Outdoor Play & Learning (OPAL)
We are proud to be a Platinum OPAL School!
At Cove Infant School, play is valued as an essential part of childhood. Every lunchtime, our playground comes alive with imagination, creativity, adventure and discovery. We are incredibly proud to be a Platinum OPAL School - the highest recognition possible for outdoor play provision.
Through OPAL, we have transformed playtimes into exciting opportunities for children to take risks, solve problems, build friendships, develop resilience and create their own adventures. From building dens and making meals in the messy café to designing obstacle courses and inventing imaginative worlds, every day offers something different.
Step into our playground and you might find children:
mixing magical potions in the potion station
sailing the high seas from our pirate ship
building giant structures with crates and tyres
cooking up creations in the messy café
constructing secret dens with friends
racing around on three-seater bikes
creating games, challenges and adventures of their own.
Why Outdoor Play Matters
Through high-quality outdoor play, children develop confidence, independence, creativity, teamwork and communication skills. They learn to negotiate, manage risks, solve problems and become more resilient learners. Most importantly, they experience the joy of being active, engaged and fully immersed in their childhood.
Rainy days are just as fun!
Parents, carers, grandparents and siblings are invited to join us for a special Stay & Play session at different times throughout the year too. These events give families the chance to experience the magic of OPAL first-hand and see how children learn, create and thrive through play.
Some parent comments after our recent YR stay and play:
"It was honestly so lovely to see what and where they can play; and for my son who is a very out doorsy boy, this today, reiterated why Cove infants was definitely the right choice for him. We had a lovely time. Thank you"
"I was delighted to be able to join my child today, thank you for the opportunity. I am amazed with all the lots of lovely things they get up to during school time. I can’t wait for the next one!"
"I loved seeing how brilliant the play options were and how much fun my son was having playing. Thank you"
"I think your outdoor space is brilliant and well maintained lots of different activities and the large area is excellent."
"I was surprised by how much children have to do, it was really brilliant, thank you!"
"How lovely to include the parents-i actually wouldn't have noticed how much you have out there otherwise!"
At Cove Infant School, we believe every child deserves a rich, joyful play experience. Our Platinum OPAL award reflects our commitment to creating a playground where children can be active, adventurous, imaginative and happy every single day.