On Friday, 11 January, Robert Walter MP (North Dorset) joined pupils and teachers from St James’ C of E First School at Park Lane in Alderholt for a fun ‘Skip2Bfit’ session.
Bob’s visit to St James’ First School follows an earlier trip to Wimborne First School, where he was first introduced to the work of ‘Skip2Bfit’ Founder, John McCormack.
Bob and John met Head Teacher, Andrew Poole, before joining pupils as they took part in their first ‘Skip2Bfit’ workshop. The whole school participated in the event, with Bob arriving in time to present prizes to the best skippers in Year 2. He also helped the children plant a Blueberry bush donated to St James’ First School by ‘Skip2Bfit’ fruit sponsor, Winterwood Farms.
‘Skip2bfit’ workshops have been operating for over ten years, visiting schools across the country. The workshops aim to use the power of physical activity to improve children’s attitudes to learning and give them a greater sense of purpose and self-esteem.
Bob commented, “’Skip2Bfit’ is a really great initiative. The benefits of physical activity for us all – not to mention young children – are many, and the link between sport, healthy eating, energy levels and concentration in class is well-documented.”
Skipping also teaches balance, timing and footwork, thus giving children the basics they need for all sports whilst improving their overall fitness levels. All schools also receive a healthy eating leaflet after the event and are provided with all the ingredients to make a healthy blueberry smoothie.
Bob concluded, “I very much hope that the children of St James’ enjoyed their workshop, particularly after our summer of Olympic sport. I hope that both inspire them to take up other new challenges and sporting activities.”
