The challenge - Education Ministers Running Challenge

About the challenge

The challenge was established in 2023 to:

encourage students to run regularly
develop a love for physical exercise
improve health and fitness levels.

Whether you’re a student or education staff member, the Education Minister wants you to get up, get moving, and get running.

The mission is for primary school students to run, walk or wheel for 20 minutes per week, while secondary students and education staff complete 30 minutes per week.

Any running, walking, or wheeling counts toward the challenge.

It’s a great excuse to get together, have fun with friends, and get active at the same time.

Each runner who logs their activity throughout the challenge, goes into the draw to win a weekly prize and up to 4,000 students receive free entry into the Perth Running Festival Burswood Park 4km Dash at Optus Stadium.

All runners who participate in the challenge will receive a special certificate signed by the Education Minister.

Benefits of the challenge

The challenge will:

promote exercise and physical activity to students and education staff
give students and staff a focus for their exercise
encourage students and staff to enjoy running and engage in regular exercise
boost self-confidence, school unity, pride and a sense of accomplishment
encourage students and staff to participate by being challenged
offer incentives and prizes for runners
increase the involvement of parents and carers in their child’s physical activity
contribute to increased fitness levels, better academic performance and improved mental health.

How to register

Registrations are currently closed. Stay tuned for details about the 2025 event.

Challenge guidelines

This challenge is open to all students and education staff in Western Australia.

Running ability

Physical activity comes in many forms, and everyone is encouraged to participate in a way that feels right for them.

It’s important to find a pace and style of movement that suits your unique needs and preferences. Whether you enjoy a brisk jog, a leisurely run, a power walk, or any other type of movement, every effort counts towards your journey to wellness and fitness.

Embrace what works best for you and celebrate your progress.

Participants with disabilities

Fitness is for everyone, regardless of your abilities. You can run, walk or wheel to participate in the challenge.