The Bomaderry Public School Experience

About the school

Bomaderry Public School is a large primary school on the north side of the Shoalhaven River. The school draws students from the communities of Bomaderry, Bolong, Backforest and Meroo Meadow, with 25% from an Indigenous background.

Context

From anecdotal evidence, teachers were concerned about students’ general health and well-being and the impact this was having on their learning. They noticed low concentration levels and behavioural problems in some students. The teachers wanted to improve students’ concentration and behaviour by raising awareness of nutritional foods and ways to increase levels of physical activity. All students K–6 were involved in the project.

Project outline

To develop students’ knowledge and understanding of health and physical activity concepts, PDHPE programs were implemented through the use of an RFF (‘Relief from face-to-face’) teacher. This enabled a focused and consistent approach to PDHPE.The school also introduced a series of programs to support students to get active and develop healthier food habits. These included:

• The Breakfast Program, sponsored by the Red Cross, Dairy Farmers and Bakers Delight. The program provides a free, nutritionally sound breakfast to all students.
• Morning physical activities for all students every Tuesday and Friday. This is followed by a Munch ’n’ Crunch fresh fruit snack.
• Tabloid sports each Monday morning.
• A healthy lunch box reward.
• Additional support through the Active After-school Communities Program. Twice a week students can enjoy a variety of after-school physical activities free of charge.

What worked well?

Evaluations of the program have been positive, particularly regarding the tabloid sports and physical activity sessions. The children are eating more fruit and are involved in more physical activity as a result of the project.

What would you do differently?

Implementing programs gradually throughout the school year would be best. Doing the new project in only two terms was difficult. It is important to allow time for students and staff to adjust to new programs.

Where to now?

At this stage we will be continuing the project next year.

Summary

It’s important to allocate time to reflect on and review physical and human resources in the school and to monitor the progress of the planned change process.