Our 2004 Arts Council funded pilot research project tested the effects of learning circus skills on the spelling, handwriting, fine motor skills and self esteem of special educational needs children (SEN) aged nine to twelve years. The children had specific learning difficulties, namely their literacy and numeracy skills.

They received twelve hourly sessions spread over six months and were required to do juggling/ balancing “homework” between sessions.

Educational psychologist Linda Falkner found two statistically significant results. The average improvement in reading accuracy for the experimental group was nine months, whilst the control group improved by 2.72 months.

The reading speed of the experimental group improved by 63%, in comparison with 5% in the control group. A copy of the report is available on request.

 
Our 2006 educational research project was funded by the Primary Strategy Learning Network. We studied the effects of coordination exercises which involved crossing the mid line and impacted on children’s learning, concentration and self esteem, with particular reference to improving mathematical skills.

This educational research project covered 600 mixed ability pupils across the infant/junior range and involved children from years 1 and 5. Steve Griffin was elected by the head teachers to produce an independent report. The report stated that the cross lateral (crossing the mid line) component of the activities was particularly significant. It made use of the physical exercises to stimulate the left and right brain communications, thus helping the brain to be more integrated.

Teachers are continuing to use the exercises from the project for PE and brain gym activities. The report stated “100% of pupils were highly engaged. There was significant improvement in the children’s coordination, concentration, self esteem and academic learning”. A copy of the assessment is available on request.

2007/2008  We have completed a study on “The Impact of Cross Lateral, Kinaesthetic Exercise on Literacy and Self Esteem in Year 3 Pupils”, which we have named the “Creative Curriculum Development Project”.

This Arts Council funded educational research project was undertaken by Ruth Gwernan-Jones and Abeer Al-Harbi, third year PhD students researching dyslexia, supported by Professor Robert Burden of Exeter University, a specialist in dyslexia and related issues.

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