Our school believes that all children need opportunities to play which allow them to explore, manipulate, experience and affect their environment. The school acknowledges the UN Charter on the Rights of the Child, especially Article 31, and supports the child’s right to play. We believe play provision should be: welcoming, enjoyable and accessible to every child.

The OPAL programme rationale is that …"better, more active and creative playtimes can mean happier and healthier children, and having happier, healthier, more active children usually results in a more positive attitude to learning in school, with more effective classroom lessons, less staff time spent resolving unnecessary behavioural problems, fewer playtime accidents, happier staff and a healthier attitude to life”.

Outdoor play gives children the opportunity to learn and develop holistically through exploration and hands-on activities in an inspiring natural outdoor environment, promoting confidence, self-esteem and independence. It allows them to build on knowledge and skills through challenging but achievable learner-led experiences.

Children are encouraged to play, explore and take appropriate risks that will help them to have a better understanding of themselves and empathy for those around them.  We aim to stimulate their imagination and creativity, which will not only support their academic work in school, but will nurture positive life-long benefits.

Outdoor Play at Audley aims to encourage help our children to:

• Develop personal and social skills
• Improve language and communication skills
• Improve their concentration
• Problem solve through challenging practical tasks
• Pursue their own personal interests
• Build confidence through decision making and evaluating
• Develop resilience and how to deal with failure
• Experience achievement and success
• Discover their own learning styles and preferences
• Develop practical skills
• Appreciate connections between humans and the natural world
• Understand the benefits of a balanced and healthy lifestyle
• Reflect on their learning and experiences
• Improve physical gross and fine motor skills
• Have empathy for others
• Become self-motivated

It is important that our children are able to practice negotiating risks, and share their effective collaborations and innovations. Our weekly whole-school PLAY Assemblies provide an effective platform for the children to share and discuss footage of their play.