main content Bromley schools integrated Swimming Gala 2005

Four of Bromley's special schools (as well as Parkwood Hall School, Swanley) together with five mainstream secondary schools participated in the eighteenth integrated swimming gala held at St Olave's School on Thursday 10 March 2005.

The event pairs together a mainstream and a special school into five teams who compete in a number of races ranging from walking races for non swimmers to full length races for stronger swimmers. Each race is a relay involving either one or two competitors from each pair of schools to compete together. The event culminates in a raft race where teams of six swimmers pull a raft with a swimmer on top the length of the pool. The focus of the event is on having fun and giving children the chance to integrate between mainstream and special schools in a sporting environment.

Graham Arthur, Bromley's Executive Councillor for Children and Young People, said: "This gala continues to be very popular with participants and guests alike.  It brings our special and mainstream schools together in a competitive yet enjoyable event".

Approximately one hundred and twenty children took part in the event.  There was no scoring and therefore no winners and losers.  However, each school nominated a performer of the day who was awarded the team's certificates by the Deputy Mayor of the London Borough of Bromley, Councillor Roger Charsley.

Marianne Clarke, PE teacher at Rectory Paddock Special School said: "We had a fantastic day.  The children really enjoyed interacting with the children from our partner school, The Priory.  It was great that the event included everyone regardless of their ability.  The highlight of the day was the raft race".

The event, organised by Andy Fish (Bromley Council) and Guy Wilkins (Marjorie McClure School) was funded through a grant from the Bromley Schools Sports Council. It was hosted by St Olave's School, Orpington. Mr Roy Archer, along with a team of year 9 pupils, ran the event.


ENDS

Notes to editors:

• For further information contact Andy Fish, Sports Partnership Development Manager on 020 8461 6481, or e-mail:  andrew.fish@bromley.gov.uk
• Information about Bromley Council's Education and Libraries Services can be found on Bromley Council's website, www.bromley.gov.uk
• For media enquiries, please contact Kevin Gerred, Planning and Communication Officer, on 020 8313 4024, or e-mail:  kevin.gerred@bromley.gov.uk