Outdoor Play & Learning

Under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child Article 31, play is a human right. All state parties have a duty to ensure every child has access to play.

As we embrace the joys of autumn, I wanted to take a moment to talk about our approach to outdoor play during the wet weather and share some important information to ensure that your children continue to benefit from OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) activities.

At our school, we firmly believe that children learn best when they have the opportunity to explore and play outside, come rain or shine! We are dedicated to providing a rich and enjoyable outdoor experience, even on wet, cold, hot, snowy days. Therefore, it’s essential that your child comes prepared for the forecasted weather.

We encourage you to send your children into school with some/all of the following items, depending on the weather forecast:

• Wellies or waterproof boots
• A warm, waterproof coat
• Waterproof trousers
• A change of clothes

Having these essentials will ensure that your child can participate fully in our outdoor play sessions without getting soggy or cold. It also helps us maintain a safe and comfortable environment for everyone. If you could ensure that your child’s belongings are clearly labelled, that would be most helpful in preventing any mix-ups.

As a reminder, we will continue to play outside regardless of the weather conditions, so please encourage your child to embrace the fun that comes with playing in the rain!  We have developed our play spaces in order for us to access the outdoor area as much as possible as research suggests that outdoor play is an invaluable part of a child’s learning experience. It offers a myriad of benefits, helping to nurture not just physical health but also social and emotional skills. Research shows that children who engage in regular outdoor activities tend to be more active, which helps in developing strong muscles and bones, as well as promoting cardiovascular health. Fresh air and natural light can also enhance mood and boost overall well-being.

Moreover, outdoor play encourages creativity and problem-solving. Whether they are climbing trees, building dens, or participating in team games, children learn to take risks and develop resilience. These experiences can be pivotal in teaching them how to make decisions, collaborate with peers, and solve problems independently.

We are committed to providing ample opportunities for outdoor play. Our play spaces are designed to stimulate imaginative play and physical activity. 

Additionally, please note that attendance during these outdoor play sessions is compulsory, as we believe that all children should enjoy the benefits of active play. We do also have undercover areas available. 

Thank you for your continued support in making our outdoor learning experiences enriching and enjoyable for all!