Twelve Sporting Weeks on the River

February 2015

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Year 11 student, Holly thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Students have been working with Durham Amateur Rowing Club (DARC), which has recently been nominated for Club of the Year, to complete a 12 week introductory course in rowing and water safety. The group were trained by professional rowers, Bethany Yates and Debbie Connolly.

Some of the participants were selected as a reward for their excellent work in a variety of lessons, whilst others benefitted from the opportunity to build core and upper body strength. Students worked extremely hard and made excellent progress in developing complex rowing techniques and team working skills. One Year 9 student, Niall J, impressed the organisers so much that he has been offered a six week placement to work with DARC, an exciting prospect which we hope he enjoys.

Mrs Barlow, one of our Learning Support Mentors who organised the course said, "Rowing is a very physical sport and one which requires co-ordination and excellent team working skills. Taking part has been an exciting experience for our students; it has given them the opportunity to try a new sport that may not have been accessible to them otherwise, whilst improving their fitness levels and building confidence. Natasha H, one of our Year 8s admitted to me that she had not necessarily though of rowing as a sport for girls but she enjoyed every minute and would love to continue. It is great to see our young people embracing new challenges with such enthusiasm."

When asked about his experience, Niall commented, "I am glad I got the chance to try rowing because I have now found a sport that I really like. I never thought of rowing as a fun activity but it is brilliant."

Holly T in Year 11 said, "The course was amazing; it was the best experience of my life! Being the cox was great fun."