Opal (Outdoor Play and learning)
At our school, we believe that play is not just a fun activity, it is a fundamental part of a child’s learning journey. That’s why we are proud to embrace OPAL play, an award-winning program that transforms our playgrounds into vibrant spaces for exploration, imagination, and development.
Discover OPAL: Enhancing Play and Learning Outdoors
We launched OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) at our school in 2023! This 18-24 month programme is designed to significantly enrich our children’s development through play, focusing on areas such as physical activity, socialisation, co-operation, coordination, resilience, creativity, imagination, and overall enjoyment. Stay tuned for updates as we progress on this exciting journey!
What is the OPAL Programme?
The OPAL approach is a well-established and impactful way to transform playtime. Developed over 17 years and tested in over 250 schools across the UK, Canada, and New Zealand, OPAL is now expanding into Europe. In fact, it was recognised as the best active school’s programme in Europe, winning first prize in a 2018 EU-funded award.
The core principle behind OPAL is that children learn not only through formal lessons but also through their play. Given that approximately 20% of a child’s time at school is spent in play – the equivalent of 1.4 years of their primary education – we are committed to making this time as beneficial and engaging as possible through the OPAL framework.
Why are we following the OPAL programme?
One reason we are carrying out this programme is that childhood has changed and many children no longer get their play need met out of school.
Average screen time per day 5 hours
Average outdoor play time per week 5 hours
Percentage of UK children who only play outdoor with other children at school 56%
There are many proven benefits for schools which carry out the OPAL Programme. They usually include: more enjoyment of school, less teaching time lost to disputes between children, less accidents and greatly improved behaviour.
More information
You will be able to learn all about OPAL and watch several videos about the programme on the OPAL website: https://outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk/
What is the best thing you have done in school?
“I really enjoy playing for the school football team.”
What is the best thing you have done in school?
“The best thing I’ve done at school was going to William’s Den and building my own den.”
What is your favourite subject and why?
“Art because it calms me down and it’s great fun.”
What is your favourite subject and why? –
“I love P.E. because I am a real sports person and enjoy being creative.”
What is your favourite subject and why?
“Topic and Art are my favourite lessons because they push me to my limits and are fun.”
What is your favourite subject and why?
“English because I love writing stories and poems.”
What do you like about the teachers?
“They tell jokes and help us learn.”
What would you say to a child who is worried about joining this school?
“Stoneferry is a friendly school.”
What is the best thing you have done in school?
“I enjoy the school trips to the museum so I can learn.”
What would you say to a child who is worried about joining this school?
“Be yourself. It’s a great school and you’ll fit in.”
What is the best thing you have done in school?
“I love the school trips and when we go to the church to sing.”
What is your favourite subject and why? –
“Maths because I love numbers and adding.”
What is your favourite subject and why?
“Art because I like drawing and sometimes my work goes on the wall.”
What do you like about the teachers?
“They make me feel safe.”
What would you say to a child who is worried about joining this school?
“We will look after you and help you.”
What is the best thing you have done in school?
“Everything. I enjoy every single second of school.”
What do you like about the teachers?
“They are helpful and kind.”