Bringing the Game into More Schools
15th October 2024
Expanding Netball’s Reach
In the heart of Aberdeen and Moray, a significant movement is underway to foster a new generation of netball players. Netball Scotland’s development team, led by dedicated officers like Julie, is actively working to integrate netball into school curriculums and extracurricular activities. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to create numerous opportunities for both girls and boys to engage with netball, learn valuable teamwork skills, and develop a love for the sport.
Through organised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions, Netball Scotland are empowering school teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to introduce netball to their students effectively. These initiatives are crucial because they not only promote physical fitness but also help inculcate life skills such as cooperation, strategic thinking, and resilience among young learners.
Julie Bateman, the Netball Development Officer for Aberdeen, highlights the importance of these sessions: “The CPD sessions were incredibly rewarding. Teachers were particularly excited about the practical netball drills and how these could be implemented in their classes. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the straightforward techniques and clear learning objectives we set out.”
Netball Development Officer, Julie Bateman leads teachers in CPD in Moray
Free Affiliation and Resources for Schools
Netball Scotland offers a unique opportunity for primary schools across the nation. By affiliating with us, which is free for all primary schools, they gain access to three comprehensive primary school packs, encompassing 18 weeks’ worth of netball resources. These packs are meticulously designed to aid in skill development and facilitate engaging netball games for children.
Julie adds, “Teachers play a pivotal role. They’re not just instructors; they’re motivators. Their enthusiasm is infectious and is essential for helping students develop a lasting love for netball.”
The importance of expanding netball into schools cannot be overstated. By creating more touchpoints for children to encounter and engage with netball, Netball Scotland aims to build a strong foundation for the sport’s growth and sustainability. This strategy ensures that every child, regardless of background or ability, has the chance to participate in and benefit from playing netball. Schools interested in enriching their sports curriculum with these netball programs can find more information and sign up here.
Netball Scotland Primary School Pack
By integrating netball into school programs, Netball Scotland hopes to inspire the next generation of players and fans, ensuring the sport’s growth and sustainability throughout the region. Teachers and schools play a crucial role in this vision, fostering an environment where young athletes can flourish.
