ANB Mayor visits Healthy Kids session at Creavery Primary as programme grows across schools

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick made a special visit to Creavery Primary School where children from the school and Creggan Primary School took part in a fun Healthy Kids session.

Children from two primary schools came together for an energetic Healthy Kids session this week as Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council confirmed the programme has now reached more than 30 schools across the borough.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, visited Creavery Primary School where pupils from both Creavery Primary School and Creggan Primary School took part in the activity-based programme designed to encourage healthier lifestyles among young people.

The initiative focuses on helping P6 and P7 pupils stay active, understand healthy eating and develop positive wellbeing habits at a time when childhood health and mental wellbeing remain major concerns for schools and communities across Northern Ireland.

Programme expanding across the borough

Council coaches have now delivered the Healthy Kids programme in more than 30 primary schools throughout the borough, with a further programme already scheduled to begin in September.

All schools across Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough will again be offered the opportunity to participate, widening access to the initiative for pupils across both urban and rural communities.

The programme combines physical activity with lessons around healthy lifestyle choices and emotional wellbeing, aiming to build positive habits during the later years of primary education before pupils transition to secondary school.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s coaches deliver the Healthy Kids programme to P6 and P7 pupils in more than 30 primary schools across the Borough. Schools can submit an expression of interest for the programme from September.

The visit to Creavery Primary School highlighted the growing scale of the programme and the council’s efforts to encourage healthier lifestyles among young people through school-based engagement.

Mayor praises pupils’ enthusiasm

Speaking during the visit, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick said the enthusiasm shown by the children demonstrated the value of the programme in schools across the borough.

“It is wonderful to see so many boys and girls enjoying the Healthy Kids programme together,” she said.

“Their energy, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn are inspiring. This programme helps them grow strong, stay active and look after their minds as well as their bodies.

“I’m very proud of the work happening in our schools and delighted to see the positive impact it is having on young people across our Borough.”

The programme arrives amid increasing focus on childhood wellbeing, physical activity and healthier eating habits, with schools continuing to play a central role in encouraging healthier routines and supporting mental health among pupils.

Schools invited to join September programme

Schools wishing to take part in the next Healthy Kids programme beginning in September are being encouraged to register their interest now.

Schools can request an Expression of Interest form by emailing:

more@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

The Healthy Kids programme is supported through PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

The continued expansion of the initiative means hundreds more pupils across the borough are expected to take part in the coming school year as councils and schools place greater emphasis on long-term health, wellbeing and positive lifestyle education for children.