BRADFORD Girls’ Grammar School (BGGS) has become the only school in the country to succeed in obtaining funding to take part in wheelchair basketball.

In conjunction with British Wheelchair Basketball’s ‘Inspire a Generation’ programme, pupils at BGGS can sign up for six free one-hour after-school sessions to learn how to use a wheelchair and play wheelchair basketball.

The initiative is the brainchild of Benjamin Wood, Assistant Headteacher at Bradford Girls’ Primary School, Lady Royd Primary, who after a successful grant application, purchased a number of sports wheelchairs to kickstart the initiative.

Having had experience himself in the Tokyo 2020 and Rio 2016 Paralympics as a wheelchair basketball referee, he knows the benefits wheelchair basketball can bring.

Mr Wood said: “Being the only school in the country to succeed in achieving funding, we are immensely proud to be offering this activity to all our pupils. Wheelchair basketball encourages children to play together, encourages teamwork and is truly inclusive for all, regardless of age or ability. We look forward to engaging with as many families as possible and the wider community.”

Clare Martin, Principal at Bradford Girls’ Grammar said: “This is a fantastic initiative and one that is unique to Bradford Girls Grammar School.”

Any interested community groups should contact the school for information.