Lauren delivers the OPAL programme across Warwickshire and the surrounding areas.

She holds a PGCE and Early Years Teacher Status, and began her career as a primary school teacher before moving to New Zealand, where she worked in early childhood education and care. After returning to the UK, she continued to work in early years settings before relocating to Wales, where she joined Carmarthenshire Children’s Services Family Information Service, childcare and play team.

During this time, she gained a qualification in Playwork and led a number of initiatives to improve children’s access to high-quality play. This included developing a loose parts project for primary schools, supporting schools to open their grounds outside of school hours, delivering play training to schools and childcare providers, and contributing to Play Sufficiency Assessments and their implementation.

Lauren is passionate about the value of play in supporting children’s wellbeing, creativity, and learning, and is excited to help schools create inclusive, engaging outdoor play environments where all children can thrive.

Outside of work, she enjoys going to the beach, surfing, and spending time outdoors exploring the local area with her family.