The Heywood Consolidated School has benefitted from a grant that has allowed it to open a bike and walking track that supports the aim of providing greater diversity of physical activities for its students and staff.

To celebrate the school held an official opening event. School principal Ann Hawker said “the funding was through an Active Schools grant of $30,000 and we worked with G.C. Rethus and Son Agricultural Contractors to get the best track for our grades.”

“The Physical Activity Advisor for Active Schools, Gabrielle Smales worked with myself, the business manager and school captains to make the adjustments to the track to be more engaging and active for all participants. Our school captains then worked with the student representative council to survey the entire school about their ideas and track designs.”

“In the end, we purchased 11 bikes, helmets and vests for all students to use on the track at recess and lunch times, or to help regulate throughout the school day. Students love the bike track and we have seen a dramatic increase in students riding safely to and from school,” she said.