Over 1,200 pupils from the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle celebrated sports and community spirit at Gateshead International Stadium.
The inaugural event, deemed a resounding success by all involved, brought together pupils from 47 schools in a day filled with excitement, sportsmanship, and genuine 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. Year 5 pupils from across the Trust’s primary schools participated enthusiastically, while students from BWCET’s secondary schools served as sports leaders and guides, honing their leadership skills.
Mr. Nick Hurn OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, remarked, “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.”
Parents, families, and friends attended the event, cheering on the young athletes and creating a special atmosphere.
Logistics were expertly handled on the day, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved and leading to 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.”
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. Jessica Eddie, Olympian and St Leonard’s Catholic School alumni, and Newcastle United legend Bob Moncur, both also 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.
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