MORE than 1,500 people have picked up a bat as a successful partnership uses table tennis to inspire young people, develop future coaches and strengthen links between education, schools and communities.
Coleg Cambria, Table Tennis Wales and Active Wrexham have joined forces with schools and community groups across North Wales to widen access to the sport and create new opportunities for children and students.
Since 2023, the collaboration has engaged more than 1,500 people through coaching, competitions and community events, with the latest programme at the college’s Yale campus in Wrexham building further on that success.
As well as introducing hundreds of youngsters to table tennis, the initiative is helping Coleg Cambria students gain practical experience in coaching, leadership, volunteering and sports event management.
Aaron Beech, North Wales Regional Development Officer for Table Tennis Wales, said the partnership continues to build momentum.
“Over the last few months, we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact table tennis can have on young people, whether that’s through participation, competition, leadership or simply building confidence and making new friends,” he said.
“The support from Coleg Cambria, Active Wrexham, local schools and community groups has been fantastic. Together we’ve created a pathway that allows children to try the sport for the first time, develop their skills and continue playing long-term.
“We’ve just completed our final sessions at Yale for the summer and are already looking forward to returning in September to build on the momentum we’ve created.”
Among the highlights was a visit to Bwlchgwyn Primary School, where more than 100 pupils took part in fun and engaging sessions focused on coordination, confidence and fundamental movement skills.
The impact extended beyond the school day, with Bwlchgwyn Scouts and Cubs later visiting the college for a taster session, strengthening community links and giving more young people the chance to experience the sport.
Coleg Cambria students have also been at the heart of the programme.
Level 2 Sport learners completed a Table Tennis Activator Course, developing coaching, communication and leadership skills before putting them into practice at a Primary School Table Tennis Festival.
They planned and delivered their own activity stations, guiding pupils through challenges and games in an inclusive and energetic environment designed to encourage participation and enjoyment.
Meanwhile, Level 3 Sport learners supported the annual Primary School Table Tennis Championships, volunteering throughout the event and gaining practical experience in scoring, administration, event management and competition delivery.
The partnership also introduced an eight-week beginner programme following a suggestion from Active Wrexham.
The structured course taught children key skills including grip, movement, serving and rallying, with many participants progressing into local clubs and regular coaching sessions.
Sally Jones, Curriculum Director for Business, Performing Arts, Public Services and Sport at Coleg Cambria, said: “The partnership with Table Tennis Wales continues to create fantastic opportunities for our learners while making a genuine difference in the community.
“Our students have gained invaluable leadership and coaching experience, while hundreds of young people have been introduced to a sport that promotes physical activity, confidence, teamwork and wellbeing.”
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