The gymnastics module is a fantastic opportunity for pupils involved in Primary Ambitions to learn new gymnastics skills, be creative and work with their peers to perform each week.
Over the five weeks, the Lower Sixth pupils teach fundamental gymnastics skills such as rolling, balancing, shapes, jumps, travel and rhythmic gymnastics. Each week, the pupils work together to then incorporate these skills into mini routines which build up to form an end of module sequence in week five which they perform to each other. Watching the primary school children perform with confidence and excitement at the end of five weeks is a real highlight of the module. You can see their self-confidence grow each week and in turn their enthusiasm for the activity and their interaction within the group and with the Emanuel pupils.
The gymnastics module could be a challenge for the lower sixth pupils to deliver, as many have not done gymnastics themselves or it may not be their specialist sport. However, I have been really impressed with how each cohort of Emanuel pupils develop their own skills during the planning stages of the course and push themselves out of their comfort zones to deliver the course successfully. I have witnessed the lower sixth pupils evolve and grow within themselves enormously through the delivery of Primary Ambitions. Walking into a classroom to deliver a topic which is not your specialism to Year 6s can be overwhelming, but each week they have been more assertive, confident, and passionate about what they are teaching. They have developed a good balance of compassion and professionalism when talking to and teaching the children, often sharing jokes, stories and hobbies to break the ice and build trust, which has been wonderful to see.
Lower Sixth pupil reports: ‘Primary ambitions has been a rewarding experience through seeing the pupils progress throughout our lessons. Moreover, it has helped me to gain confidence and develop skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. My first time leading, I was very nervous and found it difficult, however, now, through developing better time management, the lessons feel much more joyful and under control.’
Miss Blaikie (Supervisor for PA Gymnastics)