Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)
This year, we are excited to have embarked upon the internationally-acclaimed OPAL Play programme.
This is a project which acknowledges the importance of play in child development and seeks to ensure every child enjoys a good play time, every day!
What is OPAL play?
OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) is a program designed to improve the quality of play in schools by providing children with diverse, engaging, and inclusive outdoor play opportunities. At Welton St Mary’s Church of England Primary Academy, OPAL ensures that every child has access to high-quality play every day, supporting their physical, emotional, and social development. The program encourages creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork while fostering positive relationships and resilience. It also aligns with the school’s Christian ethos by promoting well-being, inclusivity, and personal growth through meaningful play experiences.
Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child:
At Welton St Mary’s Church of England Primary Academy, we recognise children’s rights to play, as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 31). We also emphasise the importance of children’s responsibilities to respect each other’s rights and to play safely. Our commitment to children’s rights is firmly rooted in the values of trust and responsibility.
What are the benefits of the OPAL primary program?
- Happiness and wellbeing
- Inclusive environment
- More teaching time
- Exploration of the physical environment around them
- Core skill development
- Self confidence
OPAL’s Rapid approach to risk
As part of our commitment to safe, engaging play, the school embraces the MEERKAT Principle – “Eyes Up All the Time”:
- Observing and becoming an expert in the play zone.
- Recognising potential risks and issues before they arise.
- Taking responsibility for mitigating risks through awareness and proactive behaviour.
- Engaging in dynamic risk assessment—constantly evaluating and responding to the evolving play environment.
In addition to standard risk-benefit assessments the school practice dynamic risk management with the children, encouraging them to identify and manage risks in an environment where adults are present to support them. All children are involved in completing a risk benefit assessment to weigh up the risks, benefits and management strategies to keep them safe.
Current risk benefit assessments:
