Finalists

Branston Church of England Infant School

Branston Church of England Infant Academy is creating positive experiences of physical activity by making walking, wheeling and cycling a normal and enjoyable part of everyday school life. Through initiatives including Walking Bus Wednesday, the Walking Bubble project, Park and Stride and the Living Streets WOW Walk, Wheel, Cycle to School Challenge, the school is helping children develop healthy habits from an early age.

The whole-school approach brings together pupils, families, staff and Lincolnshire County Council’s Active Travel Team to make being active fun, social and accessible. The Walking Bubble project introduced 5- and 10-minute routes around the school, while Walking Bus Wednesday has become a popular opportunity for children to be active together. Importantly, the school ensures every child can take part, including those who arrive by taxi or attend breakfast club, through a lunchtime playground walk. The impact is already clear, with 30% more children walking, wheeling or cycling to school over the past four months. By making activity enjoyable and inclusive, Branston is helping children build confidence, friendships and lifelong healthy habits.

Martin Chapman

Martin has dedicated more than 36 years to creating positive experiences for children and young people through kayaking and outdoor adventure. Volunteering twice a week throughout the summer, he regularly takes groups of up to 10 young people onto the water, giving hundreds of children across Lincolnshire the opportunity to try a sport they may otherwise never have experienced.

Martin’s sessions go far beyond learning to paddle. Through his encouragement and support, young people develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and independence in a safe and welcoming environment. Many arrive nervous or unsure of their abilities but leave with new skills, a sense of achievement and the confidence to take on new challenges. Over the years, Martin has helped countless young people achieve recognised kayaking awards and qualifications, developing the skills and responsibility needed to kayak independently.

As an Explorer Scout volunteer, Martin is equally committed to ensuring outdoor adventure is accessible to young people from all backgrounds and abilities. His enthusiasm and dedication have inspired generations to become more active, adventurous and confident, with many going on to volunteer and continue enjoying outdoor activities themselves.

Wildcats Theatre School

Wildcats Theatre School creates positive, active holiday experiences for children by combining physical activity, creativity and performance in an inclusive environment. Through its Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programmes, children eligible for Free School Meals, including those facing financial barriers or with SEND, receive the same high-quality experience as paying participants. Around 75% of the daily programme is dedicated to physical activity through dance, movement, stage combat, performance games and team activities, helping children become active in ways that feel fun and accessible rather than intimidating.

The impact goes far beyond the holiday itself. Wildcats adapts activities so every child can participate safely and fully, while nutritious meals support wider health and wellbeing. Children who may arrive feeling anxious, lacking confidence or experiencing behavioural challenges can finish the week performing on stage in front of an audience. By combining activity with creativity and achievement, Wildcats helps children build confidence, resilience, friendships and a sense of belonging.

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