At the Golf Foundation’s President’s Awards, Upton St Leonards Primary School in Gloucester was crowned the Nick Dougherty Unleash Your Drive School of the Year for embedding golf into the lives of its 420 pupils.
In April 2025, three teachers were trained to deliver the six-week UYD programme to all 60 Year 6 children, helping them build resilience and confidence ahead of their move to secondary school.
Deputy Head Andy Lewis said:
“Probably 50 out of 60 children would never have picked up a golf club if not for this programme. Golf taught them patience, perseverance and how to learn from mistakes – skills they can use in the classroom and in life.”
The programme culminated in a Texas Scramble event involving parents and grandparents, bringing the whole school community together. Many children have since progressed into the UYD in Clubs pilot with Gloucester GC.
Andy added:
“The mental toughness tools have made a big difference. We’ve seen children calmer, more resilient, and more confident in their learning and in themselves.”
Upton St Leonards shows how golf in schools can prepare children for life beyond the classroom.
