The event brought together selected Year 7 pupils from across the Trust, supported by young leaders from Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge School. Held at Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge School and co-organised with Andrew Caldwell, the aim was to create a safe, inclusive environment where sport, physical activity and movement were accessible to all. Local organisations, including Berks and Bucks FA and Reading FC Community Trust, contributed activities throughout the day.

“The day was all about creating a safe environment where sport, physical activity and movement were inclusive and accessible,” Chloe said. “We wanted children and young people to try new types of movement, understand the positive impact of physical activity on mental health, and find where they feel they belong.”

“We wanted children and young people to feel included, try new movement and understand how physical activity can support their mental health.”

The impact was visible throughout the day. Pupils who may normally find sport or movement difficult to access felt confident to take part and try new activities. Staff feedback reflected this: “It gave the students an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities in a team environment and helped them develop their social skills as well as their sporting skills.”

Young leaders also played an important role, supporting transitions, helping staff and coaches, and running their own station. “They completed a Sport in Mind workshop beforehand,” Chloe said. “They explored how movement supports mental health through heart rate, communication, focus and breathing.”

For Chloe, the work is rooted in strong personal values. “Everyone should feel they belong and be part of a community. It is so important to help reshape the sport and physical activity world so it becomes inclusive for all.”

Her motivation comes from seeing the difference movement can make. “Seeing the impact on confidence, self-esteem and connection, and watching children and young people feel safe enough to try something new — that is what keeps me going.”

Reflecting on the MET values, Chloe connected most strongly with Be Inclusive. “This event created inclusive environments in sport and physical activity, helping children and young people access activities that are often hard to reach. It helped them find their movement and feel part of a community.”

Looking ahead, Sport in Mind and the event team hope to continue this work. “The feedback showed how valuable the event was. We would love this to become a yearly project. It is a great case study for supporting young people in their transition to secondary school.”

Chloe also highlighted the ongoing support available through Sport in Mind’s free youth community sessions, which offer safe, relaxed movement opportunities after school. Full details are available at Sport in Mind – Youth Community Sessions.

Maiden Erlegh Trust thanks Chloe Turner, Andrew Caldwell, the young leaders and all supporting organisations for delivering a day centred on movement, confidence and inclusion.

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