Games2Inspire events in Oxford 2025
Thanks to the financial support of Magdalen College School, we were able to run two back-to-back Games2Inspire at primary schools in Oxford in June. One was at St Mary and St John School, the other at St John Fisher Catholic Primary. Everyone had fun at both, and the events made a real impact.
At St Mary and St John, we started with an assembly for Years 3 to 6. The pupils were open and engaged, and the hall felt full of potential. We moved on to workshops with each year group, bringing to the school inclusive and adapted sports.
One moment stood out: a young girl in a wheelchair, who I’ll call K, wasn’t able to leave her chair. At first, it seemed like she might miss out, but our games are designed for this challenge. We introduced K and her wonderful PE teacher, Tom Guy, to boccia, the most inclusive game in the world of sports. The sense of achievement when propelling her ball down a ramp towards the jack, brought the most delightful smile. Tom, who had not known how to use the boccia equipment, lurking in the sports cupboard, promised to run a boccia tournament for the whole school to ensure K is included. What a fabulous outcome!
Then, during sitting netball, we placed K in what is usually an exclusion zone around the hoop and removed the hoop. Her team had to place the ball on her lap, and she had to push it off her lap into a bucket, to score a net. When she did it, her smile lit up the hall – she had scored her very first team goal/net/score in her life and had been included in a team game!
The second Games2Inspire at St John Fisher was quieter – with only one form entry in each year group. With only 30 pupils in each session and shorter time slots, they played three, not four games: goalball, new age kurling and sitting volleyball. The Year 6s so enjoyed it in the morning they volunteered to return in the afternoon to help lead the sessions. They were patient and calm, and that ensured their younger schoolmates stayed focused, despite the heat.
Jemima Coleman from Magdalen College School joined us on the first day and brought four boys from the school to support. They got involved straight away. No fuss, just action: they set up stations, gave instructions and guided them in the playing of the games. They were great ambassadors for Magdalen College School and showcased the benefits of the independent school supporting delivery in a state school.
What are Games2Inspire?
Games2Inspire events are incredible events, most often hosted in schools, with an assembly and sports day which includes activities designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, with disabilities and none, sporty and not. Participants get to meet our inspirational founder, John Willis, and hear all about how John has overcome obstacles in his life. They then get to put that learning to practice by playing adapted games and sports together learning new skills and being encouraged to test their beliefs about ability and disability and what it is to be different, learning to respect other people’s differences. Power2Inspire works with them to challenge their assumptions of what they can and cannot do.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you are interested in hosting a Games2Inspire in your school / college / company / community group then we would love to hear from you.
We are also always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer individually at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. There are SO MANY WAYS we can all help to ensure “no on else is left on the bench!” Click the button here to find out more.
One final challenge – reflections on the Stewartby Triathlon 2025
On Sunday 15th June, I took on my final fundraising challenge for Power2Inspire, a sprint triathlon relay at Stewartby Lake. It marked the end of a personal chapter that’s been filled with adventure, challenge and deep purpose.
This time, I wasn’t alone. I had two brilliant teammates:
- My wife, Lindsay, who stepped in as a last-minute addition to the team, cycled 20km with incredible determination, and earned her very first triathlon medal — something she’s rightly proud of.
- Our CEO, Alex Laybourne, who ran 5km with heart and good humour (despite the heat!).
- I swam the 750m open water leg, and, as ever, felt both the thrill of the water and the privilege of being able to represent our charity.
Why this triathlon mattered
Over the years, I’ve taken on numerous challenges to raise funds and awareness for Power2Inspire, from kayak adventures and tennis marathons to open-water swims. Each one has had the same goal: to show what’s possible, to break down barriers and to champion inclusion through sport.
This triathlon was different. Not because the swim was harder (though it was!), or because I’m getting older (which I am!), but because I knew it would be my last. The final physical fundraising challenge I take on for this charity that means so much to me.
And that made it feel even more special.
A modest goal – and we nailed it!
Now, I’ll be honest: our goal wasn’t to win, it was simply not to come last. And… we didn’t! Mission accomplished.
Why I started
When I founded Power2Inspire in 2013, I had one goal in mind: to ensure that no one is left on the bench. As someone born without fully formed arms and legs, I’ve experienced firsthand what exclusion feels like. I also know how transformative sport can be when it’s truly inclusive.
Since those early days, Power2Inspire has reached over 81,000 people through inclusive sports days, PowerHouseGames, and Games2Inspire in schools. We’ve brought people of all abilities together – laughing, learning, competing and connecting.
I couldn’t be prouder!
Looking back, and looking forward…
This final challenge wasn’t about records or speed. It was about community. About celebrating the people who’ve supported us — friends, colleagues, volunteers, donors and event partners.
What's next?
While I may be stepping back from physical fundraising, I’m not stepping away from Power2Inspire. I’ll still be delivering our wonderful events, championing the cause and sharing our story.
But for now, I’d love your help to finish this challenge strong.
If you haven’t yet donated, please consider supporting our JustGiving campaign. Every pound goes directly towards inclusive sports events for children and communities across the UK.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me, not just on this challenge, but over the years. You’ve made a real, lasting difference.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you would like to support us in our mission to “embed inclusive sport in the sporting, education and community landscapes” then we would love to hear from you. We are always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. Click the button here to find out more.
St Mary's Woodham Ferrers Games2Inspire 2025
Oh, what a joy to return to one of my favourite schools! St Mary’s is small – with only 65 pupils but it truly packs a punch: it is one of the happiest schools I have visited and an outstanding school in many Ofsted categories – such a wonderful place to learn! Their success has led to an increase in the number of SEND pupils, which they absorb in a lovely, nurturing way.
The school is split into three multi-year classes. We started with years Reception, and Years 1 and 2 (Acorn class). Watching these very young pupils learn sitting volleyball, kurling and goalball quite so quickly was humbling, but truly remarkable was seeing them include everyone regardless of their issues.
Mrs Fallon, Acorn class teacher, said that following my last visit in 2022, she had added my ‘vision’ (her words) to her class wall, and they refer to it every day:
“I can’t do it …. Yet!”
Years 3 and 4 were full of fun – they truly lived up to our number one rule: to have fun.
With Years 5 and 6, after lunch, we added a fourth game – sitting netball and our new bibs worked a treat.
Mrs Fallon also repeated an exchange she had with a pupil. The pupil had been struggling with homework, so her mum had advised her that
“practice makes perfect”.
The pupil had responded,
“that’s not right, it is Practice makes Progress, because that is what John says.”
The messages clearly also reach home!
I love my visits to this jewel of a school and hope it isn’t three years before they can fund another joyful day. If there are any funders out there who would be willing to assist to ensure we can continue to invest in these precious pupils then please do get in touch!
What are Games2Inspire?
Games2Inspire events are incredible events, most often hosted in schools, with an assembly and sports day which includes activities designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, with disabilities and none, sporty and not. Participants get to meet our inspirational founder, John Willis, and hear all about how John has overcome obstacles in his life. They then get to put that learning to practice by playing adapted games and sports together learning new skills and being encouraged to test their beliefs about ability and disability and what it is to be different, learning to respect other people’s differences. Power2Inspire works with them to challenge their assumptions of what they can and cannot do.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you are interested in hosting a Games2Inspire in your school / college / company / community group then we would love to hear from you.
We are also always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer individually at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. There are SO MANY WAYS we can all help to ensure “no on else is left on the bench!” Click the button here to find out more.
Sports Trust Folkestone PowerHouseGames 2025
On Thursday 15th May 2025, the Three Hills Sports Park in Folkestone buzzed with excitement, laughter, and the unmistakable spirit of inclusion as Power2Inspire and The Sports Trust joined forces for the very first Folkestone PowerHouseGames.
No one left on the bench
From the moment the doors opened at 9am, the energy was infectious – and by the time the final whistle blew on a giant game of sitting netball, every participant, volunteer, and organiser had played their part in a day that truly embodied our motto: No one left on the bench!
A gathering of schools and new friends
This inaugural Kent event welcomed 56 participants, forming 10 vibrant teams, each sporting their own distinctive T-shirts. Pupils from Turner Free School, The Beacon, Earlscliffe College, and Folkestone College came together, breaking down barriers and forging new friendships as they rotated through a carousel of inclusive sports. It was a joy to see teams quickly bond, with students supporting one another, sharing high-fives, and celebrating every small victory.
Challenges and fun for all!
- Our activities line-up was a showcase of adapted sport at its best. Teams threw themselves into boccia, sitting volleyball, new age kurling, goalball, and wheelchair basketball. Each station was a hive of encouragement and teamwork, with participants learning new skills, discovering hidden talents, and, most importantly, having fun.
- Boccia tested precision and strategy, with players using ramps and creative tactics to land their balls closest to the jack.
- Sitting Volleyball brought out competitive spirits and plenty of laughter as players kept their bottoms firmly on the floor while diving for every point.
- New Age Kurling was a new favourite for many, combining focus and finesse as stones glided across the court.
- Goalball challenged teams to trust their senses and each other, with guides enthusiastically directing their blindfolded teammates.
- Wheelchair Basketball, brilliantly led by Ben Potter of the Folkestone Arrows club, was a highlight, with Ben’s expert coaching ensuring everyone, regardless of experience, could take part and shine.
A grand finale to remember
As the morning drew to a close, anticipation built for our now-traditional giant game of sitting netball. With all 56 participants on the court, the atmosphere was electric – balls whizzed across the hall, cheers echoed, and the sense of camaraderie was palpable. It was a fitting finale, perfectly capturing the inclusive ethos of Power2Inspire events.
Inspiring leadership and support
The day was expertly organised by Sarah Green of The Sports Trust, whose attention to detail and passion for inclusion ensured everything ran smoothly. We were honoured to be joined by our ambassador Emma Brown, England Deaf futsal and Football player, who opened the Games alongside John Willis. Emma’s presence inspired everyone present, and her closing words reminded us of the power of sport to unite and empower.
A community effort
None of this would have been possible without the generous financial support and partnership of The Sports Trust, the Folkestone and Hythe Lions, the Folkestone Rotary Club and our hosts the Three Hills Sports Partnership.
Memories made, barriers broken
As medals and certificates were handed out, the smiles on the faces of pupils, teachers, and volunteers told the story of a day filled with achievement, connection, and joy.
“The Kent PowerHouseGames was a terrific event. A great opportunity for our young people to meet other young people from across the district. It supported their transition to the next stage of their educational journeys through stepping outside of their comfort zone to meet new people, work with and support, coach and encourage them. In addition, they developed their confidence, resilience, team work and character utilising the power of sport.”
Ben Walker, teacher at The Beacon, Folkestone
“Thank you once again for inviting me to be part of the PowerHouseGames in Folkestone last week, it was such a powerful, inspiring, and thoroughly enjoyable event. The children were truly admirable and so full of energy; their enthusiasm and smiles were an absolute joy to witness. Huge credit to you, John, Emma, and the entire team at The Sports Trust for delivering such a brilliant day.”
Corporate Volunteer
“The PowerHouseGames is a wonderful idea and I am thrilled Three Hills were able to host it in Folkestone for the first time. To see young people from different schools and with different abilities cheering each other on and playing sports together was really inspiring.”
Councillor Mike Blakemore
“We loved it, really well organised and all needs considered. Brilliantly inclusive and so much fun for all the students.”
Folkestone College, EKC
“What a fun and energetic day, brilliant!”
The Sports Trust
“What an awesome experience! Brilliant!”
The Sports Trust
What are PowerHouseGames?
PowerHouseGames are incredible sports days using adapted games and sports, with activities designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, old and young, with disabilities and none, sporty and not. Participants are encouraged to test their beliefs about ability and disability and what it is to be different, to learn to respect other people’s differences, and Power2Inspire works with them to challenge their assumptions of what they can and cannot do.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
Would your university sports team, or school love to be involved in a PowerHouseGames? Could your company support our mission by volunteering at one of our PowerHouseGames? If so, then we would love to hear from you. We are also always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer individually at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. There are SO MANY WAYS we can all help to ensure “no on else is left on the bench!” Click the button here to find out more.
Abacus Primary School Games2Inspire 2025
On Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th May 2025, I had the pleasure of returning to Abacus Primary School in Wickford, Essex, for our third Games2Inspire event – and this time, we spread the fun over two days! Hosted by the brilliant team at Abacus and delivered by Power2Inspire, the event brought together over 120 enthusiastic pupils each day from both Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 1 for a celebration of inclusive sport, a total of 240 happy children.
There was an assembly on each day – mercifully after lunch on the first day as I had overslept, following the SuperSensory Inclusive Kilometre on the Monday – and then workshops with each year group through each day.
The upper playground was alive with excitement as the pupils rotated through a variety of adapted games. KS2 pupils tried their hands at Goalball, Sitting Netball, New Age Kurling, and Boccia, while KS1 enjoyed Goalball, Boccia, and Sitting Volleyball. Each child had to engage in working together in small groups, learning new skills, and, most importantly, having fun. The sun shone, even if it was a little chilly, laughter filled the air, and the school’s staff supported every moment with energy and care.
As always, the children’s curiosity and openness were a highlight. For the first time, I was asked this particularly thoughtful question:
“How do you keep your ‘paws’ warm, since gloves wouldn’t fit?”
For those who don’t know, I have no hands and refer to my shortened arms as my ‘paws’. I explained to the class that, on cold days, I simply pop a sock over my right paw—it’s the perfect fit and keeps me toasty!
The children’s fascination and empathy were truly heartwarming, and it was a lovely reminder of the power of honest conversation and shared experience.
A huge thank you to the staff at Abacus Primary for their warm welcome and seamless organisation, and to all the pupils for their boundless enthusiasm. Events like these, show just how much joy inclusive sport can bring, and why we say: No one is left on the bench!
Here’s to many more Games2Inspire at Abacus—where every question is welcome, and every child can shine.
What are Games2Inspire?
Games2Inspire events are incredible events, most often hosted in schools, with an assembly and sports day which includes activities designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, with disabilities and none, sporty and not. Participants get to meet our inspirational founder, John Willis, and hear all about how John has overcome obstacles in his life. They then get to put that learning to practice by playing adapted games and sports together learning new skills and being encouraged to test their beliefs about ability and disability and what it is to be different, learning to respect other people’s differences. Power2Inspire works with them to challenge their assumptions of what they can and cannot do.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you are interested in hosting a Games2Inspire in your school / college / company / community group then we would love to hear from you.
We are also always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer individually at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. There are SO MANY WAYS we can all help to ensure “no on else is left on the bench!” Click the button here to find out more.