At Tewin Cowper Primary School, we believe that play is an essential part of childhood. Through our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme, we are transforming our playtimes so that every child has the opportunity to explore, imagine, create and be active outdoors.

Inspired by our school vision Believe • Grow • Succeed, we see play as a way for children to grow in confidence, develop friendships and learn important life skills. Just like the mustard seed in our school vision, small moments of play can grow into big opportunities for learning and development.

Why OPAL?

Research shows that high-quality play improves children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, creativity and social skills. The OPAL programme helps schools create rich play environments where children can take safe risks, solve problems, work together and develop independence.

By improving the quality of playtimes, we aim to make them the happiest and most exciting part of the school day for every child.

Our OPAL Journey

Our OPAL journey began as part of our commitment to improving children’s wellbeing, creativity and outdoor learning opportunities.

Over time we are developing our playground to include a wider variety of play opportunities such as:

• Creative and imaginative play spaces

• Opportunities for building and construction

• Areas for quiet reflection and social play

• Active play spaces for climbing, balancing and movement

• Natural play using loose parts and recycled materials

This journey is ongoing, and we will continue to develop our outdoor spaces to ensure they support children’s creativity, curiosity and physical development.

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What children gain from OPAL

Through our OPAL programme, children have the opportunity to:

• Develop confidence and independence

• Build friendships and social skills

• Improve physical activity and wellbeing

• Use their imagination and creativity

• Learn teamwork, problem-solving and resilience

Playtimes become a time where children can explore, collaborate and learn through play in a safe and supportive environment.

Working together

Our OPAL programme is a whole-school approach, and we value the support of our families and wider community. As our OPAL journey continues, we may invite parents and carers to support the project through donations of materials or by sharing ideas that help develop our play spaces.

Together, we are creating a playground where every child can believe in themselves, grow in confidence and succeed through play.

Den Building in Year 3, Oak Class