At Greenpark, we believe play is fundamental to the development of our students.

OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) is a programme to support staff to offer enriching, nourishing and – most importantly – fun play times. An OPAL approach promotes a more inclusive play environment in which all children can feel comfortable expressing themselves. Our OPAL journey has only just begun, and we aim to transform our outdoor environment in the upcoming academy years.

 We want children to love their play times and offer them a large range of outdoor opportunities that OPAL offers with so much more for them to do, no matter the weather! From playing with tyres and digging in the sandpit, to enjoying imaginative play in the small world area or cooking up a storm in the mud kitchen, OPAL offers an exciting alternative to the standard playground activities.

The benefits are far and wide, but here are few:

·        Promoting health and wellbeing

·        Physical development

·        Communication and social skills development

·        Learning challenge and safe risk

 The definition of play:

Play is defined as an activity that children engage in for fun and enjoyment, which is essential for their development.

It encompasses various forms of activity, including solitary, social, and imaginative play, and is crucial for children's cognitive, emotional, and social skills development. Play allows children to explore their environment, express their creativity and learn through imitation and experimentation. It is a fundamental aspect of childhood development.