Dorset school games, Willy Gilly wellness and Christmas all in one 3 week period?!

Well, what a 3 weeks it’s been for the Awesome Archie team. We have SO much exciting news to share . Now, I know the title of this blog post will look completely bonkers, but by the end of this post it will all become clear… hopefully 😉

Dorset School Games meeting.

I was privileged enough to be invited to TGS to meet two rather incredible people. Dan Moody, Active Dorset’s strategic lead for sports and development and Claire Tabor, Children and young persons manager and school games county lead.

We had an hour long sit down where we chatted about the importance of inclusion and adapting lessons to suit all abilities. I am so delighted to say that they really didn’t need to learn much from me at all. Both Dan and Claire have an open passion about getting EVERYONE to love sport and are already leading a program called “Dare to believe.”

Dare to believe is a sporting event that is targeted to those children for whom PE is just that little bit tougher, for whatever reason.

Students with mobility differences, the neurodiverse, the quiet and reserved… EVERYONE IS THERE TO HAVE FUN! I am delighted to say that I have been invited to join them at the end of this month to observe in person. This way, we can collect our thoughts and see how we can make this, already brilliant event, even more AWESOME!

I want to say a massive thankyou to both Dan and Claire for all the work they are doing and for going the extra mile for the kids that have a tougher time in PE. THANKYOU X

Willy Gilly wellness.

William Gilpin is a school that I am currently 1:1’ing in a couple of days a week. I am so lucky to have two AWESOME students who just fill my time there with laughter. It is a genuine joy to be part of such a welcoming and nurturing school team. When one of their incredible teachers asked if I could help her create a ” Wellness Hub” within their stunning New Forest grounds, I JUMPED at the opportunity.

It is so vital that kids have a break out space. So many children can find the school day overwhelming… and having a sheltered, but outdoor chill zone will provide some calm. I plan to use it a lot 😉

This week, we got started on this exciting project. I donned my PG Tips apron and painted the walls white, the bunting in being sewn and the wooden positivity messages are underway.

The school are hosting a bake off fundraiser where we hope to raise enough money to buy weatherproof beanbags, cushions and outdoor rugs. Thankyou to Harriet Crossen and Simon Croutear for trusting me with this, it means a lot. Watch this space for progress reports 😉

And lastly…..CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!! #sorrynotsorry 🙂

Being a non-profit means that you spend your entire career asking for money, eeeek.

One of the most productive ways that we raise Awesome Archie funds is to create and sell. This year, we are hosting 3 Christmas/craft tents. All profits will go into the Awesome Archie fund to then be used to directly support a child with a neurological difference.

Thankyou so much to my ever supporting husband, Ian. He is not one for the limelight at all but he needs this public recognition. Last week, he worked for 50 hours, then spent his weekend chopping wood and making Christmas trees and decorations that I will paint and sell at the upcoming fayres. He does this because of love. Love for Arch, love for our family, love for the cause and the fact that he is just a properly top bloke.

Thanks dude, You are AWESOME! X