Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has welcomed a recent announcement that will see an extra £4,030,700 given to primary schools across Essex. The decision aims to transform school sport, improve coaching for the youngest pupils, and to inspire the Olympic and Paralympic stars of the future.
London 2012 gave Britain a once in a lifetime opportunity to inspire a nation to enjoy sport and the Government wants to embed that into the school day from an early age. The Prime Minister has announced a £150 million Olympic legacy fund to improve the quality of provision in every state primary school in England.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “Young people across South Basildon and East Thurrock will benefit from this announcement. This money will help to secure the Olympic legacy and I look forward to seeing medal winners from the local area in the future!”
The Prime Minister, David Cameron said: “The Olympic and Paralympic Games marked an incredible year for this country and I will always be proud that we showed the world what Britain can do. I want to ensure the Games count for the future too and that means capitalising on the inspiration young people took from what they saw during those summer months. This investment will benefit a whole generation of children for many years to come.”
Olympic gold winner, Jess Ennis CBE said: “It is great to see initiatives that help to give really young children the chance to take part in sport. This latest funding for primary schools sounds fantastic – now whether in an inner city or small rural community, young kids will be introduced to fun ways to be active that will spark an interest in taking part in sport as they grow up.”
Double Olympic Champion, Mo Farah CBE said:“It is great to see a commitment to funding school sport and that it is something I passionately believe in. I am very excited to know that lots of children will be able to get involved in sport while at school and get more help from teachers and coaches. It really is very important.”
