A Walton on Thames project is on the 2012 podium

A sports programme for children with disabilities that is run out of a Walton on Thames school has been recognised with an Olympic award.

The Inclusive Sport Project at Walton Leigh School has been granted the Inspire Mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire Programme. The London 2012 Inspire Programme recognises innovative and exceptional projects that are directly inspired by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Inclusive Sport Project has already started to deliver on its promise to inspire young people with additional needs to take part in sport. It was re-launched at Walton Leigh last month. The event marked the start of the Sport England Small Grants funded project, with outreach work in two local primary schools due to start soon.

The Inspire Mark indicates that Elmbridge Borough Council is committed to developing sports opportunities with an Olympic twist for young people with additional needs. It recognizes the fact that sport can play a much greater part in individuals' lives by improving their self-esteem, social interaction, enjoyment and health.

The Inclusive Sports Club runs on Thursdays from 4pm to 5pm at Walton Leigh School and is open to young people of the borough with additional needs. The club is for 11 to 19 year olds and gives them the opportunity to feel a part of the Olympics. For half a term, they can develop their skills in the Olympic or Paralympic sport of their choosing with the support of a qualified coach.

The project is due to extend to two primary schools in the coming month to allow every young person the opportunity to be involved locally and make progress in Olympic and Paralympic Sports.