GRIT, determination and mental strength were all on show at Hardenhuish School last week during their own Tough Mudder endurance course.

The event coincided with National School Sports Week, organised by the Youth Sport Trust, at the end of June and saw many different activities completed during PE lessons to encourage pupils to have fun and get fit.

The Tough Mudder style endurance course saw participants attempt military-style obstacle course made up of tyres, tunnels, balance equipment, webbing and copious amounts of water.

Pupils from years seven to 10 were challenged to complete the course in the shortest time with many year seven pupils competing in fancy dress to raise over £100 for Hardenhuish's link school in Bangladesh.

Year seven student India Ibbotson came out as quickest female while Toby Stanford from year nine completed the course with the fastest male time.

Curriculum Leader for PE, Laura Davidge-Lumber, said: “Our aim is to show pupils that they can have fun while taking part in physical activity and not to worry if they get muddy and sweaty whilst doing so. I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to raise money for our link school too. I am very proud of everyone who took part in the week’s activities."

Also during the week, Master Don Deedigan visited the school to deliver a martial arts and fitness taster session in the school’s gym before the school's long anticipated Sports Day.

Jan Hatherell, head teacher, said: “I really enjoyed the fantastic community atmosphere at our Sports’ Day on Friday. All the athletes gave their all, and left nothing in the tank, the audience were brilliant, cheering every athlete to the line. I was very proud of everyone and of our school.”