In the early years sector, a PANCo stands for a Physical Activity and Nutrition Coordinator.Tammy is our settings  designated staff member who champions and leads initiatives to improve children's and staff's physical activity and nutrition. Their role involves working with children, parents, and practitioners to foster healthy habits, prevent childhood obesity, and embed health and wellbeing into the setting's ethos and curriculum. 

Key responsibilities of a PANCo:

• Promote Healthy Habits: 

Emphasize the importance of physical activity and a healthy diet to children, families, and staff. 

• Act as an Agent for Change: 

Lead continuous improvements within the early years setting to support the prevention of obesity. 

• Educate and Support: 

Educate children, staff, and families about nutrition, physical activity, and good oral health. 

• Embed Health in the Curriculum: 

Ensure health and well-being are strongly integrated into the setting's curriculum and daily practices. 

• Collaborate: 

Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop a whole-setting approach to healthy living. 

Origin of the role: 

• The PANCo role was developed through The Cambridge Model, a health improvement program for the early years sector.

Why is the role important?

• Critical Early Years: 

The early years are a crucial time for forming lifelong healthy eating and physical activity habits. 

• Preventing Obesity: 

The role is linked to local and national strategies to tackle the growing issue of childhood obesity. 

• Positive Impact: 

PANCos make a significant impact on the health and well-being of children, staff, and their families. 

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This role is new and as it develops Tammy will add a clear lunch box policy and guidelines around healthy life style choices.