Opal - Our New Playtime Initiative

Dear Families 

It’s been a slightly quieter week as we all get back into the swing of things after the Christmas break and settle into the new year. We hope your family is feeling refreshed and ready for the exciting learning ahead! 

‘Going the Distance for our children’ 

I feel incredibly fortunate to lead such a dedicated team who care so deeply about giving our children the very best start in life. Miss McIntyre, Mrs Wardell, Mr Horsler and Mr Guilder will be taking on the challenge of the Pitsford Half Marathon to raise vital funds for new Early Years outdoor resources, helping us continue to enhance our provision and create inspiring spaces for learning and play. Please show your support for our amazing runners by donating and cheering them on! Every contribution makes a difference. You can donate here.

Medication Policy Update 

In line with Trust policy and following on from the information sent last week, staff are unable to administer non-prescription medication (e.g., Calpol, Nurofen, hayfever treatments, cough syrup) during the school day, except in exceptional circumstances at the Headteacher’s discretion. 

If medication can be taken before and after school, this will be expected. Parents may come in at lunchtime to administer prescribed medication if needed. 

This policy is in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children. If your child requires medication during the day, it must be brought to the school office and the necessary forms completed. 

For any questions about this, please speak to the Office, Mrs Boswell, Mrs Halsall or myself.

OPAL – Our New Playtime Initiative 

Before Christmas, we shared the exciting news that we have started a new playtime initiative called OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning). 

What is OPAL? 

OPAL is a nationally recognised programme that transforms playtimes into rich, creative, and active experiences for children. It encourages imaginative play, teamwork, and problem-solving, while promoting physical activity and wellbeing. 

Why OPAL? 

Play is a vital part of childhood and learning. Through OPAL, children develop social skills, resilience, and creativity—all while having fun! 

What’s next? 

We will be working with OPAL over the next 18 months to embed this approach fully. Our commitment is to make sure every part of your child’s school experience is positive— not just in the classroom, but throughout the day.

Can you help? 

To make OPAL a success, we need resources for creative play. If you have any items you can donate—such as: 

• scaffolding planks,
• large sturdy crates,
• plastic pipes,
• guttering,
• pallets,
• or a large tyre
• wellies/waterproof clothing
   

we would be so grateful! Anything you think would be fun for building and imaginative play is welcome. Please leave donations in the Year 4 courtyard between 8:30am – 8:45am and 3:30– 3:45pm. 

Mrs Fenton is leading on this project so if you do have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact her. 

"Play is the highest form of research." – Albert Einstein 

Reading and KiRFs 

Reading and number fluency are the foundations of learning. Please make it a regular habit at home to: 

Read lots – Our 100 Reads Initiative is a fantastic way to encourage children to explore a wide range of books. Please read their phonics or banded book at home as much as you can! 

Practice KiRFs – These are Key Instant Recall Facts in maths, sent home each term. They help children build quick recall of essential number facts, which is crucial for confidence and success in maths.  

Talk together – Conversations about stories, ideas, how the day has gone and numbers make a big difference!

These simple habits — reading, practising number facts, and talking are powerful tools for learning. 

"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." – Joseph Addison 

Looking Ahead 

We’re excited for what’s to come in Week 3 of Spring 1! 

Keep an eye out for the first signs of spring - snowdrops will soon be appearing around the community – keep your eyes out for them. As always, our doors are open if you need to talk. We’re here to support children and families in any way we can. 

Have a lovely weekend and we look forward to seeing you on Monday! 

Ms Pennington