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Students help to run sportshall athletics event

Telford College sport and public services students helping to run the school sport events

More than 70 school teams from across the borough descended on Telford College to take part in a three-day sportshall athletics competition.

The sports hall at the college’s Wellington campus hosted competitions for year 5/6, year 7/8, plus key stage 1 and 2 pupils – with Telford College students on hand to ensure everything went smoothly.

A selection of challenges were laid on during the sessions including relay races, sprints, obstacle courses and skills-based activities such as throwing, jumping, and co-ordinating activities.

The event was part of the Telford and Wrekin School Sports Partnership programme, and gave Telford College’s sport and public uniformed services team chance to put their organisational and communication skills into practice.

The school sports events in the Telford College hall
The school sports events in the Telford College hall

Melanie Newbrook, learner manager for sport and public services, said: “We have hosted this event in our sports hall for several years, with competition between primary schools, secondary schools, and children with additional learning needs.

“Not only is it a fantastic occasion for the pupils taking part, it is also a wonderful opportunity for our own students to gain valuable experience helping to organise the activities.”

She added: “We give students on our Telford College sports courses the opportunity to access practical coaching situations with local schools and clubs, so that they can look at the elements involved in planning a successful sports event.”

Around 1,500 students attended the events over the three days. There were 25 schools taking part in the year 5/6 session this time, and a total of 40 teams involved in the key stage 1 and 2 activities.

Secondary schools taking part in the years 7/8 competition included Charlton, Hadley Learning Community, Burton Borough from Newport, Ercall Wood, Telford Priory, and Southall.

The event was designed to give pupils the chance to take part in a blend of competitive and non-competitive events – putting physical activity and competitive sport at the heart of schools.