Gosport schoolchildren enjoy free Oxfam books while learning about kindness and positivity

Since returning to school in September, the children of Newtown C of E Primary School have been learning about staying positive in these uncertain and difficult times.

Staff have encouraged pupils to complete random acts of daily kindness to staff and visitors, learn about kindness and friendship in workshops and leave anonymous messages of happiness throughout the school.

They have also developed a food bank for families and the community as well as organising a monthly uniform swap shop to help parents access nearly new uniforms free of charge.

Emma Howlett, headteacher at the school in Queen’s Road, said: ‘I am so proud of the children and staff at Newtown C of E Primary School. During this uncertain period, we have not only been courageous and resilient but have become a real community hub of kindness within Gosport.’

Another way children have been improving their mental health is through reading, with help from a free book from Oxfam for each child to enjoy.

The school curriculum aims to actively teach and promote the Christian ethos values of love, courage and friendship, and through these activities the staff hope to help strengthen the school community and encourage more friendships to be formed.

A new school council has been created to help make pupils’ voices heard and encourage them to actively participate in improving their lives and those of their peers at the school.

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