Oak Field Primary Receives Healthy School Award

Oak Field Primary School in Barry has received a Welsh Network of Healthy School Schemes National Quality Award following an excellent assessment.

Overseen by Public Health Wales, the award is made to schools that take responsibility for maintaining and promoting the health of all attached to it.

Pupils are taught about how to lead healthy lives and positive action is taken to improve the physical, social and mental wellbeing of the local community.

Schools are evaluated on seven criteria:

·        Food and fitness (nutrition and physical activity)

·        Mental and emotional health and wellbeing (including staff)

·        Personal development and relationships, including sex education

·        Substance use and misuse, including alcohol, smoking, and drugs (legal, illegal, and prescription)

·        Environment, including eco-initiatives and improving the school and wider area

·        Safety, including a variety of topics such as child protection, sun safety, internet safety, and first aid

·        Hygiene across school and non-school settings

 During a visit last month, assessors were hugely impressed by what they saw in these areas, with the report summary noting: “There are many elements of Oak Field that stand out, but perhaps the most notable of all of these is the way that the school prioritises the wellbeing of the whole family of each pupil. There is a strong recognition of the fact that in order to improve wellbeing, attendance and progress in learning for all learners that strong, positive relationships and rapport with parents and carers are required.”

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said: “I’d like to pass on my sincere congratulations to everyone at Oak Field Primary for this sensational achievement. The school, its staff, pupils and families have done an excellent job in pulling together the substantial amount of information that is required for this award.

“The glowing assessment report speaks for itself and is testament to the work that has gone in to gain this status.

 “Health and Wellbeing is a top priority for the Council and we hope to see other schools receive this award in the future.”

 Oak Field will soon display a National Quality Award plaque in recognition of its achievement, with a celebration planned for early next term.