Active Northumberland is piloting a scheme to deliver virtual exercises classes into some schools in the county to help pupils stay active and healthy during the school day. 

Three schools are participating in the six-week pilot where the pupils will take part in the Les Mills fitness class Born To Move which is aimed specifically at young people aged 6-16. 

The class is fun and interactive, encouraging movement to music and is designed to nurture a life-long love of physical activity. 

Mark Warnes, Chief Executive of Active Northumberland said: 

“The Chief Medical Officer guidance is that children and young people should be aiming for an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a day – half of this at school and half of it after school.
 

“The online exercise classes are a perfect solution during the wet and cold winter weather and a great way to help keep pupils fit and healthy in a fun and engaging way. 
 

“We are always looking at different ways to help encourage all ages of the community to be more active. After the six-week trial we’ll be speaking to staff and pupils about how they found the group exercise experience before assessing options for a further roll out.” 
 

Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, cabinet member for Promoting Healthy Lives said: 

“We know that keeping active is a vital part of every young person’s education. As well as being important for their mental and physical health there is clear evidence that keeping active can also boost mood, memory and concentration while studying. 
 

“The teaching staff have been very receptive and supportive of the trial and I am confident the pupils will really enjoy and reap the benefits of this new exercise experience.”  
 

Participating schools are King Edward VI high school in Morpeth, Horton Grange Primary School in Blyth and Chollerton First School near Hexham. 
 

The pilot will support extra-curricular provision or breakfast and lunch clubs at the schools and those who are less engaged in sport are being particularly encouraged to attend.