Leading the way in sport

As part a new college scheme, pupils are choosing to give up their free time to train as sports leaders.

The leaders will run sports sessions, events and competitions for under 11s at schools which feed into the college, including Bywell, Chickenley, Earlsheaton Infants, Eastborough, Hanging Heaton and Shaw Cross.

Pupil Jack Richardson, 13, said: “One of the reasons that inspired me to be a sports leader was to have the opportunity to eventually be a PE teacher and coach in an activity and also the joy of helping, teaching and working with other children.”

Lauren Hayes, also 13, added: “I want to be a sports leader because I want to teach children different sports and how important PE is in your life.”

Sports Co-Ordinator Matt Hodkinson said: “The leaders do a fantastic job in providing opportunities in sport that wouldn’t be available otherwise. The training empowers pupils and teaches communication skills, leadership, management and risk assessing to safeguard younger children. “

Mr Hodkinson said: “These pupils are fantastic ambassadors for Earlsheaton in the way they give up their time and act as role models.”