134 students have been able to access netball in a brand-new way at the Hinchingbrooke school in Cambridgeshire thanks to Blended Netball.
The Blended Netball programme is an engaging student led initiative that sees mainstream girls deliver netball to girls with special educational needs (SEN) within their secondary schools.
With over 1,203 participants in 35 schools already signed up, the programme provides netball opportunities for pupils who may not otherwise be involved, whilst supporting all with an excellent chance to develop interpersonal skills.
After starting the programme in its first full academic year of running (2022/23), the Hinchingbrooke school has seen the programme grow, gaining excellent feedback from students and participants alike.
For one Sports Leader at the Hinchingbrooke school, they have relished the opportunity to get involved.
“I really enjoy playing netball and would like the opportunity to show others what I have learnt and see if they can follow my drills and skills,” they said.
“I have made some lovely friends in this group and some friends that help me deliver the lessons too. I wouldn’t have these friends if I hadn’t started this.”
For sports leaders, the wider impact of their involvement can also be felt in other areas of school including academically, with one leader remarking: “I have made great progress in other lessons too because I have something to look forward to each week.”
For the girls involved as participants, their enthusiasm for the opportunity is evident. Not only do participants have chance to further develop physical skills outside of traditional PE lessons, but also key social interaction and communication skills can be enhanced.
“I love my netball especially catching the ball which I have got really good at. I have made lots of friends at the sessions because they love netball like me,” said one of the participants.
For several participants, the ability to take part in these sessions boosts their confidence and helps them to feel success in a sporting environment.
“I have trouble moving around for long spells of times, but they let me join in or sit down when I want,” said another participant who has thrived at these sessions.
Getting involved in Blended Netball
Blended Netball is a free to access programme for secondary schools, with no player sign up or additional fees.
If you know a school you think would benefit from this programme or are a school looking to get involved, you can find out more information here.
