North Rhine‑Westphalia expands school sport certifications and recognises movement kindergarten

The Familienzentrum Kindertreff Eichen in Waldbröl was awarded the "Bewegungskindergarten" seal by the Kreissportbund Oberberg. The award was presented by Anja Lepperhoff, managing director of the sports association, in the presence of Mayor Larissa Weber. The centre’s outdoor area was turned into a movement playground for the ceremony, and local club TuS 06 Waldbröl also received an honor. It becomes the second recognised movement‑focused kindergarten in the area.

The state government of North Rhine‑Westphalia introduced a new "NRW‑Sportgrundschule" certificate for primary schools that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to movement and sport. Up to 90 cooperation schools can apply, provided they offer additional sports programmes, talent‑identification measures, participation in school‑sport competitions and partnerships with local clubs. State Sports Secretary Andrea Milz said, "Die sportlichen Talente in unserem Land erhalten durch die Kooperation mit der NRW‑Sportschule noch früher Gelegenheit, ihre Begabung zielgerichtet weiterzuentwickeln." Education Minister Dorothee Feller added, "Wer heute Begeisterung für Sport weckt, legt den Grundstein für die Spitzensportlerinnen und Spitzensportler von morgen." The education association VBE called for improved facilities such as qualified staff, renovated halls and adequate outdoor spaces alongside the certification.