Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)

We are an Honours OPAL school one of only six in the country that has been awarded a platinum OPAL award three times in a row in recognition of our excellent play provision.

At Ivydale, we believe play and learning go hand-in-hand. Playtime makes up 20% of a child’s school day and offers vital opportunities to develop social skills, resilience, imagination and independence. Since 2018, improving the quality of play has been a whole-school priority. Through the OPAL programme, we have transformed our playgrounds into active, creative and inclusive spaces where every child can play, explore and grow.

OPAL Explained

A Whole school
commitment to play

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PLAY THAT BUILDS
character & independence

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A RICH EVOLVING
PLAY environment

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How We Embed Play

  • Joined the OPAL programme in 2018, a nationally recognised approach to improving play.
  • Delivered whole-staff INSET and created a detailed action plan for long-term improvement.
  • Agreed a whole-school Play Policy and established a Play Steering Group.
  • Embedded play into our curriculum planning and weekly routines.

What Children Learn Through Play

  • Ofsted (2019) highlighted pupils’ direct influence on behaviour and their creation of a pupil-led Playground Charter.
  • Ofsted (2024) recognised how the school fosters independence, encourages adventurous play and teaches pupils to assess and manage risk.
  • Weekly Play Assembly celebrates children’s play, voices and decision-making.
  • Play leaders and lunchtime supervisors are empowered to support high-quality, inclusive play.

How We Shape Our Play Spaces

  • Adapted and resourced both Phase 1 and Phase 2 playgrounds.
  • Developed exciting, open-ended play opportunities accessible to all children, including those with additional needs.
  • Implemented effective storage systems on both sites to support varied play.
  • Worked with parents and the community to further develop outdoor spaces.