Good Practice Case Study

Priors Wood

School No: 310

Healthy Schools Accreditation

For the last year, Priors Wood Primary School has been working on three key themes within the Hertfordshire Healthy Schools Programme. These are Safety, Physical Activity and Healthy Eating. They have been working towards achieving high standards in these areas and were officially awarded with HHSP Accreditation on 10th November 2004.

Safety

The school has been engaged in developing a range of strategies in this key area. These include the completion of risk assessments for all visits and activities in the school. In addition the children undertook a survey of the school and fed back findings to the governing body. The pupils have also been involved with ‘Walk to School’ activities and the school will be working towards a school travel plan. New fences and gates have been installed offering a safer environment. There has also been a focus on strategies to improve the playground to provide a safer environment for the children. All staff have undertaken a child protection update training.

Physical Activity

Physical Activity as part of a healthy lifestyle has been another area of priority for the school. The co-ordinator has established a number of clubs and activities to enhance physical activity and promote inclusion. The school also celebrates success in a number of team sports. A range of agencies and links to secondary schools also support the development of physical activity. The PE curriculum and policy have been reviewed and updated and professional development opportunities made available for all staff. Midday supervisory staff and older children lead playground activities to encourage greater activity at playtimes. The school has recently been awarded the Activemark Award.

Healthy Eating

A whole school food policy has been developed and integrated through a whole school approach. The policy informs all aspects of food education and provision, these include healthy snacks and a planned curriculum programme. The children also enjoy provision through the school fruit and vegetable scheme. The school has also worked closely with the school meal provider and parents to promote healthy eating messages. All children and adults have access to chilled water throughout the day.