Morning keep-fit regime wakes up Danetree brains

​​Pupils at Danetree Primary School in West Ewell have been starting the school day with an extra spring in their step recently following the introduction of pre-school workout classes.

The GugaFit programme, which is used in schools across the country, was launched in Danetree at the start of the year and currently draws up to 30 children from across all years of the school to each session. Classes are led by school staff and also Year Six pupils have been instructed in the scheme’s exercise techniques.

“We didn’t really know what to expect when we launched it, so to have so many children wanting to get involved, and providing such positive feedback, is great news,” said Jessie Knight, the teacher who runs the sessions.

“The link between physical activity and mental sharpness is well known, so to get the children exercised and ready to start the school day definitely has a positive effect in the classroom.”

Danetree, which is in the process of expanding to become the biggest primary school in Surrey, is a member of the GLF Schools group, a rapidly-expanding Surrey-based multi-academy trust, which runs over a dozen schools across Surrey, Middlesex, Oxfordshire and Berkshire, based on a scheme of collaborative learning.

“Gugafit takes in all kinds of physical activities, so there’s something for everyone,” added Miss Knight. “It means the children are more eager to come into school earlier, and are more motivated. The results are there for all to see. It’s been a great success so far, and I only expect it to grow in popularity.”