Prep School
Hockey
U8 Boys at Millfield by Mr Venning
In their first tournament playing 7v7 as a team, the boys initially found it challenging to adjust to the extra space and structure of the game. However, as the matches progressed they quickly began to find their shape and organisation on the pitch, growing in confidence and understanding with each game. There were some excellent individual contributions throughout the afternoon, with great skill on display from Teddy, Joseph and Wasssim, while Austin posed a constant threat in front of goal with a number of strong shots and well-taken finishes. Defensively, Ismael, Evan, Benji and Hugh worked tirelessly to protect the goal, showing determination and composure under pressure, while Isaac provided brilliant attacking play, driving the team forward and creating opportunities. The team secured a number of impressive wins across the tournament, and it was very encouraging to see such clear progress as the players adapted to the 7v7 format.
U8&9 Boys at King’s by Mr Venning
It was an excellent afternoon of hockey, with the team showing great energy, commitment, and enthusiasm throughout the fixtures. From the first whistle, the players demonstrated a strong desire to move the ball and play with purpose, producing some impressive passages of passing and teamwork. Their willingness to share the ball and find teammates in space allowed attacks to build effectively and helped maintain momentum in possession. Just as pleasing was the level of effort across the pitch, with players working tirelessly in both attack and defence while supporting one another throughout the matches. It was particularly encouraging to see individuals making clear progress in their skills, positioning, and understanding of the game, reflecting the hard work being put in during training. Overall, it was a fantastic set of fixtures and a very positive afternoon of hockey, with the team’s energy, teamwork, and commitment making it a pleasure to watch.
U11A Boys vs Perrott Hill & Wells
A busy afternoon of hockey saw the team take on both Wells and North Perrott in two competitive fixtures. Against Wells, the team produced a very strong performance, starting quickly and taking control of the game early with some sharp attacking play. Goals came early thanks to confident finishing, and the team showed great composure in possession, building play well from the back and moving the ball intelligently through the pitch. The defensive unit remained organised throughout, allowing the team to maintain pressure and secure a well-deserved victory. The second match against North Perrott proved a tougher contest. After taking the lead and controlling large spells of the game, the team worked tirelessly against a strong and determined opposition. Despite leading for much of the match, North Perrott managed to find an equaliser late on, leaving a sense of disappointment that the game could not quite be seen out. However, the response from the players against a very capable side was excellent, showing resilience, teamwork and a willingness to compete right to the final whistle.
U11B Boys vs Wells Cathedral
Despite some initial transport delays, the U11B team turned a potential setback into a productive afternoon, kicking things off with a high-energy training session focused on technical drills. We were delighted to be joined by our Spanish exchange students, who jumped straight into the action for their very first taste of hockey. Once the Wells Cathedral side arrived, the players showed great flexibility by mixing across two teams for a balanced and highly competitive match. Santiago was a standout in midfield, consistently impacting the flow of the game, while Mauro and Guillem proved to be a formidable duo up front; their relentless attacking led to a fantastic goal from Mauro. Xander also put in a shift to remember, showing great strength in attack to claim both a goal and an assist. Most impressively, the boys’ sportsmanship truly shone through at the final whistle as they made a point of shaking hands with every single player, warmly congratulating them on a game well played.
Netball
U8/9 Netball at King’s College Prep Mrs Gardner
The girls played their first matches of Bee 5-a-side rotation netball this week and did brilliantly! While it was occasionally tricky to remember the different positional rotations and court boundaries, the girls adapted with impressive speed and remained enthusiastic throughout the afternoon.
The team displayed some clinical shooting and several of the girls demonstrated excellent defensive marking. While reminders were needed to find open space before driving forward, the girls took the feedback on board and will continue to work on this during next week’s training.
The matches concluded on a high note with a legendary post-game snack: a huge flapjack that took the girls nearly the entire length of a match to finish!
U10A v Wells Netball Mrs Gardner
The match was a closely contested encounter that saw the team initially struggle to find their rhythm. However, momentum shifted significantly in the second fifth of the game, thanks to the dynamic attacking duo of Matilda and Elsie S, whose energy allowed us to seize a lead that we maintained throughout the contest. While our defensive unit worked tirelessly to turn over numerous balls and regain possession, we found it challenging at times to convert those hard-earned opportunities into goals. To build on this performance, the team should focus on leading more decisively toward the ball and ensuring every pass is both strong and accurate. Despite these missed chances, it was a resilient display of teamwork and a well-deserved result. Well done to all involved!
U11B v Wells Mrs Gardner
It was a perfectly balanced match for the U11B team. The play moved rapidly from end to end, with Wells fielding some nimble shooters who kept our defense under constant pressure. While we created several early opportunities, we struggled to convert them into goals initially. However, our transition play was excellent; Aria secured several magnificent turnovers, while Ashlyn, Bella, and Polly worked tirelessly to disrupt the Wells attack. A 4-4 draw was a fair reflection of such an even contest. Well done to everyone involved!
U11 IAPS by Mrs Foster
We travelled to Kings Bruton for a chilly edition of the U11 IAPS Netball. We were met with a warm welcome to a brilliant event attracting schools from across the county and beyond. Our group stages started with tough opponents from Farleigh School. After a heavy deficit in the first half, our defiance to slow them down, turnover the ball and finish much closer shaped our trajectory for the following matches. It was another well-fought contest in the second match which almost kept us in cup contention, but finished a goal apart against All Hallows. Our defence continued to win possession back, but taking care of the ball was our nemesis. The improvements down the court were evident as we matched the scoring from centre passes with Monkton Prep for much of the third game, yet they pulled away with victory in the end to send us to the plate. This time we played Redmaids to add another match beyond our usual circuit, but it brought knock-out consequences. Nonetheless, we had plenty to celebrate along the way. Incredible turnover success, positional versatility, and some great energy to keep us warm and scoring too. We signed off the day with a bonus friendly match against Leweston to give more shooters a chance to put their name on the scoresheet and the game finished 3-3. Tournament days like these are precious to put things into action straight away and play a new variety of opponents. The girls have been exceptional company throughout our netball season having collected a tally of wins, losses and the odd draw too. We head into our final matches with a surge to get in front and our unwavering team spirit.
Senior School
Hockey
1st XI Vs Exeter School by Mr Knight
Queens started the match brightly against Exeter School and quickly took control of the game. Some sharp attacking play saw Queens race into a deserved 3–1 lead, with the team moving the ball well and creating chances through confident, energetic play.
However, the intensity of the first half began to take its toll after the break. As the second half progressed, Queens started to run out of legs, allowing Exeter School back into the contest. Exeter gradually built momentum and capitalised on their opportunities, scoring three second-half goals to turn the game around.
Despite the strong start and moments of excellent hockey, Queens were unable to hold on, with Exeter School completing the comeback to secure a 4–3 victory.
U14A Vs Exeter School by Mr Knight
Queens U14A started slowly against Exeter School and were punished early on, conceding two quick goals as Exeter took control of the opening stages.
As the match progressed, Queens began to settle into the game and raise their levels. The team showed much better structure and energy, competing more strongly across the pitch and starting to create opportunities of their own.
The second half was a particularly positive spell, with Queens producing a number of promising attacking moves and making several good entries into the D. Despite the improved performance, Exeter added a third goal to secure the result, with the match finishing 3–0 to Exeter School.
U12A v Exeter School by Mr Smith
The U12A team had a tough afternoon on Saturday against their counterparts from Exeter School. The opposition passed the ball accurately and swiftly, gaining several entries into the Queen’s D and scored some well-taken goals, despite some desperate defending. With the introduction of Seb after the first quarter, the team managed to create problems of their own for the Exeter defence and were rewarded for their efforts with a goal. The Queen’s boys battled to the end but were unable to add to their total. Going forward, more practice on passing accuracy needs to be a focus in order for the team to put sustained pressure on the opposition and build attacks.
U12B v Exeter School by Mr Smith
The U12B team enjoyed a close encounter in an evenly-matched battle against Exeter School last weekend. Play swung from end to end throughout the game and the Queen’s boys sweeping attacks caused lots of problems in the Exeter defence. Despite going down 4-2, there was much to be pleased about, not least the goal from Baptiste, who dribbled skilfully past three defenders on his way into the D before drilling a shot into the bottom corner of the goal!
Rugby
U14 West of England 7s Tournament by Mr Smith
On Sunday, Queen’s proudly hosted the West of England U14 Rugby Sevens Tournament, welcoming 16 teams from across the South West and Wales for a full day of competitive and exciting rugby. The tournament displayed excellent sportsmanship, teamwork, and skill from all participating players.
The competition began in the morning with teams divided into four pools of four teams. Matches were fast-paced, allowing for a dynamic and entertaining style of rugby. The Queen’s U14 team battled hard in their group, demonstrating impressive handling skills and determination in defence and they scored some great tries. The team progressed to the Shield Final but, despite putting in a commendable performance, lost to a strong Plymouth College side. Nevertheless, the boys should be proud of their efforts throughout the day and will have gained a great deal from the experience. Thank you to all the players, coaches, and staff who helped stage and participate in the event and the Somerset & Bristol Referees Society for their support.
Netball
U11A v Wells Netball – Mrs Foster
We had a good win at Wells on Wednesday that permitted some positional rotation for everyone’s benefit. Harriet took player of the match for her dominance at Goal Attack again, and the contributions were made throughout the court. At times we had to find ways to play at our pace and look after the ball despite the comfort compared to the challenges of Fridays IAPS. Well played to all the girls.
U10B – Gold and Black vs Wells Mrs Foster and Mr Bishop
The U10B Black team enjoyed fast five netball at Wells on Wednesday with a great performance. Our speed down the court was dominant with Amandine, Emily and Lydia linking up brilliantly with fast accurate passes and precise footwork. This led to fine shooting success particularly from Lydia. Eleanor, Amandine and Katie dominated our frequent interceptions to win many turnovers. Their speedy anticipations were brilliant. Amy also found ways to earn possession, often from back line passes or her rebound success. It was a one-sided score but a friendly fixture with good learning all round.
U12A Netball Vs Honiton Netball Club – Saturday 7th March by Mrs Halls
The U12A team delivered an excellent performance against Honiton Netball Club, showing great teamwork and confidence throughout the match. The players moved the ball around the court effectively, switching play well to create space and opportunities. Strong defensive pressure led to several confident turnovers, allowing the team to maintain possession and control the game. Accurate shooting and composed attacking play resulted in an impressive 31–6 victory.
U13B vs Milfield by Mrs Halls
The U13B team faced a strong Millfield U13B/C side and, despite a 16–4 loss, showed encouraging progress throughout the match. The team is improving in their ability to mark the ball, which resulted in several fantastic turnovers and opportunities to move the play forward. At times, the team played too often down one channel, which led to a loss of possession, but this is an area we can continue to develop. Learning to get in front of defenders when receiving the ball will also help create stronger attacking options. Poppy and Niamh were outstanding in defence, working tirelessly to disrupt Millfield’s play. Overall, it was a good team effort with plenty of positives to build on.
U12A vs Milfield by Mrs Halls
Queen’s U12A delivered an exceptional performance in their match against Millfield U12B, securing a well-deserved 9–5 victory. From the first centre pass, the team demonstrated excellent teamwork and composure, moving the ball around the court with short, thoughtful passes that allowed them to maintain possession and create strong attacking opportunities. Defensively, Queen’s were outstanding, watching the ball closely and applying pressure to force turnovers. Polly contested the rebounds from every shot and won the ball back for Queen’s countless times. The players showed a high work rate throughout the match, supporting one another across the court and working tirelessly in both attack and defence. Their focus, determination and teamwork were clear to see, resulting in a confident and well-earned win. Well done to all players for a fantastic team performance.
Swimming
U13 and U15 Swimming Gala Vs King’s College and The Castle school – Tuesday 10th March by Mrs Halls
The U13 and U15 swimming teams travelled to King’s College for an exciting gala against King’s College and The Castle School. All swimmers made an excellent contribution, showing great commitment and team spirit throughout the event. A special thank you goes to Lottie and Jemima, who stepped up to compete in the U15 age category and did a fantastic job representing the team. There were some standout performances on the night, with Zach and Jemima both finishing in 1st place in their races. A special mention also goes to Jahmae, who takes the trophy for completing the most races in a single gala – a brilliant effort and great determination. Well done to all swimmers for their enthusiasm, effort and excellent representation of the school.
