Oakwood School has a very strong reputation for sportsmanship, participation and the enjoyment of sport for all. All children will have the opportunity to play competitively and represent the school in sports matches, festivals and tournaments in Years 3 to 6. Representing the school can be a major motivation for some children and it is our intention to give them this experience at a level that is appropriate to them. We enter many local, regional and national competitions to expose able pupils to a high level of competition.
Games lessons take place three times a week for Years 5 and 6 and twice a week for Years 3 and 4. Games lessons have a specific focus and will cover the skills and tactics needed for specific sports as well as understanding of match situations, team work, overall fitness development and hand-eye coordination. Core sports covered include: netball, football, rugby, cricket and hockey.
Pupils also receive a 70-minute PE lesson once a week. Our children benefit from a varied PE curriculum including: dance, gymnastics, OAA (outdoor adventurous activities), core fitness, lacrosse, tennis, athletics and team challenges.
Weekly swimming lessons take place all year round in our covered, heated pool. Chichester Swim School ensures that every child is confident and safe in the water and parents are invited to swimming demonstrations in the summer term each year to see how far their children have progressed. Oakwood competes in swimming galas and is frequently represented at both regional and national competitions. Individual swimming lessons are also available on a private basis if required.
In the Prep School, pupils play sports matches on a Wednesday and Thursday (other days may be used depending on the sporting activity and available fixtures from other schools). These sessions are coached and refereed/umpired by members of staff with an expertise and enthusiasm for their sport or by specialist coaches. These matches provide an invaluable opportunity to develop not only physical skills but also important team skills such as sportsmanship and resilience.
Our inclusive sports ethos support our pupils' school pride. We promote fair and honest play, encourage team work through specific support and effective communication and to ensure a high level of personal skill is achieved through our small group coaching sessions. Pupils develop leadership, courage, and a sense of team work. Pupils develop their awareness of health and fitness and how their body reacts and responds to exercise. All of these aspects are incredibly important to the physical and mental development of our pupils.
Oakwood pupils enjoy outstanding sports facilities, including tennis and netball courts, a fully equipped gymnasium, extensive playing fields, park and woodland with cross country running and orienteering routes and a swimming pool.