Kingston College has been recognised for encouraging special needs students to play sport.
The Inclusive Club, which has 25 members with a range of physical and learning disabilities, was launched by the college a year ago.
Its success has now led to the college being given official accreditation by Interactive, a government agency which recognises providers that encourage people with disabilities to play sport. The club’s members enjoy weekly sessions with football coaches from Premier League football club Chelsea and play in regular five-a-side tournaments against special needs sides from other colleges.
They have also had tennis lessons at Surbiton Tennis Club and recently met the captain of Great Britain’s sitting volleyball team, Rob Richardson.
Carolyn Sheppard, sport co-ordinator at the college, said: “The group has been a huge success and we’re delighted with the accreditation. They were absolutely in awe of Rob when he visited the college.”

Cap: Club members with Chelsea coach Max Ashely (far right)