OPAL- Outdoor Play and Learning
At The Nethersole C of E Academy, we are delighted to be part of the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme, an exciting initiative designed to transform playtimes and ensure every child has access to high-quality outdoor play experiences.
We believe that play is an essential part of childhood and plays a vital role in children’s physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. Through OPAL, we are creating rich and engaging outdoor environments where children can explore, imagine, create, collaborate and challenge themselves.
Our grounds are becoming places of adventure and discovery, with opportunities for children to build, investigate, problem-solve, take managed risks and enjoy imaginative play. From loose parts and construction materials to mud kitchens, water play and creative den-building, children are encouraged to lead their own play and develop independence, resilience and teamwork.
Whatever the weather, we want our children to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors. OPAL helps children develop confidence, communication skills and a love of active play, while also supporting their wellbeing and happiness throughout the school day.
We are excited to be on our OPAL journey and look forward to continuing to develop our outdoor provision with the support of our children, staff, parents and wider community. Together, we are creating lunchtimes that are fun, inclusive and full of opportunity for every child.
Den Building
At the end of Autumn term 1, every class took part in an exciting den building session led by Miss McManus. Pupils worked together to design, construct and improve their own dens, developing important skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving and creativity. The sessions were thoroughly enjoyed by all and gave children the opportunity to learn through active, hands-on play outdoors. Following the success of these sessions, we are delighted that den building will soon become a regular feature of our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) provision, providing even more opportunities for imaginative play, collaboration and adventure during lunchtimes.
Outdoor learning day- ‘Drop everything and play afternoon’
On Thursday 5th November, children and staff from Nursery through to Year 6 enjoyed a fantastic ‘Drop Everything and Play’ afternoon as part of our commitment to OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning). The whole school spent the afternoon outdoors, making the most of a wide range of play opportunities, including imaginative games, creative activities and active challenges. To make the afternoon even more special, every child enjoyed a delicious hot chocolate while spending time with friends and exploring the outdoor environment. It was wonderful to see children of all ages engaged, active and having fun together, demonstrating the many benefits of play for wellbeing, creativity and social development. The afternoon was a great success and highlighted the positive impact that OPAL is already having across our school.