OPAL - The Power of Play
Wish List
We would be grateful for donations of the following to build up our stock of loose parts and play equipment for our Outdoor Play and Learning:
- large cardboard boxes
- unwanted suitcases
- unwanted pushchairs
- roller skates & scooters
- bicycle or skateboarding helmets
- go-kart tyres
- large cardboard tubes
- off-cuts of plastic guttering
- small world toys such as dinosaurs, animals and vehicles
Please bring to the main office and someone will come out to collect.
The Power of Playtimes - Information for Parents
What is OPAL?
OPAL stands for Outdoor Play and Learning. OPAL is a community interest company dedicated to providing services to schools and organisations to improve the quality of play opportunities for all children.
St Margaret's Primary School have enlisted the support of OPAL to help us to create better playtimes for all. Some of the benefits include:
Faster Core Skills Development:
Children at OPAL schools rapidly develop creativity, imagination, cooperation, resilience, social skills, emotional regulation, stamina, confidence and readiness to learn on returning to the classroom.
Inclusion:
OPAL's approach makes play better for every child, every day...no exceptions!
Happiness and Wellbeing:
Play is a human need and a human right. Children and staff at OPAL's schools report feeling less stressed and happier, and more excited about school.
The beginning of our journey...
In December 2022 we completed our audit of playtime at St Margaret's with OPAL. We have now started our action plan and are looking forward to making a start in January!
