Ben Hammond

Ben, can you share your career so far?

My passion for sport and physical activity naturally led me into teaching PE. After gaining experience across several schools with Premier Education, I developed a strong interest in how PE can positively shape young lives in primary education. A special part of my journey is now working alongside Mr Payne, who taught me Maths and Geography when I was a student-before he joined Meridian Trust. His support and belief in me during those years made it possible for me to now teach and lead PE full-time across two Meridian Trust schools.

What do you enjoy most about your role as PE Lead?

I enjoy seeing the progression and confidence that children gain through PE the most, not just in their fitness or sporting ability, but in their teamwork, resilience, and self-belief. The most rewarding moments include watching a child who may have been hesitant or unsure initially step up and thrive, whether in a lesson, a competition, or just trying something new. Knowing that PE can be a space where all children can shine in different ways is incredibly fulfilling, as well as the difference it can make to a child’s physical and mental health.

How do you encourage student participation and confidence within the PE program?

Inclusivity is central to all we do. A broad, balanced, and engaging PE curriculum is being implemented so every child can find something they enjoy – be it traditional sports, dance, or team-building games. We celebrate effort as much as achievement, creating an environment where trying your best truly matters. At our recent PE awards evening, we recognised many children with certificates, medals, and shout-outs, inspiring others to get involved. Encouragement, positive reinforcement, and leadership opportunities help build confidence and push pupils to be their best. At Great Ouse and Harrold, we host events for up to 16 schools, including our first SEND Day, along with lunch clubs, after-school clubs, and fixtures to ensure inclusion for all.

What do you appreciate most about the culture and values at GOPA and Harrold?

Great Ouse and Harrold both have warm, community-driven cultures, with staff deeply committed to supporting every child’s academic and personal growth. A strong sense of teamwork and shared values makes working here purposeful and enjoyable. I’m proud to be part of two schools where kindness, ambition, and curiosity are lived daily. With growing support across both sites, my passion for PE has helped create more opportunities for children through the extra-curricular fixtures we host and attend.

How does Meridian Trust support PE across its schools?

The support from Meridian Trust has been excellent. They value high-quality PE and offer great opportunities for collaboration, CPD, and shared events. Their commitment to raising the profile of sport and wellbeing, along with providing key resources, benefits both schools and has greatly boosted my own professional development, enabling me to continue delivering high-quality PE across both sites.

What other Trust-wide work are you facilitating?

Meridian Trust has provided a fantastic platform to champion high-quality PE through Trust-wide events, competitions, and collaboration with local schools. These connections provide opportunities to compete and build a sense of wider community beyond the classroom. I’ve also hosted events at our schools, welcoming other schools from outside of our Trust such as Bedford Greenacre, Westfield Primary, and Bromham Primary. Recently, I gained my D1 licence, allowing me to drive our minibus to more sporting opportunities. Looking ahead, I plan to collaborate further with Trust schools in Cambridge to continue developing PE across multiple sites.

During the next few terms, what are you most looking forward to?

I’m really looking forward to the summer term—with sports days, Trust competitions, and outdoor learning, it’s a great season for physical activity and school spirit. It’s a busy time with PE lessons and extra-curricular fixtures, but also my favourite, and I can’t wait to see the children thrive in the many events and activities planned.

What are your hobbies?

Outside of work, I’m always active – whether playing, coaching, or watching football, rugby, and cricket. I coach Sharnbrook U16s and support Oakley men’s football, stepping into management next season. Even my German Shepherd joins in, happily playing football for hours! Gardening and landscaping are another passion shared with my family, and I regularly maintain GOPA’s field, which has earned recognition from Meridian and local schools. Physical activity is key to my well-being and fuels the energy I bring to my work.