As part of National School Sports Week, proudly endorsed by the Youth Sport Trust, John Spence Community High School hosted this year’s Pele Trust Varsity, a sporting event that brought together over 450 pupils from across the trust in an afternoon packed with sport. 

Organised by the John Spence PE Department, the event invited all three Pele Trust high schools: John Spence Community High School, Ponteland High School, and The Duchess's Community High School, to compete across 12 sporting activities. 

Events included Football, Girls Football, Touch Rugby, Netball, Cricket, Dodgeball, Clubbercise, and Table Tennis, showcasing a broad mix of athletic skill and inclusive participation. Competitions were overseen by staff and a team of enthusiastic young leaders.

Each event contributed points to the overall standings: 3 points for a win, 2 for second place, and 1 for third. It was a format that kept the leaderboard tight and excitement levels high throughout the day.

What stood out, however, was more than just the competition. There was a sense of community and camaraderie within each school team and a respectful, spirited rivalry between the schools. 

After a thrilling day of competition, the final scores saw two schools tied on 25 points. Duchess High School placed a strong second, but it was John Spence and Ponteland who shared the top spot — and with it, the Varsity Cup sponsored by IPro.

A fantastic spectacle and an outstanding celebration of National School Sports Week, roll on Varsity 2026!