New scheme helps schoolchildren get fitter and healthier through walking

Shropshire schools can now to sign up to a new initiative which aims to help schoolchildren and staff get fitter and healthier through the introduction of ‘daily miles’ or walking clubs.

Launched today (Thursday 1 February 2018) the Healthy Outdoors for Schools programme is provided by Shropshire Council’s outdoor partnerships service, which leads on rights of way, countryside parks and sites, and Walking for Health.

Children from St Leonard’s Primary School in Bridgnorth taking part in a Daily Mile pilot. See video for more.

Helen Foxall, Shropshire Council walking co-ordinator and leader of the programme, said:

“We want to help schools to get children walking, to help them become more active and healthier. We also want to encourage people to get out and about in Shropshire’s Great Outdoors, and we’re keen to start with our youngsters.

“The Daily Mile is a regular 15-minute walk, run, dance or hop around the school grounds aimed at including the whole school. Walking clubs can encourage before, during or after school walking.

“Both initiatives help towards the Government guidelines which recommend that all children and young people aged 5 to 18 engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day, of which 30 minutes should be in school.

“Whilst the Daily Mile can be done for free, we can help schools that are short of time or need some support.”

Several packages of support are available within the Healthy Outdoors for Schools programme, and – as a special offer – a 25% discount is being offered to the first five schools that sign up to the scheme.

Full details, including a short film from schools that took park in a pilot project, can be found on the Healthy Outdoors for Schools webpage on the Shropshire Learning Gateway.

The video can also be seen below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDpN_rFWQAI

Any schools wanting more information should contact Helen Foxall to ask any questions or arrange a free consultation to discuss their wishes and needs. Email helen.foxall@shropshire.gov.uk or call 01743 255059.