Healthy Active Learning (HAL) is a joint initiative between Sport New Zealand, Te Whatu Ora Health NZ, and the Ministry of Education, designed to support schools and kura in improving child and youth wellbeing through healthy eating, drinking, and quality physical activity. In West Auckland, Healthy Active Learning Advisors and Community Developers work with over 40 local primary and intermediate schools, promoting active, healthy school environments, building teacher confidence, and fostering community connections to enhance physical activity experiences for tamariki.

Over the past three years, the Principals’ Hui has provided an annual opportunity for both existing and potential new school principals to come together and learn about the future of Healthy Active Learning. Hosted by Sport Waitākere, these hui are designed to evolve based on the needs of the schools and the current context of the initiative, creating a platform for reflection, collaboration, and future planning.

A Journey Through 3 Years of Principal Hui

The first Principal Hui was an introduction to Healthy Active Learning, focusing on establishing its mission and helping schools engage with the initiative. The following year, high schools were invited, expanding Healthy Active Learning’s reach and offering opportunities to promote physical activity and wellbeing across a wider range of students. The most recent hui centred on the next four years of Healthy Active Learning, with schools signing on for continued collaboration and looking forward to new opportunities for growth and development.

Each year, the hui adapts to the needs of the time, making sure that schools are supported in real and practical ways. From initial introductions to long-term planning, Healthy Active Learning has continued to evolve alongside the schools it serves.

The Most Recent Principal Hui

At the most recent Principals’ Hui 2024, principals reflected on what Healthy Active Learning has achieved so far and discussed the future of the initiative, with a specific focus on the next phase: 2025-2028. The event covered key topics such as wellbeing in schools within the context of government mandates and the Sport Waitākere Impact Strategy, which will guide Healthy Active Learning’s approach moving forward.

Principals also had the opportunity to hear from peers, with several schools sharing their Healthy Active Learning success stories. Oaklynn Special School, for example, highlighted new physical activity opportunities that have come about due to their engagement with the Healthy Active Learning initiative.  Henderson North School shared their experiences of how HAL has supported their bilingual unit.

Gregor Fountain, Strategic Engagement Manager from Sport NZ and a former principal, delivered the keynote speech for the second year in a row. His address, titled “Is ‘Wellbeing’ Still a Thing? And Why a Deliberate Focus on Positive & Inclusive Physical Activity is Still Good for Everyone!”, emphasized the importance of maintaining a focus on wellbeing through positive physical activity within the current government mandates.

Strengthening Connections and Looking Ahead

Feedback from the past three years of Principal Hui highlights the value of these gatherings, not just for sharing HAL’s achievements, but also for strengthening the bonds between schools. One principal remarked, “Principal’s Hui 2024 was a really nice mix of things on the agenda. I really enjoyed listening to Gregor and talking with him afterward too.”

As Healthy Active Learning looks ahead to its next four years, the Principal Hui will continue to play a key role in shaping the initiative and ensuring schools are equipped to create healthier, more active environments for tamariki.

Article added: Tuesday 10 September 2024