Team Upton’s swimming star Parker is making waves in the sport across the south east. 

The Year 6 pupil took the 400m freestyle crown when he was fastest out of 24 11 and 12 year olds at the South East regional finals at the K2 multi-sport leisure centre in Crawley, West Sussex, at the end of April. 

His achievement shaved four seconds from his personal best time at the Kent county championships in January. 

It marked Parker’s second time at the regionals. This year he qualified for a stunning 11 events at one of the most competitive competitions, highlighting a superb individual achievement. 

He was also placed in the top eight fastest for the 200m (out of 24) and 50m Free (out of 32). 

Dedication to his sport underlines Parker’s growing success in the pool. He trains with Thanet Swim Club, and has been with them since the age of eight.  

He is part of the Age Performance Squad, and currently trains seven times a week - including three early morning sessions with a 5.30am start before school.  

He is swimming in the next round at Winchester Sports and Leisure Park on May 9 and 10, competing in 800m Freestyle, 100m and 200m Breaststroke and the 400IM.  

PE lead and teacher Callum Noble said: “Parker’s achievement is a brilliant reflection of both his determination and the strength of Upton’s sporting ethos.  

“Balancing the demands of Year 6 with an intense training schedule—seven sessions a week, including early morning starts—is no small feat, and his commitment to continuous improvement is clear in his outstanding performances at the South East Regionals.  

“To qualify for 11 events at such a highly competitive level, and to secure a first-place finish in the 400m freestyle among the fastest swimmers in the region, is truly exceptional. 

“At Upton Junior School we take great pride in supporting swimming as one of our core sporting activities, encouraging pupils like Parker to pursue excellence both in and out of the classroom.  

“His success, alongside his dedication with Thanet Swim Club, highlights what can be achieved through hard work, resilience, and passion.” 

Head of School Darci Arthur added: “We love to celebrate the many and varied achievements of all our children in whatever activities they enjoy doing in and out of school. 

“Parker is an exceptional young swimmer. We will be cheering him on as he competes in the next round at Winchester Sports and Leisure Park and wish him every success.” 

Parker also has a YouTube channel where he is documenting his swimming - @PKR_swimming. 

Upton Juniors is part of the Viking Academy Trust with partner schools Chilton Primary and Ramsgate Arts Primary. 

*For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393.