Message from The Director of Sports Development
Firstly I’d like to thank you all for your kind support and the positive feedback I’ve received since coming into post, I find it hard to believe it’s only been a term, however, we’ve managed to achieve a considerable amount. I’ve taken time this term to better understand how we will make the changes required to strengthen the Sidcot sport and physical activity programme, however I’m very much looking forward to getting out and meeting more of you at our fixtures and events during the forthcoming terms.
Term started well with our inaugural pre-season camp, ‘Rise to the Challenge’. The camp was a huge success with students involved across all the year groups. We also had the pleasure of hearing from two Olympians, Heather Bell (Modern Pentathlon) and Craig Figes (GB Water Polo Captain). They both shared their inspiring life stories with us which captured the imagination of all the students and staff alike. The activities during the camp included students undertaking various challenges such as agility tests, making nutritional fruit shakes and fitness tests, all of which prepared them for the exciting sporting calendar ahead.
In the sports centre we’ve refurbished the existing weights room into a more convivial multi-use weights area, as well as transforming the squash court into a bright and dynamic dance space. Further developments have seen us start the process of painting the entire sports centre, and you’ll see the gradual transformation of the walled areas throughout.
The Equestrian Centre will also receive some investment over the Christmas period. The existing long shed will be replaced allowing the office to move and provide a small reception area with access to refreshments.
Some other great news is that we’ve recently advertised and will soon be appointing a head coach to run and develop a Sidcot Swim Cub which is extremely exciting.
Within PE and Games we’ve introduced Real PE to the Junior School and seen a number of Junior School staff members embrace the programme and superbly support the Senior School staff in delivering PE. Within the Senior School programme we have purchased more training equipment to better support the work of staff, as well as investing in new playing uniforms for rugby, hockey, football and basketball squads. The introduction of an activities programme each Wednesday for the Sixth Form (including yoga, dance, cycling and swimming as an example) has been a huge success and pleasing to see many of our older students engage so enthusiastically.
Thank you again for your continued support and should you have any comments or feedback please send these through to sport@sidcot.org.uk
Graham Jones
Director of Sports Development