Barnardos Big Active calls for Mayo schools to get moving!
For a second year, the Barnardos Big Active nationwide school initiative – supported by ALDI and just launched by Paul O'Connell – will help students across the country of all ages and abilities to focus on their own health and wellbeing, all while helping others.
Barnardos is inviting both primary and secondary schools from Mayo to register at www.barnardos.ie/bigactive and get active to raise funds for vulnerable children and families across Ireland.
Participating schools can choose from a range of activities based on the body, mind and heart: body - physical challenges that take care of your body; mind - mindfulness exercises to support positive mental health and wellbeing; heart - promoting the importance of charity by helping others around you.
Barnardos Big Active and ALDI ambassador Paul O’Connell, former Ireland rugby star, said: “I am thrilled to be back with Barnardos and ALDI to promote the Big Active once again. In my experience as a parent, encouraging regular exercise has huge benefits, like increasing fitness, lowering stress and creating a healthier routine.
“The Big Active will help both primary and secondary students across Ireland become more physically active and encourage positive mental health practices and mindfulness techniques, all while raising money for vulnerable children and families that Barnardos support.”
Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly added: “We know that childhood lasts a lifetime. The Barnardos Big Active, supported by ALDI and Paul, creates a real focus on student’s own wellbeing. The practices and exercises within this initiative will not only help students now but can be carried with them into adulthood.
“Students across the country can give back to children and families who need our support more than ever, particularly during the cost-of-living crisis. All funds raised will go towards improving the lives of the children and families we work with.”
Rachel Nugent, corporate responsibility manager at ALDI Ireland, stated: “At ALDI, we are committed to working alongside Barnardos to encourage students from across the country to take care of their own health and wellbeing, which is why we are continuing to support the Big Active initiative. We are passionate about providing primary and secondary schools with the tools needed to care for both their physical and mental health. That’s why we are encouraging schools to register their interest and take part in the Big Active at www.barnardos.ie/bigactive.”
As part of the Big Active, school teachers will receive all materials to support activities, including personal journals for each student to track their progress. Sign up at www.barnardos.ie/bigactive.