It has been another successful academic year for The Albion Foundation, as the charity engaged with 13,260 children in schools.
The Foundation aims to make a positive difference in the local community and schools though Well-being, Behaviour Change and Active Lifestyles.
Highlights from the previous 11 months have included the unveiling of the Eco-Albion programme, Education’s celebration event and Primary Disability Festivals. (hyperlink where available)
Despite the memorable dates and projects throughout the year, for Richard Holmes, Premier League Primary Stars Officer at the Foundation, the best bit has been seeing the daily development of schoolchildren that the charity works with.
“The real highlight has been seeing the day-to-day impact on the children and seeing them develop and improve, pursuing a lifelong love of sport and physical activity,” said Richard.
“We’ve got some fantastic coaches who are brilliant at working with teachers and children, they’re very adaptable so the quality of the Primary Stars delivery has been top-class’” he said.
The Foundation’s Education Department worked with 1,616 young people in schools, the highest amount to date, something that has pleased Anna Pincher, Head of Education.
“It’s been a positive year, working a lot with looked after children and pupils at the risk of exclusion,” said Anna.
“We are really pleased with the way that we’re going from September and the schools that we have been speaking to are really enthusiastic,” she said.
Specialist disability coaching has been delivered in more schools than ever for the Foundation, and for Paul Glover, Head of Disability, the children’s smiles are the most enjoyable element.
“Seeing all those happy faces in one environment is always a highlight for us,” said Paul.
“Next year it’s about creating legacies for children that we work with, providing more opportunities for them out of school as well as in,” he said.
Seeing a positive change in young people has also been a satisfying aspect of the year for Head of Engagement at the Foundation, Hayley James.
“We had a really positive year with projects that are making a real change and impact on young people in the local community,” said Hayley.
“We’ve got lots to look forward to, with some really exciting projects on the horizon,” she said.
Thank you to all of the teachers and children in schools that we have worked with, we look forward to seeing you again next year.