School rowing programme launched in Bristol

The Active Row programme is being rolled out in Bristol state schools to bring new skills to young people

Young people are getting the chance to learn to row with a new programme launching in Bristol schools.

Active Row, which started in London in 2005, is focussed on young people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds or those with disabilities.

Benefits of the programme include improved wellbeing, increased resilience, in addition to physical development.

Funding is from Henley Royal Regatta Charitable Trust and British Rowing.

Outside of London, Active Row programmes are also offered across Leeds, Nottingham and Kent.

Ellis Jenkins will be teaching rowing skills to children in Bristol schools

Full-time rowing coach, Ellis Jenkins, will be based in Bristol, delivering the programme to children in 10-15 schools while engaging with Bristol Ariel and City of Bristol Rowing Clubs.

Mr Jenkins said: "Rowing is adaptable for all so it's a great sport for people to get involved in.

"The perception is it's a middle class white sport and we're trying to change that and giving everyone the opportunity to row."

He said: "It's great. Some of the classes have been frantic... and everyone's taken to it really well."

It will be running for around two months with new rowers initially learning on slightly wider boats before getting the chance to try rowing on thin boats.

Mr Jenkins said in Bristol "there's a lot of opportunity to get on the water [so] it's really good for the kids to get involved in".

Student Bethany said she is looking forward to practicing rowing in the summer

A launch event for Active Row Bristol took place at Oasis Academy Temple Quarter on Thursday, with students demonstrating the programmes in-school indoor capabilities.

Children from year seven have been getting involved in the programme with student Sam saying: "It's been a very good sport. Its good for your physical and mental health... and makes you feel better."

Bethany said: "Rowing has become really fun and I'm really excited to get out on the water, maybe in the summer."

Another student, Linden, said one of the main reasons he signed up was to get on the water.

"I find it a good way to relax as it relieves any tension you've got. It's a nice peaceful thing to do."

As well as Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, other schools signed up to the scheme include Blaise High School, Soundwell Academy, Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, Bedminster Down School and Oasis Academy Brightstowe.

Oasis Academy Brislington, Oasis Academy John Williams, Bridge Learning Campus, Orchard School and Bristol City Academy will also benefit from the programme.