School Sports Week Ignites Fitness and Fun
St. Andrew’s Junior School in Burnham-On-Sea recently wrapped up its second annual Sports Week, immersing students in a spectrum of activities designed to ignite a passion for fitness. The week featured a mix of innovative exercise programs and traditional sports, showing that staying active can be both fun and rewarding.
Dynamic Activities for All
The pupils and faculty at St. Andrew’s Junior School participated in a variety of energetic sessions, fostering a love for physical activity. The schedule included Mini Warriors, a fitness bootcamp; Boogie Bounce, a dance-inspired exercise using mini trampolines; and cheerleading workshops led by the Bellatrix Dance Company.
Other options offered were Bounce Fitness, a high-energy class using rebound boots, yoga sessions with the school’s own yoga instructor, Rachel, and skateboarding workshops instructed by Alex from Team Rubicon.
“The week was organised to give children a taste of alternative, exercise-based activities and to encourage them to step out of their comfort zones and try something new.”
—Lindsey Sylvester, Head of PE
Childhood obesity rates have significantly increased in recent years, with approximately 20% of children aged 6-19 in the United States classified as obese (CDC 2024). This Sports Week aimed to counteract such trends.
Fostering Skills and Enthusiasm
The initiative aimed to provide students with fresh experiences and motivate them to reach their recommended daily activity levels. The activities challenged pupils, building their perseverance and resilience, important skills inside and outside the classroom.
One student shared, “I really enjoyed Sports Week – I got to try skateboarding, which I’ve never done before.”
Another student added, “I liked the bootcamp – even when I had to do the push-ups!”
A teacher remarked, “It was fantastic to see every child taking part in all the activities throughout the week. This week opens them up to experiences they may not otherwise get the chance to try, and it encourages them to give new and unfamiliar things a go.”
The fun continued with teachers participating in a bootcamp session and the Bellatrix Dance Company offering an after-school activity, ensuring everyone could enjoy the health benefits.
The emphasis on trying novel activities and promoting regular exercise underscores the importance of physical health. This approach equips young people with essential skills that benefit them both inside and outside the classroom, helping them cultivate a life-long love of exercise.
