Clare Mount School in Wirral continues to lead the way in providing inclusive cricket opportunities for pupils with autism and learning needs, supporting Cheshire Cricket Board’s commitment to ensuring cricket is accessible to all.
Over the past two decades, Clare Mount School has been breaking down barriers, with a number of past and present pupils representing Cheshire Pan Disability squads. This includes Mark O’Brian, who went on to represent the England Learning Disability Team between 2005 and 2012, highlighting the strength of the school’s inclusive cricket pathway.
In the last three years, the school has established a Cricket Academy, running every Tuesday after school, to offer regular opportunities for pupils to enjoy and access cricket. The academy has been driven by teacher and lead cricket coach Paul Kearney, whose passion and dedication have been central to creating meaningful cricket opportunities within the school.
Paul explained: “The cricket academy became more than a dream for me as I was troubled by the notion that just because someone attended our school then they couldn't enjoy and improve at the game I love.
“As someone who isn’t from a ‘traditional’ cricketing background and who is passionate about removing barriers to achievement, it has been a pleasure to see how the academy has helped develop the young people I am fortunate to work with. Matthew O’Connell is a great example of this journey, having attended our school and gone on to break down barriers to become a successful cricket coach in his own right. I am lucky to have him as part of the team, alongside Josh Basey and Pete Jones.”
Having witnessed his pupils develop both as cricketers and young people, Paul has urged other SEND schools across the country to copy the Clare Mount model. He said: “The students have developed a strong sense of camaraderie, with friendships forming that have helped them grow socially and become more confident in themselves. Alongside their significant improvement in ability, this is why the programme should be adapted across the country and beyond. The students are now excellent cricketers, with some playing at our affiliated club, Upton, among others. I am excited about just how far we can take this initiative as a way of developing not only the sportsperson, but also the individual.”
Dan Keefe, Headteacher at Clare Mount School, said: “Cricket has always played an important role at Clare Mount, supported by dedicated and passionate staff led by Mr Kearney, who understand the sense of belonging and togetherness the sport can bring. With a daily lunchtime club and a weekly cricket academy, supported by inspirational former pupil Matt O’Connell, our pupils see cricket as a sanctuary. The pupils have continued to improve, with seven now in the County squad and a growing number involved. We are extremely proud of the programme and look forward to its continued success.”
Chris Edwards, Team Director for Cheshire Pan Disability Cricket, added: “Clare Mount has been leading the way and, as far as I am aware, is the only SEND school in the country running a cricket academy that offers pupils the opportunity to access cricket.
“Over the years, this has seen a number of pupils go on to represent Cheshire, including former pupil Matthew O’Connell, who has been fantastic in helping to lead the academy coaching sessions alongside Paul Kearney. Paul’s vast experience in cricket, enthusiasm and energy have been an inspiration to the pupils, supported by the hard work of Josh Basey and Pete Jones in developing their cricket.”
Cricket at Clare Mount School continues to go from strength to strength, supported by strong links with local cricket clubs that provide pupils with access to facilities and clear progression routes into community and club cricket.
Chris Edwards/Gareth Moorhouse