Yarm Preparatory School has extended its curriculum programme to offer pupils the chance to experience interests as diverse as free running, coding and bridge.
During timetabled activities sessions pupils can choose from a number of activities, which are fun and help to build knowledge of the core subjects.
Parkour, which is commonly known as free running, has recently been established as an official sport in the UK. Yarm Preparatory School has included free running in its activities programme, providing a fun and innovative activity for pupils in a safe environment.
With technology having a significant impact on the lives of everyone, pupils are given the opportunity to learn aspects of computer programming and coding, which enables them to build their own computer game or application.
The youngsters also have the opportunity to learn how to play bridge. The card game helps to hone strategic thinking and problem solving and supports numeracy skills.
Bill Sawyer, Head of Yarm Preparatory School, said: “Engaging pupils with activities that broaden their minds and re-enforces the classroom learning in an interesting and stimulating way is vital and that is the focus of the activity sessions.
“It might seem unusual to be teaching children to play bridge, which is perceived as an older person’s pastime, but they learn a number of skills without even realising it and thoroughly enjoy playing. As an intellectual challenge, bridge is unsurpassed, the pupils encounter problems to be solved, which involve elements of logical reasoning, probability analysis and decision-making.
“Playing bridge from an early age develops skills which benefit children in their future lives; they can develop a sense of achievement and understand the value of working towards a goal, the need to co-operate with a partner, to share information and to work as a team.
“Free running, which is done under strict supervision, has proved to be hugely popular with pupils. It’s about jumping, running and precision landing and in addition to the health and fitness benefits it teaches an awareness of the environment around you. The children love to be challenged and active
“Coding comes naturally to the pupils, who have grown up with the latest technology but the complex nature of making their own app supports numeracy and literacy and encourages creativity. It’s not just about future career prospects in the technology sector but building skills that will stand our young people in good stead whatever their chosen path.”