See also...

Double click for bigger pics

"Play isn't something that children just do - children need time and space to support their play."

Play England

Our services include:Information, advice and support on any aspect of play and playworkPlaywork training and qualificationsPlay Ranger project - encouraging more children and young people to play outsidePlay Boxes - inspiring play resources to give people who work with children new and fresh ideasPayroll service (organising the wages for staff for organisations)
We also offer 'Inpsiring Play' - an Oxfordshire-wide newsletter, play outreach, reduced insurance and play development.

Membership of OPA is just £20 per year for groups, and £10 per year for individuals. Becoming a member is easy - click here for our membership form. For further information, see the 'Membership' page, or give us a call.

Current Activities
OPA provides practical and professional support and encouragement to all those involved in providing children and young people of all ages with opportunities to play and, in particular we:Support play providers so that they offer sustainable, high quality, inclusive play opportunitiesOffer practical help and advice and a range of practical services to those managing and working in play settings including assisting them to meet statutory requirementsProvide accredited training in playwork for those working with children and young people in order to ensure a qualified workforceSupport policy makers in making decisions that impact positively on playProvide representation on partnerships and agencies that influence play

OPA has established strong links with parents, providers and childcare professionals. We work in close partnership with other organisations in Oxfordshire, including play providers, local authorities (Oxfordshire County Council, West Oxfordshire District Council, South Oxfordshire District Council, Cherwell District Council and the Vale of the White Horse) and we joint-chair the Oxfordshire Play Partnership. In addition, OPA works in consultation with other agencies and play associations beyond the county boundary, in counties such as Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and with Milton Keynes and Reading.

If you would like to contact OPA on any aspect of play, playwork or playing for young people aged 0-19,
please call 01865 779474 or email enquiries@oxonplay.org.uk.