Tonight I visited the impressive Walworth Academy school in Southwark, SE London, along with Patrik and Jane from Laureus, so that we could see the Urban Stars project in action.
There was a football training session going on and despite the cold weather there was a good turnout of teenage lads keen for a kick-about.
Oli from Active Communities Network (a strategic partner to Laureus) explained how the Urban Stars programme is delivered and also why it’s needed – in this area of Southwark there have been several violent and gang related incidents in the past and communities are increasingly targeted for gang membership, so the project aims to provide a reduction in the numbers of young people joining, or being perceived as being in, gangs. This should lead to a reduced fear of crime in target areas and a lessening of youth crime and anti-social behaviour. To do this the project offers a programme of sports participation, coaching and competition, thus participants are offered quality learning opportunities outside of school, which hopefully will lead to a rise in academic attainment, aspirations and employment.
Another amazing charity supported project I’m sure you’ll agree!
Urban Stars footy training session
