Lucy is a star gymnast within our midst and attends Stockport School of Gymnastics. She practises an incredible four days a week – going for four-hour shifts on 3 evenings, and also on Sundays from 1-6 pm. Gymnastics always wows the crowds at the Olympic Games but it is the years of diligent dedication that are less visible, and Lucy certainly demonstrates the virtue of diligence. Few teachers are fully aware of how much time she gives to her sport as her classwork and homework are always completed and always of a high standard.

Lucy competes in the Women’s Artistic Category, which includes bar, beam, floor display and vault. This year, she won the North West Classic Challenge, defeating over 30 different girls for the top prize. Not only this, but she was competing a year above her age category. Lucy was modest when asked about her success, only saying that she had tried her best and achieved no falls. The truth is, of course, that falling usually happens even at the highest level, and that even a toe out of place can cost her valuable points. We are very proud of her achievement and wish her all the best in her future competitions.

 

 

Noah and Raphael participated in the ISFA (Independent Schools Football Association) training weekend at the end of last term, as part of the team that represented North West independent schools. They were selected due to their consistent excellence during games played at the College.  Both boys excelled at the weekend, and Mr Griffin said, ‘They have conducted themselves exceptionally well both on and off the pitch throughout, and I’ve received some incredibly positive feedback about both boys.’

 

Raphael was then chosen for the England ISFA squad and will now go on to play at the international level next year. He will have the opportunity to attend a summer football camp and will soon hear about the international games that he can participate in next year. Raphael impressed ISFA with his ability to communicate with other players and with his ability on the pitch.

 

Huge congratulations to both boys and best wishes for the future.

 

 

Josep is one of our school musicians and plays the violin for the College orchestra. This year the orchestra faced their greatest ever challenge – the 150th anniversary concert! The concert was a huge venture and the orchestra were the shining stars at the centre of the performance. Their great challenge was to learn the huge number of pieces including that dramatic opening number, The Hall of the Mountain King.

To be ready for the event, Josep had to practise for several days with the orchestra and then went home to practise some more! The rehearsals were difficult, everyone was aware of the pressure of the moment, and had to dig deep and give it their very best effort. Josep said that he had to begin by accepting a lack of perfection, don’t aim for perfection, simply try your hardest.

The final day itself was initially overwhelming – the Bridgewater Hall is such a huge venue. However, he was inspired by the presence of the professional musicians who had come to assist and loved seeing the variety of different instruments. This really brought the music to life and helped him to see how the different parts of the orchestra connect together. The orchestra were the first to walk on stage; he felt his heart thumping and his mouth dry, but he gradually relaxed into the performance and absolutely loved the experience.

Josep’s next challenge is to play at the Summer Concert and the College musical: School of Rock. We can’t wait to see the next instalment.