Ringstead pupils jumping for joy after reaching heights of gold sport mark

Year 5 sports leaders joined Helen Roberts, head of school at Ringstead CE School, accepting the gold plaque rewarded their commitment to daily activity, from Ed Reeves, school sport

manager for Wellingborough and East Northants.

The gold School Games Mark is given to schools who offer sport and activities, to children of all abilities, to compete against fellow pupils and against other schools.

Mrs Roberts said: "Three years ago we hardly used to turn up to sports events, now we have an A and a B team and we are inclusive - everyone joins in .

"We have lunchtime and after-school activities and every day, every pupil runs a mile in the first ten minutes of the day.

"We have Year 5 young leaders who run activity sessions for children from Reception to Year 6 which are part of our 60 active minutes in the school day."

The School Games Mark is a government led awards scheme launched in 2012 to reward schools for their commitment to the development of competition across their school and into the

community.

Schools take part in both in-school competitions and inter-school contests leading to county finals, as well as a biennial national finals event.

Ed Reeves, school sport manager for Wellingborough and East Northants, said: "They've done incredible. That every child has got an opportunity, and to do it in three years, it's all down to

Mrs Roberts. Even when she was on maternity leave she organising sports day.

"It's all about embedding physical activitiy and sport across the school, providing multiple and varied opportunities for the pupils.

"Unfortunately, the funding for the programme is up in the air. The PE and School Sports Premium used to upskill teachers, train pupils, cover transport costs.

"That was about £16,000 to £18,000 per school. Without the funding the children wouldn't have the opportunity."

Ringstead School had already achieved their bronze and silver marks and now have to continue with their sports success to maintain the gold and progress on to platinum.

Mrs Sue Campbell, executive head teacher of Ringstead Primary School, said: "I'm very proud we're been able to achieve the gold award and that all the children have an opportunity to

take part."

As well as the daily mile, children do 60 minutes of activities a day.

Mrs Roberts added: "The scheme enables children to access skills and to prepare for a competitive life. The children want to take part there's such a buzz of excitement.

"I think academically it's made a difference. The children are ready to learn."