We have both been at Blackheath High since Nursery and have had many sporting opportunities along the way. Becoming school Sports Scholars has been an incredibly enriching experience for both of us, as we've had the privilege of blending our academic pursuits with a passion for sports. Every week we have a special strength and conditioning club, and at the end of each academic year we have our annual sports awards, where I – Melissa – was awarded ‘Netball Player of the Season’ and Sienna was awarded ‘Rising Star’ in Diving. The scholarship programme at Blackheath High not only recognises and rewards our commitment to our respective sports, but also provides a supportive environment where we can continuously evolve as athletes. 

Melissa: In the summer holidays, I had a great opportunity when I was invited to play for one of Kent’s netball teams. My journey as a Sport Scholar has been marked by intensive training, skill refinement, and a strong sense of friendship with my teammates. The guidance from experienced coaches and access to our sporting facilities has been really helpful in my growth as a netball player. Being part of the Blackheath High Sports community has opened different opportunities through a deep appreciation for teamwork and communication. Along with a great position in the Kent Netball team, I also have secured a spot in the Beacons Performance Team, now playing in league matches every other weekend. Last year, I am pleased to say that our team came fourth in the league.  

Sienna: My passion for diving has flourished over the years, thanks to many different opportunities opening up to me. Recently, I was selected for the ‘talent games’, based on my commitment and talent in the sport, coming 8th in dry land (technical movements, along with strength &conditioning, outside of the water), 4th in the pool and 5th out of the whole of England for my age group. I also compete in many national and regional competitions and am proud to say that I have placed in the Top 10 in each competition. Most recently, I placed 4th out of 44 girls in another competition.   

We love being part of the GDST sports community, which allows us to play netball, hockey cricket and participate in many other different kinds of sports tournaments. We also get to go to Sports Scholar days, which are held at different GDST schools, where we can meet the many scholars from our sister schools. It is a fantastic way to meet everyone and hear inspiring lectures from exceptional, professional female athletes. Additionally, as part of the various school residential programme opportunities, we have also both recently taken part in the Condover Hall Netball Tournament - our first netball residential trip, which was great fun! 

Written by Melissa and Sienna, Year 10 and Year 7, Sports Scholars