Paula Felgate is retiring from her role with the London Borough of Enfield, having served as team manager for PE as well as school games organiser and inclusion lead in North London.
Enfield has been involved with Panathlon for almost a decade, and Paula’s last event in post was on Friday 13 December at the Lee Valley Athletics Centre, where there was a special presentation to mark her contribution – while she was in festive fancy dress!
Reflecting on her collaboration with Panathlon, Paula says: “Enfield has been involved with Panathlon for the last nine years and during that time the events have grown from one or two a year where a handful of special schools attended, to several events including some having to be delivered across two sessions. School engagement has grown steadily as the power and impact of the benefits from participating in Panathlon events has spread across the community.
“Students love the activities, all of which are fun and engaging. Of course, they also adore the fabulous medal regardless of its colour which sees them going home with big beaming smiles on their faces. Each child leaves with a treasured memory that will last for ever – it is a joy to see. It is not only the students that gain so much but also the staff. The activities are easy to deliver and means the staff can support and motivate their young people effectively – so staff too, leave smiling, invigorated and inspired by how well their students have performed.
“In the last couple of years there has been an increase in mainstream school ARPs attending the events and this has had a significant impact on the wellbeing and engagement of more young people. Many of these schools take the opportunity to ensure their students embrace the whole experience, not only of attending such a wonderful event but the journey to get there. For some it is the first time they have navigated public transport or had a picnic when the event is over. The wider impact of Panathlon cannot be overestimated.
“It is due to the local engagement where teachers quickly develop trust in Panathlon that they are emboldened to venture further afield to attend events such as ten pin bowling and swimming at the Olympic Aquatics centre. Such opportunities are unlikely to be experienced by the students if Panathlon were not there to inspire and motivate.”
She added: “The staff at Panathlon are key to the events’ success and sustainability. They all work very hard to deliver high-quality events and all schools appreciate how friendly approachable, flexible and supportive the staff are. They have a magic wand that enables each of the very unique school needs to be included and accommodated. For the organisers who work with Panathlon to put on events, we have found communication is easy quick and effective.
“I look forward to seeing Panathlon continue to grow and flourish in the years to come and I know there will be many more happy, smiling faces.”
