Claire McKinley, the yoga teacher in Nursery took ‘Tatty bumpkin’ out on the ‘Oor Wullie’ trail around Edinburgh. Guess who she found?! ‘Reach for the Stars’ our very own Oor Wullie sculpture in Jenner’s Department Store.

We hope you all have a chance to follow the trail round Edinburgh over the summer and find Cargilfield’s sculpture for yourself! Sophie Aldridge from nursery was the first child from nursery to find the Cargilfield sculpture in Jenner’s when she did the trail. Well done Sophie!

Claire McKinley, the yoga teacher in Nursery took ‘Tatty bumpkin’ out on the ‘Oor Wullie’ trail around Edinburgh. Guess who she found?! ‘Reach for the Stars’ our very own Oor Wullie sculpture in Jenner’s Department Store.

We hope you all have a chance to follow the trail round Edinburgh over the summer and find Cargilfield’s sculpture for yourself! Sophie Aldridge from nursery was the first child from nursery to find the Cargilfield sculpture in Jenner’s when she did the trail. Well done Sophie!

Once again, this group of boys performed. It would be easy at this stage of the term, with many minds elsewhere thinking of new beginnings in September, to treat this final outing for the 1stXI as something of an afterthought…..well, not after what I said to them pre match, it would not!?! The way they represent the school, right to end, says a lot about them as individuals and also as a group, and I was nor disappointed. 

We won the toss, chose to bat and despite losing a clearly unfit skipper early doors, closely followed by Freddie who popped one to mid wicket, it was Todd and Jack who put on 80 for the 4th wicket in one of the nest partnerships of the season. The outfield was ‘lush’ shall we say, and with their fielders all in close (fielding positions did not come in to it!), it was either one if it pierced the infield or 2 if it almost reached the boundary - run scoring at a rhythm was not easy, but both boys showed real patience and focus in the heat as they built their innings very sensibly indeed. Todd fell just as a 50 was there waiting for him, but it was fitting that he had his best knock of the term in his final game, but Jack went on and fully deserved his debut 50 for the 1stXI with an excellent drive through point. He had been unable to attend any winter net sessions and so having started behind the eightball at the start of the season, he has worked incredibly hard to try and catch up and his hunger for batting in the nets and looking to improve his technique has been rewarded. A proper innings which promises much for next year. Seb came in and played some more exquisite shots through cover as well as smashing some short balls through midwicket as we pushed the score over 150 in our 25 overs. More than enough.

As ever we bowled very tightly indeed and run scoring was difficult with Todd once again, vocal and encouraging behind the stumnps. VJ snared their opener with an excellent catch from Harry at wide first slip and Edward bowled the other opener. we were held up for a little while with a stoical partnership, but then Max came on and old golden arm did not disappoint! In just 22 balls, he took 6 for 6 and totally ripped through the Ardvreck middle and lower order. Game over. Another win. Season 2019 done and dusted!

And so we come to that sad time when boys move on and the inevitable passing of the baton on to the next generation. Cricket at Cargilfield is in safe hands, with considerable investment by the school in outdoor facilities and a culture within the children and means we take our cricket seriously, something which to me, is so important. To see two U12 boys today standing up with the bat and the ball, and putting in those match winning performances says a lot and I know they will be keen to step up and lead from the front, along with others, next summer. To those who have perhaps had bit part roles this year, your time will come next summer after another winter int he nets; learning by playing with better players is all part of the experience, and this year’s Leavers have been excellent role models throughout the year in how to train, in how to play and in how to conduct yourselves afterwards win or lose. I shall really miss them and they have contributed much to what have been outstanding rugby and cricket seasons by the 1stXV and 1stXI.

It has been one of the very best cricket seasons in my 15 years at Cargilfield, with no one player dominating which is rare at this level, and that is testament to the hard work everyone has put in over the winter….but my standout moments go back to the Autumn Term. To be level at 10-10 at half time with Belhaven, previously unbeaten for 4 years since they were U9s, and then score over 40 unanswered points in a quite unbelievable 2nd half of very fast paced and high quality prep school rugby. Very satisfying indeed and the spark which showed these boys what they were capable of. And secondly, Harry piping on Remembrance Sunday, up in the wilds of North Yorkshire, with Aysgarth and Cargilfield boys and parents lined up together in quiet reflection and remembrance, before playing one of the toughest prep school games of rugby I have ever witnessed. A defeat, yes, but that is not the point. We do not play sport to win every game; we play sport to learn, to improve as individuals and as a team, and to come together and share moments like these that we remember long after the result in forgotten.

Thank you, boys, for all your efforts for this year and good luck to those moving on. And a big thank you to you, the parents, for your constant support of the children whatever the weather; it makes such a difference and hopefully we shall bump in to each other ’somewhere ages and ages hence’.

Enjoy the summer.

Once again, this group of boys performed. It would be easy at this stage of the term, with many minds elsewhere thinking of new beginnings in September, to treat this final outing for the 1stXI as something of an afterthought…..well, not after what I said to them pre match, it would not!?! The way they represent the school, right to end, says a lot about them as individuals and also as a group, and I was nor disappointed. 

We won the toss, chose to bat and despite losing a clearly unfit skipper early doors, closely followed by Freddie who popped one to mid wicket, it was Todd and Jack who put on 80 for the 4th wicket in one of the nest partnerships of the season. The outfield was ‘lush’ shall we say, and with their fielders all in close (fielding positions did not come in to it!), it was either one if it pierced the infield or 2 if it almost reached the boundary - run scoring at a rhythm was not easy, but both boys showed real patience and focus in the heat as they built their innings very sensibly indeed. Todd fell just as a 50 was there waiting for him, but it was fitting that he had his best knock of the term in his final game, but Jack went on and fully deserved his debut 50 for the 1stXI with an excellent drive through point. He had been unable to attend any winter net sessions and so having started behind the eightball at the start of the season, he has worked incredibly hard to try and catch up and his hunger for batting in the nets and looking to improve his technique has been rewarded. A proper innings which promises much for next year. Seb came in and played some more exquisite shots through cover as well as smashing some short balls through midwicket as we pushed the score over 150 in our 25 overs. More than enough.

As ever we bowled very tightly indeed and run scoring was difficult with Todd once again, vocal and encouraging behind the stumnps. VJ snared their opener with an excellent catch from Harry at wide first slip and Edward bowled the other opener. we were held up for a little while with a stoical partnership, but then Max came on and old golden arm did not disappoint! In just 22 balls, he took 6 for 6 and totally ripped through the Ardvreck middle and lower order. Game over. Another win. Season 2019 done and dusted!

And so we come to that sad time when boys move on and the inevitable passing of the baton on to the next generation. Cricket at Cargilfield is in safe hands, with considerable investment by the school in outdoor facilities and a culture within the children and means we take our cricket seriously, something which to me, is so important. To see two U12 boys today standing up with the bat and the ball, and putting in those match winning performances says a lot and I know they will be keen to step up and lead from the front, along with others, next summer. To those who have perhaps had bit part roles this year, your time will come next summer after another winter int he nets; learning by playing with better players is all part of the experience, and this year’s Leavers have been excellent role models throughout the year in how to train, in how to play and in how to conduct yourselves afterwards win or lose. I shall really miss them and they have contributed much to what have been outstanding rugby and cricket seasons by the 1stXV and 1stXI.

It has been one of the very best cricket seasons in my 15 years at Cargilfield, with no one player dominating which is rare at this level, and that is testament to the hard work everyone has put in over the winter….but my standout moments go back to the Autumn Term. To be level at 10-10 at half time with Belhaven, previously unbeaten for 4 years since they were U9s, and then score over 40 unanswered points in a quite unbelievable 2nd half of very fast paced and high quality prep school rugby. Very satisfying indeed and the spark which showed these boys what they were capable of. And secondly, Harry piping on Remembrance Sunday, up in the wilds of North Yorkshire, with Aysgarth and Cargilfield boys and parents lined up together in quiet reflection and remembrance, before playing one of the toughest prep school games of rugby I have ever witnessed. A defeat, yes, but that is not the point. We do not play sport to win every game; we play sport to learn, to improve as individuals and as a team, and to come together and share moments like these that we remember long after the result in forgotten.

Thank you, boys, for all your efforts for this year and good luck to those moving on. And a big thank you to you, the parents, for your constant support of the children whatever the weather; it makes such a difference and hopefully we shall bump in to each other ’somewhere ages and ages hence’.

Enjoy the summer.

On a beautiful day up north William won the toss and elected to bat on a good surface, our batting loosely mirrored that of England's dismal last couple of weeks. With an early run out and some interesting shot making Cargilfield slipped to 22-5, not the ideal start.

Enter Will Gray and Rowan Findlay... 69 runs later and we were back firmly in control, what impressed most their shot selection, both applied themselves brilliantly. The ability to put away the bad ball was complimented by some solid defence and great running between the wickets putting the pressure back on Ardvreck, setting them 112 to win.

Within 3 overs of Joshua, Maclean and Joel the game was pretty much sewn up, some fabulous fast bowling led Ardvreck to a top order collapse. Add to that some great bowling from Ramsay, backed up from Edward in the slip cordon with two fine catches leading to a comfortable 61 run victory and a great way for the F8 leavers to end their time at Cargilfield!

On a beautiful day up north William won the toss and elected to bat on a good surface, our batting loosely mirrored that of England's dismal last couple of weeks. With an early run out and some interesting shot making Cargilfield slipped to 22-5, not the ideal start.

Enter Will Gray and Rowan Findlay... 69 runs later and we were back firmly in control, what impressed most their shot selection, both applied themselves brilliantly. The ability to put away the bad ball was complimented by some solid defence and great running between the wickets putting the pressure back on Ardvreck, setting them 112 to win.

Within 3 overs of Joshua, Maclean and Joel the game was pretty much sewn up, some fabulous fast bowling led Ardvreck to a top order collapse. Add to that some great bowling from Ramsay, backed up from Edward in the slip cordon with two fine catches leading to a comfortable 61 run victory and a great way for the F8 leavers to end their time at Cargilfield!

In their final cricket match of the season, the Under 10 boys travelled to Musselburgh for their second paired match of the term against Loretto. Not only was it the last match but it turned out to be the most exciting finish of all the matches this season.

Having won the toss, Captain Alexander opted to bowl first and put Loretto in to bat. The boundaries were short so the boys had to be alert in the field. After a couple of missed catching opportunities in the first couple of overs, the boys kept the pressure on the batsman and soon effected a runout through a marvellous direct hit of the stumps by Oliver. A few overs later he repeated the feat from the opposite side of the wicket. Cameron also produced a great shy at the stumps to run out another batsman in the next pair. Attentive work on the boundary restricted the opposition to 67 runs by the end of their 15-over innings.

After the tea break Cameron and William opened the batting and scored a strong 25 runs in their quota of overs - a combination of good running and a couple of boundaries. Will and Harry came in next and after losing a couple of wickets through running mix-ups managed to stay out of the red in the score book.* The next two pairs, comprised of Alexander and Charlie, and Oliver and Maximillan gave steady performances, losing just the one wicket between them through a fantastic diving catch in the infield.

This left the final pairing of Thomas and Hayden needing to score 15 runs off three overs. A couple of boundaries and some frenzied running got them six ahead of the score with two balls remaining but a runout on the penultimate ball saw the score pegged back by 5 runs meaning the match came down to the last ball: if Loretto took a wicket they would win! The game was now in Cargilfield’s hands...

Thomas faced the final delivery and coolly blocked the ball into a gap and the boys ran another run, albeit unnecessary, to win the match.

Well done to all the boys for a marvellous effort in the field but a particular mention for Thomas and Hayden, who, although in their very first cricket season, produced the well-judged finish that was required to seal the victory.

*NB. In pairs cricket 5 runs are taken off for each wicket conceded but the batsman stays at the crease until his allotted overs are completed.

In their final cricket match of the season, the Under 10 boys travelled to Musselburgh for their second paired match of the term against Loretto. Not only was it the last match but it turned out to be the most exciting finish of all the matches this season.

Having won the toss, Captain Alexander opted to bowl first and put Loretto in to bat. The boundaries were short so the boys had to be alert in the field. After a couple of missed catching opportunities in the first couple of overs, the boys kept the pressure on the batsman and soon effected a runout through a marvellous direct hit of the stumps by Oliver. A few overs later he repeated the feat from the opposite side of the wicket. Cameron also produced a great shy at the stumps to run out another batsman in the next pair. Attentive work on the boundary restricted the opposition to 67 runs by the end of their 15-over innings.

After the tea break Cameron and William opened the batting and scored a strong 25 runs in their quota of overs - a combination of good running and a couple of boundaries. Will and Harry came in next and after losing a couple of wickets through running mix-ups managed to stay out of the red in the score book.* The next two pairs, comprised of Alexander and Charlie, and Oliver and Maximillan gave steady performances, losing just the one wicket between them through a fantastic diving catch in the infield.

This left the final pairing of Thomas and Hayden needing to score 15 runs off three overs. A couple of boundaries and some frenzied running got them six ahead of the score with two balls remaining but a runout on the penultimate ball saw the score pegged back by 5 runs meaning the match came down to the last ball: if Loretto took a wicket they would win! The game was now in Cargilfield’s hands...

Thomas faced the final delivery and coolly blocked the ball into a gap and the boys ran another run, albeit unnecessary, to win the match.

Well done to all the boys for a marvellous effort in the field but a particular mention for Thomas and Hayden, who, although in their very first cricket season, produced the well-judged finish that was required to seal the victory.

*NB. In pairs cricket 5 runs are taken off for each wicket conceded but the batsman stays at the crease until his allotted overs are completed.

The U9s travelled to Ardvreck today to play their final match of the season. It was so hot some of the big girls had a paddle in the river! Ardvreck won the toss and asked us in to bat. We were a little slow to begin with only scoring ½ rounder off 10 balls but we picked up the pace and scored 10 more! Whilst our batting was not great, apart from a super hit from Tunrayo, we were determined and we scored lots of half rounders and some cheeky whole rounders won due to good running and fielding mistakes. Ardvreck managed 5 ½ in return. Savannah, Bea and Maddie stumped out some girls and we made very few fielding mistakes. The second innings was timed rather than 30 balls and luckily our girls looked lively and came in quickly. This time we scored 12 ½ rounders.The batting was a little better and Maddie, Izzy, Bea, Tunrayo and Isobel scored full rounders. Savannah and Esme bowled reasonably well and they both directed the fielding very well. Ardvreck came back with 4 ½; we had got five of their batters out. Final score: Cargilfield 23 Ardvreck 10.

Well done girls, we played well and showed good competitive spirit. Our batting needs to improve but overall very good progress has been made over the term. A special well done to Isobel and Jacqueline in their first match for the A’s. Isobel scored 2 and Jacqueline 2 ½.

The U9s travelled to Ardvreck today to play their final match of the season. It was so hot some of the big girls had a paddle in the river! Ardvreck won the toss and asked us in to bat. We were a little slow to begin with only scoring ½ rounder off 10 balls but we picked up the pace and scored 10 more! Whilst our batting was not great, apart from a super hit from Tunrayo, we were determined and we scored lots of half rounders and some cheeky whole rounders won due to good running and fielding mistakes. Ardvreck managed 5 ½ in return. Savannah, Bea and Maddie stumped out some girls and we made very few fielding mistakes. The second innings was timed rather than 30 balls and luckily our girls looked lively and came in quickly. This time we scored 12 ½ rounders.The batting was a little better and Maddie, Izzy, Bea, Tunrayo and Isobel scored full rounders. Savannah and Esme bowled reasonably well and they both directed the fielding very well. Ardvreck came back with 4 ½; we had got five of their batters out. Final score: Cargilfield 23 Ardvreck 10.

Well done girls, we played well and showed good competitive spirit. Our batting needs to improve but overall very good progress has been made over the term. A special well done to Isobel and Jacqueline in their first match for the A’s. Isobel scored 2 and Jacqueline 2 ½.

Lost: 6.5 to 17.5

A nice and sunny afternoon at Loretto for the girls’ last game of the term and school year. They played two innings. Unfortunately, their opponents won many points in the first inning during which the girls seemed to be slowly finding their marks. Matilda bowled well with Arya backstop, Francesca backing her in 4^th, Amenah in seconds, Heidi in 3rd and Cicely in first. The other girls being deep field. The issue was the lack of communication, passing and catching the balls.

However, the girls had a fascinating second inning to watch as they got out most of their opponents and were much faster at getting the balls to the correct post. The positions were: Lulu bowling, Matilda and Bea deep field, Amenah on first, Cara second, Cicely third, Arya fourth and Francesca backstop. Their batting got better as well but unfortunately as they tried to score more rounders to catch up on the first inning they also took more risks and all of them but two got out. Arya is player of the match for her impressive batting.

Well done, girls for a very good match.

Lost: 6.5 to 17.5

A nice and sunny afternoon at Loretto for the girls’ last game of the term and school year. They played two innings. Unfortunately, their opponents won many points in the first inning during which the girls seemed to be slowly finding their marks. Matilda bowled well with Arya backstop, Francesca backing her in 4^th, Amenah in seconds, Heidi in 3rd and Cicely in first. The other girls being deep field. The issue was the lack of communication, passing and catching the balls.

However, the girls had a fascinating second inning to watch as they got out most of their opponents and were much faster at getting the balls to the correct post. The positions were: Lulu bowling, Matilda and Bea deep field, Amenah on first, Cara second, Cicely third, Arya fourth and Francesca backstop. Their batting got better as well but unfortunately as they tried to score more rounders to catch up on the first inning they also took more risks and all of them but two got out. Arya is player of the match for her impressive batting.

Well done, girls for a very good match.

Won 10 ½ to 4 ½

It is true that taking part is the most important thing, but it was lovely to have a win in our final game of the season. The girls were fantastic against a strong Belhaven team and showed just how much progress they have made this season with their play. 

Lottie was a great captain, giving encouragement to her players all the way. The rest of the girls worked so well together and were able to put in a great fielding performance in the first innings. Mariella bowled very cleanly once again and Anna and Venetia were a super combination in the backstop and second roles. Great fielding once again from Isabella, Lola and Lara to ensure the Belhaven team only scored 3 in their first innings. 

Anna led the way with a full rounder to kick off the Cargilfield first innings with a massive hit to the edge of the astro. Annika and Judith also scored plus a fantastic score from Famke to give 6 rounders. Belhaven were chasing a high score and the girls were just too strong in the field. They could only manage 1 ½ in their second innings. A very strong bowling performance from Lottie and more great team work on the bases from Annika, Isabella, Venetia and Sophia led to 7 of their players being given out in this innings.

With a strong lead, Cargilfield chose to work equally as hard with the bat and two more great rounders from Anna with the ball reaching the fence. A super hit from Judith also led to another full rounder and another half from Famke and Mariella. 

I am really proud of all the girls for playing so well as part of the team and for persevering all some in some difficult matches against tough opposition. I hope they have enjoyed the season and I know that they have developed in much stronger players ready for the next season in 2020.

Won 10 ½ to 4 ½

It is true that taking part is the most important thing, but it was lovely to have a win in our final game of the season. The girls were fantastic against a strong Belhaven team and showed just how much progress they have made this season with their play. 

Lottie was a great captain, giving encouragement to her players all the way. The rest of the girls worked so well together and were able to put in a great fielding performance in the first innings. Mariella bowled very cleanly once again and Anna and Venetia were a super combination in the backstop and second roles. Great fielding once again from Isabella, Lola and Lara to ensure the Belhaven team only scored 3 in their first innings. 

Anna led the way with a full rounder to kick off the Cargilfield first innings with a massive hit to the edge of the astro. Annika and Judith also scored plus a fantastic score from Famke to give 6 rounders. Belhaven were chasing a high score and the girls were just too strong in the field. They could only manage 1 ½ in their second innings. A very strong bowling performance from Lottie and more great team work on the bases from Annika, Isabella, Venetia and Sophia led to 7 of their players being given out in this innings.

With a strong lead, Cargilfield chose to work equally as hard with the bat and two more great rounders from Anna with the ball reaching the fence. A super hit from Judith also led to another full rounder and another half from Famke and Mariella. 

I am really proud of all the girls for playing so well as part of the team and for persevering all some in some difficult matches against tough opposition. I hope they have enjoyed the season and I know that they have developed in much stronger players ready for the next season in 2020.

The Summer Fair is always on of the highlights of the Pipe Band's year, and once again, the pipers and drummers did not disappoint!  They marched around the site, before ending up on the Headmaster's Lawn before running through their set in front of a large and appreciative audience.  A big thank you to our piping and drumming teachers for working so hard with the children, practising in all weather throughout the year!  We wish them well in their final performance of the year, this time at the end of the Leavers' Chapel Service on the final day of term.

The Summer Fair is always on of the highlights of the Pipe Band's year, and once again, the pipers and drummers did not disappoint!  They marched around the site, before ending up on the Headmaster's Lawn before running through their set in front of a large and appreciative audience.  A big thank you to our piping and drumming teachers for working so hard with the children, practising in all weather throughout the year!  We wish them well in their final performance of the year, this time at the end of the Leavers' Chapel Service on the final day of term.

On Friday we held our second Cargilfield Book Festival, a whole day focused around books and reading for the entire school.

Everyone dressed up as a character from a favourite book and we had a whole host of visiting authors, book illustrators and poets who gave lots of interesting workshops to different age groups; we had the Form 8 children reading to the youngest children throughout the day; there was a book fair for children to browse and buy some books and there was also a talk from John Young, former Cargilfield parent and whose first book won the Scottish Teenage Fiction Book of the Year. The day was brought to a close with staff reading to children in strange places around the school and then the Final of the school reading competition in Chapel judged by Liz Moss from Glenalmond College.

What a wonderful day and a big thank you to Mr Parker for all his hard work in organising such a brilliant Book Fest!

Read more here. 

On Friday we held our second Cargilfield Book Festival, a whole day focused around books and reading for the entire school.

Everyone dressed up as a character from a favourite book and we had a whole host of visiting authors, book illustrators and poets who gave lots of interesting workshops to different age groups; we had the Form 8 children reading to the youngest children throughout the day; there was a book fair for children to browse and buy some books and there was also a talk from John Young, former Cargilfield parent and whose first book won the Scottish Teenage Fiction Book of the Year. The day was brought to a close with staff reading to children in strange places around the school and then the Final of the school reading competition in Chapel judged by Liz Moss from Glenalmond College.

What a wonderful day and a big thank you to Mr Parker for all his hard work in organising such a brilliant Book Fest!

Read more here. 

Our Form 7 Potential Scholars embarked on a superb exhibition of at the National Galleries of Scotland on the BP Portrait awards 2019 which culminated in both realistic and partially abstract interpretations of the human faces and body.

The children made direct observational studies including a psychological write up which supported the images. In this respect there is no substitute for direct observational drawing and an informed testimony to Art in the flesh!

Read more here.

Our Form 7 Potential Scholars embarked on a superb exhibition of at the National Galleries of Scotland on the BP Portrait awards 2019 which culminated in both realistic and partially abstract interpretations of the human faces and body.

The children made direct observational studies including a psychological write up which supported the images. In this respect there is no substitute for direct observational drawing and an informed testimony to Art in the flesh!

Read more here.

Well. With hardly any cricket for this group over the past three weeks with half term, CE exams and camp, our batting was very fragile today; with the skipper injured, someone would have to score some runs but at 35-9 it was not looking altogether hopeful that this would happen! Carlton, with a lot of talented Ed Academy boys playing, were good; they had five proper cricketers with a couple of them in development programmes, so when they ripped through the top order and the middle order very quickly the end looked nigh.

Cometh the hour, cometh VJ and William. They had other ideas and put on a 55 run partnership playing very watchfully against some of the secondary bowlers but they hung around and both faced around 30 balls each, VJ in particular playing some outstanding shots through the covers and with one hand, William stayed with him and collected a few singles and ran the extras. It was a herculean effort and both boys deserve a real pat on the back for they way they dug in and played for the team. 96 was at least a target and given the quality of our bowling attack, we now had a chance.

We struck quickly. Vinjero bowled really well first up and took two quick wickets against boys who looked very talented batsmen; Harry also chipped in from the other end although one of their big talented boys took a fancy to a few of his balls which were right in his slot. Glen and Edward came on and kept things tight and wickets kept falling, but so did the runs required. 16 off four overs. We still had a chance.

Then Rory and Max bowled at the death and they both bowled quite superbly not allowing the lower order Carlton players to score and backed up by some outstanding fielding, run outs were effected and panic set in as balls began to run out. 9 off the final over but as cool as you like Max bowled with his usual metronomic accuracy and the game was ours. A win by just 6 runs. Wow!

Today taught us many lessons. We need to bat with greater belief and conviction against admittedly a quality Carlton attack. Feet didn’t move and we were caught too often in the crease. Also, the value of not giving your wicket away, and VJ and William showed the value of this as we were all out in the 19th over but were 9 wickets down in the 8th!

Without Harry, Todd led the side superbly today and his keeping was out of the top drawer; the fielding was brilliant on occasions and really kept Carlton up against the rate and some of the run outs were outstanding; but the team spirit was palpable in the field with everyone encouraging each other and supporting each other when a difficult chance went down, and quite rightly, the boys were delighted to get over the line and win again, by just 6 runs. We remain undefeated in normal fixtures and with two games remaining next week, this season could be remembered as a very special one indeed.

An addendum and an important one too. The preamble to the Laws of Cricket set down by the MCC talks about the ‘Spirit of Cricket’ and today we saw the supreme example of this. Harry D went to flick a ball down leg side and it was taken by their talented keeper standing up; their umpire gave a wide as we were playing ODI laws for wides. Harry, however, felt he had hit it and so walked off. An outstanding piece of sportsmanship which epitomises what the Spirit of Cricket is all about and is far more important than the result of the game.

Well played. But my nerves are shredded!

Well. With hardly any cricket for this group over the past three weeks with half term, CE exams and camp, our batting was very fragile today; with the skipper injured, someone would have to score some runs but at 35-9 it was not looking altogether hopeful that this would happen! Carlton, with a lot of talented Ed Academy boys playing, were good; they had five proper cricketers with a couple of them in development programmes, so when they ripped through the top order and the middle order very quickly the end looked nigh.

Cometh the hour, cometh VJ and William. They had other ideas and put on a 55 run partnership playing very watchfully against some of the secondary bowlers but they hung around and both faced around 30 balls each, VJ in particular playing some outstanding shots through the covers and with one hand, William stayed with him and collected a few singles and ran the extras. It was a herculean effort and both boys deserve a real pat on the back for they way they dug in and played for the team. 96 was at least a target and given the quality of our bowling attack, we now had a chance.

We struck quickly. Vinjero bowled really well first up and took two quick wickets against boys who looked very talented batsmen; Harry also chipped in from the other end although one of their big talented boys took a fancy to a few of his balls which were right in his slot. Glen and Edward came on and kept things tight and wickets kept falling, but so did the runs required. 16 off four overs. We still had a chance.

Then Rory and Max bowled at the death and they both bowled quite superbly not allowing the lower order Carlton players to score and backed up by some outstanding fielding, run outs were effected and panic set in as balls began to run out. 9 off the final over but as cool as you like Max bowled with his usual metronomic accuracy and the game was ours. A win by just 6 runs. Wow!

Today taught us many lessons. We need to bat with greater belief and conviction against admittedly a quality Carlton attack. Feet didn’t move and we were caught too often in the crease. Also, the value of not giving your wicket away, and VJ and William showed the value of this as we were all out in the 19th over but were 9 wickets down in the 8th!

Without Harry, Todd led the side superbly today and his keeping was out of the top drawer; the fielding was brilliant on occasions and really kept Carlton up against the rate and some of the run outs were outstanding; but the team spirit was palpable in the field with everyone encouraging each other and supporting each other when a difficult chance went down, and quite rightly, the boys were delighted to get over the line and win again, by just 6 runs. We remain undefeated in normal fixtures and with two games remaining next week, this season could be remembered as a very special one indeed.

An addendum and an important one too. The preamble to the Laws of Cricket set down by the MCC talks about the ‘Spirit of Cricket’ and today we saw the supreme example of this. Harry D went to flick a ball down leg side and it was taken by their talented keeper standing up; their umpire gave a wide as we were playing ODI laws for wides. Harry, however, felt he had hit it and so walked off. An outstanding piece of sportsmanship which epitomises what the Spirit of Cricket is all about and is far more important than the result of the game.

Well played. But my nerves are shredded!

In the south Edinburgh sunshine we were put into bat with skipper Jack S and the young Harry St C opening. The run rate was slow as both batsmen struggled to deal with the outstanding bowling attack from the home team. The boys defended the straight ones well, managing a few singles but the pace outside off stump was too quick in the early stages. Jack played a few well-timed shots but was then out LBW and Harry was retired after batting for 9 overs. This allowed others to come in and have a go. Ned and Ollie scored a few but there were a couple of silly run-outs and two more LBWs as we desperately tried to increase our total. Ollie nicked one to the keeper and it was down to Quin to help get a few with Adley. We set a target of 83 to win and perhaps had to rely on a few extras from Watson’s bowling. The boundary was big so we knew it was defendable but would take some top fielding. We were a bit slack unlike our opponents who fielded phenomenally well throughout our innings. An overthrow from the first run set the tone in the field but Fergus bowled incredibly tight in the first few overs and made it difficult for them to get momentum. 

Their number 3 batsmen came in and played some terrific shots and looked like he would race to the target.  We brought Fergus back in to try to dismiss him and he didn’t disappoint. When the batsman cut one of Fergus’ deliveries to point, Ollie was there to make a fantastic catch. That really swung the momentum our way and more wickets fell thanks to Mungo, Alexander, Harry and Ned, and another terrific catch from Ollie. They needed 11 off the last over and Ollie bowled nicely to only allow them 2 runs giving us a 9 run win. Both teams played some super cricket today and Watson’s were unlucky but should be incredibly proud of the high standards they set in the field. They have not had many matches due to poor weekend weather and having probably played more cricket matches this term, it possibly gave us the edge. Well done to the boys but especially Fergus who took 4 wickets for 19 runs in just 4 overs.

In the south Edinburgh sunshine we were put into bat with skipper Jack S and the young Harry St C opening. The run rate was slow as both batsmen struggled to deal with the outstanding bowling attack from the home team. The boys defended the straight ones well, managing a few singles but the pace outside off stump was too quick in the early stages. Jack played a few well-timed shots but was then out LBW and Harry was retired after batting for 9 overs. This allowed others to come in and have a go. Ned and Ollie scored a few but there were a couple of silly run-outs and two more LBWs as we desperately tried to increase our total. Ollie nicked one to the keeper and it was down to Quin to help get a few with Adley. We set a target of 83 to win and perhaps had to rely on a few extras from Watson’s bowling. The boundary was big so we knew it was defendable but would take some top fielding. We were a bit slack unlike our opponents who fielded phenomenally well throughout our innings. An overthrow from the first run set the tone in the field but Fergus bowled incredibly tight in the first few overs and made it difficult for them to get momentum. 

Their number 3 batsmen came in and played some terrific shots and looked like he would race to the target.  We brought Fergus back in to try to dismiss him and he didn’t disappoint. When the batsman cut one of Fergus’ deliveries to point, Ollie was there to make a fantastic catch. That really swung the momentum our way and more wickets fell thanks to Mungo, Alexander, Harry and Ned, and another terrific catch from Ollie. They needed 11 off the last over and Ollie bowled nicely to only allow them 2 runs giving us a 9 run win. Both teams played some super cricket today and Watson’s were unlucky but should be incredibly proud of the high standards they set in the field. They have not had many matches due to poor weekend weather and having probably played more cricket matches this term, it possibly gave us the edge. Well done to the boys but especially Fergus who took 4 wickets for 19 runs in just 4 overs.

In their third and final meeting of the season, the Under 11Cs welcomed Fettes to a soft ball pairs match on the astro.

The Cargilfield team batted first with the opening pair of William P and Adam accumulating a total of 35 runs for their four overs. Harry and Otis were the top scoring pair, putting on an impressive 53 runs during their allocation of overs - a run rate of over 13!. At the end of the innings, the team had scored a total of 152 runs in the 20 overs.

Their task now turned to defending the score they had set and right from the start the boys fielding was to a high standard. Thomas, Max and Oscar were the pick of the bowlers, conceding only 13 runs between them. William P. took a great one handed catch behind the stumps after the ball was edged by the batsman and Otis produced a fine throw for a run out before cooling catching a high ball. In the end, the boys managed to secure a win by 79 runs.

Well done to the whole team for their important contributions but a particular mention is reserved for Otis who was the man of the match.

In their third and final meeting of the season, the Under 11Cs welcomed Fettes to a soft ball pairs match on the astro.

The Cargilfield team batted first with the opening pair of William P and Adam accumulating a total of 35 runs for their four overs. Harry and Otis were the top scoring pair, putting on an impressive 53 runs during their allocation of overs - a run rate of over 13!. At the end of the innings, the team had scored a total of 152 runs in the 20 overs.

Their task now turned to defending the score they had set and right from the start the boys fielding was to a high standard. Thomas, Max and Oscar were the pick of the bowlers, conceding only 13 runs between them. William P. took a great one handed catch behind the stumps after the ball was edged by the batsman and Otis produced a fine throw for a run out before cooling catching a high ball. In the end, the boys managed to secure a win by 79 runs.

Well done to the whole team for their important contributions but a particular mention is reserved for Otis who was the man of the match.

The U9 A team had a very exciting game against Craigclowan today, our last match of the season. Izzy was our captain and we fielded first. We struggled to bowl to a longer length than we were used to, but we did field well, managing to get all the players out before they had received the 25 balls. Craigclowan scored 6 rounders in the first innings. We went into bat and scored 5 ½. Maddie, Lucy, Savannah and Tunrayo were the top scorers but unfortunately several girls did not manage to make contact with the ball. In the second innings Craigclowan scored 3 and we again managed to get them all out. We needed 4 to win but unfortunately we could only score 3. Final score Craigclowan 9 ½ Cargilfield 8 ½. What a close match! Super fielding! Especially well done to Lucy and Izzy getting girls out at first post and fabulous catches from Maddie and Savannah! Points to work on: hitting the ball but not to first post, bowling a longer ball. It is important to learn how to lose too, so a good lesson. Well tried, girls!

The U9 A team had a very exciting game against Craigclowan today, our last match of the season. Izzy was our captain and we fielded first. We struggled to bowl to a longer length than we were used to, but we did field well, managing to get all the players out before they had received the 25 balls. Craigclowan scored 6 rounders in the first innings. We went into bat and scored 5 ½. Maddie, Lucy, Savannah and Tunrayo were the top scorers but unfortunately several girls did not manage to make contact with the ball. In the second innings Craigclowan scored 3 and we again managed to get them all out. We needed 4 to win but unfortunately we could only score 3. Final score Craigclowan 9 ½ Cargilfield 8 ½. What a close match! Super fielding! Especially well done to Lucy and Izzy getting girls out at first post and fabulous catches from Maddie and Savannah! Points to work on: hitting the ball but not to first post, bowling a longer ball. It is important to learn how to lose too, so a good lesson. Well tried, girls!

Won by 20 runs

After the first sunny Wednesday afternoon of the month, the boys were eager to take on Ardvreck. We lost the toss and batted first. I was very pleased with the way we batted; placing our shots, using the pace of the ball to our advantage and communicating well with each other. We ended our innings on 122 runs. In the second innings, I was pleased with our bowling and the many wickets we took. However, the boys need to work on their positions in the field; by not panicking and moving every time the opposition scores runs. This will leave huge gaps in the field. I was also displeased by the negativity of individuals towards others in the team. Encouragement will help the team perform better than putting them down. Ardvreck ended their innings on 102.

Well done, boys!

Won by 20 runs

After the first sunny Wednesday afternoon of the month, the boys were eager to take on Ardvreck. We lost the toss and batted first. I was very pleased with the way we batted; placing our shots, using the pace of the ball to our advantage and communicating well with each other. We ended our innings on 122 runs. In the second innings, I was pleased with our bowling and the many wickets we took. However, the boys need to work on their positions in the field; by not panicking and moving every time the opposition scores runs. This will leave huge gaps in the field. I was also displeased by the negativity of individuals towards others in the team. Encouragement will help the team perform better than putting them down. Ardvreck ended their innings on 102.

Well done, boys!

Draw – 10.5 to 10.5

The girls played well under a sunny sky. We had a great captain who doubled as a bowler in Nadia. The girls started fielding after winning the draw. Natasha was on the second post catching a lot of balls with the help of Lyla. The girls managed to get more girls out on the second innings. We had Bonnie and then Rowan as backstops and Jacqueline did a brilliant job on the third post as she was always focused and ran for the ball every time she could. She managed to get a few girls out which is why she is player of the match. Isabella batted very well and what a runner! She got a few rounders to her name today. Hattie and Emilia were very cheerful to their team mates and played well. Special mention to Dulcie who nominated herself to play for Carigclowan as they were missing one player.

Well done, girls.

Draw – 10.5 to 10.5

The girls played well under a sunny sky. We had a great captain who doubled as a bowler in Nadia. The girls started fielding after winning the draw. Natasha was on the second post catching a lot of balls with the help of Lyla. The girls managed to get more girls out on the second innings. We had Bonnie and then Rowan as backstops and Jacqueline did a brilliant job on the third post as she was always focused and ran for the ball every time she could. She managed to get a few girls out which is why she is player of the match. Isabella batted very well and what a runner! She got a few rounders to her name today. Hattie and Emilia were very cheerful to their team mates and played well. Special mention to Dulcie who nominated herself to play for Carigclowan as they were missing one player.

Well done, girls.

It was a fantastic afternoon for our penultimate fixtures of the season. Our last ones had been rained off so sun cream on we were determined to make our mark. There has been a lot of hard work this season on developing more accurate fielding and I think our work with the cricket coaches has really helped with this. We played Loretto first and got off to a strong start by stopping them scoring until ball 6. As it was a 20 good balls match we were more concerned with limiting their scoring as opposed to taking the players out and we did very well at this. In our second Innings Hannah made a couple of good catches quite close in off third base. Laura was also effective at first and Clemmie well supported by Catherine on 2^nd. Our batting was tremendous today with absolutely everyone making their mark and scoring. Mention mist be made of some fantastic batting by Saphira and Hannah.

We continued in the same vein against Fettes. We took the first two players out on the first two balls and then again on ball 6. We managed to limit their scoring to 2 and a half rounders. Our batting was again really good and with impressive performances from Saphira, Hannah, Clemmie and Caitlin took our total to 6 and a half. We only played half of the next innings as by the close of Fettes batting they had score in total 6 rounders. This meant we were victorious without having to bat.

Final score Cargilfield 11, Loretto 8

And, Cargilfield 6 ½ Fettes 6

It was a fantastic afternoon for our penultimate fixtures of the season. Our last ones had been rained off so sun cream on we were determined to make our mark. There has been a lot of hard work this season on developing more accurate fielding and I think our work with the cricket coaches has really helped with this. We played Loretto first and got off to a strong start by stopping them scoring until ball 6. As it was a 20 good balls match we were more concerned with limiting their scoring as opposed to taking the players out and we did very well at this. In our second Innings Hannah made a couple of good catches quite close in off third base. Laura was also effective at first and Clemmie well supported by Catherine on 2^nd. Our batting was tremendous today with absolutely everyone making their mark and scoring. Mention mist be made of some fantastic batting by Saphira and Hannah.

We continued in the same vein against Fettes. We took the first two players out on the first two balls and then again on ball 6. We managed to limit their scoring to 2 and a half rounders. Our batting was again really good and with impressive performances from Saphira, Hannah, Clemmie and Caitlin took our total to 6 and a half. We only played half of the next innings as by the close of Fettes batting they had score in total 6 rounders. This meant we were victorious without having to bat.

Final score Cargilfield 11, Loretto 8

And, Cargilfield 6 ½ Fettes 6

Well done to the 1^st girls who all played well today in 2 fun matches against Fettes and Loretto. We played Loretto first and Katie won the toss and chose to field. We fielded tightly with Amelia putting players out on balls 1, 7, 12 and 15 after some lovely low pitches from Sophie. Ellie stumped out a player on ball 19 and Sophie then went on to catch 2 players out on balls 21 and 22. The Loretto girls finished on 2 rounders so we stepped in to bat feeling fairly confident. Our batting was consistent and although we took chances, we ran sensibly. Flora in particular stood out for her batting and she was our top scorer with 3 ½ rounders.

Cargilfield 10 Loretto 2

We played Fettes after and it was a much tighter game. Again, the opposition batted first and we started well, holding Fettes to 2 ½ rounders after 15 balls, and putting 4 of their players out. Izzy fielded well and pitched some good balls back in to the post players. We lost our concentration a bit and struggled to put out their last 3 players, who scored half rounders which saw them creep back in to the match. We were unlucky to lose Flora, Emma and Rosanna on their first bats so with a bit of a depleted team, we knew we had to work hard to win. Sophie batted very well, scoring 4 whole rounders, and Ellie, Amelia and Alannah all added to the score sheet. The match ended in a 7-7 draw which was probably a fair reflection of the game.

Cargilfield 7 Fettes 7

Well done to the 1^st girls who all played well today in 2 fun matches against Fettes and Loretto. We played Loretto first and Katie won the toss and chose to field. We fielded tightly with Amelia putting players out on balls 1, 7, 12 and 15 after some lovely low pitches from Sophie. Ellie stumped out a player on ball 19 and Sophie then went on to catch 2 players out on balls 21 and 22. The Loretto girls finished on 2 rounders so we stepped in to bat feeling fairly confident. Our batting was consistent and although we took chances, we ran sensibly. Flora in particular stood out for her batting and she was our top scorer with 3 ½ rounders.

Cargilfield 10 Loretto 2

We played Fettes after and it was a much tighter game. Again, the opposition batted first and we started well, holding Fettes to 2 ½ rounders after 15 balls, and putting 4 of their players out. Izzy fielded well and pitched some good balls back in to the post players. We lost our concentration a bit and struggled to put out their last 3 players, who scored half rounders which saw them creep back in to the match. We were unlucky to lose Flora, Emma and Rosanna on their first bats so with a bit of a depleted team, we knew we had to work hard to win. Sophie batted very well, scoring 4 whole rounders, and Ellie, Amelia and Alannah all added to the score sheet. The match ended in a 7-7 draw which was probably a fair reflection of the game.

Cargilfield 7 Fettes 7

Won 9 ½ to 8

A great trip up to Craigclowan this afternoon and a well-deserved victory for the girls. Anna captained the side and won the toss, electing to field first. The put in a solid performance in the field. Mariella bowled very accurately and the backstop to second pairing of Anna and Venetia worked really well. The rest of the girls were great in the field and have made big improvements in their field play this season. They read the game well and the Craigclowan team only managed 3 rounders.  Cargilfield had a solid first innings with Venetia batting well and scoring 3 half rounders and Annika scoring an excellent full rounder to make a total of 5 ½. 

With a lead under our belt, the team fielded just as well in the second innings with great bowling from Lottie this time and more super fielding. The Craigclowan team were now on a total of 8 after their two innings. Going in to bat for the second time, the girls needed to score 2 ½ to win. It was a tense innings, however they came through with some excellent batting. Three half rounders from Anna being the stand-out here. The match ended with a win for the girls and some excellent play from every member of the team. Well done to all on a great match.

Won 9 ½ to 8

A great trip up to Craigclowan this afternoon and a well-deserved victory for the girls. Anna captained the side and won the toss, electing to field first. The put in a solid performance in the field. Mariella bowled very accurately and the backstop to second pairing of Anna and Venetia worked really well. The rest of the girls were great in the field and have made big improvements in their field play this season. They read the game well and the Craigclowan team only managed 3 rounders.  Cargilfield had a solid first innings with Venetia batting well and scoring 3 half rounders and Annika scoring an excellent full rounder to make a total of 5 ½. 

With a lead under our belt, the team fielded just as well in the second innings with great bowling from Lottie this time and more super fielding. The Craigclowan team were now on a total of 8 after their two innings. Going in to bat for the second time, the girls needed to score 2 ½ to win. It was a tense innings, however they came through with some excellent batting. Three half rounders from Anna being the stand-out here. The match ended with a win for the girls and some excellent play from every member of the team. Well done to all on a great match.

Congratulations to our team of mathematicians who have represented Cargilfield at the prestigious National Finals in London. This was our seventh year in a row we have qualified for the finals. 88 regional winners from mostly Grammar and Senior schools took part. The competition was very fierce this year but the team still beat quite a few of the other Regional Winners.  About 1700 teams started the competition and were entered from as far afield as the Shetlands to the Channel Islands.

Congratulations to our team of mathematicians who have represented Cargilfield at the prestigious National Finals in London. This was our seventh year in a row we have qualified for the finals. 88 regional winners from mostly Grammar and Senior schools took part. The competition was very fierce this year but the team still beat quite a few of the other Regional Winners.  About 1700 teams started the competition and were entered from as far afield as the Shetlands to the Channel Islands.

Despite yesterday’s torrential down pours, P2’s braved the weather this morning as they headed out for an exciting day at the Five Sister’s Zoo! Lions, bears and wolves were top of the list of ‘hoping to see’ but we were still very excited to be greeted by a pair of friendly, inquisitive otters racing each other under our feet! A few more up close and personal animal exhibits later (leaf cutter ants, lynx’s and Scottish wildcats to say the least) and we were ready to try our hand at some pond dipping! Despite our initial assumption that the green, mouldy pond was ‘unhealthy’ we were amazed to discover the multitude of invertebrates swimming about the pond making it in fact beaming with life! Now time to find one of the ‘big five’! We paused along the route to listen to Mrs Spencer tell us some sad stories about the lions and bear’s previous life in the circus. Thanks to the wonderful work at the zoo these magnificent creatures now had a safe and comfortable environment to live in and this was certainly evident as we watched them bask and stretch in the afternoon sun. Our most exciting encounter however, came in the form a real life race with a wolf! After standing and patiently waiting for a glimpse of the illusive Arctic Wolf we were amazed to see one whizz past us right next to the fence and we quickly took chase following it around the edge of its exhibit! What a fantastic day filled with fascinating, up-close and personal encounters with a wealth of different creatures great and small!

Read more here.

Despite yesterday’s torrential down pours, P2’s braved the weather this morning as they headed out for an exciting day at the Five Sister’s Zoo! Lions, bears and wolves were top of the list of ‘hoping to see’ but we were still very excited to be greeted by a pair of friendly, inquisitive otters racing each other under our feet! A few more up close and personal animal exhibits later (leaf cutter ants, lynx’s and Scottish wildcats to say the least) and we were ready to try our hand at some pond dipping! Despite our initial assumption that the green, mouldy pond was ‘unhealthy’ we were amazed to discover the multitude of invertebrates swimming about the pond making it in fact beaming with life! Now time to find one of the ‘big five’! We paused along the route to listen to Mrs Spencer tell us some sad stories about the lions and bear’s previous life in the circus. Thanks to the wonderful work at the zoo these magnificent creatures now had a safe and comfortable environment to live in and this was certainly evident as we watched them bask and stretch in the afternoon sun. Our most exciting encounter however, came in the form a real life race with a wolf! After standing and patiently waiting for a glimpse of the illusive Arctic Wolf we were amazed to see one whizz past us right next to the fence and we quickly took chase following it around the edge of its exhibit! What a fantastic day filled with fascinating, up-close and personal encounters with a wealth of different creatures great and small!

Read more here.

Lulu played at the Stoller Hall in Manchester yesterday in the Northerly concert for the NCOGB.  A fantastic achievement and she is loving playing at such a high level.

Lulu played at the Stoller Hall in Manchester yesterday in the Northerly concert for the NCOGB.  A fantastic achievement and she is loving playing at such a high level.

On Monday afternoon, we enjoyed a visit from Jason Cordingley, the Head of Art at Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh. He came over to do an art workshop with some of our potential art scholars for next year, and there was lots of creativity and inspiration on show as they focused on an expressive technique in painting whilst looking at contemporary artists Hester Berry. A terrific afternoon, and thank you so much for coming to see us!

Read more here.

On Monday afternoon, we enjoyed a visit from Jason Cordingley, the Head of Art at Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh. He came over to do an art workshop with some of our potential art scholars for next year, and there was lots of creativity and inspiration on show as they focused on an expressive technique in painting whilst looking at contemporary artists Hester Berry. A terrific afternoon, and thank you so much for coming to see us!

Read more here.

Daniel, Leopold, James and Joseph represented Cargilfield on Sunday in the Lothians Junior Chess tournament (an inter-schools competition for schools in the Lothian region) and won the medal for best improvers 🏅♟

Daniel, Leopold, James and Joseph represented Cargilfield on Sunday in the Lothians Junior Chess tournament (an inter-schools competition for schools in the Lothian region) and won the medal for best improvers 🏅♟