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Sports Equipment
Sharing of equipment is something that is inevitable in many sports (for example, any sport which requires the passing
of a ball). However, it is something we would like to reduce where possible. There is no need to go and buy lots of new sporting equipment. We have our usual supply to be used during PE lessons and Games sessions and regular and thorough cleaning of equipment will take place. However, there are some sports and areas of school life where, if the children were to already have their own equipment that
you are willing for them to bring in and use, it would lessen the amount of sharing needed. Below are examples of what pupils might want to consider bringing in, if possible. They would, of course, not be asked to share this equipment with any other children:
■ Cricket bat, helmet, pads, gloves and a box are required for those in Removes and above who may have the opportunity to play hardball cricket. Boys and girls will need an appropriate box or ‘abdo guard’ as well as the necessary undershorts and underwear.
■ Wind-ball or soft-ball for younger pupils and those not ready for hardball.
■ Tennis racket and tennis balls.
■ Hockey stick for girls.
■ Table tennis bat and balls for use during free time. We have just taken delivery of two lovely outdoor table tennis tables and expect that they will
be popular!
■ Football goalkeeping gloves if this is a position your child likes to play in. They may also bring in
a named ball for use in free time, if they wish to.
■ All children must bring their own named water bottle for use during sport as well as more generally around school.
Unfortunately, due to the issues surrounding COVID-19, OPRO are unable to visit us as usual to fit all children
with dentist-approved mouthguards. We hope to work on some Hockey and Rugby skills at some stage during the Autumn term and every child in the Prep School will need
a mouthguard in order to participate in these sports. We
are unable to confirm when we will introduce these sports but it would be beneficial for children to have suitable mouthguards for the start of term. Parents could visit OPRO’s website and order a ‘Home Impression Kit’ (www.opro.com) or a ‘Power-Fit’ mouthguard (www.opromouthguards.com). Alternatively, your local dentist can normally mould one for you. Whilst we recommend ‘fitted’ mouthguards you can also purchase mouthguards online or in sports shops and we would recommend varieties that come with a close fit and
a warranty. If you would like to discuss this any further, please contact matt.bennett-tomlin@abberleyhall.co.uk
If your child does bring in any of their own equipment then please ensure that it is very clearly named. Balls should be named as well. We will help the children store anything they bring in safely so that it does not get mixed up or lost.
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