Schools Shooting At East Grange Biathlon Centre
It’s strange that old lessons often need to be re-learnt – none more so than in education. Looking back, we must wonder why so many sports, sports facilities and willing volunteers were sacrificed to the politically correct mood that swept everything in its path?
Now, as we struggle to rescue the “video nation couch potatoes” from their pending doom, nowhere do we see greater resurgence than in many of the sports that were first vilified as “not good things to do”! Strong team games underpin teamwork, self-sacrifice and strong community spirit, while martial arts and target sports instil self-discipline, calmness, the pursuit of perfection and deep inner strength.
At East Grange Biathlon Centre, we regularly host young adults and school groups. A supreme safety culture is built on the foundation of “old-fashioned values”, such as
- Discipline
- Self-discipline
- Manners
- Self-esteem
- Challenge
- Application
- Accountability
- Achievement
- Respect – for self, others and the ‘rules of the game’.
Target shooting takes only an hour or so to get started, but a lifetime to master. Of all the premium and high-quality sports available to instil maturity in young people, it is the most (and ultimate) “all-inclusive” activity. Everyone can compete on equal terms – male, female, all ages, able and disabled. And there are nearly always surprises for everyone ….. most often for the school teaching staff.
The Greek word “Biathlon” means “2 events”, and its most usually the school groups who ask specifically to try shooting while under physical strain – often a quick run around the block is all they need to raise the competitive stakes in who can hold their shooting nerve while under pressure!
Special rates are provided to school groups with staff – please call.
Report on a training day provided at East Grange for a primary-to-secondary transition group:
An activity was chosen which would a) motivate the students and b) require self-discipline and responsibility to gain maximum enjoyment and benefit.....
On arrival, staff briefed the group regarding conduct and expectations, and provided an outline of the day. The young people responded positively to this, listened intently and followed all instructions to the letter.
The Group, including all staff, shot in the morning under expert supervision, and this built a supportive rapport between staff and young people. The shooting went really well, and it was impressive to see the level of self-discipline and concentration staff had inspired in the youngsters in such a short space of time.
A good day was had by all, the young people still talk about it, and it provided an ideal setting for staff and young people to form supportive bonds.
The day was professionally run, and highly enjoyable with a high safety margin. I would not hesitate to recommend this venue to leaders of similar groups. A lot of thought has clearly gone into how The Loft teaches discipline and manages behaviour. As well as learning the young people clearly enjoyed their day.
By a Principal Teacher in Behaviour Support