Two brand new sporting camps for children are taking place in York this month.

Sixty school children aged 11 or 12 have been invited to take part in City of York Council's Physical Education (PE) Gifted and Talented Camp on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 July at Oaklands Sport Centre. All those taking part have been nominated by their school because they have shown outstanding talent in PE.

The two day course is a multi activity programme, which will help develop ability in five different areas: physical, cognitive, creative, personal and social. Activities will include climbing, trampolining, Tri golf, Boccia, fitness classes and swimming. 

Skills such as leadership training and problem solving will all be developed through sport and games.

The second event, Developing Talented Young People with a Disability Day, is a one day camp help at Burnholme Community College on Wednesday 25 July.  Supported with funds from School's Out - the council's holiday activity programme - the day is aimed at 10 to 14 year olds. A total of 20 young people and their carers) will be able to take part free of charge. 

Participants will be given the opportunity to develop the same skills but this time through activities such as tennis, boccia, football, polybat, table cricket and multiskills sessions.  This event is open to anyone with a physical or sensory impairment. The day will start at 9am and finish at 2.30pm. Anyone who would like to know more should call Liz Burkinshaw on 01904 553366.

The two events have been organised as part of the council's Sport and Active Leisure’s commitment to help develop talented young people in PE and school sport.

Liz Burkinshaw, the council’s PE and School Sports Consultant, said: "This is a new opportunity for young people to shine and feel proud of their achievements in sport. 

"I would hope that many of these gifted and talented young people will continue to participate and compete through school sport or the numerous sports clubs in York.  I’d like to thank both School's Out and Oaklands for their support in making these events happen."