Island’s primary schools take part in the fourth annual PEACH Games
Published: 3 July 2024
300 pupils, from primary schools across the Island, took part in the fourth annual PEACH Games on Friday 28th June.
The games were held at West Wight Sports Centre and pupils tried a variety of sporting activities, including orienteering, archery, boccia and more.
The games were organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Public Health Team in collaboration with Premier School Sport Coaching to mark a successful continuation for the Partnership for Education, Attainment and Children’s Health (PEACH) programme.
Pupils rotated through team-based and individual activities to experience the benefits of sport. Each helped to improve personal skills, cardiovascular fitness as well as coordination and balance. Alongside the sporting activities, pupils could learn about physical activity options, first aid and take part activities to boost confidence and self-esteem, all within the athlete’s village.
One pupil commented, ‘it’s been so much fun and exciting. Even though it’s not competitive I’m going to try my hardest!’ While two other children said, ‘it’s the best day of our lives!’
Also present on the day was the Isle of Wight High Sheriff, Graham Biss. He said, ‘It was great to see the energy and enthusiasm across all the different activities and all the children having a go!’
Simon Bryant, Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight commented ‘We know good health and school attainment are connected together. The PEACH Games are important to promote physical activity, positive wellbeing, and healthy competition. This supports young people to lead healthy lives with plenty of exercise and a good, balanced diet.’
The feedback received has been really positive from organisers and participating primary schools for our Sports Leaders, who were from four secondary schools. They worked tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly and provided inspiration and leadership to the primary aged participants.
Footnote
The PEACH programme supports schools in improving the health and wellbeing of their pupils, staff and families. It is an award-based framework offered to schools, focussing on the four health domains of Physical Activity, Healthy Eating, PSHE and Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health.
