Play2EmpowHer - Pilot Programme

The Sporting Influence Foundation recently launched its pilot programme, Play2EmpowHER, at Moorside School, targeting young girls in Years 3-6 who have drifted away from sport. Over two weeks, the programme aimed to re-engage girls who were once passionate about sport but had stepped back for various reasons. The initiative culminated with a team from Moorside representing their school in a local netball competition, a significant achievement for many of the girls involved.

Delivered by Ellie Neate from the Sporting Influence Foundation, the programme created an inclusive environment where girls could rediscover their love for sports in a supportive and empowering way. "It was fantastic to see so many young girls engaging in the sessions, notably, several who are usually less engaged during PE lessons and sports competitions were fully involved, which was really encouraging."

Mr. Price, the PE Lead at Moorside Primary School, also praised the initiative. "This programme is great for the girls. They are sometimes overshadowed by the boys, and offering something tailored specifically to them is brilliant. It’s wonderful to see them back playing sport and feeling confident again."

Neil Atkinson, from the Sporting Influence Foundation, echoed the importance of the initiative: "The aim of this intervention is not just to get girls playing again but to help them rediscover their passion for sport and physical activity. For many, when sport becomes challenging, the easy option is to step away. We want to prevent that and inspire a lasting love for sport. In addition to the physical benefits, sport also supports positive physical and emotional wellbeing, which is something, we as a foundation, are keen to develop across all children, not just a subsection"

With the success of the pilot programme, Play2EmpowHER could become a pivotal force in keeping young girls active and engaged in sport, laying the groundwork for a positive, lifelong relationship with physical activity.

Data from the programme has shown that after the intervention girls have become more confident speaking out when they needed support. It has also become apparent from the data that the intervention helped the girls to gain more confidence in overcomiung challenges. 

Our favourite quote from the sessions...

"I really didn't think I would enjoy the session, but I really have. It helped because it was just girls"