Herts pupils get active for National School Sport Week

Students in Watford and Three Rivers have taken part in this year’s National School Sport Week (19 – 25 June).

The campaign from Youth Sport Trust is celebrating the return of PE, after a difficult 12 months. 

Schools throughout the country held sports days this week, as part of the ‘Together Again’ theme.

The objective is to reunite children through the power of sport, and help them overcome the effects of the pandemic.

Three Rivers and Watford School Sports Partnership is a collaboration of 46 infant, primary, secondary and special schools.

The partnership aims to improve the provision of PE or school sport, and organises competitive opportunities for young people across both districts.

Matt Harrington is the School Games Organiser for Three Rivers and Watford School Sports Partnership.

He revealed how pupils have marked National School Sports Week:

“Across the Three Rivers and Watford School Sports Partnership many of the 33 infant/primary schools have recognised the importance of encouraging children to get active during National School Sport Week.

“Whilst sports day will look very different this year, school staff have worked hard to provide a fun environment to allow year groups to try something new or take part in competition.

“In addition to tradition sports day relays schools have taken the opportunity to offer new activities such as archery, boccia and seated volleyball.”

Mr Harrington explained schools had found “innovative ways” to involve those unable to visit on sports day. 

This included the use of photos and house competition leader boards on social media.

Schools also used their digital platforms to promote sporting activities across the week, and engage with families at home.

He added:

“Many schools are having to restrict and manage the number of family members attending sports day with separate year group/bubble events.”

“I am sure the children will welcome some normality of having small social distanced gathering to cheer them on in the activities taking place over this week.

“Now more than ever it’s so important to encourage physical activity and having fun.”

Sport can help improve the physical and mental wellbeing of children.

A new study by Youth Sport Trust has revealed a large number of young people want to do more exercise.

It comes after levels of physical activity amongst pupils fell during the 2019/20 academic year, due to the pandemic.

Last week, the Department for Education (DfE) confirmed the Primary PE and Sport Premium in England will continue at £320 million into 2021/22.

The government said the investment would “encourage children to play more sport, increase their social skills and improve their physical activity” following lockdown.