Leeds primary school secures national award for work to promote children’s physical and emotional health
“The staff at this school work diligently to meet the varied needs of all pupils”
A primary school in Leeds has received national recognition for its work to promote children’s physical and emotional health
Westroyd Primary School & Nursery, located on Frances Street, Farsley, has achieved the National Healthy Schools Standard. The prestigious award recognises the schools strong, embedded, and ongoing commitment to physical health and emotional wellbeing.
As noted in the report: “The staff at this school work diligently to meet the varied needs of all pupils.”
The award is the culmination of a whole-school audit over the last two years, focusing upon the school’s Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) curriculum, as well as the strategies used to promote emotional health and wellbeing, physical activity and healthy eating.
Headteacher Jenny Pashley said: “I have had a long career working in education and it is a fact that if a child is struggling with anxiety, if a child is unhappy, or struggling with relationships, they will not be able to perform at their best. So, for us, teaching our children about - and how to respond to and manage - their own and others' social, emotional and mental health is a priority.
“At Farsley Westroyd, I often think we are a bit like Mary Poppins’ bag, in that we have a huge virtual bag and we delve deep into it to find the right strategies to support our children - and anything is possible. Although, I don’t own a peacock-handled umbrella or a coat stand.
“By prioritising emotional health, we aren't taking time away from learning - we’re building the foundation for it and preparing our children for life.”
The school’s warm, caring and welcoming environment was highlighted in the report, with all interactions described as positive, nurturing and respectful. The report states: “Each visit feels genuinely welcoming, and staff consistently make an effort to ensure a positive and supportive experience and treat every child as an individual.”
It further notes that parents hold a high degree of trust in the school, with one parent commenting: “My child is well supported and cared for by the whole staff team. I trust this school and have confidence in them doing the very best for my child.”
Up next for Farsley Westroyd, is a planned 'Healthy Happy Week,' working with Farsley FC in July, plus extensive plans to extend the school’s popular vegetable patch.
Miss Martin, the school’s trained Mental Health Lead who coordinates PSHE across the school, added: “This is our school; it is what we do here, every day and it works. Our children are fun, cheerful, self-assured, well-behaved, polite, focused on their learning and show a strong understanding of health and wellbeing.”