20/03/2026
🙌We’re platinum! Our fantastic OPAL achievement 🥳
We are delighted to share with you that, on Wednesday, we had our final OPAL Audit and we achieved OPAL Platinum Accreditation – the highest level of recognition within the programme. The audit showed tangible results such as a reduction in first aid incidents by 65% and a decrease in behavioural incidents by a huge 85%. But even better, OPAL has allowed our children rich opportunities to take risks, solve problems, and immerse themselves in imaginative, child-led experiences.
Wendy, the OPAL East Midlands Mentor who carried out the assessment said: “Reaching Platinum status is a remarkable milestone. It signifies a level of commitment, vision, and sustained practice that places your school among the very best. This achievement is not simply about meeting a standard; it represents a profound shift in ethos, where play is valued as central to children’s development, wellbeing, and joy. It is also a testament to the exceptional leadership within your school. The Good Shepherd Primary stands as a beacon of best practice, demonstrating what is possible when play is placed at the heart of school life. Your journey will undoubtedly inspire others, and your continued commitment to the OPAL ethos is both valued and deeply appreciated.”
Mrs Toner is so proud of everyone who has worked so hard to bring OPAL to the GSA, and make it the success it is today. She wants to send her special thanks to the project leader Mrs Dickson, Mrs Remzi and Mrs Buxton who are OPAL supervisors and the whole Play Leader Team for all their hard work, creativity and dedication in all weathers! Thanks also to the PTA who have been so generous in their support of the scheme, understanding what a difference it would make to play times, right from the beginning. Finally, thanks to you for making sure your children have wellies and waterproofs and for donating craft supplies, suitcases, pallets and all the other bits and bobs that make OPAL so fun.
