The Active Skills Award recognises an individual, club, or organisation who is supporting people to develop skills, confidence and a lasting connection to being active. This might be through delivering learning, programmes session or initiatives that encourage ongoing participation with opportunities for people of all abilities or backgrounds to take part and improve.

Take a look at our 2026 finalists for this award below.

Finalists

Church Lane Primary School Academy of Arts

Church Lane’s Academy of Arts was launched in September 2022 in partnership with Dance Lobo to give every pupil the opportunity to experience high-quality dance, regardless of their background or financial circumstances. More than 65% of pupils take part in weekly dance coaching, with opportunities to complete accredited NATD exams and perform in an annual production at Melton Theatre.

The Academy was created in response to local need, particularly within a diverse school community where many pupils face disadvantage or language barriers. All places are fully funded by the school, including lessons, transport, exams, costumes and accessories, ensuring cost is never a barrier to participation and every child has the same opportunity. Sessions are adapted to support SEND and less experienced pupils, while teaching reflects the school’s diverse community. The Academy has helped pupils build confidence, improve fitness and wellbeing, develop new skills and engage more positively with school life. Staff voluntarily support rehearsals and performances because they see first-hand the positive physical, emotional and educational impact the programme has on pupils

IMPowered

The IMPowered team is creating meaningful opportunities for young people across Lincolnshire schools to develop skills, confidence and a more positive outlook through physical activity and mentorship. Their structured football sessions provide a safe, supportive environment for pupils who may be disengaged, struggling with behaviour or lacking confidence, helping them discover their strengths and believe in their ability to succeed.

The sessions go far beyond developing football skills. Young people are given opportunities to build teamwork, communication, resilience and emotional control, while learning how to manage challenges and persevere. The team creates strong relationships with pupils, celebrating progress and adapting their approach to individual needs so everyone has the opportunity to develop. For some, this has been a turning point, helping them re-engage with school, contribute positively to their peers and take greater responsibility. Pupils who previously struggled with teamwork or behaviour have gone on to support others and demonstrate increased confidence both on and off the pitch. IMPowered is helping young people develop skills, self-belief and resilience.

Inspire+

inspire+ creates opportunities for children, young people and apprentices to build confidence, skills and experience through physical activity, helping them progress from participation into leadership, volunteering and employment. Its approach provides clear pathways for young people to develop their potential, whether through becoming a young leader, taking on responsibility within their school or community, or beginning a career in education, wellbeing or sport.

A key part of this work is inspire+’s apprenticeship programme, which has supported more than 650 apprentices into roles within schools. In 2024/25, 95% of learners progressed onto a higher-level course or into employment, demonstrating the programme’s impact on confidence, experience and employability. Alongside this, programmes including the Sports Leadership Academy, Young Ambassadors and Activators have supported 250 active leaders to deliver more than 120 sports festivals and community programmes, developing communication, teamwork and leadership skills. By connecting participation, leadership, volunteering and apprenticeships, inspire+ is helping young people gain valuable experience, discover their potential and build pathways towards meaningful careers.

The winner for all award categories will be announced at our Award Ceremony on 12 November. View all our 2026 award finalists here.