SPORT
Students have represented the College this year
Fixtures played
Teams playing
HOCKEY
U13 Boys achieved national success as ISA Tournament Champions
Continued strong performance across age groups, including indoor and regional progression
Girls’ 1st XI, made it through to the regional indoor finals
U16 Boys, finished second in their indoor tournament – a first for Ardingly
NETBALL
1st VII won the U18 Plate at the SISNA Tournament
U16s finished fourth in Sussex
1st VII, who took part for the first time in the Independent Schools Netball Cup
BASKETBALL
Congratulations to the Senior Boys, who reached the Sussex Independent Schools Final, narrowly finishing as runners-up in a closely contested match.
TENNIS
Congratulations to the Senior Boys, who reached the Sussex Independent Schools Final, narrowly finishing as runners-up in a closely contested match.
SWIMMING
Qualifying for the invitation-only Aquatics GB NextGen Championships
Strong performances at ESSA National Finals, including a National Bronze medal
In the Prep School, our year 6 swimmers were crowned double National Champions at the ESSA Primary Championships
Growth, Participation &
“Sport for All”
A key strength this year has been the continued expansion of participation across all levels:
- Growth in development squads and lower team fixtures, ensuring opportunities for all abilities.
- New sports introduced and developed, including:
- Padel (with Ardingly hosting the inaugural Sussex Schools U18 competition)
- Table Tennis (first senior teams formed; both qualifying for Area Finals)
- Steepo, reinforcing school spirit and inclusivity.
Facilities & Programme Development
Significant investment has enhanced the sporting experience:
- Opening of a new 8-lane outdoor cricket net facility, complementing upgraded indoor provision.
- Continued development of structured performance pathways across Football, Hockey, Cricket, Swimming and next year we will be offering Netball.
- Expansion of coaching provision, including international-level coaches and specialists. Congratulations to our Head of Swimming, Karen Pickering MBE, who took over presidency of ESSA.
Elite Pathways & International Recognition
Ardingly continues to support athletes progressing to the highest levels:
- Multiple students selected for England U18 squads (Hockey)
- Representation in ISFA national and regional football squads
- Students competing in national-level pathways across fencing and swimming
Partnerships & Outreach
This year has seen major progress in strengthening external partnerships:
- New partnership with Sussex Cricket, supporting talent development and widening access to the sport.
- International collaboration with the Jofra Archer Institute of Cricket (Barbados).
- Delivery of a Primary Schools Festival, engaging over 130 local children.
- Development Centres for football, hockey and cricket, offering a free opportunity at grass roots level.
