Meet the team
Luke Philpotts
Luke is a dedicated and passionate advocate for high‑quality physical education, committed to helping schools create meaningful, inclusive, and engaging PE experiences for all young people. With extensive experience covering over 20 years working across a range of educational settings, Luke supports staff in developing confidence, improving curriculum delivery, and building a culture where physical activity is valued and accessible. Luke’s work is driven by the belief that PE has the power to transform lives—boosting wellbeing, developing essential life skills, and inspiring children to lead active, healthy lifestyles.
Dan Nicholas
Dan is an experienced and highly respected practitioner in the field of physical education and school sport, known for his calm leadership, practical expertise, and commitment to helping young people thrive. With a strong background in outdoor activities, coaching, curriculum delivery, and whole‑school development, Dan brings a thoughtful, supportive approach to every setting he works with. His passion lies in creating positive, inclusive environments where all pupils can build confidence, develop essential skills, and enjoy being active.
Our story
The Dudley School Sport Partnership was founded with a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves the chance to enjoy high quality physical education, school sport, and physical activity - regardless of background, ability, or circumstance.
Launched in 2025, the Partnership set out to bring a fresh, modern approach to supporting schools across the borough. Our vision is clear: to ensure every child has access to meaningful, enjoyable, and high‑quality physical education experiences that help them move, play, and thrive.
From the outset, we have focused on building strong relationships with schools, staff, and community partners. Our early work has centred on:
- Providing practical, high‑quality CPD for PE leads and teaching staff
- Delivering inclusive festivals and competitions that welcome all pupils
- Supporting schools with curriculum development and enrichment opportunities
- Developing young leaders who can inspire and support their peers
- Creating collaborative links with local clubs and organisations
In a short time, the Partnership has become a trusted source of support, guidance, and
inspiration for schools across Dudley. Our commitment is simple: to listen, to collaborate, and to make a positive difference.
Although we are in our first year, our work is already having an impact. We have launched a range of projects designed to widen participation, raise aspirations, and strengthen PE and school sport provision. These include:
School Games – delivering a vibrant calendar of inclusive festivals and competitions, giving pupils of all abilities the chance to represent their school, try new activities, and celebrate personal achievement.
Girls’ Football – supporting the national ambition to grow the girls’ game through festivals, pathways, and opportunities that help more girls get involved and stay involved.
School Rugby Manager Programme – working with local partners to introduce rugby in a safe, engaging, and age‑appropriate way.
Virtual School Support – offering tailored physical activity opportunities for children in care, ensuring they have access to positive, confidence‑building experiences that support wellbeing and belonging.
David Lloyd Pilot Programme – an innovative partnership giving selected pupils access to high‑quality facilities and coaching, helping them explore new activities and develop healthy habits in a motivating environment.
These early projects reflect our commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and excellence. We listen to schools, respond to their needs, and work alongside staff to create sustainable, high‑impact provision.
As we grow, we remain driven by the same founding belief: every child in Dudley deserves the chance to move, play, and thrive.