Pool Academy Unveils New Functional Fitness Suite

Students and staff benefit from new state-of-the-art facility

Year 7 students at Pool Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, have been the first to try out the school’s brand-new functional fitness suite, a facility designed to boost participation in physical activity, particularly among girls.

Encouraging Active Lifestyles

Funded by Active Cornwall, the fitness suite aims to promote energetic living and provide students with opportunities to develop essential physical skills that support their overall health and well-being. Over the coming weeks, students from all year groups will take part in inductions and use the suite during PE lessons.

With a focus on increasing girls’ participation in fitness, the academy is also introducing Girls’ Fitness Clubs to encourage students to get involved. After Easter, these sessions will open to boys, ensuring inclusive opportunities for all.

A Game-Changer for the School

Staff will also benefit from the new facility, with a dedicated club running after school on Wednesdays.

Nick Ward, Principal at Pool Academy, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition:

“I was thrilled to see the positive response from our Year 7 class to the new functional fitness suite and it’s exciting to watch students take an active role in their fitness journey. The introduction of the suite is a real game-changer for the school, and we’re grateful to Active Cornwall for their support in funding this. We hope this facility will inspire students and staff to prioritise their health and well-being.”

Beyond the Classroom

The PE Department at Pool Academy provides students with a broad and robust curriculum, aimed at improving mental, social, and physical well-being. Throughout the year, students are offered extra-curricular opportunities in various sports, including:

• Hockey
• Girls’ and boys’ football
• Rounders
• Athletics

A School That Prioritises Well-Being

Pool Academy upholds aspiration, belonging, and respect as core values, with the goal of fostering a positive environment for all students.

According to Ofsted, the school provides:

• Strong pastoral support, helping students feel safe
• A positive start to the day, reinforced by morning greetings
• Quiet and calm classrooms, supported by a well-planned curriculum

With its new fitness suite, Pool Academy is taking another step towards ensuring students and staff alike have access to the tools they need for a healthier future.