Sport
In addition to an inspiring academic curriculum, Woodbridge students enjoy an enviable range of sporting activities with a focus both on the traditional and the new, and are able to play a variety of combinations, in line with preferences.
Continued investment in our facilities and resources also ensures students are able to enjoy and maximise their experiences and training. Facilities such as our state-of-the-art all-weather Astro turf pitch, developed floodlit tennis and netball courts, and our strength and conditioning gym alongside our beautifully maintained grass pitches and outstanding cricket squares, means students have access to the very best facilities and resources in School. Combined with our experienced, highly qualified, dedicated and passionate teachers and coaches, each student has every opportunity possible to gain a positive, fulfilling experience within Sport at Woodbridge School.
Our aim and focus for Sport at School is to create an environment in which everyone can enjoy themselves as well as thrive; developing a life-long love, understanding and appreciation of sport and physical activity. With all of this in mind, we have introduced an increased number of choices within the curriculum for students, allowing them to concentrate on their preferences, whilst still being challenged with new experiences.
Coaching ethos
We look to use the power and influence of sport to develop each and every student as a whole, rather than just as a young sports man or woman. Receiving coaching for each different aspect of sports practice enables them to grow and compete to a very high level – if this is what they wish to do.
We encourage and support all of our students to participate in sports, identifying their preferences, skills and strengths – no matter what their ability. This enables them to gain and develop knowledge and understanding of physical health and the advantages of sport throughout their lives, not just at School.
Our team of dedicated, highly skilled and passionate teachers and coaches introduce students to technical development, tactical thinking, personal discipline, an understanding of team strengths and the ability to develop a true love and appreciation of sport and physical activity and an appreciation and understanding of the linked benefits to health. It is also our aim to ensure students enjoy taking part in sports.
Rugby
Hockey
Football
Netball
Cricket
Cross Country
Athletics
Equestrianism
Skiing
Tennis
Golf
Sailing
And there’s more!
In addition to the above, we offer strength, conditioning and fitness training in our School gym, as well as the opportunity to take part in other sports such as basketball, badminton, volleyball, shooting and pilates in our co-curricular clubs.
Sports facilities
Woodbridge students get to develop their individual talents and team skills in some of the finest facilities in the region.
To take a closer look at the School’s top-class amenities, click through to our section dedicated to exploring the School.
Sports Leaders
From Year 11 students can choose to become Sports Leaders as part of our Seckford Scheme activities which take place on Friday afternoons. Learning and demonstrating important life skills such as organisation, planning, effective communication and teamwork through the medium of sports, Sports Leaders enjoy increased self-confidence from taking responsibility for their own and others’ learning and enjoyment. Leading physical activities to nursery, primary and Year 7 and 8 children and students, Sports Leaders also work with older generations, planning and organising events, as well as supporting School events such as Open Day and Sports Days.
Sports Leaders work towards the nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, learning practical teaching and coaching skills, all of which are strong evidence that can be referenced when applying for work or university. Level 3 offers 16 UCAS tariff points, and at age 18 students can lead groups of people in sports and recreational activities unsupervised.
Meet the staff
Ralph Pruden (Head of Sport, Fitness and Health)
Having worked as a PE teacher all his career, Ralph’s BSC Honors PGCE in Secondary PE from De Montfort University in Bedford enabled him to begin his career at Farlingaye as a PE teacher, before moving on to Cornard Middle School as Head of PE as well as Head of Year.
A Junior Rugby coach for Woodbridge Warriors, Ralph also managed Suffolk Schools Girls Football for a decade before becoming Women’s Manager at Ipswich Town Football Club and being appointed as Head of Education there.
Having helped set up and integrate the relationship between the football club and the football programme at St Joseph’s College, Ralph moved to direct football within the independent school based in Ipswich, where he developed and managed the school’s football programme for students, including establishing the nationally recognised provision for girls.
Ralph joined Woodbridge School as Head of Sport, Fitness and Health looking to continue to improve, develop and evolve the sport offering in School.
Want to see for yourself?
In addition to our open days, we welcome visits from parents and children looking for the right foundation for life ahead. We’ll be happy to show you around and answer any questions you have about our School, staff and the support we offer our students.