FIVE talented students from a school in Sherfield on Loddon have taken part in a national swimming competition at the pool where the London 2012 Olympics were held.

Students Alex, Amelia, Aliza, Ethan and Will from from Sherfield School took part in the ISA National Swimming Finals at the London Aquatics Centre on Sunday, November 28.

Having previously qualified at the London West Regional Championships, the five budding swimmers had earned themselves a place at the National Finals.

Alex and Amelie had both qualified for individual, as well as team events. Ethan, Aliza and Will were ready for their team relays. They were up against some tough competition, but the Sherfield swimmers were unfazed by the contest and absolutely stormed their events, coming away with an impressive 2 Bronze, 2 Silver and 2 Gold medals.

Sherfield headmaster, Mr. Nick Brain congratulated all five students and said he was “immensely” proud of all their hard work.

He said: “many congratulations to all five pupils - we are immensely proud of our Sherfield students for representing the school and London West impeccably well and for their incredible performance.

"Sherfield Swimming continues to go from strength to strength and we are excited to see what the future holds for our talented team.”

At the Olympic pool Amelie finished in 5th place for the London West team. She then swam in the year 6 girls medley relay and her team secured a silver medal.

Alex was next up in the pool, swimming the 100m backstroke in the year 11-13 race and earned himself a bronze medal.

Ethan got his chance to swim in the year 7 medley relay, with his team touching in 3rd place to win a bronze medal.

Aliza and Will swam in the year 5 freestyle relays with Aliza up first for the girls. She took over in 2nd place and held on in her leg with the rest of the team holding the position for a well-earned silver medal. Will then swam a fantastic 2nd leg in the boys race with his team pulling into the lead on the last swimmer, to secure a gold medal.

Finally, Alex was back in the pool for the last race of the day, in the year 11-13 relay where his team absolutely dominated the race and broke the ISA National Record by nearly 3 seconds.

Overall, the London West Team, of which Sherfield is a member, were crowned the National Champions.

At the end of the competition, all students had the opportunity to meet British Olympian Peter Bakare, a National Volleyball player who represented the UK at the 2012 Olympics.

An inspiring end to a fantastic event.