A team from Sandside Lodge school are travelling to Athens to represent England in the European School Sport Federation Championships 2024.

Four students from the Sixth form class were selected after representing Sandside in competitions across the Cumbrian County, in sports such as Kurling, Boccia, Table Cricket, Football and Tennis.

In recognition of their efforts and contributions to PE and School Sport, these students have been gifted a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’ to be a part of something ‘very special’.

They will be accompanied by three members of staff.

The ‘super’ team is now fundraising via a Just Giving Page to pay for their travel to Athens and back home again.

As the Lead Inclusion School for Cumbria PE and School Sport, Sandside were selected for the championships through their involvement with the Youth Sport Trust and Special Olympics.

Pupils will spend a week in Athens and Olympia, taking part in a variety of sports including Athletics and Unified Basketball. They will also be involved in lighting the torch for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The trip will give pupils the opportunity to work alongside other School teams from across Europe and visit historical sites such as the Ancient Olympic Stadium and the Acropolis.

 

Head of Sports at Sandside, Hilary Stephenson said it feels ‘awesome’ to be able to take students to Athens. She said: “This is an amazing and once in a life time opportunity for our four students and something very special to be part of.

“We are delighted and immensely proud of all our students at Sandside Lodge and so very pleased to have the opportunity to represent our school and country in the European School Sport Federation Championships 2024.

“The support shown so far for the trip has been fantastic and a true reflection of the wonderful staff at Sandside Lodge and local community of Ulverston, testament to the respect and support for our super school.”

 The first European School Sports Federation Open Educational Games for under 18’s focuses on both education and sport and aims to inspire young talent to nurture their skills.

The school said: “In order to attend the European Games, we need to fundraise £5,600 to cover the cost of the trip and would like to request your help. Any support would be gratefully received to enable our students to attend this amazing adventure and competition.”