Following the excitement of being shortlisted, earlier this year, we are proud to announce that we have now been named as a finalist in the esteemed Independent Schools of the Year (ISOTY) 2024 awards. Our school has secured a spot in the fiercely competitive category of ‘Independent School of the Year for Sporting Achievement’. This national recognition celebrates Kimbolton’s outstanding sports program, which balances elite athletic performance with a strong commitment to broad student participation.

The Independent Schools of the Year awards, now in their seventh year, highlight the remarkable achievements of independent schools across the UK. With hundreds of schools entering across the 24 different categories, Kimbolton’s sports provision stood out to the esteemed panel of judges, earning its place as a finalist.

Kimbolton School’s sports teams have enjoyed numerous recent successes, from county championships in cricket and hockey, to national-level recognition in swimming and athletics. Individual accomplishments have also been notable, with several students qualifying for national events and even representing the country. A standout moment came from the school’s canoe team – The Purple Paddlers. The team braved the gruelling 125-mile Devizes to Westminster race, facing adverse conditions.  Although these conditions curtailed the event at Reading, the team impressively covered 54 miles in two days and accumulated over 60 hours of canoeing.

Further complementing these achievements, the school recently completed a major refurbishment of its 25-metre swimming pool, which now boasts modern amenities designed to support both competitive and recreational swimming.

Will Chuter, Headmaster at Kimbolton School, said:

“We incredibly proud to be named a finalist in such a prestigious national awards scheme. At Kimbolton School we are committed to offering a  comprehensive and inclusive sports curriculum that promotes both high-level competition and widespread participation. Our outstanding facilities, including a state-of-the-art sports centre, a 25-metre swimming pool, multiple astro turf pitches, and extensive playing fields, provide countless opportunities for students to engage in sports. We look forward to the award ceremony in October.”

Launched in 2018 by Independent School Parent Magazine, the Independent School of the Year awards celebrate the diversity, excellence, and enriching experiences offered by the UK’s leading independent schools. The awards are chaired by Dr Helen Wright, an international education adviser and former Vice Chair of the ISC, supported by a panel of judges that includes leading headteachers and representatives of professional associations.

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 8 October.

Further details about the awards can be found here: https://www.independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk/