Excellent in sport goes beyond competition and medals—it nurtures a culture of participation,
teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. This award recognises a school (primary
or post primary) that excels in sports education, fostering both elite athletic
performance and broad engagement in physical activity.
In not more than 500 words, we invite you to share compelling stories about the
school’s commitment to sports excellence, leadership, community involvement, and
holistic student development. You may attach supporting evidence if desired.
Areas to consider:
- Sporting Achievement and Student Development:
The winning school will demonstrate a track record of success in competitive
sports while also fostering a love of physical activity among all students.
Evidence of student progression, national or regional accolades, and
opportunities for aspiring athletes to excel should be highlighted. - Quality of Coaching and Physical Education:
This school will provide high-quality coaching, ensuring students receive
expert instruction tailored to different skill levels. It will promote a balanced
approach to physical education, focusing on skill development, fitness,
teamwork, and sportsmanship. - Leadership and Strategic Vision in Sport:
Strong leadership will be evident in the school’s strategic approach to sports,
including investment in coaching, partnerships with professional teams, and a
clear vision for developing student-athletes. The school’s leadership should
demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity in sports and long-term sustainability
of sports programmes. - Community Engagement and Partnerships:
The school will illustrate meaningful engagement with local clubs, national
sports organisations, and community initiatives. Evidence of outreach
programmes, coaching clinics, or partnerships with elite-level teams and
sports governing bodies will be considered. - Facilities, Equipment, and Accessibility:
A winning school will maintain high-quality sports facilities, including well-
maintained pitches, courts, gymnasiums, and access to appropriate sports
technology. It will also ensure accessibility for students of all abilities to
engage in physical activity. - Innovation in Sports and Physical Well-Being:
The school should demonstrate innovative approaches in sports training,
injury prevention, mental well-being, and performance analysis. This may
include the use of sports science, nutrition education, or cutting-edge training
techniques to enhance student-athlete performance. - Inclusivity, Well-Being, and Personal Development Through Sport:
The school must foster an environment where all students, regardless of
ability, are encouraged to participate in physical activity. It should highlight
efforts to support mental health, resilience, leadership skills, and personal
development through sport.