Beth Giles adored her experience as a Young Leader at Panathlon and plans to use it as a springboard to achieve her dream of working SEN children.
The 17-year-old pupil at Wolfreton School and Sixth Form College in Hull requested to join her peers at Panathlon’s Active Humber North Bank Primary Final at the Costello Stadium last Thursday (March 3).
The school’s other other Young Leaders all took their roles as part of their Sports Leadership qualification, but Beth asked to join them to gain experience of working with pupils with disabilities and special needs.
Beth definitely got the memo about our Young Leaders wearing pink, sporting an all pink outfit and even dyed pink hair!
Beth already helps out at an after-school club and was so enthusiastic and engaging at our event on Thursday that one of the teachers offered her work experience at her school!
“I just love the environment here,” said Beth. “I love seeing the kids getting really hyped up when they compete and seeing the smiles on their faces.”
Beth’s older brother has autism. Both he and her younger sister have inspired her desire to work with primary-age children. “My sister is nine and watching her develop her own personality and characteristics is so rewarding. I just love spending time with my siblings.”
Three Year 5 girls from silver medallists Bellfield Primary helped the older leaders from Wolfreton at the competition. It was great experience ahead of their transition to high school in 18 months’ time.
Tony Waymouth, Panathlon’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Leadership is an important part of the Panathlon experience. Personal development, exploring new horizons and skills, and finding their path in life are all massive, as well as helping young people understand the importance of inclusion in society.”
