We would like to shine a spotlight on a remarkable group of Year 12 students who have dedicated their Monday afternoons to making a difference in our local community. Across the Autumn, Spring, and Summer terms, these students have braved the British weather to run after-school sports clubs for the pupils at St Helen’s Primary School. The initiative has been an absolute triumph, showcasing the very best characteristics of our sixth-form community: commitment, enthusiasm, and leadership.

During the colder, darker months of the year, a team of Year 12 leaders ran a highly successful football programme for boys and girls across Years 3, 4, 5, and 6. The sessions focused on teamwork, dribbling and passing drills as well as some much loved match play. The team of Emily, Tycho, Oliver S, Oliver T, Charlotte and Thomas went to great lengths to ensure every child felt welcome and confident. As the weather warmed up, the focus shifted to Athletics. Emily and Tycho continued their work, supporting the St Helen’s pupils to a variety of track and field disciplines, including sprinting technique, relay baton handovers, and throwing events.

What made this project truly special was the unwavering commitment of our Year 12s. Balancing the academic pressures of A-Levels and BTECs is no easy feat, yet these students barely missed a session. Whether it was a freezing, rainy Monday in November or a sweltering afternoon in May, they arrived at St Helen’s with smiles on their faces. Their smiles and enthusiasm proved infectious. They didn’t just stand on the side lines shouting instructions; they ran alongside the children, celebrated every goal and personal best, and offered gentle encouragement to those who were struggling.

The feedback from the students, parents and teachers at St Helens has been glowing – one parent outlined that their daughter is “loving it and is really enjoying training with the KWS students. [Her] confidence is growing and she is really looking forward to her Monday football training… thanks for bringing the fun and enthusiasm”.

The impact of this programme goes far beyond just learning how to kick a ball or run a relay. Our Year 12 students have become powerful role models. They have inspired a love for physical activity in the younger children, proven that sports are for everyone, and demonstrated the value of kindness and community spirit. By investing their time in St Helen’s, they have fostered a strong, lasting bond between our secondary school and this primary community. Andrew Harris, Headteacher at St Helen’s commented that “without the Year 12 helpers from Katherine Warington School, these teams would not have had coaching during the academic year, and the clubs would not have taken place”.

A massive ”thank you” and congratulations to all the Year 12 students involved. You have represented our school with pride, integrity, and immense energy. You have truly inspired the next generation of athletes!