OPAL at Watling Meadows

At Watling Meadows, we want every child to enjoy amazing play, every day. That’s why we are introducing the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Primary Programme — a nationally recognised approach that helps schools create richer, happier and more active playtimes.

Through OPAL, children enjoy a wider range of exciting play opportunities, from creative construction and den building to imaginative play and active outdoor fun. OPAL is based on over 20 years of research and has transformed play in more than 2,000 schools across the UK.

Why OPAL?
Because play matters. Children spend 20% of their time in primary school playing — around 1.4 years — and OPAL helps make that time joyful, active and purposeful.

Schools using OPAL report:

• Happier children with improved wellbeing
• Fewer behaviour issues and up to 80% fewer playground accidents
• Calmer afternoons with more teaching time after lunch

At Watling Meadows, OPAL aligns beautifully with our ethos and the Watling Meadows Pledge — ensuring children have the freedom to explore, create, collaborate and play in ways that support their wellbeing, confidence and imagination.