On May 27, 2025 (Tuesday), St. Richard Catholic School hosted the Toronto Catholic District School Board's (TCDSB) first Inclusive Climbing Championship at Aspire Climbing Whitby. Ten students from ME/DD classes and students with exceptionalities from St Richard, St. Dominic Savio and Cardinal Léger Catholic Schools participated in a fun day of physical activity and team building. Newcomer Student Leaders from St. Richard led these athletes through various climbing routes and a ninja obstacle course as part of this competition. This event showcased collaboration, leadership and a sense of community among these schools. Students persevered by showing problem solving related to body awareness and the intuitive nature of body movement: a connection that each student was able to discover and develop throughout the day. This program promotes a sense of accomplishment and celebrates the individualities of all abilities. This is a testament that physical activity and problem solving can be achieved when opportunities are given.
A special thanks goes to the TCDSB Experiential Learning Grant for helping to promote inclusive and accessible physical education for our students. This was an amazing opportunity for St. Richard to share their Adaptive Climbing program with other schools as leaders in this initiative. We are grateful for our partnership with Aspire Climbing Whitby, who through their Adaptive Climbing program have helped us to create opportunities for all students to grow and learn through the sport of climbing. Thank you to all athletes and staff who participated this year.
