Health is a resource to be cherished and worked toward, teachers and schools who took part in a year-long healthy living initiative were told last week.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Cann thanked teachers and schools who participated in the Health for Success Initiative.

Teachers and school representatives gathered in the Elliot Primary School auditorium for an award programme that fosters health awareness and change in schools and communities.

Dr. Cann said: "Health requires the help of the community.'' Lovette Lovell, coordinator for Health for Success said: "This particular initiative was really to get schools and teachers' support for health.'' There are seven components in the initiative, including curriculum, activities, student services, food and nutrition services and healthy school surroundings.

Acting Health Minister Alex Scott presented the awards to pre-schools, primary schools and teachers.

Southampton pre-school won the Gold Award with St. Mark's winning Silver and Somerset taking a Merit Award in the pre-school category.

In the primary school category, Gilbert took the Platinum Award, then Harrington Sound won a silver, Elliott received a Merit award and Francis Patton received Special Mention.

Individual teachers were also recognised for their roles in improving school children's health.

Karen Bramlett, Elonda Stevens, and Toula Smith won the Gold Awards for pre-school, primary and middle school teachers. Silver awards were given to Bonnie Smith for pre-schools, Linda Hollis and Marina Resendes for primary schools and Shelly Grace and Ann Coakley for middle schools.

Ann Hines won a Bronze and Kathy Pearman received a Merit for primary schools.

The only senior school teacher awarded, science teacher Cesare Filice, received a Merit for his role in tying science and health together in the classroom.