AN ILKLEY prep school has made the final three in the Independent Schools Association Awards (ISA) for Outstanding Sport in the small school category.

Applications were sought from single form entry schools that demonstrated evidence of outstanding sporting provision in relation to opportunities offered to pupils.

Westville House School in Carter’s Lane, has dedicated specialist sports teachers who form their in-house team, but also enlist external experts in their training plans.

During the summer they were delighted to welcome cricket pro Ashen Silva and Edward Buck Director of Sport for Giggleswick School who offered the children focussed training.

In addition to the weekly timetable of sport, the school also offers a range of after school sports clubs, the majority of which are free.

Pupils take part in hockey, swimming, cycling, basketball, netball, football, rugby, cricket, cross country and dance, to name a few.

Mr Chris O’Doherty Deputy Head and Head of Boys’ Sport said: “Westville House School has a strong reputation for being an all round school with excellent results, but by being a part of the ISA competition process it’s enabled us to really celebrate just how vast and varied our sporting provision is.”

Miss Louise Dobson, Head of Girls’ Games said: “I’ve taught at Westville for over 20 years, we pride ourselves in encouraging and enabling all our pupils to take part in a huge range of sporting activities.

“We have absolutely loved travelling to fixtures once more, which is brilliant experience for the children.”

Mrs Nikki Hammond, Headteacher added: “Westville are wholeheartedly committed to providing sporting opportunities across a multitude of areas, for all pupils.

“Many Westville House children play sport at county and academy level and we love supporting their interests and ambitions.

“Each year pupils gain prestigious sports scholarships for their secondary schools, which is a true testament to the hard work of our sporting team.

“Post lockdowns the links between mental health, exercise and team bonds have never been more evident, it serves as a reminder to never underestimate the power and importance of an active childhood.”

The ISA have awarded the special commendations and the overall winners will be announced in November.