OPAL

At High Leigh Primary School we have embarked on a joruney to improve our playtimes through becoming an OPAL school (outdoor play and learning). 

The OPAL project is an incredible initiative designed to transform children’s playtimes into enriching, exciting, and educational experiences. By encouraging outdoor exploration and active play, OPAL fosters creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork among children.

OPAL is based on the idea that, as well as learning through good teaching, your children also learn when they play. As 20% of their time in school is playtime, we want to make sure that this amount of time (equivalent to 1.4 years of primary school) is as good as possible..

Wet Weather

The whole school will be expected to be outside in all weathers as much as possible. Therefore, every child would benefit from having wet weather gear in school. This includes, wellington boots and waterproof trousers and coat. We currently have limited sheltered areas outside so children also have access to our OPAL indoor classroom. 

We sometimes find that some children are still getting wet feet. Could we please ask that you place a spare pair of socks or tights into your child’s school bag? Thank you!

Wish List

As we work towards making our playtimes more exciting, no matter what the weather, we need some equipment to help us to do this. Donations of any of the following would be greatly received:

• Suitcases
• Plastic crates
• Wooden pallets
• Cable drums / reels
• Large cardboard boxes
• Fabric (Sheets / Saris / Curtains)
• Old wagons and buggies / strollers
• Large Buckets and containers
• Dressing up clothes / items (in good condition)
• Small toys (farm animals/ dinosaurs / dolls / cars / lego/ wooden toys)
• Pots/ pans / metal bowls/ metal spoons / spatulas / plates (plastic or metal).

If you have any of these items, please bring them to school.

We would also be grateful for donations of wet weather clothing that no longer fits your children:

• wellies
• waterproof trousers
• raincoats

Please bring to the main office any time! 

We are working closely with local businesses to also support our project and welcome any donations provided.

We thank IN 'n' OUT autocentres in Hoddesdon for our tyres and are thankful to Kirkman and Jourdain for our new pallets! 

If you are able to help please contact the school office on admin@highleigh.herts.sch.uk