1,200 pupils take to Gateshead International Stadium for a celebration of sport and teamwork
What do you get when you cross 1,200 pupils from schools in the west of the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, with Gateshead International Stadium?
A first-of-its-kind major inter-schools sports event!
It’s safe to say that pupils from Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust made the most of this jam-packed day of fun activities and team-bonding exercises at the third largest sporting venue in Tyne and Wear.
A slam dunk of a learning opportunities for all ages
Deemed a resounding success by all involved, the inaugural event brought together pupils from 47 schools in a day filled with excitement, sportsmanship, and real community spirit.
The event, organised in conjunction with Gateshead Schools Sports Partnership, featured a variety of inter-school sporting activities such as athletics, dance, mini-tennis, tri-golf, dodgeball, rugby, football, and team-building exercises.
There was something valuable to take from the day for all pupils. Those in Year 5 from across the Trust’s primary schools participated enthusiastically, while students from BWCET’s secondary schools served as sports leaders and guides, building upon their leadership skills.
Mr. Nick Hurn OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, said: “We are thrilled with the success of our first ‘Celebration of Sport’.
“This event has truly fostered a sense of belonging among our pupils, staff, and school communities, reflecting our shared values in a tangible and visible way. Our pupils had a wonderful day, filled with memorable experiences.”
The organisers knocked it out of the park
Parents, families, and friends attended the event, cheering on the young athletes and helping to create a special atmosphere that the children and young people will likely never forget!
It’s fair to say that an event as big as this could quickly get out of hand, but logistics were expertly handled on the day, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Plus, the event received several positive comments from schools involved!
One school commented: “We just wanted to say a huge thank you to all involved in today’s Celebration of Sport. Everything was so well organised, and the children had a wonderful day.”
Another added: “Thanks to all of the central team and young leaders for being so encouraging to our children. They left the stadium today with a wonderful sense of achievement.”
Reflecting on the event, another school shared: “Just to say a huge congratulations. Having been to a few mass events like this in the past, I was blown away today by the organisation, slickness, and overall experience for pupils and staff.”
A celebration of sport, teamwork, and determination
Sir Brendan Foster, who started his athletics career at Gateshead Stadium and later set a world record there, had taken time to wish the children good luck prior to the event taking place. Wow, what an honour.
Jessica Eddie (Olympian and St Leonard’s Catholic School alumni) and Newcastle United legend Bob Moncur also both sent messages of support and encouragement to the pupils.
The ‘Celebration of Sport’ not only highlighted the importance of physical activity but also brought the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust community closer, making it a day to remember for all involved.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “Huge well done to all those who participated in the ‘Celebration of Sport’ earlier this week. It sounds as though it was a resounding success, and we hope more trusts across the region will take inspiration from this.
“Playing sport is important for both mental and physical health, and it can even improve academic performance. So, events like this can never be a poor use of time and energy. Well done, BCCET!”
Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust is a Schools North East Partner Trust . If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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