Background
Banff Academy is a proactive school in Aberdeenshire serving the communities of Banff and the surrounding area, that has Health and Wellbeing at the forefront of their focus.
Banff Academy's dedication to promoting sports and physical activity, coupled with its emphasis on student voice and leadership, has created a vibrant and inclusive sporting culture. The school's efforts have not only increased participation but also provided pupils with valuable skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives. Banff Academy serves as an inspiring example for other schools aiming to enhance their sporting opportunities and empower their students.
Young People at the heart of the decision making, planning and implementation process
Banff Academy Sports Council
The Banff Academy Sports Council, comprising of 15 S4-S6 pupils, is instrumental in enhancing the sporting experience at the school. The council focuses on various aspects such as school sport, physical education, clubs and communities, competitive opportunities, and celebrating sport. The establishment of the Sports Council has empowered pupils to make decisions based on their peers' wants and desires, leading to increased participation.
The Sports Council received a rewards trip at the end of March to thank them for their hard work – they took part in a bouldering session before getting treated to some pizza and ice cream. The Sports Council have been nominated for a prestigious award that they will receive at prizegiving. Throughout the year, all Sports Council members were present at bi-monthly meetings to ensure consistent input and collaboration throughout the school year.
Young Ambassadors
The 2 Young Ambassadors (YAs), Kayla and Lucy, have exceeded expectations with their commitments through the year and were proactive in the process of achieving the Gold Sport Award.
The development plan created by the school ensured that key actions and outcomes were assigned to the YAs, showcasing how student voice and leadership can transform school culture. The YAs also had a key role in securing the Gold Sport Award, showing initiative and professionalism in producing the award application video.
The Young Ambassadors also benefited from guidance by former ambassadors, strengthening continuity and leadership development
Gold Award
Overall, 52 Banff Academy pupils have been involved in leadership opportunities throughout the year. 21 pupils completed the ‘I Can Lead’ training. 8 pupils completed a ‘Netball Leaders’ Course. 15 pupils made up the Sports Council. 10 pupils completed leadership courses in ‘Climbing’ and ‘Pétanque’. 10 senior pupils completed the ‘National Pool Lifeguarding Qualification’ and have completed voluntary hours at feeder primary schools.
“Achieving the Gold School Sport Award is a real credit to the hard work of our Sports Council and YAs and the countless hours they have given to deliver experiences in school and in the local community. All pupils have been awarded Saltire Awards for their voluntary hours.”
Future Plans and Continuous Improvement
The school continues to strive for improvement in all areas of school life. Plans include running termly intra-school sports tournaments, empowering pupils to represent Banff Academy at various events, and upskilling pupils with Continuous Professional Learning and Development (CLPD) opportunities. The school also aims to celebrate sporting success throughout the year and highlight the achievements of its senior pupil volunteers.