By Stewart Ross

A FIFE RECTOR has defended a health day at his school that saw teachers taught how to belly dance and skip—but also addressed blood pressure, cardiovascular exercises and diet issues.

A total of 210 teachers from Kirkland High School, Methil, and associated primaries took part in the event, held on an in-service day so no lesson time was lost.

Just over £1000 was spent, a cost per head of £4.80, paid for from the schools budget in a campaign focusing on health in schools.

The event lasted just under a day with those attending able to opt into workshops and classes addressing dozens of issues.

Teachers could also learn about walking, reiki or massage, undergo health checks and learn about aerobics and personal stress- busting techniques.

A similar day held two years ago was rated a major success by participants while an event looking at young people’s health is being undertaken by Kirkland third years today.

SNP councillor David Alexander was amongst those looking askance at some of the elements of the event.

“I’m sure that if a teacher felt stress they would want the causes of that stress tackled—such as low-grade disciplinary problems—not belly dancing,” said the councillor.

Mr Alexander said he was concerned the event, which he described as “bizarre,” could reflect poorly on the school.

A local man with grandchildren at the school commented, “It’s a waste of tax-payers’ money and a school day.”

Rector Ronnie Ross said, “We feel that we have to educate the educators about healthy lifestyles and this can be passed on to the children.

“We’ve all seen the recent reports saying the country’s children are not getting enough PE.

“Schools have to be at the forefront of changing attitudes and the benefits outweigh the minimal costs involved.”

While stories of belly dancing may make headlines, he added, such activities are valid aerobic exercise.

“This is a way of promoting health at schools which has the full backing of the Executive,” said Mr Ross.

“Everyone needs to look after their health and stress levels and I feel staff have come back to work energised after this.”

Fife Council’s James Bellshaw, senior manager for education, was also in no doubt as to the benefits.

“In-service days are held to enable staff to develop the curriculum, share good teaching practices, discuss school business but also enhance teachers’ continued professional development.

“This in-service day at Kirkland incorporated all these things.”

He said it was appropriate for the head teacher to decide how to spend budgets in the best way.

Health promotion has “a direct benefit for pupils,” he said, and the £1000 cost was “surely a small price to pay.”

Mr Bellshaw said, “I doubt any reasonable person would grudge our hard-worked teachers such a pittance.”