Two schools have been recognised by Norwich sportswoman Ruby Bishop – one of Britain’s top wheelchair tennis players – for leading the way in inclusive sport.
GB wheelchair tennis player Ms Bishop, who campaigns to get more inclusive PE lessons for children with disabilities, spent the summer checking out school sports days to see how they measured up.
It has led to Sprowston Junior School and Thetford Academy being named the winners of the Ruby Bishop Inclusive Sports Days 2026 awards.
The awards recognise schools that made sure pupils could participate, whether through adapted activities, inclusive planning or creating a culture where all children feel valued.
Ruby Bishop (Image: Hannah Brodie Photography)
Ms Bishop said: “It has been incredibly inspiring to visit schools across Norfolk and see the commitment from pupils and staff to creating sporting opportunities where everyone feels included.
“Inclusion in sport is not just about participation; it is about changing attitudes, building confidence and ensuring every young person feels they belong.”
As part of their prize, pupils from both schools will attend the Lexus British Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships in Roehampton, London, where they will get to see some of the world’s top wheelchair tennis players in action.
Ruby Bishop with staff at Sprowston Junior School (Image: Hannah Brodie Photography)
Matt Walton, headteacher at Sprowston Junior School, said: “It was wonderful to welcome Ruby to our sports day and we are absolutely delighted to have been named Norfolk’s Most Inclusive Primary School Sports Day 2026.
“It is important to us that all the children are involved in our sports day and benefit from a range of inclusive activities which puts the emphasis on enjoyment and participation, as well as competition.”
Ms Bishop, who has cerebral palsy, said she was held back from taking part in PE lessons during her school days.
Ruby Bishop with staff at Thetford Academy (Image: Hannah Brodie Photography)
She is campaigning for a national change through Ruby’s Law, which see sports wheelchairs being provided as standard equipment in every school and teachers trained to deliver inclusive PE lessons.