On Monday 20th May, 30 enthusiastic Year 3 pupils from Holy Cross Primary School in South Ockendon took to the streets and green spaces of their local area as part of the exciting community initiative, Beat The Street. Accompanied by Mrs Dhannie and Mrs Hogan, and guided by Mel from Find Your Active Thurrock, the pupils enjoyed a fun-filled 45-minute walk, working in pairs to tap as many Beat Boxes as they could find.
Their walk took them through parks and along the streets of South Ockendon, with the children successfully tapping four Beat Boxes along the way. The journey was filled with chatter, laughter, and even a few wildlife sightings, including birds and squirrels!
One pupil shared, “The walk felt like 10 minutes, the time went really fast!” Another added, “I love playing Beat the Street because I like walking with my mum and she always takes me to the park when we play—and I love going to the park!” A third pupil commented, “I walk more to school now and I enjoy it.”
The staff were just as inspired by the experience. Mrs Dhannie said:
“This is a fantastic initiative. We often underestimate the value of walking in today’s world and the huge benefits it provides. This walk reminded all of us of the beauty of nature and how revitalised we feel after a walk. The children (and adults) absolutely loved the walk, and we look forward to the next instalment of Beat the Street—not only in South Ockendon but throughout Thurrock.”
Mrs Hogan echoed the sentiment:
“Walking is a forgotten art but it is so good for us—adults and children alike! We are surrounded by such greenery and open space in South Ockendon. Beat the Street is a wonderful opportunity to get families walking again.”
Did you take part in Beat The Street in South Ockendon or Aveley?
We’d love to hear your stories and feedback and see your photos! Help us celebrate and build on this fantastic community initiative.
📧 Get in touch: Melissa.Huggins@thurrockcvs.org