School Sport Programme 2014

ARGYLE are launching a fantastic new initiative for schools in Devon and Cornwall.

The programme is being delivered through the Premier League School Sport programme, which aims to give a major boost to primary school sport in Devon and Cornwall.

The Premier League, Professional Footballers Association, Football League and Plymouth Argyle Supporters Training and Development Trust are investing in the scheme which will allow Argyle to deliver high-quality curriculum-time coaching aimed at improving physical literacy and fundamental movement skills.

"Involving young people at an early age in sport can have an extremely positive effect on their lives in terms of their health, well-being and raising aspirations," said Community Trust Manager Mark Lovell. "The Premier League School Sport Programme will do just that.

"I'm delighted that thousands of children will benefit from this welcome programme that has been developed as a result of the Premier League, PFA, Football League, Plymouth Argyle and Plymouth Argyle Supporters Training and Development Trust.”

As part of the programme, a fully trained and newly skilled club workforce will also introduce pupils to football/sport coaching and provide competitive football opportunities. The emphasis will be on providing fun, enjoyable experiences that raises enthusiasm for physical activity and increases participation in sport and football.

Argyle will target 19 schools per year and 3,000 pupils over two years, offering PE curriculum enrichment sessions over a six-week period. This will lead into inter-schools competitive football opportunities and entry into the Football League Kids Cup.

John Coker, secretary of PASTDT, said: "PASTDT was set up by Argyle fans to encourage more young people in the south west to play football and to develop their skills. We are therefore delighted to be able to support this exciting project which will benefit youngsters across the south west and will hopefully result in them developing a lifelong interest in the sport, and their local football club."

Mark Lovell added: “Reaching out to the youngsters of our local community is the fundamental aim of the Community Trust - the funding from partners will further help us break through any discrimination or social barriers which hinder young people’s development improve PE curriculum provision within local primary schools and help to provide continued professional development for primary school teachers.

Argyle Chief Executive Martyn Starnes said: "The football club plays a vital and influential role in the community. This schools sport initiative will not only help strengthen that bond, but also boost participation in sport for thousands of our local youngsters. Healthy living is an important feature of the work at the Community Trust and innovative programmes like this will certainly increase their enthusiasm for physical activity."