Last week, the spirit of teamwork, fun and friendly competition filled Chinthurst's swimming pool as children from Reception through to Year 6 took part in a trio of vibrant House Swimming Galas.

The week kicked off with our youngest swimmers from Reception, Year 1, and Year 2, who took to the water on Monday with boundless enthusiasm. It was a joyful afternoon of racing, as the children showcased their growing confidence in the water with impressive front crawl and backstroke strokes. The crowd favourite was the freestyle House relay, where teams raced across the pool passing a duck and ring between swimmers. The whole pool came alive, fuelled by proud cheers from classmates, parents, and family members who came along to enjoy the fun.

On Thursday, it was Years 3 and 4 who dove into action, raising the competitive bar in the first of our Upper School galas. The children put their skills to the test in backstroke, breaststroke, and front crawl events, racking up valuable House points as they powered through the water. The final freestyle relay had everyone on the edge of their seats, and after a series of nail-biting races, it was Phoenix who emerged victorious - a well-earnt win after an afternoon full of energy, effort, and wonderful House spirit.

The week's grand finale came on Friday, as Year 5 and 6 battled it out in the Upper School Gala. With House championship points on the line, the competition was intense from the first race. Swimmers gave it their all in butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle events, building momentum and House pride with every length. The final freestyle relays brought the crowd to their feet - and when the scores were combined with Year 3 & 4's results the previous day, Dragon House were declared the overall winners of House Swimming 2025, turning Chinthurst purple with pride! Griffin and Phoenix tied for second place, with Pegasus finishing fourth, each House displaying fantastic effort and camaraderie.

A huge congratulations to every swimmer across the school for their courage, teamwork, and determination and to all the supporters who came along to cheer them on!