Pupils enjoy Kwik Cricket festival fun
More than a hundred primary school pupils from across Telford & Wrekin came together for a day of fun at the Year 5/6 Kwik Cricket competition.
The competition, organised by Cricket Shropshire and the Telford & Wrekin Sports Partnership, brought together 16 primary schools from across the area at Wellington CC.
TWSSP Partnership Development Manager Frankie said: “Despite the threat of poor weather, it was fantastic to see the event go ahead and bring together the schools from across Telford & Wrekin.”
The competition provided pupils with the opportunity to put their skills into practice in a fun and competitive environment, while also developing confidence, teamwork and an understanding of the game.
A key feature of the day was the support provided by trained young leaders.
Year 9 students from Charlton School officiated and scored matches throughout the event, following training delivered by Cricket Shropshire ahead of the competition.
Frankie highlighted the importance of their contribution: “Thanks to the support of our trained young leaders, school staff were able to focus on coaching and supporting their teams, while the Year 9 students from Charlton School officiated and scored matches with confidence and professionalism. The training provided beforehand ensured they were fully prepared.”
The impact of the competition was clear to see throughout the day, with pupils growing in confidence and developing their understanding of cricket with every match played.
One participating teacher said: “It’s brilliant to see the progress throughout the day, not only in your own team but also in the teams you’ve played against.
“The competition gives the children a good introduction into how the game of cricket works, including batting in pairs. I think it’s really important, especially for those wanting to progress their cricket skills outside of school.
“Competitions like this are amazing because they allow even the children who don’t normally play cricket to have a chance to show their skills and be part of a team.”
Cricket Shropshire has worked closely with many of the participating schools throughout the year.
Frankie added: “Cricket Shropshire has helped to upskill staff and prepare pupils for competition. This collaborative approach created a well-organised, enjoyable experience for everyone involved and really highlights the strength of partnership working in school sport.”
The competition was another excellent example of how strong partnerships between schools, young leaders and community organisations can create meaningful sporting opportunities for young people, while helping to inspire the next generation of cricketers across Shropshire.
Well done to all taking part, including the winners St Peter and St Paul Catholic Primary.
Schools taking part included: Albrighton Primary, Apley Wood, Castle House School, Lilleshall Primary School, Meadows Primary School, Moorfield Primary, Old Park Primary, Randlay Primary, Sir Alexander Fleming, SS Peter and Paul Catholic Primary, St Georges, St Mary’s Catholic Primary, Thomas Telford Free School.
