Video creates picture of health

Laura Heslop and Steve Ferriss help to wake up Oldham schoolchildren with a 15 minute aerobics session via video conferencing. with Kids from Freehold School.

CHILDREN are tapping into the powers of technology for a series of exercise sessions with a difference.

Wake n’ Shake sees sport strategy teams at Oldham Council give 15-minute aerobics routines for children in 22 Oldham primary schools via video conferencing equipment.

Every Wednesday for the next five weeks, pupils at the schools taking part will be been shaking their thing to get fit in aerobics sessions beamed into their school by sports development officers working at the Centre for Professional development in Fitton Hill.

And although the pilot project is in the early stages, schools taking part have already been impressed.

They have reported better behaviour, improved concentration and learning levels, and increased self-esteem among the youngsters.

Oldham Council’s cabinet member for children, young people and families, Councillor Kay Knox, said: “It is important that children get the recommended hour of exercise each day.

“Wake n’ Shake seems like a fun way to provide additional bursts of activity at school. The video conferencing link enables any school to join in and the project will enhance teaching and learning as well as promoting good health.”