OPAL (outdoor play and learning) is an exciting school development project that will help us plan and develop outstanding play. Research shows that play contributes to children’s physical and emotional health, wellbeing, approach to learning and enjoyment of school. We are supported by an OPAL mentor who visits St Mary’s to help us audit our provision and develop staff to facilitate great play. Here is a snapshot of our playtimes and lunchtimes. We regularly hold events for our families to come in and join in with amazing play.

Play leaders

Here are our amazing year 6 play leaders. All of these children have volunteered to help the children across the school enjoy OPAL. They support with the setting up of equipment as well as the children playing in their areas. They also lead a weekly OPAL worship which includes helping celebrate excellence in play through our Golden Welly awards.