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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC

@opal-cic.bsky.social
390 followers 296 following 154 posts

Helping schools to strategically and sustainably improve their play opportunities. www.outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk #OPALSchools #PlanForPlay

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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
If you want to see an OPAL playtime in action, why not come along to one of our open days? As well as observing playtime, you will have the opportunity to hear from the school’s play team and learn more about the OPAL Primary Programme. Find one near you, here: www.eventbrite.com/cc/curious-a...
eventbrite.com
Curious about OPAL? Come see... by OPAL Outdoor Play and Learning CIC | Eventbrite
Are you a school leader curious about how better playtimes can improve outcomes across the board? Join us at an OPAL school! These visits are for schools considering starting the OPAL Primary Program...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Congratulations to West View Primary School and all the other schools that have recently received their OPAL award! www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/education/ha... #OPALSchools
hartlepoolmail.co.uk
Hartlepool school celebrates national award for play provision
A Hartlepool primary school has received a national award for its commitment to providing quality playtimes for children.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Fantastic to see Ash Lea Academy sharing their OPAL journey in the news this morning, supported by one of our fantastic mentors, Bobby Beaumont! Read more, below, and listen to Bobby on BBC Radio Nottingham here: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/... (at 1:06:32). www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
SEND school embraces new 'risky play' scheme
A school in Nottinghamshire has signed up to a new programme that encourages creative playtimes.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Our wonderful mentors hold open days in #OPALSchools across the country. If you’re interested in starting the OPAL Primary Programme in your school, find an open day near you here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/curious-a...
eventbrite.co.uk
Curious about OPAL? Come see... by OPAL Outdoor Play and Learning CIC | Eventbrite
Are you a school leader curious about how better playtimes can improve outcomes across the board? Join us at an OPAL school! These visits are for schools considering starting the OPAL Primary Program...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
Welcome back to all the OPAL schools returning after the summer break. We're looking forward to working with you in this new school year to make every playtime amazing, for every child 💚 #OPALSchools #Playtime #Play #PlayMatters #PlanForPlay
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
“Children feel better and perform better after they have been outdoors. Getting outdoors helps children feel calmer, helps process their day and builds the holy grail of capabilities: resilience." Muddy Hands report What have you noticed when children play outside?
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
Play has so many benefits, which is why we want every child to have amazing play every day! What have you noticed when children play? Tell us in the comments 💚 #OPALSchools #Playtime #Play #PlayMatters #PlanForPlay
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
If you care about play, we need your help to get the #PlanForPlay petition to 100,000 signatures! Here’s how: 1. Sign the petition: petition.parliament.uk/petitions/76... 2. Share this post. 3. Tag a friend in the comments. Together, we can make sure every child has amazing play every day!
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
Happy #Playday2026! To celebrate children's right to play today, we've rounded up our favourite tips for outdoor play at home in case you need a bit of inspiration to take you through the rest of the summer holidays! We would love to hear yours too. Share your best play tips in the comments!
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 27/07/2026
Pinning down an exact definition of play is notoriously tricky. But, no matter how you define it, we know that real play happens when children get to lead the way. What’s your favourite way to describe play? Share your thoughts in the comments 💚
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 19/07/2026
The #PlanForPlay petition has just reached 3,000 signatures! But, if we're to be in with a chance of getting this debated in Parliament, we need lots more! Please consider signing if you haven't already. And please share far and wide. Thank you 🤩 petition.parliament.uk/petitions/76...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 17/07/2026
"We wanted to celebrate this success in a way that reflected what the award is all about, giving children and families the opportunity to play together, have fun and experience the amazing outdoor environment we have created. www.worcesternews.co.uk/news/2626294... #OPALSchools
worcesternews.co.uk
Primary school celebrates award win with play event for children and families
Oasis Academy Warndon presented with the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Platinum Award for the second year in a row
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
"Over the course of developing OPAL, the transformation in how the children play, manage their own risks and express themselves freely is an absolute joy to watch, it makes all the time and hard work totally worth it." www.darlingtonandstocktontimes.co.uk/news/2625751... #OPALSchools
darlingtonandstocktontimes.co.uk
Two rural North Yorkshire primary schools among the country's best for outdoor play
The Federation of Snape & Thornton Watlass has achieved Gold Accreditation through the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 10/07/2026
Hands up if you believe every child should have amazing play, every day! 🙌
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 07/07/2026
"When schools prioritise high-quality outdoor play, they're not only supporting physical health, but also improving wellbeing, social skills, and readiness to learn back in the classroom." Marianne Young, Gunthorpe Primary’s OPAL play coordinator www.peterboroughmatters.co.uk/news/2623063...
peterboroughmatters.co.uk
Primary school wins top award for outstanding approach to play
A primary school in Peterborough has been recognised with a top award for its outstanding approach to play.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
"Achieving OPAL Platinum status is a fantastic milestone for our school. We have seen first-hand how high-quality play opportunities help children build confidence, develop friendships and enjoy being active outdoors." Jessica Lott, headteacher. www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/2621497...
hampshirechronicle.co.uk
Primary school in top two per cent nationally for excellent outdoor provision
Pupils showcased the variety of activities available during playtime and explained how the improvements have enriched their daily experience.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
“We strongly believe in the benefits that play and outdoor learning can have on children’s development." Rebecca Turvey, Assistant Headteacher www.chad.co.uk/education/su... #OPALSchools
chad.co.uk
Sutton primary school achieves rare OPAL platinum status for its outdoor play and learning provision
St Mary Magdalene Primary School in Sutton is celebrating the news it has achieved a 100 per cent score and OPAL platinum status for its outdoor play and learning provision.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
More than 2,000 people have now added their names to the #PlanForPlay petition. Will you join them? We’re calling on the Government to make planning for play a statutory requirement for every primary school. Sign and share: petition.parliament.uk/petitions/76...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 19/06/2026
"It [OPAL] has been the single best school improvement initiative we have implemented in recent years." Tom Head, Executive Headteacher If you would like to see an OPAL playtime in action, we still have a few open days taking place before the end of term. More: www.eventbrite.com/cc/curious-a...
A photo of two children playing on a swing at school.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
"I wouldn't say it's good for children, I'd say it's absolutely essential for children, and without it, it's not a proper childhood, and it's not a proper education." OPAL Director Michael Follett talking to ITV about the importance of play. www.itv.com/watch/news/n...
itv.com
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Play Scotland @playscotland.bsky.social · 11/06/2026
Happy #InternationalDayofPlay! Thank you to all the schools who have registered to celebrate today. We hope you have brilliant plans, and we can’t wait to see what you get up to! 1/2
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 11/06/2026
This #InternationalDayOfPlay, we’re calling on the Government to make planning for play a statutory requirement for every primary school. Will you join us? Sign the #PlanForPlay petition: petition.parliament.uk/petitions/76...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 05/06/2026
Sometimes the best way to understand the impact of investing in playtime is to see it in action. That’s why our team of mentors hold open days in #OPALSchools across the country. Find an open day near you in this Eventbrite collection: www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/curious-a... #PlanForPlay
eventbrite.co.uk
Curious about OPAL? Come see...
Are you a school leader curious about how better playtimes can improve outcomes across the board? Join us at an OPAL school! These visits are for schools considering starting the OPAL Primary Program...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
We hope you had a wonderful half term! What have our amazing #OPALSchools got planned for playtimes for the rest of the school year? Please share your highlights in the comments 💚
A photo of a group of children playing in a sandpit at school.
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Reposted by Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC
Play Scotland @playscotland.bsky.social · 26/05/2026
Researchers at Queen Margaret University are looking to hear from UK-based professionals, including teachers and early years practitioners, about their attitudes towards different types of nature play. 📋 Take part here: app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/qmu/play-r...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 21/05/2026
Happy #OutdoorClassroomDay! We believe that outdoor play and learning are critical to a happy and healthy childhood. That’s why our vision is that every child in every school has an amazing hour of high-quality play every day – with no exceptions. Find out more: outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk
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Play Scotland @playscotland.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
▶ The latest ep of Play Well podcast is out! We spoke with Margaret and Kerry at Baltasound Junior High School, and heard all about their journey as a Play Pedagogy Award pilot school and their insights into the impact of play on children in the primary years. www.spreaker.com/episode/54-b...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
Children in OPAL schools self-report improved mental health. This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, find out more about the benefits of improving playtimes: outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk/evidence/ben...
A group of schoolchildren rolling down a grassy hill.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
Happy 100th birthday Sir David Attenborough! When children play outdoors, they learn about and grow to care about the natural world. Nature play can also reduce stress, increase physical activity, and improve wellbeing. Most of all, it’s fun! What have you seen when children play outdoors in nature?
A photo of a child's hand holding a bunch of daisys and buttercups. Text overlaid reads: “If children grow up not knowing about nature and appreciating it, they will not understand it, and if they don’t understand it, they won’t protect it, and if they don’t protect it, who will?” Sir David Attenborough
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 01/05/2026
"By prioritising creative, child-led play, the teaching team at the Blenheim Road school have noted an increase in physical activity during breaktimes, a boost in mental wellbeing, and children returning to lessons more focused and ready to learn." www.sloughexpress.co.uk/gallery/educ...
sloughexpress.co.uk
Courthouse School receives award for creating 'a play time for every child'
A school in Maidenhead offering ‘magic, muddy and magnetic play times’ has received a national award for its playground creativity. Courthouse Junior School is celebrating after achieving Platinum Sta...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
The amazing Project Play team is inviting primary school teachers to Calais to learn about the experience of children on the border and to help them raise awareness and funds. Find out more and apply: www.project-play.org/teachers
A photo of children engaged in parachute play. Text overlaid reads: Are you a primary school teacher who wants to improve play provision for children living on the UK-France border? The Project Play logo is in the bottom right corner.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 13/04/2026
At OPAL, we have a really simple mission — for every child to have an outstanding playtime every day, with no exceptions! Are you interested in unlocking the power of playtime? Get started today: outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk/get-started/
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Playing Out @playingout.bsky.social · 30/03/2026
“Streets for play, streets for freedom” by @aliceferguson.bsky.social & @timrgill.bsky.social makes the case for a "child lens" on transport policy. Time to prioritise those most impacted yet least considered in planning our streets: Children. Read more here: playingout.net/take-action/...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 27/03/2026
Wishing our amazing community of #OPALSchools a fantastic Easter break. Thank you to everyone that has shared their OPAL playtimes this term and brought so much joy to our social feeds!
A photo of a child on a tyre swing at school.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 25/03/2026
“Play is crucial to a child’s brain development and we are incredibly proud of the high quality play opportunities happening in our school." Headteachers Mrs Hollinger and Mrs Willford, Redlands Primary and Nursery School. www.worksopguardian.co.uk/education/ce... #OPALSchools
worksopguardian.co.uk
Celebrations at Worksop school recognised for outstanding play provision
Redlands Primary and Nursery School in Worksop have been awarded the prestigious OPAL Platinum Award - becoming the first and currently the only school in Worksop to reach the milestone.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 20/03/2026
We are in love with this new film from Brookside Primary School in Leicestershire, which shows how they have amazing playtimes every day, whatever the weather! youtu.be/PNs0yPBaSDU?...
youtu.be
OPAL winter play at Brookside Primary School
YouTube video by Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 17/03/2026
“We are committed to ensuring quality play opportunities are available to all our children and believe that play is essential for physical, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual development." Amy Howlett, Headteacher. www.hemeltoday.co.uk/education/pr... #OPALSchools
hemeltoday.co.uk
Princes Risborough Primary School celebrates highest possible national accolade with Platinum OPAL Award for outstanding outdoor play
Princes Risborough Primary School, part of Great Learners Trust, has achieved the Platinum Award for OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning), putting the school in the top 1% of all primary schools nationall...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 12/03/2026
What a fantastic new film from the OPAL North East team, who also work across #Cumbria to bring children amazing playtimes every day. This is a must-watch for if you want to see how #OPALSchools get out to play when it’s wet and muddy! Watch now, here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRb3...
youtube.com
OPAL in Cumbria
YouTube video by Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 10/03/2026
Interesting report from the University of Winchester and Energise Me looking at the impact of active uniforms at St Michael’s CE Junior School in Aldershot. www.energiseme.org/news/could-a... #ActiveUniforms #ActivePlay #ActiveUniformAlliance
A photo of a child on a swing at school.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 27/02/2026
"This award isn’t simply recognition of a transformed playground; it reflects a genuine cultural shift and a deep belief that play truly matters." OPAL mentor, Louise Taffe Congratulations to Oakwood and all the other recently awarded #OPALSchools! www.hertsad.co.uk/news/2588959...
hertsad.co.uk
Primary school becomes first in St Albans to achieve award for playtime provision
Oakwood Primary School in St Albans has become the first in the district to achieve a platinum award for its lunchtime provision.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
"PE lessons are 20 minutes longer now since pupils don't need to get changed, they don't have to worry about bringing their sports kit, the uniform is quick drying and doesn't need ironing, and pupils are more active in the playground." www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Why some schools are pushing for 'active' uniforms over traditional ones
Proponents say relaxed uniforms make life easier for children and are much more practical for physical play.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 20/02/2026
"Our Always Active Uniforms campaign suggests this change as a low-effort way to help children become more physically active, without adding more pressure on schools or parents." Ali Oliver MBE, Youth Sport Trust CEO, speaking with the BBC. www.bbc.com/news/article...
bbc.com
Why this school in Derby will ditch a shirt, tie and blazer from its uniform
The school says the move is practical - but it echoes a wider debate over the role of uniforms.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 16/02/2026
"Our investment and commitment to outdoor learning and play has benefited the whole school community and our renewed status is testament to the hard work and dedication of our fabulous staff." #OPALSchools www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/2582014...
thenorthernecho.co.uk
County Durham primary school collects fourth award for outdoor play
Esh Winning Academy in County Durham has received its fourth Platinum Award for Outdoor Learning and Play following a successful re-accreditation.
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Play Scotland @playscotland.bsky.social · 13/02/2026
How is everyone managing with the ice and snow we've had recently? Whether or not children are off for a snow day, it offers opportunity for risky, outdoor play, and it's free! All you need is warm clothes and the fresh air to let the imagination run wild. www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/play...
psychologytoday.com
Snow Day! Learning From Free Play
Playing outside on snow days affords kids crucial lessons that they cannot learn at school.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 12/02/2026
We all know that there are lots of benefits to children from having lots of great play, but did you know there are many benefits for schools too? Here are 10 of them — we would love to hear which ones you have experienced in your school.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 06/02/2026
We’re passionate about giving children more opportunities to be active, which is why we’re excited to be exhibiting at Youth Sport Trust's 2026 conference: Happy, healthy and thriving - a new era through PE, sport and play! If you’re coming along on 4 March, pop by and say hello!
A child running along a wooden trail in the school field.
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
Sometimes the best way to understand the impact of investing in playtime is to see it in action! That’s why our team of mentors hold open days in OPAL schools across the country. Find one near you, here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/curious-a...
eventbrite.co.uk
Curious about OPAL? Come see...
Are you a school leader curious about how better playtimes can improve outcomes across the board? Join us at an OPAL school! These visits are for schools considering starting the OPAL Primary Program...
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 02/02/2026
"We are excited to begin this journey and look forward to seeing the benefits for our whole school community." Chetwynde Primary School embarks on their OPAL journey! www.nwemail.co.uk/news/2577642... #OPALSchools
nwemail.co.uk
Pupils reimagine school playground playtimes with new ideas
School pupils in Barrow are leading a project to reimagine breaktimes on the playground.
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Play Scotland @playscotland.bsky.social · 26/01/2026
Has your school signed the active uniform pledge? Make play times easier by ensuring an always-active uniform! 👇
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Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC @opal-cic.bsky.social · 26/01/2026
We're delighted that more than 70 primary schools have now signed the active uniform pledge! Your school can join them, here: activeuniform.org/take-the-ple... Has your school already adopted an always-active uniform? We'd love to hear all about it. youtu.be/DzKVHQY6lsQ?...
youtu.be
Made to Move
YouTube video by Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL)
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