1. How to win the picky eater dinner time battle

TfL’s Travel for Life programme supports the next generation of Londoners to travel towards a brighter, safer and more sustainable future. By completing activities that promote walking and cycling to school and the safe use of public transport, primary and secondary schools can become Bronze, Silver or Gold accredited. The programme is administered by London Transport Museum in partnership with London’s Borough Officers.

To achieve Gold accreditation, a school must have reduced car use by six per cent or achieved 90 per cent of the school run being made using sustainable transport. The number of schools awarded Gold in 2024 was 735, a 10 per cent increase compared to 2023.

Bromley currently has the largest proportion of Gold schools, at an impressive 63 per cent, followed by Islington at 49 per cent and Havering at 45 per cent. Meanwhile Waltham Forest currently has the largest overall number of schools participating in the TfL Travel for Life programme, with 81 per cent of its schools involved. Bromley and Islington also have large numbers of schools participating, with 74 and 71 per cent of schools respectively.

St Gregory’s Catholic Science College in Brent recently achieved Gold accreditation, having only signed up to TfL Travel for Life in March 2023. With a motto “swap the ride for a park for a park and stride,” the school is taking several actions including measuring the air quality in its immediate surroundings, holding assemblies and creating a podcast on active travel.

TfL Citizens, delivered by London Transport Museum, is one of the five TfL Travel for Life programmes and is for children aged 10-11. It now has more than 100,000 pupils and 91 per cent of London schools taking part, preparing children for travelling to secondary school and teaching skills such as journey planning.

Numerous studies point to the health benefits of walking and cycling to school, with national charity Living Streets citing improvements in mood and behaviour in children who travel on foot. With the Government’s target for 55 per cent of primary school aged children walking to school by 2025, TfL is calling on London schools not currently participating in TfL Travel for Life to sign up to the scheme, to reap the benefits of better air quality and improved health.

Fewer parents driving children to school also improves road safety, as TfL works to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries from London’s transport network as part of its Vision Zero programme. Following several measures taken by TfL, there has been sustained improvement in safety for under-16s on London’s roads. In 2023, the number of children killed or seriously injured on London’s roads was reduced by 40 per cent against TfL’s 2010-14 baseline.

The entry, which was submitted by Year 9 pupils Hannah, Millie and Lily, was selected from 1,483 entries by 2455 students from 145 different schools.

In response to the competition brief, the three girls created an innovative information vending machine dispensing facts and figures, as well as a short film, to raise awareness of the benefits of working as a ‘dramatherapist’ within the NHS. They were presented with the award by Annie Laverty, Director of Patient and Staff Experience at Newcastle Hospitals, at a special school presentation event after which the pupils’ achievement and their winning film was displayed on a giant DigiVan which toured Newcastle stopping at iconic locations across the city.

The ‘Step into the NHS’ secondary school competition launches at the start of each school year and an overall national winner is selected from a number of regional winners. It has been designed to highlight the 350 different career pathways on offer within the NHS – one of the world’s biggest employers.

Annie Laverty said: “It was a pleasure to attend the school assembly and be able to listen to all the students with such brilliant ideas. To have the winning proposal out of 1483 entries is very special indeed – I’m sure the school is deeply proud.
“A big thank you, too, from all of us in the NHS, for helping to create awareness of the huge variety of NHS careers that are available to young people after leaving school.”

Kirsty Ridley, Head of Careers, NHSG, said: “We’re so proud of Hannah, Millie and Lily for winning the national award in this prestigious NHS competition. Their innovative solution was recognised by the judges as a truly original and powerful way to raise awareness of the rewarding career of dramatherapist. The creativity the girls displayed by presenting their findings as a vending machine, which popped out key facts was impressive, and they were so excited to see their film being shared across Newcastle on the DigiVan.”

“Understanding the many varied and specialist roles out there is so important to pupils as they develop their skills and prepare themselves for the world of work, so taking part in this competition has been hugely beneficial not only to our winners, but to every pupil who meticulously researched, planned and delivered their thoughtful entries based on a diverse range of healthcare careers.”

Darren Aldrich, Head of Communications at NHS Health Careers, said: “We’d like to congratulate Hannah, Millie and Lily on their incredible NHS job advert and being crowned our Step into the NHS secondary school overall competition winners for 2023-2024. Our judges were bowled over with the girls’ highly original concept and the research they’d undertaken to bring the role of NHS dramatherapist to life. We’d like to thank everyone from Newcastle High School for Girls for their hard work, in particular recognising the achievements of the school’s highly commended awardees.

“Every year, we are always impressed with the hundreds of amazing entries from students exploring the more than 350 NHS careers. We hope that this win will inspire students to raise their career aspirations and help them feel more confident in their job-seeking skills.”

Newcastle High School for Girls is an independent all-through 3-18 all-girl school that is part of the Girls Day School Trust (GDST).

Performance Panels Limited, based in Halifax, supplies and distributes Trespa® TopLab® BASE, a surface panel produced in the Netherlands by Trespa International, that is suitable for science laboratory worktops and cabinetry in schools.

Now the product, which has been specially designed for scientific applications and boasts performance qualities including healthy air quality, has been recognised with a GREENGUARD Gold certification.

GREENGUARD certification identifies products with lower chemical emissions promoting healthy air quality. The GREENGUARD Gold standard looks more specifically at levels of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions levels to ensure that products are acceptable for use in environments such as schools and healthcare facilities.

After stringent tests, Trespa® TopLab® BASE has proven to be 85.3% lower in formaldehyde in comparison to similar high pressure laminate (HPL) products in the UK, making it an ideal choice for school laboratories and other educational environments. It is reported that children are more susceptible than adults to respiratory effects of formaldehyde because their neurological systems are still developing. The certification also means that the material is up to 56% lower in VOC emissions in comparison to similar products in the UK. As well as science laboratory surfaces, Trespa® TopLab®BASE is also commonly used in food technology classrooms as it is suitable for food contact, very durable, not adversely affected by moisture and easy to clean.

John Eyre, Commercial Manager of Performance Panels, said: “You may not know exactly what formaldehyde is, but the likelihood is that you have been breathing it in all your life. The UK’s built environment industry is ever-changing, and it has evolved dramatically over the last 30 years with the use of materials that emit formaldehyde very common now. It’s something you may not have considered before but studies suggest that long exposure to formaldehyde can increase the risk of developing asthma in childhood.

“Children go to school for at least 418 weeks in their lifetime, so it is essential to ensure that circulating air is healthy and clean. Not only will this reduce health risks, but it will also improve pupils’ alertness and concentration. Safeguarding their health is paramount with more consideration needed on the materials used in an education environment. This is why we are especially proud to be a UK Premium Partner of Trespa, distributing Trespa® TopLab® BASE. Not only is it a high performance product fit for purpose, it is also innovative and ground-breaking, creating change in not only the built environment, but also the education sector.”

From coughs to concentration: air quality’s impact

Poor air quality in schools isn’t just a discomfort; it has real consequences. Studies show increased respiratory problems, allergy flare-ups, and even reduced cognitive function in environments with high pollutant levels. Imagine classrooms filled with sniffles and itchy eyes, where concentration and learning are constantly challenged. Air purifiers, equipped with HEPA filters, act as tireless sentries, capturing dust, allergens, and even airborne viruses, offering a crucial line of defence for students and staff.

It’s not just about viruses: a multifaceted approach

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of clean air, but the need goes beyond viral protection. Dust mites, mould spores, and even volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from building materials can trigger allergies and asthma. Air purifiers provide a multi-pronged attack, filtering out a wide range of harmful particles, creating a healthier environment for everyone, regardless of their specific sensitivities.

Beyond hype: making informed choices

It’s important to acknowledge that air purifiers are not a silver bullet. Proper ventilation remains paramount, and addressing sources of pollution within the school is crucial. However, when used strategically and as part of a comprehensive IAQ plan, air purifiers can be a powerful tool. Careful considerations like choosing the right type and size for the space, ensuring proper maintenance, and integrating them into broader IAQ strategies are key to maximizing their effectiveness.

Investing in the future: a cost-benefit equation

While the initial cost of air purifiers might seem daunting, consider the long-term benefits. Reduced absenteeism due to illness, improved learning outcomes, and a healthier, more productive workforce leads to long-term cost savings. Moreover, healthier schools create a positive learning environment, fostering better engagement and overall well-being, which is truly priceless.

Air purifiers are not just a fad; they represent a proactive approach to ensuring the health and well-being of our future generations. Let’s move beyond simply “getting by” and prioritise creating truly healthy learning environments where every child can thrive.

While known for Chromebooks, laptops, and monitors in schools, Acer has expanded its offerings to include AcerPure air purifiers.

The AcerPure Pro P2 and AcerPure Cool C2 2-in-1 air purifiers are indispensable tools for educational institutions seeking to maintain a healthy environment during cold and flu season. By integrating these innovative devices into classrooms, libraries, and communal spaces, schools can proactively reduce the spread of illness and promote student and staff wellness.

For a limited time, Acer is including 1 year worth of free air filters with the purchase of an AcerPure air purifier. For more information visit https://uk-offers.acer.com/air-purifiers-promotions/

Last year, the government committed to supplying state-funded schools across England with defibrillators to make sure there is a device in every school.

It follows campaigning from the Oliver King Foundation and its founder Mark King, who has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the need for defibrillators since he tragically lost his son at the age of 12 to cardiac arrest while swimming at school.

The deliveries of the first defibrillators mark the start of a roll out of over 20,000 defibrillators to almost 18,000 state-funded schools by the end of the academic year.

The government is also supporting schools in making defibrillators available to the community, with external heated defibrillator cabinets being provided to primary and special schools in areas where provision is lower.

An internal cabinet is being provided to secondary schools that are receiving two or more defibrillators, so one can be placed at the school’s sports facility, where a cardiac arrest is more likely to happen.

The Oliver King Foundation and other leading charities, including the British Heart Foundation, Resuscitation Council UK and St John Ambulance, have supported the creation of updated guidance which will give schools the tools and knowledge they need to use their new defibrillators.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said: “Today we’re celebrating a huge milestone as we start deliveries of defibrillators to schools, working towards every school having one by the end of the academic year.

“None of this would have come about without the relentless and brave campaigning of Mark King and the Oliver King Foundation, and we are extremely grateful to him and other leading charities for the ongoing support they will doubtless provide schools from lesson plans to staff training.”

Founder of the Oliver King Foundation Mark King said: “This is a landmark moment and will be welcomed by pupils, parents and teachers up and down the country.

“It is a proud day for us because we’ve campaigned for schools to have access to defibrillators for over a decade. It is a major victory for the Oliver King Foundation.

“Defibrillators save lives and I have no doubt that lives will now be saved so that families do not have to suffer the heartbreak of unnecessarily losing a child. This is for our Ollie.”

This is the largest defibrillator programme in England to date and will ensure that pupils and staff have access to this lifesaving first aid equipment.

The new guidance provides advice for schools on how to make their defibrillator available to the community. The government is also encouraging schools to sign up to The Circuit, the national defibrillator network.

As part of the roll out awareness videos are being provided, showing how simple defibrillators are to use, and schools are being encouraged to share these videos in staff meetings and assemblies.

This follows the announcement last month of a new £1 million fund to increase the number of defibrillators in communities most in need – providing an estimated 1,000 new defibrillators in community spaces across England.

Dermatologically tested, these innovative wipes are kind to skin and deliver against the latest EN1500 hand hygiene standards. They are highly effective, killing 99.99% of the most common germs that may be harmful, including yeast and mould and have proven, fast-acting efficacy against bacteria (EN1276, EN13727) and viruses (EN14476) from 30 seconds.

Furthermore, they have also passed the EN16615 test. This is the gold standard for wipes, consisting of an evaluation of bactericidal and yeasticidal efficacy in real world conditions, with tests conducted on medical surfaces.

PURELL Hand & Surface Antimicrobial Wipes are designed with a non-woven fabric that does not tear easily. No rinsing is required and no residue is left after use, making them incredibly easy-to-use. Suitable for use in food-contact areas, they do not affect the taste or smell of food .

Chris Wakefield, Managing Director UK & Ireland, GOJO Industries-Europe Ltd comments, ‘In the wake of the COVD crisis, the need for effective hygiene solutions to reduce the risk of infection has never been greater. The hygiene of hands and high touch surfaces is especially important in many working environments, so we are delighted to introduce a one-stop solution that is highly effective on all kinds of non-porous surfaces, whilst being gentle to skin – and that meets the very top standard of testing! These versatile wipes quickly sanitise hands and surfaces and can be used everywhere in a facility –– making them an essential part of the cleaning toolkit in a wide variety of locations.’

A unique product with market-leading germ-killing capacity, PURELL Hand & Surface Antimicrobial Wipes are available in four different sizes and quantities: 100 count canister, 200 count canister , 270 count canister, and a 450 count bucket .

For more information, call +44 (0)1908 588444, email infouk@GOJO.com or visit www.GOJO.com

The programme, which launched in January 2020, aims to make sure girls can access period products when they are needed, reducing stigma and keeping young people attending school and college and engaged in education, when they might have otherwise missed out.

A study by PHS Group with 250 young people suggests 35% of girls aged 13-18 have taken time off school or college because of their period, with 11% of those claiming they missed school due to lack of affordability of period products.

The scheme helps young people make the most of every possible day in the classroom, particularly following the pandemic when most young people spent time learning from home rather than in class.

Will Quince, Minister for Children and Families, said: “I’m delighted that the incredibly important scheme providing free period products for schools and colleges across England is to continue running.

“Nothing should get in the way of students spending every possible moment in class, and no girl should ever be ashamed of being on their period.

“Any school or college that has not yet ordered through the scheme should do so at the first possible opportunity.”

State funded organisations in England can order free period products for the remainder of the academic year, from supplier PHS Group. Each school or college has a budget that will remain intact until the end of the calendar year, after which it will be renewed with a new spend cap in January 2022.

Gemma Abbott, Director of #FreePeriods, said: “Young people have already had so many hours away from the classroom – this scheme is an amazing opportunity for all schools and colleges to ensure that no young person has to miss out on their education for lack of access to period products.

“We want to urge every school and college in England to place orders for free period supplies as soon as they can. We’re glad to see the scheme has been extended to the end of the academic year – let’s take the chance to show just how valuable it is, so we can secure its continuation well into the future.”

Sharon Common, Head of Portland Academy, said: “Having access to free period products with no questions asked has made our female students feel more comfortable and confident, and as the products are visible around school, boys have also increased their understanding of menstruation.

“Some of our autistic young ladies have sensory difficulties and find wearing sanitary protection a challenge which can lead to absence from school each month. Using school supplies means staff can work with students to work on improving this.

“Having free stock also means parents and carers do not have to ration what they send in to school with their daughter which reduces impact on low-income families and increases personal hygiene.”

Education Support will deliver the new mental health support scheme for school leaders. The service will run until March 2023.

The scheme builds on a pilot involving over 350 school leaders which was launched in response to the challenges brought about by the pandemic. Eligible school leaders can access the programme from today through the Education Support website: https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/get-help/help-for-your-staff/wellbeing-services/school-leaders-support/

Education Support also provides a free and confidential helpline for everyone working in education. It is staffed by qualified counsellors and open 24/7: 08000 562 561

Sinéad Mc Brearty, CEO of Education Support says: “School leaders have done a heroic job over the past 18 months, and we’re delighted to be continuing to support them through the services announced today. They have moved mountains to keep children learning, while implementing Covid measures, supporting families and so much more.

“School leaders keep children learning, while rarely pausing to check in on themselves. They prioritise everyone else first, which is why we’re so pleased to provide them with professional support, and a space to care for themselves.

“Today’s announcement is a welcome acknowledgement that educator mental health is a vital part of our education system. We’re delighted to be providing these services with the support of DfE, and look forward to working together to support the mental health and wellbeing of everyone working in education.”

Now in Glasgow, the programme has already launched in Nigeria and Italy with Australia and South Africa set to follow early next year. Pupils from St Denis’s and Carronshore primary schools visited the Green Zone at COP26 to see Dettol bring to life the new Dettol Hygiene Quest during a live show in the Science theatre.

The engaging, story-led programme being piloted in Glasgow takes pupils on an exciting hygiene adventure exploring the importance of hand hygiene. This new initiative has been created in collaboration with medical experts, curriculum designers, gamification developers and behavioural change specialists to ensure that it’s engaging and educational whilst also embedding life-long hand hygiene practices.

As we see COVID-19 cases continue to rise nationally there’s never been a more important time for children to understand how good hand hygiene can prevent illness transmission. Dettol’s new schools programme, Dettol Hygiene Quest, has been created to help teachers demonstrate the importance of good hygiene and has already been adopted by over 50 schools in the Glasgow area.

Eilidh Barry from St Denis’s primary school said: “Our pupils are so excited to be a part of bringing Dettol Hygiene Quest to life during COP26 and had a great deal of fun learning about the programme. This is a great opportunity for them to be a part of one of the world’s largest conferences fighting worldwide issues and it is so great to see an organisation like Dettol making a difference on important global issues”

As the official hygiene partner for COP26, Dettol wants to highlight the link between planetary and public health, emphasising the importance of human health in ensuring the sustainable, long-term health of our planet. Schools can still sign up to take part in Dettol Hygiene Quest at https://get.everfi.com/dettol-hygiene-quest/

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