Nelson and Colne College Sixth Form has appointed Alexis Walker as its new Sportsmaker, to continue the legacy of the London 2012 Olympics and encourage more students to get involved in physical activity.
The appointment is part of the National Lottery’s £20 million funding from Sports England to improve the sporting opportunities for young people. The Olympic legacy to encourage more people to take part in sport and to work physical activity into their daily lives is a philosophy which is wholeheartedly embraced by the College, which already boasts an impressive range of sporting activities on its extra-curricular programme.
However, recent research from Sports England’s Active People Research Survey revealed that nationally, College students play the least amount of sport amongst young people aged 16 and over in education and Nelson and Colne College is keen to ensure that this trend is challenged in Pendle!
Alexis joins the College from a strong sporting background and is keen to ensure that students at the College are given every opportunity to enjoy the benefits of physical activity. With plans to develop strong links with the County Sport Partnership, to encourage club links and opportunities for young people to continue sport after leaving the College, Alexis also hopes to encourage certain groups of students to take part in activities such as Martial Arts, Pilates, Trampolining, Dance and Dodgeball, as well as the popular sport activities already offered at the College.
Alexis said, “I know that for many staff and students, physical activity isn’t a key priority within their time at College and I am hoping to change this. The benefits of physical activity are endless, from a physical, mental and social perspective and I am keen to promote this within my role. I am excited to put on a range of activities which are specific and suitable to the needs of the students. Increasing the confidence and skills of College students and making physical activity habitual within College life is my ultimate goal. The role is going to be challenging but I am extremely excited and positive I can change, influence and develop the participation levels within the College.”
The College already offers a range of sporting activities which are open to all students, including outstanding Sports Academies for Netball and Football, and new for 2013, Sport Scholarships offered to elite sportsmen and women. However, it is hoped that Alexis will be able to further increase the uptake of physical activity, particularly amongst those who might not usually get involved.
If you are a student and want to keep up-to-date with physical activities at the College, or you’re a Sports Club wanting to get involved, follow Alexis on Twitter at @NCCGetActive or like her page on Facebook NCC-Get-Up-Get-Active
