A JUNIOR school is celebrating after being named the Active School of the Year for 2019.

Howbridge Junior School, in Witham, was recognised as a centre of sporting opportunity and excellence after being crowned Active School of the Year by the Active Braintree Foundation at Braintree Arts Theatre last week.

The school was nominated for its high-quality sporting performance and the opportunities it provides for pupils in sport.

School PE leader at the school Emma French said: “This is a joint effort and reflects the hard work and commitment of our staff in raising standards of sport and competition for our pupils.

“We see physical activity as a key element of a child’s development and so we provide as many opportunities as we can to get children active and enjoying sport.”

During the 2018-19 academic year the school reached the Essex finals in indoor athletics, football, rugby, cross county and golf. It was also crowned winner of the district athletics championships.

Assistant headteacher Damon Howlett said: “We seek to develop pupils and the competitive element in some of these sports adds to their engagement. “We are proud to have received this award.”