Cecilia travelled to Wales to compete in the U17 Home Nations tournament where the team enjoyed four wins from four seeing Team England come out on top.
This latest achievement builds on Cecilia’s exceptional track record, having previously represented England at Under-15 level in prestigious international tournaments in Greece and Spain as part of the Jr. NBA European Finals. Now, fresh from completing her GCSE exams, Cecilia is taking her next step, both on and off the court.
“I’m really proud and excited to represent the country in the Home Nations tournament,” said Cecilia. “After Year 11, I will continue to pursue basketball to develop my game whilst focusing on my A-levels and studying hard.”
Cecilia has been a standout student within Ark Globe’s Elite Player Programme (EPP), which supports high-potential athletes to excel both academically and athletically. The programme has helped nurture Cecilia’s talent, providing expert coaching, exposure to national-level competition, and mentorship from former students who now play professionally.
“Being a part of Ark Globe Academy’s Elite Player Programme (EPP) had a huge influence,” Cecilia explained. “The staff taught the importance of resilience, determination, and being a role model to others at the school. We had opportunities to speak to former students who now play professionally and learn about their journey and how Ark Globe has been fundamental in helping them achieve their potential - just like I was supported to reach my goals.”
Executive Principal Matt Jones OBE also highlighted what her achievement means for the wider school community:
“Cecilia’s journey reflects what we believe in at Ark Globe - that talent, when matched with opportunity and the right environment, can truly thrive. Her selection to the England U17s is not only a personal achievement but a moment of pride for the whole school.”
Ark Globe Academy congratulates Cecilia on yet another win and looks forward to watching her continue to grow and pursue her ambitions both in basketball and beyond.
Notes to editors
- Ark Globe Academy is in the heart of Elephant & Castle, Southwark. It is an all-through academy for 4–18-year-olds.
- It was rated as Good with “Outstanding” features by Ofsted.
- Ark Globe Academy was formed in 2008 and moved into a purpose-built site in 2010.
- The school serves a community with high levels of economic deprivation. Despite this, many sixth formers progress to top third or Russell Group universities.
- Executive Principal Matt Jones was awarded an OBE in the 2022 New Year Honours for services to education.
- Ark Globe Academy is part of the Ark network of 39 schools in Birmingham, Hastings, London, and Portsmouth.
- Ark Globe Academy is one of the top schools in London for athletics winning over 15 London schools titles- more than any other London school.
- Young sportspeople in Ark Globe Academy’s Elite Player Programme include: Jomiloju Hughes, Triple Jump record holder with a jump of 14.26 metres, breaking the championship record; Ezekiel Olu-Micah who won the Long Jump at the English Schools Track and Field Championships with a jump of 6.47 metres, and Cecilia Victorious who represents England in Basketball in the U17 National team.
