Great Yarmouth Charter Academy boosts student participation with exciting sports programmes 

“Great Yarmouth Charter Academy (GYCA) has distinguished itself by effectively utilising an ‘Enrichment Coordinator’ to understand the needs of the school community. Already offering a fulfilling after-school activity timetable, GYCA has taken the time to identify the wants and needs of less active students.

Consequently, the uptake on their provision has been high, and the outlook for next year’s offerings is promising.”

Andy Oakley, GY Locality Officer, Active Norfolk

Getting started: Setting up the project

The initiative began by actively seeking student input. Regular student voice questionnaires and conversations revealed what clubs’ students wanted, the barriers preventing their participation, and areas for improvement in existing programmes.  

The School Council facilitated discussions with students and presented it to Foundation Governor members and the Headteacher. Additionally, community and parental opinions were gathered through letters and parent-teacher meetings. 

Boosting participation

The academy’s primary goal was to boost student participation in physical activities during and after curricular hours. By providing a space for all students, including those who might be considered anti-social, the project aimed to enrich their school experience.  

Research has found strong evidence of a link between extra-curricular activities and educational outcomes as well as other positive outcomes, such as soft (especially social) skills. However, there are also barriers to taking part in extra-curricular activities for those from low-income households include their high cost, a lack of confidence, and difficulties in access. 

Great Yarmouth Charter Academy sought to develop participants’ skills, encouraging them to continue their activities beyond the school setting and join local clubs. 

“Great Yarmouth Charter Academy recognises the value of its facilities. As part of this project, we aimed to open these excellent resources to the wider community, fostering collaboration and promoting physical well-being.

The project specifically targets groups including Ethnically Diverse Communities, Women and Girls, Long-Term Health, Conditions, Free School Meals (FSM) Recipients and Students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).”

Dean Rosembert, Principle, Great Yarmouth Charter Academy 

“This funding has provided so many high-quality sporting opportunities to students and the local community, it has helped students find ‘their’ sport.” 

Enrichment Coordinator, GYCA

“Those who attended clubs have increased confidence in PE lessons and show more enjoyment”

PE Teacher, GYCA