St John the Baptist Primary School has tasted success by winning a Jamie Oliver Good School Food award.
It won the Joe Wicks sponsored category for ‘Food for Fitness’, which celebrates schools which get kids fired up about food, movement and wellbeing.
It comes as the school celebrates its 150th anniversary.
A spokesman for the award said: “Under the leadership of headteacher Clare Robinson, the school is a vibrant, active and joyful community.
“From growing vegetables and cooking with them, to yoga breaks and forest school, children here are learning to fuel their bodies, calm their minds and connect with their community – all while having a brilliant time.
“Kids enjoy OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) lunch breaks full of creativity and adventure and lessons which include movement breaks and mindful yoga.
“Every class learns about health, nature, and teamwork with help from a dedicated PE teacher and Forest School Lead.
“In the school’s thriving allotment, children grow vegetables, harvest them, and help turn them into tasty lunches, thanks to Aneta, the in-house chef. Some of the produce even gets sold to parents, helping to fund new tools and seeds.
“The school doesn’t rely on big budgets or shiny equipment. Most of their play kit is donated by the local community: bikes, buggies, and even the occasional rocking horse or zimmer frame.”
“The kids turn anything into a game,” added deputy headteacher Jo Blackbourn. “It’s amazing to watch.”
Zack George aka Steel, star of BBC’s Gladiators, visited the school to present the award. He said: “This isn’t just about getting active. It’s about building confidence, resilience, and healthy habits for life. What’s happening at St John the Baptist is next level.
“Clare’s made movement and nutrition fun and empowering for every single child. Proper Gladiator energy!”
Joe Wicks, who led the judging team, was full of praise for the school’s all-round approach: “This is what Food for Fitness is all about. They’re helping kids eat well, move more and feel great. It’s fun, it’s community-led and it’s brilliant. Well done Clare and all at St John’s School.”
