Curly’s funetics: Building confidence, community and a love for movement in Scunthorpe

Success in athletics goes far beyond the medals, it can be as simple as children growing in confidence, reaching a goal or feeling part of the athletics community. We recently caught up with Nickie and David who, having recognised this, launched funetics in Scunthorpe two years ago and the impact of their sessions is immeasurable.

Creating an inclusive community

Curly’s Athletes, a community and charity focussed event management team, launched funetics two years ago to create an environment where children could move, laugh, grow in confidence and discover a love of athletics. With more than 80 registered children, growing waiting lists and families returning week after week, Curly’s funetics has become far more than a sports session — it has become a community. Their philosophy is simple: “If a child turns up, they belong here.”

“What makes Curly’s Athletes as a whole so special is that it genuinely feels like a family,” said David. “Whether someone is four years old or forty, whether they’re fast or nervous, experienced or trying sport for the first time, everyone matters here.”

Feedback from parents echoes how successful the funetics programme has been at creating a welcoming community,

“For the first time ever, my child feels like they belong in sport.”

Now a thriving programme, the biggest challenge has been keeping up with demand to give every child an opportunity to get involved. Nickie and David could not do this alone, so they have developed a team of volunteers, including young volunteers who are completing their Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

“One of the biggest successes has also been the volunteer community built around funetics. Older athletes, parents and young leaders now help with sessions, creating a powerful sense of community supporting community.”

Supporting children to grow as people

Whilst the programme supports children to run, jump and throw better and improve their coordination, balance and physical confidence, the bit that makes Nickie and David emotional is watching the children grow as people.

“The real magic isn’t just in the athletics, it’s watching children go from ‘I can’t’ to ‘look what I can do.’ Seeing children who once stood quietly at the side now run through the gates smiling, joining in independently and believing in themselves. That’s what this is really about.”

Nickie added, “We’re not just teaching running, jumping and throwing, we’re helping children build confidence, friendships and belief in themselves.”

The funetics curriculum creates an environment where children are learning without even realising. In the middle of Curly’s chaos, giggles and plenty of games, children are developing movement skills, resilience, teamwork and confidence.

One parent explained the impact that Curly’s funetics had on their children beyond their sporting achievements,

“My children are naturally sporty and active six days a week, but funetics has brought something genuinely unique and valuable into their lives. Their drive to improve now comes from within. Things they find hard become works in progress and achievements. They feel valued, supported and safe to make mistakes without fear of judgement.”

The skills and confidence the children are learning through funetics stretches far beyond the athletics realm to the children’s everyday lives at school, with friendships and beyond.

An incredible impact on the wider community

The funetics sessions at Curly’s have become far more than an athletics session, they provide an opportunity for families to connect, friendships to grow and everyone to feel welcome and belong. They have already had an incredible impact in communities across Scunthorpe.

Recently, members of the Indian Cultural Association North Lincolnshire (ICANL) joined sessions at Quibell Park. Many had never experienced structured athletics before, yet through encouragement, patience and support, members gained confidence not just in sport, but also in themselves. ICANL President Binoy Joseph described Curly’s as:

“A place of friendship, confidence, inclusion and happiness.”

He added:

“They welcomed our members wholeheartedly, regardless of age, background or experience, and made everyone feel valued from the very beginning.”

Advice to others considering funetics

Nickie and David’s advice is simple: “Just do it.”

“You don’t need fancy equipment or perfection. What children remember most is how you made them feel. If they leave smiling, proud and excited to come back, then you’re already winning.”

Been inspired to give funetics a go?

Give the children in your local area the opportunity to grow in confidence and welcomed into a fully inclusive community, like the one created by Curly’s Athletes in Scunthorpe. funetics has been created by England Athletics to help 4-11 year old children across the country to learn, develop and practice running, jumping and throwing skills all year round, for a healthy confident future.