Girls in Key Stage 3 and 4 have been leaving their mark on football at an inclusive tournament hosted by Fulham Football Club. This is part of the Surrey Inclusive Schools League in which Undershaw now competes regularly.
Across two days, Fulham FC hosted a total of 13 local schools who made up 28 teams; a total of 280 young footballers with disabilities or Special Educational Needs who were able to play competitive football at a world class facility.
Sport at Undershaw has been on the rise in recent years thanks not only to the strong inclusive culture at the school, but also due to the drive, vision and passion of Will Milner-Smith, Undershaw’s Physical Education Lead.
”Opportunities like these allow our students to work together as a team and compete with other schools in the local area in an environment that suits them. As well as honing those all-important football skills, participating in a competitive league provides them with the satisfaction of representing the school out in the community - to hear them speak about how excited they are for it is amazing!
Will Milner-SmithPhysical Education Lead
The team played against 6 other SEN Schools and managed to finish the day in 1st place winning five out of six matches. Throughout the day the students showed great teamwork and respect for each other and towards the other teams in the competition, and were praised by members of staff from other schools on the manner in which they conducted themselves.
”We know for many of our students, movement is key to helping them regulate their emotions and we extol the benefits of exercise to promote positive mental and physical wellbeing. The recent introduction of Football as our focus sport has given all the students the chance to enjoy football and through that, we have seen a massive influx in participation and enjoyment. We currently have thirty students signed up for the team spread over four different teams. Undershaw will definitely be returning in the next half term to defend our title. We're all so proud of the team!
Emma WestHeadteacher
