New track for pupils to complete a ‘daily mile’

A brand-new running track means the 200 children at Thorney Island Community School can complete their ‘daily mile’ in style.

Each school day, for 15 minutes outside of lesson time, each pupil takes part in the Daily Mile, a growing initiative being enjoyed nationwide and at more than 50 West Sussex schools.

Beaming children (and some teachers) run, jog and walk at least a mile in their class groups with a big emphasis on fun.

Now they can do so on a brand-new Daily Mile running track, which cost £20,000 – with £8,000 from a Department for Education grant and £1,000 from a PE and sports grant.

Headteacher Dean Clegg said: “We introduced the Daily Mile for lots of reasons. We want our children to be more physically active and we really want to improve their mental wellbeing. It has also been proven to improve concentration in class. We have over 200 children and they all do it every single day.”

An active school already, Thorney Island is also benefiting from a brandnew climbing wall, installed last month, which is proving just as popular with its adventurous pupils.

The school has close links with the island’s army barracks and Major Chaz May, chief of staff, was on hand to cut the ribbon. His two children, Poppy, eight, and George, seven, go to the school and love taking part.

Major May said: “It’s an absolutely wonderful school and it’s superb that this facility has been put in for the Daily Mile.

George said: “I can normally do ten or 11 laps. I love that you can go as fast as you like.”

Poppy added: “I’ve been on the track lots of times. I like doing it with all my friends.”

Head of Year 2 Daryl Vokes joins in the active fun. He said: “I absolutely love it, it gets you fit and healthy and I have noticed a difference. After doing it the children can focus on their work and they really love it.”

Find out how to sign up at www.thedailymile.co.uk