We were privileged to be able to take a group of year 9 students to Southampton University for a careers event this week. Whilst we were there, the students were shown around the university and able to talk to student ambassadors about life at university. It was really useful to be able to ask questions and see what a real university looks like. Most of the students were blown away by how big the campus was but also the range of courses and things to do.

During the day, the students competed against three other schools in challenges run by a company called UNILOC. These were designed to encourage communication and teamwork skills. In the afternoon the students had to design an app for future students to use to help guide them through making career choices. They had to identify the main features that would be most useful, design a logo and talk about how the app would function. Once they planned this they then had to present a five minute presentation to some course leaders and answer questions in a dragons’ den style format. Carisbrooke stole the show and came first after an amazing, animated and confident presentation. We are pleased to say that Medina followed closely in 2nd place.

On Thursday 17 March 2022 the Isle of Wight Schools Basketball Tournaments were reinstated for the first time in three years.  It was the year 7 tournament that took place first with other year groups taking part over the next few weeks. 

Five teams in total took part and the tournament was played in good spirit and sportsmanship throughout.  Carisbrooke opened their account with a confident win over Medina 8-0 thanks to some excellent shooting from Shai B, Liam G and Charlie W.  In the second game, Christ the King College were our opponents but, again, some excellent shooting from Daniel P, Shai B and Charlie G gave Carisbrooke the win 8-4.  However, it was the firm defence throughout by Lincoln O, Theo N and Liam D that supported the team in preventing Christ the King from getting more opportunities.

In the third game, Carisbrooke put on another quality display to beat Ryde A 8-0 with Liam G and Mason S-T adding to the score sheet and Jack G trying his hardest to prevent Ryde from scoring by tying his shoe lace in the middle of the court.

In the final game of the tournament Carisbrooke were to play the favourites, The Bay, who had so far crushed every team they had played.  However, after the first 6 minutes Carisbrooke were 6-4 up thanks for a fantastic team display both defensively and offensively. Liam G and Shai B again shooting brilliantly throughout.  However, with a few minutes left Carisbrooke started to get tired and The Bay began to find some easier bakets close to the hoop and eventually ran out 18-8 winners leaving Carisbrooke to claim the runners up position. 

Carisbrooke were outstanding throughout and really impressed everyone watching.  Oakley W who helped coach and support the team throughout was a credit to the school due to showing such commitment to the basketball programme at Carisbrooke. 

Well done to all of you, you made a coach very proud.