The Association for Physical Education (AfPE) have awarded QEGS Blackburn with the ‘Quality Mark with Distinction’, following a rigorous review process in 2020.

Sue Wilkinson MBE, AfPE Chief Executive Officer, confirmed the award in writing, stating that QEGS had been recognised for ‘demonstrating outstanding commitment to improvement in Physical Education, School Sport and Physical Activity’.

This is the second time the faculty has been recognised by the organisation, following a successful application in 2017. The school can now proudly promote their status and received an engraved plaque in recognition of the faculty’s success.

The panel also commented that:

  • The Head of Department is inspirational. His vision and commitment ensures that students receive a varied curriculum, are appropriately challenged and make the best possible progress
  • Extra-curricular opportunities are outstanding and allow the students to further develop their skills
  • The new arrangements for delivering lessons since September 2020 due to Covid-19 are outstanding. Despite the restrictions in place, the department continues to offer the best possible opportunities in a safe environment, to all students whatever their age, gender and level of performance
  • The Headteacher is very supportive and fully realises the massive impact the department has on making the school ‘A Very Special Place to Be’

Head of PE and Games, Dr Mark Butler, commented: “We are delighted to have received this recognition from AfPE in what has been a very challenging time for our faculty and the school as a whole, due to the pandemic. The curriculum has constantly adapted since September, in line with DfE requirements, and we have been innovative when encouraging as much remote physical activity as possible. The ‘one-mile challenge’ was an excellent example of this, which also raised over £800 for charity. As always, our pupils and students have shown their commitment to sport by completing their studies and activities with enthusiasm, whether in school or at home.”

“This award can only be achieved with a team effort from staff, pupils and students and I am very proud of what we continue to accomplish here at QEGS.”

To read more about AfPE, please click here.