The HWB (Health and Well Being) development team continues to expand with several pupil focus groups leading developments within GHS. One of the main current projects is the creation of the HWB tree in the school Reception area. A large number of S1 pupils, supported by some senior Art students, are developing a design brief produced by me in January. The pupils have taken great care and attention to follow the design brief, using school colours, to enhance this area of the school.
Recently various pupils have asked me “What does the HWB tree symbolise?” My answer: “The HWB tree illustrates the need for all members of our community to establish their roots and feel safe and secure in their environment. With this we should all feel safe, valued and respected which enhances effective learning and teaching, promoting growth and development.”
All pupils, parents/carers, staff and visitors are invited to add a key word which, for them, best encapsulates HWB. This word should be added to a ‘leaf’ which in turn will be added to our growing tree! Leaves are available at Reception should you wish to add your thoughts.
Several visitors have admired the HWB tree design, with a number of parents commenting on the ‘heart shaped’ school crest which was a deliberate part of the design to highlight the importance of RESPECT for self and others. Additionally, in a school, the HWB of all young people should be at the heart of all that we do.
Ms Carrie Lindsay, our Education Officer, recently added a leaf to the tree. Her word stated ‘excellence’ illustrating Glenrothes High School’s constant drive to make improvements to maximise the impact on all individual pupils in our care.
Mrs J Pirouet, Headteacher at Townhill Primary School, added a leaf with the word ‘motivated’. Following a recent school visit, when she interviewed numerous pupils and staff, she indicated how impressed she was the motivational levels of all members of our school community.
In addition to the HWB tree, various other initiatives continue:
- Mrs Dunn and Miss Easton continue to develop our Eco Schools programme
- The PE department continue to offer a modern and varied programme in an attempt to maximise pupil participation levels during class time and during after school clubs
- The HE department continue to provide a Chefs Club and deliver numerous lessons with a Healthy Eating/Healthy Living theme
- Our PSE programme is currently being updated, despite high praise from our recent HMIE inspection
- The DAS department, pupils and staff, have designed and developed their own herb and fruit garden
- The HWB development team are currently collating information, from across the school, to support our Phase 1 submission as part of the formal Fife HWB accreditation scheme.
Glenrothes High School is indeed a highly motivated school, continually striving for excellence. I will continue to keep you posted regarding HWB developments and will encourage all members of the school community to add a leaf to OUR tree.
K Lothian
Depute Headteacher