A group of schoolchildren put new found skills to the test after being introduced to the basics of fencing.

Youngsters from Norton Primary Academy crossed swords in a one-off fencing tournament at SRC Bede Sixth Form in Billingham.

The event was organised by members of The Prince’s Trust Stockton Team who are taking part in a 12-week personal development course.

Team leader Melisa Marsden said: “The Team has done really well. The fencing project has seen some students really stand out as natural leaders. The children have loved it and for our young people it has helped build their confidence and given them the ability to communicate and create a rapport, not just with the children but with the staff and teachers at the school as well.”

The Prince’s Trust Team programme, delivered by Stockton Riverside College, helps young unemployed people aged 16 to 25 build the skills and confidence to return to education or employment by taking part in a series of community tasks and challenges.

Members of the Stockton Team were given a masterclass in fencing from Darlington-based Street Swords, before passing the skills learned on to the children at Norton Primary Academy.

The school’s learning mentor Liam Corby said: “The children have really enjoyed it and during the training we have seen both our students and the Prince’s Trust students grow in confidence.”

Prince’s Trust Team student, Shaunna Wallinger, 18, of Stockton, said: “Fencing is something totally new to me but it has been really good. The children have really listened to what we have to say and picked it all up really well.”

Stockton Riverside College delivers The Prince’s Trust Team programme at various locations across the North-east. The national programme, supported by Barclays is celebrating its 25th anniversary this summer and since its launch in 1990 has supported 187,000 young people.

---

Gallery