This year’s festival was the largest since it began four years ago, welcoming 29 schools and just under 300 children. The event brought together primary and secondary school pupils, predominantly from special schools across the county, alongside a number of mainstream schools, highlighting the power of inclusive sport and collaboration.
The festival offered a wide range of inclusive activities, carefully tailored to meet the needs of the different groups taking part. Pupils enjoyed everything from athletics, table cricket and boxing to inclusive tennis and wheelchair basketball – and there was even a silent disco. The day was further supported by sports leaders from Leigh Academy and Rivermead Inclusive Trust, ensuring every child could participate and feel supported.
While the festival showcased a range of sports and activities, the focus remained firmly on participation and enjoyment rather than competition, celebrating physical activity, wellbeing and the spirit of the School Games.
KCC Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Beverley Fordham, speaking with some young people playing wheelchair basketball
Cllr Fordham, who even tried her hand at wheelchair basketball during the visit, praised the event:
“It was fantastic to see so many young people from across Kent and Medway coming together to enjoy sport in such an inclusive and supportive environment. The enthusiasm, confidence and teamwork on display were truly inspiring. Events like this play a vital role in breaking down barriers and ensuring every child has the opportunity to take part, have fun and succeed.”
The festival was supported by a team of organisers, including Ian Harman from Meadowfield School, whose dedication helped deliver another successful event. The event builds on a vision originally inspired by former School Games Organiser Claire Geeves and continues to grow each year. It is made possible thanks to the support of Active Kent and Medway.
Organisers and volunteers at the ksENT Games
A special thank you is extended to all support staff, volunteers, sports leaders, KsENT leaders and the many schools involved from across Kent and Medway, whose contributions helped make the day such a success.
With the sun shining and smiles all around, the Festival of Sport once again proved the value of bringing together pupils of all ages and abilities to celebrate inclusion, participation and the joy of sport.
