OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning)

Amazing play, every day, for every child

At Grange Primary School, we are proud to be part of the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme. OPAL is an award-winning school improvement programme that supports schools to enhance the quality of play opportunities for all children. It helps schools carefully plan and develop their play provision so that playtimes are rich, engaging and beneficial for every pupil.

Grange Primary began our OPAL journey in January 2026, and over the next two years we will be working towards achieving the OPAL accreditation award.

OPAL is built on the belief that children learn not only through excellent teaching in the classroom, but also through high-quality play. Around 20% of a child’s school day is spent playing, which adds up to roughly 1.4 years of their time in primary school. At Grange, we believe this time is incredibly valuable, and we are committed to making every playtime as meaningful and enjoyable as possible.

Schools that take part in the OPAL Primary Programme often see many positive outcomes, including:

greater enjoyment of school
fewer disagreements during playtime
improved behaviour
fewer accidents
more positive social interactions

OPAL’s mission is:
“To ensure that every schoolchild has an amazing playtime every day, with no exceptions.”

At Grange Primary, our aims are to:

improve children’s wellbeing
support the development of self-regulation
encourage increased physical activity
develop social and emotional skills
help children learn how to manage risk safely
and most importantly, have fun through play

Across our playground, staff supervision points are carefully positioned to ensure children remain safe while they explore, create and play. Our staff are always nearby to support and guide pupils, while giving them the independence and freedom that helps play remain imaginative, active and rewarding.