Jump Jam – a fusion of music, dance, colour

Jump Jam Extravaganza, an initiative to keep children motivated and active was held on Wednesday and Thursday at Mountainview High School’s auditorium.

The event saw about 650 children from schools around South Canterbury taking part in a fusion of music, dance and colours.

Jump Jam is a prechoreographed school aerobic programme which provides music and resources children can follow.

The event, organised by Sport Canterbury, has become a highlight on the school calendar.

The aerobic-based programme encourages teams to choose their favourite routine, learn them and fine-tune their performance.

Jump Jam co-ordinator Lee King said the motive of the event was to keep children moving, give them confidence, and instill a sense of teamwork.

The event this year solely focused on encouraging participation and was not judged.

‘‘There are no winners or prizes this year, the focus to encourage students to participate,’’ King said.

The event is usually held over a day at the Theatre Royal but was moved to Mountainview’s auditorium this year.

King said that they also decided to make it a two-day event as they were worried about the timing of the event and wanted to be sure if any Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were placed, children could still follow the safety protocols and be part of the event.

Pleasant Point Primary School pupils on stage at Mountainview High School on Wednesday. Craighead Diocesan School pupils pose for the camera on Thursday.

Waimate High School students on stage on Thursday.

Fairlie Primary School pupils are all colour for their performance on Wednesday.

Waimate Main School pupils in character for their performance, above, and Pleasant Point pupils, below.

Waimate High School’s Xtreme Busters perform on Thursday. Geraldine Primary School pupils, left, on stage and in full Jump Jam mode.

Pleasant Point Primary School pupils in action on stage.