Active Row Bristol Launch Event at Oasis Academy Temple Quarter Featured on BBC

Oasis Academy Temple Quarter hosted the launch event for Active Row Bristol last week, which was featured on BBC News, where students showcased the programme’s indoor rowing capabilities.

Active Row, which began in London in 2005, focuses on young people from diverse backgrounds, or those with disabilities. The programme offers a number of benefits, such as improved wellbeing, increased resilience, and physical development.

Year 7 students from the academy have already eagerly embraced the programme. One student, Sam, said “It’s been a very good sport. It’s good for your physical and mental health… and makes you feel better.”

Another student, Bethany, said “Rowing has become really fun, and I’m really excited to get out on the water, maybe in the summer.”

Linden, another student who was also interviews, said that one of his main reasons for joining the programme was the opportunity to row on the water. He said “I find it a good way to relax as it relieves any tension you’ve got. It’s a nice peaceful thing to do.”

Funding for Active Row comes from the Henley Royal Regatta Charitable Trust and British Rowing. Full-time rowing coach, Ellis Jenkins, will be based in Bristol, delivering the programme to students in 10-15 schools. Mr Jenkins highlighted the inclusivity of rowing when speaking to the BBC, he 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 by giving everyone the opportunity to row.”

In addition to Oasis Academy Temple Quarter, other schools participating in the programme includes Oasis Academy Brightstowe, Oasis Academy Brislington, Oasis Academy John Williams and others in the area.

This article has been adapted from this link, written by Alexandra Bassingham.