Kew Green Prep School's Year 6 footballers enjoyed a memorable weekend at St George's Park, the home of England Football, where they took part in a tournament featuring 19 schools from across the country.

The boys played on the same pitches used by professional players and "embraced every moment with determination and pride".

The team opened the tournament with tough matches against Radlett Prep and The Hall, before ending the day with a thrilling evening fixture under the floodlights against Thomas's Fulham.

Kew Green Prep School said playing under stadium lights felt every bit like a Premier League occasion for the young footballers, with the squad "rising to it with energy, grit and growing confidence".

Their progress throughout the day grew as the team became braver on the ball and supported each other at every moment.

Day two brought renewed focus for the team as they faced The Roche School in their first match.

Kew Green Prep School described the fixture as a tense affair that rolled into extra time.

"Digging deep, they stuck to the plan and found a late breakthrough that secured their place in the Cup semi final, prompting joyous celebrations on the touchline," said Kew Green Prep School's Head of Sport, Ross Peacock.

The semi final against York House proved to be another test of resilience.

After a well balanced match, the result came down to penalties. Although Kew Green Prep narrowly missed out on a place in the Cup Final, the boys displayed "impressive composure under pressure".

The squad bounced back in the Plate Final against WCCS, dominating possession and creating a stream of chances.

They played with confidence and creativity, impressing the coach, but a late counterattack led to a narrow one nil defeat.

However, Kew Prep said the result did nothing to diminish their progress, teamwork and outstanding attitude.

Headteacher, Aidan McLaughlin added: "Across the weekend, the boys did far more than compete.

"They supported each other, stepped outside their comfort zones and celebrated how far they had come.

"They embodied the school's ethos of Together we grow, rising as individuals and flourishing as a team.

"What a weekend, what an achievement and what a remarkable group of boys."

To find out more about Kew Green Prep School, visit its website here.

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