Schools get active with 5x60

06.11.2007

Nine secondary schools in Caerphilly county borough have taken on the new ‘5x60‘ programme developed and funded by the Sports Council for Wales.

The main aim of the 5x60 initiative is to encourage all children to take part in 60 minutes of physical activity five times a week. The scheme is the first of its kind to consult with pupils to find out what activities they would like to take part in. By offering pupils this choice, it increases the range of activities away from the traditional netball and rugby to more recreational activities such as Trampolining, Dance, Martial Arts and Dodgeball.

Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Sports Development Team has six 5x60 officers in place to co-ordinate activities within the nine schools. It is hoped that by 2008/9 all schools across the County Borough will be given the opportunity to take part.

Since September the 5x60 officers have been working closely with their schools to consult the pupils and organise the wide range of activities suggested. It has been essential to work with the local community to involve local clubs, coaches and volunteers in the programme to ensure that there is a link between the school and community.

This week (5th -11th November) sees the launch of 5x60 within the schools, with pupils being given the opportunity to try the new activities, which they have selected. Participating schools include Rhymney, Pontllanfratih, Heolddu, Lewis School Pengam, St Cenydd, Oakdale, Lewis Girls and Bedwas.

Cllr David Hardacre, Cabinet Member for Education and Leisure, said, “Our 5x60 Officers work extremely hard to ensure that a variety of activities are available for all pupils to enjoy. The team’s top priority is to create appealing sporting opportunities to encourage more young people to become more active, more often.”

For further information about the 5x60 scheme please contact Active Young People Co-ordinator, Hannah Mawson, on 01443 863321