Term Two saw our Healthy Active Learning Team collaborate with Sacred Heart Primary School to help deliver their annual school cross country event, alongside an inaugural fun run.

With an alarming 20% decrease in attendance for school cross country events in New Zealand over the past decade, Sacred Heart identified it was crucial to create an inclusive and engaging experience for all students, bringing their school value of ‘Everyone matters’ to life!

And what a success it was! Co-designed with significant student input, the parallel events catered to diverse student needs and preferences. Competitive tamariki had the opportunity to participate in a traditional cross country, pushing their limits and showcasing their ability. Their peers were right there, cheering them on, creating an environment of support and encouragement.

Simultaneously, the fun run provided a relaxed and enjoyable space for all students to join in. This event emphasised participation over competition, ensuring every child felt included and valued. The fun run allowed students to engage with their peers in a non-competitive setting, promoting quality physical activity experiences and enjoyment for all.

By offering these parallel events, Sacred Heart Primary School fostered a sense of community and inclusivity, making physical activity enjoyable for all students. The blend of competition and fun ensured that every student could participate in a way that suited their interests and abilities.

This approach not only addressed the decline in cross country participation but also highlighted the importance of living out their school values, while prioritising inclusive and enjoyable physical activities in schools. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Sacred Heart Primary School and promoting healthy, active learning environments for all students.

The smiles and quotes say it all:-
 

“It was amazing to see so many smiles, I have one student who has been ‘away sick’ for the last 3 cross country, but today I watched her run 4 laps (1.6km) of the fun run with a smile on her face the whole time, that’s what makes this worth it’  - Teacher
 

‘I had so much fun! I ran the cross country, but then I only managed 5 laps of the fun run’  - Yr 6 Girl
 

‘There was no stigma around first or last! My child would normally be in the last few, and today he hasn’t stopped smiling and ran 4 laps’  - Parent