Sir William Romney’s School has celebrated the first anniversary of its 3G football pitch, with the facility now being used by around 500 people every week.
Students, sports clubs and community supporters gathered at the school on October 1 for an event recognising the partnership and local backing behind the pitch. The celebration also highlighted the opportunities it has created during its first year for pupils, sports clubs and the wider community.
A facility used by students and community groups
The third-generation artificial pitch has become a venue for school activities and community sport since opening. It uses recycled rubber crumb, which provides cushioning and improved ball bounce.
Representatives from Sir William Romney’s School, the Athelstan Trust, local sports organisations and community groups attended the anniversary event. They reflected on the work involved in delivering the project and thanked those who contributed to its development.
The school said the pitch has enhanced sporting opportunities for students, increased participation in the community and strengthened links with local clubs and organisations. The anniversary also focused on the facility’s contribution to health and wellbeing.
A football tournament for Under-11 players from local clubs was held during the evening, placing young people at the centre of the celebration and highlighting the pitch’s growing role in community sport.
Paralympic champion joins anniversary event
Chris Hunt Skelley MBE was invited to give the keynote address and officially open the facility. The Paralympian won gold in the men’s under-100kg judo category at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games and later took bronze in a different weight category at Paris 2024.
He is described as the UK’s most successful visually impaired judoka of the past 30 years. His sporting career and personal journey were used to share a message about determination, resilience and hard work, values the school aims to develop in its students.
“It was such an honour to be asked to see this wonderful community facility in action and to officially ‘open’ it and see the value it has brought.”
“These types of facilities make sports more accessible for children and adults in any area. It was fantastic to recognise and applaud those who came together to make this a reality.”
Chris also spent time speaking with students during the event.
School praises wider community impact
Headteacher Will Ruscoe said the first year had shown the value of the pitch both inside and outside the school.
“The 3G pitch has already become a hugely valuable resource for both our students and the wider community.”
“This event provided an important opportunity to thank everyone who played a part in making the project a reality and to celebrate the positive impact it is having on participation, health, wellbeing and community engagement.”
For Sir William Romney’s School and the Athelstan Trust, the anniversary represents a milestone in their aim to create lasting opportunities for present and future generations of young people.
The school says its wider ambition is to become a beacon of excellence in Gloucestershire and beyond. It views the 3G pitch as an example of how investment in school facilities can provide benefits for the wider community as well as for pupils.
