EXCITEMENT reverberated through the school grounds of Jerounds Primary Academy, today, as Saracens Sport Foundation arrived to deliver another session of curriculum tag rugby at the school. Jerounds have planned to inspire their children with some external, quality coaching for the autumn term, both during and after the school day.

Presently, Saracens Sport Foundation, run a number of programmes across several sports in schools across North London and Hertfordshire. However, they are now looking to replicate their tremendous success and working module, within schools in Essex. Their coaches run a mixture of curricular and extra-curricular rugby, athletics, dance and cheerleading programmes, with a clear, concise vision: ”These programmes aim to increase participation as well as delivering educational outcomes to assist in improving attainment. Educating children on the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle in everyday life is also a key outcome.”

As a result, Jerounds currently offer two Cheerleading extra-curricular clubs (for both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2), along with a Tag Rugby Club and are now looking into a Street Dance class, to further extend their vast offer of extra-curricular activities. The rationale for choosing three-times European Champions and five times Rugby Union Premiership Champions, is that Saracens, offer a bespoke programme, SIMS (Sarries in My School), to compliment the present curriculum and specialist teaching currently provided through NET Academy Trust. Sessions may run before, during and after the school day – catering for a wide range of age ranges. The key initiative is to provide opportunities for children to lead healthy and active lifestyles. Jerounds has also asked Saracens to assist them to develop a leadership programme for their Sports Council and Athlete Pathway.

Ethan, Head Boy, in Year 6, along with Guoda and Tyler (Sports Captains), all reported: ‘Matt and Henari (the Saracens’ coaches) are fabulous! They have helped us to continuously improve, communicate, but most importantly, to have fun. We cannot wait for our next session…’

This must surely be the over-arching expectation of all physical development (another key mission for NET Academies’ schools) and activities in school – to champion the ‘power and joy’ of exercise!