Schools in New Forest and Hamble receive extra funding

This funding aims to boost the wellbeing of the schools' students.

The Hamble School and The New Forest Academy, alongside Priestlands School in Lymington and Crookhorn College in Waterlooville, are amongst 76 schools in Hampshire engaging with the #BeeWell initiative.

The programme was launched in March of the previous year, with the purpose being to give young people a say in wellbeing services.

Peter Main, Headteacher (centre), and Natalie Peacock, Assistant Headteacher (right), with Priestlands School pupils (Image: Supplied)

During the autumn term of 2023, surveys shaped by the thoughts of local youth were circulated amongst the year 8 and 10 students of these participating schools.

The concerns raised in the survey caused each school to formulate unique action plans addressing their pupils' needs.

Subsequently, these four schools were chosen by a council of young locals to receive funding from #BeeWell due to the expected positive influence their plans could have on the students' wellbeing.

Their proposals include expanding the availability of sports, introducing rock climbing, and a wellbeing day that features pet therapy and yoga.

The Hamble School, and The New Forest Academy each received £750 to aid their endeavours.

In addition to these projects, other initiatives such as anxiety workshops and improved guidance to support services are also anticipated.

Three other schools in the region, inclusive of a special school in Southampton, have also obtained prizes.

Jade Burgess, #BeeWell Project Manager (left), Michaela Bishop, Assistant Headteacher (second left), Natalie Madden, #BeeWell Programme Manager (second right), and Helen Dear, Secondary Inspector for Hampshire County Council (far right) with Crookhorn College pupils (Image: Supplied)

All participating schools retain ongoing support from the #BeeWell programme and its partners, with young people spearheading these efforts.

Councillor Roz Chadd, Hampshire County Council’s cabinet lead member for children’s services, said: "We know that health and wellbeing is a hugely important topic for Hampshire’s young people, who voted this as one of their top priorities in this year’s Make Your Mark youth consultation.

"Congratulations and well done to our pupils in the winning schools who have shown particular enthusiasm, initiative and imagination in their action plans. I look forward to seeing the results of their work and that of our wider participating schools across Hampshire."