Our Lower School pupils enjoyed an action-packed Easter adventure in Sicily, filled with exploration, challenge and plenty of fun.

From the outset, the trip was full of unforgettable moments. Pupils climbed the mighty Mount Etna, travelling by coach, 4×4 and snowcat before trekking on foot to an incredible 2,900 metres, with plenty of snow, wind and breathtaking views along the way. They also hiked across dramatic lava fields, discovering the fascinating science behind volcanic landscapes.

There was no shortage of excitement, from river trekking through the Alcantara Gorge, jumping, sliding and splashing through canyons, to snorkelling in the clear waters of a volcanic marine reserve. A visit to the island of Vulcano brought pupils close to steaming sulphur vents and powerful reminders of past eruptions.

Cultural highlights included exploring the historic town of Taormina and its stunning ancient theatre, as well as learning the art of pizza-making with local experts. With time for beaches, cafés, ice cream and delicious Sicilian food, it was a truly memorable trip, full of adventure, laughter and new experiences.

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A Year of National Finals and Unforgettable Achievements. The academic year 2024–25 has been truly remarkable for ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ sport, marked by exceptional performances, teamwork, and resilience across a wide range of disciplines. Our pupils have represented the School at the very highest level, reaching 12 national finals in 9 different sports, a testament to their dedication and the strength of our sporting programme.

National Champions and Noteworthy Triumphs

This year, ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ teams have brought home four national titles:

• Foster Cup for Rackets
• U16 Girls’ Indoor Hockey
• U13 Girls’ Indoor Hockey
• U13 Lacrosse Division 1

In addition, our talented Golf team were crowned National Plate Champions, an achievement that places them among the elite schools in the country.

Sporting Highlights

U16 indoor hockey

The girls performed with extraordinary composure and self-belief, beating Repton, Sevenoaks and King’s Chester, and then producing a fabulous crescendo in the final to win 7-2 against Clifton. Laura was ruthless in front of goal, scoring 18, and Lois and Cate shone down the spine of the defence and midfield. It was fitting that the girls also won the Tony Nunn Fidelitas Shield at Speech Day for performance levels but also for the sportsmanlike manner in which they went about their business.

Rackets

Flynn is the first Haileyburian to win the Foster Cup for over 40 years. He was a man with a target on his back from the start of the tournament and to achieve championship victory with so many top players looking to raise their game against the favourite was a great example of composure and quality combined. He backs up his U16 success therefore with this superb national triumph.

U13 girls

In both indoor hockey and lacrosse the U13 girls’ sporting squads showed what character and what depth of quality they have. Two magnificent wins in different sports in highly competitive tournaments was a stunning achievement. What a future!

Netball

The senior netball squad were superb – securing qualification from the extremely competitive Hertfordshire rounds, then again through the East Region. At the national finals at Sheffield the girls were excellent, winning all bar their last crucial game to make it to the semi-final, missing out by just the one goal. The competition was fierce and the top 16 schools in the land made it a highly competitive experience, but the girls showed that they are right up there with the very best there is.

Swimming

The girls’ squad made it to the national final for the second year in a row to defend their title from 2024! It was a tense affair and finishing 8th in the land is superb. The boys had never qualified for the final before and to finish 4th was incredible, albeit tough to just be pipped to the podium.

Boys’ hockey

U18 boys backed up their U16 title from last year by making it to Nottingham again. The day was tough and with a squad all bar one of whom return next year makes it a mouthwatering prospect in 2026.

Girls’ Cricket: National Podium Success

• U17 National T20 Cup Finals:
  Our U17 girls’ cricket team made history by reaching the finals at the stunning Arundel Castle, competing as one of the last four schools standing nationwide. After a challenging cup run with victories over Framlingham and Marlborough, the girls finished with bronze medals and are now officially ranked 3rd in the country—a phenomenal accomplishment.
• U18 Girls’ Cricket Hundred Nationals Plate:
  The girls added to their accolades with a silver medal in the U18 Hundred nationals plate, demonstrating their prowess and consistency at the highest level.

Boys’ Cricket: Unbeaten Champions

• 2nd XI Boys’ Cricket:
  The boys’ 2nd XI capped off a perfect season, finishing top of the national rankings for school 2nd XI cricket teams after an unbroken run of 11 wins from 11 matches against other schools.

Golf: National Plate Champions

• National Finals, Oxfordshire:
  Out of 92 schools, only 8 reached the finals, and ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ’s team—Matt, Rohit, Tejas, Arjun, Fin, and JJ rose to the occasion. They delivered a series of outstanding performances, only losing to the eventual champions Reeds by the thinnest of margins on the final green, and going on to defeat, Eton, and Wellington to become National Plate Champions and secure a 5th place national ranking.

“I could not be prouder of everything our pupils have achieved in sport over the past 12 months. From individual milestones to team triumphs, it has been a year filled with dedication, passion and true ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ spirit. Just as crucial as national trophies has been the amazing depth of opportunities for all, with over 1250 fixtures over 20+ sports during the year.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has taken part in sport this year. I am also grateful to our outstanding team of coaches, whose hard work and support make these achievements possible. As we look ahead to the next 12 months, I do so with immense pride and excitement for what is to come.“

Andy Searson – Director of Sport

National Successes

A Message of Pride

These achievements are the result of hard work, commitment, and the unwavering support of our pupils, coaches, staff, and families. Every pupil who represented ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ this year should feel incredibly proud of their contribution to our sporting legacy.

Congratulations to all our athletes – your success inspires the whole school community. We look forward to building on these achievements and celebrating many more in the years ahead.

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²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Power Surge made school history by competing in our first-ever Vex World Championships in Dallas, Texas.

Five talented Lower School 2 pupils travelled to the USA, proudly flying the ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ flag as they competed in the thrilling Spirit Division.

Over three action-packed days, our team showcased incredible determination, teamwork and technical skill, navigating the highs and lows of international competition to achieve a commendable mid-table finish. It was a proud moment as all five team members were present and had an unforgettable experience representing the UK at the vibrant opening ceremony. A special shoutout to Charlie (LS2), who had the amazing honour of carrying the UK flag – what a moment to remember!

The team also attended the closing ceremony and witnessed the exciting announcement of the 2025/26 game of Mix and Match.

Looking ahead, the future of robotics at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ is brighter than ever. Next season, we will expand to four competitive teams, plus two new Middles teams preparing to take on Push Back and the V5 metals challenges. The ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ VEX programme is going from strength to strength!

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The Lower School production of Great Expectations was an roaring success, playing to sold-out audiences, and it’s safe to say that Dickens’ classic was thoroughly reimagined.

The creative team built in last-minute choreography, injecting energy and nuance into key scenes, while over
200 sound cues and 100 lighting cues kept the technical crew on their toes. The cast members were also the first to make use of the newly renovated backstage area.

Highfield Boarders enjoyed a special sneak preview on Wednesday evening, and the following performances were a tremendous success, with both cast and audience enjoying every moment of the performance.

Taking on a sprawling tale that many remember in monochrome, the pupils brought colour and playfulness to the fore, with iconic scenes conjured from fabric and paddle steamers that were really tables. With five Pips, three Estellas, and a company of energetic performers, this was Great Expectations as you’ve never seen it before!

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The trip, which catered to all abilities from complete beginners to seasoned skiers, was a resounding success, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories of fun, friendship, and snowy slopes.

The group stayed at the welcoming Hotel Jam Session, located conveniently at the foot of the slopes. With its ski-in, ski-out access, pupils could step straight onto the snow each morning and return effortlessly after their lessons. The hotel’s cosy atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine provided the perfect setting for relaxation after action-packed days on the mountain.

Each day began with hearty breakfasts to fuel the pupils for their ski lessons which took place in the morning and in the afternoon. Grouped by ability levels, everyone had the chance to improve their skills under the guidance of expert instructors.

The fun didn’t stop when the skiing ended! Evenings were filled with a variety of activities both at the hotel and in the charming village of Les Deux Alpes. From games night and quizzes to Laser Tag, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

The trip was more than just a skiing holiday—it was an opportunity for pupils to bond with friends, challenge themselves, and create lasting memories. From conquering new skiing skills to enjoying hot chocolate with friends after a day on the slopes, every moment was cherished.

A big thank you goes out to the staff who organised and supervised the trip, making it such a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved. Here’s to many more adventures in the future!

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