Crowlands Primary joins the top 1 percent of UK schools for play

Crowlands Primary School in Romford has been recognised as one of the very best schools in the country for children’s play after receiving the prestigious OPAL Platinum Award. The honour places the school within the top 1 percent of UK primary schools for the quality of its lunchtime play, marking a remarkable achievement for pupils, staff and the wider community.

The school began its journey with OPAL, which stands for Outdoor Play and Learning, in December 2023. Staff say the programme has brought about a cultural shift in the way children use and enjoy their lunch break. What used to be a traditional playground now offers a much richer and more imaginative play environment, something that has become increasingly important for children across Havering.

Headteacher Sarah Clark told The Havering Daily that the new approach has had a noticeable impact on pupils’ wellbeing and confidence. “We believe that play is fundamental to children’s physical and mental wellbeing. By introducing OPAL, we have allowed our pupils opportunities to develop key skills in language, cooperation and collaboration.”

The changes have been welcomed by families in the surrounding community and reflect a strong local emphasis on improving children’s mental health, a priority for many Havering schools and charities.

Why play matters for Havering children

With more than a decade of research showing the importance of play in children’s happiness, Crowlands Primary’s achievement carries wider relevance for the borough. Havering has seen increasing interest in outdoor learning, particularly following the pandemic, with many schools in Havering seeking new ways to support pupils’ emotional resilience.

Crowlands staff say lunchtimes have been transformed. Pupils now enjoy a variety of play options that encourage creativity and teamwork, helping them return to class calmer and ready to learn. Sarah Clark added that the award recognises the daily efforts of staff, lunchtime supervisors and the school community. “As an OPAL Platinum school, we are proud to see our pupils having fun, engaging and joyful lunchtimes, allowing them to come to school happier and be ready to engage in their learning.”

Local parents have praised the school’s commitment, noting that the improved play offer has helped children build friendships and confidence.

A milestone for the school and the borough

The Platinum Award marks an important milestone not only for Crowlands Primary but also for Havering’s wider ambition to champion children’s wellbeing. With only a small number of schools nationally achieving OPAL’s highest status, the recognition places Romford firmly on the map for innovative play practice.

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