Balancing Sports and Academics at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

Rob Rawlinson, Head of Sport at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), explains how the school supports students in excelling both academically and in sports.

At QE, we offer a flexible environment that allows students to pursue their sporting ambitions while achieving academic success. Our curriculum is designed to accommodate a variety of sports, ensuring students can dedicate time to their passions without sacrificing their studies. For example, Bruno won first place in the National Schools Indoor North Ski Slalom, Ella placed sixth at the European Youth Weightlifting Championships, and Amaja earned seventh place and a silver medal in the Biathle World Championship Finals. These talented athletes also excel academically within our supportive environment, with Amaja winning the middle school poetry competition two years running.

QE offers two senior school pathways for students seeking to thrive in both academics and sports: QE College and QE Faculty. QE College has consistently ranked among the top schools for academic performance in the Sunday Times Parent Power league table, maintaining the top position in the North for four years. While it focuses on ambitious academic students, QE College also enables students to engage in sporting activities and pursue their other passions. For instance, Georgia, a former Deputy Head Girl, achieved A*A*AA at A Level while representing QE in Netball and Hockey 1st Teams. She also earned the prestigious title of "Best Student of Spanish in the United Kingdom" and has started her studies in Medicine at the University of Oxford.

Alternatively, QE Faculty offers a modern curriculum that includes BTECs, GCSEs, and A Levels, alongside performance sport and performing arts pathways. The Faculty was named the ISA Senior School of the Year in 2024 for its innovative and flexible approach to education. One of its most popular features is the Performance Sport Pathway (PSP), available to students in Years 7-13. This pathway provides weekly training as part of the PE curriculum, as well as additional training before or after school. Students benefit from an Individual Development Plan that includes coaching, nutrition, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, and cutting-edge mental, technical, and physical training. The PSP helps students compete at higher levels while building important life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Sebastian, a former Head Boy, exemplifies the success of the PSP. He captained the first XV Rugby team and earned AAD (Distinction) in his Year 13 exams. He has since signed with Leicester Tigers and is now studying Business Management at Loughborough University.

The PSP has provided many students with opportunities to secure professional sports contracts and prestigious US sports scholarships. For example, Amy Braithwaite signed with Leeds Rhinos Netball, Jay McGrath joined Coventry City Football Club, and Jason Qareqare signed with Castleford Tigers Rugby League team. The program has also helped athletes like Faith Martin, who plays soccer at Life University, Myles Jackson at Coker University, and KiiKii Brown at California State University in Long Beach. Additionally, US basketball scholarships were awarded to Latrel Davis, who plays for San Jose Spartans, and Elijah Walsh, who plays for Campbell Fighting Camels.

To further support our commitment to student fitness and sports education, we recently opened a new gym, “The Extra Mile,” which was inaugurated by rugby legend Kevin Sinfield. The gym is equipped with advanced training equipment such as Prestera half racks, Vulcano dumbbells, and custom-designed double half racks, offering a high-quality strength and conditioning program comparable to those found at professional sports clubs.

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate is dedicated to fostering both academic and athletic excellence, providing students with the resources they need to succeed in all areas.

To learn more about QE, visit qe.org or contact admissions@qe.org to book a private tour.