CHILDREN at Alexandra Park Junior School, Oldham took to rowing machines on Friday in a competition against other schools across the borough.

Every child in the school took part to see how many metres they could 'row their boats' in one minute. The scores from each class are set to be averaged out to reveal which class is the winner within the school and the wider Oldham area.

The competition was set up by Oldham School Sports which aims to promote activity across school within the area.

PE leader, Simon Clarke, is keen to promote active lifestyles amongst the pupils.

He said: “The children get a variety of chances throughout the year to do things they may otherwise never do. We've done lacrosse, cross country, athletics just to name a few and now rowing.

“It was clear they had fun, and everyone aimed to beat their best scores. Our staff set a good example too joining in the fun and showing children that you can be active and enjoy yourselves at the same time.

“Our children never shy away from a healthy competition and that is something I'm really proud of. They will strive to win even if it's the first time they've played a sport."

The school also participates in the Oldham Pledge, a scheme which aims to help young people be active in their communities through charity work, wellbeing, sporting, creativity and other varied activities.

Samantha Nicholson-Hickling, PSHE leader and Year 5 teacher, added: "My class were one of the pilot classes when we first started the Oldham Pledge at Alexandra Park and they loved it.

“In a nation whereby childhood obesity is on the rise, the Oldham Pledge is just one way to ensure the children learn about themselves: not just their bodies but their minds as well. They focus in on different pledges which enables them to focus on different skills which as they grow up will support them in being active, supportive members of their communities."