Fairfield Primary School, on the edge of the Lake District, takes a love of the outdoors and physical activity to a new level - not least by having its own climbing wall. The wall, which was designed by pupils following a whole-school competition, is especially popular at break times.
It’s just one of the many reasons why Fairfield beat seven other “very strong” candidates in this category. Judges were also impressed with the Forest School programme, in which pupils regularly visit local woodlands to learn about the natural environment. Equally popular is the school’s Grand Day Out - a free excursion to a local fell that gives about 350 pupils the opportunity to experience the beautiful location on their doorstep.
Innovative, high-quality curricular and extracurricular activities at the school help pupils reach their full potential through developing healthy bodies and healthy minds, and teaching of core subjects is combined with a physical approach. For example, pupils love the fact that they can learn rugby and maths at the same time through a programme offered in partnership with Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club. The Year 6 children are trained to be sport leaders and are presented with a whistle at the end of their training. They can then lead activities at breaks and lunchtime.
The healthy lifestyle extends outside the school with a pioneering Active Families programme on Saturday mornings, when pupils and parents participate in activities together and gain advice on healthy eating. The school also provides an Active Adults programme, where adults come into school to participate in a weekly evening exercise programme, which is popular with staff.
The judges were impressed with Fairfield’s innovative, whole-school approach to mental and physical wellbeing.”Fairfield clearly has a strong commitment to active outdoor pursuits, and these are embedded into the curriculum to the benefit of the students’ physical and mental health,” they added.
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