Fylde Rugby Community Foundation recently welcomed pupils from four local secondary schools to Fylde Rugby Club for its latest Rugby and Mentoring Festival, bringing together young people for a day focused on personal development, teamwork, leadership and positive decision-making.
The Rugby and Mentoring Programme uses the values of rugby to support young people both on and off the field. Through a combination of mentoring, educational workshops and practical activities, the programme helps participants develop confidence, resilience, communication skills and aspirations for the future.
The festival brought together pupils from St Mary’s Catholic Academy, Highfield Leadership Academy, Armfield Academy and St Bede’s Catholic High School for a packed day of engaging workshops and activities.
Throughout the event, participants took part in three interactive workshops covering boxing, team-building challenges, and leadership and entrepreneurial skills. The sessions encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, work collaboratively and develop skills that can support them both in education and later life.
One of the highlights of the day was the leadership and entrepreneurial workshop, where pupils were challenged to think creatively, solve problems and present their ideas. Winning participants were rewarded with £10 Amazon gift cards in recognition of their efforts and innovation.
Students also heard from One Punch Matters, whose powerful presentation, Every Action Has Consequences, explored the impact that a single decision can have on individuals, families and communities. The session prompted reflection and discussion among the young people, with pupils remaining fully engaged throughout the talk.
The team-building activities showcased excellent communication and decision-making skills, with participants demonstrating teamwork, leadership and determination as they tackled a range of challenges together.
Corey Bowker, Programme Lead at Fylde Rugby Community Foundation, said:
“The Rugby and Mentoring Festival was a fantastic day and a great opportunity for young people from different schools to come together, learn new skills and challenge themselves. The engagement throughout the One Punch Matters presentation was outstanding, while the teamwork, decision-making and creativity shown during the workshops was brilliant to see. We’re incredibly proud of how all the students represented themselves throughout the day.”
Fylde Rugby Community Foundation would like to thank St Mary’s Catholic Academy, Highfield Leadership Academy, Armfield Academy and St Bede’s Catholic High School for their enthusiasm and participation throughout the festival.
The Foundation would also like to thank Tyson Construction, Seneca Partners, Ian Currie, Giles Hough, Ormrods Solicitors, Questa, Panaz, Peter Worthington and Napthens Solicitors for their continued support of the Rugby and Mentoring Programme. Their investment helps create valuable opportunities for young people across the Fylde Coast, inspiring them to develop confidence, resilience and skills for the future.
