Pupils at a Leeds school are bowling along nicely
Most schools have a football pitch, a netball court and the odd tennis court or two, but what about a bowling green?
Richmond House School in Far Headingley, Leeds, has just added to its already extensive list of out-of-school activities by launching a crown green bowling club on its ten acres of land, which is already home to rugby and football pitches, tennis courts, an athletics track and a cricket square.
The club meets every week throughout the summer term and is open to pupils in years 5 and 6.
‘We are committed to finding and developing the individual talents in each child,’ said deputy head Paul Oldham, who runs the new bowling club. ‘This means that, as well as our challenging and varied curriculum, we also offer more than 40 extracurricular clubs and activities, providing something to suit everyone.
‘We endeavour to offer clubs that appeal to all children and recognise that the traditional, more energetic sports don’t suit every child. As well as bowling, we have recently introduced orienteering and team-building, all of which are fun, low impact, challenging activities that make the most of our extensive outdoor space.’
Bowling is, apparently, a useful teaching tool, as well as a good way to have fun with your pals after a tough day at the chalk face (not that anyone actually uses chalk anymore).
‘ It teaches the children many skills, like co-ordination and precision, as well as important life skills such as social interaction and following rules,’ Paul explained.
‘As with all of our extracurricular pursuits, the aim is to allow children to develop new talents and ultimately grow in confidence and self-esteem.’ w
