Ms Skye Wimpole

@SkyeWimpole

Creating Active Schools 

Physical activity is a complex behaviour which is influenced by many factors. Schools, families and the community all have a role to play. Strategic, cross government action is required to shift physical activity outcomes. Cross government commitment through a Joint Ministerial Statement between Education (Minister Merlino), Community Sport (Minister Spence) and Health (Minister Foley) is supporting schools to shift physical activity outcomes through the creation of Active Schools.  

An Active School encourages physical activity through a whole school approach which goes beyond traditional physical education and sport, and promotes physical activity at every opportunity as part of everyday school life. The approach also engages families and communities, to promote healthy behaviours beyond the school environment. This presentation will provide an overview of the Active Schools approach and provide some early learnings on the implementation of this initiative across Victoria. 

About Skye: Skye is currently Manager of the Physical Activity and Healthy Eating team at Department of Education and Training. She is an experienced policy advisor and practitioner, having worked in the State government sector, not-for-profit sector and schools. Originally starting out as a primary school teacher and personal trainer, she later completed a Masters of Health Promotion and lead the Heart Foundation’s Jump Rope Heart Program as well as working in Health Promotion at the Alfred Hospital. Passionate about empowering children, young people and families to be more physically active, her skillset has allowed her to translate public policy into practice.