City Academy Transforms into Bear Country
By Education Correspondent
An academy was transformed into wild Bear Country for an afternoon of major sporting activity when City Academy sports leaders teamed up with Bristol Bears stars to deliver a memorable rugby session for Evergreen Primary Academy pupils.
City Academy Year 9 and Year 10 sports leaders delivered a series of fun, non-contact T1 rugby drills for the primary pupils, supported by Bristol Bears players Simi Pam, Sam Worsley, Rownita Marston-Mulhearn and Kofi Cripps.
Overseeing the whole event was Theresa Bicknell, Secondary School Engagement Co-Ordinator for Bristol Bears Foundation and City Academy.
The action-packed session saw pupils take part in activities designed to build teamwork, skill, fair play, commitment and dedication.
The event formed part of Bristol Bears Giving Back Day, during which players from the men’s and women’s teams spread festive cheer and inspire communities across the city during the Christmas period.
Bristol Bears Foundation CEO Jamie Skinner said: “Bears Giving Back Day is one of the most important dates in our calendar because it allows us to connect directly with people and organisations doing incredible work in Bristol. It’s about forging real links between the club and the city, using the power of rugby to bring people together, support those in need, and build a stronger, more connected communities.”
Bristol Bears CEO Tom Tainton said: “We’re incredibly proud of what we have built through the Bears Giving Back Day initiative. It’s a day of volunteering for players and staff that underlines our commitment to our community, which is core to our club strategy. The players lead the way in organising fundraising, visiting schools, hospitals and community programmes – it’s so unique in professional sport.
"This year, it’s been fantastic to work closely with Bears Foundation to deliver even more hours and visits than ever before on one of the most special days in the Bears calendar.”
Andrew Bell, Partnerships Manager at the Cabot Learning Federation, which both City Academy and Evergreen Primary Academy are part of, said: “This event perfectly demonstrates the power of partnership across our trust and the wider Bristol community.
“To see our older students coaching, encouraging and inspiring younger pupils side by side with professional athletes, was incredibly special.
“Experiences like this build confidence, aspiration and connection, and we are grateful to Bristol Bears for helping create such a memorable day.”
