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HUNDREDS of Harrogate children have flocked to a popular sports camp to make the most of their school holidays.
Sporting Influence has set up home at Ashville Prep School, part of Ashville College, to create a safe, fun and active environment for local children to develop their social skills, reduce loneliness and increase their physical activity.
Head of Prep, Phil Soutar, said the school was proud to be involved in an initiative which encouraged children to enjoy sport and make new friends.
“As a school, we’re extremely lucky to have such superb facilities and the joy of being outdoors and participation in sport is in the fabric of the school.
This is a great partnership for the school and community.
“It’s also a lifeline for many working parents who want to keep their children active and energetic during the summer break.”
Sporting Influence, in partnership with the Sporting Influence Foundation, aims to offer comprehensive support through various initiatives during school holidays.
Chris Doey, who runs the 8-week summer camp, said over 120 children, aged from Reception to Year 9 are expected to take part this summer.
“The children come to have fun of course, but the most important aspect is they learn five social skills which are embedded every day in all of the activities we do – they are body language, determination, encouragement, communication and respect.
“Our qualified teachers, who run the sessions, work hard to develop these skills in every session.”
The Harrogate-based company, which started in 2012, offers six activities a day in age-related groups, ranging from swimming, to table tennis, camp games such as dodgeball, and traditional sports such as tennis and football as well as martial arts and dance.
Chris added:
“ The facilities are so exceptional at Ashville that we can offer a really varied programme such as inflatables and a Colour Run, as well as making the most out of the astro turf, and sports hall.”