The 5x60 Project is a Sport Wales initiative and was launched in Newtown High School in September 2008 in response to challenges set by the Welsh Assembly Government. Its aim is to increase the number of secondary pupils taking part in extra curricular sport.
The role of the 5 x 60 officer is to consult with the pupils, listen to their needs and identify the barriers which prevent them from participating in physical activity. Following this, they timetable a programme of extra-curricular activities that suit the pupils’ needs. These activities target the individuals who do not currently participate in any physical activity, or who are in danger of losing interest, and will compromise of traditional activities such as football and hockey, to recreational activities such as dance, aerobics and outdoor activities such as orienteering, kayaking and mountain biking.
Information about the 5x60 timetable can be found in both the girls and boys changing rooms in school – this changes each term.
The 5x60 project is heavily reliant on volunteers – roles include taking registers, organising festivals or tournaments, refereeing matches and leading sessions. Incentives are offered to those who contribute a number of hours to the project; from t-shirts and hoodies to extra training and qualifications, the possibilities are endless!
