funetics sessions launch successfully with ATF in South Essex

Personal Best Foundation’s partnership with ATF (Achieve, Thrive and Flourish) has made a really positive start, with children, parents and coaches sharing fantastic feedback about the funetics sessions which have started across local schools, community centres and HAF holiday programmes.

About ATF

Since launching in 2012, ATF work closely with a range of key partners to deliver fun, inclusive activities that support children’s confidence, wellbeing and enjoyment of being active. Their commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces for young people makes them a perfect partner for Personal Best Foundation.

More about the sessions

The sessions are for children and young people, who face the most barriers to being active. They aim to build confidence, develop fundamental movement skills and create inclusive, fun and active environments, through the power of athletics. The sessions have quickly become a highlight of the week for many children. ATF are seeing high levels of engagement, growing confidence and a real sense of excitement around each session.

Mira Teodorescu, an ATF coach delivering the programme, shared why the funetcis sessions mean so much to her:

“Growing up, I was one of those kids who was never really encouraged in sport. I struggled and often felt like I didn’t belong. That’s why delivering funetics means so much to me - I want every child to feel seen, encouraged and capable, no matter their ability or background. Delivering funetics isn’t just coaching - it’s creating a space where kids discover confidence, movement, and the joy of sport.”

Children taking part shared that enthusiasm, with many describing how the sessions make them feel stronger, faster and more confident:

• “Athletics Funetics is excellent and I love it because it makes me grow stronger.” Gwenevere, Y2
• “I love it because we do different stuff every week and that’s the fun part.” Ronnie, Y1
• “I love to run and jump and athletics is the best place to do so.” David, Y5

Parents have also noticed the difference, with one sharing:

“My daughter absolutely loves the club and can’t wait each week to take part. She seems much more confident since joining and I just wanted to say a massive thank you to the coaches for inspiring her.”

ATF are now preparing for their first funetics Festival in April, bringing children together to celebrate their progress and enjoy a day of movement, teamwork and fun.

Personal Best Foundation Programme Manager, Amy Murtagh, said:

“It’s fantastic to see how well the sessions are being received. The feedback from children, parents and coaches shows just how important these inclusive, supportive spaces are - and the difference they make to young people’s confidence and wellbeing. We’re also delighted to be strengthening our partnership with ATF. We truly value the positive relationship we’re building together, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration to reach even more young people across the region.”