From 2024-2026 we took part in the Active School Flag initiative for the 3rd time. We engaged with lots of activities throughout that time. 

Skip Around Europe

• Earlier this year, our school proudly took part in the Active School Flag’s "Skip Around Europe" initiative, promoting fun, fitness, and learning in a unique and engaging way. The challenge was a huge success, with students skipping their way across Europe—one jump at a time!
• Skipping became part of our everyday routine, and it brought a fun, energetic atmosphere to our breaks and PE time. We made great use of the new skipping ropes and wall rack that came with the programme.
• This was a fantastic experience for everyone involved. Not only did it help us stay fit, but it also gave us a chance to learn about geography, work together, and enjoy some friendly competition.

Active Movement Breaks

• Throughout the year, children actively participated in regular movement breaks that brought energy, fun, and focus into the classroom. These short, structured activities—ranging from stretching and dancing to quick fitness routines and playful games—became a much-anticipated part of the school day.
• Students responded with enthusiasm, often leading the exercises themselves or suggesting new activities to try. The breaks provided a healthy outlet for physical energy and helped improve concentration, especially during longer learning sessions.
• The children eagerly took part in Bizzy Breaks, an initiative by the Heart Foundation designed to get kids moving in short, energizing bursts throughout the school day. These fun and engaging breaks quickly became a favourite routine, offering a mix of dance, stretching, balance, and cardio-based activities.
• Whether it was a quick set of jumping jacks, a fun dance challenge, or a balance game, students jumped into each session with enthusiasm. Bizzy Breaks not only helped to boost physical activity levels, but also supported students’ focus, mood, and learning readiness—making a real difference in the classroom environment.

Active Walkway

• Our outdoor Active Walkway was thoughtfully planned and designed by our dedicated Active Flag Committee, who worked together to map out a fun and accessible route around the school grounds. The committee carefully considered the best areas for walking, ensuring the path was safe, engaging, and suitable for all age groups. Markers were placed along the route to guide students and encourage them to stay active.
• Each Wednesday after break, the whole school takes part in a "Walkway Wednesday", where every class walks the route together. It’s a great opportunity for students to stretch their legs, chat with friends, and enjoy some fresh air before returning to the classroom. The initiative supports both physical activity and a positive school atmosphere, helping to build healthy habits into our weekly routine.

Active Hall Walkway

• Along the walkway, children can follow a path that includes marathon facts, mindful breathing prompts, and fun movement challenges to promote both physical and mental well-being. In addition, we’ve added a “Hall of Fun” walkway on the ground—marked with colourful shapes, lines, and activities—which encourages jumping, balancing, hopping, and more. These walkways are available for all classes to use during the week, making movement a regular and enjoyable part of the school day.

PE

• Physical Education (P.E.) is an essential part of a student’s education, promoting physical health, mental well-being, and important life skills. Throughout the school year, P.E. classes provide students with opportunities to engage in a wide variety of physical activities that encourage movement, teamwork, and healthy habits.

• Over the course of the year, students participate in activities that develop strength, flexibility, endurance, balance, and coordination. These can include team sports, individual fitness exercises, cooperative games, and skill-building drills. By learning the rules and strategies of different sports, students improve their physical abilities while also building confidence, communication skills, and a sense of fair play.

• In addition to physical skills, P.E. also emphasizes the importance of personal health and wellness. Students learn about topics such as the benefits of regular exercise, proper nutrition, injury prevention, and the importance of warming up and cooling down. This knowledge supports lifelong fitness and encourages students to make healthy choices outside of school as well.

• Throughout the year, physical education adapts to students’ needs and progress. Whether indoors or outdoors, P.E. classes offer a balanced mix of fun, challenge, and learning that benefits both the body and the mind.

Relay Takeover

• As part of our athletics focus in P.E., the school held a fun and energetic Relay Takeover event. Each class had the chance to practise and compete in relay races, learning the key skills of baton passing, teamwork, timing, and communication. The playground and hall were full of excitement as students took turns sprinting and cheering on their teammates. The Relay Takeover brought a great sense of enthusiasm and friendly competition, while also helping students build confidence and improve their running technique. It was a fantastic way to get everyone moving and working together as part of our athletics programme.

Merry Fitmas! –St. Canice’s Christmas Tree Festival –Yulefest December 2024

Our students were delighted to take part in a special festive partnership with St. Canice’s
Cathedral as part of the Yulefest celebrations. The children worked together to decorate
a school community Christmas tree, adding their own handmade ornaments and
spreading plenty of Christmas cheer.

As part of our school’s Active Flag journey, we chose the theme “Merry Fitmas” for our
contribution to the community Christmas tree. The children created fun, fitness-themed
decorations that encouraged everyone to stay active over the holidays – think mini
dumbbells, skipping ropes, and sporty Santas! It was a joyful blend of Christmas spirit
and healthy living, and a great way to showcase our commitment to well-being.