GymChallenge a huge success at two special schools

During September, the British Gymnastics Foundation brought the GymChallenge to two special schools in Liverpool.

Abbotts Lea School and Palmerston School both played host to their very own gymnastics festivals which we were delighted to be able to organise, giving children who hadn’t previously had the opportunity to take part in gymnastics a chance to enjoy what the sport has to offer.

Patrick Bonner, British Gymnastics Foundation Manager, said: “From the moment each group came in, the excitement levels were clear to see.

“Whilst many of the children have difficulties with concentration, communication and learning difficulties, once they got engaged in the gymnastics activity, they really challenged themselves to do their best and seemed to concentrate and enjoy it; so much so, that they didn’t want the session to finish.

“The children’s enthusiasm appeared to grow as each session progressed and the children took great delight in showing everyone what they had learned during their three days of gymnastics as we invited each child to work in pairs to do a mini gymnastics display at the end of each session. All the pupils were so supportive of each other and when they applauded, it was fantastic to see the children who were performing brimming with smiles!”

Two days of coaching were followed by a gymnastics festival day where all of the children took part in activities including balancing, throwing, catching and jumping. During the day, Olympic medalist Beth Tweddle MBE made a surprise appearance, helping to coach the children before presenting certificates to all that took part.

Stephen Morris was the lead coach for all three days at both Palmerston and Abbots Lea Schools, says having fun is key to each session he runs: “The most important thing is that the sessions are safe and the children are learning and having fun.

“If these things are in place you get a sense of satisfaction having spent some time with a group of individuals who have learnt something from you and you have had a good time with them. What’s not to like about that?”

Feedback from both schools has been positive, with Palmerston School PE teacher Mike Halligan thrilled that the festival had visited their school: “The whole package of three days was a great way for us to start the new school year.

“It helped us look at the new intake of pupils and see what they were responding to and coping with. The students benefitted from the experience and it has given the staff plenty of ideas to use in PE and sports activities moving forward.”