OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning)
At Kingsway Primary School, we are proud to be part of the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Programme — a nationally recognised school improvement programme focused on transforming playtimes and enriching children’s experiences through high-quality outdoor play.
We believe that play is not simply a break from learning; it is a vital part of childhood and an essential part of children’s development. Through OPAL, we are creating exciting, inclusive and engaging opportunities for all children to explore, create, collaborate, take risks, solve problems and develop important life skills during their playtimes.
Children spend around 20% of their school life in playtime — the equivalent of more than one full year of primary school education — and we want to ensure this time is as valuable, active and enjoyable as possible.
Our OPAL journey will help us to:
- Improve children’s wellbeing and happiness
- Encourage creativity, imagination and independence
- Develop social skills, resilience and cooperation
- Increase physical activity and outdoor learning opportunities
- Create a more inclusive and stimulating play environment for every child
As part of this programme, our outdoor spaces, resources and approach to play will continue to evolve over time. We are excited to work alongside our children, staff, families and wider community to create amazing play opportunities every day.
At Kingsway, we want every child to experience joyful, meaningful and memorable playtimes — because happy children learn best.