In the past 12 months, around 200 children from 10 primary schools in Lewisham’s most deprived areas have been introduced to athletics through funetics – a fun, inclusive programme designed to boost confidence and enjoyment.

A full-time funetics Activator rolled out the programme in September 2023 across schools, communities, and partners (leisure, sport and health operators) in the London Borough of Lewisham for all children at Key Stage 1 & 2.

The Lewisham Project is one of several success stories made possible by various donors and supporters, including England Athletics' official charity the Personal Best Foundation. These children, many on free school meals and without access to after-school clubs, have learnt essential movement skills like running, jumping, and throwing in a playful, engaging way. For many, it’s their first experience of organised physical activity outside of the school day.

Beyond the school sessions, many of these children enjoy sustained access to free weekly funetics sessions at a local youth centre. These sessions promote physical activity and provide a safe, supportive space where young people can build confidence, connect with others, and develop lifelong skills. Here is a short film that explains the Lewisham Project...

Started as a Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games legacy initiative, funetics is England Athletics’ primary-age athletic programme building on the fundamental skills of running, jumping and throwing for every child in every environment, and funetics has partnered with the Personal Best Foundation to extend its reach in the Lewisham area to children most in need, providing after-school provision of athletics satellite centres.

England Athletics is keen to build on the success of funetics through the Personal Best Foundation, aiming to award £20,000 in small grants to local projects supporting underserved young people to access athletics. 

Here’s how your donation can help this festive season: £20 could pay to train a funetics leader to inspire the next generation; £50 could fund 16 children to enjoy their first after-school funetics session; £500 could deliver an 8-week after-school funetics programme to a community in need. Donations are invited to the Personal Best Foundation here.

Image courtesy of the Personal Best Foundation