Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)

At St Patrick’s, play is at the heart of childhood. We are proud to be part of the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme, which helps schools transform playtimes into rich opportunities for fun, imagination, and learning.

We believe that play is not just a break from learning — it is learning. Through play, children develop confidence, creativity, resilience, and social skills that support their wellbeing and success in school and beyond.

Why OPAL Matters

Research shows that high-quality play:

  • Encourages imagination and creativity
  • Builds friendships and teamwork
  • Develops problem-solving and resilience
  • Supports emotional wellbeing
  • Promotes physical health and coordination

By giving children the time, space, and freedom to play, we are supporting their whole development.

Our Outdoor Spaces

We are fortunate to have a huge outdoor area that offers children a wide variety of play opportunities. This includes:

  • A large playground and school field
  • A sand pit area for digging and building
  • Mud kitchens and water play for messy, sensory fun
  • A construction area for creativity and problem-solving
  • A wide range of toys and resources, including:
    • Bikes, scooters, and pushchairs
    • Imaginative play items such as dinosaurs, dolls, teddies, and cars
    • Dressing up clothes to inspire role-play and storytelling

Our children go outdoors to play in all weathers. We encourage families to provide wellies and suitable clothing so children can enjoy the full range of play opportunities, whatever the season.

The Benefits for Our Children

Through OPAL playtimes, our children:

  • Build strong friendships across classes and year groups
  • Learn how to share, cooperate, and solve problems together
  • Have the chance to be creative and imaginative in open-ended play
  • Enjoy active play that keeps them fit and healthy
  • Feel happy, safe, and included, with something for everyone to enjoy

Positive Impact on Playtimes

Since introducing OPAL, we have seen exciting improvements across the school. Playtimes are now more purposeful, fun, and inclusive, with children actively choosing activities that interest them.

This has led to:

  • Happier playtimes with fewer disagreements and conflicts
  • Improved behaviour across the school day
  • Stronger social skills as children of different ages play together
  • More opportunities for children to develop independence and leadership

Supporting Our Play Provision

Our OPAL journey is always growing. To keep our outdoor spaces fun, safe, and full of opportunities, we are always looking for donations of toys, equipment, and resources. These contributions make a huge difference to the quality of play we can provide.

If you would like to help support our play provision, please contact the school office — we would be very grateful!

Our Commitment to Play

At St Patrick’s, we are committed to giving children the best possible play experiences. Play is a vital part of growing up, and we are proud that our outdoor provision gives every child the chance to:

Imagine. Explore. Create. Belong.