Students took part in a festive-themed run to get into the Christmas spirit.

The energetic Portland students entered the annual Santa Dash nationwide competition.

Each year group at Atlantic Academy, an all-through, completed a 1 mile run, walk, bike, scoot or simply 15 minutes of an activity of their choice.

The aim was to see each year group – from Reception through to Year 11 take part in their activity at the same time as all the other children in their year group across the country.

Pictures were then uploaded to social media so that other schools and pupils could see what they got up to at the same time from Cornwall up to Carlisle!

The Santa Dash ties in with the academy’s Healthy School status. Melissa Heppell, Principal of Atlantic’s Primary, said the event was a great opportunity for students to take part in a whole-school activity. She joined in with her year groups and Lesley Bishop, Principal of Atlantic Secondary, participated with year groups 7 to 11.

Atlantic currently has places available for Reception and Year 7, September 2021 start. To find out more join a Virtual Information Session organised to take place January 6th at 6pm. Please email apply@atlantic-aspirations.org to register or start a conversation.

Mrs Heppell said: "The Santa Dash provided a great way of getting involved in sports competitions which have been put on hold due to Covid-19.

"As an all-through it also provided a great opportunity for students to work together and to see pupils from different year groups. The bubbles have been effective in allowing schools to teach children safely but it’s so important for the younger students to see the older students and the Santa Dash allowed this to happen. Everyone had a great time.’’