A group of Thomas Clarkson Academy students have been named as ‘Young Leaders’ and will be taking part in a new initiative to increase the number of students playing sport.

The students from years 8 to 10 took part in the launch event of the Brooke Weston Trust Young Leaders programme which took place on Friday, October 2nd at Kettering Science Academy in Northamptonshire.

Young Leaders from secondary schools across the trust, who have been selected for having outstanding qualities and for demonstrating a commitment to sport, have been picked to promote sport to their peers.

TCA sport teacher and BWT Director of Sport, Kirstie Smith said: “The BWT Young Leader Pathway aims to help pupils develop leadership skills such as organisation, communication and teamwork, as well as helping to build confidence and self-esteem as they take on responsibility of leading, coaching and officiating their peers and younger children.”

The Young Leaders will be encouraged to take an active role within their academies and will be responsible for sports festivals, assemblies, coaching and setting a good example for others.

At the launch event the Young Leaders were given coaching advice on tag rugby, volleyball, football and Project Ability, as well as looking at how they could use their role to assist students that are less able to enjoy sports due to a physical disability.

Thomas Clarkson Year 9 student, Kelly McManus said: “The launch event has been very enjoyable and I have been learning new skills at the same time. I am hoping, through the Young Leader scheme, I will gain more confidence as I get to meet and work with a lot of new people. I am very pleased to have been picked to represent my school.”