A FORMER pupil at Christ College has been appointed director of sport at the Brecon independent school.
John Patterson first arrived at Christ College in 1999 on a sport scholarship, due to his excellence in rugby and athletics, and will now have responsibility for developing the co-educational school into a hub of sporting excellence.
He has more than 13 years of experience in the education sector, including seven years as a head of PE.
The school says he will support pupils’ physical education and make sport programmes accessible for all and emphases the importance of health and wellbeing.
It is also introducing a BTEC in physical education in the next academic year. The new qualification for sixth formers will be led by Mr Patterson, introducing pupils to sport leadership through a more active and practice-focussed approach.
Mr Patterson said: “I am thrilled to return to Christ College Brecon, where my own love for sport thrived. It’s here that I learned the values of sport, which extend beyond the playing field. Whether it is commitment, teamwork, discipline or overcoming adversity; sport strengthens those beneficial soft skills. I believe every pupil should have the chance to develop a passion for physical activity, and have these values instilled.
“As an educator, I think it’s important to tailor physical education to pupils’ individual needs and ambitions. We need to understand that PE encompasses more than just sport, it is about stimulating healthy lifestyles, both physically and mentally. Through individualised excellence programmes and profile achievements, we can ensure pupils can meet their own targets and make PE more inclusive for all.”
The new director of sport hopes to provide pupils with a range of sporting opportunities that encourage self-belief and will create lasting memories.
The independent boarding school has developed strong links with local teams including the Cardiff Blues professional rugby side. Mr Patterson will further strengthen these due to his close relationship with national governing bodies across Wales, including rugby, netball, athletics and football.
Christ College head Gareth Pearson said: “We’re extremely pleased to have Mr Patterson join us as our new director of sport. His motivation and can-do attitude are inspiring and will encourage pupils to try out a variety of sport activities.
“I look forward to seeing a former pupil guide the next generation of Breconians into confident and accomplished adults. His focus on inclusion, and pupils’ wellbeing will create a great sporting platform where pupils’ holistic development is encouraged.”