The Community Trust has brought the academic year to a close with the culmination of its inaugural County Award project, supported by Together Money.
Seven secondary schools across the borough took part in the 12-week programme, specifically designed to improve confidence and resilience among pupils who might otherwise struggle to engage in lessons. The Trust’s Sports and Education coaches hosted workshops for groups of Year 8 and Year 9 students which focused on three main areas: leadership skills, relationship-building and team working.
As well as classroom-based activities, the young people were also handed practical tasks which included laying on activity sessions for Stockport primary school students and devising County-themed social action projects. The latter were pitched and presented to club officials during Dragon’s Den-style sessions at Edgeley Park, with ideas ranging from matchday provision for senior citizen supporters to tie-ins with local food banks.
The winning students received prizes of Stockport County memorabilia, and each participant was given a County Award certificate and a special tour of the stadium.
Commented Trust CEO Alison Warwood:
“For a brand-new programme, we’re thrilled with the outcome of the County Award. By using the power of football, and the continued support from Together Money, we’ve been able to engage with hard-to-reach students in an original and innovative manner.
“School staff told us that the programme had a hugely positive impact upon these pupils, who really bought into the workshops and enjoyed visiting Edgeley Park in person.”
Added Alison: “I was privileged to sit on the judging panels and was massively impressed with the quality of presentations on show. I look forward to seeing some more in the upcoming academic year, too, as we plan to build on the success of the County Award by rolling it out to all secondary schools in the borough.”
