As the first term comes to a close, it’s a thank you and goodbye to our BGS Sports Prefects who have been an incredible support to the PE department this past year. Their enthusiasm and dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. They have been outstanding role models, showing leadership and commitment in every task undertaken. We feel now is the time for a handover so they can concentrate on their studies. To show our appreciation, each prefect was gifted a parting ‘reading book’ gift.

We hope this small gesture will continue to inspire them. Enjoy reading, and we wish you the very best of luck in your final terms at BGS. 

Mrs Kemp, PE Department

Former Bexley Grammar School students Mal Turner (3rd from left, next to the Goalkeeper on the left) Riley Woods (5th from left) and Aidan Wicks (Goalkeeper on the right) are currently in Croatia representing England in the U23 6 a side World Cup. 

A disappointing start meant a 0-4 defeat in their first game, but the boys hope to bounce back later in the tournament. You can follow the tournament on YouTube here.

Fantastic to see our former students representing their country.

Mr Martin, Assistant Head, Sixth Form 

Year 10 Netball

Wednesday saw our two Year 10 teams take on St Matthew’s Academy. The 'A Team' started with accurate shooting and fast play along the court and continued to build on their lead throughout the whole game. With only 7 players, the team worked hard to win 18-8. Sophie was selected as player of the match for her super shooting and on court leadership.

The 'B Team' started slowly, but managed to gain momentum as the game progressed. With some new players to the team and some Year 11 players filling in the gaps, by the end we were playing some lovely netball!

Well done to Ayaka, who was the player of the match, and well done to everyone!

Next week we take on CSGS! 

Ms Leffen, PE Department

Year 7 Football 

Today, Bexley Grammar played against Royal Greenwich Trust. The score was 2-6. The match kicked off and Greenwich were maintaining very high pressure. Thanks to that pressure, they managed to get the ball in the middle of the pitch, and they scored an early goal with a great strike going into the bottom corner. The game went on, and then we had our own goal-scoring chance. Harry had the ball in the midfield, and he passed it to Aaraav on the left wing. He crossed the ball into the box with Jayden and then Reese narrowly missed it. After that, Greenwich were very quick to score a second. It took us something like 5 minutes to score our first, with Reese snatching a rebound from Jayden’s cross. Then the opposition scored 2 (the third being a penalty) more, and we were 4-1 down at half-time. In the second half, we played much better and that led to Reese scoring his second with some great play between Jayden and Onyi down the wing. Following that, we continued to play well, but we received a great blow as we conceded 2 goals more.

Even though we lost, I think that we played very well considering that it was our first match, and we are still getting used to playing as a team. I would like to give special praise to Harry and Neev because I think that they really battled it out today. Reese also did very well, scoring both our team’s goals.

Santi Martinez, Year 7

I was really proud of the team’s efforts against a strong Royal Greenwich Trust side. The boys battled all the way and the scoreline had an unfair gloss on it by the end as we pushed to get an equaliser late on. Santi was an excellent captain on the day and really led by example. I look forward to other players taking this responsibility in the future. Thank you to everyone who turns up for training, which will continue to be after school on Wednesday evenings. It was also lovely to meet parents who were able to attend the game. Your support is incredibly valuable to the boys. If you wish to attend matches, please sign in at Reception.

Mr Martin, Year 7 Football 

Great Britain's Triumph at the Paris Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics was an inspiring showcase of Great Britain’s dedication, talent, and perseverance. Our athletes shone on the global stage, bringing home an impressive haul of medals across various sports, from athletics and cycling to swimming and gymnastics. Team GB won 65 medals at the end of the Olympics in Paris, beating their Tokyo total by one. Their success is a testament to the power of hard work, teamwork, and a passion for sport. One of the most memorable moments was watching our athletes embody the Olympic motto: "Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together." This powerful message isn't just for elite athletes, it’s a reminder for all of us that through sport, we can push our limits and achieve incredible things, especially when we support each other. As you reflect on the Paris Games, think about how you can bring that same spirit into your own life. Whether it’s joining a new sports team, setting personal fitness goals, or simply trying something new, sport offers countless opportunities to grow and succeed. You don’t have to be an Olympian to experience the joy and benefits of staying active and working towards your best self.

The resilience of these young Olympic athletes from around the world reminds us that it is a beautiful accomplishment to win a medal, but the beauty lies in the trying. Félix Dolci will have to live the rest of his life wondering about the "what-if" of that moment after his fall in gymnastics, but the rest of the world received a masterclass in how to dust yourself off and try again. Dolci is not the only athlete to suffer a major blow and keeps on going. Brazilian gymnast Flavia Saraiva competed with a black eye after a bad fall in practice to help her team earn a Bronze medal, U.S. trail cyclist Haley Batten suffered a broken wheel early in her race and came back to claim silver. And so many others who have experienced a tough time yet kept on going, medal or not. Too often in the Olympics, we focus on medal counting and breaking records, but the real lessons come from the athletes themselves. It is not only talent that makes them Olympians, but hard work, dedication, and tremendous perseverance. I think we forget that sometimes. Life often does not go our way, even when we've worked incredibly hard to prepare ourselves for the big moments. An important message for our BGS students as they tackle this academic year.

What’s good to watch this month?

Here’s a list of major sporting events taking place in September 2024:

1. US Open (Tennis)
2. Pacific Nations Cup (Rugby)
3. Formula 1
4. Cycling: La Vuelta a España
5. Solheim and Ryder Cup (Golf)
6. Premier League (Football)

These events highlight the diversity and excitement of sports, offering something for every type of fan.

Exam Success

Congratulations to all our GCSE and IB students who received their results in the summer. Another successful year for BGS Sport, Exercise and Health Students with a 100% pass rate for both Standard Level and Higher Level alongside 70% of the GCSE students achieving a grade 9-7. We are looking forward to the 2024-2025 season with our examination classes as we also undertake a new specification for the Year 12s.

Extra-curricular news

If your child is interested in playing netball, BGS netball will be running on different nights after school outside on the newly painted courts:

• Mondays - Year 7s
• Wednesdays - Years 10 to Sixth Form
• Thursdays - Years 8 & 9

Girls football also takes place after school. A great opportunity with Charlton Football Club running the first 6-week sessions on Thursdays after school and then this will move to Tuesdays after school from October. Hopefully, we will be successful in the Kent Cups this year!

BGS has talent

What about our sporting achievements at BGS? Did one of the Olympic sports inspire your child to become active and explore the outdoors? Great Britain's Charlie Hatton won downhill mountain bike gold at the 2023 World Cycling Championships in August. Do we have a future champion? We know some students are quietly modest about their successes, but we would love to celebrate their achievements. If your child has represented their district, County, Borough or shown success in their sport, we would love to know. Please keep the PE department updated with their successes so we can regularly update our Honours Board. Let’s showcase the BGS talent!

Get in touch with us:

W: www.bexleygs.co.uk
F: www.facebook.com/BexleyGSPE
T: www.twitter.com/BexleyGSPE
I: www.instagram.com/bexleygspe

The co-curricular timetable is now available to view on the school website. Please check out our PE Facebook and Instagram pages for regular sporting updates! We are also keen for volunteers to help run these practices or assist with the officiating aspect of the games to help further your sporting opportunities. Come and see one of us in the PE office to see how you can help.

Google Classroom codes can be found on the Year group classrooms for you to join. All clubs begin the week beginning Monday 9th September. Remember the house events in the school calendar too. Catch up with your House Captains and Heads of Houses for further details.

Best of luck with your sporting successes this season.

Mrs Kemp, PE Department

Many thanks to Yu Xuan, Adebola, Poppy, Maks, Leonard and Valentino who were our representatives at the Bexley Sports Leadership Academy this year. They contributed a huge amount to the programme, run by Mrs Allsop at Hurstmere, and did a fantastic job leading events for students at local primary schools.  Thank you for representing us so brilliantly.

Mr Lines, Head of PE

Monday 17th June to Friday 21st June sees the nation's schools celebrating National School Sport Week 2024. Each year the Youth Sport Trust dedicates one week to promoting PE in schools and co-curricular activities. This year's theme, powered by Sports Direct's Monster Kickabout, brings a special one-off Euro 2024 event that emphasises football as a means to engage young people in PE, sport and play. At BGS, we have been celebrating the week with lots of competitive events within lessons. We encourage you all to get out and get active as much as you can!

#NSSW got off to a flying start with some football tournaments for the boys. With lots going on during the week, let’s hope the weather stays nice.

Click here to view the National Schools Sports Week 2024 Photo Gallery.

Euro 2024 ~ What you need to know

14th June ~ 14th July 2024

The UEFA EURO 2024 final tournament is just around the corner and is scheduled to take place from 14 June to 14 July 2024. This year it will take place in Germany, spanning over 10 stadiums. It first started in the 1960s in France, but it only included 4 countries and the first winner was The Soviet Union.

The group stage runs until 26 June, with the knockout stage beginning on 29 June.

The countries taking part are:

Group A: Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland
Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania
Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England
Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France
Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine
Group F: Türkiye, Georgia, Portugal, Czechia

England's 26-man squad are:

Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal)

Defenders: Lewis Dunk (Brighton & Hove Albion), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), Kyle Walker (Manchester City)

Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)

Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

The final will take place on the 14th July 2024, but only one team can win.

Riley Boyle, Year 12

Football Events

With the 2024 Euros underway, this year we have included a football tournament for all students in their PE lessons, giving all students a chance to play competitively.

Bexley Grammar has had a lot of success in football competitions this year, with the First XI winning the Kent Premier League. Our Year 8 Squad reached the final in the North Kent Cup (just pipped by Wilmington Grammar) and our Year 9s were crowned champions in the Kent Cup.

We are super proud of all of our students, and we would like to thank and congratulate all students who have represented BGS in all sports. A big congratulation to the students below, who have been selected by teachers and coaches to get a special mention following a fantastic football season.

National School Sports Week Award Winners

We are thrilled to present the below awards to students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and enthusiasm by actively participating in numerous sports clubs. Your commitment, sportsmanship, and passion for physical activity have set a shining example for your peers. Your involvement not only enhances your own skills and well-being but also contributes significantly to the vibrant sporting community at our school. Congratulations on your outstanding achievement, and thank you for inspiring others with your dedication to sports.

Summer Events

Cricket T20 World Cup

4th June ~ 30th June 2024

The Cricket World Cup 2024:
England’s Fixtures and Key Dates

As the cricketing world gears up for the 2024 Cricket World Cup, excitement and anticipation are at an all-time high. This prestigious tournament, set to take place throughout the West Indies and areas of the United States, promises thrilling matches and intense competition amongst the world's best cricketing teams. The tournament begins on June 4th and will culminate on June 29th at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados.

England enters the competition with a strong squad, carrying the nation’s hopes with them.

The England squad is composed of:

Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley and Mark Wood.

The groups for the tournament are as follows:

Group A: Canada, India, Ireland, Pakistan, USA
Group B: Australia, England, Namibia, Oman, Scotland
Group C: Afghanistan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Uganda, West Indies
Group D: Bangladesh, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Netherlands

The top two sides from each group then progress to the Super 8s stage of the event, with the bottom three teams from each group eliminated.

Jacob Jeffrey, Year 12

Tour de France

29th June ~ 21st July 2024

The Tour de France is one of the world's most prestigious and gruelling cycling races, held annually since 1903. It is held in France with occasional segments in neighbouring countries. Originating as a promotion by the French newspaper L'Auto, the race spans 21 stages over 23 days, covering around 3,500 kilometres and featuring a mix of terrain. Cyclists compete for various jerseys, including the yellow jersey for the overall leader, the green jersey for the best sprinter, the polka dot jersey for the top climber, and the white jersey for the best young rider.

The teams consist of eight riders facing challenging terrain, from the Alps to the Pyrenees, with the race traditionally concluding on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The event attracts millions of spectators, with last year there being 42.5 million viewers in just France alone. Famous winners of the event include Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault. However, the race has seen many doping scandals, the most famous being Lance Armstrong being stripped of his medals after being found cheating. Despite this, the Tour de France remains the most famous cycling event in the world, with a very large number of viewers each year.

This year's race starts on the 29th June at 11:00am. The event starts in Florence and then ends three weeks later on 21st July in Nice, with daily coverage taking place on various TV Channels. We can see 8 different British Cyclists taking part in the Tour de France this year, all in various teams.

Hopefully we see one of them win!

Jed Baulch, Year 12

Wimbledon

1st July ~ 14th July 2024

As summer is just getting started, the world’s eyes turn to London once again for the oldest and arguably most prestigious tennis tournament, Wimbledon. This year promises to be a great showcase of athletics, tradition and emerging talents!

Wimbledon stands out from other tennis tournaments due to its history and commitment to tradition. Players wear white and compete on beautiful grass courts where spectators enjoy the games with their prosecco, strawberries and cream!

Reigning men’s singles champion Novak Djokovic aims for another Grand Slam victory against formidable opponents like Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev. Last year, we experienced a historic and thrilling match where Carlos Alcaraz defeated Djokovic in a gruelling five-set battle, resulting in Alcaraz’s first Wimbledon title. Will he be back to claim his second this year, will Djokovic get his 8th Wimbledon Crown, or will we be pleasantly surprised by a new talent?

Sophie Pooley, Year 12

Paris Olympics 2024

26th July ~ 11th August 2024

The countdown to the Paris Olympics 2024 has started and is set to be a spectacular event, with high hopes placed on this year’s competition, especially the women’s 100m, as the top female athletes of the year once again go head-to-head for this worldwide showdown. However, the United Kingdom has created a formidable and exceptional team of athletes with the potential to leave marks in this year’s competition. One to look out for is GB's very own 100 and 200 sprinter, Dina-Asher Smith.

Dina Asher-Smith, who is already a household name in the UK, is expected to be one of the standout stars of the Paris Games. As the reigning World Champion in the 200 metres and European Champion in both the 100 and 200 metres, Asher-Smith has consistently demonstrated her amazing ability on the track. Her exceptional speed and determination definitely makes her a favourite for multiple medals in Paris, and she will be a key figure in Britain's athletics team. Going up against the likes of Sha'Carri RICHARDSON, Shericka JACKSON, Shelly-Ann FRASER-PRYCE to name a few, Dina ASHER-SMITH is most definitely a fan favourite.

Another athlete to look out for is 16-year-old skateboarder, Sky Brown. Already a skateboarding prodigy, having won bronze in the women's park skateboarding event at Tokyo 2020, making her one of the youngest Olympic medallists in history. At just 13, her exceptional talent and fearless approach to the sport were on full display. Despite a serious injury a year before the Games, Brown made a swift recovery, showcasing her resilience and determination. Her innovative tricks and fearless style have gained international acclaim, setting her apart in the competitive skateboarding world. She definitely aims to inspire young athletes to work hard at doing what they love.

The Paris 2024 Olympics not only provides a platform for these incredible athletes but also represents a return to the roots of the modern Olympic movement. With the inclusion of new sports like breakdancing and the introduction of mixed-gender events, the Games continue to evolve. As the countdown to Paris continues, British athletes are training hard, fuelled by the hopes and dreams of a nation.

Beth Abegunde-Williams, Year 12

Paris Paralympics

Wednesday 28th Aug ~ Sunday 8th Sept 2024

Shooting Para Sport at Paris 2024

As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games begins, anticipation is mounting for one of the most thrilling events on the schedule: Shooting Para sport. Set to take place between 30th August and 5th September at the prestigious Chateauroux Shooting Centre in central France, this competition promises to be the ultimate test of accuracy and control.

In shooting para sport, athletes are renowned for their steady hand, unwavering concentration, and emotional control. Techniques such as focused and controlled breathing play a pivotal role in reducing heart rate and enhancing stability for optimal performance. Competitors engage in rifle and pistol events across various distances, each aiming to land shots closest to the centre of a 10-ring target.

With up to 160 athletes from around the globe expected to participate, the stage is set for a showcase of talent and technique. Amongst the standout names in the sport's history is Sweden's Jonas Jacobsson, widely regarded as the most decorated shooter of all time. His remarkable achievements serve as a testament to the dedication and skill required to excel in this demanding discipline.

Not to be overshadowed, Australia's Elizabeth Kosmala has left an indelible mark as the most successful female athlete in shooting para sport. Her nine gold medals and three silvers, earned between 1976 and 1988, are a testament to her enduring legacy in the sport.

However, it's China that has been a dominant force in recent Games, clinching the top spot on the medals table for the third consecutive time at Tokyo 2020. With four gold medals out of the 13 up for grabs, China's shooters showcased their prowess on the international stage once again.

The Chateauroux Shooting Centre, a state-of-the-art facility inaugurated in 2018, stands as one of Europe's largest shooting venues. Equipped with multiple shooting ranges, it provides the perfect setting to host all 13 Paralympic events. Beyond Paris 2024, the centre will continue to serve as a venue for international competitions, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of the global Para sport community.

As the Games draw nearer, excitement builds for what promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism, determination, and sportsmanship in the Shooting Para sport competitions. With history in the making and medals up for grabs, the world eagerly awaits the action to unfold at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre.

Mateja Smailys-Bartkus, Year 12