Primary school pupils got a taste of table tennis with help from the sports leaders of tomorrow, as covered by our latest Spotlight film, out now on YouTube.

Students from Ilkley Grammar School in Yorkshire travelled to neighbouring Askwith Primary School to lead a coaching event for the younger pupils.

Basing the session on some of the TT Kidz programme activities, they learned how to use communication skills to ensure the youngsters had a positive and inclusive first experience of table tennis.

The event was organised by Table Tennis England Area Manager Lauren Evans, in partnership with North Yorkshire Sport’s Ruth Whitehead, who is the School Games Organiser (Harrogate) & Youth Engagement Manager.

Local coach and North East Local Organising Group member, Bob Moffat, also supported the event, which saw 57 pupils – 33 girls and 24 boys – take part.

Lauren said of the day: “At the Askwith under‑11s primary school festival, we were able to showcase the adaptability of the TT Kidz programme. We ran the festival over an afternoon with minimal equipment – using the activity plans and resource kit – by keeping things simple and equipping the young leaders with the skills they needed in advance.

“My aim was to give the young leaders creative freedom and boost their confidence as they guided the primary school pupils through the activities. The day was fun and gave the Askwith primary school children a taster of a new sport!”

Watch our video about the day below – and look out for more about our new young leaders’ course, coming soon!