Honouring
The Oakhamian
Magazine Editor
Rachel Fairweather rf2@oakham.rutland.sch.uk
Thank you to everyone who contributed articles and photographs, plus their time and expertise, to create this edition.
Art Director
Sam Bowles
Designers
Kate Kusztal
Ariana Marrin-Cleal
Printed by
David Hall
Harvest Communications
Whether you are reading this issue of The Oakhamian online or holding it in print, I hope you enjoy reliving the highlights of the 2024-25 academic year. Each edition is a challenge to curate: how do you distil a year of achievements, events, and memories into a hundred or so pages? Yet within these pages I truly remarkable and productive year at Oakham. academic year, I couldn’t resist including a few pieces of recent news and photographs that is Armistice Day 2025, when the entire School community gathered outside the Chapel in an Act of Remembrance. As we mark the Chapel’s an image from this important event. I also encourage you to explore the feature in the Old Oakhamian magazine (page 32), which tells the story of the Chapel’s construction, shares alumni memories, and includes a heartfelt tribute from our Chaplain, Fr Tim Tregunno.
Another piece of news worth celebrating is the outstanding achievement of our Careers Department, which has been recognised with the Independent School of the Year Award for Best Careers Programme. You can read more about this accolade on page 9 and pages 18–21.
This edition also shines a spotlight on our thriving Art and Design Department. Discover why Art remains one of Oakham’s most popular subjects, learn how it inspires students to pursue Art-related courses at university (pages 22–25), and enjoy a showcase of their creativity (pages 28–31).
Our cover story explores how Adventure – with a capital A – shapes the Oakham journey. From the new Form 2 Adventure Camp on the Jurassic Coast to the redesigned Form 3 Camp, now part of the Bronze DofE Qualifying Expedition, every year group experiences the joys and challenges
of outdoor learning, to develop skills for life. The Trips and Activities section captures the breadth of learning beyond the classroom, with pages 55–66 focusing on how adventure enriches every stage of School life.
Finally, alongside alumni news and stories, this issue of the Old Oakhamian magazine introduces
future generations. Pages 26–27 outline plans for a new two-storey gym, integrated into the existing sports centre. Pages 28–29 detail the transformation of Old School into a Performing Arts venue for the whole community. And thanks to generous sponsorship, pupils in Forms 1–3 are building and racing go-karts as part of their STEM on Track activity (pages 30–31).
As you turn these pages, I hope you are reminded not only of the achievements of the past year but also of the spirit that makes Oakham such a vibrant community.
Best wishes, Rachel
and change, community, service, and the joy of education as he prepares to pass on the
Introducing Oakham’s new Chair of Trustees, glowing recognition from Tatler and The Good Schools Guide, plus a national Careers Award.
A look back at some of our School Community highlights of 2024–2025: our 2025 leavers, Lower School Prize Giving, and Lower School
Exam
Cover story: Oakham’s Journey of
trips, VA, CCF, and DofE.
Middle/Upper School Sports Day, news from Oakham’s Houses, chaplaincy and charity events from the year.
Sports team reports and highlights from the year and Sports Colours.
Performing Arts 67 Community 49 Trips and Activities 87 Sport
It was wonderful to commemorate Remembrance as One School, with together outside on the Chapel Close site, and the buglers playing from the Round House balcony. It is always a powerful ritual connecting the past, present, and future.
Inhis final Speech Day address as Chair of Trustees, Professor Gorman said that the transition from one Chair to another should be ‘a seamless and low-key event’. To illustrate this, he recalled the retirement of the cricket commentator John Arlott, whose final words on air were simply, “the next voice you will hear is Trevor Bailey and then it is Christopher Martin Jenkins”. And that was it.
I would suggest that schools seamlessly manage transition every year; pupils move up or move on; new pupils and families join. Like many organisations, schools need a balance of continuity and change. Stability and familiarity are important and reassuring, but evolution is vital. It is a feature of Oakham’s strong community that there are committed families, as well as long-serving colleagues and dedicated Trustees, who all contribute to the success of the School. Oakham has an enviable mix of pupils and colleagues who all shape the School and are in turn shaped by it, making a contribution to each other’s understanding, development and success.
As I write, interviews for my successor are concluding, and the feeling that I will soon be passing on the Torch has tingled for the first time. A new Chair and a new Head in consecutive years is an exciting opportunity for freshness, with an ongoing dynamism and desire to innovate, building on the holistic and grounded ethos that permeates the School.
Almost a year since the Government’s decision to impose VAT on school fees, we must no longer allow this to dominate the narrative. We need to accept that this has happened, which does not mean we accept it is right. As I said on Speech Day, it is a destructive, dishonest and divisive policy, dubious economically, educationally damaging, and detrimental to our global reputation.
The truth is that universities, state, and independent schools are all feeling the pressures of cost, but we must all be constructive and confident in articulating the timeless and invaluable power and purpose of education. Oakham and the Independent Sector can be confident in how we continue to shape young people who serve society and the value we add academically, culturally and socially, through all we do in and out of the classroom and the support and care that is invested into this.
Amidst the undoubted pressure, parents and schools must articulate more than ever the contribution they make. Not only do we provide a worldleading education, which continues to be exported and mimicked across the world, but we do so whilst adding value to the educational and economic ecosystem of the UK. In addition to the partnerships, life-changing bursaries and ongoing interaction with our local community, the Independent Sector now contributes even more financially, through higher National Insurance, Business Rates and now through VAT, as well as the places untaken in the Maintained Sector. For all of us who care about education in every form, we can only hope that this extra money, as part of a new deal with the Independent Sector, is used wisely.
In a year when we celebrate the Centenary of the Chapel, continuity, change, contribution, and community all resonate. It was wonderful to commemorate Remembrance as One School, with all staff and pupils together outside on the Chapel Close site, and the buglers playing from the Round House balcony. It is always a powerful ritual connecting the past,
present, and future. The Chapel itself embodies that connection, bringing us together as a community each week. At times, it is a place where we take comfort in sad moments, but it is also a place of music and celebration, with concerts, assemblies and more. Leavers’ Chapel is one of my favourite occasions of the year, as pupils make their transition from School and become Old Oakhamians.
We also began the year gathered as one in a marquee to hear from our new Chair of Trustees, Geraint Davies, to be together, to reflect on the end of the previous year, and also to look ahead to the coming term. I was proud to highlight our excellent summer examination results and point to the remarkable array of events and activties leading up to Christmas. Even this magazine cannot capture it all, but we should not take for granted everything the pupils do. In Drama, there is a Main School Production, the Macfadyen Shield Dance and Drama Competition, Dance Showcases, and Speak the Speech. Our teams compete up and down the country, week in week out, in regular fixtures, as well as Tier 1 Hockey, the Merchiston Castle Rugby Festival and various other cups and competitions. Musicians practise and perform in informal concerts, lunchtime recitals, major concerts, and external competitions.
A particular highlight of the music calendar this term was a professional concert with the Ikon Singers conducted by David Hill and including a guest appearance from Sir John Rutter, in the week of his eightieth birthday. This was a real treat for all who attended.
The reality and spirit of service have also been in evidence, not only over Service Weekend, but throughout the term with charity events and our ongoing support for the Matt Hampson Foundation, Voluntary Action Rutland, and a developing partnership with The Rutland Learning Trust. Pupils do not only learn in school, but are regularly travelling within and outside the UK, to Bologna, Belfast, Bath and beyond to be culturally and academically enriched. This is in addition to the weekly Torch Lectures, which see leading external speakers, as well as internal presentations from pupils and staff
What is still harder to capture is the extra support, rehearsals, and training sessions that constantly occur. It is impossible to quantify the care and communication between adults and pupils, challenging and supporting them as they grow into the best version of themselves. Nor should we underestimate the simple fun and the social side of school, which is more than entertainment, but a key part of connection, putting phones aside and building social skills, friendships, and confidence. The Dinners, Film evenings, Deliveroo Chapels in Boarding Houses, Boarders BBQs, Curry Nights, Film Nights, Bonfire Night, Laser Tag and Bowling, all rounded off by candlelit Christmas Carols and Christmas Suppers.
I will be sorry to pass on the Torch at the end of the year but will forever remain an advocate for the School. I know that my successor will have a wonderful and willing community to join and shape in the years ahead. As I prepare for my own transition, I will keep in mind the words to me from my former Headmaster (Sir Eric Anderson) – “Do not let educational bureaucracy bury the two great truths; that education should be a joyous thing, and it is the boys and girls that truly matter.”
Quasi Cursores
Henry Price Headmaster
We’re proud to share a collection of exciting highlights – from the appointment of our new Chair of Trustees to glowing recognition from Tatler and The Good Schools Guide, plus a national Careers Award – all celebrating Oakham School’s dedication to excellence in education and student development.
In May we were delighted to announce the appointment of Geraint Davies as our new Chair of Trustees. Mr Davies is Chairperson and Head of Dispute Resolution at Howes Percival and takes over from Professor Neil Gorman following over a decade of dedicated service to the School.
“It’s a real honour to step into this role,” said Geraint. “As a parent, I’ve seen first-hand how Oakham empowers young people – not just academically but in every part of their development. My boys thrived here, gaining the confidence, character and skills they need to succeed in life. I’m thrilled to now give back to the community that gave my family so much.”
We’re honoured to be featured in the prestigious Tatler Schools Guide 2026, which commends Oakham for its vibrant and inclusive community and its truly holistic approach to education.
In addition to our glowing review in The Good Schools Guide, we were honoured to be named one of the Top 8 Hockey Schools in the UK in September 2025. The GSG team highlighted our year-round indoor and outdoor hockey programme, outstanding success in the Tier 1 National Competition, state-ofthe-art facilities, tailored coaching, and impressive hockey alumni as key reasons for this recognition.
Our
With thoughtful leadership, down-to-earth charm and a huge range of opportunities on education that sets pupils up for bright futures.
Rigorous academics, toptier sports and a rival the West End.
Oakham
School provides a truly holistic education to a vibrant and inclusive community of children.
We were thrilled to be named winner of the Student Careers Programme category in the prestigious Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2025. The accolade recognises the School’s outstanding commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom, with judges praising its “breadth of ambition” and the way skills development is seamlessly woven into the timetable.
Central to Oakham’s success is our dynamic careers and post-school support programme, led by Dr Rachael Pearson, Head of Careers and Progression. A THE-accredited Counsellor and NICEC Fellow, Dr Pearson and her team provide tailored guidance across all post-school pathways, from apprenticeships to Oxbridge and international universities. All routes are promoted equally, ensuring every pupil receives the support they need to pursue their ambitions.
What impressed the judges was how Careers education is embedded within Oakham School’s Connected Curriculum, our innovative framework that tracks skills development across all areas of school life – academic, co-curricular and pastoral – with pupils regularly reflecting on how their Thinking, Communication, Research, Self-management and Social skills evolve over time.
In 2024–25, Oakham continued to innovate, hosting events like the Higher Education Day with 30 global institutions and expanding alumni networking opportunities in London. Dr Pearson’s thought leadership, including a published article on UCAS changes, further underscores the School’s forwardthinking approach.
This award is a testament to Oakham’s unwavering dedication to equipping students with the skills, confidence, and connections to thrive in a changing world.
Oakham's students receiving specialist careers advice at the wide range of events that the Careers Department hold every year:
All routes are promoted equally, ensuring every pupil receives the support they need to pursue their ambitions.
At the end of the Summer Term, the class of 2025, with their parents and supporters, returned to School for a joyful three-day celebration marking the end of their school journey – a fitting farewell to their time at Oakham.
Festivities began on Thursday evening with the muchanticipated Big Band concert, where Form 7 students took centre stage in a showcase of vocal and instrumental talent. The energy and emotion set the tone for the days ahead. Friday was a celebration of creativity and achievement. The DT and Art exhibition highlighted the impressive work produced by pupils, while Sports Colours recognised outstanding contributions and commitment across the year. The afternoon featured a special end-of-year Drama performance in the QET, followed by a moving Leavers’ Concert in Chapel that reflected the spirit and camaraderie of the year group.
Saturday brought a sense of tradition and reflection. The day began with the Leavers’ Chapel service, followed by the Middle and Upper School prize-giving ceremony in the marquee on Doncaster Close. The ceremony was a fitting celebration of achievement and transition. Alongside the awarding of prizes, guests enjoyed speeches from outgoing Chair of Trustees Professor Neil Gorman, Headmaster Henry Price, and a highly entertaining address from Heads of School Bella and Dozie. Form 7 families then enjoyed relaxed picnics on the Round House lawn and in the School House quad, whilst pupils in other year groups celebrated the end of term in their Houses. The celebrations culminated in the Leavers’ Ball – a glamorous evening in the beautifully transformed marquee with drinks reception, four-course dinner, The Greatest Showman themed entertainment, and dancing. It was a weekend filled with laughter, music, creativity, and heartfelt goodbyes – an unforgettable send-off for a remarkable year group.
Oakham School’s Chapel was the beautiful setting for this year’s Lower School Prize Giving – a joyful celebration of our youngest Oakhamians and their many achievements.
The ceremony featured uplifting performances from the Lower School Choir and a spirited LAMDA duologue, showcasing the confidence and creativity of our pupils. Prizes were awarded across academic, co-curricular, and community categories, recognising the breadth of talent and commitment within the Lower School.
A highlight of the event was the traditional Form 2 graduation, where pupils received commemorative House mugs to mark their transition to the Middle School – a moment filled with pride and anticipation for the journey ahead. The occasion also marked fond farewells to Malcolm Fairweather and Wendy Singhal, much-loved HMs of Peterborough and Lincoln Houses. As well as saying thank you and farewell to outgoing Chair of Trustees Professor Neil Gorman, we warmly welcomed Geraint Davies as his successor. Although the hot weather led to the postponement of Lower School Sports Day, families gathered on Doncaster Close for a relaxed picnic lunch while enjoying cricket fixtures. The Sports Day itself took place on the final day of term, with Lincoln and Peterborough Houses claiming well-earned victories.
RESULTS | SUCCESS STORIES | CAREERS SPOTLIGHT ON ART | DT | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS
We celebrate the results headlines and individual success stories of our students in their 2025 public exams.
Average point score of 34.1 compared with the worldwide average of 30.58
7 pupils achieved 40 or more points (equivalent to 4 A*s at A-level).
Overall 47% of all exams taken (at A-level, BTEC, or in the IB Diploma) were awarded A* or A grades or equivalent (66% A*–B)
• Overall 99% pass rate.
• 29 students achieved straight A*/A grades (or equivalent).
• A*-A grades: 45%
• A*-B grades: 70%
• 23% of all grades were A*
In Sports Science 100% of students and in Business 80% of students achieved Distinction* or Distinction – A*/A grades – the top two grades possible.
1 pupil achieved the maximum 45 points placing her in the top percentage of IB pupils, while another scored an incredible 44 points.
Lena, who achieved a perfect score of 45 points in the IB Diploma, is going to read Geography at St John’s College, Cambridge. Evie, who achieved three A*s in A-level French, English and Music is going to study French at Merton College, Oxford, where she will also be a Choral Scholar.
It’s been an impressive year for Art and Design with four students gaining 100% in their A-levels and 80% of candidates gaining straight A*/As in either A-level Art or Critical and Contextual Studies. 14 leavers are studying specialist Art and Design courses. Read more in our Spotlight on Art on pages 22-25.
Three of our most prolific musical theatre stars are studying at top universities after achieving excellent A-level results. Lily and Adam are at Durham studying History and PPE respectively. Meanwhile Eloise is studying Medicine and Surgery at Newcastle.
Rosie, who achieved 44 points in the IB Diploma is studying Natural Sciences at Durham. Douwe who was awarded 43 points is studying Medicine and Surgery at Newcastle University, and Ruth who was awarded 43 points is also planning to study Medicine in Germany next year.
Six leavers are studying specialist Engineering courses after successfully completing their academic studies, including Andy and Nathan who are both studying at Imperial after achieving A*A*BB and A*A*A*A respectively in their A-levels.
Fergus is studying Maths and Computer Science at Bath University after gaining four A*s in A-level Maths, Further Maths, Computer Science, and Physics. Steven is studying Economics at LSE after achieving four A*s in A-level Maths, Further Maths, Economics, and Physics.
Continuing the Engineering theme, Adam is studying a Dyson employer-sponsored degree after achieving A*A*A*B in his A-levels.
Salome is studying at Ivy League University of Pennsylvania after achieving an impressive 38 points in the IB Diploma.
Also studying at overseas universities are:
Students received over 700 from UK Universities and over from overseas Universities
30
Wide-ranging Work Experience fashion, parliament, politics, physiotherapy and surgery
In 2024-2025, our award-winning Careers Department delivered an exceptional year of guidance, opportunity, and inspiration. Here’s a snapshot of the careersrelated activity that shaped our students’ futures.
30 guided students at our annual Careers Fair
aged 15-18 attended our Sporting Futures evening to discover more about post-school sporting pathways
with alumni and professionals via our Graduate Recruitment Day, as well as for specialist Oxbridge and Medical Applications
– allowing students to connect with universities in Switzerland, Germany, Spain, the US and Canada
Commission’s US College Day and Medical Doorway’s International Clinical Course Conference
edited and improved
We hosted SAT tests for 25 for access to universities in the USA and Europe were hosted through evening Torch Lectures and careers events
Over 30
We hosted 6 specialist webinars for parents on topics including US applications, degree apprenticeships, and
30 International university reps and educational consultants visited the School at our Higher Education Fair in May
90% of our sixth form leavers are at the university of their choice
10% have chosen a gap year of travel, volunteering, work experience and apprenticeships
1 student is studying for a prestigious employer-sponsored degree with Dyson
1 Durham
2 Newcastle
3 = Exeter, Northumbria
5 = Leeds, Nottingham
7 = King’s College London, Oxford Brookes
9 = Bath, Sheffield, University of the Arts London
12 = Bristol, Edinburgh, Manchester, Nottingham Trent, York
Several students are at international universities, including University of Pennsylvania (Ivy League), Arizona State (USA), IE and ESADE (both Madrid), Bocconi (Milan), TU Eindhoven and Erasmus in the Netherlands, and Varna in Bulgaria.
With record exam results and consistently large numbers of students pursuing Art-related degrees, we delve into what makes the Art and Design Department such a creative powerhouse and why it remains one of the most popular and successful areas of study at Oakham School.
Oakham’s Art and Design Department is home to six purpose-built studios, each equipped with specialist facilities that support a wide range of creative disciplines – from 3D design and textiles to printmaking, sculpture and photography. These spaces are more than just classrooms; they are creative hubs where ideas take shape and skills are honed. Sixth Form pupils benefit from flexible access during study periods, allowing them to continue projects that require specialist tools or materials, seek additional guidance from staff, and immerse themselves in uninterrupted creative flow. With extended opening hours most evenings and availability on Saturday afternoons, the department ensures that inspiration has the time and space to flourish.
At the heart of the department is the Wheelhouse Gallery, an inspiring exhibition space where pupils can present their work to an audience, experiment with large-scale installations, and engage in the art of curation. It encourages them to think deeply about how their work is seen and understood, developing their confidence in visual storytelling and critical thinking.
Equally important as the physical resources is the culture that surrounds them. As Elinor Brass, Head of Art, explains, “The fact that the department offers a safe, supportive space for pupils is vital if we want to encourage creativity.” This nurturing environment empowers pupils to take risks, embrace experimentation, and grow as independent, imaginative thinkers.
At the heart of the Department is a philosophy rooted in freedom; freedom to explore, to experiment, and to express. From the very first lesson in the Lower School, pupils are immersed in a dynamic, hands-on curriculum that encourages curiosity and celebrates individuality. Director of Art, Elinor Brass, explains: “From the offset, we encourage pupils to explore a wide range of media and techniques. This breadth allows each pupil to experiment and develop their own unique visual language.”
“We champion experimentation over perfection. We believe that testing ideas, taking creative risks, and learning from mistakes are essential parts of the artistic journey. Rather than focusing on a single ‘correct’ outcome, we set open-ended challenges that invite personal interpretation. For example, in Form 1, pupils design and build shelters and are offered the same selection of 3D materials, yet each construction is entirely unique. These sculptures reflect individual creativity and help pupils build confidence in their decision-making and use of the materials.”
in the Lower School, pupils are immersed in a dynamic, hands-on curriculum that encourages curiosity and celebrates individuality.”
Oakham’s Art and Design Department is driven by a team of dedicated, practising artists who bring their own creative energy into the classroom. Their passion for the subject is infectious, and their commitment to nurturing each pupil’s potential is unwavering. Every pupil receives personalised guidance, with teachers taking the time to understand individual strengths, challenges, and artistic goals. This tailored support becomes especially impactful at exam level, where pupils benefit from extensive one-to-one mentoring. Our Art teachers and technicians go above and beyond, offering extra time, encouragement, and expert insight to help each young artist thrive. The result is a learning environment where pupils feel seen, supported, and empowered to take creative risks.
Elinor Brass explains: “It is significant that the teachers and technicians are all artists who continue to make their own work, and they are genuinely engaged and excited about teaching their subject. We are able to model creativity, showing our enthusiasm and approaches to art making. The Art staff are innovative and continuing to improve their own skills and approaches which means that the department is never static. Above all there is also a lot of joy and laughter.”
Oakham’s Art and Design curriculum offers a rich and varied journey through the creative disciplines, with opportunities for every year group to explore, develop, and specialise. In the Lower School, pupils are introduced to a wide range of materials and techniques – from 3D design and textiles to painting, printmaking, photography, collage, and diverse approaches to drawing – taught by two specialist teachers who rotate mid-year.
This early exposure lays a strong foundation for GCSE, where pupils can choose from three distinct pathways: 3D Design, Textile Design, and Fine Art. Studying 3D Design gives pupils the chance to explore architectural design, interior design, environmental/landscape design and sculpture. They study how form and space interact in the man-made environment. Using 3D modelling allows pupils to explore the properties of materials and how this determines the formal qualities of objects and spaces around us. Textile Design introduces the pupils to the expressive use of textiles through constructed textiles, batik, embroidery, creative garment construction, dyeing, printing, painting, applique and felting. Pupils get confident to use a sewing machine, building a skillset from which they can draw throughout the course. We also offer Fine Art, which allows the students to work across a range of techniques, including painting, drawing, printmaking, using photography, installation, and digital approaches. There is a wide range of work produced, from figurative to abstraction. In all the courses pupils are using digital approaches.
At A-level, these three specialisms continue, allowing students to refine their skills and artistic voice. Additional options at Sixth Form include Critical and Contextual Studies A-level – a hands-on Art History course focused on curation and visual analysis, and the Visual Arts IB, which blends practical exploration with reflective practice. Together, these offerings ensure that every pupil, regardless of their creative interests, has the opportunity to thrive and grow as an artist.
The Department offers a vibrant and evolving programme of enrichment activities that deepen pupils’ engagement with the subject and broaden their artistic perspective. Regular trips to galleries – both locally and nationally – are a key part of this experience, including a residential visit to Cambridge that allows Sixth Form students to immerse themselves in the city’s rich artistic and cultural landscape. Artist-led workshops bring fresh insight into the classroom, connecting pupils with professional practices and contemporary ideas. In the Upper School, life drawing sessions and expert talks further enrich the
experience, helping students refine their technical skills and develop a more nuanced appreciation of visual culture.
The department’s activity programme also opens up additional avenues for creativity. Pupils can take part in sessions focused on textiles for interiors, printmaking, portfolio development, sculpture, junk couture, and craft-based projects. These opportunities encourage experimentation, build confidence, and spark new ideas, ensuring that art-making at Oakham is not confined to lesson time, but is a dynamic, ongoing process that inspires pupils to explore, reflect, and grow.
The achievements of Oakham’s 2025 leavers in A-level Art and Critical and
100%
of students achieved A*-C grades
of students achieved straight A*/As
80% of students were awarded an A*
68%
Four students – Riya Hirani, Francesca Shapero, Isabelle Blythe, and Chelsea Wang – achieved a 100% overall in their Art course
Beyond Oakham, the department’s influence continues to shine.
It’s incredible how many pupils continue with a creative degree after Oakham.” says Elinor Brass. “This year alone, we have a student heading to the London College of Fashion to study Jewellery Design, two pupils pursuing Architecture at York and Central Saint Martins, one going to Chelsea School of Art for Fine Art, and another to Camberwell to study Illustration. Others are taking up places in Graphic Design, Textile Design, Interior
In addition, six pupils earned full marks in their coursework component, while four achieved 100% in the exam component across Art and CCS
Design, and Art Foundation courses. The range of destinations and disciplines reflects the strength of our department and the confidence pupils gain to follow their own creative path.”
Pictured below the 14 students from the Class of 2025 who are going to study Art-related university courses. From left to right: Christina Wang (Illustration at Camberwell), Asa Sheppard (Fine Art at Chelsea UAL), Isabelle Blythe
(Architecture at York), Mia Henderson (Interior Design at Northumbria University), Phoebe Pain (Textile Design at Nottingham Trent), Issy Cripps (Fashion Marketing at Manchester), Howie Parford (Art Foundation), Tari Mushonga (English Literature and Film at Birmingham), Victoria Wang (Culture, Media and Creative Industries at King’s College London), Leo Wu (Architecture at Central Saint Martins), Chelsea Wang (Fashion Jewellery at the London College of Fashion).
Our talented A-level artists showcased ambitious creations across Painting, Sculpture, and Textiles, while our IB Diploma Visual Arts students brought bold vision and depth to their final pieces.
The Critical and Contextual Studies (CSS) course centres on understanding and articulating thoughts about art. It aims to build confidence in expressing personal perspectives on visual imagery, with a special emphasis on curation, the art market, galleries, and museums, which are essential components of the art world.
Our GCSE students engaged in a wide array of personal projects, delving into areas such as printmaking, textiles, painting, and three-dimensional design. Their exploration spanned various fields, including architectural design, interior design, and sculpture, allowing them to develop a broad skill set and artistic perspective
The Form 3 Art projects are planned around Painting, Sculpture and Textiles, with an exciting range of approaches to give students the chance to make ambitious work.
Lower School artists enjoyed exploring a broad range of media and techniques over the course of the year.
3 4
My product secures players’ valuables with a dial lock, stores equipment and for injured players or substitutes. Its large wheels and ergonomic handle allow it to be easily transported on rough terrain, such as muddy rugby pitches.”
Protective Pet Feeder
My protective pet feeder features a motorised lid that opens automatically when a pet wearing a registered RFID tag approaches. This prevents other pets from accessing the food, promoting fair feeding and reducing stress during mealtimes.”
an individual during a bench press exercise by catching the barbell just before it reaches the user while still allowing for complete range of motion.”
My product not only supports the user by simulating natural sunlight with an intense LED light source, but the heating unit also warms up the base and textile coating, so that the user can then touch and hold it with their hands to feel the warmth as well.”
My product houses a launch monitor with a transparent protection screen. The launch monitor picks up data from the user hitting the ball and is protected by the screen, thereby ensuring safety from miss hits, especially by beginners. It also includes holder for emergency access.”
My product has a modular, collapsible frame for easier assembly and storage. It has an extendable desk surface to support one or two users. It contains pegboard-like modular work surfaces, drawers, cupboards and
My keyboard replaces the standard keyset with sign language gestures. It includes 26 voice recordings, so each key press plays the sound of the corresponding letter. This allows hearing children to easily and playfully learn signing.”
My product allows hockey players to train at home, as well as on the hockey pitch. The enable players to improve their shooting accuracy in a sport that can be very high speed and high intensity.”
“My product enables people with limited mobility to get out of unsupported seating, such as the middle part of a sofa, unaided. The fully adjustable frame is suitable for use on most sizes of sofa/armchair and the handles are ergonomically shaped to feel comfortable in the user’s hands.”
GCSE students worked on different design contextual challenges for their final products: accessories for enjoying spectator sports, food and drink on the go, and educational toys.
Inspired by an exciting visit to leading design firm Black+Blum in London, Form 6 DT students unleashed their creativity in a competition to design innovative picnic products. Organised by the DT Department and judged by Black+Blum co-founder Dan Black, the challenge showcased outstanding originality and design thinking. Congratulations to Harry, whose winning concept impressed with its flair and functionality.
Pupils across all year groups enjoyed a rich programme of cultural activities designed to bring French, German and Spanish to life. From theatre performances by the Onatti Theatre Company and food tastings to football-themed language workshops, these experiences helped deepen vocabulary, boost confidence, and spark enthusiasm for language learning in fun and engaging ways.
Showcase Oakham Talent
Oakham’s scientists made their mark in national competitions highlighting the dedication of our budding chemists. A team of Form 7 chemists impressed at the prestigious Cambridge Chemistry Race, securing 34th place out of 60 fiercely competitive teams. A team of Sixth Form scientists came 3rd out of 14 schools in the Rugby School Foxcroft quiz. Meanwhile, a team of Middle School pupils from Forms 3-5 represented the School at the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Top of the Bench Regional Final at the University of Derby, tackling a quiz, a practical challenge, and enjoying a forensic chemistry lecture.
Ollie won the Cambrige University Ethical Finance Society (CUEFS) Essay competition with his thought-provoking essay on ‘Can ethics be integrated into successful finance?’ and Steven earned a Highly Commended in the John Locke Institute Essay Competition for his essay on What is the optimal global population?
This year’s Torch Lectures continued to thrive, with every Sixth Form subject hosting two evening events that brought academic exploration to life. These lectures not only showcased subject-specific insights but also highlighted interdisciplinary connections, such as the collaborative Music and Psychology lecture exploring music’s emotional and physiological impact. A standout feature was the presence of visiting speakers, including several OOs who returned to share their expertise and inspire current students.
Form 6 pupils Thomas and Cameron and Lower 1 pupils Thomas and Amélie were crowned winners and runners-up in Oakham’s internal Politics Essay competition. The competition was generously sponsored and judged by Barrow Hepburn & Gale, official supplier of the iconic Red Box, adding a touch of Westminster gravitas to this academic achievement.
Oakham’s Model United Nations (MUN) delegates made their mark at several national and international conferences, showcasing sharp planning, diplomacy, and debate. A standout moment came at the Cheadle Hulme MUN Conference, where our talented team representing Ecuador triumphed with the prestigious Best Delegation award in the General Assembly.
In the same year that we celebrated 30 years of the Smallbone Library, three Form 7 pupils – Dan, Bella, and Chris – were appointed as Oakham School’s first ever Reading Ambassadors, playing a key role in promoting reading across the School. Their short film Just Six Minutes highlighted the wellbeing benefits of daily reading, and they supported a range of library events throughout the year, including Bookbuzz for Form 1, library lessons for Forms 1-3, and a special visit from a local primary school. Their efforts have helped foster a vibrant reading culture that continues to grow.
A record number of Lower School pupils proudly became published authors in The Beautiful Truth, a celebrated anthology showcasing the voices of young writers and celebrating creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling.
Oakhamians embraced global learning through exciting cultural exchanges. Eight Form 4 pupils spent six unforgettable weeks in Queensland, Australia, fully immersed in school life at Toowoomba Grammar School and Fairholme College. Meanwhile, two Form 6 students represented Oakham at the third NESS Conference in Prague, engaging in dynamic discussions on global issues with peers from across Europe.
Performing
The 2024-2025 academic year was packed with musical achievements, concerts, and competitions. Here we look at a few of the highlights over the past 12 months.
Oakham School’s Symphony Orchestra, Concert Band, Chamber Choir and Chapel Choir came together to produce a truly stunning evening of music at the annual Gala Concert on Sunday 23 March.
Held before an enthusiastic audience, the concert featured the Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and a massed choir and ensemble in a grand and unforgettable finale: Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana.
Under the baton of Steve Foster, the Concert Band opened the evening with three movements from Ernest Tomlinson’s Suite of English Folk Dances, capturing the vibrant spirit of traditional English melodies with energy and charm. The lively interplay between sections brought Dick’s Maggot, Hunt the Squirrel, and Nonesuch to life, setting a cheerful tone for the concert. This was followed by Alfred Reed’s Ballade, featuring George M on alto saxophone. George’s expressive interpretation of this lyrical work was both sensitive and commanding, his rich tone soaring above the ensemble with elegance. The Concert Band concluded their set with Frank Ticheli’s Shenandoah, a beautifully
textured arrangement that showcased their nuanced dynamics and evocative phrasing, drawing the audience into the haunting beauty of the folk melody.
The Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John Mountford, opened their programme with the first movement of Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto, featuring the exceptional Maya M as soloist. Maya’s performance was a masterclass in lyricism and control, effortlessly navigating the movement’s soaring melodies and intricate passages with both intimacy and power. The orchestra provided a sensitive and dynamic accompaniment, enhancing the movement’s cinematic beauty and folk-inspired rhythms. Following this, the orchestra delivered a dramatic and stirring account of Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, capturing the depth and intensity of Goethe’s tragic hero. Their precision and expressive contrasts highlighted the emotional weight of the piece, culminating in a triumphant conclusion.
The second half of the concert belonged to the massed choirs and instrumental ensemble in a resplendent performance of Carmina Burana. The combined forces of the Chapel Choir, Lower School Choir, and Oakham Choral Society created a thrillingly powerful sound under John Mountford’s direction. Evie H (soprano), Harry Jacques (tenor), and Alex Bower-Brown OO (baritone) delivered exceptional solo performances, each bringing character and expressiveness to Orff’s evocative settings of medieval poetry. From the dramatic opening and closing strains of O Fortuna, to the raucous revelry of In Taberna and the tender lyricism of Cour d’amours, the performance was a feast of rhythmic vitality and choral intensity.
The concert concluded in a blaze of sound, with the resounding final chorus bringing the audience to their feet in delighted applause. The evening was a testament to the skill, dedication, and passion of all involved, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Bravo to all our musicians for an extraordinary performance!
Written by John Mountford (Director of Music)
The Big Band’s annual summer concert in the Doncaster Close marquee wowed audiences with outstanding performances, showcasing the work of our wonderful instrumentalists and singers this year. It was, of course, my first one and I must say that I was incredibly impressed with the brilliantly tight band and polished soloists. The confidence and style were a complete delight to listen to and watch. There were so many beautiful moments, and the audience appreciation was really tangible.
Under the leadership of Steve Foster, the band performed two sets of classic jazz and swing hits, interspersed with stunning instrumental and vocal solos. A special mention to our singers (Eloise, Evie, Ffion, Lily, Halle, Olivia and Simi) and instrumental soloists (Freddie, George, Jason, Ryan, and Tomas) for their performances.
The evening is always hugely popular, and one which brings the whole school community together to celebrate our talented musicians here at Oakham. On a summery evening on the penultimate day of term, it made for a perfect way to finish Oakham’s concert calendar and conclude another fantastic year of music-making at the School.
Our weekly Music at Lunchtime series contained a wide selection of instrumental and vocal performances from Oakham School’s talented musicians. During the Spring Term this year, the lunchtime concerts moved from All Saints’ Church over to Chapel to allow an upgrade to the church’s lighting system. Special mention to our Form 7 students who have contributed so much to Oakham School Music. Their final performances as Oakhamians were impressive and highly polished. Congratulations and thank you to Evie B, Evie H, Freddie, Halle, Rosie, Maya, Daisy, Eloise, Francesca and Lily for some superb Music at Lunchtime recitals over the years.
On Monday 27th January, we held our annual Singing Competition. There was an impressive breadth of talent across the Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School, with participants performing in two distinct categories: Art Song and Musical Theatre. The event, adjudicated by David Revels, James Grimsey, and Louise Crane, highlighted the dedication and musicality of our young singers, who delivered performances ranging from classic art songs to iconic musical theatre numbers. Accompanists Ewan Stockwell, John Mountford, Cason Kang, and Inga Liukaityte provided sensitive and skilled support throughout the competition.
The Lower School performances began in the Bowes Room, with Safi R securing both the Art Song and Musical Theatre category wins. Georgia H was named runner-up in Musical Theatre, while Jemima W received a Highly Commended award. In the Middle School competition, Charlie P emerged as the winner of the Musical Theatre category, with Lander L as runner-up. The Art Song category was won by Holly P, with Poppy L taking second place.
The Upper School competition, held in the Chapel, saw exceptional performances across both categories. Lily R won the Musical Theatre category, with Eloise S as runner-up, while Tomas D took the top prize in Art Song, with Evie H in second place.
The overall winners of the competition were Charlie P for Musical Theatre and Evie H for Art Song, with Tomas D receiving the Promising Young Singer award.
Now in its fifteenth year, Oakham School’s annual Piano Duet Festival took place on the afternoon and evening of Thursday 13 March, under the direction of our inspiring and indefatigable Head of Piano, Anne Bolt. We were
The event, adjudicated by David Revels, James Grimsey, and Louise Crane, highlighted the dedication and musicality of our young singers, who delivered performances ranging from classic art songs to iconic musical theatre numbers.”
privileged to have Nicola Eimer from the Royal Academy of Music as our expert and supportive adjudicator, and she was full of praise for both the quality of the pupils’ performance and the teaching of our excellent piano faculty. Her insightful comments after each class (Lower, Intermediate and Upper Grades) offered great advice to our young pianists, as well as specific and positive feedback on every performance throughout.
Nicola was fulsome in her praise of all the performers, but some particularly outstanding performances were chosen on the day to be awarded prizes:
The highest plaudits went to the first, second and third prize winners in every class, and particular congratulations are due to class winners Jacob and Howie (Lower Grades), Ibti and Arushi (Intermediate Grades) and Evie and Halle (Higher Grades).
A huge thanks to Ms Bolt and our brilliant team of piano teachers for their encouragement and support of the pupils throughout the year, and congratulations again to all who took part and make the Piano Duet Festival one of the highlights of the Oakham School musical calendar each year.
The choral society enjoyed a wonderfully varied season, with three well-attended concerts in the Chapel. The first of these, directed by Mr Mountford, centred on a Christmas theme with music by Holst and Vaughan-Williams with soprano and baritone solos by pupils Evie and Tomas. The Spring Concert saw OCS combine with the School choirs in West Road Concert Hall, whilst the summer concert, directed by Mr Stockwell, was a celebration of folk songs by Edward MacDowell, interspersed with some beautiful music for violins, played by pupils Joshua and Lizzie. Mrs Holland (Head of Strings) also joined with the choir to perform Paul Drayton’s choral arrangement of Vaughan Williams’ Lark Ascending, which brought the audience to a spellbound silence.
The School’s acclaimed Chamber Choir made their annual visit to London on Thursday 27 February to perform in the Brandenburg Choral Festival. This year’s concert took them to Holy Sepulchre London, the National Musicians’ Church, where they were well received in 2024.
The programme featured two exquisite sets of motets, firstly O vos omnes, Versa est in luctum and O quam Gloriosam by Tomas Luis de Victoria and secondly Ubi caritas, Northern Lights and Sacred Heart by Ola Gjeilo. The deeply expressive polyphony of the Spanish Renaissance master Victoria contrasted beautifully with the sensitive and luminescent harmonies of contemporary composer Ola Gjeilo.
The programme concluded with Bob Chilcott’s Little Jazz Mass, with a groovy and stylish accompaniment from James (drums), Mr Graham (bass guitar) and Head of Piano, Ms Bolt.
The Oakham School Chapel was witness to some stunning concerts over the course of the academic year, showcasing the breadth of talent amongst Oakhamians. The first major concert was the Autumn Concert full of variety and excellence.
On a drizzly November evening, a large and eager audience awaited the first ensemble concert of the year. The Symphony Orchestra began with a striking set including works by Florence Price and Leonard Bernstein, contrasted with Mozart's Exultate Jubilate, featuring Evie H, who leapt up from leading the 2nd violins to sing the soprano solo with great flair. The Chamber Orchestra followed, directed by Emily Holland, with the beautiful Sinfonietta by Genzmer, in which the group showed off a beautiful variety of sonorities.
After the interval, Steve Foster took to the podium to conduct the Concert Band, who presented three movements of Tomlinson's Suite of English Folk Dances, followed by Albert Reed's Ballade for Solo Alto Saxophone played with skill and feeling by George M, accompanied by Cason Kang on the piano.
The Big Band ended the night with five toe-tapping numbers, including solos from Eddie N, Ottó, Prince and Jason. We were delighted to welcome back OO Archie Foster (trombone) on loan to us from the Royal College of Music; Lauren Taylor OO (cello) and to welcome our new Teacher of Music Gill Henshaw (clarinet) for her first concert at Oakham.
This year's House Singing competition was a vibrant and energetic celebration. With Houses embracing costumes, props, and choreographed dance moves, the week was filled with School spirit and a healthy sense of competition.
We also had the addition of House Ensembles, offering those with a passion for music the chance to showcase their skills. It was heartwarming to see all the Houses embrace the challenge of performing in smaller groups, working together with different instruments and ideas.
The final competition was fiercely contested. In the Boys' Houses, Clipsham claimed the top spot with a performance that delivered rousing singing and infectious enthusiasm. Among the Girls' Houses, Rushebrookes triumphed with a performance that combined spirited singing, playful dance moves, and an infectious sense of fun, ultimately earning them the title of overall winners.
Both their performances captured the spirit of the event, highlighting their enthusiasm, creativity, and a strong sense of teamwork.
House Singing 2025 will be remembered as a week where creativity took centre stage, and the joy of singing and making music brought the School community together.
Directed by Gilly Norell
Little Shop of Horrors electrified the stage in a dazzling whirlwind of colour, charisma, and musical mayhem, brought to life by the extraordinary talents of our Middle School performers.
From the very first note to the final bow, the cast illuminated Skid Row with energy, charm, and a dose of eerie fun. Standout performances included Seymour’s endearingly awkward charm (Charlie P) and Audrey’s tender, heartfelt presence (Poppy L)—both portrayed with remarkable depth and warmth beyond their years. The production was further elevated by the innovative set design, eyecatching costumes, and the impressively animated Audrey II, whose puppetry added an extra layer of theatrical magic. LittleShopofHorrors is not an easy production to pull off, but thanks to a brilliant blend of teamwork, creativity, and sheer dedication, our students managed to pull it off with flair and finesse. Huge congratulations to the entire cast and crew for delivering a performance that was as hilarious as it was haunting! I’ll think twice before I buy another Venus Flytrap… Written by Clarice Deakin
Audiences enjoyed a joyful and uplifting night in the QET as pupils of all ages showcased their talent and passion for dance.
Our end of year dance show was a vibrant celebration of talent and dedication featuring 39 students from Lower 1 to Form 7. The dancers worked exceptionally hard during rehearsals, and their love of dance was evident when performing. From powerful group routines to expressive solos, pupils captivated the audience with their passion and poise. The dancers were able to choreograph their own routines with their friends for the grand finale of a mash up of songs. The show included a variety of dance genres from hip-hop, lyrical and tap demonstrating a strong array of skills. “Million Dollar Bill”, and “Fields of Gold” were just a few of the hit songs that were included. Special mention must go to Isla for her beautifully lyrical contemporary dance number, and to Adam J who guested as a singer for “Beauty School Dropout”. Throughout there were explosive, exciting, extravagant and energetic tricks, kicks, and flips. The audience were on their feet at the end of what had proved to be as joyful and uplifting an evening as ever in the QET.Written by Megan Johnson
Directed by Gilly Norell
In December, the 40th anniversary of the QET was marked by a knockout performance of the deeply disturbing but equally entertaining Sweeney Todd.
... a special mention must go to the sensational Adam J, playing the title role of Sweeney, showing the depth of Sweeney’s dark and ever brooding despair."
From the set (with a purpose-built barber’s chair come body disposer, which saw Todd’s victims literally sliding down to their peril!) to the outstanding young actors, this Main School Production of Sweeney Todd was a sight to behold. Finlay M performed a fantastically mature interpretation of Judge Turpin, contrasted beautifully by the young lovers Joanna and Anthony, played by Eloise S/Esther M and Aidan R. Charlie P pulled at our heartstrings with his wonderfully youthful portrayal of Toby, making us both laugh and cry. Lander L stole the show with his hilarious yet unnerving portrayal of Pirelli, a character that I don’t think the audience will forget in a hurry! Mrs Lovett’s humorous mania was perfectly encapsulated by Bea C and Lily R, wowing the audience with their fantastic voices and comic timing. And of course, a special mention must go to the sensational Adam J, playing the title role of Sweeney, effortlessly showing the depth of Sweeney’s dark and ever brooding despair. However, no show is complete without an outstanding chorus, who in this case, were unwavering. They effectively portrayed a variety of characters: from outraged market goers to asylum dwellers, and to unfortunate customers. Without them, the show would not have been what it was, and I hope they know the value and shine they bring. Sweeney Todd was a show to remember and a performance which I’m sure I and countless others will remember for many years to come. Written Tabatha Pegg
H, and Phia P worked assurance always driving the story forward and various other characters who interacted with them."
Directed by David Norell
Kenneth Grahame’s delightful novel, adapted for the stage by Alan Bennett, was brought to life by a highly gifted company of Lower School players from Lower 1, Forms 1 and 2.
The stage of the QET played host to a charming set, replete with rowing boat, caravan, train, barge and, of course the essential motor car. Projections of cartoon-like-images enhanced the scenes, with evocative sound effects, music, and song – the stage was truly set for the cast of characters.
The pillars of this piece rest on the shoulders of Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad and these roles were in the secure hands of: Safi R, Georgia H, Ted H, and Phia P. It is to their great credit that they worked with confidence and assurance always driving the story forward and each being a firm anchor for the various other characters who interacted with them.
To highlight just some of the other wonderful characterisations, may I cite Annie W’s laconic Albert – an ancestor of Eeyore, perhaps, the mistreated Bargewoman of Charlotte S and Ella S, Martha L’s charming Gaoler’s Daughter, the resolute and corruptible Magistrate of Chloe D, the ever hopeful and hungry Otter portrayed by Henry W, the maniacal Train Driver of Clemmie L and Bella S, Sage F’s scheming and put-upon Washerwoman, and my favourite - the family of mice and in particular the performances of Amelie L and Lucy D.
The Wild Wooders were well led by the ambitious and despairing Chief Weasel of Ed J, and his hapless side-kick George A. All other animal and human parts were convincingly played by the following: Bea B, Maddy B, Juliet B, Annie C, Flo C, Romilly C, Emma C, Bea C, Milly D, Scarlett D-D, Charlotte D, Beau, F, Darcy F, Beth G, Albie H, Eva H, Martha H, Coco J, Ida L, George L, Raphael L-B, Monty M, Alova N, Ayush S, Isobel S, Dougie T, Theo V, Isabella W, Edie W, Aggy and Alice Y.
With so many fine players, and ever indulgent audiences, this quintessentially English idyll – will long remain with us – we who were there. Written by Roland de Vil
Directed by Gilly Norell
Oakham’s electrifying production of SIX captivated audiences from the very first note, delivering a show so powerful and polished it left theatregoers returning night after night.
The hype around Oakham’s performance of SIX was palpable as I went into the auditorium on opening night. I was familiar with the show having heard several of the numbers sung and seen some of the live show online but I had never seen the show live in its entirety. The set was simple but invoked a rock concert with a raised platform adorned with lights topped with a glitter clad throne, hardly something one would expect to see in a musical about Henry the Eighth and his six wives but SIX is way more than an historical documentary…
The crowd hushed as the lights dimmed and the show started slowly, building tension, before suddenly exploding into life. Right from the first song I was stunned by the cast’s vocal and physical performances – so polished, they rivalled professional theatre.
The opening night cast featured: Tarisai M as Catherine of Aragon, Esther M as Anne Boleyn, Beatrice C as Jane Seymour, Jessie H as Anne of Cleves, Lily R as Catherine Howard and Madeleine C as Catherine Parr. Each performer captured their respective queen beautifully. Tarisai was commanding and confident, Esther, playful and immature, Beatrice was stoic and sincere, Jessie was sassy and victorious, Lily was powerful and damaged, and Madeleine was thoughtful and full of soul. Their solo songs were captivating, and the ensemble work and choreography were sharp and brilliantly executed.
I loved the show and was far from alone, the crowd cheered and screamed after each song as the lighting, costume and choreography amplified the show beyond anything I was expecting in a school theatre. I knew I had to come back and watch Tilly G as Catherine Parr on the second night; she was brilliant, capturing the same character of Parr but with her own unique twist.
I found out that Jessie and Madeleine were much younger than the other performers and I think that they should be commended for performing at a similar level to their older cast members. The whole show was so outstanding, I struggle to pick a single moment that stood out to me, as it was all thoroughly enjoyable. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I went to every, single, night! Thank you, girls, I shall be back to the QET at the earliest opportunity. Written by Ricky J Bag
Safi Ross Form 2
In
Grade
Grade 2 8 pupils
Grade 3 6 pupils
Grade 4 3 pupils
Grade 5 9 pupils
Grade 2 4 pupils
Grade 4 8 pupils
Grade 5 11 pupils Special
Madeleine Cartwright Form 4
Isabel Hurst Form 4
Sara Mir Form 4
Georgia Howett Form 2
Evie Holder Form 7 Singing ARSM Distinction
Maya Mbogo Form 7 Violin ARSM Distinction
Nicola Chotrani Form 5 Violin ARSM Distinction
Joshua Lai Form 4 Violin ARSM Distinction
Evie Brammer Form 6 Singing 8 Distinction
Tomas Dickinson Form 6 Piano 8 Distinction
Tomas Dickinson Form 6 Singing for Musical Theatre 8 Distinction
Rosie Johnson Form 7 Piano 8 Merit
Eloise Snape Form 7 Singing for Musical Theatre 8 Merit
Isabelle White Form 4 Piano 8 Merit
Maya Mbogo Form 7 Piano 8 Pass
Francesca Shapero Form 7 Guitar 8 Pass
Shonali Banerjee Form 6 Flute 7 Distinction
Prince Bharaj Form 3 Piano 7 Merit
Prince Bharaj Form 3 Tenor Saxophone 6 Distinction
Poppy Lovelace Form 4 Singing 6 Distinction
Isabelle White
ADVENTURE CAMPS & EXPEDITIONS | SERVICE & VOLUNTEERING
The Biology and ESS trip to Malaysia
Once again Oakhamians have travelled within the UK and overseas to deepen their knowledge and develop learning and skills beyond the classroom.
History on our doorstep at Burghley House
Classics brought to life in Bath…
… and the British Museum in London
Computers and Code Breaking at Bletchley Park’s National Museum of Computing
Sixth Form Economists experienced
Culture and Christmas markets in Cologne
Geographers explored the volcano rich Azores
Read more on page 54.
Athletes improved their golf and tennis skills in Portugal
CCF cadets rose to the challenge on their Gold DofE expedition to Norway
Read more on page 66.
MUN delegates tackled global challenges in the Netherlands
Form 3 paid a moving visit of northern France
witnessed history and heritage in Berlin and
Divers and budding conservationists travelled to Malaysia to build a coral reef
Read more on page
Pupils from Form Lower 1 to Form 7 enjoyed sunny skies and perfect pistes while skiing in Italy
Written by Lydia Dunbavand (Teacher of Biology)
Oakham School last visited Tioman island in 2006 under the leadership of Dr John Cheverton, former Head of Biology. Since then, the coral reef has deteriorated due to a number of global and local factors. We heard about a coral reef restoration project which was taking place at the resort that Oakham had previously visited and contacted Ecofieldtrips to see if Oakham could get involved.
The result was this summer’s trip with 13 pupils from Forms 5 and 6. They began the work to build the “Oakham Reef” – an artificial reef seeded with local coral. The pupils were able to see how other such reefs had grown in a short time and the resulting increase in marine life in the area. This was coupled with rainforest trekking, snorkelling, cleaning up mangroves of plastic debris as well as three days’ scuba diving.
We hope to return to Tioman in 2027 to continue the important work on the Oakham Reef started by this group of pupils. Below are extracts from the pupils’ blog.
Wildlife Encounters & Mangrove Mayhem
After seeing dolphins on the way to our first snorkel site, we went to the mangroves to clear all the plastic rubbish. Aside from Mimi’s encounter with a huge spider, we also saw baby black tip reef sharks. Later we saw parrot fish and lots of coral, then spotted sting rays, a hawksbill sea turtle, and rabbit fish. We ended the day with a BBQ and we roasted marshmallows on the beach.
Island Bound: Journey to Tioman
We woke up at 4.30am, jumped on a bus to the port and boarded the ferry to Tioman Island. The scenery was stunning and it was really cool to see monkeys along the road. A hot trek led to air-conditioned rooms. After lunch, we snorkelled, comparing dead and alive corals, exploring the beach edge which sat right outside our rooms!
Building the Oakham Reef
Today was a proper frolic around Tioman Island, beginning damp after a thunderstorm at 4am. After breakfast we attached pieces of coral to star frames, then snorkelled out to deploy them, creating our OAKHAM SCHOOL REEF. We later sped to the Asah Waterfall , a magnificent oasis in the middle of a dense primary rainforest.
Day 5 in paradise began with noodles and watermelon before our third dive at Fan Canyon, full of fan corals and rocks that created small valleys full of beautiful corals and sponges that we enthusiastically pointed out to our dive buddies. We took a short boat ride to Batu Malang ‘unfortunate rock’ and saw squid swimming speedily and seven nudibranchs with eggs resembling cute slugs.
Today included the best snorkelling and dives of the trip at Sepoi and Labas, seeing all the different species of fish and coral that the rock islands had to offer. The snorkelers and divers found themselves surrounded by hundreds of small fish. Dinner was beef and rice, finally different from endless chicken meals.
tacky souvenirs and snacks, passed border patrol, then reached the YMCA. Some of us played games in the hotel pool before visiting the Gardens by the Bay light show. A few of us decided to go for a very unprepared night swim and then finally went to bed.
Snorkel Games & Ocean Wisdom
After a relaxed breakfast we changed into our swimwear and got ready for an exciting day at the beach. While snorkelling we explored the underwater world and saw many colourful fish, corals and other marine life. The sun was shining, and the water was super clear –perfect conditions for snorkelling.
Our guide had prepared a special activity for us. He showed us 20 random items from the sea. Some were substrates, some were fish, and others were invertebrates. Each group had to try and identify them. It was both fun and educational with a prize to the winning group.
The last day in Southeast Asia
We first visited the Singapore botanical gardens and the immense cloud forest with life-size moving dinosaurs, then Chinatown where many of us bought trinkets from the market stall-like shops. We did a quick self-led tour of Singapore museum to learn about the country’s rich history and finally boarded the plane to Blighty with gratefulness and fulfilment after such an incredible experience.
At the beginning of the Easter break, a group of 39 pupils and 5 staff explored the volcanoes and wonders of São Miguel on their Geography adventure in the Azores.
Written by Daniel Greenfield (Teacher of Geography)
Located about 1,000 miles from the Portuguese mainland, the island of São Miguel sits on the boundary of three tectonic plates. Its position has created a unique and everchanging landscape which everyone enjoyed exploring over five days.
Pupils walked around sections of the enormous Furnas, Fogo and Sete Cidades calderas and were rewarded with amazing views of volcanic cones and lakes. They bathed in the naturally heated thermal pools at Caldeira Velha, got sprayed by waterfalls at Ribeira dos Caldeiroes and walked through lava tunnels at Gruta do Carvao. They also got the chance to taste naturally heated and carbonated spring water, as well as cooking and eating eggs in fumaroles.
The geographers learned about local agriculture with visits to tea and pineapple plantations, in addition to witnessing coastal features like arches and stacks and learning about the island’s volcanic history at the Vulcanological and Geothermal Observatory.
The island is a truly special place to visit and everyone on the trip came away with amazing memories and a enhanced understanding of geographical processes.
They bathed in the naturally heated thermal pools at Caldeira Velha, got sprayed by waterfalls at Ribeira dos Caldeiroes and walked through lava tunnels at Gruta do Carvao.”
With the introduction of an adventure camp for Form 2 and an enhanced Form 3 Camp – now a DofE Qualifying Expedition – each year group of Oakham School pupils can take part in experiences, inspire, and stretch them beyond their comfort zones. These camps and expeditions spark personal growth in unexpected ways, helping our pupils build resilience, independence, and essential life skills that say with them long after their school journey ends.
From Autumn days at Boughton Woods to sunny coastal thrills in Swanage, and the muddy streams of Lea Green, this year’s Lower School adventurous camps have been packed with fun, challenges, and plenty of memories, providing a strong foundation for the exciting challenges that lie ahead in Middle School and beyond.
Written by Sarah Fearn (D of E and Adventurous Learning Manager)
Early in the Winter Term, Form 1 pupils swapped classrooms for campfires as they ventured out with the Bushcraft Company at Boughton Woods. Nestled in the woodland, the site became their home for two days – and what a home it was. Sleeping in large bell tents, there they learned essential survival skills like fire lighting, shelter building, and how to use tools safely in the great outdoors. The children showed great teamwork as they got to know one another and embraced the fresh air with hands-on activities that brought the natural world to life, right on their doorstep. The night ended with hot chocolate by the fire and stories under the stars — a perfect way to wind down after a busy day. The camp was more than just a fun escape. It was a chance for pupils to build independence, confidence, and stronger friendships, all while being completely immersed in the great outdoors.
Lower 1 pupils set off to Lea Green Outdoor Activities Centre near Matlock in Derbyshire, for their own outdoor adventure. Staying in the charming old house, the group bonded over a variety of exciting activities that encouraged independence, teamwork and took them out of their comfort zone. They challenged themselves and supported each other brilliantly. A particular highlight for all was the deceptive ‘stream walk’. In wellies and waterproofs, pupils scrambled upstream under fallen tree branches and over mossy rocks which resulted in everyone (except the staff!) being drenched from head to foot!
A peaceful evening walk followed, with map reading and micro-navigation across fields, along footpaths and through woodland, which added a touch of adventure to the simplest of pleasures. The next day, the sunshine and tranquillity of the
River Derwent were perfect for messing about in boats. Teamwork was put to the test in bell boats, kayaks and on stand-up paddleboards. This built water confidence and whether they were falling in, jumping in, or pushing each other in, the water games were full of laughter, splashes, and unforgettable moments on a gloriously sunny day – and of course the staff took a splash too! A calm campfire evening, complete with homemade fires (no matches allowed), toasted marshmallows and some enthusiastic singing rounded the day off and marked the end of their Lower 1 journey in unforgettable style. The staff might have had just as much fun as the pupils! The final morning was one of great encouragement and determination with everyone pushing personal boundaries on the high ropes course. This final Lea Green visit for Lower 1 was truly special, filled with shared fun and plenty of laughter.
Coastal Thrills in Swanage In April, Form 2 pupils enjoyed an actionpacked four days at Cumulus Outdoors in Swanage, Dorset – a wonderful chance to experience the coast. Blessed with beautiful weather, the group kicked off their trip with beach games (only a few braved the sea!) and time was spent relaxing with friends, playing games, and enjoying a digital detox away from screens. Highlights included coasteering (not for the faint-hearted!) which delivered an adrenaline-fuelled adventure as pupils scrambled across rocks and leapt into the sea below Dancing Ledge. Other adventurous activities included paddleboarding, canoeing, high ropes, and even axe throwing. The popular “Hunt the Instructor” game had everyone laughing as the instructors and our very own gappies cleverly hid in camouflage. Pupils also tackled a man-made underground tunnel system that tested both their nerves and their teamwork. Crawling through dark, narrow spaces, they completed a series of challenges and puzzles, working together to find their way through. It was a brilliant exercise in communication and trust. The first ever Form 2 camp was a big success, with memories and friendships formed that will last well beyond the trip.
2 camp was a big success, with memories and friendships formed that will last well beyond the trip.”
This year marked a significant first of Oakham’s Form 3, as all pupils took on their Bronze DofE Award.
Written by Sarah Fearn (D of E and Adventurous Learning Manager)
A Carousel of Service Options
Alongside trying out the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and Voluntary Action (VA), all pupils took on the physical and mental challenges of DofE and emerged more confident, capable, and connected. This whole-year approach is a natural progression from the adventurous experiences offered in Lower School. With strong foundations already in place, pupils were ready to tackle the Bronze Award’s demands, which included learning navigation, campcraft, first aid, and perhaps most importantly, teamwork.
Skills for the Road Ahead
Over the year, pupils rotated through different service experiences. In VA, they contributed time and energy to local community projects, developing empathy and a sense of responsibility. In the CCF, pupils participated in military training, including drills, leadership exercises, and skills development, fostering discipline and resilience. This carousel of service options gave pupils a broad taste of each area and helped them decide which path
they might want to pursue in Form 4. Pupils can then choose to continue with one, two, or even all three service options, tailoring their experience to suit their interests and goals. Training for the DofE expedition took place throughout the year, with pupils developing essential expedition skills both in the classroom and outdoors. They practised reading maps, planning routes, packing kit, and cooking on Trangia stoves, all while learning to rely on one another in a group setting – an essential skill out in the field.
The Hambleton Training Walk
Following their end-of-year exams, pupils took part in a training walk around the Hambleton Peninsula. Seventeen groups donned their rucksacks and boots and set off under blue skies and brilliant sunshine. This practice gave them the chance to apply their training and build confidence in their navigation skills – all vital preparation for the Qualifiying Expedition to come.
This year’s Form 3 Camp took on a new format, incorporating the Bronze Qualifying Expedition as well as a celebratory activity day at Rutland Water. On Day 1, pupils completed final kit checks and were dropped off at starting points around Oakham and the surrounding area - each carrying not only the physical weight of their kit but also the anticipation of the challenge ahead. From there, they navigated towards Wing Hall Campsite, where they would stay overnight. The hot weather made the walk more demanding, but all 17 groups reached their destination successfully, setting up tents and preparing their own evening meals before relaxing together after a long, rewarding day. The next morning brought more sunshine — and more miles. Day 2 tested the pupils’ stamina and resilience, but spirits remained high. With teamwork and perseverance, every group completed their route, returning tired but proud of their achievement.
By taking on the Bronze DofE Award as a whole year group, Oakham has
accessible but has also given pupils the chance to grow together through shared challenges, independent
The final day was a well-earned reward: a high-energy day at Rutland Water. The year group began with laser tag at Rumble Live, followed by water sports at the Rutland Water Sports Centre, and ended with an unforgettable trip to the Aqua Park. After two days of sun, sweat, and self-sufficiency, the sight of their classmates laughing, jumping, and splashing together was the perfect way to round off the experience. By taking on the Bronze DofE Award as a whole year group, Oakham has not only made the qualification more accessible but has also given pupils the chance to grow together through shared challenges, independent thinking, and collective effort. Whether they go on to pursue Silver DofE, join the CCF, or choose Voluntary Action, these pupils have built lasting skills and friendships that will serve them far beyond Form 3.
Head of Voluntary Action Monica Fernandez looks back at a fantastic year of giving and growth in Voluntary Action.
This year has been an extraordinary one for Voluntary Action (VA) at our School. We have worked with our two main school charities: Voluntary Action Rutland and the Matt Hampson Foundation. Over 130 students from Form 3 to Form 7 have stepped forward to give their time, energy, and creativity to volunteering, whether through established projects, supporting local charities, or creating initiatives of their own. Their contributions demonstrate that service is not just about giving; it is also about growth – in confidence, empathy, and the skills that will shape them for life.
Giving a total of 861 hours of volunteering
401 kilos donated in 2024/25 to foodbanks
Voluntary Action Rutland and the Matt Hampson Foundation
35 Visits to partner organisations
130 Pupils
6 Maintenance
Visits to Oakham Canal
Two baby elephant sculptures sponsored for LOROS' 40th Anniversary Art trail
Over 100 elderly guests hosted at our 2024 Harvest Party
Weekly visits to 3 primary schools, 1 nursery and 3 care homes injected value of £8,610 into the local community
A Cuppa and a Chat sessions
Our students have been out in the community making a real difference. They have volunteered in local nursing homes, bringing companionship to elderly residents. They have supported primary schools, mentoring and engaging with younger pupils. And they have launched their own initiatives, such as “A Cuppa & a Chat”, a welcoming space for patients with mild dementia to talk, share stories, and connect with others.
The scale of this work has been impressive. Across the year, students have participated in 35 visits to partner organisations, giving a total of 861 hours of volunteering. If translated into financial terms, this equates to an injected value of £8,610 into the local economy, but the true worth lies far beyond figures. It is in the smiles shared across generations, the friendships formed, and the lessons learned about compassion, patience, and responsibility.
From these experiences, it is clear that volunteering is a journey of emotional intelligence and empathy. Younger students often begin nervous, unsure of what they can contribute, but quickly discover that simply showing up with kindness has immense power. Older students, meanwhile, learn the responsibility of leading projects, coordinating their peers, and fundraising for charities. Together, they see that they are not just participants in the community, but active shapers of it.
Feedback from our partners has been overwhelmingly positive. Nursing home staff have praised the enthusiasm and respect shown by our pupils. Teachers in primary schools have remarked on the energy and role-modelling our volunteers provide. Families of dementia patients have expressed gratitude for the “Cuppa & a Chat” initiative, where conversations spark joy and remind all involved of the value of human connection.
Building on this strong foundation, our next step is to establish a structured programme that enables students to experience progression throughout their years at School. We want every student to feel that they are on a journey:
• Form 3 – We Taste: Students will have opportunities to try out different forms of service, gaining their first taste of volunteering.
• Form 4 – We Train: Students will begin to train, learning key skills such as communication, teamwork, and responsibility.
• Form 5 – We Act & Engage: Students will be empowered to act by taking part in structured projects, directly engaging with the community.
• Forms 6 & 7 – We Lead & Fundraise: Our oldest students will lead, coordinating initiatives, mentoring younger pupils, and fundraising for charities.
This pathway provides more than volunteering hours. It offers transferable skills for life: leadership, organisation, creativity, resilience, and above all, empathy.
The story of Voluntary Action at our School is one of giving and growth. Students learn that their time and presence have value – not only to others but to themselves. By engaging with people of different ages, backgrounds, and needs, they expand their horizons and nurture a deeper understanding of the world around them.
As we look to the future, we are excited to see VA continue to thrive. Every visit, every project, every act of kindness adds to a larger culture of service that enriches both our community and our School. A journey through Voluntary Action is indeed a journey through emotional intelligence, empathy, and skills that last a lifetime.
... the true worth lies far the smiles shared across generations, the friendships formed, and the lessons learned about compassion, patience, and responsibility.”
As the CCF marched into its 115th year, it saw perhaps some of the biggest changes in many years, designed to ensure that the experience delivered to cadets remains engaging and relevant. The move to training on two days per week ran alongside us working together with the DofE and VA teams to welcome Form 3 pupils for the first time, who undertook 8-week carousels on a Monday afternoon to give them a flavour of what the three service options were about. In September too it was a pleasure to see our senior cadet in the Contingent – CSM Rowley Moore– invested as one of the three Lord Lieutenant's Cadets for Rutland for 24 - 25, there to assist Dr Furness in her duties over the year, and as ever it was gratifying to see how many Form 6 and Form 7 cadets came out to support him.
With a bumper crop of 60 new cadets taken on in Form 4 – the most for some time – after kit issue and early air rifle lessons, the first milestone in the year was October Service Weekend. We headed to Beckingham for our cadets’ first ‘basic training’ weekend where they were introduced to the essentials of air rifle shooting, drill, basic fieldcraft, and leadership and teamwork. They worked hard and their final parade on the Sunday, overseen by CSM Moore resplendent in his Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet uniform, was testament to what can be achieved in a very short time with lots of effort and it was an immense pleasure to be awarding Marksman badges to cadets who had only been in uniform for four weeks! Meanwhile, in the field Lt Col Taylor and Lt Farrar, helped by Sgt Mark Ingram from the Army Cadet Training Team, took the 15 Form 6 cadets through their first intensive field and leadership weekend - no mean feat as the majority were brand new recruits who had never been in the CCF before! Their efforts were superb, their attitude positive and my thanks as ever to the staff who pushed and developed them over the course of two full-on days.
Remembrance Sunday was the next marker, perhaps the most public event we do as a Contingent, with the CCF parading through town in a very visible demonstration of remembrance to the town and public. Again, Forms 6 and 7 stepped up to the plate and worked hard in practice, once again producing arguably the best drill of all the cadet organisations on the Sunday afternoon and something that they can rightly be proud of.
As the Winter Term progressed, we reinvented the Form 5 programme with Plt Off Bett leading a new Presentation Skills / Junior Cadet Instructor (JCIC) course. This fourweek initiative bridged the gap between followership in Forms 4 and 5 and the leadership responsibilities of Form 6, while also equipping cadets with valuable skills for their wider school careers. The cadets worked hard in groups, producing and delivering impressive presentations that bode well for the future.
January brought further change, with Form 6 cadets undertaking the RAF Bronze Leadership course, delivered by Plt Off Bett and Sqn Ldr Rimington. We also welcomed the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland to School to celebrate our adult volunteers and present promotions and awards. Flt Lt Townsley and CSgt Smith received the King’s Coronation Medal, Maj Powell was awarded his first bar to the Cadet Forces Medal, and Plt Off Bett was promoted to Flying Officer.
The Leave-out weekend saw our Gold DofE cadets head to the Peak District to hone their navigation skills ahead of their final expedition. As the Spring Term ended, we said farewell to CSgt Smith, our SSI, after 22 years with the CCF and 39 years at Oakham School. The Regimental Dinner was a fitting moment to thank him for his tireless service. We also bid goodbye to Flt Lt Townsley, who retired from the CCF after many years of devoted service.
Staff development continued, with SI Dawson completing his Adult Instructors Course at Colchester, and RAF civilian instructors Dunderdale and Bulmaga passing their commissioning interviews to become Acting Pilot Officers. Fg Off Bett also completed his range supervisors’ course over Easter.
We said goodbye to our outstanding Form 7 SNCOs, whose teaching and engagement with junior cadets have been superb. Their camaraderie was evident, whether they’d been with us for two or four years. Encouragingly, 18 Form 5 cadets applied for the Upper School Leadership Programme, the highest number in years. The Summer Term also saw RAF cadets enjoy flying and gliding days, which remain a major draw for the section.
As I move on from Oakham School, my immense thanks to all involved in CCF delivery and to those who have supported me in the past few years. A fantastic bunch of staff but also a super bunch of cadets too, it’s a real team effort to deliver the experience and it’s been a real privilege to be Contingent Commander. Here's to another 115 years!
August saw the culmination of months of planning as our Gold DofE cadets headed to Norway for their Assessed Expedition. Read more on page 66.
The Summer Term too saw big changes as the newly rescheduled May Service Weekend appeared into view. Again, some radical changes with, for the first time in nearly 20 years, training taking place at section level rather than at a Contingent level. So, the Army headed out for a field weekend to Yardley Chase where they were put through their paces working through the new Army Cadet Fieldcraft Syllabus. The RAF headed further afield and travelled up the M6 to the RAF’s cadet training centre at Inskip where they made the most of all the activities available – low ropes, climbing wall, air rifle range, DCCT (indoor laser shooting on the cadet GP rifle), flight simulators and leadership tasks. My thanks go to Sgt Pickard from the RAF Cadet Training Team who helped to put the weekend together as well as to deliver it. Feedback was very positive, and cadets enjoyed making syllabus progress. In the background, section-specific training progressed for both sections and the Form 6 cadets undertook their Cadet Force Instructional Techniques (CFIT) course in readiness for teaching younger cadets next year. Again, in another change, the Gold DofE gang undertook their Practice Expedition during the May Exeat and they enjoyed mixed weather as they made their way across the beautiful but uncompromising North Pennines and Eden Valley.
At the start of the summer holidays, the RAF headed down to Little Rissington near the Cotswolds for a varied and enjoyable multi-activity Summer Camp which saw them shoot on the ranges and hone their fieldcraft as well as getting to visit the land warfare halls at the Defence Academy at Shrivenham. The Army section travelled north to Warcop in Cumbria for a week of fieldcraft exercises and ranges with a fun day of outdoor development at Adrenaline North Yorkshire thrown in. These camps offer immense value as well as bucket loads of fun and personal development, as the newly promoted will testify! With no respite, July head down to the ranges at where they enjoyed pitting a range of other schools. thanks to all the sta involved in delivering these events; a lot of e these available to cadets.
From boiling-hot expeditions and windswept peaks to award presentations and elephant painting, this has been a year to remember for DofE at Oakham.
Written by Sarah Fearn (D of E and Adventurous Learning Manager)
Form 3 Embarks on the DofE Journey
For the first time, every pupil in Form 3 embraced DofE as part of their new service carousel, welcoming the challenge and freedom of the outdoors. In June, marking a new chapter, they laced up their boots, put on their rucksacks and set off on their walking expedition around Rutland, navigating their way to camp with maps in hand and the sun on their backs. It was tough. It was tiring. And it was a triumph! While learning skills like campcraft and teamwork, they were also discovering where their interests might lie, whether that be DofE, Voluntary Action, Combined Cadet Force - or all three!
Young Leaders Step Up
Behind the scenes, a group of four Form 7 pupils were leading the charge. As part of Oakham’s brand-new Young Leader programme, they helped deliver weekly training and off advice, encouragement and just the right blend
Building Expedition Skills
Expedition skills were developed week by week, from trangia cooking and map-reading to orienteering, route planning and first aid. October’s Service Weekend brought with it an early opportunity to test them: Silver and Gold walkers headed to the Peak District whilst Bronze Form 4s joined them and tackled orienteering, abseiling and weaselling - a fun but demanding activity involving wriggling, climbing, and squeezing through a network of narrow rock tunnels and crevices, testing both nerve and teamwork. Meanwhile, Silver and Gold canoeists trained locally and the Gold sailors sharpened their dinghy sailing skills at Rutland Sailing Club.
Laura Bingham, joining the event live from Costa Rica. As well as cycling across South America, she helped lead the first descent of Guyana’s Essequibo River. Her inspirational stories of grit and determination left everyone feeling awestruck.
Even throughout the winter, the DofE spirit didn’t fade. For the volunteering section of their award, Form 4 pupils threw themselves into the ‘Stomp Round Leicester’ project - designing, making and fundraising for their own elephant sculpture, “Duke”, which spent the summer proudly stationed inside the Richard III Visitor Centre as part of the Stomp Round Leicester Art Trail. Events included a bake and craft sale, non-uniform day and a Form 3 and 4 ‘DofE Silent Disco’ – complete with headphones, lights and plenty of energy. Their efforts raised £1,000 for LOROS and built skills from teamwork and marketing to paracord bracelet-making and event planning.
Silver pupils also supported humanitarian work through the Missing Maps project, helping chart unmapped parts of the world to support disaster relief and medical access — proof that DofE volunteering can have a truly global impact.
As the chill of winter gave way to warmer weather, attention turned to summer expeditions. To take advantage of more reliable weather, the March Service Weekend shifted to May. The weekend saw Gold pupils embark on their Practice Expeditions. Whilst our walkers tackled the trails of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, the sailors explored the Norfolk Broads in classic gaff-rigged boats and canoeists travelled to Shrewsbury and paddled the River Severn. Back in Rutland, Bronze Form 4s also joined in, completing their own training walk around the Hambleton Peninsula.
May half-term saw the Gold walkers tackle their Qualifying Expedition in the Lake District, facing relentless wet weather that certainly tested their resilience!
In May, there were palace-worthy moments too. Several current and former pupils were invited to Buckingham Palace to celebrate achieving their Gold Award - a fitting end to a journey that started with learning to read a map and ended with tea and cake on the royal lawn!
Expeditions came thick and fast in June. As well as the Form 3 Expedition, Form 4 completed their own Bronze Expedition in sweltering heat, showing stamina and determination. Silver canoeists completed their qualifier on the River Great Ouse and in sizzling hot conditions, our Gold canoeists navigated the River Wye, whilst the sailors faced a busy expedition on the Norfolk Broads. Raising and lowering the mast to pass under low bridges, whilst weaving through other boats on the crowded waterways, the challenge tested their seamanship, teamwork, and adaptability.
It’s certainly been a purposeful, pioneering, and eventful year for DofE at Oakham, and the spirit of adventure continues to grow. Next year promises even greater things!
FINDING PURPOSE IN THE PEAKS.
STARTING THE ADVENTURE
GOLD AWARD HIGHLIGHTS AND LESSONS of LOOKING AHEAD .
// Molly
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HEROES:
As a House, we value House spirit and working as a team in many sports such as netball, hockey, athletics, tennis and cricket. Within House this year we have had many pupils competing in higher levels of sports such as Beth G who came 2nd in the National Cross Country competition, as well as beating the 1500m School Record during the athletics season. We are all excited to see how her running career progresses in the future. Georgia D has also been competing nationally at the British Riding Club National Arena Eventing Championship, in which her team came 3rd. Congratulations go to Beth and Georgia for also winning the Vitrix Ludorum at Sports Day this year. As well as this, we have had a few girls representing the U14s for hockey such as Annie W, Georgia H and Annabelle R. Amongst our House competitions we have gained many wins including cross country and the senior Sports Day trophy, but the support we have for each other is unmatched and above all we benefit from this House's courage and contribution.
This year has brought us many academic achievements and new opportunities such as the House Latin competition that we won; the language breakfasts in Spanish and German and the Junior Maths Challenge. At Lower School Prize Giving many Ancaster girls received different academic prizes across all year groups for many different subjects, which also explains why we always win the most rewards prize at the end of each term. In the National Story competition, many of our Ancaster family had their work published in a book recognising their talents. In further competition success, Amélie L was the runner-up in the Politics Red Box competition, in which she had to write a letter to explain what she would do if she was the PM for a day.
Our annual Christmas celebration, Form1/ L1 Halloween party and barbecue socials have been great to attend so that we can socialise with everyone across Lower School and our year groups. This year there were many games for Halloween, even doughnut bobbing which brought many laughs watching people trying to eat one without using their hands. This year our House dinner took place at The Angler, where we enjoyed burgers, chicken goujons and chips. The Form 2 girls also had a movie night with snacks and custom pyjamas.
... the support we have for each other is unmatched and above
House’s courage and contribution.”
In Lower School there is the option to be in the play every year. This year many of our girls decided to be a part of The Wind in the Willows. Some of the main cast were also part of Ancaster. There is also the dance showcase where every Wednesday all year groups come together to practise dances for their Summer and Christmas showcases. In music, we have had many of our Ancaster family perform solos and be part of an ensemble at our concerts and we loved the House Singing competition, this year singing ‘Spice Up Your Life’.
Lower School have been on a range of different trips for all year groups. At Christmas we all went shopping to Fosse Park, allowing us to grab some lunch together and spend some of our pocket money, and possibly buy a few Xmas presents too. Lower 1s went on an adventurous residential at Lea Green with water sports, campfires and much more. Form 1 headed into the wilderness for a camping adventure, where they played many games and had a lot of fun in House tents. Form 2 had the incredible opportunity to go to the Dorset coast and have many experiences at Cumulus, such as coasteering and archery. It was amazing fun that created lifelong memories – just like our time at Ancaster always does.
Written by Annie Williams, Georgia Howett, Annabelle Robinson (Form 2)
Throughout the year there have been many House socials. We enjoyed a lovely meal at Jashir with our fellow students from Sargants where lots of photos were taken with a few spillages! In the beginning of the Summer Term Form 2 embarked on Form 2 camp where we thrust ourselves off cliffs physically and metaphorically. Both years have enjoyed barbecues Out Back with fries before guys! Our Form 1 socials this year have been nothing but good fun. Whether that’s eating pizza, dressing up for Halloween or watching movies, we always had the best of times together as a House.
Lincoln teamed up with Sargants House to embrace the act of giving by hosting a bake sale, though accidentally eating too much merchandise! In June we participated in a walk and cycle around Rutland Water to raise money for the Matt Hampson Foundation. Despite the weather, we still had bright smiles on our faces.
This year we have thrived in all interhouse sports coming top in hockey, netball, tennis and cricket. The girls all displayed excellent House spirit with pink, painted faces and matching hairstyles. Sports Day was lots of fun. It was sunny, and everyone enjoyed dressing in their new pink t-shirts. As a fitting end to the term and to Lincoln we won the overall cup!
One of the things we enjoyed the most this year was coming together as a House to rehearse for the House Singing competition. We were thrilled when we found out we were going to be singing ‘Wannabe’ by the Spice Girls. We worked together as a House to choreograph a dance and ensured that everyone’s voice was heard and celebrated. And with our great teamwork and dedication, we managed to pull off another House win! At the start of the year, we all contributed to collecting food for the Harvest Festival, we came together in Chapel to take part in the annual vegetable stacking competition and secured another win under our belt!
We would like to thank Mr Lorimer, Mr Pauls, Mr Pamihov, Miss Johnson and Mrs Jordan for looking after us this year. We would like to give an extra special thanks to Mrs Singhal, for being our amazing Housemistress this year. She always puts a smile on our faces and takes great care of all the pupils in Lincoln. She has always been there for all of us and never fails to make us laugh.
Written by The Lincoln Girls
We would like to give an extra special thanks to Mrs Singhal, for being our amazing Housemistress this year. She always puts a smile on our faces.”
It’s been another busy year in Peterborough House and we celebrated 60 years of the Lower School in May with lots of pupils from Form 7 coming over to help mark the occasion (and eat the cakes!). As ever, it’s been great fun being in Peterborough House. Our Totaliser for rewards frequently tells Mr Fairweather to dish out doughnuts, and it's such a great idea that Sargants has now got one! With three sets of Prefects, most of Form 2 have had a turn at leading the House and this has meant that we have all learnt how to work as a team.
Peterborough House was victorious in the interhouse rugby and cricket. We won house rugby decisively and put in some amazing teamwork. We won House cricket although we lost the first innings yet pulled it back to win the match.
We’ve also been busy in the Music School and QET with several members of House taking part in music concerts, Big Band and the Lower School Production of The Wind in the Willows.
There have been several residentials over the year and the Form 2 residential was a great few days down on the Jurassic coast and the Lower 1 trip to Lea Green was as great as ever. In it we learnt key skills and learned how to work in teams.
We all took part in the charity bike ride or walk at Rutland Water in aid of the Matt Hampson Foundation. We also had our PHebruary PHeast in the Hornblower as well as many socials throughout the year such as the Christmas feast in House.
The annual House Singing competition was a great success this year and PHoasis put in a great version of ‘Don’t look back in Anger’’. We performed the song again in Chapel for the last Lower School Live in Concert of the year and I think the parents and staff enjoyed the old songs from the 1990s!
Overall, it has been a very joyful and successful year in House through which we have learned many key skills. A heartfelt thank you to Mr Fairweather for his unwavering support, energy, and leadership as Housemaster. His enthusiasm for every House event - from sports fixtures to singing competitions - has helped make Peterborough House a place where everyone feels encouraged to participate and thrive. Whether he's handing out doughnuts or cheering us on from the sidelines, his commitment to the House and its pupils has made this year especially memorable.
Temptare est Vincere!
Written by Edward Johnston (Form 2)
A heartfelt thank you to Mr Fairweather for his unwavering support, energy, and leadership as Housemaster. Temptare est Vincere!”
We have had a successful year in our House sporting endeavours.
In the Winter Term the inaugural House cross-country around Donkey and Farside was filled with blue all over the podium: Monty M, Alova N and Monty W (all F1), and George A, Theo S and Oscar T (all F2). This helped towards the overall win, but everyone played their part by tirelessly chasing down any red socks of PH around the course.
In hockey, we won overall with Arjun M making some amazing tackles to keep PH out of the D in the Form 2 match. Our score was 3-1, with our goals being scored by Hugh C attaining an impressive hat-trick. The team spirit brought us the win. Form 1 gave it their all in an end-to-end game, finally drawing 4-4 after a last-second PH goal. Our very own Monty W was player of the day!
We won our tennis matches by a landslide with a strong Sargants side. Both the teams gave it their all again and we won the majority of our A-sting matches, too.
House cricket was literally a game of two innings. Our first innings was incredibly successful with 5 wickets in the first 4 overs and we finished the day with 110 runs, with a healthy 40-run lead. The pressure seemed to get to us and our bowlers in the second innings, and we were being smashed for boundaries! We sadly lost with 5 overs left. Well done, PH!
‘Waka Waka’ by Shakira was the chosen House Dance song. We came together again for a common cause - our House spirit! It really shone through with everybody giving their all and having fun being filmed with short, choreographed sections of the song.
We have had a variety of enjoyable House socials this year: pizza nights, film nights, a Halloween party, a Christmas party, Christmas shopping in Leicester, and dinner out with Lincoln House to name a few.
The Halloween-themed social had everyone
in Form 1 dressed up and lots of activities to entertain, from pin-the-mouth on the pumpkin, Fear Pong, doughnut on a string and pumpkin rolling. A super-scary and fun evening!
Lincoln House were great company when we headed out to Jashir Indian restaurant in town for dinner. There was a huge selection of curry that seemed never ending. It was very yummy and the company was great too!
At our last Form 2 House social we went to watch The Wind in the Willows production with our tutor groups. We had many people performing in the play and many of us went to watch it and support them. We thoroughly enjoyed it! Bravo!
The Form 2 Camp was an exciting three-day adventure filled with thrilling activities and unforgettable memories. One of the highlights was coasteering, where we explored rocky coastlines and jumped into the sea, challenging ourselves both physically and mentally. The activity encouraged teamwork and boosted confidence as everyone supported each other along the way. When not on the rocks or in the water, the group enjoyed a variety of fun games that brought laughter and energy to the camp.
The House Latin competition was a team of two Form 2 and two Form 1. Our Form 1s did very well considering their disadvantage of experience compared to other Form 2s. Our buzzer also seemed to be a bit unreliable too!
In the Lower School Bake Sale we joined Houses with Lincoln. Some of the Prefects from both Houses were the cashiers and a huge amount of us baked cakes or brought in cakes. We raised over £2,000 for the Matt Hampson Foundation.
At the end of the Winter Term our Form 2 German students went to Cologne for the Christmas markets. During our stay we went to the Lindt chocolate factory and got so many free samples, at the end we were all stuffed. Our ski trip to Madonna di Campiglio, Italy, was an unforgettable experience filled with
adventure, laughter, and learning. Nestled in the stunning Dolomites, the resort offered breathtaking views and excellent slopes for all skill levels. Each day began with ski lessons led by friendly and professional instructors, helping us improve our technique and gain confidence on the snow. In the evenings, we enjoyed cozy dinners, fun activities, and bonding time with friends. The combination of thrilling skiing, Italian culture, and beautiful mountain scenery made this trip truly special and one we’ll remember for years to come. Other highlights of the year include going Christmas shopping in Leicester, the FIFA PS5 tournament, watching England win the Women’s Six Nations at Twickenham, and the season-long Fantasy Football Manager competition, won by Matty I-W.
Written by The Sargants Boys
We came together again for a common cause - our House spirit! It really shone through with everybody giving their all...”
Over the last year Barrow has continued to uphold their reputation as the best House in the School. With wins in House rugby, squash, hockey, dance and Sports Day – no one can really argue otherwise. Barrow went into House rugby with a lot of confidence, looking to retain the title for a second year running. With BJE’s insights stemming from his 3rd XV “Dogs”, coupled with great efforts from the boys, we got the job done. The official cups never arrived, so Mr Denman took matters into his own hands and bought our own—now proudly displayed.
House hockey introduced a new secret weapon: the drum. Our ultras brought the noise, and our players brought the skill, defeating strong Haywoods and Wharflands sides to secure another title. Sports Day was the crowning moment. After four years of near misses, this year saw some unbelievable all-round efforts from both juniors and seniors, with a special shout out to both Seb and Marcus who won individual prizes, that saw us come away with the win. In a surprising twist, Barrow took home the trophy for House dance. With the event returning to the calendar, ASD pitched the idea to Ezrah, Alex, Oli, and me. Expectations were modest, but the Sixth Form’s choreography turned into a performance that wowed everyone. It was a win that proved Barrow’s spirit goes far beyond the pitch.
We didn’t win it all. House singing remains a sore subject as does House debating.
Christmas dinner remains a cherished tradition, especially for those of us in the upper years. It’s more than just a meal, it’s a celebration of everything Barrow stands for. This year also saw the return of the House awards, albeit
with some last-minute tweaks. We hope this reintroduction brings laughter and joy to future Barrow generations.
Barrow’s charitable efforts this year were nothing short of inspiring. We raised funds for CALM, The Johnny Reynolds Foundation, Flourishing Families, and Ambitious about Autism. From food stalls at the Tom Grant Football Festival to cake sales and a well-loved golf day, the House rallied together. The annual 220 Challenge was a standout, with boys raising £50 each through creative feats - running 88km, completing 220 golf holes, and enduring 12 hours of cricket nets. Together, we raised an impressive £1,400.
No review would be complete without acknowledging the people who make Barrow what it is.
Thank you to the tutors, for supporting us with work, issues, meetings and everything in-between. We really do appreciate all the time you put in to help make our lives better.
After four years of near misses, this year saw some unbelievable juniors and seniors, that saw us come away with the win.”
Thank you to the cleaners for keeping Barrow so clean and tidy, and providing us with such a nice environment to call our home. As much as we may leave toast and butter all over the kitchen, we really appreciate what you do. Thank you very much.
Mr Cooper, our self-proclaimed “secondin-command,” has been a constant source of humour and help.
Mr Edwards, thank you for making us at least 5 minutes early to every lesson, every breaktime without fail. It may seem very annoying at the time, but we all know it comes from a good place. Also, thank you for your encouragement and support in all charity and house events, your keen will has made life for Mr Denman, the prefects and me much easier.
And Mr Denman: our fearless leader. You’ve guided us through four unforgettable years, always striving to make us better young men. You’ve succeeded. Thank you for everything. We couldn't have got through it without you.
Finally, we say goodbye to Sue, our beloved Matron. After four years of tireless care, compassion, and calm, she’s moving on. Sue has handled everything imaginable and has been a pillar of support for all of us. Her departure leaves a hole in Barrow that won’t be easily filled. Thank you, Sue – we’ll miss you dearly, and we wish you all the best in your next chapter.
Written by Will Church (Head of House)
Ithas been another remarkable year for Buchanans, a House filled with joy, cheer and laughter from all the girls. We were delighted to welcome so many new girls who have added value to our House with their energy and excitement.
Like every year, Buchanans girls approach interhouse competitions with enthusiasm and House spirit. Both our senior and intermediate girls got to the semi-finals where they narrowly missed out on a deserving spot in the final. Their efforts did not go unnoticed, and I know Buchanans will go even further next year. Now to sport, we’re proud to share that we came first in House squash, second in netball and third in lacrosse. We represented the House with pride and had an unforgettable time dressed in our purple tops and face paint.
The House socials and events have been the highlights of the year. We have loved the movie nights, the cooking nights and most especially, the BBQs at the beginning and end of term. The endless laughter due to the dance battles and karaoke would definitely be a fond memory for all the girls. These socials have given Buchanans girls a sense of community, especially for us international boarders, and are the main reasons we love and enjoy boarding. It’s truly meaningful to see everyone uplifting and supporting each other as a House.
The endless laughter due to the dance battles and karaoke
memory for all the girls. These socials have given Buchanans girls a sense of community...”
As a House, we would like to show our unwavering appreciation for the amazing staff members of Buchanans. They have been exceptional giving us unconditional support and helping to make our House a home. We would like to thank all our tutors for their guidance and motivation throughout the year that has made such a difference to us. We are all thankful for how they go above and beyond for us and we thank them for making it such a positive year.
We welcomed our new incredible resident Miss Ball, who brought great enthusiasm with her DT skills and encouraging words. She worked alongside our wonderful Miss Clithero with her bubbly personality. There was never a dull moment with both of them around to fill the House with laughter. We also highly appreciate our outstanding Matron Claire, who with her lovely Wednesday afternoon baking and general care, helped us push through even the toughest days.
I would also like to express a massive thank you and good luck to Miss Ball and Miss Woodward who are sadly leaving us and moving
onto their next chapters. We are all sad to see you go and will continue to reminisce about our light-hearted chats in the purple common room and just your overall thoughtfulness you have shown us girls. I wish you the best and hope your time in Buchanans was a memorable one. Finally, It is no surprise we are deeply thankful for our hard-working and inspiring Housemistress, Miss Aherne. She is always there for us whether we need guidance or just want to have an enjoyable chat with her. Additionally, her treats of sweets and ice cream to us girls do not go unappreciated, and we are forever appreciative for her invaluable kindness and encouragement she continuously shows us. Miss Aherne, this year has been a pleasure working with you to be able to make Buchanans a fantastic House for all who were able to be a part of it. To all the girls, I wish you the absolute best in the years to come and always remember to find the joy in everything that comes your way.
Written by Iwinosa Ogiemudia (Head of House)
The 2024-25 school year has been a busy one, packed with happy and fulfilling moments for the boys of Chapmans.
Academically speaking, congratulations went to Prince B, Aryan S and Gregory K (all F3) who won the ‘Best Report’ prizes at the end of the Winter, Spring and Summer Terms respectively. In the world of maths and following their success in the UK Maths Trust Challenge last year, Lucas W (F6) and Taiga S (F5) once more performed with distinction in the competition, with Taiga gaining a prestigious Gold Award this time around. Lucas W also secured a Bronze Certificate in the Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad, a very competitive national science challenge, and he was joined by Jack J (F4) who received a commendation in the Biology version of the competition. Very pleasingly, Max B (F3) and Emerick C (F3) had their creative writing published in SpOken this year.
wins in the 100m, 200m, 400m and in both relays carrying them home – well done to Ioan H-E, Will L, Noah H (all F6), Mackinley J, Rico Y and George K (all F5) for their performance in the sprint events, and to Jean-Pierre DT and Ollie W (both F6) for their grit and determination during the middle distance races. Thanks also go to Cameron K and Alexandros M who (in addition to competing) co-ordinated all of the athletes and gave many mini pep talks on the day before the starter’s gun sounded.
... but it is hard to top senior boys’ team who were victorious on Sports Day.”
In terms of sporting achievements, Jean-Pierre DT (F6) won the School steeplechase and the F5 and F6 boys performed impressively in the House rugby competition, but it is hard to top the efforts of the senior boys’ team who were victorious on Sports Day. A particularly strong performance was witnessed on the track, with
Music and drama involvement was ever-present over the course of the year. Ryan H, Alex F (both F5), Prince B and Ethan C (both F3) were heavily involved with various school bands and they performed with poise and presence in many concerts over the course of the year. Their performances included turns as the star attraction for Oakham’s Music at Lunchtime concert series in All Saints’ Church – always a joy to support the boys after they have dedicated themselves to hours and hours of rehearsals and preparation. In terms of drama, Ben R (F4) was cast in Sweeney Todd and Little Shop of Horrors this year and performed to a packed QET over several evenings in December and May respectively.
The Chapmans boys enjoyed plenty of weekend trips out over the course of the year as well: cinema, bowling, shopping and sight-seeing in Cambridge and London, Rutland Water Aqua Park
and Rumble Live Action Gaming were all popular, but many happy Sundays were also spent just playing football in the House garden and enjoying each other’s company at the end of a long week.
At the end of a positive year, my thanks go to the fantastic House team who keep the wheels turning in Chapmans; Sarah, our residents Mr Knight and Mr Hartley and our tutor team of Mr Evans, Mr Arnold, Dr Headley, Ms Stephenson, Mr Wills, Mr Banham, Mr Greenfield and Ms Cristea. All have offered great academic support and advice to the boys. Katrina, Da, Angelika and Kiki have worked tirelessly to keep the House looking good and the Prefect Team have led the House with aplomb. A huge thank you goes to Cameron K (Head of House), Ollie W (Deputy Head of House), Jean-Pierre DT, Noah H, Caleb K, James M, Alexandros M, Tomas V, Lucas W – all have served the House with tremendous distinction, and we also wish good luck to all of our Form 6 Chapmanians as they move to School House and Form 7.
Written by Owen Hughes
Asanother academic year draws to a close, we take great pride in reflecting on what has been a rewarding year for Clipsham House. Across every facet of school life, the boys have risen to challenges, displayed great talent, and, most importantly, embodied the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and excellence that defines our House.
Clipsham sportsmen made their mark this year, ending with a triumph in House Tennis as our junior team – James A, Blake B-J, Alex C and Freddie M – won 43 games to take the title. In Athletics, William B, Max H, Joseph and William G all medalled at the County Championships. Cricket saw standout performances from Max H, who scored 99 for the U14As, and Harry B, whose five wickets helped the U15As to their first win. Thomas B had an excellent year as goalkeeper for the 2nd XI, who celebrated their second unbeaten season. Meanwhile, Aodhan B, Harry W, James A and Henry F helped Oakham win the Chairman’s Prize at the Birmingham Bisley competition. Most importantly, every Clipsham competitor showed outstanding sportsmanship throughout.
Clipsham played a central role in the School’s cultural life. From Chapel performances to lunchtime concerts by Joshua L and Tomas D, our boys showed flair and commitment. A highlight was winning the House Music ensemble category with a moving rendition of The Confrontation from Les Mis, performed by Tomas D and Lander L, with Jacob L, Joshua L, Jason H and Jonny A. In House Singing, the boys chose ‘Arcade’, the Netherlands’ Eurovision-winning entry, and took the title of Best Boys’ House – a fantastic achievement!
This year, Tomas D joined our Drama stalwarts Charlie P, Lander L and Thomas J to take part in the rather macabre, but absolutely thrilling, whole School production of Sweeney Todd. Charlie also took the leading role in the Middle School production of Little Shop of Horrors, playing the hapless, but lovable, Seymour, while Lander L wrote, directed and produced the Form 3 Nativity, bringing laughter to our Christmas celebrations. We’re excited to see what next year’s Form 3 will create!
Academic ambition remains strong in Clipsham, with the boys earning 26,150 reward points this year. On Speech Day, 12 boys received prizes for achievement and endeavour, representing every year group: Hugo H, Edward F, Tomas D, Edward AR, William G, Charlie L, Adam B, Joshua L, Henry F, Harry F, Jacob L and Freddie M. Our Saturday morning celebrations continue to foster camaraderie and recognise hard work.
Social events are a vital part of life in Clipsham. From the Form 3 vs Form 6 football match to popular trips to Sarpech, the boys made the most of every chance to relax and connect. Form 6 bowled, Form 5 brunched, Form 4 bounced, and Form 3 brushed up on their golf skills. Food was a constant highlight—whether enjoying burgers from a local farm or a House Breakfast prepared by the brilliant Barraclough catering team.
... the boys made the most of every chance to relax and connect.
Form 6 bowled, Form 5 brunched, Form 4 bounced, and Form 3 brushed up on their golf skills.”
Our debating teams remained formidable. Form 6 boys Hugo H and Aodhan B were joined by former Clipshamites Eddie N and Fergus M to claim victory in the senior competition. Our junior team (Lander L, William G, Freddie R and Henry F) reached the final after some pretty convincing performances in the qualifying rounds, narrowly missing out to Hambleton girls, whom we congratulate on the win.
We closed the year with the Clipsham Capers, a whole House (and slightly retro) event on sunny Donkey. Edward F’s House Family scooped first place with some incredible performances on the spacehopper from Albie L, Freddie M and Leo T-F, supported by Harry W, Rafe H, Harry B and Max H. Later in the evening, as the sun set, our departing Form 6 enjoyed sharing their memories of life in Clipsham: we will miss them and send them on their way with our best wishes.
There are many remarkable accomplishments remembered here, but we also celebrate the strong sense of identity and community that underpins them. Here’s to another successful year, and to even greater things ahead!
Written by James Flint (Head of House) and Jonathan Ayre (Deputy Head of House)
his year, everyone in Gunthorpe truly stepped up and showed what it means to be part of the House. From achieving an incredible 2nd place on Sports Day to smashing all our fundraising goals and building a lasting connection across year groups, there have been so many moments to be proud of. One of the most rewarding aspects of this year has been seeing how united we’ve become, not just in events, but in spirit.
Charity, for us in Gunthorpe, means so much more than just raising money. It’s about compassion, House spirit, and a shared desire to make a real difference. One of our biggest fundraising highlights was the annual bake sale, where we managed to raise an amazing £800 for Rhino Revolution and Cancer Research – two charities that hold special meaning for many girls in the House. Cancer Research was also the focus of this year’s Pink Party, always a House favourite, and made even more fun this time with the addition of Wii Sports.
Gunthorpe also truly shone in sport this year - not only with our strong Sports Day performance, but by becoming interhouse champions in both cricket and tennis. These successes weren’t just down to the players, but to everyone who supported, cheered, and helped organise, every role was equally important.
A special congratulations goes to Sam M, Annabelle H, Liv G, Bronwyn R, and Mimi P for finishing 3rd in the Rosslyn Park National School 7s. It’s a huge achievement to even be selected for the team, let alone go that far in such a prestigious tournament.
From achieving an incredible 2nd place on Sports Day to smashing all our fundraising goals and building a lasting connection across year groups, there have been so many moments to be proud of.”
Our House spirit has also been shown in the bonds we've built across years and with staff. This year has seen some brilliant mixed socials. The Form 3 sleepover gave Sixth and Third Formers a chance to connect, with the Form 6 running a spooky haunted house walk, followed by Domino’s and Nintendo Switch team tennis - a night full of fun and laughter. The Form 4 and Form 6 also enjoyed a fantastic evening together, sharing great food and conversation at The Wisteria Hotel.
Gunthorpe has had a year full of energy, kindness, and connection - and every single member of the House has played a part in making it so special. Many thanks to Miss Berkin for her year in Gunthrope. Finally, I wanted to thank Mrs Dunbavand, Rachel and all the girls for making Gunthorpe so special for me and everyone else who is leaving with me this year.
Written
by Georgie Mount (Head of House)
Ithas been an incredibly successful and rewarding year for Hambleton House. As Head of House, I have had the privilege of witnessing the dedication, talent, and support that make our community so special. Together with Mrs Clayton, I would like to reflect on a year marked not only by achievements but also by a strong sense of belonging, encouragement, and collective pride.
We began the year with the Tom Grant Football Festival, where our junior team set the tone with a flawless series of performances. Winning every match with focus and teamwork, they led with confidence and brought home a well-deserved victory. Our senior players followed with real heart and resilience, and the encouragement from across the House was evident throughout. House Hockey followed soon after - played in typically unpredictable weather - but the attitude remained consistent. Our players approached every match with positivity, and the support between year groups continued to grow, laying the foundation for a close-knit House environment that extended far beyond the field.
While we didn’t secure a win, every match was played with enthusiasm, energy, and true House spirit. That same unity shone even brighter during the House Cross Country - one of the year’s most memorable moments. In a truly unprecedented result, Hambleton placed first in every single age group. The achievement itself was extraordinary, but what made it even more special was the atmosphere: students encouraging each other to push through, celebrating every finish, and taking pride in the collective effort. It was a clear reflection of the values that define our House.
In the Summer Term, the calendar remained full, and so did our commitment. House lacrosse saw us come together once again with determination, while Sports Day brought energy and involvement from across all year groups. From sprints to field events, Hambleton students gave their best and supported each other throughout the day. It wasn’t just about results - it was about turning up, putting in the effort, and celebrating together. In House Tennis, our juniors were exceptional, securing a fantastic win through composed and intelligent play, and our cricket teamsparticularly among the younger years - showed promise and great team spirit during an enjoyable day in the sunshine.
Hambleton has also thrived in music and public speaking. Students have taken part in Chamber Choir, Big Band, and Chamber Orchestra, and many have performed with consistency and confidence throughout the year. Special mention goes to Natalie, whose performances as a pianist have been a highlight of every concert. Meanwhile, in House Debating, our team of Sara, Hattie, Eloise, and Isabelle H secured a wellearned win in the final, showing outstanding preparation and poise under pressure.
More than anything, this year has been defined by the strength of the Hambleton community. Every success, whether individual or shared, has been made possible by the support that our students show for one another. From the quiet moments of encouragement to the loudest cheers on the pitch, Hambleton has proven once again what it means to be part of something bigger.
Mrs Clayton and I would like to thank every member of the House. Your commitment, kindness, and spirit have made this an exceptional year - one that we will look back on with pride.
Written by Grace Hornsby (Head of
House)
In a truly unprecedented in every single age group. The achievement itself was extraordinary, but what made it even more special was the atmosphere: students encouraging each other to push through, celebrating
Lottie L has had an outstanding year, representing Great Britain in mountain bike cross country, and earning selection for the Olympic Development Team. Rose S-Y has represented the county in both hockey and U18 women’s 1st team cricket, while Hannah B, Karis D-V, Alice D, and Sophia R have made significant contributions in rugby, playing at county level. Izzy N has continued to excel in netball, training with Nottingham Forest’s NPL U17 squad and being selected for the Scottish National Team.
Regarded by many Haywoodians as the highlight of the school year, this year's festive celebration was another highly enjoyable evening. It was a great evening for all as students enjoyed each other's company, enjoyed good food and shared laughter. The House skits later that evening were again full of laughs.
Across the terms Haywoods participated in many different interhouse competitions. The boys did each other and the House proud as all sports were played in good spirit, and all members of the House sharing the field together. The standout moment in the House sporting calendar was the Tom Grant Football Festival, where the Haywoods boys honoured Tom Grant’s memory by smiling and playing football together on a Sunday morning at Wilson Fields. Another significant event was our annual Sixth Form Kilburn Cup match against Chapmans. A thrilling match which saw both teams score although Haywoods emerged victorious. The match was played with incredible dedication, sportsmanship with all players sticking to the House spirit, no matter what happened on the pitch. The fashion in which the boys played will remain an inspiration to us all.
To celebrate and remember the life of Old Haywoodian Johnny Reynolds, this year we hosted a “10 hours for Johnny” tennis event, with all donations going to the Johnny Reynolds Foundation. The boys rose to the challenge with determination and passion, playing some great tennis as well as enjoying each other’s company on court throughout the day. The highlight was near the end of the day, where nearly all the boys came out to finish the challenge off together as a House, showing great participation and enthusiasm from all.
The Haywoods boys had a great year at the annual House debating competition. The junior team led by Josh R were triumphant against Stevens, and while just falling short against Barrow, the boys showed incredible debating skills with well-researched ideas and arguments throughout their debates. Our senior team of Ruudi, Dozie, Henry and Josh reached the semi-finals, narrowly missing out on a final spot by a single point against Rushebrookes. It was a memorable moment for the House, with a large number of boys coming to support, creating an exciting and tense atmosphere.
Every week, at 5pm on a Wednesday without fail, the boys of Haywoods would flood to the common room. This was to enjoy a delicious cake baked by our amazing Matron Sandra. The cakes not only provide a much-needed snack after a long Wednesday, but also a time where all members of the House can congregate and share conversation with each other and house staff
Looking back on the year, we the Prefects hope we had a lasting positive impact on Haywoods House. Haywoods helps all the boys to mature into fine young men all made possible by the supportive and most of all kind staff. Thank you to: Sandra, Sarnie, Mr Dryell, Mr Ward and Mr Gelderbloom for this year and our time in Haywoods House.
Written by the 2024-25 prefects: Ruudi Bannister-Emmens, Marcus Southwell, Jamie Auld, Leo Dux and James Parry
The match was played with incredible dedication, sportsmanship with all players sticking to the House spirit, no matter what happened on the pitch.”
The year began with the excited return of familiar faces and the arrival of 21 new girls from around the world. We kicked things off with a House barbecue and quiz, introducing everyone to their new House Families – groups that would shape all future House events.
The first interhouse competition of the year was the Tom Grant Football Festival, which the girls approached with enthusiasm and commitment, despite a general lack of football experience!
Rushebrookes also made a strong showing in the Interhouse Debating Competition, with Form 7 girls joining Form 6 to reach the semi-finals.
A highlight of the term was the inaugural Interhouse Dance Competition, enjoyed by all – including Mrs Robinson, who wowed us with a solo performance. We also continued our tradition of giving back with a food bank donation for the Harvest Festival and raised over £800 for men’s mental health through Movember, in collaboration with Chapmans.
Halloween brought the much-loved ‘Trashion Show’, where girls created costumes from recycled materials inspired by their House Families. It was a night of laughter, creativity, and unexpected catwalk flair. The term ended with a magical Winter Wonderland-themed Christmas dinner, complete with skits performed by every year group.
The Spring Term began with the exciting addition of a new kitchen, quickly becoming a social hub where girls from all years gathered to cook, chat, and unwind.
Socials were in full swing, including the Boarders Bake Off, where cake decorating skills were on display, and a series of House events like the Pamper Evening, Karaoke Night (complete with costumes and performances), and the first Rushebrookes Book Club – now a termly tradition where girls and tutors share reading recommendations.
Valentine’s Day saw the creation of love poems within House Families, read aloud to the House in a heartwarming show of support.
The Interhouse Singing Competition was a standout moment. Every girl got involved, learning dance moves and donning glow-sticks and light-up glasses for a lively performance of ‘Ohh Ah Just a Little Bit’ by Gina G. Their energy and commitment led to Rushebrookes winning overall our first ever victory in this event!
We also hosted a ‘Pink Party’ to raise money for Cancer Research, with pinkthemed food, outfits, and games. The term wrapped up with a fiercely competitive Easter Egg Hunt around the garden.
As exams approached, Form 5 girls were treated to a celebratory dinner before their GCSEs began. Despite the busy schedule, the girls remained engaged in House life, taking part in interhouse tennis, cricket, and Sports Day.
Sports Day was a true display of House spirit, with every girl participating – even those trying events for the first time. House Family competitions added extra fun, starting with a scavenger hunt and ending with our own mini sports day, featuring egg and spoon races, sack races, and a water fight on the field.
A boarders’ trip to Alton Towers was another highlight, enjoyed by all despite the rain. As the term flew by, we took time to reflect and celebrate with hot chocolates with Mrs Robinson and a lovely dinner out for our Form 6 leavers.
The year ended with Speech Day and House picnics, where girls and their families came together to celebrate everything they had achieved.
Thank you to every Rushebrookes girl for your energy, kindness, and commitment this year—you’ve made the House a truly special place to be.
Written
by Hannah Cox (Form 6)
The
Interhouse Singing Competition was a standout moment. Every girl got involved, learning dance moves and donning glowsticks and light-up glasses...”
his year has been an exciting and memorable one for Stevens House – a year filled with laughter, incredible achievements in and out of House, and the noticeable amount of pink spirit. We kicked off the academic year with an unforgettable start. In the very first week, we hosted a joint Form 3 and Form 6 sleepover – a brilliant evening that immediately set the tone for the year ahead. From an intense game of croquet to some interesting karaoke performances, it was a fantastic opportunity for new and returning students to bond.
The House socials didn’t end there, as it was followed by Stevens being converted into a haunted house - which all of Form 6 put a huge amount of effort in (in particular those who were hiding in wardrobes). One of the most unforgettable moments of the evening was the apple bobbing competition … special mention to Katie B and Chloe S who outshone everyone! We also held a pumpkin carving competition and rounded off the evening with the ‘Paint the Prefect’ challenge – we think it’s safe to say some of the girls should not take up art as a subject.
House spirit was also evident in the many other House events, House singing was especially memorable. In November, the girls partnered with Wharflands to be mo-sisters to help raise money for the Movember challenge. We then had a fantastic Christmas Dinner and House awards. It is always non-stop fun! The closing end of term the celebration focused on all the girls’ hard work and efforts within the classroom (in particular Form 5 and end of year revision over the Easter holidays). Stevens hosted a party full of pink alongside a lovely BBQ and an intense waterfight. This was very much deserved for all the girls in House for an incredible year!
The beginning of the House sporting success soon followed, with Stevens House taking home victory in the Tom Grant Football Festival. Despite the majority of the girls never having played football beforehand, they all got stuck in! Not only did we win… we went unbeaten throughout the tournament. But the triumphs didn’t stop there. This year, Stevens dominated the interhouse sporting events, winning Interhouse Netball, Interhouse Hockey, and topping the winning streak off on Sports Day. Both our Intermediate and Senior girls’ teams secured wins, along with the Senior relay team breaking two School Records!
Stevens girls also made their mark beyond House events – several of them were involved in the U16 National Cup for hockey and played a key role in taking the team all the way to the quarter-finals, following in the footsteps of the year above!
Towards the end of our year, Stevenites also flaunted their individual successes on Sports Day, with two of our own winning both girls’ Victrix Ludorums. There was no doubt that Stevens deserved the overall Girls’ Sports Day Trophy. We think we speak on behalf of all the girls in the House when we say that we are all incredibly competitive, particularly when it comes to these House events. The effort and enthusiasm from the girls didn’t go unnoticed, and they should all be very proud of themselves.
This year, Stevens dominated the interhouse sporting events, winning Interhouse Netball, Interhouse Hockey, and topping the winning
This year we had a new addition to House, which we owe a huge thank you to for being our wonderful Housemistress this year. Mrs Madden, you’ve helped make Stevens become even more lively and welcoming. And of course, to our amazing Matron, Katy: thank you for keeping us all in order this year, (jewellery free). But mainly thank you for looking after us through everything. We will 100% be back for your Friday bakes – especially if there’s a tray of your brownies and Mars Bar cakes waiting! Thank you both for everything you’ve done, we couldn’t have asked for a better team to guide us. We wish all the girls in Stevens the very best for the years ahead.
Written by Betsy and Bibi Healey (Heads of House)
This year, many new pupils have joined Wharflands House and as always, the boys have made them feel very welcome into the environment. The new Form 3 have settled well and have been interactive with the Prefects and me about any worries they have. Form 4 have been very collaborative with each other and getting to know one another well, always taking part in activities together. Form 5 have worked well towards their GCSEs and been proactive in talking to Form 6 and asking for advice.
All the boys have taken part in at least one or two sports this year always attacking them head on. A good mixture of talents in all sports has been displayed such as rugby, football, badminton and hockey. A mention to some of Form 5 who have been accepted into the Leicester Tigers Academy set-up, as well as so many other boys in academies and clubs outside of School. The 2nd XI football team had many Wharflands pupils in it and went unbeaten all season which is a massive accomplishment with Wharflanders being the top goal scorers. There were also many Wharflanders in the hockey 1st XI team who performed well in both indoor and outdoor games. Wharflanders were also involved in the 1st XI cricket matches taking wickets and getting runs helping to some memorable wins. Another highlight has been the House football games that are on Friday nights and really show the camaraderie between the boys in different year groups even if there are some bad tackles.
The boys put in great efforts throughout all the interhouse competitions, most notably the win at the Tom Grant Football Festival, however, narrow losses in both the interhouse rugby and hockey tournaments show the drive the boys had to try and win. Wharflanders also took on the interhouse debating which was a good effort. House singing was also a show of the character the boys have as they sang with confidence, however, we were unlucky to get the trophy. Although Sports Day didn’t go as planned, the boys showed tremendous character and determination in some of the toughest events, once again giving their all, only to fall just short of victory.
This year Form 3 have really shown what a good year group they are, by working hard and being one of the top groups in their year. Form 4 have started their GCSE journey and have started to ask questions to tutors and teachers. Form 5 achieved some amazing grades over the summer and will look forward to starting their next journey in the A-level, BTEC or IB Diploma. Form 6 settled well into a new format and worked hard to prepare for Form 7.
A huge thank you needs to go to the staff of Wharflands House – they are unlike anybody else having to put up with 67 boys every day. A huge thank you to all the cleaners who keep Wharflands looking clean as that is a job not many can do. Mentions to the tutors who do more behind the scenes than anyone realises keeping the boys in line and making sure work is done. A huge thank you as well to Mr DixonDale who again does so much behind the scenes for which all the boys are really grateful.
Written by Henry Johnson (Head of House)
Another highlight has been the House football games that are on Friday nights and really show the
camaraderie between the boys in
My dad says that ‘every home has to have one.’
It will be somewhere hidden behind a hatch, a garage door, down a garden path, in the spare room, a henhouse, outhouse or boathouse. But he is adamant ‘it will be somewhere’. Away from the prying eye of the visitor, where a little mess and disorder reign. Where the seasonal important things of life live; the decorations, the suitcases, the niche sporting equipment. All nestled alongside the artefacts and the important-ish treasures from our lives.
The Chapel, at one hundred years of age, certainly has one – a cupboard in the vestry with an eclectic mix of (important) items and treasures that provides an insight into what we have been up to in the past year.
Chaplain Fr Tim Tregunno
It is undoubtedly clutter. Like every home, so my dad says, it has to have it. Reminding us of where we have been and where we hope to go. The Chapel is our Spiritual Home and our Father’s House – she has and deserves fantastic clutter.”
Four Frying Pans – used for the Lower School Pancake Flipping Competition on Shrove Tuesday back in March won by Ancaster.
A Jam Jar of Palm Ash used to mark the start of Lent on our Ash Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday!
Over a thousand receipts, collected over eight years, and crammed into envelopes each with the name of a Lower School student and House initials inscribed on them. Where the time has been taken to buy items to donate to the Rutland Foodbank. The receipts are used as bunting to decorate the Chapel for the Harvest Service. This year, Ancaster won most receipts in House and Lincoln had the tallest vegetable tower!
An oversized Tin of Shoe Polish and some very worn out brushes; relics from the Lent Shoe Shine. Reminding us that Jesus was a Servant King washing the feet of his disciples. 454 pairs this year!
altar with prayer cards as we mourned the unexpected death of Mrs Hannah Edwards. The Chapel was decorated with electric blue, her favourite colour, ribbons, and hundreds of pictures of her stretched the circumference of the Chapel. A little paper dragon, possibly a nod to her love of Dungeons & Dragons or her love of Wales or both. Rest in peace our dearest HSE.
Read Sophie Clarke’s tribute to Hannah on page 40 of the Old Oakhamian magazine.
A Hawaiian style Flower Garland, which was accidently left in a pew after the Form 7 boarders had their last Saturday Night ‘Deliveroo’ Chapel before Study Leave. Summer themed, everyone wore a garland, shades, as beach balls were punted across the Chapel, listening to some ‘phat’ tunes, with doughnuts, ice cream and a blessing before revision became their absolute focus.
Jewellery Boxes tied with Oakham Red Ribbons. Each containing a small silver cross given to those who get Confirmed. Bishop Edward Condry presided over the Anglican Confirmation in the Chapel on 18th January. Twentyeight students, a member of staff, as well as a parent received the sacrament of confirmation. Then on 16th May the Rt. Revd Patrick McKinney, Bishop of Northampton, celebrated a Mass of Confirmation at St Joseph’s Catholic Church where four Oakhamians received the sacrament.
Sixteen, what looks like Pizza Boxes, containing poppy wreaths, used to help us remember the fallen. Our School community gather in various locations across the campus to keep the 2-minute silence, signalled by five trumpeters playing the Last Post and the Reveille, on Armistice Day.
Thanks to pupil-led fundraising, Oakham School donated an incredible £18,108.37 to
The
Oakham School’s rugby programme continues to thrive, with over 300 pupils involved in the 15-a-side game across all year groups. Enthusiasm remains high, and the School is committed to offering a broad and ambitious fixture list that provides meaningful experiences for players at every level.
This year saw the introduction of exciting new senior fixtures, including a memorable match under the lights at Loughborough University against Woodhouse Grove and a competitive clash with Radley College. These additions reflect the programme’s ongoing drive to challenge its teams against top-quality opposition.
The senior section was strong once again, with four competitive teams regularly fielded and led with resilience and maturity by a dedicated group of Seventh Formers, setting a positive tone throughout the School. The junior age groups also showed real promise, with a number of talented and committed players emerging.
Coaching remains a key strength of the programme, delivered by a passionate and experienced teaching staff who continue to foster development, discipline, and enjoyment.
Oakham’s Sevens programme continues to expand, with more teams than ever representing the School. Two senior boys’ teams, as well as U16 and U14 sides, took part in the Rosslyn Park National Sevens, alongside three girls' teams – a reflection of the rapid growth of the girls’ game at Oakham. The school also hosted an expanded Oakham Sevens tournament, which was live streamed via NextGen offering an opportunity for pupils to showcase their talents to a wider audience.
With a talented group of senior players returning and strong depth developing in the junior ranks, there is real momentum in the programme. Oakham rugby is in a strong position – competitive, inclusive, and forward-looking – and the School looks ahead with great excitement to what the next season will bring.
Written by Rupert Harden (Director of Rugby)
Oakham School’s rugby programme continues to thrive, with over 300 pupils involved in the 15-aside game across all year groups.”
Looking back on this season with the Oakham 1st XV, I can honestly say it’s been one of the most memorable and meaningful experiences I’ve had at School. It’s been a journey full of ups and downs, but one that’s brought us together as a team in a way that goes way beyond just the rugby.
We didn’t get off to the smoothest of starts — two tough away losses against Rugby and Stowe made us realise pretty quickly that nothing was going to be given to us. Those games were wake-up calls, but they also set the tone for the kind of resilience we were going to need throughout the season. The Woodhouse Grove draw was a proper battle, and though it wasn’t a win, it felt like the start of something. We showed heart, and from there, things began to build.
One of the real turning points was the away win at Trent College in the Cup. It was tight, it was physical, and we dug in when it mattered most. That result gave us belief. From there, we started to find our identity — a side that was willing to graft for each other, to back ourselves, and to bounce back from setbacks.
Our win against Bromsgrove at home was a massive highlight — proper rugby, full of intensity, our best attacking rugby of the season and a crowd that made a huge difference. Then came Stamford in the next Cup round. That one hurt. We came up short, but the important thing was how we responded. Beating Uppingham at home in front of that crowd was properly special, it was huge for the boys, and it means a lot to have been able to continue the winning streak, the cherry on top was seeing Charlie B intercept the ball on the halfway line and go through to score in the final play. The Bedford game followed, once again, a tough match but nothing that we had not trained for, the boys put up a big fight and the game ended 36-21.
Then we travelled to Radley, a new block fixture this year. It was a very tough place to go as none of us knew what to expect, however, we managed to come away with a 24-17 win which put a big smile on our Director of Rugby Mr Harden’s face. That performance showed how far we’d come — not just physically, but in terms of our mentality and our ability to control a game under pressure.
In the deciding game of the new Johnny Reynolds Cup, we played Stamford away and we were right in it till the end and lost by 2. But I’m proud of how the lads handled it. No sulking, no excuses. We turned around and put on a dominant display in our final match against Oundle. To finish the season with an almost record-breaking 47-15 win at home, was incredibly special. It felt like a reward for all the hard work that had been put in over the months.
I would also like to add that it has been a real pleasure playing with Fred C, Max C and Adam J for the past seven years. It has been brilliant to be a part of your journey at Oakham School. To the Form 6 boys, I wish you the best of luck next season and I look forward to supporting from the sidelines.
To all the boys — thank you. Whether you were starting every week, pushing from the bench, or bringing the energy in training, every single person played a part in what we achieved this year. It’s been an honour to lead this group, and I’ve genuinely loved every minute of it. We’ve built something more than just a team — we’ve created memories, friendships, and a real sense of pride in the jersey.
To the coaches, the supporters, and everyone behind the scenes — thank you for backing us every step of the way. This has been a season to remember.
Written by Ed Davey (captain)
This year’s 2nd XV started the year with pre-season training at Hartpury College. This provided a great opportunity for the team to train and get to know each other for the first time, giving us a sense of determination and camaraderie which translated into some impressive performances on the field. It also provided the chance for us to play against teams other than the usual opposing teams from schools in the area.
After a tough opening loss at Rugby School, the team started to gel, largely thanks to great leadership from Zac P and Harry G in the backs and Lochie S in the forwards, alongside our hard-working coaches TDD and GG.
The team went on to win 2 consecutive matches to nil: 27-0 at Stowe and 36-0 against Bromsgrove. Victory was set in our sights before a narrow loss to Uppingham in the fourth game of the season. Coming back from that in the next match proved to be one of the highlights of the year, as the team took on an unbeaten Bedford and confirmed that they could be defeated by the strong Oakham side. Despite a loss in the penultimate game against Stamford in the last minute, the 2nd XV finished the season on a high note with a narrow win against Oundle.
Overall, every member of the 2nd XV can be very proud of their achievement this year which was filled with growth and enjoyment with some memorable moments on and off the pitch. Written by Oliver Noon (captain)
Our win against Bromsgrove at home was a massive highlight — proper rugby, full of intensity, our best attacking rugby of the season and a
The Oakham School 3rd XV rugby team experienced an outstanding season with 9 wins and only 1 unfortunate loss. Starting with an away match against Rugby School, the newly formed team faced a challenging start. Coming straight off the bus into the match led to a tough first half. However, as the team united, and through several line breaks by the forwards, we secured our first of many wins. Stowe was another away fixture where we were greeted with warm weather and determined to win on their home turf. Our backline was strong, making powerful runs and exposing gaps in their defence. Dozie Osuji and Eddie U dominated the runs, and our lineout practice was evident where our strong drive helped us secure a 40-5 victory. Next came Bromsgrove at home, where we dominated through set pieces, leading to a convincing 65-0 score. Only a couple of days later, we faced a close game against Stamford. However, a red card and poor decision-making led to a heart-breaking loss. This defeat strengthened our resolve, and we vowed never to lose again. Learning from our mistakes, we challenged local rivals Uppingham at home with new additions to the team. We controlled the game throughout, with Huw G exploiting their weaknesses on the wings. Our polished set pieces ensured a well-earned victory. After half-term, we faced Bedford, a formidable opponent known for their physicality. Through sheer determination and excellent ballcarrying, especially by Qasim M, who controlled the defence and made crucial breakthroughs, we secured a hard-fought 27-24 victory, sealed by a pivotal conversion from James H.
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Next was Radley College away, where there were injuries from the week before and a slow start challenged us. After a motivating discussion with coaches, the team rallied to dominate the second half, using strong ball-carrying and utilising openings on the wings, securing a 22-15 win. Unfortunately, our rematch against Uppingham was cancelled, but we anticipated our rematch against Stamford. In this game, Louis S made key line breaks and locked down their offence with strong tackles. When our resilient captain, George H, stepped up to join the second team midway through the game, we had to press on with determination and emerged as well-deserved victors with a commanding 36-12 scoreline. Our final game was against Oundle, a fitting opponent to conclude our season and the last match for the Form 7 boys. From the start, we secured early tries and controlled the game. This dominance was evident in our scrums and lineouts, where our forwards drove them back with superior strength and determination, earning a 38-5 victory. The backs also deserve credit for their defence and improved decision-making, which led to multiple tries through refined set pieces. Every player gave their all this season, and once again, our team acts as the yardstick for Boys' 3rd team rugby. We witnessed new friendships develop and we hope that the bonds formed will never be broken. Thank you to the coaches for their continued support and for an amazing season.
Written by Douwe Timmermans (captain)
The 4th XV started the season with a bang and had an undefeated first half against stiff competition. A defining feature of this season’s squad was the heart and ferocity in try line defence. The willingness, to a man, to put their bodies on the line for each other was impressive and enduring. The squad put in a huge amount of work in training and added varied and exciting attacking play to their spirited defence. It has been encouraging to see so many pupils involved in training and eager to represent Oakham in fixtures, which bodes well for next season.
There were countless moments that I would like to recount; however, one is perhaps more notable than others for me. Although not a victory, the highlight of this season has to be the triangular fixture against Stamford and Sedbergh. It was testament to the tough sportsmanship shown by our squad, that the Sedbergh squad recognised resulting in them cheering for Oakham School in our match against Stamford. I would like to congratulate the squad on their hard work, teamwork, and commitment to Oakham rugby. Special thanks should go to our captains this season, Rhys T who led the initial charge and Connor B who ably took over the leadership.
Written by Jamie Aiken (coach)
The U16 rugby season was a hugely successful one, defined not only by results on the pitch but, more importantly, by the development of the boys as both rugby players and young men. Throughout the season, they showed consistent progress in their core skills and game understanding, underpinned by a strong work ethic and a willingness to support each other. Their character, attitude, and togetherness made them a pleasure to coach.
While success was measured by personal and collective growth, key victories also highlighted their progress. A home win over Uppingham stood out, with the squad showing remarkable resilience and camaraderie in tough circumstances. Away at Bedford and at home against Rugby School, the boys delivered outstanding performances, underlining their growing confidence and ability to rise to big occasions. As they now move into the senior rugby programme, I have full confidence that this group will continue to develop and contribute significantly both on and off the field. Written by Niall Hurley (coach)
The was a tough season for the U16B team in terms of results. The most pleasing aspect for us coaches was the number of boys who stepped up from a strong opening weekend performance against Rugby, and became regulars in the U16A team. The likes of Siddall, Ingram, Harrison, Molinero Vazquez, Lockett, Modha and Kinnear all have the potential to be very good rugby players and spent a great deal of time playing and training with the As. When all of these players were available for B team selection, we had a handy side that was capable of beating Trent’s A team just before half-term. Unfortunately for us, this was the only occasion when they were all available! The team was led admirably by Thomas R at scrum half, who formed a strong half-back partnership with Josh R. There was pace outside them with Neve, Chow, Howe, Wilson and Chaonza. The forwards competed gamely against some much bigger packs and Westley, Knudson, Gayibli, Musazade, Lam, Waterfield, Drage, Robinson, Morrison and Cripps rarely took a backward step. We wish them well as they step-up to senior rugby next year.
Written by Michael Passey (coach)
The U15A side faced a challenging season but displayed fantastic attitudes and determination throughout. After difficult opening games against Rugby School and Stowe, they narrowly lost to King’s Grantham, scoring a well-worked try. They produced their best rugby against Bromsgrove a week later. The second half of the season included several games that were well matched and led to narrow losses that could have quite easily swung Oakham’s way. Another highlight was the performance at Bedford, where several tries were scored with some lovely rugby on show. The boys have certainly learned much, which has set them in good stead for next year.
Written by Simon Woodward (coach)
Despite a challenging season marked by injuries, the U15B squad showed resilience and impressive individual performances. The half back pairing
of Harry I and Jax R maintained their composure to give the team an attacking platform. Freddie R and Taran D worked tirelessly in the loose and regularly provided the team with good line-out balls. Barney C, William W and Ben S tackled time and time again and should be proud of their defensive contribution. Ned C, Harry S, Fred W and Jack J all made exciting breaks creating try scoring opportunities. A late season draw with Stamford highlighted their perseverance. Written by Nigel Paddock (coach)
Across nine fiercely contested fixtures, the U14As recorded 4 wins and 5 losses, but their development and spirit far outweighed the numbers. Highlights included a thrilling 22-19 win over Rugby School, where the team adapted to a last-minute pitch change and defended heroically. A dominant 31-0 victory over Stowe showcased attacking flair, while the 32-5 National Cup win against Loughborough Grammar reflected grit and teamwork. Zac S’s dazzling footwork was unforgettable. Defeats to Bromsgrove, Bedford and RGS Worcester tested our resolve, yet Henry B’s length-of-the-field try against Bedford and Max H’s powerful carries versus Radley were standout moments. The passion and camaraderie within this group have been inspiring. It’s been a privilege to coach them and witness their growth. Written by Steve May (Director of Sport)
The U14B squad faced giants and tough defeats, yet stood tall with fierce determination and always willing to give their all, even when there was nothing left. Games against Stowe and Radley stood out with exceptional tackling, determination to earn and keep the ball and a real willingness to work better together as a unit. Uppingham’s match proved we can shift the ball; we can run hard and fast when we have it and we can get that ball across the line when we persevere. Written by Tref Vandoros (coach)
The U13A rugby team enjoyed a promising season, marked by strong progress and a growing understanding of the game. Their passing improved notably, with ambitious ball movement across the pitch, creating space and playing with real ambition. They trained extremely hard and showed great enthusiasm to learn and improve, demonstrating teamwork, resilience, and respect. A highlight came in their narrow loss to Northampton School for Boys, where they delivered some of their best rugby, marked by strong effort, cohesion, and determination. Written by Tref Vandoros (coach)
The U13B team showed tremendous growth, with many developing rapidly despite limited prior rugby experience. Facing tough opposition was a steep learning curve, but excellent wins at Bilton Grange, Trent College, and the Oundle Festival reflected their progress. A competitive final match of the season against Witham Hall 1st team was the highlight. Charlie H, Theo S, Henry W and Ayush S were the backbone of the team, while Aiden C, Josh W, Arlo M, Wesson S and Miles H were constant performers brave in defence and hard working in attack. Captain Albie H led brilliantly and could break open games with powerful runs. Positive, supportive, and great fun to coach, this group built strong foundations for an exciting future with the U14s. Written by Rupert Harden (Director of Rugby)
home silverware at the Leicester Grammar Sevens which gave us a lot of energy before heading into the sevens season...”
The Senior VIIs had a very positive year with Oakham fielding two sides in multiple tournaments throughout the year. This is testament to the Upper School boys and bodes well for the future of this format at Oakham School.
The season started off with Northampton Saints 7s at Oundle where our 1st VII went out to Bedford after drawing 24-24. The 2nd VII also qualified for knockout rugby before running out of steam as the number of fit bodies dwindled! After a much-needed rest at half-term, we hosted our own tournament where our 1st VII were once again grouped with Bedford and which saw Bedford come out on top with a narrow win. After the group stages, we lost a close knockout semi-final to St Jo's but progress was being made now the sun had come out. A week later, we travelled to Uppingham which included a fantastic game with Rugby and a tremendous win vs Stamford. Just a couple of days later, our 1st VII bought home silverware at the Leicester Grammar Sevens which gave us a lot of energy before heading into the final week of the sevens season...
At Rosslyn Park, we entered our 2nd VII into the Vase who did extremely well to come out of the groups. Unfortunately, they bumped into strong opposition in their knockout game and so their season was over. Later in the week, the 1st VII challenged in the Cup competition (the best 50 VIIs teams in the country) and put up a good fight but couldn't come out of their very challenging group which included Cup Semi-Finalists, Bishop Wand. Overall, the season was a great success, and the senior boys showed tremendous grit and determination to improve their skills, fitness and understanding. In particular, Charlie captained the side well throughout and a number of Form 6 boys set out their stall for the year ahead. There were three Form 7 boys involved in the Rosslyn Park Cup side who deserve a special mention: Charlie, Ed and Oliver. Well done, all!
Written by Kyle McDonald (coach)
An impressive season from an impressive group. The work ethic, commitment and camaraderie of this group of players were impressive throughout the season, finding times to train outside the timetable in order to be competitive. A team made up of predominantly forwards, their physicality and direct style was accentuated by exiting and dynamic backs. The dominance in the air was a huge factor in their success at Gresham’s festival and making the semi-finals at the Oakham 7s. Pushing through to day 2 of Rosslyn Park was a real achievement and they went out with their heads held high in a highly competitive game with Cheltenham College. I look forward to seeing these players continue to develop over the next few years, they were a delight to coach.
Written
by Rupert Harden (Director of Rugby)
The U14 boys sevens side had a mixed season but showed some great potential for future years. Their first tournament was away at Gresham’s, and although they started strongly, they succumbed to a narrow defeat in the second game which meant they entered the Plate competition. They then rallied well and played some lovely sevens, eventually winning the Plate competition, beating Oundle and Norwich in the later stages. Unfortunately, the squad didn’t adapt to the inclement weather at their second tournament, but they learnt a lot and went into Rosslyn Park full of confidence. In a tight group, they drew their first game before losing 10-7 to Sherbourne in their second. This took the pressure off, and they did play some excellent sevens in the final group game winning 35-14. Special mention to Max H for great defensive understanding and efforts.
Written by Simon Woodward (coach)
girls’ team to play on Doncaster Close, marking a historic moment for the School's rugby programme and breaking new ground for women's rugby.”
The U18 Girls Sevens Rugby team enjoyed a highly successful season that brought together both experienced players and newcomers to the game in an inspiring display of teamwork and development. This blend of talent and fresh enthusiasm created a dynamic squad that would go on to achieve remarkable results throughout the campaign.
From Christmas onwards, the team demonstrated exceptional commitment, training hard throughout the entire Spring Term. Their dedication to improving fitness, skills, and tactical understanding laid the foundation for what would become a memorable season. The rigorous preparation paid dividends as the girls developed into a cohesive unit ready to compete at the highest level.
The team's competitive journey took them to several prestigious tournaments, including the Oundle Sevens and Oakham competitions, where they showcased their growing confidence and ability. A particularly significant milestone came when they became the first girls’ team to play on Doncaster Close, marking a historic moment for the School's rugby programme and breaking new ground for women's rugby.
The season's pinnacle was their participation in the Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens. The team's approach was exemplary throughout the competition, displaying positivity, competitiveness, and delivering outstanding performances that reflected months of hard work and preparation.
Special recognition must go to captain Cammie O, whose leadership qualities guided the team through challenging moments and inspired excellence in others. The contributions of departing players Isabella K and Annabelle C were invaluable, bringing experience and mentorship to younger squad members.
Isabella K earned the distinction of Player of the Season for her fantastic tryscoring ability, demonstrating the attacking flair and finishing skills that made her such a dangerous opponent throughout the campaign.
This season has established a strong foundation for future U18 Girls Sevens Rugby, combining sporting excellence with character development and team spirit. Written by Iain Simpson (coach)
The 2025 squad brought together a talented mix of Form 4 girls - fresh from reaching the 2024 Rosslyn Park final - and experienced Form 5 players who began their Sevens journey in Form 3. Several team members also played key roles in the U16 hockey side that reached the Quarter-Final of the Tier 1 Competition, showing outstanding dedication as they balanced high-level commitments across both sports.
The side convincingly won the Northampton Saints sevens competition, before playing Hill House School from Doncaster in the final of the Oakham Sevens. Although Hill House, who had won the Rosslyn Park title as U14s in 2023, were to come out on top, it was very much a “practice bout” for a potential rematch at Rosslyn Park three weeks later.
At Rosslyn Park the squad continued their impressive form to defeat Ysgol Gyfun Gwyr 38-10 and Gordons 32-5 in the group stages, before beating Taunton School 39-0 in the group winners play off and Ivybridge Community College 31-17 in the quarter-final. Unfortunately, the semi-final proved to be a step too far against Llandovery College who would defeat Hill House in the final. The girls should be immensely proud of what they achieved. My thanks in particular go to Mr Hanrahan and Mrs Lloyd for their support of the girls who gave us some magical moments. Written by Andy Rice (coach)
This season saw an enthusiastic group of U14 girls take their first steps into sevens rugby, with many completely new to the sport. From the outset, they embraced the challenge with energy, determination, and a strong team spirit. Their development was clear at both the Oakham sevens tournament and the prestigious Rosslyn Park National Sevens, where they represented the School with pride and growing confidence.
At Oakham, they showed real promise on home ground, while Rosslyn Park offered a taste of high-level competition, which they met with resilience and enthusiasm. Throughout, the players demonstrated a willingness to learn, support one another, and push themselves beyond their comfort zones. Written by Rupert Harden (Director of Rugby)
Written by Neil Evans (Director of Hockey)
Hockey at Oakham thrived once again with 34 teams going out and competing across the season; 342 matches were played across the year with over 400 players representing the School. The hockey season kicked off with a pre-season trip to York. Three teams were taken for a 3-day training camp in preparation for the long season ahead, giving the best chance for all teams to come together before their first round of matches.
Both the Girls’ and Boys’ 1st XI competed in Tier 1. The girls finished a respectable mid-table with the highlight being an overnight trip to Newcastle resulting in a 3-0 win. The boys’ 1st XI were competitive in Tier 1, showing that Oakham is still one of the best hockey schools in the country. Oakham was also placed in the top 8 hockey playing schools in the country according to the Good Schools Guide. A fantastic achievement for the School and the hockey programme as a whole. The U16 girls also competed in the Tier 1 competition making it to a national Quarter-Final clash against Surbiton; a great achievement after a long, hard season and building block for those players now moving into senior hockey. The indoor hockey season also produced similar success with all indoor teams making it to their respective Regional finals. Run alongside their busy outdoor schedule, this is a great achievement to those players that play hockey across both formats.
Overall, the hockey season across the board had its fair share of success stories. What is more impressive is that hockey at Oakham continues to be a major, inclusive sport for all students. The hockey programme is supported by a dedicated team of hockey professionals. Three full-time members of staff put together countless extra sessions during the hockey season which helped players develop their skills further. Over 150 extra hockey sessions in the Summer Term meant that players were further prepared for the upcoming hockey season.
Over 150 extra hockey sessions in the Summer Term meant that players were further prepared for the upcoming hockey season.”
Last season was a memorable journey for the girls’ 1st team, marked by impressive performances, remarkable teamwork, and a strong sense of camaraderie. They kicked off their campaign with an inspiring 3-0 victory against Rugby School, a match highlighted by a great early goal that set the tone for some very confident play throughout. This win demonstrated their attacking prowess and solid defence, laying a strong foundation for the season. The team continued to build momentum with a thrilling 3-2 win against The Grammar School at Leeds in Tier 1, securing their first league victory and proving some resilience and fighting spirit. Each game reflected their dedication and ability to perform under pressure, and these early successes boosted their confidence and team morale. The players showed consistent commitment in the league, earning another 3 points with a close 3-2 win over Manchester High School for Girls, further affirming their competitive edge and desire to progress. One of the standout matches was a dominant 6-1 victory against local rivals Stamford, a game that showcased their attacking strength and cohesive teamwork. The season also included a memorable trip to Newcastle, where they faced RGS Newcastle in what was a huge away fixture. After an overnight stay, the team rose to the occasion with a fantastic performance, securing a big win and scoring what was arguably the goal of the season through Alice S. Throughout the season, the girls demonstrated incredible effort, sportsmanship, and a positive attitude, making every match a valuable experience. Their dedication to training, tactical awareness, and mutual support were evident both on and off the pitch. This long and successful season was a collective achievement, made possible by the hard work of every girl in the squad, the unwavering support of our coaching staff, and the encouragement from parents and supporters. We are incredibly proud of how far the team has come, celebrating each victory and learning from every challenge. Special mentions go to captain Emma M who won Player of the Year; Alexa B-E for winning Players’ Player and Millie A for winning Most Improved Player. The progress made over the past months has laid a solid groundwork for future success, and we are excited for what’s to come. Thanks to all the girls for their dedication, energy, and sportsmanship throughout this memorable journey. Their resilience and teamwork have truly made it a special season, and we look forward to many more victories and growth together in the seasons ahead! Written by Katie Long (coach)
Captained by Izzie C, the 2nd XI had a brilliant season. A big squad led by a group of experienced Seventh Formers welcomed the new Sixth Formers into the team. The first game vs Rugby was a nail-biting 0-0 with end-to-end opportunities; they had to focus on working together and understanding structure and set plays. The girls really shone against Bromsgrove, where they took a 4-0 win. Our super goalkeeper Annabelle kept us in the game on several occasions, only conceding 4 goals in the whole of the season. A team that worked hard and progressed over the term. Their efforts were outstanding on the pitch, with sideline support and encouragement never in doubt. A great season, very well done!
Written by Charlotte Rogers (coach)
One of the standout matches was a dominant 6-1 victory against local rivals Stamford.”
The hockey 3rd team ended their season unbeaten against other 3rd teams across the region. Their fierce dedication to practice and competitive spirit laid the groundwork for what would become an outstanding season. With many girls remaining in the team from the 2023-24 season, the consistency of the group paid off, producing some brilliant results against local rivals. New Sixth Formers joined the team, stepping up impressively in training and matches, learning from the experienced Seventh Form leaders in the team. Game after game, they proved themselves unstoppable, taking on local competitors with decisive victories against Rugby (2-1), Stowe (4-1), Bromsgrove (4-0) and Stamford (6-0). These wins were testament to the seamless passing around opposition defence, well-rehearsed short corners and disciplined presses on the defensive transition. The senior players led by example across the season, particularly in the Stamford and Rugby games, with fearless defence, superb goal-keeping and tidy attacking transitions. The Haileybury game at the start of November was a nail-biter. Going into the second half 1-0 down, the girls put their bodies on the line to stop Haileybury’s attack breaking through and made some brave decisions in attack, equalising towards the end of the second half. Millie D stepped up to finish the game and scored the winning goal. The whole team celebrated after each game, reflecting not just sporting achievements, but the bonds they’d forged throughout the term. Written by Jade Potter (coach)
This year our team really connected with each other taking us from our first match victory against Rugby 4-1 to the Quarter-Finals of the Tier 1 National Cup. Throughout our journey there have been many memories, such as the bus journeys to long away matches where we sing along the whole way, the service station stops, the highs of goals and celebrations and the lows of losses or conceded goals. Our highlight of the season has to be the cup match away at Solihull; the pitch was flooding and the rain wasn’t stopping, but as always nothing broke our team’s spirit. We went on to win 3-1, before a celebratory dance in the rain and a ‘quick’ trip to maccies on the way back. Playing as a part of this team was something special and I think that really showed through our results and the friendships we all have off the hockey pitch. A special mention to the coaches as well - the team wouldn’t have been the same without them.
Written by captains Libby Hoyles and Sophia Wattie
The girls enjoyed a fantastic season, full of enjoyment and positivity throughout. A wonderful group of girls to work with, who arrived at every session come rain or shine with smiles on their faces and just loved playing hockey together. It was a real pleasure.
The girls’ enjoyment was reflected in their match play, with improvements throughout the term. Notable wins over Stowe, Bromsgrove and Stamford and a well fought draw with Haileybury. This is a strong group of girls who will add huge value to senior hockey at Oakham next year. Thank you all for your efforts and I look forward to seeing you play 2nd XI hockey in 2025!
Written by Patrick Latham (coach)
The U15A girls enjoyed a good season, full of team and individual development with the girls working hard towards their goals. After narrowly missing out on a win in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Rugby to open the season, the girls found their feet, with standout results including a 5-1 win against Stowe and 6-2 vs rivals Uppingham. The girls should be proud of themselves, and these results are testament to the work they put in during the season as well their support for each other. They have been a pleasure to coach. Written by Will Hartley (coach) team showed tremendous spirit and growth throughout the season, displaying resilience and teamwork in every match. Despite narrow defeats to strong sides such as Rugby (1–5) and Stowe (0–7), the players consistently demonstrated commitment and improvement. A fantastic 3-1 victory away at Uppingham highlighted their attacking flair and defensive solidity, while a thrilling 2-2 draw against Gresham’s showcased their determination to fight until the end. Even in challenging fixtures, their work rate and unity never faltered. The squad’s progress, attitude, and sportsmanship were exemplary, laying a strong foundation for future success and continued development next season.
Written by Verity Pern (coach) team have worked tirelessly throughout the season to improve their technical and tactical hockey skills and whilst results may not have gone in our favour, the girls put out a strong showing every Saturday, and this was rewarded with an excellent win v Rugby. I hope the girls continue their hockey, as they move up to the U16 age group. They have been a pleasure to coach and I wish you luck next season.
Written by Lydia Musk (coach)
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The U14A girls had a fantastic season overall. Starting off slowly through September with only 1 win in their first 4 fixtures, the girls eventually adapted to 11-a-side, the squad settled, and the girls worked incredibly hard at training. They found their rhythm and went on a streak of 7 games undefeated with 6 wins in that time to secure two-term hockey and qualify for the Tier 1 National Plate Quarter-Final, eventually losing narrowly 0-1 at home. The girls’ enjoyment of and commitment to their hockey this year was evident throughout, and it was a pleasure to coach them. Written by Luke Tunstall (coach)
The U14B hockey team had an impressive season, successfully transitioning to 11-a-side hockey. They showcased their skills by winning 3 matches, drawing 1, and losing 3, demonstrating competitiveness throughout the season. Major highlights included a thrilling 1-0 victory against Uppingham and an outstanding 4-0 win over Haileybury, which reinforced the team’s determination and talent. Each player contributed to the overall success, displaying teamwork and sportsmanship during every match. The U14B team can take pride in their accomplishments and growth, laying a solid foundation for future successes in their hockey journey. Written by Tom Fell (coach)
It has been a great season for the U14Cs. They have worked hard in training, focusing on building up their core skills and learning how to work together as a team. Out of the six fixtures, they managed to win 2 and draw 1. They fought hard to get a 1-0 win against Uppingham, their first win of the season. They also finished the season on a big high with a nail-biting 2-1 win against Stamford. These results show that they only improved throughout the season and worked well with each other as a team. Written by Leah Nolan (coach)
The U13A team enjoyed a highly positive season, showing excellent progress, teamwork, and determination throughout. After 2 narrow opening defeats, they found form with impressive wins over Oundle, King’s College, and Denstone, followed by strong performances against Stamford and Witham Hall. Their attacking flair shone in emphatic victories against Worksop and Leicester Grammar. Even in close losses, the team’s spirit, effort, and cohesion were clear. With 7 wins from 13 matches and consistent improvement each week, the players should be proud of their achievements and look forward with confidence to further success in future seasons. Written by Ashley Denman (coach)
It was a season of learning for the U13Bs, and despite a lot of results not going in their favour, there were many high points as a result of their hard work and resilient attitude. Particular highlights included an early season 2-1 win over Bilton Grange and a resounding 5-1 win away to Denstone. The girls improved their skills brilliantly over the season and I am excited to see how they take to 11-a-side hockey next term. Written by Will Hartley (coach)
The U12A girls started off the season fantastically with strong results against local rivals. As the season progressed with the focus on match craft and technical skill development in training, the girls came up against the toughest teams on the schedule and hit a rough patch of form. All credit to their resilience as they emerged and went undefeated in their last 7 games, winning 5. Notable highlights include several girls called up to the U13A team and the environment they created at training. The overriding feeling this season was one of fun and enjoyment. Written by Luke Tunstall (coach)
The U12B team produced an encouraging set of performances, showing skill, determination, and steady improvement. Despite an opening defeat to Oundle, they responded brilliantly with a hard-fought draw against Bilton Grange and impressive away wins at Worksop, Stamford, and Leicester Grammar. Each match demonstrated strong teamwork, solid defence, and developing attacking confidence. A narrow victory over Denstone College rounded off the season on a high note. With 4 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 loss from completed fixtures, the players can be proud of their progress and exciting potential for future success. Written by Ashley Denman (coach)
The U12Cs had a great season with many players starting their hockey journey for the first time. They learnt how to work as a team and were constantly improving their skills, with each player contributing to the team. While many of the fixtures ended with close defeats, they peaked at the right time, ending their season with a 3-1 win against Repton. This showed the girls’ fighting attitude, never giving up and playing to the final whistle. The girls always had fun, with all the players leaving training and matches smiling. Written by Leah Nolan (coach)
The 1st XI made a huge step in their development this season and with a young side, will look to further improve next season. Although wins were few and far between, performances were extremely positive. The main focus for the team was a sense of togetherness, discipline and a positive mindset for both training and matches. This was tested when losing heavily for three games against three strong Tier 1 teams. The team bounced back, however, and started the second half of the season well, beating Monkton Comb 3-1 in a friendly and narrowly losing to a very strong Rugby side, 3-2, in their fourth Tier 1 match. A mixed bag of results followed but the team’s performances improved, and this was once again highlighted in their final game of the season against Uppingham. Oakham dominated the game, playing with great spirit and intensity with the game ending in a 3-3 draw after a few controversial moments. All in all, a great way to end the season and a fantastic game for the spectators and players to be involved in.
The 1st XI will once again look to build on this season and with a young squad, many players will remember this season as a turning point for boys’ hockey. Special mentions go to Fred C for captaining the side and scoring 8 goals this season; Lloyd B for winning the Most Improved Player of the Season for his continued positive outlook and improving performances; Philipp S for winning Players’ Player of the Season for his consistent play throughout the entire season and Felix F for winning Player of the Season after his outstanding performances in goal. The team should be proud of their development this season.
The 2nd XI’s season was one of resilience, teamwork, and determination. It began with a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Oundle, setting a promising tone for the season. A closely contested 1-1 draw against our biggest rivals Uppingham demonstrated our defensive discipline and ability to battle against strong opposition.
The season presented its challenges, with tough losses against Rugby and Bedford testing the boys’ perseverance. However, we never let setbacks define us. Instead, we responded with some of our best performances, including a dominant 7-1 home win over Bromsgrove and a commanding 6-2 away victory at Gresham’s. These matches showcased our attacking prowess and ability to rise to the occasion, proving our resilience under pressure.
The final game of the season against Uppingham was a perfect summary of the team’s character. Despite going 1-0 down, a somewhat recurring theme for the season, we fought back to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory, defending a short corner on the last play of the game. It was a fitting end to a season that reflected the team’s fighting spirit and refusal to give up.
Through every challenge and triumph, the 2nd XI demonstrated improvement, commitment, and an unbreakable team spirit, making this a season to be proud of. Written by Sam Wills (coach)
The main focus for the team was a sense of togetherness, discipline and a positive mindset for both training and matches.”
The 3rd XI faced a challenging season. While results didn’t always go their way, the team showed great commitment and real moments of promise, scoring 10 goals across the season. The group were challenged against strong opposition from a number of schools and despite some setbacks, the players demonstrated excellent resilience and continued to compete with determination and pride. Highlights of the season were the two excellently composed victories away at Oundle and home to Bromsgrove! Written by Ed Hales (coach)
The main focus for the team was a sense of togetherness, discipline and a positive mindset for both training and matches.”
It was a tough season for the U16As, being on the receiving end of a number of tough results. What the results don’t show is the amount of fight and determination the boys put in, improving tremendously across the season and starting to show a real understanding of a new system and style of play. This culminated in their first win in over 12 months, with a brilliant 4-0 dismantling of Rugby School. Despite not having more wins, the team can be proud of their efforts and unwavering determination throughout the term and they were a pleasure to coach.
Written by Will Hartley (coach)
The U16Bs had a good season, showing great togetherness and determination across the season which produced plenty of entertaining moments, scoring 18 goals across their 6 games. Notable results included two wins over Uppingham (7-1 and 4-3) and a brilliant 4-1 win against a strong Bromsgrove side. They were a great group to coach, and I hope the boys will look to continue to support hockey across their senior school careers. Written by Will Hartley (coach)
The U15As showed a lot of character throughout the season. Having to adapt to a ‘new look’ to the team, they hit the ground running in a cold pre-season camp at School. Close losses to Solihull and Stamford started the season with all 5 goals in the game against Stamford coming in the first half! The team continued to battle on through the season, improving week on week. A close loss at Rugby came, despite a very well worked short corner scored by Jenson H. The team travelled to Bromsgrove at the start of March, coming away 2-0 winners with 2 goals from captain Harry S, a great win! A big thanks to the whole squad for their hard work all season!
Written by Alex Cooper (coach)
The U15B boys made significant progress across the term, and led by captain Freddie R, the boys were up for the fight throughout the season. They never gave in, always played with smiles on their faces and despite being on the wrong end of results which were often very close, always approached the next game with the belief that this was their moment. Special mentions to William S in goal, who consistently made fantastic saves throughout the season; and Guido S, who developed his game to a degree that he ended the season as an A team player.
Written by Patrick Latham (coach)
The U14A boys’ season was one of development and outstanding togetherness. They had the tricky task of needing to adapt to 11-a-side quickly and hit the ground running against some excellent local teams early on. The boys can be proud knowing they dominated games and competed with the best for long periods in all, testing some very experienced and talented groups. Notable highlights include a tense 0-0 draw against an excellent Oundle, a comfortable early season victory over Uppingham and a squad performance of the season away at Bromsgrove. The boys should all be incredibly proud of their efforts!
Written by Luke Tunstall (coach)
The U14B boys showed tremendous progress this season. Unfavourable weather conditions made the season preparations tricky. On another cold and wet day, the boys fought back to be within a goal against Uppingham but sadly weren’t able to secure a much-deserved draw. The highlight of the season was at Rugby. Excellent togetherness, competitive spirit and a desire to hold out for a welldeserved win ahead of half-term proved a turning point, and they went on to remain unbeaten for their remaining games. A large number of boys represented the team, showcasing their desire to be the best they can.
Written
by Katie
Long
(coach)
The U14C boys experienced a competitive season showcasing their talents across all the fixtures they played. The team emerged victorious not once but twice over our local rivals from down the road, keeping clean sheets in both as well as putting in a comfortable victory away at Rugby School. The team focused hard in training on their fundamental skills as well as adapting to 11-a-side and understanding their roles in positions on a bigger pitch. The boys should be hugely proud of their efforts, and I hope they enjoy their hockey as they move up the School. Written by Andy Rice (coach)
The U14D team experienced a tough season, playing 7 matches without securing a win. Despite 5 close losses, the team managed to earn 2 hard-fought draws in excellent performances against Rugby and Uppingham. These glimpses of resilience and growing teamwork have laid the foundations for the boys to continue to improve their hockey as they move through the School. The season proved a valuable learning experience for the group having to adapt to 11-aside and grow their understanding of the game. With some continued work on goalscoring these players are well placed to return stronger next year! Written by Fr Tim Tregunno (coach)
...competitive spirit and a desire to hold out for a well-deserved win ahead of half-term proved a turning point, and they went on to remain unbeaten for their remaining games.”
The Boys U13A team had a fantastic season, only losing 1 game. They started well, beating Oundle 3-1 and Worksop 11-1 proving that the team could certainly score goals. Two close games against Stamford (3-3) and Witham (3-2) followed to show the boys that they still had work to do. They bounced back emphatically with a 6-1 win over Spratton Hall before attending the Regional Finals where the boys finished a very respectable 8th place. All in all, a great confident season from a side with huge potential. Written by Ashley Denman (coach)
The U13B team enjoyed a strong season, winning nearly three quarters of their games whilst only drawing one and they proved a commanding presence on the pitch, netting 24 whilst only conceding 16 all season. Notable highlights of the season included high-scoring wins against Worksop, Stamford and Witham and a thrilling penalty shuffle competition v Bilton which ended in a narrow loss. This successful run reflects the players’ hard work in training and positive attitudes. With continued development, this group shows great potential for future hockey success at Oakham. Written by Daniel Willcock (coach)
The U13C boys produced a consistent and balanced season when reflecting on results. The wins they came to as a squad were comfortable, with a landmark 10-2 victory against Witham, emerging with a 6-3 win over Spratton also. Those fixtures in which the boys were defeated ran close and to the wire with little between the sides. Their efforts and dedication to improving their hockey are shown nicely when looking back at the season. An emphasis in training on nailing basic skills and being more prepared than other schools has served them well. The boys have been superb all year. Written by Tref Vandoros (coach)
The U12A boys had a challenging season this year but despite this and on reflection, there are a significant number of highlights that come to mind: three strong wins against Oundle, Bilton Grange and Leicester Grammar, netting 13 goals whilst only conceding 3. The opportunity for the boys to test themselves against some of the best teams in the area at their age group was superb. Whilst results didn’t go their way, they played fantastically for large parts of these fixtures. The boys’ commitment to training and their love of hockey made them a pleasure to coach this year. Written by James Henderson (coach)
The U12B boys had a resounding season filled with lots of success every Wednesday and have made fantastic steps in their development as hockey players this year. With huge wins and lots of goals against local teams like Witham, Oundle and Stamford they showcased the depth of boys’ hockey talent at U12. Just losing out in nail-biting fixtures against Bedford and Spratton, the boys can hold their heads high knowing that they could compete with the best! Working with the boys has been good fun and I’m sure they’ll go from strength to strength. Written by Ed Hales (coach)
Written by Charlotte Rogers (Assistant Director of Sport)
The netball term was busy and exciting for all, with 22 teams across the Lower, Middle and Upper School competing in weekly block fixtures. Overall the girls scored more than 2,800 goals with over 75 wins in 161 games – a positive and huge contribution by all girls involved.
Netball is a popular option in the games programme in the Spring Term, where the girls’ commitment and dedication to training were evident in the strong success of the 1st VII through to 4th VII team with a particular mention to the 2nd VII who scored the most goals of any team this season in a game with 52 against Nottingham Girls’ High School.
This season the girls’ 1st VII team, coached by Mrs Nicholls (Director of Netball) and Miss Potter, achieved another successful season, maintaining the County and Regional champion title, and going to Nationals held at the English Institute of Sport to face the highest level of netball in the country. Captained by Harriet M, it was a memorable weekend of netball where the girls showed resilience, grit and endurance, evidenced in the final game of the tournament where they got a win to conclude a testing day.
Throughout the season, the 1st VII consistently represented Oakham at the highest level. Their fixtures ranged from an opening friendly against the OOs to a closing match against their peers, the 1st XV boys’ rugby team. Alongside the regular Saturday block fixtures, one of the highlights was a thrilling end to end ‘Friday Night Lights’ contest against Stamford School, played in front of a packed crowd of pupils, parents, and teachers. Beyond school fixtures, individual achievements stood out: Izzy N represented Nottingham Forest and Betsy H represented Birmingham Panthers in their U17 NPL squads – a remarkable accomplishment alongside their contributions to Oakham’s success.
Both the U14 and U16 girls proudly represented Oakham in their respective age categories at the County Tournament hosted by Leicester Grammar. The teams approached every match with courage and determination, showcasing their commitment and skill. The U16s impressed by winning all their pool games and progressing to the semi-final, while the U14s also competed with great spirit. Although both sides narrowly missed out on regional qualification, the tournament provided valuable experience and an excellent learning opportunity that will serve them well in future competitions.
Lower School brought energy and enthusiasm to every single game with all pupils getting their opportunity to take to the court and represent Oakham. The U13As started their campaign in the Winter Term with a closely fought ‘Friday Night Lights’ fixture against Woodhouse Grove at Loughborough University. The rest of the Lower School teams started their fixtures in January with a tough block against Spratton Hall. Each week the girls worked hard during training, building up their netball skills and teamwork. The season finished with an Easter-themed training session filled with lots of challenges as well as the annual House netball competition.
All things considered, there were plenty of notable achievements throughout the netball season. The programme is delivered by incredible coaches and a huge thank you to all who have supported all pupils on the sidelines throughout the term. We concluded the netball term saying goodbye and a huge thank you to Mrs Nicholls who has directed the netball programme for years with passion and enthusiasm. We wish her the best of luck in her new role at Birmingham Panthers.
Alongside the regular one of the highlights was a thrilling end to end ‘Friday Night Lights’ contest against Stamford School, played in front of a packed crowd of pupils, parents, and teachers.”
The 2024–25 season started with a fiercely contested pre-season clash between Oakham and the Old Oakhamians. With sibling rivalries and many girls returning for their second or third year in the 1st VII, the match was played at high intensity, with both sides challenging every turnover and centre pass. The game remained goal for goal until the final stages, when Oakham pulled away to secure a 34–30 victory.
The annual ‘Friday Night Lights’ fixture against Woodhouse Grove at Loughborough University followed, providing another thrilling spectacle. Oakham led for much of the game, thanks to excellent shooting from Bella P and superb defensive pressure from Harriet M, who reinforced her leadership role. Katie W impressed with her composure and work rate, switching seamlessly between WA and C and delivering pinpoint feeds to the shooters.
Unfortunately, Katie W injured her knee before the start of the Spring Term, which meant that she was unable to play any part. Her commitment never wavered and she still played an integral role within the team.
In the Sisters in Sport Cup against The King’s School for Girls, Oakham produced a fast-paced performance, with Betsy H excelling in defence and securing key intercepts. The team’s collective effort earned an 8-goal win. Success continued at the County Tournament, where Oakham swept aside seven strong opponents including Ratcliffe, Uppingham, and Leicester Grammar. Grace H, Isabella O, and Alice S combined brilliantly in defence, closing down attacks and setting up flying intercepts.
Oakham’s invitation to the Limitless Independent Schools League reflected the programme’s growing reputation. Debutants Olivia C and Sophia W added energy and attacking options across WD, C and WA, while Esme F impressed with her defensive play. Phoebe P’s composure under pressure drew praise, and Katie K’s sharp cuts and drives stood out. Isabella N claimed ‘Player of the Day’ for her clinical shooting and tactical awareness.
The regional round of the National Qualifying Tournament soon arrived, with Oakham quickly establishing themselves as the team to watch. Backed by strong support from parents, teachers, and peers, the squad showed resilience, edging out opponents in tight matches to reach the finals. Harriet M’s fearless defending and the reading of play by Isabella O and Alice S proved decisive. In the final against Repton, Oakham stamped their authority from the first whistle, adapting cleverly and extending their lead to secure the Regional U19 Tournament title.
The regular season reinforced their credentials, with victories over Rugby (29–24), Nottingham Girls’ High School (47–22), Leicester Grammar (26–24), and Uppingham (34–17). A narrow 30–37 loss at Bromsgrove was notable for Millie C’s superb defensive work, supported by Isabella O, against a fast rotating shooting circle.
One of the season’s highlights was the Oakham Friday Night Lights fixture against Stamford, played before a packed crowd. Clemmie B made an immediate impact at WD with a vital intercept, and the game swung back and forth before finishing 34–34 – a fitting showcase of skill and spirit.
Harriet M captained the team with distinction across the year, encouraging the best from her peers and leading by example.
A final U19 Nationals Tournament for Mrs Nicholls after 11 consecutive years was the perfect way to round off the season. Another chance for the athletes to compete against some of the best teams in the country and performances that reflected a season of growth, impressive skill development and flair from both new and existing members.
Written by Jade Potter (coach)
This was a dedicated and hard-working team of individuals who came together to perform outstandingly week after week. Facing 1st team opposition and several competitive sides, the girls maintained their composure and high standards of play to achieve a positive goal difference of 132, which is a phenomenal effort in the 9 games played in the term. Every person in this team contributed massively to their success, often playing out of position to support the team whilst also encouraging each other to support the team’s knowledge and understanding of set play, tactics and skill development, most memorably vs Leicester Grammar, where they won 51-13. A fantastic season; well done!
Written
by Charlotte Rogers (coach)
The 3rds had a dominant season winning 5 out of their 7 matches. Most of these matches had a large number of goals scored with their biggest being a 42-6 win over Repton. The team finished the season having scored almost 200 goals. The girls always had fun at training whilst still building up their skills. In training we focused on our through court attack after a turnover since the whole team were great at turning over balls. Some of the 3rds were called up into the 2nds after showing off their skills, which is testament to their hard work.
Written by Leah Nolan (coach)
A fabulous season for the 4ths. Competitively, highlights were the 35-2 and 33-2 wins over Rugby and winning 5 out of their 7 matches. In all games, even those with big leads, the girls showed great focus and determination whilst also managing to maintain excellent team spirit and a large element of fun. Fun was always a key element of their training sessions, and their love of netball ensured they were always thoroughly warmed up and ready to apply themselves in training. A pleasure to coach, and they should be pleased with their efforts this season. Well done!
Written by Victoria Crosby (coach)
The U16A netball team had a tough season, winning only 1 of their matches. These girls fought through every match, never failing to end the match with a smile on their face. With some big losses against Bromsgrove and Rugby, it made the win against Repton (38-23) feel even better. Well done girls, you have never given up, despite walking onto court every Saturday with tired legs from your long run in the Tier 1 Hockey Cup. You have made us proud every week and have demonstrated what it means to be an Oakhamian.
Written
by Lydia Musk (coach)
The U16B netball team enjoyed a successful season, winning 4 of their 7 matches. They started strong with impressive victories against Oundle at home, followed by wins over Rugby and Leicester Grammar. Despite their shooting prowess, they faced challenges against Stamford and lost narrowly by just 4 goals. The team encountered their toughest opposition at Bromsgrove. In two competitive matches against neighbours Uppingham, they defeated their U18C team 22-20 but fell short against their U16B squad by 4 goals once again. Overall, it was an excellent term of netball with a consistently talented team. Written by Heidi Cannie (coach)
This season’s results do not truly reflect the attitude and positivity the U15A girls displayed throughout the season. There is clear talent across the squad which, frustratingly, did not quite come together consistently to produce the performances and results they were capable of. Despite this, they remained a super group of girls whose camaraderie, humour and resilience were outstanding. They were a delight to coach and represented the School with pride. There were some notable individual standouts: Cici for her drive and dogged determination at centre, Mimi for her great defensive awareness and composure, and Jesse for her hard work, determination and relentless pressure. We would also like to thank Molly from the U14s for joining the squad; she played well and was certainly a welcome addition to the team. Written by Carly Latham
I feel very lucky and proud to have been the U15B coach. It was great to see Oakham win many matches against tough teams. We came from behind to win matches and showed determination and true teamwork. Philippa D, Bea G and Izzie M dominated defence, Maria H, Izzie and Fleur L controlled the centre court ensuring that the ball was consistently delivered to our key shooters, Iona S and Megan M. All girls worked so hard in training, warm ups led by our truly great captain Maria H. She set the bar high with expectations both in training and match play. Each week we faced difficult teams, however, this did not faze our team and we certainly went out each week going for gold and achieving great things. They certainly worked as a strong unit. Girls, the 2024/25 season certainly goes down as one of Mrs N’s greatest memories for many reasons. Thank you and I look forward to seeing you all in action on the courts next season.
Written by Michelle Northcott
Despite the results, the U15C girls played extremely well this season and all grew massively together as a team. They had a really tough start to the season with 3 consecutive losses to Oundle, Stamford and Rugby, but kept their heads held high and followed this with a 34-14 win against Bromsgrove. The girls continued to work hard together, and were all great team players when it came to changing positions and adapting when players were absent. Overall, the girls had a great term of netball and should be really proud of the progress they made both individually and as a team.
Written by Verity Pern (coach)
The U15D girls had a really tough start to the year with some heavy losses to Oundle and Rugby, but they did a fantastic job of maintaining a determined and positive outlook; this paid off with significantly stronger performances towards the end of the season. They also brought this positivity to training and were prepared to give everything a go. We focused a lot on our defending skills, in particular how to use our bodies to deny space and restrict movement of the opposition. Practising these techniques resulted in a lot of laughter, and it was lovely to see the smiles on the girls’ faces.
Written by Victoria Crosby (coach)
The U14As had a season of up and downs. After narrowly missing out on qualifying for Regionals, they regrouped and came back stronger picking up four wins in netball term. The most memorable was the final fixture against Uppingham which went goal for goal for the whole game, but the girls came out on top in the last two minutes winning 35-33 despite only having seven players. The girls trained hard focusing a lot of their training on their tactics in matches. It has been a great team effort for the whole season!
Written by Leah Nolan (coach)
While the U14Bs had a tough season during their fixtures, that does not reflect the hard work that they put in during training. The team is made up of a strong group of girls, all putting in maximum effort during training and fixtures. They always had a smile at training and worked hard whilst practising their skills. The team started the netball term with a loss and a win. After a tough set of fixtures in the middle of the season resulting in three consecutive losses, the girls stepped up a gear to finish on a 21-11 win against Uppingham.
Written by Leah Nolan (coach)
The U13As are made up of an amazing group of players who all work hard in training and matches. The team kicked off the netball season with a close 18-17 defeat to Woodhouse Grove whilst playing Friday Night Lights at Loughborough University. The girls learnt a lot from this experience, especially after watching the 1st team players. After some narrow defeats, the team finished with exciting 18-17 win over Nottingham Girls’ High School and a dominant 16-8 victory against Oundle. It has been a great season full of learning and fun.
Written by Leah Nolan (coach)
The U13Bs enjoyed a reasonably successful season this year, winning 4 out of their 8 matches. After a tough loss to start the season against Spratton, the girls bounced back superbly to win three in a row against Nottingham Girls’ High School, Repton and Witham before finishing the season on a high to beat Denstone College, 18-11. The players showed a great deal of improvement as the season went on and worked hard at using the space around the court to better effect. Their efforts never wavered, and it was great to see them working as a team and enjoying their netball. Written by Tom Fell (coach)
The U13C netball team had a season of growth and determination, finishing with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses. Players showed improvement in skills, teamwork, and confidence thoughout the season. Several were promoted into the U13C team, while others progressed upwards to the B team, reflecting their hard work. The team displayed strong defensive efforts, and sportsmanship all season. Their enthusiasm were evident in every match. It’s been a rewarding season, and the players should be proud of their progress and achievements. Well done to all for a fantastic effort and fun season!
Written by Charlotte Rogers (coach)
The U12A team was fantastic to coach this season. They arrived at every training session with energy and enthusiasm, rain or shine. They were eager to develop as individuals and as a team, working hard week by week to establish game strategy that they could apply to their match play. Taking it in turns to captain the team, they remained victorious throughout, scoring a total of 61 goals in 4 games. Their most memorable game concluded their winning streak by beating Oundle 19-6. It was a fantastic season, and the girls should be proud of their efforts. Very well done!
Written by Charlotte Rogers (coach)
It has been an enjoyable yet difficult season for the U12B team, often competing against strong opposition. However, it was pleasing to see that the girls made great progress, especially with their movement around the court and their footwork. Their most notable performances this season came against Nottingham High School with a solid 10-7 victory and a convincing 14-6 win against Maidwell, finishing the season on a high. The girls were great fun to work with this term and their enthusiasm never faded despite some difficult results which will stand them in good stead as they progress through the School. Written by Tom Fell (coach) 1 2 3
Written by Patrick Latham (Director of Cricket)
The 2025 cricket season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, filled with individual wins, team growth, and positive experiences. While victories were few, both the girls and boys played with passion, developed as cricketers and individuals, and created lasting memories.
The 1st XI boys hosted this year’s BOWS Festival and, despite losing all three games, showed immense grit, determination, and team spirit. Oakham scored 788 runs across the matches, each time surpassing 250 runs and twice losing in the final overs. These hard-fought games forged stronger bonds and improved skills, arguably more than victories would have. Their progress through adversity was remarkable, and we’re proud of their development.
The boys’ season began with a shaky start, casting doubt over their confidence. However, a turning point came with a win against the Old Oakhamian XI, which sparked a resurgence. From June onward, their performance soared. If matched now against any team from the first half of term, they’d likely win nine out of ten times – a testament to their growth.
The girls travelled to Brighton for their BOWS festival at Preston Nomads CC. Their third appearance at the event marked a cultural milestone, solidifying BOWS as a key fixture in the girls’ cricket calendar. A win over Sedbergh on day one boosted morale and inspired spirited performances in the following games. This season marked Oakham’s first BOWS victory and competitive showings in all matches, a significant leap from last year.
The addition of new players to the girls’ programme has strengthened the squad, and with only a few Form 7 departures, the outlook for 2026 is bright. Girls’ cricket at Oakham continues to evolve, and the future looks promising.
Across other groups, results were mixed. The senior boys, despite external pressures like exams and revision, maintained high participation and a strong team culture. Their enjoyment and commitment were evident, supported by dedicated coaching staff. Thanks to their resilience, nearly all scheduled matches were fulfilled.
In the Middle School, the U14 and U15 boys didn’t achieve the results hoped for,
but their development was clear. They’ve grown as players and teammates, and many are just hitting their stride. Club cricket will be crucial for their continued progress, offering the best environment to refine their skills.
On the girls’ side, participation and performance at U14 and U15 levels reached new heights. Record numbers opted for cricket, and it was encouraging to see Form 3 and Form 4 girls playing in the 1st XI. This reflects our commitment to promoting talent to senior teams as soon as they’re ready. Providing consistent challenges and opportunities remains a priority, and we’re excited to welcome new cricketers across age groups next year to further strengthen the programme.
Beyond fixtures, we were fortunate to host several special events. Paul Nixon returned to Oakham for a wicketkeeping workshop with our top keepers. Leicestershire’s Liam Trevaskis contributed to our winter spin bowling programme, and during the XL Club game former England all-rounder, Samit Patel, worked in the middle with one of our rising boys’ 1st XI players.
Our fixture list was diverse and exciting, featuring matches against the RAF Ladies, Army men, and Australian touring side Knox Grammar. Both XIs faced the MCC, while the boys also played the XL Club and Gents of Leicestershire. Wellington College and Sedbergh joined us for our traditional touring games for younger teams.
A standout addition to the summer schedule was the U11 mixed six-a-side tournament, which proved a brilliant success. We look forward to expanding this event in the coming years.
We also bid farewell to Miss Pearson, who has been instrumental in promoting and coaching girls’ cricket. Her dedication has left a lasting impact, and we hope to see her around Oakham again. A touching moment came when the 1st XI girls presented her with her cap on Brighton beach during the festival.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all coaches, parents, grounds staff, and catering teams for their unwavering support. The Summer Term was filled with positivity and fun, and we’re excited to build an even stronger cricket programme as we head into the 2026 season.
The 1st XI season felt like a season of what could have been. The first half of term was really challenging and the results on paper looked poor, often due to mistakes in the field, dropping catches and missing opportunities. Amongst the losses, the boys played some really good cricket, most notably against a very strong Rugby XI. Despite the result, it was a promising performance and a sign of what we were capable of as a side. The second half of the season brought much-improved results. Outstanding wins against the Old Oakhamians and Stamford, and a great performance against the MCC (match abandoned) rewarded the boys’ hard work. Individual brilliance shone through: an exceptional 100* from Flynn B v the OOs and 5-25 from offspinner Freddie J v Stamford. Oakham then showed some grit to hold out for a well-earned draw in our annual timed fixture against Stowe, led by a resilient 73* from Sam M. This was followed by an emphatic win against Kimbolton, racking up 319 in 40 overs with Ezrah S (75) and Sam M (77) leading the charge. Up next, Oakham welcomed Knox Grammar School from Australia in what proved to be a thrilling, high-scoring affair which saw Oakham post 313-5 thanks to a maiden century from the captain, Harry G. A combination of some fine batting from the touring side and some disappointing bowling from the hosts meant Knox Grammar were able to complete the run chase off the final over with 4 wickets to spare. Nonetheless, it was another positive display from the Oakham 1st XI, which led to what was, undoubtedly, the highlight of the season at the annual Bedford T10 competition. Oakham went into the festival as defending champions, and another brilliant team performance in all three games meant we were able to successfully defend our title with victories against Felsted, Cricket East and Bedford School. The season concluded with the BOWS Festival, hosted at Oakham School. We welcomed Wellington College, Sedbergh School and Brighton College in what was an excellent three days of hard fought and competitive cricket. The week somewhat summed up the season for our boys… so near, yet so far. All three visiting teams were very strong, and we knew we had to be at our best if we were to be successful in the tournament. Unfortunately, Oakham lost each game by narrow margins, however, the performances did not reflect the results. We were in positions to win all three matches. It wasn’t to be but certainly not through a lack of effort. The boys had given everything over the course of the week and emotions were high in the dressing room after the final game, especially from our Form 7 leavers who can be very proud of the way they have represented the School over the years. It was great to see how much the boys had developed over the course of the season, and I believe had we played like we did in that final week of term at the BOWS Festival, the season would have looked very different from a results point of view.
Written by Tom Fell (Head of Cricket Development)
The 2nd XI’s season has been both challenging and rewarding. Importantly, despite results, the boys have thoroughly enjoyed being in each other’s company and developed significantly with both bat and ball. Despite narrow defeats to Uppingham by 3 wickets, Bedford by 4 wickets, and Oundle by just 5 runs, the team has shown great potential. As a young side, the experience gained this season will serve them well moving forward. Notable performances from E. Smart, J. Bowser, and S. McKenzie, who all scored half-centuries, highlight the talent within the team. It has been a pleasure to coach all of the boys.
Written by Sam Wills (coach)
The 3rd XI, jointly captained by Finlay M until injury and Eddie E, were a pleasure to coach. After a heavy opening defeat to Uppingham, the side showed real fight against Rugby, with Zach D striking a fine 50. Narrow losses to Bedford and Stamford were balanced by a superb win, bowling Stamford out for 38. Rain threatened the return fixture, but Oakham chased 86 with tempo, strengthened by Rose S-Y, a standout player in the Girls’ 1st XI and Elton smashing a 6 over extra cover. The final 100 ball game saw Oakham post 133, only to lose on the penultimate ball, with Fin G and Fin M contributing crucial runs.
Written by Andy Rice (coach)
The 4th XI team took pride in being the best dressed side on the circuit. A commitment to whites, friendly sledging and expansive cricket, the side ran strong Uppingham and Rugby School sides close before an outstanding performance against Bedford finished a brief but exciting season. Notably led by the solid all-rounder Jack G, the team could rely on the strike bowling of the enigmatic Jamie F, the solid batting of Ed D and the trickery of Finn W’s spin bowling to be a competitive and entertaining side.
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by Rupert Harden (coach)
The U15A cricket team has shown promise and improved as the season progressed. There were difficult matches towards the start of the season against strong Uppingham and Bedford sides, where we did not score enough runs, but the bowling had showed promise. The highlight of the season was the home fixture against Stamford, a superb bowling performance, led by Harry B who got 5 wickets, was then followed up with a more consistent batting display, as an unbeaten 39 from Henry J enabled us to chase down Stamford’s total and win by 6 wickets. After half-term we had some very close matches, narrowly losing to Stamford away, where Wilf G and Ned C got 3 wickets apiece and Harry L scored a composed 42. This was then followed by a 10-run loss to Wellington College, where we bowled and fielded superbly, only for our batting frailties to return and leave us just short. The bowling has been the side’s strength, Wilf G, Harry B, Ned C, Jack J, Harry L and Felix W have been a challenge for any of the sides we have faced, with Jack and Harry also already representing the 1st XI this season. The batting requires more consistency and application, the talent is there, and with focused winter practice, the players have the potential to refine their skills and develop strongly as they move into senior cricket next season.
Written by James Hutter (coach)
Whilst the 2025 season for the U14A boys has not seen an abundance of victories, the development of the group of boys and the potential they hold as a future 1st XI have been great to see. Notably, a nail-biting victory over Rugby School early in the season was the high point. The addition of Form 1 and Form 2 boys to the Saturday side clearly strengthen the team and give us a good idea of how this squad could look in four years’ time.
The boys played against some strong teams from big schools. They never gave up and always approached every game with positivity and a desire to do well. This is a journey and the group are at the start of it. We are excited to see where we can get this group of boys to over the remainder of their time at School.
Notable performances came from Harry L (F3), Finn B-K (F3), Harrison P (F3), Matthew I-W (F2), Luke M (F2) and Seb C (F2). Elias S (F3) is certainly a bowler of note to watch develop into next year.
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Written by Patrick Latham (Director of Cricket)
It was a really challenging season for the U13As this year having only won 1 of their 7 games. The season started promisingly with an emphatic win against St Hugh’s, however, from then on, the boys found it difficult to put enough runs on the board to win games. Their bowling performance was often very good, which was encouraging to see and I’m sure if the team could occupy the crease for longer and build partnerships, some of those losses would have been victories. This has all been excellent for the boys’ growth as cricketers, and I hope they have managed to learn a lot and be better players for it.
Written by Tom Fell (Head of Cricket Development)
The summer just passed was one of great success for girls’ cricket here at Oakham. The season started superbly with a dominant win over Leicestershire County Cricket’s development side, bowling the opposition all out for 56 and chasing the total in just 7 overs. This placed plenty of confidence within the team heading into the local rivalry against Uppingham, a close fought match, which saw Oakham come out on top in the penultimate over, guided by a brilliant 43 not-out from Rose S-Y. The match was emblematic of this season for the team, developing their match awareness and how to strategise a run chase. However, the following week saw a harsher learning curve, with a batting collapse leaving Oakham well short of Rugby’s total of 219. Nonetheless, the team rallied well and bounced back with a resounding win against Stamford, bowling them all out for 98 having set a total of 138. Against Stowe the girls produced a wonderful victory, with the team posting their highest total of 162, with runs shared across the batting line-up, before bowling the opposition out for 75, with notable wickets from the youngest first teamer Darcy C! But it would be the game against Kimbolton that fully demonstrated how far this side had developed in both their skills and ability to manage a game. With Kimbolton only needing 5 in the final over, the team managed to restrict the opposition and win by 2 runs!
This season also allowed the opportunity to gain experience playing against
senior women’s sides, with notable fixtures against the RAF and the MCC. Hosting the RAF was a wonderful opportunity, allowing the girls to test themselves against a strong opposition but also talk about playing senior cricket beyond their time on Doncaster Close. In the fixture against the MCC, the girls even had the opportunity to play against professional players, making the close nature of the match even more credible to the side, with a 75-run partnership between Lou F-S and Rose S-Y almost taking the side over the line.
To finish the season, the team headed down to Brighton, for the third girls’ BOWS Festival. Beginning with a night on the pier and by the beach for preparation, the team started the tournament brilliantly, posting 183 against Sedbergh, before bowling them all out for 111. This was then followed by a tougher challenge of a strong Wellington side, who posted 233, a total that proved too high a target, as we fell short in the run chase. Our final game of BOWS, and the season, was a tight match testing our ability to defend a competitive total, but ultimately falling short, with Brighton chasing our 118 in the 18th over.
It has been a brilliant season for girls’ cricket at Oakham, and I know that both Miss Pearson and I have been impressed with both the dedication and development of the side. We cannot wait for next season and seeing the girls at winter nets in October!
Written by Josh Arnold (coach)
The U15A Girls Cricket team showed resilience and promise as the season progressed. With several players promoted to the Girls’ 1st XI, opportunities arose for others to step up from the U15B side, and they impressed with their enthusiasm and commitment. Across five fixtures, the team recorded 1 win, 3 losses, and 1 abandoned match. Their standout result was a dominant 10-wicket victory over Rugby, a performance that highlighted the strength of their bowling attack. Further fixtures brought mixed results: losses to The Leys and Oundle, and a close contest against a touring Wellington College side where the girls fell just 11 runs short despite spirited bowling and fielding. Individual progress was encouraging throughout – Cecilia, Floss, Sophia, and Lauren led the bowling unit with increasing pace and consistency, while Hester emerged as a powerful middleorder batter. Esme and Ruby contributed with wicket-keeping and lower-order runs, and Maria, Katie, Charlotte, and Izzie all demonstrated growing confidence in batting and fielding. The progress the girls have shown this year stands them in good stead for the coming season when they will all be pushing for places in the girls senior sides, where Oakham girls cricket continues to go from strength to strength.
Written by Patrick Latham (Director of Cricket)
The U13 girls have had a development season whilst facing some tough opposition. A very young side with nine of the players as U12s means that the majority of the team will stay together next season. For the four U13 players a huge amount of credit goes to their leadership and guidance throughout the season. The girls really enjoy their cricket and think tactically about the game. Their skills will improve with time, and they are all very much looking forward to next season. Written by George Knight (coach)
Their standout result was a dominant 10-wicket victory over Rugby, a performance that highlighted the strength of their bowling attack.”
Although brief, the Oakham Athletics season in 2025 has been nothing short of explosive - a campaign defined by commitment and heart. While the calendar was tight, the action on the track and field was anything but limited. The athletes of Oakham have once again shown that when training is done with intention and energy, the results speak volumes.
From the very first stride in training, there was a tangible sense of purpose. The Oakham athletes brought intensity to each session, with an unwavering focus on warming up properly, improving efficiency, and refining their technique. This emphasis, combined with the burning heat of summer afternoons, shaped athletes ready to burst into their events with power and precision.
On the track, Oakham’s tradition of excellence continued. The sprinters turned on their afterburners, showing pace and explosive starts that kept their competition trailing in their wake. It was great to watch Urban, Hurst-Edwards and Hendry battle it out together in the senior boys with Ryan and Holt chasing their tails, and in the Inter Girls, Lloyd, Martin and Gowling pushing each other in the short and long sprints. The hurdlers, Hazard, Debenham, Davis and Jacklin delivered thrilling performances"punching over the top" with calm, precision, and purpose.
Middle-distance events saw perhaps the greatest display of Oakham’s endurance and strategy. The drive to excel over the longer distances was evident in every determined stride, none more so than in the impressive partnership of William and Beth G. The sibling duo has truly shown what dedication looks like, pushing themselves and each other toward greatness. Their hard work paid off in spades, with both athletes not only dominating races but also securing new School Records, etched in Oakham’s history and well-earned.
Jumping events have also thrived this season. Whether it was the pure power in the long jump, the rhythm and balance of the triple, or the grace of the high jump, Oakham’s athletes soared – literally and metaphorically. A few to name here include the two Brockway brothers in the long and triple and a great partnership between Jacklin and Crowther in the high jump. These performances were not just flukes of talent; they were the result of determined consistent training sessions. Importantly, these jumpers knew that spring alone wouldn’t carry them, so they backed it up with intense sprint work, staying sharp and strong.
Mee, McGrath and Hobill will be remembered for their persistence on the shot circle and the discus ring, doing only what they do best, throwing heavy objects as far as they can.
Among the season’s standout performers, Hattie J deserves a special mention. As a talented and determined multi-eventer, Hattie proved her versatility and competitive edge by securing third place at the County Championships. Her drive and work ethic have set a shining example of what it means to be an Oakham athlete.
In the Lower School, the emergence of Theo W has amazed the Oakham track. With a determined mindset and phenomenal physical capacity, Theo has made an unforgettable impact, breaking not one, not two, but three School Records. He now sets his sights on the National IAPS Championships in Birmingham, where he’ll be joined by Beth G. The duo will undoubtedly showcase the best of Oakham Athletics on a national stage. With their talent and tenacity, we can expect something truly special.
Written by Tref Vandoros (Director of Athletics)
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Not even the rain could dampen Oakham’s fire at the County Championships, where a select team of 30 athletes delivered a performance that will be remembered. They returned with 17 Golds, 6 Silvers, and 3 Bronze medals - a true indication to both talent and teamwork. It was a well-rounded triumph, with successes across sprints, middle distance, and field events. The poor weather may have soaked the track, but it only served to highlight the grit and determination of every Oakham competitor.
The Achilles Relays in Oxford is a top event in the Oakham Athletics calendar, and 2025 was no exception. Against fierce competition, Oakham brought a squad of 30 athletes across 14 events, earning 10 finals spots, 1 Gold, and 5 Silvers. While it wasn’t the biggest medal haul, the takeaway was clear: this is a
Another key highlight came in the IAPS Regionals in Bedford, where 13 young Oakham athletes took on a field of over 2,500 competitors from across the East of England. The weather was against them – frequent rain tested their resolve – but the performances were sensational. The team came away with 3 Golds and 2 Bronze medals, and two athletes earned national selection: Beth G (U13 Girls 1500m) and Theo W (U13 Boys Hurdles and 200m). Their selection wasn’t just based on one good day – it was built on a term of relentless effort and unwavering ambition.
Scarlett Blackman – girls’ captain and multi-event specialist, led Oakham athletics with unwavering passion, precision, and grit. Scarlett’s contribution to Oakham athletics from her first day to the last had the same enthusiasm, determination and dedication. A true Blackman, she trained relentlessly and represented Oakham with heart, making her leadership a privilege to witness. - captain of the boys this year, Dozie has been a member of the sprint squad and proved just what those legs and arms can do when he puts his mind to it. He sweeps around the bends in both the 200m and the 400m. Precision, fluency and grace are just the way he moves. On race day he can set the track alight, taking each stride with elegance, leaving the
- Roisin, a dedicated member of the throwing squad, excelled in discus and shot, following her brother’s path while forging her own. Her focus on technique and precision paid off, and she also contributed valuable points in javelin, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the team.
Zoe Aepli - Zoe was a top member of the jump squad, focusing specifically on the high jump. She spent every session analysing and perfecting the finest of details in her execution. Her contribution to the team will always be valued and we cheer her on wherever her leaps will take her.
This season presented the Girls’ 1st Team with a range of challenges, but it also offered valuable opportunities for growth, both individually and as a unit. From the outset, the focus was clear: to develop a deeper understanding of the game while ensuring tactical soundness across both singles and doubles play. The players approached this task with determination, resilience, and a consistently positive attitude that defined the tone of the season.
Training sessions were purposeful and intense, targeting specific areas for development. Weaknesses were identified early, and the girls responded with maturity, showing a willingness to listen, learn, and adapt. Whether it was footwork, shot selection, or positioning on court, the team worked diligently to improve. This commitment to growth was evident not just in their improved performance during matches, but in the way they carried themselves on and off the court.
A particular area of progress was seen in the girls’ tactical awareness. The players developed a stronger understanding of match play strategy, particularly in doubles – where positioning, communication, and teamwork are key. Through regular practice, discussion, and reflection, the girls began to form stronger partnerships, becoming more confident in their movement and decisionmaking. This marked improvement in tactical play set a solid foundation for future matches and seasons to come.
The results reflect the strides made during the term. Impressive victories were recorded against The Leys School and Culford School, showcasing the team’s growing cohesion and ability to execute their game plans effectively under pressure. These wins were not only well-earned but also indicative of the progress the girls have made in both technical and mental aspects of the game.
There were also closely contested matches against strong opposition, including Uppingham and Trent College. While these matches resulted in narrow losses, they were valuable learning experiences. The margins were slim, and in many cases, just a few key points made the difference. Importantly, the team showed resilience and composure in these moments, demonstrating that they are more than capable of competing at a high level.
Throughout the season, the girls embodied a strong team spirit. They supported one another, celebrated each other’s successes, and offered encouragement during tougher moments. This sense of camaraderie greatly enhanced the team dynamic and contributed to the positive atmosphere throughout the term.
In conclusion, while the season came with its share of challenges, it was ultimately defined by progress, perseverance, and positivity. The development seen across the squad – particularly in their tactical awareness and doubles play – is something to be proud of. With their strong foundation now in place and the right mindset moving forward, the Girls’ 1st Team is well-positioned for continued improvement and success in future seasons.
Written by Tom Dryell (Director of Tennis)
The Girls’ 2nd Team faced a challenging year, competing against strong schools with impressive depth and experience. Despite this, the team maintained a positive and focused attitude throughout the season. Their commitment to training led to noticeable improvements in both technical execution and tactical understanding. Although some matches ended in tough losses, the team’s perseverance and growth were clear to see. A highlight of the season was a well-earned and impressive victory against The Leys School, reflecting the progress they have made. The girls should be proud of their development and the resilience shown in every performance.
Written by Tom Dryell (Director of Tennis)
The Girls’ 3rd Team had a rewarding season, gaining valuable experience and developing their skills despite limited match opportunities. Training sessions were well attended, with players showing strong commitment and steady improvement throughout the term. The highlight of the season was a fantastic and hard-fought win against The Leys School, where the team demonstrated great teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. Every player contributed to a memorable performance that reflected their progress and enthusiasm for the sport. Overall, it was a successful and enjoyable season that laid strong foundations for future improvement and continued enjoyment of tennis.
Written by Caroline Simpson (coach)
The U15A side faced a challenging season but displayed fantastic attitudes and determination throughout. The results have not always been an accurate representation of the performance, having had some very strong and close matches against The Leys and Culford School. It has been a pleasure to coach these girls and watch them develop both technically and tactically. One particular highlight of the season was the fixture against The Leys, having that lightbulb moment, where everything fell into place. Well done, girls!
Written by Lydia Musk (coach)
The U15B Team enjoyed a positive and rewarding season, facing some strong opposition throughout the term. Despite challenging fixtures, the girls maintained an excellent attitude, showing great resilience, determination, and enthusiasm in every match. Their commitment to improving was clear, as they consistently pushed themselves in training to develop their technical skills and deepen their understanding of the game. The team’s positive spirit and enjoyment of tennis created a supportive and fun environment, allowing everyone to progress both individually and collectively. Well done, girls, on a season full of hard work, learning, and great sportsmanship!
Written by Tom Dryell (Director of Tennis)
The U14 tennis season started with defeats against Repton and Uppingham as players adjusted to new partnerships and playing doubles. Before halfterm, we competed closely against The Leys, having developed our doubles tactics. Despite challenging weather conditions, we narrowly lost to Rugby in wet conditions and to Oundle in windy weather, missing victory in the final set. Throughout the term, the U14 team showed significant improvement, establishing strong partnerships and gaining a better understanding of doubles game tactics, setting a solid foundation for future matches.
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by Heidi Cannie (coach)
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The U13 Girls’ Tennis Teams enjoyed a positive and rewarding season, gaining valuable experience and growing both in skill and confidence. Through regular training and competitive block fixtures, the girls developed a stronger understanding of the game, improving their technique, tactics, and teamwork. Their enthusiasm and commitment were evident throughout the term, with every player showing great sportsmanship and support for one another. Most importantly, the teams’ enjoyment of tennis continued to flourish as they embraced every challenge and celebrated their progress together. It was a season filled with learning, improvement, and plenty of fun on and off the court.
Written by Michelle Northcott (coach)
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Throughout the term, the U14 team
establishing strong partnerships and gaining a better understanding of doubles game tactics...”
The Senior Boys’ Tennis Team had a highly commendable season, marked by determination, teamwork, and steady improvement throughout. Despite facing some tough opposition from well-established schools, the boys consistently displayed resilience and a strong work ethic, both in training and in weekly block fixtures. Their hard work paid off with impressive wins against Bedford School, Stowe School, and Trent College – results that reflected their technical growth, tactical understanding and ability to remain positive even when faced with challenging moments.
The season provided the players with valuable opportunities to refine their skills, deepen their understanding of match play, and develop greater mental focus under pressure. Regular training sessions encouraged the boys to push their limits, and their progress was evident in their improved consistency, shot selection, and match management.
Beyond individual performance, the team demonstrated excellent camaraderie and cohesion, supporting one another throughout the season and contributing to a strong, positive team environment. Overall, it was a successful and rewarding term that not only produced strong results but also fostered lasting teamwork, sportsmanship, and a shared passion for tennis.
Written by Howard Collison (coach)
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The U15 Boys’ Tennis Team enjoyed a great season, showing strong progress and impressive determination throughout. There were several standout performances, including notable wins against Uppingham School, Stowe School, and Repton School, which highlighted the team’s growing skill, teamwork, and resilience. While the season also brought some challenging losses, these matches provided valuable learning experiences and helped the boys develop a deeper understanding of the game. Their positive attitude, commitment to improvement, and strong team spirit were evident in every fixture, making it a rewarding season that laid excellent foundations for future success.
Written by Iain Simpson (coach)
There were several standout performances, including notable wins against Uppingham School, Stowe School, and Repton School.”
The U14 Boys’ Tennis Team had a fantastic season, producing some excellent performances and memorable results. Notable victories against Rugby School, Stowe School, and Oundle School showcased the team’s growing confidence, skill, and determination on court. Throughout the season, the boys displayed great sportsmanship, teamwork, and enthusiasm, making steady improvements in both their technical ability and tactical understanding. Every match provided valuable experience and helped strengthen their overall game. The team’s positive attitude and commitment to learning made it a highly enjoyable and successful season, setting a strong foundation for their continued development in tennis. Written by Nigel Paddock (coach)
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The U13A boys enjoyed an outstanding season, losing only 2 matches all year. Their success was built on strong team cohesion, a positive attitude, and a natural enthusiasm for learning and improving. Throughout the season, the boys demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and a willingness to support one another, which translated into consistently strong performances on court. Their commitment to training and desire to develop their game paid off, with each player making noticeable progress. The boys should be immensely proud of their achievements, and this season has laid a solid foundation for even greater success in the years ahead. Written by Tom Dryell (Director of Tennis)
Written by Dan Roberts (Director of Football)
Football at Oakham School continues to thrive and develop, with increasing participation and strong performances across all levels during the Spring Term. The 1st and 2nd XI teams both competed in the prestigious Mercian League, showcasing impressive progress throughout the season. The 1st XI demonstrated consistency and resilience, securing a respectable 4th-place finish in a highly competitive league. Meanwhile, the 2nd XI enjoyed an exceptional campaign, finishing top of the table and claiming 1st place – an outstanding achievement that reflects the depth of talent and teamwork within the squad. Beyond the league, Oakham fielded a range of friendly fixtures across a broad selection of teams, demonstrating our commitment to inclusivity and development in the sport. These included the Senior 3rd and 4th XIs, Girls’ Senior team, as well as dedicated U16 and U15 teams. These fixtures provided valuable match experience for students at all levels, helping to build skills, confidence, and a strong sense of team spirit. In total, over 110 students took part in games football, an encouraging figure that highlights the sport’s growing popularity at the School. The breadth of participation, from competitive league fixtures to developmental friendly matches, reflects Oakham’s holistic approach to football, ensuring opportunities for players of all abilities to engage with the game.
The boys’ 1st XI football squad started the season with high hopes; a strong side made up of mostly Form 7 pupils plus some very talented Form 6 boys meant we believed we had a good chance of competing for the league title. At the halfway stage, it was looking promising, with wins over Oundle, Uppingham (courtesy of a dramatic winner with the last kick of the game by Sam W which resulted in raucous celebrations), King’s Ely and Rugby putting us in a strong position. However, we came up a bit short in close games against stronger sides and lost a bit of momentum in the second half of the season. We finished 4th out of 11 teams with 6 wins and 1 draw from our 10 games. The team played with passion, energy, organisation and no little skill. They were a pleasure to coach and I wish them well in their future footballing endeavours. Thank you to all the boys for their efforts throughout the term; their attitude towards training and matches was first class and they could easily have competed for the league title right until the end with a bit more luck and better finishing in the crucial close games. The team was built on an extremely solid base that allowed the attacking players to flourish and try and express themselves. Nicolas Z and Luca C-P were excellent in goal, while the defence consisting of a combination of Julius VMDLT, Max VMDLT, Zak M, Dozie O, Henry B and Elliott M was very disciplined and organised. The midfield area was dominated by Hugo N, Dozie O, Henry B and Casper L: these boys provided energy, shape and quality on the ball when required. In the
attacking third, we were often a threat but should really have scored a lot more goals considering the quality we possessed. Jonas T, Sam W, Toby H and James H rotated in these forward positions and were too much for a lot of opposition defenders. There were some fantastic individual performances throughout the season, but players’ player award went to Hugo N and the coaches’ awards went to Max and Julius VMDLT. Thank you also to Dozie O for captaining the side so impressively. Written by Jonny Kay (coach)
For the second successive season Oakham School’s 2nd XI boys’ team went through the entire season unbeaten, underlining their status as the region’s top team. With a record of 8 wins and 1 draw from their 9 games, Oakham secured the title with one game to spare. Before half-term Oakham set the pace with wins against Oundle, Uppingham, King’s Ely and Rugby. After the break three further wins against Wellingborough, Stamford and Loughborough Grammar School saw Oakham go into their final two games against their biggest rivals with a perfect record of seven wins from seven. The trip to Bedford saw Oakham fight back from 2 goals down to earn a draw, while the final match at Stowe saw a thrilling climax to the season with Oakham scoring 2 goals in the last five minutes to earn a dramatic 4-3 victory. The record of 41 goals in 9 matches is testament to the team’s attacking dominance. The golden boot for top scorer goes to Will B for his 13 goals, with Kaden E (10 goals) earning the most Man of the Match awards. The Unsung Hero award goes to Thomas T for his unselfish and unflappable leadership, while Eddie R’s skill and pace on the wing was often the deciding factor in crucial close finishes. Congratulations to the whole squad for their efforts. They can be proud of the teamwork, character and resilience that they showed in times of adversity. It was the true hallmark of champions.
Written by David Russell (coach)
For the second successive season Oakham School’s 2nd XI boys’ team went through the entire season unbeaten, underlining their status as the region’s top team.”
After an opening fixture defeat against Oundle School, the 3rd team went on to have a very successful season, winning 3 of their 5 matches against King’s Ely, Rugby and Stamford, and drawing against Stowe in the final game of the season. Notable performances came from Max T in the midfield and Caleb K who was a rock at the back. Top scorer was Frederick L who was so impressive he earned a call up to the 2nds. The 3rds played some excellent football and should be proud of their performances. Written by Michael Carter (coach)
The U16A boys’ XI had a mixed season in terms of results, but this allowed for real progress to be made. After a close initial loss to Oundle, where Oakham played well and scored 2 goals, they played two good sides back-to-back and came out on the wrong side of both. However, a formation change, and a renewed work ethic in training, brought great success and helped them to secure wins against Wellingborough and Stamford. Sadly, cancellations and the short nature of the term curbed more game play. Player of the year was Charlie N, with Alex F often among the goals. Written by Simon Woodward (coach)
The U15s had a difficult season unfortunately losing their 6 matches, however, they were very competitive against King’s Ely and Stamford. Injuries and other commitments led to frequent team changes and in total 19 players were used. To their credit they approached every training session in a positive and energetic manner trying to improve their individual skills and understanding the team play. Those who gave significant contributions included Ced A and Tom S in defence, Marcus H, Ned C and Freddie P in midfield and Taylor V and Howie T in attack. They were an enjoyable squad to coach and I hope they continue to choose football next year. Written by Nigel Paddock (coach)
Oakham School girls’ football team experienced a mixed season, finishing with 1 win, 1 draw, and 3 losses. A standout moment was a dominant 4-0 home victory against King’s Ely, showcasing their attacking strength. Another highlight was a thrilling comeback draw in the fiercely contested local derby against Uppingham. Form 7 students Bella L-E and Isabella K impressed throughout the season with their dynamic attacking play. Form 4 student Sam M made an outstanding debut season, demonstrating great promise and determination. Despite the challenges with player availability, the team showed resilience and growth, laying a strong foundation for future campaigns. Dan Roberts (Director of Football)
This year the Oakham shooting team has performed spectacularly in all aspects of the sport, both smallbore in the Schools range, and full bore down at Bisley and Kingsbury. In the Winter Term, the team shot .22 competitively both for regional teams and against other schools. In the BSSRA tournaments, Oakham achieved some near perfect scores in the high nineties, an impressive achievement and PBs for many. The highlight of the smallbore season was the final of the junior championships, in which six Oakhamians competed and Isla, Evie and Henry ended up on the podium. The first two terms in the range have been great opportunities for newer shooters to learn the principles of marksmanship, as well as deepening their understanding of sight alignment and position.
In the Summer Term, the team travelled to Oundle’s 500m range, in preparation for the Schools meeting in the holidays. Shooting full bore is a very different experience, as wind and elevation change over the course of the shoot. Seven marksmen competed in Birmingham Bisley, in which over a weekend, they shoot at 300, 500 and 600 yards. Oakham seized victory numerous times, bringing home a team trophy for our overall performance. Henry and Isla M won the pairs shield, for some admirable scores. Henry also won the best schoolboy and the 600 yards trophy, for impressive shooting throughout.
To finish the team’s full bore season, we competed in the Schools meeting, where 31 schools from across the country compete for the Ashburton Shield. Firing cadet rifles at three distances, our Ashburton IV, made up of Evie, Henry, Isla M and Harry, managed to achieve a magnificent second. Individuals were also placed on many aggregates, for which they were awarded decorative spoons. Henry remained at Bisley to compete in the Imperial Meeting, an international competition involving shoots at 300 to 1000 yards. This year has been a fabulous chance for all our shooters to progress and even bring home some silverware. Next year can only hope to be as promising.
Written by Henry Fearn (Form 4)
A small group of girls played lacrosse in the Winter Term 2024. We had our first ever game of lacrosse sixes against Stowe. This was a steep learning curve for our girls as sixes is a very fast variant of the game. Even though our shooting lacked accuracy, playing on the south lawn at Stowe in the September sunshine meant everyone enjoyed themselves. We managed a further fixture against Haileybury 2nds in November boosted by some hockey playing ringers.
The Spring Term saw the squad grow and it was good to see some returning faces from the hockey pitches. We played in the Queen Margaret’s invitational Tournament for the first time on a damp January day. The girls improved with every game they played, finishing the day with a very close game against QM 2nds.
We played Uppingham three times over the course of the term, going into the last game of the season on the back of a 4-3 win. Unfortunately, Uppingham were preparing for Nationals and after a hard-fought game we finished the series 2-1 down.
Although we may not have had many wins over the season, the girls’ skill levels have improved along with their fitness and understanding of the game. Amelia A has led from the front as captain, playing in every single game in midfield and in attack. To all our leavers, I hope you will continue to play in the future and I thank you for all your hard work. Many thanks to our Super Coach Lucy Clayton who has inspired and pushed the girls forward this year.
Developing a new boys’ and girls’ squash team this year has been the priority. There were a lot of new players, some of them new to squash, and as such improving match play has been key this season. After many years of convincingly beating Oundle School, it was hard for Oakham to take defeat in all of the matches played against them this year. The scoreboard did show improvements but not quite enough for the team to claim any overall victory. There were some very impressive individual matches though, including for the girls’ 1st team Mangi T, who shows great promise, coming away with a 3-1 win against Oundle in January and fighting hard to retain her dominance with a 3-2 win at Oundle in March. Relative newcomers Sebastian R and Rico Y notched up a 3-1 win against Oundle in February, both displaying great tenacity in a hostile environment on court. Against Repton in January, Sebastian R again represented the School well with a 3-0 victory, showing real leadership in adversity. Next year we hope to further develop the teams but also the enthusiasm for the sport seems to be growing, particularly with the girls and with the quality coaching from Simon Rolington and Luke Parker we relish the opportunity to improve on the scores of the previous year, and possibly come away with a victory.
Written by Paul Hicks (coach)
With 30 fixtures over the year, it has been a busy year for Oakham golfers of all levels. Oakham’s first ever social golf group have been training and using the facilities at Greetham Valley, and the competitive team golfers have been hosted at the wonderful Luffenham Heath.
The 1st team’s highlights would be reaching the Regional Match Play Plate semi-finals, as well as the British League Plate finals, Fred C shooting 78 and 82 at Berkhamsted and Woodhall Spa, excellent efforts in competition, as well as consistently strong performances from George C.
There were friendly victories over Luffenham Heath Juniors, Uppingham, and a closely contested draw against Bedford. Aidan R led the team brilliantly with commitment, humour and solid golf! The newly introduced OO match was a success, with Hugh C (F2) and Fraser F (F3) and Elija R (F3) all winning their matches. Written by Sam Janes (coach)
An excellent year of Eton Fives, we have taken part and had success in fixtures against Uppingham, Repton and Shrewsbury. Importantly, success has been relative with many students making great personal strides and achieving well within the sport. Our exemplary Form 7 students will leave this year, I do hope they will continue with their Eton Fives adventure as they move on to their next challenges and beyond. It has been a real pleasure working with this group, and although we are now in transition, I will look forward to developing the next set of keen learners. Written by Nayan Chohan (coach)
The badminton team has gone from strength to strength this season and have produced some impressive performances. We saw successive wins against Stamford and saw some closely fought games against both Oundle and Uppingham. Both the boys’ teams and the girls’ teams featured some strong players who have worked hard to develop their racquet skills and movement around the court and were ably led by their captain Andy W to finish 3rd in the league. Written by Anna Russell (coach)
The highlight of the smallbore championships, in which six Oakhamians competed and Isla, Evie and Henry ended up on the podium.”
We have had a positive year for sailing. We had many new joiners start sailing for the first time in September, with most of them continuing all year. We tried some different things too, such as keel boating on Saturdays during the cold, winter months which proved to be successful. This allowed us to stay on the water for longer without the issues of cold water. We ended up having some really tight racing, both boats finishing mid fleet at the Tiger Trophy (out of 120 other boats). Entering the Summer Term, our numbers grew and we opened up Thursday evening racing which has gone down well with the students, regularly getting five students boats out. We rounded off the term with a victory over Uppingham. Written by Ollie Hooper (Head of Sailing)
Aepli, Zoe
Blackman, Scarlett
Hurst, Erin
Mee, Roisin
Stone, Halle
Cox, Matthew
Sports Colours with Distinction
Osuji, Dozie
Pleister, Ruth
Bluff, Henry
Clarke, Max
Caveney-Pulak, Luka
Hayle, James
Hayle, Toby
Lines, Casper
Muhammed, Zackari
Murray, Elliot
Osuji, Dozie
Subaev, Askar
Theler, Jonas
Von Maillot De La Treille, Maximilian
Welford, Sam
Ziburske, Nicolas
Altermann, Clara
Gorasia, Davina
Kluger, Isabella
Lloyd-Edwards, Arabella
Lloyd-Edwards, Arabella Astill, Freddy
Brookland, Flynn
Chapel, George
Clarkson, Alfie
Cox*, Fred
Gilman, Harry
Johnson, Freddie
McKenzie, Sam Weir, Maxie
Chapel, George
Sports Colours with Distinction
Buchanan, Clemmie King, Katie
Mowbray, Harriet Pain, Phoebe
Smith, Alice West, Katie
Atkinson, Millie
Bizzi, Elena
Blackman, Scarlett
Lloyd-Edwards, Arabella
Markillie, Emma
Mowbray, Harriet
Smith, Alice
Braddock, Jack
Cox*, Fred
Davey, Ed
Gilman, Harry
Marr, Ollie
Timmermans, Douwe
Weir, Maxie
Davenport, Caitlin
Holder, Evie
Scott-Horne, Danté
Desira, Adam
Arthurton, Amelia
Branton, Felicity Hart, Eleanor Hu, Vicky Johnson, Rosie
Siddall, Gracie
Barkworth, Charlie
Braddock, Jack
Clarke, Max
Clarkson, Alfie
Cox*, Fred
Davey, Ed
Johnston, Adam
McKenzie, Sam
Van Walraven, Donald
Windham, Hugh
Sports Colours with Distinction
Gribon, Benji
Eton Fives
Cartwright, Lena Hazell, Christian
Jones, Freddie
Munro, Fergus
Subaev, Amir
Cutts, Annabelle
Kluger, Isabella
Wheway, Hope
Cameron, Ginny Clarke, Izzie
Paini, Andrea
Badminton Wang, Andy
Basketball
Huebel, Benedikt
Xie, Leo
Ziburske, Nicolas
