Knotty challenges, knockout matches and some highly competitive house competitions

It is so lovely to be fully back in a normal academic year of fixtures, with a return to enjoying coach journeys full of singing and hot teas in some gorgeous dining halls. The children have fully immersed themselves in some busy festivals and multiple fixtures, amazing progress has been made across the term and we are very proud of what the children have displayed on the sports field in Copthill uniform.

We have been very lucky to be supported by Isla Nasey in the department this academic year, and she has been very popular with the younger students. I would like to extend my thanks to her and her efforts this term.

Sports clubs have been really well attended across the board with some of the biggest numbers we have seen on the registers. It has allowed the children to develop their knowledge further and enjoy many match situations, as well as starting new sports ahead of the spring changeover. Thank you to all the staff who ensure these clubs happen.

The U11 Boys Rugby squad travelled to Colchester for their National ISA competition. The team played some great rugby, showing attacking flair and determined defence in equal measure across the day. The players had little time to rest as the matches came thick and fast, but at the final whistle the boys, coaches and spectators could reflect with great pride on the teamwork, skill and determination shown against some very strong sides.

ISA Hockey was a wonderful experience from start to finish and the girls conducted themselves superbly well throughout the tournament. Each and every child played their socks off and left everything on the pitch. We were extremely proud of a second placed finish in the cup string of the competition.

I think it is the first time in my time at Copthill that the four house competitions were each won by a different house! U9 Hockey was won by Milton, the U9 Rugby title was taken by Lindsey, U11 Hockey was clinched by Burghley and U11 Rugby was a steal for Casewick.

It is wonderful to see the house sport thriving and bringing some excellent competition and enjoyment for the children. As is always the case the new House Captains really stepped up and led their peers and younger students with enthusiasm and passion. Real leaders of the future.

This term has seen Copthill children have their first climbing lessons with Mr Teesdale and Mrs Alcoran. The children travelled up to the farm in the new waggon and spent their lessons learning how to boulder, top rope and belay.

We even hosted our inaugural house climbing competition where the children had to undertake bouldering problems, show their knot knowledge, race to the top of the overhang, and set up and safely belay a team member. The trophy was awarded to Milton after a very close and thrilling competition. A special mention must go to Ben in Year 5 who scaled the wall in 55 seconds!

We look forward to another busy term after Christmas as we embark on the spring term when the children move to Netball and Boys Hockey. We will also fully welcome Mrs Hesford back into the department as she returns from maternity leave, and we gain Daniel Ralph as he starts his role formally in January supporting the Sports Department.