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Approach to Sport

A sports team in white and blue uniforms huddles together in a circle on an indoor court with light blue walls.

Whitgift's approach to sports is unique, in both what the School can offer and how the pupils feel about sport. The approach is pupil-centred, allowing students and parents to shape their sporting journeys. 

Whitgift differentiates itself through a unique core offering of Winter sports, including Rugby, Football, and Hockey. From this strong foundation, students can prioritise in their selected sports, unlike the traditional approach which requires sports to be termly based. Being able to offer three core Winter sports, at the same time, is a unique offering in the independent sector and drives the high participation numbers.

Beyond the core sports, students have access to an incredible range of additional sports such as Golf, Fencing, Modern Pentathlon, Swimming, Basketball, and Racket sports. The School actively encourages participation, providing every Lower First and First Form student with Golf lessons, and taster sessions in Modern Pentathlon and Fencing.

The commitment to sport is demonstrated by the high participation of over 750 pupils representing the School in Saturday fixtures. This reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of the students for the diverse sporting programme offered by Whitgift.

Happy pupil celebrating in sports kit
A sports team in white and blue uniforms huddles together in a circle on an indoor court with light blue walls.
A basketball team huddles together with their hands joined in the center of a blue indoor court marked with white and red lines.
A group of field hockey players in white uniforms stand on a green turf pitch under a vibrant purple and orange sunset sky.
Lush green foliage frames the foreground of a sunny outdoor cricket match where spectators stand and sit on a grassy slope against a backdrop of trees and buildings under a cloudy blue sky.
Front view of Cricket Pavillion

The School has a strong focus on participation in sport and encouraging a life-long love of keeping physically fit and active – and that often leads to success both on a team and personal level for some students. No matter what your interests or background, Whitgift has a way of welcoming you and finding a way of providing support for your interests.

QUOTE FROM TATLER ADDRESS BOOK 2022