OPAL

OPAL AT HORTON GRANGE

What is OPAL?

OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) is a leading organisation that we are working with over the next 2 years to permanently transform and improve the culture and play of children in Horton Grange. Together we aim to develop not only the grounds and facilities, but also the way we approach play, giving it the same emphasis we do to the other areas of the curriculum, and recognising the importance of its role in developing the Horton values and attributes we want our children to learn whilst they are here.

  Why OPAL?

The physical and mental health benefits of increasing activity and time in the outdoors are well known. Since beginning the project in September 2022 we have already seen children being able to play more cooperatively, be more adventurous by assessing their own risk, becoming more confident, increasing their resilience, developing strength and stamina and having less accidents! In turn this has impacted positively on learning time.

What does OPAL look like?

OPAL is not just about new equipment. It’s about developing creativity, imagination and inclusivity. It's about using a range of different equipment, both fixed and loose parts. And most importantly it's about access to all areas, at all times of year.

At Horton Grange we are blessed with huge grounds, trees, bushes and yard space.

Over the next 2 years we will be working to develop the grounds, including different areas such as den building, beaches, forest areas, digging areas, wild gardens, wheelie areas, a mud kitchen as well as social spaces when people want a quieter lunchtime. This might mean children get a bit more muddy so we are also investing in welly areas and outdoor clothing.