Extra-Mural
Centre, Atlantic College
The second major inspiration for World
at Play
comes from a small Outdoor Education centre that is situated
in and affiliated to Atlantic College, called the Extra-Mural
Centre (EMC).
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It was at EMC that the World
at Play
organisers met, and witnessed first hand the benefits
of productive play and sport for socially, physically
and mentally disadvantaged children and adults from
across Wales and the United Kingdom. It is from EMC
that many of Play’s unique games originate. Many
of the visiting groups that attend EMC every summer
are among World
at Play’s
biggest supporters. They, like the World
at Play
organisers, who have all spent time working at EMC,
realise how strong, and how tangible the benefits of
play are. |
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Since
opening in 1979, EMC has given confidence and
newfound skills to more than fifty thousand people.
The Centre is widely used by localcommunity groups,
including local schools, youth clubs, swimming
and lifesaving clubs.
Organisations for the mentally and physically
handicapped, such as the Royal National Institutes
for the Blind and Deaf, also make use of the Centre
– as do primary schools from economically
and socially disadvantaged areas of Wales.
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EMC
instructors follow an intensive training programme,
working with visiting groups of young people –
including those from inner-city areas, and the
mentally and physically handicapped – as
instructors for various activities. The excitement
that these abilities and this confidence brings
to the lives of young visitors to the Extra-Mural
Centre is witnessed by their countless testimonials. |
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Experience has shown us that,
even with limited equipment and communication, we can make
a difference in children’s lives. A single ball, in
the hands of a skilled instructor leading a group of children,
can create excitement that stretches beyond any one game or
activity. World
at Play
means much more than one expedition. It will go further than
both our journey and ourselves, because play is as timeless
as it is universal.
The emphasis throughout the activity week is one of
increasing self-awareness, team-skills,
self-confidence and having fun! |
Groups enjoy and benefit from the activities regardless
of their initial abilities.
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