A HEREFORD school have really made their mark in sporting achievement after becoming one of an elite band in the country to receive a highly prestigious award.

Bishop's School have scooped the Sportsmark Gold Distinction Award, which was made to just seven schools in Britain from over 600 applications.

It is the first time that this accolade has been awarded and the category was created when it was adjudged that this year's top seven schools deserved more than the existing Gold Award.

The achievement is made even more commendable by the fact that private and independent schools, who often boast huge financial resources, were competing with state-run Bishop's.

The Sport England scheme is entering its fourth year and Bishop's can add this honour to the Sportsmark Gold Award they bagged three years ago.

One of the criteria to gain a Gold Award is the need for an extra curricular sports programme in which at least 50 per cent of pupils take part.

As a 1,200-strong school, Bishop's had to involve more than 600 pupils in their extra-curricular sport, in addition to two hours of time-tabled sport per pupil each week.

But for going beyond that with an outstanding contribution to physical education and sport in schools, Bishop's were presented with the Gold Distinction Award.

The school also provide a wide range of sporting activities which cater for disabled as well as able-bodied children.

Head of PE Steve Bradley said: "We are obviously delighted to be one of seven schools recognised in the state and independent sector.

"It is for children of all abilities, not just the elite, in a wide range of sports.

"It is a team effort from a large number of staff involved at lunchtimes, evening and weekends and also the management of the school, the parents and the pupils."

Bishop's will officially receive the award from Culture Secretary Chris Smith in June during a presentation held at Edgbaston cricket ground, which Sports Minister Kate Hoey may also attend.

Picture: Sport 3