We have previously highlighted the fantastic work being done by Biggleswade FC in their partnership with their local SEND school, Ivel Valley.
Recently the Pitching In Southern League Division One Central club staged a football tournament for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) Schools. It was the second event of its kind and followed on from last year’s successful inaugural event.
It’s part of their ‘Pitching In Together’ project, which has received funding from a Trident Community Foundation Grant, via the Southern League.
“In what was a sun-soaked day, we were able to stage a vibrant tournament full of energy, excitement and inclusion,” said Biggleswade FC Chairman, Jeremy Reynolds. “The aim of our Pitching In Together project is to reach out and offer opportunities for local SEND pupils to engage with us and be part of non-League football.
“Both the football club and Iver Valley School have enthusiastically embraced the opportunities, working with our shared values of team-work, opportunity and resilience.
“We’ve hosted matchday experiences for the youngsters and their parents/carers, sent our coaches into the school to deliver football coaching sessions and had a presence in school assemblies.
“It’s a relationship that is growing all of the time and we’ve also been able to embrace other SEND Schools as part of it, such as this latest tournament, which was once more held at Hillgrounds, home of Kempston Rovers FC, for whom we are extremely grateful for their support.
“Over 100 youngsters took part this year from six schools, competing across two age groups – Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4.
“The tournament showcased not only the footballing talent of the students but also the spirit of team work and fair play that defined the day.
“It was clear to see how much enjoyment everyone involved took from the tournament. There was a real buzz throughout the whole day and as a football club, we are delighted to support our local community in this way and play our part in putting smiles on faces.”
In a highly competitive series of matches, Oakbank School emerged as champions in the Key Stage 4 category, while Grange Academy took the top spot in the Key Stage 3 contest. The excitement peaked with a dramatic penalty shoot-out competition, which was won by Ivel Valley School.
Wendy Chantrell, Physical Integration Leader at The Ivel Valley School, commented: “It was fantastic to see so many young people enjoying the game and giving their all.
“Events like this show how football can be a powerful tool for inclusion and confidence building.”
The club has plans to expand the event even further next year, whilst also developing the SEND football provision within their local area going forward, for which the Southern League congratulates them on their fantastic ongoing work.
The Trident Community Foundation is a grant programme which focuses on supporting football clubs, particularly those in the Pitching In Trident Leagues. It helps clubs launch or expand community projects, with funding from Entain Foundation and other sources. The foundation's aim is to support grassroots football and its role in local communities.
If your club is leading the way in your community, please get in touch with the Southern League Diversity Director, Stephen Hyde, via the details below.
For all ED&I communications relating to the Southern League, and to share your story for publication here on the website, please email: sfl.diversity@gmail.com SEND EMAIL
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