Well-being and a strong community spirit are behind the annual Couch 2 5K runs for staff, families and governors from Thanet’s Viking Academy Trust.

The second annual event drew runners, walkers, joggers, pram-pushers and dog walkers from the three schools – Upton Juniors in Broadstairs, Chilton Primary in Ramsgate and Ramsgate Arts Primary.

They assembled at the clifftop George VI Memorial Park in Ramsgate and followed a beautiful coastal route to Louisa Bay in Broadstairs before chasing the tide back to Ramsgate seafront along the beach and prom.

The routes chosen by the organisers in the last two years are designed to showcase the inspiring coastline of Broadstairs and Ramsgate, in the communities served by the Trust schools.

Staff unable to join in on the official run day are planning their own 5k events through the summer until September 1.

Keen runner Michaela Lewis is Executive Head Teacher of the Trust. She said: “As well as the personal satisfaction of achieving a goal set, everyone crossing the finishing line was presented with a VikingC25K finishers medal designed and created by our IT department plus a special one-off commemorative badge for their staff lanyards.

“Whilst it's all about the taking part, there is always a competitive element for some of our team - staff have used the 5K as part of their training programmes when taking part in half/full marathons, triathlons and also 26-mile Jurassic coastline walk.

“First across the line in both of our annual events has been Chris, a teacher at Upton. Meanwhile, an inspiration to us all was Charlotte, our first woman finisher this year who only started running in May to complete a charity sponsorship to run every day of that month. She was bitten by the running bug and her determination and enthusiasm shone through as she excelled at our event.

“Our youngest participant was two-year-old Mya, Chris’ daughter.”

Lots of staff who take part in the Park Runs, either on the Palm Bay or Pegwell courses have added the Trust event to their exercise schedule.

Whilst improving physical health, the aim of the Viking runs is to encourage people to get outside and take part in exercise at a level they feel comfortable with.

Each of the Viking schools has a 'Wellbeing Team' with lunchtime walking groups and staff running clubs as part of the initiative to place mental health at the forefront of the staff support structure.

Mrs Lewis added: “We are passionate about finding ways to bring Viking Academy Trust staff together in as many different ways as possible, and the Couch 2 5K

encourages and supports a healthier lifestyle and positive mental health. The cold drink get-together afterwards to celebrate finishing is another great bonding moment where everyone shares their own particular experiences.

“It is a lovely shared experience - everyone gets the same medal and it truly is the taking part that counts.”

The NHS supports the Couch 2 5K initiative which is says has a variety of benefits.

It states: “Running is great for your body and mind. It can improve your heart and lung health; help you manage your weight (when paired with a healthy diet); strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis; boost your mood, ease stress, and give you more confidence.

To find out more, go online to www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/get-running-with-couch-to-5k.

*Contact Viking Academy Trust Executive Head Teacher Michaela Lewis on 01843 582847