Who We Are
The School Games is funded by Sport England and run by the Youth Sport Trust. Together with local organisers, we help schools make physical activity a regular and fun part of the school day.
Our goals
The School Games focuses on five main outcomes. These guide everything we do to support schools and young people.
- Help all young people stay active every day
Support schools to deliver the Chief Medical Officer’s recommended daily active minutes so more students get moving and stay engaged. - Make competitions meaningful and positive
Focus on creating enjoyable experiences that build confidence, skills, and motivation for those who need extra support. - Prioritise secondary schools and key transition stages
Support older students. Help younger ones feel confident moving between primary and secondary school. - Develop young people as leaders and give them a voice
Create opportunities for students to lead, organise activities, and share their ideas. - Work with key partners to improve opportunities
Show the value of the School Games to schools, families, and local organisations. Encourage them to support young people’s experiences.
Who delivers the School Games?
- Schools: run events and competitions, both in school and with others. They also help children develop skills, build confidence, and stay active.
- School Games Organisers (SGOs): over 450 SGOs support schools in their local areas. They help schools run daily physical activities, organise inclusive competitions, and give pupils leadership opportunities. Schools can find their SGO by registering on the School Games website.
- Active Partnerships: work at county level to make sure the School Games meets local needs.
- National School Games Consultation Group: a group of SGOs, Active Partnerships, and sport governing bodies who meet regularly to improve the programme.
Our story
The School Games started in 2006 as the School Games National Finals, a big multi-sport event. It soon grew to include competitions in schools and at county level.
We focus on helping less active young people, giving new opportunities to those who might not usually join in. Since 2010, the School Games has created over 13 million chances for young people to take part in sport and physical activity. Our mission is to keep making a positive difference in schools and communities across the country.