Pupils at Tavernspite and Templeton schools have been championing a whole-school approach to emotional and mental wellbeing.

During a visit earlier this year, Dr Ardiana Gjini, Executive Director of Public Health, was welcomed by pupils and taken on a tour showcasing the wide range of initiatives in place to support the health and wellbeing of the entire school community.

As part of their commitment to becoming Health Promoting Schools, children from both schools presented their approach to Hywel Dda University Health Board, highlighting activities that encourage healthy habits such as physical activity, nutritious eating, personal safety, environmental care, hygiene, and positive relationships.

The schools have also established TEaM – Tavernspite/Templeton Emotional and Mental Well-being, which is a pupil-led group that ensures emotional and mental health remains a priority. Notably, they are the first parkrun schools in the UK, further demonstrating their innovative approach to promoting active lifestyles.

Head teacher Kevin Phelps said:“Being a health promoting school is the most important work we do. As a federation of schools, we believe strongly in supporting the physical and emotional well-being of our staff, pupils and school families.

“The numerous innovative practices we have embedded, for example, TEaM, the daily mile, Smartphone Free Childhood and parkrun schools, have already had a significant impact on the health of our school community.”

Dr Gjini said: “Schools are an important setting for promoting and protecting the health and wellbeing of the whole school community. Tavernspite and Templeton schools have shown what is possible when health and education work together.”

The health board has worked in partnership with the schools for over a decade, providing support, training, and guidance throughout their health promotion journey.

To learn more about the Whole School Approach to Emotional and Mental Well-being, visit https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/staying-healthy/children-and-young-people .