A specially selected team of older pupils has been chosen to help support younger children during playtimes at Chilton Primary in Ramsgate.

Known as Thrive Ambassadors, the team from Year 5 and Year 6 will promote positive play, friendship and wellbeing.

Throughout the year they will work alongside younger children, joining in with games, encouraging imaginative play and helping children who may need a friendly face or extra support during breaktimes.

By modelling kindness, empathy and inclusion, they will help create an environment where every child feels they belong.

Carly Reavill, Assistant Head Teacher, explained: “Play is one of the most important ways children learn about themselves, develop friendships and build emotional resilience.

“Our Thrive Ambassadors play a vital role in helping younger children feel safe, valued and connected. By co-adventuring alongside them, they encourage confidence, communication and positive relationships, ensuring every child has the opportunity to enjoy happy, meaningful playtimes."

As part of the rigorous selection process, children interested in the role wrote thoughtful letters explaining why they wanted to become ambassadors and how they would make a positive difference to others.

Their applications demonstrated compassion, responsibility and a genuine commitment to helping younger pupils feel safe, happy and included.

Once appointed the new ambassadors took part in specialist training led by Chilton’s Thrive Practitioners. They explored the importance of play, learnt how to support children through co-adventuring during playtimes and developed strategies to encourage positive relationships, confidence and emotional wellbeing.

Deputy Head Teacher Hannah Cheshire said the ambassador programme is an important part of the school’s ongoing commitment to children's emotional wellbeing and its Thrive approach, which places relationships, belonging and positive mental health at the heart of school life.

She added: “Everyone at Chilton is incredibly proud of our new Thrive Ambassadors and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on the school community throughout the year.”

Chilton Primary School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Upton Junior School in Broadstairs and Ramsgate Arts Primary School.

*For more information contact Deputy Head Teacher Hannah Cheshire on 01843 597695