In a ground-breaking step for inclusive sport, the Latimer League has officially launched, providing a dedicated platform for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) schools across Essex to engage in competitive football.

This new league is the result of a partnership between Active Essex, the Multi Schools Council, the Essex County FA and the Essex County Schools FA, ensuring that SEND students have the same opportunities to thrive through sport as their peers in mainstream schools.

The idea for the league was initiated by a strong demand from students, who highlighted the need for equal opportunities in competitive sport for SEND students. Kierran Pearce, SEND Multi Schools Council Lead, emphasized the importance of addressing this gap: “The young people involved with us are delighted that this is finally off the ground!”

“Our work is all about listening to young people with SEND. For a number of years, they just wanted the same opportunities as young people in mainstream schools. This is such a positive step forward and will hopefully result in further opportunities for young people with disabilities to play competitive football. Thanks to everyone - all the schools, Active Essex and the Essex County FA - for making this happen.”

The Latimer League features seven-a-side fixtures played in a home and away format throughout the school year. Its flexible structure, developed in consultation with participating schools, ensures schools can easily manage their schedules. In this inaugural year, seven schools have joined the league, sparking enthusiasm and a strong foundation for future expansion.

The league is already making an impact. Reece Durrance, Head of PE at Ramsden Hall Academy, spoke about the transformative effect on his students: “This year, the creation of the Latimer League has provided Ramsden Hall students with the further extracurricular opportunities they need to engage competitively in a sport they love.”

“The healthy competition held through the fixtures has given students aspirations and a purpose to focus on managing their own personal and social development in order to be a part of fixtures, as well as a sense of pride and value in their school and its community.”

The launch has been warmly received across the Essex football community. Graham Hall, Chairman of the Essex County Schools FA, commented: “This is a welcome addition to our programme of county schools competitions. Many thanks to all those who have contributed to getting the competition underway. I look forward to seeing how it progresses but, above all, hope the children enjoy the experience of taking part in this brand-new countywide schools competition.”

Milly Morgan, Equality and Inclusion Officer at the Essex County FA, highlighted the league’s importance, adding: “We are thrilled to see the launch of the SEND Schools League this season. The Multi Schools Council and Active Essex highlighted a real demand from students who wanted to be involved in competitive sport.”

“It’s fantastic to now provide an opportunity for these children to participate and showcase their talent. Inclusion in sport is vital, and this new league is an important step in ensuring every child has the chance to enjoy and compete in sport.”

The Latimer League represents a milestone in promoting equality and inclusion through sport in Essex. Its success this season lays a strong foundation for future opportunities, ensuring that sport is accessible For All. To find out how your school can get involved, please E-Mail milly.morgan@essexfa.com.