In 2017 our club and coaches received funding from WESPORT to set up an inclusive satellite program. Our aims were to make fencing accessible to those with learning disabilities, and to allow them to learn new skills while also making the club a place they could come and do sport.

Coaches ran sessions at both New Fosseway School and Kingsweston School in Bristol, to introduce the sport to the pupils and staff, but also to start to learn and understand the challenges faced when working with young people with learning disabilities. THe coaches worked on personal training to enable the pupils to gain the best experience.

Two years of funding was obtained through Wesport and partners to allow us to run group sessions within Kingsweston School, purchase a set of equipment for the school and to allow teachers to attend the British Fencing level 1, introduction to fencing coaching course. These factors have allowed the school to continue fencing at the school as part of their PE prospectus, after the funded project finishes.

Through our Introductory Bristol Schools competition, the pupils had the opportunity to compete with children from other schools. Using the full electric system, and dealing with the challenges of a new space, new people, lots of people, and being taken out of their comfort zones.

Through the two year program over 80 children with learning disabilities, have been able to access the sport of fencing, with a few going on to join our club in addition.

Due to the nature of the sport, fencing enables children and young people to learn a range of important physical and mental skills. While developing balance, leg strength, coordination and speed skills, fencing allows the opportunity to develop discipline, problem solving skills, independence and teamwork.

If you would like more information, or would like us to run taster sessions or program at your school, please get in touch here.