Sport

A Student’s View on Sports at King’s Ely School

Within the community of King’s Ely School, the sports program stands as a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering a balanced and inclusive atmosphere for all students, regardless of their interest or skill level in sports. This program is a crucial part of our school life, blending the joy of casual participation with the rigor of elite performance.

Major Sports and Facilities

At King’s Ely, each term is highlighted by designated major sports that start from Year 3, ensuring that students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of athletic pursuits as they progress through the school. For boys, Rugby Union in the Michaelmas Term, Association Football and Hockey in the Lent Term, and Cricket in the Summer Term form the core sports. Girls are encouraged to participate in Hockey during Michaelmas, Netball during Lent, and both Cricket and Tennis in the Summer Term. Additionally, rowing holds a special place in our athletic offerings, accessible to all pupils from Year 8 and available as a games option throughout the year.

Our facilities, which include an artificial turf pitch, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a sports hall, and numerous outdoor pitches, are first-class and play a significant role in our sports program. The school’s location also offers one of the best stretches of river for rowing in the UK, a fact we’re particularly proud of.

Specialist Coaching and Support

King’s Ely is dedicated to providing specialized coaching for students aiming for elite levels in sports. This support extends beyond school sports, assisting students who pursue athletic endeavors outside school, many of whom have represented their counties, regions, and even their country. Our alumni include notable figures such as Olympic javelinist Goldie Sayers and Premier League and England goalkeeper Nick Pope, inspiring us to reach for similar heights.

Extracurricular Activities and Achievements

The range of extracurricular activities in sports at King’s Ely is vast, covering aerobics, badminton, cricket, dance, equestrian, golf, hockey, netball, rowing, rugby, tennis, and more. Our teams and individual students often represent not just the school but also the county in various sports, achieving remarkable successes in areas like show jumping, football, and cross-country running.

Partnerships and Programs

Our school’s partnership with the Regional Development Programme (RDP) has been extended, enriching our sports program with sessions that cater to a broad spectrum of interests and skill levels, from Mini Kicker sessions to Soccer Skills Centres and Player Development Centres.

Academic Integration

Physical education is seamlessly integrated into our curriculum, ensuring that all students benefit from high-quality instruction in PE, Games, and Dance from specialist teachers. The availability of after-school clubs further enriches our opportunities to engage in and learn about various sports.

Recent and Upcoming Events

Our sports calendar is always bustling with events, matches, and competitions. Recent highlights include victories and challenging matches against other schools. Looking ahead, we anticipate participating in rowing competitions, national golf tournaments, and athletics meets, events that not only challenge us but also bring us together as a community.

In conclusion, the sports environment at King’s Ely School is dynamic and supportive, characterized by outstanding facilities, professional coaching, and a holistic approach to student development in sports. This inclusive and ambitious atmosphere encourages us all to strive for excellence while enjoying the camaraderie and challenges that come with athletic participation.