Students succeed as sports day hosts

Students at Walsall College proved to be a big hit with local pupils, parents and teachers at a local primary school after organising their sports day.  The eight sports students delivered race activities at Croft Academy for all students aged 5-11 as well as their parents.

The itinerary included egg and spoon and bean bag races, skipping and hula hoop activities.

“The students did a fantastic job on the day,” said Dan Hurley, PE Lead at Croft Academy.  “Our children were buzzing afterwards and our staff were very complimentary about how everyone carried themselves.

“We’d love to welcome them back in future.”

“This was such a great experience for us,” said Level 3 student, Jimmy Billingham. “Everyone gained valuable insights into working in sports and leisure, especially in terms of encouraging younger children to take part in different sports and have fun.  We also felt confident working with the school staff.”

Fellow student Callum Merrett added: “We took a lot from the day in terms of identifying what, when and where equipment would be needed, the importance of staying on schedule, keeping the lanes organised and improvising if there were any delays or problems.

“Although there was a lot going on, we finished ahead of time, which was a brilliant achievement for us.  Especially as this was the first time we’ve led on a sports day event outside of the college.”

The all-round feedback from the event was so positive that the college is now looking into developing a more comprehensive programme of sports activity delivered by the students for local children and young people.  This will enable to college students to gain supplementary work experience enhanced by a Junior Sports Leader Award and/or coaching qualification.