A Dorset School Celebrates Dual Success in Sport and Wellbeing
The Gryphon School in Sherborne is celebrating a remarkable achievement in both sport and wellbeing. The school has been recognized for its growing commitment to physical health, mental wellbeing, and creating inclusive opportunities for all students and staff.
Recognition for Excellence in Physical Education
One of the highlights of this success is the School Games Silver Mark Award. This national accolade celebrates a school’s dedication to delivering high-quality physical education and promoting competitive sport. The school credits this achievement to the hard work of both staff and students, highlighting its mission to provide every young person with the chance to participate, compete, and lead in sport.
This award reflects the school’s ongoing efforts to foster a culture of activity and competition among its students. It also underscores the importance of physical education as a vital component of a well-rounded education.
Expanding Horizons with CrossFit
In addition to the School Games Silver Mark, The Gryphon School has also become an official CrossFit affiliate. This is a rare distinction, as only a small number of schools across the UK have achieved this recognition. The programme was established with the support of a charitable donation from the Friends of Yeatman Hospital, making it a non-profit initiative aimed at improving mental health and social connection through exercise.
The CrossFit programme is led by a Level 2 certified coach who is also a teacher at the school. Weekly after-school sessions are held for boys on Tuesdays, girls on Thursdays, and staff on Wednesdays. Furthermore, CrossFit is now being integrated into the curriculum, with plans to eventually allow students to represent The Gryphon in CrossFit competitions.
Miles Fineman-Bulger, the programme lead, said: “CrossFit has had a tremendous positive impact on the mental and social health of our students and staff. It’s about more than fitness — it’s about building resilience, confidence, and community.”
Inclusivity and Shared Values
As part of its commitment to inclusivity and wellbeing, The Gryphon School welcomes pupils from Harbour Vale School into its fitness centre each week. During these sessions, Harbour Vale students learn how to use gym equipment safely and effectively while developing essential life skills such as perseverance, self-discipline, and motivation.
These sessions offer a structured and positive environment that helps build resilience and self-belief. They reinforce the shared values of ambition, partnership, and personal growth between the two schools.
A Holistic Approach to Education
Headteacher Jim Gower emphasized the school’s holistic approach to education, stating: “Together, these achievements demonstrate The Gryphon School’s commitment to health, wellbeing, and opportunity at the heart of school life.”
He added that whether through team sports, individual challenges, or inclusive fitness sessions, Gryphon students are being empowered to lead active and fulfilling lives both inside and outside the classroom. This dual focus on sport and wellbeing ensures that students are not only physically active but also mentally resilient and socially connected.
