Last term all Primary 4-7 pupils from Kaimhill School took part in a new pilot AFCCT initiative called “Better Playground play”. The six week programme was designed following an enquiry from the school who reported issues at break times such as arguments and fights caused by poor sportsmanship and cheating whilst playing football.
To target these issues all pupils took part in 45 minute Football sessions delivered by one of our AFCCT Community Coaches where not only would they learn some new skills but also about the “ROOTS” of the game. Throughout the six week programme pupils received messages on how to respect Rules, Opponents, Officials, Teammates and Self to try and create a more positive environment not only at break times but throughout the school in general.
As part of the programme Scottish FA and Aberdeen FC Community Trust Coach Scott Duncan delivered an interactive assembly to all the participant classes and teachers to re-inforce the key messages on being a positive team/class mate and respect. As part of this assembly the pupils themselves designed a code of conduct which they now have to adhere to during intervals.
Scott Said: “We felt the best way to influence the issues raised by Kaimhill were to highlight positive and negative behaviour by using teachable moments during sessions and video footage from the professional game as part of an assembly.” “We focused heavily on positive role models such as Lionel Messi and how he conducts himself like a champion on the field and how the pupils can follow his example. The children also enjoyed seeing the benefits of creating a positive team environment with a motivational video from the Aberdeen FC first team and their road to success in the League Cup last year.”
Diane Rough Depute Head Teacher added “The conduct of the pupils after the coaching sessions from AFCCT has been excellent. The difference in behaviour has been noticeable and the children are now using exemplary sportsmanship by controlling their own matches.”
Kaimhill boasts a large Aberdeen FC support within the school and they were delighted when Angus the Bull and the League Cup trophy made a surprise appearance at a recent special assembly.
Kaimhill boasts a large Aberdeen FC support within the school and they were delighted when Angus the Bull and the League Cup trophy made a surprise appearance at a recent special assembly.
