130 pupils from across the borough came together on Wednesday 23rd September to take part in our exciting Inclusive Cross Country Festival at Abbey Recreation Ground, Nursery Road Playing Fields, celebrating participation, determination and teamwork.
Pupils from Year 3 to Year 8 represented nine schools as they completed an engaging 1 or 2 laps of the 800m obstacle race, designed to provide a fun and inclusive experience for all participants.
The schools taking part were:
- Holy Trinity CofE Primary School
- Morden Primary School
- Abbotsbury Primary School
- Aragon Primary School
- William Morris Primary School
- All Saints’ CofE Primary School
- Hollymount Primary School
- Joseph Hood Primary School
- St Mark’s Church of England Academy
- Ricards Lodge
The event featured a variety of exciting obstacles designed to challenge pupils’ agility, balance and coordination while keeping the experience enjoyable and accessible for everyone. Along the route, participants tackled the Hoop Dash, Slalom Posts, Balance Beam, Cargo Net, Beanbag Toss and the ever-popular Gauntlet Ball.
A special mention must go to the students from St Mark’s Church of England Academy and All Saints’ CofE Primary School, who volunteered as Active Leaders throughout the event. Demonstrating outstanding responsibility and leadership skills, they supported participants at each obstacle station, offered encouragement around the course and helped create a positive atmosphere by cheering on every runner from start to finish.
The festival showcased excellent determination from all pupils, with every participant completing the 800m course and embracing the challenges along the way. The event highlighted the importance of inclusive opportunities in school sport, allowing young people of all abilities to experience success, build confidence and enjoy being active together.
At the conclusion of the festival, certificates were presented to all participants to recognise their efforts and achievements. There was a congratulations to Morden Primary School who were awarded the REFSPECT Award in recognition of their determination and positive attitude throughout the event.
A huge congratulations to all of the young people who took part and thank you to the staff, volunteers and leaders who helped make the festival such a memorable and successful day.