Pupils swap text books for trainers

4:34pm Saturday 5th July 2008

PUPILS at St Nicholas Middle School swapped their text books for trainers this week as part of the governments National Sports Week.

Throughout the week, each pupil had the chance to run however far they wish during their class PE lessons and at lunchtimes as a way of keeping fit and healthy.

They ran around a mile-long circuit marked out on the playing field and marshalled by staff. Awards were handed out to the children and classes who run the furthest during the week but everyone who takes part will receive a certificate whether they complete one mile or 26.

The children were helped in their efforts by parent governor at St Nicholas, Emma Gooderham, who is a British long distance runner. She has been passing on her tips for running a marathon Bex Larner, head of PE, has organised the event. She said: "The week is all about highlighting the need for everyone to be physically active throughout their lives and to have a go at any sport that takes their fancy.

"Emma Gooderham's story is an inspiration to us all. She only realised how much she loved running when she took it up a few years ago and now she is due to represent Britain in the 100k at the Commonwealth Games next year.

"Of course we will not all be super fit like Emma and be able to run three marathons in one go but the secret is for all of us to try new sports and who knows what fun or sporting talent we might discover."

Editor's Choice