CHILDREN at a Blaenau Gwent school have given up afternoon breaks to do exercise.

Blaen-y-Cwm Primary School in Brynmawr decided to replace one of their break times with a walking session.

Every afternoon the children go to the school’s grounds to power walk at least two laps of the paths around the playgrounds as part of their Walking to Fitness initiative.

Head teacher Susan Davies said: "The school decided it was time to get fit. Walking seemed like the obvious choice of exercise because it's something we can all do.

"It involves no disruption to the school day and it’s an activity that all the children and staff can do together.

"The children have better levels of fitness and are returning to class invigorated and ready to learn.

"They also have time to talk to each other and the adults in a relaxed atmosphere in a way they might not get to in class. It has also improved teamwork and leadership skills as our older pupils walk with and encourage the younger ones."