News

St Aldhelm's Combined School in Poole has been selected as one of ten UK locations to launch National Walk to School Week (running May 23-27).

This year's theme is healthy bones resulting in skeletons being specially made from a Bournemouth Arts Institute design for each of the UK launch events. However Poole's design of a unique hand-crafted skeleton jigsaw measuring more than three metres high has been created by local international boat builder and Walk to School Week supporter, Sunseeker .

The skeleton will be at St Aldhelm's Combined School for the whole of Walk to School Week allowing children to learn about the benefits of walking and gentle exercise. Each child who walks to lessons will be able to place a piece of the jigsaw in the puzzle. By completing their skeleton, they will learn more about their trabecular spicules and why it is good for them to get at least 10-15 minutes exercise twice a day. Poole Mayor Lou Knight will also be adding his support by accompanying the children to lessons on the first day of Walk to School Week.

Councillor Ron Parker, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Local Economy including Transportation, said: "Walking is the easiest form of exercise and too many youngsters today are not doing enough. The more children walk, skip or jump, the less risk of serious diseases there are in later life and the stronger their bones will be. Walk to School Week is an excellent way of promoting the health benefits of walking and at the same time cutting congestion on our roads."

Many other junior schools in Poole may be holding their own Walk to School Week events but only St Aldhelm's Combined will have the skeleton.

Schoolgirl Abigail, aged eight, said: "I really like walking to school because it keeps me fit and healthy and I get to talk with my friends." She added: "My class teacher has said there may be something special for us to do at school if we walk in next week!"