Pupils learn about Olympic values

West Berkshire school children have learnt about leadership and volunteering in sport in the lead up to the 2012 Olympics

SCHOOL children across West Berkshire have been learning about Olympic and Paralympic values in the build-up to the London 2012 games.

The Berkshire Leadership Academies recently brought together 240 young people from schools across the county to learn about leadership and volunteering in sport in the lead up to the Olympics.

The event, held at Bradfield College, was attended by pupils from Park House, Trinity, John O Gaunt, St Bartholomew, Mary Hare, The Downs, Kennet, Theale Green, Denefield and The Willink schools.

Every pupil gained either a National Governing Bodies leadership or officiating qualification in a chosen sport as well as producing an advert to advertise the Olympic and Paralympic values.

Maxine Cooke, Partnership Development Manager for West Berkshire School Sport Partnerships said “In light of the recent Government cuts to School Sport funding we feel that this event showcases the wealth of opportunity that sport can give a young person.

“One of our aims was to inspire the next generation workforce to support the country's grassroots and elite sport. This Academy will allow young people to develop their interpersonal skills, social skills and sports specific ability to give something back to their communities through their volunteering.”