Skerton pupils shape up to 'Girls Allowed' Project
A local high school has recently piloted a new project to encourage female pupils to feel good about themselves through self esteem, healthy eating and exercise.
A local high school has recently piloted a new project to encourage female pupils to feel good about themselves through self esteem, healthy eating and exercise.
The project named ‘Girls Allowed’ was launched in March at Skerton High School, Lancaster when year 10 pupils were invited to take part in after-school sessions which aim to develop the skills and qualities associated with positive mental health.
Working with the School Nurse, Maureen Huddleston and Claire Dillon of the North Lancs PCT, the girls signed up to a seven week course which covered topics such as healthy eating, how to feel good about your body shape and understanding how self esteem works as well as fitness.
As part of the project, the school’s Sustrans Bike It Officer Kathy Bashford was invited to develop a unique session to inspire the girls to get on a bike and start being more active.
Kathy ran a session about the benefits of cycling and addressed many of the reservations that teenage girls have about getting on their bikes. With support from Lancaster City Council staff specialising in sports development, the girls went on a guided bike ride along the River Lune.
Welcoming the project, Extended Schools Worker, Sharon Gibson said: “Encouraging the girls to take part in activities that could potentially be part of their every day life was seen as key to changing attitudes to exercise and developing a positive outlook to life.”
Kathy said ‘It was amazing to see the girls enjoy their cycling experience so much.
“Of all the pupils I work with teenage girls have the most reservations about cycling and I know these girls were no exception, but once they were on the bikes they loved it and it was great for their confidence.”
Following the great success the self esteem course and cycling session are being repeated this half term for year 9 pupils. Those who have already benefited from the sessions are being invited to join in the council’s Cycling Demonstration Town’s ‘Women on Wheels’ rides and other Bike It activities at the school.
Date Updated: 19/03/09