Pupils from Woodville Primary School in South Woodham Ferrers, were recently invited to Hylands House to meet with over 200 health sector leaders, policy makers and influencers to share their thoughts on an initiative designed to encourage more active lifestyles in Essex.
During the event, organised by Active Essex, the pupils discussed the benefits of physical activity and the challenges faced by young people that prevent them from being more active, with esteemed representatives, including: Simon Hayes, the CEO of Sport England, and Caroline Rassell, the CEO of Parkinson’s UK.
Woodville Primary School pupils sharing their ideas with adults
Paul White, Deputy Headteacher at Woodville Primary School, said: “This was a wonderful opportunity for our children. Pupil voice is something that is really important to us. Through their discussions with important changemakers, they have learnt the power of speaking up to better their community; we look forward to seeing how their suggestions are integrated into policy. Thank you to Active Essex for enabling the next generation to get involved with creating a healthier and more active community!”
Before the school’s visit, children worked with teachers to outline ways to promote active lifestyles while benefitting their community. This included putting up posters promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing the number and variety of sports clubs available in the area, and raising money for the NHS through sports fundraising initiatives.
Jenson, a pupil at Woodville Primary School, said: “It was really exciting to go to Hylands House and talk to so many important people about how to help children be more active. We told them that sometimes we don’t have enough clubs or places to play, and we shared our ideas to make it more fun. Thank you to everyone who listened to my friends’ and my ideas. I hope it helps everyone be happy, healthy and active!”
Woodville Primary School encourages its children to be active both inside and outside of school. Its pupils have access to a range of physical clubs, including Cross Country, Football, Dance, Gymnastics and more. To learn more about the school, its curriculum and extracurricular offerings, visit: https://www.woodvilleprimaryschool.org.uk/
A poster designed by a Woodville Primary School pupil