03/09/2026
How can we create more inclusive opportunities for children and young people with SEND to enjoy sport and physical activity?
That was the question behind changes to our School Games SEND offer across Tees Valley.
Working with Panathlon Challenge and SMILE Through Sport, we moved from three main events to providing three SEND events within each School Games Organiser area, creating more local opportunities for children to take part.
Across the pilot, 763 young people took part, supported by 206 leaders, but the learning went beyond the numbers.
There were examples of children taking part who were reported not to routinely access similar school sport opportunities, with activities, equipment and environments adapted to support different needs.
Schools have taken ideas from the events back into their own settings, including purchasing or borrowing adapted equipment, while School Games Organisers are using what they learned to shape future opportunities.
We also learned that different areas have different needs and barriers, so there isn't one approach that will work everywhere. That learning will help shape the next stage of the work, including exploring a virtual offer for children who are unable to leave their school setting.
The focus is on continuing to learn how we can create more accessible, inclusive and positive experiences for children and young people with SEND.
See some of the opportunities in action:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1439570904373207
