Bicester School leaders make a splash as hosts of primary school swim gala
Bicester’s sporting spirit was on full display as student leaders from The Bicester School organised a primary school swim gala, bringing together young athletes from eight local primary schools.
Held on 16 January at the Bicester Leisure Centre, the event celebrated community, teamwork and athletic achievement, with invaluable support from the Bicester Blue Fins swim club.
The gala, which featured a wide range of races including freestyle, backstroke and relay events, saw more than 100 students from years 5-6 competing. The collaboration between The Bicester School and the Bicester Blue Fins ensured a smoothly run event, with experienced club members and coaches helping to oversee the competition, provide technical advice and encourage all the young swimmers.
Student leaders from The Bicester School played a central role in the organisation, demonstrating leadership and teamwork as they managed everything from timekeeping and marshalling to awarding medals and cheering on the competitors. The Bicester Blue Fins, a well-regarded local swim club, played a crucial role in the gala’s success.
The gala focused on inclusion and fostering a love for swimming. Students of all abilities participated, with their peers and families enthusiastically cheering them on from the side-lines. The energy and camaraderie were palpable, creating an inspiring atmosphere for both participants and spectators.
We’re thrilled to see such passion for swimming among Bicester’s young people and hope this event inspires more children to take up swimming, whether recreationally or competitively. The teamwork and sportsmanship on display today were outstanding.
Iain Horner, Headteacher from Chesterton Church of England Primary School whose teams came first in both boys’ and girls’ categories, said:
“Chesterton’s swimming team had a fantastic morning at the Bicester Swimming Gala. They are a particularly keen group and really enjoyed the challenge of competing against other schools, many of whom did so for the first time. When they found out that they had come first in both the boys’ and girls’ categories, they were even more excited. We are very grateful to the great team of young leaders and to Bicester Blue Fins for supporting the event.”
PE teacher at The Bicester School Lily Hitchcock said:
“The leaders running the Y4-6 primary school swim gala were absolutely outstanding—organized, encouraging, and ensuring every child had a moment to shine in the pool. A true display of leadership and teamwork!”
Results
| Girls | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1. Chesterton & Longfields | 1. Chesterton |
| 2. Kings Meadow 1 | 2. Kings Meadow 1 |
| 3. Langford | 3. Bure Park |
| 4. Brookside | 4. Longfields |
| 5. St Edburgs and Kings Meadow 2 | 5. Brookside |
| 6. Bure Park | 6. St Edburgs |
| 7. St Mary’s | 7. Fringford |
| 8. Fringford | 8. Langford |
| 9. St Mary’s |
|
| 10. Kings meadow 2 |