Alternative Provision (AP) is crucial in providing education and support for students who face challenges in accessing mainstream schooling. Within the realm of AP, sport emerges as a powerful tool that can be used to engage, empower, and inspire young people.

At Brightstar, we've seen the transformations in young people when using boxing combined with mentoring and education. This article will explore how sport can be used in alternative education provision settings in the UK.

Motivation and Engagement

Sport has the innate ability to motivate and engage young people in their education. By incorporating sport into the curriculum, alternative provision providers can create a dynamic and stimulating learning environment. Whether through team sports, individual activities, or physical challenges, sport can capture students' interest and provides a sense of achievement and belonging. This can then have positive effects throughout their lives; improving behaviour, self-confidence, mental health and educational outcomes.

Developing Essential Life Skills

One of sport's greatest strengths lies in its ability to develop essential life skills. Sports can teach young people the value of teamwork, cooperation and effective communication, as well as resilience and the considerable value of support in a group. Through sports such as boxing, young people learn discipline, self-control, resilience, and the ability to set and pursue goals— all really important in future life.

Promoting Physical and Mental Wellbeing

Physical and mental well-being are vital to a healthier, happier life, and sport can significantly promote both. This is particularly relevant for young people who have experienced trauma or have an Adverse Life Experience (ACE).

While regular physical activity is important for physical health, sport can also significantly improve mental health for young people. Sport can provide an important outlet for stress, anxiety and anger. The endorphins released during physical activity improve mood, focus, and overall well-being.

How To Use Sport in Alternative Provision

Sport can be integrated into alternative provision in several ways to enhance the educational experience:

• Curriculum Enhancement: Incorporating sport into the wider curriculum allows students to develop physical skills, teamwork, and discipline alongside their academic studies. This multidimensional approach fosters well-rounded individuals ready to face real-world challenges.

• Alternative Provision Settings: Sports clubs and alternative provision providers using sport such as Brightstar can serve as alternative provision settings, providing students with a fresh and stimulating environment in which to learn and thrive.

• Extracurricular Activities: Engaging students in extracurricular sports clubs and teams provides opportunities for personal and social development while also fostering a sense of belonging and identity within a supportive community.

• Therapeutic Interventions: Sport can be used as a therapeutic intervention to support students with mental health or behavioural challenges. Sports' structured and goal-oriented nature can support individuals to manage emotions, build resilience, and develop effective coping strategies.

To Wrap Up

Sport is a powerful catalyst for change in alternative education provision settings. By leveraging the motivational, developmental, and therapeutic benefits of sport, educators and support professionals can create an inclusive and enriching educational environment for young people.

Integrating sport into alternative provision paves the way for enhanced engagement, personal growth, and improved educational outcomes. This will allow us to nurture the potential of every student, regardless of their circumstances, and equip them with the skills needed to empower them to thrive.

Visit our page to find out more about our Futures Alternative Education Programme, or contact Joe Lockley on [email protected]