Marjon Change4Life Festival inspires Plymouth school pupils to get active and make friends

Released: 14.05.25

Primary school children across Plymouth enjoyed a day of fun, fitness, and friendship at the Change4Life Festival, hosted by Plymouth Marjon University students this March. 

Organised in partnership with the Plymouth School Sports Partnership (PSSP), the festival welcomed children who are less physically active or not currently involved in extracurricular sports. The event was led by students from Marjon’s BA (Hons) Physical Education course, giving them a valuable opportunity to put their learning into practice. 

Children took part in a wide variety of imaginative and inclusive activities, from bouldering on the Marjon Sport & Health Centre indoor climbing wall to mastering Balance Bikes. Themed games, including those inspired by Disney Villains, kept the energy high and the young participants engaged throughout the day. 

There was also a hands-on healthy eating session where children made their own smoothies and explored different types of fruit. The fun continued into lunchtime with appearances by the popular Marjon lion and lamb mascots, much to the delight of the pupils. 

Erica Eaton Quinn, Programme Lead for Physical Education, praised the efforts of her students: 

“We are incredibly proud of how our students delivered such a creative, inclusive, and energetic event. The partnership with the PSSP is vital in helping us support children’s physical and social development across the city.” 

Feedback from visiting schools was overwhelmingly positive. One staff member commented, “It was a fantastic day with brilliant ideas—the students were so professional and made sure every child felt included.” Another added, “The children had a lot of fun, and we’ll definitely be back next year!” 

Hayley Tasker from PSSP highlighted the importance of the festival: 

“These events are key to helping children get active, build friendships, and learn about healthy lifestyles in a fun and welcoming environment.” 

Joshua Gilbert, also from PSSP, noted the longstanding partnership: 

“This collaboration has been running for over eight years, and we’re excited to keep offering these amazing experiences to local children.” 

You can learn more about studying at Marjon and apply for September 2025 here.