PUPILS at Ghyll Royd School are the first to try out Ben Rhydding Hockey Club’s second 3G pitch, thanks to a new sports partnership.

Girls in Years 3 to 6 started their hockey lessons this term on the club’s newly unveiled 3G astro turf. Every Wednesday afternoon the children will receive expert tuition from England hockey coach Melanie Scott. Since their lessons began, pupils have mastered the basics and even invited girls from Lady Lane Park School in Bingley over for a fun hockey workshop.

With the opening of a second pitch, Ben Rhydding Hockey Club can accommodate more young players who are keen to learn this fun team sport. This new partnership is the latest in sport collaborations between Ghyll Royd School and local sports coaches. The school already offers a range of specialist sport tuition from coaches including Dave Cooper from Burley Cricket Club, Josette Cornish from Olicana Gymnastics, Amy Addison from Northern Ballet, and Toby Waterhouse from Ilkley Rugby Club.

Headteacher David Martin said: “Thank you to all staff at Ben Rhydding Hockey Club, particularly Melanie, for developing this partnership where our children can learn and develop with the top coaching, equipment and surroundings. Working with Melanie on this fantastic 3G pitch, the first in the Wharfe Valley, gives our children a first class playing experience and adds to our extensive physical education curriculum and specialist coaching.”

Ghyll Royd School will be training every Wednesday afternoon at Ben Rhydding Hockey Club. To find out more about the club visit brhc.co.uk/. To find out more about Ghyll Royd School visit ghyllroydschool.co.uk