A major milestone at Newington Community Primary in Ramsgate has seen the official passing of the torch from the pioneering Year 6 Thrive Ambassadors to a new recruit team from Year 5.
With the trailblazing Year 6 heading off on their exciting new journeys at secondary school, 12 eager Year 5 pupils have spent the last few weeks undergoing rigorous training.
Now, they stand ready to done the iconic Thrive lanyards and keep the spirit of kindness, inclusion, and emotional support alive on the playground.
To mark the transition, the outgoing Year 6 ambassadors joined forces with the rising Year 5s, working side-by-side to show them the ropes and share their top tips for keeping lunchtimes happy and inclusive.
Since the initiative was successfully launched earlier this school year, the Year 6 pioneers have completely transformed lunchtimes. From leading high-energy parachute games and organising massive giant Jenga tournaments to setting up quiet, cosy story-time corners and arts and crafts tables, they have ensured that every single pupil has a safe, happy space to thrive.
One of the outgoing ambassadors spoke for the team: “At first, I was nervous about leading games, but seeing someone go from standing alone by the wall to laughing and playing giant Jenga with a group of new friends made it all worth it.
“Being a Thrive Ambassador taught me how to really listen to people. We’re leaving, but we know the playground is in safe hands.”
Another added: “It’s not just about the games; it’s about making sure nobody feels invisible. I’m so proud of what we started, and I know the Year 5s are going to do an amazing job keeping that promise.”
Staff have been quick to praise the profound impact the program has had on the overall school culture, noting a visible shift in how pupils interact, resolve conflicts, and support one another.
“I am incredibly proud of how our ambassadors have embraced this responsibility,” said Assistant Head Teacher and Special Educational Needs co-ordinator Suzanne Legge.
“Seeing our playground transform into a place where every child—regardless of their needs—feels included, supported, and valued is truly heart-warming.
“The Year 6s have set a phenomenal example of leadership, and the genuine care they have shown has made a lasting impact on our school’s wellbeing. I have no doubt our new Year 5 team will continue this legacy of kindness with the exact same passion.”
Head Teacher Hannah Tudor agreed and added: “The peer-to-peer support has such a positive impact in our community.
“When children support children, it builds a level of trust that adults can’t always replicate.
“The Year 6s have built a brilliant foundation, and we are incredibly proud of them as they take these leadership skills with them to secondary school.”
The newly-trained Year 5 ambassadors have big shoes to fill, but after weeks of learning the science of wellbeing, emotional regulation, and active listening, they are more than ready for the challenge.
“We’ve watched the Year 6s and saw how much happier the playground got,” said one of the newly qualified Year 5 ambassadors. “We’ve learned how to spot when someone is having a tough day, and we can’t wait to start next term. We want to make sure everyone still has a friend to turn to.”
Miss Tudor added: “We say a massive thank you to our Year 6 pioneers for their outstanding service, and we extend a huge, warm welcome to our 12 new Year 5 ambassadors.”
