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How to Create an Inclusive School Sports Day

Published on 27th June, 2025

It’s Sport’s Day season! As we get close to July, primary schools across the country will be preparing for arguably the year’s most important PE event. Some of you may already have held your Sports Day, and taken advantage of the recent sunny weather! But the key to a great event is not just the […]

inclusive school sports day

It’s Sport’s Day season!

As we get close to July, primary schools across the country will be preparing for arguably the year’s most important PE event. Some of you may already have held your Sports Day, and taken advantage of the recent sunny weather!

But the key to a great event is not just the activities, or the weather. It’s getting as many children involved as possible – and that means having an inclusive school Sports Day.

We want every child to feel valued, supported and celebrated – and here’s how you can ensure that. This is our guide to making your Sports Day inclusive for all children.

You can also read here how to adapt PE Planning’s lesson plans for SEN children.

An inclusive school Sports Day starts with inclusive planning

Creating an inclusive Sports Day starts with thoughtful, inclusive planning. Involve teaching staff, support workers and even pupils in the process. Consider the full range of abilities, needs and interests across your school.

So for example…

  • Are the events adaptable for children with varying physical abilities?
  • Are there opportunities for both competitive and non-competitive participation?
  • Have you spoken with your SENDCo or parents about specific individual needs?

Make sure there is a variety of activities for all abilities

We love traditional Sports Day activities like relay races or the sack race! But they’re not for everyone. What could you include or adapt so that there’s something that appeals to all strengths and abilities?

Team-based challenges, such as tug-of-war or obstacle courses, might be a good inclusion. You could include creative games like beanbag balancing or hoop toss. Or, for children who benefit from quieter spaces, sensory-friendly zones and activities.

It’s all about participation

It’s not just performance that should be recognised and rewarded at your Sports Day. An inclusive school Sports Day shifts the focus away from winning, and towards participation and personal achievement. Use certificates, stickers or verbal praise to recognise effort, teamwork and perseverance – not just speed or skill.

You could introduce awards such as:

    • ‘Best Team Spirit’

    • ‘Kindness in Action’

    • ‘Creative Problem Solver’

This kind of approach to the day’s activities reinforces the message that every contribution matters!

Not everyone has to take part, but everyone can get involved!

Not every child wants to take part in a race – but they might flourish in another role. Offer opportunities for pupils to:

  • Keep score

     

  • Act as team leaders or buddies

     

  • Help with set-up and organisation

     

  • Cheer on others or act as announcers

Can you adapt existing events, plans or equipment?

For pupils with physical, sensory or emotional needs, make sure suitable adaptations are in place. These might include:

  • Modified equipment (e.g. lightweight balls, ramps, wider targets)
  • Accessible spaces for mobility aids or wheelchairs
  • Visual timetables or picture instructions for pupils with communication needs
  • Additional adult support or peer buddies

These adjustments demonstrate that an inclusive school Sports Day isn’t about everyone doing the same thing – it’s about making sure everyone can take part meaningfully.

Get the wider community involved!

If you’re making Sports Day a fully inclusive one, tell everyone! Involve families in the day – whether as spectators, volunteers or even participants in a parent-pupil relay. This helps to strengthen links between school and home, and reinforces inclusive values beyond the classroom.

Let the wider community know in your communications about your inclusive school Sports Day – spread the positive message and let people know that your school is one that wants to encourage and celebrate all children, regardless of their abilities.

Tell us how it went!

After your school Sports Day, don’t forget to share your successes on social media and with us at PE Planning! By rethinking traditional formats and focusing on participation, you will have created a day where every child feels proud, included and part of the wider school community. 

This blog post isn’t an exhaustive list of ideas. It’s important that you discuss and plan internal – you will know what your school and your pupils need to make the day as fully inclusive as possible.

Whatever stage you’re at in planning your Sports Day, make sure you read our blog post, How to Prepare for Sports Day. And here’s some inspiration for Sports Day activities.

As always – good luck, and have fun!