NORTHLEW Primary School has won national recognition for helping its pupils stay fit and healthy. The school has just received three separate awards recognising its commitment to a healthy lifestyle: the national Healthy Schools Award, jointly run by the Department for Education and Skills and the Department of Health; the Devon Physical Activity Award, which recognises the quality of the school's physical education and sport; and also the Active Mark 2006 from the DfES, in recognition of exceptional delivery within the National School Sports Strategy. This week the school celebrated its achievement with a special 'Healthy Living Day' with the Big Foot Theatre Company. Headteacher Nicola Lampe said they were very proud to have received the awards. 'The whole school community is committed to helping our children lead healthy, fulfilled lives both now and in the future,' she said. To achieve the Healthy Schools Award, Northlew Primary School had to prove it encouraged healthy eating through the Fresh Start lunch menu and by only allowing fruit for break-time snacks. The school also has regular PE, sporting activities, a weekly sports club and a daily 'Take 10' where children spend ten minutes skipping, playing ball sports, or doing an aerobic workout. Devon County Council's adviser for personal, social and health education, Dr Annette Lyons, congratulated the school. She said: "To achieve healthy school status, schools must be successful in 62 separate criteria. 'They include a focus on healthy eating, physical activity, emotional health and well-being. The award also focuses on safety, improving the environment, citizenship and safer travel to schools.'