Year 4 and 5 pupils came together at Co-op Academy Priesthorpe for a fun and friendly benchball competition, showing great skill, teamwork and sportsmanship.

The morning focused on developing key skills including passing, movement, and defending, while promoting confidence and teamwork. Pupils quickly put their learning into action during a series of fast-paced, six-minute games. Matches were close and lively, with Beckfield's Year 5's securing a narrow 6–5 victory, while Parkland’s Year 4 pupils triumphed 9–5 in their category.

Two talented Year 9 sports leaders from Priesthorpe took on the role of umpires, helping the games to run smoothly and fairly. Their encouragement and professionalism were a great example to the younger pupils.

Joanna Newsome, Regional Sports Event Coordinator, said it was a brilliant start to the season:

“The pupils showed amazing enthusiasm and teamwork, and it was wonderful to see how much progress they made in such a short space of time.”

The event highlighted the important role of sport in a well-rounded education. Beyond physical activity, activities like benchball help pupils develop confidence, collaboration, and resilience, while strengthening connections across the Trust. Everyone left with smiles and a sense of achievement, proving once again the power of sport to bring pupils together and support their personal and social development.