The Independent Schools of the Year awards, now in their seventh year, celebrate and showcase the extraordinary achievements of independent schools across the UK. With hundreds of schools submitting entries into the 24 different categories, Kimbolton’s sports provision stood out to the distinguished panel of judges, earning its place on the shortlist.
One of the standout sporting successes for Kimbolton School this academic year has been its canoe team - The Purple Paddlers. The team recently took on the challenging Devizes to Westminster race. This gruelling 125-mile kayaking marathon saw the canoeists demonstrate exceptional endurance, teamwork, and determination. Despite facing adverse conditions, which eventually curtailed the event at Reading, the Purple Paddlers exhibited unwavering perseverance – covering an incredible 54 miles in just two days and clocking up more than 60 hours of canoeing in total.
Kimbolton School’s other sports teams have also seen remarkable successes at various competitions, including county championships in cricket and hockey and national recognition in swimming and athletics. Individual achievements have also been significant, with several students qualifying for national-level events to representing the country.
Will Chuter, Headmaster at Kimbolton School, said:
“We are unbelievably proud to be shortlisted in this highly influential, national award scheme. Kimbolton School prides itself on its comprehensive and inclusive sports curriculum that fosters both elite performance and broad participation. Our facilities include a state-of-the-art sports centre, a 25-metre swimming pool, multiple astro turf pitches, and extensive playing fields. From Prep to Sixth Form, our students engage in a diverse range of sports, including football, hockey, cricket, netball, tennis, rounders, swimming, athletics, basketball, badminton and gymnastics. We even have our own equestrian and sailing teams – and our pupils can take part in exciting sporting challenges like the annual Devizes to Westminster canoe race. The opportunities to engage in sports at Kimbolton really are endless, with something on offer for everyone – and we look forward to the next round of the awards.”
Since their inception in 2018, the Independent School of the Year Awards, organised by Independent School Parent Magazine, have been committed to highlighting the UK’s best independent schools and to celebrating the breadth and diversity of life as a student in the independent education sector. The awards are chaired by Dr Helen Wright, an international education adviser and past Vice Chair of the ISC, supported by a panel of judges that includes leading Headteachers and representatives of professional associations.
A list of finalists will be published on 9 September and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.
