Private school pupil gets UK recognition for bagpipes talent

Last month Year 8 pupil Jolyon, whose surname has not been disclosed, took to the national stage at the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association London and South England competition.

Competing with his band, Laidlaw Memorial, their quartet came third overall against strong competition.

READ MORE: Private school groundsman wins praise for pitches

Following the competition, the school stated: “Jolyon also shone as a solo performer, winning the under 14 category with his 2/4 March, Hills of Perth.

“An incredible result at his first national competition. We are so proud of you, Jolyon.”

Cokethorpe School pupil Jolylon (Image: Cokethorpe School)

Cokethorpe School will host its next open morning on Saturday, May 9, offering prospective families the opportunity to experience life at the co-educational Oxfordshire day school.

Visitors will have the chance to meet the head, Dr Sarah Squire, and hear a short address outlining the school’s ethos, recent developments and future direction.

Tours of the school will be led by pupils, with the option for families to explore the site independently.

The event provides an opportunity to see the breadth of academic and co-curricular provision, as well as the school’s facilities.

Last month it emerged that Oxford United Milk Cup legend Les Phillips is part of the team looking after the pitches at the school.

The school was awarded the Grounds Team of the Year 2026 by the Independent Schools Football Association, an accolade which recognises the work required to maintain the 150-acre site including nine grass rugby and football pitches, three cricket squares, six golf greens, two artificial sports pitches, and tennis courts.

Working alongside head groundsman Simon Hole, Mr Phillips makes up the two-person groundskeeping team at Cokethorpe, with a replacement deputy head groundsperson being sought.

Almost 40 community teams across Oxfordshire also use the pitches.