Two schools have been rewarded for their commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of their students.

North Somerset Times: Shaun Cheesman receiving the plaque. Picture: Yatton Federated SchoolsShaun Cheesman receiving the plaque. Picture: Yatton Federated Schools (Image: Yatton Federated Schools)

Yatton’s infant and junior schools and St John the Evangelist Church School, in Clevedon, were both thrilled to receive the news they had been presented with the Active Healthy Schools Award – the first two to be presented with the accolade in the district.

The North Somerset Healthy Schools Network team wrote to St John, saying it was ‘delighted’ by the range of health-promoting activities at the school.

It added: “We have no hesitation in awarding you the Active Healthy Schools Award in recognition of your enduring and impressive commitment to health and wellbeing.”

The report praised St John’s provision and said there were many opportunities for children to contribute to scholl life and feel a sense of belonging.

It also highlighted how the school had worked hard to help parents feel an important part of the school community.

Headteacher Ian Doswell gave special recognition to deputy headteacher Nikki Short, saying: “Her hard work and dedication to ensure St John’s received the gold standard of the Healthy School’s initiative’.

The report also said: “St John’s is a vibrant school, taking part in many community activities and using a range of resources to support the children’s health and wellbeing.”

Yatton’s schools were also celebrating the success.

Jon Heywood, the schools’ ‘delighted’ deputy headteacher, said: “We are especially proud our links with the community, the large range of physical activity opportunities we provide, the way we encourage children to take on responsibilities and the work we do to support children emotionally and socially are seen as particular strengths.

“We will, of course, continue to explore ways we can further develop what we offer and provide for the children to improve their health and wellbeing.”

The schools were praised for promoting both the emotional and physical wellbeing of their young pupils.

Healthy Schools, the authority behind the award, looks to reward schools which help children to grow healthily, safely and responsibly and to become active citizens who do their bit for society and for the environment.