Our overall aim is to inspire and instil a love of sport in all boys, whatever their ability. We value sport not only for the health and fitness benefits it provides but also for the enjoyment, discipline, independence, self-motivation, camaraderie and teamwork it brings.
It was, therefore especially pleasing when, on the afternoon of Thursday 18 November, every boy in the Fourth Form (except those off games) took part in an U14 away fixture against Radley College. With 140 boys, this meant we could put out A to H teams in a block fixture where the emphasis was very much on taking part rather than the results themselves – a fantastic demonstration of our ‘sport for all’ philosophy.
During the afternoon, which offered the first opportunity for the G and H teams to play in a competitive match, the G team lost 40-25. They recycled the ball very well but needed to move it wider more consistently in order to match Radley’s try count.
However, the H team won a very close game 25-20. As the sun set, only two matches were still being played: the Colts on the main pitch and, next door, the U14H boys snatching a late try and holding Radley at bay with tired legs but total commitment. It really was Bedford School sport encapsulated: the elite and the esprit alongside one another.