South Africa Cricket and Hockey Tour
Ibstock cricket and hockey pupils enjoyed an amazing trip to sunny South Africa over half term, playing sport, volunteering and taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful country.
Under the watchful eye of experienced coaches who previously steered teams in the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and the South African Cricket Team, pupils took part in a series of training sessions and matches against local schools in Cape Town and Stellenbosch.
The boys’ cricket series culminated in a draw, with Owen (Senior 11) as Batter of the Tour and James (Senior 10) as Bowler of the Tour. The girls’ hockey team secured a significant victory, having faced high performance teams, with Aisling (Senior 11) as Hockey Player of the Tour. Witnessing pupils interact with their opponents, sharing sporting tales and exchanging insights into their respective educational systems, was a heartwarming sight.
With temperatures soaring to a pleasant 25°C, pupils had the chance to explore several sights in Cape Town including the Table Mountain cable car (offering breathtaking 360-degree views across the Cape), visiting the Aquila Game Reserve and enjoying a coastal drive to Boulders Beach to admire the scenery and take photos with the penguins.
During the tour, pupils also volunteered with the charity 'Inspire' which works with people living in rural areas to help improve numeracy, literary skills and self-sufficiency. Our pupils spent time with women and children, helping them plant seeds for crops, playing educational games, and joining in with musical activities.
We are very proud of all our pupils who represented Ibstock on this tour and for the meaningful work they accomplished which is sure to leave a lasting impression. We also thank Mrs. Bennett for sharing her vision and leading the pupils in this wonderful experience.
