What Is CROP?

CROP stands for Children Reclaiming Our Parks. CROP is overseen by Hillingdon Play Association, a registered charity.

How does it work?

We work with Primary and Junior Schools that sign up to be part of the CROP project. We  would like the support of adults  from the schools community (staff, parents, governors, relatives) to volunteer.

What is a Play Ranger?

A Play Ranger is a qualified Play Worker who helps children to play safe and have fun in their local parks. Play Rangers are CRB checked.

What is a Game Sharer?

The game sharers are the children, they are taught a range of new games and are given the opportunity to develop their skills involving other children in games.

What is CROP’s aim?

The aim  of CROP is for children to play safely in our local parks with a Play Ranger close by if needed. Also CROP aims to improve all five Every Child Matters outcomes for children and young people:

• Being safe – by promoting good physical , emotional and mental health.
• Staying safe – by managing risks and challenges in a safe environment. Training more adults to be aware of safety of children in parks and increasing the number of ‘safe’ adults in parks.
• Enjoying and achieving – by learning, growing and developing through play. Building leadership and decision making skills associated with play for children to take forward into adult life.
• Making a positive contribution – by having a say in shaping the provision, having a say in suitability of the play environment through links with the Green Spaces Team.
• Economic well-being – the play provision is a free public service.

The CROP project will increase participation in outdoor play in our parks in Hillingdon. Play sessions will be held in local parks, these sessions will be run by the Pay Ranger, they are open access, so children are able to come and go as they please. Play Rangers are not responsible for the children. Play sessions will run for 2 hours and in all weathers!