Physical Health
Physical Health and Wellbeing
Healthy Bodies, Happy Children, Ready to Flourish!
At Winford Church of England Primary School, we believe that looking after our physical health is an important part of helping every child flourish.
Being active, eating well, getting enough sleep and developing healthy habits all contribute to children's growth, wellbeing and readiness to learn.
Through our curriculum, outdoor learning opportunities and everyday school experiences, we help children understand how to care for their bodies and make positive choices for their health.
Our Christian vision, Together we Flourish, encourages us to care for ourselves and one another.
Being Active Every Day
Regular physical activity helps children develop strength, coordination, confidence and healthy habits for life.
At Winford, we encourage children to enjoy movement and discover activities they love.
Opportunities include:
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Physical Education (PE) – Developing fundamental movement skills, teamwork, coordination and confidence.
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Active playtimes – Opportunities to run, climb, play games and enjoy being active with friends.
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Outdoor learning – Forest Activities, gardening and practical experiences in our outdoor spaces.
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Sporting activities – Opportunities to participate in sports, develop new skills and enjoy friendly competition.
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School clubs – Additional opportunities to try different physical activities and develop interests.
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Sports Day and house events – Celebrating participation, teamwork, perseverance and personal achievement.
Our PE provision is supported by Shine, who also provide a range of extracurricular sporting opportunities.
We want every child to experience the enjoyment and benefits of being active, whatever their interests or abilities.
How Much Physical Activity Do Children Need?
The NHS recommends that children and young people aged 5–18 aim for an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity each day across the week.
This doesn't need to happen all at once. Walking, cycling, dancing, playing outdoors, swimming and active games all contribute.
The most important thing is helping children find enjoyable ways to move regularly.
Find out more about children's physical activity – NHS
Healthy Eating and Drinking
A balanced diet provides children with the energy and nutrients they need to grow, develop and learn.
Through our science curriculum, Jigsaw PSHE and everyday school experiences, children learn about food, nutrition and making healthy choices.
We encourage children to:
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Enjoy a varied and balanced diet.
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Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.
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Drink water regularly throughout the day.
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Understand the importance of eating breakfast.
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Develop positive attitudes towards food and healthy eating.
Our school meals provide an opportunity for children to enjoy a nutritious lunch with their friends.
We also encourage children to bring a water bottle to school so that they can stay hydrated throughout the day.
Winford is a nut-free school because of severe allergies within our school community. We ask families not to send nuts or products containing nuts into school.
[Find Out More About School Meals]
Sleep and Rest
Getting enough sleep is essential for children's physical health, emotional wellbeing, concentration and learning.
Children need regular opportunities to rest and recharge, particularly after busy school days.
Parents and carers can support healthy sleep habits by:
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Keeping bedtimes and waking times consistent.
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Creating a calm and relaxing bedtime routine.
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Reducing screen use before bedtime.
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Encouraging physical activity and outdoor play during the day.
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Providing a comfortable and restful sleeping environment.
If your child is experiencing persistent sleep difficulties, your GP or health professional may be able to offer advice.
Developing Healthy Habits
Learning how to care for our bodies is an important part of growing up.
Throughout their time at Winford, children learn about:
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Personal hygiene and regular handwashing.
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Looking after their teeth and oral health.
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Healthy eating and hydration.
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Physical activity and exercise.
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Sleep and rest.
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Keeping safe in different environments.
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Understanding how their bodies grow and change.
These areas are explored through our curriculum, assemblies and everyday routines.
We aim to help children develop the knowledge and confidence to make healthy choices as they become increasingly independent.
Outdoor Play and Learning
We are fortunate to have wonderful outdoor spaces at Winford, and we recognise the many benefits of spending time outside.
Our woodland, playground, field and gardening areas provide opportunities for children to be active, explore nature and develop physical skills.
Activities such as climbing, balancing, building dens, gardening and playing games help children develop coordination, strength, confidence and resilience.
Outdoor experiences also provide opportunities for children to enjoy fresh air, develop friendships and experience the benefits of being active in nature.
Supporting Physical Health at Home
There are lots of simple ways families can encourage healthy habits.
Move Together
Enjoy walks, bike rides, trips to the park, dancing or active games. Physical activity doesn't have to be organised or expensive.
Make Healthy Eating Enjoyable
Involve children in choosing ingredients, preparing meals and trying different foods.
Encourage Good Sleep Routines
Regular bedtimes and relaxing evening routines can help children get the rest they need.
Make Time for Outdoor Play
Encourage opportunities to explore, play and enjoy the natural environment.
Build Independence
Help children develop responsibility for personal hygiene, looking after their belongings and making healthy choices.
Celebrate Participation
Encourage children to enjoy physical activity without focusing solely on winning or performance.
When Your Child Is Unwell
We understand that children will sometimes be unwell and need time to recover.
If your child is too unwell to attend school, please contact the school using our usual absence reporting arrangements.
Children with vomiting or diarrhoea should remain at home until 48 hours after the last episode.
If your child has an ongoing medical condition, allergy or health need that may affect them during the school day, please contact us so that we can discuss appropriate arrangements and support.
[Find Out More About Attendance and Reporting Absence]
Useful Information and Resources
The following websites offer practical advice for families.
NHS Healthier Families
Ideas for healthy eating, physical activity and developing healthy family habits.
NHS – Physical Activity for Children
Guidance on recommended activity levels and the benefits of exercise.
Visit NHS Physical Activity Guidance
NHS – Children's Health
Information about common childhood illnesses, development and health concerns.
Change4Life / NHS Healthier Families Activities
Fun ideas for keeping children active at home and outdoors.
Working Together for Healthy Children
We believe that helping children develop healthy habits is a shared responsibility between school and home.
By encouraging physical activity, healthy eating, good sleep and positive daily routines, we can help children develop the foundations for lifelong health and wellbeing.
If you have concerns about your child's physical health or a medical need that may affect them in school, please contact their class teacher or the school office.
Together we Flourish
Healthy bodies, active minds and happy children.
