Judo Australia has created a fun and enjoyable way for children to learn Judo as well as benefit from the various social, physical and mental benefits that help to build physical literacy in children. Judo Australia’s Judo4Kids program is a four to eight session introductory program combining fun and physical activity for primary school children.

“We are excited for Judo to be joining this Australian Government program and to be working closely with Australia’s primary schools, teachers, coaches and parents to develop and foster the next generation’s passion for Judo now and into the future.” said Judo Australia CEO Alex Vallentine.

The Judo4Kids program is designed to provide children of all abilities the opportunity to have a successful first experience of Judo in the school environment.  Each lesson involves the participants learning various Judo terminology in the Japanese language as well as Judo techniques and skills through integrated game play.

“The Sporting Schools program plays an important role in ensuring Australian school children are active and healthy and Judo can play an important role in that area. Judo is one of the best physical activities for children and offers physical, educational and moral development for children.” Vallentine said.

Paddle Australia join us in the Sporting Schools program for secondary schools, a targeted program for students in Year 7 and 8 aimed at addressing the barriers that prevent teenagers from participating in sport. Two programs will be on offer, Paddle Discovery and Paddle Ball, providing a quality, enjoyable, sociable and safe introduction to paddling for secondary students aged 12-14.

CEO of Paddle Australia, Phil Jones said “Paddle Australia is delighted to become part of Sporting Schools. Our Paddle Discovery and Paddle Ball programs will enable secondary school aged children to experience the sport of paddling, many for the first time.”

Both programs introduce participants to basic water safety and paddling techniques in an experiential manner through a range of games and activities. The Paddle Ball program aims to introduce young people to the sport of Canoe Polo using a modified version of the game.

“Sporting Schools supports the delivery of attractive and relevant sporting experiences to children in a wide range of sports. Paddle Australia is delighted to be part of such an important program and we look forward to introducing more children to the unique benefits that paddling offers.” Jones said.

Term 1, 2020 Sporting Schools grant applications will open on Monday 11 November and close at 8pm AEDT Friday 22 November.