Barnsley project highlights School Games impact

A new place-based project in Barnsley is demonstrating how targeted local investment is helping School Games Organisers across South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire respond directly to the needs of young people in their communities.

As part of wider funding distributed to School Games Organiser (SGO) teams across the two counties, localised projects are being delivered throughout the summer term to address priorities identified at place level. The investment reflects Yorkshire Sport Foundation’s blended approach to School Games delivery – combining county-wide strategic direction and events with locally designed projects that respond to the unique challenges and opportunities facing young people in different communities.

In Barnsley, School Games Organiser Angie Buckley is leading a project designed to support Key Stage 3 students who face additional barriers to participation by providing access to outdoor adventurous activities in a connected and impactful way. Delivered in partnership with Hesley Wood Scout Activity Centre, the programme has so far engaged 30 targeted young people in activities including abseiling, crate stacking and team-building challenges. The project has been specifically developed to build resilience, teamwork and self-confidence through shared challenge and outdoor learning experiences, while also introducing young people to local opportunities for sustained participation beyond the programme itself.

“Working alongside passionate school PE leads, wellbeing teams and youth workers to bring disengaged young people together has been incredibly special. It’s been about showing these young people that it’s okay to fail, because failure is often the first step to growth — helping them build confidence, feel valued, strengthen relationships in school between both themselves and their support staff, and create lasting memories that inspire them to believe in what they can achieve.” – Angie Buckley, Barnsley School Games Organiser

What makes this project particularly powerful is its connection to the local community through a longstanding partnership between Barnsley’s School Games network and Stainborough Rotary Club. This collaboration closely aligns with the values of the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) development programme – a nationally recognised leadership experience that helps targeted young people build confidence, develop new skills and unlock their potential through practical challenge and shared experiences.

Through mentorship, especially after Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), we see incredible transformation in young people. Every child has something special to offer, they often just need the confidence to step out of their comfort zone, discover their talents, and believe in themselves. By recognising and celebrating their strengths, we help them grow as leaders and learn the power of teamwork.” — Jayne and Richard, Stainborough Rotary Club

This year’s event was further strengthened by the support of a previous RYLA participant, who returned to act as a mentor throughout the day. Drawing on their own experience of the programme, they supported the young people to achieve their best, offering encouragement, guidance and serving as a positive role model to inspire confidence and aspiration.

“Coming back as a mentor and photographer has brought my Rotary Youth Leadership Awards journey full circle. It makes the experience even more worthwhile to give back, share it with others, and capture moments that inspire younger students.”  - Emma, previous RYLA student.

Ensuring these opportunities reach the young people who will benefit most has been a key priority. Participants have been nominated by secondary schools through youth workers and wellbeing teams, with local support in place ahead of the event to help prepare them for the experience and ensure they feel ready to take part.

“Coming to this event has pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me build confidence and communication skills. I almost didn’t come, but I didn’t want to let my youth worker down — and I’m so glad I made the effort. It’s shown me what I’m capable of and made me proud to represent my school alongside my teachers and youth workers.” – Student, Astrea Academy Dearne

Beyond the event, the ambition is to create lasting relationships and meaningful pathways for continued support. Plans are already in place for Rotary Club mentors to continue working with schools after the programme, helping to sustain the impact locally and providing young people with ongoing encouragement, guidance and positive role models.

"The day at the activity centre gave our students opportunities they wouldn’t normally experience, helping them build confidence, positivity and stronger connections with each other. It encouraged them to step outside their comfort zones, start new conversations and work together in ways they may not in school. For students with a range of cognitive, social and emotional needs, the day was a powerful experience, and the confidence they gained will carry back into everyday school life.” – Lucy Robinson, PE teacher at Kirk Balk Academy

This Barnsley project is a strong example of how localised School Games investment can go beyond physical activity alone – connecting education, community partnerships and youth development to create experiences that can have a lasting impact on young people’s confidence, aspirations and future opportunities.

Photo credit: Emma, Photography at Barnsley College, Instagram @rememberedbyrutter