CHILDREN are being taught how to box as part of a pilot project by Scrappers Boxing Gym.

Swindon Academy pupils are being taught the sport to try to encourage more schools to include it in PE lessons.

Scrappers Boxing Gym and Community Fitness Centre was set up by the Swindon Children’s Scrapstore in November 2011 to provide access to sports and fitness for all at low cost.

Olivia McCann, project manager, said: “We are aiming to develop links with local schools to bring young people into the sport of boxing, and we have applied to Sport England for a grant to help us get started.

“Scrappers Gym instructor Paul Rogers will be working with PE teachers at the Swindon Academy to introduce boxing into PE lessons and help to increase participation among young people, developing community cohesion, alleviating anti-social activity and reducing barriers to participation.”

The boxing sessions are non-contact classes working with groups of Year 9 pupils or above for 35 minutes per session.

The first class started at Swindon Academy on January 10.

At the end of the five-week period, the pupils will receive a Level 1 – Boxing Skills certificate.

Scrappers Boxing Gym is interested in working with other schools in Swindon to expand the project.

For more information phone Olivia on 01793 513982 or email olivia@scrapstore.co.uk