Year 4 pupils from Wallbrook Primary Academy enjoyed an exciting day at Nechells Wellbeing Centre in Birmingham alongside Shireland Technology Primary And Lightwoods primary Academy, where they took part in a series of basketball coaching sessions with the City of Birmingham Rockets Basketball Club.
The children practised dribbling, passing and shooting under the guidance of the club’s coaches. They then met one of the professional players before testing their skills in a friendly tournament against other schools across the Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust.
Wallbrook’s team impressed throughout the day, finishing the tournament in second place across the Trust. Pupils supported one another on and off the court, demonstrating focus, determination and teamwork that made staff proud.
The excitement continued that evening, when pupils were invited to watch a Birmingham Rockets match against the Derby Trailblazers, giving them the chance to see a professional basketball game in action.
School Principal Lorna McGregor said: “It was brilliant to watch our pupils take on every challenge with such energy. From trying new skills in the coaching sessions to supporting one another in the tournament, they showed amazing teamwork and real pride in what they could achieve. Moments like seeing their faces light up meeting a professional player remind us why experiences like this are so valuable. They inspire confidence, ambition, and give children memories that stay with them long after the final whistle.”
The visit reflected the Academy’s wider approach to physical education. The school aims to engage all pupils in a wide variety of sports to develop not only their physical skills, such as agility, balance and coordination, but also their communication, teamwork and leadership.
Events like this give pupils the chance to build resilience, determination, strategic thinking, self-belief and self-awareness. They provide practical experiences that complement classroom learning and support growth both on and off the court.
