A SPORTING challenge saw more than 300 pupils come together to celebrate getting active this summer.

Hendon’s Allianz Park stadium was packed full of primary school pupils from three schools across Barnet, as they walked or ran one kilometre as part of a new scheme to improve children’s fitness.   

The Mayor of Barnet Mark Shooter laucnhed the Golden Kilometre Challenge,  where pupils are encouraged to walk, run or cycle to school, to emphasise the benefits of daily exercise for children.

Chioma Ngoforo, a pupil at Dollis Junior School, one of the three taking schools taking part, said: “I think it’s a super idea to get children walking for 1 km each day.

"I’m really looking forward to spending some time outside of our classroom as we don't often get a chance to go off site and just walk about. It’s great to have a challenge which is fun.”

The scheme aims to encourage children to exercise more as part of their daily routine, to help keep active and help the environment by reducing air pollution.

Head teacher of Dollis Junior School, Lisa Golding said: “We believe that this helps children feel better about themselves and, as a result, helps have a positive impact on their learning so they can be the best they can be.”

Primary schools across the borough can also sign up to the challenge, by emailing emilyneilan@saracens.net