Sporting and Extra-curricular Activities

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We are committed to promoting physical activity and its lifelong benefits to all our pupils. We are active members of the Tewkesbury and Cheltenham Sports Partnerships and compete regularly against other schools in a variety of competitions such as cross country, swimming, football, netball, cricket, rounders, tag rugby and athletics. We also have a complete residential programme for our KS2 children involving outdoor learning and a variety of outward bound, personal challenge and teamwork opportunities.

Tirlebrook Awarded School Games Gold Kitemark ... Again!

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network Tag Rugby League Festival - Monday 18th July 2016

Tewkesbury Children's Triathlon - Sunday 10th July 2016

Following the success of our Triathlon Club held here at Tirlebrook, sixteen pupils participated in the first ever town-wide Tewkesbury Children's Triathlon Competition at Tewkesbury School. Over 100 children participated altogether. The event was a multi-stage race for primary school children consisting of a combination of swimming, cycling and running. Congratulations to all of the participants from Tirlebrook who did themselves proud. Special congratulations to Olivia Gardiner who came in 19th position overall and was the highest-placed Tirlebrook competitor, closely followed by Jonathan Peirce and then Year 1 pupil Ewan Gosden. Well done everyone! Special thanks to Joe O'Hara for organising the event.

Participants: Olivia Gardiner, Jonathan Peirce, Ewan Gosden, Zack Cummings, Daisy Johansen, Elliott Parsons, Lucie Cummings, Ava Baker, Eleanor Dyball, Rosie Hiorns, Harriet Bethel, Grace Freeman, Oliver Butler, Danny Etheridge, Jessica Evans and William Bethel. 

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury Schools Sports Network's KS1 Multi Sports Festival @ Cheltenham College - Thursday 7th July 2016

Cherry Class, our Y1 children, attended a Multi Sports Festival at Cheltenham College this week. There was a range of activities available, designed to enable the children to practise lots of different skills.  We had the opportunity to talk to children from other schools and also to work as a team, whilst enhancing our throwing and catching skills, balance and coordination. We also were given the chance to play some excellent parachute games. It was fantastic that one of our pupils, Tilly, was awarded a School Games Values band for Determination. Year 1 represented the school well and had a lot of fun! Congratulations to everyone.

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's Tri-Golf Festival - Wednesday 6th July 2016

Ten children from Year 5 were selected to attend Sherdons Golf Club in Tredington to take part in the annual Tewkesbury Primary Spports Network's Tri-Golf Festival. Carrant Brook Primary School and Hopelands School also attended the competition. The children participated in activities such as Chip it In, Bullseye, Longest Drive, Target Putting and Penalty Shootout. It was a lovely morning and the children enjoyed themselves in the sun. Many thanks to Richard Ballard for organising this event and to Tewkesbury School Year 10 Sports Leaders for helping to run it.

Squad: Grace Baker, Jack Battrick, Paige Broughton, Cerys Coxshall, Rhys Davis, Tom Francis, Rosie Hughes, Finley Hutchings, Zachary Khan and Elliot Thomas.

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's Athletics Competition - Tuesday 5th July 2016

A superb evening of athletics was enjoyed by all as Tirlebrook joined eleven other local schools to compete in this year's Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's  Athletics Competition. The children were involved in a range of events: long jump, throwing, shorter sprints, distance races, longer sprints, shuttle relays and baton relays. Every competitor racked up points for each competing school. Some notable performances for Tirlebrook included Lucie Cummings winning the girls' throwing event and Saul and Silas Fox both finishing third in their respective sprints (Y6 100m and Y3 50m) when competing in  race of ten. Tirlebrook's boys also did well in the relay section of the event, picking up podium places in each of the Y3, Y4, Y5 and Y6 events. Tirlebrook finished in tied second place overall in the Field events section of the competition and this helped them to a fifth-placed finish overall. Congratulations to everyone for their determination, their team spirit and their enthusiasm on what was a great evening of sport. Well done one and all!

Squad: Saul Fox, Sam Janes, Lucie Cummings, Jessica Evans, Ami Nunn, Esme Smith, Alfie Dowding, Danny, Etheridge, William Haslum, Zac Jones, Fraser Matharu, Elliot Thomas, Grace Baker, Lauren Booth, Cerys Coxshall, Oscar Guthrie, Charlie Hancox, Elliott Parsons, Luke Sherbourne, Callum Trust, Ava Baker, Molly Clarke, Eleanor Dyball, Bea Prosser, Lilia Teasdale, Charlie Cull, Silas Fox, Matthew Janes, Samuel Whatmore, Anthony Zvarych, Esme Burton, Izzy Fisher, Sophie Messenger & Charlotte Peirce.

GCB Y4 and Below Kwik Cricket County Finals @ Wycliffe College, Stroud - Tuesday 5th July 2016

The Y4 cricket team had a fantastic day as they represented Tirlebrook in the Y4 and Below Kwik Cricket County Championships at Wycliffe College. The team came up against teams from Leighterton, Dinglewell and Hanham Abbots in the group stages of the competition, and despite playing well, the standard was extremely high and Tirlebrook were unfortunate not to progress to the next round. There was some great determination and teamwork on display and skills are certainly improving. Many thanks to Mrs. Gosden and Mrs. Assheton for accompanying the team throughout the day.

Team: Jack Ballinger (captain), Peyton Bunce, Alfie Cull, Oscar Guthrie, Fraser Lucking, Elliott Parsons, Luke Sherbourne and Callum Trust. 

GCB Y4 and Below Kwik Cricket Local Tournament - Thursday 30th June 2016

Eight children from Year 4 represented Tirlebrook in the GCB Y4 and Below Kwik Cricket Local Tournament at Tewkesbury Cricket Club. After the disappointment of the first event being called off due to a waterlogged pitch, they picked themselves up to play brilliantly, beating both Swindon Village and Twyning, to progress to the Kwik Cricket County Finals on 5th July. This was a fantastic achievement - congratulations!

Team: Jack Ballinger (captain), Peyton Bunce, Alfie Cull, Oscar Guthrie, Fraser Lucking, Elliott Parsons, Luke Sherbourne and Callum Trust. 

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network Kwik Cricket Festival - Tuesday 21st June 2016

Tirlebrook's cricketers enjoyed an excellent afternoon at Tewkesbury Cricket Club as they tried to retain the Tewkesbury Cricket Cup for the third consecutive year. The team, led excellently by captain Ben Radbourne, played with a superb attitude throughout. They were competitive in matches against Twyning (which they won) and Mitton (which they lost), but were well beaten in the end by Tewkesbury C. of E. A third-place finish overall is a satisfying end to what has been a fun cricket season, which has seen a large number of children participating and enjoying the game. Special thanks to Mrs. Mills for managing the team.

Team: Ben Radbourne (captain), Lucie Cummings, Alfie Dowding, Danny Etheridge, Jessica Evans, William Haslum, Sam Janes & Joe Robinson

Cotswold Athletics Championships @ The Prince of Wales Stadium, Cheltenham - Saturday 18th June 2016

It was great to take a team of nearly 40 children to the Prince of Wales Stadium in Cheltenham on Saturday morning to represent Tirlebrook in the annual Cotswold Athletics Championships. Children from Years 3 to 6 competed in a range of events from long jump to throwing, from sprinting to shuttle relay, from long distance to baton relay. It was a thoroughly enjoyable event and our team competed well, always trying their best. Despite finishing in sixth place overall, the children can be proud of their performances individually and in teams and the attitude that they demonstrated collectively. It was also great to have so much support in the grandstand from an amazing Tirlebrook following in the crowd. The cheers of support were certainly loud and clear. Well done to all of the children and thanks to everyone in the school community who supported the team and enabled the team to take part.

Squad: Esme Burton, Ellie Longney, Sophie Messenger, Charlotte Peirce, Poppy Radbourne, Silas Fox, Matthew Janes, Aaron Lyon, Samuel Whatmore, Anthony Zvarych, Ava Baker, Eleanor Dyball, Bea Prosser, Lilia Teasdale, Oscar Guthrie, Charlie Hancox, Elliott Parsons, Luke Sherbourne, Callum Trust, Lauren Booth, Cerys Coxshall, Olivia Gardiner, Daisy Johansen, Alfie Dowding, Danny Etheridge, William Haslum, Zac Jones, Fraser Matharu, May Chen, Lucie Cummings, Ami Nunn, Georgia Vallender, Saul Fox, Sam Janes and Max Thomas

Gloucestershire Cricket Board Local Kwik Cricket Competition - Tuesday, 14th June 2016

In what can only be described as ‘extreme’ weather conditions, two teams of Tirlebrook cricketers took to the crease in the annual Gloucestershire Cricket Board Kwik Cricket Competition. The sound of leather on willow was in evidence as the boys played with good spirit and resilience. They came up against teams from Bishop’s Cleeve, Gretton, Grangefield, Tredington, Woodmancote and Twyning, whilst also contending with several rain storms. The teams did not qualify for the latter stages, but can be very proud of their performance. 

Squad: Zack Cummings, Zak Davis, Alfie Dowding, Jack Ellis, Danny Etheridge, Callum Ferneyhough, Saul Fox, Tom Francis, William Haslum, Sam Janes, Zac Jones, Fraser Matharu, Dan Phipps, Ben Radbourne, Joe Robinson & Max Thomas

Health & Wellbeing Week 2016 - Monday 13th to Friday 17th June 2016

We had a fantastic time getting involved with Health and Wellbeing Week 2016. As a Gloucestershire Healthy Living & Learning School it is great to take the time to organise a wide range of activities and experiences for our children that gets all of them taking part.

We began the week with Mindful Monday and have encouraged the children to reflect on our theme of LACES in school so that when they are faced with challenges or have concerns they can think about the following:

L – LEARN (try new things)

A – ACTIVATE (get active!)

C – CONNECT (join in)

E - ENJOY AND EVALUATE (know what you like to do & do it when you know you are sad or feeling down)

S - SHARE (give time, words and experiences to others)

Keep those LACES tied!

The junior children also competed in their final house cross country competition of the year. Well done to all the participants. The final scores saw Hastings House emerge as overall cross country champions this year!

On Chilled Tuesday all classes took part in relaxation sessions as they tried out a range of yoga based stretches and exercises. Their focus and concentration was really lovely to see!!

It has also been great to see our pupils spending some reflection time in Soul Space and in our Spiritual Garden. They have had time to stop, relax, breathe and to think about themselves, the world around them and the wider world. Many thanks to our friends who came along to work with the children in Soul Space - it was a great experience once again.

Tirlebrook Race for Life

In spite of the downpours, it was fantastic to see so many families turn out to take part in our Tirlebrook Race for Life to help raise funds to support Cancer Research UK. Congratulations to all our pupils and their families (and the staff!) who braved the very British weather to take part. The commitment and enthusiasm was wonderful to see, as the runners completed their circuits around the Vineyards. The Race for Life is a great opportunity for our pupils to get involved in raising funds to help others. Well done and thank you to everyone who took part and for all the donations received towards Cancer Research UK. Donations are still arriving at school but over £500 has been raised.

On Wet Wednesday we ran our junior house swimming galas. In the morning, the Y3 and Y4 classes competed in a number of events and the houses showed great support and enthusiasm as they cheered each competitor on. Well done to our Y6 Young Sports Leaders as they put their skills into action helping to organise and run the event. In the afternoon our Y5 and Y6 children made a splash as they competed in their section of the house swimming competition. The teachers even ended up getting wet - by being pushed in the pool! Well done to our Sports Councillors from Years 3 and 4 too as they helped out hugely. There was a really great supportive atmosphere and team spirit in evidence which was lovely to see. Many thanks to Nicky Rees for enabling this to happen and being on hand throughout the day. The final scores saw Montague House emerge as overall swimming gala champions this year! 

On Fit Thursday we welcomed Dan Thomas into school to talk to the Y5 and Y6 children about healthy eating and keeping fit. It was very informative and we would like to thank him for giving up his time to come in and share his expertise. We also enjoyed visits from an athletics coach and tag rugby coaches, as well as watching England overcome Wales by two goals to one on the big screen in their Euro 2016 match.

We ended the week with Fast Friday our annual School Games Sports Day. Preparations were underway well in advance and thankfully the weather was on our side! - a great team effort at Tirlebrook once again! The final scores saw Montague House emerge as overall sports day champions this year!

Gloucestershire Cricket Board Girls' Kwik Cricket Competition - Thursday, 9th June 2016

Nine girls from Y5 and Y6 took part in the annual Gloucestershire Cricket Board Girls' Kwik Cricket Tournament at Cheltenham Boys College on Thursday. Sixteen teams participated in all and Tirlebrook played well, winning all games in their pool, overcoming St Catherine's, Warden Hill and Temple Guiting. They qualified for the semi-finals but were unfortunately beaten by Bishop's Cleeve. It was a great effort from the girls, many of whom have only just started playing cricket. It was an enjoyable afternoon of lovely sunshine and great sport. Well done!

Squad: Harriet Bethel, Lauren Booth, Cerys Coxshall, Lucie Cummings, Jessica Evans, Olivia Gardiner, Rosie Hiorns,  Ria Nuttall & Esme Smith

Y5 Help Out Tewkesbury School Sports Leaders - Thursday, 26th May 2016

Our Y5 children headed over to Tewkesbury School to help out the Tewkesbury School JSLA (Junior Sports Leaders Award) students and ended up having lots of fun as well as getting fit. Well done Year 5!

Tewkesbury Cycling Competition - Years 3 and 4 - Wednesday, 25th May 2016

A brilliant evening of cycling took place as Tirlebrook's playground and field was transformed into our very own velodrome. Joe O'Hara and the two Daves (one from British Olympic Cycling and the other from the local Tewkesbury & Winchcombe Ditrict Cycling Club) spent the afternoon setting up an obstacle course and an amazing cycling track, before checking bikes as the participants registered. Following a brief safety talk, the four schools participated in three events: the time trial, the obstacle challenge and the team relays. After excellent performances from all of the Tirlebrook riders, the school finished in second place in both the Y3 and Y4 competition to secure first position overall. They lifted the trophy to add to the one picked up the previous evening by the KS1 team. Well done to everyone for brilliant cycling and to all of those who came to support as such a great atmosphere was created. It was a brilliant evening and everyone should be very proud of themselves.

Squad: Peyton Bunce, Ollie Butler, Harry Clarke, Molly, Clarke, Ellie-Rose Dallman, Izzy Fisher, Silas Fox, Ellie Longney, Alex Lucking, Fraser Lucking, Aaron Lyon, Charlotte Peirce, Maxwell Scott, Ollie Slatter & Lilia Teasdale

Tewkesbury Cycling Competition - Years 1 and 2 - Tuesday, 24th May 2016

What a super time we had at the Tewkesbury Cycling Competition held at Mitton Manor Primary School! It was the second year that the event had been organised by Joe O'Hara, and it was fantastic to take a team of 12 children along to compete. The competition incorporated three events: a time trial, an obstacle skills test and a team relay. After the first two events, Tirlebrook were strongly placed to do well. During the team relay events, Tirlebrook finished 1st and 4th in the Y1 race and 3rd and 4th in the Y2 race. The Y1 winning team of Ewan Gosden, George Radbourne and Alex Smith were awarded medals. When the totals of all of the events combined were added together, Tirlebrook were crowned as overall KS1 cycling champions. What a fantastic achievement! It was great to see so many children with happy smiling faces and thank you to the parents and families for their support.

Squad: Tilly Burton, Peyton Fletcher, Matthew Fowler, Ewan Gosden, Oakley Hiorns, Daniyal Khan, Isobel McLaren, Chloe Messenger, Freddie Parsons, George Radbourne, Alex Smith & Leah Trust

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network Level 2 School Games Archery Competition - Friday, 20th May 2016

It was great to take a team of nine pupils from Years 5 and 6 to participate in the annual Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's Level 2 School Games Archery Competition at Balcarras Secondary School in Cheltenham. After a treacherous Friday journey across Cheltenham, the team arrived in time to receive basic instruction on archery. They were then quickly into competition as they were first asked to score on the main target, using traditional bows and arrows, whilst wearing arm-guards for protection. The team split into three groups of three and had five rounds of shooting three arrows each to achieve a highly competitive total of 694 points altogether. The second half of the event was spent shooting with rubber arrows onto a smaller target to gain more points for the team. Elliot Thomas scored the most points in the individual round and qualified for the individual final - well done. When all the results were in, Tirlebrook finished in a very impressive sixth position out of ten teams, with 764 points altogether, just a few points behind the teams in third, fourth and fifth in what was a very close competition. A great time was had by all and the children represented the school excellently. They were engaged and enthusiastic throughout the competition and they should be proud of their achievements.

Team: Paige Broughton, Amy Fisher, Tom Francis, Rosie Hughes, Ella Jackson-Lockyer, Dan Phipps, Joe Robinson, Elliot Thomas & Paige Wilkinson

Tirlebrook Help Out Tewkesbury School's Young Sports Leaders - Thursday, 19th May 2016

Tirlebrook's Year 5 and Year 6 children were invited to Tewkesbury School to participate in some great activities organised by some of the students working towards their Junior Sports Leader Awards. The children thoroughly enjoyed getting stuck in and the excellent leadership from Tewkesbury School's pupils meant that the afternoon was extremely successful, despite the odd drop of rain. Well done!

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network Level 2 School Games Rounders Competition - Thursday, 19th May 2016

Tirlebrook began their rounders competition really positively, winning all of their matches, to finish top of Pool D. The team qualified for the semi-finals, where they played Grangefield, who were an extremely strong team and who in the end, won the competition overall. The defeat meant that it was a straight fight for the bronze School Games medal in a tight match against Gretton. Both teams worked extremely hard and although Tirlebrook scored many rounders, Gretton won by 1 rounder off the final good ball bowled. First place in the pool and 4th overall is an excellent result and all of the children should be very proud of their achievement.

Miss. Featonby

Squad: Ben Radbourne (captain), Harriet Bethel, Lucie Cummings, Alfie Dowding, Danny Etheridge, Jessica Evans, William Haslum, Rosie Hiorns, Zac Jones, Ria Nuttall & Jonathan Peirce

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network Sportshall Athletics Competition - Wednesday, 18th May 2016

Another successful afternoon, filled with enjoyment, cheering and superb sportsmanship. A team of children from Years 4, 5 and 6 competed in the very first Tewkesbury Sportshall Athletics competition. Our previous experience of this event has been through the Cheltenham Network and it has always been so positive, so we thought it would be a great competition to adopt within the Tewkesbury Network. The very first event did not disappoint. The hall was filled with laughter, cheering and celebrating, and the children showed a great level of determination and effort in all of their events, which included obstacle relays, the under and over relay, sprinting challenges in pairs and teams, javelin throw, speed bounce, vertical jump, standing long jump, standing triple jump and chest push. The children's efforts gained them a very successful second place out of seven teams altogether, which was proudly celebrated by all the children and staff who attended. It was yet another great effort all round by Tirlebrook.

Miss. Featonby

Squad: Grace Baker, Lauren Booth, Lucie Cummings, Alfie Dowding, Jessica Evans, Danny Etheridge, Olivia Gardiner, Oscar Guthrie, William Haslum, Rosie Hiorns, Sam Janes, Daisy Johansen, Ria Nuttall, Ben Radbourne, Luke Sherbourne, Esme Smith & Callum Trust

Friendly Rounders Match v. The John Moore Primary School - Tuesday, 17th May 2016

Our rounders team had a fantastically friendly match against The John Moore Primary School last week. Both teams were extremely positive and there was teamwork and great support towards all participants. Some of our Tirlebrook team even played for John Moore to make the teams even. By the end of the match, Tirlebrook successfully gained 7 rounders and John Moore scored 1 and 1/2 rounders. There was cheering and celebrating all round as we came together for a group photo at the end of our friendly. Well done everyone!

Miss Featonby

Squad: Grace Baker, Lauren Booth, Zack Cummings, Zak Davis, Olivia Gardiner, Ella Jackson-Lockyer, Sam Janes, Fraser Matharu, Ami Nunn, Dan Phipps, Joe Robinson, Esme Smith, Georgia Vallender & Paige Wilkinson

Triathlon Club Begins - Friday, 13th May 2016

At Tirlebrook, we are always striving to find new opportunities and ways to engage our pupils in physically active lifestyles. This week, our new Triathlon Club started on Friday after school. The club, which will run for eight sessions in all, includes running, cycling and swimming activities. The children had a great time this week playing some games as well as practising running and cycling disciplines. Most importantly, it was great fun. Many thanks to Miss. Featonby and Coach Joe O'Hara for making sure that this club can take place.

Inter-House Rounders and Kwik Cricket Championships 2016 - Thursday, 12th & Friday, 13th May 2016

What better way to spend your sunny afternoons, than playing rounders and cricket with the support of your teammates from a positive house team?!

The children in Y5 and Y6 have thoroughly enjoyed playing the inter-house competitions for both cricket and rounders this week. It all began on Thursday, when the house teams were split in half to compete in either the cricket or rounders matches against the other house teams. During the course of the afternoon and Friday morning, the children were then given the opportunity to play the other sporting activity. 

All of the children seemed to really enjoy both sports, and the staff that were running the events were extremely impressed with the skills, attitude and amazing support that all of the teams displayed. It was even more rewarding to hear so many of our children commenting on how much fun they had had and how much their interest in rounders and cricket had grown. 

In the end, Hastings house were the clear winners in the cricket competition, but the rounders event was tied. In rounders, when there is a draw, the winners are determined by the amount of 'outs' in their game. Therefore Beauchamp house successfully claimed the trophy after narrowly overcoming Wenlock. Congratulations to all of the participants this week.

Miss. Featonby 

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network Quad Kids Athletics Competition - Thursday, 28th April 2016

A team of eight Year 4 pupils headed over to Cheltenham to take part in the inaugural Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's Quad Kids Athletics Competition. The event, held at St. Edward's Preparatory School, pitched teams against each other as individuals completed different athletic disciplines before scores were combined to achieve a team result. The children, who must have been exhausted from their exertions over the previous three days at their residential visit to the Pioneer Centre, competed at four stations: standing long jump, 50m sprint, vortex throw and 400m run. The team put in a superb effort and displayed all of the School Games values throughout - and were very knowledgeable about the values when quizzed at the beginning of the competition. Mrs. Assheton even got in on the action by demonstrating a perfect standing long jump technique! While the results were being totted up, the children took part in baton relays in which Tirlebrook finished third in both the girls' and boys' races. Before the results were announced, School Games values bands were awarded to a number of children. Well done to Luke and Molly who picked up awards for Self-Belief and Teamwork respectively. When the placings were finally revealed, Tirlebrook had picked up the bronze medals - a very impressive feat indeed. It was a great morning. Many thanks to Mr. Lockley and Mrs. Assheton for transporting the team and encouraging them throughout.

 Team: Ava Baker, Jack Ballinger, Molly Clarke, Oscar Guthrie, Bea Prosser, Luke Sherbourne, Lilia Teasdale & Callum Trust

Tewkesbury Primary Sport Network Rounders Competition - Tuesday, 26th April 2016

Tirlebrook took part in the first rounders competition of the year at Tewkesbury School. With 8 schools in the running, Tirlebrook had to push themselves hard and work together to try and gain a top finishing place in the event. Our team successfully won two out of three matches during the first round of the competition, with a win against Carrant Brook and Mitton. Our points were then collated to determine who would play who next, for the top 3 awards. There was some fantatsic batting, fielding and bowling skills on show from Tirlebrook and their team work and communication with one another was superb. However, our opponent, Deerhurst and Apperley, managed to gain one and a half more rounders than us in the play offs and we ended the day in fourth position overall, just missing out on a runners-up medal. Despite our loss, the attitudes of the children were positive. Another successful sporting event for Tirlebrook Primary and yet another sport that the children can enjoy together. 

Miss. Featonby

Squad: Ben Radbourne (captain), Harriet Bethel, Lucie Cummings, Jessica Evans, Sam Janes, Esme Smith, Alfie Dowding, Danny Etheridge, William Haslum, Daisy Johansen, Zac Jones and Fraser Matharu

Manchester United v Crystal Palace - Wednesday, 20th April 2016

What a tremendous opportunity once more for 15 members of the Tirlebrook School community as they ventured to Old Trafford to watch the Premier League match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace. After a long and slow journey to Manchester, it was great to take in the sights and sounds of a Premier League football match. After a moment of panic, when one ticket appeared to have been lost, the group entered the newly christened Sir Bobby Charlton South Stand and took up some amazing seats to view the match. It was great to see Tirlebrook welcomed on the big screen inside the stadium. An enjoyable game was even more enjoyable for Manchester United fans as goals in each half (an own-goal by Delaney and a superb strike by Matteo Darmian) ensured a 2-0 victory. It was great to see Wayne Rooney returning to form and although it wasn't apparent then, the match on view was to be a preview of this year's FA Cup Final. Following the match, a few souvenirs were bought before many slept on a long journey home. It was another great experience of elite sport for the pupils of Tirlebrook.

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sport Network Mountain Biking - Wednesday, 20th April 2016

Four schools attended the Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury Sport Network's Level 2 Mountain Bike Challenge held at Winchcombe School. The teams participated in a time trial, an endurance ride and a relay, where each pupil completed three laps before tagging their team mate. The team had a great afternoon and came third overall earning them a School Games bronze medal. Well done!

Team: Jack Ellis, Finley Hutchings, Ria Nuttall & Lucie Cummings

Tewkesbury Primary Sport Network Netball League Round 2 - Wednesday, 20th April 2016

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury Sport Network Tag Rugby Festival @ Newlands Park - Tuesday, 19th April 2016

Y6 Level 2 Bikeability Training - Monday, 18th April - Monday, 25th April 2016

It has been great to welcome Mike Manning and Kath Jennings into school this week to work with some of our Y6 children on their cycling skills. In small groups, the children have been working towards a Level 2 Bikeability award. This training will help the children to be more confident on the roads and this is especially important as they prepare to transfer to secondary school in September. The training began on the playground, but quickly moved onto some of the roads surrounding the school. The children have also been revising the Highway Code. On conclusion of the course, the children received a certificate and a badge. Well done Y6 and thanks to Mike and Kath for their extremely valuable input.

The Frank Holley Memorial Cup for Cross Country Running - Thursday, 24th March 2016

We are delighted to announce that this year's recipient of the Frank Holley Memorial Cup for their dedication, commitment and determination is Ben Radbourne. Ben's attitude to his running has always been so positive, even when he has ended up on several occasions being the only Y6 child to participate at Running Club. His race results have improved significantly over the period of three years that he has now been representing the school at Cross Country and he can look back at the many times he has represented the school with pride. Well done Ben - you are a worthy recipient of this trophy.

School Games Value Bands Presentation - Thursday, 24th March 2016

A simply action-packed jammed-to-the-brim term of sporting activity concluded with the presentation of more School Games Values bands in our end of term assembly. So many children have stood out in so many ways for so many reasons and it was good to acknowledge this in front of such a large and supportive audience. So congratulations to ...

For Respect: Jack Battrick, Harry Clarke, Zack Cummings, William Haslum, Sam Janes, Ria Nuttall & Elliott Parsons,

For Honesty: Fraser Matharu

For Passion: Lauren Booth, Danny Etheridge & Ben Radbourne

For Self-Belief: Sam Whatmore

For Determination: Daisy Johansen, Bea Prosser, Matthew Ryland & Maxwell Scott

For Teamwork: Cerys Coxshall, Ami Nunn & Joe Robinson

Inter-House Tag Rugby Competition - Wednesday, 23rd March 2016

Can you think of a better way to end the term than spending the afternoon playing tag rugby with your house team? The Y5 and Y6 children prepared themselves for battle, as we began our first ever Inter-House tag rugby competition. We even had the privilege of having one of the best referees in the country, Christophe Ridley, refereeing our games. He has been a fantastic coach to our Y6, Y5 and Y4 classes this year as well as for our Spring Term Tag Rugby Club and we really hope he returns to work with us again in the near future. The afternoon was filled with positivity, hard work, enjoyment, teamwork and sportsmanship as the house groups supported each other brilliantly in their efforts to try to win the Tirlebrook Tag Rugby trophy. Nearly every child in Y5 and Y6 participated in the event. It was brilliant to see some of the not-so-keen children really trying hard and enjoying it. That's what it's all about!
By the end of the afternoon, when all matches had been played, the question was still remaining - who had won the inaugural Inter-House Tag Rugby trophy for 2016? Through great effort and skill, Wenlock were awarded the trophy, as they won all of their games. Congratulations to them. But also many congratulations to one and all as a fantastic effort was on display as we feasted on a superb afternoon of rugby.

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's Y3 and Y4 7-a-side Football Cup - Tuesday, 22nd March 2016

Congratulations to our nine Y3 and Y4 footballers who made a terrific comeback to win the Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's 7-a-side Cup held on the All Weather Pitch at Tewkesbury School. They played well as a strong team unit, to overcome a relatively slow start with a draw and defeat against Twyning and Ashchurch, to play the same two teams again and to win on their second encounters, including a 4-0 win against closest rivals Ashchurch. The team were led and captained superbly by Callum Trust (Year 4) and there were inspiring performances from many others as well. Well done!

Squad: Callum Trust (captain), Jack Ballinger, Alfie Cull, Oscar Guthrie, Silas Fox, Matthew Janes, Luke Sherbourne, Samuel Whatmore & Anthony Zvarych

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's 7-a-side Football Cup - Tuesday, 22nd March 2016

Congratulations to our Y5 and Y6 footballers who finished as Runners Up in the Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's 7-a-side Cup held on the All Weather Pitch at Tewkesbury School. After a 1-0 win over The John Moore Primary School and two successive 0-0 draws with Tewkesbury C. of E. and Mitton, Tirlebrook finished joint top of Group B. A sudden death penalty shoot-out loss to Mitton meant that the team qualified for a semi-final berth against Queen Margaret's. Following another 0-0 draw, despite dominating much of the match and some superb saves by the Queen Margaret's goalkeeper, Tirlebrook scraped through to the final via a second penalty shoot-out. The final against Mitton was close, with both teams close to scoring, but another 0-0 draw meant a third penalty shoot-out for Tirlebrook, which was eventually lost by a scoreline of 4-3. A special mention must be made of captain Sam Janes who led the team brilliantly, was 100% committed and was able to demonstrate the sportsmanship and leadership that we expect from a captain. Well done, Sam! Congratulations to the whole team for a really good performance on a day when the team learnt to be both good winners and losers.

Squad: Sam Janes (captain), Zack Cummings, Alfie Dowding, Danny Etheridge, Saul Fox, Zac Jones, Jonathan Peirce, Ben Radbourne & Max Thomas

Sportshall Athletics Club - Final Session - Tuesday, 22nd March 2016

Our final Sportshall Athletics Club was a great event as the children were split into teams to compete in a mini competition. Standing Long Jump, Javelin Throw, Chest Push and Hi-Step Speed Bounce Relay were all completed with enthusiasm as team green won the competition, just ahead of team yellow, team orange and team blue. Poppy Radbourne was chosen by our Sportshall Athletics coaches from our very large group of after school club participants to be awarded with a determination trophy because of her hard work, respect, effort and fantastic attitude throughout the eight weeks at club. A huge congratulations to Poppy. Keep up the superb attitude! Many thanks to Matt Coldrey and his team from the Cheltenham Sports Network for running the club alongside Miss. Featonby and Mr. Lockley, as well as to Mr. Lockwood at Tewkesbury School for permitting us to use their fantastic facilities.

Gloucestershire School Games Level 3 County Cross Country Finals @ Newent Community School

Saturday, 19th March 2016

Eight districts lined up to compete in this year's Gloucestershire School Games Level 3 County Cross Country Finals, held at Newent Community School. The eight competing districts were Tewkesbury, Stroud, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Forest of Dean, Cirencester & District, North Cotswolds and Wootton & Dursley. In the team competition, Tewkesbury finished 7th in the boys' event and 8th in the girls' event. The scores of the top 6 runners for each team are added together to get this result. The Tewkesbury runners from all schools were so enthusiastic and they all did a great job representing our district - and the future is bright, with many children from Year 5 running for the town. Individually, the first runner home for each district in each race received a School Games medal, and we must congratulate our own Olivia Gardiner who finished in 29th place to receive this honour for the Tewkesbury girls. Well done also to Rafferty Welch from The John Moore Primary who achieved this for the boys, by also finishing, bizarrely, in 29th position. Well done!

Sport Relief - Friday, 18th March 2016

What a brilliant week we have had at Tirlebrook raising money for Sport Relief. Thanks to the Sports Council and Miss. Featonby for organising a series of events and thank you to the Tirlebrook school community for raising in excess of £600 for this excellent cause. Whether it was through buying a Sport Relief wrist band, or by baking or eating a cake as part of our Great Sport Relief Bake Off, whether it was through colouring in a money box trainer and collecting pennies, or through making a donation and completing the Sport Relief Mile, everyone's contribution is extremely valued. It was great to round off the week with our special Sport Relief assembly, which included lots of sporting awards, a performance of our Feet First Festival dance routine, singing the Sport Relief song (and dancing along to it!) and the presentation of 'proud' certificates to every Sport Relief Mile runner. The certificate read, "Whichever way you look at it, you've made us proud". What a great message! #proud Well done, Tirlebrook!

Tewkesbury Sports Network's Tag Rugby Festival - Thursday, 17th March 2016

Congratulations to our team who performed valiantly at the annual Tewkesbury Sports Network's Tag Rugby Festival at Tewkesbury Rugby Club. Despite coming away without a victory, the team put in 100% effort and demonstrated a positive attitude. A hard-fought 3-2 defeat at the hands of Mitton was soon followed by a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Twyning. A solid performance with a particularly good defensive display saw the team secure a 1-1 draw with Hopelands, before losing a very close final match to Tredington by a scoreline of 3-2. It was terrific to see our young team showing such determination and sportsmanship. Congratulations. 

Squad: Lucie Cummings (captain), Jack Ballinger, Peyton Bunce, Callum Ferneyhough, Tom Francis, Oscar Guthrie, William Haslum, Fraser Matharu, Elliott Parsons & Jonathan Peirce.

QuickSticks Hockey League Round 3 @ Balcarras Secondary School, Cheltenham - Monday, 14th March 2016

The hockey team completed the final round of the Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's QuickSticks Hockey League this week with a positive and enjoyable evening at Balcarras. From strength to strength, it was great to see the team improve each week. Week one's results of one draw and three defeats were in stark contrast to the final round of the competition, where Tirlebrook won three of their matches and drew one. The team kept their spirits high, their teamwork strong and their attitudes respectful and positive. It's safe to say that the team have worked their socks off this term, competing with seventeen Cheltenham schools. They should be very proud!

Team: Alfie Dowding, Jessica Evans, Fraser Matharu & Esme Smith

Worcester Warriors v Gloucester Rugby - Aviva Premiership Match - Saturday, 12th March 2016

Fifteen pupils and two members of staff travelled to Sixways Stadium in Worcester to watch the eagerly anticipated Aviva Premiership local derby between Worcester Warriors and Gloucester Rugby. After entering the stadium, we were delighted to have the opportunity to have our photograph taken with the Aviva Premiership trophy that was on display at the stadium. Following this, purchases were made in the club shop before meeting Maximus, the Warriors' mascot. Once sat in our excellent seats in the North Stand, we were treated to a highly entertaining and intense match-up between fierce rivals. We saw two terrific tries close up, one each for both teams. After being welcomed over the tannoy at half-time, and a visit to some of the food outlets, we saw Gloucester desperately trying to get back into the match in the second half, but they eventually went on to lose by a scoreline of 28-20. We were extremely lucky to also meet and have our photograph taken with Warriors' Georgian loose-head prop Val Rapava Ruskin. It was a great day.

Cheltenham & North Tewkesbury School Sports Network Football Festival - Friday, 11th March 2016

Several of our footballers from Y4, Y5 and Y6 headed over to Warden Hill Primary School in Cheltenham to participate in the Cheltenham & North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's Football Festival. It was a lovely afternoon and the team played with a good spirit and positive attitude. In a group containing Warden Hill, Gretton and Isbourne Valley, the team managed one draw and two defeats. The captaincy was shared around the Y6 pupils and they led by example. Well done to everyone for representing Tirlebrook so well and for enabling one and all to have a great time on a Friday after school.

Squad: Jack Battrick, Alfie Cull, Jack Ellis, Callum Ferneyhough, Finley Hutchings, Dan Phipps, Joe Robinson, Maxwell Scott & Max Thomas

Tewkesbury Sport Network Y3/Y4 7-a-Side Football League Round 2 - Friday, 11th March 2016

Congratulations to our Y3 and Y4 footballers who fought hard to secure the runners up position in the 7-a-Side Football League for the second year in a row. Coming up against teams from Tredington, Deerhurst, Twyning, Ashchurch and the John Moore, the team demonstrated great sportsmanship and some super skills. Two wins, including a 3-0 victory against Deerhurst, a draw and two defeats on the afternoon were combined with four wins and one draw from the first half of the competition to ensure that Tirlebrook received silver medals. Congratulations to everyone who represented the team over the course of the two league dates.

Squad: Jack Ballinger (captain), Molly Clarke, Oscar Guthrie, Lewis Hughes, Alex Lucking, Luke Sherbourne, Lilia Teasdale,  Callum Trust & Samuel Whatmore

Tewkesbury Sport Network Y5/Y6 7-a-Side Football League Round 2 - Friday, 11th March 2016

Tirlebrook's Y5 and Y6 footballers concluded their league campaign with two draws and two defeats. Following a 0-0 draw with eventual winners, Mitton, Saul scored a cracking goal as the team claimed a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Twyning. In their penultimate game, Deerhurst proved just too strong, winning 1-0, before the competition ended with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Tewkesbury C. of E. Tirlebrook's final position was achieved with three wins, two draws and three defeats overall. Congratulations to everyone who represented the team over the course of the two league dates.

Squad: Sam Janes (captain), Zack Cummings, Rhys Davis, Danny Etheridge, Saul Fox, William Haslum, Jonathan Peirce, Ben Radbourne & Elliot Thomas

Tewkesbury Sport Network Cross Country Fun Run @ The Vineyards, Tewkesbury - Thursday, 10th March 2016

It has been a fantastic season for our cross country runners who have shown tremendous commitment in the races this year. The season culminated with the annual Fun Run, around a partially flooded Vineyards course, before the presentations were made. Congratulations to Olivia Gardiner, who finished in 4th place in the individual girls' competition and she now goes on to represent the Tewkesbury District in the county finals at Newent in just over a week's time. She helped the girls' team to a third place finish in the Large Schools' competition. The boys' team finished in 5th position in a very closely fought Large Schools' Boys' Team contest. In the overall competition, with girls and boys combined, Tirlebrook finished in a very impressive third position. Medals were also awarded to Bea Prosser and Luke Sherbourne, who were the best placed Tirlebrook girl and boy respectively who had not finished in the top twelve. Well done to the Y6 pupils who have contributed so much this season. We hope that our Y4 and Y5 pupils will return for more next year. Well done!

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network Netball Cup - Tuesday, 8th March 2016

Tirlebrook put in a fantastic all round performance as our netball team participated in the Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network's Netball Cup competition. The team fought hard against three other Tewkesbury schools to gain one win against Queen Margaret's, earn a draw against Tewkesbury C. of E. in a game that Tirlebrook dominated, and experience an unfortunate defeat at the hands of Hopelands, who went through to the semi-finals. Esme led her team fantastically as team captain. The team remained positive and determined, despite the cold and wet weather, and the quality of netball on display shows pleasing signs of progress. Well done!

Squad: Esme Smith (captain), Harriet Bethel, Cerys Coxshall, Lucie Cummings, Alfie Dowding, Jessica Evans & Fraser Matharu

QuickSticks Hockey League Round 2 @ Balcarras Secondary School, Cheltenham - Monday, 7th March 2016

Our hockey team participated in the second round of the CSSN QuickSticks hockey competition. This week the team scored even better, and they gained one win, one draw and one loss. The team were enthused and excited to get back to Balcarras to compete and they performed fantastically, showing great perseverance.

Team: Alfie Dowding, Jessica Evans, Fraser Matharu & Esme Smith

Cheltenham & North Tewkesbury School Sports Network Girls’ Football Tournament - Friday, 4th March 2016

Well done to our squad of Year 4 and Year 6 girls who played in the Cheltenham  & North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's Girls’ Football Tournament at Prestbury St. Mary's in Cheltenham. The girls showed fantastic team spirit and determination captained by Lucie who showed great organisation and leadership. The girls began the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Isbourne  Valley (who only equalised in the last 30 seconds of the game). The Tirlebrook goal came from Molly who showed great speed and a sure footed finish. Esme, Ellie and Ami worked well together in defence and almost managed to keep a clean sheet. A 6-0 defeat to Bishops Cleeve was followed by a 3-0 loss to Prestbury St. Mary’s, a game where Tirlebrook played confidently but could not come back from conceding two early goals (and an own goal). There was some great defending from Esme in goal once again and from May, Ria and Porsche at the back. The team returned to winning ways by defeating Grangefield 4-0 (all scored by Lucie including a penalty) with a strong all round performance from the entire team, even though the referee disallowed an early goal (after first awarding it!). Lilia and Molly both battled hard up front and were unlucky to not hit the back of the net. Well done to everyone for showing great support to each other and having such positive attitudes! It was great to hear the girls talking about the School Games values they would need to display - and then go on to display them!

Squad: Lucie Cummings (captain), May Chen, Molly Clarke, Ami Nunn, Ria Nuttall, Porsche Parker, Ellie Rogers, Esme Smith & Lilia Teasdale

Tewkesbury Sport Network Cross Country Race 5 @ The Vineyards, Tewkesbury - Thursday, 3rd March 2016

Well done to the cross country team who put in another excellent performance in the final competitive race of the season. Both the girls' and boys' teams can be very proud of what they have achieved throughout the course of the season. A special well done to the following children who have completed all five races: Ava Baker, Jack Ballinger, Lauren Booth, Harry Clarke, Molly Clarke, Danny Etheridge, Olivia Gardiner, Oscar Guthrie, Sam Janes, Daisy Johansen, Bea Prosser, Matthew Ryland, Maxwell Scott, Luke Sherbourne and Lilia Teasdale. We hope you all enjoy the Fun Run next week.

Feet First Dance Festival @ Cheltenham Town Hall - Thursday, 3rd March 2016

What a wonderful opportunity for our Dance Club members to perform at the Feet First Festival 2016. This annual dance exhibition, taking place yet again at Cheltenham Town Hall, gives schools from across Tewkesbury and Cheltenham the opportunity to put on a show for family and friends in a truly wonderful location. Miss. Featonby, Mrs. White and the crew worked hard to put a dance together to a 'Madness Medley' and the result was a really enjoyable and energetic performance. The children looked great in their costumes and their happy faces certainly told the story. Thanks to Miss. Featonby in particular for all of her hard work in organising the event, and to Mrs. White and Mrs. Gosden for their input too. The children will perform their dance to the school in our special upcoming Sport Relief assembly. Well done!

Dance Crew: Rachel Bagley, Megan Bullock, Esme Burton, Elishia Caley, Amy Chaplin, Jaelynn Chaplin, Eleanor Dyball, Paulina Kapron, Ellie Longney, Leland Pratley, Charlotte Peirce, Poppy Radbourne, Megan Sapkota & Martha Simpson

QuickSticks Hockey League Round 1 @ Balcarras Secondary School, Cheltenham - Monday, 29th February 2016

Four members of our Hockey Club went to Balcarras School in Cheltenham to compete in Round 1 of the Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's QuickSticks competition. They began the evening brilliantly, winning 5-1 against St John's. Although Tirlebrook lost the remaining three matches, and two of the games were very close indeed, the team grew in confidence and their teamwork and effort was superb! It was fantastic to see the children compete in their first hockey competition of the year.

Team: Alfie Dowding, Jessica Evans, Fraser Matharu & Esme Smith

School Games Values Pledges - Friday, 26th February 2016

The whole school came together to make their School Games Values pledges this week. Following a poster design competition set by the Sports Council, the winning designs for each of the six values - Determination, Respect, Honesty, Self-Control, Passion and Teamwork - were enlarged in readiness for the Tirlebrook school community to sign. By doing so, each person has promised to work on one value in particular for the rest of the school year. However, this is not to say that we won't remember to keep working on the others! We need to keep working on all six values in PE, school sport and in the wider aspects of school life.

Tewkesbury Sport Network Cross Country Race 4 @ The Vineyards, Tewkesbury - Thursday, 25th February 2016

Congratulations to our cross country runners who represented the school excellently in Race 4 of the Tewkesbury Sport Network's Cross Country season. For some, it was a first ever chance to race for the school, whilst for others it was a return to the Vineyards for the first time since October, although the course was longer and in reverse! It was chilly, but the conditions were pleasant for running, and the boys took up the challenge of tackling the course first. Well done to every boy for their determination and effort. A special mention must be made of Luke Sherbourne, who in 24th position was our first runner home, of Alfie Dowding, who was competing in his first race of the season, finishing in a very impressive 27th place, and of Oscar Guthrie, who despite injuring himself during the race, showed the tenacity required to complete the race. It was then the turn of the girls ... and it was worth the wait. Collectively, they put in Tirlebrook's best performance of the season so far, running Tewkesbury C. of E. close at the top of the race standings, but it was the impressive stand-out performance of Olivia Gardiner, who led the race from start to finish, that really caught the eye. She obliterated a field of runners that included previous winners and looked like she could have run it all over again! This was a spectacular performance, and all of the training at Cheltenham Harriers and at Running Club with Mr. Tomkins is really starting to pay off. Well done to all the girls for trying so hard - there were many other brilliant runs and personal bests. Keep running team - we're proud of you! 

Girls' Friendly Football Festival @ Warden Hill Primary School - Thursday, 11th February 2016

Our girls' football squad travelled over to Warden Hill in Cheltenham to participate in a girls' friendly football festival. The sun was shining and the girls were smiling as Tirlebrook went head to head with three Cheltenham schools - Leckhampton, Bishop's Cleeve and Warden Hill. Although we didn't win, it was great to see the girls so positive and determined. As the matches went on, their confidence and performance got stronger and stronger. This event has kick-started the year for our girls' football team and we are all really excited for the events that are to follow. Well done, everyone!

Squad: May Chen, Molly Clarke, Lucie Cummings, Rosie Hiorns, Ami Nunn, Ria Nuttall, Porsche Parker, Esme Smith & Lilia Teasdale

Cheltenham Sports Network Y3/Y4 Key Steps Gymnastics Competition @ Rowan Gym Club - Thursday, 11th February 2016

It was a real privilege to take twelve children from Lower Key Stage Two to participate in the Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury School Sports Network's Key Steps Gymnastics competition for the very first time at Rowan Gymnastics Club in Cheltenham. Coming up against experienced opposition from schools in Cheltenham, including Leckhampton, Grangefield, Glenfall and St. James, our two teams proudly performed what they had been practising as they completed floor routines and jumps from a vault. The competition, specifically for children who receive less than one hour gymnastics coaching per week, or even for non-gymnasts, saw our twelve split into two teams - it was interesting to note that there were only 7 boys out of 36 competitors overall, and 6 were from Tirlebrook! The children completed vaults with straight and tuck jumps, as well as floor routines that included shoulder stands, arabesque balances, forward and backward rolls and cartwheels. Although we were unable to win medals on the day, the children all had a wonderful experience and they represented Tirlebrook brilliantly. They did us proud! Special congratulations to Matthew Janes for being awarded a School Games Values Band for 'Determination'. Well done, Matthew! Also, a special thank you to Y6 girls Jessica Evans and Esme Smith for helping the children to be prepared for the event and for coming along on the day to support. They gave up a lot of their own time - well done!

Gymnasts: Rachel Bagley, Peyton Bunce, Alfie Cull, Romanie Cummings, Oscar Guthrie, Matthew Janes, Bea Prosser, Calum Pryce, Poppy Radbourne, Luke Sherbourne, Lilia Teasdale & Callum Trust

Manchester United v Stoke City Premier League Match - Tuesday, 2nd February 2016

What a fantastic opportunity for 16 members of the Tirlebrook School community as we visited Old Trafford, home of arguably the most famous football club in the world, for the third time in three years, for the Premier League match between Manchester United and Stoke City. We thoroughly enjoyed taking in the sights, sounds, smells and atmosphere of an elite football match, alongside 70,000 others. It was brilliant to see the players in action from our excellent seats in the East Stand, including Wayne Rooney, David De Gea, Bojan and Anthony Martial, to name just a few. Manchester United dominated the game, creating numerous chances on their way to a 3-0 victory. Mr. Tomkins was especially happy! The long journey home and getting to bed at 1:30 a.m. was all worth it. Thank you to the children for being so sensible and well behaved on the trip. For many, it will be the only time that they visit Old Trafford in their lives, and we hope that it will be an experience that always stays with them. Glory, glory, Man. United!

Tewkesbury Sport Network Swimming Gala - Monday, 18th January 2016

Well done to the six children who represented Tirlebrook in the Tewkesbury Sport Network's Swimming Gala held at Tewkesbury School. The pupils competed in recognised events such as 2 lengths front crawl, backstroke and breaststroke as well as other specialist events, including 'Stylish Dive' and 'Biggest Splash'! Several children made it through to the finals of their events. The team then combined to race in the Canon and Freestyle relays. Tirlebrook finished in fifth position overall out of nine competing schools. Well done!

Squad: Grace Baker, Harriet Bethel, Cerys Coxshall, Zack Cummings, Daisy Johansen & Dan Phipps

Running Club Restarts - Friday, 15th January 2016

It was great to see so many children return to Running Club after the Christmas break - and it was a very cold morning!

School Games Values Bands Awarded - Friday, 18th December 2015

It was a real pleasure to award the first of hopefully many School Games values wristbands in our special assembly. Congratulations to Preston Boazman and Luke Sherbourne who were recognised for 'Determination', to Jessica Evans who was awarded a wristband for 'Self-Belief' and to Sam Janes who was rewarded for his 'Passion'. We hope that the other children will take inspiration from this and continue to work hard towards their chosen School Games value. Well done!

ESFA 7-a-Side Football County Finals @ Oxstalls Sports Park - Wednesday, 16th December 2015

Congratulations to our Y6 footballers who qualified for the County Finals of the national ESFA 7-a-Side Football Competition held at Oxstalls Sports Park in Gloucester. Coming up against the District winners from Cheltenham, Gloucester, Bristol, the Forest of Dean and South Gloucestershire, it was clear a very hard challenge was ahead. Despite losing all five of their matches, there was no lack of effort and determination on display and indeed there were some great passages of play. The team were led very effectively by captain Sam Janes and everyone displayed a positive attitude and great sportsmanship. We are all very proud of the way Tirlebrook represented Tewkesbury in the finals and every player can be proud of their efforts. Well done!

Squad: Sam Janes (captain), Harriet Bethel, Theo Carey-Owen, Lucie Cummings, Jack Ellis, Saul Fox, Dan Phipps, Ben Radbourne & Joe Robinson

Sports Council Christmas Fun Run - Tuesday, 15th December 2015

We have welcomed Christmas this week by participating in a Christmas Fun Run! Children from Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5 and Y6 got into the Christmas spirit as they dressed up and ran , slid across and even three-legged their way around a Cross Country course, prepared by the Sports Council. It was an extremely successful event, with lots of smiley faces, lots of Christmas hats and lots of mud! The Sports Council have done an amazing job this year so far. This is just one of the brilliant and exciting things that the children have got planned. Well done to everyone that participated and a huge well done to the Sports Council, who have now organised and led their first sports event.

Inter-House Cross Country Championships Round One - Y3 and Y4 - Friday, 11th December 2015

Our Y3 and Y4 children put 100% effort into their first Cross Country race of the year. The muddy Tewkesbury School course was a good challenge, but everyone completed their run - and most with smiles on their faces! Congratulations to Silas Fox who won the race overall, but of course, every runners' position will count towards their House's overall total. This will then be combined with the Y5 and Y6 results across three races across the year to see which team wins overall. We look forward to some more Cross Country running in the Spring Term.

Inter-House Cross Country Championships Round One - Y5 and Y6 - Monday, 7th December 2015

Well done to everyone who took part in the first race of the Inter-House Cross Country Championships 2015-2016. All the children in Years 5 and 6 represented their House fantastically well as they took on the course at Tewkesbury School. This was the first of three races that will decide the overall House winners. Will it be Wenlock who win again? We'll have to wait and see, but for now, well done!

Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury Schools Sports Network Sportshall Athletics - Thursday, 3rd December 2015

It was an absolute pleasure to take a mixed team of Y4, Y5 and Y6 children to compete in this year's Cheltenham and North Tewkesbury Schools Sports Networks' Small School Sportshall Athletics competition. Sportshall Athletics is a fantastic event involving sprinting, relays, an obstacle race and a variety of field events, including javelin, triple jump and speed bounce - all taking place inside a sports hall - on this occasion at All Saints' Academy in Cheltenham. The event is really exciting and the atmosphere was great as children and supporters alike cheered on their teams in the various events. It was great to see the positive attitude on display from the Tirlebrook team, who, when all the results had been calculated, finished in 7th place out of ten teams overall. It was an admirable display from a young team. Ami Nunn was nominated for a Determination School Games values band, but the whole team should be proud of their efforts - we certainly are. We look forward to participating in the event again next year.

Squad: Ava Baker, Lucie Cummings, Jessica Evans, Olivia Gardiner, Oscar Guthrie, Sam Janes, Daisy Johansen, Zac Jones, Fraser Matharu, Ami Nunn, Luke Sherbourne & Callum Trust

England v Bosnia & Herzegovina - UEFA Euro 17 Women's Qualifier - Sunday, 29th November 2015

What a fantastic opportunity for some of our pupils in Y4, Y5 and Y6 to visit Ashton Gate in Bristol, the home of Bristol City Football Club, to watch the England Women's football team, also known as the Lionesses, compete. On arrival, the children were able to spend a few minutes exploring the FanZONE where many different activity stations had been set up, including football skills, reaction skills, refereeing skills and even 'Beat the Goalie'. Some players from the Bristol Women's Academy were also on hand to talk to the children about their experiences of playing at such a high standard. We even had the chance to meet the England Lionesses mascot! The atmosphere inside the stadium was great as over 13,000 people had turned up to support the Lionesses in their first home match since returning in a triumphant third-place from the World Cup. England went on to win the game 1-0 with a goal being thundered in by substitute Jill Scott. It was a great day!

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network Y3 & Y4 Football League Round 1 - Tuesday, 24th November 2015

Eight children represented Tirlebrook brilliantly in the first round of the LKS2 Football League at Tewkesbury School. The team were undefeated throughout their five games and worked solidly as a unit. Together, they picked up three wins and two draws and demonstrated a good attitude at all times. It was a privilege to take them - we look forward to the second round after Christmas where we have a realistic chance to win the competition overall. Well done everyone!

Results: Oakhill 0 v 3 Tirlebrook, Twyning 0 v 2 Tirlebrook, Tredington 0 v 0 Tirlebrook, Ashchurch 1 v 1 Tirlebrook, Deerhurst 1 v 3 Tirlebrook

Squad: Jack Ballinger, Harry Clarke, Oscar Guthrie, Fraser Lucking, Maxwell Scott, Luke Sherbourne, Lilia Teasdale & Callum Trust

Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network Y5 & Y6 Football League Round 1 - Tuesday, 24th November 2015

Well done to our squad of Year 5 and Year 6 children who played in the first round of the Tewkesbury Primary Sports Network Football League. It was a very successful afternoon as the team ended up with three wins and just one defeat. Captained by the enthusiastic Sam Janes, every player followed his lead and demonstrated determination, skill and most importantly, teamwork. Goals came from various team members and some of the play on display was really impressive. A 4-0 victory against Tredington was followed by a 2-1 defeat to John Moore, a game that Tirlebrook certainly dominated but could not come back from conceding two soft early goals. The team got back to winning ways by defeating Ashchurch 1-0 and then Carrant Brook 2-0. It leaves the team in a strong position to challenge for the league title in Round 2. Well done to everyone!

Squad: Sam Janes (captain), Lucie Cummings, Alfie Dowding, Danny Etheridge, Saul Fox, Tom Francis, Fraser Matharu, Danny Phipps & Ben Radbourne

Running Club Continues ... Despite Storm Abigail! - Friday, 13th November 2015

Running Club has continued to be well attended this term, with many children completing personal milestones as they progress through their virtual routes. This last Friday, however, was so wet and wild that it was impossible to run outside. Mr. Tomkins set up a circuit of indoor activities to challenge the children, including running ladders, step ups and skipping. The children entered into it with their usual enthusiasm. If you look carefully, you might even see the odd Pudsey! Well done everyone!