(Image: Supplied)
A County Durham primary school has achieved a prestigious award after transforming its outdoor play provision with the help of a housebuilder.
Sherburn Primary School has earned the Platinum OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) award following support from Taylor Wimpey North East.
Michael Coombs, technical director at Taylor Wimpey North East, said: "This is a fantastic achievement for Sherburn Primary School.
"We were more than happy to bring our planning and development expertise to the school and to assist in delivering a new sandpit for the pupils and all budding sandcastle builders."
The school began its OPAL journey in January 2025, working with a dedicated mentor to improve play opportunities for pupils.
With Taylor Wimpey’s support, the school developed a new sandpit, part of wider efforts to create a more engaging and imaginative outdoor space.
Initially on track to achieve a Gold OPAL award, the school was upgraded to Platinum following confirmation of the sandpit’s delivery.
A special presentation was held on July 15 to mark the accomplishment.
Taylor Wimpey first contacted the school in autumn 2025 to provide an update on a forthcoming housing planning application adjoining the school site and asked whether there were any projects it could support.
In addition to funding the sandpit, Taylor Wimpey committed to delivering a presentation on careers in the construction industry.
The presentation was led by Chair of the Young Persons Forum and Engineer Tom Davys, supported by Barry Spall MRTPI.
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Mr Coombs said: "We look forward to visiting again in September to highlight the opportunities available in the construction industry and to hopefully continue our relationship with Sherburn Primary School and the local community if we are successful with our housing planning application."
The sandpit was constructed by Ashwood Grounds Maintenance Ltd on behalf of Taylor Wimpey.
For more information about the homes proposed in Sherburn, visit www.taylorwimpey.co.uk/new-homes/county-durham/sherburn-village.