Form 4 were concerned about the cold weekend ahead for the birds. They used some bread to put on the bird feeders in the Reynolds garden. There will be some bird spotting happening at break time today! #eco #helpthebirds #winter

Read more here.

Form 4 were concerned about the cold weekend ahead for the birds. They used some bread to put on the bird feeders in the Reynolds garden. There will be some bird spotting happening at break time today! #eco #helpthebirds #winter

Read more here.

In P3 this week we have been learning about measuring with standard units ie centimetres and metres.  The children have been measuring themselves, each other and lots of things in and around the classroom using metre sticks and rulers!!

Read more here.

In P3 this week we have been learning about measuring with standard units ie centimetres and metres.  The children have been measuring themselves, each other and lots of things in and around the classroom using metre sticks and rulers!!

Read more here.

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas here at Cargilfield now that they tree has gone up in Chapel. A very exciting and fun filled two weeks ahead!

Thank you to Country Business for such a wonderful tree! Looks fabulous!

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas here at Cargilfield now that they tree has gone up in Chapel. A very exciting and fun filled two weeks ahead!

Thank you to Country Business for such a wonderful tree! Looks fabulous!

Congratulations to Cody and Jack who have been selected in the Scottish Ice Hockey U13 and U15 squads for the 2019/20 season! A terrific achievement! 

Read more at http://bit.ly/33sYZ8c

Congratulations to Cody and Jack who have been selected in the Scottish Ice Hockey U13 and U15 squads for the 2019/20 season! A terrific achievement! 

Read more at http://bit.ly/33sYZ8c

After last Thursday’s outstanding team performance in beating a very strong Aysgarth team from Yorkshire, the 1stXV took on Dollar Academy on what was a mild but foggy afternoon at the foot of the Ochil Hills.  Our home fixture with them back in September was a fantastic game of rugby which we won, but it was hugely competitive game of rugby and this Dollar team is right at the top of the schools we play in Scotland, with perhaps only Sedbergh having been stronger this season.  So certainly another tough challenge, but as they have shown throughout the term, this group of boys continue to work hard as a team, set themselves very high standards which they have no intention of allowing to slip as we come in to the final two games of the season with just Merchiston to come next Wednesday.

As we expected, Dollar came flying out of the traps and showed what a quality side they were with some outstanding off loading and they kept hold of the ball really well which tested our defence; however, the hard work we have done in the last few sessions paid off and they were unable to break through thanks to some excellent scrambling defence and then securing turnover ball at the breakdown.  We got on the score sheet first thanks to some excellent work by the forwards once again, and the quick ruck ball allowed Jack to go through the gap and score a super first try of the match.  From the restart though, we were caught napping, slipped off a couple of tackles which was disappointing which allowed Dollar straight back in the game; getting up fast on the opposition and not allowing them the space to run is what we have done so well over the past few weeks.

After that, we then played some of our best rugby of the season, scoring four unanswered tries, all of them really well worked with the ball moving at pace out in to the wide channels – Oliver’s try in the corner was one of the best we have scored this season – and our ability to keep the ball, dominate the breakdown meant we were able to exploit gaps which eventually appeared in the Dollar defence.  Seb and Joshua were quite outstanding today and the Dollar boys found it hard to compete in the tackle area which allowed us to play front foot rugby, and Rory and Max got the three quarters running so well in attack.  There was some outstanding rugby from the whole team, and seeing Jack, the 2ndXV skipper, dive over for a short range try was definitely the moment of the match for me, and seeing the rest of the team’s reaction to his try.  Everyone supportive of each other and working so hard as a team together.

And so we have reached a fitting finale next week with our final game against Merchiston at home, at the end of what has been a wonderful term of rugby for this group of boys.  They have grown and developed over the course of the season, adding so much more to their game as the weeks have gone by: today, we played much wider, we kicked well when Dollar were up quickly in defence and we ran with real power and pace, making good decisions all over the park. It was very good to watch, seeing the boys take responsibility and show real leadership.

It should be a wonderful game of rugby next Wednesday between two good teams.  I cannot wait!

One more challenge.  I think we will be ready.

After last Thursday’s outstanding team performance in beating a very strong Aysgarth team from Yorkshire, the 1stXV took on Dollar Academy on what was a mild but foggy afternoon at the foot of the Ochil Hills.  Our home fixture with them back in September was a fantastic game of rugby which we won, but it was hugely competitive game of rugby and this Dollar team is right at the top of the schools we play in Scotland, with perhaps only Sedbergh having been stronger this season.  So certainly another tough challenge, but as they have shown throughout the term, this group of boys continue to work hard as a team, set themselves very high standards which they have no intention of allowing to slip as we come in to the final two games of the season with just Merchiston to come next Wednesday.

As we expected, Dollar came flying out of the traps and showed what a quality side they were with some outstanding off loading and they kept hold of the ball really well which tested our defence; however, the hard work we have done in the last few sessions paid off and they were unable to break through thanks to some excellent scrambling defence and then securing turnover ball at the breakdown.  We got on the score sheet first thanks to some excellent work by the forwards once again, and the quick ruck ball allowed Jack to go through the gap and score a super first try of the match.  From the restart though, we were caught napping, slipped off a couple of tackles which was disappointing which allowed Dollar straight back in the game; getting up fast on the opposition and not allowing them the space to run is what we have done so well over the past few weeks.

After that, we then played some of our best rugby of the season, scoring four unanswered tries, all of them really well worked with the ball moving at pace out in to the wide channels – Oliver’s try in the corner was one of the best we have scored this season – and our ability to keep the ball, dominate the breakdown meant we were able to exploit gaps which eventually appeared in the Dollar defence.  Seb and Joshua were quite outstanding today and the Dollar boys found it hard to compete in the tackle area which allowed us to play front foot rugby, and Rory and Max got the three quarters running so well in attack.  There was some outstanding rugby from the whole team, and seeing Jack, the 2ndXV skipper, dive over for a short range try was definitely the moment of the match for me, and seeing the rest of the team’s reaction to his try.  Everyone supportive of each other and working so hard as a team together.

And so we have reached a fitting finale next week with our final game against Merchiston at home, at the end of what has been a wonderful term of rugby for this group of boys.  They have grown and developed over the course of the season, adding so much more to their game as the weeks have gone by: today, we played much wider, we kicked well when Dollar were up quickly in defence and we ran with real power and pace, making good decisions all over the park. It was very good to watch, seeing the boys take responsibility and show real leadership.

It should be a wonderful game of rugby next Wednesday between two good teams.  I cannot wait!

One more challenge.  I think we will be ready.

Form 4 continue to enjoy their weekly timetable chess lesson with Andrew Green from the Edinburgh Chess Academy.  Every Wednesday afternoon, they have an hour's tuition using iPads as well as more tradition chess boards.  All the children are enjoying their lessons and making excellent progress; a number took part in the East Lothina junior tournament held last weekend at Broughton High School!

Form 4 continue to enjoy their weekly timetable chess lesson with Andrew Green from the Edinburgh Chess Academy.  Every Wednesday afternoon, they have an hour's tuition using iPads as well as more tradition chess boards.  All the children are enjoying their lessons and making excellent progress; a number took part in the East Lothina junior tournament held last weekend at Broughton High School!

It was a fairly tough day at the office for the U12Bs today against Mary Erskine. There were some early goals against us, however the girls kept their heads up and Ruby scored a brilliant goal, with the assist coming from Georgia. We brought far more energy to the game in the second half and made a real effort to move the ball wide. Despite some fantastic defence, particularly from Charlotte and Annabella, Mary Erskine managed to break through. We had a few attacking opportunities but lacked passing options up front. Georgia managed to find the backboard late on with a lovely finish. Final score 8-2.

It was a fairly tough day at the office for the U12Bs today against Mary Erskine. There were some early goals against us, however the girls kept their heads up and Ruby scored a brilliant goal, with the assist coming from Georgia. We brought far more energy to the game in the second half and made a real effort to move the ball wide. Despite some fantastic defence, particularly from Charlotte and Annabella, Mary Erskine managed to break through. We had a few attacking opportunities but lacked passing options up front. Georgia managed to find the backboard late on with a lovely finish. Final score 8-2.

The U12A girls played against Mary Erskine P7 today.  The play was end to end throughout the match and all the girls worked hard.  Matilda opened the scoring today with a great sweep shot at goal after a lovely ball through from Clemmie.  The MES girls quickly replied with 2 goals despite Valentina saving many attempts at goal.  Katinka nearly scored before half time after a good display of individual skill but we just did not manage to get the ball in the net.  

Matilda swept another ball in to the back of the net early in the second half to equalise and it was all to play for at this point.  Poppy worked hard trying to get the ball up but Josephine and Issy were the real stars today; Issy intercepted every possible pass and Josephine did not stop running all match. The MES girls managed to squeeze 2 further goals past us in the latter stages of the match, but Venetia was not for giving up and had a great run up the pitch but it was all a bit too late and the match finished 4-2 to MES.

The MES girls were particularly good at moving the ball and if I was to have on criticism of our team, it would be that we played too many balls straight through the opposition, unsuccessfully, rather than moving the ball wide.  However, still a couple of weeks left to work on this!

The U12A girls played against Mary Erskine P7 today.  The play was end to end throughout the match and all the girls worked hard.  Matilda opened the scoring today with a great sweep shot at goal after a lovely ball through from Clemmie.  The MES girls quickly replied with 2 goals despite Valentina saving many attempts at goal.  Katinka nearly scored before half time after a good display of individual skill but we just did not manage to get the ball in the net.  

Matilda swept another ball in to the back of the net early in the second half to equalise and it was all to play for at this point.  Poppy worked hard trying to get the ball up but Josephine and Issy were the real stars today; Issy intercepted every possible pass and Josephine did not stop running all match. The MES girls managed to squeeze 2 further goals past us in the latter stages of the match, but Venetia was not for giving up and had a great run up the pitch but it was all a bit too late and the match finished 4-2 to MES.

The MES girls were particularly good at moving the ball and if I was to have on criticism of our team, it would be that we played too many balls straight through the opposition, unsuccessfully, rather than moving the ball wide.  However, still a couple of weeks left to work on this!

The Under Nine girls were delighted to play Loretto after the cancellation of a match earlier in the season. We acquitted ourselves well, and were the stronger team from the outset. I was fortunate to have Cuan referee which let me see the individual progress the girls have made over this term. Savannah’s skills have developed very well and she was moving and passing confidently around the pitch. She scored two of our goals. Bonnie’s skills have also come on but she does need to remember to use the right side of her stick and to make sure her head does not drop when things do not go her way. Bella is developing into a fine young player; her control of the ball and her passes are strong but she does need to continue to work on her aim if shooting. She also scored two goals. Nadia played very well in midfield, fearlessly tackling and delivering some lovely passes. Super progress! Aglaya and Beatrice were very strong in defence, happy to come out to meet an attacker and strong under pressure. And finally, Isla who fortunately played the whole game rather than subbing. She is showing some flair and had several shots on goal, one of which went in. The last two goals were especially sweet as they involved some great passing beforehand. We lacked energy in the second half and I would have liked more focus and effort, however we won the game comfortably 5-0. Well done, girls.

The Under Nine girls were delighted to play Loretto after the cancellation of a match earlier in the season. We acquitted ourselves well, and were the stronger team from the outset. I was fortunate to have Cuan referee which let me see the individual progress the girls have made over this term. Savannah’s skills have developed very well and she was moving and passing confidently around the pitch. She scored two of our goals. Bonnie’s skills have also come on but she does need to remember to use the right side of her stick and to make sure her head does not drop when things do not go her way. Bella is developing into a fine young player; her control of the ball and her passes are strong but she does need to continue to work on her aim if shooting. She also scored two goals. Nadia played very well in midfield, fearlessly tackling and delivering some lovely passes. Super progress! Aglaya and Beatrice were very strong in defence, happy to come out to meet an attacker and strong under pressure. And finally, Isla who fortunately played the whole game rather than subbing. She is showing some flair and had several shots on goal, one of which went in. The last two goals were especially sweet as they involved some great passing beforehand. We lacked energy in the second half and I would have liked more focus and effort, however we won the game comfortably 5-0. Well done, girls.

Dollar travelled across to us for our second match against them this season.  With the prospect of a rare 10-a-side match awaiting, the boys eagerly took to the pitch and within seconds of kick-off, they had won the ball and touched down for the first try of the match.  The next two tries followed in quick succession as the boys worked the ball wide and used Kit and Thabo’s pace to good effect.  The Cargilfield boys kept a strong defensive line and this enabled them to capitalise on any mistakes and counter attack.  The boys used their strength to gain good ground before offloading in the tackle and passing into space.  They controlled the game and at half time the score was 6-1.  The conceded try was the result of a rare lapse in concentration.

Dollar were encouraged by their try and came to the second half with a better game and more determination.  Cargilfield found themselves in defence for almost ten uninterrupted minutes but eventually conceded a try despite their valiant efforts in defence.  They then made the most of the restart to end the game on a high.

The final score was a 8-2 win.  Well done to all of the boys for an excellent effort in defence.

Dollar travelled across to us for our second match against them this season.  With the prospect of a rare 10-a-side match awaiting, the boys eagerly took to the pitch and within seconds of kick-off, they had won the ball and touched down for the first try of the match.  The next two tries followed in quick succession as the boys worked the ball wide and used Kit and Thabo’s pace to good effect.  The Cargilfield boys kept a strong defensive line and this enabled them to capitalise on any mistakes and counter attack.  The boys used their strength to gain good ground before offloading in the tackle and passing into space.  They controlled the game and at half time the score was 6-1.  The conceded try was the result of a rare lapse in concentration.

Dollar were encouraged by their try and came to the second half with a better game and more determination.  Cargilfield found themselves in defence for almost ten uninterrupted minutes but eventually conceded a try despite their valiant efforts in defence.  They then made the most of the restart to end the game on a high.

The final score was a 8-2 win.  Well done to all of the boys for an excellent effort in defence.

W 9-3

In muddy, slippy conditions, we enjoyed a feisty game of rugby against our pals from Dollar. The Dollar boys started strongly and pressed our try line hard in the first few minutes. The pressure told after some good defence and they deserved to score the first try. After some good exchanges and great passing from both teams, especially considering the mud, a couple more tries were scored and the match was even, 2-2 at half time. 

In the second half, more direct running from the Cargilfield boys tested the Dollar defence, which let in a couple of early tries. Sometimes it can be hard to turn the momentum in a match and the final score flatters Cargilfield as the Dollar boys never gave up the fight and played some good rugby. This was fittingly shown by them scoring the final try of the match.

W 9-3

In muddy, slippy conditions, we enjoyed a feisty game of rugby against our pals from Dollar. The Dollar boys started strongly and pressed our try line hard in the first few minutes. The pressure told after some good defence and they deserved to score the first try. After some good exchanges and great passing from both teams, especially considering the mud, a couple more tries were scored and the match was even, 2-2 at half time. 

In the second half, more direct running from the Cargilfield boys tested the Dollar defence, which let in a couple of early tries. Sometimes it can be hard to turn the momentum in a match and the final score flatters Cargilfield as the Dollar boys never gave up the fight and played some good rugby. This was fittingly shown by them scoring the final try of the match.

Stripes: Lost 6-5

Blues: Drew 8-8

On a rather soggy afternoon, Cargilfield returned to Fettes to play their U9s again, two weeks after a good equal contest. I thought that both teams played well in attack and passed well. In a tough rugby match, speed generally wins the day and we really highlighted this in attack. However, in defence we need to learn how to defend as a team; communicating with each other, holding the line and closing off space together rather than individually chasing the ball. I would like the boys to work on this in training ready for the last match of the season next week.

Well done, boys!

Stripes: Lost 6-5

Blues: Drew 8-8

On a rather soggy afternoon, Cargilfield returned to Fettes to play their U9s again, two weeks after a good equal contest. I thought that both teams played well in attack and passed well. In a tough rugby match, speed generally wins the day and we really highlighted this in attack. However, in defence we need to learn how to defend as a team; communicating with each other, holding the line and closing off space together rather than individually chasing the ball. I would like the boys to work on this in training ready for the last match of the season next week.

Well done, boys!

On a gloomy day our U9A Squad set off for a triangular fixture with Compass and Merchiston, after a couple of loops of the bright lights Haddington had to offer, Mr Stephen eventually found the rugby club.

We were first up against Compass and our free flowing, offloading game was put to the test by the elements, we went into the break level but really had to work for our scores compared to the direct approach Compass came at us with. Fresh faces and the message to be more direct came to fruition with Charles making a dynamic run in midfield to feed Calum to score the first try of the second half. Quick scores from Tristan, Monty and Theo put the game to bed and set the tone for a brilliant day of rugby despite the weather.

Next up was Merchiston and again we started sluggishly, struggling to deal with a physical Merchiston team. We again really had to work hard for our scores, going multi-phase in bleak conditions was testament to how much the boys handling skills have come on over the year. The introduction of Wilfred and the twins provided the impetus we needed after the break. The mischievous pair were hunting down free ball and brushing off substantially bigger boys to swing the momentum back in our way. Three quick tries sealed a victory with particular credit going to Monty for his link play, defence and attacking flair, he was terrific all day and rightly earned the player of the match.

A real squad victory today for the boys, with the curtain close to coming down on their maiden season at the school they can all be very proud showing resilience in poor weather against some much larger boys!

On a gloomy day our U9A Squad set off for a triangular fixture with Compass and Merchiston, after a couple of loops of the bright lights Haddington had to offer, Mr Stephen eventually found the rugby club.

We were first up against Compass and our free flowing, offloading game was put to the test by the elements, we went into the break level but really had to work for our scores compared to the direct approach Compass came at us with. Fresh faces and the message to be more direct came to fruition with Charles making a dynamic run in midfield to feed Calum to score the first try of the second half. Quick scores from Tristan, Monty and Theo put the game to bed and set the tone for a brilliant day of rugby despite the weather.

Next up was Merchiston and again we started sluggishly, struggling to deal with a physical Merchiston team. We again really had to work hard for our scores, going multi-phase in bleak conditions was testament to how much the boys handling skills have come on over the year. The introduction of Wilfred and the twins provided the impetus we needed after the break. The mischievous pair were hunting down free ball and brushing off substantially bigger boys to swing the momentum back in our way. Three quick tries sealed a victory with particular credit going to Monty for his link play, defence and attacking flair, he was terrific all day and rightly earned the player of the match.

A real squad victory today for the boys, with the curtain close to coming down on their maiden season at the school they can all be very proud showing resilience in poor weather against some much larger boys!

Almost without fail, this is a question asked at the beginning of each science lesson and, from the perspective of the students, for good reason - practical science means less writing and more fun.

There is nothing quite so pleasing as setting students off on a practical activity, and hearing shortly afterwards, “That’s sick, Sir!”. For me, this is what science is all about – discovering something new, investigating why something happens, or puzzling over why an experiment hasn’t done what was expected. What better way to inspire children than to give them the opportunity to develop their own knowledge through guided experimentation?

However, from a teaching perspective, practical science goes beyond simply motivating the students.

The Gatsby Foundation highlight five key purposes of practical science:

•    To teach the principals of scientific inquiry
•    To improve understanding of theory through practical experience
•    To teach specific practical skills, such as measurement and observation, that may be useful in future study or employment
•        To motivate and engage students
•        To develop higher levels skills and attributes such as communication, teamwork and perseverance

As teachers, it is therefore important that, whilst we are aware of the motivational effect of practical activities, a clear educational purpose is established for all lab-work. This is particularly important given the increased emphasis on ‘working scientifically’ in Common Entrance exams, but also later at GCSE and A level.

Moving forward, it is my aim to continue to enhance our practical science provision at Cargilfield, developing a curriculum which draws upon the inquisitive nature of children to build them into the doctors and scientists of the future.

So, at a time when, in many schools, time doing practical science is being reduced due to curriculum, exam, and financial pressures, lab-work at Cargilfield continues to be an important element of the pupils’ scientific education.

Almost without fail, this is a question asked at the beginning of each science lesson and, from the perspective of the students, for good reason - practical science means less writing and more fun.

There is nothing quite so pleasing as setting students off on a practical activity, and hearing shortly afterwards, “That’s sick, Sir!”. For me, this is what science is all about – discovering something new, investigating why something happens, or puzzling over why an experiment hasn’t done what was expected. What better way to inspire children than to give them the opportunity to develop their own knowledge through guided experimentation?

However, from a teaching perspective, practical science goes beyond simply motivating the students.

The Gatsby Foundation highlight five key purposes of practical science:

•    To teach the principals of scientific inquiry
•    To improve understanding of theory through practical experience
•    To teach specific practical skills, such as measurement and observation, that may be useful in future study or employment
•        To motivate and engage students
•        To develop higher levels skills and attributes such as communication, teamwork and perseverance

As teachers, it is therefore important that, whilst we are aware of the motivational effect of practical activities, a clear educational purpose is established for all lab-work. This is particularly important given the increased emphasis on ‘working scientifically’ in Common Entrance exams, but also later at GCSE and A level.

Moving forward, it is my aim to continue to enhance our practical science provision at Cargilfield, developing a curriculum which draws upon the inquisitive nature of children to build them into the doctors and scientists of the future.

So, at a time when, in many schools, time doing practical science is being reduced due to curriculum, exam, and financial pressures, lab-work at Cargilfield continues to be an important element of the pupils’ scientific education.

Almost without fail, this is a question asked at the beginning of each science lesson and, from the perspective of the students, for good reason - practical science means less writing and more fun.

There is nothing quite so pleasing as setting students off on a practical activity, and hearing shortly afterwards, “That’s sick, Sir!”. For me, this is what science is all about – discovering something new, investigating why something happens, or puzzling over why an experiment hasn’t done what was expected. What better way to inspire children than to give them the opportunity to develop their own knowledge through guided experimentation?

However, from a teaching perspective, practical science goes beyond simply motivating the students.

The Gatsby Foundation highlight five key purposes of practical science:

•    To teach the principals of scientific inquiry
•    To improve understanding of theory through practical experience
•    To teach specific practical skills, such as measurement and observation, that may be useful in future study or employment
•    To motivate and engage students
•    To develop higher levels skills and attributes such as communication, teamwork and perseverance

As teachers, it is therefore important that, whilst we are aware of the motivational effect of practical activities, a clear educational purpose is established for all lab-work. This is particularly important given the increased emphasis on ‘working scientifically’ in Common Entrance exams, but also later at GCSE and A level.

Moving forward, it is my aim to continue to enhance our practical science provision at Cargilfield, developing a curriculum which draws upon the inquisitive nature of children to build them into the doctors and scientists of the future.

So, at a time when, in many schools, time doing practical science is being reduced due to curriculum, exam, and financial pressures, lab-work at Cargilfield continues to be an important element of the pupils’ scientific education.

Almost without fail, this is a question asked at the beginning of each science lesson and, from the perspective of the students, for good reason - practical science means less writing and more fun.

There is nothing quite so pleasing as setting students off on a practical activity, and hearing shortly afterwards, “That’s sick, Sir!”. For me, this is what science is all about – discovering something new, investigating why something happens, or puzzling over why an experiment hasn’t done what was expected. What better way to inspire children than to give them the opportunity to develop their own knowledge through guided experimentation?

However, from a teaching perspective, practical science goes beyond simply motivating the students.

The Gatsby Foundation highlight five key purposes of practical science:

•    To teach the principals of scientific inquiry
•    To improve understanding of theory through practical experience
•    To teach specific practical skills, such as measurement and observation, that may be useful in future study or employment
•    To motivate and engage students
•    To develop higher levels skills and attributes such as communication, teamwork and perseverance

As teachers, it is therefore important that, whilst we are aware of the motivational effect of practical activities, a clear educational purpose is established for all lab-work. This is particularly important given the increased emphasis on ‘working scientifically’ in Common Entrance exams, but also later at GCSE and A level.

Moving forward, it is my aim to continue to enhance our practical science provision at Cargilfield, developing a curriculum which draws upon the inquisitive nature of children to build them into the doctors and scientists of the future.

So, at a time when, in many schools, time doing practical science is being reduced due to curriculum, exam, and financial pressures, lab-work at Cargilfield continues to be an important element of the pupils’ scientific education.

Thank you to everyone who came along to our Christmas Fair on Friday! We were delighted to welcome lots of visitors and everyone enjoyed starting some of their Christmas shopping whilst at the same time raising money for our school charities. 

Many thanks to the Friends of Cargilfield for all their hard work to make the day such a success.

Read more here.

Thank you to everyone who came along to our Christmas Fair on Friday! We were delighted to welcome lots of visitors and everyone enjoyed starting some of their Christmas shopping whilst at the same time raising money for our school charities. 

Many thanks to the Friends of Cargilfield for all their hard work to make the day such a success.

Read more here.

Cargilfield had two teams competing at the Lothian Junior Chess P5 and Under championships at Broughton High on Sunday. Our A team, consisting of Joseph, Daniel, Leopold and Alexander came joint 7th but they competed really well lying second after the 4th and 5th rounds. 

In the B Team were Harry, Maximilian, Cecilia and Olivia and they came 20th out of 23 teams in what was, like Alexander, their first appearance at a chess tournament.  In the build up to the tournament, Mr Andrew Green, our Chess coach said that getting half or one point after the 6 rounds would be a great achievement; however, they won 5 games and drew 4 giving them 7 points altogether! 

They’re all looking forward to the next tournament Well done to everyone! 

Read more here. 

Cargilfield had two teams competing at the Lothian Junior Chess P5 and Under championships at Broughton High on Sunday. Our A team, consisting of Joseph, Daniel, Leopold and Alexander came joint 7th but they competed really well lying second after the 4th and 5th rounds. 

In the B Team were Harry, Maximilian, Cecilia and Olivia and they came 20th out of 23 teams in what was, like Alexander, their first appearance at a chess tournament.  In the build up to the tournament, Mr Andrew Green, our Chess coach said that getting half or one point after the 6 rounds would be a great achievement; however, they won 5 games and drew 4 giving them 7 points altogether! 

They’re all looking forward to the next tournament Well done to everyone! 

Read more here. 

We are delighted that Cargilfield appears in The Cricketer Magazine’s 2020 Schools’ Guide listing the top 100 Senior Schools and top 50 Prep Schools in the UK.

We are the only Prep School in Scotland to be listed and it is fantastic that our strong cricket culture and commitment to cricket 12 months a year as well as a growing girls’ programme has been recognised.

Weekly winter nets started at the end of August and we look forward to the new season starting in April 2020!

The Cricketer magazine editor Simon Hughes said: 

“The Schools Guide is, as ever, a fantastic publication that celebrates schools cricket and gives deserved praise to all those teachers and coaches who put in the hard work to develop our future club, county and international cricketers. Having watched many schools matches this summer I am pleased to report that the standard of cricket programmes and the level of passion for the game is as high as ever.

“Schools cricket has certainly benefitted from this incredible year for the sport.

“Congratulations to all of the schools included and I look forward to hearing about all of your future successes.”

The guide will be on sale from Friday 22^nd November alongside the December issue of the magazine. A digital version of the guide will also be available on thecricketer.com from Friday 13^th December.

http://ow.ly/wGjX50xhUtS

Read more here.

We are delighted that Cargilfield appears in The Cricketer Magazine’s 2020 Schools’ Guide listing the top 100 Senior Schools and top 50 Prep Schools in the UK.

We are the only Prep School in Scotland to be listed and it is fantastic that our strong cricket culture and commitment to cricket 12 months a year as well as a growing girls’ programme has been recognised.

Weekly winter nets started at the end of August and we look forward to the new season starting in April 2020!

The Cricketer magazine editor Simon Hughes said: 

“The Schools Guide is, as ever, a fantastic publication that celebrates schools cricket and gives deserved praise to all those teachers and coaches who put in the hard work to develop our future club, county and international cricketers. Having watched many schools matches this summer I am pleased to report that the standard of cricket programmes and the level of passion for the game is as high as ever.

“Schools cricket has certainly benefitted from this incredible year for the sport.

“Congratulations to all of the schools included and I look forward to hearing about all of your future successes.”

The guide will be on sale from Friday 22^nd November alongside the December issue of the magazine. A digital version of the guide will also be available on thecricketer.com from Friday 13^th December.

http://ow.ly/wGjX50xhUtS

Read more here.

The Nursery children have made a special reading area in their garden. They selected the books that they would like and designed pictures to decorate the reading shed. They’re now enjoying being able to reading in a new cosy area of the garden.

Read more here. 

The Nursery children have made a special reading area in their garden. They selected the books that they would like and designed pictures to decorate the reading shed. They’re now enjoying being able to reading in a new cosy area of the garden.

Read more here. 

1stXV  28 Aysgarth  0

It has ben a long two weeks, with 6 matches in 14 days which with one or two boys carrying knocks, has meant this group of boys have had to dig deep and show a huge amount of mental and physical fortitude.  They have proved themselves to be a real team, leaders standing up to be counted, and taking games by the scruff of the neck and showing that steely inner determination which drags the rest of the team along with them.  Today was no different, as we welcomed Aysgarth to Cargilfield for their annual visit, and having lost to them down on tour, the boys were ready to battle hard and look to take a rare scalp!

Having had 75% of the ball last week against Sedbergh, and yet unable to break through their outstanding defence, we made a couple of tactical changes this afternoon: Glen moved in to 13, Quin on to the wing and with the skipper back to full fitness, we were keep to get the ball faster in to the outside channels more often, rather than keeping it tight.  We do keep possession so well, going through phase after phase, but turning that possession in to points was going to be key today, and with ten of the boys having played and won with the Saltires the day before, everyone was keen to get another win over an English opponent, which is always satisfying for the Scots, at whatever level!

I could not have been prouder this afternoon.  When some could have complained of tiredness, instead, the group of boys drank deep from the well once more, and to ‘nil’ a side like Aysgarth takes some doing and just showed the resoluteness of our defence and that determination to make sure that the quality of our rugby brought the result it deserved.  Right from the start, we dominated possession once again, but today the biggest difference was the organisation of our defence; the communication was excellent, we did not over commit to rucks that we lost, and our first up press and tackling was outstanding.  In particular, we closed down their very fast Chinese boy who scored tries against us down south, but today after one huge hit by Luca, he had no space to run and we forced him in to mistakes.  And so it went on.  Aysgarth had some strong and effective ball carriers in the backs, but we closed them down so quickly and our defensive organisation was quite superb, so hats off to the whole team for what was an incredible shift.

In attack, Glen saw much more of the ball today which got us over the gain line out in the wider channels which made us a much more potent attacking force; it is something we shall continue to work on in the final two games of term, but Max kicked intelligently when Aysgarth were up fast and his all round game was back to its very best this afternoon – leading from the front both with and without the ball.  Rory scored a superb try from the base of the ruck, again varying his play much more than last week when we all a bit predicatable, and Jack continued to show real cussedness, skill and hardness, putting his body on the line again and again and again – great to see after such an intense workload these past two weeks.  Oli came back in to the side today, played really well at full back, and he fully deserved his MoM award from the Aysgarth coach; he covered their kicks and ran the ball back really effectively, so well done!  As ever, it was another herculean effort from the forwards: we dominated the breakdown, listened to the referee and out rucked our opponents throughout the game: quick ball is the key and I was delighted with our ball carrying and the real aggression that we run with game after game.  Top notch effort all round.

We go again……two more games remaining, and two big ones to finish!  Away up at Dollar next week, then a mouth watering finale, at home, against our old friends Merchiston.  This group of players have worked terrifically hard all season and shown themselves to be one of the very best Cargilfield XVs over the past 16 years; teamship, working hard for your mates and never once taking a backward step are qualities which will serve us well as we head in to the final stages of the season.

Keep going.  Much to look forward to still!

1stXV  28 Aysgarth  0

It has ben a long two weeks, with 6 matches in 14 days which with one or two boys carrying knocks, has meant this group of boys have had to dig deep and show a huge amount of mental and physical fortitude.  They have proved themselves to be a real team, leaders standing up to be counted, and taking games by the scruff of the neck and showing that steely inner determination which drags the rest of the team along with them.  Today was no different, as we welcomed Aysgarth to Cargilfield for their annual visit, and having lost to them down on tour, the boys were ready to battle hard and look to take a rare scalp!

Having had 75% of the ball last week against Sedbergh, and yet unable to break through their outstanding defence, we made a couple of tactical changes this afternoon: Glen moved in to 13, Quin on to the wing and with the skipper back to full fitness, we were keep to get the ball faster in to the outside channels more often, rather than keeping it tight.  We do keep possession so well, going through phase after phase, but turning that possession in to points was going to be key today, and with ten of the boys having played and won with the Saltires the day before, everyone was keen to get another win over an English opponent, which is always satisfying for the Scots, at whatever level!

I could not have been prouder this afternoon.  When some could have complained of tiredness, instead, the group of boys drank deep from the well once more, and to ‘nil’ a side like Aysgarth takes some doing and just showed the resoluteness of our defence and that determination to make sure that the quality of our rugby brought the result it deserved.  Right from the start, we dominated possession once again, but today the biggest difference was the organisation of our defence; the communication was excellent, we did not over commit to rucks that we lost, and our first up press and tackling was outstanding.  In particular, we closed down their very fast Chinese boy who scored tries against us down south, but today after one huge hit by Luca, he had no space to run and we forced him in to mistakes.  And so it went on.  Aysgarth had some strong and effective ball carriers in the backs, but we closed them down so quickly and our defensive organisation was quite superb, so hats off to the whole team for what was an incredible shift.

In attack, Glen saw much more of the ball today which got us over the gain line out in the wider channels which made us a much more potent attacking force; it is something we shall continue to work on in the final two games of term, but Max kicked intelligently when Aysgarth were up fast and his all round game was back to its very best this afternoon – leading from the front both with and without the ball.  Rory scored a superb try from the base of the ruck, again varying his play much more than last week when we all a bit predicatable, and Jack continued to show real cussedness, skill and hardness, putting his body on the line again and again and again – great to see after such an intense workload these past two weeks.  Oli came back in to the side today, played really well at full back, and he fully deserved his MoM award from the Aysgarth coach; he covered their kicks and ran the ball back really effectively, so well done!  As ever, it was another herculean effort from the forwards: we dominated the breakdown, listened to the referee and out rucked our opponents throughout the game: quick ball is the key and I was delighted with our ball carrying and the real aggression that we run with game after game.  Top notch effort all round.

We go again……two more games remaining, and two big ones to finish!  Away up at Dollar next week, then a mouth watering finale, at home, against our old friends Merchiston.  This group of players have worked terrifically hard all season and shown themselves to be one of the very best Cargilfield XVs over the past 16 years; teamship, working hard for your mates and never once taking a backward step are qualities which will serve us well as we head in to the final stages of the season.

Keep going.  Much to look forward to still!

Graham from Chartwells, our school caterers, gave Form 4 a talk about his incredible trip to Norway. He told us all about the huge fish, including one that weighed 23kg, that they caught and filleted. We are having an incredible Viking feast today, including honey & nettle cake, lamb stew and stick bread! Delicious!

Read more here.

Graham from Chartwells, our school caterers, gave Form 4 a talk about his incredible trip to Norway. He told us all about the huge fish, including one that weighed 23kg, that they caught and filleted. We are having an incredible Viking feast today, including honey & nettle cake, lamb stew and stick bread! Delicious!

Read more here.

The new inter school prep schools’ rugby tournament took place this afternoon, replacing what was formerly the Dandylions v WOSPS fixture. 

The Saltires (Cargilfield and Fettes_College), the Caledonians (Ardvreck School, Craigclowan Prep School and St Leonards School) and the Thistles (Belhaven Hill School, Loretto School and St Mary’s) all came together to play a triangular set of matches hosted by Loretto. 

All three of the fixtures were fiercely contested but it was the Saltires who emerged victorious and Max, the Captain, received the cup and a new tradition has begun! 

Well done to all those who took part including the ten Cargilfield boys!

Read more here.

The new inter school prep schools’ rugby tournament took place this afternoon, replacing what was formerly the Dandylions v WOSPS fixture. 

The Saltires (Cargilfield and Fettes_College), the Caledonians (Ardvreck School, Craigclowan Prep School and St Leonards School) and the Thistles (Belhaven Hill School, Loretto School and St Mary’s) all came together to play a triangular set of matches hosted by Loretto. 

All three of the fixtures were fiercely contested but it was the Saltires who emerged victorious and Max, the Captain, received the cup and a new tradition has begun! 

Well done to all those who took part including the ten Cargilfield boys!

Read more here.

After a frustrating day out at St Leonards last week our U9A’s were raring to go against a St Mary’s team who we have had fierce contests with over the course of the season.

Today was no different, our boys got off to a quick start through tries from Jonah, Wilfred and Monty, gradually though St Mary’s direct and physical approach began to break down our side. In a bruising contest tries were exchanged and we went into the break level at four tries each.

St Mary’s carried on the momentum they had built up from the first half and took the lead for the first time. Cargilfield came back again and again with stout defence from Theo, Charles and Dexter alongside penetrating and abrasive running from Tristan. This led to a near stalemate at 6 tries apiece when after multiple phases from St Mary’s they broke free. With their player on the verge of touching the ball down, out of nowhere Harry flew in to prevent the try, the impact dislodged the ball and fell into the waiting hands of Calum who ran the length of the pitch to score the decisive score. 

That match winning effort saw Harry named as Player of the Match, however, it was a fantastic advert for U9 rugby with both sides fiercely committed and playing a free-flowing brand of rugby. 

After a frustrating day out at St Leonards last week our U9A’s were raring to go against a St Mary’s team who we have had fierce contests with over the course of the season.

Today was no different, our boys got off to a quick start through tries from Jonah, Wilfred and Monty, gradually though St Mary’s direct and physical approach began to break down our side. In a bruising contest tries were exchanged and we went into the break level at four tries each.

St Mary’s carried on the momentum they had built up from the first half and took the lead for the first time. Cargilfield came back again and again with stout defence from Theo, Charles and Dexter alongside penetrating and abrasive running from Tristan. This led to a near stalemate at 6 tries apiece when after multiple phases from St Mary’s they broke free. With their player on the verge of touching the ball down, out of nowhere Harry flew in to prevent the try, the impact dislodged the ball and fell into the waiting hands of Calum who ran the length of the pitch to score the decisive score. 

That match winning effort saw Harry named as Player of the Match, however, it was a fantastic advert for U9 rugby with both sides fiercely committed and playing a free-flowing brand of rugby.