Merton receives Healthy Schools award in the upper house

Merton Council was presented with an award at the House of Lords to officially mark its achievement in gaining the National Healthy School Standard in July.

Merton’s Healthy Schools Scheme, launched in September 2000 in partnership with Merton, Sutton and Wandsworth Health Authority, aims to promote the health and well being of pupils, parents and staff and the borough passed the rigorous national assessment process with flying colours.

The commemorative plaque was presented to Councillor Maxi Martin, Cabinet Member for Primary Education and Children’s Services and Healthy Schools Co-ordinator, Vanessa Cooper, at a special ceremony in the Houses of Parliament.

Currently, more than 25 schools in Merton are actively involved in the scheme and have developed a wide range of activities including healthier snacks at playtime, drug education projects, anti-bullying projects, walking buses (to promote walking to school), staff well being and environmental improvements.

Councillor Maxi Martin said: “I was really pleased to accept the award from Baroness Massey at the House of Lords last week and I am looking forward to the plaque being displayed in the Civic Centre.

“It is a great achievement to have reached the high standards needed to receive the award and although I was the one presented with the award, I was there representing all the staff, pupils, officers and parents who have put in so much hard work to make this possible. Well done to everyone.”

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