A primary school in Newham has been recognised for its brilliant efforts in keeping sport at the centre of its curriculum and young people’s development.

Curwen Primary School, part of the Tapscott Multi Academy Trust, won Outstanding Primary Practice at the Youth Sport Trust Conference Awards, sponsored by Sports Directory and The LEGO Group, held in Telford.

The award was given to a primary school that has used PE, sport and play to build a foundation for learning through prioritising the health and happiness of its young people.

The Youth Sport Trust is the UK’s leading charity improving every young person’s education and development through sport and play.

Executive head Paul Harris said: “I’m absolutely delighted that Curwen has been recognised for the amazing work that it has done over many years in primary PE.

“Sport is essential, it’s one of our cornerstones, not only in the school but the Trust.

“We fully believe that to make our children healthy and happy, we need to do everything we can to participate in PE play and sport.
“We feel so inspired to be here among everyone in the room and we’re thrilled to win this award.”

Reigning heptathlon world champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson was also in attendance to present the awards to those who have gone above and beyond from across the country.

The 31-year-old also sat down for a keynote speaker session and shared advice and anecdotes from her athlete career.

She said: “It’s been a really great evening and event.

“Sport is what I do and how I’ve been brought up through youth development and all the competitions that I did through this organisation as a kid.

“It’s nice to be here and giving back and it’s great to hear so many inspiring stories.

“I don’t know who I am without sport and that came from PE lessons doing high jump when I was younger.

“From that young age, I found an identity through it where I was known for being good at something.”

More than 120 nominations were received from across the seven categories, and judging panels of experts reviewed the shortlisted entries to decide the finalists.

Youth Sport Trust Chief Executive Ali Oliver added: “There have been so many incredibly worthy nominees for the various awards.

“I’m so excited about all the innovation and tremendous practice that is going on across the country to build brighter futures for young people through the power of sport.”

The Youth Sport Trust Annual Conference Awards celebrate schools, settings, trusts, and individuals who, working alongside Youth Sport Trust, have made a real and impactful change to the lives of young people. Find out how the Youth Sport Trust is building brighter futures for children through sport and play. https://www.youthsporttrust.org/