The primary schools have each been awarded Jigsaw Flagship Status, for providing pupils with the knowledge and skills they need to be safe, happy and healthy, as well as preparing them for life and work.

As they are all members of the Trust, it also means we become the first primary multi-academy trust in the country to have achieved the award.

“We decided to adopt the Jigsaw Personal Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) programme as it fosters a whole-school approach for the primary age range,” explained Emma Hunt, Executive Deputy Head at Heacham Infant and Junior and Snettisham Primary.

“It embodies a positive philosophy and features creative teaching and learning activities to nurture children’s development as compassionate and well-rounded human beings, as well as enhancing their capacity to learn, equipping them for life,” she added. 

The Jigsaw scheme covers PSHE provision in schools, and all WNAT’s primaries have each been following its programme since 2019.

The Flagship accreditation recognises successful implementation of the programme, and has been awarded to Heacham Infant and Nursery, Heacham Junior, Snettisham Primary, Gaywood Primary, Walpole Cross Keys Primary, West Lynn Primary, and Clenchwarton Primary.

“There are six Puzzles – or half-term units of work – and each year group is taught one lesson per week. This consistency in approach across skills gives all teachers confidence to deliver high-quality lessons, and it equips pupils well for happier and healthier lives, helping to make their way through the world, beyond education,” added Mrs Hunt.

As Jigsaw Flagship schools, the WNAT primaries will now act as hubs for continuing professional development (CPD) for other schools in the area – and each received a ‘Mighty’ giant, stuffed jigsaw piece. 

“It is hugely important, and acknowledges the great work we do across our schools in nurturing our pupils to be confident and happy, preparing them for the challenges of the modern world through our personal, social, health and well-being education.

“We have seen first-hand just what an impact mindfulness has had on the children’s mental health, equipping them with the skills to use the strategies taught, in order to calm their minds and relax their bodies, allowing them to be ready for learning,” said Mrs Hunt.