It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the website of the Be Active After-School Activity Programme (ASAP). The Health Promotion Department of the HSE Dublin North East is especially delighted to support this programme as it adds significantly to our Health Promoting Schools programme, involving parents in their children’s physical activity experiences and working in partnership with principals and teachers. The Be Active ASAP aims to improve the physical activity patterns of school children by introducing them to a wide variety of activities in a fun, supportive, positive environment, fostering positive attitudes toward physical activity during children’s crucial formative years.

Dr. Nazih Eldin, Head of Health Promotion, HSE Dublin North East.

Be Active ASAP

Takes place after school on school grounds.

This offers a safe, familiar, convenient setting for an age-appropriate introduction to after-school physical activity.

Designed for 7-8 year olds.

This is an age at which children begin to make decisions regarding their likes/dislikes or abilities regarding physical activity.

Led by trained teacher leaders.

Teachers were chosen to lead the programme as they have the knowledge to adjust activities to challenge children appropriately, irrespective of ability.

Involves parents in their children’s physical activity.

Parental support is crucial to the programme to improve the adult:child ratio, to support the teacher and to set a good example for the children.

Gives children the chance to succeed.

This programme concentrates on building confidence across a broad range of activities echoing the Physical Education Curriculum for Primary Schools experienced by children during the school day.

Below are some examples of the Be Active ASAP in action.