New Oscott’s Sports Coach, Mr Daniel Cunnington, has been named Aspire Training Solutions Apprentice of the Year after winning a public vote.
Up against 5 other nominees for the national award, Mr Cunnington, who’s been at New Oscott since 2024, was praised for the lasting impact his work has produced so far:
Daniel has gone above and beyond throughout his apprenticeship, consistently producing high-quality work, earning glowing feedback from mentors and peers, and making a lasting impact on PE at his school. From strengthening physical education delivery to building brilliant relationships with staff and pupils, Daniel is a fantastic example of what it means to lead through energy, passion, and professionalism. Congratulations, Daniel! The Aspire team and everyone at New Oscott couldn’t be prouder.
The nomination for the award came from New Oscott parent Sarah Corden, who says it was recognition for the impact she has seen with her son:
My son has received intervention support with Mr Cunnnington across years 4 and 5, to help him build his resilience and self confidence. Jacob has had significant things happen in his young life, which have effected how he handles his emotions. Jacob loves football and plays competitively at a high level on both Saturdays and Sundays. When working with Mr Cunnington, Jacob’s confidence grew and even his football coaches outside of school were acknowledging how much his resilience was increasing both at training and during matches. Jacob’s football skills also developed through the work that Mr Cunnington was doing in his time spent with him. This impact was huge for us as a family- supporting Jacob not only in his physical sport, but in his social and emotional wellbeing too. I am so pleased he has been awarded with this acknowledgement of Apprentice of the Year- he thoroughly deserves it.
Despite joining the school during an unusual period of construction and demolition, Mr Cunnington has been praised by fellow teachers for the extra efforts he’s made to keep our students fit and active wherever possible.
Mr Wood is PE Lead at New Oscott:
“Mr Cunnington has played an instrumental role in ensuring our PE provision remains at a high level throughout the building work on site. Despite the reduced space, Mr Cunnington has provided opportunities for our children to be active during break times and lunchtimes and has offered a wide range of extra-curricular clubs allowing children to try new sports and develop physically, psychologically, tactically and socially. He has provided leadership opportunities to our Y6 pupils and has supported staff with delivery of PE lessons, building their confidence and knowledge in teaching the subject.”