A CALDICOT primary school has become the second in Monmouthshire to achieve a ‘Healthy Schools’ award.

Durand Primary School has successfully achieved the Healthy Schools National Quality Award – a Welsh Government scheme managed by Public Health Wales, and is only the second primary school in Monmouthshire to win this accreditation.

The Healthy Schools National Quality Award is an excellence award for health promotion in schools.

To gain the award, staff and pupils at Durand Primary developed a whole school approach to food and fitness, mental and emotional health and wellbeing, personal development and relationships, substance use and misuse, environment, safety and hygiene. Opportunities for physical activity and play have been widely encouraged while key messages on food choices have reinforced the move towards a healthy lifestyle.

Pupils’ involvement in decision-making is given high priority and many have taken the opportunity to become involved in the school council and eco-committee as well as becoming junior road safety officers, playground buddies, sports ambassadors and healthy school official helpers. Pupils’ views are sought through suggestions boxes and contributions to school evaluations.

In addition, the school offers excellent outdoor areas to support and encourage physical activity. These include a forest school, raised beds, greenhouse and planting areas, wildlife area, meadow, playground facilities, open spaces and covered areas.

Councillor Liz Hacket Pain, Monmouthshire’s cabinet member with responsibility for schools and learning said: “Durand Primary School richly deserves this award as staff and pupils have committed themselves to a culture that promotes physical, mental and social health.”

Headteacher Allison Waters added: “I am delighted that we have achieved this prestigious award.  I am very proud as this has been a real team effort with everybody involved in our school working together. The well-being of pupils and staff is of the utmost importance to us here at Durand Primary School.”