Celia Dawson OBE: The Headteacher Powering Parkrun Primary

Celia Dawson OBE is Headteacher at Cricket Green School—the SEN school that helped pilot parkrun primary, the new UK initiative twinning schools with local junior parkruns to get children more active. Celia is more than an Headteacher, she is an extraordinary and inspiring  community leader and she shares how after completing ~102 parkruns herself, she now volunteers most weekends and channels that community spirit into school life—advocating for disadvantaged and SEND pupils, and showing how movement builds confidence and belonging. We talk about what the pilot taught schools, practical tips for twinning, and how borough-wide partnerships can lift wellbeing and learning for every child.
(Celia received her OBE in the 2023 New Year Honours for services to children and young people with special educational needs. Parkrun Primary launched nationally in September 2025 with a goal to partner with primary schools and drive participation at Junior parkrun to help boost children's health, happiness and wellbeing.)

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