Young people from across Kent and Medway came together at Medway Park on 16 June for this year’s KSENT (Kent Special Educational Needs Trust) Games, a celebration of inclusive sport, confidence and achievement.
The event brought together pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) from 27 special schools and a wide range of partners to create a memorable and meaningful experience for every participant.
Activity providers included Kent Golf, LTA Inclusive Tennis, Sport On Your Doorstep, School Games Organisers, Boogie Tots, On Track Athletics, Kent Rugby, Kent Wooden Spoon, Medway Youth Services, Arrows Wheelchair Basketball Club, Kent Cricket, Lord Taverners, New Age Sports. ASDA also supported the event by providing fresh fruit for participants, helping to keep young people fuelled and energised throughout the day.
Pupils were offered the chance to try adapted activities in a supportive and inclusive environment. From wheelchair basketball to multi-skills challenges, the day gave young people the opportunity to be active, try something new and build confidence alongside their peers.
Feedback from schools highlighted the impact of the event on pupils’ wellbeing and sense of achievement:
“I just wanted to thank you and your team for today’s event. It was an incredible experience for our pupils. They enjoyed every activity, challenged themselves in more ways than they could imagine and came away bursting with pride.
“We found each activity lead to be extremely knowledgeable, full of enthusiasm and adaptive to our pupils’ needs. The young leaders who supported and led many of the activities were absolutely inspirational; their patience, understanding and dedication was incredible.
“I hope you are as proud of this incredible event as we are of you and your ongoing efforts to ensure these amazing pupils access what they deserve. An incredible event from the very top drawer!”
Natalie Harris, Events and Safeguarding Manager, Active Kent & Medway reflected on the scale of collaboration involved in delivering the Games and the difference it makes:
“The KSENT Games show what’s possible when partners come together with a shared goal. Working with Laura Rookard (YST Lead Inclusion School, Aylesford School) and Ian Harman (KSENT PE Lead, Meadowfield School) enabled us to engage with lots of schools and a wide range of activity providers, creating an environment where every young person could feel included, supported and excited to take part. We also had some incredible young leaders from the Girls Go Lead Football programme, Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy and Rivermead School. It’s fantastic to see the confidence and pride that events like this build.”
Beverly Fordham, Education & Skills Cabinet Member, Kent County Council, attended the Games:
“It was a privilege to attend the KSENT Games and see first-hand the impact they have on young people. Having a go at wheelchair basketball was a powerful experience and really brought home the importance of inclusive opportunities in sport. Events like this ensure that every child has the chance to be active, feel valued and be part of something special.”
The KSENT Games play a vital role in creating inclusive opportunities for children and young people across Kent and Medway, helping more young people to move more and enjoy the benefits of being active. Our short film captures highlights from the day:
KSENT Games 2026_Transcript (DOCX, 7 KB)
Published: June 2026
