By Mrs Bullerwell (PE Administrator)

After being ranked as the 8th best all-girls’ independent day school for sport in 2025 by School Sport Magazine recently, we are delighted to share that BGS has been named ‘School of the Year’ for Bedfordshire in the LTA Awards 2025. This recognition celebrates the dedication of our teachers and coaches in developing an inclusive tennis programme for students across the school.

Last year our U14 and U16 teams competed in the School Sports Magazine Tennis Cups for the 1st time and both teams had a good run, reaching the 3rd round and only losing to King Edward VI Birmingham and Parmiter’s School respectively.

Tennis is a key part of life at BGS, with lessons offered from Years 3 to Upper Sixth as part of both the curriculum and our co-curricular activities. To prepare for the summer term, we host a pre-season coaching day for all students, supported by coaches from Riverside Tennis Club, a longstanding and valued partner of the school. In addition students have access to private coaching during free periods or lunchtime in the summer term, and our senior players support junior practices, acting as mentors and role models. Competitive tennis is an important feature of the calendar, with Saturday fixtures regularly involving over 80 players across home and away matches.

The School Tennis Championships are a highlight of the year, bringing together players from Years 3 to Upper Sixth. The younger years compete using red, orange, or green balls, ensuring a fun and inclusive experience for all.

Mrs Mason-McLeod (Director of Sport) said: “We are proud to receive this recognition being named School of the Year for Bedfordshire is a fantastic endorsement of the work taking place across the school, and we are excited to build on these achievements as we look ahead to the Regional Finals.”