Launched in 2008 by Kent County Council, the biennial Kent School Games has become the largest school sports competition in Europe and is now being used as a model for the government’s National School Games initiative.

This year they promise to be bigger and better than ever before in this very special Olympic and Paralympic year with more than 30,000 children competing.

There are now 36 sports played, 13 more have been added since the Games started and the minimum age of the competitors has come down to include those aged four and above, whereas previously children had to be at least seven years old to take part.

Heats and trials have been taking place across the county over recent months and the finals are now off the starting blocks with the local winners now preparing to represent their schools and areas, hoping to win a coveted medal and be crowned triumphant.

            Youngsters competing in the School Games

There are 87 finals held over 26 event days at 15 venues from February to June.

The aims behind Kent School Games is to give young people aged 4-16 the chance to compete in their own countywide competition, to encourage an enthusiasm for sport, achievement and exercise and to create memories for the young athletes.

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012