Pupils to benefit from the School of Hard knocks

Pupils at secondary schools in Cardiff will get support from a team who run a sport-based course to increase skills, confidence, and teamwork.  

The School of Hard Knocks featured in a television series presented by former Wales rugby star Scott Quinnell.  

It’s been made possible through the development of new homes being built by Langstone Construction Group just outside the city centre for Linc Cymru, a housing association and care provider.  

Natalie Hawkins, Linc’s social value manager, said: “Langstone are building 48 one-bedroom apartments and two retail units for us on City Road.  

“We’re committed to including social clauses in all our contracts. Thanks to the support from Langstone we can fund a facilitator from the School of Hard Knocks for one year to work in the city’s schools. 

“We’re so proud to play a part in bringing this fantastic programme to pupils which is known for transforming lives.”  

Damian James, from the School of Hard Knocks, said: “With the pressures facing young people now the work of the School of Hard Knocks’ (SoHK) Schools’ Programme has never been more vital.  

 “Without the support of socially-conscious partners such as Linc Cymru and Langstone Construction, we would not be able to provide our personal development programme across four comprehensive schools in Cardiff and to more than 200 young people.   

“Whether focusing on mental health or behavioural issues, all SoHK activities are underpinned by an evidence-based sport for development framework. We are hugely grateful to Linc Cymru and Langstone Construction in assuring that so many young people in real need of support will get the help they need.”  

Rhea John From Langstone Construction, said: “After visiting a school with the SoHK team where the programme is already being delivered and speaking with the pupils, we saw the positive impact it’s having and how much they’re enjoying it.  

 “For some young people this programme is a way of escaping certain parts of everyday life struggles. It gives them focus, a way of making friends, and provides invaluable support from the experts of the SoHK team. We feel it’s extremely important to help people realise their full potential and what possibilities can be achieved in life.”  

 The City Road development is being built thanks to funding support from the Welsh Government’s Social Housing Grant Programme.  

Linc Cymru are committed to embedding social clauses in all contracts which adds value environmentally, socially, economically, and culturally, to people and communities.