The Gold School Games Mark was awarded to Firside Junior School for its work in ensuring all pupils have the opportunity to get involved in sports and physical activities.
The accolade bettered the Silver standard formerly held by the school, which is part of the Wensum Trust.
PE Lead Danielle Bussey spearheaded the award process, with the support of PE Apprentices Owen Strowger and Kallum Shaw, and Elliott Udell, who is School Games Organiser at the West Norwich and Dereham Sports Partnership.
“We work hard with the West Norwich and Dereham Sports Partnership all year round, providing equal and inclusive sports opportunities for children at Firside,” she said.
“The PE Team has to fill out the annual survey in order to receive our grading. We have worked hard to beat last year’s award, which was Silver.”
The initiative supports schools in developing competitive sport, and enables them to evaluate and improve their PE provision. Applications are assessed against set criteria to determine whether Bronze, Silver, or Gold is awarded. There is also a Platinum Mark for schools consistently attaining Gold standard.
Miss Bussey continued: “We pride ourselves on offering every child the opportunity to represent the school in a sports event, from Eaton Vale activity days, football tournaments, and even some progressing to county finals in cross country, football, and cricket.”
She added: “We see sport as an inclusive and engaging side of the curriculum, where children can work on more than just their physical competence. It highlights social skills, physical literacy, enjoyment, motivation, and engagement.”
