Croydon School Sports Partnership Shines at National Awards with Uplifting Initiative
In an inspiring showcase of community commitment, the Croydon School Sports Partnership has been awarded the prestigious Positive Experiences for Targeted Young People Award at the School Games Impact Awards 2026. This recognition, awarded on June 2nd at Telford International Centre, highlights their innovative efforts to promote wellbeing and ensure that young people can engage in sports safely.
Innovative Approach to Wellbeing
The partnership’s flagship initiative, the ‘Play. Chill. Heal.’ project, stands out for its focus on creating a wellbeing-oriented strategy within physical activities. This project emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery, helping to empower young individuals to remain active despite various challenges.
According to Agata Maj, the School Games Organiser at the partnership, the project has made significant strides in reducing anxiety and enhancing confidence among underrepresented youth, making physical activity more accessible. “I am absolutely delighted to receive the Positive Experiences for Targeted Young People award," Maj expressed. "This recognition underscores the critical impact that effective rest and recovery can have on overall performance and mental health.”
A Community-Centric Vision
Maj's dedication to inclusivity is evident as she acknowledges the diverse backgrounds of participants involved in the program, including inactive girls and children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). She passionately stated, “Seeing participants from all backgrounds, ages, cultures, beliefs, genders, and abilities engage with the programme has reinforced the power of creating meaningful inclusive opportunities.”
This award not only celebrates the impactful work of the Croydon Sports Partnership but also highlights the contributions of schools, teachers, and the wider community who have been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment for youth engagement in sports.
Looking Ahead
As the project continues to evolve, Maj expresses excitement about its potential reach. “I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I am excited to see its reach and positive influence continue to grow,” she affirmed.
The School Games Impact Awards concluded with an inspiring keynote from former Team England basketball player Daniel Edozie, further emphasizing the importance of promoting mental and physical wellbeing through sports and exercise. Clare Warburton, from the Youth Sport Trust, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the essential role that active participation plays in the lives of young people.
In a time where inclusivity and mental health awareness are paramount, Croydon’s initiative serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the profound impact that community engagement and supportive sports programs can have on shaping a healthier future for all young individuals.
