Kirkleatham Hall School recognised for inclusive sport

Kirkleatham Hall School has been awarded the Platinum School Games Mark for its outstanding commitment to PE, sport and inclusion.

Funded by Sport England and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust, the School Games Mark recognises schools that deliver high-quality, inclusive sporting opportunities for all pupils.

Paul McClean, headteacher at Kirkleatham Hall School, said: “Achieving the Platinum School Games Mark is a significant milestone for our school and reflects our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive sporting opportunities for all learners.

“As an all-age specialist school for children and young people with profound and severe learning difficulties, we recognise the power of sport to open doors, build confidence, develop communication and social skills, and create meaningful opportunities for success.

“We are incredibly proud of the vast range of experiences our pupils enjoy, enabling them to represent the school, challenge themselves, and celebrate their achievements.

“This award also recognises our role in supporting and upskilling mainstream schools, helping to ensure that sport is truly accessible and inclusive for all children and young people, including those with SEND, across our wider community.”

Councillor William Suthers, Cabinet Member for Children and Families (Image: Stuart Boulton)

To achieve platinum status, schools must earn the Gold Mark for four consecutive years and demonstrate sustained excellence in PE and sport provision.

Kirkleatham Hall School was recognised for its tailored approach, offering adapted PE lessons, daily movement sessions, swimming, rebound therapy and participation in School Games events.

The school has invested in specialist equipment, staff training, and innovative methods, including sensory-friendly movement sessions and personalised PE programmes.

Pupils also regularly take part in regional festivals, competitions and inclusive sporting events.

Cllr Bill Suthers, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Kirkleatham Hall School.

“The Platinum School Games Mark reflects the outstanding dedication of staff in creating inclusive, high-quality opportunities for all pupils to take part in sport and physical activity and everyone who made this possible should be proud.

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“It’s inspiring to see how the school supports all young people to build confidence, develop new skills and enjoy being active.

“I would like to congratulate the pupils, staff and wider school community on this well-deserved recognition.”

The award places Kirkleatham Hall School among a select group nationally delivering sustained, inclusive sporting excellence.