Highlands Primary School combats Covid-19 with wellness programme
30 July 2020
Highlands Primary School in Mitchells Plain has started a wellness programme to boost their immune systems and encourage staff to take care of their health.
The wellness programme includes a ‘biggest loser” competition to inspire weight loss, healthy eating habits and exercise.
At the end of the three-month challenge, winners in various categories can walk away with a cash prize and bragging rights.
Principal Tanya van Graan said “a healthy teacher is a wealthy teacher”. The staff has a WhatsApp group where they share healthy recipes, motivational clips, video clips of them working out at home, as well as photos of their lunch at school or dinners at home.
“For me, as a principal, it's a win-win situation. We have team building and the staff make a complete 360 in their health. As a leader, I must lead by example and go the extra mile to implement all the healthy tips and steps.”
Van Graan said the programme started in mid-July and she was in awe of how dedicated the staff members were to shed excess weight and improve their physical and mental wellbeing. “They have a better outlook and more zest despite the pandemic.”
The teachers encourage each other and have fun with exercise classes after school hosted by the Mr Price Foundation.
We look forward to seeing the end result!