A project first launched three years ago at Kingsbury Green Academy has blossomed into a school-wide transformation - culminating in the school being awarded the Healthy Schools Award.
The initiative began when GCSE Citizenship students, now studying at KGA Sixth Form and local colleges, were asked to carry out independent research into areas where they felt change was needed.
Their investigations led to wide-ranging proposals, from installing recycling bins and inviting council representatives to discuss sustainability, to tackling community issues such as access to youth clubs, police presence, mental health support, football culture, and anti-social behaviour in and around Calne.
The students’ work culminated in a roundtable discussion involving 12 key stakeholders, including representatives from The RISE Trust, Wiltshire Council, the Youth Engagement Team, and Nick Bolton, PSHE Lead for Wiltshire Council.
Impressed by the students’ commitment to wellbeing, Mr Bolton encouraged the school to apply for the Healthy Schools Award - a move that set in motion a detailed review of health and wellbeing across the academy.
To achieve the award, the school assessed how health is promoted throughout its community, including:
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Listening to and acting on student voice
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Reviewing canteen nutrition and food provision
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Strengthening PSHE engagement
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Exploring emotional and therapeutic support, including the school’s therapy dog
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Reviewing ELSA provision, SEN support, and the sensory room
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Speaking directly with students about inclusion and wellbeing
Following this comprehensive process, Kingsbury Green Academy has now officially received the Healthy Schools Award, recognising its dedication to promoting wellbeing, inclusion, and health across the school.
This milestone is a testament to the power of student-led change and the school’s dedication to creating a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
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