A program from Sport Australia has reached a significant milestone, providing more than 10 million opportunities for school children across Australia to take part in sport.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sport Australia, Rob Dalton said the Sporting Schools Program helped schools increase children’s participation in sport by providing free programs.
“Since its launch in 2015, more than 8,000 schools have received funding through the Program, with more than 520,000 Program participants each term,” Mr Dalton said.
Teacher at the Adelaide East Education Centre, Jenny Bonnett said the Program had been life changing for her students, who had sampled eight sports, including table tennis, cricket and touch football since 2019.
“Our students are mostly on the autism spectrum and have learning and social interaction difficulties, so they may find it hard to join in as a team member,” Ms Bonnett said.
“Many have not been exposed to a lot of different sports, so this Program gives them the social experiences missing in their lives,” she said.
Ms Bonnett said every coach that had come to the school had developed a fantastic rapport with the students, resulting in enjoyment, active participation and amazing results.
Students at St Joseph’s School in Western Australia are also enjoying the opportunity, trying badminton, tennis and volleyball.
Teacher, Olivia Sturtridge said the school’s 150 students attended a weekly lesson over five weeks where they learnt the rules and skills of each game.
Ms Sturtridge said students could then access the equipment to continue to develop their skills at break times.
Mr Dalton said one positive connection with Sporting Schools could make a lifetime of difference and give children the motivation to be active at school and throughout their lives.
