Gloucestershire schools recognised for creating healthy futures

 

Pupils from Drybrook School, Forest of Dean, show the produce they have grown.

Eight schools from across Gloucestershire were recognised for their work in creating sustainable and healthy lifestyles during a celebration event held by the health4schools futures programme.

The health4schools futures programme is a community partnership supported by Kraft Foods, Gloucestershire County Council and NHS Gloucestershire. It provides participating schools with funding to enable them to address themes around waste, energy, water, and improving school grounds.

During the annual celebration event held at The Hatherley Manor Hotel, eight local schools received awards for their achievements and ongoing commitment, and guests heard from teachers and pupils at many of the participating schools.

Mrs Jones, a teacher at Lakeside Primary School in Cheltenham said: “The health4schools futures programme has really helped to provide guidance and structure to encourage healthy living and sustainability. By taking part we had an action plan for each area, whether that be water conservation, reducing energy or recycling, and this was integrated across our curriculum. 

“It’s been fantastic to see the impact that the programme has had on our young people, who have taken the principles back home. We’ve even had parents tell us that their children are nagging them to do more recycling – so it clearly works!”

Miss Blair, a teacher at Elmbridge Infant School in Gloucester said: “Funding from the programme has enabled us to introduce a number of initiatives that we just wouldn’t have had the opportunity to explore otherwise, from improving our school grounds and growing produce to reducing waste. 

“The programme has had a clear impact on our pupils, who are now taking these good habits back home. It’s clear that if you can influence behaviours early enough, you can make a real difference.”

Jonathan Horrell, Director of Corporate Affairs, UK & Ireland at Kraft Foods said: “The response from schools, pupils and staff to the health4schools programme over the past seven years has been fantastic, and we continue to see the impact that it makes as new schools come on board. 

“It’s clear that many of the participating schools have big aspirations to create a better future for their communities. On behalf of all the partners involved, we’re delighted to be able to support them in making this a reality and look forward to working with many more schools in 2012.”  

Over 100 schools have taken part in the health4schools programme to date. For more information visit www.health4schools.org.