Torch will bring Olympic joy to Westergate students

The school’s pupils and staff are getting ready for the day when the famous Olympic torch passes by their campus.

The historic occasion – next July 16 – will give everyone connected with the school the chance to see the symbol of the games on their doorstep.

The anticipation is already creating a real buzz and air of excitement.

The day will be full of activity with the community school celebrating, competing and learning together with its surrounding primary schools.

Its sports leaders aged 14-16 will organise and run themed actitivies for their primary school peers.

A mini Paralympics Games will be included among the events led by different departments of the school.

Steve Nelmes, the community school’s headteacher, said: “The Olympics are getting closer and there is a very real sense of excitement at Westergate and in the Six Villages.

“I am delighted to see students getting involved becoming more active and even fitter and embracing the Olympic ideals.”

The school’s journey towards the Olympic games began with its success in being accepted as a Get Set network school which makes up the educational arm of the games.

These schools use the Olympic and Paralympic values to encourage pupils, staff and parents to build new friendships, strive for excellence and ensure fair play.

This instigated several Olympic-themed challenges and activities such as a poster competition and fitness exercises.

A select group of students were presented with the Get Set plaque by Lord Sebastian Coe.

He told them: “I am proud to welcome Westergate Community School in to the Get Set network for their exciting work around the Olympic values of friendship, excellence and respect and the Paralympic values of inspiration, courage, determination and equality.”