Westminster Sports

Confidence, Inclusion And Smiles All Round At Westminster’s First SEND Swim Gala

Confidence, Inclusion And Smiles All Round At Westminster's First SEND Swim Gala

On Friday 15 May, Queen Mother Sports Centre was full of smiles, cheers and growing confidence as Westminster hosted it’s very first schools SEND Swim Gala.

Delivered in partnership with Panathlon Challenge, the event welcomed pupils from College Park School and Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee School for a fun and inclusive day of races, team challenges and water based activities designed to help young people with special needs and disabilities build confidence in the pool

swimming cap on the water
A brilliant day of teamwork, encouragement and young people building confidence in and around the water

More than just a gala

For many participants, the gala was about much more than just swimming. It was about trying something new, feeling included and enjoying the calming sensory benefits the water can provide. 

A huge thank you goes to the teachers and school staff who brought amazing energy and support throughout the day, alongside the team at Everyone Active Queen Mother Sport Centre for helping create such a welcoming and inclusive environment.

As a pilot event, the gala provided valuable learning opportunities and a brilliant foundation to build on for the future – and after such a positive first edition, we’re already excited for what next year could bring! 

Find Your Calm This Mental Health Awareness Week

Find Your Calm This Mental Health Awareness Week

This Mental Health Awareness Week, ActiveWestminster is creating more opportunities to pause, reset and prioritise your wellbeing.

Across our centres, we’re offering supportive spaces and wellbeing-focused sessions designed to help you feel calmer, more focused and more connected, both physically and mentally.

Quiet Gym Sessions

Our Quiet Gym sessions provide a calmer, low-sensory environment for anyone who may find busy gym spaces overwhelming. These dedicated sessions are part of our commitment to making fitness more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

Members and pay-as-you-go customers can enjoy full gym access in a more relaxed atmosphere, helping you move at your own pace and feel more comfortable while exercising.

Check the timetable below to find a Quiet Gym or session that suits you.

quiet gym timetable
Sometimes, a little less noise and a little more breathing space can make all the difference.

Breathwork & Mindfullness Sessions

We’re also partnering with Everyone Active to deliver guided breathwork and mindfulness sessions using simple, science-backed techniques designed to support emotional wellbeing.

man meditating outdoors

These sessions can help you:

  • Reduce stress
  • Improve focus
  • Feel more balanced and present

Each session focuses on one of three wellbeing themes:

  • Reconnect
  • Gratitude
  • Regulate & Focus

Sessions are available at:

Find out more about the sessions here: Everyone Active Breathwork Sessions