Rackets Cubed have recently launched two new programmes in Scotland. The first programme was launched, in Glasgow, in November 2023 and involves children from Carlibar Primary School. Rackets Cubed have worked in partnership with Chris Rose from East Renfewshire Culture and Leisure, Tennis Scotland and Giffnock Tennis Club to provide the sessions at Barrhead Foundry.
Geoff Newton, President of the Rackets Cubed charity, explained: “The children are introduced to a racket sport, like tennis, so they are more physically active. They have additional STEM education in a more relaxed environment and they come together for a nutritional meal. The programme aims to build confidence, support pupils in learning new skills and it improves school attendance, too. It is a partnership approach; a lot of people have come together to make this pilot successful. It feels like a great recipe for growing more programmes to support more children.”
The initiative was brought to Barrhead and co-ordinated by Chris Rose, Active Schools coordinator for East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure, whose role involves developing and supporting opportunities for children and young people in Barrhead. Chris said: “I heard about Rackets Cubed at a Tennis Scotland event and thought it would be great for some of the schools in Barrhead, we now have 22 children coming along and having fun, taking part in tennis games and activities, participating in interactive maths sessions and having a hot, healthy meal each week.”
Vicky Evans, Area Manager for the North East & Scotland said “We are thrilled to have secured our first programme of 23/24 in Scotland. We are excited to have Carlibar Primary School partnering with us to make a difference to the lives of children in the local community. We would also like to thank Tennis Scotland and the sports development teams on the ground with their amazing help and support setting up the programme. Scotland is a key area for us in our drive to enhance the achievement of children and improve their physical & mental wellbeing.”
The STEM element is provided by a teacher from Carlibar Primary school and is supported by a pupil support assistant from the school. Teacher Mr Goold explained: “The pupils tackle STEM and maths activities in a different way than they would in the classroom. They love it and, on top of the academic development, they enjoy coming to an after-school club, building confidence and learning life skills, such as table etiquette during meal time and respect for others. It’s been very positive so far.”
In addition to our Glasgow programme, we have recently launched a new programme over in Edinburgh with two schools Gracemount and St Catherine’s working together to provide opportunities for pupils from both schools. The weekly tennis sessions take place at Gracemount Leisure Centre and are supported by Ryan Harrower the Rackets Development Officer at the City of Edinburgh Council and Tennis Scotland.
Neil Haig, Tennis Scotland’s regional development manager, added: “Tennis is one of the most sociable sports and it’s also mentally challenging. It’s fun to play with friends and a sport you can continue with throughout your life. Tennis Scotland are pleased to support the great work of Rackets Cubed to bring the programme to new schools.”
Our President and Area Manager visited Scotland at the end of February and visited potential new partner schools, community and leisure centres who are keen to work with us going forward. The support in Scotland has been fantastic so far and we are looking forward to increasing the number of programmes there over the coming months.