The extensive swimming competition involves 40 qualifying galas, organised throughout the spring term, which sees more than 400 Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS) enter the competition. The fastest 1500 swimmers are invited to the national finals at the London Aquatics Centre at the end of the academic year.

Entering for the first time, Kitebrook took 13 children to the qualifying event at The Dragon School, Oxford, competing against some tough teams. Max H. represented Kitebrook in the U10 boys 25m freestyle race, achieving 18th place out of 118 swimmers, with a time of 16.08s. As the top 20 swimmers in each event qualify for the finals, under normal circumstances he would have joined his preparatory school peers from across the UK, for the final event at the 2012 Olympic swimming venue, supported by 3000 spectators. Due to the unfortunate unprecedented circumstances, the final is unable to be held this year. However, this does not detract from Max’s incredible success.

Head of PE, Anna Edgerton said: “Although it is disappointing that the Finals have not taken place, this is a huge achievement that Max should be extremely proud of—we certainly are here at Kitebrook! Our team will be keeping up the training and we look forward to going back next year.”