Small grant case studies

PSHE

Bude Infant School The staff wanted to reinforce messages from the SEAL agenda. Colourful signage for the playground did just that. The School Council and School Buddies worked together with staff to choose signs. They bought signage highlighting the Golden Rules ("we are gentle", "we are kind" etc). Children can see and read the messages on the signs and teachers can use them to reinforce what they are saying, especially at play time, to promote fair play, respect and good manners.

Gerrans School Pupils were tired and not able to learn. They did not bring water into school, and leaving the class to have a drink was disruptive to all. The provision of suitable water bottles for all was identified as a priority. Sufficient bottles were purchased through Cornwall Healthy Schools for all pupils, as well as extra bottles that could be purchased by parents to replace lost or damaged bottles. The majority of pupils now bring their water bottles every day. The bottles sit on the desks and the pupils are encouraged to drink throughout the day. PSHE and Circle Time activities to discuss the importance of hydrating the body and the brain have been planned and implemented.

Helston Community College The school identified the need for clean cold water to be available on demand. The aim of the project was to set up a system of drinking fountains with paper cups available at all times. The school purchased dispensers and cups and now water is available to all.

Richard Lander School The school identified a need for the school nurse to hold twice-weekly "drop-ins". They wanted the nurse to be able to extend her services to include distribution of Chlamydia testing kits and to investigate the provision of other services such as prescribing Nicotine Replacement Therapy patches. Students want access to health services without leaving the school premises and they need to be certain that the nurse will always be in school on a certain day at a certain time. The co-ordinator carried out a total overview of PSHE/SRE in primary partner schools and the impact on Richard Lander's curriculum and services. Students in Years 9, 10 and 11 were surveyed for their views. A meeting was held with the SLT, governors and nurse to discuss plans and funding. The school will begin the extended services in September and the small grant will be spent on posters and publicity for the clinic. The benefits will be improved health services supported by a good programme of PSHE.