You will probably be aware of recent concerns around physical inactivity and childhood obesity. As they go through Primary school, many children put on weight and, across the UK, around 35% of pupils in their final year of Primary are categorised as overweight or obese.
Here at Furness Vale we have introduced the Golden Mile challenge for all children which consists of a 10 minute outdoor activity session everyday! It is not competitive: most children will average a mile in that time, with some doing more and some doing less. It is not PE, sport or cross-country but a physical activity, which is aimed at improving the children’s physical, social, emotional and mental health and well-being.
This session happens around 2pm each day – half way through the afternoon, so children can have a natural break, then go back to class feeling refreshed and ready to learn for the final hour of the day. They won’t need to get changed out of their school uniform but can change their shoes especially if what they’re wearing isn’t appropriate for jogging or running. We will be going out in all weathers, so any outdoor accessories, appropriate to the weather conditions can be used (e.g. a coat if it’s raining, a sun hat if it’s sunny, etc.).
We are really excited about this new initiative and looking forward to the benefits it will bring to the children. Participation is a key factor, it doesn’t matter how fast they manage to go or how far, taking part in their own way, at their own speed is what’s important. On the other hand, some children will embrace the challenge.
To find out more about how it all works please visit: www.thedailymile.co.uk or the www.golden-mile.org.
We have joined the Golden Mile so that as well as the health benefits outlined, children will also be rewarded with a personalized certificate when they reach the following milestones:
10 Golden Miles, 25 Golden Miles, 50 Golden Miles , 75 Golden Miles, 100 Golden Miles and 150 Golden Miles.
We hope you will support this new initiative and help us to celebrate the children’s achievements!