How a new fleet of Bell Boats ensured children from Plymouth enjoyed a quality experience of water-based activities.

“This is a brilliant experience right on our doorstep. We would like to be able to use it everyday. The children love it. Bell Boating is a great addition to the school’s programme of activities.”

Mr. David Angel, Head teacher, Pamphlett Primary School.

Plymstock School Sports Partnership Development Manager Rob Wright saw the opportunities that were on his doorstep with Plymouth being a waterfront city and natural environment.

His intentions were to enrich, enhance and extend the experiences offered to young people in the partnership. The partnership wanted to provide an accessible way that children could achieve a number of cross curricular learning outcomes through Physical Education and school sports. A floating classroom was the answer.

He talked with the British Canoe Union, asking how he could get large numbers of children involved in Paddlesport. The answer came in the form of a fleet of Bell Boats and helm training for his staff and university students to supervise them. Almost 300 young people from years 4 – 13 took part from 49 schools and 48 staff and volunteers were trained to helm the craft from within the partnership.

This initiative won the partnership their prize.

Rob has had foresight in realising the need for progression and is has applied for Big Lottery funding combined with partnership money to buy a fleet of 21 open canoes taking Paddlesport to the next stage.

Olympians hand out school prizes

2006 School Sport Partnerships' Development Awards winners for increased participation in PE and School Sports.

Kelly Holmes, Duncan Goodhew and Australia's Brennon Dowrick presented awards to Rob Wright PDM for Plymstock Partnership.