AROUND 250 enthusiastic Primary 7 pupils from the local primary schools in Helensburgh and Lomond came together for a day of team building and sports recently.

The event was organised by Live Argyll Active Schools Coordinator Martin Caldwell and took place at Hermitage Academy. The Active Schools led physical activity day is included as part of the wider ‘Hooked on Hermitage’ Primary 7 transition programme and was opened with a presentation from Derek Munro, acting depute head at Hermitage Academy.

Pupils were divided into mixed school groups prior to arriving and were allocated a different coloured T-shirt depending on the group they were in, adding a visual spectacle of the event.

The groups also enabled children to work with other pupils they didn’t previously know and make new contacts prior to the move to Hermitage Academy in August.

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Half the day was spent taking part in a range of team building and problem solving challenges, with the rest of the day dedicated to more strenuous physical activity and sport. This year the sport sessions included tag rugby, hockey, basketball and netball.

Hermitage Academy already run a fantastic mix of extra-curricular sports clubs, and the aim of the ‘Hooked on Hermitage’ event this year was to run sports sessions that compliment what the school offer that P7 pupils can access when moving to S1 in August.

Active Schools co-ordinator Martin Caldwell said: “The ultimate goal would be to have each of the 250 P7 pupils sign up to one of the many extra-curricular clubs prior to attending Hermitage Academy in August. This would help the pupils meet more like minded peers, develop networks of friends and ultimately help promote a more active lifestyle.”

Martin added: “The Getting Hooked on Hermitage event this year was a resounding success – the weather was dry with sunny spells and with the hockey and tag rugby sessions taking place outdoors, this added to a successful event enjoyed by all.

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“General feedback from the pupils highlighted that many new friendships had been made on a day filled with fun physical activity and team building challenges.

“Active Schools would like to thank Mark Ashdown from Helensburgh Rugby Club, Gordon Black of Helensburgh Hockey Club, Nicola Donnelly and Susan Wilson from G84 Netball, and Ali Maule.

“Final thanks go to the PE staff at Hermitage Academy, teachers and volunteers (including the S1 helpers) on the day who helped with the activities and smooth running of the event.”