STUDENTS across the South West are jumping on board for the annual Take the Challenge health competition.
Eaton Primary School Year Three teacher Rod Harrison has started preparing for the challenge which commences next term.
“This is about educating the kids on healthy eating and exercise, creating awareness and getting the kids active,” Mr Harrison said.
“The kids need to get their heart rate up for 15 minutes a day and fill in the virtual map.
“We will also have lessons on healthy living so they can establish good habits in life.”
The program is run over nine weeks and teachers can choose from a selection of iconic Western Australian routes including the Canning Stock Route, the Bibbulmun Track and the Pipeline.
WA Country Health Service regional coordinator Deb Brealey, said the program was a fun and interactive way of teaching healthy lifestyle messages.
“It is so important to establish good habits in childhood to reduce the risk of preventable lifestyle diseases,” she said.
“Participating schools can use the challenge as an opportunity to explore new ways of being physically active.”
In 2014, more than 1900 South West students participated with the aim to have at least 2000 participate this year.
By participating in Take the Challenge, schools, classrooms and individual students will achieve a number of significant educational and social outcomes, including improved school climate and enhanced educational aspirations.
Mr Harrison said he was looking forward to taking on the challenge again because the students were always enthusiastic and great participants.
