So who won? Hundreds of students chase ‘pudding’ for at least a mile during annual Santa Dash at Atlantic Academy Primary

Hundreds of students got involved in a number of festive activities during their school’s last week of term – including the Santa Dash involving Christmas ‘puddings’, a staff pantomime and nativities.

Almost 400 pupils at Atlantic Academy Primary on Portland took part in the annual Santa Dash, a Christmas run, with everyone dressing up or wearing a Santa hat and completing at least a mile chasing a ‘pudding’ .

A student known to be an excellent runner was given to each year group to be the pudding being chased.

Principal Melissa Heppell told the Dorset Echo: “The Santa Dash is a tradition we started last year and ties in with the academy’s Healthy School status. It’s important to have daily or weekly activities that are fun, engaging and encourage our students to participate and keep active. It’s good for mental wellbeing and it was great to see every primary school child took part.’’

All school nativities have been taking place virtually this year and extended to the staff Christmas pantomime which has now been posted online for parents and students to watch.

Ms Heppell added: “This year’s staff pantomime is a tour of classic nursery rhymes, including the Three Bears, Red Riding Hood, Humpty Dumpty and Father Christmas makes an appearance. Our children and their parents always look forward to watching every year.

“We wish our pupils, their parents and the Portland community a Happy Christmas and New Year.”

Reception places are currently available at Atlantic Academy Primary for the September 2022 start. To apply or to book a tour of the school email: apply@atlantic-aspirations.org.