Curling introduced at South Craven School, Cross Hills (From Craven Herald)

Curling introduced at South Craven School, Cross Hills

9:00am Sunday 10th February 2013 in News

Pupils at a Cross Hills school have embraced a sport which is thought to have its origins in medieval Scotland.

Staff at South Craven School have introduced students to curling, to attract youngsters who might not always excel in more traditional school games and sports.

Alison Fryers and Sarah Feather have been holding the curling sessions during Friday lunchtimes for pupils who are part of the Learning Support group.

A school spokesman said the lunchtime activities were designed to allow the pupils to experience new activities and develop their self-confidence.

She added: “Curling is a winter Olympic sport, which is similar to bowls but is played with discs which glide over the floor surface.

“In the Olympics it is played on ice but at South Craven it’s possible to stage this activity in the school gym.

“This initiative has been introduced by Karen Royston, head of learning support.

“The first few times the students had a bowl, they sent the disc skittering way over the target mat, but within a short time they had mastered the technique required and even realised they could knock an opponent’s disc out of the way.

“As well as having fun the students were able to learn how to understand subtle strategic thinking, and this increases their self-confidence and focus.”

She said the pupils had also been having a go at Boccia, a Paralympic sport related to bowls.