Let the games commence

Over the next two weeks all of our Prep pupils will be taking part in the annual Summer Event for EYFS and KS1, and the KS2 Sports Day.

Both events have become embedded into the fabric of the Trinity Term, and are very much enjoyed by the children, parents and staff. There are many reasons why these events are so popular and cherished.

Primarily, they are community events where hundreds of pupils, parents and staff are together in a happy and well-organised environment. As humans, we are conditioned to enjoy the company of others and these events really push home that point.

Another major reason why these events are so well received is the compelling blend of competitive races, jumps and throws alongside a 100% inclusion rate for every one of our children.

The more competitive pupils (and parents) love the heat of the battle, whilst the more reluctant athletes are given a chance to shine and to enjoy racing against peers who perform at a similar level to them. The traditional view was that competing in purely competitive sporting events was worthwhile, and that losing (sometimes in a humiliating way) was ‘character building’. I see our more mixed approach as the right one.

This two pronged approach does not happen by chance, and these events take months to plan. Our Sports staff recognise the worth of the dual approach and really do go out of their way to satisfy the needs of all the children. We work on the basis that we may unearth significant talent and that competition is healthy for children. However, we also want children to win (or lose) well, with customary courtesy given to opponents.

Finally, and arguably most importantly, these two events are FUN.

I look forward to seeing parents at these events, and have a great weekend when it arrives.

Jason Whiskerd