The Reptonian 2025

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

EDITORIAL TEAM Lydia L, Elijah B, Brianna HH, Elektra S

THANKS TO HSMs, SMI, RGD, CSD, and the Music Department staff, the sports team

DESIGN Optima Graphic Design Consultants Ltd.

I ended last year’s Editorial by highlighting the importance of knowledge in driving our journeys beyond the Arch. This year… I can only stress this so much.

The truth is, facing the future is a daunting task. We are this close to stepping out into a polarising world, changing effortlessly at the click of a leader’s fingers, the decisions of a Prime Minister, the faults and triumphs of countries at war.

At Repton, the friendly rivalry between Houses has fostered not only a healthy competition, but a sense of community and a pride in our education. As I write, I cannot help reflecting on the numerous achievements we have accomplished: from academics to sport, art to drama, music, debating, CCF, trips and societies. These have all broadened our horizons ahead of entering a world often sadly recognised by its narrow-minded nature.

It is, because of this, that I find it so hard to say goodbye.

Indeed, my introductory words last year felt arguably more positive. There is no fault to the school in this respect; we have not stopped thriving with outstanding exam results, international titles, and lifechanging experiences. However, although the school has remained consistent in all its glory, the world has not. Global powers are shifting. And we will all soon make our way past the bubble of comfort that is Repton and into this unsettling climate. Our school has fostered the next leaders and innovators. We will be the ones to step up into societies very much happy to remain solidified in polarisation, unwelcoming to real change and healthy sharing of opinions in the midst of unprecedented toxicity and misinformation.

Of course, facing the world still feels like a daunting task.

Take a look at our demographics. 630 pupils, ten Houses. Traditions that have long transcended the school, compounded by new ideas that serve to modernise – the anxiously-awaited Steeplechase, Barnes Squad, Leavers’ Ball all live side-by-side the wealth of knowledge introduced by new teachers and societies. A treasure trove of knowledge and history. Sadly, many schools like ours, due to newly found financial limitations, will no longer display their heritage as proudly and as powerfully as we can, but will be shut down. Not only this, but Repton encourages independent thinking, to form our own opinions and make our voices heard. A moment I particularly remember is being told in a critical thinking lecture that we need to broaden our horizons and challenge the ways we think, never to limit ourselves to reading what we agree with, but to contradict even what we always believed to be true. I would say that Repton prepares us for exactly this. There is never a day that goes by when a new idea isn’t challenged in class, or a hypothesis tested and broken, teaching us that it is ok to make mistakes and learn from them; we only need to look so far as our school motto – Porta Vacat Culpa. The gate is free from blame. In the culture so dearly fostered by teacher and pupils alike, breaking down and building back up what we know is ok, and we should never blame ourselves from questioning the multitude of confines that shape our world. Through this, an environment so ready to take us to heights we never thought we could reach, we positively shape the world of the future.

Nevertheless, recent global changes and elections have challenged the validity of this thesis. It turns out that for many, choosing the leaders of tomorrow is not about questioning what we know, but

rather, accepting what others don’t know, and blissfully avoiding this ignorance. I am half Romanian, half British, and I know all too well the dangers that can ensue when leaders are chosen for populism, rather than potential.

Even so, after all this…I still sustain that Repton has done its best to ease our entrance into the world.

Whether you prefer attending an academic society and presenting a paper on a topic of interest, or having a gentle conversation with a teacher at lunch, Repton has prepared us for those discussions that help catalyse connections, friendships, and relationships.

Across my four years here, I have witnessed a rapidly expanding interest in politics. From those deeply embedded within polemical debates, to those catching up on the latest headlines, no one can deny that this newfound interest has both been cultivated by an environment of challenging perceptions here at school, and will be extremely useful in the future.

This Reptonian is not just a collection of our most memorable moments and achievements across the academic year, our brilliant teachers, or our House system; it sets us apart from the disparities and contradictions the world so vastly has to offer. No one can deny that all of us will at some point walk beneath the Arch for the last time as Repton pupils, and emerge into a petri dish of challenges, collisions and corruption.

So yes, facing the world is certainly a daunting task. Yet I no longer view this with fear. I view this with ambition and courage.

This is how Repton has shaped my life. What about yours?

Elektra S (U6A)

SALVETE

CHLOE ABUTEIR

We were delighted to welcome Chloe Abuteir at the start of the Michaelmas Term 2024 as a highly valued Field House tutor and a teacher of Geography. She has an array of experience, having previously been a Graduate Assistant at Oakham, Resident Tutor at Wycombe Abbey, and a teacher at both Malvern College and Berkhamsted, as well as being educated herself at Edgbaston High School for Girls and then going on to receive a Geography BSc. This had led to her having a large interest in paleoecology and the reconstruction of past environments, as well as the more current issue of climate change. Outside of the classroom, Chloe thoroughly enjoys being in the RAF section of the CCF and is an avid lacrosse player.

What kind of pupil were you at school?

Always chatting and not necessarily focused on work that I was supposed to be doing.

Dream job as a child

A showjumper, I had ponies from a young age and have always been quite competitive.

Establishment or Revolutionary?

Quiet revolutionary, you can’t topple the establishment on your own, but you can dismantle it brick by brick.

What is at the top of your bucket list?

Do a bungee jump. I loved sky diving but want to try something different.

CHRIS ELLIS

Chris Ellis joined the Chemistry department in Lent 2025. Prior to working at Repton, Chris worked at the Verulam School, Chesham Grammar and the Queen’s School. A graduate of the University of Exeter where he read Natural Sciences, Chris has embraced Repton life to the full and has been a fantastic addition to our faculty and to Latham, where he has been an excellent addition to the tutor team. When he is not teaching, Chris’ passions are board gaming and being in the great outdoors.

What kind of pupil were you at school?

Usually studious and wellbehaved. I only got one detention for storming out and telling the teacher I could do a better job.

If you could talk to your 15-year old self, what would you say? When this thing called bitcoin comes out –invest in it!

Dream job as a child Palaeontologist –I loved Jurassic Park! Which three people (living or dead) would you invite to a dinner party?

Noel Fielding, Tycho Brahe and Frank Turner.

ELLA WALSH

Ella Walsh joined Repton in the Michaelmas Term of 2024 to begin her teaching career, whilst also being the Resident Tutor for The Abbey. Prior to this, she was educated at Sedbergh School and then earned an English Literature degree from Nottingham Trent University. To start her journey as a teacher, she completed her Postgraduate Certificate in Education and uses these qualifications in her role of being a teacher of English. This teaching also extends onto the pitch, as Ella is both a hockey and netball coach.

Favourite thing about being a teacher?

It has only been two terms, but every day is different, it feels rewarding, especially when you see the difference you are making either in the classroom or in the boarding house. I also love that I get to constantly learn about and discuss what I enjoy.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no? No.

Favourite biscuit? Are you a dunker or nibbler?

Chocolate digestive –dunker is the only way.

What is at the top of your bucket list? Live abroad and learn another language.

GAELLE DERAM

We were delighted to welcome Gaelle Deram to the Modern Languages Department in September 2024, where she teaches French and brings a wealth of academic and cultural experience from her native country. After completing her Baccalaureate with the highest honours at Lycée Balzac in Tours, she undertook the rigorous CPGE course in Lyon, gaining degrees in both French Literature and Film Studies. She went on to complete a master’s in film studies at the Sorbonne Nouvelle Université in Paris, again graduating with distinction. Before joining Repton, she spent three years as a Language Assistant and Cover Teacher at Tonbridge School, alongside tutoring students in IB French and French literature. Outside the classroom, Gaelle is immersing herself in Repton life, from discovering netball to supervising the Maple Tree Café as part of the school’s Community Action programme. A tutor in The Abbey, she enjoys photography, cinema, Six Nations rugby and is, by her own admission, proudly French.

What kind of pupil were you at school?

Hermione Granger type, know-it-all and academically competitive (until the education system eventually wore me down).

If you could talk to your 15-year-old self, what would you say? True friends stick around – don’t worry about the others.

Dream job as a child I could never settle on just one job. I still remember creating a two-week planner with a

different job for each day when I was six or seven.

Which three people (living or dead) would you invite to a dinner party?

Agatha Christie – for a Murder Mystery Dinner. Dame Maggie Smith her distinguished, witty and utterly British self, plus some old gossip about the film industry Robert Badinter – a French politician and lawyer whose work I admire – for interesting conversation and because I am sure he would get along with Agatha and Maggie!

KATIE STAGGS

Beginning her journey as Director of Music at Repton, Katie Staggs joined us in Michaelmas Term 2024, after receiving her MA in Music from Magdalen College, Oxford. Katie decided to take a plunge into education after working for the Birmingham Film Festival and Edexcel, with former roles including Director of Music at Yarm School and Grammar School at Leeds. Katie moved into Repton with her husband and two sons, Cody and Harry as Lower Sixth pupils. In addition to Katie’s crucial role in the Music school, she loves to travel and a highlight of hers has been undertaking project work in Malawi, the warm heart of Africa, with Sixth Formers as well as enjoying anything musical: hosting several concerts, touring Venice, playing in professional orchestras, and acting as conductor of the Chapel Choir. Katie has a passion for both music and sport with her experience as an Oxford Blue for Cricket, enrolling in the set-up of England U19 Cricket pathway and supporting Mr Simons with the Girls’ 1st XI!

What is at the top of your bucket list?

Share my love of Malawi with the family.

What would your superpower be?

The ability to stop conflicts.

Share one surprising fact about yourself.

First female in history eligible to attend the Magdalen College

Cricket Dinner having played for the College 1st XI (got a wicket with my 1st ball – atrocious delivery) - they now have a women’s team!

I THINK I am the first female Director of Music in Repton’s history too??

What is your guilty pleasure?

Bollinger when there’s nothing to celebrate.

JAMIE MAIN

Repton was thrilled to welcome Jamie Main as Director of Swimming in the Lent Term. With over 25 years of experience in high-performance sport, Jamie has coached at the very highest level, mentoring swimmers to Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth success. He has served as Head Coach and Director of Coaching at two nationally successful club programmes, before moving to elite roles at the Loughborough and Bath GB Performance Centres. Jamie now brings this expertise to Repton, where he hopes to enhance the swimming and wider sports provision, and help attract top sporting talent to the school. Beyond the pool, Jamie enjoys fly fishing, walking and movies, and is also embarking on learning both French and Italianwith the guitar possibly next! He joins Repton with his son, Kobe, and they have enjoyed the first few months calling our village home.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no? No.

Favourite biscuit? Are you a dunker or nibbler? Jammie Dodger.

Establishment or Revolutionary?

A discreet revolutionary.

What is at the top of your bucket list?

See my son grow up, be happy and healthy.

KIERAN ROBINSON

Kieran Robinson joined Repton in the Michaelmas Term as a Performance Football Coach, following an exciting early career that has combined coaching, sport psychology and analytics. A former pupil of Bradfield College, Kieran studied Sports Coaching and Performance Psychology at Oxford Brookes, before returning to Bradfield as Head of Junior Football Performance. Alongside this, he founded his own football analysis business and recently completed his UEFA B coaching licence. At Repton, he works closely with pupils to help them develop both technically and mentally, bringing energy and modern insight to the school’s football programme. Off the pitch, Kieran enjoys playing golf, learning Spanish, and is planning further study in psychology. He is accompanied at Repton by his husky, Winston, who you may spot on walks along the Steeplechase route!

Favourite thing about being a teacher?

My day is always interesting as teenagers always come up with some crazy things.

If you were Secretary of State for Education, what would be your first decision?

Each highly active sports person must have S&C provision as a priority to the sport they play.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no? Yes, double.

Favourite biscuit? Are you a dunker or nibbler? Definitely not a dunker.

NICK SEIGEL

Nick Seigel joined the Maths Department in Michaelmas 2024, moving to Repton with his wife, Katherine and daughter, Lily. With over 13 years’ experience teaching around the globe, previous schools taught at included Bromsgrove International School in Bangkok and the British International School of Marbella. As well as attending Denstone as part of his secondary school education, Nick was a graduate at Manchester where he received his BSc in Management, and he also achieved his PGDipEd and Masters In Education Studies at the University of Birmingham. Nick has embraced Repton life to the fullest with engagement in football coaching, hockey coaching, acting as a tutor in Priory and enjoying raising his family in the Repton community. Beyond the school environment, Nick can be found playing his favourite racket sports including badminton, padel, tennis and squash!

What is at the top of your bucket list?

Learn to fly an aeroplane

What would your superpower be? (Do say if you already have one…) I would like to be able to navigate a city like Spiderman.

Share one surprising fact about yourself.

I appeared on an ITV teatime quiz show.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Love Island and the novels of Jilly Cooper (I could go on…)

PAUL LOGAN

Enrolled at Repton in Summer 2025, Paul joined the Maths Department as a maternity cover upon completing two previous deputy headships as well as Head of Derby Grammar for 3 years. Paul has moved into the village with his wife Elisabeth, who teaches at a primary school in Derby. He received his degree from Durham University and particularly enjoys teaching A Level and Further Maths. In his free time, Paul is a keen cyclist and qualified for the Amateur World Road Race in 2018 and thoroughly loves collecting over 6000 vinyl records! Within school hours, Paul can be found coaching tennis on the courts or holding his position of tutor in The Cross. He leaves us in January 2026 where we wish Paul all the best with his cycling endeavours and collecting even more impressive vinyl records.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no? NO!

Favourite biscuit? Are you a dunker or nibbler? Bourbon.

Establishment or Revolutionary? Best of both.

What is at the top of your bucket list? Visit as many ancient archaeological sites as possible.

SARAH EVERSFIELD

As a new teacher of English and Housemistress of The Mitre, we were delighted to welcome Sarah Eversfield to our community in 2024, accompanied with her husband, Paul and two daughters, Annabelle and Jess. Bringing extensive expertise to Repton, Sarah received her BA (Hons) in English Language and Literature at Oxford, following with her PGCE from University of London. At the start of her career, Sarah worked as Assistant Housemistress and English teacher at SevenOaks for ten years. Sarah has not only excelled academically but has loved her sport from a young age, joining England Hockey’s Talent team in 2021, and holding the role of U16 Girls Team Manager. The highlight of Sarah’s management experience was working with the England U21 Women during the EuroHockey Championships in 2024 where they won bronze! Sarah has involved herself in several extracurriculars here at Repton with Future Leaders, coaching the Girls Development XI team, helping out with Repton HC’s minis, and playing hockey herself in her free time!

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no? Yes.

Establishment or Revolutionary?

I’m a revolutionary! I try to be diplomatic, though, and respect other perspectives.

Share one surprising fact about yourself.

I broke my hip aged 29 and underwent a hip replacement. I had a stress fracture that I didn’t know about and I kept running through the pain. The neck of my femur finally snapped one day when I was

playing hockey; it was unbelievably painful. The recovery journey –from being unable to lift my leg off the bed to returning to competitive sport – taught me a huge amount about myself and about gratitude in general. I value every moment I’m able to run around chasing a ball now! Being grateful, taking opportunities and developing resilience are key messages I hope to pass on to the girls in The Mitre.

What is your guilty pleasure?

A lie in!

REPTON ROUND

THE ABBEY: TILLY C

What was the best moment in your house this year?

If I had to narrow it down, the best moment in house this year must be wining house unison. After spending countless weeks in the dining room rehearsing, it felt like an amazing achievement to receive recognition for our hard work. As we practiced as a house nearly every day it brought us all that one step closer to one another, creating a bond between year groups.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

It is impossible to pinpoint just one funniest moment in house, because the laughter has been constant and shared across so many different times and places. From spontaneous trips to the chippy, jokes in the common rooms and uncontrollable laughter echoing through the corridor, to the chaotic fun of house events and the lively atmosphere of year group meals, every memory blends into one. There is no single event that stands out to me, but rather the ongoing feeling of

humour and shared experiences that makes every aspect of house life so memorable.

What will you miss the most about your house?

What I will miss most about The Abbey is the incredible sense of family we have built over the last year. Living together 24/7, supporting each other through the highs and lows, and sharing so many unforgettable memories has made our house feel like a second home to myself and so many others. I will miss having an environment where I know every girl in the house and can chat to anyone. Even during the stress of exams, I know I can come back to a common room full of chatter, laughter and friends who just get it. Whether it’s a quick chat, several slices of toast, or a moment to unwind together, there’s always someone around to lift your spirits. The sense of constant support is what I will miss most, and it is what makes The Abbey feel like so much more than just a house.

THE CROSS: YURY P

What was the best moment in your house this year?

Winning a trophy in both house unison and harmony was a great achievement for the house. The togetherness of the house was really shown and we all celebrated after.

Winning Senior house football for Mr. Wilson’s first time was truly a joy, with everyone in the team putting in a great shift to secure the title.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Cross invitational dinner was interesting. A game of intense

and very awkward Mr. and Mrs. was one of the highlights of the year, with many surprised reactions and funny responses.

What will you miss the most about your house?

Watching the champions league in the common room all together is something I will miss, alongside our cereal and toastie nights. As well as playing one bounce in the garden, music blasting and the sunset at 9pm. The friendly domestic staff, who made us smile every day we saw them.

FIELD HOUSE: ZARA D

What was the best moment in your house this year?

Winning a trophy in both house

The best moment this year has to be us winning the Kropacsy relays.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

When the fairy lights fell onto everyone during a top com rave.

What will you miss the most about your house?

When the fairy lights fell onto everyone during a top com rave.

THE GARDEN: BELLA C

What was the best moment in your house this year?

Garden has been characterised by the words ‘nearly there’ this year. The Senior House Netball win over Mitre was very well celebrated, especially considering the heartbreaking loss in the House Hockey on shuffles. Similarly, despite the result, the unity and house spirit we showed during Unison was admirable and bodes well of the future. We did also take home the coveted Junior House Fives title, which we haven’t won for some years, so a special mention has to go to the B Block team. However, what takes the cake must be Russell Cup. A mix of Lower and Upper Sixth combined to give more than a hundred percent with the aim of winning Best Girl’s House. Beating 4 boys houses was not on the cards whatsoever, so finding out that we came 3rd was such a

surprise that we completely forgot to cheer for ourselves.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Bedders has become one of my personal favourite parts of the week simply because the Juniors have been such good value in the house, especially the B Block. The B and A Block have both given me plenty of Christmas House Supper speech material, and it’s been a pleasure to get to know them all this last year. Whilst not funny at the time, the infamous ‘U6th Sleepover’, in which our long-suffering matron Kay caught 14 of us in the U6th with our mattresses littered around the floor of the top common room, deserves a mention. Kay came up at around 12:30am, turning the lights on with Lucy and Amelia in the process of bringing more blankets and another

mattress to the floor. Safe to say, Kay caught us by surprise, as shown by the deafening silence, and sheepishly going down to breakfast in the morning as a collective to apologise was an experience that I won’t forget in a hurry.

What will you miss the most about your house?

Always the people. At the end of the day, the house is just bricks and mortar. It’s the people that bring the house alive and I’ve been quite fortunate to have a good group of girls in the House with me throughout my 5 years. I’ve seen the house grow from a ‘Jack of all trades’ house into a fiercely competitive, spirited, determined house, and that’s all down to the girls and the culture that we are instilling. I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to be a Garden Girl.

LATHAM HOUSE: JONAH Z

What was the best moment in your house this year?

The best moment in the house occurred in the common room. This year’s highlight was watching Arsenal get battered in the champions league semi final. With Mr Hunt being a fan of the gunners, ‘the com’ was as hostile as ever and with not one person wanting them to go through it made for a great evening.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

One of the funniest moments in the house this year was during the house cricket semi final. After the first team skipper got out to the typical sort of pies that are bowled in house cricket all looked down and out, yet

the third team’s finest Sammy H came in and did some heroic diving into the crease to win the game on the last ball leading to everyone running over and celebrating.

What will you miss the most about your house?

The thing that will be missed the most by not just me but all the boys leaving is the Latham house spirit. The term bleeding blue and white is thrown around a lot for everyone in house but it perfectly describes the passion everyone shows in house sports and life in general. Embodied by the house mascot Bobby the dog, both him and the spirit that comes with being in Latham will be by far the thing most miss.

THE MITRE: ELLEN C

What was the best moment in your house this year?

This would be our first house competition of the year, the Tug of War. After lots of change in the Mitre, with the welcoming of our new students, Miss Stone and Mrs Eversfield, it was amazing seeing everyone come together for the first time and really commit to doing their best for the house. Mitre was the loudest on the sidelines that day, and the support which was bought to the house by all members was invaluable and made for a great start to the year.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Before breaking up for Christmas each year we compete in a carol concert, showing off everyone’s very best dance moves, singing and costumes making skills. This year, our rendition of ‘Snowman’ by Sia must be one of the funniest with Tabby, dressed as a snowman in all white, with a pillow

up her jumper and a carrot in her mouth. Whilst nobody seemed to know the lyrics, it made us all laugh and the image of Tabby’s snowman impersonation is something I don’t think any of us will forget.

What will you miss the most about your house?

Whilst there are so many things I could write about, the thing I will miss the most has to be the people who make up Mitre, including the girls, staff and domestic team. Enjoying our first garden dinner of the year, the lighthearted and welcoming environment of Mitre shone through. With volleyball and swing ball matches, ice bucket challenges, the slip and slide, playing the guitar and relaxation in the hammocks all happening at once, everyone was simply enjoying being in the presence of some of their closest friends. Moments such as these make Mitre such a warm place to live.

NEW HOUSE: JAMIE H

What was the best moment in your house this year?

New house hockey team securing a last-minute goal in the house hockey final to take it to shuffles and claim the house hockey win.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Probably can’t say it here…. Close second though is Freddie walking into the bathroom with a full head of hair and walking out with no hair!

What will you miss the most about your house?

I will miss being able to walk down the corridor and see my friends as well as lunch time in which the whole house is in one room. Finally, I’m sure we all as a year group will miss Louise kindly doing all our laundry!

THE ORCHARD: OLIVER B

What was the best moment in your house this year?

Winning house futsal being the underdogs, with very few footballers in our team and beating Cross in the final; a team made up of all first team footballers.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Earlier in the year when the lower sixth boys wrapped their rooms entirely in Christmas wrapping paper. The reaction made it one of the funniest moments we have had, and safe to say it took us all a while to get it all down, although I think they liked the new addition to their rooms!

What will you miss the most about your house?

The support the boys show towards any event regarding the house, ranging from swimming to relays, they will always volunteer for anything to help the house and do it with pride. We may not be the most successful house in terms of trophies, but I’d argue the most successful in terms of our support and will always be the loudest pushing each other on even if we are in last place. Finally, I think I speak on behalf of all the Upper sixth leavers when I say we will miss our great Matron and Mr Naylor.

SCHOOL HOUSE: LOUIS C

What was the best moment in your house this year?

Over the course of the year, School House has seen some special moments across sport, music and other extracurricular activities. To pick out just a couple, winning best boy’s house at Unison and then Harmonies will live in the memory of everyone involved for a long time due to the effort that went into creating those amazing performances. Also, my personal favourite was when we won the House League final in the dying seconds.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Everyday there is a funny moment so it’s hard to pick out one in particular! However, one that I remember vividly was when we were all watching Arsenal vs Fulham in the bottom common room and it was 1-1. Then Bannister sent us all into hysterics

when he exclaimed; “We’ll take a point at Craven Cottage”. The whole common room couldn’t contain themselves! I also think an honourable mention should go to when Wood was adamant, he was 6”, so Mr Goudge got a tape measure and a baking tray and it turns out he was only 5”11 to the delight of everyone there!

What will you miss the most about your house?

I could make a very long list of things I’d miss about School House however the thing I will miss most is mealtimes. A combination of Mark’s amazing cooking and the people you’re with makes School House unique. From raging debates about the best pudding to meeting interesting guests, I believe almost every topic has been covered at some point in that dining room.

THE PRIORY: ROBBIE J

What was the best moment in your house this year?

While the Priory has been full of great moments this year, and picking one may downplay others, such as the great Unison performance, or even our unbeaten football and futsal competitions, I believe there is only one answer: The Senior Steeplechase victory. For the Priory seniors to conquer the steep in the fashion we did, and being as strong as our weakest member (who clearly wasn’t that weak) epitomises what The Priory has been all about this year. Hard work, grit, and above all team spirit and togetherness. We weren’t the favourites, nor the ones doing the talking, but we were the winners, and those are the values that The Priory has embodied this year. What made it even more special was The Priory hadn’t won the senior steep for 20 odd years and to conquer it in the fashion we did was fantastic. A special shout out must go to Mr Exley who had us

primed and ultimately moulded the house spirit.

What has been the funniest moment in House this year?

Funny moments in The Priory are countless, and likely to be rather subjective to our admittedly unique individuals, but I believe the undoubtedly funniest moment of the year has to be Henry Strudwick’s diabolical impression of Winston Churchill after house supper. His delivery to the whole of the 6th form had us all in stitches, although not for accuracy of the impression, but rather the lack of parallels that could be drawn between Henry´s attempt and delivery and the great orator that was Churchill.

What will you miss the most about your house?

What makes The Priory the house it has been to all of us for these last few years is the interconnectedness

of all our lives, and the common thread of black and blue that ties us all together. This idea of all for one and one for all is ever-present in the house and ultimately has led to the familial atmosphere that is so obvious. While a general idea, this is what, unfortunately, many of us will miss when we leave this place and the many laughs, memories and shared bonds that this has fostered. The Priory will always be in our hearts, and so too the many shared memories at the lunch table, in the com, in the garden or on the sports field wearing the black and blue. To no longer live day-to-day as part of this family will be to leave a hole in us all but is fundamentally something we will all cherish. The Priory has been the epicentre of our lives at Repton, and so the loss of that community of likeminded and commonly associated lads, all working to the ultimate same goal will be missed dearly.

Repton’s Debating Society has had another remarkable year, one marked by national success, international reach, and a growing culture of confidence and inclusion. From first-time speakers to seasoned competitors, students like myself have embraced the opportunity to challenge ideas, refine our thinking, and speak with purpose.

DEBATING SOCIETY

The year began where it always should: at home. The House Debating Competition was the ideal launchpad, allowing students from all years to rediscover (or discover for the first time), the excitement of debating. In a series of lively and well contested rounds, The Priory emerged victorious, with The Mitre a close second. These debates were not only enjoyable but also a powerful reminder that debating is for everyone regardless of background or experience.

Later in the year, under Mr Page’s French debating guidance, some of our members also proudly competed in Les Joutes Oratoires, the national French language debating competition. Elektra S and Fisayo A’s top four national finish

reconfirmed Repton’s place as one of the UK’s leading bilingual debating schools. Their success showcased the intellectual agility and linguistic breadth that continue to define our society, despite our relative size compared to other schools.

Following this, several of our teams entered the well renowned MACE competition, with teams progressing confidently through the regional rounds. A mix of prepared speeches and spontaneous rebuttals, this competition continues to be a vital platform for those looking to test their poise and sharpen their argumentation under pressure.

Moreover, one of this year’s highlights must be the Durham University Residential Competition.

Held over several days during the Easter holidays, it challenged two of our teams in the British Parliamentary format, debating in new pairs against experienced opponents. The immersive residential setting further deepened our understanding of debating, while forging friendships far beyond the village walls.

In addition, we also returned to the prestigious Oxford Union Schools’ Competition, where students, including myself, debated teams from Canada, Cameroon, the Netherlands, and beyond. To speak in both the regional round in Sheffield and the national finals day at Oxford University, competing on a truly global stage was both a challenge and a privilege - but one

we rose to in true Repton fashion: with clarity, courage, and class.

Finally, our year concluded with the Repton Family of Schools Debating Festival, hosted in the new Digital Priory. Welcoming teams from our sister schools in Egypt, the UAE, Malaysia and more, the festival was tailored to our newest debaters. It focused on learning, encouragement, and shared experience, reinforcing our belief that debating is about personal growth and friendship, not just competition.

However, this year also marks a fond farewell to Mr Swanston, who, after years of transformative service to Repton Debating, leaves us to take up a senior role at Sutton Coldfield Grammar. Many pupils

have benefited from his wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in young voices. He will be deeply missed. At the same time, we congratulate Miss Eades on her appointment as ‘Manager of the team representing England at the World Schools Debating Championships’, a testament to the exceptional calibre of coaching we are fortunate to enjoy.

Looking ahead, I’m confident the Society is entering a dynamic new chapter. With a new mentor joining to work alongside Miss Eades, and Fisayo A and I stepping into the role of joint captaincy next year, we aim to build on this year’s momentum and grow the Society into one of the largest co-curricular activities at Repton. Furthermore, with pupil

participation continuing to rise and weekly sessions open to all, the message is clear: debating at Repton is thriving. It is open, it is ambitious, and it belongs to everyone.

Elijah B (L6S) LOOKING AHEAD, I’M CONFIDENT THE SOCIETY IS ENTERING A DYNAMIC NEW CHAPTER

FRENCH DEBATING

This year was a busy one in French Debating, with multiple competitions and many valuable experiences.

The year started off with the Cheltenham College Competition, where seven of us (Elektra S, Clara C, Luna VP, Christabel T, Holly J, Maya H competed in the French and Spanish competitions. For most of the team, it was their first experience of debating in a foreign language, a daunting challenge, and despite some nerves, they acquitted themselves well, especially given the complexity of the motions (involving themes such as the relevance of marriage in the modern world and a potential ban on hijabs in public schools). Elektra and I managed to progress all the

way to the semi-final and the final, where we faced some less serious motions such as banning pineapple on pizza and the supremacy of horror films when compared to romance ones, and ultimately came out victorious for the second year in a row.

Next, it was Repton’s turn to host the regional round of the Joutes Oratoires, the main national French Debating competition, and Elektra and I won all of our debates to progress to the national finals at the Institut Français in London. Christabel T, Luna VP and Will T also participated in this regional round as a stand-in team for a school that dropped out. At the national finals in London, Elektra and I triumphed in two closely fought debates on the subjects of the digitalisation of artworks and the necessity of space exploration, qualifying for the Silver Final, on the motion of ‘Artificial intelligence means that language learning is no longer necessary’, which we narrowly lost, meaning we finished fourth nationwide.

Overall, French Debating has been a very worthwhile experience, allowing us to develop our French skills and make use of them in a practical context, in addition to giving us the chance to meet other French A Level pupils from other schools and broaden our knowledge of controversial societal issues beyond the French curriculum.

Fisayo A (L6N)

Repton DofE in 2024-2025 was statistically, and by some distance, the most successful in the School’s history: 110 pupils gained their Bronze Award, an increase of 30.95% on the previous highest number; 82 Silver Awards were approved, 33% higher than the School’s existing record. 20 Golds were also achieved, Repton’s second-highest figure ever.

The real success of the DofE Award this year, though, lies not in these bald numbers, but in the work that Reptonians did to enhance and contribute to the local community. Most visibly, the verges of the roads leading into Repton, Milton, Newton Solney and Willington can rarely have been so tidy in the modern era, such has been the diligence of the Gold and Silver litter-pickers and path-clearers – and it has been heartening and edifying in equal measure to see the volunteers take such pride in the fruits of their labours, but also, in fact, to hear members of the local community going out of their way to thank them for their work.

On Wednesday afternoons, DofE volunteers have also been making cookies, tiffin

and rocky-road for the Burton Soup Kitchen, and supporting the School’s own activities, by offering practical support to the Sports Staff, such as inflating balls, cleaning and repairing and sorting equipment, and by training and acting as quartermasters for the CCF Cadets, ensuring that their all-important camping gear is in good order before their Expeditions.

The Gold volunteers have also fostered their own passions and interests, and, perhaps, planted the seeds of future vocations. Beyond the Wednesday Volunteering Team, participants have supported younger members of the School and local communities by coaching junior football teams in the village, and at Repton Tennis and Hockey Clubs, and reading with pupils at Repton Primary School.

It has been a great step forward to be able to provide our participants with these opportunities to complete the Volunteering Section, which has historically been the least accessible element of the Silver and Gold Awards – but also to do such laudable and valued work, and to reap the rewards of personal pride and well-being that this brings.

The following Reptonians achieved their Gold Awards in 2024-25: Charlie B (N); Casper C (O); Ellen C (M); Freya G (A); Sophie H (M); Georgina H (F); Johnny I (L); Jacob I-O (S); Ludi I (A); William M (S); Connie P (F); Arabella P (M); Sebastian R (P); Milo R (S); Benji Y (C); Ava M (OR – F); Henry P (OR – L); Madeleine S (OR – M); Archie W (OR – O); William W (OR – O).

CSD

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HOUSE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ COMPETITION 2025

In early March 2025 the ten Houses brought together their finest quizzing minds (or who happened to be in House that Sunday) for the most cerebral of the House competitions, and one of the rare times all the Houses compete on an even footing. The prize was the prestigious Harry Lownds Trophy.

Competition was expected to be fierce, with last year’s winners The Priory bringing back an almost unchanged team, with Seb R in calm and collected command; although the 2023 winners, New House, led by the formidable intellects of Fisayo A and Yasuaki F had strengthened.

The competition is a straight tenrounds, ten questions set-up, with the obligatory music round, and a picture round to be completed during the food break. Teams can play their joker at any stage.

The spirit was excellent, and it is always a joy to be involved in with New House ultimately coming out on top. Well done New House and we look forward to next year’s competition.

New House’s winning Team: Fisayo A, Yasuaki F, George E-T, Ambrose D, Christopher C and Thomas G. RGD

ASTROLOGY

In November, we were fortunate enough to visit the Peter Bolas Observatory, operated by Rosliston Astronomy Group (RAG) for an astronomical observation.

We were warmly welcomed with an intriguing lecture on astronomy. It was mainly about the mechanisms behind the astronomical telescopes: how different types of telescopes, refractive or reflective, magnify light from distant celestial objects. The lecture also focused on the development of the design of the world-renowned James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), using their previous experience with the Hubble Space Telescope. The images of the Pillars of Creation and the Tarantula Nebula captured by the JWST were astonishingly beautiful.

The lecture was followed by the observation session, which was the highlight of the night. Fortunately, the sky was clear, and we made observations of a wide range of astronomical objects with the kind guidance of the RAG members.

The first observation was of Jupiter. It really was an unexpected opportunity to see the stripes distinctly on Jupiter’s surface –caused by the fast rotation and the varying chemical composition of the atmosphere. We also found Jupiter’s four largest moons: Ganymede, Callisto, Io, and Europa.

Our next target was Saturn. Here, the appearance of its iconic and majestic rings blew us away, and it was remarkable to have the RAG members kindly teach us that the particles composing the rings vary in size from a grain of sand to a large mountain.

As well as planets, we also observed M45, commonly known as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters. The guidance of one of the RAG members led us to locate the Pleiades star cluster from the prominent Orion’s Belt. Through the lens, the asterism of luminous blue stars and their surrounding sparkles of little stars created a beautiful scene.

The trip was so enjoyable that we used the school’s telescope, SeeStar S50, to further explore the night sky and managed to capture a stunning clear photo of Orion’s Nebula. We would highly recommend attending this wonderful trip, regardless of your interest in Physics, and hope many of you experience this excitement beyond the sky above us.

Yasuaki F (U6N) Louis C (U6S)

Greenpower F24 Formula Repton AND

Over the past two years, pupils at Repton have been steadily designing, building, and refining an electric racing car as part of the Formula Repton project. What began with prize money from an award-winning national Bright Ideas Challenge entry, sponsored by Shell, has developed into a vibrant and ambitious engineering venture. That original funding, won by Jacob I-O and Seb R, enabled the team to purchase a Greenpower F24 kit car, which has since been carefully assembled and enhanced by a dedicated group of pupils, supported by Doc I and the Design Engineering department.

From chassis construction and bodywork adjustments to refining the steering, improving weight distribution, and optimising energy efficiency and aerodynamics, every stage of the project has been led by pupil initiative, teamwork, and creative problem solving. Along the way, the team has benefitted from

expert guidance from engineers at Rolls-Royce and researchers at the University of Sheffield, both of whom have encouraged further development of the car’s design and performance.

This term, following extensive in-house testing, A and B Block pupils put the car through its paces around the Sports Centre car park, completing dozens of laps in preparation for their first official race. On Tuesday 20 May, the team travelled to Tockwith Airfield in Yorkshire to compete in a Greenpower F24 event, part of the national series that promotes engineering, sustainability, and teamwork in schools. The atmosphere was electric, the competition intense, and the pupils rose to the occasion with focus and enthusiasm.

The F24 project builds on the excellent foundations laid at Repton Prep, where pupils have competed successfully in the Greenpower

series for several years. Formula Repton takes that legacy further, aiming to involve senior pupils in a wider range of engineering disciplines. While the current focus remains on the F24 car, future plans include ventures into structural design, electronics, and AI-led projects, all underpinned by a shared commitment to innovation and collaboration.

The team now hopes to qualify for the international finals, scheduled to take place at Goodwood during the Michaelmas Term. Whatever the result, the pupils have already achieved something exceptional. They have built a car from scratch, tested it, raced it, and brought to life an idea driven by creativity, sustained effort, and collective ambition. Formula Repton is now firmly established, and we look forward to watching it grow in the years ahead.

SMI

The Greenhouse Club truly came into its own this Lent Term, led by a small, enthusiastic group of Sixth Formers who set about refreshing and reorganising our rooftop greenhouse above the Science Priory. With great care and attention, they cleaned, tidied, repaired pipework, re-established the watering system, and prepared the space for a new phase of purposeful activity.

Once the greenhouse was restored to full working order, the group began sourcing compost, seeds, pots, and tools, laying the foundations for a productive growing season. Pupils have been exploring horticultural techniques such as propagation, taking cuttings, and understanding soil composition and environmental control. They have also embraced organic gardening practices, developing their understanding of plant biology, sustainability, and food science through hands-on activity.

Throughout the term, the work has been marked by friendship, collaboration, and curiosity. With expert support from our outstanding science technicians, Sue Haslam and Casey Gray, the group has brought energy and focus to every session. The next stage of the project will involve building raised beds to grow organic vegetables, allowing pupils to follow the journey from seed to plate and to explore the full lifecycle of sustainable food production.

The Greenhouse Club is already becoming a valued part of life at Repton, offering a calm and purposeful space for scientific exploration and environmental learning. With strong foundations now in place, we look forward to seeing how this exciting initiative

City Zen

This year, four of our Lower Sixth pupils, Fisayo A, Martin I, Thomas S and Arthur B, proudly represented Repton in the National CityZen Engineering Competition, hosted by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Their exceptional project proposed an innovative elevated solar farm on the floodplain between Repton and Willington, turning a rarely usable, flood-prone area into a dual-purpose site for renewable energy generation and livestock grazing. By raising the panels safely above expected flood levels, the team combined sustainability, community energy use, and agricultural utility in a bold and forward-thinking proposal.

Their entry demonstrated outstanding creativity, technical depth, and professional presentation. It included a short video and PowerPoint submission, which have now been nationally recognised. We are thrilled to announce (in confidence, at this stage) that the team has been awarded the Loudspeaker Special Prize, a new national award created this year by the ICE to celebrate excellence in scientific communication. Out of hundreds of schools participating, Repton has once again been recognised at the highest level. This follows last year’s overall national win. The award not only brings national

prestige, but also provides the team with the opportunity to attend a celebratory lunch in London with the Senior Vice President of the ICE. It is a significant occasion that will also greatly enhance their UCAS applications.

Our congratulations go to the entire team for their dedication, professionalism, and outstanding achievement. We look forward to building on this success and returning to the competition again next year with renewed ambition.

SMI

Over the past few months, I have been reading with primary school children at the local school for Community Action. I walk to Repton Primary each Thursday with three other girls in my year and we are each allocated a year group to read with. As a volunteer, it is so rewarding to make such a meaningful impact on young minds: not only developing their literacy skills and a love for learning, but helping the children build their confidence and enthusiasm in and outside of the classroom. Reading is a key and essential tool for success, so it is a privilege to guide the children and enhance their reading ability.

Mitzy W (L6F)

CHRISTMAS FAYRE Community Action

At the end of the Michaelmas Term Repton held its Charity Christmas Fayre. This year it was held under the Arch with a Santas grotto (and rumour had it his sleigh!). This was something that my two little ones especially enjoyed!

The day also included a range of stalls, food vendors and games on offer, as well as a screening of the festive favourite ‘ELF’ in the 400 Hall. There was plenty to enjoy for

everyone and it was a perfect way for the Repton community to get into the festive spirit. This year the charity which the school chose to support was the South Derbyshire CVS, who are a local charity working to improve the quality of life for people living in South Derbyshire. All proceeds from this year’s Christmas fayre were donated to the charity.

JBL

Over the academic year, myself and a team of seven participated in performing tasks in the church but mainly maintaining and keeping tidy the church surrounding. Our activities ranged from cleaning and sweeping paths in the Autumn to pulling out weeds from the flower beds in the summer. On one occasion we were privileged with being allowed to descend into the crypt underneath St Wystan’s church. As the academic year ended, we helped expose an old stone wall next to the church which required multiple man hours which was

St Wystan’s Repton Primary School

completed despite the best efforts of the weather and rain to make sure it did not happen. My personal favourite activity was keeping the area tidy and cutting back any overgrown trees and branches blocking the paths and walkways. Overall, the experience was one which was entirely enjoyable and one which I will be eternally grateful that I was able to experience it. Aiding in maintaining the church yard and its graves was a humble experience, which I thoroughly recommend.

Henry B (L6N)

We were delighted to have different members of Repton Primary School use our sports facilities on a half termly rotation. Myself and three other members of the Lower Sixth planned and delivered sessions that they may not cover on their PE curriculum at school. We offered dodgeball, diamond cricket as well

as many relay challenges (with some penalty shootouts creeping in). It was our pleasure to not only allow the pupils opportunity to experience life at Repton for a short while, but to also engage with them in activities that were clearly enjoyed by all.

Sammy H (L6L)

THE MITRE SPONSORED SLEEPOUT

On Friday 7 March, The Mitre Lower Sixth slept out at the YMCA Derbyshire Sleep Easy 2025 to raise funds and awareness for local people at risk of homelessness, social isolation and poverty. The night started with lots of cardboard and tape as we all split into teams to build our ‘homes’ for the night. After this, we spent the evening around the campfire with hotdogs and marshmallows before we slowly

moved into our DIY shelters for the night. The Mitre Lower Sixth then, along with Miss Hird and Mrs Eversfield, successfully braved a cold and not too wet night under these DIY cardboard shelters! This really brought home to us the importance of what we were doing, why the cause is so important, and we were all so proud to have taken part in it!

Lydia L (L6M)

toyota nishi

scientific conference

At the end of the Lent Term in 2025, Repton was delighted to welcome our long-standing friends from Toyota Nishi School in Japan for the eighth annual Toyota Nishi Scientific Conference. This vibrant threeday celebration of international collaboration and shared scientific enquiry brought together over 25 Repton pupils and ten visiting students from Japan.

exchange of ideas, knowledge, and insight enriched the experience for all involved, demonstrating the profound impact of international partnership in education.

A key moment of the conference was the series of pupil presentations held in the Kan Library. These presentations explored a wide range of topics, including artificial intelligence, sustainable engineering, and environmental science.

The conference programme featured extensive joint lessons, experiments, and academic discussions across Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology. The Science Priory became a dynamic hub of curiosity and learning, where pupils worked alongside each other with genuine enthusiasm and mutual respect.

Throughout the week, pupils engaged in a variety of investigations, including protein modelling and circuits, titration, attention studies, and microscopy. The Japanese pupils also participated in Lower Sixth lessons, thoughtfully contributing to class discussions and group work. This

In particular, congratulations go to Jonathan B, Eva L, Frasier S, Martin I, Fisayo A, Arthur B, Thomas S, Emma M, and Yotsugi T for their presentations. Their talks and scientific explanations were a credit to both schools and exemplified the spirit of intellectual curiosity that defined the week.

The group also visited the National Space Centre in Leicester, where they engaged with interactive exhibits on astronomy, physics, and the history of space exploration. This enriching experience allowed pupils to explore scientific ideas beyond the classroom and sparked many thoughtful questions and reflections.

Equally valuable was the cultural dimension of the visit. Repton pupils welcomed their guests with warmth and generosity, offering tours, sharing meals, and forming lasting friendships. Informal moments between sessions, conversations over lunch, and shared interests in science and beyond created a genuine sense of connection. This blending of cultures, perspectives, and intellectual engagement was at the heart of the conference’s success.

Now in its eighth year, the Toyota Nishi partnership remains one of the most distinctive features of Repton’s academic calendar. It was a pleasure to witness pupils from both schools working together so purposefully and enjoying each other’s company. After the separation of recent years, it was especially moving to see the relationship renewed in person. We hope this will pave the way for a future visit to Japan, continuing a tradition that has brought such richness to both schools.

SMI

RAMSEY SOCIETY

There were several very clear themes in this year’s Ramsey Society papers. Not, as in previous years, the hot topic of Sportswashing, or the ever-present concerns relating to The Future of the NHS, or the Climate Crisis – or, indeed, to any particular subject. What united all the papers this year was two-fold: firstly, their fecundity in sparking discussion of so many, and such wide-ranging, germane issues, but ones that were not, prima facie, part of the topic, and, secondly, their ability to force us to subject to scrutiny our preconceptions and, indeed, our values themselves.

Ellen C was brave enough take the plunge and deliver the inaugural paper, asking Should Prisoners have the Vote? This led to a discussion about: the very purpose of prison and punishment; of which rights we are and are not happy to deprive those who break the law; whether such forfeitures should be gradated by the severity of the crime; and what qualification-criteria, if any, there should be for the franchise: should anyone be allowed to vote, regardless of their intelligence, knowledge or political views?

Bella C’s talk on the Legacy of Empire and Reparations could hardly have been more topical, nor more searching – perhaps, even, profitably discomfiting. Not the least of the many strengths of Bella’s paper was the light it shone on some of Britain’s past – the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre,

the Bengal Famine, that the British government paid to the former owners of enslaved people compensation worth 40% of the Treasury’s tax-receipts for 1834, until 2015. Bella asked us to consider what moral or financial debt Britain owes to its former colonies, and to the descendants of those countries whose resources Britain extracted, such as India, whose share of global industrial output fell by two percent in the 150 years following the Battle of Plassey. We then considered how we should treat the legacy of former slave-owners, and the institutions which benefitted from the slave trade. This was one of the most challenging Ramsey papers we have had for a few years – and all the better for it.

Freya G’s paper on The Constitution cut to the core of our politics, examining the pros and cons of a Supreme Court, elected or otherwise, the advantages of first-past-the-post, whether voting should be compulsory, or the voting-age lowered, whether we make sufficient use of referenda, and, even more fundamentally, whether democracy can navigate challenges such as the Climate Crisis. Such has been the engagement of this cohort that this was a very apposite – almost foundational – paper for the year, and much valued.

Seb R broke new ground for the Society by daring to discuss a topic that might not necessarily lend itself to discussion by a lay audience,

and so was, initially, more didactic in nature. This is very much to be welcomed! Seb’s paper on Time first set out an historical overview of our conception of time, from Mesopotamian lunar calendars, and the idea of time as cyclical, to Heraclitus’ view of everything being in flux – contrasting with Parmenides’ understanding of a timeless, unchanging realityuntil we reached Einstein himself. Seb gave an enviably clear and accessible exposition of the dilation of time and the warping of time by gravity, before leading us to the work of Stephen Hawking: the question of whether time is a human construct, the Twin Paradox and time-travel and the Grandfather Paradox. Seb’s was a remarkable paper in many ways, but one of its great achievements lay in his ability to explain such complex, abstract and counterintuitive ideas to us in an utterly fascinating style, but also in such a way as to allow us to wrestle with them ourselves.

Ramsey Society’s members are nothing if not at the cutting edge of progress, political, intellectual and technological, and Louis C epitomised this with his discussion of Nuclear Fusion, asking whether this could be the silver bullet to address global warming. Louis’ explanation of the Physics behind the technology was admirably lucid and systematic, but what really impressed was the way in which he pivoted the discussion to the ramifications of such developments. Will they provide a

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cheap energy-source for the whole world, closing the gap between the industrialised and developing worlds, or be jealously guarded, and be weaponised economically and politically? Would the premium put on the tritium isotope lead to war, or further extractive colonisation, perhaps of the Moon itself? Does the answer to the Climate Crisis lie in nudges to our pockets, as with supermarkets charging for carrierbags, or in outright legislation, such as the outlawing of petrol-engines in the 1980s? Should the developed world, which has polluted the atmosphere for 200 years, and with the head start of unconstrained industrial revolutions, subsidise other countries’ moves into Green Energy?

Drawing on regimes in the Eastern Bloc, Elektra S explored the concept of Utopia, asking us to consider whether the impetus for allegedly utopian systems always comes from a starting-point of poverty and oppression, and whether a revolution would always be necessary for a utopia to be formed. What would our criteria for a utopia even be? If we accept that utopia is definitionally unattainable, how far are we from being as close to one as is possible? Different countries have enacted diametrically-opposed political systems under the banner of utopias – is this a function of differing circumstances and eras, or of the whims and self-interest of the countries’ leadership? Why has Britain never fully embraced ideologies that have driven “utopian” revolutions, such as those of 1789 and 1917? With these in mind, and the revised receptions of figures such as Robert Mugabe, we then asked whether utopias inevitably lead to dystopias.

William M dared to grasp the question of How has Science changed how we view Religion?, using as the kernel of the discussion the question of the compatibility of these two pillars of humanity. As religious experiences can increasingly be rationalised by Science, has religion adapted

?to “accommodate” this new understanding? If so, what does religion mean in the modern era? How can any “god” be defined? William then segued into a consideration of the limitations of Science, the question of whether the universe is deterministic. If so, does this negate the possibility of a deity, whom we believe to have given us free will? This led on to our wondering whether consciousness itself is an illusion. Swiftly undercutting this, William took us deftly through Quantum Physics and the Copenhagen Interpretation, with an expert analysis of the significance of the Double-Slit Experiment, once again challenging our assumptions and revealing afresh operative factors and principles. How wonderful to be shown new worlds of understanding, and to be given an opportunity to consider their practical and philosophical corollaries!

Zak W’s paper on the organisation eWater started out with a potential solution to a very practical problem, that of the shortage and security of clean drinkingwater in rural communities in Africa. This led very quickly to a searching conversation stemming from the central question of the best way to help such developing countries: is it more effective to give communities technologies and material assistance, or fund them directly, to empower them to manage the budgets themselves? Is the very principle of the West giving charitably to developing countries either patronising or disempowering? If countries are going to be granted funds, should this be contingent of any conditions being met? Should the donorbodies be able to demand that all the money goes to the project that has been identified? Should foreign governments be able to tie such aid to a guarantee of transparent and free elections, or of rights for women and minorities? Can aid be used as leverage in tradedeals? Swerving momentarily to the theories of Bertolt Brecht, we

asked whether charitable aid might perpetuate and enable corrupt and negligent regimes, and then turned to that titan of Moral Philosophy, Friedrich Nietzsche, and asked whether giving to charity can ever be truly selfless.

Izzy T’s talk, on Moral Reasoning, could not have been a more suitable paper on which to end the year’s programme. Izzy presented a series of thought-experiments to allow us to use dialectic to compare the merits of Categorical and Consequentialist theories of Ethics, and to force us to consider what we really value – do we value the greatest good for the greatest number, what is deontologically “right”, or what is best for us, be that the interests of those close to us, our own moral purity, or the burden of agency in such dilemmas. If one is held accountable for the consequences of one’s actions, how long is the “statute of limitations” on such judgements? Is one accountable for unintended, or unforeseeable consequences? The triumph of Izzy’s paper was not necessarily that it offered solutions to moral dilemmas: rather, like the very best philosophy, it forced us to reconsider our preconceptions, question the legitimacy and value of our instinctive moral judgements, and, most of all, our motivation itself.

That was the perfect way to bring the year’s seminars to a close –Ramsey Soc. seeks not to provide answers to enquiries, but to bring into sharper focus the implications of the questions themselves, to challenge our worldview, and simply to ensure that we have a greater understanding of what we think, and why we think it. The best Ramsey meetings are those when I say very little, go away with my head hurting, and, perhaps, being even less certain of my opinions at 9.00 pm as I lock up the Causeway door than when I set up the Audit Room at 7.15 pm. And, by this criterion, this has been a very strong year for the Society indeed.

CSD

It’s been another innovative and exciting year for the CCF at Repton. As always, it has provided a place for anyone looking for new experiences and personal development of skill and character. It has been a fantastic year and here’s to many more to come!

SHOOTING

The opportunity to shoot at Repton is a valuable experience, and the ability to develop focus and concentration is unparallelled to any other sport at Repton. Through the CCF I have been able to learn and progress as a person and a marksman. Shooting at Repton is a unique opportunity with brilliant staff to guide you and help you develop your skills, and I am grateful for the be a part of it, especially with the exiting prospects of interschool competitions next year.

Barnaby M (ON)

MY TIME IN THE CCF

Being part of the CCF during my time at Repton has been a valuable and distinctive aspect of my journey at school. It offered a wide range of opportunities that I wouldn’t have been able to do anywhere else. It has also enabled me to participate in activities with people up and down the country. From adventurous training to shooting competitions and leadership courses, the CCF has provided me with incredible and unique

experiences. Amid the constant pace of life at Repton it has provided me with a refreshing change from everyday school life.

The CCF has truly allowed me to make memories that I will never forget, such as flying an aircraft with the RAF section, an opportunity many people never have. But this was just one of many possibilities the CCF offered that allows for new adventures and a sense of growth and achievement. As well as this I

found that during my time I was able to meet new people from outside of school which allowed me to branch out and step out of my comfort zone while also learning skills that will remain with me for life. I hope that people in the future continue to embrace everything the CCF has to offer and make the most of the experience and the hard work and dedication of the staff that run it.

Josh P (U6S)

When I was first introduced to the idea of going to Summer Camp, I was reluctant. I had never done anything like it and the concept of staying in barracks and participating in field activities every day ultimately scared me. However, once I got to the Beckingham Training Camp my nerves were soon diffused. Firstly, all the instructors were extremely welcoming and supportive, providing us with fun and exciting activities, while also ensuring to be stern and keep up order. The Summer Camp experience fostered new and unexpected friendships because of our collaborative efforts which

SUMMER CAMP

I am now, extremely grateful for. Furthermore, because of my involvement in the activities that Summer Camp had to offer, I gained additional skills that will be valuable to me in the future, such as marching, leadership activities, the night exercise, clay pigeon shooting and GP rifle shooting. Overall, the shooting impacted me the most significantly as at first, I was cautious and inexperienced but every time I did it, I improved and have now learnt to thoroughly enjoy it, especially because of the help that I received from the instructors. If I have any advice for the upcoming A-Block, going on

Summer Camp 2025, I would ensure them that it is an experience truly worth engaging in as it provides students with an understanding of what life was like for soldiers during the war while also being an inspiring and enjoyable journey. Finally, I am looking forward to attending Summer Camp again next year and am excited to experience it as a senior while embracing the increased responsibility that comes with it.

FLYING AT RAF CRANWELL

On the 6th March, seven of us got the fantastic opportunity to go flying at RAF Cranwell. I had been flying a couple of years ago; therefore, I knew what to expect, however the experience yet again beat my expectations. We were incredibly fortunate for the perfect weather conditions, meaning we saw panoramic views as we flew. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and taught how to get in and out of the aircraft, as well as how to deploy a parachute, something which – thankfully! –was not needed.

It was great to see how we all recognised the planes we would be flying in, having covered the various types of aircraft in our weekly RAF lessons. The Tutors, small planes with side-by-side seating arrangement to maximise instructor-student interaction, flew us for a total of around 25 minutes in the air. My instructor was super friendly, teaching me the various gears and even how to fly the plane myself. Last time I flew, I asked not to do aerobatics, simply because I was too scared. Now, three years older, I decided to take a leap of faith.

To say that doing a loop-the-loop and barrel roll in a two-seater plane was terrifying is certainly the understatement of the century. Imagine being on a rollercoaster, but ten times dizzier, and at 5000 feet in the air! What I loved the most about the trip was that not only did I have the most exhilarating time, but it also taught me so much about the safety and mechanics of the plane – skills invaluable should I ever have the amazing opportunity to go flying again.

Overall, how was my experience flying at RAF Cranwell? One of the craziest things I have ever done!

Elektra

S (U6A)

VENICE ENGLAND

The 2025 Choir tour whisked us away on an unforgettable journey through northern Italy, combining rich cultural experiences with memorable musical performances. After departing from Repton and arriving in Venice, we quickly settled into our hotel and enjoyed a relaxed dinner to prepare us for the busy days ahead. Saturday saw us exploring the charming city of Padua, where a guided tour introduced us to its incredible history and stunning architecture. The afternoon gave us a chance to shop and enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading to Abano Terme for our first concert at the beautiful Chiesa Parrocchiale del Sacro Cuore di Gesù. Whilst this year we were promised no early starts, unlike the previous choir tour, the eagleeyed amongst the group spotted a slight technicality. Thanks to the clocks going forward an hour, there was still one glorious day with just a seven-hour turnaround between getting back to the hotel and breakfast the next morning! As you can imagine, that went down very well with the group… Sunday started early with a trip to Treviso, the birthplace of Tiramisu and a city often called a hidden gem thanks to its picturesque canals, vibrant art scene, and welcoming atmosphere. After a short rehearsal, we participated in a Mass at Chiesa di San Francesco, sharing our music with the monastic and local congregation. Post-

mass, we enjoyed a “merenda”, a traditional snack and drink with the community (more commonly known as a pop-up café to Reptonians), before exploring Treviso and having lunch. However, despite its many charms, Treviso sadly lacked one very important souvenir: fridge magnets. This omission did not go unnoticed, especially by Mr Owens, who was visibly disappointed by the scarcity of said magnets in his desire to add to his ever-growing collection. Later, we travelled to Schio for another rehearsal and concert at the stunning Chiesa di Sant’ Antonio Abate. This was followed by a delicious dinner at Osteria Due Spade. It was a day full of music, cultural connections and culinary delights.

Monday took us deep into the heart of Venice. We travelled by private water taxi along the iconic Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco, where we soaked up the city’s timeless beauty on a familiarisation tour and a visit to the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica. The afternoon included a rehearsal and a concert at the striking Chiesa di San Salvador, one of Venice’s architectural gems and adorned with stunning Italian artwork. A professor from Queen’s University, Belfast wrote to the Headmaster saying “I have just returned from a few days in Venice – a beautiful city with so many wonderful surprises, but none quite

so moving as your school choir’s performance in San Salvador on Monday evening. The new version of Charles Wesley’s “And Can It Be” was stunningly good. Thank you to all involved!”

Dinner at Rossopomodoro gave us a chance to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine before a beautiful boat ride back to the hotel. On our final day, Tuesday, we revisited Treviso for a leisurely exploration, tasting local treats like the famous tiramisu, and soaking in the city’s charm before making our way to Marco Polo Airport for our flight home. The tour was a wonderful blend of music, sightseeing, and camaraderie, leaving everyone with memories to cherish for years to come. It was a fantastic trip, fuelled by generous helpings of gelato, pizza, and tiramisu. We managed to squeeze in plenty of time to explore the sights of Venice and the surrounding towns; and we finally saw the Dolomites that Mrs Staggs confidently assured us were hidden somewhere in the clouds. There was no shortage of entertainment either. From ridiculous games, a large grapevine (now resplendent in Mrs Parish’s garden) being granted permission to fly back with us to the UK, to a unicorn facing questioning at customs, it was a tour full of unforgettable and rewarding moments.

Jonathon B (L6L)

Dearall...

To conclude, a poem that was written whilst on the choir tour:

Dear Miss, it’s happened again,

We’re lost in a sea of your “Dear all” refrain.

You send it, no subject, no sign-off, no clue, Just floating mid-air — what are we to do?

Our inboxes tremble, our hearts skip a beat, Is it urgent? Important? Or plans to repeat?

Venice awaits, and you’re leading the way, But will we get details, or just “Dear all,” today?

Boarding the plane holding passports in vain, Mrs Parish ensured Henry had his EpiPen again, With demon babies now upgraded to gangsters, And Mrs Staggs now dealing with some next level pranksters.

Exploring Padua, with markets so grand, We wandered through stalls with our euros in hand. Mrs Staggs swore the mountains were right over there, But all we could see was grey clouds in the air. Then finally - mountains! She cheered with delight, As if they had magically sprung up overnight.

Meanwhile, a unicorn was somehow acquired, And a grapevine’s return is now being conspired...

But poor Mr ‘Owen’, his name took a fall, All lowercase letters - no capitals at all!

A tragic misprint, a fate quite unfair, Does he even exist if his caps are not there?

And yet through it all with a curious air,

A secret admirer was always right there.

Dropping off music, a gift now and then,

Speaking of organs again and again.

Distracting at times yet ever so keen,

The mystery lingers - who could it have been?

And then for Mrs Parish, with her pop-up cafe, How she arranged it is still hard to stay, We went to a church for Italian mass, And seemed to come out with a cake and a glass!

Heading to Venice, the choir tour concludes, Coming down to breakfast with varying moods; Roger finds his final organ is somewhat a fake

As the battle of organs continues to partake.

Will it be modern, swish or smooth,

Or a half octave Hammond, on which to feel the groove?

It’s been a great few days, with many a song, With ‘Libera me’ getting a crowd sing along.

Thanks to Katie and crew for keeping things tight, And guiding us through from morning to night.

To Parish and Abuteir, a nod and a cheer,

For updating the ‘Gram’ so the world’s in the clear!

And finally to the Maestro Owens and Nick, For adding some humour to this great trip!

CLASSICS TRIP TO ITALY

From the 17th to the 23rd of October, a select group of pupils went on a Classics trip to Rome and Naples in Italy. The group included students from both the Prep and Senior School, which marks the first junior and senior trip in Repton. During our time, we visited many ancient Roman sites, ate multitudes of ice cream, and interacted with various sites of Roman culture.

We arrived at the prep school at 12:30 AM on the Thursday morning. Regardless of the time, there was an air of excitement on the coach towards the airport. Eventually, some of us managed to steal a few hours of sleep before we reached the terminal. We had

breakfasts of pastries and drinks from the overpriced Duty Frees before boarding, full of anticipation for the flight ahead. We landed, eager at the prospect of being in a new country, and ready for the day ahead. After the many flights of stairs up to our hotel, we were fatigued. Nonetheless, we strode on, towards the Colosseum. It was relatively easy to find, as it was the most prominent building in the area and was sat right in front of the metro station. The Colosseum, also named the Flavian Amphitheatre, is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built and was completed in 80 AD. Built of Travertine marble, tufa, concrete, and originally faced with yet more marble, the Colosseum is 157 ft tall and 511 ft wide. It held as many as 80,000 people and hosted events such as gladiator fights,

animal hunts, executions, and other spectacles for the public. These games were paid for by politicians and the wealthy to appease and placate the civilians to keep them in a good light. After we admired the sheer beauty of the ruin, we returned to the hotel before setting off in search of supper. After a wonderful meal of pasta, we returned to the hotel to settle in for the night.

On our first full day in Rome, we set off early to the baths of Caracalla, a ruin of the second largest Roman baths after the baths of Diocletian. They had many mosaics and was exhibiting art displays in one of the sections.

The parakeets swooped overhead as we perused the ruins, calling to one another as we wondered

beneath them. After viewing one of the frescos, we wandered to the Circus Maximus. It didn’t look like much as we arrived, especially compared to the Colosseum just a few streets away, but we were soon informed on its importance. The Circus Maximus was a chariot racing stadium that was constructed in the 6th century BCE. It was used for Roman games, gladiator fights, chariot races, to name a few. It could hold up to 150,000 spectators and became a model for circuses throughout the Holy Roman Empire. The Circus Maximus was much more regularly used than the Colosseum, with races held every week. We perambulated towards Trastevere, where we ate pizzas in the shade, covered from the October sun. However, our luck with the weather didn’t last. The sky greyed and the clouds loomed overhead, threatening torrents of rain. Despite the dreary weather, the Spanish Steps were a sight to behold.

On the third day in Rome, the clouds greyed. The first port of call was the Trevi Fountain, which was built in the 1700s, and was commissioned by Pope Clemens XII. After a quick ice-cream stop despite the brewing rain, we continued towards our next destination –The Pantheon. Built by Emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon stands at 43m tall. It was, and still is, the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world! Filled with artwork and religious paintings, we marvelled at the impressive feats of architecture and craftsmanship before making our way for pizza in the Piazza Navona. After lunch, we proceeded to the Vatican City to see St Peter’s Basilica. However, while we were waiting, the rain finally began to pour. A lot. Luckily, we were nearly inside, but we had to shelter under the columns as the deluge persisted. Once we gained access to the Basilica, all we had to do was look up. Every inch of the ceiling was plastered in intricate

and detailed paintings across the roof: we couldn’t help but gape at the incredible work it must have taken, and how well it has preserved for over 400 years.

At the Vesuvius National Park, we explored the natural landscape of the volcano, peered within the crater and soaked in the magnificent views at the very top. Also, we visited a small souvenir shop selling handmade volcanicrock jewellery, Pompeiian and other knick-knacks in the middle of the hike. In the afternoon, we visited the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (the National Archaeological Museum of Naples), which houses an extensive number of artefacts from ancient times. The museum holds the 3rd largest Ancient Egyptian collection in the world, with about 2500 items, and approximately 2,250 are on display. Mr Dammers gave detailed accounts and information about ancient artifacts, frescoes and statues which we all listened to intently and learned much about ancient culture and art.

On the sixth day of our trip, we went to the Ancient Roman town of Pompeii. I thought I was living in a Classics textbook! The streets were filled with shops preserved from that time, giving us an insight into Ancient Roman life and culture. The weather was extremely sunny, with the Italian sun blaring throughout the sky, burning into our backs.

As we went along, Mr Dammers explained the various architectural features, and we looked at the most intriguing and intricate mosaics. We even saw Caecilius’ house! The roads were rocky, so we were extremely fatigued by the end, but it was all worth it. Quickly afterwards, we went off on a voyage to the ancient archaeological underwater town of Baia, which sunk into the Gulf of Naples due to volcanic activity. The journey was interesting, and we stared at the colourful fish and architecture

passing through. The tour guide, who had a heavy Italian accent, muttered loudly through the microphone about the rich history of Baia and its purpose as a holiday destination for the rich, as we were entranced by the imagery of what the world once was.

Finally, on the last day of our travels, we all woke up at the crack of dawn (four in the morning, to be exact) to go to the airport in Naples to return to London Heathrow. Our energy was depleted, so naturally the process of checking in, buying breakfast and boarding was sluggish. As the group meandered on, we boarded the plane and filed into our seats, ready for the hours of flying braced upon us. The journey was slow but relaxing, the morning breeze blowing upon us. We arrived at Heathrow 10:50 am, the cold British weather welcoming us home as we stepped down the airstairs. However, it took us an eternity to exit the airport, due to the dreaded, lengthy customs line and the amount of traffic at baggage collection. Nevertheless, we persisted and left the airport a few hours later to be picked up at the Prep school. The coach ride to the Prep was about two and a half hours, the journey reassuring us that we would be reunited with family.

THE TRIP LEFT US WITH MASSES OF NEW EXPERIENCES

The trip left us with masses of new experiences, memories to look back fondly on in the coming years, and a feeling of sheer joy and newfound outlook on the Roman Empire.

CSD

ITALY

Our week in the UAE was packed with unforgettable experiences, combining adventure, culture, and visits to three incredible Repton schools. One of the early highlights was the desert safari—racing over sand dunes, seeing camels and falcons, trying sand boarding, and enjoying traditional food, henna, and live performances in the evening. It was a brilliant way to experience a different side of the country and kick off the trip.

We were lucky to visit Repton Al Barsha, Repton Dubai, and Repton Abu Dhabi. At each school, we were warmly welcomed and had the chance to meet students, explore the campuses, and learn more about what daily life is like in a different educational setting. It was great to see how each school had

its own personality and different features while still sharing the same Repton spirit.

A major highlight was Aquaventure Waterpark, where huge slides, fast rides, and the cool water gave everyone a chance to have fun and cool off. In Abu Dhabi, we spent time at the Louvre, which amazed us with its architecture and incredible art. We also had the chance to visit the Grand Mosque, which was stunning in its design and scale. Another super memorable moment came at Yas Marina Circuit, where we toured the famous F1 track and had loads of fun racing in go-karts with students from Repton Abu Dhabi.

We also enjoyed a bit of downtime—whether relaxing at the hotel pools with the warm weather,

or taking in the atmosphere at local shopping spots. There was always something to see or do, and each day brought a new adventure.

EACH DAY

From school visits to cultural landmarks, waterparks to desert landscapes, the trip had a perfect balance of learning, fun, and new experiences. It’s safe to say we all came home with plenty of great memories and stories to share.

Nicola S (10M)

TANZANIA

A mix of excitement and nerves upon arriving in Dar Es Salam after a long-haul flight from Manchester airport was felt by most of the group, however we were all ready for an exciting start to our trip. At first, we stayed in a small beach hut hotel which was frequently referred to as a paradise! After numerous games of nail-biting uno, everyone was ready to get some rest in preparation for our extremely early start and what became a 14-hour bus journey the next day.

We began our journey with high spirits despite the rude awakening at 6am, and the group reveled in the Tanzanian landscape until the jetlag began to catch up… After numerous hours of travelling, we finally made it to our first campsite where we experienced a ‘remote loo’ for the first time which, to our utter shock and disbelief, was simply a hole. The long journey had only increased everyone’s frustration, and this new idea of a toilet was definitely not a positive realisation! Despite the eventful first day with multiple claims that this bus journey

would ‘certainly’ be the death of us, everyone fell asleep to some Billy Joel from a tiny speaker which calmed the mood.

TANZANIA

We then started our hiking element of the trip, and we made it to the most stunning waterfall, making all the misdemeanors from the previous day irrelevant, as everyone was in complete awe at the view. We were then further privileged to a completely cloudless sky which stirred the group’s inner love for stargazing and motivated us for another day of hiking ahead. Our next campsite was next to a small village called Murugura with native children who were keen to meet us and assess the football skills of the boys who were thoroughly humbled… We then had the incredible experience of hiking in a monkey forest the following day where we were completely immersed in the wildlife, which was amazing! After a brilliant day, we moved to our next campsite which had ‘Westernized toilets’ which we later learnt meant normal toilet seats! This was most definitely a

highlight and the reaction from the team was overwhelming excitement! Which then led to numerous ‘hair wash days’ for the girls as hot water showers had been missed since leaving England! A few rounds of Dobble set the mood high for the evening, which was followed with traditional dancing and even some dance offs which the whole team participated in!

To follow, we had another challenging long bus journey, however it was met with keen enthusiasm for endless rounds of Uno and many playlists. After a slightly questionable lunch and a return to classic Tanzanian loos the team faced a low in morale however, we were then reminded that we were on the way to a safari! When we arrived the best place that we had stayed in was confirmed because of the promised threecourse meal and soft drink of choice which went down extremely well with a group of hungry teenagers. Despite realising we had placed our tent on top of an ant’s nest we slept very well that night, eager for our

next adventure the following day. A gruelling 4.30am wake-up certainly was only carried out because of the promised safari but it didn’t happen without a few tired complaints! But these were soon forgotten when we began to see all sorts of different animals, most excitingly hippos! The safari was a huge highlight, and everyone was still stunned throughout the journey back to our campsite where we were all slightly in contact with home because of the upcoming election which was being meticulously debated for hours upon end. A travel day subsequently found us back in Dar Es Salaam, our first adventure into the Uluguru mountains being over but we were ready to face our next one. That day also saw our first venture into the Tanzanian sea, and everyone was delighted to be able to unwind!

THE SAFARI WAS A HUGE HIGHLIGHT, AND EVERYONE WAS STILL STUNNED THROUGHOUT THE JOURNEY BACK TO OUR CAMPSITE

Next was our trip to Zanzibar, highly anticipated by the whole team but did not happen without challenges… We had another early start to get to the ferry port which we met with caution as it was our first experience fully immersed into the Tanzanian public which was slightly daunting as we were anxious to make sure we adhered to the culture expectations. The group was very divided during the

ferry ride between the constant chatterboxes throughout the whole journey and those who slept the entire time! It’s safe to say the early start was worth it as when we got to our accommodation we were met with luxury from double beds to a pool. This was a complete revelation for everyone and after a long day of travelling we rewarded ourselves with a relaxing swim and a masterclass in making Chapatis which was really fun to experience some of the Zanzibar culture. Our first day of work was a strong challenge as we were beginning our conservation project to build a shelter for baby turtles. Many of the boys discovered a talent for wielding a pickaxe and blisters and calluses were most definitely developed! We returned to the accommodation feeling very accomplished and had a wellearned feast and also travelled into the town of Zanzibar for a swim on the beach which was utterly idyllic. On the way back, many of us became sworn supporters of the Zanzibarian football team as numerous football shirts were bought! Another hard day of work followed, and we made satisfactory progress on the project and had many intense competitions as to who could make a smoother cement wall (small traits of OCD were uncovered)! We ended the day with a swim, still in our work clothes, and everyone was able to completely relax and it became one of the greatest highlights of the trip for many because of how beautiful the settings around us were. Many of us persuaded one of our group leaders ‘Beades’ to get up for the sunrise and saunter down to the beach to see it, proving to be one of the best views we’d ever seen. This proceeded with hours of tanning and reading for the girls and exciting pool games for the boys. Then, we packed up and travelled to Stone Town which had been a long-

awaited visit from all. An afternoon was spent learning how to haggle and buying endless souvenirs to greet the family upon our return. We then all bunked together into rooms after a highly wholesome celebrational dinner after the completion of our project.

The next morning saw snorkeling for the team and a visit to the Freddie Mercury Museum who we discovered grew up on Zanzibar! The sea life was amazing, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable morning where the whole group was able to enjoy a break on the top of the boat in complete bliss. However, on the way back a certain member of the group decided to jump off the boat in pursuit of his t-shirt which was highly amusing! We then returned to Stone town where we got the ferry back to Dar and returned to our paradise beach shacks which provided many with much comfort and a final meal. We were leaving the following morning and a couple of us woke for yet another sunrise which certainly did not disappoint. We subsequently had naps on the beach and a final swim on a completely empty beach which seemed a stunning and fitting last day. We then packed up our things, said farewell to the endless fire ants and mosquitoes and set off for the airport. A multitude of emotions were experienced throughout the journey to the airport accompanied by feelings of excitement to get home but also an overwhelming sense of fulfillment after enjoying this trip. The journey home was an emotional one as everyone felt a huge sense of gratitude for having had the opportunity to experience such an amazing trip. This was all thanks to our group leaders and staff members, Dr Blackwell and Miss Eades.

Clara C (L6F)

VENICE

ENGLAND

DERBY VELODROME

TANZANIA

In February, the Physics department visited Derby Velodrome to put their understanding of circular motion to the test. The A level physicists used their understanding of circular motion, trigonometry and centripetal force to calculate the minimum speed (27mph) required to get around the 42° banking. We

then put theory into practice with a coached session on the track - where the really keen students also tested their understanding of impact forces!

We had a great day out and our thanks go to coaches Phil and Carl who made sure that none of the crashes were too bad!

TML

FEATURES 49

Are fee paying schools doomed? GOODBYE MR CHIPS:

the sector. Yet such challenges are not unprecedented in the history of fee-paying education in this country and the sector may well prove itself, once again, to be more resilient than the doom sayers predict. Indeed, such prophecies of doom have been uttered on many occasions over the past 300 years and each time they have been

At the end of the eighteenth century, there was a spectacular growth in private schools and academies across the country, the greatest surge coming after 1770 and coinciding with the growing prosperity of urban centres. This much is in no doubt. Less easily assessed is the impact of these schools. It was normal for all recreational activities to be organised by the boys for pure enjoyment and to relieve the boredom of academic work, which consisted of a profoundly limited curriculum. The Masters, as teachers were known, kept order using corporal punishments and it was observed by contemporaries that they often had little influence or interest in their charges outside of the classroom. Perhaps this is why the boys at many schools took part in all sorts of mischief including trespass, truancy, poaching and fighting; at one top school, one of the most infamous boy’s activities was torturing cats! This form of ‘education’ was all covered under the rather broad heading of ‘institutionalised popular recreation’, with activities ranging from the childlike to the barbaric. This was England’s elite educational system before the nineteenth century, and it was one that was both rapidly expanding and in crisis at the same time. Between 1770 and 1779, in the counties of Staffordshire, Derbyshire

and Nottinghamshire 29 new schools sprang up, followed by a further 33 in the next decade and 32 between 1790 and 1799. Of these, 56 had gone bust by the start of 1800!

At the start of the nineteenth century, this ‘elite’ system, was in crisis, therefore. In an era of revolution abroad and increasing political dissent at home, the public schools could have been swept away in the first half of the nineteenth century, that they weren’t is primarily due to their ability to adapt and survive. It has often been said that English schooling has always been more responsive to political and social than to educational ideas and this was clearly reflected in the reforms to the sector in the early 1800s. For instance, the founders of several Middlesex schools saw in education one expression of their political and social theories. The Hill brothers opened a branch of their father’s Birmingham school at Bruce Castle, Tottenham, in 1827. Strongly imbued with Utilitarian ideas, they emphasized a wide curriculum, ‘to accord with the taste and capacity of the pupils’, and a constitution by which the boys managed the school and its ‘criminal code’. Jeremy Bentham himself was enthusiastic and sent pupils to the school, and boys came from as far afield as the newly liberated countries of Greece and South America! Yet, the most impactful reforms were made at a midlands school: Rugby. Thomas Arnold, the Headmaster of Rugby from 1828 onwards sought to save the sector from itself with his extolling of ‘muscular Christianity’. On joining Rugby, he grew to be obsessed by what he saw as the immorality and sinfulness of boys and was determined to reform them, their attitudes and their school lives. Arnold was not an innovator in teaching method; his aim was to reform Rugby by making it a school for gentlemen. He primarily sought to do this by creating the prefect system. Under the prefect system the older boys

served as house monitors to keep discipline among the younger boys. This training included both leadership, taught by giving senior prefects large amounts of influence over the running of the new boarding houses, and obedience, taught through “fagging”, whereby younger boys performed menial tasks for older ones. By the last decades of the nineteenth century, this system was adopted in most English secondary schools.

YOUNG MEN LEARNT THE SKILLS OF LEADERSHIP, DEFERENCE AND PHYSICALITY ON THE SPORTS FIELD

The Arnoldian tradition spread to other schools through Rugby pupils and masters, and many private schools established after Arnold’s death were modelled on Rugby. Even though Arnold himself wished to focus on the religious improvement of the boys and not sport, by 1850 organised team sports had become a central part of the Arnoldian educational model. Young men learnt the skills of leadership, deference and physicality on the sports field. Perhaps the most famous manifestation of this ethos is Newbolt’s Vitai Lampada, where a young army officer uses the lessons learnt on the cricket pitches of Clifton College to rally his men fighting on the frontier of Empire.

The conceit of this educational world was that close study of classical civilisation and literature yielded rich insights into the exercise of power. But most important of all was the sense that the young boys who received this education were drawing on

Vitai Lampada

There’s a breathless hush in the Close to-night — Ten to make and the match to win —

A bumping pitch and a blinding light,

And it’s not for the sake of a ribboned coat, Or the selfish hope of a season’s fame, But his Captain’s hand on his shoulder smote — ‘Play up! play up! and play the game!’

The sand of the desert is sodden red, — Red with the wreck of a square that broke; — The Gatling’s jammed and the Colonel dead, And the regiment blind with dust and smoke. The river of death has brimmed his banks, And England’s far, and Honour a name, But the voice of a schoolboy rallies the ranks: ‘Play up! play up! and play the game!’

This is the word that year by year, While in her place the School is set, Every one of her sons must hear, And none that hears it dare forget. This they all with a joyful mind Bear through life like a torch in flame, And falling fling to the host behind — ‘Play up! play up! and play the game!’

the wisdom of the great ‘original’ Empire of Western civilisation: Rome. This knowledge would be supposedly invaluable when ruling in Punjab or East Africa. These advantages went mostly to those already privileged by birth, but one reason for the resilience of the British ruling class in the hundred years leading up to the First World War was that it absorbed “new money”, treating the upwardly mobile, after initial reservations, as their own. The fee-paying schools played a central role in that, offering an educational course in what can be described as cultural assimilation to the children of what we might call internal immigrants (and a few real immigrants) and conferring what the Harrow headmaster Cyril Norwood, writing in 1929, called a “social badge” that gave “easy rights of entry to circles which people . . . do very much desire to enter”.

For about 30 years after the Second World War, it seemed likely that the fee-paying sector would die off. The 1944 Butler Education Act, passed by the wartime Churchill government established for the first time a functioning post 14 state school model, which in the form of the Grammar schools led the way in academic teaching in the post war period. Yet in the face of this genuine competition, the private sector overwhelmingly chose to stick to the Arnoldian system whilst Britain and the world rapidly changed around it. As the

empire collapsed in the 1950s and 1960s, the British establishment unravelled, attracting mockery rather than deference. So, a system that still produced young men to govern an Empire which no longer existed was more likely by the 1960s to be the target of a Monty Python sketch than the subject of admiration. The Arnoldian system’s hostility to teaching science, their obsession with team sports and “character training” no longer seemed relevant to a country that sought to shed much of its Victorian past in the 1960s and 1970s. Perhaps the most damning statistic to show how far behind the fee-paying schools had fallen in the 1960s, was that the A-level failure rate at many top fee-paying schools was between 19 and 28 per cent, depending on the subject, proportions that were twice the national average or more. In the late 1970s, the proportion of children at fee-charging schools fell as low as 4.5 per cent. The sector had failed to adapt and had nearly paid the ultimate price.

This is why private schools have spent so much of the past 50 years reinventing themselves and embracing meritocracy. They’ve changed over this period because they’ve had to. Intellectual attainment, regarded with suspicion in the days of Harry Flashman, has become paramount. Huge sums have been spent on science laboratories and arts

centres. The weak teachers, loose practices, and corporal punishment so memorably lampooned by Evelyn Waugh in his hilarious Decline and Fall, were phased out nearly a quarter of a century ago. The best of the Arnoldian system remains in the esprit de corps created in our boarding houses, and in the dedication to sports and pastoral support outside of the classroom. This has been added to an increased academic rigour in the classroom. Teaching support and monitoring have become much more academically rigorous and the admission of girls, initially at sixthform level, has undoubtedly raised the bar still higher and changed and improved the culture of our institutions inestimably.

CHALLENGED WITH AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE

This is where we find ourselves today. Challenged and with an uncertain future, the sector is more robust and better at delivering excellence both in the classroom and on the sports pitch. Whatever the next few years brings, the sector will adapt and survive. And it won’t be the first time! JBL

WOMEN Are

underrepresented in British politics?

British politics, historically dominated by men, has evolved over time, yet women still in 2025 continue to face significant obstacles to achieve equal representation. Other than the obvious motivation from parties like the Labour party in solving the gender imbalance in politics, and the increase in representation of female members in the House of Commons, which display clear improvements to the political system, the landscape remains heavily one-sided towards male representation, both within Parliament and political parties. These biases are reflected in various forms, from discriminatory party practices and traditional gender roles to the challenges from balancing careers in politics with caregiving responsibilities.

Parliament being known as ‘The Iron Lady’ due to her tough and resilient approach to both domestic and international issues. In addition, Theresa May broke barriers as the UK’s second female Prime Minister. She challenged gender stereotypes with her calm, decisive leadership, especially during Brexit negotiations. Advocating for women’s rights, she promoted gender equality in the workplace, tackled domestic violence, and pushed for global women’s empowerment. Another major politician is Kemi Badenoch, the first Black women to become Leader of the Conservative party since 2024, promising change after beating Robert Jenrick by 12,418 votes in a marathon contest to replace Rishi Sunak. In her victory speech, Badenoch promised to ‘renew’ the party and told cheering supporters it was ‘time to get down to business’.

There are several factors contributing to the underrepresentation of women.

In British politics, one major factor being the ‘old boys’ club’ culture that still exists in many aspects of political life, especially in House of Commons where abuse and intimidating behaviour are commonplace. Historically, the world of politics has been an exclusive, dominating workplace of men, particularly at the highest levels with networking, decisionmaking and political alliances often taking place in male-dominated

Harriet Harman is another prime example of this discrimination, despite being a key figure in politics over recent decades, with the title of acting Leader of the Labour party. Regardless of her political experience and achievements, she has been subject to scepticism regarding her competence and leadership abilities solely as a result of her gender. As a woman, Harriet Harman was linked to the stereotype that she was too soft or gentle to hold such an important role in a political party and this type of bias, which portrays women as less competent or fit for highly significant roles, is a persistent issue, contributing to the difficulty women experience in breaking through into top political positions. Harman’s story highlights how women’s leadership is often scrutinized in ways that male politicians are rarely subjected to, making it harder for them to be accepted as competent leaders in the political arena. Moreover, political parties have been slow to adopt efficient strategies at addressing the problem of gender imbalance in the system. The lack of proactive efforts to promote gender equality has resulted in the political system remaining overwhelmingly male-dominated.

EQUA LITY

evident in modern politics today. This can be illustrated by the 2018 Parliamentary Abuse Scandal where multiple female MPs, including Jess Phillips and Yvette Cooper, shared stories of being verbally assaulted and intimidated by male colleagues, leading to increased scrutiny within Parliament. Women have found it difficult to break into these spaces, and when they do, they face sexism and gender-based discrimination.

However, there have been efforts to reduce inequality in politics. One of the most significant initiatives was the Labour Party’s introduction of all women shortlists in the 1990s, in hope of increasing female representation in the UK Parliament. This policy has undeniably led to a greater number of female MPs, from 19 in 1997 to 101 in 2019, a remarkable achievement, proving female capabilities and ability to work alongside men, who would have historically dominated this environment. This works alongside the 50:50 Parliament Campaign to allow men and women to achieve equal 50% capacity. Women with political

careers have also pushed for gender equality in society, particularly addressing issues such as the gender pay gap and workplace discrimination. In 2018, the Gender Pay Gap Reporting legislation came into effort, requiring companies with over 250 employees to publish data on the gender pay gap. This was largely driven by female MPs within Parliament, like Harriet Harman (then Chair of Women and Equalities Committee) and Dame Caroline Spelman, who both played large roles in promoting this policy and pushing for accountability. This work has had a lasting, long-term impact on improving gender equality in the UK, and these achievements mark the developments towards diminishing gender inequality within UK politics.

MANY OBSTACLES STILL PREVENT WOMEN FROM ACHIEVING PARITY WITH MEN IN THE POLITICAL SPHERE

Whilst these initiatives mentioned have increased awareness of the issue that remains in Parliament, and other professional environments, many obstacles still prevent women from achieving parity with men in the political sphere. These challenges will require a consistent effort from British political parties, governments and society to create an environment where women feel empowered to contribute to political decision making and understand their voice is heard and respected on equal terms with men in British politics.

Lydia L (L6M)

OUTLAW OR MORAL HERO

Using the Utilitarian, Deontological and Virtue ethical perspectives to conclude if Robin Hood was Morally Correct?

The enduring legend of Robin Hood who famously “stole from the rich to give to the poor”, has captivated imaginations for centuries, not just as a tale of adventure, but as a provocative ethical case. At its heart lies a powerful question that continues to resonate: can breaking the law ever be morally justified if it serves to correct deep and systemic injustice? This essay explores that very question by examining Robin Hood’s actions through three major ethical frameworks, utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, assessing whether his redistribution

of wealth can be considered morally defensible. While his acts of theft clearly violate legal codes and certain moral norms, the most convincing ethical argument is that Robin Hood’s defiance was not only understandable, but morally commendable. This is evidenced, through his efforts to increase overall societal wellbeing (utilitarianism), and how this demonstrates admirable character traits such as courage and generosity (virtue ethics), while in addition, he crucially challenged an unjust status quo

that rigid deontological rules might fail to adequately address. Utilising these perspectives homogenously, this essay will demonstrate how Robin Hood’s rebellion against oppression can be seen as morally justified, particularly through a utilitarian or virtue-ethical lens. However, it is evident that his story continues to resonate because it forces us to grapple with a timeless truth: sometimes, the path to justice runs counter to the law. While in such cases, moral courage may demand not blind obedience, but principled defiance.

The philosophical foundations of utilitarianism, as articulated by Jeremy Bentham (1789) and refined by John Stuart Mill (1861), establish a consequentialist framework wherein an action’s moral value derives exclusively from its capacity to maximise aggregate happiness. This ethical system provides a compelling justification for Robin Hood’s redistributive practices when properly contextualised within the socioeconomic realities of medieval England. The utilitarian defence of his actions emerges not from any romanticisation of outlaw behaviour, but from an assessment of how resource allocation affects human welfare under conditions of extreme inequality. At the heart of this justification lies the principle of diminishing marginal utility, later formalised in economic theory but implicit in classical utilitarian thought. The transfer of wealth from affluent nobles to impoverished peasants represents more than mere redistribution; it constitutes an optimisation of happiness resources. Historical scholarship on medieval political economy (Dyer, 1989; Hilton, 1973) demonstrates how feudal systems created conditions where aristocratic surplus coexisted with peasant deprivation, establishing precisely the circumstances in which utilitarian ethics would sanction redistributive intervention. When institutional mechanisms fail to address such fundamental disparities, the utilitarian calculus suggests that extraordinary measures may become morally necessary to achieve the greatest good.

THE UTILITARIAN CALCULUS

SUGGESTS THAT EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES MAY BECOME MORALLY NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE THE GREATEST GOOD

Mill’s sophisticated utilitarianism introduces important qualifications to this analysis, his distinction between act- and rule-utilitarianism acknowledges that while individual redistributive acts might produce immediate welfare gains, the broader implications of normalising property violations require careful consideration. However, the targeted nature of Robin Hood’s appropriations, specifically directed at wealth derived from systemic exploitation (Keen, 1961) mitigates these concerns by demonstrating how redistributive justice can operate as a corrective mechanism rather than a challenge to property norms. This aligns with Mill’s own contention that property systems maintain moral legitimacy only as long as they serve general welfare, a standard clearly unmet in the feudal context. In addition, contemporary utilitarian scholarship amplifies this interpretation through the lens of effective altruism. Philosophers such as Singer (1972) have demonstrated how moral obligations intensify

when significant benefits can be provided at minimal cost. Therefore, from this perspective, Robin Hood’s actions exemplify the utilitarian imperative to maximise welfare when institutional structures fail. The historical record suggests his redistributions produced measurable improvements in aggregate happiness while minimising negative externalities through careful targeting- precisely the outcome utilitarian ethics prioritises. Thus, to conclude, when analysed through the systematic application of utilitarian principles, Robin Hood’s legend transcends folkloric appeal to reveal a sophisticated case study in applied ethics. His actions demonstrate how consequentialist reasoning can justify extraordinary measures under conditions of systemic injustice, providing a robust philosophical framework for understanding redistribution as moral necessity rather than criminal transgression. The utilitarian defence ultimately rests not on the appeal of rebellion, but on the obvious improvements in human welfare, and the true measure of ethical action within this philosophical tradition.

The deontological ethical perspective, most prominently articulated by Immanuel Kant, presents a the most significant challenge to any moral justification of Robin Hood’s actions. This is clear, as in direct contrast to the utilitarianism’s focus on consequences, Kantian ethics evaluates actions based on their adherence to universal moral laws and the respect owed to rational beings themselves.

Hence through this lens, Robin Hood’s redistributive theft emerges as a clear violation of fundamental moral duties, regardless of its beneficial outcomes or noble intentions. Kant’s categorical imperative demands that moral maxims be universally applicable without contradiction. The maxim “steal from the rich to help the poor” fails this test with certainty, as if every being were to carry this out, it would result in property becoming meaningless and the destruction of modern society as we know it. Furthermore, as Hare (1963) interprets Kant, “a society where theft becomes morally permissible whenever someone deems it beneficial would quickly descend into chaos, undermining the social order necessary for human flourishing”. This declaration holds even when considering Robin Hood’s specific historical context, as Kantian ethics recognises no exceptions to moral law, even for seemingly righteous causes.

In addition, the second formulation of the categorical imperative, also compounds this judgment as it prohibits the sole nature of his action. While Robin Hood undoubtedly sought to help the poor, his method necessarily involved using the wealthy to carry this goal out. Hence, by appropriating their property without consent, he violated their autonomy and dignity as rational agents, regardless of how those resources were originally acquired. This criticism finds reinforcement in Locke’s (1689) natural rights theory, which positions property as an extension of self-ownership. Nozick’s (1974) libertarian extension of this principle maintains that even redistributions aimed at creating a more equitable society, violate individual rights if undertaken without consent, which was no doubt the case. In contrast, some nuance emerges when considering

Ross’s (1930) pluralistic deontology, which acknowledges competing ‘prima facie’ duties. In Robin Hood’s case, duties of beneficence toward the poor might conflict with duties of non-maleficence toward the wealthy. However, Ross’s framework still of respect for those and their property over redistributive aims, particularly when considering the broader implications of normalising extra-legal appropriation. Therefore, even if some nobles acquired wealth through questionable means, the Kantian position maintains a negative view on Robin Hood’s actions.

THE KANTIAN POSITION MAINTAINS A NEGATIVE VIEW ON ROBIN HOOD’S ACTIONS

Contrastingly, historical context does provide some limited grounds for mitigation. Aquinas’s (1274) natural law theory, while generally deontological in character, permits theft in cases of extreme necessity where survival is at stake. Applied to medieval England’s famine conditions, this might excuse some subsistence appropriations. However, this exception, no doubt proves too narrow to justify Robin Hood’s broader campaign of wealth redistribution, which extended beyond immediate life- saving interventions. To conclude, it is clear that, deontological ethics presents the most philosophically rigorous challenge to Robin Hood’s moral legitimacy. Where utilitarianism celebrates his outcomes and virtue ethics admires his character, Kantian analysis exposes the

fundamental moral transgression at the foundation of his methods, being the violation of nonuniversal duties toward everyone, regardless of their social position or wealth. This conclusion remains philosophically robust even as it conflicts with our moral intuitions about justice, highlighting the tension between outcome-based and duty-based ethical reasoning that makes the Robin Hood legend perpetually compelling. The very aspects that make him a folk hero, standing as his willingness to break rules for a greater good, are precisely what render him morally culpable under deontology’s unchangeable standards.

The virtue ethics tradition, originating with Aristotle’s ‘Nicomachean Ethics’ and developed by contemporary thinkers like MacIntyre and Nussbaum, offers a nuanced moral assessment of Robin Hood that transcends simple binary judgments. In contrast to, the utilitarian or deontological approaches that focus on consequences or rules respectively, virtue ethics examines the moral character and motivations behind actions, providing a rich framework for evaluating this complex folk hero. Therefore, through this lens, Robin Hood can be presented as a figure embodying both exemplary virtues and troubling moral compromises, reflecting the difficult choices faced under conditions of systemic injustice. However, Aristotle’s concept of ‘liberality’ (eleutheriotēs) provides a revealing starting point for this analysis, as the virtuous liberal act demonstrates generosity in giving wealth appropriately to those in need, at the right time (Aristotle). Hence, Robin Hood’s targeted redistribution to those who needed it most, during times of famine and oppression suggests a keen understanding of this

virtue, displaying what Aristotle would recognise as a disposition toward noble giving. Furthermore, his actions would reflect not just charity but ‘megalopsychia’ (greatness of soul), the virtue of those who risk themselves for noble causes (NE IV.3). This magnanimous quality helps explain Robin Hood’s enduring appeal as a cultural hero for centuries, as he embodies virtues we instinctively admire.

Despite this, Aristotle would however question the means by which Robin Hood practiced this generosity. This is because, true liberality involves giving from one’s own rightful possessions, not appropriating others’ property (NE IV.1). Since Robin Hood’s redistribution from the “surplus” of wealthy nobles to impoverished peasants might seem economically efficient, the virtuous person “will not take from just any source” . Hence, this creates a fundamental tension in the virtue ethics assessment: Robin Hood’s ends reflect genuine virtue, but his methods violate important aspects of Aristotelian ethics. Moreover, medieval context adds additional complexity, as if the feudal lords gained wealth through unjust systems, one might argue Robin Hood’s actions constituted restorative justice rather than theft. However, when attempting to solve this dilemma, the crucial virtue of ‘phronesis’ (practical wisdom) becomes central to resolving this tension. This is at the hand of Aristotle who emphasises, that true virtue requires not just good intentions but wise execution (NE VI.5). Furthermore, modern virtue ethicists like Nussbaum (1990) argue that under conditions of

ROBIN HOOD EXEMPLIFIES VIRTUES OF SOLIDARITY AND RESISTANCE TO CORRUPT AUTHORITY

Additionally, other virtue theorists like MacIntyre (1981) would further note that Robin Hood exemplifies virtues of solidarity and resistance to corrupt authority. In a feudal system where institutional justice had failed, his creation of an alternative moral community in Sherwood Forest represents what MacIntyre calls “the practice of the virtues in opposition to the dominant social order”. This interpretation suggests that Robin Hood’s character must be judged not against abstract ideals but within the concrete realities of his unjust society.

Hood is a morally complex figure, flawed in means but virtuous in fundamental disposition. His compassion for the poor, courage in opposing tyranny, and generosity in redistribution reflect character traits we rightly admire to this da. While in juxtaposition, his methods may fall short of ideal Aristotelian virtue, as the extreme circumstances of feudal oppression provide mitigating context. However, Nussbaum in (1993) argued, that sometimes “the virtuous person must step outside the usual norms” when faced with systemic injustice. With this in mind, Robin Hood’s legend must endure precisely, as it captures this moral complexity, the

of moral compromise “

property rights as categorically impermissible, both the utilitarian and virtue ethical frameworks provide compelling justifications when contextualised within resistance rather than criminality.

Meanwhile, it was evident that Kantian deontology remained the most formidable challenge,

maintaining through the categorical imperative that Robin Hood’s maxims could never be universalised without contradiction (Kant, 1785). However, even this absolutist position must contend with Aquinas’ (1274) natural law exception for life-preserving theft, suggesting that extreme injustice may warrant moral transgression. Ultimately, we can be certain that Robin Hood’s legend endures because it embodies the tragic necessity of moral compromise in unjust conditions. His actions demonstrate how ethical paradigms must adapt when confronting systemic oppression, providing a compelling case for contextual moral reasoning. Despite this, while no framework fully resolves this dilemma, their collective analysis affirms that justice sometimes requires challenging unjust laws in or societies - a conclusion that continues to resonate in contemporary debates about civil disobedience and distributive justice.

Elijah B (L6S)

“Who is the third who walks always beside you? When I count, there are only you and I together But when I look ahead up the white road There is always another one walking beside you

Gliding wrapt in a brown mantle, hooded I do not know whether a man or a woman

But who is that on the other side of you?”

“The Wasteland” Written by TS Eliot

I wonder if I could ask you a personal question? Have you ever had a spiritual experience? The only reason I ask is that we’ve just finished the ‘Confirmation Cycle’. At the time of writing, 14 Reptonians were Confirmed last Sunday by the Bishop of Derby and the service came at the end of a whole set of weekly gatherings over pizza! One question I asked our Confirmands was the question I’ve just asked you- “Have you ever had a spiritual experience?’ because whenever I ask Reptonians that question I’m surprised by the number of times the answer is ‘Yes’. Several of you talk about ‘coincidences that seem beyond coincidence’ but others of a presence with you at crucial moments sometimes even before competing in a crucial sport’s match. Apparently, Psychologists call the latter experience ‘The Third Man Phenomenon’. It’s interesting how widespread it is. When the Oxford Institute for Religious Experience placed adverts with the question in national newspapers, they were inundated with responses often by people who, because they were employed in professional jobs, were loath to ‘go public’ in case they were branded a little bit crazy!

Sir Ernest Shakleton in his 1999 book “South” described his belief that an invisible companion had joined him and his men during the final leg of his 1915-1917 Antarctic expedition. They were stranded on pack ice for two years and suffered great hardships. Shackleton wrote during that long trek over unnamed mountains and glaciers in South Georgia “It seemed to me often that we were four not three.” Other expedition survivors talk about very similar experiences.

TS Eliot’s poem “The Wasteland” was inspired by Shackleton’s experience.

Many explorers have since described experiencing this. Mountain climber Joe Simpson in his 1988 book ‘Touching the Void’ recalls his neardeath experience in the Peruvian Andes. Simpson describes a voice which beckoned him forward as he struggled to make his way back to camp after suffering a leg injury high on Siula Grande and falling off a Cliff into a crevasse. Others have talked about a guardian Angel or imaginary friend. Scientific explanations consider the phenomenon a coping mechanism. I wonder whether it might be something more?

AJW

REFLECTIONS

SPARRING PARTNERS

REPTON

SCHOOL SHOULD BE PROUD TO HAVE SPAWNED ONE OF THE BEST BOXING CLUBS IN THE WORLD. RGD EXPLORES.

In October 2024 the Headmaster spoke in Chapel about the Repton Boxing Club. This was after the recent bout between former World and Olympic champion Anthony Joshua and the current IBF World Heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois, held at Wembley Stadium, a few weeks before. Dubois trained at the Repton Boxing club from age nine and is one of a string of genuinely legendary fighters to have learned their craft at the club.

Even a cursory glance tells you that Repton Boxing Club is iconic. Aside from Dubois, it has also had a hand in the careers of World Champions John H Stracy, Darren Barker and Maurice Hope, Olympic Champion Audley Harrison, and countless other Olympians and British champions.

It’s a serious club. Its motto is Non Viscara…Non Gloria (No Guts...No Glory) and as the website’s ‘about’ section notes, they don’t mess about. “There are no Beginners classes or box-to keep-fit classes,

which have become trendy in recent years at leisure centres and Gyms, which have sprung up to cater for keep fit enthusiasts,” it notes forebodingly. “We do not have these facilities and is not what the club is about.” Guardian journalist John Crace, visiting it in the early noughties noted the unique atmosphere: “It’s six in the evening, but the humidity is tangible. In one corner, a bunch of guys are pumping weights, while in the main hall there is a confusion of punch bags and skipping ropes. In the ring, two heavily protected men track each other menacingly, letting slip the odd jab and grunt. Everyone is dripping sweat.”

The club is situated in one corner of a converted public bath house, just off Brick Lane. The rest of the building has been gentrified but the boxing club looks just as it must have done in the 1950s. Slightly musty, dimly lit and just the remnants of last night’s sweaty training session hanging in the air

amongst the dust, while a leaky pipe drips noisily in the corner. The walls of the main gym are chipped, off-white tiles plastered by old bill posters advertising fight nights decades ago, pictures of former boxers who came good and other reminders of the club’s history. The green colour of the walls is vaguely reminiscent of the green of the Repton Club colours, or maybe it’s the original municipal council-issue paint from the 1950s.

But it’s the ring in the middle that dominates nothing else matters.

“The ring in Repton is central” said legendary Amateur boxer Terry Barker, whose son, as noted, won the IBF world middleweight title in 2011, “so it’s a real spectacle. Whenever anyone would spar, everyone would stop and look. You couldn’t help it. The spars I’d witnessed over the years in that gym were epic. No disrespect to [my previous boxing club], but it was like moving from primary school to university.”

With its retro look and feel, not changed in over half a century, it is like walking on to a film set. And there’s a reason for that; this is the venue directors choose when they want to portray a typical boxing gym. Repton Boxing Club IS what everyone thinks boxing clubs are like. Guy Ritchie used it in his movies Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and The Gentleman. Take That, JLS, Olly Murs and Plan B have all wanted their pop videos to look tough and have jumped at the chance to film there.

REPTON BOXING CLUB IS WHAT EVERYONE THINKS BOXING CLUBS ARE LIKE

As noted in Repton to the End (ed. J. Plowright) The Repton Club ‘evolved out of Oxford House’ a university club set up in the East End. The premise was to allow public school boys considering entering the church to experience the plight of the inner-city poor. Rev Winnington-Ingram, the head of Oxford House, addressed the school on the issue in 1894. Furneaux, the Headmaster at the time, was keen to interest the boys in social work and the idea of a ‘rough boys’ club,’ a club for boys banned from other clubs was proposed, and the Repton club was born.

It wasn’t just Repton that had the idea, in 1906, future Prime Minister Clement Attlee, and old Haileybury boy became a volunteer at Haileybury House, a charitable club for working-class boys up the road in Stepney, and from 1907 to 1909 he served as the club’s manager. Until then, his political views had been more conservative. However, after his shock at the poverty and deprivation he saw while working with slum children, he came to the view that private charity would never be sufficient to alleviate poverty and that only direct action would have any serious effect. He decided that only government intervention could do what was needed to make a difference, and he started to formulate ideas on how state income distribution could help the working class. Although Repton cannot claim credit for Attlee, the modern welfare state was born in clubs like ours.

From early on, encouraging boxing was the key to success and the boxing saloon became the heart of the club. It’s selling point was to offer underprivileged boys the chance to improve their “muscles and moral fibre and divert them from a life of crime.”

The club, especially the boxing part, was always popular. There are many stories of the notorious Kray twins boxing at the club and these are not apocryphal; the twins were reportedly very good boxers in their youth, they appeared on a double bill at the Albert Hall together in 1951. The pair honed their skills at Repton Boxing Club, and the gangster pair even made donations to the club and spoke to local newspapers to raise the profile. More recently, the club has fundraised by auctioning off Kray memorabilia in the Blind Beggar pub, which is synonymous with the Krays. Perhaps of less interest to the ghouls of gangland obsession, my maternal Grandfather, born in the East End, attended the club himself in the early part of the 20th Century. No record exists of whether he could box.

The club and the school were always reciprocal; Reptonians went down to Bethnal Green and the East End boys were invited to leafy Derbyshire. There is a charming account of their visit in 1900. So excited were the Londoners that they didn’t sleep all night for fear of missing the train and had a wonderful day bathing in the Trent, playing cricket and wolfing down (it seems) an awful lot of food.

In truth, Repton’s commitment to the boys’ club waxed and waned. Even in the early days of the 20th Century the Club was asking the school for more funds and personnel and often big pushes were required to continue the partnership. The loyalty to Repton was still strong in the 1950s, even though the warden wrote ruefully, ‘the links to the school are more tenuous than many would like’.

By the 1960s the links were even weaker, with the last reference to the club in the Reptonian being in 1968. According to Crace’s article, the school ceased to support the club in 1971, which was around the time of the move to the iconic current location. The good news for Repton is that the school has recently rekindled its relationship with the Boxing Club. The current Headmaster has been down to Bethnal Green and the Boxing Club captain has been to the school. There are plans for further collaborations.

The last word should go to World Champion Darren Barker. “You should just go to belong to the most famous club in the world. You become part of the history. When you walk through the doors, you look up you see pictures of those who have represented your country. I managed to get on there and be a part of history. Putting that tracksuit on and belonging to [Repton] means everything, until the day I die.”

With thanks to Paul Stevens for his help with this article.

RGD

Prologue

My pain was like a sea that was preparing for a storm, slow rhythmic waves were seen on the surface level but the deeper down you dove the current became stronger and more feral. Unyielding. My pain was unyielding. To begin with it caught me off guard; it surprised me. But the less surprised I became, the worse the pain felt. I was in pieces. I was utterly broken. The worst part was that I did not want to be fixed; I wanted to remain broken. I was consumed in self-hatred, and I did not think there was a way out.

There was a time when I allowed myself to feel. I can no longer do that. Too much emotion can cause destruction, and I am scared. I do not want my beast to be let out of its cage. So, here I stay, haunted by the light that once held me.

Love only knocked on my doorstep once. Lingering long enough that it consumed me, enthralled me, became me. For that love, I ruined myself. For him I would have set the world alight and danced in the flame’s embers. But that love doomed me and turned me into a phantom. So, I became light and dark, good and evil. I was lifeless. I was transcending space and time,

dancing through the cosmos of eternity. My soul had detonated into fragments that were once whole, all in the name of love. Pain embraced me until I became nothing, and it was in that moment I realized I was merely a shadow, destined to haunt the sun.

The world in which I had lived had only ever been a hotel for which I was a temporary guest. I had never deemed myself truly worthy of anything. I never asked for help and constantly wished to never be seen. I did not hate life. I did not love life. I felt nothing, my world was black and white. However, when he galloped into my life, I was finally able to understand the true depths of why I was here. He was the colour, the light, that consumed my waking and sleeping hours, the person who had the ability to help me find joy even when my heart was splintering. The man that ignited every shadow within my gloomy existence.

My first moments as floating ashes

as a human had sailed away and I was a dancing ball of light watching over the love I had saved.

He lay there dozing in and out of restlessness, oblivious of what I had done for him. The beat of his heart, my heart...our heart, gently drumming under his white hospital gown. This man deserved the world, so I had given it to him, knowing that I had already lost everything, but he was different. He still had people to live for.

The first few weeks of his recovery were slow and routine. He would wake frantic, whispering phrases to himself continuously, unwilling to vacate the dreary hospital room. He would spend his day lying in bed staring into nothingness, mourning the loss of my life. I willed him (though he couldn’t sense me) to live, to experience, to absorb this spectacular mess that he was destined for.

Time ceased to exist from where I

Grief became a close acquaintance after her passing. I no longer felt comforted when I thought of her; I felt sheer heartache and longing. I was sick of empty promises, sick of pretending. I could no longer do it. I was done. I knew I now possessed a festering wound at the very core of my soul. There were many days when that wound would paralyse me but as time began to sweep me up in its melancholic embrace, I decided

Part 1: Denial

The man that I fell in love with spoke to my soul in a language only him and I knew. He was intelligent to levels beyond my comprehension, but once that intellectual façade began to slip away, I saw him for who he truly was, a man filled with an elephant’s kindness and loyalty. He showed me how to be happy with who I was and helped me find humour in the very darkest of situations. He was the foundation onto which I grew, my

that I would live for her. And I vowed I would never stop loving her.

As if it were an infection, guilt spread through my body, taking up a permanent residency in the centre of my being. I would wake up in the morning expecting to see her by my side but when she was not there, I was reminded of the life that I had stolen from the woman that I loved. I constantly wished that I could have died instead. At least death would be easier than living in a

world that you no longer belonged in. She was experiencing peace but I, I was left to rot in a world where she no longer existed. A world where I was constantly reminded of her. A world that I began to hate. And as time passed, I began to wonder if death was easier than living. No pretending. No hiding. Just pure bliss and peace. I hoped she was experiencing every joy that death had to offer however far away she might be.

It was a usual day for the man that I intently watched day and night. He was visiting the place where he and I would go and dream about our future. He strode into the café the way he often did, his hands firmly rooted into the cavities of his pockets, his head low and inconspicuous. He bought his coffee and sat in our old place, a sofa that was upholstered in the deepest of blues and was, ironically, falling to shreds. A woman of about thirty walked past, spilling her drink all over the floor, which caught my love’s attention. She had an angelic quality to her; she radiated warmth and reminded me of a peaceful wind that gently caressed your cheek. I felt it then. I felt a weight ease. As if a crack in his heart had been sown back together.

There was a time when his smile would have brought me a happiness I only knew with him. But that day the blissful light darkened to a drab grey. I did not believe it at first. I did not want to believe it. The idea that he could begin to move on. I would be left stranded in the chokehold of this perpetual watching. Unwilling to look, but unable to stop. An obsession that would slowly become everything that I was.

Weeks embraced and engulfed me, wrapped around me and whispered a silent symphony into my burning ashes. Until there was a whirlwind of realisation when I yet again fell witness to the celestial cacophony gluing together a piece of my love’s heart.

I remember the way he smelled. I remember the way he looked at me. I remember the storm he quieted within me. But mostly, I remember the last time I looked at him. His body a blistering vessel, his face a greyish hue, his eyes had lost all meaning, his heart now yielding to life’s immovable fate. A fate that he did not deserve. A fate that I vowed to change. So, there I sat on his bed for the last time, tears seeping onto his lifeless pallor. Remembering all the things we would not be able to do together. But life without him was not living it was surviving; it

rain. So, I did this last thing for him and vowed he would never forget me. That in the end we would have our happy ending just not in this lifetime, not yet.

And so, this ethereal beauty returned, a sweet aroma that trickled through his heart and blinded his senses. Did love mean nothing to this man? I had jumped in front of death for him, willingly welcoming its embrace. And still his love for her grew, as if I had been nothing but a memory that had faded long ago. I watched from light-years away, my drab grey light

ripped open. The more that wound gushed and tore the more I raged and resented. I was just a chapter in this man’s story, a means to fill his time. Flames took control of me; I became rage and hatred. But mostly I despised the way he had ripped my life from me, piece by delicate piece. In these many weeks and months of unrelenting rage, I ran to hell and back, all in the name of revenge. I hated this man. I hated this thing I had become. But mostly I hated that I had no control. I was stuck. No one was coming to rescue me…I was too far gone to be rescued anyway.

When love came knocking on my door yet again, I could not refuse the chance of being truly happy. I had let my first love ascend into the kingdom of heaven and I knew that I would never let that happen again.

HerPart 3: Bargaining

As a human I had never cared enough to feel regret. In fact, I had never cared enough to feel anything. I was a ghost, a shadow of someone I should have been but could never be. Never did I imagine, as I floated though the endless galaxies of stars and sky, that it was all I would become. Regret.

I observed the way they smiled at each other. And I observed the way

The way I loved her was different from the way I loved the first keeper of my heart, however, she quieted a constant demon within me. But I never forgot the woman that had originally owned my very breath. And I did not think I ever would.

There would be times when I would feel her presence near, as if she was watching me, like she was waiting for me. I never did know if she heard me, but I vowed that when my time came, I would join her again and we would have our ever after.

they made each other laugh. But mostly I felt the way she healed him; those deathly gushing wounds he had fallen victim to slowly become intricate scabs. I wanted to bellow. I wanted to scream. I wanted to go back to the time when it was just him and me. I had never believed in God, but maybe if I had, he would not be leaving me to roam in the vast unknown. Instead, I would be with him making new memories, not forced to re-watch moments of us falling in love to distract myself from the scars that now mauled my

soul. If I had been a better person, we would still be together, not forced to live worlds away, him oblivious to my existence. For this man I would sell my soul, banish myself to the depths of hell for just one more loving second with him, even just to make him understand what all this had

Part 4: Depression

My world shattered slowly, fraying at the edges, until one day it all felt too much. It dug its claws into the very fibres of my being, then suddenly retreated only to drag its teeth through more of me. Devouring me, bite after bite, until who I was became a great mystery. I lost myself completely in the traitorous cyclone of depression. It gnashed and gnarled and, to begin with, I fought it. But when life turns its back on you and expects you to fail, you may fight for a while but inevitably you will fall, like all broken soldiers do. Never remembered for you, but remembered for the beast that captured and villainized you. You lash out, because feeling something

– anger, rage, disappointment – is better than feeling nothing. Better than feeling empty. Better than acknowledging that you no longer know yourself.

My blissful ball of energy became shattered pieces of a once beautiful flame. I saw the man that I loved, who no longer loved me and felt too much and too little. A knife slowly puncturing inch after inch of me. He was happy and, for his smile, I would end myself over and over, but was his happiness more important than my life? So here I roamed, throwing myself into death’s arms, displaying the worst of me so he could become his best. I was willing to fade away for that love.

As I sailed through this fleeting chapter of unyielding sadness, the

only thing that I remembered was the day he told me he loved me. We sat in the same coffee shop where he met his new supposed love; it was a normal Tuesday. Men and women of all ages rushed through the streets; very few stopped to take in the unusual gleaming sunlight that bounded off lampposts and apartment buildings. I made a snide remark about the way my coffee tasted, and he stared at me with a look of sheer wanting and told me that he loved me. I did not know how to react; I had never been loved before. So, I smiled and told him that I loved him too. There had been before his love, during his love, but never had I imagined there would be an after his love. And so, the cycle began again and again of this unrelenting, insufferable low.

I do not know how but, somewhere along the way of my winding journey through life, I managed to accept my love’s death. I managed to move on. I would never forget but I refused to stop living. So, I

Part 5: Acceptance

For me home was never about place but about people; I have been homeless for a while. No matter where I lived, I was

embraced it all: anger, bargaining, denial, depression and, shockingly, even acceptance. I vowed to live my life to the fullest, even though my life would forever be dented after her death. When I looked out of my window I was no longer greeted

by dull grey, I began to see colour again. I blossomed in it. The red, the yellow, the green and even the blue. Life was spectacular and so was death. They were both two sides of the same coin, so I stopped fearing and began living.

ice, enjoying the thrill of knowing it might crack, and I might fall. But as I grew older, the ice began to melt and fracture until it was never an even game. I was always going to lose. I was living on a precipice. For so long I tried avoiding the cracks, until I was consumed by it.

I am still unaware of how long I watched you for. Even long after you had gone, I waited for you to

return. I thought that once you had sailed into the great unknown, I would be able to move on and, for a while I did, knowing that you had reached your inevitable end too. But something would happen, and I would yet again be haunted by your presence.

Eons came and went, and I became accustomed to death’s unnatural humming. In fact, it became

the gift of life and

a friend. Something to rely on. Something that would always be there, that would not leave me. Death heard me rage and rupture. Death experienced every meltdown and did not abandon me. It stuck by my side, and, for that, I could forgive death. I could even love death. But I could never forgive the man I once gave my very heart to.

I can no longer recall much about my time before; it comes to me in blurred rushes and fogs my emotions. However, I remember the way my skin prickled when the doctors told me I could save you. I had never saved anyone before. And that was all I had ever wanted, to be seen as good. I wanted to save someone because I understood what it was like being left to drown. So, I rescued you. I became you.

I gave my heart to you. Now, as I roam in the decaying vast unknown, I almost want to laugh at the irony. The man I gave my heart to shattered that fragile muscle right in front of me and allowed it to be sewn back together by another woman.

I want to be able to say that, as time passed, I began to move on and embrace this gift I had been given. The gift of life and death. But, as hard as I tried, I could not. His betrayal cut so deep that I was a walking scar. Every step I took forward, the scar would slowly split and fray until I was forced to retreat. I no longer saw any point in moving forward when it hurt so much. The darkness, the past – it was easy, it was what I knew. So, I never left. I could never leave. It was too raw. To painful. Each feeling washed over

me and left only to flood my very core once again. I felt it all: denial, anger, bargaining, depression. Until I felt nothing. This feeling of nothingness did not last long but when it did, I revelled in it, knowing that it would be the closest thing to peace I would ever get. I waited for acceptance to come; I tried to move on from my love, but I never could. In these transient moments when I would wait in desperate agony for his return, I began to realise that my grief was the price I had to pay for my love. This feeling of nothingness was the middle ground between my unyielding love and my agonising grief. Somewhere deep inside of me, I knew I would be stuck here forever. In the middle ground.

Gracie G (9G)

DRAMA 69

SIX (Teen) The Musical, October 2024

At the start of the Michaelmas Term, the Drama Department took on the challenge of producing and rehearsing SIX (Teen) the musical, in just six weeks. From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII took to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. Taking to the stage in key roles were Mia O as Catherine of Aragon, Sophia S as Anne Boleyn, Freya L as Jane Seymour, Cameron B as Anne of Cleves, Eleanor H as Katherine Howard, and Abi E as Catherine Parr

JPCR Anne ofCleves CatherineParr Ca t herineofAragon

The Most Technically Demanding Theatrical Production on the Repton Stage

Beginning the planning for the technical elements of SIX halfway through the summer holidays, I quickly realised that designing the lighting would be both one of the most challenging and rewarding tasks I’d taken on. The concertstyle format of the show offered a unique opportunity as it gave me far more creative freedom with the lighting rig. Unlike traditional theatre productions, where lanterns are often hidden, SIX used them as a visible part of the visual spectacle, blending lighting design seamlessly into the aesthetic of the show.

Technically, this was one of the most advanced productions I’ve ever been a part of. Synchronising every lighting cue with the precise BPM of each song was essential to creating that high-energy, punchy rock concert vibe. This meant programming complex sequences,

aligning cues with split-second accuracy, and ensuring absolute consistency across backstage systems. The level of precision required was intense, but when everything came together during the performances, the payoff was immense.

Watching the lighting enhance each Queen’s personality, highlighting key moments and amplifying the show’s drama, was incredibly satisfying. Under the expert guidance of Mr Cooper-Richards, I was honoured to be trusted with such a crucial technical role. Serving as the lighting designer was an unforgettable experience, and I’m incredibly proud of the result. The synergy between lighting, sound, set design, and the phenomenal performances of the Queens made SIX a true theatrical spectacle, one I’ll never forget.

Jonathan B (12L)

Blood Wedding, November 2024

Following the success of SIX (Teen) the musical at the start of the Michaelmas Term, the Drama Department produced Federico Garcia Lorca’s explosive Spanish tragedy, Blood Wedding. Set amid sun-baked hillsides and sprawling rural planes, the play explored the unquenchable, forbidden passion that tears through the heart of a local couple’s impending marriage with ferocious consequences. The mysteries of love and hate were explored against a backdrop of a community gearing up to unleash these elemental forces upon itself. What’s done cannot be undone.

JPCR

Give Acting a Go; You Won’t Regret It!

Playing The Bride in Federico García Lorca’s Blood Wedding was one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my final year at Repton. It was my first time taking on a lead role on the Repton stage, and although rehearsals were intense, they were also incredibly fulfilling. The role itself was a real challenge - The Bride is a complex, emotionally conflicted character whose inner turmoil drives much of the play’s tension. Portraying her demanded a depth of emotional vulnerability and restraint I hadn’t explored before. Stepping into her shoes meant confronting difficult emotions such as guilt, longing, and fear, and trying to express those honestly without overacting.

Fortunately, I always felt fully supported by Mrs Whitfield and Mr Cooper-Richards, who genuinely cared, not just about the final performance, but about our growth as actors. Their encouragement helped me take creative risks and push beyond my comfort zone.

Being part of the production also brought me closer to pupils from all year groups and houses. The bond we built during long rehearsals and late-night run-throughs turned into real friendships that I wouldn’t have formed otherwise. Performing alongside people I had come to trust and care about gave the whole experience a strong sense of community and belonging, which is what Repton does best.

If anyone is considering performing, I can’t recommend it enough. My only regret is not getting involved in Repton’s drama productions sooner!

Sophia M (13G)

The

Addams Family Musical, March 2025

In the Lent Term, Repton Performing Arts presented The Addams Family Musical, a comical feast that embraced the wackiness in every family.

JPCR

Becoming Fester Addams

When I first learned I’d be playing Uncle Fester in The Addams Family, I had my doubts. The role felt daunting at first, but after reading through the script and exploring the many ways to bring his eccentric personality to life, I gradually grew into the character and became much more at ease with portraying someone so uniquely exposed.

One of Fester’s most iconic traits is his bald, pale head, something Mr. Cooper-Richards dedicated

hours to perfecting each night to make it as realistic as possible. His ghostly white complexion and deep, shadowed eyes were also key features, which I recreated using simple black and white face paint.

Being part of The Addams Family for my final Repton production was a true gift. The cast, both on and off stage, was nothing short of extraordinary, and I’ll cherish every moment. I loved it all and will miss it dearly!

Mia M (11A)

ELEKTRA

My First Year as a Drama Scholar at Repton School

Since beginning my journey as a drama scholar at Repton at the start of this academic year, I’ve been continually inspired by the professionalism and ambition behind each production. Blood Wedding was an intense and powerful way to begin the year. It opened my eyes to the level of commitment, focus, and emotional depth required to bring a truly impactful performance to life.

Following that, I had the opportunity to completely switch gears with

The Addams Family, where I embraced the eccentricity and comic flair of playing ‘Grandma’, a quirky, unpredictable character that stretched my abilities in a different direction. Now, being cast as ‘Elektra’ in the B Block Summer play, I am preparing for yet another exciting challenge, one that promises to push me further both emotionally and physically as a performer.

Each production has introduced me to a different genre, allowing me to develop versatility and confidence in my acting. From the tragic intensity of Blood Wedding to the dark, offbeat humour of The

Addams Family, it’s been a thrilling creative journey. What has made it even more special is the chance to collaborate with incredibly talented friends from across different year groups, forming close bonds through our shared passion.

Beyond the stage, Repton also offers fantastic opportunities to explore drama beyond the classroom, including trips and experiences that enrich our understanding of theatre. Being a part of this vibrant and supportive drama community has been both inspiring and unforgettable.

Sophie S (9F)

MUSIC 77

MUSIC

As the new Director of Music, it was clear from day one that Repton is an extraordinary place, resonating with musical talent.

By day two, coordinating and rehearsing music for a plethora of musical events within a bustling and purposeful school environment became an immediate reality. By day three, the words of Henry Ford had become my mantra, and I knew that a sense of “team” amongst staff and pupils alike was going to be both a necessity and a positive force for good.

The performance calendar has been extraordinary with over 70

opportunities for pupils to work together towards a common goal. The summary of events provides a flavour of the variety of musical opportunities, all of which are supported and nurtured by our outstanding team of staff in the music department. As the year has progressed, it has been so positive to witness an increasing number of pupils, some of whom have never experienced the immersive power of musical involvement before, taking to the stage and sharing their love of music with others.

With a focus on developing a community that is working together, music reports include

words from pupils and members of our wider Repton community who support our young people so loyally.

KES Michaelmas

• Act of Remembrance

• Remembrance Sunday

• All Soul’s Service

• Carol Services for the Community and School

• Tenors and Basses at Prep Carol Service

• Michaelmas Gala Concert

• Rock-It

• House Unison Competition

• Steinway Concert

• Composition Concert

• B Block Music & Drama Showcase

• A Block Concert

• Lower 6 Recital

• Upper 6 Recital

• Prospective Scholars’ Concert

• St Wystan’s Coffee Concerts

• Pensioners’ Lunch Christmas singalong

• Music at Open Morning

• Harps at Prep School Concert

• Saxophones at Prep School for Christmas

• Performances at Lists Lent

• Choral Evensong in St Paul’s, London

• Tales from the Archives Reptiles performance

• If Music Be the Food of Love Concert

• Addams Family

• House Harmonies

• House Singing Competition

• House Instrumental Competition

• House Singing Finals Concert

• House Instrumentalists’ Finals Concert

• Combined Chapel Choir service

• A variety of masterclasses: organ, piano, strings

• Gesualdo Six Workshop and Performance at Lichfield Cathedral for choir members

• Choral Scholar experience day at Merton College, Oxford

• St Wystan’s Concerts

• Subscription Concerts featuring world-class musicians eg David Briggs

• Concert in St Wilfrid’s Church

• Choir tour to Venice and the Veneto Region

• Performances at Lists Summer

• Beatles Community Concert

• Confirmation Service

• Young Musician of the Year Final Grand Final

• Concerto Concert

• Jazz Band performance at VE Day event

• Roger Owens Piano Recital

• Leavers’ Concert

• Derby Cathedral Lunchtime Concert

• St Wystan’s Concerts

• EPQ Charity Concert

• Musical Theatre Concert

• Concert in St Peter’s Church, Nottingham

• Summer Gala Concert

• Big Band and Rock-It Performances

• End of term chapel service

• Music at Speech Day

• Chapel Service for Leavers and Parents

• Performances at Lists

“

COMING TOGETHER IS A BEGINNING, KEEPING TOGETHER IS PROGRESS, WORKING TOGETHER IS SUCCESS.

HENRY FORD

CONCERTS

There have been some truly exceptional concerts this year reflecting the precocious musical talent within the school. From performances in local churches, a recital in Derby Cathedral, collaborative community concerts and year group concerts in the Beldam Hall, the quality of and enjoyment in performing continues to grow.

Kiki Muir, a valued supporter of all our musical events marveled at the outpouring of talent on display at our annual Steinway concerts: “After some superb solo playing and duets, the evening ended with 8 hands playing on one piano; amazing talent and wonderful entertainment! This standard of playing is a joy to witness, and we all feel hugely privileged to be able to enjoy these performances on our doorstep. In the Summer

Term there was another marvelous evening when Roger Owens took an appreciative audience on a musical journey from Scarlatti to Chopin - much to everyone’s delight. Roger’s programme was beautifully balanced and his skill as a pianist is outstanding and inspirational. How lucky we all are and thank you to Repton School for enabling so many of us to be part of this exceptional music that is produced by pupils and staff.”

The Grand Final of the Young Musician of the Year Competition was exceptional; every performance was outstanding, leading to a concert of the highest calibre. Held in the stunning setting and acoustic of our own chapel, the evening was filmed professionally. Adjudicated by Sophie Biddell, Director of Music at Christ Church Cathedral School, she described her experience: “It felt like serious good luck to have spent the warmest day of the year

so far in idyllic Derbyshire, exploring Repton School and adjudicating an outstanding Young Musician of the Year final. Like many, my first introduction to Repton came from burning through Roald Dahl’s ‘Boy’ as a child, so it was a pleasure to learn about what makes the modern school tick and hear such a breadth of accomplished musicmaking (including some genuinely jaw-dropping performances). A thoroughly enjoyable evening and a great introduction to Repton’s formidable young performers.”

So taken by the genuine talent and the mutual support on display, it was easy to forget about the competitive aspect of the evening. Congratulations to Iyo K (L6F) and Enaka B (11A) who were crowned Senior and Junior Young Musicians of the Year respectively.

The final music review is provided by former Head of Art, Jeremy Bournon. Having participated in his life-affirming community

celebration of the Beatles on a Saturday evening at the end of April, Jeremy attended both the Young Musician of the Year Final and the Concerto Spotlight Concert the following week. On the latter, Jeremy writes:

“The final concert in an incredibly busy first week of the Summer Term for Repton School musicians, was held in Pears School. For this intimate concert, the soloists, accompanied by the Repton Festival orchestra, were just feet away from the audience. It would presuppose an intimidating prospect for any young player; however, they appeared to revel in the proximity to family, friends, staff and visitors fortunate enough to witness the evening’s events.

Surely the hardest job of the night fell to oboist Clara C (L6F), who started proceedings with an assured and composed rendition of the first movement of Lebrun’s Oboe Concerto No.1 in Eb Minor

Fittingly, her consummately controlled playing of the work, flowed and danced on the air of this early summer’s evening. One of the most endearing features of the concert was the presence of supporters who showed their enjoyment tangibly, with their encouraging smiles and rapturous applause which greeted each performance. Buoyed by this, Martha H (L6M) galloped into Richard Strauss’ Allegro movement from his Eb major Horn Concerto A characteristic rarely seen was the joy in playing written all over her face, projecting beaming smiles as she thanked her accompanists and audience alike.

For those who think playing an orchestral instrument lacks “cool”, they should have witnessed the next item of this varied and exciting programme. The ‘cool’ prize of the evening was shared by the dual Bones of Rocco E-W (L6N) and Jasper S (L6C), who alternated

the responsibility of playing the three movements of Concerto for Trombone by the 19th century composer Ferdinand David. As an audience, we were thrilled to be introduced to or reminded of this work, an audition piece often used by trombonists seeking a seat in symphony orchestras around the world. The pair brought this sumptuous Romantic concerto to life with joyful aplomb.

On the previous Tuesday evening in the school’s chapel, Iyo K (L6F) had been crowned Young Musician of the Year for her playing of a movement of a Schumann Violin Sonata. Her playing of Vittorio Monti’s Czardas was again the perfect demonstration of the results of the hours of dedicated committed practice these young players give to their craft. She brought all the verve and swagger of the tradition of the Hungarian folk dance to her extraordinarily mature performance.

The monumental performance of the night, and one which will live long in the annuls of the musical history at Repton School, was Willam M’s (U6S) breathtaking playing of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.3 in C minor in its entirety and from memory. As William composed himself at the Steinway, the audience realised that, like a true concert pianist, he came to the instrument without music. This achievement in playing in someone so young cannot be underestimated. The technical mastery and the emotional intensity he brought to this work was simply remarkable; all-the-more-so for us as spectators, able to witness at such close quarters his prowess at the keyboard. A short paragraph summary is insubstantial to do justice to Wiiliam’s unforgettable performance.

The final words must be written in praise of the accompanying orchestra. Made up of pupils, often

sitting alongside their teachers, they handled their role in the evening with mature professionalism. Huge congratulations to everybody for this scintillating evening of music and to Director of Music Katie Staggs and the evening’s conductor Roger Owens.”

To our leaving musicians, we extend a heartfelt thanks to them all for their contributions to Repton music. The Leavers’ Concert was extraordinary, demonstrating a wealth of talent and a profound and tangible sense of belonging and friendship in the Beldam Hall.

By building a team of staff and pupils invested in working together, mutually supportive, inclusive yet ambitious in outlook, music will become a transformative force for good at Repton and the wider community.

KES

UNISON HOUSE

Unison is consistently a special House competition at Repton – the love of music represented through various colourful costumes, creative annual traditions and a display of pure excitement, fun and powerful House spirit during the Michaelmas Term. The unity within the Houses illustrates what Repton is all about whilst newcomers are adapting to house life, and this year was one to remember– although it never disappoints!

Following four weeks of significant practice, it was The Cross that kicked off the night with their strong performance of ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ by Wheatus. With both Head of House and Deputy bringing their roles to life on stage, Ben H and Yura P fully embraced their roles as teenage dirtbags for the night, successfully impressing our judge and gaining the title of Best Conductors! Despite a surprisingly short dress and some closeness on stage between the boys, it was great insight of the fun that was to come!

Next up was The Priory, entering the stage with confidence and

many slicked back hairstyles for the newcomers of Repton – an annual tradition for the boy’s House. However, The Priory did not only take the stage with a lot of hair gel and a bearded lady, but a well-rehearsed performance of ‘From Now on’ from the Greatest Showman led by Seb R inspiring the boys with his top hat and tailcoat. Whilst The Priory narrowly missed out on a Top Contender spot this year, it was one to be proud of for the whole House.

Latham House brought the sparkle for the audience tonight with their impressive performance of ‘I’m still standing’ conducted by Zac S, with each Upper Sixth dressed as a different Elton John. Not only had they set the bar high for the remaining houses, but Latham proved their commitment with the lifting of Rory T on the shoulders of his fellow Elton’s. Such a creative performance with a complex song and one to be remembered for Latham House!

So far, the standard was set extremely high, but Field House

stepped up to the challenge. With Upper Sixth as brides and Lower Sixth as grooms, the love was brought tonight with Field’s performance of ‘Dear Future Husband’ conducted by Georgina H and Daisy T. With not only an inflatable engagement ring, and a loud applause as a proposal carried itself out on stage, Field House sang proudly and loudly with bright smiles on stage, speaking for how much they were enjoying their Unison.

Accompanied with Roman helmets, battle shields, and a couple galloping soldiers, School House Army took to the stage with their strong performance of ‘Viva la Vida’ by Coldplay. As Henry W led the boys to victory, School House did not fail to impress the entire audience and were rightly awarded the title of a well-deserved boys’ highly commended.

Presenting pink bows and fishnet tops on stage, it was The Mitre for the next performance, led by Ellen C (M) and Arabella C (M) as conductors, accompanied by Sophie H on Piano, faultlessly

leading the girls on stage. The Mitre sang ‘Just give me a reason’ by Pink, and with that, they really did leave a scar on our hearts. A consistently highly achieving house in the Unison competition, and The Mitre did not fail to prove their earning of the girls’ highly commended title this year. What a performance they put on!

Next up was the comedy special of the night, New House’s slightly modified performance of ‘Lay all your love on me’ from the classic Mamma Mia movie. With flippers, tank tops and swimming shorts involved, New House proved themselves with their rendition of the beach scene in Mamma Mia. Whilst singing a lightly lower but solid version of the song, Charlie B conducted well, inspiring the boys throughout.

The Orchard did really not hold back this year with their well-rehearsed version of ‘There’s nothing holding me back’ by Shawn Mendes. With a few dance moves incorporated for the Upper Sixth and the whole house unified in white, Marcus

L and Caspar C successfully and expertly, conducted the boys on stage ensuring a tuneful rendition of their chosen song.

Penultimately, it was The Abbey singing ‘Ghost’ by Ella Henderson with blue sparkly tops and white trousers, conducted by Eleanor H. A clearly well-rehearsed performance with precise stamps that momentarily echoed silence in the room combined with a realisation from the audience of the winners tonight. Yet another clean performance that truly proved itself and one to be remembered for the entire school, lending them credibility for when they were crowned ultimate winners of the competition.

As the night was heading to a close, it was The Garden that dominated the stage with sparkly gold jackets, accompanied by the rest of the house in unified black, allowing Upper sixth to stand out. A temporary dimming of the lights and the rising of candles in Upper Sixth hands solidified Garden House’s rendition of ‘Rule the World’ by

Take That. It truly was a genius and talented performance led by Sophia S and Mia O, a perfect way of ending Repton’s night on a high note.

To complete everyone’s night, it was highly respected Andrew Kennedy, Director of Music at Uppingham School, who provided masterly feedback for each house, who undeniably chose the winners rightly. On behalf of every Reptonian, I can say that we are proud that we could include Andrew Kennedy as part of this special night and present the love of music here at Repton accordingly.

A big thank you to all the teachers, pianists and of course Mrs Staggs, our new Head of Music at Repton who certainly made Unison 2024 a night to remember. Many celebrations followed as pupils returned to Houses, and yet another successful night of the Unison competition was accomplished.

Lydia L (L6M)

CHAPEL

With Father Adam as our spiritual guide, Chapel is the beating heart of Repton and Chapel Choir’s role is key in supporting collective worship at Repton. The biggest team in the school, choir works tirelessly, learning new repertoire for Sunday services in addition to key events in the church and school calendars such as the new pupils’ service, All Souls, a joint service with Prep choristers, the Confirmation Service and Leavers’ Service.

Remembrance Sunday and the School’s Act of Remembrance will remain with me for years to

come, the most moving of days with the school community united in dignified contemplation. From the beautiful chapel service to the Garth, these acts of Remembrance were deeply powerful through word, music, prayer awnd silent reflection. To hear the brass group play so evocatively and the choir and Reptiles sing so beautifully, to witness the school body & wider community sing Fauré’s Libera Me brought a tear, as did the silence and the outstanding call to commemoration when Julius L (9L) and Sophie H (U6M) played the Last Post and Reveille exquisitely. The

sense of a whole community united in commemoration was tangible.

In the blink of an eye, Christmas was upon us and our two Carol Services were appreciated by school, parents and the wider Repton community. With stunning solos from Upper 6th choristers, and superb seasonal anthems from the choir and Reptiles, the community played their part, joining the choir for a modern version of Good King Wenceslas as well as singing congregational carols with gusto.

KES

MUSICAL INSPIRATION

As part of an ongoing ambition to “ignite and excite” our young musicians, we welcomed a host of inspirational musicians to Repton School and taken our students to work with professional musicians in stunning locations. During the Lent term, Tim Rhys-Evans and Kevin Price (Director of Music and Deputy Director of Music respectively at the Royal Welsh Conservatoire of Music and Drama) adjudicated and inspired our finalists in the Vocal and Instrumental Music Competition Finals. World leading organist, David Briggs performed on the newly restored Chapel Organ (with the generous support of the Bradburn Legacy) and guided our young organists in the art of improvisation, John Thwaites and Lucy Russell gave masterclasses to pianists and violinists from Prep and Senior School ahead of their recital of Brahms Violin Sonatas. Rose del S (10A) and Emma M (L6A) both successfully auditioned for the outstanding National Youth Choir of Great Britain and Emma writes about her various choral experiences this year:

This year has been full of incredible musical opportunities that have helped me grow both as a singer and as a person. From singing in cathedrals and colleges to learning

from some of the best musicians in the country at the National Youth Choir, each experience has left a lasting impact on me. I would like to thank Mrs. Staggs for giving me so many amazing opportunities, for encouraging me to audition for the National Youth Choir and to apply for the choral scholar day at Merton College, none of which would have happened without her support and guidance. I have thoroughly enjoyed every experience. One of the most memorable experiences of my year was attending the National Youth Choir’s Easter course in York. Held over the course of a week in the Easter holidays, we stayed in Queen Margaret’s School and followed a packed daily schedule, rehearsing for up to eight hours each day. Although it was intense, the experience was deeply rewarding. We worked on rich and challenging repertoire which we later performed at the Nottingham Albert Hall. What made the course especially memorable was the opportunity to sing with such talented and dedicated young musicians from across the country. The standard of music-making was incredibly high, and the sense of community and shared purpose made it an inspiring environment in which to grow both musically and personally.

Another unforgettable experience was spending a day singing with the professional a cappella choir The Gesualdo Six in Lichfield Cathedral. Repton students and those from other schools rehearsed a selection of pieces with the ensemble throughout the day and performed them that evening in the cathedral. It was an extraordinary opportunity to work so closely with professional singers, and to see how they approach the music differently to create such a mesmerising sound. Lichfield Cathedral is a stunning space, and the sound we created together was incredible.

I also really enjoyed attending choral open days at Merton College, Oxford, and Queens’ College, Cambridge. It was fascinating to experience the distinct musical atmospheres of both colleges and to see how each approaches choral music in its own way. Singing choral evensong in those beautiful chapels and meeting current students gave me a real sense of what life might be like in a college choir, and it has made me even more excited about the possibility of continuing with my music at university.

Emma M (L6A)

COLLECTIVE MUSICMAKING

AT REPTON

A SERIES OF SNAPSHOTS

MICHAELMAS AND SUMMER GALA

CONCERTS

Every concert I’ve ever been to at this school has been filled with truly exceptional music. Combining both talented musicians with incredible staff, Repton music has always been superb.

However, there was something unique about the If Music be the Food of Love, Play On concert, and unless you experienced it firsthand, I’m not sure my mere words can do it justice. Most concerts consist of a silent yet appreciative audience, classical music (which is by no means a bad thing) and nervous musicians attempting perfection. Only, this night wasn’t like that. It had an involved audience, performers aware of its informal nature that nurtured their confidence, and a repertoire from Shakespeare’s own words to Noel Gallagher’s (I will let you decide who’s the better poet). The concert was utterly fabulous, and as somebody who performed that night, I have never felt so many people behind me wanting me to succeed. Performers became audience members, experiencing both sides of the concert together, seeing musicians supporting musicians profoundly and unapologetically. As both I and the Headmaster agreed, this concert was truly an example of what Mrs. Staggs envisions Repton music to be, and I was so grateful to have had the opportunity to perform that night. To those who didn’t attend - you truly missed out!

Zara E (11F)

ROCK IT!

Rock-it is a great chance for students to experience what it’s like to perform live, whether that’s in the marquee during the summer, or on the big stage for a concert in the 400 Hall. But it’s more than just playing music. Rock-it brings people together. Students with all kinds of musical talents—whether they sing, play an instrument, or help behind the scenes—come together to create something special. It’s a chance to connect, support each other, and make some core memories. There’s a real sense of community, and for many, it becomes something they take with them, performing beyond the school.

Isla R (L6A)

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL TRIP

Mrs Staggs’ first outing with the Repton Choir under her new reign was to St Paul’s Cathedral in January 2025. This annual visit is always a special occasion as it is the first time the choir truly comes together to prepare a repertoire to share with the outside world; and this year felt even more significant with our new Director of Music at the helm. As a small but much appreciated bonus compared to last year, the coach even managed to take the round trip all the way to London and back! In true choir fashion, there was still time for a bit of adventure. Between rehearsals, continuing with tradition, a group of us made a quick ascent to the top of St Paul’s dome; racing the clock to take in the incredible panoramic views. The climb was steep, the visit brief, but the photos and slightly breathless descent were well worth it and overall, a fantastic start to the year’s music-making. From a musical perspective, we worked intensively in preparation for our trip to the capital. The music was challenging and, due to the Old Testament reading, we were granted permission to sing one of the most famous anthems written specifically for St. Paul’s Cathedral, the mighty I Saw the Lord by Stainer!

Jonathon B (L6L)

ART & DESIGN

THE SHIMMER

A Sixth Form Art curation project

Lower Sixth Fine Artists expanded their interest in the Arts and creative careers, augmenting talks on architecture, academic Art History, Photography and Fashion with a journey into curation. Our future artists, Gallerists and art consultants discussed their ideas for a collaborative immersive exhibition in which their own work would stand distinct and as part of a cohesive concept and a unified experience for the viewer. They commenced work, each making a large-scale artwork directly on the gallery walls and combining to give a variety of perspectives on vegetation and the natural world. Each mural interpreted this idea differently, presenting the meeting of the human imagination and the natural environment overlapping with and grafting onto the others, generating a strange alien uncanny.

They took the title of the exhibition from the acclaimed novel by Jeff VanderMeer, and film thereof directed by Alex Garland called Annihilation, in which a mysterious zone of refraction appears inexplicably in the landscape: The Shimmer. A unifying factor in the exhibition as a whole was primarily the use of colour that, while each artist’s technique was entirely unique, eschewed the default hues of nature and plant life, utilised the more synthetic, neon colours of the human world, as if seeing nature through the artificial lens of the screen, or indeed as if refracted by a future as yet incomprehensible vantage of human and technological evolution.

IJW

igins OR

The

return of our prodigal artists

It was fantastic experience to be at the opening of ORigins, an exhibition of practicing artists who had started their journey in the Repton art department.

Some artists were from relatively recent memory, others had been developing their practice for quite some years. It was utterly fascinating to see them exhibited together, where they would have exhibited their A Level work years ago, but this time in a proper grown-up exhibition of the culmination of their practice this far, looking back at their shared springboard of learning in Repton.

These artists mingled with current art pupils and with Repton staff old and young among their families and friends for a warm and culturally satisfying event.

The range of work and working styles was remarkable from these six accomplished old Reptonians. We were treated to the mysterious semifigurative paintings of Tom H which combined the traditional genre of still life with a kind of disco approach to colour and gravity; alongside the textual prints of Zoe D, one of which for me seemed to become a motto for the whole exhibition ‘stop overthinking’ said in bright colours with a rough scribble around it, another work references Duchamp in a more thoughtful Art Historical reference; recent Repton graduate Joe Sookias returned after just a couple of years at Chelsea College of Art studying painting, having developed his confident abstract expressionist mark making to now incorporate text and tangled narrative lines; Anna

B approached narrative differently with a painting of cropped partial body forms converging in a kind of multiplicitous portrait of disjointed identity; this was alongside an entirely different kind of portrait from Izzy E, dazzling in its incredibly hyper-realism, small works in pastel capturing the personality and exact surface quality of animals and a self-portrait; equally filled with a different kind of depth were the nebulous, swirling, sparkling forms of Izzy M’s evocative abstractions.

It was an absolute pleasure, an honour and a treat to have these artists return to their creative origin and to be able to talk about their art with them once again: the students finally coming full circle and teaching the teachers.

IJW

Vikings! Vikings!

A & B Block Art Raid

The unearthed body was surrounded by the bones of at least 249 bodies

Our brand-new pupils this year, hot off the B Block press, commenced a project to make life-size Viking artifacts with a twist. Their process was kickstarted by a visit to the archives and the crypt accompanied by a lecture and tour of Repton’s Viking past, complete with a description of the real-life (or rather, the now very dead) Ivar the Boneless while we stood on the very ground he was buried in. This figure especially caught imagination of our wide-eyed newbies, as he was an exaggerated and partly mythologised nine-foot-tall warrior, tall enough to match some of the tall stories surrounding him. We learned that:

Emeritus Fellow, Professor Martin Biddle from Oxford University claims the skeleton of a 9ft tall Viking warrior, discovered during

excavations at the churchyard of St Wystan’s in Repton, may be that of Ivar the Boneless.

The unearthed body was surrounded by the bones of at least 249 bodies, suggesting he was an important Viking warlord. In 873 the Great Army is indeed said to have travelled to Repton for the winter, and intriguingly, ‘The Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok’ also states that Ivar was buried in England.

Examinations revealed the warrior died a savage and brutal death, contradicting the theory that Ivar suffered osteogenesis imperfecta, though there is much dispute whether the skeleton is indeed that of Ivar the Boneless.’ (Amy Irvine)

Now our B Block had a bloodthirsty confidence and set about making

mythical Viking treasures worthy of a king’s funeral boat. They manipulated corrugated board, fabric, plaster, and Modroc, decorating the surfaces with texture and etching and painting with garish feudal colours, intricate shields, flashing blades, fearsome warship figureheads and formidable sails and banners, all of which to strike terror into the peaceful folk of contemporary Repton.

The opening of the interactive exhibition in New Court was enjoyed by staff and pupils, who could, by way of a time-travel souvenir, don Viking sack cloth and helmet, select a B Block piece as prop, and pose for a selfie before a mural of the invasion of the English coastline. GAARRRR!

IJW

ArtTrip Highlights

Our Sixth Form artists visited the Tate Modern to kickstart their inspiration for the final Set Task project. With Themes set by the exam board including ‘Hands’, ‘alphabet, ‘spirals’ and ‘architecture’ there was scope for our artists to start to imagine abstract forms and complex structures, and to allow one of the greatest collections of Modern art influence their primary critical processes.

Sixth Form Textiles pupils, with some keen and bright DT stowaways, went to the V&A to get

lost in the enormous collection of seminal artifacts from the history of Design and Fashion, along with a hallucinatory temporary exhibition of the geometric art of the Moguls, and a show encompassing the iconic outfits of Naomi Campbells career.

The Juniors went to see the mindblowing chimeric sculptures of Bharti Khar’s ‘Alchemies’ and the rudimentary sculptural sketches of Elizabeth Frink’s Natural Connections’.

IJW

YSP Exhibition

Paula Kemp Exhibition

The History Dudes

educate repton

At Repton Gallery G1 we, The Repton Village History Group, hosted a one-month display of photographs from yesteryear across along with a display of fascinating artifacts from Repton School and the vicinity. We were a little unsure of how it would go so restricted the open days to two. How wrong were we, the interest was great and on the open days we had many more people than expected. The exhibition contained photographs and maps relating to Repton and the surrounding villages. As people passed by and came in it was clear that the interest levels were high, and memory lane was very much traversed.

People stayed for hours, and we heard comments like ‘I used to live there’, ‘oh, I remember that sweet shop’ and even ‘oh, that’s my grandad in that photo’. Some people were meeting others by chance in the gallery after a long

time, reacquainting and reminiscing old times together. There are many hundreds of photos in the archives, too many to display but we welcomed requests for further information and promised to try our best to help.

There was also a display of literature and booklets that could be purchased from the RVHG, as well as a comments book with lovely notes that made all our work feel worthwhile.

The experience proved that artifacts, documents and photographs associated with past versions of places people know well and love can provide an almost magical window into other versions of that space in which other people connected with the environment and architecture just as powerfully as we do now.

IJW and TN

GORMS AND SPLATTS!

ART OUTREACH FOR TINY ARTISTS

This year the Art department invited two primary schools for exciting Art workshops. In Michaelmas we welcomed the Year Twos from Repton Primary and in Lent the Year Fives from St Wystan’s. Both schools wanted something beyond their normal curriculum designed to instil them with a newfound interest in artmaking and something surprising, fun and experimental. Not a problem! Coming right up!

The Repton Primary pupils leaned about colour and texture in the form of a SPLATT! Workshop using plaster and dropping it as liquid from the palm of their hand to make a composition of textures action

splatters which dried very quickly and were coloured and dry brushed to exaggerate tone and texture. They couldn’t believe how much fun it was and how the result was a beautiful grown-up contemporary artwork to take home.

The St Wystan’s pupils sculpted figurines in ceramic inspired by Anthony Gormley’s Field of Gorms and based on their ambitions and on careers they admired. The results were a crowd of crazy caricature’s that will be fired, painted and displayed on the High Street at the front of their school. The pupils simply did not want to leave the studio!

GALL ERY 1 2

CREDITS

1. Isla F

2. Charlie B

3. Eilidh A

4. Indi M

5. Connie R

6. Hannah C

Exhibition

CREDITS

SPORT 103

1ST XI

SQUAD

Captain T. Fraine (L)

V. Captain G. Pocklington (N)

O. Black (O), D. Chapman (L), E. Crossley (P), L. Fulton (S), J. Green (S), B. Hidderley (C), M. Jackson (O), H. Kashmiri (N), O. Khan (C), T. Lee-Sang (P), J. Lowe (L), H.J. Moore (P), C. Read (O), M. Stewart (O), H. Styring (N)

The summer of 2025 will go down as one of the hottest and driest seasons on record, resulting in lots of leather on willow under blue skies in the dancing sunshine on scorched outfields.

For the 1st XI to rival last season’s record-breaking season (20 wins) was always going to be a challenge, especially in the absence of England Lions cricketer Harry M who was ruled out for the season with a back injury. The 1st XI started the season off strongly with convincing victories against Tonbridge and Kings Taunton in pre-season T20’s down at Merchant Taylors School. Other victories of note were the wins against Shrewsbury, Bradfield, Bromsgrove, Uppingham and Worksop respectively. The victory against Shrewsbury was the first time in five seasons that the 1st XI had beaten our rivals.

The end of term SPREB Festival saw Repton host this year’s event and in the process beating Bradfield but losing out to National T20 semifinalists Epsom College and St Peter’s York. It was fantastic festival of cricket with a high standard of cricket played and continues to grow and get better each year with most of the sides now regularly reaching the latter stages of National Cup competitions.

Leading run scorer was Omaris K amassing 694 runs at an average of 43.38 at an impressive strike rate of 137. He scored x6 fifties and x1 hundred, with his standout performance coming in the victory against Worksop where he scored 113 off 63 balls including x10 fours and x8 sixes in a run chase of 270 to see the side win the game by 6 wickets with 7.5 overs remaining. Omaris is on course to break the school record for most runs in a career, with the current record being Yousaf B N’s 2587 runs. With him having two seasons remaining in his Repton career, he is in pole position to break the record if he continues in this vein.

Omaris’ power hitting and ability to clear the boundary rope is outstanding and lead him to making his professional debut for Warwickshire CCC 2nd XI during the season. He was also awarded the John Howell Bat for Player of the Season, the youngest player in Repton history to win the award with Omaris still only in O-Block.

Other outstanding performances with the bat game from George P (163*) and Danny C (115) who shared an opening stand of 279 for the first wicket against Bromsgrove, the second highest partnership in Repton history. Danny C scored 673 runs at an average of 35.42 with x4 fifties and x2 hundreds, with George P being the 3rd leading run scorer with 427 runs at an average of 32.85.

The bowlers also had some fantastic performances with the ball with Eamonn C leading the charge with 32 wickets at an average of 13.44 with his best figures of 7/44 coming against the Free Foresters. A-Block’s, Haroon K, took a total of 14 wickets from 46.4 overs at an average of 16.64 with an outstanding spell of bowling coming against Bradfield where he

BOYS

CRICKET

Results

Repton 160/4 (Chapman 72) v Tonbridge 140/9 (Crosley 4-12)

Won by 20 runs

Repton 174/3 (Khan 85) v King’s Taunton 134/9 (Stewart 3-19)

Won by 40 runs

Repton 71 all out v DCCC U18 72/9 (Fulton 2-10)

Lost by 1 wicket

Repton 117/8 (Chapman 54) v DCCC U18 120/8 (Hidderley 3-13)

Lost by 3 runs

Repton 238/4 (Fraine 73) v Shrewsbury 237/8 (Crossley 3-38)

Won by 6 wickets

Repton 161/7 (Khan) v MCC 282/5 dec (Pocklington 3-46)

Match drawn

Repton 168/6 v DCCC U18

Won by 35 runs

produced figures of 5/6 from his 2.4 overs. Haroon has been selected for the North at this year’s ECB Bunbury Festival, and we wish him well. Ollie Black returned 20 wickets at 23.80 and George P taking 17 wickets at 25.76.

Tom F was the pick of the fielders taking 12 catches and in doing so was awarded the Alistair Gordon Fielding

T20 NC: Repton 223/3 (Khan 90) v Loughborough Grammar 122/8 (Chapman 3-27)

Won by 101 runs

Repton 133 all out v Malvern 168/5

Lost by 35 runs

T20 NC: Repton 157/9 (Green 47) v Trent 161/7 (Crossley 3-25)

Lost by 3 wickets

Repton 165/2 (Styring 81) v The Forty Club 163/9 (Crossley 4-27)

Won by 8 wickets

Repton 232/9 (Jackson 46) v Uppingham 227/9 (Black 2-26)

Won by 5 runs

Repton 227 all out v Free Foresters 184 all out (7-44)

Won by 44 runs

Repton 274/4 (Khan 113) v Worksop 270 all out (Pocklington 3-39)

Won by 6 wickets

Trophy. Tom captained the side with honour and determination, even in the hardest moments. He led with a quiet unassuming authority, ensuring he represented the Repton ‘Baggy Blue’ cap with pride and distinction. We thank Tom for his leadership alongside vice-captain George P who too helped lead the side with purpose and dignity, always playing the game hard, but within the Spirit of the Game.

Both Jake G and Matty S were regular players for Derbyshire CCC 2nd XI and playing in their 4-day and T20 sides. Tom F played for Yorkshire CCC 2nd XI and Omaris K made his professional debut for Warwickshire CCC 2nd XI. It is great to see Repton 1st XI players playing professional matches while still at school, cutting their teeth against some of the best players in the country.

Repton 116 all out v KE Birmingham 145/7 (Black 3-19)

Lost by 29 runs

Repton 292/2 (Pocklington 163*) v Bromsgrove

Won by 129 runs

Repton 177 all out (Williams 48) v DCCC U18 234/8 (Black 3-51)

Lost by 57 runs

Repton 247/7 (Khan 59) v Pilgrims 229/9 (Pocklington 3-24)

Won by 18 runs

Repton 152/5 (Chapman 67) v Bradfield 150 all out (Kashmiri 5-6)

Won by 5 wickets

Repton 270 all out (Chapman 115) v Epsom 291 all out (Kashmiri 3-44)

Lost by 21 runs

Repton 159/8 v St Peter’s York 171/4

Lost by 12 runs

The 2025 season will be remembered as being a hot and dry one if not as fruitful as we would have liked, but that is sport, that is cricket. 12 wins for most schools across the country would be seen as a great season, and perhaps would have been for the 1st XI only 5 or so years ago, but with a new drive and commitment towards cricket at Repton, the 2025 season will always feel like the one that got away, the one that promised more but never truly delivered on its undoubted potential, promise, hard work and commitment.

2026 proves to be an exciting year with a new look 1st XI with 8 leavers from this season’s squad meaning opportunity knocks for our hugely talented junior section and we look forward to developing this talent in the winter months ready for next season.

CWA

1ST XI SEASON STATS

2ND XI

SQUAD

Captain J. Ziff (L)

V. Captain B. Hidderley (C)

A. Ascott (S), O. Black (O), A. Burden (P), A. Butterworth (S), L. Cholerton (S), I. Chohan (C), L. Fulton (S), S. Gay (O), R. Hagen (N), C. Hill (C), S. Hinchliffe (L), M. Jackson (O), L. Jamieson (L), D. Latif (L), J. Lowe (L), C. Mayfield (N), G. Morris (N), F. Naylor (S), W. Needler (N), B. Parkin (S), C. Read (O), T. Sadlier (S), J. Savage (C), H. Staggs (O), H. Strudwick (P), E. Smythe (S), H. Styring (N)

The mighty Repton 2nd XI enjoyed a largely successful season, a campaign brimming with runs, wickets, and some very average chat. Despite the usual springtime scheduling hurdles and the inevitable arrival of exam season, the group pulled together for an exciting and entertaining run of fixtures that showcased both individual flair and team spirit.

One of the standout results came in the form of a superb away win at Shrewsbury, a fixture always circled in the calendar and one that lived up to the billing. Wins also came against strong sides from Uppingham, Malvern, Trent, and Bromsgrove, with the team playing a bold, attacking

brand of cricket that would not have looked out of place on a sun-drenched English Test ground.

At the top of the order, Caleb and Arthur formed a formidable partnership. Much like Duckett and Crawley (not just because of their noticeable height difference), they brought a ‘Bazball’ energy to proceedings: fearless stroke-play, sharp running, and an unwavering commitment to playing their shots (sometimes even when advised not to). Their approach set the tone for many of our innings.

Skipper Jonah led from the front, contributing with bat and ball. His

Results

Shrewsbury

Won by 27 runs

Rugby

Lost by 51 runs

Uppingham

Won by 8 runs

Malvern

Won by 10 wickets

Abbotsholme

Lost by 4 wickets

Uppingham

Lost by 7 wickets

Trent College

Won by 19 runs

Trent College

Won by 70 runs

Bromsgrove

Won by 100 runs

3RD XI

SQUAD

Captain S. Hinchliffe (L)

A. Ascott (S), A. Burden (P), B. Eardley (P), Z. Harman (S), T. Hutchison (N), Z. March Phillipps De Lisle (L), B. Parkin (S), T. Sadlier (S), E. Smythe (S), H. Studholme (O), E. Smythe (S), C. Staggs (F), H. Strudwick (P), G. Weston (L)

Also Played

H. Buckley (S), H. Cursham (S), R. Ewart-White (N), S. Gay (O), R. Truelove (L)

leadership was calm and confident, and he remained a consistent runscorer throughout. He was well supported by Hidders, whose batting was as composed as his spin bowling was flighty and deceptive. His ability to turn matches with either discipline made him an invaluable presence throughout the term.

A key moment in the season came with the mid-season transfer of Archie and George from the 3rd XI. The pair quickly established themselves as middle-order rocks, blending ‘hockey hands’ with sound cricketing technique and an admirable work ethic between the wickets. Their success was rightly recognised with 1st XI debuts, many congratulations to both.

With the ball, the O Block seam cartel of Rory, Will, and Lochie posed constant problems for opposition batsmen. Their variations in pace, seam movement, and enthusiasm made them a dangerous trio throughout the season, each of them collecting key wickets and often delivering crucial breakthroughs.

Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of the season was the camaraderie and commitment of the group. Despite exams and injuries, the team turned up, put in the hard yards, and played with pride. The cricket was competitive, the laughs were plentiful (if not always high quality), and the team spirit was second to none.

A SEASON TO REMEMBER

All in all, a season to remember for the Repton 2nd XI, a blend of Bazball bravado, team-first mentality, and a healthy disregard for silence.

JRH

The first game of the season produced a convincing eight wicket victory against Shrewsbury which gave the team tremendous confidence for the Rugby away fixture. On a blisteringly hot day Rugby batted first and made a respectable 138 for 8 off 20 overs. All seemed to be falling apart as Repton wickets fell cheaply. At 64 for 9 there was only Ben P and Rory T to rely on! Ben started to throw the bat and the ball flew in all areas of the pitch. The Rugby bowlers became frustrated and started to pitch the ball in their half of the pitch. Ben relished the challenge and continued to embarrass the bowlers and Rory just about stopped the bouncer hitting his face! With ten needed to win the excitement could be heard in the away end. To everyone’s astonishment Ben hit the

winning runs which prompted a pitch invasion and huge celebrations. Who ever said cricket was boring!!

Uppingham proved too strong in another exciting game. 451 runs were scored in 40 overs with Uppingham winning by 48 runs. Zac H made an exciting 83 which was well supported by Archie B’s 49. In the return fixture Uppingham again had the upper hand winning by 6 wickets.

The commitment from the team throughout the season was outstanding and most importantly they played competitive cricket with a smile accompanied with the usual entertaining banter!

EWCW

U15A

SQUAD

Captain H. Kashmiri (N)

V. Captain T. Brown (N)

L. Afzaal (O), E. Bailey (S), A. Bond (S), T. Briggs (N), T. Brown (N), S. Chadwick (P), O. Cox (N), F. Earnshaw (L), R. Hallows (N), C. Hill (C), T. Lee-Sang (P), B. Lines (C), A. Marriott (S), A. Maunders (C), G. McCallum (S), H. Smith (L)

Also Played

E. Acheson (C), R. Dalugoda (Prep), J. Danson (Prep), J. Fern (C), R. Jones (Prep)

A season that promised so much, in the large part delivered so, as the future of Repton cricket shone brightly for the U15s this season.

A comprehensive victory over Shrewsbury on opening day set the tone for a positive brand of cricket to be pursued throughout the summer, and this paid dividends with some superb cricket played in securing victories over Gresham’s, Nottinghamshire and Trent in particular.

Results

Shrewsbury

Won by 38 runs

Spondon CC

Won by 6 wickets

Gresham’s

Won by 6 wickets

Nottinghamshire

Won by 4 wickets

Malvern

Won by 5 runs

The boys also showed that they were prepared to combine their flare and prowess with a steely determination, as demonstrated by nail-biting never say die victories over both Malvern, and later Trent College in the County Cup Final, in front of a traditionally hostile audience. Oliver C, returning to his old stomping ground, stood up in the big moment with an ice cold final over to stun the home fans into silence, and see Repton head through to the regional rounds of the ESCA T20.

The Regional quarter final was a much more clear-cut affair, with the 15s putting in their most complete performance of the season to blow away Bromsgrove, a la Kagiso Rabada and front pads, sealing their place in the ESCA T20 Midlands finals day.

If the quarter final was our most complete performance, the semifinal was our most incomplete –after rollicking to 60-0 during the powerplay, we proceeded to fade away tamely, and before you could say “we had a side worthy of winning this competition” we were dumped out of the tournament. It was a tough day.

Special mentions should go to Taylor L-S for his consistent performances with both bat and ball, the same can

be said for captain Haroon K, the ultraconsistent Luqman A was the pick of the bowlers this season.

The squad have learned a lot about the game this summer, how to win, how to do it in the right way, and how to take responsibility – with several of the squad having already represented the 1st XI this summer, the future is bright.

THE SQUAD HAVE LEARNED A LOT ABOUT THE GAME THIS SUMMER

A huge thanks go to Mr Baldock our ECB Level 1 scorer and assistant coach, as well as Martin Speight who has been influential in educating the squad on all things technical and tactical. Repton are fortunate to have a man in charge of this sport who is so dedicated to the development of all players throughout the school, and prepared to put the work in to improve everybody, on a daily basis.

OJA

West Park

Won by 9 wickets

Uppingham

Lost by 2 wickets

Landau Forte

Won by 10 wickets

Trent

Won by 10 runs

Trent: County Cup Final

Won by 1 run

Warwick

Won by 61 runs

Bromsgrove: ESCA Regional ¼ Final

Won by 10 wickets

Bedford: Regional Semi-final

Lost by 35 runs

U15B

U15C SQUAD

Captain M. Doncaster (P)

A. Ari-Kainth (L), E. Bailey (S), D. Bartoletti (O), A. Casey (L), O. Dillaway-Parry (O), G. Dyson (P), F. Khan (S), O. Lockett (L), A. Marriott (S), G. McCallum (S), G. Odell (S), C. Ormond (O), H. Smith (L), R. Stylianou (C), C. Toozer (N), C. Webster (C), M. Yotsugi (O)

What began as a season full of promise gradually lost momentum during its middle stretch. Early emphatic wins against Shrewsbury and Uppingham set a positive tone, but hopes were dampened by a disappointing defeat to Malvern and a second loss to Uppingham. A frustrating draw with Trent - a match that was well within our grasp - further compounded the mid-season slump. However, a strong performance against Warwick helped restore

some pride, showcasing the team’s most complete display of the season. Maxwell D (P) led the charge with the bat, amassing a total of 131 runs, while George McC (S) proved instrumental with the ball, finishing as the top wicket-taker with nine dismissals.

CTI

SQUAD

Captain A. Smith (C)

A. Ari-Kainth (L), R. Birch (S), A. Casey (L), O. Dilliway-Parry (O), M. Dobrovolskiy (L), G. Eardley-Taylor (N), N. Harris (O), M. Hogg (C), O. Lockett (L), C. Ormond (N), A. Stürken (O), C. Toozer (N), E. Whittingham (S), M. Yotsugi (O)

The 15C team have enjoyed a successful year and finish the season unbeaten after close wins over both Uppingham and Trent College. The boys have played in a positive spirit all term, supporting and encouraging one another and always representing the school in a positive light. The team has shown determination in the field,

controlled spells of seam bowling and some explosive batting performances at times. They were admirably led by their captain Alfie S and Alistair C made important contributions with both bat and ball, including bowling a sensational final over in the win against Trent.

NJS

U14A

SQUAD

Captain R. Hallows (N)

V. Captain T. Brown (N)

E. Acheson (C), N. Bolu (P), T. Briggs (N), T. Clarke (L), J. Davies (L), E. Ferguson (O), J. Fern (C), K. HelmholtKneisel (N), O. Knights (P), E. Mackenzie (L), D. McCallum (P), L. Murray (C), H. Royall (N)

This was one of my most enjoyable seasons with the U14A cricket team. Often enjoyment can be results driven, but what has stood out with this group of U14 cricketers, is their love of the game and willingness to be involved and represent Repton. That combined with some great results, has meant that this has certainly been a season of note for the team.

Glossing over the initial defeat to Shrewsbury, the team can be happy with the season they have had. There has been a clear progression in the style that we wanted to achieve which was quite simple, be aggressive and

Results

Shrewsbury

Lost by 129 runs

Nottinghamshire U13 CCC

Won by 84 runs

Oundle

Won by 74 runs

Malvern

Won by 114 runs

Queen Elizabeth’s

Won by 10 wickets

express yourself. This was epitomised in the run chase against Warwick, chasing 164 with 8 overs left. Playing with positivity doesn’t always mean going out and trying to smash the ball. Sometimes it can mean running well between the wickets and being tidy in the field. Once again, the team knew how to do this and their performance against Haileybury was simply outstanding. Once again, chasing 166 with 20 overs left.

THE TEAM CAN BE HAPPY WITH THE SEASON THEY HAVE HAD

This season also offered an opportunity to be part of something totally new for the team. The first U14A cricket festival held at Haileybury. As just mentioned, the victory against Haileybury was the highlight but sandwiched around that day were two fantastic games against Kings Taunton and Rugby. Both games were

close and could have gone either way. Despite the results, the level of cricket and exposure to this will only be a positive for the team moving forwards and I would like to thank every member of the side during this festival. In tough conditions, every single person played with endeavour and commitment.

Finally, in a season there are always some standout performances. Theo B shone with the bat, scoring two hundreds (104 against Nottinghamshire CCC and 102 against Ecclesbourne Technology College). Rupert H achieved the best bowling figures of the year taking 4 wickets for 2 runs against Malvern. Other good performances included Ed A (3 wickets v Bromsgrove), Espen F (4 wickets v QEGS Ashbourne), Teddy B, James F and Jonathan D who all scored half centuries throughout the season.

I would finally like to finish by thanking the Captain Rupert H. Someone who set the tone for the team and led with great sportsmanship and maturity.

ASU

Won by 99 runs

Trent Abandoned

King Edward’s

Lost by 87 runs

Ecclesbourne Technology College

Won by 68 runs

Warwick

Won by 7 wickets

King’s Taunton

Lost by 4 wickets

Haileybury

Won by 7 wickets

Rugby

Lost by 4 wickets

Bromsgrove

Won by 5 wickets

Trent: County Cup Final

Won by 12 runs

U14B

SQUAD

Captain A. Dobson (C)

G. Burke (P), R. Chan (C), T. Clarke (L), C. Clayton (C), E. Ferguson (O), N. Gregory (C), A. Hilton (O), L. Joshi (P), J. Leavesley (L), L. Murray (C), T. Parker (O), A. Port (O), D. Phipps (P), W. Proctor (C), T. Sugden (P), J. Warner (L)

The U14Bs endured a tough start to their campaign, falling to heavy defeats in their opening two fixtures against Shrewsbury and Uppingham. With early signs pointing towards a long season ahead, the team

U14C

SQUAD

G Burke (P), E. Clarkson (L), W. Harvey Bailey (S), L. Joshi (P), L. Parish (S), E. Presland (O), D. Price (S), E. Stewart (C), W. Vale (O) F. Watson (S), J. Wu (O)

Also Played

J. Battle (L), T. Jobe (S), H. Oscroft (N), T. Parker (O), C. Sharkey (L), A. Tavukcuoglu (S)

responded with determination and grit, launching a remarkable turnaround that saw them win five of their next six matches.

The resurgence began with a dominant 8 wicket victory over Malvern, quickly followed by a 31 run win against Alvaston Moor. A return clash with Uppingham provided the perfect opportunity for redemption, and the boys delivered emphatically, claiming another 8 wicket triumph. Although a 52 run loss to King Edward’s, Birmingham, momentarily halted their momentum, they bounced back in style with a 35 run victory over Warwick. The season concluded on a high, as Bromsgrove were dispatched by 8 wickets, rounding off an impressive run of form.

As the term progressed, the team showed clear development. Fielding sharpened noticeably, bowling responsibilities were shared effectively across the side, and the batting lineup began to show real potential. There were standout individual performances too: Espen F (O) and Ted C (L) both notched half-centuries, while Jakson W (L) produced a memorable moment with a hat-trick.

All in all, a season that began with doubt finished with optimism, as the U14Bs displayed resilience, teamwork, and real progress on the field.

It was a fun and purposeful season for the 14C team with plenty of sunshine, close games, and generally improving standards of cricket across the summer. We had good wins against Bromsgrove and Malvern with a close match in the other games. Eddie C (L) captained the team well, Will H B (S) and Ed P (O) were consistently threatening with the ball, Dylan P (S) always fielded with enthusiasm and

runs were shared across the team. The team approached the season in the right manner, always positive, polite and encouraging to each other and never taking themselves too seriously. This attitude was exemplified by Luke P (S) & Freddie W (S) who were stalwarts of the team.

MWTH

1ST XI

SQUAD

Captain A. Williams (M)

T. Boothman (A), L. Breese (G), K. Butler (G), H. Carr (M), I. Dawson (M), S. Hardy (M), L. Hetherington (G), C. Jackson (M), F. Kibler (G),

O. Kibler (G), M. Lowe (F), H. Mayfield (G), M. Rajan (M), E. Sanderson (G), E. Tassell (A), A. Verma (A)

There is always expectation on the Girls 1st XI, and sometimes, expectation brings failures. Unfortunately, this season was one of what-ifs, and not the usual national title winning report I usually write. However, it does come full of superb individual performances that lit up the square.

The season started with two preseason fixtures against Kings Worcester. Day 1 saw L. Hetherington make 71* on debut in the T20, before Kings Worcester reached the target with a ball to spare. On Day 2, which was possibly the coldest day of cricket I can ever remember, the girls were superb. Led by O. Kibler’s 47 and other valuable contributions, the total posted was 265-7. In response, the cold had affected Kings Worcester, and multiple batters wanted to warm up with a blanket, so threw their wicket away to get warm. Ultimately, they fell 35 short, a good pre-season battle in preparation for the season.

The national 100 cup began next, with a game against local rivals Trent College. L Hetherington again batted well (46*) as Repton posted 146-3 in 100 balls and a young Trent side could not cope with the pace and execution of the bowlers as they were bowled out for 55 to set up a fixture against pre-season opponents Kings

Worcester. Shrewsbury were the next visitors to the square for a 40-over fixture. Shrewsbury elected to bat (always the correct decision at Repton) but found the same problem as Trent – the Repton bowlers were too strong. Only able to muster 134, the total was easily dismantled, with A. Williams playing a skipper’s innings with 68*.

Some odd games followed. The girls arrived at Rugby for the annual T20 block fixture. However, there was a boy’s cup game on after. This meant that the game had to end by 17:15, no chance for a full T20. Despite the trials and tribulations of the events surrounding the fixture, the girls easily won on DLS after Rugby had set 135. If you thought this was a weird situation, the Saturday that followed was even more bizarre. A trip to Gresham’s on a blustery afternoon promised to be an excellent trip, containing two quality T20 games. However, a traffic delay around Kings Lynn meant preparations were cut short, and the format shortened to 12 overs. This never helped the side, as a narrow loss to Gresham’s followed. Royal Hospital were the opponents next, and despite restricting the opposition to 36, Repton never got going and only reached the target 6 down. A day where cricket was definitely not the winner.

The girl’s 1st XI have always been history makers, and the inaugural MCC women’s match was no different. Despite the MCC having player selection issues and no real keeper, the girls played superbly to demolish what was presented in front of them. O. Kibler was the star, hitting a matchwinning and highest ever score of 146, along with A. Verma’s steady 49 to set a remarkable total of 301-4 in 40 overs. In response, there was never any danger of a MCC win as they stumbled and blocked their way to a feeble 116.

GIRLS

CRICKET

As the old phrase goes, hundreds arrive like London buses. After Kibler’s 146, A Williams got in on the act with a superb 124* against Uppingham, continuing the trend of a Repton player going on the board in this fixture. This was then matched in the second innings as M. Rajan collected figures of 5-9 to join her house mate on the honours board. A successful few days full of individual success and excellent milestones.

What followed was a disappointing end to the half-term. Kings Worcester, the pre-season opponents, were next in the National 100 cup, a tournament won by the side two years prior. The girls knew that only their best would result in a Repton victory. Unfortunately, there was only one team that turned up, and that was the side from Worcester. Stumbling to 110, the Repton girls failed to find any pressure and Kings Worcester cruised to a 10-wicket victory. As the old phrase goes, losses arrive like London buses (I’ve heard that before somewhere…). A long trip to Scarborough in the T20 cup came next, with a depleted team due to

Results: Friendlies

(Pre-Season) – Repton 124-8 (L. Hetherington 71*), King’s Worcester 126-4

Lost by 6 wickets

(Pre-Season) – Repton 265-7 (O. Kibler 47), King’s Worcester 230ao

Won by 35 runs

Shrewsbury 134ao, Repton 137-1 (A. Williams 68*)

Won by 9 wickets

Rugby 135-7, Repton 102-3

Won by 7 wickets

Gresham’s 78-4, Repton 71-7

Lost by 7 runs

Royal Hospital 36-4, Repton 40-6

Won by 4 wickets

exams. Numerous 1st XI debuts and a small glimmer of hope. However, the West Indies/South Africa combined XI, sorry, Scarborough, came out on top, successfully defending 157 despite the best efforts of a young side. Out of both cups in one week, not the end to the half-term that was required.

The May break brought a Saturday fixture against the T20 cup opponents, Scarborough. This time at Repton, the girls were seeking revenge and restricted Scarborough to 126. In an absolute thriller, the girls reached the total with mere balls left to the delight of the watching crowd. There was then an opportunity for some younger players to play for the 1st XI in a friendly against Bromsgrove. After being asked to bowl (to everyone’s surprise), Bromsgrove managed to get only 89, on a pitch designed for 10-year-olds. 9 overs into the second innings, the target was reached, and victory was claimed.

To finish the season, the annual SPREB festival, although this year it was only REB as St Peter’s couldn’t muster a team. With a strange

Repton 301-4 (O. Kibler 146, A Verma 49), MCC 116-7

Won by 185 runs

Repton 195-2 (A. Williams 124*), Uppingham 71ao (M. Rajan 5-9)

Won by 124 runs

Scarborough 126-5, Repton 128-6

Won by 4 wickets

Bromsgrove 89ao, Repton 90-0

Won by 10 wickets

(SPREB) – Repton 187-1 (O. Breese 46, H. Mayfield 82*), Bradfield 126ao (E. Tassell 6-15)

Won by 61 runs

(SPREB) – Epsom 117-8, Repton 152-3 (M. Rajan 50*, O. Breese 54*)

Won by 7 wickets

format in place (a 3-way game), the girls (with players missing) set about searching for a strong finish to the season. Batting first against Bradfield, O. Breese made 46 and H. Mayfield achieved her highest ever score of 82* to set a commanding total of 187-1. The girls then bowled against Epsom, allowing only 117 to be scored in 20 overs. The following day, Bradfield batted, with E. Tassell getting herself on the honours board with 6-15 with a bowling display that petrified stumps everywhere. The ‘REB’ title was then secured as the girls chased down the required aggregate total of 147 in 30 overs, again led by O. Breese’s 54*, as well as M. Rajan’s 50*. A great way to end the year.

Although not the season everyone hoped for, there were still many special moments and memories throughout the year.

I must thank the departing U6 girls for their work this season and over the past few years. To Izzie D, Katy B, Ophelia W and Sophia M, good luck in what you do next!

CSI

National

(Last 32)

Stamford Conceded

(Last 16): Scarborough 157-9, Repton 111-9

Lost by 46 runs

Results: National U18 T20

(Last 64): Repton 146-3 (L. Hetherington 46*), Trent College 55ao

Won by 91 runs

(Last 32): Repton 110-6, King’s Worcester 113-0

Lost by 10 wickets

1ST XI SEASON STATS

BATTING

BOWLING

U17

SQUAD

Captain A. Williams (M)

T. Boothman (A), L. Breese (G), H. Carr (M), L. Hetherington (G), S. Hardy (M), F. Kibler (G), O. Kibler (G), M. Lowe (F), M. Rajan (M), E. Sanderson (G), E. Tassell (A), A. Verma (A)

The U17 cup was a new venture for the school and the girls, and there was an ever-increasing expectation that this competition may bring some success for the team. The tournament started with a home fixture against familiar foes Shrewsbury. Choosing to bat, the girls batted brilliantly, posted a mammoth 202-5, thanks to O. Breese’s 53 and A. William’s excellent 100. In response, Shrewsbury could never match the run rate and managed a mere 107-5 in their 20 overs.

Next up was a long journey to Gresham’s, a place where the 1st XI had previously had a rough day due to traffic problems and format changes. Neither of these were problems, but this time there was rain around. With the opposition coaches trying to try the square with netball bibs, the game was delayed by 30 minutes. Despite this, the game started, and Repton were put into bat. A. Williams started strongly, blitzing boundaries in the opening overs. A small stutter in the middle overs followed by a humongous M. Lowe six meant that 141 was achieved. The team knew the dangers of Gresham’s opener and set out to execute a Mr Speight plan that was devised weeks prior. This plan was

NATIONAL U17 T20 CHAMPIONS

nailed down and executed superbly, with E. Tassell and L. Hetherington only going for 25 in 8 overs. Gresham’s never recovered and ultimately fell 59 short. Finals day next.

Finals day was held at the beautiful Arundel cricket ground in Sussex, home to numerous international fixtures. The ground looked fantastic, even in the rain, which played havoc in the semi-final against Rugby. Repton won the toss and batted first, starting well, but lost early wickets due to some frantic running. The rain then came down heavier and play was halted for 30 minutes. After the rain finished, the wickets began tumbling. A low score was on the cards, and those around the ground thought Rugby had all but booked their place in the final. However, a mature and composed 26* from M. Rajan with valuable contributions from others meant that 110 was Rugby’s target. Full of fire, commitment and determination, this 110 began to look like 150 for the Rugby batters. The bowlers attacked the stumps; fielding was on point and there was no match for the Repton side. Rugby was all out for 74, 36 short of the required total, thanks to M. Rajan’s 4-8 and L. Hetherington’s 4-20, including a hat-trick!

Bradfield overcame a relatively weak Haileybury side to join Repton in the final. The toss was lost, and Bradfield elected to bat. On a pitch getting better, along with sunnier conditions, the scores were not going to match the low-scoring thrillers in the semifinal. There were regular wickets, but a strong 57* from Bradfield’s number 3 meant that they reached 131 with the loss of 4 wickets. Despite a decent target, confidence was

high. As a coach, there are moments where everything comes together, and this was one of those moments. With absolute ease, A. Williams and O. Kibler flew out of the blocks. Going at nearly 10 an over for the first 10 overs, the game was taken away from Bradfield with the best batting performance I have ever seen at schoolgirl level. There was no answer for the power, precision and shot making of the two openers, and with 10 overs gone, the game (and title) was in Repton hands. O. Kibler eventually fell for a well-made 50, but A. Williams (55*) remained at the crease, joined by O. Breese, to steer the side home and collect the National title.

A superb season ended in a fantastic way. Congratulations all, you are National Champions!

CSI

(Last 16): Repton 202-5 (A. Williams 100, O. Breese 53), Shrewsbury 107-5

Won by 95 runs

(Quarterfinal): Repton 141ao, Gresham’s 82-8

Won by 59 runs

(Semifinal): Repton 110-8, Rugby 74ao (L. Hetherington 4-20, M. Rajan 4-8),

Won by 36 runs

(Final): Bradfield 131-4, Repton 133-1 (A. Williams 55*, O. Kibler 50)

Won by 9 wickets

U15A

U15 DEVELOPMENT

SQUAD

Captain M. Lowe (F)

H. Beacham (M), H. Carr (M), S. Hardy (M), C. Jackson (M), F. Kibler (G), H. Mayfield (G), R. Murray (G), I. Ramage (G), C. Read (F), E. Shield (G), C. Tassell (A), A. Verma (A), E. Webster (A)

“A season best described with the phrase – close but no cigar”

As always, the U15 girls season begins in March, with the indoor county finals at Derbyshire CCC. Some great running and fielding set the girls apart from the rest, securing the county title with ease. At the regional finals in Headingly, the day started badly with a tight loss to GSAL, where panic set in and the girls threw away a chance to grasp victory. However, there was no loss in confidence, as the girls set about regaining the regional title. Two group successes, plus an easy semifinal victory, set up a rematch against GSAL in the final. This time, there was no doubt about who was the better side, as the girls became regional champions for the 4th year in a row.

A trip to Lord’s was next on the list, a venture becoming ever more familiar for this U15 side. A tour of the ground, press box, changing rooms and museum brought some memories that will last forever. On the pitch, it was a close affair. Some great victories, and some even tighter losses meant that a 3rd place finish was secured. 4 years in a row at Lord’s, with 5th, 4th, 3rd and 2nd places completed. The only thing now missing – 1st. Maybe next year!

Outside, the development team got two fixtures in against Oundle and the prep school. A good blend of the U15 cup side and some new members meant the games were fun, played in good spirits, provided competitive opportunities and gave a chance to those who have not played the game before! A win against the prep school, led by E. Webster (50*), was a particular highlight, and a tight loss to Oundle provided a chance for reflection.

In the U15 T20 Cup, in which the team were runners-up last year, the season began against Worksop College. As per the captain’s preference, Repton bowled first, and bowled well, restricting Worksop to 52-9 in 20 overs. In response, the two openers knocked off the score with ease, reaching 56 without the loss of a wicket. The theme of the team bowling first continued with Scarborough visiting the hallowed Repton turf. Scarborough chose to bat (obviously looking at the belter of the pitch) but came unstuck against the pace and power of the Repton bowling line-up. Led by H. Carr’s 4-7, Scarborough were bowled out for 51. In response, no wickets were lost, and the quarterfinals were reached.

On a baking hot day at Cheadle Hulme, the toss was won, and the girls bowled first again. Despite a promising start, Cheadle could not get the bowlers away, managing 74-8 off 20 overs. In response, there were small blips with the bat, but H. Mayfield’s 49*, full of power and scintillating shots, was enough to send the girls to another T20 finals day. Finals Day was played at Berkhamstead School, with the semi-final in rainy and windy conditions, not at all like the rest of the summer. Playing against Kingston GS, the girls were put into bat. In seemed

to be the wrong decision, as a total of 152-4 was reached, mainly thanks to A. Verma’s 51*. Despite the total on the board, there was no pressure for the Kingston batters. The opening pair put on 140 thanks to some indoor-like running, something which the girls couldn’t cope with. Despite a late wicket, the total was reached with 1 over to spare.

In the 3rd/4th playoff, St Helen & St Katharine’s awaited. Again, put into bat, the girls reached 137-9 with contributions throughout the order; this time played in glorious sunshine. Again, this wasn’t enough as Hell Kats reached their desired target with 3 overs to spare. Another finals day loss, another close shave, but ultimately, not enough for the title.

THE GIRLS WERE THE DEFENDING CHAMPIONS

In the 100 competition, the girls were the defending champions. Starting at home to Denstone, the girls produced a superb bowling performance to restrict the opposition to 52-9. With the loss of 2 early wickets, there may have been a shock on the cards, but some fantastic middle order hitting meant that there were no surprises early on. Newcastle Under-Lyme provided the next test; with many girls confused as to why we were having to travel to the north of England. Some adequate fielding and misdirected bowling meant NULS got off to a flyer. However, quick wickets in succession meant the required total was only 101, not 150. In response, a comical run-out did not provide the ideal start, but

calm and composed contributions down the order meant the total was reached with a few overs to spare.

Cheltenham next, and surprisingly, the original date was cancelled due to rain (what is this?)! A week later, the Cheltenham team arrived, in more rain! Despite the opposition coach trying to tell umpires, coaches and players alike how DLS worked and how we were going to struggle to play, the game was on. Repton batted first (put in), and started superbly, ultimately reaching 130-5 thanks to H. Carr’s 52*. The opposition coach was silenced after realizing that the Repton were not rubbish (unlike he originally thought) and started

panicking about his girl’s ability to chase. This proved correct, as they fell 40 short.

A lovely trip to Richmondshire provided the quarter-final, to the home club of England’s most famous fielder – Gary Pratt. At the home of a former velodrome, the girls flew through the Richmond top order like watching Chris Hoy at his prime. 47 all out, an easy target, reached with the loss of one wicket only. Finals Day at Merchant Taylor’s was up next, the place where the girls became national champions the year prior. On the same pitch that provided so many successes, hopes were high, and expectations even higher. This was

increased as Rugby were restricted to 100 off 100 balls, a very chaseable target. However, scoreboard pressure was evident, and a loss of early wickets derailed the trophy train. 89 all out was the final score, a disappointing loss to a good side.

In the 3rd/4th, the girls were comfortably second best, a performance that does not need speaking about. However, a season to be proud of. National finals in all three competitions, just missing the ultimate prize. Thank you to those who have played, most notably the ABlk who are moving on to senior cricket next year.

NATIONAL U15 INDOOR 3RD PLACE NATIONAL U15 100BALL 4TH PLACE (FINALS DAY)

Results: Development

Oundle 125-6, Repton 117-8 Lost by 8 runs

Repton 150-3 (E. Webster 50*), Repton Prep 59ao

Won by 91 runs

Results: National U15 T20 Cup

(Last 32): Worksop 52-9, Repton 56-0

Won by 10 wickets

(Last 16): Scarborough 51ao (H. Carr 4-7), Repton 53-0 Won by 10 wickets

(Quarterfinal): Cheadle Hulme 74-8, Repton 77-4 (H.Mayfield 49*)

Won by 6 wickets

(Semifinal): Repton 152-4 (A. Verma 51*), Kingston GS 153-1 Lost by 9 wickets

(3rd/4th): Repton 137-9, St Helen & St Katharine 138-5 Lost by 5 wickets

Results: National U15 100ball Cup

(Last 64): Denstone 52-9, Repton 55-2

Won by 8 wickets

(Last 32): Newcastle Under-Lyme 101-7, Repton 102-5

Won by 5 wickets

(Last 16) – Repton 130-5 (H. Carr 52*), Cheltenham 90-5

Won by 40 runs

(Quarterfinals) – Richmond 47-7, Repton 53-1

Won by 9 wickets

(Semifinals) – Rugby 100-5, Repton 89ao

Lost by 11 runs

(3rd/4th) – Repton 57ao, St Helen & St Katharine 60-2

Lost by 8 wickets

1ST VI

SQUAD

Captain J. Deaner (O)

E. Anderson (O), B. Coletta (S), W. Hu (S), C. Sharkey (L), C. Wright (L)

The boy’s 1st team had a good year and once again showed their quality by qualifying and competing on the national stage.

The boys proved they are the best on the regional circuit with victories in all Saturday block fixtures. Wins against Oakham, Shrewsbury, Trent and Rugby highlighted the quality we have on show at Repton.

THE BOYS PROVED THEY ARE THE

BEST ON THE REGIONAL CIRCUIT

National qualifying matches took place every 3 weeks with every match a ‘must win’ due to the knockout format. With Jake, Warren, Brennan, Callum and Cameron selected for this, they first dispatched Trent College with ease before defeating Oakham by the same scoreline, 12-0. All singles and doubles matches going our way! The clean sweep would continue in the semi-final fixture against Stowe, before the boys would face Repton 2nds in the final round of qualifying with the winning team securing their place at the National Finals. This proved to be the toughest match of them all, which again, shows the depth of the Repton Tennis programme. The 1st team edged the singles matches 3-1, with Warren

coming through a tough battle 10-8 in the third set breaker against Alex. With the doubles matches being split one a piece, it meant the boys 1sts had won 8-4 and booked their place at the finals, whilst also maintaining the bragging rights against the 2nd team.... but only just!!

The National Finals again took place during the final four days of term and was held at the excellent Nottingham Tennis Centre. The top 16 teams in the nation battled it out over the week in a forward and backward compass draw. The team of Jake, Brennan, Warren, Callum and this time Ethan, would represent the school at the finals. The boys were given a tough first round draw as they faced Merchiston Castle who were the Scottish champions and seeded much higher than the boys. The team battled incredibly hard and after 6 hours of tennis, just fell short 4-8. Brennan with the highlight win fighting back from a set down to win in a third set tie-break and keep the match alive. Warren also played a brilliant match but unlike Brennan, couldn’t quite get over the finish line losing out 8-10 in the third set breaker. Back-to-back net cords right at the end of the tie break went against Warren which was a heartbreaking way to lose the match! Following day two’s shootout defeat against Bromsgrove, the boys performed very well to defeat Abingdon 10-2, followed by Holmfirth 12-0 to end their week on a high. Well done to the team for their efforts throughout in this extremely competitive environment.

I would like to thank this year’s leavers, Jake, Warren and Cameron who have contributed so much to the tennis programme throughout their time at the school. Thank you also to Jake for his captaincy and leadership this year.

JWR

BOYS

TENNIS

Results

Oakham

Won 9-0

Shrewsbury

Won 6-3

Trent

Won 8-1

Rugby

Won 7-2

Results: National Qualifying

Trent

Won 12-0

Oakham

Won 12-0

Stowe

Won 12-0

Repton 2nds

Won 8-4

2ND VI

SQUAD

W. Adams (O), E. Anderson (O), O. Berry (O), F. CooksonJones (L), G. Foopromwong (O), D. Harrison (S), H. Jobe (P), R. Johnston (P), A. Naughton (S), Z. Maxton (C), S. Maxton (C), J. Shan (P), H. Smith (L), L. Vacher Peña (P), Z. Wedgwood (S)

The season got off to a brisk and successful start with a win to love in the Area Cup, showing the boys’ dedication to training from the start of the year. From this good start, the boys built a very successful season. The squad was subject to a lot of change as the summer examinations

Results: National Finals

Merchiston Castle

Lost 4-8

Bromsgrove

Lost 6-7

Abingdon

Won 10-2

Holmfirth

Won 12-0

loomed, with many new players stepping in, often at short notice. The victories continued until the end of term, with many wins to love and excellent progression in the Area Cup leading to an appearance in the Final. In all the matches, the boys played with great sportsmanship and determination. Despite the scores, many of the matches were very close, but on every occasion the team was able to close the fixture out with a win. Both Zak W and Robbie J acted as Captain for a match, each leading the team to a good win. Jason S and Lucas V P both deserve special mentions for playing up for this Senior Team and contributing to its success. The team has been a pleasure to coach.

PGL

Results

Area Cup: Sir Robert Pattinson

Won 12-0

Area Cup Quarterfinal: Lincoln Minster

Won 10-2

Oakham

Won 9-0

Trent Won 9-0

Shrewsbury

Won 6-3

Area Cup Semi-Final: William Farr

Won 12-0

1ST VI SQUAD

Captain H. Kok (M)

F. Amin (A), T. Boothman (A), E. Carley (G), E. Chandi (A), R. Chen (M), H. Jackson (A), W. Nissen (A), R. Ram (A), T. Reid (G)

With a fully fit, injury free squad, the girl’s 1st team had yet again another fantastic year! When the summer season got underway in glorious sunshine, the 1st team showed dominating performances again in the Saturday block fixtures. Oakham were dispatched 9-0 followed by Shrewsbury 7-2. Rugby who are always competitive were next up, but the girls showed the difference in their level and came through with another 9-0 win. The girls then put in another fine display defeating Trent in the final block fixture to again confirm themselves as the best on the regional circuit.

DOMINATING PERFORMANCES

National qualifying matches took place every 3 weeks with every match a ‘must win’ due to the knockout format. Uppingham at home were the first opposition for the girls and this proved to be a comfortable 12-0 win. An interesting semi-final line up was next for the team with the draw revealing the girls would be up against our very own Repton 2nd team! However, competing against friends and teammates didn’t phase this professional outfit with the girls notching up another 12-0 victory! This meant it would be Repton v Trent College for a place at the National Finals. With the team of Hollie, Raga, Eisha, Ferial and Rosie selected, the

girls knew they would be in a strong position even if Trent College fielded their usual strength of team. This proved to be the case with a clean sweep in the singles, backed up by winning both doubles and a 12-0 win was soon on the cards and a place at the National Finals confirmed.

The National Finals again took place during the final four days of term and was held at the excellent venue of Nottingham Tennis Centre. The top 16 teams in the nation would battle it out over the week in a forward and backward compass draw. The team of Hollie, Raga, Eisha, Ferial and Rosie were selected to represent the school at the finals. First up for the girls were Brentwood School who the girls had never faced previously. The girls prepared well for this match and went on court with the thought of stamping their authority over the uncharted opposition. By the end of the day, the girls finished 12-0 winners without dropping a set! Very impressive. The team were now through to the quarter final stage and were drawn against defending champions and number one seeds, Queenswood. However, the girls weren’t phased by this and went on court knowing our best performance could cause an upset and the girls were capable of this. Although 1-3 down after singles, we knew both doubles matches needed to go our way and they very nearly did. The 2nd pair pulled off an outstanding win, but the 1st pair narrowly missed out in two tight sets resulting in a final score of 4-8. This meant a final position of 5th would be the goal with two more days of play still yet to come. The quality and class of the girls proved their level by achieving this with victories over Putney, followed by Stonyhurst on the final days play. The highlight being the 7-6-win v Putney with the match being won on a superb shootout by Hollie and Eisha. Throughout the finals there

GIRLS

TENNIS

were some standout performances. Hollie leading the team from the front performed brilliantly every time she stepped on court. Eisha finished the week with 8 wins from 8, plus a match tie break shoot win. Simply outstanding from Eisha who still has 3 years ahead of her at Repton!

Results

Oakham

Won 9-0

Shrewsbury

Won 7-2

Rugby Won 9-0

Trent Won 8-1

I would like to thank the four players departing this year. Hollie, Raga, Rosie and Ferial have contributed so much to Repton Tennis over their time at the school. I would like a special mention to go to our leaver, and captain, Hollie. In her 4 years at Repton Hollie cannot be rivalled for her effort, attitude, and

Results: National Qualifying

Uppingham

Won 12-0

Repton 2nds

Won 12-0

Trent Won 12-0

contribution to the team. Never selfish and always willing to step on court whenever asked of her. Absolutely unrivalled in all areas! Thank you for everything you have given in your time.

JWR

Results: National Finals

Brentwood

Won 12-0

Queenswood

Lost 4-8

Putney

Won 7-6

Stonyhurst

Won 8-4

SQUAD

F. Amin (A), G. Atherley (G), F. Betts (G), T. Boothman (A), E. Carley (G), A. Edwards (F), M. Hart (F), H. Jackson (A), I. Kashihara (F), I. Mayman (F), W. Nissen (A), M. Olalobo (G), A. Rai (F), E. Sandhu (A), B. Stannard (M), D. Spear (F), C. Turton (A), L. Welbury (F), S. Wilding (M), L. Vacher Pena (F)

This season has been a bit of juggle around public examinations for the 2nd team tennis girls. For the first time in a while, the weather has played its part and therefore the squad have got numerous coaching as well as matches under their belt. Whilst some partnerships have been flexible, Gemma and Flora must be commended on continuing to

represent the squad throughout their A Levels. They have a complementary partnership which has developed over the years together, and I hope that they have enjoyed their tennis careers as they move on to university. As a squad, we have worked on depth from the baseline, forcing opponents on to their back foot. This, coupled with ensuring the ball is kept cross court, has seen us dominate most fixtures. The highlight was the Shrewsbury fixture which came down to the very last set as a decider. Repton players showed great sportsmanship when faced with tough opposition, narrowly losing 4-5. The last fixture of the year against Uppingham, saw Iyo, Darcey and Bebe play in a mixed match, giving them another dimension to their match play. This allowed the girls to be more attacking, particularly at the net. Many of this and the 3rd team squad are in O Block, so I am looking

forward to watching them develop as players next academic year.

GKR

Results

Oakham

Won 8-1

Area Cup Round: Leicester Grammar

Won 12-0

Trent Won 8-1

Shrewsbury

Lost 4-5

Rugby Won 6-3

SQUAD

F. Chadwick (F), E. Chandi (A), L. Cursham (M), A. Hart (F), H. Sandhu (A), P. Wrisdale (A), I. Yeung (A)

Also Played

P. Ascott (F), A. Finlay (A), L. Lewis (M), N. Smith (M), E. Wagner (F), A. Webster (A)

In our opening fixture, we were fortunate to field our full-strength team, with the pairings of Eisha and Lettie, Frankie and Anoushka and Poppy and Imogen all recording comprehensive wins to contribute to a clean sweep. The second match

against Trent looked on paper a tougher encounter, especially with Eisha representing the 1st team and therefore unavailable for the U15As; however, Harneve stepped in beautifully to partner Lettie and their 6-0 win in their final set proved crucial in a 5-4 overall victory.

Having represented the U15Bs in the first two matches, the ever-smiling pairing of Annie and Elinor stepped up to the U15As against Shrewsbury, impressively recording two wins to contribute to an overall 7-2 victory. A similar story occurred away at Rugby, with the girls 4-2 up going into the final round of matches, and all three pairs showed their stamina to record comprehensive victories against their opposite numbers.

Results

Oakham

Won 9-0

Trent Won 5-4

Shrewsbury Won 7-2

Rugby Won 7-2

King’s High Won 1-2

Uppingham

Won 9-0

The only blot in terms of results was a 1-2 loss to King’s High, a fixture that was unfortunately hit by unavoidable absences due to the Duke of Edinburgh expedition, but the girls who played represented the School admirably and showed great character and resolve to win one of the matches and lose narrowly in the other two.

We finished the season with a mixed doubles fixture against Uppingham, with Anoushka, Poppy and Imogen pairing up beautifully with three of the U15 boys to achieve a 9-0 clean sweep, a great way to end a tennis term where the sun shone continuously.

Whilst the results were excellent, what was most wonderful to see about the

15As was that the girls would often stay out after training sessions or play after tea or in their free time, finding joy in having a hit with their friends. Girls, well done on a great season, and I hope you all continue to enjoy your tennis next year!

KHI

U15B

SQUAD

P4 W4

A. Finlay (A), I. Green (F), N. Hibbert (M), P. Hodges (F), L. Lewis (M), R. Murray (G), E-M. Reeves (M), H. Sandhu (A), E. Wagner (F), A. Webster (A)

U15C

U15C SQUAD

P3 W2 L1

P. Ascott (F), I. Every (G), I. Green (F), A. Konuralp (F), L. Lewis (M), M. Lees (G), L. Moore (F), R. Murray (G), N. Smith (M), E. Reeves (F), E. Wyatt-Shannon (F), U. Yotsugi (A)

U15D SQUAD

D. Chen (G), C. Dammers (A), I. Every (G), D. Gardiner (G), L. Hambleton (F), E. Iorio (A), E. Maunders (G), L. Morris (M), E. Wyatt-Shannon (F)

The U15C and D teams showed excellent energy and improvement throughout the term, with players developing confidence and consistency across their matches.

As ever summer term proved to be extremely busy. With many of our players being multi-talented sports women it gave a chance for numerous people to step in and put their skills on display. The season started off strongly with a 9-0 vs Oakham. This then continued into the rest of the season winning 9-0, 8-1 and 5-4 respectively.

Phoebe H and Ellie W proved to be the dynamic duo of the season, having fun and getting some great results.

Irena G, Lola L and Romilly M stepped up to the plate with Lola becoming the queen at the net and smashing all her volleys! It’s been lovely to take the U15B’s this year and may their unbeaten streak continue into next!

AS

U15D

The U15Cs began their season with a 9-0 win over Oakham, with dominant performances from Ella, Izzy, Tilly, Eva, Peggy, and Irina. The team displayed great movement around the court and communication, winning each of their matches by a landslide.

They continued their strong form with another emphatic 9-0 win against Shrewsbury, showing control and focus across all pairs. Peggy’s positive attitude set the tone for the team, and she partnered Lola effectively. Irina and Nicola played with precision, while Urara and Lily maintained their composure under pressure.

A closer match followed against Rugby, where the Cs were narrowly beaten 3-6. Peggy and Tilly remained composed in long rallies, with strong support from Lola, Ayla, Eva, and Romilly, who all fought hard in tight games.

P2 W0 L2

The U15Ds faced tough opposition in their two matches. Against Rugby, they lost 0-9, but there were positive moments, especially from Lydia and Dani, who showed great teamwork and communication throughout. Izzy and Ellie gave a strong effort, and Charlotte and Elsa showed growing confidence.

In their final match, the Ds lost 1-8 to Uppingham, with Eva and Lillie battling hard and Dora performing particularly well in her first ever tennis match partnered with Dani. Charlotte and Ellie continued to show determination across their games.

A delightful season of tennis in the sun with a fantastic group of girls, good luck in the next season.

JCC

P6 W5 D1

SQUAD

S. Adenekan (G), G. Gilbertson (G), J. Mayman (F), L. Moore (F), I. Ramage (G), T. Reid (G), U. Yotsugi (A)

Also Played

S. Bywater (F), A. Corbett (F)

Summer ’25 was something of a whirlwind and the U14A girls have had a great few weeks on court. Not once were we plighted with poor weather and this has meant that the girls have been able to get plenty of play in. Our new recruits in B Block have certainly made their mark on the tennis court this term, as highlighted by the fact that they have not lost a match this term. The team have played aggressive tennis, and in every match, we played to win the point rather than let our opponents dominate us. The most exciting match was against Rugby, and it went right down to the

wire in the third round to decide the winning side. It is a pleasure to work with a team so focused on improving their game, and strangely in girls’ tennis, it is normally so difficult to get girls to move up to the net. However, this has not been the case with the U14As and they have listened and welcomed new styles of play with open arms. This positive play has undoubtedly made the difference between wins and losses. They will be a strong hope for the years to come

Doubles is obviously the focus in inter school matches, but we have been able to get lots of singles play into which has required a different level of discipline from the girls. This was also the first year that the programme included some mixed doubles against Uppingham. This was a very enjoyable experience for the girls and spectators and will hopefully be something we look to develop in years to come.

NMD

P5 W4 D0 L1 GF27 GA15

SQUAD

Played in 3+ fixtures for U14Bs

L. Corbett (F), S. Devey Smith (G), H. Ellis (F), E. Hyde (M), S. Parker (A)

Also played in 1/2 fixtures for U14Bs

G. Gilbertson (G), T. Lobb (A), S. Tasker (G), E. Vaartjes (F), B. Wilton (F)

The U14B tennis team have had a positive season, marked by strong performances and great progression with every match. They opened with a fantastic 8–1 win against Oakham, playing with great confidence and skill. Buoyed by this early success, the team faced a tougher challenge against Trent. While the result didn’t go their way, it proved a valuable learning experience, helping many pairs to develop their communication and court awareness. With a clearer understanding of their partner’s strengths and playing styles, the girls bounced back superbly. They secured impressive 6–3 victories

Results

Oakham

Won 9-0

Trent

Won 6-3

Repton Prep

Draw

Rugby

Won 5-4

Trent

Won 6-3

Uppingham

Won 8-1

against both Rugby and Trent in later fixtures, showcasing their growing cohesion and competitive spirit. Their serving and attacking play have improved noticeably over the term, and they have consistently approached both matches and training with energy, focus and an unwaveringly positive attitude.

Overall, the 14Bs have played each match with determination and a big smile. It’s been a pleasure to see their progress and to help coach such a hardworking and enthusiastic group. Well done on a fantastic season!

EMB

P2 W1 L1

U14C SQUAD

J. Camenzind (G), E. Goudge (A), I. Grimes (M), L. Hewson-Fisk (G), C. Howe (M), T. Lobb (A), S. Tasker (G), M. Thompson (A), I. Vartkes (F)

U14D SQUAD

R. Badial (F), J. Camenzind (G), C. Edwards (M), E. Goudge (A), L. Hewson-Fisk (G), K. Millerchip (G), S. Parker (G), R. Parkinson (A), S. Sayers (F), S. Tasker (G)

The U14C and U14D girls’ tennis teams have shown great commitment and resilience throughout a demanding summer season, training hard each week and adapting well to the challenges of the blazing English heat.

The U14C team kicked off their campaign with an emphatic 8-1 away win at Trent College. Consistent performances across all pairings made for an enjoyable and successful afternoon of tennis. Special congratulations to Ellie, Johanna, Sophia, Iggy, Emma, and Lucy for their excellent play. In the following fixture, the girls faced a strong Rugby side and despite a 2-7 loss, their determination never wavered. Clem and Sophia deserve particular mention for their positivity and unwavering team spirit throughout.

P2 L2

The U14D side encountered tough competition from the outset, starting with an away fixture against Uppingham that ended in a 1-8 loss. Nonetheless, the girls demonstrated admirable perseverance and sportsmanship, with Sophie, Ellie, Sophia, and Johanna all maintaining high morale and representing the school with pride. Their second match against Rugby was another hardfought effort, with the girls narrowly falling short in a 2-7 defeat.

Both teams should be proud of their continued effort and positive attitudes this term. Their dedication to training, ability to stay focused under the summer sun, and support for one another has laid strong foundations for future success.

CEA

1ST

XI

SQUAD

Captain A. Young (C)

P25 W12 D4 L9

H. Buckley (S), C. Chimuchere (P), O. Driver (C), A. Federico (C), N. Freyndorf (N), T. Gould (P), F. Johnston (P), A. Labesse (N), J. Lowe (L), J. McGlynn (O), H. McNulty (N), J. Parkinson (L), Y. Pevzner (C), D. Powell (P), M. Rennie (N), F. Roessen (L)

Also Played

M. Amaral (C), F. Atere (N), L. Bywater (L), L. Cholerton (S), M. German (N), G. Hill (C), H. Ojougboh (S), L. Rahic (C)

The Boys’ 1st XI had another season of outstanding experiences and improved performances. Our season began in mid-August as we embarked on our first year in the FA Youth Cup as part of our partnership with Loughborough Students FC. Unfortunately, we didn’t realise how early the preliminary round wasnot all the team could get back and those that did come back hadn’t trained before playing. Despite this we were 1-0 up with six minutes to go until a couple of crazy events led to us losing the game 2-1 in the 93rd minute. We will learn from this and be better prepared next season. Our pre-season was designed to be incredibly difficult to illuminate any points of improvement as early as possible. Matches vs Derby County, the ORs, Hartpury and Loughborough University prepared us well for the season.

This was shown immediately as we emerged victorious in the ISFA National Sixes tournament after a 3-0 victory over Shrewsbury in the final. The Hudl league season started well with a dominant and controlled display against Bradfield. Despite this the scoreline was closer than

it should have been and it took a dramatic last-minute winner to take the three points. A convincing win vs Rossall put us top of the league after two games. Next was an outstanding come back in the group stages of the ESFA Super league against Codsall, with another last-minute winner to make it 4-3. Despite being so early in the season, the team had already shown they could deal with a multitude of situations and find a way. We travelled to Millfield for our next Hudl league match in good spirits but a crazy first 12 minutes, littered with uncharacteristic mistakes saw us 3-0 down. We went on to lose the game 5-1 and suffered our first big disappointment of the season. After half term, the boys bounced back incredibly with an outstanding 4-0 win in the Hudl league away to Shrewsbury. A tough third round tie in the ISFA cup vs Queen Ethelburga’s followed and a resolute performance saw us emerge 1-0 victors. A professional display away to Brooke House allowed us to hold out for a 0-0 draw and finish top of our ESFA Super League group and progress to the last 32. Another win in the Hudl League against Charterhouse set up a top of the table clash with undefeated Royal Russell. The game was an incredible standard and after going 1-0 down we had a goal disallowed after some confused over which players were interfering with play (no VAR at this level, unfortunately). Ultimately, we lost the game 2-0 and deservedly so, but goals do change games. We sat in 2nd place in the league going into Christmas. Before the break we had our last 16 ISFA cup tie away to Berkhamsted, which is always a tough place to go. A shift in tactics enabled us to emerge with the victory in tricky conditions. The final game of the term saw us play a friendly against Nottingham Forest U16s and we finally clicked for a whole game. I knew if we could do this we would put on

FOOTBALL BOYS

an outstanding display and we did. Emerging 5-1 winners in what was one of the highlights of the season.

The business end of the season began in January as we won our last 32 ESFA super league match with an outstanding performance against New College Doncaster. Our Quarter Final ISFA cup tie was away vs Epsom – which was another tricky place to get a result, considering they had knocked out Royal Russell in the previous rounds. In driving rain and a tiny pitch, we once again switched tactics and put on an incredible problem-solving display, making a potential banana skin look easy, emerging 5-1 winners. A semi-final tie at home to Shrewsbury awaited us and the boys were in great form. But things don’t always go to plan in football and after missing a penalty, a one-yard tap in, a one on one with the keeper and having our captain sent off, Shrewsbury stole the win with a scrappy deflected shot in the final minutes of the game. The boys were dejected but we had to go again the following Tuesday in our last 16 ESFA Super League tie vs AFC Sudbury. Playing a football club in a school’s competition is never easy but we executed our game plan in the first half exceptionally, the only

disappointment being that we were only 1-0 up. The second half was different, and we allowed their hit and run football to take control. Despite conceding, we earned a penalty in the last minute to send us through but unfortunately, we missed. Despite going down to 10 men, Sudbury found a goal in extra time and put us out of the competition.

We then played our last three Hudl league games with the quality we had displayed in glimpses throughout the season, with a 3-1 win away to Ardingly and 1-1 draw to our closest league rivals Hampton. We secured 2nd position in the top school’s league in the county on the final Super Saturday at Loughborough with a convincing 4-1 win over Bede’s.

The team this year was led impressively by captain Adam Y, who was ably supported in leadership by vice captains Nikita F and Matthew R and Club Captains Yury P and Amos F. The player of the year went to Adam Y for outstanding contribution to the football programme and high-level leadership throughout the season.

International honours were awarded to the following players: Amos F representing Gibraltar in the U21 Euro Qualifiers; Adam Y and Matthew R

representing the ISFA U18 National team; Freddie J and Chataika C representing the ISFA U17 National Team.

This 1st XI Boys team in 2024/25 were outstanding. The football IQ they were able to demonstrate transcended schools’ football. Their only regret was that they were not able to display this consistently enough, but they have taken great strides in the journey Repton football is on and have improved us. We are incredibly grateful to them for that.

We now look forward to next season as we continue to build on the success of 2024/25.

LAW

1-2

5-1

Hartpury

1-4

Queen Ethelburga’s

0-3

Loughborough U19A

3-4

4-0

Charterhouse

3-1 Hampton

1-1

Bede’s

4-1

Results: National League

Codsall Community High

Won 4-3

Brooke House

Draw 0-0

Rugby

Won 9-0

Trent Won 8-1

SQUAD

Captain R. Johnston (P)

F. Amin (A), G. Atherley (G), F. Betts (G), T. Boothman (A), E. Carley (G), A. Edwards (F), M. Hart (F), H. Jackson (A), I. Kashihara (F), I. Mayman (F), W. Nissen (A), M. Olalobo (G), A. Rai (F), E. Sandhu (A), D. Spear (F), B. Stannard (M), C. Turton (A), L. Welbury (F), S. Wilding (M), L. Vacher Pena (F)

The record, in many respects, speaks for itself. To win 80% of matches played, for any team, is an incredible return. This is especially true of a team that played almost half of its games against 1st XI opponents. To do this whilst keeping 11 clean sheets and conceding only 17 goals at a rate of less than one per game and scoring 62 goals make the season even more remarkable.

The undoubted highlight must be retaining the Derbyshire U18 Cup. Defeating last year’s runners-up in Tupton, a Lady Manners team that had already beaten us in the ESFA Cup and a Brookfield team in the final that contained a player already playing professionally, meant that we had to do it the hard way.

Results: Boodles ISFA

Cup Final 32: Queen Ethelburga’s Won 1-0

Cup Final 16: Berkhamsted Won 3-1

Cup Quarterfinal: Epsom Won 5-1

Trent Won 8-1

Lifting silverware is always special, but it was a season of highlights. A wonderful trilogy of wins against a confident Shrewsbury where we showed we were adaptable enough to win in very different ways, was satisfying. A 4-0 home and away double against Queen Ethelburga’s, the second of which contained Robbie’s 40-yard goal of the season strike, was also impressive. As we went into the Lent term, with games a little less regular meaning that we had to work hard to keep our momentum, the 3-0 away victory against a Denstone 1st XI who were only beaten 3-1 away in Round 3 of the ISFA Cup to the eventual winners, was outstanding.

Individual performances throughout the season were highly consistent. Henry B was superb in goal with his skills forming the basis of many good performances. Robbie J captained the side inspiringly and played every minute of every game at the heart of the tightest defence in the school. His presence alongside Matthew G with Lewis R sitting just in front allowed rampaging full-back performances from Freddie T and Fisayo A to overload the oppostion. Benjy M epitomised the scrap and fight that got us through many scrapes. Louis C was outstanding up front, with

Results

National Cup - Round 3: New College Doncaster Won 4-0

Shrewsbury Lost 0-1

AFC Sudbury Lost 1-2

Tournament: Barry Burns Northern 8s Lost 0-4

endless running, pace, an aerial threat and 18 goals that were assisted, over the course of the season, by quality from the flanks coming from, in the main, Cam W, Charles W and Max G. However, 2nd XI Player of the Year went to Luke F. An outstanding athlete and physical presence in midfield, Luke could dominate games, create assists and score 10 goals. He never shirked, or indeed lost (to my recollection), a tackle and never took a backward step in a style that essentially epitomised the team itself.

All that said, the overwhelming feeling is that this season felt like a collective effort: a team in every sense, where many players came in and contributed, often decisively, and at key times. The willingness to work for each other and the adaptability to win matches against teams, whether they played a possession-based game or a more direct, robust style or whether on grass, 3G or even mud, showed the key element of this team: character. This gets you out of more tight situations than skills alone could ever hope to do, and this team had buckets of it, and, once you combine it with ability, you have the alchemy that brought us the 2024-25 2nd XI season.

MMC & MRW

Results: U18 Derbyshire Cup WINNERS

Tupton 1st XI

Won 3-2

Lady Manners 1st XI

Won 3-0

Brookfield 1st XI

Won 2-1

U18 ESFA Cup

John Taylor Free 1st XI

Won 4-0

West Bridgford 1st XI

Won 2-0

John Port 1st XI

Won 5-2

Lady Manners 1st XI

Lost 1-2

Friendlies

ORFC

Lost 1-3

Kimbolton

Won 4-0

Bradfield

Won 3-1

Rossall

Lost 1-3

Brooke House

Won 7-0

3RD XI

SQUAD

Captain M. Carson (S)

Shrewsbury

Won 1-0

Shrewsbury

Won 4-0

Queen Ethelburga’s

Won 4-0

Eton

Draw 1-1

Queen Ethelburga’s

Won 4-0

P10 W3 L4 D3

A. Ascott (S), O. Berry (S), E. Brough (S), E. Crossley (P), H. Cursham (S), N. Davies (O), T. Fraine (L), S. Hinchliffe (L), M. Jackson (O), C. Mayfield (N), J. Ryan (N) J. Wang (L)

Also Played

O. Black (O), H. Bloor (N), M. Goulden (C), B. Hidderley (C), C. Ho (L), T. Hutchison (N), D. Ita (N), Z. M. Phillips de Lisle (L), S. Maxton (C), H. Mellor (C), N. Mugoti (P), A. Osindero (S), H. Strudwick (P), R. Truelove (L)

In his 1817 work, An Italian Journey, Johan Wolfgang von Goethe, perhaps the most influential writer within German literature, wrote that “Without having seen the Sistine Chapel, one can form no appreciable idea of what man is capable of achieving”. Goethe had, though, never watched the Boys’ 3rd XI.

On Friday 27 September, 2024, with the 3rds facing their first visit to the Lancashire Riviera, and with 12 withdrawals from the matchday squad, it looked as though, post-pandemic, football had finally channelled all its power to kick one in the actual face. But – but, but, but – in

Shrewsbury

Won 5-2

Abbotsholme 1st XI

Won 4-0

Denstone 1st XI

Won 3-0

the teeth of a gale ripping in off the Irish Sea, the 3rds put in a galvanising performance against Rossall that simultaneously epitomised and kickstarted our season. Titanic performances at the back from the ever-selfless Elijah B and Archie A, the courage of Sammy H, flatly refusing to be subbed off, despite being injured, and a cool-as-you-like equalising penalty from Michael C, secured for us our first point of the season, and gave us much-needed self-belief.

A how-did-we-not-win-that draw against Shrewsbury added a dash of righteous indignation to the mixture, and, then, like a river finding its

deliverance in the sea, all the pieces fell into place in the reverse fixture, on the banks of the Severn. Jamie R settled our nerves early on, with an unstoppable volley from the edge of the area, and, after Harry C had doubled our lead – and what a servant of the 3rds he has been, by the way – wave upon wave of attacks saw us visiting a ballet of devastation on our hosts, like a kitten toying with a woodlouse.

Next up was a potentially tricky fixture against Queen Ethelburga’s U16As, a team so technically accomplished that when, at one point, their ’keeper positioned himself on the half-way line, it was to no-one’s great surprise. We weathered the initial, predictable storm, and then justly took the lead as, with an instinct only possessed by a true fox-in-the-box, our talisman, the incomparable Ollie B, pounced on a loose ball. Now, we started to impose ourselves on the game, with Tom F marauding forward from left-back, with all the air of distracted ennui of the late American homme des lettres, Gore Vidal, pausing to suppress a smirk after he had just been asked a particularly asinine question by a fawning undergraduate audience in a small liberal arts college in Minnesota.

SQUAD

Captain R. Truelove (L)

L. Barker (L), O. Black (O), H. Bloor (N), Z. De Lisle (L), O. Fitton (P), J. Green (S), S. Hinchliffe (L), T. Hutchinson (N), D. Ita (N), S. Maxton (C), H. Mellor (C), G. Morris (N), J. Mugarra (L), N. Mugoti (P), B. Parkin (S), J. Robinson (L), M. Stewart (O), H. Strudwick (P), D. Tuinenburg (N), D. Ward (O), I. White (O)

Meanwhile, Monty J gave a seasondefining performance, absolutely dominating the midfield. This young man is one pass away from being a hands-down National Treasure: playing against him must be like trying to defeat the Death Star with the aid only of a melting choc-ice. To cap it all, for the second time in as many years, Michael C’s brilliance drew whoops of joy from both benches as he scored the goal to put the tie beyond any doubt: the only valid comparison was to Ricky Villa’s goal in the ’81 FA Cup Final, except that Michael had the fitness and stamina to drive forward for fully 80 yards (let’s be honest - Villa could never have done that) before putting three defenders on the floor and slotting the ball inside the far post.

And so we bid a sad but grateful farewell to a truly golden generation of 3rds players – Harry, Ollie, Michael, Tom, Eamonn C, Charlie M and Juwhan W. To paraphrase Pietro Bembo’s epitaph on the tomb of the artist Raphael, While you were with us, Mother Nature feared that she would be worsted; now that you have gone, she fears that she may, herself, perish

CSD

A difficult start to the season saw loses to the Old Reptonians and Bradfield. However, big wins against Kimbolton, Eton and Shrewsbury saw that we ended the season honours even.

The home and away fixture against Shrewsbury were the standout games. Tough football played in the right spirit ensured that Repton came away with the bragging rights.

CTI

Results

ORs

Draw 3-3

Bradfield

Lost 1-7

ESFA “B Teams” Cup: Kimbolton

Lost 1-3

De Ferrers

Lost 0-3

Rossall

Draw 1-1

Shrewsbury (h)

Draw 0-0

Shrewsbury (a)

Won 4-1

Queen Ethelburga’s

Won 3-1

Lady Manners

Won 8-0

Eton

Lost 0-1

SQUAD

Captain C. Savill (S)

M. Amaral (C), L. Bywater (L), I. Chohan (C), C. Dobson (C), G. Hill (C), W. Hyde (N), J. Joyce (L), A. Karunwi (O), A. Labesse (N), D. Latif (L), H. Marginson (C), H. McNulty (N), W. Needler (N), J. Parkinson (L), F. Roessen (L), C. Savill (S), O. Tverdokhlebov (P)

Season 2025/26 looked to be an exciting season ahead for the U16A Boys with a squad full of young footballers whose long-term aims were to work towards the 1st XI within a year to come. We started of the season well on the training pitch, high intensity, good squad moral and we were ready to face a tough test in our first fixture against Kimbolton’s 1st XI. It was a tough start for our side, however a battling performance and a never giving up approach, we fell to a 5-0 defeat, but nevertheless a good challenge for us. We then next faced Bradfield College, a big rivalry and the school fixture that everyone wants to beat! A high-quality game of football,

Results

5-0

U18A

Bradfield Lost 2-1

Rossall Lost 3-1

Shrewsbury

4-0

a wonder free kick by Harry McN gave us a well deserving lead, however Bradfield’s quality shone through, and we fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat.

Our first U16 English Schools (ESFA) game came around quickly where we faced De Ferrers in a local school derby clash! It was a battling game with both teams putting up a fight and having great momentum in the game. With two great goals scored by Adeleke K and Mateus A and a fighting team performance we got our first win of the season with a 2-1 victory and putting us in the hat for Round 2.

Our school fixtures continued with tough opponents, as the weeks went on, we had five of our boys training up with the 1st XI on a regular basis which was excellent! Our round 2 ESFA game came around where we faced another local school in John Taylor Free School. Another very close game, with both schools doing everything they could to progress to round 3. Adeleke K and Alex L scored our 2 goals however John Taylor free found a way back into the game and after extra time it remained 2-2, so to penalties it went. A quality penalty shootout with both

teams not looking likely to miss, it came down to the Captain Charlie S who slotted it past the GK and ran into the Repton crowd watching on to celebrate, a great day for the squad and the captain!!

We then faced Arnold Hill in Round 3 in ESFA, which was a tough away day. We fought hard in the wind and tried to break down and find a way past Arnold Hill, but it was unfortunately not meant to be and we sadly bowed out of the cup. A 3-game cup run ended in disappointment, but we could not be disappointed in the effort we put into the games. We continued the season and faced some tough schools which resulted in some tough defeats, but the Boy’s never once gave up or stopped running. A season we can be proud of with lots of lessons learnt. We thank all the players for their efforts throughout the season and wish the boys well as they progress and develop into senior football. A special mention to Deen L who was our player of the season and solid defender throughout the season with some excellent performances!

MLH

1-1

Brooke House

7-0

Eton

7-1

RGS Worcester

5-0

2-2

John Taylor Free School Draw 2-2 → Win 9-8 (Pens)

Arnold Hill Lost 4-2

SQUAD

Captain T. Smith (S)

F. Andrew (L), A. Bird (P), P. Burton (C), H. Clark (L), B. Eardley (P), S. Gay (O), T. Gilbody (N), J. Goode (S), R. Hagen (N), Z. Harman (S), K. Hope (S), O. Mobley (N), W. Needler (N), J. Prince (S), L. Roberts (S), R. Singh-Heer (L), D. Wells (A), A. Wolfe (M)

The U16Bs had a very successful campaign, winning six out of nine games, with two of these three losses coming from a penalty shootout and a last-minute goal. The season began with an incredible comeback win from 3-1 down to 4-3 up versus Kimbolton with an incredible Jack P hattrick. Other notable results include a 9-1 victory against Rossal with the defence and attack (particularly Oscar with four goals, adding to his tally of 11 in eight games) having amazing performances. Two victories either side of half term against rivals Shrewsbury and a dogged 3-2 win

SQUAD

Captain C. Toozer (N)

H. Blount (S), A. Bolodeoku (N), D. Carter (A), M. Doncaster (P), F. Earnshaw (L), B. Iddrisu (P), Z. Maxton (C), A. Maunders (C), G. McCallum (S), O. Obaigbena (P), S. Slater (F), R. Stylianou (C), E. Tuinenburg (M), L. Turrell (P), C. Webster (C)

After a disappointing start to the season, exiting the ESFA National Cup in an unfortunate penalties defeat, a change of formation and lots of individual improvement sparked the U15As to finish the season off with a nine-game unbeaten streak, highlighted by a fantastic ISFA cup run. The highlight for the neutral fan (which was also the toughest game to watch for the coach) was an away 7-6 win at Queen Ethelburga’s. Barraq I ended the season with three hat-trick match balls to his name and took the

title of top goal scorer commandingly. Charlie T lead the squad from the GK position and was fantastic throughout, even playing through a partially dislocated shoulder in an ISFA cup game. Felix E lead alongside Charlie, using his relentless energy to be both a defensive and forward threat as our left wing back, terrifying defences with his ability to cross the ball. There will be no argument to say Archie M covered the most ground during the season as he is incapable of standing still. This skill of his allows him to patrol our midfield and pick up any second balls and crunch into tackles. The team still have a lot to work on and progress in their time at Repton however, they performed what they were good at and were better in both boxes than the opposition they came up against. This takes great skill and togetherness to defend your box with assertion and attack their box with ruthless energy and they did that masterfully to end the season.

against Brook House were also top results. The team had an incredible spirit and worked fantastically as a unit, attacking and defending as a team. Notable mentions go to the exceptional back five of Tom G, Abi W, Kyle H, Lawrence R and Rory R who had the perfect combination of speed, physicality and quality. The versatile midfield consisting of a combination Toby S, Zak H, Will N, Alfie B and Roan SH, all provided quality and energy in both boxes. And lastly, attackers Jack P, Oscar M and Harry C were consistent performers in front of goal.

Results: ISFA Cup

R2: The Grammar School Leeds Won 3-1

R3: The Grange School Northwich Won 3-2

R16: Bolton School Won 4-2

Quarterfinal: Manchester Grammar

Bye

Results: ESFA Cup

R1: Quarrydale Academy Won 3-0

R2: The King’s School Lost 2-2 → AET 4-5 on penalties

SQUAD

Captain G. Dyson (P)

A. Ari-Kainth (L), E. Bailey (S), R. Birch (S), A. Casey (L), N. Harris (O), O. Hill (C), M. Hogg (C), H. Jobe (P), B. Lines (C), O. Lockett (L), A. Marriott (S), G. Odell (S), E. Oyinloye (N), G. Penasco Roman (P), A. Smith (C), M. Yotsugi (O)

Also Played

H. Blount (S), S. Chadwick (P), H. Cottrill (S), H. Kashmiri (N), A. Maunders (C), G. McCallum (S), H. Smith (L), C. Webster (C) S. Williams (N)

Inheriting a team that had only won one match the previous season, my hopes were hardly high in August, and the traditional drubbing at Bradfield only served to show how much needed to be done. We were fortunate, though, to have two fantastic goalkeepers in Guillermo and George D, the former probably the only ‘keeper in Repton history to have played A, B and C team in the same season, and the latter also an excellent outfield player and penalty-taker par excellence. Class was provided by Moto, and assured adaptability by Aaron; but, beyond that, this was a team that didn’t focus well enough in training and lacked real desire to improve. The one stand-out match

P6 W2 D1 L3 F17 A29

SQUAD

Captain C. Ormond (O)

V. Captain G. Eardley-Taylor (N)

L. Afzaal (O), E. Bailey (S), R. Birch (S), B. Buzin (N), A. Casey (L), S. Chadwick (P), H. Cottrill (N), O. Dilliway-Parry (O), M. Dobrovolskiy (L), F. Fenton (L), N. Harris (O), M. Hogg (C), H. Kashmiri (N), L. Millard (P), G. Odell (S), E. Oyinloye (N), G. Penasco Roman (P), O. Sadley (C), N. Sidders, H. Snooks (S), H. Smith (L), A. Tretyakov (N), E. Whittingham (S)

was the 3-0 win away at de Ferrers – a disciplined performance in a hostile environment – and it was nice to beat Shrewsbury on their own turf!

JMJH

An explosive start to the season saw an impressive 8-6 victory over Kimbolton. There were other highlights, including a spirited draw away at Shrewsbury and a tight 4-3 victory at home vs Wolverhampton Grammar courtesy of a late winning goal from Henry S. Sam C took home the golden boot, and his committed performances saw Nat S voted player of the season by his teammates in his first season as a Repton footballer.

NJS

SQUAD

Captain K. Helmholt-Kneisel (N)

E. Acheson (C), N. Bolu (P), T. Brown (N), G. Burke (P), M. Christopher (N), T. Clarke (L), A. Dobson (C), J. Fern (C), R. Hallows (N), E. Mackenzie (L), L. Murray (C), H. Peñasco Roman (P), W. Proctor (C), C. Sharkey (L), T. Sugden (P), J. Warner (L)

This year’s U14As are one of the strongest sides we have had in recent memory and impressed from the very off. It’s rare to not have to coach a side to play possession-based, attacking football and their collective desire to share the ball with one another led to outstanding progress over the course of the season. The term began

with a very comfortable win away at Kimbolton, restricting the home side to just one shot all game. This was topped with a fantastic win over a strong Bradfield side and the early goal of the season, with Callum S scoring from just outside his own half (on a large Chapel pitch!) to make it 3-0. Further wins away to Rossall and home to Shrewsbury followed, with Noah B’s goals adding to an already formidable side. This success was tempered by an unfortunate loss away to Shrewsbury in the return fixture in a game where we weren’t ourselves. As was typical with this side though, they responded positively, scoring 8 goals in consecutive games with excellent wins away at both Queen Ethelburga’s (notable for a Tom S hat-trick) and Eton. The block fixtures were topped off with a draw and a last-minute loss to the U15A team,

which show just how impressive the team performances were.

Perhaps the highlight of the season was an extra time victory over Chapel-en-le-Frith in the County Cup thanks to a late James F header. Unfortunately, despite being 3-1 up with just five minutes to play in the next round, we exited the competition on penalties following an unfortunate deflection and a scramble from a corner to equalise late in normal time. Nevertheless, the team will grow and learn from these occasions, and it was fantastic for them to experience competitive football at this level. This is an exciting team that we feel privileged to have coached and I have no doubt that several will go on to represent the School at 1st XI level if they keep up their level of progress.

BEP/RGE

Captain J. Davies (L)

T. Briggs (N), G. Burke (P), E. Clarkson (L), C. Clayton (C), A. Dobson (C), E. Ferguson (O), N. Gregory (C), J. Leavesley (L), D. McCallum (P), T. Parker (O), D. Phipps (P), A. Port (O), W. Proctor (C), H. Royall (N), T. Sugden (P), W. Vale (O) Also Played

T. Clarke (L), R. Hallows (N), A. Owolade-Coombes (S), D. Price (S)

Now everyone at Repton will always say that the benchmark of a good team is their performance against Bradfield. It is the biggest test of the year and, if you don’t play, normally ends with a thrashing of astronomical size. I prepared the team for this, and they wanted the challenge. They sensed an opportunity to fight the hierarchy and change the landscape of school football. Despite some late

SQUAD

Captain F. Watson (S)

J. Battle (L), R. Chan (C), E. Clarkson (L), W. Harvey-Bailye (S), J. Hubinger (O), L. Joshi (P), R. Marchis (P), D. McCallum (P), I. Murray (O), A. Pérez Saltijeral (N), E. Presland (O), S. Smale (S), A. Tavukcuoglu (S), L. Whitfield (P), H. Yang (L), J. Zhang (N) P9

CWA SQUAD

dropout from junior league the day before, the team set about beating Bradfield. Unfortunately, Bradfield decided to score two goals worthy of the Puskas award and went into a 2-0 lead. Chances came, but it was not enough, defeat was the outcome. A superb performance and one the team should justly be proud of –although the Bradfield coach was less than pleased with the long-ball strategy…I did say the team tried everything!

A new opportunity followed, a national cup! Kirk H presented a completely new challenge, and with it the biggest lesson of the season – don’t pay attention to what the opposition say or look like! Potentially frightened by the number of beards on show, the team fell 2-0 within the first ten minutes and faced an uphill struggle to stay in the cup. An own-goal and a header from Burke either side of another from Kirk H reduced the deficit to one, but another close loss came. Their coach was full of praise for our quick play and fight and secretly mentioned how

many A team players were in this ‘B team’ cup. ESFA ruled fair game, and the fairytale cup dream was over for another year.

With this performance in mind, they made the longest away trip of the year to our prep school to play the U13As. We were quicker, stronger and more solid at the back, which caused problems for the younger, more skilled prep schoolers and brought a wellearned 3-0 victory. This left one game before half-term, the grudge match against Shrewsbury. With the coach on a touchline ban (DofE), the team played well, putting together multiple phases of short passes and intricate triangles to earn a 2-2 draw on Hall Close. A perfect setup for the return fixture after half-term.

Overall, what a season. Full of unbelievable football, great moments and some even better laughs. It has been a delight to take the team, and I wish you well when you move up to the U15s. Go well!

CSI

The U14Cs performed admirably and competed well in all their games during the season. The standout performance was in a last kick of the game defeat to Shrewsbury who won a thrilling encounter 3-2 in the final seconds after coming from behind to win.

1ST XI

SQUAD

Captain G. Atherley (G)

P14 W9 D0 L5 F61 A36

F. Betts (G), A. Clarkson (M), L. Coates (A), M. Haines (M), A. Kishna (G), N. McDermott (A), M. Olalobo (G), L. Parkes (M), I. Semmence (M), K. Shield (G), I. Turton (A), D. Wells (A), A. Wolfe (M)

The new season came around for the Girls 1st XI and with new additions in the team we were set for our season! Our first game of the season came around quickly in the English Schools competition (ESFA) where we faced Wilsthorpe School, a solid 5-1 win saw us go through to the next round. This season we were also part of a new league (ESFA Super League) a very tough competition playing some of the best schools in the country, a great experience for our team but sadly we did not progress any further than the group stages. Our Independent Schools (ISFA) campaign began with a dominating victory over Shrewsbury School; due to unforeseen circumstances the following round did not get played and we found ourselves in the last 16 facing one of the toughest opponents in the competition…. Rossall. Rossall are a high achieving team but, nevertheless, we believed if we gave it our all we can get something from the game… and we did! An end-to-end battling game finished at 2-2 and a perfect penalty shootout saw us go into the Quarter Finals. Christmas came around and we finished the term still in the ISFA and ESFA competitions.

After a successful first term and a productive pre-season, highlighted by the infamous “build your own float” race in the pool which, truthfully, fared only marginally better than the Titanic, the squad returned full of motivation and ambition. That focus quickly bore

fruit with a commanding 6–1 victory over St George’s, a win that confirmed our place in the top 16 teams in the country. Standout moments included a clinical hat-trick from Wheezy, and a potential goal of the season: a slick team move stylishly finished by Amelia.

In the last 16, we faced Comberton Village College on the square in what promised to be a thrilling tie. The team delivered a strong performance and one in which you’d expect to win 9 times out of 10, but football can be cruel. A tense match was ultimately decided by penalties, with Comberton edging us out. The cup gods simply weren’t on our side this time.

Next up was Surbiton High in the ISFA Cup Quarter Final—a fixture worthy of a final. Surbiton dominated possession, but our compact and disciplined defensive block kept them at bay, while we remained dangerous on the counter. One such break led to Izzy Turton almost producing magic, her lofted shot skimming the woodwork after a move that began deep in our half. On another day, it could have been ours. Unfortunately, Surbiton made their brief spell of pressure count with two quick goals early in the second half. Despite our best efforts—including more strikes against the frame—we couldn’t find the net. Nevertheless, competing so evenly with one of the UK’s top girls’ football schools shows we’re now firmly in the conversation for the biggest honours.

Our final home game on the square came against Rugby School, and the team put on a show. A confident, flowing performance secured a 5–1 win, with captain Gemma capping her final appearance on home turf with a well-deserved goal.

The season finale away at Uppingham was the perfect send-off—a dominant 8–0 win, with goals from our brilliant

FOOTBALL GIRLS

leavers Nancy, Izzy, and Amelia. It was a bittersweet day: sadness in saying goodbye to our exceptional Upper Sixth, but huge excitement for what lies ahead. The O blockers rose to the occasion—Katie bagging a hat-trick, with Amelie and Darcey adding their names to the scoresheet, and Abby delivering a standout performance at the back.

Overall, it was a season of big learning curves, positive experiences and tough times. There is no doubt we have the potential to match almost anyone on the school circuit, and we hope to realise this next season. A special mention to Abby W (M), who won our

Results: ESFA Super League

Newcastle and Stafford College Lost 7-0

Sandwell College Won 3-0

Results: Midlands League

Oundle Lost 3-1

Rugby Won 5-1

Uppingham Won 8-0

player of the season award, with some outstanding performances across the season. The girls should be so proud of what they’ve achieved this season. They have worked hard, shown their quality and left the shirt in a better place from when they found it.

We would like to give a special thank you to our players that leave us this year, our captain Gemma Atherley (G) who over the past 4 years has given everything to the Football programme and has become a real role model for her younger peers. Mia O (G), Amelia K (G), Nancy McD (A) and Louise C (A) who came new to the school in L6th and have been fantastic over the last

Results: U18 ISFA

R1: Shrewsbury

12-0

R2: Rossall

2-2 → Won 4-2 (Pens)

R3: Surbiton

2-0

Trophy R1: Bromsgrove Draw 1-1 → Won 4-2 (Pens)

Trophy R2: Cheadle Hulme Lost 4-0

2 years, certainly raising the quality within the squad. Isabella T (A) who had a short spell with us this term, came into the team and has shown massive amounts of hard work and scored some great goals! Flora B (G) who has been our saviour in goal this season and has improved vastly over the year, some huge saves and a key part to our success. Finally, Darcey W (A) who has stepped up to the first team this year, one of the younger members of the team but who has played her part every game and has developed so much over the time she has been with us.

MLH

Results: U18 ESFA

Wilsthorpe Won 5-1

Queen Elizabeth Draw 2-2 → Won 5-3 (Pens)

St George’s Academy Won 6-1

Comberton College Draw 1-1 → Lost 4-2 (Pens)

SQUAD

Captain D. Carter (A)

P. Ascott (F), I. Cameron (M), D. Carter (A), D. Gardiner (A), B. Gillard (F), I. Grimes (M), S. Hardy (M), T. Lobb (A), C. Read (F), E. Shield (G),

S. Slater (F), E. Tuinenburg (M), M.J. Waters (F), A. Webster (A), E. Webster (A), B. Wilton (F)

A very busy season for our U15 Girls, competing in three competitions we set our sights on finishing the season with silverware. A very talented squad of players we were all very excited to get our season up and running.

We started off our campaign with an away day at Babington College in the English Schools (ESFA) competition and saw us off to a great start with a 12-1 win in the pouring rain. A couple of weeks later we started off the Independent Schools (ISFA) Cup and Trophy competition, winning both games against Kings High School and Loughborough High school, we progressed through to round two of all three competitions.

AMAZING

MILESTONE FOR THE GIRLS U15 TEAM

The weeks went on, and our season continued in fine form, scoring excellent team goals and progressing to next stages of the competitions, the

term ended in December and finished the Michaelmas term unbeaten which was an amazing milestone for the Girls U15 team.

The Lent term came around and this was the main football term for the Girls, a three-day January preseason camp set us in good stead for us to continue our momentum from before Christmas and we were ready to compete in the latter stages of the competitions. We started off the Lent term with a long trip up to Newcastle Upon Tyne to play Newcastle High School for Girls where we were looking to book our place in the ISFA Quarter Final. An outstanding performance in the North East saw us defeat Newcastle High 8-0, with a special mention to Izzy C who stepped up for the team and played exceptionally out of position in centre back! A brilliant day and into the Quarter Finals we went.

Our first defeat of the season in ESFA Round 5 came against a strong Thomas Telford side, it was a tough match for our Girls against an excellent team and sadly our eight-game unbeaten streak came to an end. We bounced back quickly with games coming around thick and fast, we travelled to Lingfield College and put on an excellent 4-1 display to reach the ISFA Cup Semi Finals. We also booked our place in the ISFA Trophy Final with a 3-0 dominant performance against St Helens & St Katherines.

Our toughest game yet though was upon us with a trip away to Surbiton School in the ISFA Cup Semi Final, a school that have dominated for the last few years and it was certainly our most challenging hurdle yet. Despite an incredible effort and an outstanding performance against the best school

in the country we fell to a 4-0 defeat, we played some excellent football but could not quite get over the line, and Surbiton were a fantastic team.

However, we were not down and out, we had the ISFA Trophy Final to prepare and look forward to, the Easter Holidays came around and the Lent term came to an end, but we had an exciting start to the summer term ahead!

Thursday 1 May 2025…Cup Final Day!! We left Repton ready to go for a 2.00pm kick off against Cheadle Hulme at Hertfordshire FA County Ground. All our hard work came down to this great opportunity to be the first U15 Girls Football side at Repton to win a national title. 30 degrees heat, two exceptionally well taken goals by Sophie H, and an excellent team performance saw us become U15 ISFA Trophy Champions!! A truly memorable day on Miss Holder’s last football game for Repton School.

A huge thank you to the squad for their efforts this year, we set out to win a national trophy and we did just that, it would not have been possible without the continuous dedication from the players. To pick out a player of the year would be so tough, but a special mention to Darcie C our captain who has had a fantastic season, with so many goals scored. Eloise W who has been our rock in Central Defensive Midfield and been outstanding. Belle G in B Block who has stepped in comfortably at Centre Back and not put a foot wrong. Betsy W and Iggy G who between them have only conceded 15 goals which is remarkable.

MLH, KR and CSI

Results: ISFA Cup

R1: Loughborough High

Won 13-1

R2: Cheadle Hulme

Won 6-2

R3: Newcastle High School

Won 8-0

Quarter-Final: Kings High Warwick Won 8-1

Semi-Final: Surbiton

Lost 4-0

Results: ISFA Trophy

Kings High Won 8-0

Stockport Grammar

Won 8-1

Quarter-Final: Lingfield College

Won 4-1

Semi-Final: St Helen & St Katherine’s Won 3-0

Final: Cheadle Hulme

Won 2-0

Results: ISFA Cup

R1: Babington Won 12-0

R2 Bye

R3: National CofE Academy Won 4-1

R4: Ormiston Academy Won 4-2

R5: Thomas Telford Lost 2-0

1ST XI SQUAD

Captain O. Britt (C)

P18 W13 D2 L3 F78 A21

A. Ascott (S), A. Bargende (S), T. Belhustede (N), A. Burden (P), A. Davis (N), R. Ewart-White (N), S. Hibbs (N), O. Hoffman (L), T. Javaid (S), J. Kemsley (O), H. Kunz (P), M. Lake (O), S. Litchfield (O), G. Morris (P), F. Naylor (S), H. Ormond (N), J. Reid (P), J. Saunders (C), J. Savage (C), E. Smythe (S), R. Whitby-Samways (L), Z. Wedgwood (S), J. Ziff (L)

The season for the 1st XI began with a series of difficult friendly fixtures against local university sides. These provided the opportunity to expose different combinations of players to high level hockey. Despite not winning a game in this period, much was learned about each other, and the group began to grow their tactical understanding. This period of exploration paid dividends as the result in the first tier 1 fixture vs Gresham’s demonstrated. Seven goals were scored without reply in this game and the positive results continued up to half term, with a determined 2-1 win away to Solihull and a 10-3 win away to Oakham.

The focus then switched to the indoor format of the game and after several weeks of gruelling training and internal matches, the team were crowned Midlands regional champions, convincingly beating Worksop College in the final to book a national finals berth. In early December the team made their way to nationals full of confidence having beaten Beeston Men’s 1st XI in a not so friendly practice match before departure. After a tentative start, the team found some rhythm and went onto book a place in the semi-final where they would face St George’s.

Nothing could separate the two teams during the 20 minutes of normal time so the result would need to be decided upon by a shoot-out. A once in a lifetime save by the St. George’s goalkeeper proved to be the deciding factor and the team would have to settle for a 3rd place finish.

After a well-deserved Christmas break, the Lent Term outdoor cup fixtures resumed in a similar fashion to how they ended before the indoors. Ruthless 10-1 and 10-0 wins versus Denstone and Ipswich respectively, showed the team’s ability to bounce back from the upset of the indoor campaign. The team were then kept on their toes when a strong Norwich School side held them to a 1-1 draw at home. A win in the final group phase game would ensure a top of the table clash and a home quarter final draw and the team achieved exactly this outcome when they beat Rugby 9-1.

After narrowly missing out at the quarter final stage last year, the team had added motivation going into the match against Reed’s School. Despite losing Taheem to an injury in the warm- up, it was a dominant display with and without the ball in an exciting match in front of a large and vocal home support. The team remained calm and despite some late pressure, came out worthy 4-2 victors.

A week later the team made the three-day trip to Lee Valley in their quest for the national title. In the semifinal against St. George’s, the team were clinical in attack and watertight in defence and the opposition simply had no answer. Two corner goals from Theo and an excellent solo finish from Ethan sealed the deal and ensured the team were playing in the biggest game of the school hockey calendar the following day against Whitgift.

The first half of the final was excellently contested by both teams

HOCKEY BOYS

and whilst each team was trying to work the other out, neither could find a way to break the deadlock going into halftime. Shortly after the restart Whitgift found an opening goal and their confidence noticeably grew as a result. Despite this, Repton worked tirelessly without the ball and pushed with their own surges of counter attacks. Eight minutes after the first goal, Ethan punished a moment of illdiscipline from Whitgift and scored his second goal of the finals to bring the scores back level. Whitgift turned the momentum back in their favour with two goals in quick succession leading Repton to pull the goalkeeper and throw everything they had left at their opponents. This paid off, as a wellexecuted drag flick by Theo reduced

the deficit to a single goal with just two minutes of the match remaining. This ultimately wouldn’t be enough to secure the much-coveted gold medal, but the team can be proud that they all gave a fantastic display of themselves and of Repton hockey.

The season finished by reaching the finals day of the Independent Schools’ Cup. Once again, the team faced St. George’s in the semi-final, however after a draw during normal time, the match went to a series of penalty shootouts. Only after five rounds of sudden death could the teams be separated and unfortunately it didn’t end in Repton’s favour. The team then went on to place 3rd in the competition with a convincing win against Solihull,

Results: Tier 1 Cup Fixtures

in what for some was the last time pulling on the maroon jersey.

Oscar B led the team as captain in exemplary fashion over the entirety of the year and steered the team to become the second-best side in the country. Special mentions must go to all the upper sixth who have given so much to the team over their time at Repton. We wish Oscar, Marcus, Henry, Joe K, Joe R, Joe S, Jonah, Oskar, Sam, Seb, Taheem, Zak and Theo all the very best in the future. Thank you also to Mr Hawley who had to do more than his fair share of umpiring and administering of substitutions, who was brilliant assistant coach to the team.

SQUAD

F. Andrew (L), A. Baines (S), N. Davies (O), B. Eardley (P), O. Fitton (P), J. Green (S), S. Hinchliffe (L), M. Jackson (O), Z. March Phillipps De Lisle (O), J. Parish (S), L. Roberts (S), T. Smith (S), H. Studholme (O), H. Strudwick (P), H. Styring (N), H. Whittaker (S), D. Ward (O) Gk. Also Played

P. Burton (C), T. Fraine (L), Z. Harman (S), R. Ingram (O), E. Ingham (C), C. Savill (S), R. Yokoyama (C)

The start of the season was a baptism of fire as the Boys’ 2nd XI team came up against strong opposition and after the first four games of the season the

team had lost three games and drawn one. In defence, Fergus A, Lawrence R, Monty J and Alfie B all showed great resilience in these early games and without doubt they all progressed throughout the season. As a squad they trained with purpose and looked for ways to improve which was to their great credit. After half term they started to play with more fluency winning two matches and drawing three.

THE

START OF THE SEASON WAS A BAPTISM OF FIRE

One highlight of the season was the match against Oundle. The opposition

DEVELOPMENT XI

SQUAD

Captains J. Ziff (L), S. Litchfield (O)

A. Ascott (S), O. Berry (O), O. Black (O), E. Brough (S), H. Clark (L), H. Cursham (S), S. Gay (O), J. Green (S), R. Hagen (N), B. Hidderley (C), C. Hill (C), W. Hyde (N), L. Jamieson (L), J. Kemsley (O), C. Mayfield (N), H. Mellor (C), F. Naylor (S), W. Needler (N), B. Parkin (S), J. Prince (S), C. Savill (S), J. Saunders (C), R. Truelove (L), R. WhitbySamways (L)

This was my first experience of coaching the Development side, and what a fantastic experience it was.

I want to firstly, start by thanking the superb Upper Sixth leavers, who in a hectic time of their school career, all fully committed to the Hockey programme and have been excellent ambassadors for Repton School over their time here.

What is easy to overlook with the Development side is the fact that many of their fixtures are played against School 1st teams. This highlights the incredible level of Repton but also places the emphasis on the talent that the team had this year. The defeats were narrow and on other days we could have claimed victories.

What can’t be avoided is the superb level of hockey that the team has played this year. We have worked hard on how we want to play, placing an

set a very high press which the team found difficult to get through and at half time they were trailing 2-0. It was decided for the second half that we would push everyone up the pitch and give them the same problem. Even the goalkeeper Josh P was venturing out of the circle and using his stick! Suddenly, it was a totally new game, and the team pulled the deficit back. Their keeper made a couple of excellent saves to keep the score level. There was such a sense of satisfaction that they had successfully changed their style of play.

Bringing together O Block and Sixth Form hockey players to play for a 2nd XI team is never easy but to their credit they all enjoyed training and playing matches together. This bodes well for 2025. Bring it on!

OMW and THN

emphasis on out letting, ensuring that the midfield players are used effectively whilst remaining clinical in the opposition D. You can see through the results, that the team has achieved this. One thing is for sure, when the players trusted themselves, they produced hockey that was fantastic.

Aside from providing stretch and challenge for many of our hockey players, I have been really proud of how it has also provided opportunity for some of our U16 players. They have never once looked out of place, and being exposed to high level hockey in O Block can only be a good thing moving forward.

ASu

Results: School Fixtures

Trent Lost 2-3

Ratcliffe

Won 7-1

Denstone

Won 1-0

Worksop

Lost 3-4

SQUAD

Captain A. Butterworth (S)

P. Burton (C), H. Clark (L), S. Gay (O), R. Hagen (N), Z. Harman (S), W. Hyde (N), L. Jamieson (L), D. Latif (L), B. Morley (N), W. Needler (N), J. Prince (S), C. Read (O), C. Savill (S)

A Block

A. Ari-Kainth (L), A. Bond (S), M. Doncaster (P), O. Hill (C), T. Lee-Sang (P), B. Lines (C), O. Lockett (L), A. Marriott (S), A. Stürken (O), C. Webster (C), S. Williams (P)

This was a curious season and ultimately a real mixed bag. The team could, at times, be very effective going forward and scored freely, such as in the Solihull (a real highlight!) and KES Birmingham games, but defensively they have a lot to work on as our departure from the Tier 1 competition against Langley Park proved. This was frustrating, especially after cruising through the group stages having gritted out a 2-2 draw in the first cup game against a strong Scarborough side.

Rugby Won 8-0

Abbotsholme

Won 6-1

Dean Close

Won 5-1

Loughborough Grammar

Lost 2-3

Arthur B was the stand-out player of the term while Stanley G led the forward line well. Will H was excellent, too, at times, and while the block fixtures provided the opportunities for others to stake a claim for selection to the 16s cup side, it was ultimately a good opportunity to give younger players in A Block important exposure to competitive cup hockey and their contributions augur well for next year’s squad.

In the end, we hope the lads learned that fine margins can be the big difference in games; they need to train as they would play in matches and the importance of defending well both individually and as a team, whilst being stronger on the ball when in possession, needs to improve. We hope the boys are able to reflect on the highs and lows of the season, learn from them and recognise that better game awareness is going to be crucial in helping this group of players deliver more successful performances in the future.

We would like to thank all the players for their undoubted commitment and desire to do well, and we hope the rest of their Repton hockey careers for the last two years sees more consistent levels of success.

WGO and MH

Oundle

Won 3-2

Nottingham High

Won 5-1

Bromsgrove

Won 5-1

Results: U16 Tier 1

Championship

Scarborough

Draw 2-2

Solihull

Won 10-0

Trent

Won 4-1

KES Birmingham

Won 9-3

Langley Park

Lost 0-3

Results: Fixtures

Hockey Mentors

Won 7-0

Rugby

Won 1-0

Dean Close

Lost 1-3

Oundle

Won 2-0

Bromsgrove

Won 4-1

P5 W2 D2 L1 F15 A5

SQUAD

Captain H. Studholme (O)

F. Andrew (L), B. Eardley (P), G. Gaffney (S), S. Gregory (C), J. Goode (S), R. Ingram (O), D. Latif (L), O. Mobley (N), B. Morley (N), V. Ogir (S), L. Roberts (S), T. Smith (S), M. Yam (C)

Also Played

O. Berry (O), P. Burton (C), C. Savill (S), W. Needler (N), R. Hagen (N)

An enthusiastic and energetic U16B squad approached matches and training full of good intent. This was highlighted in the first fixture against a very physical Denstone team, where six players of the team had already played an hour-long match for the 2nd team. A 4-1 victory set the tone for the term, with Lawrence R, Fergus A, Harry S, Toby S, Brady E and Ryan I all not only playing backto-back matches but also showing frustration at being substituted halfway through the second half of the second game! Despite the result, the game highlighted the strength of the team; well-structured, a strong defence, the ability to dominate long spells of possession, pass the ball accurately and quickly and create countless D entries, but an inability to convert chances.

A mixture of goalkeepers, ranging from Deen L to Ollie B, meant that conceding goals was a rarity. Even in games where the boys dominated possession key saves were made, such as in the dying moments of the Oundle match, that ensured that the team did not lose. Lawrence R and Fergus A formed a very solid central defence partnership and as the term progressed improved their awareness of space and range of passes, resulting in far better out-letting. Arguably the most improved player, Veniamin O, at right wing back, was an ever-present fixture in the side; his understanding of his role both in defence and attack and the development of his technique was testament to the effort that he put in on every single occasion he turned up at the pitch. On the other side of the defensive back line, Matthew Y proved be a strong defensive player who filled his role well; he worked hard to cover when necessary but ensured that he was strong in the tackle and comfortable passing the ball out of defence ensuring that he never lost the ball in dangerous areas of the pitch. Samuel G supported well in defence, always giving 100% and showing particular strength in the tackle.

Toby S, at centre-mid, was the key player when transitioning from defence to attack. His awareness of players around him and space meant that he often saw the pass before anyone else and moved the ball accurately. A combination of Jack G, Oscar M, Ryan

I and Harry S meant that the midfield was always strong particularly in attack. The matches against Oundle and Bromsgrove highlighted this as the midfield dominated possession, moved the ball and set up numerous opportunities. Unfortunately, in the former the boys were unable to capitalise despite over 60 D entries (!) but this was not the case against Bromsgrove in the last match of the season, where the boys finishing in front of goal was on a different level.

In this final match Brady E scored 4 goals in the first half, all from within five yards of the goal, as the boys put in their most complete performance of the term. This coincided with Wils M, at right wing, setting up several chances by getting high on the base line and accurately passing the ball across the goal to either the penalty spot or far post. The ever-willing Harry S mixed duties between the midfield and centre-forward, and whilst he will be a little disappointed not to have scored more goals, he always led the team by example giving 100%.

I am sure the boys will look back on the season slightly frustrated that they did not win more games given the way that they dominated the majority of games, but from a personal point of view it has been fun working with the boys due to the effort and commitment shown and I hope they continue to play hockey as they progress to the Sixth Form.

MS

SQUAD

Captain S. Williams (N)

A. Ari-Kainth (L), A. Bond (S), A. Casey (L), M. Doncaster (P), G. Dyson (P), O. Hill (C), H. Jobe (P), T. Lee-Sang (P), J. Leavesley (L), B. Lines (C), O. Lockett (L), A. Marriot (S), A. Maunders (C), C. Ormond (O), H. Oscroft (N), A. OwoladeCoombes (S), D. Phipps (P), H. Royall (N), A. Stürken (O), R. Stylianou (C), T. Sugden (P), C. Webster (C), M. Yotsugi (O)

The 15As enjoyed a sensational season of hockey, built on a foundation of togetherness, grit, and relentless Repton spirit. A campaign that was defined by block fixture dominance and crowned with national silverware started in style with a resounding 6-0 win against Trent College, setting the tone early. It was an especially proud moment for debutants Taylor L-S and Alex B, who both opened their accounts for the season with standout finishes—Taylor with a classy backhand and Alex B showcasing his drag flicking prowess.

Throughout the season, the boys grew in strength and confidence, spearheaded by captain Sam W, whose leadership was exceptional despite an unfortunate run of injuries. Always travelling to matches and training sessions, Sam remained a calm, guiding presence for the team— an embodiment of Repton resilience. When Sam was sidelined, it was Aaron A-K who stepped up magnificently, captaining the side with maturity beyond his years from the back and bringing composure to crucial moments.

One such moment came during an away fixture at Rugby School—a game that would prove to be a defining

point of the season. With Sam W injured in the first three minutes, the boys were left to play 67 minutes with just 10 men against a strong Rugby outfit. But where other teams may have crumbled, the 15As stood tall. Ben L delivered a masterclass in midfield, driving the team forward, while Caspar W and super sub Raph S netted late goals to secure an unforgettable 5-3 victory.

As the season progressed, the boys turned their focus to the Independent Schools Hockey Cup (ISHC) U15 competition, a tournament that would become the highlight of the campaign. Resounding victories followed against Sandbach, Bradford Grammar, King’s Chester, and King Edward VI Southampton, each game showcasing the depth, talent, and tactical intelligence of the side.

The final at Nottingham Hockey Centre pitted Repton against familiar rivals Whitgift, and it was a clash that lived up to its billing. The boys started superbly, surging to a 2-0 lead with intensity and class. However, two untimely injuries shifted the momentum, and Whitgift struck back with three unanswered goals. But this Repton side, true to form, would not lie down. With the last play of the game—a penalty corner in overtime—the tension was immense. But just as they had done so many times in training, the boys executed it to perfection. Taylor L-S, calm under pressure, fired the ball into the net to make it 3-3. What followed were scenes of celebration reminiscent of Troy Deeney’s iconic goal for Watford in 2013, as the team stormed the pitch. The resulting shootout was clinical, and Repton emerged as ISHC U15 Cup Champions—a fitting reward for the unwavering commitment shown throughout the year, with goalkeeper Anton S saving all of Whitgift’s shootouts in typical Anton fashion.

Winning this trophy was a testament to the tireless work ethic of the entire squad. A special mention must go to Charlie O, who gave up countless hours to support the team selflessly throughout the campaign, and to the B Block boys who stepped up brilliantly when called upon during the Cup run.

It was a season to remember—pride, passion, and silverware.

OJA and JRH

Results: Fixtures

Trent Won 6-0

Solihull

Won 6-1

Denstone

Won 5-0

Dean Close

Won 2-0

Oundle

Won 1-0

Bromsgrove

Won 4-0

Nottingham High

Won 7-0

Rugby

Won 5-3

Round 1

Bye

Round 2: Sandbach Bye

Round 3: Bradford Grammar

Won 7-0

Round 4: Yarm

Won 6-1

Quarter-final: King’s Chester

Won 3-0

Semi-final: King Edward VI

Won 7-2

SQUAD

Captain G. McCallum (S)

E. Bailey (S), R. Birch (S), H. Blount (S), O. Dilliway-Parry (O), G. Dyson (P), G. Eardley-Taylor (N), F. Fenton (L), M. Hogg (C), L. Millard (P), G. Odell (S), N. Sidders (L), A. Smith (C), H. Smith (L), H. Snooks (S), R. Stylianou (C), E. Whittingham (S), M. Yotsugi (O)

With aims to go unbeaten for the season the boys had set themselves up for a challenge they were willing to take. Having to do selection each week for places made training a competitive environment putting us in good stead for fixtures. Starting strong we came away with two big wins in some feisty games playing in a football formation! This was followed by our first proper challenge, an A team. They put in a huge shift but unfortunately came away with a 2-3 loss. This then changed our target to beating all B teams and this continued throughout the whole season!

Final: Whitgift

Draw 3-3 / Win on shootout

This group were certainly not short of enthusiasm, and this was shown in the whole team goal scoring celebrations with special mentions to Ralph S and Reuben B showing off some questionable moves. A highlight must include Euan B making his debut as striker and scoring a tap in! It’s been a pleasure to coach this group and have George M lead by great example as captain for the season. Congratulations to Alfie S who is the player of the season with some excellent goal keeping.

ASt

SQUAD

Captain G. Eardley-Taylor (N)

H. Blount (S), B. Buzin (N), S. Chadwick (P), H. Cottrill (S), M. Dobrovolskiy (L), F. Fenton (L), N. Harris (O), L. Millard (P), E. Oyinloye (N), G. Penasco Roman (P), O. Sadley (C), H. Snooks (S), A. Tretyakov (N), E. Whittingham (S)

Also Played

E. Bailey (S), O. Dilliway-Parry (O), F. Khan (S)

As U14s, this side only won one match, so I wasn’t expecting a great deal from them. Fair to say, though, that, although numbers in training were light, we could at least put out 11 players on a Saturday, unlike some of our opposition...

THE SEASON HIGHLIGHT WAS THE MATCH AGAINST BROMSGROVE

The season highlight was the match against Bromsgrove: 1-0 down in the first minute; 4-1 down at half-time; but 5-4 winners come the final whistle, with four goals from Artem! Lowlight was Artem’s subsequent series of misses against Rugby – a game we should have won comfortably. And Eni: if you ever play hockey again, please remember to take a stick with you!

JMJH

SQUAD

Captain A. Owolade-Coombes (S)

E. Acheson (C), T. Briggs (N), T. Clarke (L), J. Davies (L), E. Ferguson (O), N. Gregory (C), R. Hallows (N), K. HelmholtKneisel (N), J. Leavesley (L), E. Mackenzie (L), D. McCallum (P), H. Oscroft (N), D. Phipps (P), A. Port (O), H. Royall (N), T. Sugden (P) P14 W12 D1 L1 F78 A6

This year’s U14A team have consistently performed at a level well beyond their years. Although the season ultimately ended on a loss in the national final, there were so many brilliant performances and cherished moments throughout the season that the team can be incredibly proud of. To only concede six goals all season whilst playing against some incredibly tough opponents, often with players being pulled out of the team to play in higher age groups, just shows how much depth and resilience the team possess.

Ted C, Espen F, Noah G, Ayrton P and Eddie A may not get the headlines that some others do, but they have

been ever present this season, improving as hockey players and contributing so much to the team.

Match results of significance include a 6-0 cup win over Trent and a 9-1 win in the national semi-final versus Gresham’s. On an individual level, one highlight of the season that must be mentioned is Teddy B’s hat-trick

Results: Fixtures

Trent Draw 0-0

Solihull Won 9-1

Denstone Won 9-0

Rugby Won 4-0

Oundle Won 6-1

Nottingham High Won 9-0

Bromsgrove Won 5-0

on debut for the A team against Nottingham High, which led to him then becoming a regular in team and ultimately a national silver medallist.

A very talented team with an exciting future ahead of them.

AD

Results: Tier 1 Cup Fixtures

KES Birmingham Won 9-0

Bishop Vesey’s Won 5-1

Trent Won 6-0

Warwick Won 4-1

Quarter-Final: King’s Chester Won 2-0

Semi-Final: Gresham’s Won 9-1

Final: Millfield Lost 1-1 / Lost 3-4 after shootout

SQUAD

Captain G. Burke (P)

T. Briggs (N), T. Brown (N), G. Burke (P), E. Clarkson (L), J. Davies (L), A. Dobson (C), R. Hallows (N), T. Jobe (S), I. Murray (O), L. Murray (C), T. Parker (O), E. Presland (O), W. Proctor (C), L. Whitfield (P), J. Wu (O)

Also Played

E. Acheson (C), T. Clarke (L), E. Ferguson (O), N. Gregory (C), K. Helmholt-Kneisel (N), A. Port (O), W. Vale (O), J. Warner (L)

SQUAD

Captain W. Vale (O)

V. Captain D. Price (S)

J. Battle (L), R. Chan (C), C. Clayton (C), W. Harvey Bailye (S), L. Joshi (P), R. Marchis (P), L. Parish (S), H. Penasco Roman (P), A. Perez Saltijeral (N), S. Smale (S), E. Stewart (C), A. Tavukcuoglu (S), J. Warner (L), F. Watson (S), H. Yang (L), J. Zhang (N), N. Zhang (O) P10

The U14B hockey team experienced a season filled with both triumphs and challenges. A promising 1-0 victory over Trent on the opening weekend sparked optimism for the season ahead. However, a mid-week clash against a strong Solihull side resulted in their only defeat of the season, a narrow 1-2 loss marked by missed opportunities at both ends. Determined to bounce back, the 14Bs quickly regained momentum, defeating Denstone 2-1 in their next match with an impressive performance. This victory set the tone for a remarkable six-game winning streak.

The highlight of the term was an outstanding 8-0 victory over

Nottingham High, showcasing a clinical team effort from start to finish. Throughout the season, the team remained energetic and eager, consistently demonstrating improvement with each match. Their attacking mindset and desire to play on the front foot were evident in every game. The season concluded with a hard-fought draw against Bromsgrove and some questionable umpiring decisions making a win seem near impossible. Nonetheless, it was a season to be proud of, marked by exceptional effort, commitment and character with George B leading the team superbly throughout.

GP

The season got off to an inauspicious start with a heavy away defeat to Solihull. However, the boys showed great spirit and tenacity to turn the season around, winning four and drawing one of their next seven games. Special mentions must go to Dylan P and Freddie W who played in every fixture, and William V who captained by example throughout the season. The honour for top scorer was jointly shared by Jakson W and Will H-B.

NJS and AST

1ST XI SQUAD

Captain T. Vaughan (M)

P12 W12 D0 L0 F55 A3 GD52

L. Barker (G), K. Barker (G), R. Bowman (M), B. Chihota (G), E. Clark (M), C. Coulborn (F), M. Gaunt (G), S. Haines (M), B. Hinde-Smith (M),

J. Leavesley (M), K. Melson (M), A. Millard-Smith (A), I. Orpin (A), G. Schofield-Mell (F), I. White (M), M. Wong (F), K. Wylie (M)

The Girls’ 1st XI had an excellent season in both the indoor and outdoor aspects of the sport.

It started well with good performances against Birmingham University, Nottingham Trent and St George’s Weybridge before beginning the defence of the Tier 1 National Championships. The Girls started strongly with 6-0, 6-0 and 11-0 wins against Denstone, RGS Newcastle and Leeds Grammar. Goals had come from a range of players but without doubt the team goal vs Leeds Grammar starting from the defensive circle, several 1 to 2s later and a very slick counterattack allowed Ellen C to slot home from close range past the helpless keeper. The outdoor hockey was then put to one side until after the new year, so the girls could focus on the indoor hockey campaign.

Comfortably qualifying through the regional group stage, the girls faced a stern test to make it to Nationals vs Loughborough Grammar. A mixture of brave determined defending and countless missed chances meant the match was a tense affair which remained 2-1 right to the end. Onto National Finals and the Girls qualified with three comfortable wins to set up a semi-final vs Dean Close. The crowd was in full voice and plenty of support for the Repton team from Staff and pupils made for a brilliant

atmosphere in which the girls thrived. A tight match finishing 2-2 against a very well drilled Dean Close meant it had gone to a shoot-out. Kate W subbed in as the GK was a big call to make but after making two saves out of two, it looked to be the right one as Martha W looked to be the calmest person in the room as she casually lifted the ball over the Dean Close GK. 2-0 to Repton in the shootout, before Kate W finally confirmed the girl’s place in the National Final with a 3rd incredible Save. Next up was Brighton. In an explosive start to the match with support from the crowd, Repton flew out of the blocks to race to a 4-0 lead in the first seven minutes of the game. Excellent goals and link up play from Kat M, Kate B and Lucy B had put us in a very commanding position. Brighton threw everything they could into the second half but Tabby V and Martha W remained extremely calm on the ball and determined in defence to snuff out any danger. The final score finished Repton 4-O Brighton. National Indoor Champions!

Back to the outdoor season and the Girls’ 1st XI had a big top of the table clash with Scarborough. After a long journey north, road closures and delays the girls could tell that Scarborough fancied their chances and were determined to get a win over last years’ National winners. The game started in favour of the home side, but after a quick tactical switch in the early minutes the Repton Girls managed to swing the game completely in their favour and race to an early 2-0 lead. Scarborough struggled to make an impact on the game, and it was just a matter of time before the next goal was scored. Bella C added her name to the score sheet and the game finished 4-0. Several injuries had been picked up during the indoor season, but you wouldn’t have noticed with Bella H-S showing real maturity beyond her years to switch positions and support Clara

HOCKEY GIRLS

C, Rosie B, Izzy W and Jemima L in marshalling this rock-solid defence. Further wins against Oakham, Sedbergh and Manchester High meant we had a place in the Quarter Final of the Nationals. Topping the group and only conceding three goals so far, this outdoor season meant we would be drawn against a 2nd place team in one of the other groups. Dean Close at Home again would prove to be a physical match with a tough defence to break down. Amber M-S and Martha W had managed to time their return from injury to perfection and with a full-strength team to pick from Repton managed to win 1-0 and book a place to Lee Valley for the National Finals week.

A busy week of training to sharpen up the squad and prepare well was crucial for the girls to go into finals week full of confidence. Having won this title for seven years on the run, the pressure was again at an all-time high. First up was Surbiton High in the Semi-Final. Kat M managed to open to open the scoring in the first 3 minutes, however, the rest of the half did not quite go to plan. Surbiton’s awkward press and a slow dry pitch made it difficult for the girls to show their usual slick link up play from back to front. In the second half a mixture of Rosie B showing excellent variety in our build up play and the girls stringing passes together meant that the Surbiton press was beginning to get stretched. Ellen C and Maisey G had caused constant problems for the defence with relentless energy to lead for the ball and eventually this took its toll opening holes for the attacking midfield to break through. Kat M scoring a hat-trick or Kat-trick as the girls called it for the rest of the evening, meant Repton were through to the National Final again with a 4-0 win. Just over 24 hours rest and Repton School had a very special day lined up with 3 back-toback finals starting with the Girls 1st XI, then Boys’ 1st XI and finishing with the Girls U14As. The Repton girls are experienced in travel and high performance from regular matches for their club sides and this was led

by Tabby V in post-match recovery and pre-match preparation for the final. Millfield were the opponents for the final, which made for an exciting climax, both teams undefeated all year and meeting in the final showdown.

A travelling supporter’s coach arrived at Lee Valley with a drum and vuvuzelas at the ready. The atmosphere was special and every Repton team, sets of parents and supporters were looking forward to the opener of three back-toback finals. Repton started the game brilliantly and were on top, unfortunately chances weren’t taken, and Millfield were just waiting for an opportunity to sneak a narrow lead. However, the penalty corner defence stood firm to the limited opportunities Millfield had and the game remained an extremely physical battle in the midfield throughout. One big push from the girls saw an incredible solo run from Lucy B to score the opening goal of the game and the travelling support from Repton erupted. 1-0 and Repton in control of the match put us in a very strong position. However, the defence from the whole team was the most impressive thing. Every single player knew and executed their role superbly and although goals were disallowed and big decisions went against the team, the girls seemed in complete control. Rosie B made sure that it would be Repton’s day with a trademark penalty corner converted in the final minutes to the delight of the team, coaches and incredible support in the stands. A brilliant way to end the season for such a hardworking, dedicated and wonderful group of girls. Everything was earnt and they deserved every bit of reward to finish the season Indoor and Outdoor National Champions. Many thanks to Tabby V for captaining the team and leavers Rosie B, Kate B, Lucy B, Issy O, Jemima L, Sophie H and Bella C for everything. You are all excellent role models to the younger years and have led by example throughout. I wish you all the success in what I know will be an extremely bright future for you all.

MH

Results: Friendlies

St George’s

1-0

Results: Tier 1 Group

5-1 Sedbergh

5-1

8-1

Results: Tier 1 Knockout

1-0

Semi-Final: Surbiton

4-0 Final: Millfield

2-0

2ND XI

SQUAD

Captain G. Hiatt (F)

E. Ash (G), F. Betts (G), G. Blowers (G), G. Cottingham (F), R. Korylco-Bowers (M), H. Lees (G), F. Lloyd (M), M. Olalobo (G), N. Osborne (A), A. Payne (G), E. Sanderson (G), C. Staggs (F), I. Sheppard (M), P. Whittell (G)

Also Played

A. Edwards (M), E. Mathias (F), M. Rozenman (G), G. Sidders (G), S. Sohal (A), H. Williamson (G)

With only three of the initial squad from the Upper Sixth there was much recruiting to be done to get commitment from the Lower Sixth. Never the easiest when the first eight games of the season were away! Eva S, Cody S, Georgie B and Polly W were all new into the Lower Sixth and stepped up to become key players throughout the season. Some of the opposition teams were strong and if it was not for the excellent Cody S in goal the team would have conceded more goals.

Georgina H could not have been more helpful as Captain throughout the whole season. She galvanised the

DEVELOPMENT

SQUAD

Captain B. Chihota (G)

F. Birmingham (M), L. Breese (G), E. Clark (M), A. Clarkson (M), C. Coulborn (F), Z. Evans (F), A. Flavell (M), M. Haines (M), S. Haines (M), A. Hart (G), M. Hart (F), O. Kibler (G), L. Langley (M), J. Leavesley (M), Z. Mackenzie (M), T. Morley, F. Nissen (A), W. Nissen (A), I. Orpin (A), L. Parkes (M), E. Pearcey (A), I. Reaves (A), G. SchofieldMell (F), I. Semmence (M), S. Steele (A), S. Stewart (M), E. Tassell (A), B. Thompstone (M), I. Turton (A), I. White (M), L. Wholey (G), K. Wylie (M)

After two tough opening fixtures, this year’s Development XI went on to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The team competed each week against 1st XIs from other

schools and demonstrated the depth of talent that Repton girls’ hockey has to offer. Highlights from the block fixtures include a late equaliser to secure a 3-3 draw against a strong Denstone team and a three-game winning streak to round off the season over Stowe, Trent and Dean Close. 33 different players were used at some point over the course of the season and despite the changes in personnel, the performances remained consistent, and the camaraderie always high. The team reached the Independent School’s Cup finals day at Nottingham after progressing through the knock-out stages. Despite the team’s best efforts, they fell short in the semi-final versus Framlingham but showed resilience to bounce back in the bronze medal match where they defeated Yarm School to cap off a fine season. Notable mentions must go to the upper sixth leavers Fern, Izzy, the two Sophies, Bella, Jemima and Ellen who have all served Repton so well on the field during their time at

team and certainly led by example. Her ferocious hit was a force to be reckoned with and no opposition forwards got close to her.

After nine games the team only won one game and in the final two games of the season, they scored twelve goals and did not concede any. Home advantage must have played its part! Throughout the season the squad really pulled together and with so many of the team returning into the Upper Sixth next term there should be much momentum and excitement for next season. Bring it on!

EWCW

the school. Lastly, a huge thank you to Mrs Eversfield for supporting the girls in her many capacities this season.

AD

Results: Independent School’s Cup

King’s Worcester Lost 0-2

Withington Won 5-1

Shrewsbury Won 2-0

Hymers Won 3-1

Plate Semi-Final: Framlingham 1st XI Lost 1-9

Plate ¾ Playoff: Yarm 1st XI Won 2-0

Results: School Fixtures

OR XI

Lost 4-5

GSAL 1st XI

Lost 0-2

Bromsgrove 1st XI

Won 4-0

Denstone 1st XI

Draw 3-3

SQUAD

Captain Z. Evans (F)

H. Beacham (M), A. Clarkson (M), A. Finlay (A), A. Flavell (M), S. Hardy (M), A. Hart (G), J. Litchfield (F), Z. Mackenzie (M), A. Metcalf (F), W. Nissen (A), M. Ogden (F), L. Parkes (M), E. Pearcey (A), I. Semmence (M), K. Shield (G), S. Stewart (M), E. Tassell (A), B. Thompstone (M), E. Wagner (F), A. Wain (M), A. Webster (A), E. Webster (A)

A year that promised so much, ultimately ended in disappointment, for this unbelievably talented bunch of hockey players.

It was clear from the outset that the U16A Girls side had the depth and talent to go a long way in national competitions, and this faith was confirmed with a string of convincing early season victories in both group stage, and block, fixtures. Free flowing, clinical, attacking hockey, mixed with a defensive steeliness sent ripples through the schoolgirl hockey world, and it wasn’t long before this group were being talked up as genuine contenders for both indoor and outdoor crowns!

Shrewsbury 1st XI

Draw 1-1

Nottingham High 1st XI

Won 3-1

Oundle 1st XI

Lost 2-3

Loughborough High 1st XI

Lost 3-4

Regrettably, after some wizardry in the regional rounds, the occasion got the better of us in the National Indoor Finals, before lightning struck twice and the U16s were left to rue a nervy opening ten minutes against Wellington as the final whistle blew on our National Outdoor campaign. So close, yet so far!

Although the season didn’t go to plan in terms of tangible rewards, it is one that all who took part will remember for a very long time. Several of the girls went on to play National League hockey during the season, and everyone understood, and enjoyed, what it meant to be part of a squad that had everyone else’s best interests at heart – to a player, each of these girls took a huge step forward, and all have long and successful careers ahead of them.

A special mention should go to Michael Hoare who was tireless in his work, meticulous in his planning, and passionate to the end, there is no finer operator in elite sport at Repton currently, and he is a true master of his craft – thank you.

Playing wise, the squad were led by the charismatic Zara E who stood up when the team needed her most to lead them through both the good, and bad, times, whilst being ably supported by the warrior Annabel W, and a whole host of main character

Stowe 1st XI

Won 2-1

Trent 1st XI

Won 2-1

Dean Close 1st XI

Won 6-0

Sedbergh 1st XI

Cancelled

energy givers – there is simply not enough space to list them all!

Thank you for a wonderful season, and keep slaying…

OJA

Results

The Grammar School at Leeds Won 10-0

Bromsgrove Won 5-1

St George’s Weybridge Won 1-0

Sedbergh Won 12-1

Trent Won 4-0

Kirkham Grammar Won 9-0

The Grammar School at Leeds Won 2-1

Stowe Won 7-0

Wellington Lost 2-1

P13 W10 D1 L2 F49 A10

SQUAD

Captain E. Webster (A)

P. Ascott (F), H. Beacham (M), L. Cursham (M), A. Finlay (A), I. Green (F), S. Hardy (M), A. Hart (G), A. Hart (F), P. Hodges (F), M. Howe (M), C. Jackson (M), L. Lewis (M), H. Mayfield (G), S. Moss (G), H. Sandhu (A), E. Wagner (F), MJ. Waters (F), A. Webster (A)

This was a season full of both enjoyment and enthusiasm by all involved. In true Repton style, the season overall was a success with many players developing their skills and representing the school in a variety

Results: School Fixtures

Leeds Grammar

Won 8-0

Hockey Mentors

Draw 0-0

Bromsgrove

Won 2-1

Denstone

Won 10-1

Rugby

Won 2-1

of important matches. Despite being knocked out of the ISHC cup, narrowly losing to a Bromsgrove side that they had beaten earlier in the season, it was pleasing not to use this as the only metric of success for the squad.

As the results show, it took until the end of the Michaelmas Term for the side to endure their first defeat. Before that, a combination of teamwork and effective decision making allowed some impressive performances to take place. Each player knew their role in the side, and this allowed them to push on and take on more tactical coaching points. A personal highlight was the 4-0 victory against Stowe. After a long term of implementing a variety of tactical elements to our game, the Stowe match highlighted

Shrewsbury

Won 7-0

Oundle

Won 3-0

Stow

Won 4-0

Trent Lost 1-3

Dean Close

Won 3-1

the improvement and progression of the team. Control, individual brilliance, team work ethic and working for each other were all shown in abundance. A truly rewarding match which could also be applied to many other matches in the season.

The season-maintained speed with the only blip coming against Trent College. However, in a season where the focus is always on developing players ready for tougher challenges ahead, I was so proud of the way every single pupil engaged in fundamentally wanting to improve. A final thanks from me has to go to E. Webster for captaining the side and leading by example in every match.

ASu

Results: ISHC Cup

Princethorpe

Won 3-0

Rugby

Won 2-1

Solihull

Won 6-1

Bromsgrove

Won 0-2

P11 W6 D1 L4 GF36 GA17

SQUAD

Captain F. Kibler (G)

V. Captain N. Hibbert (M)

C. Dammers (A), I. Every (G), L. Haseldine (G), P. Hodges (F), T. Lees (G), L. Lewis (M), M. Lowe (F), E. Maunders (G), H. Mayfield (G), L. Morris (M), J. Sidders (G), S. Tasker (G), E. Wyatt-Shannon (F), I. Yeung (A)

The U15B Girls enjoyed a strong season of progress and pride, playing 11 matches and recording six impressive wins. The campaign began in electric fashion with a dominant 8-0 away win at The Grammar School at Leeds, setting the tone for a side that combined attacking flair with growing resilience.

Leading from the front - both literally and figuratively, was captain Flo K, who netted a large share of the team’s 36 goals and was a constant threat in the final third. Her energy, leadership, and goal-scoring instinct made her a standout performer throughout the season.

The defensive unit, anchored by Natasha H (Vice-Captain) and Ellie M, was equally vital. Their calmness under pressure and smart positional play were crucial in keeping the team competitive in tight matches. Out wide, Imogen Y offered pace and skill on the wing, regularly creating opportunities and stretching opposition defences.

The team showed their character and togetherness in a mid-season run that included an emphatic 7-0 win over Denstone and an excellent 3-0

P7 W4 D2 L1 F19 A10

SQUAD

Captain F. Kibler (G)

V. Captain N. Hibbert (M)

F. Chadwick (F), D. Chen (G), R. Del Strother (A), D. Gardiner (G), L. Hinchley (F), E. Iorio (A), A. Lubega (A), J. Moser (G), A. Pohoreliuk (A), N. Smith (M), P. Wrisdale (A), A. Zamir (M)

Also Played

C. Dammers (A), I. Yeung (A)

The U15C hockey team has enjoyed an exceptionally successful season this year, demonstrating remarkable perseverance and teamwork throughout their fixtures. The players approached their training sessions with determination, refining key setplay strategies.

The season was a demanding one, but every member of the squad deserves commendation for their efforts and cheerful resilience during long away fixtures. The most improved player, Jana M had not played hockey before joining Repton this year. Jana M became integral in the midfield, ensuring clean play and outstanding possession.

away victory at Trent College. Despite some narrow defeats, including a tough battle away at Ratcliffe, the girls remained positive and united.

Finishing the season with six wins, one draw, and four losses, the team scored 36 goals and conceded just 17, demonstrating their all-round capabilities.

It was a rewarding season for a talented and hard-working group, with plenty of promise for the future.

JH/EW

Over the course of seven fixtures, the team achieved a tally of 19 goals, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical discipline. The highlight of the season was undoubtedly their commanding victory against Nottingham High, where the team secured a five-goal win.

A special mention must go to Dora C, whose contributions as goalkeeper were crucial to many of the match day successes. Stepping into the role on multiple occasions, she delivered vital saves under pressure. We look forward to an equally successful run next year.

CEA

SQUAD

Captain C. Read (F)

M. Alexander (M), L. Corbett (F), H. Ellis (F), G. Gilbertson (G), C. Howe (M), E. Hyde (M), T. Lobb (A), J. Mayman (F), S. Parker (A), I. Ramage (G), T. Reid (G), E. Shield (G), C. Tassell (A), S. Tasker (G), B. Wilton (F)

The U14As have thoroughly enjoyed their first year at Repton School and played some fantastic hockey along the way. The season started with some very dominant performances against GSAL, Bromsgrove, Denstone, Solihull and Oundle scoring 31 goals in five games. In mid-October the National Cup run started in similar style with a 9-0 win over Stockport

Grammar School. Moving into November and the fixtures became increasingly more difficult with tight victories against good Loughborough High and RGS Newcastle sides. The girls then enjoyed a nice break over the Christmas holidays knowing they had a National Cup Semi-Final to prepare for and a real chance to win the U14 National Title. The girls trained hard through February but had three injuries to key players in the team, including Goalkeeper Sophia T. It was very much touch and go who would be available to play in this crunch semi-final against a strong Hurstpierpoint side.

Great work from Lizzy and Simon in the S&C and Physio departments meant that we could field our strongest team and this was crucial in what was a real battle that could have gone either way. A long travel

down to Hurstpierpoint but we arrived in good time and looking extremely focused. However, the opposition started very hard and went up 1-0 with an early lead. The girls dug in and managed to weather the storm and then Issy R came into the game scoring not once but twice with two of the purist backhand strikes you will see midway through the first half. The girls really dug in defensively as Hurstpierpoint’s strongest player was on a mission to drive into our circle and create something from nothing. This relentless pressure eventually paid off as they made it 2-2 with only five minutes remaining. In the final minute Repton connected well up the left-hand side and managed to win a penalty corner in the final play of the game. A nice move looked to be wide open, but the final connection just managed to miss, and we were going into a shoot-out.

With 8 seconds to score and a 1v1 vs the GK and the crowd building throughout the game, including the two U18 Boys’ teams waiting to play the next game. This was certainly a pressure situation and an occasion the girls needed to fully embrace. We had prepared for this in training and practicing matches, so the girls felt confident and knew what they had to do. Callie R, Tess R, Evelyn H, Emily S and Issy R were brave and fearless scoring 3 shootouts and putting pressure on the opponents. Sophia T saved three out of five meaning we didn’t need to take the final one to win and a place in the National Final at Lee Valley National Hockey Centre was secured against Clifton.

The final was an incredible occasion for the school and one the girls thoroughly deserved to be a part of having only conceded three goals in the entire season to this point. The U14 girls were the 3rd final of the day and had the challenge of following the Girls’ 1st XI created an added pressure and desire to win in equal measure. The final took place at 5.30pm, which was a long time to wait to play and nervous energy to build, however, having experienced the same situation last year with the U14 girls, we felt as prepared as we possibly could be. Repton started well and immediately stamped their authority on the game. Clifton were struggling to build play and the threat overturning the ball over in their own half was consistently there. Eventually after several short corners and attacking opportunities the pressure told, with Evelyn H opening the scoring with a composed finish past the Clifton Goalkeeper. As the half went on Clifton started to come back into the game and created a few opportunities of their own. Strong Defending from Gracie G, Sophie P, Tilly L and Matilda A made it difficult for any of these opportunities to be

meaningful. 1-0 at half time and with the brilliant Repton support behind them the girls felt confident, focussed and prepared to dig in physically for the team to bring home the second national title of the day.

During the second half Betsy W was causing the Clifton left side all sorts of problems with her pace and strength on the ball. The midfield three were dominating the game, Hattie E and Jasmine M worked tirelessly to pressure defenders into forcing the ball forwards. Short corner after short corner for Repton through a mixture of great play and quick thinking but the second goal was proving difficult. Then against the run of play Clifton earnt a short corner of their own. Having had a few opportunities in the first half, they took full advantage of this one and slammed it home from the left edge of the circle 1-1 and only six minutes remaining. Another penalty shoot-out was looming, but the reaction of the Repton girls was one of a team that wouldn’t leave it to chance. Issy R broke down the left-side and some tired yet physical challenges from the Clifton defenders. A quick free hit and ball into the circle and Issy managed to squeeze through a space on the left baseline that seemed impossible to then slip the ball past the helpless Goalkeeper with an incredible diving finish. The crowd and whole team erupted, and celebrations were heard all around the Olympic Park as with only 90 seconds remaining this was the late winner the girls deserved after an incredibly consistent season.

Thank you for all your efforts, constant drive to be a better team each week and to Callie R for captaining the team. The future is bright for next year’s U15 and U16 girls’ hockey teams as they hope to win yet another national title. MH

Results

GSAL

Won 4-1

Bromsgrove

Won 7-0

Denstone

Won 10-0

Solihull

Won 7-0

Oundle

Won 5-0

Stowe

Won 8-0

Stowe

Won 8-0

Dean Close Won 2-0

Results: Tier 1 Cup

Stockport Grammar

Won 9-0

Loughborough High Won 2-0

Quarter-Final: RGS Newcastle Won 2-0

Semi-Final: Hurstpierpoint

Draw 2-2 / 4-2 shootout

Final: Clifton Won 2-0

SQUAD

R. Badial (F), J. Camenzind (G), P. Court (G), O. Daniels (M), C. Edwards (M), I. Grimes (M), S. Makandeni (A), I. Morley (A), E. Pearson (M), S. Snooks (F), U. Yotsugi (A)

Winning more games is, naturally, always more preferable over the course of the Michaelmas Term so when, after seven games where we

had won two, lost three and drawn two, the girls were challenged with winning the final three games of the season to make a success of it. And so, we did! Admittedly, we were helped by members of the A team squad, but the energy and enthusiasm of the Bs was never in question and at the heart of what was in the end a positive term’s work.

I think Johanna and Urara spent more time on the pitch than in the classroom and Savannah’s passionate high standards were in evidence

in training as well as in matches. The effort and commitment of all the players, who were also asked to play for the Cs on occasion, was commendable, not least when Raina suffered a concussion in a winning cause and Olivia went the extra mile marking centre forwards out of the game. I hope they enjoyed the season as much as we did and I look forward to watching them play in the future, but ‘don’t follow the ball!’

WGO and ASt

SQUAD

Captain R. Parkinson (M)

E. Cascajares Alvarez (F), E. Goudge (A), L. Hewson-Fisk (G), M. Ikin (F), K. Millerchip (G), L. Moore (F), E. Oldershaw (A), S. Sayers (F), C. Smith (M), T.Y. Wong (G)

Also Played

R. Badial (F), J. Camenzind (G), I. Cameron (M), E. Court (G), O. Daniels (M), R. del Strother (A), C. Edwards (M), G. Gilbertson (G), S. Makandeni (A), I. Morley (A), N. Smith (M), U. Yotsugi (A)

Fuelled by Squashies and personal merits, the highlight for the U14Cs was undoubtedly their 3-0 victory against Trent’s U14Bs in the last match of the season, a result that anyone who watched the opening 6-0 defeat against Bromsgrove just nine short weeks before would have scarcely believed were possible.

We were grateful to girls in other teams who played their part when called upon, but the highest praise

must be reserved for the 11 girls that made up our regular squad; they were truly a team that came together and supported each other through every match, regardless of the scoreline. One would be hard-pressed to find a Repton sports team that improved more across the course of the season or made their coaches prouder than the U14Cs did this year - well done girls, you were brilliant!

KH and LEP

ESSA SECONDARY SCHOOLS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS: 16TH NOVEMBER, BIRMINGHAM

Repton Swimming excelled across the ESSA Team Championships at the Commonwealth Games venue in Sandwell, Birmingham. The teams raced in 10 finals winning 2 Golds, 1 Silver and 2 Bronze medals.

SWIM ENGLAND NATIONAL WINTER NATIONALS: 5TH –8TH DECEMBER, SHEFFIELD

30 pupils competed at the end of year National Winter short course championships. Bringing home a total of 16 medals and making Repton the most successful school programme at the event. National honours were secured for Jacon M (L6O), Lydia C (9M), Eva O (U6A), Zach D (L6C), Jess S (U6A), Will T (L6O), Hannah C (11C), Izzy O (U6A), Harry M (L6L) and Mabli C (11M).

WORLD AQUATICS SHORT COURSE CHAMPIONSHIPS: 10TH – 15TH DECEMBER, BUDAPEST

Eva O represented GBR at the World short course championships in December. Competing in individual and relay events she managed to win her first senior medal on the global stage. Taking silver as part of the women’s 4x100m medley team where she swam the butterfly leg. She continues to impress as an emerging sprint talent at the world level as we saw her break the World Junior Record in the final of the 50m Freestyle.

NATIONAL ARENA LEAGUE FINAL: 2ND MARCH, CARDIFF

The National league starts in October with over 10,000 swimmers representing 300 clubs from across the country. Having won the West Midlands Premier Division in December, Repton went on to the National final in Cardiff looking to improve on their 4th place from last year. A team endeavour beyond our expectations led Repton to the runners up position overall and highest finishing school programme, a proud moment in the programme’s short history.

AGB SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS: 15TH –20TH APRIL, LONDON

23 pupils represented Repton at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, 15-20th April, London Aquatics Centre. This is the highest level of domestic competition in the UK where pupils go head-to-head with senior GB international stars.

A successful week of world class racing saw Repton swimmers win 6 medals and compete in 34 finals. Seven international team selections have been secured or nominated, more than any other school or club programme in the country.

Eva O and Jacob M selected to the senior GBR team for the World Aquatics Championships at the end of July/beginning of August in Singapore. Harry M and Hannah C selected to the GBR junior team for the European Junior Championships early July in Slovakia. Lydia C and Austyn M nominated for the Team GB youth team for the European Youth Olympic Festival in N. Macedonia. Jacob M also selected for the GBR junior team for the World Aquatics Junior Championships in Romania at the end of August.

SWIMMING

EVA, JACOB AND AUSTYN BROKE A NUMBER OF BRITISH AGE GROUP RECORDS ACROSS THE CHAMPIONSHIPS IN WHAT WAS THE MOST SUCCESSFUL YET FOR REPTON SWIMMING.

1ST VII SQUAD

Captain A. Corner (M)

F. Birmingham (M), G. Blowers (G), Z. Dunn (F), A. Edwards (M), F. Lloyd (M), I. Mayman (F), M. Oborn (G), G. Oborn (G), E-M. Reeves (M), O. Wenham (M)

Also Played

A. Wolfe (M)

This year we have seen a strong, dedicated 1st VII netball squad who have gelled well since the beginning of the year. Having lost many U6th players at the end of 2024, opportunities were available for the rising junior netball superstars to step up and train with our Sixth Form and compete for a place in the squad.

With the green light given to fulltime netball training in Michaelmas Term, we entered the Sister’s in Sport competition with our U18s and U15s, plus the U16s squad entered the School Sport Magazine competition too. This enabled our keenest of netball players a valuable term’s work on the training court with success in the national competitions bolstering their efforts. We welcomed international netball superstar, Peace Proscovia, to our coaching line-up. With her calm and kind nature but high expectations, training soon became a priority as the girls started to piece together their unit play and Ella-Mae R in Year 10, began to grow in confidence.

The U18s had a strong start to their netball fixtures with three good wins on the scoresheet but it still took a little time to learn to trust one another on court. It turned out we had another dynamite Centre player join us in Lower Sixth and another Blowers, no less. Millie B left us last year but her younger sister Georgie, stepped into the Centre position with ease and

grew (not in height sadly), into this position with outstanding feeds into the circle and relentless running to support the team.

Hosting Regionals gave us a brilliant home advantage and thanks must go to all the staff and supporters that came out to cheer the 1st VII to National Finals qualification. It was a special day to yet again, beat Stamford in a cross-over semi-final. Never have I seen a netball squad want, and believe they will, achieve a top 18 place in the country. The unrelenting support of one another was a joy to witness and a memory that will last a lifetime. Freya L’s booming voice at the back of the court yelling ‘You got this, Ella.’, as fifteen-year-old Ella-Mae sunk shot after shot to take the victory.

Indi M in Year 11 has gone from strength to strength in her debut full year in the 1st VII. She has continued on the Loughborough Lightning pathway as well as excelling in external club netball. Ella-Mae R has been selected in the newly formed Nottingham Forest Superleague Netball Academy and Staffordshire County pathway.

The National Finals were held at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield in March and the squad enjoyed an overnight stay with a team meal before competing against the top 18 schools in the country. The girls acquitted themselves superbly and represented Repton proudly throughout the tournament. The standard was exceptionally high and provided a fantastic platform for the team to progress from next season.

We will say a fond farewell to our 1st VII captain Arabella Corner plus Upper Sixth members Mattie O, Zara D and Ophelia W, as they each wore their maroon dresses for the final time at Repton, this year.

LPP

NETBALL

Results

Nottingham High Won 18-16

Littleover Won 27-12

Trent Won 21-19

Ratcliffe Lost 14-16

Stamford Lost 32-36

Trent Lost 16-24

Bromsgrove Lost 16-60

Rugby Lost 28-29

Denstone Won 28-21

Shrewsbury Lost 30-39

Ratcliffe Won 31-8

Nottingham High Draw 22-22

Litchfield Spires Won 26-22

DERBYSHIRE COUNTY 2ND PLACE

EAST MIDLANDS REGIONAL 2ND PLACE

NATIONAL FINALS 18TH PLACE

2ND VII

SQUAD

Z. Barkey (M), F. Birmingham (M), Z. Evans (F), M. Hart (F), B. HindeSmith (M), L. Langley (M), Z. Mackenzie (M), L. Miller (G), M. Ogden (F), I. Semmence (M), S. Stewart (M), B. Thompson (M), A. Wolfe (M), K. Wylie (M)

This really has been a season of two halves for the 2nd VII. We started the season a little on the back foot, but we have made huge strides more recently. There has been much fluctuation in the team, with many U16 players joining just before February half term. This has meant that we have played strong opposition as we have played many U16A teams, usually the second-best teams in school. This season, we have focused on being a stronger presence in the centre court, as well as moving the ball to stretch

3RD VII

SQUAD

Captains A. Edwards (F), M. Ogden (F), N. Osborne (A), S. Pascoe (M), C. Turton (A)

E. Andrew (M), F. Birmingham (M), J. Blunt (G), L. Breese (G), G. Burke (M), H. Casey (G), E. Collins (A), L. Crookes (A), A. Flavell (M), E. Miller (A), L. Miller (G), F. Nissen (A), F. Nowacki (A), L. Robinson (G), L. Vacher Peña (F), H. Williamson (G), M. Wyke (F), K. Wylie (M)

The Netball 3rd team faced a challenging season, with results not always reflecting the effort and

the court as much as possible. In the attacking third, the movement of the girls has improved hugely, which has given India S and Zoe E much more confidence in their shooting ability as they have been in better positions in the circle. Defensively, we have always been strong, but more accuracy in passes as well as getting ball side are areas which we have worked hard to capitalise on. In the last game of the season against Denstone, I can safely say this was the nicest and highest level of netball that the squad have shown, proving that their hard work has paid off. It has been a pleasure to coach the squad, and I look forward to seeing how the develop as they move up the school. None of the squad are in Upper Sixth and therefore I hope they continue to represent the school next year.

GKR

heart they brought to the court. Despite limited success in terms of wins, the team demonstrated unwavering determination and resilience throughout every match. Each player showed commendable commitment, turning up to training sessions with enthusiasm and a willingness to improve.

The season was marked by tough opponents and close games, but the 3rd team never let setbacks define them. Instead, they used each match as a learning opportunity, growing stronger as a unit and supporting one another both on and off the court. Their team spirit and positive attitude were a testament to their character and sportsmanship.

Results

Bromsgrove

Lost 18-40

Rugby

Lost 9-29

Littleover

Lost 13-27

Stamford U16A

Lost 13-27

Shrewsbury

Lost 13-29

Ratcliffe

Won 31-4

Oakham

Lost 23-38

Lady Manners

Won 25-4

Denstone

Won 36-15

Highlights of the season included some fantastic shots from distance in the circle from Lily C, brilliant tips in defence from Sophie P, Grace B and Christabel T and the quick transitions of Liv Breese, Jemima, Alice and Niamh. The season culminated with the tightly contested match against Denstone in which, despite leading early in the game, Denstone pipped the team to the win by one goal in the last few minutes.

As the season concludes, the 3rd Team can hold their heads high with the development of their play both individually and as a team this season. With this foundation, they are wellpositioned to come back stronger in future years.

SQUAD

Captain C. Jackson (M)

V. Captain L. Hambleton (F), I. Yeung (A)

A. Finlay (A), H. Beacham (M), L. Cursham (M), L. Hinchley (F), M. Howe (M), R. Murray (G)

Also Played

P. Hodges (F), H. InglestonOrme (M), F. Kibler (G), H. Sandhu (A), N. Smith (M)

What an incredible season this has been for the U15A netball team! From a challenging start to the term, where they faced tough opposition, to an utterly triumphant end with the team crowned County Champions, this group of players has demonstrated remarkable resilience, growth, and exceptional teamwork throughout.

Early in the season, the results didn’t always reflect the quality of their performances. Losses to strong sides like Bromsgrove, Rugby, and Trent could have disheartened a lesser team, but not this one. Instead, each match became an opportunity for improvement, bonding, and learning. The turning point came mid-season when they earned a thrilling 2625 win away at Ratcliffe, with Lara scoring just at the death of the match - an incredible moment! From there, momentum built impressively.

By the time we reached the County Cup, the girls had truly found their rhythm. Six wins and one draw propelled them to an undefeated tournament, and they were rightly crowned Derbyshire U15 County Champions - an incredible achievement that showcased their determination, composure, and cohesion on the court.

Cecilie, our superb captain, led the team with cool-headed leadership and calm decision-making under pressure. Vice-captain Imogen was a stalwart presence in the mid-court, seamlessly linking plays and never afraid to drive the game forward with urgency and precision. Lillie, also vice-captain, brought passion and presence to every match, often rallying the team in critical moments and scoring some spectacular goals.

In defence, Matty, Hattie and Romilly formed an unstoppable unit. Their impeccable timing on interceptions, unwavering ability to contest every ball, and relentless pressure on opposing shooters played a pivotal role in our success. Their consistency was remarkable, especially in the final weeks of the term. Matty’s performance was simply exceptional!

Our mid-court players were the driving force behind our team’s success. They were tireless in their movements, quick-thinking with their feeds, and always on the lookout for chances to transition defence into offence. Their

exceptional work helped maintain the team’s tempo and control throughout the entire court. In the circle, Lara, Imogen, and Lillie played exceptionally well together, showcasing remarkable accuracy under pressure and seamlessly linking with the mid-court players. Their composure in front of the goal proved to be a significant factor in securing victories in close matches. Lara was incredibly reliable in front of the net, seemingly scoring almost every shot.

Every member of the squad, including those who rotated in and provided support from the sidelines, played a vital role in what was an outstanding season. The girls not only improved their technical skills but also demonstrated remarkable maturity, grit, and exceptional team spirit throughout the season.

It has been an absolute privilege to coach this group. Their positive attitude, unwavering commitment, and genuine love for the game made every training session and matchday an absolute pleasure. The U15 Derbyshire County title is a well-deserved reward for their hard work and dedication. However, more importantly, they should be incredibly proud of the players and individuals they are becoming.

Well done, girls – Champions in every sense of the word.

SMI

Results

Trent Lost 13-24

Bromsgrove

Lost 4-32

Rugby Lost 10-53

Trent Lost 14-28

U15B SQUAD

Captain P. Hodges (F)

I. Every (G), N. Hibbert (M), H. Ingleston-Orme (M), F. Kibler (G), L. Lewis (M), L. Morris (M), H. Sandhu (A), N. Smith (M), P. Wrisdale (A), E. Wyatt-Shannon (F)

The U15B netball team showed fantastic growth, resilience, and team spirit over a demanding season. Despite some early challenges, the squad developed strong chemistry and delivered an impressive string of performances.

Stamford Lost 9-34

Ratcliffe Won 26-25

Bedford Lost 22-30

Shrewsbury Won 25-18

The campaign opened with a triangular fixture at Trent College, where the girls earned a determined 17–14 win against the hosts, before falling to a strong Bromsgrove side. Losses to Stamford tested their resolve, but the team bounced back superbly with a confident 22–6 win over Ratcliffe.

Momentum continued to build with a dominant 32–7 win over Nottingham High, powered by standout attacking play from Nicola S, Lydia M, and Eva W-S. Defensively, Pheobe H, Poppy W, and Harneve S held firm under pressure.

The team’s progress was further underlined by a narrow 26–22 win

SQUAD

F. Chadwick (F), C. Dammers (A), I. Green (F), E. Iorio (A), T. Lees (G), M. Lowe (F), E. Maunders (G), H. Mayfield (G), J. Sidders (G), E. Wagner (F)

Also Played

P. Wrisdale (A), E. WyattShannon (F) P9 W5 D0 L4

The U15C netball team had an excellent season, growing in confidence and cohesion with each match. After a challenging opener against Bromsgrove, the girls showed real resilience and quickly hit their stride with strong wins over Rugby and Trent. Juliette, Tilly, and Martha led the way in attack with accurate and consistent shooting. The two Ellies were standout performers in the centre court, constantly involved in play and making

Nottingham High Won 38-15

Oakham Won 17-15

Denstone Won 30-22

against Oakham and an outstanding 37–11 victory over Denstone to close the season—achieved with no substitutes - a testament to the hard work and commitment the team has shown throughout the term.

Captain Pheobe H led with tireless energy, Nicola S impressed with her prolific shooting, and Poppy W showed remarkable development in defence.

This was a season of clear progress and promise, with the team showing real character and unity. They can be proud of their efforts and look ahead to next year with confidence.

ERW

countless interceptions. Defensively, the team was solid throughout and, at full strength, proved incredibly hard to beat. A convincing 27–1 win over Ratcliffe and a final 28–9 victory at Denstone were highlights of a season full of energy, teamwork, and determination. It was a joy to coach such a spirited, committed, and supportive team. Well done!

EMB

SQUAD

D. Chen (G), R. del Strother (A), D. Gardiner (G), L. Haseldine (G), A. Lubega (A), J.M. Moser (G), A. Pohoreliuk (A), A. Zamir (M)

Also Played

F. Chadwick (F), I. Green (F), A. Hart (G), E. Iorio (A), T. Lees (G), E. Maunders (G), J. Sidders (G), E. Wagner (F)

U14A

SQUAD

Captain J. Mayman (F)

P13 W6 L7

M. Alexander (M), S. Devey Smith (G), H. Ellis (F), T. Lobb (A), S. Parker (A), I. Ramage (G), C. Read (F), M. Thompson (A), B Wilton (F)

The season began with the toughest opponent of the term, which possibly dented our confidence a little, but

Results

Bromsgrove Lost 3-20

Trent Lost 5-15

Littleover

Won 16-10

Rugby

Lost 8-31

Lady Manners

Won 22-7

The U15D team should be incredibly proud of their performances this season. Despite a number of fixtures being cancelled, the girls made the most of every opportunity on court, winning two out of their three matches. Even in their only loss - a narrow 7-10 defeat to Rugby - they showed real determination, never giving up and keeping the game closely contested throughout. Their final match against Oakham was a

true highlight; facing a strong and at times overly physical opposition, the team held their nerve and produced an outstanding performance, especially in the first and final quarters, to secure a well-deserved 19-16 victory. Across the season, every player demonstrated excellent progress and growing confidence in both matches and training which made this team a pleasure to coach!

GRD

owing to their positive mindset and competitiveness, the girls bounced back and had a flurry of wins in the middle of the season. True, there have been some tough losses, but our matches have all been closely contested and the numbers often didn’t reflect what was happening on court. This talented bunch of athletes have had much to contend with away from the netball court, whether that be on the football pitch, the hockey pitch or in the pool so to pull some of these results out of the bag has been

really pleasing. The highlight of the season for us all was the match against Shrewsbury in an absolute thriller of a game. The girls held their nerve and despite having trailed for much of the game, they pulled it back in the last quarter to clinch the victory by one goal. My thanks go to Jasmine M who has proved herself to be an excellent captain this term. She has led by example and been willing to go the extra mile for the team, week on week.

NMD

Stamford Won 13-11

Stamford 14B Won 6-3

Ratcliffe Won 18-17

Shrewsbury Won 16-15

Nottingham High

Lost 8-18

Oakham

Lost 17-36

Trent

Lost 13-36

Denstone

Lost 11-22

SQUAD

Captain G. Gilbertson (G)

J. Camenzind (G), L. Corbett (F), P. Court (G), O. Daniels (M), R. Parkinson (M), C. Tassell (A), U. Yotsugi (A)

Also Played

M. Alexander (M), H. Ellis (F), C. Howe (M), H. InglestonOrme (M), L. Lewis (M), J. Sidders (G), N. Smith (M)

Over the season the team was very good value for our victories; not your £3.49 for eat-all-you-can-eat at Pizza Hut in Weston-super-Mare in 1989, I grant you, but good value, nonetheless. Trying to get a foothold in a centre-court orchestrated by Gracie G, Johanna C and Urara Y, players possessed of the ability to bend space and time to their will, must be as futile as asking a duckbilled platypus to defuse a nuclear bomb. They fed the metronomicallyaccurate Polly C and Lexi C in the

Circle, shooters with a collective netballing-brain the size of the Graf Zeppelin, ensuring that we were almost always taking the game away from our opponents. The third member of this Holy Trinity, Connie T, is just about as accomplished a GA as it is possible to be without actually being selected to play for one’s country. Connie has so much class that she’s not even aware that some people have to turn right when entering an aeroplane, and had the occasion demanded, she could have brought home any number of our victories single-handedly.

That she did not have to do this was in no small part due to the inexpressible and ineluctable majesty of our defensive pairing, Liv D and Rose P. More resolute than a couple of 1970s trades-unionists, they dominated our Circle, looking askance at a succession of attacking duos with all the disdain of an Edwardian coal-miner as his eldest son announces, over Sunday lunch, that he is rather hoping to audition for a summer-residency at the Folies Bergère. ¡No pasaran!

Not the least of the girls’ edifying qualities was the character they showed – we ground out an important result against a very solid Oakham side, even when not at our most fluent, and kept our heads in a fiercely-contested game against Shrewsbury. Most of all, however, I simply could not have been more pleased for the girls when all the work we had put in through the term came together on the afternoon of 22 March, as we visited upon Denstone two quarters of ineffably devastating consequence and finality. Our supporting runs were incisive, our judgement of passes and shots was impeccable, and in the attacking Circle we stretched our guests’ defence, creating and exploiting space in balletically mesmeric, hypnotic patterns of movement: spiralling galaxies of perfectly-choreographed teamwork cascaded down a backdrop of individual brilliance as we put the game, and the successful outcome of the season’s project, beyond any doubt.

CSD

SQUAD

R. Badial (F), E. Goudge (A), L. Hewson-Fisk (G), C. Howe (M), E. Hyde (M), S. Makandeni (A) K. Millerchip (G), E. Pearson (M), S. Sayers (F), C. Smith (M)

Also Played

P. Court (G), L. Moore (F), I. Morley (A), A. Wong (G)

The U14C team approached the netball season with determination and a positive attitude, facing each fixture with enthusiasm. While the final scores of each match didn’t always reflect their effort and commitment, the players consistently gave their all on court. A particular highlight of the season was the closely contested match against Denstone. Their development in shooting skills, communication, and tactical

awareness was clear to see. With a strong team performance and plenty of determination, they secured a hardfought 12–12 Draw, a great match to end the season.

Well done to everyone involved. Despite the challenges, you showed real perseverance and teamwork throughout. It’s been a pleasure to coach you this season.

SQUAD

O. Graham (A), L. Hewson-Fisk (G), T. Ikin (F), S. Makandeni (A), L. Moore (F), I. Morley (A), L. Oldershaw (A), S. Sayers (F), C. Smith (M), S. Snooks (F), A. Wong (G)

The U14D started their season with a thumping defeat against Bromsgrove. However, they demonstrated a determination to do better, and results gradually improved as the season progressed. Following some very closely fought matches throughout the season, including a 3-3 draw against Stamford, they managed

to finish off their season with a win against Trent. Their enthusiasm for playing, despite the challenges, never waned, and it was wonderful that their hard work was rewarded, and they were able to finish a difficult season on such a high.

CRW

SQUAD

M. Christopher (N), H. Cottrill (S), Z. Evans (F), D. Ita (N), C. Jeanes (O), K. Kuroda (S), M. Howe (M), A. Metcalf (F), N. Mugoti (P), M. Ogden (F), A. Owalade-Coombes (S), S. Owens (G), J. Ryan (N), B. Wilton (F)

Also Competed F. Naylor (S), A. Osindero (S), A. Tavukcuoglu (S)

Our athletes are in fine form with many excellent performances at the Derbyshire Multi-Events and Derbyshire Individual competitions, both held at Moorways in Derby. A total of eleven pupils competed against a range of athletes from across the Midlands with Betsy W (F) recording her Personal Best of 5.10 metres in the U15 Girls’ Long Jump and recorded the blistering time of 26.16 seconds in the 200m; taking Derbyshire’s County U15 Girls’ title in both events. This adds to Betsy’s best Triple Jump distance of 10.86 metres which puts her 3rd in the country for her age category.

We have seen a record number of pupils attend external athletics club this year, with Nathan M (P), Charlie J (O), Kai K (S), Ryan I (O), Ethan G (N), Myles C (N) and Daniel I, continuing their athletics season with outstanding success at county and club competitions. Myles is proving himself not only on the track, taking the Derbyshire U15 Boys’ 800m title,

but he also took gold at the Derbyshire Schools’ Cross Country event earlier this year. Nathan is working hard to find an extra few centimetres to meet the English Schools qualifying distance after his 3rd place at counties in the U20 Boys’ Long Jump. Claiming the gold medal in the U20 Boys’ 200m, Charlie Jeanes recorded a time just eight tenths shy of automatic qualification for Nationals.

Our school athletes have made huge gains in their individual events. Mention to Matilda H (M), who keeps growing (!) and bettering her distance in the U17 Girls’ Triple Jump, resulting in a silver medal at Counties with her best jump of 8.93, as well as achieving success in hurdles.

The Repton community enjoyed watching many Repton pupils compete in our whole school Sports Day with … taking the title for the boys’ houses and … crowned champion for the girls’ houses.

ATHLETICS

GOLF

A busy year for our golfers began on the first weekend of Michaelmas Term with the traditional Old Reptonian fixture. It was a wonderful day with fine weather, and it was good to see Monty E (Year 8 and still at Repton Prep) taking the first prize. We moved on to the ISGA Schools’ Cup at Harpenden Common GC with a team of Stan G, Louis C and Peter W. Peter played particularly well and won the prize for second in the Net category. In the Swifts’ Foursomes we took on Trent College at Kedleston Park GC and Worksop College at College Pines GC. In the ISGA match play, we went down 2-1 to Wrekin at Burton GC. There was still time before the October break to visit the delightful Luffenham Heath GC with

a team of six golfers competing for the Schools Golf Trophy. Over the winter a keen group of largely Lower Sixth golfers worked hard on their swings at Branston Driving Range before hitting the course at Burton after February half-term. This group swelled in the Summer Term to a healthy number playing three times a week and improving rapidly. Louis C finished in the top ten in the Gross category in the Derbyshire Schools’ Championships at Chevin which was a commendable achievement. Once exams are completed, we look forward to a lot of golf over the summer break and dramatically reduced handicaps by September.

RGE

FENCING

Fencing has had a successful year, with this being the first year our fencers have officially been fencing under the Repton name at the British Youth Championships. Both Riichi H and Robbie B competed and got through the regional stages of the competition, but due to exams, could not compete this year at the nationals.

We had a successful friendly against Wrekin where we won 129 points to their 117 with Vivian H taking part in her first fencing competition. Kitty P has also expanded her experience with camps in Germany and England. We hope to have more friendlies next year against Rugby and Wrekin again.

RMS

BADMINTON

Badminton has had another highly popular year at Repton with more pupils than ever joining up to train with our super coach, former European Champion Donna Kellogg MBE and our teaching coach, Miss Sirr. It remains one of Repton’s fastest growing sports and we have some exceptionally talented athletes amongst our numbers.

The 1st and 2nd teams put in very respectable performances with fixtures both home and away and indeed have won several games within those matches both at junior and senior level. We look forward to another successful year on the courts next year and welcome you to join us if you fancy giving badminton a try!

LBS

SQUASH

Squash at Repton continues to grow, both in its popularity and in the quality of the pupils’ play. The school won all of its external fixtures this year, with some notably comprehensive victories over Shrewsbury School and Oakham. As such, we hope to run an expanded fixture list in the new school year. Special mention

should go to Danny C and Charles H, as our two most outstanding players, and to our outgoing Upper Sixth players, Jake R, Zac S, Harrison M, and Elliott I, all of whom have represented the school with great enthusiasm and commitment. One exciting development is the recent establishment of a Repton

Men’s Squash Club, that has been competing in the Derbyshire Squash League. This will open new opportunities for Repton pupils to gain added experience of highly competitive match play – something we eagerly anticipate.

BCM

BASKETBALL

SQUAD

Captain W. Hu (S)

V. Captain R. Chen (M)

F. Balogun-Wilson (C), H. Cottrill (S), E. Gardiner (N), L. Hinchley (F), C. Ho (L), K. Hope (P), R. Ingram (O), L. Jamieson (L), H. Mellor (C), A. P. Saltijeral (N), M. Robson (S), M. Shteinberg (C), M. Wan (C), R. Yokoyama (C)

The Basketballers had a good season, playing seven games against some strong opponents. After a shaky start with three consecutive losses, we stormed back to a net positive with four wins in a row including a rematch against West Park.

Highlights included B Blocker Andrés running rings around players twice his size, Fortune recovering from some masterful ball-handling during the away game at Rugby, and Warren scoring a buzzer-beating half-court shot during the final game of the season.

The 2024-25 squad has been a friendly, supportive group comprised of players of all ages, sizes, genders and abilities. The teamwork and camaraderie on display this year has embodied the principle of sport for all.

TML

Uppingham

Lost 27-46

West Park

Lost 42-48

Uppingham

Lost 34-69

Littleover

Won 51-48

Rugby

Won 61-45

West Park

Won 68-40

Rugby

Won 47-44

SQUAD

A. Tavukcuoglu (S), T. Birkin (L), B. Bradford (N), G. Burke (M), G. Burke (P), S. Chadwick (P), M. Christopher (N), G. Gilbertson (G), T. Gilbody (N), B. Hansen-Hoare (F) (capt), W. Harvey-Bailey (S), K. Helmholt-Kniesel (N), K. Hope (P), C. Howe (M), E. Hyde (M), I. Orpin (A), D. Phipps (P), A. Pitts (P), M. Rajan (M), B. Reid (P), T. Reid (G), B. Stannard (M), P. Sukijcharoenpol (N), S. Tasker (G), F. Tebbs (P), E. Whitfield (N), L. Whitfield (P)

FIVES

It has been another enjoyable year for fives at Repton and the development of a core group of players has been significant owing to their high levels of commitment. In terms of quantifying that, the highlight results in the National Schools’ competitions were as numerous and varied as Repton has ever achieved. The U14 girls pairing of Gracie G and Tess R reached the quarter-final of their competition at Highgate becoming the leading beginners’ pair in the country along the way. In the U18 Girls’ competition, Repton’s pair comprising of captain Bri HH and Meghna R also reached the quarter-final and will potentially have another year together as a duo. Freddie T and Tom G broke new ground for Repton as they won the U16 Qualifier down at Charterhouse before justifying their qualification battling their way through to the last 16 of the main tournament at Shrewsbury at the end of term, no mean feat against many far more experienced pairs. This pairing would go on to make the final of the U18 Boys Festival for smaller fives playing schools later in that same week, playing some scintillating fives before losing out in a tight three setter against their opponents from

Zuoz, Switzerland. Last but certainly not least, Meghna R and BeBe S reached the semi-final of the U16 Girls competition becoming the first Repton pair to reach this stage in the U16 age group with some dominant performances along the way featuring some impressive set piece play before finally placing 3rd nationally.

All of the above successes represent many hours of practice, and also many hours on the road as there are not many midlands-based fives playing schools and the ones that are further north than the M25 are not on our doorstep! Hour upon expert hour of coaching was put in by KH to support high-end skill development and to ensure that Repton pairs capture the spirit of the game which is so crucial in school sport. My sincere thanks go to her. Fixtures against the ORs, Stowe, Oakham, Shrewsbury and Ipswich were supplemented by appearances in the Black Cup, the Vargas Salver and the Graham Turnbull Trophy at Harrow, Aldenham and Eton respectively. Repton is certainly on the map in fives playing circles.

In House fives, The Cross won the senior boys’ competition for the fourth year in a row and The Priory captured

the junior boys’ competition whilst the best senior girl’s competition since the sport was introduced to girls was played out to a tantalising tie between The Abbey and Field House who could not be separated on wins, points difference and points scored. The Garden blitzed their way to the Junior Girls trophy in a first House match fives triumph for them. They have sought to back this up by signing a certain coach up as resident tutor next year!

Anybody reading this who has been curious about the sport but not been on court yet, I urge you to give this a go at your next available opportunity. It is a game that will develop many transferable skills regardless of experience. Footwork, agility, reactions, anticipation and peripheral vision will all be enhanced by one of the oldest and best court games in the world. KH and I will be at the courts every afternoon and you will receive a warm welcome from our regulars to introduce you to the game. I thank our pupils for being tremendous company all year and for making the 2024/25 season very rewarding and enjoyable.

DAE

HOUSE

SPORT

VALETE

OWEN ALSOP

Owen joined Repton four years ago, ending a stellar career as a turf accountant and beginning one as a teacher of History and Politics. From the moment he arrived, his enthusiasm for his subject was unmistakable.

This was his first teaching job, yet he quickly established himself as a knowledgeable, engaging, and inspiring educator. His lessons are never just about dates, policies, or political theories; they are about ideas, perspectives, and the connections between the past and present. With a knack for storytelling, he brings history to life, weaving narratives that help pupils see beyond the pages of a textbook. His ability to link historical events to contemporary politics make his classes not only informative but also deeply relevant. His classroom is a space where, alongside the poster of Tintin on the wall, curiosity thrives, perspectives are broadened, and the complexities of human history and politics become tangible.

Owen is a valued colleague, with his willingness to collaborate, his innovative ideas, and his positive energy making him an integral part of the department. He is always ready to exchange ideas, offer insights, or simply share a laugh, although his laughter was perhaps less apparent on the return trips from Elland Road, where his Head of Department had taken him to see his beloved Watford lose on two occasions. His departure will undoubtedly leave a void, and we will greatly miss his company, whether in the department or on one of the History trips to the Battlefields, America or Berlin, all of which benefitted from his presence.

Alongside his teaching, Owen was Resident Tutor in New House for three years before making the move to take up the same role in School House for the last two years. In both, he has made a profound impact on the boys, for whom he is more than just a teacher. Boarding-school life presents unique challenges, and he understands the importance of creating a supportive environment where pupils feel heard and valued. His presence in the House is reassuring, and his approachable nature makes him the person pupils turn to for advice—whether about academic struggles, personal dilemmas, or simply navigating the ups and downs of school life. His ability to balance professionalism with genuine care ensures that the pupils under his guidance are comfortable when seeking support. Many will no doubt remember the late-night conversations, the moments of encouragement before exams, and his ability to lighten the mood with humour during stressful times. Owen’s involvement has extended well beyond pastoral care and the academic side of Repton. He has also embraced the culture of boarding-school life, taking three terms of team sport, culminating in national finals (and titles).

Owen’s sense of fun and ability to find humour in almost every situation is something that will live long in the memory. While in Pedants, the audience were reliably informed that his Housemaster

“spends most of his time keeping Alsop in line” the truth is that working with Owen in the boarding house has been a genuine pleasure. In any demanding role, it is so much easier to do something if you are alongside a great friend, and Owen has consistently been that. He has an incredible ability to make time for people amongst the busyness, and the conversations, messages of encouragement and the care he has shown (often over a coffee or a glass of something in a local establishment), has meant so much to so many in his time here.

Owen leaves us to take up the position of Housemaster at Epsom College. Becoming a Housemaster is a significant responsibility but there is no doubt that he will approach this new role with the same dedication and passion that has defined his time at Repton. We hope he carries with him fond memories of his years here - the lively debates in his classroom, the friendships formed, the day-to-day idiosyncrasies of life as a Resident Tutor and the pupils whose lives he has shaped. Of course, he will leave with the memories, but he will be accompanied by Molly, who will also be greatly missed by all at Repton. We wish them nothing but success, fulfilment and joy in their new role. We look forward to staying in touch and hearing how you are getting on, but please remember, Owen, you will always have a place here.

NFP SDG

SOPHIE BARBER

Sophie Barber arrived at Repton in September 2023 with a Chemistry degree from Liverpool University and good experience of independent-school teaching. With her father being an independent boarding school Head, she knew the ropes and fitted in seamlessly to this busy school.

She settled well, teaching dynamic, PowerPoint-immaculate lessons and bringing new insights and methodology to practical work, seating plans and classroom management. Her prompt marking of APs and Mocks was also appreciated and required the Head of Chemistry to invent a marking technique called Speed Marking to blend in with her skill set and get everything done on time.

It wasn’t just her fine classroom skills; Sophie was a dab hand at the modern teacher’s electronic world. iSAMS (the administrative computer programme that is used at Repton) posed no fears for her and her

reports were always completed on time and without the need for Head of Department editing. The writer Douglas Adams was quoted as saying he loved deadlines, especially the ‘whooshing’ sound they made as they flew past. Sophie never heard that whoosh. The same went for her beautifully detailed UCAS references, which I am sure helped many a Reptonian into their first-choice university.

She was greatly appreciated by the Housemistress and girls of The Abbey, as well as the Tennis and Netball coaches, and was a loyal servant of the Combined Cadet Force; when, however, the CCF Cadets embarked on their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Qualifying Expedition, there was a rare blip in the efficiency. Very early on Day 2 she misread the map and was looking for her designated groups on the Day 1 route, not the Day 2 route. By mid-afternoon she was put right; then her car broke down at the Foremark reservoir, requiring

the strapping, muscular and youthful strength of RGD and DDS to bump start her stricken vehicle. I’ll never forget the fulsome gratitude received for our manly deed, and Sophie showed that, in a crisis, she knew what really mattered.

Sophie left us in December 2024 to teach Biology at a school in Cheshire. Those who really knew her appreciate the memories and anecdotes she left us with.

RGD

ASHLEY CURRIE

Ashley Currie arrived in Repton with his wife, Sarah, four years ago to take on the role of Deputy Head (Academic). He leaves us to take up the role of Headmaster of Ashford School in Kent and also departs with a new family member following the birth of Athena last year.

In a short space of time, he has made a significant contribution to the School, serving as Principal Deputy Head, and before that as Deputy Head (Academic). He has been a driving force behind academic excellence, structural improvements, and a culture of continuous professional development. Beyond his leadership, he has inspired countless pupils through his teaching of

Mathematics, occasionally venturing into the world of Chemistry, or onto the hockey pitch, and brought passion and commitment to every facet of school life.

From the moment Ashley arrived, it was clear that he would leave an indelible mark on the School, and not just by hanging a signed picture of darts legend, Phil Taylor, on the office wall – the criticism

for which he endured and even enjoyed. His vision for academic structure was one rooted in rigour, consistency, and progress. Under his guidance, regular lesson observations became an essential tool for pedagogical reflection and growth, giving teachers the opportunity to refine their methods and enhance pupil learning experiences. His introduction of an improved appraisal system ensured that every member of staff had the support they needed to flourish, whether it was through constructive feedback, professional development opportunities, or simply encouragement to push their teaching further. Work scrutiny became an integral part of maintaining high standards, reinforcing a shared commitment to excellence that permeated throughout the school. However, his academic leadership was not confined to policy and structure. He fostered a culture of collaboration, where educators felt heard, valued, and supported. It was a leadership that blended authority with empathy - a rare and admirable combination.

With the retirement of the Principal Deputy Head, Ashley effortlessly donned the mantle. Balancing the unpredictable nature of a boarding school, he handled every challenge with skill, warmth, and unwavering support for staff. Whether managing pastoral concerns, academic policies, unexpected latenight dilemmas, or flooded toilets in a boarding house, he approached each situation with good humour and a steady hand. Ashley fostered a culture of trust, ensuring teachers felt valued and supported in their roles. Always ready with a solution - often paired with a smile - he turned obstacles into opportunities for growth. His ability to navigate the highs and lows made Ashley not just a leader, but a pillar of strength in the school community.

At his core, Ashley has always been an educator with a deep love for his subject. His pupils

will remember his boundless enthusiasm for Mathematics, the way he could take even the most complex concepts and make them accessible, engaging, and, dare we say, enjoyable. Whether it was the logic of algebra, the beauty of calculus, or the precision of statistics, his lessons were infused with both depth and clarity. Beyond Mathematics, he made meaningful contributions to the Chemistry Department as well, bringing his analytical approach and keen ability to explain intricate scientific concepts. His presence in the classroom was not just about teaching formulae and equations; it was about instilling confidence, encouraging curiosity, and fostering resilience in problem-solving. His pupils will carry these lessons with them long after their school days have ended.

ASHLEY HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN EDUCATOR WITH A DEEP LOVE FOR HIS SUBJECT

A firm believer in the importance of holistic education, Ashley has dedicated his time to the development of extracurricular activities, ensuring that pupils were given opportunities to grow beyond the classroom. His coaching of the 4th XI hockey team was a testament to his dedication to the pupils, however few they were, who played in it. His establishment of the Chess Club provided another avenue for Reptonians to sharpen their strategic thinking. Chess has long been known as a game of intellect and patience, and under his stewardship, pupils honed their ability to think several steps ahead, to plan, and to react thoughtfully in a challenge. Through these activities, he helped shape wellrounded individuals who carried themselves with confidence.

While Ashley’s work with the pupils has been invaluable, it is his unwavering support for his fellow staff members that has truly cemented his legacy. He has been a mentor, a confidant, and an advocate for the Common Room. Whether it was guiding new educators through their first year, lending a listening ear during stressful times, or offering words of encouragement when needed, his presence has been deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. His kindness, wisdom, and integrity have touched so many within the school, and his influence will be felt long after he walks through these doors one final time.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, this period of his life has also been one of personal joy, as Ashley and his wife welcomed their first child, Athena. Parenthood is a journey unlike any other, and while his time at the School is coming to an end, a new chapter is just beginning - one that will be filled with fresh challenges and wonderful memories. From the classroom to the hockey field, from policy meetings to quiet conversations over coffee, his presence has been invaluable. While he may be moving on, the impact he has made will remain. We thank him for everything and wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life. Wherever the future takes him, we know he will continue to inspire, educate, and lead with the same spirit that made him such an integral part of our School. I will miss his friendship, support and advice, and the messages seeking answers to cryptic crossword clues, so as he departs, here is one last clue for him to solve:

Break a leg when chance follows the starts of games of ordinary darts. (4,4)

NFP

Richard Fairbrother started his career at Repton in 1993 as a Visiting Music Teacher with seven pupils. Three years later he had 43 pupils, played in the annual Charity Cabarets and Christmas Concerts and was Director of the Prep and Repton Jazz Bands. It became clear that in order to retain such a charismatic, diligent and energetic teacher, Richard should be offered a full-time post, which he accepted in 2004 as Head of Popular Music and i/c Sailing.

A year later Richard joined me in leading the development of the mostly musical annual Charity Cabaret, creating a popular, sell-out production for the next ten years, during which time parents were known to make bookings for a show in March on Christmas Day and fly from China and South Asia only to see the show and return home the next day. It was also during this time that I was privileged to witness Mr Fairbrother’s ability to truly

RICHARD FAIRBROTHER

inspire young people to achieve far more than they ever imagined, with genuine determination - so that they relished opportunities to work under his assuring and good-humoured guidance. Whilst conducting and playing guitar simultaneously in performance, ‘Fairbro’ would ask a band member what they’d had for tea or respond to the question “Sir, where are we?” (in the music) with “in the 400 Hall”, knowing that the pupil would confidently find their place.

Richard has responded to each new challenge with the same positive, uplifting approach that has inspired his pupils; amongst so many other achievements, he took part in a successful music tour to Italy and arranged the Jazz Band Grand Cayman tour, produced the perennial and ever-popular Christmas Bands Concert for 15 years, directed Rock-It for 17, has been Musical Director for a host of School drama productions,

designed and managed the installation of the recording studio, become Officer in Charge of Repton School’s Royal Navy Section of the Combined Cadet Force, and taught Spanish to B Block.

Notably, Richard has been a tutor in just one House, Field, for 21 years. Here, his consistent professionalism and good humour, his ability to listen and advise appropriately along with his innate capacity to enthuse and encourage every pupil and tutee generously, have been universally acknowledged and welcomed by a series of Houseparents, Matrons, Supporting Staff, Resident Tutors, pupils and parents alike.

Throughout his career at Repton, RF has repeatedly shown the positive, productive effects of diligence with directed dedication.

JMGL

MOLLY HOLDER

Molly arrived at Repton in 2021 as an A Block Tutor in Garden House. It was clear to see from the very start just how valued and capable Molly was, which saw her quickly move up the ranks to become the Resident Tutor of the House in September 2022, a position in which she will be sorely missed when she leaves at the end of this academic year.

Not only has she become an integral cog in the pastoral workings of the School, but she has also been formidable in the offering of Girls’ Football here at Repton. We now have a 1st XI, as well as an U15 XI, who have recently gone on to win the ISFA Trophy. This is the first National Title the school has won at junior level, and it would not have been possible without the formidable Molly Holder!

I am lucky enough to not only call Molly a colleague, but also one of my best friends, whom I will miss dearly. Molly is not only a role model on the football pitch, but also to the young people with whom she interacts every day in the boardinghouse. I saw this first hand when I was HSM in The Garden, where I was lucky enough to have Molly as my Resident Tutor. I feel so fortunate that she was able to lead the House

SHE HAS A NATURAL EMPATHY, ALLOWING HER TO MAKE INTUITIVE DECISIONS

with me as I regularly leant on her for support, which she offered both forgivingly and frequently. She has a natural empathy, allowing her to make intuitive decisions, which I know the pupils in the House will miss so much. This isn’t goodbye, but a ‘see you later’.

I wish her and Owen so much luck as they move on together.

GKR

From my seat in Curmudgeons’ Corner in the Undercroft, amid the clatter of coffee cups (Tim is the type of beak who would enquire assertively as to exactly why there are four different designs of coffee cup, as well as paper ones) and the chatter of staff arriving from lessons and the sports field, I notice the vital current of colleagues flowing through the Undercroft door. There are always those who impress with their invigorating energy and enthusiasm, but there are others, winding through the pillars, who have such an obvious dedication to the Repton Way and to their subject as to stand out to those of us at the ‘keen observers of life’ stage of their existence. Tim Lewis is one such man; a man who instinctively knows how this sort of school works, but is also enough of a detached Physicist to look at the movement of the blue tracksuits and feel happy that the flow does indeed conform to Fick’s First Law of Fluid Diffusion.

Tim joined Repton despite being an Old Salopian and, possibly because he was a chess fiend at school, he

TIM LEWIS

was unaware of the rivalry between Shrewsbury and Repton, especially on the football field. On leaving school and before Higher Education beckoned, he spent a few months living in a tent on a Mediterranean beach learning to, and I quote, ‘juggle plates, spin fire and walk a tight rope’. How could he know that all three skills, even if in the metaphor, were going to be of vital use to him in his career at Repton?

After a brief stint at Imperial College, Tim ended up with a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Cardiff University. He followed this with a PGCE from the University of Nottingham. In 2017 he joined a Repton Physics Department that was a fine mix of experience and EXPERIENCE and he was expected to bring the ‘youth’ most often associated with the cliché. Despite the churn of the junior Physicist position at the time, in some ways it was peak Physics. AJS had just clocked up 72 terms, MWTH and HCP were in the middle of their ‘run the Physics Department, then go run a House’ career path tag-team that would take up almost a decade.

In short, Physics was in good shape and Tim brought even more stability to a strong Department. But with such a wealth of talent there, Tim saw the writing on the wall and was happy to work on the other aspects of the role of a public-school master. He leapt into the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award team, helped out with the Cross Country and became the Resident Tutor of Orchard.

After one year he joined The Priory, also as Resident Tutor. He joined the formidable Pitts’ Priory Tutor Team of that era: Nigel Kew, RGD, the legendary Joe ‘Sharpie’ Sharp, and the even more legendary Kim McCallum. He helped the smooth transition from Pitts to Exley and has been the sort of reliable and mature Resident Tutor all Housemasters ought to have on their wishlist.

After a few years he turned to running the EPQ. This is where Tim’s luck ran out a little. EPQ was about to turn from a wonderful little self-contained world to the efficient one-year academic juggernaut that it is now and Tim took over

just as this transition happened. He also took this over just as HCP was appointed Houseparent of The Abbey, and as the only member of the Physics Department not with a House nor Senior Management role, he once again saw the writing on the wall. He lurched away from his pastoral pathway and was suddenly an academic running two Departments. There followed three years of navigating the Department successfully through some challenging times, but doing so with grace, finesse - and no little brio.

Tim leaves us to go to Cheltenham Ladies College. Those who know him well know how he agonised over the decision and concluded that his and his family’s future lay elsewhere. Any school would miss

such a versatile man and we will indeed do so.

Finally, it’s wrong to single out Tim’s schooling but it is pertinent to really understanding him. Yes, Shrewsbury is the alma mater of the great scientist Charles Darwin, but Tim was more influenced by the great Salopian comedians and satirists of the 1960s: Michael Palin, Willie Rushton and, of course Richard Ingrams, who would edit Private Eye for many decades. Tim, an avid fan of the publication and of satire in general, deserves an Eyestyle send off, so I have enlisted the Eye’s legendary E.J. Thribb to write him a poem.

So Farewell Tim.

RGD

YOU SAID: “ENERGY CANNOT BE CREATED NOR DESTROYED.” BUT NOW YOU ARE GONE. SO HOW DOES THAT WORK?

— E. J. THRIBB (17½)

ASH MORRIS

Having joined Repton as Director of Swimming from the cosmopolitan and modern city of Dubai in 2022, the historic and ancient village brought a stark contrast for Ash’s tenure, but the innovative glamour of the UAE won him back as he returned to become Director of Aquatics for Cognita Education. Ash’s impact can be measured with Repton Swimming’s development into one of the country’s leading swimming programmes and the dominant club in the Midlands, with one of his final acts to see the school teams claim their first national championship win and pupil Eva Okaro represent Team GB at The Paris Olympic Games. Having arrived as a family of three, the Morris family are now four and have settled back into life in The Gulf with our best wishes.

HANNAH OSEMAN

Hannah arrived in Repton in September 2023, fresh from earning a First-Class degree in American Theatre Arts at Rose Bruford College in London, and she immediately became the embodiment of ‘a breath of fresh air’.

As the School’s first-ever Actor in Residence, she very quickly became a creative powerhouse for the Drama Department, bringing

professionalism, energy, and enthusiasm as an educator, director, choreographer, and actor to support all Reptonians.

Hannah has been a real asset to the Academic Drama Department, always ready to help pupils with their practical assessments - both

on stage and behind the scenes. Furthermore, she mentored pupils through their drama-school applications, helping them land offers to pursue their study in acting and theatre. Not content with that, Hannah was a well-loved Resident in Field House and, in her second year, supported the Music Department as a Musical Theatre specialist.

Hannah has made a huge impact in every production staged in the 400 Hall over the past two years whether as a choreographer, director or singing coach. Highlights include ‘Six’, ‘High School Musical’

and ‘The Addams Family’ as well as directing the B Block play, ‘Goldilocks’. She even jumped in, last-minute, when a performer got injured just days before opening night! Her ‘acting through singing’ workshops gave many the muchneeded confidence to be brave on stage. She has simply been a star, and, as well as her amazing work, we’re really going to miss her ability to break into songs at any given moment, her impressive quiz knowledge and charade wizardry, and her sharp sense of humour, but most of all we are truly going to miss her for who she is. We wish

her all the very best in her next theatrical adventures.

GRPW and JPCR

LEAH PINTO

Leah Pinto arrived in Repton in September 2014. The fact that she was initially employed as one half of a maternity cover, but stayed for eleven years, is a testament to the wide and varied contribution she has made to life at Repton during that time.

Leah’s most striking contribution has, of course, been as Head of Netball, a role that she has carried out with passion, expertise and no small degree of success. With impeccable levels of organisation, Leah has hosted 33 Derbyshire Netball Finals and two East Midlands Netball Finals on Repton’s courts, raising the school’s profile in what is a hotly contested netball region. Such tournaments have also brought with them increasing levels of success over the years, with perhaps the highlight being the U18, U16 and U14 teams all qualifying for Regional Netball Finals in 2024, whilst the U18 team also achieved National Schools’ qualification in both 2024 and 2025. For a coeducational school that is smaller in number and with a far broader sporting footprint than our

other East Midlands counterparts, this achievement should not be underestimated.

Beyond this, Leah has grown the wider netball programme, encouraging girls to play outside of school and forging links with the Loughborough Lightning hub, both coaching them and convincing them to establish a base at Repton in 2021. Girls have, indeed, flourished beyond Repton under Leah’s care and guidance, and Leah would list watching Ella-Mae Reeves (4M) playing for Nottingham Forest U15s at the Motorpoint Arena as one of the highlights of her tenure and, perhaps, a reflection of how far we have progressed.

Despite this being her primary role, Leah’s time at Repton has by

no means been confined to the netball courts alone. She has been a stalwart of both the hockey and tennis programmes, coaching the 4th XI and U14B hockey sides as well as both the 2nd and 3rd VI tennis. What has often gone unseen has been her wider role in the sports department at Repton. She took over as Head of Athletics in 2020 and has played a crucial role in both organising and leading on whole school events such as the Kropacsy Relays and Sports Day. Leah has also been ever-willing to help colleagues organise outside events, such as the IAPS Hockey Finals, as well as being the resident go-to for any SOCSrelated problem. She has done this without fuss or fanfare despite, at times, not receiving the thanks or recognition she might have had.

Despite being a mum to two boys, Leah has also found time to go beyond her role in supporting her colleagues in the sports department on overnight trips, often acting as the ‘designated female’ at national events such as Lee Valley for hockey finals, Bolton Arena for tennis or a trip to Newcastle for the northern cricket finals. As you might imagine, Leah always added much more than just her presence to these trips, which is perhaps why she kept being asked to go on the next one!

Over the last five years, Leah has been asked to tutor in the Mitre. It is a task that she has approached with her characteristic desire to

contribute wholeheartedly to Repton life, and I know how much her contribution has been valued by Sarah Eversfield as well as Claire Jenkinson before her. Whether enjoying pizza nights in the house or taking trips to bowling, tutor meals or blasting away in laser quest, Leah has been the most committed and supportive of tutors with, perhaps, her most cherished memory being planting an apple tree with her A Block tutees in The Mitre orchard in 2021 for Mental Health Awareness week.

Leah leaves us knowing, I hope, that Repton has been a better place for her presence. An outstanding

Head of Netball, a wonderful tutor and a supportive colleague, Leah has always displayed the positive, can-do attitude that is an essential part of life here at Repton. Despite overseeing so many high-profile events and activities at Repton, she has never sought the limelight nor made it all about her, as others might have done. Calm, supportive, organised and understated: it has always been about the pupils and that, I would suggest, is the most valuable legacy to leave.

JOE SIDDERS

Joe Sidders arrived at Repton in September 2024 as Deputy Head (Academic) having previously worked at many other leading independent schools, including Monkton Combe, Wellington College, Uppingham and Bryanston. In addition to his many duties on the Senior Management Team, Joe was also quickly deployed teaching Physics and contributing to the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award programme. Joe has also been a tutor to a group of Lower Sixth pupils who have greatly appreciated his wise counsel over the course of this academic year. Joe leaves Repton at the end of this academic year to move into coaching on a full-time basis. We wish Joe all the very best for the future and thank him for his contributions to Repton.

TH

INSPIRED BOTH CREATIVITY AND CRITICAL THINKING

SARAH SIDDERS

Sarah joined Repton this academic year alongside her husband Joe and three children. We were very lucky to have her join the Design Department, where she used her skills and expertise to deliver a valuable addition to the subject. Her enthusiasm for Design, and her knowledge across a variety of associated disciplines have inspired both creativity and critical thinking in the pupils.

Sarah exhibited her own work in the New Court Gallery this year in a collaboration exhibition “Fragmented Horizons”. It was great to see the depth and originality of her work. Sarah has been actively involved with the Duke of Edinburgh Award and has supported the Arkwright Club in Design, enriching students’ experiences both inside and outside the classroom. We wish Sarah and Joe the very best of luck for the future.

LEP

PETER SIEPMANN

Peter originally joined Repton in 2012 from Uppingham as an organ tutor. He then briefly taught classroom Music at the Prep before being appointed Head of Academic Music at Repton School by John Bowley in 2014. When Oliver Walker took over as Director of Music two years later, he and Peter formed a productive working relationship along with a shared appreciation and understanding of choral music and organ repertoire, which complemented their similar musical backgrounds.

During the past decade, Peter has guided countless musicians towards examination success. He successfully oversaw the GCSE ‘fast track’ scheme whilst also masterminding a change of A Level syllabus from Edexcel to Eduqas. His sharp intellect, combined with an encouraging and informed approach, has supported his pupils in all aspects of the academic syllabus, ranging from an advocacy of clear and concise essay-writing through to the precise rudiments required to tackle fourpart chorale harmonisation, thus reflecting his deep devotion to the music of J.S. Bach.

Outside of the classroom, several of Peter’s students have gained

Oxbridge organ scholarships, and his skills as a highly experienced organist have graced several important services in Chapel over the years. Likewise, more recently, his accomplishments as a choral director have clearly inspired the Reptiles Vocal Group. He has given knowledgeable Harvey Society lectures (his appreciation of J.S. Bach’s compositional style was a particular highlight), provided learned programme-notes for a variety of events, performed as occasional accompanist and duettist (especially at Staff Concerts), initiated the popular annual Compositions Concert (highlighting notable student GCSE and A Level works encompassing a plethora of styles), not to mention his ‘from the examiner’s chair’ presentations to Music staff, during which he shared his expertise as an ABRSM examiner to add insight in terms of helping them prepare pupils for both practical and theory examinations. His weekly Music Theory pupil workshops further supported this aim.

Yet, above all, Peter has displayed genuine kindness and thoughtfulness, as well as seemingly inexhaustible levels of

patience, to both pupils and staff alike. We shall especially miss his wise counsel, technological wizardry when dealing with computer-based challenges and, perhaps most of all, his ready sense of humour combined with an endearingly warm personality.

PETER HAS DISPLAYED GENUINE KINDNESS AND THOUGHTFULNESS

We wish Peter and his lovely family, Adele and Alexander (currently a chorister at Southwell Cathedral), every success for the future as he continues to pursue his career as a distinguished ABRSM examiner, Director of Music at St. Peter’s Church, Nottingham, where he has created performing opportunities for Reptonians at the thriving Saturday Morning Concert Series, and conducting the prestigious Nottingham Bach Choir.

RJO

ANTON SMITH

Goodbye for AJS!

Lord Trenchard, the ‘Father of the RAF’, once described a colleague as “a radar operator among people”. It also seems an appropriate accolade for the son of an RAF Warrant Officer who was the School Officer Commanding RAF CCF and will always be remembered as a Housemaster who had an intuitive understanding of the boys in his House. One of those boys extended the RAF analogy further by saying “Mr Smith had an uncanny inbuilt early warning system for incoming”!

A degree in Physics and Electronic Engineering requires one to have skills of precision and abstract thought but Anton brought more than that to his career at Repton. He brought, above all, patience with those who couldn’t keep up with the intellect. “High standards” and “you know where you stood” are probably two of the most common phrases used to describe him by Reptonians. Behind those sentiments, however, lies an enormous sense of gratitude to a man who brought the reassurance of stability to lives when they were in a state of flux.

For someone who knew what it was like to ‘up sticks and move on’ he drew on his own experience of growing up in many foreign

locations (Singapore, Cyprus, Germany and Malta) to understand the importance of giving Reptonians a place they could call ‘home’. The fact that Anton is first and foremost a private family man makes his willingness to open up that family life for others to share an even more generous act. They say that the true test of someone is how they treat their most precious possession.

THEY SAY THAT THE TRUE TEST OF SOMEONE IS HOW THEY TREAT THEIR MOST PRECIOUS POSSESSION

Anton’s career at Repton started when he was appointed an Assistant Master at Repton in 1993 by the then Headmaster, Graham Jones, to teach Physics. Initially he also taught IT to B Block. He joined The Hall as a tutor and had specific responsibility for B Block and joined the RAF Section of the CCF to be commissioned in December 1993. This was the start of what was to follow. In 1994

Anton became OC RAF Section, a position he held for 24 years. During this time, he attended annual Summer Camps throughout the UK and RAF Germany as Camp Commandant and held the rank of Squadron Leader. He was fortunate to have flown several aircraft types during this period which included a Chipmunk, Bulldog and Tutor. He combined this between 1995-2003 with being Master-in-Charge of Badminton, bringing him responsibility for the Repton Challenge from 1994 to 2002. During this time Repton had sponsors each year that included JCB, Carillion, Trafalgar House, British Midland, RAF, Army, Rolls Royce and Thorntons.

In 1994 he joined the Careers Department with specific responsibility for New House and The Abbey as well as militaryrelated careers, but it was always the thought of being in a House which inspired him the most. In 1997 Anton was appointed as a tutor to The Orchard under the late Tim Cosford before the inevitable happened and, in 2002, he became Housemaster of The Orchard. This was a post he would hold for 13 years and a period in his life he describes as the happiest and most fulfilling time of his life. Rachel and he loved running The Orchard.

In 2015 Anton joined SMT as Surmaster which later became Assistant Head of Operations and subsequently Head of Operations. He was also joint Head of Examinations with Sandra Nield between 2015-2021.

He will have served a total of 32 years (96 terms) and can look back on service under six Headmasters: Graham Jones, Rob Holroyd, Andrew Trotman, Sarah Tennant, Alastair Land and Mark Semmence.

In a world which sometimes has difficulty separating truth from image, Anton taught others, by example, the age-old values of honesty and integrity. Colleagues over the years have enjoyed his ear for an amusing anecdote and his portrayal of a swan in Pedants will long remain in the School annals. We respected the strength and determination he showed to cope with the adversities of his penultimate year with us (and his

commitment to return to School). We look forward to seeing him now reach for the stars of a well-earned and fun retirement and hope that Rachel will allow him to sign in at the Lodge and often return to us. We wish him (and the family of which he is so proud) happiness and fulfilment in the years to come.

AJMW

SUSAN STEPHENSON

Susan joined Repton in September 2023 and has made a dynamic and wholehearted contribution to school life. In The Abbey, she brought warmth, energy and a genuine care for the pupils in her charge. Academically, she made an immediate impact in both the Business and Geography departments, bringing clarity, enthusiasm and encouragement to every lesson. On the sports field, she was a vibrant and committed

presence, inspiring excellence and teamwork in both netball and tennis. Susan also played a key role in the Careers programme, supporting pupils with optimism and insight as they planned their next steps. Her positivity, professionalism and generous spirit have left a lasting impression. She leaves with our heartfelt thanks and every good wish for the future. TH

JACK SWANSTON

Jack joined Repton in 2016 to join the English Department and to take on the role of Resident Tutor in School House, having previously been a subject leader at the University of Birmingham School.

Much-loved by the pupils, who are incredibly fond of his wry wit, absolute rigour in whatever he does, and laser-sharp retorts, he has contributed an enormous amount to the school on a huge number of different fronts, overseeing Repton’s incredibly successful debating squad, assisting on Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, taking

pupils sailing, organising trips to our partner schools in the Middle East, and even coaching the U14C boys’ hockey side, despite having no previous experience of the sport prior to his appointment.

The celebrated librarian and museum director John Cotton Dana once affirmed that ‘who dares to

teach must never cease to learn,’ and Jack has thoroughly embodied that spirit whilst he has been a member of the school community, always with an appetite for new experiences and never shying away from a challenge. These have included camping expeditions to Yorkshire, three residential trips to Dubai in 2017, 2018, and 2025,

and taking Repton to two national finals in the ESU Schools MACE and multiple finals for Oxbridge and Cambridge Union debates.

Despite his initial reticence about living in the countryside and the leaking boys’ toilet above his flat when he first arrived, he relished a residential boarding role, serving under Tom Naylor and Will Odell with diligence and absolute reliability. He is and was much-loved by the boys in School House, and will be remembered for his loyalty, his personal care of every pupil, as well as his exacting standards when it comes to the making of ‘Tuesday Toasties’, or ‘Monday Melts’ as they later became known.

His influence on the academic sphere has been even greater, though, and his compassionate, pupil-centred approach to his role as Head of Higher Education, combined with a staggeringly encyclopaedic knowledge of the universities landscape, has enabled Reptonians to gain entrance to

an array of enviable and highly competitive courses, with a long history of notable successful pupil applications to Oxbridge, the Russell Group, and top American and European institutions. It is no exaggeration to say that those pupils would not have had such opportunities without the commitment, expertise, and persistent hard work of Jack.

Fundamentally, he has always maintained a deep commitment to the classroom, and his meticulousness and passion for literature has never failed to shine through. He has a voracious appetite for new ideas and literature, whether it be canonical 17th century classics, progressive pedagogical techniques, or even trashy airport novels to be digested in one sitting. Jack is widely known as an utterly superb and detaildirected teacher, and his Thursday afternoon ‘Fun Club’ or essayplanning sessions have become the stuff of Repton legend. His learning resources are so thorough

that they will be used for decades to come, and his former pupils and colleagues owe him a debt of gratitude for his fidelity and assiduousness.

Jack leaves to begin an exciting new role as Assistant Head: Head of Sixth Form at Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls, and our loss is very much their gain. He will be sorely missed, but he has made lifelong friends in this small corner of Derbyshire.

BMI

JUDE WHEELDON

to GCSE success, and has, more importantly, given them all the kind of school Art education they remember fondly, and which

remains with them in the form of a lifelong appreciation of the visual, an affinity for creative endeavour and a ready joy in all things aesthetic, whatever careers they later chose. Jude has guided four decades of Reptonians through the Art Department, after herself arriving along with Repton’s first ever cohort of junior girl pupils. She has taught Ceramics, Painting, Printmaking and Photography part-time, while at the same time running a successful Glass and Ceramics gallery in Wirksworth. Eventually becoming full time in 2017, she has been even more essential for the creative life of the Junior School and Sixth Form Photography. She has been a

popular and trusted Abbey Tutor beloved for her late-night natters and no-nonsense emotional support, as much as for the luxury embellishments she personally provided for her “Friday Night is Cheese Night” extravaganzas. Colleagues will miss her reliable, efficient and ever cheerful presence, which has been so much appreciated as part of the Art School atmosphere (but not so much her New Country playlist). She will be turning her still-youthful energies towards practising art, running an online gallery and teaching as a SEND specialist, while also travelling the world in search of the perfect cocktail.

IJW