Young soccer stars from Upton Juniors in Broadstairs will fly the flag for Thanet at the Kent primary championships later this season.

Success by the boys’ and girls’ teams in qualifying for the prestigious county showpiece is a superb double for Upton.

PE lead is Callum Noble. He said: “For the first time in over a decade both our boys’ and girls’ football teams have reached the Kent finals.

“This is an incredible achievement, and every player should feel immensely proud. We’re confident they will continue to do both Upton and Thanet proud when they compete against the very best in the county.”

The boys Year 5/6 side took part in qualifying rounds for the John Curran Cup across the district, progressing to the finals after dominating their group, beating Newlands, Northdown, St Joseph’s, and St Saviour’s with an impressive record of 10 goals scored and none conceded.

This outstanding performance secured their place in the finals at Margate Football Club’s Hartsdown Park stadium. Against tough opposition, the boys showed great resilience and defensive strength, keeping more clean sheets. They beat St George’s 1-0, Ramsgate Holy Trinity 1-0, drew with Minster 0-0 and defeated Salmestone 2-0 to be crowned John Curran Cup winners 2025.

The girls Year5/6 team competed in the DW Cup qualifiers, sweeping aside group round opponents St Ethelbert’s, Margate Holy Trinity, and Garlinge, winning all three games, scoring 15 goals, and conceding none.

This brilliant form carried them into the finals at Ramsgate Football Club’s Southwood stadium where they faced strong opposition. The girls dug deep to draw 1-1 with St Saviours, and beat Minster 2-1 and Cliftonville by the same margin.

Two further Upton football sides took part in the St Lawrence Cup, with both reaching the final. Mr Noble added: “This shows how dominant the teams were and meant that Upton were crowned St Lawrence Cup winners.”

Head of School Darci Arthur said the success underlines the determination, enthusiasm and talent of the school’s footballers. She added: “Our players are brilliant representatives for Upton.

“We offer a wide range of sports activities that are enjoyed by age groups at all abilities highlighting our belief that sport is for all at Upton.”

Upton Junior School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Chilton Primary School and Ramsgate Arts Primary School.

*For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393