GEM project meeting in Loughborough: Insights into School Games

The third project meeting for the Grassroots Exchange and Mobility in Sport (GEM) project took place in Loughborough, UK from 31 August to 3 September 2022, in connection to the School Games National Finals. The meeting was hosted by Youth Sport Trust and Youth Sport Trust International, and was attended by 22 representatives from 9 project partner organisations.

On the first day of the meeting, the participants had the opportunity to learn about the work of the host organisations and their focus on supporting quality physical education and sport for young people. They were also given a tour of the Loughborough University campus, where the School Games National Finals were taking place, and were introduced to the concept of the Games and the role of an Athlete Mentor. Participants were also given an introduction to safeguarding and child protection during the event.

On the second day, the participants were able to watch the School Games competition, which featured a range of sports including athletics, wheelchair tennis and basketball, netball, and cricket. Some of the project partners even had a chance to take part in the medal ceremony awarding the winners and runner-ups. In the evening, the School Games finals were officially opened with a festive ceremony – a miniature version of the Olympic Games opening – and all the athletes participating in the competition gathering to carry their country flags. The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.

On the third day, several meeting participants joined the cycling street sprints competition as volunteers to help the event organisers and athletes. Others continued to spectate the competition and enjoy the Games atmosphere. In the afternoon, the GEM project meeting was formally wrapped up over lunch, with participants discussing their experiences and learnings from the meeting and from participation in the School Games.

Overall, the third project meeting was a success, with the participants gaining valuable insights into the work of the host organisations and the School Games, and making important decisions and plans for the future of the GEM project.