Edinburgh Rugby and Hockey Tour | St John's College School

After a long summer break a group of Form 5 and 6 children were ready to hone their rugby and hockey skills with a mini tour to Edinburgh. The group of girls and boys had an initial training session at school before taking the train to Edinburgh to play against Cargilfield Prep School, situated on the outskirts of the city.

The children stayed at the Central Youth Hostel and stomped up Carlton Hill on their arrival which has stunning panoramic views across the city. The following morning they enjoyed an historic tour around Edinburgh Castle before doing a quick spot of shopping on the famous Royal Mile and Princes Street, with some tram spotting along the way. The children had a training session at Cargilfield in the afternoon before going to the cinema.

Thursday was match day with both our St John’s rugby and hockey teams taking to the pitches for their first competitive matches of the season. The boys played well and lost 6 tries to 3 but they were playing the opponent’s 1st XV whereas the St John’s teams were more mixed. The girls played well against 3 mixed teams and one A team and won 9-2. Mrs Taylor, Head of Girls’ Games, enthused, “It was a great start to the season and fun was had by all.” The children also visited Murrayfield Stadium which is home to some well-fought rugby battles. To top off a successful trip they met Chris Paterson, a former professional rugby player who played for Scotland, and for the most part of his career, Edinburgh.