“Why do you look like a penguin?”
What a great question, posed by a Y2 pupil at this lovely, small, rural primary school in Essex.
Great Easton Primary School has a higher percentage of pupils with extra needs, which makes it a caring and inclusive school. The presence of a number of dogs, belonging to various members of staff, typified the wonderful laid back atmosphere.
We had two assemblies and three rounds of games – sitting volleyball, goalball and new age kurling – so a packed day. Fun was had, the learning was evident and the feedback great:
“John was so incredibly inspiring and made anything seem possible! The children thought he was awesome and absolutely loved the games that we played. They were accessible for all children, including those who find physical activity tricky, and allowed the children to experience the world for those with a physical disability as well as challenge them. The joy on Will’s face when he was able to retrieve the ball in goal ball was something else! “
“the kids were so inspired by John’s visit – they talked about him non-stop all day and I have had several parents message to say how much the kids spoke about it when they got home. “
So how do you answer a perceptive question like the opening one? My feet, artificial legs provided by Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, do have the shape of penguin feet; my height is not dissimilar to that of an Emperor Penguin; but I do not have a beak; and I was not wearing a dinner jacket. So I am only half convinced that I do look like a penguin!
The more interesting part of the question is the why?
Because I was born like this?
Because it was ordained?
Because penguins are really the rulers of the universe?
Who knows the answer but it did make my colleague and wonderful volunteer, Tom Roper, giggle and that set off most of the teaching staff. Happy days!
“It’s only the next day and I’ve already used John’s motto: ’never give up’ and ‘practice make progress’ in Maths today when we were learning to use a protractor, and in PE with over-arm throwing. It’s so great when the kids can attach it to someone different giving them advice instead of their boring teachers all the time! I think his is a visit they will remember forever 😃“
“In general the session was great because it helped the pupils to reflect on the bigger picture. We had a great discussion about perceptions and expectations and gratefullness.”
One child said:
“I won’t ever feel sorry for someone like that. Now I know when I see someone in a wheelchair or with mobility issues, I will know they can still achieve in sports and in life so I don’t need to feel guilty or sad.“
What are Games2Inspire?
Games2Inspire events are incredible events, most often hosted in schools, with an assembly and sports day which includes activities designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, with disabilities and none, sporty and not. Participants get to meet our inspirational founder, John Willis, and hear all about how John has overcome obstacles in his life. They then get to put that learning to practice by playing adapted games and sports together learning new skills and being encouraged to test their beliefs about ability and disability and what it is to be different, learning to respect other people’s differences. Power2Inspire works with them to challenge their assumptions of what they can and cannot do.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you are interested in hosting a Games2Inspire in your school / college / company / community group then we would love to hear from you.
We are also always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer individually at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. There are SO MANY WAYS we can all help to ensure “no on else is left on the bench!” Click the button here to find out more.
