Merton schoolchildren have been training hard to make sure they are in top form for National School Sport week, which kicked off on Monday 29 June.

National School Sport week, which is actively supported by Merton Council, recognises young people’s sporting talents, achievements and participation and is also a chance to raise the profile of physical education and school sports.

The week’s highlight is the London Mini Games on Thursday 2 July when year five and six students will face 32 other London boroughs in a variety of competitions.

Around 92% of Merton pupils take part in two or more hours of sport a week while 63% represent their schools in competitions compared to just 41% nationally – the highest figure out of all the London boroughs.

The Merton Schools Sports Partnership coordinates most of the sporting initiatives for young people in Merton. It helps make sure there are plenty of clubs in the area offering exciting sporting activities

Merton Council’s cabinet member for children’s services Councillor Debbie Shears said: “National School Sport Week is the perfect opportunity to get young people excited about sport. Last year Merton won the gold in the football competition and the teams are determined to do even better this year.

“The council is determined to make sure children in the borough take part in school sports and lead active, healthy lives. This commitment is underlined by the recent creation of three new sports clubs introduced to meet the extra demand of students wanting to get involved in competitive sports such as netball and basketball. I am delighted so many young people in Merton are involved in school sports and I will be keeping my fingers crossed for them during the London Mini Games.”