Educational website teaches young Londoners about Olympic values
By Susanna Wilkey BUDDING young Olympians across Camden can now get involved in the run-up to the London games after the launch of an online 2012 education programme. The Get Set website has gone live and will help youngsters learn about the games and the
By Susanna Wilkey
BUDDING young Olympians across Camden can now get involved in the run-up to the London games after the launch of an online 2012 education programme.
The Get Set website has gone live and will help youngsters learn about the games and the Olympic and Paralympic values of inspiration, equality, respect and friendship.
The site, for three- to 19-year-olds, includes interactive games, inspirational films, fact sheets and news articles.
So far, 17 of Camden's schools have signed up to use the internet resource. Many more plan to get involved, including Torriano Junior. Catriona Hale, health coordinator at the school, said: "I am definitely looking into joining the programme.
"We are on the border with Islington and they are doing a lot for the Olympics, so we are hoping to get involved soon.
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"I think it will be really beneficial for the children. One of the things I am trying to do in school is get lots of kids involved, not just the ones who are sporty.
"I am getting them all doing running, which is great for the children whatever their ability and I think the programme will be really helpful."
Rob Earrey, headteacher of Fitzjohns Primary School, is also interested in the website.
He said: "The Olympic values of determination, equality, not giving up and excellence are important for the children and there are some interesting things on the website.
"The idea is to inspire the children to take part in sport and it looks very well organised with lots around the Olympic values."
The website will provide free, flexible resources that embody Paralympic and Olympic values, as well as a special section for teachers.
Schools and colleges who join the network will receive rewards, recognition and endorsement for work around the values. They will also have the chance to get involved in initiatives supported by London 2012 partners in eight key themes - internationalism, communication, collaboration and citizenship, practical learning, PE and sport, enterprise, sustainability and regeneration, culture and creativity, and healthy and active lifestyles.
Lord Sebastian Coe, chair of the London 2012 organising committee (Locog), said: "Our vision is to inspire children and young people through the London 2012 Games. Our athletes at the 2008 Paralympic Games and Olympic Games have certainly done this.
"The Paralympic and Olympic values lie at the heart of our handover celebrations and are an integral part of our work with young people through schools and colleges.
"By motivating young people in London and capturing their imagination we can help them to fulfil their potential, and create a legacy that will continue long after the London 2012 Games have ended."
The Get Set website also features a blog for young people to share their ideas and experiences.
susanna.wilkey@hamhigh.co.uk
