Shoscombe Church School is celebrating another major success after being awarded its second OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Platinum Award, recognising its outstanding commitment to outdoor play and learning for children.
The OPAL programme supports schools in transforming playtimes by making full use of outdoor spaces, equipment and loose play resources to encourage creativity, teamwork and problem-solving. Achieving the Platinum Award for a second time places Shoscombe Primary among the leading schools in the country for outdoor play.
Headteacher Tania Rorison said, “We’re thrilled to have achieved our second Platinum OPAL Award. Outdoor play is at the heart of life at Shoscombe, it inspires curiosity, builds confidence, and supports our children’s wellbeing.
“This award is a testament to the imagination and enthusiasm of our pupils, staff, and families who make play a joyful part of every school day.”
Assessors praised Shoscombe Primary for its creative use of outdoor areas, wide range of play materials, the leadership role taken by older children in supporting younger peers, and the school’s inclusive approach that ensures every child can participate and thrive.
From mud kitchens and den-building zones to water experiments and loose parts play, every part of the school grounds offers movement, discovery and adventure. The school’s approach to outdoor learning also supports the curriculum, making play an essential element of children’s education.
Michael Follett, OPAL CIC Founder and Director, said, “Earning a second Platinum Award is a rare and outstanding achievement. Shoscombe has shown real leadership in the way it values play as an essential part of learning and wellbeing.
“It was a pleasure to visit the school recently to present this award directly to the pupils and staff who have worked so hard to ensure outdoor play at Shoscombe is exceptional.”
Shoscombe Primary continues to inspire other schools in the UK and beyond to adopt the OPAL approach, proving that purposeful play can transform the school day for every child.
