Thousands of schools across the UK are already doing some fantastic international work in the lead-up to the Games – whether they’re linked with schools abroad, practising how to say 'welcome' in different languages or simply learning about the different teams competing this summer.
World Sport Day gives them the chance to celebrate and reflect on everything they’ve learnt and achieved during the year. Not that schools need an excuse to have a knees-up at the end of the summer term, of course!
Spotlight on China
One such establishment is Fellside Community Primary School in Gateshead. Through the London 2012 School Linking Programme, they’re twinned both with a school in Tanzania and with the No.1 Experimental Primary School of Jiulongpo in China. Not only will they be cheering on Team China during the Games this summer, but they will also highlight the country in their World Sport Day celebrations.
On 25 June the pupils are going to hold their very own opening ceremony featuring a Chinese dance group, and will use the rest of the day to explore the traditions and cultures of the country. This may involve sampling some delicious Chinese cuisine...all in the name of education you understand!
Reward and recognition
Here in the London 2012 Education team we love to reward schools for their dedication to the Games. Being able to offer exclusive treats such as tours of the Olympic Park makes us feel all warm inside – and the schools quite like it too!
And so, last Friday, students at Fellside Community Primary School had the amazing opportunity to reveal their World Sport Day plans to sports presenter and Games fanatic Ben Shephard.
Ben entertained everyone with tales about the athletes he’s met around the world before energetic pupils gave a presentation about their World Sport Day preparations. Before Ben said goodbye, he took part in a penalty shoot-out and a hula hoop competition. Does anybody else have the sudden urge to go back to school?
Ben shared some enthusiastic words with us: 'It has been so inspiring to see how Fellside Community Primary School have embraced World Sport Day. It’s such a brilliant opportunity for kids from all over the UK to learn about other cultures and lifestyles, while having tons of fun through sport.'
If reading this has made you feel like you’re missing out, don’t worry – It’s not too late to join in and make the most of London 2012. You can read more about World Sport Day, or join nearly 17,000 schools by being part of the Get Set network
