Young children of all shapes and sizes are developing their gymnastics and dance skills, whilst losing weight and improving their overall health.
“Lean and Keen” project led by the British Pakistani Christian Association provides opportunity for fun physical exercise to the deprived children of Loxford and Clementswood ward, Ilford. Current classes for street dance led by Pioneer Dance are held every Friday at Clementswood Community Centre from 5pm, and Gymnastics classes led by local Gym instructor Stephanie Thomas are held on Fridays at Uphall School. The courses are free and are being funded through London Catalyst and London Community Foundation, responsible for Redbridge Small Grants.
Unlike many free courses the trainers have been selected for their significant experience and qualifications, and participating children will be examined under external certification bodies.
Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the BPCA, said;
“When we devised Lean and Keen project our intention was to provide deprived children an opportunity participate in courses that usually, would be beyond their means. Moreover, we wanted to ensure that any lessons taught would have a positive effect on the health of local children, in an area with high levels of obesity and lower life expectancy.”
