Change Foundation Coaches Prepare for ASD Pilot

Earlier this week, a number of coaches from the charity The Change Foundation completed the two day BF Core Coach course as part of a pilot project, delivering fencing to young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

As part of an exciting pilot project with the Change Foundation, a number of highly experienced coaches from the Change Foundation will deliver a series of after-school fencing sessions for young people with ASD. Using a creative coaching methodology they will aim to develop motor skills, encourage social integration and provide a unique experience for young people who would otherwise never access fencing and don’t engage with mainstream sports.

The ASD pilot programme will be delivered by coach mentors from the Change Foundation with lived community experience, who will guide and coach the young people and lead by example. This will be done in an inclusive and accessible environment ensuring that all young people feel welcome and comfortable.

Daniel Mynott, Impact and Insight Officer at the Change Foundation and Coach Mentor said “The training was a great opportunity to learn a new sport to use with young people with ASD and was tailored towards the work we will be doing, we all feel prepared to start delivering these sessions.”

Navjeet Sira, Director of Design and Impact at the Change Foundation said “We’ve had an incredible two days combining fencing, social change coaching and integrated impact measurement, in preparation for delivering our partnership programme that will work with children and young people with ASD. The facets of fencing will enable us to progress and improve the social, emotional and physical development of the young people, as well as allow their individuality to flourish. We are extremely excited about this ground breaking collaboration.”

Virginia Bailey, Head of Participation said, “Over the years we have received so many positive stories from parents of children and young people with ASD who have been fortunate to get the opportunity to engage with fencing.  Over time, we want to create many more opportunities for children and young people with ASD to have a great experience with fencing and maximise the positive impact it can have on their lives.  We are delighted to be working in partnership with the Change Foundation to bring this programme to life.”

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