Bridge the Gap Schools Programme

Our Bridge the Gap Schools Programme is the premier destination for schools seeking to enhance their basketball provision across England. Our mission is to empower students to reach their full potential through inspirational coaching, tailored training programmes, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the court.

Why Choose Bridge the Gap Schools Programme?

1. Professional Coaching Excellence: Our coaching staff comprises experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every session. With a focus on skill development, tactical strategies, and mental toughness, our coaches inspire and motivate students to perform at their best.

2. DBS Checked Coaches: Safety is our top priority. All our coaches have up to date Enhanced DBS checks, providing schools with peace of mind knowing that their students are in the hands of trustworthy and qualified individuals.

3. Customised Training Programmes: We understand that each school has unique needs and goals. That’s why we offer bespoke training programs tailored to the specific requirements of your target group of students. From fundamental skills to advanced tactics and from your disengaged, hard to reach young people to your highly engaged basketball teams, we design sessions that maximise player development and team cohesion.

4. Comprehensive Approach: Our coaching philosophy goes beyond just teaching basketball skills. We emphasise character development, leadership, and sportsmanship, instilling in students the values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

5. Supporting Academic Progress: Research shows that involvement in extracurricular activities like basketball can positively impact academic progress. By promoting time management skills, teamwork, and goal-setting, our programme supports the school’s agenda to improve academic standards.  We also provide in-class support which can be used as an intervention to target students who are struggling with their academic progress and/or with their classroom and corridor behaviour.

6. Enhancing Student Behaviour: Through positive reinforcement, mentorship, and leadership development, our coaches help cultivate a culture of respect, responsibility, and accountability among players, contributing to improved student behavior both on and off the court.

7. Boosting Attendance and Punctuality: Engaging and exciting basketball sessions provide students with a motivating reason to attend school regularly and be punctual. By creating a supportive and enjoyable environment, we encourage higher attendance rates and promote punctuality among participants.

8. Flexible Scheduling: We understand the challenges of school schedules. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs. Whether it’s after-school sessions, breakfast/lunch clubs, PE lessons or holiday basketball camps, we’ll work with you to find a schedule that fits your school’s needs.

Email us today using our Contact page to schedule an appointment where we can discuss a range of options to meet your school’s needs.

Meet our coaching staff

  • Coach
    Gary Maitland

    Gary Maitland Coach

    Coach Maitland is the Founder/CEO.  In addition to working with schools, he supports a number of professional, elite amateur and recreational players who seek skill and personal development.  Coach Maitland's expertise in skill development attracts NBA players, such as Jimmy Butler and Jordan Poole.  Coach Maitland has also been a secondary school teacher for a number of years which includes senior leadership experience in an Alternative Provision.  His understanding of the education system and his appreciation for teaching and learning, and behaviour, allows him to connect with schools to be able to meet their needs and provide deep support.

  • Coach
    Ruchae Walton

    Ruchae Walton Coach

    Coach Ruchae is one of our schools and community coaches.  Ruchae is also our Business Development Manager who adds significant value to our staff from her rich experience as a player and working in operations within the professional sports industry.  Ruchae is a role model for young women who aspire to pursue a career in the sport industry.

  • Coach
    Kamari Hunter

    Kamari Hunter Coach

    Coach Kamari is one of our schools and community coaches.  Kamari brings an incredible energy to our staff with his passion for helping players.  As a player himself, he is able to lead by example to inspire others. He also trains a number of our private clients across all ages and levels.  With two Masters degrees, Kamari also adds fantastic value to our programme as our Nutrition Coach.

  • Coach
    Azania Stewart

    Azania Stewart Coach

    Coach 'Z' is one of our schools and community coaches.  Azania is an Olympian and former professional basketball player.  With her wealth of experience playing around the world at the highest level, she is able to provide students with an outstanding insight into the importance and application of self-discipline, resilience, communication and teamwork.  Azania also works in the sports media industry as an international basketball commentator and is a role model for young women who aspire to have a career in sport.  Azania is also available as a guest speaker.