Our school believes it is essential that every child has the opportunity to engage in free play, which allows them to explore, experience and manipulate their own environment. We believe a play provision that is inclusive and accessible to every child ensures equity and enables the voice of every child to be heard, irrespective of their gender, sexual orientation, ability, economic or social circumstances and ethnic or cultural background. We believe a quality play provision fosters kindness, dignity and respect and will support every child to flourish.  

 

The OPAL Primary Programme rationale states “… better, more active and creative playtimes can mean happier and healthier children, and having happier, healthier, more active children usually results in a more positive attitude to learning in school, with more effective classroom lessons, less staff time spent resolving unnecessary behavioural problems, fewer playtime accidents, happier staff and a healthier attitude to life.” 

 

Play is a fundamental right of childhood and is central to children and young people’s wellbeing and development. Play is a fundamental and vital dimension of the pleasure of childhood, as well as an essential component of physical, social, cognitive, emotional and spiritual development.