Aquatics

Whitgift has a thriving Aquatics programme in which every student can pursue their passion and fulfil their potential. We pride ourselves on our inclusive provision which caters for students ranging from first time swimmers, to swimmers wanting to compete at club, regional and national level.

Swimming

Whitgift's Swimming programme has been affiliated to the national governing body of Swim England since 2022. This means that not only do our swimmers compete against other schools, but they also have the opportunity to compete against clubs from all over the country.  Our students regularly take part in Open Events, as well as competing in the Surrey County Championships, London Regionals, as well as Swim England Nationals, and British Championships.

Swimmers have 14 hours of training available to them before and after school,  per week (including S&C), carried out by Mr Smith (Level 3 Coach and Head of Aquatics), as well as our dedicated Aquatics coaching staff. 

Whitgift takes part in numerous school galas and swimming competitions where we regularly field A, B and C teams, including; ESSA Team Championships, ESSA Individual Championships, World School Games, Bath National Cup, London League, and Croydon Schools. 

Whitgift is extremely well resourced and has a 25m, 8 lane swimming pool with a variable-depth.

2021-22 Highlights:

• Bath Cup and Otter Medley Champion records currently held
• 20 Whitgift pupils competing at Swim England County Champions (Surrey, Kent, Middlesex)
• 15 Whitgift pupils competing at Swim England Regional Championships (London & South East)
• 24 Gold medals, 20 Silver medals, and 14 Bronze medals in the 2022 World School Swim Championships
• U15 World School Games record-  Alex C 50m Breaststroke 29.46
• ESSA Individual National Championships: 5 Golds, 3 Silvers and 2 Bronze Medals             
• U13 4x50m Medley ESSA National Relay Championships 4x50m- National Champions
• U13 ESSA National Relay Finalists
• U15 Medley Team- ESSA National Relay Championships 3rd Place
• U11 Medley Freestyle and Medley Team, National Finalists

 

Water Polo

Whitgift is well known for its successful Water Polo programme with a thriving team who are regarded as one of the best in the country. The programme is led by qualified coaches who have a wealth of experience in the sport. These coaches are dedicated to helping students develop their skills in Water Polo and are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment.

Students can participate in up to five hours of Water Polo training per week. The programme is designed to cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. The coaches focus on developing the fundamental skills required to play the game, such as ball handling, passing, shooting, and defensive strategies.

The Water Polo team is also involved in various competitions throughout the year. These include friendly matches against other schools, regional and national competitions. By participating in these events, students can showcase their skills and compete against some of the best players in the country.

2021-22 Highlights:

• U11 London Regional Champions
• ESSA U13 National Finalists
• Multiple players being selected for County and National Age Group Squads