On Wednesday, 15th October, the Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation visited Christ Church C of E Primary School as part of their studies about black culture during Black History Month.

In partnership with the Ace Programme, the students participated in cricket coaching sessions throughout the day, learning about the connection between cricket and African Caribbean culture.

Ace Bristol Development Officer, Cameron Jeffers, coached the children and spoke about the link between cricket and the West Indies. “Mr Rowe really wanted us to get involved and see how we can link cricket into the curriculum. Especially from an African Caribbean background, cricket and our history, and black history, is closely linked.

 

The West Indies, the best sports team in history, and from that, I think a lot of West Indian people have pride in the sport. Today, we have come to an area that is growing in diversity, and to link that with the curriculum, to spread some knowledge, and spread the love of cricket too.”

A brilliant autumnal day was met with warm enthusiasm from all the students who took part in the event. For many, it was their first time playing cricket, but their development was fast.

For Christ Church Primary, it was the latest part in their celebration of Black History Month throughout October. “We spent the day talking about the links between cricket and black history month, and the work we do here in school.” Said Deputy Head Teacher, Mr Rowe.

 

“We’ve spent the whole month across school discussing the influence of black history across the United Kingdom and the wider world today.

 

The children had a fabulous time enjoying the cricket with our fabulous coaches, and the teachers enjoyed that. It also helped our teachers see how cricket can be a really good vehicle for teaching the wider curriculum as well.”

It wasn’t just the students who got to enjoy a day of cricket; all of the teachers got involved by fielding and hitting balls.  

“I think everyone took to the sessions brilliantly. Smiles all around. Teachers all involved… Pretty much every teacher had a go at some cricket as well, which can only benefit the school.” Said Cameron.

Christ Church Primary is a great example of using cricket for more than just the sport. We are passionate about using cricket to benefit communities. If you are interested in similar opportunities, then reach out to our team.