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Local sports coach launches free online sports courses for Harrogate children

Tuesday, 23 September 2025 14:41

a challenge in the Skillabus volleyball course

Stuart Owen, a local sports coach, is offering free access to online sports courses for all primary school aged children in the Harrogate area through his social enterprise, Skillabus CIC.

The Skillabus PE Challenges programme covers 11 different sports, each featuring a variety of challenges that grow progressively more difficult.

Stuart emphasises the benefits of home-based learning, saying,

“Home is the perfect place to develop a child’s sports skills, having fun with their family, without any peer pressure.

Just smiles and good times! As skills improve, so does enjoyment.

I hope Skillabus inspires more children to make sport a regular part of their life, with all the physical and mental health benefits that brings.”

A former PE teacher, Stuart has been coaching football in Harrogate since 2003 and has contributed to the development of numerous professional athletes including Harrogate runner George Mills, who recently set the fastest ever 5K by a Brit, surpassing Mo Farah's longstanding record.

Wanting to give back, Stuart said:

“I want to give something back to the community I’ve lived and worked in for over 20 years, and sport is my area of expertise.

If I can help a few more children develop their skills, and be more confident about taking part, I’ll be happy!”

Skillabus helps parents and guardians coach their kids even if they have little sporting knowledge themselves.

How to Sign Up

Harrogate families to register for free HERE.

Click the link, create an account and begin your child’s Skillabus journey!

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