OPAL
What is OPAL?
OPAL is based on the idea that as well as learning through good teaching, children at Ashtree Primary Academy also learn when they play and, as 20% of their time in school is playtime, we want to make sure that this amount of time (equivalent to 1.4 years of primary school) is as good as possible.
We are concerned that childhood has changed as a result of the pandemic and other factors and many children no longer get their play needs met out of school.
- Average screen time per day 5 hours
- Average outdoor play time per week 5 hours
- Percentage of UK children who only play outdoor with other children at school 56%
There are many proven benefits for schools which carry out the OPAL Programme. They usually include more enjoyment of school, less teaching time lost to disputes between children, less accidents and greatly improved behaviour.
What does OPAL offer?
Playtimes at Ashtree are a real highlight for the children. All children have access to the whole play space and they are free to choose from a wide variety of activities, including:
Den building
Mud kitchens
Craft cabin with a chalk creation wall
Scooters, bikes, skateboards
Small world play
Dressing up
Football, basketball etc
A trim trail
Exercise equipment
Play Leaders
OPAL Play Leaders are pupils who have applied for the role because they want to help make lunchtimes fun, safe and enjoyable for everyone. They are responsible role models who help other children make the most of their playtime.
Their responsibilities include:
- Applying for the role: Showing an interest in becoming a Play Leader and explaining why they would like to help other children.
- Getting out equipment: Helping to set up play equipment and resources before lunchtime so that children have lots of exciting activities to choose from.
- Helping others: Supporting younger children to find equipment, learn new games and join in with activities.
- Encouraging everyone to join in: Making sure children feel included, helping them make friends and encouraging them to play together.
- Leading games and activities: Suggesting games, sharing ideas and encouraging imaginative, creative and active play.
- Being a good role model: Showing kindness, respect and good behaviour, and reminding others of the school’s OPAL play rules when needed.
- Keeping the playground tidy: Helping to look after the equipment, tidy play areas and put resources away at the end of lunchtime.
- Working as a team: Supporting other Play Leaders and lunchtime staff to make sure everyone has a positive playtime.
- Sharing ideas: Letting staff know about new games, activities or ways to make lunchtimes even better.
OPAL Play Leaders help create a happy, inclusive playground where children can enjoy themselves, develop friendships and use their imagination. They do not replace adults or deal with serious problems themselves; they ask a member of staff for help when needed.
The Play Team
The play team consists of any adult that is involved in play at Ashtree. This could be a learning support assistant, member of senior leadership or sports coach. Any member of the play team has had training and is aware of the expectations to enable play, ensure it is safe and promote independent play.