OPaL (outside play and learning)
The OPaL vision
"Every child in every school has an amazing hour of high-quality play every day - with no exceptions"
Why OPaL?
The OPaL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme aims to transform school playtimes into high-quality opportunities for child development through play. Implementing OPaL at Mandeville will enrich physical, social, and emotional growth by encouraging risk-benefit exploration, creativity, and teamwork in an inclusive outdoor environment. There are proven benefits for schools to carry out the OPaL programme. These include; a significant rise in student engagement, happier and more resilient children, and a dramatic drop in lunchtime behavioural issues, leading to a smoother transition back to afternoon learning. Play empowers children to build friendships, resolve social challenges, and practise teamwork and leadership.
The benefits of OPaL
Resilience – Play facilities development of negotiation skills, conflict resolutions and long-lasting friendships.
Physical health – Children are building physical literacy, motor skills and coordination.
Social skills – Encourages children to build friendships and develop communication skills to negotiate.
Neuroplasticity – Play increases the number of neural connections made in the brain and is the only activity which lights up every part of the brain.
Inclusivity – A wide variety of play zones ensures every child can find something they love and can thrive during play times.
Play is fun! – Research shows that play is one of the fundamental elements of childhood happiness!
The Mandeville OPAL play charter
At Mandeville we believe play is vital in shaping happy, confident learners and creating cherished long-lasting childhood memories. Every child has the fundamental Right to Play. To ensure our playtimes are rich, inclusive and empowering, our children and staff actively follow our Play Charter which outlines our shared commitments to outdoor play and learning.
Opal Play And Learning Play Charter
Here’s what we have to say…
“I love playing trains” Reception
“I love the superhero costumes” Reception
“I can play with the dolls” Year 1
“My favourite is digging in the sand” Year 2
“I love the Lego because it makes me happy” – Year 3
“I love the sandpit because it has tractors!” – Year 4
“We appreciate we have so much to play with” – Year 5
“It helps you make the most of your childhood” – Year 6