SPORTS

Sport is an important part of Academy life. Sport is seen as a learning experience and an excellent opportunity to develop character and leadership skills. As well as the obvious physical and mental health benefits, sport helps young people develop wider skills and attributes that benefit them in other areas of their lives. Several studies have shown that participation in sports often leads to improved attainment, lower absence rates, and better numeracy scores. Sport can also enhance self-esteem and deter young people from engaging in anti-social behaviour.

Through our Academy’s sports programmes, our pupils learn teamwork, leadership, self-discipline, focus and competitiveness – all of which will stand them in good stead for their future careers and in their role as community leaders. They also learn important lessons in humility, such as how to lose graciously and the importance of striving for continuous improvement.

The variety of clubs and sports on offer reflect the breadth and talents of our pupils and ensure that all pupils have an opportunity to participate in sports they enjoy and excel in. Our teams compete successfully in major competitions at all levels.

Sports Captain

All of our Academy’s sports teams have a Sports Captain, a member of the team who is elected to a leadership role by their peers because of their ability to motivate others. The Sports Captain is chosen on the strength of their performance, their ability to strategize and assess the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, and the level of their enthusiasm and commitment. Sports Captains help to lead their teammates to success because they can be relied upon to perform consistently and remain calm under pressure. As with all good leaders, they keep their team’s spirits high, even when things are not going well.

Sports Leaders

Our Sports Leaders are trained pupil volunteers who assist with the delivery of sport and recreation initiatives. Through their volunteering, Sports Leaders are role models for active lifestyles within the Academy and community. Sports Leaders take responsibility for:

  • Increasing participation in sports and healthy lifestyles
  • Promoting sport, and motivating and inspiring others to get involved in sport in the academy, clubs and the local community
  • Being the young peoples’ voice on PE and sport in the academy
  • Leading and delivering sports-related activities to primary school pupils

Through the Sports Leaders’ programme, pupils gain nationally-recognised leadership awards and qualifications. Pupils are connected to the Academy and their community, whist taking on increasing responsibility and developing their confidence and self-esteem.

Duke of Edinburgh

A Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is so much more than a ‘pat on the back’ for completing a programme of activities. It is recognition of a young person’s successful journey of self-discovery and development, renowned by employers and universities alike for the qualities young people have who have achieved a DofE Award. Its balanced programme develops the whole person in an environment of social interaction and team working. A DofE programme is a real adventure from beginning to end.