Recognising the physical and mental value of sport Rob Kift Director of Sport, Hurst College
The physical and mental wellbeing
continue to develop when they leave
to become élite performers. And sport
of pupils is central to a boarding
school. Hurst also offers a unique
for all not only includes a school’s
school’s sports offering. Sport is a
player welfare programme, with
own pupils but also other schools and
crucial part of boarding school life.
qualified physiotherapists who triage
organisations in the local community.
It provides a healthy and active
and monitor injuries and support
With excellent facilities and a
lifestyle, promotes good physical and
rehabilitation, as well as providing
sustained programme of development,
mental wellbeing, teaches teamwork
pitch-side cover on match days. Pupils
many boarding schools have the
and leadership skills, and develops
also benefit from clinic time and
capacity to host major sporting events.
resilience, determination and many
rehabilitation during the week. This
For example, Hurst created the Sussex
other important life skills.
forms part of the college’s wellbeing
Independent School Diamond League
programme which includes strength
Athletics Programme, one of many
All independent schools aim to create
and conditioning, sports analysis and
community initiatives which have
an activity diet that engages all pupils
individual mentoring.
proved popular. The college has also forged strong links with maintained
in an enjoyable, challenging and meaningful way, through traditional team sports, individual sports and outdoor pursuits – encouraging them to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. Through these activities pupils learn important life skills and often choose at least one sport they wish to
SPORT FOR ALL Another key element for a boarding school is the importance of sport for all. All pupils should be given equal opportunities to be involved in sport – pupils who simply want to participate just as much as pupils who are or aim
schools by hosting development days, as well as being a hub for Surrey Storm Netball South and Sussex County Cricket academies, a feeder for the Harlequins Rugby Development Programme and the base for Sussex Hockey. As with many boarding