Primary Minilympics
This is a hugely popular partnerships event, run by King's School with assistance from Canterbury Christchurch University Sports Ambassadors.
Relaunched in 2023, over 150 Year 4 pupils attended for a day of outdoor sports, talks on nutrition and fitness, and motivational talks two Elite-level Olympian and Paralympian athletes (Millie Knight, Paralympian medalist and Sean Kerly, Olympic medalist). All enjoyed a BBQ lunch, with donations made to schools and pupils of spikeball kits and tees.
Nine schools were represented and pupils from King's, Canterbury Academy and CCCU assisted as team leaders.
Feedback was very positive from primary schools (see below) and this event will run again next year and continue to develop.
"a fantastic opportunity for our pupils.. exceptionally friendly and accommodating.. (activities were varied) for all abilities, lots of very encouraging and supportive adults to help them."
"fantastic day: well led and children inspired.. accommodated all children.. variation of skills and events - super!"
"very well organised with lots of opportunities for the children.. staff and students of King's were extremely welcoming and supportive."
"it was very well run and organised.. the children were all engaged and enjoyed themselves.. great communication, lovely variety of activities.. continue what you are doing! It was fantastic."
"Fantastic day, well led. Children inspired."
Aims
To provide Year 4 pupils with a fun day doing sport and encourage positive messages about healthy lifestyle and eating. The schools identified were those in Canterbury city and other partners.
Pupils chosen to attend the event are from the less athletic and sporty cohort and those who would never normally participate in a sporting event.
Pupils are rewarded for team effort and participation and are in mixed school teams.
Background
There was close collaboration between the King's School and CCCU in identifying a need for a non-competitive sporting event. The first Minilympics event was in 2015. 65 children from 6 schools attended in 2015 and in 2018 this had expanded to 180 children.
Resources
Both King's and CCCU have provided staff for the event and share the administrative responsibility for the event.
The King's School provide the venue, student helpers and sports coaches. CCCU provide their SportsLab team and ambassadors for the event.
The event is fully funded by the King's Partnership Section.
Impact
Teachers carry out a group evaluation with their pupils at the end of the day and all the King's students involved are asked to complete an evaluation form to feedback the impact of their involvement.
The primary pupils enjoy all the activities and lunch and their teachers see great outcomes in terms of increased confidence.
Pupil Involvement
Approx 10 staff and 20 pupils students from The King's School;
Approx 150 Y4 pupils from Canterbury primary schools, selected by the schools;
Approx 20 student ambassadors and sports science students, plus staff from CCCU.
Frequency
An annual event running from 09.30- 14.30.