April 27, 2026 - 218 views
Sports students at Coleg Llandrillo have been praised for organising and hosting this year’s Panathlon Challenge, transforming their campus into a celebration of inclusion, teamwork and achievement.
The Rhos-on-Sea campus welcomed pupils from schools across the region on April 16, as the sports hall came alive with energy for the 2026 event. The Panathlon Challenge offers children with disabilities and special educational needs the chance to take part in a structured multi-sport competition, helping them build confidence, develop skills and make new friends.
Coleg Llandrillo has played a key role in the event’s growth, having hosted the very first Panathlon Challenge in Wales back in 2018. This year, the responsibility was handed to Level 3 Year 1 Sports Coaching students, who led the planning and delivery of the day.
For the students, it proved to be much more than a sporting event. It was a hands-on opportunity to develop real-world skills in event management, teamwork and inclusive leadership.
Reflecting on the experience, students said it offered valuable insight into organising large-scale activities, while also highlighting the impact sport can have on young people.
“It was great to gain some experience of putting on events,” one student said. Another added: “It made me happy to see all of the pupils with a smile on their face and enjoying themselves,” while others praised the opportunity to build their communication skills.
Teams from local schools took part in a range of activities designed to be both competitive and accessible. For many pupils, the day was as much about social connection as it was about sport.
Bella, from Tir Morfa School, said: “The sport and throwing the balls was fun. I liked making new friends. Everyone was kind.”
Staff from Y Gogarth School also welcomed the opportunity for pupils to experience a competitive environment.
“We’ve been able to bring a mixed group and all the pupils have gained something different,” a representative said. “It’s great for them to experience being in a competition with other schools; often events like this just focus on participation, so getting to compete is really refreshing.”
The event concluded with a prize-giving ceremony, rounding off a day filled with enthusiasm and achievement.
College staff said the success of the event highlights the importance of inclusive sport, not only for participants but also for the students preparing for careers in the industry.
By hosting events like the Panathlon Challenge, Coleg Llandrillo continues to strengthen its links with the local community while equipping future coaches with the skills needed to support athletes of all abilities.
Those interested in pursuing a career in sport can find out more about courses through the college’s website.
