The School Games Mark is a Government-led award scheme launched in 2012, facilitated by the Youth Sport Trust to reward schools for their commitment to the development of competition across their school and into the community.
Headteacher Mrs Lorraine Ratcliffe said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our success at our thriving school and to be recognised as the only school in Thetford to achieve the School Games Gold Mark Award. Our dedicated staff have been working very hard on giving the children of Bishop’s the chance to be as active as possible and to follow their sporting dreams. We have achieved this success by using the sports premium money to ensure active breaks and lunch times with daily activities delivered by sports coaches and trained Play leaders.”
The Bishop’s Church of England Primary Academy offers up to eight after school clubs a week that change termly pupils often determine the sports and clubs that they are most interested in.
Mrs Lorraine Ratcliffe said: “Mrs Bonnie Porter is our PE lead and drives sports across the school and through the wider curriculum. She is passionate about ensuring access to all and helping children find a sport that is for them, as well as signposting to local clubs for children who show a talent for a particular sport. She focuses on sportsmanship, where our children win or lose with dignity and grace. Owing to her hard work, they generally win!”
She added: “Sport is key at our school, so much so, all the clubs have waiting lists and we are keen to add even more after school provision. Currently we have provided 268 opportunities this year for our children to compete, engage and explore through SSP events, cluster events, and inter school events. We have attended 18 events through SSP and cluster events this year. Events we organise and attend cater for engagement, high level competition, SEND events, girls only, KS1-KS2. We have strong links with the grass roots sports in our area and have had many companies offer our school free taster sessions and blocks of free training, this includes EAG gymnastic, Norfolk cricket Board, CS foundation.”
Oliver Burwood, CEO of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT) said: “Fitness is essential for every young person’s general wellbeing, physical and mental health and this a fantastic achievement by the pupils and staff at The Bishop’s Church of England Primary Academy.”