AFC BOURNEMOUTH’S healthy lifestyle programme delivered in association with Time Business Solutions, has kicked off in local schools.

The year-long programme, delivered by AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust, began earlier this month in Baden-Powell and St Peter’s Middle School – one of 22 schools currently signed up.

Divided into eight sessions, the programme aims to educate year seven pupils on all aspects of healthy living. The youngsters have already received an insightful introductory lesson on the importance of physical activity.

A session on smoking using a visual aid of a ‘jar of tar’ is just another of the innovative lessons the Trust have planned before the programme culminates with a session at the Goldsands Stadium. The pupils will visit the home of the Cherries for a training session, with the opportunity to meet players from the first team and have a tour of the ground.

Pupils will also be asked to design a healthy meal for Eddie Howe’s side as part of the programme, with match day tickets up for grabs for the winners of each school. The overall winner will also be invited to cook the meal for the players following one of their training sessions.

So far the children have really enjoyed the sessions, as year seven pupil Nancy Hosier explained.

“It’s really fun because we play sport-related games, and they also tell us things we need to know, such as what we’re supposed to eat to have a healthy diet and how much exercise we need to do to stay fit and healthy. I really enjoy it!”

Head of AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust’s Steve Cuss said: “I am delighted that the project is finally underway after months of preparation and support from Time Business Systems.”

“We have tried to devise a project that both informs and engages with youngsters and so far the children involved appear to have really enjoyed the sessions.”

Selwyn Burke, Managing Director for Time Business Systems, commented, “We are very excited to officially announce the launch of this fantastic scheme.