Alsop High School has unveiled an amazing CrossFit® affiliated Functional Fitness Suite, setting a new standard for physical education and student wellbeing. This initiative establishes Alsop High School as the first UK school to partner with British Weightlifting, a milestone in education and fitness innovation.
The state-of-the-art fitness suite is central to Alsop High School’s transformation of its PE curriculum, shifting the focus to functional fitness, inclusivity, and personal growth. Traditional lessons now include dynamic fitness sessions that build strength, agility, and endurance. The goal is to engage all students, especially those who may have struggled with conventional sports, and inspire a lifelong passion for health and wellbeing.
Mr Solan, Head of PE and Health, said: “We’re thrilled to bring this new CrossFit Functional Suite to our students. This is about inclusivity, empowerment and giving every young person the chance to excel physically and mentally. By integrating functional fitness into our curriculum, we are creating opportunities for all students to build confidence, resilience and a lifelong passion for fitness.”
This innovative project has been made possible through collaboration with leading organisations dedicated to transforming the lives of young people:
British Weightlifting, as the national governing body for Olympic weightlifting and para-powerlifting, will deliver world-class training to Alsop’s PE staff. Teachers will gain Level 2 qualifications in Functional Fitness and Olympic Weightlifting to ensure students receive the highest quality instruction.
Hannah Bussey, Sports Development Manager for British Weightlifting, praised the initiative saying: “Alsop High School is setting a new standard in physical education by incorporating weightlifting and functional fitness into their curriculum. This initiative not only enhances PE lessons but also empowers students with the skills and confidence to lead healthier, more active lives.”
The Academy Programme, a community interest company dedicated to improving the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of young people has been instrumental in developing Alsop’s fitness initiative, providing pathways for students to earn qualifications and develop life skills. Alsop High School is the first school in the North-West to partner with them! Founder Hannah Mitoo, attended the official opening and highlighted the impact the facility will have. She said “At The Academy Programme, we believe that every young person deserves the chance to realise their full potential. Our courses go beyond traditional education, equipping students with tools to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. The facilities here at Alsop High School are incredible and I am excited for the opportunities the student will have”
CrossFit Full Moon Liverpool, which is led by decorated CrossFit Games athlete Reece Mitchell, is a local affiliate to the initiative and has been pivotal in delivering workshops and training to Alsop staff. Reece’s inspiring journey, overcoming challenges like autism and ADHD to achieve global success, has resonated deeply with the school’s mission. Reece shared his excitement saying: “CrossFit has completely changed my life, and I’m excited to share that journey with the students at Alsop High School. This is about much more than fitness, it’s about confidence, resilience, and building a sense of community.”
At the official opening students participated in workshops led by CrossFit Full Moon coaches, showcasing enthusiasm and determination. A highlight of the day was a thrilling “Lift Off” demonstration by fitness professionals.
As part of a wider £150k investment by Omega Multi-Academy Trust, and supported by a grant from Liverpool Schools Sports Partnership, Alsop has transformed its sports facilities to complement the fitness suite. The new MUGA supports football, rugby and hockey, while refurbished spaces like the dance studio and activity suite will enrich the school’s extracurricular offerings.
Alsop High School’s innovative approach to fitness education is already making a difference, with students showing renewed enthusiasm for PE. Looking ahead, the school aims to establish a Centre of Excellence for Personal Trainer Qualifications, further broadening opportunities for students to pursue careers in fitness and wellbeing.
This transformative initiative represents the best of collaboration and innovation, ensuring every student at Alsop High has the tools and confidence to thrive, both in fitness and in life.
Check out the video from the official opening here!