Quidditch to Launch Across our Schools

Heads from across our group of schools took to the pitch this week for a landmark moment: our very first Quidditch match. The friendly fixture marked a bold step into uncharted sporting territory and offered an opportunity to trial the sport before introducing it to our pupils. The Heads quickly discovered that the principles behind Quidditch; teamwork, strategic thinking and determination, align strongly with the Group’s ethos. Following the successful trial, we are excited to announce that Quidditch will be introduced across all our schools in the Summer Term, offering an innovative way to enrich pupil life across the Mill Hill Education Group.

The match brought together a lively mix of competitive spirit, teamwork and occasional moments of mid-air confusion. Despite the unfamiliar equipment and the clear absence of formal broomstick training in any of our staff handbooks the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Despite, no prior broom-based experience, the match quickly developed a level of energy and competitiveness that exceeded expectations. Chasers found their rhythm, Keepers demonstrated impressive reflexes, and Seekers pursued the Snitch with admirable determination.

Reflecting on the match, David Benson, Head at Mill Hill, said:
“It isn’t a sport I have previously played but always love the challenge of trying something new. The level of collaboration on the pitch was impressive. It highlighted how adaptable and engaging this sport will be for our pupils.”

Rittu Hall, Head at Lyonsdown, added:
“What better way to understand a new sport than to get involved and experience it firsthand? Participating in the trial allowed us to assess its suitability for our pupils, and I am delighted to share this exciting opportunity with our girls.”

Full Match Report:

Early Momentum

From the first whistle, David Benson (Mill Hill), set the tone with determined Chaser play, weaving through the field with surprising agility. Sharon Schanschieff (Abbot’s Hill), wasn’t far behind, proving herself a reliable passing partner and setting up several early scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, Doug Brown (Hertford Prep), settled confidently into the role of Keeper, producing a string of reflex saves that kept his team firmly in contention. His counterpart, David Weston (Kingshott), countered with equal composure, deflecting shots with an ease that suggested he may once have had professional Quidditch aspirations, however unlikely that might be. Following the match, David Weston reflected: “It was fast‑paced, good‑natured, and genuinely enjoyable. There was a real sense of purpose from start to finish.”

Mid‑Match Mayhem

The midfield quickly became a hive of activity. Dr Susannah Abbott (Belmont, Mill Hill Prep), demonstrated natural tactical awareness, directing play and keeping her team coordinated. Sarah Bellotti (Mill Hill International), showing no fear of the Bludgers, produced one of the standout performances of the day with relentless drive and sharp defensive instincts. Both Louise North (Framlingham College) and Kate Simon (Mill Hill International Thailand) added real impact to the flow of the game. Louise’s controlled movement and smart decision‑making helped her team stay organised, while Simon Roche (Framlingham College Prep), contributed bursts of speed and well‑timed interceptions that added intensity at crucial moments. Speaking afterwards, Louise North said: “The match demonstrated just how inclusive and engaging the sport can be. There is something in it for every type of player.” Sarah Bellotti added: “The energy was fantastic, I have no doubt the pupils will enjoy this new sport.”

On the wings, Kevin Dobson (Grimsdell, Mill Hill Pre Prep), and Wendy Barrett (Cobham Hall), proved to be a dynamic duo, executing quick breaks and clever positional switches that kept the opposing team guessing. Mark Bain (Westbrook Hay), added further firepower, driving the pace of play and ensuring no one had a moment to relax. Amidst all this, Nick Hamshaw (1729 Maths School), delivered an excellent all‑round performance -part strategist, part disruptor-while Rittu Hall (Lyonsdown), impressed with consistent accuracy in both passing and shooting.

The Battle for the Snitch

Of course, no Quidditch match is complete without the Seekers, and Jonathan Williams (Heathfield) and Perran Gill (Keble Prep), fully embraced the pressure of the role. Their cat‑and‑mouse chase around the pitch became the focal point of the closing minutes, culminating in a dramatic sprint toward the Golden Snitch that had both teams cheering. In the end, it was Perran Gill who made the decisive grab, securing the Snitch just seconds before Jonathan Williams could reach it. Reflecting on his role, Jonathan Williams commented: “Serving as Seeker offered a unique challenge. It required real concentration and agility, and it was thoroughly enjoyable.”

Final Whistle

With the Snitch caught, the match concluded to a wave of laughter, applause, and general disbelief at just how competitive the game had become. What began as an experimental fixture quickly evolved into a high‑energy contest full of skill, spirit, and good humour.

“What a thrilling game! I really enjoyed cheering them on. As a Group, we are always looking for innovative ways to evolve and enhance our offering for pupils. The success of this match suggests a bright future for Quidditch within our schools. If this performance is anything to go by, pupils will have plenty to look forward to when the sport takes flight across our schools in the Summer Term.” Antony Spencer, CEO, Mill Hill Education Group.