The Manchester College students benefit from flourishing partnership with St Francis RC Primary School

Students studying the Level 2 Activity Leadership course at The Manchester College’s Openshaw Campus recently planned and delivered their first PE session of the new academic year to key stage one (KS1) and two (KS2) pupils at St Francis RC Primary School.

Pupils from the primary school, which is only a hop, skip and jump away from the College’s Openshaw Campus, recently visited the state-of-the-art sports facilities and took part in a class that the aspiring activity leaders had prepared.

It was also the first time that the Sport department’s new mascot made an appearance.  The mascot was paid for with money raised by a cohort of last year’s Level 2 students as part of their events module.

The partnership with St Francis RC Primary School has already led to meaningful changes to the syllabus that Level 2 Activity Leadership students follow, thanks to expert guidance from staff at the local school on how best to coach KS1 and KS2 pupils.

Speaking about the partnership, Ambokile Bell, Course Leader for Sport, Public Services and Criminology at the College, said: “Working with St Francis RC Primary School has become an integral part of our students’ learning journeys and provided experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.  Through this collaboration, our students are gaining practical insights into their roles as activity leaders while making a positive impact on the local community.

“The changes made to our curriculum not only align with the standards required for the Level 2 qualification, but also reflect our commitment to community engagement and wellbeing.”

Fellow Course Leader, Justine Stevenson, added: “By working closely with the primary school, we are fostering relationships that benefit both institutions and, more importantly, contribute to the improvement of health, wellbeing, and activity levels in their provision.

“As we continue to strengthen our partnership with St Francis RC Primary School, we anticipate even more opportunities for our students to engage with the community and enhance their practical skills in a real-world context.”

Keen to highlight the two-way benefits of the partnership, Mrs Jagger-Smith, Year 4 Teacher and PE Lead at St Francis RC Primary School, explained: “I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for the fantastic partnership we have formed with The Manchester College.  It has been an incredible opportunity that has undoubtedly enhanced our PE curriculum for the children of St Francis Primary.

“Having the chance to conduct PE sessions in a state-of-the-art facility is truly a privilege for us.  The students and staff at the College serve as remarkable examples and role models for our children.  Every week, we eagerly look forward to our PE lessons knowing that we are now connected with The Manchester College and its esteemed Sport department.

It brings me immense joy to know that the students at the College have the chance to collaborate with us.  Not only do they gain valuable insights into the demands of the key stage curriculum, but we also benefit greatly from their guidance and expertise.  It is truly inspiring to witness some of the future's brightest coaches and passionate individuals firsthand.

“Our partnership with The Manchester College is a shining example of cooperation and mutual growth.  I truly believe that together, we can create a lasting impact on the lives of our children.”

Find out more about the Sport courses at The Manchester College and apply.