Around 400 pupils came under starter’s orders at the Island’s third PEACH Games last week.
The games, launched by the Isle of Wight Council’s Public Health team in collaboration with Premier School Sport Coaching, marked a successful continuation for the Partnership for Education Attainment and Children’s Health (PEACH) programme.
Improving health and wellbeing of pupils
PEACH was created to support schools in improving the health and wellbeing of their pupils, staff and families through physical activity, healthy eating, PSHE and emotional wellbeing and mental health.
The day provided a fun, inclusive environment for children who don’t usually take up sporting opportunities to try new skills and activities.
Majority of Island’s primary schools took part
Held at West Wight Sports and Community Centre in Freshwater, children from the majority of the Island’s primary schools took part in a variety of sporting activities including boccia, archery and handball.
This year’s theme of ‘aspiration and inclusion’ linked with the 2023 NatWest International Island Games which gets underway in Guernsey tomorrow (Saturday).
Pupils were thrilled to meet some of the Island’s top athletes who demonstrated their sports and equipment.
Stephens: Important to promote physical activity
Councillor Ian Stephens, deputy leader and Cabinet member for Public Health, said,
“The PEACH Games are important to promote physical activity, positive wellbeing, and healthy competition.
“This in turn encourages young people to lead healthier lives, which include plenty of exercise and a balanced diet.”
Paris: Had great feedback already
Vicky Paris, PEACH lead in Public Health, said,
“We’ve had great feedback already especially for our sports leaders from Isle of Wight Education Federation (IWEF) and Isle of Wight College, who rose to the challenge of independently leading the different activities, adapting accordingly to suit the different needs of the pupils.
“A big thank you and well done to all those that took part and embraced the PEACH ethos.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
