Palestine Sports for Life Concludes Circle In Training of Trainers (ToT) in Gaza

Gaza, Palestine – Palestine Sports for Life (PS4L) successfully concluded a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) under the Circle In programme, supported by Qatar Foundation, Education Above All, and the International Olympic Committee. The training brought together 10 teachers from Gaza City, North Gaza, and the Middle Area.

The training equipped teachers with practical knowledge and skills in Sport for Community Development (S4D), with a focus on integrating basic Psychological First Aid (PFA), Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), safeguarding, and child protection principles into educational and sport-based activities.

Throughout the two-day programme, teachers participated in interactive movement-based activities, game design workshops, and practical and theoretical learning sessions. These activities strengthened their ability to plan and facilitate sport-based sessions that encourage participation, teamwork, communication, inclusion, and positive social interaction.

The training highlighted the role of sport as a practical tool for supporting children’s and youth’s wellbeing, strengthening social connections, and building resilience in challenging contexts by combining practical exercises with evidence-informed approaches. Participants gained greater confidence in using sport to support both children’s physical development and psychosocial wellbeing.

By the end of the training, participants were able to design and demonstrate sport-based activities that incorporated teamwork, communication, inclusion, emotional support, safeguarding, and child protection principles. They also developed practical approaches for creating safe and supportive spaces where children can participate, learn, and enjoy positive experiences through sport.

Following the training, participating teachers are implementing structured sport-based sessions in their communities, reaching up to 50 students per trained teacher.

The sessions use Sport for Community Development (S4D) as the main approach and integrate relevant PFA, MHPSS, safeguarding, and child protection principles. Teachers apply these principles within their sport-based activities and are encouraged to refer to any concerns requiring specialized support to the appropriate services.

Through the Circle In programme, Palestine Sports for Life remains committed to strengthening the capacity of teachers and creating safe and inclusive spaces where children can learn, play, develop life skills, build positive relationships, and enhance their wellbeing through sport.https://www.veed.io/view/bf92900e-ca3b-4b85-aa6e-9df78989ba31?source=editor&panel=download