26 June 2026
Miss Jaclyn Leach, Director of Sport
It has been a fantastic half-term of sport once again, although not without its challenges. Heavy rain led to several fixture cancellations, while record-breaking temperatures pushed Sports Day back to the penultimate day of term. However, the response from students was exemplary. Whether adapting to indoor training, taking part in dance, yoga and mindfulness sessions, or competing in alternative inter-House events such as benchball, they approached every challenge with positivity and enthusiasm.
Inter-House Events have been a highlight of the past few weeks, with highly competitive House Tennis and House Cricket competitions taking place. Participation levels have been excellent, with students embracing every opportunity to represent their House and demonstrate leadership, collaboration and fantastic spirit.
Cricket has continued to flourish, with success across every age group. The U14 team progressed in the cup competition, the U15s enjoyed an excellent National Plate run to the quarterfinals, and the U12 A and B teams secured thrilling victories against Reigate Grammar. Tennis concluded a particularly successful season with the U12s and U18s reaching the quarterfinals of the Surrey League competition.
Athletics has seen strong performances throughout the term, with students competing at English Schools, District and Regional competitions. The Inters squad (Years 9 and 10) represented the school superbly at the English Schools Regional ‘B’ Final, and athletes across all year groups have demonstrated a willingness to step outside their comfort zones and contribute to both individual and team success. Daisy L, Year 10, is now the Inter-Counties 1500m Champion. Sport Ribbon Emilie spoke to Daisy following her triumph and you can read their interview below.
As the school year draws to a close, the Sports Department would like to congratulate every student who has represented Woldingham in a very successful year which included our U15 cricket squad being crowned Surrey Indoor County Champions; our swimmers confirmed as District League Champions; our U12 hockey squad reaching the ‘final four’ of the Sisters in Sport Plate competition and our U15 squad reaching the quarterfinals of the Sisters in Sport Cup competition.
Students’ dedication, resilience and sportsmanship have been outstanding. Whether competing at national level, representing their House, or trying a sport for the first time, they have embodied the very best of Woldingham Sport. We look forward to building on this success next year!
Sport Ribbon Emilie interviews Daisy, Year 10, Inter-Counties 1500m Champion
Why did you start running?
I started at my primary school’s house cross country events and found that I enjoyed it and was also good at it. I soon fell in love with running and have loved it ever since.
What do you love about running?
I love the way it clears my head – and I also enjoy being fast!
Do you find running helps with your academic work?
I generally work better after a run, because I feel calm and can really settle down to it.
What motivates you?
Some days I don’t want to feel the pain from training, but when I get to race day I find it’s less painful, so I enjoy focusing on the end goal.
How often do you train?
I train twice a week with Belgrave Harriers, as well as doing three longer runs each week. Throughout the summer, I work on speed for the 1500m and 800m; during the rest of the year, I spend more time working on endurance and generally do 5km runs.
What are your goals and aspirations?
My short-term goals include qualifying for the English Schools Championships for 3000m, as well as improving on my current personal bests: sub 4.40 in 1500m and sub 10 minutes in 3000m. My long-term goals include representing GB at the Olympic Games.
What would you say to a Year 7 student who doesn't enjoy running?
Keep trying to push yourself forward; eventually, you will find a distance you enjoy and that is when you will start to enjoy it.