Government backs Wii in schools

The Government has endorsed proposals to use Nintendo’s Wii as part of its curriculum for PE lesson in schools.

The Independent On Sunday reports that the console has succesfully been used in trials in five schools in Worcestershire to tempt pupils into ‘virtual PE’ – and could now be taken nationwide.

The move following a report in the British Medical Journal which found active video games ‘significantly increased participants’ energy expenditure’ compared to other systems.

The IoS reports that the departments responsible for improving fitness among the nation’s young, including the Department of Health, have backed the project – with a possible pilot scheme in the pipeline.

A DoH spokesman said: "We welcome the positive impact that innovations like these can have as a first step towards getting people to participate in a range of physical activities and to enjoy the many benefits of an active lifestyle."