Athletics

Head of Athletics: Ms Jemma Cresswell
JYC@BANCROFTS.ORG

Athletics is a popular and wide ranging summer sport at Bancroft’s, enjoyed by both girls and boys across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. The programme supports pupils in developing speed, strength, skill and endurance across the full range of track and field events.

Training and Venues

Athletics takes place during the summer term, using both our grass track at West Grove and the all weather track at Ashton Playing Fields in Woodford Bridge.

Alongside this, cross country runs through the autumn and spring terms, including:

• Inter house cross country in Epping Forest
•  Participation in local school leagues and cross country events

All pupils take part in athletics during their PE lessons. Girls train during their games afternoons at West Grove, and increasing numbers of boys also take part in structured athletics sessions during their own games afternoons. Both boys and girls have access to the full programme of events.

Fixtures and Competitions

Bancroft’s athletics teams compete in a varied programme of fixtures against local schools, with meets taking place at weekends as well as mid week and after school.

The school also competes in a range of high quality competitions, including:

• The English Schools Track and Field Cup
•  The Redbridge and Essex Championships
•  Indoor competitions such as the Lee Valley Indoor Schools Cup

These events give athletes of all levels the opportunity to challenge themselves, achieve personal bests and represent the school.

Performance and Progression

Bancroft’s athletes regularly achieve strong individual and team performances across sprints, middle distance, field events and relays. Both girls’ and boys’ teams have a record of reaching advanced rounds in major competitions, and many pupils develop the confidence and ability to continue with athletics beyond school.

Our Philosophy

Athletics at Bancroft’s aims to nurture well rounded, resilient and self motivated athletes. Whether pupils are experienced competitors or entirely new to the sport, the programme focuses on enjoyment, participation, personal improvement and team contribution.