Hackbridge Primary School has been visited by the Deputy Mayor of London to mark its “excellent work” in improving its pupils’ physical and mental wellbeing.

The school, in Hackbridge Road, has been recognised with the Mayor’s Healthy Schools London Gold Award status after increasing the physical activity and mental health support of its students.

Joanne McCartney, the Deputy Mayor for Education and Childcare, observed a PE lesson and pupils take part in the “Daily Mile” mindfulness group during her visit on February 28.

The gold award status represents a step up for Hackbridge Primary School, having previously obtained bronze and silver awards as well.

Ms McCartney said: “It’s hugely important that children of all ages are given the tools they need to look after their physical and mental wellbeing.

“By helping pupils to be active in PE sessions and through the Daily Mile, and by encouraging mindfulness from a young age, our Healthy Schools London programme empowers children and their parents, guardians and teachers to make healthy choices every day.

“The staff and students at Hackbridge Primary School should be very proud of their hard work in achieving the Gold Award [status].

“I hope their success inspires more schools to sign up to Healthy Schools London.”

The Healthy Schools London programme aims to encourage London’s schools to “provide an environment and culture that helps their pupils grow up to be healthy, happy and learn”.

Bronze, silver and gold awards intend to recognise and celebrate the efforts of schools across the capital.

So far, 54 have registered with the programme – 35 have achieved bronze, 10 have got silver and four have obtained gold.