OPAL UPDATE

Introducing Large Loose Parts Play! 

Exciting New Play Opportunities Coming Next Week 

11th September 2026

As part of our ongoing OPAL journey, we are delighted to introduce our next phase of play development: Large Loose Parts Play. 

 On Monday 14th September, pupils will take part in an OPAL assembly where we will explore: 

•    How to use large loose parts safely and responsibly 

•    Our expectations for play and teamwork 

•    The benefits and risks of adventurous play 

•    How these materials will enhance our OPAL provision 

 What Are Large Loose Parts? 

Large loose parts are everyday items that can be moved, combined, redesigned and used in imaginative ways. These may include: 

 These resources provide endless opportunities for children to be creative, collaborative and inventive. Children may choose to build dens, create shelters, design obstacle courses, construct imaginative worlds, and develop problem-solving skills through play. 

 Why Are We Introducing Them? 

Large loose parts play supports: 

✅ Creativity and imagination 
✅ Teamwork and communication 
✅ Resilience and confidence 
✅ Problem-solving and risk assessment skills 
✅ Active, engaging outdoor play 

 At Mendip, all new OPAL developments are introduced alongside careful Risk-Benefit Assessments to ensure children can enjoy rich play experiences while learning to assess and manage risks appropriately. 

 Coming Soon... 

We look forward to welcoming parents and carers in the coming weeks to experience our OPAL provision first-hand. We will also share updates and celebrate the exciting ways children engage with this new phase of play. 

Together, we're creating even more opportunities for children to play, explore, create and thrive.