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Cheerleading ‘has opened up so much for me’


Posted on: 21 Jul 2025

With the kind permission of BBC Devon, we’re highlighting the BBC’s story about the Sapphires, who are believed to be the first fully inclusive cheerleading squad for children with additional needs in Devon and Cornwall.

The Sapphires are based at Southbrook School in Exeter, and practice twice a week in their lunch breaks.

They’re supported by the Exeter Emeralds, a 100-strong cheerleading group from the University of Exeter, which competes nationally. They help the Sapphires squad adapt their routines for each child’s ability and share their love of the sport.

Imogen, a wheelchair user who is in the squad, said: “This has opened up so much dancing for me.” The group has inspired her to want o be a wheelchair dancer on Strictly Come Dancing when older.

Zoe Barnes, one of the Southbrook Sapphires coaches, said: “As far as I know, we are the only special needs cheerleading squad in all of Devon and Cornwall.

“It’s phenomenal what they have achieved. We are so proud of them.”

She added: “They’ve exceeded all our expectations.”

To read the full story, visit BBC Devon’s news page.