Going for gold in school Olympics

11:47am Tuesday 8th April 2008

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PUPILS are enjoying competing in their own version of the Olympics.

The Kent School Games feature schools from across the county.

They are being run by Kent County Council (KCC) and allow students aged between seven and 16 to take part in sports featured at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Leigh Technology Academy, Green Street Green Road, Dartford, will have students competing in a number of events, including running and swimming.

PE teacher Georgia Schmidt, 25, said: "It's good to give students an opportunity to compete, as it's fun and provides exercise.

"All the students taking part are preparing and it obviously means a lot to them to do well."

Heats and area competitions are underway and 400 schools have taken part so far, with students competing to get to the finals at the end of June.

The competition includes 14 different sports and a further nine for children with a disability.

Over the course of the games, around 30,000 children are expected to take part and all will be presented with certificates.

Heats are taking place across north Kent, including swimming at Cygnet Leisure Centre in Old Perry Street, Northfleet, on April 26.

The Kent School Games mirror the Olympic and Paralympic Games with an opening ceremony and the presentation of medals.

KCC leader Councillor Paul Carter and Paralympic athlete Danny Crates launched the games on November 27 last year.

Cllr Carter said: "The aim is to promote competitive sport in schools and to involve as many young people as possible.

"Pupils will learn the values of the Olympics, such as the pursuit of personal excellence and fair play.

"I hope the event will encourage a love of sport for generations to come."