Children and Young People

The Gilberd School School Gym

Enhancing health and fitness opportunities in Colchester

The Gilberd School in Colchester has significantly enhanced their school & community provision thanks to Opening School Facilities (OSF) funding. This initiative addresses the unique challenges faced by the local community, providing tailored activities and inclusive environments to develop local residents’ confidence in health and fitness.

The OSF, Department for Education funding has enabled The Gilberd School in Colchester to improve their fitness provision for students with new equipment and inclusive fitness-based activities. This has also benefited the local community who are able to access the facilities beyond school hours thanks to a joint use agreement with Colchester City Council.

Who's it for?

Individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds

Prime Objective:

to increase community provision and inclusivity through tailored fitness activities

Second Objective:

to promote physical well-being provide important life skills to students

The funding has enabled Gilberd School to extend its after school club offer for students, creating more opportunities for girls in particular. This has provided improved socialisation with others and life skills for participants, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive community.

The OSF funding has significantly impacted the local community. Colchester City Council operate the gym outside school hours and following the installation of the new equipment saw a substantial increase in usage and membership numbers, hitting their annual target ahead of schedule. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with appreciation for the new equipment, variety of training options, and the improved gym space.

415

participants engaged in the various fitness sessions

50%

split of girls and boys in mixed gym sessions, up from 80% in favour of boys

£52,036

awarded to the school across the three years of the project

The Active Essex team has provided crucial support throughout the process, developing a strong and collaborative working relationship with the school. Ian Duggan's support, has been instrumental in ensuring a smooth administration process and providing guidance on funding eligibility and project execution. The team’s prompt and helpful communication has been crucial, especially in managing finance-related tasks seamlessly.

Working with partners such as Active Essex and The Gilberd School to improve our facilities and access for both young people and the wider community is really important. The new equipment looks great, and we look forward to further improvements.

Cllr Michelle Burrows, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture, and Heritage

The project has shown the value of having a diverse range of equipment to cater for all genders and age groups. Moving forward, the school plans to continue engaging students in discussions to identify barriers to physical activity and use funding to address these issues. Year 3 funding has focused on further enhancing female participation through student-led discussions and targeted investments.

The Gilberd School’s dedication to inclusive and diverse activities has had a transformative impact on its students and the wider community, developing and assuring supportive and engaging environments for all to thrive.

With the funding and support from Active Essex, Gilberd School has created a fitness environment that benefits both students and the local community, promoting health, well-being, and inclusivity.

The OSF funding has enabled the Gilberd School to upgrade and improve equipment in their gym, making it more attractive to students and the local community. This collaboration has significantly increased attendance and membership, particularly during weekends.

Ian Duggan, Active Essex Assistant Relationship Manager

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