OPAL Play at Radcliffe on Trent Junior School

At Radcliffe on Trent Junior School we are excited to be developing our playtimes through the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme.

OPAL is an award-winning programme used in schools across the UK and internationally to improve the quality of children’s play. It is based on the idea that play is essential for children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, creativity and social development.

We believe playtimes should be one of the best parts of the school day. Through OPAL we are working to create more opportunities for children to explore, imagine, collaborate and be active outdoors.

Why we are developing OPAL play

Research shows that high quality play opportunities can have a significant positive impact on children. By improving playtimes we aim to:

• Improve children’s wellbeing and happiness
• Increase physical activity during the school day
• Support positive behaviour and cooperation
• Develop social skills such as teamwork, negotiation and problem solving
• Encourage creativity, imagination and curiosity
• Help children become more independent and resilient
• Make playtimes more engaging, inclusive and fun for everyone

Play is not just a break from learning — it is an important part of children’s development. In fact, children spend as much time playing in school as they do learning core subjects like maths or English.

Types of play

OPAL recognises that children enjoy many different types of play. Our playtimes will offer opportunities for a wide variety of experiences, including:

• Physical play – running, climbing, balancing and active games
• Creative play – building, designing and making things
• Imaginative play – role play, storytelling and pretending
• Exploratory play – investigating materials and the outdoor environment
• Social play – working together, negotiating rules and cooperating
• Constructive play – building structures using loose parts and materials
• Quiet play – relaxing, chatting with friends or enjoying calm activities
• Risk and challenge play – learning to manage challenges safely

Providing a range of play opportunities helps ensure that every child can find something they enjoy.

Rolling out the changes

We have been introducing OPAL gradually to our play times. Each month we have been introducing new play opportunities, resources and areas for children to explore.

Our long-term aim is that within the next six months children will be able to use the whole school grounds — including the field and playgrounds — throughout the year and in most weather conditions.

This will allow children to experience richer, more varied outdoor play.

Clothing for OPAL play

Because children will be spending more time outdoors and exploring different play environments, it is important they come to school prepared for all types of weather.

We ask that children bring the following items to school (which can be kept in school where possible):

• Waterproof coat
• Waterproof trousers (recommended)
• Wellington boots
• A change of clothes
• Spare socks and underwear

Outdoor play can sometimes be muddy, wet or messy — and that is often when the best play happens! Having spare clothing ensures children can enjoy these experiences comfortably.

Looking ahead

There will be many exciting developments as OPAL grows at our school. We will continue to introduce new ideas, equipment and play spaces over time.

Our aim is to create playtimes that are active, creative, inclusive and full of joy, enriching every child’s school day.

If you would like to know more about the OPAL programme, please contact the school office.  office@rotjs.notts.sch.uk