08/07/2008
Rise and Shine
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SCHOOLCHILDREN are to make history by taking part in the world's biggest simultaneous dance event in Liverpool.
The 'Rise and Shine Dance' will involve up to 30,000 pupils at an estimated 150 schools across the city on Friday 11th July 2008 at 10:30am.
Rise and Shine is a project run as part of Sportslinx1, the biggest health and fitness programme of its kind in Europe. Over the last 18 months, pupils at primary schools across the city have been taking part in the 10 minute Rise and Shine dance before they start lessons.
The youngsters boogie along to a soundtrack of T-Rex's I like to Boogie, I Believe by Yolanda Adams, Cha Cha Slide by DJ Casper and Ryan Myddleton's Rise & Shine Song.
The scheme has been a huge success at schools, with teachers reporting that children are more focused and pay increased attention in class. It has led to improved attendance and behaviour.
During the record attempt, schools will tune in to BBC Radio Merseyside who will broadcast the songs live to make sure the children dance in time to the music and satisfy Guinness World Record rules.
This Friday, June 20th, breakfast presenter Tony Snell will be taking part in a practice session for the record attempt with youngsters from Lawrence Community Primary School in Wavertree.
Councillor Keith Turner, executive member for education, said: "Fitness and exercise is absolutely crucial for every child and in Liverpool we are pioneering exciting new ways of getting youngsters active.
"The Rise and Shine dance is a fun way for children to start the day and helps them burn off calories and get into the mood for learning.
"This is just one of a number of innovative schemes which are making a massive difference to the health and fitness of children.
"Projects such as this and our free access to Lifestyles leisure centres for under 17's are helping to reverse the couch potato culture among our young people.
"Rise and Shine is not only helping to raise attainment, but will pay massive dividends in years to come by encouraging youngsters into healthy habits that will last a lifetime."
The focal point for the world record attempt will be Wavertree Tennis Centre, where a representative from each school taking part will come together to perform the dance.
Liz Lamb, Liverpool's Principal Health and Physical Activity Officer, said: "The Rise and Shine dance routine has been an incredible success at schools across Liverpool.
"Schools have to provide at least five hours of structured exercise for pupils per week and the dance routine gets the day off to a great start.
"The world record attempt is a memorable way of celebrating this innovative programme and I hope as many schools take part as possible."
So far, 96 schools have signed up to be part of the world record attempt, with more confirming every day.
Giant screens will be erected at the Tennis Centre to beam live video footage from several schools that are taking part in the dance.
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