Read our Q&A with Grace, Jump Rope for Heart Field Officer and former primary school teacher
Jump Rope for Heart 2026 isn’t just a fundraiser, it’s a whole-school adventure! We spoke with Grace, one of our Field Officers and a former primary school teacher, about how skipping can energise students, engage the whole school, and make learning about heart health fun.
With her background in teaching, Grace knows exactly what makes a school program run smoothly. Read on as she shares practical tips and insights to help make Jump Rope for Heart easy to run and take that extra leap to sign up this year.
What inspired you to become a Field Officer after teaching in primary schools?
After several years as a primary school teacher, I saw firsthand how lifestyle factors like diet, physical activity and general wellbeing significantly impacted my student’s learning, behaviour and overall health. This sparked a growing passion for health and wellbeing, not only in the classroom but in the wider community. Becoming a field officer gave me the opportunity to combine my strengths in communication, education and community engagement with my passion for promoting healthier lifestyles.
"What truly inspired me was the chance to make a tangible impact beyond the school gates, supporting not just children but entire communities in leading healthier lives."
How did your teaching experience shape the way you now support schools running Jump Rope for Heart?
Having worked in primary schools myself, I understand the challenges that teachers face. From time constraints to keeping students engaged, I offer realistic and practical support that fits into their day. As an educator, I know what motivates students, so I can use that knowledge to help schools create positive, inclusive experiences where students are not only active but are also learning about heart health in fun and memorable ways. I can support teachers with aligning the programs with curriculum goals and school priorities, making it easier for teachers to say yes and get involved.
What is your favourite part about seeing students get active and engaged during the program?
My favourite part about seeing students get active and engaged during Jump Rope for Heart is the pure joy and energy they bring.
"There’s something really special about watching kids challenge themselves, cheer each other on and grow more confident with every skip."
Watching the pride on their faces when they master a new skill- that's even better than knowing they’re having fun while learning about their health.
What are the top benefits of Jump Rope for Heart that teachers and students often don’t realise?
One of the biggest benefits of the program is how much it supports social and emotional development. Beyond physical activity, students build resilience, teamwork and confidence as they practise new skills and encourage each other.
For teachers it's a great way to build classroom culture. Jump Rope for Heart brings a real sense of community and excitement which can carry over into other areas of school life. It’s also a great way to tick off health, PE and wellbeing outcomes without adding extra work!
Download the Jump Rope for Heart flyer that explains all the details of why running Jump Rope for Heart at your school is a good thing for your whole school community.
Download the pack
What advice would you give teachers for keeping students motivated across the term?
My biggest piece of advice for keeping students motivated across the term is to keep it fun, fresh and visible. Mix up your skipping activities like trying new tricks, setting weekly challenges or creating mini competitions. This helps keep the energy high and gives the students something to look forward to.
Also celebrate the small wins by recognising effort, teamwork or personal improvement through quick shoutouts, using our certificates or mentioning it in the school newsletter.
Lastly, keep the progress visible! Track class totals, set group goals or have a countdown to your Jump Off Day which all builds excitement and a sense of purpose.
How did you use to motivate your own students when it came to physical activity or health topics?
When I was teaching, I found the best way to motivate students around physical activity and health was to make it fun, hands on and meaningful. I always looked for ways to turn movement into a game or challenge so that it would be something they’d be excited to try and not just something that felt like ‘work’. Whether it was a fitness treasure hunt, movement brain breaks or exercise bingo - I made sure to lead by example. When students see you getting involved, being active and enjoying it, they’re much more likely to follow your lead with enthusiasm and confidence.
What tips do you have for teachers who feel short on time or resources?
My biggest tip for teachers is keep it simple. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Even short bursts of skipping during morning fitness, brain breaks or recess and lunch can make a big impact.
Just 5-10 minutes set aside a few times a week adds up and still gives students the benefits of being active. Please remember you don’t have to run it alone. Get students involved in leading warm-ups or creating skipping challenges. They love the ownership, and it builds leadership skills too. Pick what works for your schedule and build from there.
Need some extra help to stay organised this term? We’ve whipped up a free, downloadable classroom planner just for you.
Download the planner
What’s one thing teachers can do in the first week of the program to set themselves up for success?
One of the best things teachers can do in the first week of Jump Rope for Heart is to set a strong, positive tone. Take a little time to introduce the program to your class - explain what it’s about, how it works and most importantly, why it matters. Help students understand that they’re not just skipping for fun but also learning how to look after their hearts and support others in the community. You’ll be surprised how much that message will stick with them.
Now as a Field Officer, how do you support schools that are new to the program or unsure where to start?
I’m there for schools every step of the way. I help them set up a basic routine, share ready to go resources like lesson plans and poster and offer ideas that fit into their existing schedules. I also make sure they know they’re not doing it alone - I'm there every step of the way with regular check ins, answering questions or celebrating wins.
For many schools, once they see how excited students get, it all starts to fall into place. It’s all about building confidence early and keeping it simple.
You can help your school community get started by promoting the Jump Rope for Heart program with these ready-to-share resources!
Download resources
What message would you share with teachers about the importance of promoting heart health at school?
If I could share one message with teachers about promoting heart health at school, it would be this: you have the power to shape lifelong habits. The conversations, activities and values you share with students now can make a real difference to their future health and wellbeing. Heart health isn’t just a topic for later in life.
It starts with the choices we make early on. By weaving simple messages about movement, nutrition and looking after our bodies, you’re helping students build a foundation that can last a lifetime.
As educators, you’re already doing so much, and this is one way to make fitness and learning, not only simple, but meaningful and memorable.
Still not sure? Reach out to one of our friendly team now.
