As physical activity becomes increasingly important for children and young people, Cooks Spinney Primary School in Harlow as been able to address this thanks to Opening Schools Facilities (OSF) funding. Thanks to the funding programme, Cook Spinney have been able to effectively provide its students with a variety of engaging sports activities that enrich their lives both physically and socially.
Through the OSF funding, Cooks Spinney has been able to introduce a range of new after school clubs, including dance, judo and gymnastics, which has allowed students the chance to explore new interests and develop important physical and social skills. These activities were made possible thanks to the purchase of new equipment, specialised training and partnerships with coaches and sports clubs in the local area. The goal of the use of this funding has been to create a programme that is sustainable and will benefit the students long-term, by fostering a connection between schools and local sports organisations.
One of the schools teachers at the Harlow school explained that; “The OSF funding has helped provide a wide range of activities for our pupils to engage in after school. The funding for equipment and delivery has created a pathway for sustainability and continued engagement outside of term time for our children.”
The building of community connections is key to ensuring that these offers aren’t just in house and can allow students to continue pursuing their interest outside of school hours. The collaboration amongst community assets has also been instrumental in introducing students to a broader community, helping them develop communication skills and confidence in interacting with new people.
315 pupils from the school have participated in the various clubs that have been funded through the OSF programme, showcasing the impact of the initiatives that have been developed. With a third of the school’s students eligible for the Pupil Premium, this funding has been vital in ensuring that all students, regardless of their economic background, can access high-quality extracurricular activities.
The benefits of the clubs being introduced extend beyond just getting the students more active. They have provided working parents with more piece of mind, reassuring them that their children are engaged in fun and structured activities in the time after finishing school before the end of the workday. The clubs have also seen improved attendance and behaviour as children look forward to attending school know the activities and opportunities on offer to them afterwards.
A student at Cooks Spinney explained; “Dance club is the best because we can learn more dance moves, and it helps us get flexible.” Another student, added; “We also enjoy judo club because we learn new moves, and you can fight/tackle your friends. I am excited for the competition in a few weeks.”
Cook Spinney School has learned that the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity has a wide range of different benefits. Improved attendance, better social skills, and positive behaviour changes are just some of the outcomes of this OSF funded project. The school’s connection with local sports organisations and sports clubs has also given students the confidence to attend sessions outside of school, further enhancing their development. Cooks Spinney plans to continue strengthening these relationships, ensuring that students remain engaged and active both inside and outside of school.
The OSF funding has had a profound impact on Cooks Spinney Primary School, helping to create a thriving environment where students can engage in physical activity, build relationships, and enhance their well-being. The combination of strong community partnerships dedicated local coaches, and external support from organisations like Active Essex has ensured that these programmes and offers are both sustainable and transformative for the students involved. Cooks Spinney is a shining example of how schools can use targeted funding streams to provide meaningful opportunities for young people, setting them up for a healthier and more active future.
