News & Headteacher Blogs

The newly formed Downs Equestrian Team have achieved some great results in their first four months, over just three competitions.

In November four students attended a Show Jumping competition at Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA), The Downs Team took 1st place in 70cm class and in the 80cm class the team was 3rd and we had an individual 5th.

As the highest placed Berkshire school in both classes we qualified for the National School Equestrian Association (NSEA) Inter County Show Jumping Finals at Hickstead in May where we will be representing Berkshire.

In January we had seven students entered for a Jumping with Style Arena Eventing competition at

West Wilts Equestrian Centre in Trowbridge. Unfortunately due to a poorly pony and the very cold weather we had four members who had to withdraw. Although it didn’t go to plan, we still had one member finish mid table in the 80cm class.

Last weekend five students attended a jumping competition at BCA, again seeing some great results.

In the 70 cm Eventers Challenge class The Downs Team took 2nd place and we had individuals placed1st and 3rd with four students qualifying for the NSEA Eventers Challenge Championship at Hickstead in May.

We also had a student placed 2nd in the Jumping with Style category who has qualified for the National Schools Championships at Addington in October.

Fantastic results from such a small team, this demonstrates the great attitude, determination and high standard of horse riders we have at The Downs school. If you are interested in being part of the equestrian team, please contact Ali Wellman ali_wellman@yahoo.co.uk