Over the past 12 months, pupils and staff have worked towards earning their second sportscotland gold award, which recognises the school’s commitment to sport, physical activity, PE and pupil leadership.
Victoria Primary, on Middlefield Road, previously won the award before lockdown, and this time round was determined to rebuild a sustainable and extensive sports programme for its pupils.
Active Schools Coordinator for the Graeme Cluster, Jen said: “The school wanted to ensure they were providing the highest quality activities across all year groups throughout the year. This included school teams in basketball, football and cross country, all of which now have development squads to ensure the pathway for younger pupils was available.
“The school provided 42 clubs across the year, from basketball to volleyball, cheerleading to boccia and everything in between. All of these were run by volunteers, and pupils competed in Falkirk-wide events throughout the year, representing the school proudly.”
Head teacher Mrs Stuart said: “I am really very proud of this achievement at Victoria. This award is recognition of the hard work and commitment of children, staff and volunteers, and it represents the importance we place on the positive impact of engagement in sports and physical activity.”
Jen, who is the school’s sport lead, added: “I’m immensely proud of the pupils, staff and families at VPS for their positive impact on sport and activity. We want to keep things going, with even bigger and better things to come.”
Principal Teacher Mrs McDavid praised Jen’s commitment to the school, saying: “She has been the biggest advocate for our pupils doing sport here for years, since before I even started, and we are lucky to have her driving this award.”
Class teacher Miss Quinton, who ran last year’s Young Sports Leadership programme alongside the Active Schools department, and who was involved with active schools before teaching, said: “Our P6 Young Sports Leaders ran a variety of sports across each day. They made sure to offer it to all P1-7s. They took full responsibility for planning the sessions, preparing the equipment and providing a high standard of fun activity alongside our staff. I really couldn’t be prouder of what we have achieved at the school.”
5. Victoria Primary earn second sportscotland Gold award
Twelve months of hard work was worth it for Victoria Primary. Photo: Michael Gillen
6. Victoria Primary earn second sportscotland Gold award
Active Schools Coordinator for the Graeme Cluster, Jen, spoke to the school. Photo: Michael Gillen
7. Victoria Primary earn second sportscotland Gold award
The trophy was gold and the school achieved great success. Photo: Michael Gillen