School games a big success
More than 150 enthusiastic Year 6 pupils from 16 Telford schools enjoyed a sun-filled day of cricket at Wellington Cricket Club as part of a School Games cricket festival designed to be inclusive and fun for all abilities.
Organised by the Telford & Wrekin School Sports Partnership and led by School Games Organiser Frankie Williams, the event brought together a fantastic mix of children, many new to the sport, and first-time supporting staff.
With support from Cricket Shropshire, the day was a brilliant example of partnership in action.
Frankie said: “The competition involves 16 schools from across Telford, with around 160 children taking part, many of them new to cricket.
“We’re also training young leaders from local schools to score and umpire, which supports a sustainable future for cricket in the region.”
Cricket Shropshire coaches Shannon, Ryan, Ben, Darrell, and Sacha, who heads Cricket Shropshire’s Schools and Community programmes, were on hand to deliver the activities and ensure every child was engaged, learning and, most importantly, having fun.
Each team played six games, ensuring equal participation across the board.
Cricket Shropshire’s Regional Development Programme Manager Darrell Corfield said: “Everyone will play the same number of games throughout the day.
“We’ve got brilliant young leaders from Charlton School helping out with scoring and umpiring, and members of the cricket board are also supporting. It’s been a real team effort.”
Mr Russell from Lilleshall Primary School said, “It’s been a really enjoyable day. The weather’s been great, and it’s brilliant to see children of mixed abilities playing together.
“For our Year 6s who’ve just finished their SATs, this is the perfect way to let off steam. I’ve left them to self-manage today, so fingers crossed for a good result!”
He needn’t have worried, as Lilleshall clinched first place, with St Georges coming in second, and Newport securing third.
Nicola Broadhead from Castle House School in Newport reflected on the inclusivity of the event: “It’s been lovely to see how this format supports all abilities. It’s really encouraged the less confident children and helped everyone learn the game in a fun way.”
Mr Faulkner from Shortwood School was equally positive. “Ten of our children took part today and loved it. Some already play cricket for local clubs, but it’s also a great chance for others to try new sports and shine.”
Cricket Shropshire’s Development Administrator Vanessa Russell said: “The day was a resounding success, not just for the winners, but for every child who picked up a bat, and gave cricket a go. It was brilliant to see.”
Schools that took part were: Albrighton, Apley Wood, Castle House, Crudgington, Dot Hill, Homer Lake, Lightmoor Village, Lilleshall, Meadows, Moorfield, Muxto, Newport Junior, Shortwood, St Georges, St Lukes Catholic School, Teagues Bridge.
