PRIMARY school children across the Vale have been learning how to better include disabled people in physical activities, in a project organised by Disability Sport Wales.

More than 700 pupils have now completed the Mini Disability Inclusion Training, and organisers are hoping to reach 1,000 pupils by March next year.

The aim of the course is to teach children about what disabled young people and adults can do, as well as how they can be more inclusive towards their friends by helping them to engage in sport and physical activities.

The project was launched in January and pupils from St Helens RC Primary School, Gwenfo Primary, Jenner Park Primary, Oakfield Primary, Palmerston Primary and St Athan have all so far taken part.

The success has spread across the Vale and local scout groups have also shown an interest in getting involved with the project.

Members of the 11th Barry Sea Scouts have now also taken part in the course, along with the 2nd and 4th Barry Beavers and 1st Penmark Cubs, who achieved their Disability Awareness badges in the process.

The 1st Penmark Cubs will also be putting their training to good use, with an inclusive archery session later in the year.

Simon Jones, Disability Sport Wales development officer, said: "I spoke with Disability Sport Wales about talking to school pupils about disability inclusion training and the idea piloted in Cardiff. The message of the course is to show it's okay to ask someone questions on what is the best way to get them involved if you’re not sure.

"The feedback we’ve had has been brilliant, and it’s great to see so many proactive schools in the Vale of Glamorgan who want to make sure everyone has the chance to participate in sport and physical activity.

"The initial target for the year was to provide training for 400 pupils. This has been smashed due to the willingness of schools and local scout groups."

Members of the Vale of Glamorgan sports and play development team, Tom Howles and Lucy Mitchell, will head to primary schools in the new year to continue sharing ideas with pupils on how to best involve those with disabilities.

Plans are also in place to hold public events in the Vale of Glamorgan during the next school term.

To learn more about the training, contact Simon Jones at sljones@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk, or call 01446 704728.