By Isle of Wight Observer
More than 320 primary school children and 80 secondary sports leaders came together for the Island’s fifth annual PEACH Games, held on Friday, July 3 at West Wight Sports Centre.
The event, organised by the IW Public Health team in partnership with school games organisers, celebrated the ongoing success of the PEACH programme (Partnership for Education, Attainment and Children’s Health). Pupils took part in a range of team based and individual activities, aimed at improving coordination, fitness, and personal skills.
The athlete’s village also featured sessions on first aid, local physical activity options, and mental wellbeing, boosting confidence and self-esteem.
Flags designed by participating schools will be taken to Orkney as part of this year’s international Island Games, symbolising the connection between local and global sport.
Simon Bryant, director of public health, said: “The PEACH Games promote physical activity, wellbeing, and healthy competition all key to helping young people lead healthier lives.”
Cllr Ian Dore, chairman of the IW council, added: “The team spirit was incredible, children spent the day cheering each other on, with so much positivity and collaboration, it was a fantastic day.”
The event was supported by RMA Sports Performance Centre, Island Games athletes, the IW Youth Trust, MHST, and Tesco Ryde, whose contributions helped make the day a success.
The PEACH programme runs throughout the school year, encouraging health, inclusion and leadership in pupils from Years 3 to 13 through sport and wellbeing.
