Who Is School Sport NT?

Four years ago School Sport NT initiated steps to re-focus its program to better offer grass roots sports opportunities for all students aged between 10 and 19 in Northern Territory schools. The focus for the grass roots level is known as the "Cluster” or inter school level of the School Sport NT program.

The Government initiative to provide Departments of Education PE Coordinators in each of the six School Sport NT Clusters is fully operational in 2006. These teachers will be working in Primary schools in their clusters to enhance the delivery of Physical Education. They also have a role to support the School Sport NT program especially at the Cluster- interschool tier. A Senior PE Coordinator manages these positions.

Each Cluster (inter-school sport) program is planned and coordinated by School Sport NT Cluster Boards made up of Principals and teachers who work with teams of volunteers to hold a variety of inter-school ‘Cluster’ events and activities within their Clusters. The Physical Education Coordinators will provide professional assistance to the Boards and the volunteers as well as be part of the coordination team.

The focus on students participating within the cluster will give students of all levels of strength, maturity and skill, the chance to represent their school within an environment targeting participation and skill development. Having the opportunity to have multiple teams will not only provide the opportunity for sports skills development, across curriculum enhancement, enjoyment and school pride, but also provide a vehicle for school communities to enhance opportunities for students across the whole of the Northern Territory.

The School Sport NT program is run by volunteers and many schools will need volunteer parents and other members of the school community to meet the demands of interested students. A call to your school offering help will be greatly appreciated – however, schools will make choices regarding how many teams and events they are able to fit into their overall programs.

For students with advanced skills in the sports offered at the NT level Cluster teams will be selected from (only) those students participating in the advertised Cluster activity. From those representing their Clusters, NT teams will be selected to attend the School Sport Australia Interstate Exchange or Championships. Parents and interested members of school communities can also volunteer to coach/manage Cluster Teams. More information can be sought through your Cluster Administration Officer.

Please read your Clusters sports program and contact your school for further details. Initial queries can be directed to your Cluster Administration Officer, other queries can be addressed to your Cluster Chairperson.

During our School Sport NT events we have many teams that visit your area to participate. We always need families to billet students and provide a warm hospitable atmosphere that enhances student’s experiences and is an integral part of our program.

Welcome to the 2006 School Sport NT program. Have fun and enjoy your introduction to new lifestyles.