OPAL play 

What is OPAL play?

OPAL play is a new program that is running over two years with the goal to make play time more fun. 

The vision is that every child in every school has an amazing hour of high-quality play every day – with no exceptions. If one child is not enjoying playtimes, then things still need improving.

There is more information for parents/carers in our booklet: The Power of Playtime.

What are the benefits of the OPAL Primary Program?

More teaching time

Most schools report ten minutes more teaching time per teacher with happier, more creative, and well exercised children who settle into classes much more quickly.

Improved behaviour

OPAL schools report up to 80% decreases in use of behaviour policies and 90% drops in senior leadership time spent in resolving playtime issues.

Faster core skills development

Children at OPAL schools rapidly develop creativity, imagination, cooperation, resilience, stamina and confidence.

Inclusion

OPAL's approach makes play better for every child, every day...no exceptions!

Happiness and wellbeing

Play is a human need and a human right. Children and staff at OPAL's schools report feeling less stressed and happier, and more excited about school. 

How do we achieve this?

We are in the early stages of the programme. We have formed a working party, and are undertaking staff training to understand better what we want to achieve. Small changes are creeping in already, but we look forward to sharing our progress with you over the next couple of years!

What will it look like?

Here is an example of how OPAL play works in another school. We can't wait!

What have we done so far?

In our OPAL Assemblies, we are introducing one element at a time to develop our provision for play. Take a look at what we have so far...