Our pupils have, once again, been excelling on the national stage this week, showcasing talent, teamwork and determination across multiple sports.

In the Swimming National Schools’ Bath Cup at the Olympic Aquatic Centre, Faaiq (U6), Matthew (U6), Emilio (U6) and Tako (Middles) delivered outstanding performances, making the national final and finishing among the top seven teams in the country in the medley relay. Their commitment in training and composure under pressure were a credit to the School and their coaches.

Meanwhile, the Girls’ 1st XI Hockey team continued their remarkable run by reaching the Tier 1 National Finals.
In a fiercely contested semi-final, they were edged out 3–5 by Clifton, before facing Repton in the bronze medal match. In a thrilling rematch of the indoor national gold medal game, the team produced a superb performance, drawing 2–2 in normal play and clinching victory via shuffles.

The Boys’ 1st XI Hockey team played a thrilling match against Bradfield College. Haileybury made a strong start, converting two penalty corners in the first half. Bradfield responded after the break, narrowing the gap to 2–1, before Alex (U6) restored Haileybury ’s advantage with a superb strike. The closing minutes were nail-biting, with Bradfield scoring again and then earning a penalty corner in the final play of the game. However, a brilliant goal-line clearance by James (U6, Trevelyan) secured Haileybury ’s place in the semi-final.

Last but not least, the Golf team won the East Region Championship, with a fabulous performance in hugely challenging conditions on a very windy links course, overcoming Uppingham 5-0 in the final, and thus winning the Ratcliffe Cup.

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The girls’ 1st XI hockey team recorded a superb victory over Millfield on Tuesday in a thrilling Schools U18 Tier 1 Championship quarter-final.

After a tightly contested match, a fantastic equaliser from Laura (U6, Hailey) took the score to 1–1 at full time and sent the game to penalties – or “shuffles” in hockey parlance.

Under enormous pressure, and showing immense character, Lois (L6, Allenby), Lettie (U6, Melville) and then Florrie (Vths, Colvin) each held their nerve to score their shuffle. In goal, Georgie (L6, Hailey) delivered a masterclass, saving all three of Millfield’s attempts to secure the win. It was a pulsating encounter, and the girls now progress to the last four in the country and the national semi-final.

It was an extraordinary afternoon of sport. The performance from the girls was very special, the management of the team was exceptional, and the passionate support from the sidelines undoubtedly made a difference to the outcome.

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The 1st XI girls’ hockey team have carried their fantastic pre-Christmas form into January. Having won the national indoor silver medal in December, the girls now sit top of the outdoor England Hockey Tier 1 league with one game remaining, having won all their matches so far.

They continued their winning streak today with a 5–0 away victory against St John’s, Leatherhead. Player of the match, centre back Scarlett (Vths, Alban’s), was outstanding and showed maturity beyond her years. Laura (U6, Hailey) continued her scoring streak with a brace, Florrie (Vths, Colvin) also scored twice, and captain Freya (U6, Allenby) added another.

The team boasts an impressive goal difference of 27, having scored 33 goals in 6 games and conceding only 6. Previous wins against Framlingham, St George’s Weybridge, Ipswich and Sevenoaks put them in a strong position, and we hope this will lead to a home tie in the last eight of the national knock-out stages.

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Over the Christmas break, Haileybury pupils took part in two exciting overseas sports tours, combining intensive training with valuable cultural experiences.

Netball Teams in Barbados:

Two Haileybury netball teams, one U14 and one U16, travelled to Barbados for a tour that offered outstanding opportunities for sporting development and cultural enrichment.

Across eight competitive fixtures, the teams recorded seven wins, adapting impressively to the fast-paced and physical Bajan style of play. A particular highlight was an inspiring coaching session led by former Barbados National Coach Denise Alleyne, which encouraged the girls to refine their technical and tactical understanding.

Beyond the court, the players explored the island, enjoyed a taste of Caribbean culture and some well-earned sunshine, and represented Haileybury with enthusiasm and team spirit throughout.

Senior Boys Hockey in Barcelona:

Meanwhile, the senior boys’ hockey squad travelled to Barcelona for a three-night pre-season tour, preparing for the upcoming term through a series of high-quality training sessions at the prestigious Polo Club.

The team secured a 6–4 victory against local side Linia 22 in a match played at a stadium originally used for the Olympic Games, an experience that will live long in the memory. The boys also enjoyed sightseeing time in the city, visiting the Sagrada Familia, Olympic Park, and the Gothic Quarter.

The tour provided the perfect start to the season, and we look forward to seeing the squad build on their progress in the matches ahead.

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Haileybury hockey is celebrating a sensational week, with three teams qualifying for the England Hockey National Finals.

In a remarkable display of skill and teamwork, our U18 girls, U16 girls, and U18 boys have all clinched the East Regional indoor hockey titles, securing their spot among the top ten teams in the country to compete at the National Finals in two weeks’ time.​

The achievement is particularly special this year, as our U16 girls prepare to defend their national crown following last year’s triumph, a testament to the strength and consistency of their programme.​

For three Haileybury teams out of a possible four to qualify for the pinnacle event in schools’ indoor hockey, this accomplishment is nothing short of unprecedented, marking a proud moment in the history of Haileybury sport.

​Congratulations to all our players and coaches – we’re looking forward to an exciting National Finals and wish our teams every success!

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It was a weekend to remember for Haileybury sport, with our showcase teams delivering thrilling performances across rugby, hockey, netball and lacrosse – and strong results coming through from swimming, golf and several other squads.

The 1st XV rugby match against Berkhamsted in the Daily Mail Cup will go down as one of the great games of recent years. In front of a big crowd on a sun‐drenched day, the team showed extraordinary spirit and resolve against formidable opposition. Tries from Upper Sixth pupils George J, Emilio, Elwood, George B and finally Reuben had the crowd on their feet, while Blake’s unerring conversions edged Haileybury to a dramatic 37–34 win. A performance full of determination, teamwork and heart – and a result that will be remembered for a long time.

The 1st XI hockey team also shone in their opening England Hockey Tier 1 match versus Sevenoaks. After a cagey start, they struck just before half‐time through a slick short‐corner goal from Freya (U6). The second half saw Haileybury dominate, with Lettie (U6) and Florrie (Vths) each scoring twice in a blistering ten‐minute spell. A 5–1 victory was the perfect way to launch their IHSC campaign.

Netballers in the 1st VII were equally impressive in the first round of the Sisters n Sport Cup against Samuel Whitbread Academy. Playing with speed, precision and consistency across all four quarters, the team powered to a 60–27 win. Alex (Vths) was clinical in the shooting circle, while Charlotte’s (U6) defensive brilliance earned her Player of the Match. A fantastic start to their knockout run.

Our 1st X lacrosse team opened their season in style with a commanding 9–3 victory over King’s Canterbury, showing great cohesion and attacking flair from the outset.

Across the school, our swimmers, golfers and many other teams also delivered excellent performances, highlighting the depth of sporting talent and commitment throughout Haileybury. From the drama of the rugby field to the precision of the hockey pitch, the speed of the netball court to the skill on the lacrosse field, last weekend was a resounding celebration of teamwork, resilience and the joy of sport.

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A Year of National Finals and Unforgettable Achievements. The academic year 2024–25 has been truly remarkable for Haileybury sport, marked by exceptional performances, teamwork, and resilience across a wide range of disciplines. Our pupils have represented the School at the very highest level, reaching 12 national finals in 9 different sports, a testament to their dedication and the strength of our sporting programme.

National Champions and Noteworthy Triumphs

This year, Haileybury teams have brought home four national titles:

• Foster Cup for Rackets
• U16 Girls’ Indoor Hockey
• U13 Girls’ Indoor Hockey
• U13 Lacrosse Division 1

In addition, our talented Golf team were crowned National Plate Champions, an achievement that places them among the elite schools in the country.

Sporting Highlights

U16 indoor hockey

The girls performed with extraordinary composure and self-belief, beating Repton, Sevenoaks and King’s Chester, and then producing a fabulous crescendo in the final to win 7-2 against Clifton. Laura was ruthless in front of goal, scoring 18, and Lois and Cate shone down the spine of the defence and midfield. It was fitting that the girls also won the Tony Nunn Fidelitas Shield at Speech Day for performance levels but also for the sportsmanlike manner in which they went about their business.

Rackets

Flynn is the first Haileyburian to win the Foster Cup for over 40 years. He was a man with a target on his back from the start of the tournament and to achieve championship victory with so many top players looking to raise their game against the favourite was a great example of composure and quality combined. He backs up his U16 success therefore with this superb national triumph.

U13 girls

In both indoor hockey and lacrosse the U13 girls’ sporting squads showed what character and what depth of quality they have. Two magnificent wins in different sports in highly competitive tournaments was a stunning achievement. What a future!

Netball

The senior netball squad were superb – securing qualification from the extremely competitive Hertfordshire rounds, then again through the East Region. At the national finals at Sheffield the girls were excellent, winning all bar their last crucial game to make it to the semi-final, missing out by just the one goal. The competition was fierce and the top 16 schools in the land made it a highly competitive experience, but the girls showed that they are right up there with the very best there is.

Swimming

The girls’ squad made it to the national final for the second year in a row to defend their title from 2024! It was a tense affair and finishing 8th in the land is superb. The boys had never qualified for the final before and to finish 4th was incredible, albeit tough to just be pipped to the podium.

Boys’ hockey

U18 boys backed up their U16 title from last year by making it to Nottingham again. The day was tough and with a squad all bar one of whom return next year makes it a mouthwatering prospect in 2026.

Girls’ Cricket: National Podium Success

• U17 National T20 Cup Finals:
  Our U17 girls’ cricket team made history by reaching the finals at the stunning Arundel Castle, competing as one of the last four schools standing nationwide. After a challenging cup run with victories over Framlingham and Marlborough, the girls finished with bronze medals and are now officially ranked 3rd in the country—a phenomenal accomplishment.
• U18 Girls’ Cricket Hundred Nationals Plate:
  The girls added to their accolades with a silver medal in the U18 Hundred nationals plate, demonstrating their prowess and consistency at the highest level.

Boys’ Cricket: Unbeaten Champions

• 2nd XI Boys’ Cricket:
  The boys’ 2nd XI capped off a perfect season, finishing top of the national rankings for school 2nd XI cricket teams after an unbroken run of 11 wins from 11 matches against other schools.

Golf: National Plate Champions

• National Finals, Oxfordshire:
  Out of 92 schools, only 8 reached the finals, and Haileybury’s team—Matt, Rohit, Tejas, Arjun, Fin, and JJ rose to the occasion. They delivered a series of outstanding performances, only losing to the eventual champions Reeds by the thinnest of margins on the final green, and going on to defeat, Eton, and Wellington to become National Plate Champions and secure a 5th place national ranking.

“I could not be prouder of everything our pupils have achieved in sport over the past 12 months. From individual milestones to team triumphs, it has been a year filled with dedication, passion and true Haileybury spirit. Just as crucial as national trophies has been the amazing depth of opportunities for all, with over 1250 fixtures over 20+ sports during the year.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has taken part in sport this year. I am also grateful to our outstanding team of coaches, whose hard work and support make these achievements possible. As we look ahead to the next 12 months, I do so with immense pride and excitement for what is to come.“

Andy Searson – Director of Sport

National Successes

A Message of Pride

These achievements are the result of hard work, commitment, and the unwavering support of our pupils, coaches, staff, and families. Every pupil who represented Haileybury this year should feel incredibly proud of their contribution to our sporting legacy.

Congratulations to all our athletes – your success inspires the whole school community. We look forward to building on these achievements and celebrating many more in the years ahead.

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England U16 Squad:

We are thrilled that Lois (Fifths) and Florrie (Middles) have both secured spots in the England U16 squad.

This achievement is particularly impressive for Florrie, who is a year younger than most of her teammates.

Lois and Florrie joined Haileybury in Removes and quickly became integral members of the School’s hockey program. They both play for Hertford Hockey Club juniors, demonstrating their commitment to the sport beyond school boundaries.

Players individual achievements

Lois:

• Plays screen and halfback for the Haileybury 1st XI
• Scored 3 goals and provided 3 assists this season
• Also plays for St Albans ladies’ team

Florrie:

• Plays attacking midfield and forward for the Haileybury U15s
• Competes for Broxbourne ladies’ team

Both Lois and Florrie were key players in Haileybury’s recent successes, the U15 Inter School Hockey Cup win in the 2023/24 season and the U16 indoor nationals victory in 2024/25.

England U18 Squad:

Lettie (Lower Sixth) has been selected for the England U18 squad. She joined Haileybury this year, bringing with her a wealth of experience.

Lettie previously played for Hockey Mentors, a program supporting state school pupils in high-level hockey and competed for England U16s last year. She currently plays for Sevenoaks Hockey Club.

Despite facing an injury setback, Lettie’s determination shone through during an extended U18 trial period. Her performance for Haileybury’s 1st XI has been outstanding. Lettie plays as an attacking midfielder or forward, and has scored an impressive 23 goals and provided 7 assists this season.

Upcoming Tournament

Haileybury’s hockey prowess will be on full display on Tuesday 11 February 2025 when Lois and Lettie compete in the U19 ISHC finals.

The school community looks forward to following the progress of Lois, Florrie, and Lettie as they represent both Haileybury and England in the coming seasons.

Find out more about Haileybury’s commitment to fostering an environment where young athletes can thrive.

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Congratulations to the Boys’ Football 1st XI who have made it to the semi-final of the ISFA Shield, having beaten St Joseph’s Ipswich 3–0 in the quarter-final.

Fantastic victory for the U14A team over Bancrofts School winning 6–0, with a hat-trick from Noah (Removes).

Good form continues also for the Badminton 1st team with a 5–3 victory over St Edmunds College.

Congratulations to the following pupils:

• Lettie (L6), Lois (Fifths), and Florrie (Middles), on being selected for the England Hockey team.
• Flynn (U6), on becoming National Rackets Champion
• Daisy (L6), on being named Most Valuable Player at the finals of the Independent Schools’ Netball League.

Last but not least, On Saturday, our Netball 1st VII qualified for the National Schools Finals after an outstanding performance at the East Regional School Finals, finishing runners-up to Berkhamsted. This means the team will now compete at the National Finals on 15 March at the EIS in Sheffield – an incredible achievement! The squad is already looking forward to the challenge, with five weeks of preparation ahead before the big event.

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Here are some of the highlights and photos from the past five weeks of competition.

Rugby

The boys’ rugby season kicked off with a bang, the 1st XV scoring 43 points in victory over Felsted, with England international Fraser scoring an impressive five tries. The U15A team has been particularly noteworthy, amassing over 200 points in just seven matches and winning six of them. Their 24-12 triumph over Reeds marked a stunning reversal from last year’s 50-point defeat, and illustrates the progress they are making. U15C rugby are also in great form, winning in their final match before Half Term break.

Hockey

On the hockey pitch, the girls’ 1st XI remains unbeaten, proving themselves formidable opponents in both the national cup and England Tier 1 competitions. The team’s Tier 1 victories over Framlingham (4-0) and Ipswich (2-1) have been particularly impressive. Meanwhile, the U15A squad has been on fire in defence of their national crown, netting 55 goals in 12 games while conceding just three. The U12 girls showed that the future is in good hands too, with a county cup triumph.

Netball

Netball has seen its share of success, with the U19 squad qualifying for the regional stages of the national cup for the second consecutive year. Lucy and Charlotte have been ruthless in the shooting circle, while Daisy, Brogan, Charlotte and Alice have controlled the midcourt with aplomb.

Lacrosse

The lacrosse teams have been gaining valuable experience, notching wins against both Marlborough and Bedford. Fresh from representing Wales in the U20 World Championships, Maddie has been in particularly dynamic form.

Swimming

In the pool, swimming squads have performed admirably at the England Schools Championships and in friendly meets. The league galas are set to begin after Half Term, promising fierce competitive action in November.

Golf

The golf team has successfully navigated past St. Edmund’s and Brentwood in cup play despite challenging weather conditions. With one round still to play, they appear fully dialled in for upcoming challenges.

Football

The girls’ football squad, led by the galvanising Paisley, shows promise for the future as they train hard. Meanwhile, the boys’ 1st XI is through to the third round of the national cup after a strong 4-1 victory over Norwich, the next round of the cup for the boys is in early November.

Rackets

The rackets season got off to a fine start with Flynn and Benji achieving success during an away trip to Tonbridge. Darcey and Isla also played well as they hone their partnership. Queen’s beckons in December.

Badminton

Our badminton teams have travelled to Canterbury and Felsted. Minh particularly impressed in Kent as the girls came out on top 7-2 while the boys faced a closely fought battle ending 3-6. Their Essex away games saw them win all their encounters, and it is great to see the squad working so hard on court and in the gym and reaping the rewards in matchplay.

Basketball

Happily, our basketball squad has been re galvanised and several fixtures are in the diary. Our youthful team is gaining experience from the two encounters thus far and the future for the basketball club looks very exciting. 

Cricket

Only a tiny percentage of schools are able to play cricket in September, and we are privileged to be one of them. Flynn took a career-best 7-34 to etch his name on the honours board.

“Amidst sometimes glorious sunshine and torrential rain, often at the same time (literally!), our pupils have enjoyed plenty of opportunity for participation in competitive action across all our Autumn sports, with 62 teams having taken to the field across 10 sports, and 249 fixtures having been played in the opening six weeks of term,” shared Andrew Searson. Director of Sport. “There have been some stellar performances on the pitch at all ages and abilities and some ideally pitched block fixtures, with exactly half of the aforementioned matches resulting in victory. Just as importantly off the pitch there is a huge amount for Haileybury pupils to reflect proudly upon with sportsmanship having been consistently and unfailingly demonstrated,” he added.

As we head into half term, our athletes are already poised for the many super sporting challenges that lie ahead in November and December.

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Haileybury’s Director of Sport, Andy Searson, describes their triumph:

“The girls have done brilliantly well. They have been so impressive throughout their cup run, showing such character and determination throughout. They have had a tough draw, including facing last year’s champions in round 1, Surbiton High School, and then subsequently overcoming St John’s Leatherhead and Kings Bruton. They enjoyed a thrilling 4-3 quarter final victory against St George’s Weybridge. On finals day, they played composed and attractive hockey, winning their semi-final 7-0 and then beating Wellington College 3-2 with an impressive performance. They are thoroughly deserving of the National title and we are all very proud of the way they have handled themselves on and off the pitch.”

As we celebrate this win, it’s important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our athletes and coaches. Winning the Independent Schools Cup is no small feat, and the team’s triumph reflects their perseverance, grit, and ability to perform under pressure.

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Tabitha’s (Lawrence, 2023) remarkable experience at Haileybury led her to Ivy League University, Yale. Joining us in Middles (Year 10), she dominated the Hockey pitch playing for the Haileybury Girls XI and England Hockey teams. She also thrived academically, achieved outstanding A level and (i)GCSE results, and was one of the 12 Haileyburians who achieved straight 9 and A* grades. In Sixth Form, Tabitha was deservedly named Head of School and was a School Cap recipient at Speech Day for her outstanding achievements.

In Tabitha’s own words,

“I love hockey, and it is one of my many passions here at Haileybury. Having played in lots of different hockey teams throughout my life, I have found that the teams I thrive in most are the ones with avid enthusiasm and an intense enjoyment for the sport.” – Speech Day 2022

Tabitha has embarked on another success story at Yale University, studying Molecular Biology and playing for the Field Hockey team as a back/midfielder. She made her debut for Yale against Saint Joseph’s on 3 September, marking the beginning of what would be a fantastic season. It wasn’t long before she was awarded the Senior Award, a distinction bestowed by the senior class and reserved for a team member who embodies a positive contribution to the team’s philosophy and exhibits individual character to drive the team towards excellence.

Tabitha’s passion for sport has been a constant thread throughout her life, and it is clear that her dedication has led to remarkable achievements both on and off the field. Her journey from Haileybury to Yale is undoubtedly one filled with triumphs and we look forward to learning of her future accomplishments.

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