Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) at Holy Trinity!

At Holy Trinity Primary School, we are passionate about nurturing the whole child—and that includes recognising the vital role of play. In Spring 2023, we launched the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Primary Programme to transform our playtimes into rich, inclusive, and joyful experiences for every child.

OPAL is a nationally recognised school improvement programme that helps schools develop high-quality outdoor play. Since introducing OPAL, our provision has gradually evolved—and it will continue to do so as we respond to the needs, interests, and imaginations of our children.

Why OPAL matters:

• Children spend 20% of their school life in playtime—equivalent to 1.4 years of their primary education.
• OPAL increases equity in play—benefiting girls, children with SEND, and those on free school meals.
• Schools report improved behaviour, focus in class, and staff wellbeing.

Our evolving OPAL provision includes:

• Opening up our wooded areas for den building and imaginative play.
• Using the school field all year round, regardless of the weather.
• Creating a mud kitchen and digging area to encourage sensory exploration.
• Stocking our OPAL shed with a treasure trove of loose parts and materials for creative play.
• Promoting collaborative play across year groups, where children of all ages work together, solve problems, and build friendships.

All we ask is that children come equipped with wet weather gear and wellies—because at Holy Trinity, there’s no such thing as wet play anymore!