Celebrating Community Connections
This year’s competition received over 70 entries from across the UK. The variety of activities was inspiring — from sports clubs and martial arts schools to performing arts, faith groups, and cultural organisations. Every entry showed how schools have become true community hubs, hosting everything from baton twirling to pickleball.
After a careful review, our judging panel selected the top entries that truly stood out.
1st Place – West Lancs Fencing Club (St Bede’s High School, Ormskirk)
Founded in 1975, the West Lancs Fencing Club began as a small group of enthusiasts and has grown into a thriving, inclusive community for members aged 12 to 70+. When the club lost its previous venue after Covid, Edu-Lettings helped relocate them to the sports hall at St Bede’s High School, Ormskirk.
The new location provided the safe, well-maintained space they needed and sparked renewed interest in fencing. The club now runs regular sessions, coaching, and taster events for local schools and youth groups.
“We at West Lancashire Fencing Club are delighted and excited to have won first place in Edu-Lettings’ Community Champions Competition. The prize money will be a huge boost to the club as we continue to expand and share fencing with the wider community. We would also like to thank Edu-Lettings for their ongoing support as our club continues to grow.”
2nd Place – Kwong Tam Merseyside School of Tai Chi (Holly Lodge School, Liverpool)
Founded in 1980, the Kwong Tam Merseyside School of Tai Chi has become a pillar of the local community. Their classes promote health, self-defence, and connection for people of all ages, improving wellbeing and providing calm in a busy world.
“The Kwong Tam Merseyside School of Tai Chi are honoured to receive the Edu-Lettings Community Champions Award. We are so grateful to them for recognising our journey in promoting community wellbeing.”
3rd Place – A Step Above Dance Studios (Dixons Allerton Academy, Bradford)
A Step Above Dance Studios, founded by Shannon Collins, provides a safe and welcoming space for people of all ages and abilities to explore the joy of dance. Their classes and performances help build confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging.
“Winning this competition is more than a prize for our dance school – it’s a celebration of the passion, dedication, and community spirit that brings us together. This achievement shines as proof of what we can accomplish when we support, inspire, and move as one.”
Special Mentions
Special recognition goes to:
- Hackney Laces (Excelsior Academy) – empowering young women to thrive on and off the pitch.
- Windsor Warriors Youth Basketball (Trevelyan Middle School) – giving young players the chance to develop skills, confidence, and teamwork.
A Message from Edu-Lettings
Nick Bowen, Managing Director of Edu-Lettings, said:
“We’re really pleased with the response from our hirers to this first competition. It highlights the incredible variety of community groups using our school facilities across England and the outstanding contributions each makes to the lives of local people.”
Edu-Lettings currently supports more than 140 schools across the UK, helping them generate additional revenue by hiring out facilities while enriching the communities they serve.
For more information, visit https://www.edu-lettings.org/let-your-facilities/
