Gilwern Primary School near Abergavenny has successfully achieved the Healthy Schools National Quality Award – a Welsh Government scheme managed by Public Health Wales. It is only the third 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 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. These health topic areas are embedded within the curriculum and reinforced through extra-curricular activities, pupil groups and links with local community groups and partners. The ethos and organisation of the school demonstrates unity and care. Staff are friendly, approachable and excellent teamwork is supported by the governing body as well as parents and carers.

Pupils’ involvement in decision-making receives high priority with a number of active pupil groups that support and develop key health promotion messages. Pupils have the opportunity to take part in a variety of local community events and sporting tournaments.

Children’s rights are fundamental to the ethos of the school as well as strong international links and involvement with the Eco Schools programme which have contributed to achieving the award.

Headteacher Roger Guy said: “I am delighted that we have achieved this prestigious award. I am very proud that our whole school community continues to work together to promote the well-being of pupils and staff here at Gilwern Primary School.”

Monmouthshire’s Chairman Councillor Maureen Powell added: “It’s an absolute pleasure to present this richly-deserved award to Gilwern Primary School. Pupils, staff and the school’s wider community have developed values that prioritise physical, mental and social health. I’m very proud of our young people’s achievements in Monmouthshire.”