An experience of a lifetime! Our 6 students returned home having competed against Kenya’s and Uganda’s elite runners and future Olympic and World Champions. Our students came together with The Judd School from Kent to form a team to represent England at the ISF Schools World School Championships in Nairobi, Kenya. 23 countries from all around the world took part in this event that was hosted by Kenya and attended by the President of Kenya, William Ruto.

The Local Organising Committee and the ISF ensured that the attending countries competed in a championship worthy of their own Olympic and World Championships trials, and also experienced the culture and amazing hospitality of the people of Nairobi and Kenya. 

As part of the Championships experience, students were involved in the opening and closing ceremonies, educational workshops, tree planting,  friendship relays, Nation’s Night as well as visiting Nairobi’s famous National Park. Visiting school children embraced our athletes and welcomed us to their country – a truly memorable experience.

The England Team finished 6th out of 23 countries, with many of the countries entering their National selected elite teams. We also finished 2nd out of the European countries, with only Turkey – who were the current holders of the ISF title – narrowly beating us on points. Our KEVI team, in isolation, would still have taken 7th place in the main competition, which is a huge achievement. William De Vere Owen came 23rd, beating many of the elite selected athletes, Joe Dixon 39th, Bertie Marr 62nd, Elliot Mavir 89th closely followed by George Mavir 91st. 

We would like to thank all of the companies, organisations and individuals who donated and made this once-in-a-lifetime trip possible.