Last week, charity organisation Panathlon hosted a Ten Pin bowling event for schools in Essex, inviting children with a variety of additional needs to take part in a team-based event. The event introduces children to team-base, competitive events that encourages inclusivity and aims to provide them with a safe environment to participate in physical activity. This has led to increased confidence and greater self esteem of the children attending.
Gill Newland from Active Essex who helped run the event was thrilled at how much of a success the day was;
“What a busy day of bowling! It was great to see the faces of the children as they left proudly clutching their medals and certificates,’ It was great to see young people come out of their comfort zone within a safe environment and relish the opportunity to take part in an activity which, going forwards they could do with their friends and family”.
Active Essex work very closely with Panathlon. Each of the School Games Organisers across the county liaises with their local schools to encourage children and young people with additional needs to take part in a variety of events that Panathlon offers. These events include activities such as bowling, swimming at the London Aquatic Centre, football skills competitions, cricket challenges, and multi-skills festivals. Last academic year there were over 5,000 participation opportunities at Panathlon events taken up by young people in Essex. Sports leaders from our Secondary schools support the Panathlon events and find it insightful, enjoyable, and rewarding.
For this particular Panathlon event, teams competed throughout the day to see who could get the greatest average score, with every pupil receiving a participation medal; stickers for any strikes and certificates for scores over 100. The top three from the day received place medals, trophies and framed certificates which brought delight to the recipients. The day was a great success with primary school children in attendance in the morning and senior in the afternoon who were full of smiles and positive comments throughout.
One teacher commented, “we put the event out to all children listed as SEND and everyone was interested in coming. We had to pull names out of a hat! We just wish we could bring more children but will make sure that those that missed out today can come next time!”
A parent who had accompanied her child to the event explained how the event had impacted her son;
“He’s had a great day today and it means he can go to things that he usually can’t go. Events like this definitely make him happier and well rounded.”
The event created a safe space for the children to enjoy participating in bowling, many for the first time;
“I am proud of all my friends, I’ve never been bowling before, it’s brilliant”.
We are very proud and pleased to be involved with the Panathlon Team and would like to say a huge thank you for putting on such a fantastic event. We would also like to thank Hollywood Bowl Basildon for hosting and being so accommodating and helpful with the day.
