Day 1:

The first port of call upon arriving in the Scottish capital was the historic Fettes College, alumni of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The boys’ squads played sides from the College Prep School, whilst the girls made the short trip to Edinburgh Academy. Despite some weary travellers, excellent Hockey was played by the respective Felsted teams. Both boys’ ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams won their fixtures, with the girls' ‘A’ team also winning. Enormous credit to the girls ‘B’ team, who showed fantastic resilience after conceding two goals within 90 seconds. After a much welcomed supper, the group made their way back into the city centre, a short trip which included the bonus of an insightful commentary delivered by the driver. The evening was spent on a ghost tour, where the pupils visited parts of the city which inspired JK Rowling’s Harry Potter novels.

Day 2:

A trip to Perth on Saturday morning meant the fixtures on day two were played within a stones throw from the snow-capped Cairngorms. It was the turn of Craigclowan Prep School to host both Felsted and Kilgraston in a tournament. Felsted entered four teams, all of which played excellent hockey. All players contributed to winning performances during the morning, with both boys and girls sides particularly enjoying the fixture against their school friends. The return trip to Edinburgh that afternoon saw us pass over the River Forth, with the chance to take in the magnificent scenery. From there, we made our way to Edinburgh Castle.

Day 3:

Breakfast with the Scotland Rugby team was not part of the original tour itinerary, but a very welcome addition nonetheless. As they prepared for their upcoming Six Nations Championship, the Felsted touring group prepared for the long return leg. With military precision, the touring party negotiated busy city centres, tight train connections, food orders and a final coach journey back to Essex. Less than 12 hours later, pupils were back in school for the start of another busy week at Felsted!

With thanks to Miss Westwood and Mr Bevitt-Smith for the hard work which went into the trip.