Skateboarding is helping students with learning difficulties to greater independence and a healthy lifestyle.

Sport is an important element of the Pathways to Independence Course at Loreto College. The two year course, for students aged between 16 to 21 years, promotes independence in all areas of the learner’s life in preparation for the ‘real world’.

“Sport and Leisure is an important element of the Pathways to Independence Course,” said Head of the Pathways Department Ms Syrat, “the health, fitness and well being of students is constantly promoted and they are encouraged to become motivated and be responsible for keeping themselves healthy.” “A skateboarding project was piloted this year and due to its success, it will now be added to the list of activities available to students,” she added.

As part of the Sport and Leisure programme, students are given the opportunity to participate in tai chi, swimming, team games, climbing, canoeing, cycling, gym activities and now skateboarding.

The Pathways department meets the needs of students by providing a tailor made, individualized programme for each student. Strong links with the local community and employers also extends learning opportunities. Students who enrol on the Pathways to Independence Course, come from a wide range of special and mainstream schools across Greater Manchester.