Course seeks budding cheerleaders

Cheerleading is a popular pursuit in the US

Budding cheerleaders in South Yorkshire are being encouraged to sign up for tuition in the US high school art.

International coaches are running a course for teenagers aged 14 to 16 at Swinton Community School in Mexborough over the Easter break.

Organisers say cheerleading can boost self-esteem and motivation amongst school children.

Those taking part in the scheme last year have since performed before large crowds at football and rugby matches.

Spectators watching Rotherham United and Rotherham Titans have been entertained by previous graduates this season.

The course is being organised by the Dearne Valley Learning Opportunities Partnership, the Dearne Valley Schools Partnership, the UK Cheerleading Association (UKCA) and the Millennium Volunteers.

Successful graduates of the course will gain a Blue Spirit qualification from the UKCA.

Jill Arkley, Millennium Volunteers co-ordinator, said: "This is a great opportunity for young people in the Dearne Valley to work in partnership, to develop team work skills, and the chance to get a qualification is an added incentive."