A Chippenham primary school has been recognised for its commitment to sport and physical activity after being awarded the School Games Gold Mark.
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, received the award for the 2025/26 academic year in recognition of the sporting opportunities available to pupils both during and outside the school day.
The Government-backed award scheme celebrates schools that promote participation, competition and wider access to sport, with St Mary’s praised for the range of activities and leadership opportunities offered to children throughout the year.
Pupils at the school take part in a variety of sporting activities including football, gymnastics, dance, games and outdoor learning, alongside after-school clubs such as dodgeball and inter-school competitions.
The school was also recognised for encouraging pupils to take on leadership roles through initiatives including sports ambassadors and young officials.
Inspectors highlighted the “enthusiasm, engagement and opportunities” created through the school’s approach to physical education and wider sporting participation.
Headteacher Lucy Buckland said the award reflected the efforts of both pupils and staff.
“We are delighted that St Mary’s has been awarded the School Games Gold Mark,” she said.
“This reflects the commitment of our pupils and staff to sport and physical activity, and the wide range of opportunities available to children across the school.
“We are particularly proud of the way pupils support each other through sport, whether in leadership roles, clubs or competitions.”
The School Games Mark was launched in 2012 and is facilitated by the Youth Sport Trust on behalf of the Government.
Helen Taylor, Chief Executive of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, said the recognition highlighted the importance of sport within the school community.
“This is a fantastic achievement for St Mary’s and a clear reflection of the school’s efforts to provide high-quality sporting opportunities for all pupils,” she said.
“Sport and physical activity play an important role in building confidence, teamwork and resilience, and this award recognises the strength of that work across the school community.”
St Mary’s will be eligible to apply for the Gold Mark again in 2027.
