In many schools across Carmarthenshire, students are given the chance to become Young Sports Ambassadors (YSAs)—leading activities, supporting their peers, and championing inclusive sport. However, students with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) have often been excluded from these empowering leadership opportunities.

That is now changing.

A New Opportunity for ALN Pupils

We are proud to launch a Young Sports Ambassador training programme tailored specifically for ALN students in secondary school ALN units and SEN schools across Carmarthenshire. This initiative ensures that ALN pupils have the same access to leadership, responsibility, and inclusion as their mainstream peers.

This bespoke programme is already being rolled out in:

·       6 ALN units in South Carmarthenshire, plus Heol Goffa School

·       5 ALN units in the East

·       4 ALN units in the West

Adapting Young Ambassador Training for ALN Needs

The programme has been specially adapted to meet the unique strengths and needs of ALN students. Here's how it works:

Different levels of responsibility tailored to each student

Practical training sessions focused on leading and assisting physical activities

Supporting staff with setting up and managing equipment

Assisting other pupils during sports activities at their school

Buddy system with mainstream Young Ambassadors

Mentoring by Actif Inclusion Officers within each school

Online modules to support flexible learning

This layered approach gives students the confidence and capability to take on leadership roles in school sport and beyond.

The Training Roll-Out

We are now in the rollout phase of the project, beginning with ALN units and Heol Goffa School. Here's what’s been happening:

Initial Training Sessions

The first cohort of ALN students has already completed their training—and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Students have shared how proud they feel to represent their peers and lead by example.

Peer-Led Initiatives

Once trained, Young Ambassadors begin leading activities in their school. From helping run sports clubs to supporting younger students, their leadership is making a real impact.

Ongoing Mentorship

Training doesn’t end with certification. Actif’s Inclusion Officers provide continued support, mentoring, and leadership development for each Young Sports Ambassador.

Real Stories, Real Impact

At Queen Elizabeth High School’s Elfed Unit, two students completed their YSA training on 8th January 2025, supported by a teaching assistant and Actif’s Inclusion Officer. They then led a session for younger pupils—and loved it.

Since then, they’ve helped run Table Cricket sessions, organised teams, and even supported their peers during a Table Cricket Championship. They are now planning to run a Table Cricket lunchtime club independently.

More than that, their training has made them naturally inclusive leaders. At break times, they take the initiative to set up football games that include everyone—showing empathy, confidence, and teamwork.

The Vision Going Forward

Short-Term Goal:

·       Create and refine the YSA programme for ALN units

Medium-Term Goal:

·       Implement the training consistently across the county

Long-Term Goal:

·       Sustain Young Ambassador roles in ALN units and Heol Goffa School

·       Support inclusive sports activities led by ALN pupils in every school

Work With Us

If you're an ALN teacher or work within an ALN unit in Carmarthenshire, this is your opportunity to bring the Young Sports Ambassador programme to your school. It’s a chance to empower your students, build their confidence, and promote a more inclusive sporting culture.

👉 Visit www.actif.wales to learn more.

📧 Interested in collaborating? Get in touch with Lisa Pudner at
 Lpudner@Carmarthenshire.gov.uk to discuss how your school can take part.

Let’s create leadership opportunities for every learner—together.