What is OPAL?

Research has show that children spend 20% of their time in school on the playground.  To ensure that this time and wonderful school groups are used to their full potential our school has adopted OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) that allows the children freedom to explore play in their own imaginative ways.  OPAL promotes an inclusive play environment in which all children feel comfortable to express themselves.  

We are in the process of transforming our outdoor environment.  Our children love the new outdoor opportunities that we are offering with so much more for them to do, no matter the weather!  From playing with loose parts, to enjoying imaginative play in our mud kitchen, OPAL offers an exciting alternative to the playgrounds we may remember from our childhood.  

Not only are our children more active at lunch and break times, but they are also developing life skills such as cooperation, team work and problem solving.  They are motivated, enthusiastic explorers of their environment.

What does this mean for us?

• Happier children.
• Children coming into class ready to learn.
• OPAL schools have up to 80% less reported accidents.
• A fully inclusive playtime offer.
• Children have greater opportunities to be creative decision-makers.
• Increased social skills.
• .... and most importantly fun!

Our OPAL Vision

At Elmhurst, we aspire for every child to experience memorable and active play times.  We think deeply about how every child can thrive - ensuring that each one enjoys at least one hour of high-quality, purposeful play daily, with no exceptions. Through play, we aspire to grow, create with joy, and think with wonder.

How does it work at Elmhurst?

• Mudkitchen
• Loose Parts Play - Tyres, Planks, Cable Reels, Cones, Wheelbarrows
• Imagination Playground 
• Activity Trail
• Water Area
• Sandpit (Incoming! currently under development)
• Digging Area (Incoming! currently under development)
• Chalk
• Quiet zone (Puzzles, Colouring etc)
• Small World (Incoming!)
• Performing (Incoming!)
• Hoops, Skipping Ropes, Pompoms

Children are responsible for the equipment and for tidying it away at the end of each lunchtime.

Children are able to roam and wellies and waterproof coats are recommended. Children then change into their trainers when coming back into class.

The OPAL Play Team (which include Governors, Senior Leaders Staff and Parents) regularly reviews the OPAL project to ensure it continues to be effective, safe and exciting for all children.

We have weekly play assemblies where we celebrate great play, introduce new activities or equipment and remnd the children about any rules or expectations.