School’s trip to Barbados set to be class
A PROPOSED trip to the Caribbean should prove quite an education for pupils at Whickham School.
Around 40 youngsters currently in year seven and year eight - are scheduled to visit Barbados in July 2020.
The pupils, all members of the school’s football, cricket and netball squads, will spend seven nights on the island.
During their stay they will contest two 40-over cricket matches, six netball fixtures and four football games.
Trip organiser and PE teacher Gavin Cree said: “We have strong football, netball and cricket squads with a number of players representing local academy football teams, county cricket sides and satellite netball squads.
“We looked into the possibility of a sports tour to give the students both the opportunity of a lifetime and also competitive fixtures in an unfamiliar environment.
“The youngsters jumped at the idea when we suggested it and their parents also thought it would be af fantastic oppoortunity.
“We looked at a trip closer to home and had the chance to go to Spain or South Africa.
“However, Barbados seemed the best destination for us to play all three sports.
“We therefore worked closely with Edwin Doran Sports to put a package together which will provide the students with an experience they will never forget.”
While working closely with the sports tour company, Whickham were offered the opportunity of a visit from West Indies cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers.
Sobers came into the school and spoke about his career as a professional sportsman.
He also gave advice to students about what becoming a top performer entailed.
Sobers also spoke of his close friendship with former Newcastle United and England boss Sir Bobby Robson and praised the fantastic work being done through the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation set up in his name.