In a wonderful collaboration, Peninsula Health’s Health Promotion team has partnered with St Mary’s Primary School in Hastings to support an exciting initiative: the Student Health Ambassador Project. This year, a group of passionate students are stepping up to use their voices and agency to foster a school environment that thrives on connection, inclusion, and fun.
The Student Health Ambassadors began their journey with a powerful exercise in collective visioning. They designed a vision board that served as a canvas for their peers to contribute ideas.
Through careful examination of contributions, the Student Health Ambassadors identified key areas of interest. They recognised the desire for activities that would not only bring students together, but also provide for creative expression, strategic thinking, and physical activity. The Ambassadors proposed three new lunchtime clubs, which will be offered for the remainder of 2024.
- Art Club: A Canvas for Creativity
Budding artists will have a space to explore various mediums and techniques, share their work, and collaborate on projects. - Chess Club: A Game of Strategy and Patience
Chess Club promises to be a place where students can develop critical thinking skills, learn the nuances of the game, and engage in friendly competition. - Running Club: Fitness and Fun on the Move
This club is designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and a love for outdoor activity. It will emphasise participation and personal growth over competition.
The students themselves will take on leadership roles in these clubs, from organising and promoting activities to evaluating their success.
The Student Health Ambassador Project at St Mary’s Primary School is more than just a series of lunchtime clubs. Students are learning that they can shape their environment and make an impact on their community. The Health Promotion team is proud to support these young leaders as they work towards creating a more connected, inclusive, and fun school experience for everyone.
We can’t wait to see the incredible outcomes that will arise from this initiative!