Athletic Excellence Across the Great Schools Trust: A Celebration of Talent and Teamwork

At the beginning of June, students from across the Great Schools Trust gathered at Leverhulme Park Community Leisure Centre in Bolton for a memorable cross-Trust Athletics event. Organised by Georgina Hails and the PE department from King’s Leadership Academy Bolton, the event brought together over 300 students from Years 7 to 9 in a fantastic celebration of sporting excellence and community spirit. The sunny day provided the perfect backdrop for students to compete in a range of events, including the 100m sprint, 800m race, shotput, javelin, and high jump.

The event was not only a showcase of athletic talent but also a demonstration of teamwork and mutual respect. Students consistently demonstrated a high level of sportsmanship and encouragement for their teammates. David Sherlock, Lead Practitioner of Physical Education at King’s Bolton, praised the day’s success, stating: “It was a fantastic, well-organised event that incorporated over 300 students from four schools across the Trust. Schools were represented exceptionally well; each student participated with huge competitiveness but maintained a high level of fair play and respect towards each other.”

After an action-packed day of competition, the points were counted and King’s Leadership Academy Liverpool were crowned the overall winners. Mark Williams, Head of PE at King’s Liverpool, shared his pride: “Our school is immensely proud of every student who exemplified true teamwork and determination at the cross-Trust Athletics event. Their collective team spirit and outstanding performances helped us win all three of the age group competitions and be crowned overall champions. Amazing effort!”

The event also gave students a valuable opportunity to build connections with their peers from other schools. Some of the participants reflected on their experience:

• Salman from King’s Leadership Academy Bolton, who ran the 100m sprint, said: “The day was tiring but so rewarding, we all worked together and pushed through. Competing alongside my teammates and supporting each other was the best part of the day.”
• Perry from King’s Leadership Academy Hawthornes said: “Everything about the day was great; the energy, the competition and the perfect weather. Winning the 100m for my school was a proud moment I’ll always remember.”
• Ella from King’s Leadership Academy Warrington said: “The event was amazing! For me the main highlight was having the opportunity to meet students from other schools across the Trust - I really enjoyed chatting to new people. I tried the 800m race for the first time and came second, so I’m really proud of that! The day was so well-organised and everyone had a great time.”
• Oghosa from King’s Leadership Academy Liverpool, who was selected on the day to feature in the upcoming Great Schools Trust video, added: “Being chosen to be in the video was such an honour. I love running, so winning the 300m felt incredible, but what really stood out was the strength and unity of our team. I’m really proud of everything we achieved together.”

From the meticulous planning by the King’s Bolton PE team to the energy and sportsmanship of the students, the cross-Trust Athletics event was a huge success and a shining example of what can be achieved when schools join together to compete and celebrate excellence.