National success and marathon spirit
It has been an extraordinary few weeks for sport at Orchard House, marked by national success, personal achievement and a shared sense of pride across our school community.
Our U11A netball team delivered a truly outstanding performance at the IAPS National Netball Finals, finishing second in the country. Having already been crowned regional champions, the girls carried their momentum into the national stage with confidence and composure, winning seven of their eight matches and narrowly missing out on the title against a strong Heath Mount side.
Throughout the tournament, the team showed exceptional skill, determination and teamwork, representing the school with pride in every game. A special congratulations goes to Sofia, who was named Player of the Tournament – an impressive achievement made even more remarkable as she was playing up a year.
This success reflects the strength of our netball programme and the dedication behind it. With expert guidance from Miss Furneaux and Mrs Glynn, alongside the team’s commitment to early morning training, the journey to the national finals has been one of hard work, ambition and genuine enjoyment of the game. It also builds on a strong track record, with Orchard House teams consistently performing at a high level, including a top eight national finish last year and a 90% netball win rate last season.
As one parent shared “OHS’s success in sport comes from its outstanding staff who deliver an effective mix of inclusivity and aspiration.”
Sport at Orchard House is about both opportunity and excellence. From first experiences in Early Years to competitive fixtures across West London and national tournaments, pupils are supported to develop confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of being active. Regular fixtures, specialist coaching and access to outstanding local facilities, such as Rocks Lane, Chiswick, all play their part, alongside a growing list of achievements – including 12 sports scholarships awarded this year and national recognition through a TES sports award.
Miss Furneaux’s Marathon Success
That same spirit was on full display beyond the netball court too. We are incredibly proud of our Head of Sport, Miss Furneaux, who completed the London Marathon last week – an exceptional achievement in its own right.
Even more impressively, she earned her London Classics medal, awarded for finishing three of the capital’s most demanding endurance events: Swim Serpentine, RideLondon and the London Marathon.
It was a moment made even more special by the Orchard House community, with Miss Furneaux recalling the boost of hearing a Year 6 pupil cheering her name at mile 25. She is already looking ahead to her next challenge: an upcoming Ironman.
On the same day, 25 Orchard House pupils took part in the London Mini Marathon, showing determination and enthusiasm as they ran the 2.6km course, supported by staff and families. It was a wonderful reminder that sport here is as much about participation and encouragement as it is about performance.
Together, these achievements capture what sport at Orchard House is all about: a balance of ambition and inclusivity, of striving and supporting. Whether competing on a national stage or taking on a first race, every child is encouraged to find their path, give their best and enjoy the journey.
We could not be prouder of our pupils and staff. Quietly impressive, wholeheartedly committed, and always supporting one another – they continue to show just what is possible.
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