National champions, international honours and record-breaking achievements have made the 2025–26 academic year one of the most successful in Exeter School’s sporting history.
From lifting national trophies to representing England, Exeter School pupils have enjoyed an unforgettable year of sporting success, demonstrating the talent, commitment and teamwork that define sport at the leading independent school in Devon.
Across every age group, pupils embraced opportunities to compete, improve and represent the school with pride. Whether on national stages, county championships or local playing fields, the year was filled with standout performances, memorable firsts and achievements that will inspire future generations of Exonians.
National success puts Exeter School sport in the spotlight
The year was packed with milestone moments, but perhaps none more significant than the U16 netball team’s historic national title.
After an outstanding campaign, the team became Sisters in Sport National Plate Champions, securing Exeter School’s first national netball trophy. Their success came after progressing through five rounds before delivering exceptional performances at the national finals.
It was one of several moments that saw Exeter School teams competing and succeeding on the national stage.
Cross-country also reached new heights as Rory. B-W enjoyed a remarkable season, becoming a national champion before earning selection for England. He went on to claim victory at the prestigious Elgoibar Cross Country event in Spain, capping one of the finest individual sporting seasons in recent Exeter School history.
Success across every sport
While national honours captured the headlines, success was evident across the school’s sporting programme.
Rugby enjoyed another outstanding year, with the 1st XV winning seven of their ten fixtures and the U14 team being crowned Devon champions. The U18 sevens squad also impressed at the prestigious Rosslyn Park National Sevens, narrowly missing out on a place in the semi-finals.
In hockey, both girls’ and boys’ teams celebrated Devon championship success, while the senior squads enjoyed a memorable tour to Utrecht, combining competitive fixtures with valuable cultural experiences and team bonding.
Cricket continued to flourish, with the U12 boys lifting the County Cup and girls’ cricket enjoying its busiest fixture programme to date. Football also celebrated an excellent season, with the 1st XI crowned ISCA League Champions and growing participation across the younger age groups signalling an exciting future for the sport at Exeter School.
More than medals and trophies
Behind every result was a thriving sporting community.
Participation remained exceptionally strong across the school, with pupils embracing opportunities to represent Exeter School, develop new skills and build lifelong friendships through sport.
Swimming, athletics and cross country all continued to grow, with pupils earning representative honours for Devon and England, while others competed at prestigious national venues including the London Aquatics Centre and the English Schools Championships.
Sport also continued to make a positive impact beyond competition. One inspiring challenge saw three relay teams swim the equivalent distance of the English Channel overnight, raising more than £1,300 for Hospiscare and demonstrating the compassion and community spirit that are central to life at Exeter School.
Looking ahead
As another outstanding sporting year draws to a close, there is much to celebrate.
From national champions and international representatives to pupils discovering the joy of representing their school for the first time, the 2025–26 academic year showcased the breadth of opportunity available through sport at Exeter School.
The school also thanks its dedicated staff, coaches, parents and supporters, whose encouragement helps every pupil to flourish both on and off the field. As this year’s Upper Sixth leavers move on to exciting new opportunities, they leave behind a legacy of commitment, leadership and sporting excellence that will inspire those who follow.
