On Wednesday 26 November 2025, Strood Sports Centre came alive with energy and purpose as the Kent School Games hosted a special event to mark Black History Month. This initiative was developed following discussions at the September School Games Organiser meeting, where concerns were raised about lower engagement in sport and physical activity among children and young people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Insight shared from Youth Sport Trust and Sport England reinforces this, highlighting that children from culturally diverse communities are statistically less likely to be physically active compared to their peers. The event aimed to change that narrative by creating an inclusive space that celebrated diversity and empowered young people through sport and physical activity.
A Transition Event with a Powerful Message
The celebration was not just about sport though; it was also a transition event designed to help Year 6 pupils connect with Year 7 students and ease their move into secondary school. Schools were asked to bring pupils who might benefit from developing social skills or lacked confidence in going to secondary school. Children from all ethnic groups were welcome to participate.
Activities included basketball, athletics, boxing, and football, alongside an Insight Station themed around Black History Month and inclusion in sport and physical activity.
Role Models and Representation
One of the standout features of the day was the involvement of Black coaches, who led sessions and acted as role models for the children. Their presence reinforced the message that representation matters and that sport can be a powerful tool for inclusion and confidence-building.
Voices from the Classroom
“Children have enjoyed the event. Some children do not engage with activities at school but have engaged with every activity today.’
“The children were much more vocal and I am really happy to see some students interact in ways they haven’t until now.”
“They had fun, built relationships with students from other schools and really came out of their shells as the day progressed.”
Looking Ahead
The School Games in Kent will continue the conversation on inclusion so every child feels empowered to participate. The success of this celebration event sets a strong foundation for more initiatives that champion diversity and equality in physical activity and sport.
Published December 2025.
