sponsored by Chestnut Homes

The Positive Experiences for Children and Young People Award recognises an individual, group or organisation who is making an outstanding contribution to providing opportunities for children and young people to have a positive experience of physical activity. In particular those opening up opportunities for those who are currently less active and facing barriers to participating in physical activity.

Our Finalists

Lincolnshire Cricket

Lincolnshire Cricket is committed to making cricket accessible to every child and young person across the county, regardless of ability, background, or circumstance. Their inclusive approach spans school programmes, club partnerships, and community outreach -delivering table cricket in SEN schools, street cricket in deprived areas, and Girls-Only Dynamos sessions to boost female participation. In partnership with Lord’s Taverners, they run a thriving disability cricket programme, with 27 schools taking part in county finals this year - one team now heading to Lord’s for the national finals. Their outreach extends to refugee camps, offering cricket kits and a sense of belonging to displaced children, creating joy through sport.

Mind, Body and Spirit Programme - YMCA Lincolnshire

YMCA Lincolnshire’s Mind, Body and Spirit Schools Programme delivers inclusive, engaging physical activity to children and young people across the county - both in schools and at YMCA’s Showroom facility. With a focus on accessibility and wellbeing, the programme introduces pupils to traditional and non-traditional sports such as parkour, indoor climbing, and team games, offering experiences many children may otherwise never access. YMCA works with schools in areas of high deprivation, tailoring sessions to meet the needs of pupils with additional needs. The programme integrates physical activity with emotional wellbeing, using mindfulness and self-regulation strategies to support the whole child. In the last year, over 4,600 children have participated.

Teen Strong - CR Fitness

Teen Strong, delivered by CR Fitness, is a fitness programme for young people aged 11–16. Designed to be more than just exercise, it offers a safe, inclusive space where teenagers can build strength, confidence, and resilience, developing a lifelong positive relationship with physical activity. Teen Strong welcomes young people of all abilities and backgrounds, including those with social, emotional, or behavioural challenges. Sessions are fun, non-competitive, gender-inclusive, and focused on personal progress and wellbeing. Through a partnership with Noise Academy, students have opportunities to perform DJ sets during classes -building confidence and providing a unique creative outlet. Parents regularly report improved confidence, motivation, and wellbeing in their children, with benefits extending beyond the gym.

View all our finalists