Barnsley College sport students praised for event organisation

Pupils from Wellgate, Greenfield, High View, Kexborough and Burton Road Primary Schools were invited to participate in four different events at the College’s Honeywell campus.

The events are designed to give students real and practical experience of organising a sporting event and assessing risks whilst preparing them for employment.

Activities included a cross-country ‘Fleet of Foot’ running race, a multi-skills sports event and a girls’ and boys’ Football Festival tournament.

Former Premier League and Barnsley FC striker Bruce Dyer was on hand to show support for the boys’ football competition.

Student Molly Haglington, 16, said: “It’s given me experience of coaching and has helped build my confidence and leaderships skills. I’ve had the opportunity to plan and deliver to large groups of primary school pupils. I’ve enjoyed being able to develop myself, I want to pursue a career in teaching so it’s good for me to get experiences like this.”

Student Joshua Baker, 18, added: “These events help with my leadership skills and help me improve my ability at delivering to primary school pupils. It is a chance to gain experience of encouraging kids to listen and engage with activities.”

Ritchie Bywater, Sport Tutor, went on to say: “As part of the Level 3 Sport courses at Barnsley College, students are required to organise sports events. Across all events students have considered health and safety, promotion of the event, participation certificates and the activities themselves. They undertook a range of roles and responsibilities which have developed confidence, communication, organisation and knowledge.”