May 1st 2025
Moulsford Makes a Splash – “Don’t Stop Believin’’! Mr Chaffey gives his 80s themed report
Yesterday, in The Heat Is On (29°C to be precise), Moulsford made History by hosting our first ever home Swimming Gala — and what a Thriller it turned out to be! The outdoor pool glistened under clear skies as thirty-two of our finest Year 3 and 4 swimmers donned their Moulsford swimming caps, ready to make waves and memories.
With Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go and other 80s classics filling the air — much to the delight of the spectators, classroom neighbours, and nearby office staff (Don’t You Want Me Baby may never sound the same again) — the scene was perfectly set for an unforgettable afternoon.
Over the course of twenty-six action-packed races, our pupils gave it their all in front crawl, breaststroke, backstroke, individual medleys, freestyle medleys, and the much-anticipated inflatable race (Ride On Time, anyone?). Each pupil competed in at least four races, showing not just skill but true Eye of the Tiger determination.
There was Electric Youth in the water with some fantastic swims:
- Hunter M-D and Monty W powered to 2nd place in the gruelling individual medley.
- Ethan C, Jack W, and Fraser S grabbed silver in the backstroke.
- Leo B clinched 2nd in breaststroke.
- Levison S, Monroe P-B, and Benji G claimed The Winner Takes It All in their events.
- In front crawl, Ned F, Obi M, and Atticus H-A finished a strong 2nd, while Jack D surged to 1st place.
Our relay teams brought the crowd to its feet. Both the Under 8B and Under 9B medley relay teams struck gold, and the Under 9B freestyle relay team also powered home victorious — a true Footloose finish!
We also welcomed strong competition from Oratory Prep, making every race a Fight for Your Right to victory and raising the standard of racing throughout the afternoon.
A heartfelt Thank You goes to:
- Our brilliant children for their hard work, sportsmanship, and Simply the Best performances.
- The parents, whose passionate (and impressively loud!) support gave the event an unbeatable atmosphere.
- The Moulsford staff — Grounds, Catering, PE, Class Teachers, and Office Staff — whose combined efforts made the afternoon run Like a Prayer.
Finally, we extend enormous gratitude to Mr Dunsby, whose energy and enthusiasm for the swimming programme have transformed the pool into a stage for Moulsford excellence this year. From Reception to Year 8, the improvements are plain to see — and yesterday’s success was the perfect showcase.
As we Jump into preparations for the next gala at Caldicott (U9 to U13), excitement is already building for the IAPS Nationals at the London Aquatic Centre, where many of our pupils have qualified — a Sweet Child o’ Mine moment for the school and a remarkable achievement for all involved.
We Built This City on passion, dedication, and a whole lot of Moulsford magic.
