 Hire the Equipment and the Program to Effectively Deliver Gymnastics Programs and Save Money!Gymnastics is a great way for students to build strength, flexibility, and coordination, while also developing teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. However, many schools in New South Wales (NSW) may be hesitant to invest in gymnastics equipment and programs due to perceived cost concerns and potential staffing issues. In this blog article, we will discuss why NSW schools should elect to hire gymnastics equipment and programs and have school PE staff teach programs in 2023-2024, focusing on the benefits of cost savings, school staff utilisation, and accessibility for all students. Cost Saving Equipment HireOne of the main reasons why schools may hesitate to invest in gymnastics equipment and programs is the perceived cost. However, by electing to hire gymnastics equipment and programs, schools can actually save money in the long run. This is because purchasing and maintaining gymnastics is very expensive, and many schools may not have the budget to do so. Another reason schools use external providers with their own equipment, staff and programs is a lack of storage space. Hired Equipment from Gymnastrix solves this issue as it is provided in a trailer which acts as the school’s portable PE Gymnastics equipment store. This helps keep all the equipment in one place, dry and securely locked up. Equipment is delivered on the first day of your program. Gymnastrix staff help you set it up, demonstrate how lesson content, including warm up games, stretching, activities on equipment and lesson conclusions are conducted. This acts a professional development for PE or class teaching staff, as it includes teaching pedagogy, progressions, easy to implement assessment and links to other subject learning areas. By hiring equipment, schools can avoid these upfront costs and instead pay for equipment usage on an as-needed basis. Additionally, by having school PE staff teach the programs, schools can avoid the need to hire outside coaches, which can also be expensive. Plus School's can use their SS funding for HireUse of School Staff Trained at the Start of the ProgramAnother benefit of having school PE staff teach gymnastics programs is that it can help maximise the utilisation of school staff. Many schools may have staff who are qualified to teach gymnastics, but who may not be utilised due to a lack of equipment or resources. By hiring equipment and programs, schools can provide their staff with the tools they need to teach gymnastics effectively, allowing them to utilise their skills and knowledge to benefit students. School staff are familiar with individual students. They are part of behavioural management plans that may exist and familiar with school procedures and reporting systems. School staff are easily able to integrate assessment into a student’s report for parents. This provides the school, parents and the student with a more concise, and individualised report across many sports, not just Gymnastics. Specialised, Portable, Modified Equipment That is Coloured, Height Appropriate and Easy to Use
For example, equipment such as balance beams, vaults, and mats can be modified to accommodate students with physical disabilities, allowing them to participate fully in the program. Additionally, portable equipment such as tumbling mats can be used in a variety of settings, including outdoor spaces, providing students with more opportunities to engage in physical activity. Access and Engagement of Students with Physical, Emotional or Intellectual DisabilitiesOne of the most important benefits of hiring gymnastics equipment and programs is that it can provide all students with access to physical activity, regardless of their abilities. Gymnastics can be a challenging sport, but with the right equipment and instruction, students of all abilities can participate and benefit from the program. Modifications to equipment specifically focus on student safety and higher levels of participation by all. Bars which traditionally may be out of reach to students with lower ability levels, become a challenge that is more easily overcome increasing student success at different gymnastics skills. Low beams improve balance for childen who struggle with focus nd reading. Soft, low height foam blocks replace hard vaulting and rolling surfaces, ensuring all students are able to overcome their fear of heights, being upside down, rolling or bearing their body weight on various body parts; their bottoms, one foot or their hands. By providing a safe and supportive environment for students to learn and grow, schools can help students develop confidence and self-esteem, as well as physical fitness and coordination.  References:Australian Government Department of Health. (2018). Australia's Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines. https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines
Lai, C. J., Liu, W., & Asbury, L. D. (2020). The effectiveness of gymnastics training for children and adolescents: A systematic review. Journal of Physical Education Research, 7(2), 114-122. https://doi.org/10.14456/jper.2020.14 NSW Department of Education. (2021). Physical Education (PE) and Sport. https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/curriculum/key-learning-areas/pdhpe/physical-education-pe-and-sport In conclusion, schools in NSW should elect to hire gymnastics equipment and programs and have school PE staff teach programs in 2023-2024 due to the numerous benefits, including cost savings, school staff utilisation |
