Background
Our project in Durham Trinity School and Sports College initially started last year ( 2019 – 2020), our rationale to start with was to develop the health and well- being of our young people with a focus on physical activity. To begin with we engaged with 3 partner schools in our local area to gain an understanding around issues that some of their pupils may be experiencing linked to physical activity levels and we explored how we could improve and increase these.
Our focus was to develop a nurture group within school, consisting of vulnerable youngsters who found physical activity or team skills in particular an issue and a challenge to themselves. These individuals often often had sensory issues and found touching lots of equipment problematics and also working in close proximity to others challenging.
What did we do?
We developed a programme of activity that pupils in school had suggested, including Yoga, fitness suite, indoor climbing and boxing. We offered parents links to local clubs and venues that could further enhance their activity levels.
What was the impact?
Pupils increased their activity and feedback that they enjoyed what they were doing. Parents reported increased physical activity levels and children now more open to try new activities.
One parent said:
“Using the treadmill increased my daughter’s fitness and independence in a social setting and I will be signing her up for a membership with hope in the future she could access the gym independently”