Ardingly College hosts 'the biggest ever football session'

Ardingly College hosted 240 girls in 'The Biggest Ever Football Session' to promote girls participation in football as part of #LetGirlsPlay.

240 girls from 19 schools took part and both of the school's astros were packed with young footballers.

The bottom pitch hosted drills, whilst the top one saw some match play.

The training was organised by Mike Gardner, Head of Girls Football who worked closely with Caroline Stafford from Mid Sussex Active to mastermind the whole event.

According to the FA, 72% of primary schools in England offer equal access to football in PE but, in secondary schools, this drops to just 44%.

The target for 2024 is 75%.

Ross Millard, Director of Sport, commented: "It was fantastic to see so many girls enjoying a morning of football at Ardingly College.

"It is vital that girls get equal treatment and we get them out playing sports as part of their wellbeing."

All the girls left with a skills ball accompanied with a leaflet with drills to do at home.

The College offers a number of community initiatives including weekly free football and hockey ‘sporting stars’ clubs.

For those who want to develop further, they invite boys and girls to trial for their development centres in hockey, football, cricket and swimming; sports scholarships are also available at 11+, 13+ and 16+.