OPAL Play
What is OPAL?
OPAL stands for 'Outdoor Play and Learning'.
It’s a programme that helps schools get the very best out of playtimes, and the plan we follow draws on OPAL’s experience in more than 1,500 schools.
The idea is a simple one. Children get real choice about how they play, along with plenty of time and space to do it. Instead of a playground with a few set games, they have a rich mix of 'loose parts' (tyres, planks, crates, fabric, sand and much more) - which they can move, combine and reinvent in their own way. A pile of crates might be a shop on Monday and a castle on Tuesday.
Play is how children learn to make friends, solve problems, share ideas and work out how the world works. OPAL is built on the belief that when children play freely with natural and reclaimed materials, they are happier and come back to class ready to learn. It also gives them the chance to take sensible risks, like climbing and building, whilst adults keep a careful eye out. Our lunchtime team have had playwork training, so they know when to step in and when to hold back.
OPAL is a team effort. A working group of staff, governors and a parent representative guides what we do, and the children have their say too, through play assemblies and the School Council. Play is also a right for every child (Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child), and we take that seriously.
What children can play with now:
Children get 55 minutes of free play at lunchtime, with access to all the playgrounds, field and the edge of the woodland. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer:
- Small world
- Dressing up
- Many different sports
- Tree climbing
- Scooters, bikes and skateboards
- Den building
- Digging
- Messy café
- Water play
- Construction
- Fairy garden
- And much, much more!
We hold regular play assemblies where the children celebrate great play and help shape what comes next. Our Golden Wellies Award is a lovely way to recognise children who are playing brilliantly.
What parents say:
'Watching children be given the freedom to play, explore, create and take sensible risks feels increasingly important in today’s world. The confidence, resilience, independence and social skills they develop through those experiences are invaluable.' - Parent
'Absolutely loved the opportunity to see how OPAL play works for the children. They were all so engaged and enthusiastic about their play! Den wars for the win!' - Parent, KS2 Stay & Play
'It was lovely to see the children engaging confidently with the OPAL activities, using their imagination, working together, and enjoying outdoor play. The environment felt welcoming, safe, and well-organised.' -Parent, KS1 Stay & Play
'Fantastic opportunity for children to explore, use their imagination, engage, take risks and self-assess. But most importantly, have fun!' - Parent, KS1 Stay & Play
How can you help?
We’re always on the lookout for large loose parts, equipment and toys to maintain our stock. If you can help, this is our current wish list:
- Large loose parts, such as bread crates, guttering, large pipes, tarpaulins and blue barrels
- Larger bikes and scooters for older children
- Digging equipment
- Pavement chalk
Before you donate:
All donations need to be approved by the Deputy Head (Lisa Kinnett). Please email: info@manorcroft.surrey.sch.uk with a photo of the item before you bring anything into school. Thank you!
Where we're heading next:
We're constantly looking at ways to develop the outside areas; our plans include:
- A large sandpit: we’re hoping to build a big sandpit in Autumn/Winter 2026-27.
- Planting: we’d like to plant up the gravel area to make it greener and more natural.
- Stay & Play days: dates will appear on the school calendar, so keep an eye out. We’d love to see you!