School Games National Summit 2026 Drives Impact for Young People

The Summit brought together School Games Organisers, Active Partnerships, National Governing Bodies, National Disability Sports Organisations and sector partners from across England, providing a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate and learn from one another.

Throughout the day, delegates took part in a wide-ranging programme of workshops, discussions and networking opportunities focused on some of the most important issues facing the sector. Sessions explored inclusive enrichment, youth voice and co-design, physical literacy, youth leadership, tackling inequalities, supporting young people in Alternative Provision, strengthening partnerships with schools and Multi Academy Trusts, and increasing opportunities for physical activity throughout the school day.

A keynote address from Amar Latif challenged and inspired delegates, sharing powerful reflections on resilience, inclusion and overcoming barriers, while an expert panel session explored how sport and physical activity can be strategically positioned to support wider education priorities and improve outcomes for children and young people.

Delegates had the opportunity to hear directly from colleagues across the School Games network through live case studies, practical workshops and facilitated discussions, exploring innovative approaches that are already making a difference in schools and communities.

From empowering young leaders and strengthening transition support, to improving access for underrepresented groups and creating more inclusive enrichment opportunities, the day showcased the breadth and impact of work taking place across the network.

The Exhibition Hall also provided a valuable opportunity for delegates to connect with National Governing Bodies, National Disability Sports Organisations, and partners, discover new resources and programmes, and build relationships to support future delivery.

Delegates were also encouraged to take part in Summit Quest 2026 – an interactive challenge designed to help attendees make the most of everything the event had to offer.

Participants completed challenges, collected codes and explored sessions, activities and exhibition stands to climb the live leaderboard throughout the day. The challenge encouraged delegates to engage with a broad range of opportunities while embracing the School Games values and connecting with colleagues from across the network.

Five delegates finished at the top of the leaderboard to become the 2026 Summit Quest champions - congratulations to Becky Lee-Turner, Haydn Marklew, Chris Ure, Helen Robson, and India Hollingworth! Each winner received an exclusive prize bundle featuring either NGB training, equipment or event tickets, alongside a School Games-branded pop-out banner and a Youth Sport Trust Athlete Mentor visit.

Special thanks go to British Blind Sport, British Fencing, British Orienteering, British Triathlon, England Netball, England Rugby, Goalball UK and the Lawn Tennis Association for generously donating prizes and helping make Summit Quest a success.

The School Games National Summit once again demonstrated the strength, creativity and commitment of the network in supporting children and young people through PE, sport and play.

Whether through inclusive practice, youth-led approaches, innovative partnerships, or new ways of engaging young people, the examples shared throughout the day highlighted the difference organisations can make when they work together with a shared purpose.

Thank you to everyone who attended, contributed and supported the event. Together, we continue to create positive experiences that help children and young people feel included, develop confidence and thrive through sport and physical activity.