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Stride to School Launched!

Published: October 20, 2025

A group of students and adults wearing high-visibility vests stand outside Ard Scoil na Deise school building holding “Stride to School,” “Active Travel Waterford,” and “Waterford Sports Partnership” signs. They are promoting the Stride to School campaign, encouraging walking and active travel to school in Waterford.

Ard Scoil na nDéise in Dungarvan proudly launched its Stride to School initiative on Thursday 16th October, becoming the latest school in the county to join the growing Stride to School network.

Stride to School is part of a wider active travel in schools campaign led by Waterford City and County Council in partnership with Waterford Sports Partnership.

As part of the Stride to School network, Ard Scoil na nDéise now stands alongside Dungarvan’s St. Augustine’s College, Tramore’s Ardscoil na Mara and Waterford City’s De La Salle College in promoting active, safe, and sustainable school commuting.

Located near Dungarvan town centre, the school is committed to encouraging more students to walk to school, aiming to ease congestion typically seen during busy drop-off and collection times.

In advance of the launch, a survey of Ard Scoil na nDéise students revealed that 14% of students currently walk to school, 38% take the bus, and the remainder travel by car. Interestingly, 44% of respondents live more than 10km from the school – a challenge Ard Scoil na nDéise is addressing by promoting safe and convenient drop and go locations as part of its Stride to School campaign. These allow students to walk part of the way, while also easing traffic at the school entrance and contributing to a calmer, safer, and healthier environment for both the school and the surrounding area.

Ciara Lucey, Principal at Ard Scoil na nDéise, said: “We are delighted to launch Stride to School and play our part in creating a safer, healthier school community. Even short walks before and after school can make a real difference to students’ focus and wellbeing.”

Julianne Foley and Shauna Kiernan, teachers and Stride to School coordinators at Ard Scoil na nDéise, said: “Our students have shown great enthusiasm in launching this initiative, and we’ve already seen more choosing to walk the last part of their journey. That’s a win for their health and for the atmosphere outside the school gates.”

Dylan White, Active Travel Communications and Behavioural Change Officer with Waterford City and County Council, said: “We’re thrilled to work with Ard Scoil na nDéise. Their proactive approach shows how schools can adapt to local challenges in a busy urban area and still prioritise active travel.”

Jordan Kelly, Community Sports Development Officer with Waterford Sports Partnership, said: “The enthusiasm from the students has been fantastic. This initiative supports so much more than physical fitness – it’s about mental wellbeing, social connection, and building a positive routine into the school day.”

Opportunities for Secondary Schools

Published: August 21, 2025

Jiu-jitsu (City Schools Only)
We have teamed up with Ganbaru Jiujitsu Club to deliver a 4-week programme to secondary school students. Jiu-jitsu is a fun martial art that teaches self-defence, confidence, and problem-solving through safe, skill-based games and techniques. Students will learn basic movements, holds and escapes, coordination, teamwork and confidence building skills. Logistics: The programme will be delivered over 4, 1-hour sessions on the school grounds in a large classroom or sports hall. All equipment will be provided. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.
Please use this link to register your interest: https://forms.gle/MLbJJqJCTgFnjWVz6

Volleyball (Dungarvan Schools Only)
We have teamed up with Medusa Volleyball Club to deliver a 4-week programme to secondary school students. The Volleyball Schools Programme introduces students to the fundamentals of volleyball in a fun and supportive environment. Through skill-based activities, teamwork exercises, and friendly matches, students develop coordination, communication, and a love for active living. The programme is designed to be inclusive and build confidence while promoting a lifelong interest in sport. Logistics: The programme will be delivered over 2 sessions a week for 4 weeks. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times. Please use this link to register your interest: https://forms.gle/UFFuQ5gaNvbphNQPA

Get Going Get Rowing (Teenage Girls Only)
We are partnering with Rowing Ireland to roll out the “Get Going Get Rowing” programme. The programme is designed to inspire TY students to try rowing, particularly those who might not normally consider the sport. It provides positive, inclusive, and accessible indoor rowing experiences in schools, with opportunities to link with local rowing clubs. The programme brings rowing machines to schools and includes coaching for students over a six-week period, helping them improve their fitness and technique. Additionally, it aims to introduce rowing to various age groups and promote it as a lifelong sport. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.
Please use this link to register your interest: https://forms.gle/PX6U552NRiFru2tz8

BadminTeen  (Teenage Girls Only)
The HER Moves BadminTEEN Programme by Badminton Ireland is more than just about playing the game. It keeps girls engaged in sport, develops leadership skills, and supports physical and mental well-being. BadminTEEN also recognizes that sport looks different for everyone. Whether someone prefers playing, coaching, line judging, club operations, or umpiring, the programme supports girls in choosing how they want to be involved. Even those who have never played before are encouraged to take part. The goal is to help them discover and explore the many ways to stay active in sport, in whatever way suits them best.

As part of the programme, girls will:

  • Build confidence in their badminton ability through the Teicnic White and Yellow skills programmes
  • Learn the rules of the game and how to apply them
  • Gain an introduction to coaching through the Shuttle Time course
  • Explore roles such as coach, umpire, line judge, tournament organiser or player

Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.
Please use this link to register your interest: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=QelvHEnNPkavEJ3Pett6y2Gcc-dgsdFMlqpoeM5cX25UQ0taWEc0REIzT1lQVTE0OEVJT1JBT1laUi4u

Girls Squad (Teenage Girls Only)
We are partnering with Athletics Ireland to roll out the “Girls Squad” initiative. The Girls Squad is an athletics-based programme designed to engage teenage girls in secondary schools, encouraging both sporty and non-sporty students to get active and build confidence. Combining physical activity, mental health, wellbeing, and leadership development, the programme introduces girls to track and field skills, yoga, strength training, and healthy lifestyle habits in a fun, supportive environment. With student journals, teacher resources, and interactive content, it empowers girls to enjoy lifelong participation in sport and promotes positive self-development. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.
Please use this link to register your interest: The Girls Squad- Expressions of Interest Open for 2025/2026 Academic Year – Athletics Ireland

Wellbeing Programme (DEIS Schools Only)
Our Wellbeing programme is a come and try it that’s designed to give students a taster of 3 different sports that are picked by the students and held in the school followed by a 4-week programme based on 1 of the 3 sports. See video below:

Schools can apply for funding through the JCSP (Junior Cert Schools Programme) at the start of the year (September) for various initiatives. There is a long list of options you can apply for, one being the Wellbeing Initiative called Bring Active. The process is simple, a short explanation of why the school wants the funding, and a short evaluation of the programmes is needed. Please contact Jordan on 086 167 5642 or email jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie for more information.

Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.
Please use this link to register your interest: https://forms.gle/S9wPkvJGdPJ93goj9

Our Community Sports Development Officer, Jordan Kelly has responsibility for Schools.
Jordan can be contacted as follows:
Phone: 086 167 5642

Email: jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Volleyball

Published: July 21, 2025

A Mikasa Youth Volleyball resting on a shiny indoor court, with blurred orange seating in the background.
Volleyball
(Dungarvan Schools only)
We are partnering with Medusa Volleyball Club to deliver a 4-week programme to primary school students. The programme is appropriate for all ages and can be delivered in a sports hall, over two sessions a week for four weeks.

Logistics: The Volleyball Schools Programme will be delivered by a qualified coach. It introduces students to the fundamentals of volleyball in a fun and supportive environment. Through skill-based activities, teamwork exercises, and friendly matches, students develop coordination, communication, and a love for active living. The programme is designed to be inclusive and build confidence while promoting a lifelong interest in sport.

Cost: €100. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.

To register your interest for the Volleyball Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Jordan Kelly at jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Table Tennis

Published: July 21, 2025

Two red table tennis bats, a white ping pong ball, and a green net laid out on artificial grass.


Table Tennis
(City Schools only)
We are teaming up with Table Tennis Ireland to deliver a 4-week programme for primary school children.

The programme is appropriate for all ages and can be delivered in a sports hall or classroom over four, 60-minute sessions.

Please note:
Schools will receive a starter pack containing an extendable net, 4 bats and 6 balls. Extra packs can be ordered if needed.

Logistics: The table tennis programme will be delivered by a qualified coach. The programme introduces children to the exciting world of table tennis in a fun, active, and inclusive way. Designed to develop basic skills such as hand-eye coordination, balance, and teamwork, the programme includes engaging drills, mini-games, and a place in the Table Tennis Festival within 4-6 weeks after the programme.

Cost:
€25. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.

To register your interest for the Table Tennis Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Jordan Kelly at jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Cycle Right Programme

Published: August 22, 2023


Training to promote competent and confident cyclists.

WSP, in partnership with Cycling Ireland, have the capacity to deliver 6 x 60 minute sessions for two groups of 15 children in 4 schools. CYCLE RIGHT is the National Standard for Cycle Training and provides practical cycle safety and skills. €10 per child. WSP will fund the remainder of this programme. If bikes are required this can be discussed with WSP. The programme is delivered by WSP Cycle Right tutors. Four sessions will be delivered on a suitable area in the school grounds. Two sessions will be delivered on the road.

Cost: €10 per child. If bikes are required this can be discussed with WSP.
Logistics: The programme is delivered by WSP Cycle Right tutors. Four sessions will be delivered on a suitable area in the school grounds. Two sessions will be delivered on the road.

To register your interest for the Cycle Right Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Jordan Kelly at jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

Seconday Schools Programmes

Published: September 15, 2022

Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) is committed to helping schools become more active and providing opportunities for teachers to participate in training courses.

To help schools achieve this, we are offering the following opportunities:

To register for any of the above Programmes,
p
lease complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Peter Jones at pjones@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

Primary School Athletics

Published: September 15, 2022

WSP in partnership with Athletics Ireland are offering schools a 4-week athletics programme on school premises. The programme will be delivered by an Athletics Ireland development officer and focus on linking in with local clubs. The session will show children how to run, throw and jump. The programme is available for junior infants to 6th class.

Cost: The cost of the programme per class is €140 which covers 4 x 1-hour sessions for a class of your choice. If a school wishes to involve multiple classes, the programme can be delivered for the full day covering 5 classes at a cost of €700.
Logistics: Schools to contact WSP and date and times for the programme can then be arranged.

To register your interest for the Athletics Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Peter Jones at pjones@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Startbox Programme

Published: September 15, 2022


WSP in partnership with the IABA and Tramore, Dungarvan, St. Paul’s and St. Saviour’s Boxing clubs are offering a four-week Startbbox programme on school premises.  The programme focuses on fun, participation and movement, as opposed to the skills of Boxing

Cost: WSP will fund 50% of the programme with schools paying €70 for the four sessions

Logistics: Schools to contact WSP to be put on a waiting list. The programme is delivered by a qualified boxing instructor on the school premises at a date agreed between school and WSP.

To register your interest for the Boxing Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Peter Jones at pjones@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Muay Thai Fitness

Published: September 15, 2022

Silhouettes of two martial artists spar against a dramatic sunset backdrop, showcasing dynamic poses and action.


Muay Thai
(for City Schools only)
Muay Thai is a form of martial arts, it is a fantastic way to build fitness, discipline, and self-confidence. For students, learning Muay Thai can improve coordination, flexibility, and mental focus. We have linked with Waterford Muay Thai to deliver a 4-week Muay Thai Programme in schools for 1st to 6th class students.

Logistics: The programme is delivered by a qualified Muay Thai instructor on school premises at a date agreed between the school and WSP.

Cost: €50. Once applications are received and reviewed, we will liaise with each school to arrange dates and times.

To register your interest for the Muay Thai Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Jordan Kelly at jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Non-Contact Rugby

Published: September 14, 2022


WSP in partnership with Munster Rugby, Dungarvan RFC and Waterford City RFC are offering non-contact rugby to schools developing basic fundamental movement and rugby skills.

The programme can be delivered in a hall, school yard or field and incudes 3 x 30-minute sessions. This is available for 1st to 6th class.

Cost: The subsidised cost of this programme is €25 per class.

Logistics: Qualified Munster Rugby and local coaches will deliver these sessions to one class in the school. There is the option for multiple classes to avail of the programme upon request. Dates and times to be agreed between WSP and the school.

To register your interest for the Rugby Programme,
please complete this online Expression of Interest Form

For more information please contact Jordan Kelly at jordankelly@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Waterford Sports Partnership

Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) was established in 2002 by Sport Ireland (formerly the Irish Sports Council) as part of the Local Sports Partnership initiative with the aim of increasing participation in sport and physical activity in County Waterford.

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Company Info

Waterford Sports Partnership Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG)
CRO Number: 378713

Registered Office –
Civic Offices
Dungarvan
Co. Waterford
Ireland

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Contact Details

County Office:
Civic Offices
Dungarvan
Co. Waterford
Tel: 058 21194

City Office:
Regional Sports Centre
Cork Road
Waterford

Email: info@waterfordsportspartnership.ie
Website By: Déise Design

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