HOLBETON Primary has once again been recognised for its commitment to sport and PE.

The rural school has been awarded the Silver Mark award in the Sainsbury’s School Games programme, although it came tantalisingly close to achieving the top, gold award.

The accolade recognises the school’s commitment to PE, developing school sports clubs, and delivering competitive sport. It also highlights the hard work of staff, to ensure all pupils have access to a wide range of sporting opportunities.

A detailed report on the school noted it was very good at encouraging less active pupils to participate in physical activity, 85 per cent of children take part in extracurricular activities, a wide range of sports are offered, and there is a strong leadership ethos.

Teacher and sports leader Suzanne Moiser said: ‘I am really pleased we are able to provide such a wide range of sporting activities at the school and get so many pupils involved. It makes a real difference to their all round education and confidence levels.’

Pupils also enjoyed a visit from former student turned Team GB athlete William Battershill, who attended an open day for prospective parents.

The top level cross country and steeplechase athlete gave an inspiring talk to children and adults, starting at the beginning of his career in 2006 when he joined the school cross country club in year 3, with Mrs Moiser and Mr Tucker. William also revealed he does a lot of his training up and down the hills around Holbeton, running five to six miles per session.

William recently travelled to Cali, Colombia for the IAAF World Youth Championships, where he fought his way through to the final in the 2000 metre steeplechase.