Bradford’s primary schools have been praised for their dedication to providing regular sport for their pupils.

Each week at least 90 per cent of children at 141 of the district’s primary schools take part in two hours or more of sport, from tai chi to football.

The effort qualifies them for the National Activemark Award, which is part of the national PE and School Sport Strategy, and has been presented to the schools this week.

Schools were assessed through the National School Sport Survey.

Among those recognised through the awards scheme is Barkerend Primary School. Attention to the physical education curriculum has been stepped up and pupils have been taught different forms of exercise by visiting experts.

Every day children are put through their paces with a series of aerobic exercises designed to keep them calm and focused in lessons.

Head-teacher Cindy Fewlass said: “We aim to give pupils the best possible life chances. I’m convinced that taking part in physical activity and lifelong enjoyment of sport is one of the most valuable ways we can help our children towards a happy and healthy life.”

Another award winner was Springwood Primary, in Manningham, whose sporting pedigree was boosted recently with the setting-up of a year four girls’ football team.

Head-teacher Fran Warden said: “I’m delighted. This is the second year we have had it. It reflects the hard work of staff and the dedication of the pupils.”

Phil Wagner, Bradford Council’s strategic manager for PE schools and club links, said: “This is a wonderful achievement for Bradford. Our primary schools now offer a wider choice of sports and exercise for pupils such as basketball, frisbee, cheerleading and martial arts which gives children a greater choice and helps those who don’t necessarily excel at traditional sports such as football or cricket, and lets them try different activities.”

Pictured enjoying sporting activities at Barkerend Primary School are Umar Shahzad, Fabbiha Akhtar, Naadhirah Khan, Ehban Ditta, Yousra Khan, Khalil Khan, Sufyaan Mahmood, Yousif Kamran and Hafsa Sheikh.