Local schools get into the sporting spirit at Kirklees College’s Match Fit event

Eight schools from around the local area recently took on the Match Fit challenge organised by Kirklees College’s Public Services and Sports departments to determine who would come out victorious in the next big thing since the Olympics.

The one-day event saw school’s pitted against each other to undertake a number of sporting and public service tasks including carnival games, sporting challenges, orienteering and military assault course, with pupils having to hone in on their team building skills to complete the tasks and score the most points.

Over 125 pupils visited the nine differently themed and challenging work stations and were also able to engage with teams from the West Yorkshire Police, West Yorkshire Fire Service, Army and the National Citizenship Service, as they challenged the schools to various team building activities.

In addition to the presence of external organisations, pupils also took part in other fitness competitions including Football, TAG Rugby, Ultimate Frisbee, Basketball, Athletics and Boxercise.

“The aim of Match Fit is to engage with students to encourage healthy lifestyles and wellbeing, alongside teaching them how important teamwork can be to success.

Kirklees College has a fantastic further education provision and by engaging pupils in events like this, it allows them to learn whilst having fun and seeing where they can take their next educational step,” said James Webber, Student Recruitment Officer.

The day was finished off with a BBQ and prize presentation with the winners announced as:

1. ^st Place: Moor End Academy
2. ^nd Place: Morley Academy
3. ^rd Place: All Saints Catholic College

The winning team were presented with the Match Fit champions trophy, gold medals, certificates and a £10 high street gift voucher. 2^nd place received a glass trophy, silver medals and certificates and 3^rd place received a glass trophy, bronze medals and certificates.

“We’re thrilled to be crowned the overall Match Fit winners and thoroughly enjoyed our day. It was great for the pupils to get out of the classroom environment and engage in some team building activities, and also get an insight into what they can expect from college life, if that’s the route they decide to explore,” said Mr. Bellanfante, Assistant Subject Leader of PE and Sport.