At Lantern Lane Primary & Nursery School, we believe that play is an essential part of childhood and a vital contributor to pupils’ happiness, wellbeing and development. That is why we are proud to be an OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) School.
OPAL is an internationally recognised programme that helps schools improve the quality of play opportunities available to children. Through OPAL, we have transformed our outdoor environment and playtimes to ensure that every child has access to rich, engaging and meaningful play experiences every day.
Why Play Matters
Research shows that children learn important life skills through play. High-quality play helps children to:
- Develop creativity and imagination
- Build resilience and confidence
- Strengthen communication and teamwork skills
- Learn to assess and manage risk appropriately
- Improve physical health and emotional wellbeing
- Develop independence and problem-solving abilities
At Lantern Lane, we recognise that play is not a break from learning; it is an important part of learning itself.
What Does OPAL Look Like at Lantern Lane?
Our playtimes are active, inclusive and child-led. Children have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities, which may include:
- Loose parts for designing, building and creating
- Role play and imaginative play areas
- Den building opportunities
- Sand, water and mud play
- Physical challenges and active games
- Quiet spaces for socialising, reading or relaxing
- Creative and exploratory play opportunities
Children are encouraged to make choices, follow their interests and work collaboratively with others. Our staff support play by creating a safe environment where children can explore, take appropriate risks and develop confidence.
Our Play Team
Our OPAL programme is led on a day-to-day basis by our dedicated Play Team, made up of our midday supervisors who work hard to provide exciting, inclusive and engaging play opportunities for all children.
They are supported by our Play Ambassadors; pupils who have been selected to help champion OPAL across the school. Play Ambassadors gather ideas from their peers, support younger children and help ensure that playtimes remain enjoyable, inclusive and successful for everyone.
Celebrating Great Play
We love recognising children who demonstrate outstanding play behaviours, such as kindness, creativity, teamwork, resilience and inclusion.
Each week, a child is awarded our prestigious Golden Wellie Award in recognition of their excellent contribution to playtimes. This award celebrates children who embody the values of OPAL and help make playtimes positive experiences for others.
Every fortnight, we also come together for our OPAL Assembly, where we celebrate successes, share achievements, recognise award winners and hear updates from our Play Team and Play Ambassadors.
Our Commitment
OPAL forms an important part of our commitment to developing the whole child. We want every pupil to feel a sense of belonging, experience joy in their school day and leave Lantern Lane with the confidence, resilience and social skills that will help them flourish in the future.
Through our OPAL journey, we continue to develop our grounds, resources and play opportunities so that every child can enjoy the very best play experience possible.
“Play is the highest form of research.”
Albert Einstein
