By Lesley Griffiths

MS for Wrexham

Physical education is an essential part of healthy living. People of all ages benefit from the physical and mental gains associated with exercise but it is especially important to school children, particularly after living through lockdowns and the pandemic. I recently visited Barkers Lane CP School to find out more about ‘real PE’, a child-centred approach which has transformed the way PE is taught in the school. real PE aims to ensure every child has a positive relationship with physical activity for life and offers innovative training, resources and membership to support schools who sign up.

There are over 2,000 real PE member schools across the UK, including 37 schools in the Wrexham area, as well as more in Denbighshire and Flintshire. During my visit to Barkers Lane School, I observed the Year 1 pupils’ PE lesson, delivered by class teacher Mr Hayes, in partnership with real PE’s North & North Wales Area Manager, Vikki Roberts and Active Wrexham. The energetic and engaging lesson centred on a series of positive interactions that, ultimately, made PE fun. There was a clear focus on promoting valuable skills such as concentration, resilience and perseverance, but delivered in an entertaining way that the children clearly enjoyed. It is not about who’s the fastest or strongest. It’s about having fun and trying your best and real PE ensures every child develops at their own pace and in their own way.

Back in March, the Welsh Labour Government announced that unpaid carers will receive a £500 payment to help with the increased cost of caring during the cost-of-living crisis. So far 69% of eligible carers across Wales have applied and I do not want anyone from Wrexham missing out. If you haven’t applied for yours, you must register with Wrexham Council by 15 July to receive your payment. Contact details are online but if any constituent is struggling to find the relevant information, please get in touch.

One of Wrexham’s hidden treasures is holding their annual summer fair this weekend. All are invited to the Erlas Victorian Walled Garden this Saturday (9 July) from 10 – 2pm. As well as offering the chance to see the gardens in all their glory, the volunteers are also officially opening the new Jubilee Garden. There are refreshments available, plants for sale and plenty of activities for the children. I’m very proud to be patron of the charity and I hope the summer fair is a success.