Haydonleigh and Commonweal School students with physical or visual impairments enjoy Disability Access Day sports activities

Over 150 pupils with physical or visual impairments took part in Access Activity Day on 10 March, enabling disabled students in mainstream schools, who cannot or struggle to access mainstream PE, a chance to try sports and activities they would not normally be able to try.

Activities included Zumba, Random run, Boxing, Boccia, croquet, wheelchair sports, and volleyball.

The day was a huge success and broke down barriers including transport as the schools provided this or parents came and stayed with their children. Schools also had the staff support needed for the students to fully participate in the day itself.

The perception of sport being for the elite was broken down, and all of those that took part went away with a positive outlook that they can take part and succeed within sport.  On the day there were also a range of disabled instructors / coaches leading some of the sessions, showing that anyone can achieve anything if they put their mind to it.

The day is organised by the Advisory service for Physical Disability, Visual and Assistive Technology and the Ability Team, Community Health and Wellbeing at Swindon Borough Council.

The day is completely reliant on funding to continue. If you are interested in helping to fund this event then please email [email protected]

The day itself was helped with a fantastic team of volunteers from New College who partook in all the activities and assisted with those needing extra help.

One parent said: “These activity days are great for my son’s self-esteem, he feels like he won’t be judged and can participate to his best ability. We see a different child at these events, someone who is proud of their achievements and has a can do attitude.”

Another parent added: “This day has been great for my son to meet children who he will be working alongside when he moves to secondary school, it’s a lovely way for him to make friends early and be ready to transfer to a new school”

Ben Humphrey, Inclusion Live Well Manager, Community Health & Well-being – Swindon Borough Council said: “There is a perception within sports clubs that you have to be good at a sport to join a club, it’s about having fun and getting the benefits of sports. You have to have a can-do attitude.”