OPAL - Outdoor Play and Learning

Becoming an OPAL School

At St Martin’s, play is central to childhood, wellbeing and learning. We are excited to share that we are at the early stages of becoming an OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) school — beginning a long‑term journey that will transform playtimes so every child experiences joy, creativity, freedom and belonging.

The OPAL approach is built on a simple belief: better play leads to better lives. High‑quality play supports physical health, emotional wellbeing, social development and academic readiness. It helps children build friendships, solve problems, develop resilience and express themselves confidently — all beautifully aligned with our FRESH values of Friendship, Respect, Empathy, Sharing and Humility.

What OPAL Will Mean for Our School

As we progress, OPAL will help us:

• Transform our outdoor environment with richer, more varied play opportunities.

• Embed a whole‑school play culture where every adult supports play confidently.

• Promote inclusion and equity so every child has access to meaningful play.

• Develop independence, creativity and resilience through open‑ended, child‑led exploration.

• Strengthen relationships by creating spaces where children collaborate, negotiate and imagine together.

These changes will happen gradually, with children and families involved throughout.

What Families Will Notice Over Time

As our OPAL journey unfolds, families may begin to see:

• new play zones and resources appearing

• children engaging in imaginative, messy, creative and adventurous play

• more joyful, purposeful playtimes

• improved teamwork and social interaction

• children talking enthusiastically about their play

You may also see children coming home a little muddier — and a lot happier.

A School Where Play Matters

Becoming an OPAL school is a long‑term commitment to childhood, wellbeing and joy. As we take our first steps, we are building a play culture that celebrates imagination, nurtures relationships and strengthens our community.

Play is powerful. Play is learning. Play is childhood.

At St Martin’s, play matters.

Wish List

As we work towards making our playtimes more exciting, no matter what the weather, we need some equipment to help us to do this. Donations of any of the following would be greatly received:

Suitcases
Plastic crates
Wooden pallets
Cable drums / reels
Large cardboard boxes
Fabric (Sheets / Saris / Curtains)
Old wagons and buggies / strollers
Large Buckets and containers
Dressing up clothes / items (in good condition)
Small toys (farm animals/ dinosaurs / dolls / cars / lego/ wooden toys)
Pots/ pans / metal bowls/ metal spoons / spatulas / plates (plastic or metal).
If you have any of these items, please bring them to school.

We would also be grateful for donations of wet weather clothing that no longer fits your children:

wellies
waterproof trousers
raincoats

Please bring to the main office any time! 

Thank you in advance!