Sports Week at Astley Park School 2026
This week, it has been Sports Week at Astley Park School. We were very lucky to have Miss Robertson, Miss Seddon and Mrs Mowatt organising and leading all of the events.
Our first sporting event on Monday was cricket. We were joined by Sycamore Class and began with a warm-up activity focused on throwing and catching skills. We then moved on to playing cricket and did an amazing job with both our batting and fielding. The learners showed great teamwork throughout.
Next, we took part in a range of multi-skills activities, including throwing, rolling, bouncing and balancing balls. Everyone worked hard and had lots of fun developing their skills.
In the afternoon, it was our turn for balloon tennis, which was quite amusing to watch! With the slight breeze on Monday, the balloons didn't always go where the learners were aiming, but they persevered and didn't give up. It was wonderful to see their determination and enthusiasm.
It was a very busy Tuesday filled with exciting sports activities and lots of participation from our learners.
We started the day with a yoga session, joined by 9P. Everyone found a mat and settled down ready to begin. We warmed up by shaking our hands and shoulders, patting our arms and legs, wiggling our toes and shaking our legs. We then practised our breathing techniques, taking a big breath in and a big breath out. After this, we worked on our strength and balance by trying a variety of yoga poses.
To finish the session, we lay down and relaxed while listening to calming music. At the end, everyone sat up together and said, “I am strong, I am brave, and I am loved.”
Our next activity was Street Dance, where we were joined by 9P once again. The learners copied a series of named dance moves, including the “Smurf,” “Bart,” “Crisscross,” and “Roll.” These movements were then put together into routines, and they danced to songs by ABBA, music from The Greatest Showman, and Green Green Grass. They were absolutely amazing!
We were joined by 9P again for Cultural Dance. The learners followed step-by-step instructions from the dance tutor and performed a Native African dance. Lots of fun was had, and it was wonderful to see everyone participating enthusiastically and enjoying themselves.
The final activity of the day was Mini Golf. It was lovely to see the 8P learners taking turns, cheering each other on, and showing great patience and encouragement towards one another.
Overall, it has been a fantastic day, with all learners demonstrating enthusiasm, teamwork, and excellent participation throughout each activity.
On Wednesday morning, an external agency visited our school to talk about an important topic: water safety.
The presenter began by explaining how the emergency services respond to a 999 call and what information they need in an emergency. She stressed that if you are ever in trouble in open water, you should always shout for help.
She also explained that it is okay to say no if other people are encouraging you to go into open water when you do not feel safe. We learned about the dangers of cold water and how water can suddenly become much deeper than expected.
Another important topic was rip currents. We were told that rip currents are very powerful and that it is difficult to swim directly against them. Instead, the advice was to swim parallel to the shore or around the current until you are out of it.
We also learned what to do if we accidentally fall into water. The presenter advised us to stay calm and float on our backs in a star shape. This helps you stay afloat while you call or signal for help.
At the end of the session, we were all given Sammy Star stickers to reward us for listening carefully and taking part. 8P found the talk very informative and learned some important water safety skills that could help save lives.
In the afternoon, we held our main sports event, where classes rotated around a variety of activity stations. These included the egg and spoon race, throwing into nets, obstacle courses, ball pot catching, football scoring, and even throwing water balloons at Mr Welsh—just to name a few!
Once again, 8P demonstrated outstanding teamwork, respect, and positivity throughout the afternoon. It was fantastic to see such a supportive and enthusiastic attitude from everyone involved.
The best part was that the weather was on our side, with the sun shining brightly all afternoon. It was also wonderful to see so many of our learners’ families there, cheering and supporting them every step of the way.
On Thursday afternoon, 8P had a go at fencing. The instructor explained that the fencing sword is called a foil. He then demonstrated some different techniques, including how to lunge by taking a small step back followed by a large step forward.
Before taking part in a sparring session, everyone wore a protective vest and a face guard to keep themselves safe. Once again, the 8P team were incredibly proud of our learners for having a go and embracing this new experience.
Friday marked the final day of our Sports Week, and we finished with a fantastic bouncy obstacle course. Everyone from 8P took part – even the staff! It was wonderful to see the huge smiles on their faces as they tackled the course, once again demonstrating great teamwork.
It has been a marvellous week, and 8P have had an amazing time throughout, particularly showing true grit and determination in completing each challenge.
And the weather was a bonus!
8P sports week 2026
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