Our Playtime Vision:
At St Thomas and St Anne’s, we believe playtime is much more than just a break—it's an important part of a child’s spiritual and personal growth. It’s a special time for children to be themselves and explore the world around them. Guided by our Christian values of kindness, courage, and respect, we want every child to enjoy a joyful and inspiring hour of play each day. Play helps children develop empathy, confidence and a sense of wonder about others and the world.
At St Thomas and St Anne’s, we follow the OPAL approach to play, which is all about giving children the best possible outdoor play experiences to support their learning, growth, and happiness. We are delighted to have been granted the OPAL Platinum Award for our playtimes!
What is OPAL?
OPAL stands for Outdoor Play and Learning. It encourages children to spend more time outside, where they can explore, discover, and develop through play that is exciting, creative, and child-led.
Why is Outdoor Play Important?
Playing outside helps children develop physically, emotionally, and socially. It gives them space to be active, take safe risks, and use their imagination in ways that indoor play can’t always offer.
How Does OPAL Work?
- Child-Led Play: Children choose what they want to play, following their own interests and ideas. This helps them build confidence and independence.
- Varied Play Opportunities: We provide lots of different play options, from climbing and running to creative activities like building and exploring nature. This variety supports all areas of development.
- Safe Risk-Taking: We balance safety with the chance for children to try new challenges. This helps them learn how to assess risks and build resilience.
- Adult Support: Staff observe and sometimes join in to support learning, introduce new ideas, or help children develop skills, but they don’t take over play.
- Inclusive for All: We make sure every child can join in and enjoy outdoor play, whatever their background or ability.
What Does This Mean for Your Child?
Your child will have daily opportunities to play freely outdoors in a safe, stimulating environment where they can explore, solve problems, and make friends. This playtime supports their whole development and helps them grow into confident, curious, and kind individuals.
We ask that all children have 2 pairs of shoes in school and a waterproof coat or puddle suit so that they can play in all weathers and use all of the school grounds available to them. They do sometimes come home a little muddy!
If you have any questions about our OPAL playtimes, please do ask a member of the team and we would love to show you our excellent provision.
