Thumbs up from teachers

With 9,000 10- and 11-year-olds from 300 schools currently taking part in Adopt a School, a survey of teachers involved in the programme has revealed new areas of success.

The teachers were particularly impressed by the range of activities offered by the scheme and the effect it has had in encouraging children to be more physically active.

Teachers have also found that Adopt a School has improved children’s behaviour and concentration in the classroom. And, of course, it helps teachers implement the government’s requirement of two hours of PE per week in a bid to fight the rising levels of childhood obesity.

More than 90 per cent of teachers said the management of the programme and the standard of coaching was excellent, while the same percentage rated the timing of activities and the ease of implementation as good or excellent.

Mags Larsson, fitness manager at Bramston Sports Centre, says: “This age group is so enthusiastic about visiting our fitness suite. The programme is having a real influence on the children’s attitude towards health and fitness, with over 80 per cent of the Adopt a School children deciding to keep their fitness going by joining our centre.”

Jacqui Gentleman, studio co-ordinator at Andover Leisure Centre, says of the Adopt a School scheme: “The smiles, laughs and enthusiasm from the children of Anton School make me want to give more to them.

“Fun in fitness is the key to getting this age group engaged. To do this at such a young age – with a variety of different activities like line dancing, combat classes, and yoga to name but a few – is a great start. Hopefully it will stay with them throughout their adult lives.”