At Jericho Primary we follow the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) approach to make playtimes richer, safer and more enjoyable for every child. OPAL isn’t just about equipment — it’s a whole-school way of thinking that gives children choice, challenge and the chance to take managed risk, develop social skills and return to lessons calmer, fitter and ready to learn.
Why we’ve chosen OPAL
- It improves behaviour and reduces low-level disruption by giving children structured freedom and meaningful play.
- It increases physical activity and supports children’s physical development and wellbeing.
- It develops social, emotional and problem-solving skills: children practise negotiation, teamwork and resilience.
- It makes play more inclusive — children of different ages, abilities and interests can join in.
- It supports learning: children who have had active, creative breaks are more focused in lessons.
What OPAL looks like at Jericho this week
- Play leaders and lunchtime supervisors support zones of play rather than controlling every activity.
- A selection of loose-parts and play resources are available every day (e.g. crates, ropes, tyres, art materials, sports equipment).
- Rotating play “zones” encourage different kinds of play: construction, messy play, imaginative play, creative arts and active games.
- Children are taught simple safety rules and how to assess small risks for themselves. Staff intervene only when necessary, allowing children to learn from manageable challenges.
What parents should know about safety
- OPAL emphasises supervised, managed risk: children are allowed age-appropriate challenges but staff are trained to spot and manage real hazards.
- Supervisory ratios and duty patterns remain in line with school policy and safeguarding expectations.
- We have risk assessments for play areas and activities; these are reviewed regularly.
- Serious incidents are recorded and handled through our usual safeguarding and behaviour procedures.
How OPAL supports learning and wellbeing
- Active breaks help concentration: children return to class calmer and more ready to work.
- Play develops vocabulary, social interaction and leadership skills which feed into classroom learning.
- It supports children with additional needs by offering a range of play options — quieter, sensory or low-stimulus spaces are available.
- OPAL encourages independence and responsibility (tidying zones, caring for resources).
How you might notice the difference
- Children talk enthusiastically about play and bring ideas into class.
- Fewer behaviour incidents at break times and improved readiness to learn afterwards.
- Increased physical fitness and confidence in risk-management.
- More friendships and cooperative play across year groups.
How parents can support OPAL
- Talk with your child about what they enjoy at playtime and encourage them to describe how they solved a problem or worked with a friend.
- Donate useful, safe loose-parts if you can (check the school’s list of acceptable items).
- Volunteer at a play event or help with maintenance of resources if you’re able — we will always publicise opportunities.
- Reinforce our simple play rules at home: respect, choice, safety and tidy up.
