The 2024–25 academic year was one of the most successful and wide-ranging sporting years in recent memory at the School. From national finals and county titles to packed fixture lists across dozens of sports, pupils once again showed commitment, resilience and pride in representing Rich’s.

Rugby continued its proud tradition of excellence. The Year 7 and Year 8 Rugby 7s teams both reached the Cup Final at the Summer Fields 7s, with the Year 7 side emerging champions. The U15s claimed the Plate at the King’s Worcester 7s, while the 1st VII reached the Cup Final of the Mount St Mary’s 7s and lifted the Plate title after a superb series of wins. The U18s added further silverware by winning the Society of Heads Rugby 10s Tournament, and the senior squad capped their season with a memorable tour to South Africa.

Netball enjoyed a landmark year. The 1st VII beat St Edward’s, Oxford in the semi-final of the Sisters n Sport Cup before reaching the National Finals at Loughborough, where they secured third place in the country after a dramatic Golden Goal victory over Carmel College. They also qualified for the National Finals in Bournemouth after securing second place in the county tournament, with wins over major schools such as Cheltenham Ladies’ College and Dean Close. Their Easter tour to Malta provided further opportunities for development and international competition.

Basketball is flourishing too. The Senior 1st V went unbeaten in the pool stage of the U19 Dynamik Schools National Cup, beating Hayward’s Heath Sixth Form College to reach the last 16 nationally. They later travelled to Spain to train and compete at the world-class Valencia Basket facility, an unforgettable experience for the squad.

Squash brought further national recognition. The Key Stage 3 team won the Regional Championship in January, defeating Wycliffe College and King’s College Taunton to qualify for the National Schools Finals in Birmingham. There, they reached the semi-finals against Harrow, eventually placing fourth in the country. Special mention goes to Daniel (Year 7), who remained unbeaten throughout the competition.

Cricket continued its strong tradition, with fixtures across all year groups and notable performances in county competitions. Football provided opportunities for boys and girls alike, with the girls’ squad impressing in their debut season, recording four matches and strong wins.

Athletics was another highlight. At Sports Evening, several new school records were set: Owen (Year 7) cleared 1.39m in the High Jump; Theo (Year 8) ran the 3000m in 11:31; Harry (Year 9) completed the 3000m in 10:53; Charlie (Senior) threw 57.11m in the Javelin; and the Senior Boys’ relay team clocked 50.57 seconds in the 4×100m. Southgate House claimed overall victory in the fiercely contested House Athletics competition. Beyond School records, Owen went on to be crowned County Champion in the U13 High Jump, 200m and 4×100m Relay, while also winning Silver in Shot Put. Harry (Year 9) earned Silver in the 800m at the County Championships.

Much of this is made possible thanks to the School Development Fund, which directly supports additional coaches, transport to fixtures and essential equipment.