Pupils from three local primary schools came together in Ripon for a fantastic Panathlon event, delivered as part of the Harrogate School Games offer. Following feedback from schools around the rising costs of travel, this year’s offer has been adapted to include two Panathlon events instead of one, helping to make the opportunity more accessible for more schools. Holy Trinity C of E Junior School, Markington C of E Primary and Bishop Monkton Primary School took part in an afternoon of inclusive sport, designed to ensure that every young person could experience success, enjoyment and teamwork.
The Panathlon event featured a range of adaptable activities, from precision throwing to team games, all carefully planned to support pupils with special education needs and disabilities. The focus throughout was on participation, confidence-building and celebrating individual achievements, with pupils showing great determination and encouragement for their team mates.
It was brilliant to see such enthusiastic engagement from all three schools, with staff noting the impact the event had on pupils’ confidence and willingness to take part in something new. The event also gives teachers and school staff inspiration to take back to their own schools so that they can recreate those accessible games for all their students to experience. Events like this play a vital role in ensuring that School Games opportunities are accessible and meaningful for all.
‘…he came to school wearing his medal again today! He kept looking down at it all day. It’s so lovely to see how proud he is of his medal. The whole team were still buzzing about it today’
We are already looking ahead to the next Panathlon event, taking place on 3rd July, where we hope to welcome more Harrogate and Knaresborough schools to be part of this inclusive and inspiring experience.
If you would like to take part in any School Games events in Harrogate, Ripon on Knaresborough, please contact Ruth Whitehead at ruth@northyorkshiresport.co.uk. If you are based at a school anywhere across North Yorkshire, we can also put you in touch with your nearest School Games Organiser. You can find out more about Panathlon here: Panathlon Challenge | Competitive sport for children with SEND
