SCARBOROUGH MP Robert Goodwill went back to the classroom last week as he paid a visit to Wykeham C of E Primary School. Head teacher, James Pynn was keen to show off the school and its new fruit-smoothie-based rewards system, ‘The Smooth Run’ – the idea of former pupil and graduate Zachary Greaves. The system brings together five key areas of effort and achievement – Learning, Health, Responsibility, Service and Lifestyle – as children receive a smoothie at the end of the week. After a guided tour of the school, Mr Goodwill saw the scheme in action as several children enjoyed their rewards. Mr Goodwill said, “I remember seeing fun-sized Mars Bars awarded in schools. It’s good to see children enjoying these healthy treats for their efforts.” A number of bright-coloured smoothies were on offer and children were given their chosen flavour. Mr Goodwill talked to the children about their smoothies and of their achievements throughout the week.
Mr Pynn said, “I came to the school in September and, as the new head teacher, I opened up the floor for the school community to think creatively about a new rewards system.”
“Everybody seems to be really on board with ‘The Smooth Run’ –not least the children who really enjoy the smoothies! “
During the discussion, Zachary said “A really important part of the scheme is the involvement of all of the school community. The fact that value is placed on academic efforts as well as life skills such as healthy living and social responsibility means that everyone strives for well-rounded self-improvement within a supportive culture.”
Mr Pynn saw potential for The Smooth Run to be used in other schools in North Yorkshire and Mr Goodwill talked about ways in which it might be taken further afield. Look out - this scheme might soon be making a ‘smooth run’ to your local school!
Robert Goodwill said, “This is a fantastic initiative that not only incentivises the children to work hard and engage positively with their classmates but also associates healthy eating (or drinking) with positive messages about rewards. I hope that other schools will consider copying this brilliant idea.”