The links between high-quality play and both personal and curricular development are well documented. The recently published Plan for Play report calls for an increased emphasis on play in the lives and learning of children in the UK. With rising levels of poor mental health and obesity in young children, it is more important than ever to prioritise their physical and mental wellbeing during their time at school. For many children, break times are the only opportunity they get to truly express themselves and play freely. At Alwoodley Primary School, we do this through our OPAL approach.

OPAL Drive Team

Our Drive Team is made up of staff members: Mr German, Miss Hill, Mrs Richardson, Mr Ryder and Mr Arundale. We also have a governor, Ms McAvoy and two parents Mrs Marshall and Miss Sawiuk.  We are all happy to answer any questions you may have -please do stop and ask us or get in touch via the school office.

Some quotes from the early stages of OPAL:

"This is the best school ever!" - Year one pupil 

"I can't believe it! He has asked if we can drive to school so we can get there even quicker to go and play and see the tyres. This is the kid that I had to push into school a few weeks ago as he was so anxious." - Year three parent