By REBECCA BILLS
STUDENTS skipped for a great cause to raise money for heart disease.
Earlier this month, all students at Belgrave South Primary School took part in the Heart Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart 2014.
The school takes part in this event every two years with grade six leaders Bridget and Tyler organising this year’s event.
Both leaders said it was a challenge to get everything ready and to plan all the activities but was definitely worth it.
“It’s good to get everybody active, have lots of fun and raise some money for a good cause,” Tyler said.
Grade six teacher Julie Price said all the students get excited in the lead-up to the event.
“A lot of kids have had grandparents die or be affected by heart attacks and heart disease so it’s a really important fundraiser in that respect, too,” she said.
“It promotes healthy living and that’s another reason why we are doing it.
“This is also a great leadership opportunity, not just for Bridget and Tyler to step up but for all grade six students, as they are manning the different groups, teaching skills and mentoring the younger students through the activities.”
Since the inception of the Heart Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart more than 30 years ago, more than 90 per cent of all Australian schools, reaching 8 million school children, have participated in the program.
Jump Rope for Heart Field Officer Mitchell Watson said the program helps students understand how physical activity and nutritional behaviours can impact on their health in the future and help those who have already been affected.
“I have seen the impact of heart disease in my own family, especially in my dad over the past few years, so I’m extremely grateful to be able to speak to students about why heart disease matters and the positive work of the Heart Foundation,” he said.
“It’s wonderful to see how willing schools are to join the fight against heart disease.”
