The school joined hundreds of others across Australia in the Jump Rope for Heart program - the largest and most recognised fundraising and physical activity program for young people.

Ballarat Grammar Jump Rope for Heart co-ordinator and PE teacher Emma Burnham said the school was committed to supporting students to be more physically active.

“Through Jump Rope for Heart students learn that being active can be great fun and hopefully keep the healthy habits they learn through the program with them for life,” Miss Burnham said.

Heart Foundation CEO Mary Barry said Jump Rope for Heart was a health education, health promotion and fundraising program rolled into one where children learn about the importance of being heart healthy and making healthy lifestyle choices.

“The program is uniquely positioned to educate families, school communities and students about the importance of keeping their hearts healthy through regular physical activity and balanced nutrition,” Ms Barry said.

“With 25 per cent of Australian students considered either overweight or obese, it’s more important than ever for students to get involved in physical activity at school.”

So far students at Ballarat Grammar have raised more than $3500 for the Heart Foundation.

Since the Jump Rope for Heart program started in 1983, more than 95 per cent of all Australian schools, involving over eight million school children have participated.