At Almondsbury CE Primary School, we know that play is vital for the social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual development of every child. A large part of school life takes place outdoors on breaks, and we want to make sure that all of our children have wonderful play opportunities. This is why we have joined the OPAL (Outdoor Play And Learning) Scheme, which gives us the opportunity to utilise our resources to the maximum, ensuring that every child can have a fully inclusive, creative, and inspiring playtime.

We know that happy children come into the classroom ready to learn, and also that learning does not only take place in the classroom. Our playtimes work with both of these principles.

Our children use playtimes to:

• increase social skills
• make decisions
• be creative
• develop independence
• grow resilience
• HAVE AN AMAZING TIME!

 

Our OPAL Play Coordinator and Play Leads

We are here to ensure the happiness and safety of all our children during their break time.

 

The Almondsbury Primary School Play Charter

The school's Active Council worked really hard to create The Almondsbury Primary School Play Charter. 

This document now defines our school's collective commitment to the children's right to play. It advocates for their play here being valued, protected, and accessible for healthy development, growth, creativity, and well-being. It ensures that all members of Almondsbury School, children and adults, support free, imaginative play. 

Copies of the Play Charter are also located on the OPAL noticeboard outside school, and on all points of entry into the playground from within the school.

Well done, Active Team: great job!

 

OPAL Play Awards

Play Awards are handed out in Play Assemblies. They are given to pupils in recognition of excellent play, creativity, supporting others in play, and maintaining the school's values in our outdoor spaces.

 

ALMONDSBURY CE SCHOOL AWARDED PLATINUM AWARD

  

We are absolutely thrilled to share that in January 2026 Almondsbury was awarded the OPAL Platinum Standard for play, placing us in the top 2% of OPAL schools nationwide! This prestigious recognition is the highest level possible and marks a major milestone in our ongoing commitment to providing outstanding outdoor play opportunities for our students.

Over the past two years, we’ve worked hard to transform our outdoor spaces into vibrant, dynamic environments where children lead their own play. Whether exploring, creating, taking risks, or just having fun, our children are now fully immersed in play that enhances their learning, creativity, and overall well-being. This award celebrates not only our outdoor spaces but the invaluable role that outdoor play plays in our children's development.

Why is this such a big deal?
Children spend approximately 20% of their time at school in play—about 1.4 years over their primary school journey! Through the OPAL program, we’ve ensured that every moment of that time is filled with meaningful opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative exploration. Our outdoor spaces aren’t just places to run around; they’re hubs of creativity, learning, and growth.

This award is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our entire school community. We couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together.

Thank you once again for your continued support in helping make Almondsbury a place where our children can thrive through active, imaginative, and enriching outdoor experiences.