Rainhill High School’s Inter Girls Swimming Team has qualified for the 68th English Schools Swimming Association (ESSA) National Finals, which will take place on November 21 at the Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Birmingham.

This marks a significant achievement for the team, which has competed in the ESSA Secondary Schools Swimming Championships for several years.

This time, the girls placed third in the North West medley relay and second in the North West freestyle relay, earning them a spot in the national finals.

Yasmine Burgess, PE teacher and head of PSHE and citizenship at Rainhill High, praised the team’s achievement.

Ms Burgess said: "Each swimmer demonstrates exceptional passion, dedication and commitment to swimming for their own clubs, and it is fantastic to see them come together to represent Rainhill High School and achieve this success as a school team.

"Qualifying for the National Finals is an historic achievement for both the team and Rainhill High, and we wish all the girls the very best of luck as they prepare to compete on the national stage."

The swimming team consists of Year 9 pupils Sophie Barr and Taylor Fishwick, alongside Year 10 pupils Charlotte Steen and Bella Fishwick.

The ESSA serves as a member of the International Schools’ Federation and takes part in the World Schools’ Games and European Games.

With Prince William as its patron, ESSA not only organises high-profile competitions but also works to promote swimming education in schools.

Rainhill High School, part of the Stephenson Academy Trust, serves students from Rainhill, Nutgrove, Knowsley, Widnes, and Warrington.

The school’s mission is the “pursuit of excellence,” reflected in its core values: learn, think, contribute, care.

Further details about the school and its achievements are available at rainhillhighschool.org.uk.