Council fun day helps local primary school in its bid to become 'Outstandingly Happy'

Pupils from Cuerden Church School in Bamber Bridge were treated to a special fun day at South Ribble Tennis Centre today (Tuesday 9 November).

Delivered by South Ribble Borough Council's Active Health team, the event was designed to help the local primary meet its ambition to be recognised as an Outstandingly Happy School.

Over the course of three days, children from Year 3 have been taking part in a range of activities promoting wellbeing, positive psychology, resilience, strengths, goal setting, personal responsibility and mindfulness.

Today's Council-led session focussed on the importance of physical health and how this can contribute to mental wellbeing and happiness.

The youngsters had a great time playing on an inflatable football pitch, learning about the importance of teamwork and resilience as well as getting active and having fun.

Dance instructors then led the children through a routine centred around self-belief and empowerment, while the pupils were also able to play on a bouncy castle and slide - simply experiencing the positivity of having a smile on their faces.  

Cllr Mick Titherington, Deputy Leader of South Ribble Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: "We applaud Cuerden Church School's efforts to improve the happiness, health and wellbeing of their pupils and were only too happy to help them achieve their goal.

"As a Council, we're passionate about getting 'More People, More Active' - no matter their age - and our Active Health team do a wonderful job working with our local schools to make a positive difference for families all across the borough.

"Helping our children to be healthier, happier and more active in their everyday lives is just as important as teaching them the three Rs, and I'm delighted the children had such a great time."

Mrs Nicola Sherry, Headteacher at Cuerden Church School, said: "We are really grateful to the team at South Ribble for supporting the children at Cuerden Church School to make the vital links between being physically active and maintaining a positive wellbeing.

"The morning has complemented the work we are currently doing in school to support our children to become resilient, positive and happy learners."

The Outstandingly Happy School programme is a nationwide project organised by Derbyshire-based company the Art of Brilliance. Learn more here.

You can find out more about the Council's Active Health team here.