Healthy school award launches

All primary schools in East Riding can now sign up to be accredited for a healthy school award, demonstrating their commitment to helping raise healthy, happy children.

Ten schools have piloted the new scheme over the last year. One of these schools was Springhead Primary School in Anlaby.

Springhead Primary have introduced a range of new ideas, including a fruit tuck shop which the children run; from ordering the fruit, to preparing and chopping it before school, then serving and clearing away afterwards. They involve the children in lessons which promote oral health, and give out books for birthdays rather than sweets. The school has links with community partners, including people running allotments, who share their knowledge about local produce with the pupils. Children who are able are encouraged to use active travel to and from school and new scooter racks have been installed. The school held a challenge for pupils to actively travel a daily mile, and medals were awarded to celebrate the children’s achievements.  

Headteacher, Naomi Prutton said: “I was keen for our school to be involved in the initiative as it provided a chance for the whole school community to get involved in promoting health and wellbeing. The children have really enjoyed developing new healthy ideas and being involved with them inside and outside of the classroom. It has brought a positive experience to our whole school community.”

Click here to watch the video featuring Springhead Primary School’s healthy school initiatives.

The award recognises good health and wellbeing practice in schools, from culture to environment to activities taking place. Schools have the advice and expertise of the council’s public health team to help them implement and deliver the elements of the scheme, including healthy eating options, oral health, physical activity, mindfulness and mental health.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, cabinet member for children, families and education said: “The healthy school award helps improve health and wellbeing amongst children and in turn helps improve school attendance, behaviour, and attainment. The activities schools are involved in will also importantly instil positive health behaviours in children from a young age, which will help them live healthy, happy lives and prevent future illness and disease.”

Schools that achieve the award will be able to display certificates to highlight their commitment to the health and wellbeing of pupils at their school.

Anyone who would like more information can email PublicHealth@eastriding.gov.uk