Young people from Caerphilly county borough are becoming re-engaged with education with the help of the Newport Gwent Dragons.
The course took place one day a week for six weeks, and the boys were put through their paces in activities involving elements of team building, ball skills, problem solving and discipline.
They also learned about the importance of fitness, nutrition, motivation and the dangers associated with drug and alcohol misuse.
While much of the course was outdoor based, the boys also took part in a series of classroom-based lessons, where what they learned while doing the practical element of the course was supplemented by lessons in literacy and numeracy.
Some of the boys involved on the course have become detached from mainstream education, so this provided them with an excellent opportunity to become engaged in classroom based learning again.
Cllr Phil Bevan, Cabinet Member for Education and Leisure said, “I am confident that this first-class programme has provided the boys with the opportunity and skills to motivate them towards future activities, and help continue to channel their energies in a positive and productive way”.
Mike Sage, Community Manager for the Newport Gwent Dragons said, “It is always a pleasure to work with Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Youth Service, and I hope the boys will have gained a great deal from taking part in the ‘Success At Your Feet’ initiative which will help as they progress through their teenage years.
I hope this scheme has helped give them the confidence and motivation they needed for them to aspire to a brighter, more fulfilling future”.
Newport Gwent Dragons star Will Harries presented the boys with their awards for completing the course.
They were also given tickets to enjoy a trip back to Rodney Parade to watch a Newport Gwent Dragons game next season.
One young person who took part in the scheme said, “I have had a really good time and have learned so much throughout the course. I feel a lot calmer and disciplined, and feel I’ve matured quite a bit too. I’m definitely going to try and keep up what I learned. The coaches were also great and really encouraged us to achieve our potential.”
Seven boys, aged between 12 and 14 from Caerphilly county borough have completed the ‘Success At Your Feet’ initiative, run by the Newport Gwent Dragons, together with Caerphilly County Borough Council Youth Service’s The Hub team.
The scheme was made possible thanks to funding from the New Tredegar, Graig-y-Rhacca and Van Communities First Partnerships.
