Free Resource: OP&L PLAY Observation Format Tool

Supporting Adults to Observe Play Effectively With A Free Digital Download

Hey PLAYlisters,

I’ve got something new and exciting to share with you, including a free Observation of Play and Learning digital download (available at the bottom of the article)!

Barnet Early Years Alliance (BEYA) is a federation of three nursery schools in North London, dedicated to recognising and celebrating children’s play as a powerful vehicle for learning.

Their Observation of Play and Learning (OP&L) tool supports staff in articulating the rich learning that happens through play, without the constraints of rigid sequencing or predetermined outcomes.

BEYA has developed a simple, reflective process to promote professional dialogue. Using just four key questions—What is the child curious about? What did the adult do? What skills are developing? Why is this play important?—staff work together to analyse and celebrate children’s learning.

By embracing a pedagogy of possibilities, BEYA’s aim is to empower us all to value the present moment, support deep thinking, and advocate for play as a fundamental right of childhood.

Download your FREE tool document here:

If you’re interested in checking out some of the other great content and resources available from OPAL on The PLAYlist, click the links below:

Brilliant Idea - OP&L – Observation of Play and Learning

So how does OP&L look in practice?

OP&L - Frequently Asked Questions