09/07/2008
Dancing into the record books!
Schoolchildren in Liverpool are set to enter the record books by taking part in the world's biggest simultaneous dance event on Friday July 11th.
The 'Rise and Shine Dance' will involve more than 15,000 pupils at least 106 schools across the city at 10:30am.
Rise and Shine is a project run as part of Liverpool's Sportslinx scheme, 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 a 10 minute workout before 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 main event takes place at the tennis centre at Wavertree Sports Park where there will be at least one pupil from each of the schools involved. Giant plasma screens will be erected to beam in live pictures from other schools taking part.
And in Toxteth, pupils from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School and other local primary schools will be dancing along to the music in the open air at Admiral Park.
Councillor Keith Turner, executive member for education, said: "There has been an overwhelming interest in the Rise and Shine scheme from schools, and it is great that they are signed up for this exciting bid to enter the record books.
"Fitness and exercise is absolutely crucial for every child and dancing is a fun way for children to start the day and helps them burn off calories and get into the mood for learning."
Stuart Smith, executive director of children's services, added: "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 hopefully last a lifetime."
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 on 95.8FM who will broadcast the songs live to make sure the children dance in time to the music and satisfy Guinness World Record rules.
It is also hoped that people at home will get involved by dancing along to the music!
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 is sure to be a lot of fun."
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