Fresh off an unforgettable trip to the World School Games, PHS has once again shown that excellence isn’t defined by size, but by spirit, skill, and teamwork. Our netball squads delivered standout performances on an international stage, proving that a tightly knit school community can compete – and win – against some of the largest and most well-resourced schools in the country.
Building a competitive netball team is no easy task, especially for a school with a smaller student pool. With just 50–60 students per year group, assembling a squad of 10–12 players who can cover seven distinct positions -and provide versatile substitutes – is a challenge. Yet, PHS continues to meet it with determination and pride. In contrast, schools like Peter Symonds College, with thousands of students and hundreds attending trials, field teams that PHS not only competes with but often outperforms.
At the World School Games, our 39 student-athletes faced off against schools with student populations in the thousands – Mackie Academy (1,112), Manchester Grammar (1,659), Solihull School (1,560), and more. Despite the disparity in size, our teams held their own, showcasing skill, strategy, and unity across all four squads. At times, they didn’t just compete – they dominated.
Success at PHS isn’t just about having star players – though we certainly have them. Nine of the 16 players selected for the GDST Select Netball Squad for the 2024/25 season hail from PHS. But what truly sets our teams apart is the depth of talent, the relentless work ethic, and the unwavering support they show each other. It’s this culture of collective excellence that drives our achievements.
As a coach, I’m proud – but I know the credit belongs to the players. With just one hour of training a week in a single-court sports hall, their growth and performance are a testament to their dedication off the court. They are a team in every sense – resilient, passionate, and inspiring.
Looking ahead, PHS will compete in five National Cup competitions, three National Schools qualifying tournaments, and continue to challenge local schools in friendly matches. And of course, we’re already preparing to return to the World School Games in June 2026.
At PHS, we may be modest in size, but we are mighty in ambition – and our netball teams are leading the way.
Mrs Julie Parkinson, Teacher of PE and Head of Year 11
