I have been fortunate enough over the years to both play and watch cricket at a relatively high standard, and since a young age I have very much been a fan of Test match cricket. Over the years this has provided many happy memories, but, of course, as an England fan, it has also produced moments of frustration and pain.
The England cricket captain, Ben Stokes, and the England Test team, however, have transformed the way the game is played through their fearless approach known as ‘Bazball’. What began as an attempt to revitalise the English Test team with attacking flair and an unshakable belief has since matured into something far more nuanced. While the early days were defined by risk taking and headline-making chases, the current side have evolved into quite a formidable team. Collectively they know when to accelerate, when to absorb pressure, and when to work together to learn from past experiences. It is still brave and entertaining, but it is also thoughtful, strategic and grounded in a deep understanding of the game. Bazball is no longer about recklessness but about playing with purpose, confidence, and trust in one another. These are qualities that have been built, refined, and tested over time.
When people ask what Rookwood is like, I sometimes think of Test match cricket because our community, like a test match team, is about so much more than just scoring quickly or chasing quick wins; It is about time, teamwork, character, and learning how to play the long game.
In a through school, you start your innings early. You walk out to bat in Nursery or Reception, gripping your pencil like a bat, wide-eyed and full of energy. You don’t know all the rules when in the Prep School, but you’re keen to give it a go and there is excitement in the air with plenty of chances to learn by trying, and, of course, by sometimes playing a false shot or bowling a wide. As the years go by, your game develops, and you learn when to bowl a yorker or when to attempt a flamboyant shot. You understand that some days learning is about digging in and staying focused, and at other times it is about stepping up and taking a risk. Your teachers, friends and family are your teammates in the field, encouraging you, covering your overthrows and helping you grow.
The spirit of a school is a lot like the spirit of cricket. It is not just about what you achieve, but how you go about it. Rookwood encourages everybody to be ambitious but also kind, respectful and fair. We learn that success is not just about exams or the winning shot; it is about showing up every day, doing the right thing, supporting others, and learning from our mistakes.
And then comes the final innings. This is when it all comes together. You’ve trained hard, listened, and learned to handle pressure. Now it’s your time at the crease. It can feel intense, even daunting at times, but you’re not alone. Everything you’ve learned helps carry you forward. So, as we draw to the close of another session and begin to think about our break – before we head into another innings – thank you for being part of the team.
Best wishes,
Paul Robinson
Headteacher
