Seven Thames Valley schools earn recognition for promoting health

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Seven Thames Valley District school board schools have been recognized by the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association for their leadership in promoting health and well-being among students, staff and the wider school community.

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Through the association’s Healthy School Certification program, each school worked with Southwestern public health to develop and implement initiatives rooted in public health principles — from student-led wellness clubs and food literacy programs to mental health awareness and anti-bullying efforts.

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“Schools and public health have a shared vision of creating opportunities where students thrive,” Erica Arnett, manager of Healthy Schools at Southwestern public health, said in a release. “Research is clear that these initiatives provide youth with positive experiences and lifelong health and well-being benefits.”

The following schools in Elgin and Oxford counties were recognized for 2025:

• Gold Certified: Arthur Voaden secondary school: Wellness Day events and a daily student nutrition program
• Gold Certified: Eastdale public school: After-school cooking program, Wellness Club, and mental health initiatives
• Silver Certified: Elgin Court public school: Inclusive recess program focused on belonging
• Silver Certified: Locke’s public school: Dedicated space for students to self-regulate and engage in positive activity
• Gold Certified: Oliver Stephens public school: Student leadership recess initiative and focused Mental Health Week
• Gold Certified: Summers’ Corners public school: Respect initiatives and school-wide family engagement events
• Gold Certified: Winchester Street public school: Sensory-mindfulness room, food literacy program, and anti-bullying week

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“Congratulations to our students. Learning about good health and how to take care of your body and mind are crucial skills that will last a lifetime,” said Bill Tucker, director of education at the Thames Valley board. “Thank you to Southwestern public health and to (the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association) for making this recognition possible.”

Schools interested in joining the Healthy Schools program can register through the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association and follow a four-step process to set and achieve goals that suit their community — whether fostering belonging, strengthening school culture, promoting learning through wellness, or creating inclusive environments.

More information is available at healthyschools.ca.

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