Fiona Philips and her film crew visited Harris Academy in Peckham, as charity ambassador for People’s Postcode Lottery, to highlight the work of Greenhouse Sports, writes Hillary Chaisson…
Greenhouse Sports works to improve the confidence and life-skills of disadvantaged young people and is having a positive impact on their attendance at school and performance in the classroom.
During her visit, Fiona watched pupils from Harris Academy take part in one of their frequent basketball sessions, led by head coach, Jago Streete-Campbell.
The students told Fiona that being active and involved in sport had boosted their confidence and encouraged them to work hard and stay out of trouble.
The work of charities such as Greenhouse Sports is seen as vital during a time where public concerns about the impact of violence and crime could have on young people in London.
Greenhouse Sports uses mentoring as well as sports coaching to engage with young people.
Greenhouse Sports builds partnerships with schools to provide opportunities to those who may be disengaged, vulnerable or facing disadvantages.
Fiona Phillips said, “The work that Greenhouse Sports coaches like Jago do in schools around London makes a huge difference to young people’s lives.
“I saw first-hand how much fun the kids had playing basketball, but also how participating in sports helps them spend their time after school productively.
“It’s fantastic that support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery is helping fund these important school programmes.”
More than £1.7 million has been raised for Greenhouse Sports. Funds are distributed by the Postcode Sport Trust.
John Herriman, Chief Executive at Greenhouse Sports said, “The long-term support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery over the last four years has been invaluable to Greenhouse Sports and our coaches.
“Their deep commitment has had a transformative effect on the charity and the lives of the young people we work with.”
Full Length Greenhouse Sports Video