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Pupils Dance Into The School Day With New Rise And Shine Initiative

An East Riding primary school is boosting pupil wellbeing and punctuality by starting the day with a playground dance party.

Pupils' wellbeing and readiness to learn are getting a major boost from a new morning dance initiative.

Children, parents, and teachers are dancing their way into the school day three times a week at an East Riding primary school.

The 'Rise and Shine' programme sees pupils arriving ten minutes earlier to sing and dance to music on the playground before lessons begin.

Youngsters who find mornings challenging are being helped by the initiative at Leven Primary School, which aims to create a more positive start to the day.

Anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties are being tackled through the upbeat morning routine, which has quickly evolved into a core part of the school's culture.

Punctuality and attendance have improved since the scheme was introduced in June, with many children showing a renewed enthusiasm for coming to school.

Community relationships are also growing stronger as families and staff join in the activities together.

Leanne Hansell, Leven Primary Headteacher, said:

"We began Rise and Shine in June when we were looking at ways to improve children’s wellbeing, engagement and readiness to learn. Some children can find mornings challenging, particularly those experiencing anxiety and/or emotional regulation difficulties, so we wanted to create a more positive start to the day.

What started as a wellbeing initiative has quickly become a key part of our school culture. Children, staff and parents join in together, helping to strengthen relationships and create a real sense of community. We have seen improved punctuality, great enthusiasm for coming to school, and many children arriving in class feeling more ready to learn. We've also had very positive feedback from parents."

Attendance and mental health are benefiting from the simple but highly effective initiative, according to local education leaders.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said:

"It’s great to see a school develop a fun initiative which has had a positive impact on attendance, wellbeing and readiness to learn. Rise and Shine is an excellent example of a simple thing that has huge benefits. Well done Leven!"

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