Our Lady's Catholic College in Lancaster has been honoured at the School Games Impact Awards 2026 for its innovative use of sport to promote environmental awareness and foster relationships. The school, which hosts the local School Games Organiser, received the Youth Sport Trust and SailGP Impact League Sport Award at a ceremony held at Telford International Centre on 2 June.
Climate-Themed Activities Inspired by The Crystal Maze
The winning initiative involved an activity likened to the television show 'The Crystal Maze' by School Games Organiser (SGO) Steven Jamieson. Students from Years 5 to 8 worked in teams of four or five to collect flags in a circuit of events. Jamieson, 45, explained that climate change education was central to the project, which he developed alongside Dan Morris, SGO at South Lakes Federation.
Jamieson said: "We talked about climate change from the start of the project. As we moved through the activities, the games were themed around the flora, fauna, and ecology of our region. It was all based on what the world might be like if there were an environmental disaster and the importance of our planet. Some activities included looking for animals and plants in our environment. It was quite inspirational to see the impact the project has had."
Hands-On Learning Outdoors
Morris added: "The activities were learning experiences outdoors, in the environment. I wanted to give children hands-on experiences to teach them about current issues related to the climate crisis. They know they are affected by climate change on a global and local scale. The activities were also designed to help children who were struggling with the transition into secondary school. By giving pupils a taste of outdoor adventure, they have the opportunity to work together and learn communication skills."
Jamieson revealed that they have already received interest for the next competition, highlighting the project's success.
Awards Ceremony Highlights
The awards concluded with a keynote speech from former Team England basketball player Daniel Edozie. The event honoured educational professionals who have promoted mental and physical wellbeing while tackling inequalities through sport and physical exercise.
Clare Warburton, who leads the School Games Mark at the Youth Sport Trust, praised the impactful work of educational professionals outside the classroom. She said: "Young people are designed to move. Whether through community sport or physical activity, each time a young person is active they are moving their minds and building relationships. We have some tremendous School Games Organisers and Active Partnerships that are absolutely wonderful, and it has been great to celebrate with everyone."
For more information, please visit the Youth Sport Trust website.
