Wiltshire schools commended for promoting healthy lifestyle
12 schools have been given awards
A dozen schools across Wiltshire have been celebrated for encouraging healthy lifestyle choices among students.
It's part of Wiltshire Council programme to boost the health and wellbeing of children and young people in the county.
It use's a whole school approach and uses Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education to allow schools to actively promote learning and healthy choices in life.
125 schools are taking part in the programme, with 88 having been recognised for their efforts in achieving these goals.
Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children's Services said: “Our Wiltshire Healthy Schools programme recognises the hard work of our school communities to create a healthy space for pupils to learn and grow. We have some amazing initiatives from schools who have taken a step back and considered what would really make a difference and these have had a positive impact on pupils and the whole school community. I'm delighted that so many schools have received this award, and I would encourage more to come forward in the future.”
The schools that gained accreditation during the latest round are:
• Bradon Forest School – bronze award
• Burbage Primary School – silver award
• Castle Mead School – gold award
• Downland School – bronze award
• Exeter House School – bronze award
• Kington St Michael CE Primary School – bronze award
• Monkton Park Primary School – bronze award
• Pitton Primary – bronze award
• River Mead – bronze award
• Sarum Academy – bronze award
• Warminster School – bronze award
• St Bartholomew’s Primary Academy – gold award
The schools submitted evidence to a local multiagency group, describing their school provision and the difference that their work has made to the health of pupils. Several of the schools achieving the award were also visited by Wiltshire Youth Councillors who provided feedback.
Schools can apply for accreditation at three levels: bronze, silver or gold level.
Examples of work at each school to promote health and wellbeing include Bradon Forest for establishing an activity programme called WHOOSH for students, Burbage School introducing a daily mile run and Sarum Academy creating a peer mentoring scheme focussing on healthy eating and supporting mental health.
Other examples include:
• Castle Mead school increased the numbers of children brushing their teeth twice a day, alongside work to promote sun safety and the School Parliament supports the planning of key events during the year.
• At Downland school pupils are taught about budgeting and providing nutritious family meals. Students enjoy the food choices provided and are encouraged to stay active at break and lunchtimes.
• Staff at Exeter House school have access to a variety of training with a focus on wellbeing and healthy lifestyles. Students are supported to feel safe and as independent as possible.
• The active involvement of children in many aspects of the life of the school is a strength at St Bartholomew's Primary Academy, where successful work has taken place to improve oral health.