SPORT has long been a major strength of St Petroc’s School in Bude. Both the quantity and quality of sport played are unique in the area and this week saw another example of the sporting opportunities that are available to pupils.

On Wednesday, November 9, the school hosted an under nine netball and rugby triangular fixture against West Buckland and St Joseph’s, which saw well over 40 children taking part.

The overriding aim was to get as many pupils playing friendly but competitive matches against each other and all agreed it was a great success.

Headmaster Dan Thornburn said: “Despite the odd hailstorm and downpour, it was wonderful to see so many young pupils playing such a high calibre of rugby and netball.

“We have excellent relationships with both West Buckland and St Joseph’s, which means that fixtures like this can be planned to give the greatest opportunities to all of our pupils. It was also lovely to see so many parents braving the elements and coming along to support!”

St Petroc’s has a very strong reputation for sport and regularly reaches national competitions in netball, swimming, cross country and athletics. Last year they even had a national champion in skiing!

The focus is not just on winning, though, with huge emphasis being placed on learning how to deal with success and failure on the sports pitch, as well as how to be a ‘good sport’.