what happens on the playground impacts learning.

We believe good play promotes children's emotional, social and academic development. Our aim is to use a large portion of our school grounds at playtime, playing across the year groups and enjoying a huge range of play experiences.

What is OPAL? 

We are working with the award-winning OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Primary Programme, which helps schools to improve children’s play experiences. We are currently working towards a bronze accreditation which means we have started to transform our playtime and grounds with creative, low-cost changes, providing children with more choices, risks, and dirt, leading to better behaviour and well-being.

As children in UK primary schools spend as much time out at play as they do in English or Maths lessons, we feel it is important that they have access to high-quality provision, just as they do within class. 

As part of the programme we have introduced: 

• more ‘stuff’ to play with
• a risk-benefit approach so children are safe to take the risks they need
• training for the staff that look after children’s play

What benefits will OPAL have for my child?

Research has shown that children in OPAL schools make deeper friendships, concentrate and behave better in class, and have less time off sick. Finally, and most importantly, they are happier. 

What do I need to provide? 

When children aren’t allowed out to play, they tend to be less able to concentrate, which impacts on their learning. As a result, at The Galfrid School, children will play outside in all weather conditions, with the exception of during thunderstorms and high winds when playtime may be brought indoors. 

To make sure children play outdoors every day they need to be warm, dry and comfortable, with the right clothing for all kinds of weather. 

In winter pupils need:

• wellies or waterproof shoes / boots
• a waterproof (not ‘showerproof’) coat
• waterproof trousers if possible
• hat, scarf and gloves
• a named change of clothes to keep in school (including socks). This is especially important for younger children.

In summer they need:

• hat
• sun cream
• a named change of clothes to keep in school (including socks). This is especially important for younger children.

If you need support with providing any of the above, please speak to us. We have pre-loved clothing and can help you to source what you need. 

OPAL Leaflet Power of Playtime

Galfrid Opal Play Policy