Northern Leaders Trust recently celebrated a series of sporting events, including their highly anticipated Olympic Week and school sports days, both of which highlighted the talent and sportsmanship of students from Kenton School and Studio West.
The Olympic Games Week:
Over the course of three days, more than 1,000 students came together from 16 forms across both Kenton School and Studio West to compete in a wide range of events seen in Paris 2024, from traditional sports like football and basketball to more specialised activities such as rock climbing, fencing and trampolining. The spirit of competition was fierce, yet students displayed outstanding sportsmanship and determination throughout.
Staff and students worked hard behind the scenes to make the week run smoothly, including sorting kit, organising events, taking photos, keeping everyone hydrated and cheering students along from the sidelines. The Year 9 Girls Active Leaders received special recognition for helping the PE staff manage the week whilst maths teacher Mrs Collins was commended for motivating her form group.
In Year 7, Robert and Ann-Marie emerged as stars, each claiming gold in the 400m, 800m and 1500m races. Their winning streak continued when they teamed up with Logan and Riyan to win the 4 x 100m relay.
Year 8 also had its share of standout performances, with Amelia dazzling in the trampolining event. Despite narrowly missing out on a medal, her courage and brilliant routines left a lasting impression on her fellow students and teachers. On the running track, Tommy, Harry and Scarlett delivered thrilling performances in the 400m race, with times that rivalled those of the older students.
This event highlighted the wide variety of brilliant sporting facilities that Northern Leaders Trust has, including state of the art fitness suites, full size 3G pitch, tennis courts and a climbing wall.
Sports Days:
As part of Olympic Week, Kenton and Studio West students all took part in the Olympic Sports Days. The Year 7 basketball competition was a highlight, with 7A taking home the trophy thanks to their excellent teamwork and sportsmanship. In fencing, Macie from form 7A stepped in at the last minute and secured an impressive second place. Meanwhile, Year 9 students got to enjoy a unique twist on two much-loved traditional sports with an exciting game of FootGolf.
Performing Arts Trip:
Performing Arts students also had the opportunity to visit London, where they participated in Wicked and Mamma Mia! workshops at the famous Pineapple Dance Studios and even attended a performance of Wicked in the West End, where they saw the routines they had learnt come to life.
Executive Principal, Martyn Gordon proudly reflects on the fantastic range of enrichment opportunities, stating: “Lee Kirtley and I have had numerous conversations with external personnel who marvel at the number and range of opportunities our superb teams of staff afford our students. These are the foundations on which this years’ success has been built. The number of sporting events, performing arts galas, trips and excursions, experience days, reward and recognition events, academic interventions, personal development opportunities and STEM events that have complemented such a broad and aspirational academic curriculum have ensured all of our students have received a holistic and fulfilling programme, and this is down to the commitment of our staff.”
These enrichment activities at Northern Leaders Trust highlighted not only the athletic talents of the students but also the strong sense of community and dedication among students and staff alike. Whether on the track, in the dance studio or behind the scenes, everyone played a role in making these events a resounding success, perfectly reflecting the spirit of community and belonging that Northern Leaders Trust defines as its values.
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