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Providing Free, Inclusive Athletics Provision for Young People in Castle Vale
24/07/26
The Pioneer Group is delivering a new Community Athletics Hub in Castle Vale, in partnership with Personal Best Foundation to provide free, inclusive after-school athletics provision for children and young people.
The hub is one of four launched across Birmingham, building on the city’s first hub pilot that launched in Sparkbrook in 2025.
The Castle Vale hub will take place first in Farnborough Fields, beginning on Monday 27th July. Sessions will then be held every Monday at 3:30-5:00pm, until Monday 17th August.
In addition, The Pioneer Group will deliver a pilot project offer at Topcliffe Primary, starting in September, with Personal Best Foundation and Access Sport. This will give children and young people with additional needs the opportunity to participate in a way that works for them.
Each hub is delivering an inclusive England Athletics programme for children aged 8–11 called ‘funetics’. It helps children build their running, jumping and throwing skills, all through fun, game-based activities. Meanwhile, they develop their confidence, develop a love of moment and make friendships.
The initiative was launched at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium, with over 250 young people taking part, during the Community Athletics Festival on Saturday 30th May.
Amy Weaver-Tylar, Foundation Manager at Personal Best Foundation said:
“These Community Athletics Hubs are about much more than athletics. They are about belonging, confidence, relationships and creating safe spaces within communities where children can thrive.
“By working alongside trusted local organisations who truly understand their communities, we can ensure these opportunities reach the children who need them most.”
Jane Barrett, Youth Team Leader at The Pioneer Group said:
“Being part of the Community Athletics Hubs launch is incredibly exciting for The Pioneer Group and our newly trained funetics Activators. These hubs will give children and young people, including those who need SEND‑specific support – a safe, accessible and inclusive space to be active, build confidence and discover what they can achieve through movement.
“We’re proud to bring this opportunity to Castle Vale, creating a joyful and fun experience of athletics where children can run, jump, throw, and smile.”
