Introduction

The Active School Flag (ASF) is a Department of Education and Skills initiative awarded to schools that strive to achieve a physically educated and physically active school community. The process aims to get more schools, more active, more often. Our pupils, staff and parents are committed to making activity and exercise a fun and everyday way of life in our school. We have been enjoying our active flag journey and our active flag committees have been leading us in many initiatives to keep us healthy and active.

To learn more about the Active School Flag Initiative, visit their website www.activeschoolflag.ie

​Why get active?

Did you know that four out of five children in the Republic of Ireland are still not getting enough exercise, posing serious risks to their health and well-being? Being active helps release chemicals in your brain (endorphins), which have a positive effect on your mood, not to mention the benefits to your heart, lungs, muscles and bones. Getting out and being active is also a great way to manage stress.

10 Health Benefits: Physical activity helps a child to…
Improve agility, balance and co-ordination.

-Feel more energised

-Reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.

-Burn and generate more energy.

-Improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

-Maintain healthy weight.

-Improve concentration.

-Improve self-esteem and helps them feel good about themselves.

-Develop friendships.

Activity in our school

Every day, the pupils in St Dymphna’s are taking part in physical activity; through P.E. lessons, yard time, sensory breaks in the classrooms, extra lessons from visiting sport teachers, going swimming, horse riding and after-school classes, there is a lot happening at St Dymphna’s every day.