Students share physio knowledge at local schools

UCLan Physiotherapy undergraduates took time out from their studies to deliver teaching sessions at four local primary schools.

The second year students visited schools in Preston and Wigan to present one hour lessons to children aged 4-11 which showed them how to keep their skeletons healthy.

Pupils at Harris Primary School, Nateby Primary School and English Martyrs Catholic Primary School in Preston, and Woodfield Primary School in Wigan were taught the basic names of bones, how to better understand the human skeleton and build healthy bones, through to the understanding of osteoporosis and bone health in relation to posture.

The students covered topics such as anatomy, physiology, the benefits of physical activity and how to maximise bone health through diet and physical activity, as well as how to prevent osteoporosis. Lecturers Gill Rawlinson, Mandy Dunbar and Sara Fisher supervised the students during the visits.

Gill commented: "These visits provided a great opportunity for the students to raise awareness of the role of the physiotherapist, and help children learn more about how their bodies’ work and how they can stay healthy and prevent problems in later life.

"Despite some of the students being quite daunted by the challenge, they delivered excellent sessions which really helped them with their communication skills. The children were really enthusiastic and enjoyed getting the chance to explore the skeletons and anatomical models.

"I'd like to thank all of the primary schools for their help in organising these visits which provided us with a great opportunity to engage with our local community."