‘The Difference Between the Impossible and the Possible Lies in Determination’ – Usain Bolt
Saint Felix is starting to gain an excellent reputation for its strength in Athletics and as its popularity wanes across the independent sector, that is far from the truth here. With forty-six students competing at the ISA Regional Competition yesterday, the future is bright indeed.
Usain Bolt was one of the most amazing athletes of our generation and whilst his quote might appear simplistic in nature, the truth is so fundamentally clear. Determination, grit, resilience, fortitude, and courage are the qualities that when combined with a degree of talent can lead to outstanding success. And our students certainly showed lots of those qualities yesterday with an outstanding team performance where our athletes delivered an exceptional display of talent securing an impressive ten podium finishes made up of One Gold, Six Silver and Three Bronze Medals. Competing against other independent schools, Saint Felix were extremely competitive across the board, firmly placing the school on the athletics map. The results are a testament to the students’ dedication, with many having trained tirelessly in their co-curricular lessons and during lunchtimes in the lead-up to the event. There is now a real buzz around Athletics at the school and many students returned from the championships inspired and eager to compete again, and we already have more competitions planned for after half term to build on this momentum.
We are now awaiting final confirmation to see which of our athletes have qualified for the ISA National Championships – a potential next step in what is proving to be a remarkable start to the season for Saint Felix Athletics as prior to the ISA Competition, Megan C became County Champion at the 800m having trained hard over the winter months and now looks to build on this success aiming to get her personal best time down to the level for National Schools. Saint Felix secured a second County Champion with Cody H winning the 1500m breaking the County record time for this race by an incredible 5 seconds! A special mention though must go to Daniel B who has qualified for the Regionals in both the Shot Put and Discus having only started both disciplines this term; it will be fascinating to see how far he can go now.
In a slightly different style of athletic endeavour and one where endurance is at the forefront, Holly and Lily R-W represented Norfolk and Suffolk RAFAC WING in two marching events over the weekend both comprising a gruelling 25km! Both received medals for their supreme
efforts and should be congratulated on showing true Saint Felix values.
And next week, the annual Prep Department Musical Production comes to the fore. ‘Plastic Pirates’ will be performed three times during the week, with two evening performances (Tuesday and Thursday at 6 p.m.) and a matinee on Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. A chance to set sail on an unforgettable adventure aboard the Plastic Pearl! I know that it will be an event not worth missing and if you have not done so already, please book your tickets at www.trybooking.com/uk/ERKK.
The Performing Arts programme continues to go from strength to strength, and on Parents’ Day (Saturday, 5th July 2025), we will be showcasing some of the very best performances from across the academic year in a similar vein to last year. Hopefully, the weather will be kinder this year and the BBQ buffet to celebrate the year can take place outdoors! The day will commence with coffee, tea and pastries followed by the prizegiving and celebration of the students’ achievements in the Sports Hall and please find attached your invite to this wonderful day that rounds off the academic year. Please do note that this is a compulsory school day for all students, and I look forward to seeing you all there.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Oakman
Head