Last week we welcomed OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) founder and CEO Michael Follett for an audit of our playtimes. We are delighted to share that we have achieved the platinum award, the highest level, for the quality of our playtime offer. Michael was so impressed by the quality of the support and supervision by our TA play team, giving them the highest available marks. He also praised the range of resources, the variety of play opportunities available and importantly, the ability of our children to play. Our pupil OPAL Leaders met with us during the audit and were a real credit to the school. They have driven initiatives and shown dedication to the role so this achievement is absolutely deserved and a huge well done to them!
Michael saw what we have the pleasure of seeing every day… the joy of our children at playtime. It was so lovely to hear his positive comments and have an opportunity to reflect on our OPAL journey. The children were building obstacle courses and ramps for wheels, whilst effectively risk assessing and working as a large team. There was small world play with the dolls and trucks, some creative cooking at the mud kitchen and colourful chalk art.
We are fortunate to have wonderful grounds that also help to enrich the play opportunities. However, without the support of many people from our school community, and particularly the FOBS team, parent volunteers and local businesses, we would not have been able to achieve such an accolade; one that is so worthwhile. The work developing our OPAL shed enhanced our offer and Michael took photos of the shed and our bespoke trolleys to share with other settings! So thank you for the time and donations given, ensuring we achieved and continue to provide the highest standard of play provision for our children.
We look forward to welcoming Michael back to officially present our award!