Now in its second academic year, the Harrodian Rowing Programme has established itself as a vibrant part of school life. Launched last autumn, the programme has opened up exciting opportunities for pupils to experience rowing on the River Thames, a hub of British rowing tradition.
Based at the Harrodian Boat House on Putney Embankment, nestled between the clubs of King’s College School, Wimbledon and Dulwich College, the setting gives pupils an inspiring home on the river. Under the leadership of Head of Rowing, Iona Riley (below), the school is now officially affiliated with British Rowing and has seen steady growth in both membership and enthusiasm.
'This year marks an exciting chapter for Harrodian Rowing as we continue our exposure year within the foundation stage of our programme,' says Iona. 'By exposure year, I mean giving our rowers the chance to experience so many things for the first time - from racing and structured training programmes to strength work, lifting, and attending our first training camps. And by foundation, I’m referring to this formative phase where we’re building the base of our pyramid - focusing on strong fundamentals, sound technique, and the core values that will shape the future of our squad.'
The school’s investment in a brand-new fleet of Kanghua boats, including two octuples and two coxed quads, has transformed the way pupils train. A growing timetable now includes regular river sessions, indoor rowing, and strength and conditioning - all supported by a dedicated coaching team.
Our focus this year is about giving pupils the chance to become an active part of the rowing community and to experience the fun and challenge of racing
Head of Rowing, Iona Riley
'Our focus this year is about giving pupils the chance to become an active part of the rowing community and to experience the fun and challenge of racing,' Iona explains. 'Whether it’s taking their first strokes on the water or representing Harrodian in our debut races, each step will be a special milestone.'
Among the team supporting the programme are Holly and Ollie, both of whom bring impressive credentials. Holly, a member of the GB Rowing Team, was part of the Women’s Eight that won Olympic bronze in Paris 2024, while Ollie joins with a decorated background as a Henley Royal Regatta winner and former Head of Rowing at Whitgift School. Together with Iona, they are helping to build a strong foundation and a sense of community both on and off the water.
I want our students to form lifelong friendships, develop new skills, and grow in confidence both on and off the water
'I want our students to form lifelong friendships, develop new skills, and grow in confidence both on and off the water,' says Iona. 'Above all, I want them to feel part of something bigger than themselves — to dream big, aim high, and believe in what they can achieve together.'
Harrodian Rowing now offers two pathways for pupils depending on their level of interest and commitment.
The Performance Rowing Programme gives pupils full access to all training, both on and off the water, with session numbers increasing through the year groups; four per week in the 13s (Year 9), five in the 14s (Year 10), and up to eight sessions for our Seniors and Sixth Formers (15s/ Year 11 upwards). This option includes strength and conditioning, indoor sessions, and priority access to training camps and racing opportunities.
The Clubs Programme provides a flexible alternative, allowing pupils to take part in before-school, after-school or Saturday rowing sessions without choosing rowing as their core sport. It focuses on skill development, fitness and enjoyment on the water, with opportunities to take part in smaller regattas throughout the season.
'It’s been brilliant to see how many pupils have wanted to get involved,' Iona adds. 'Their enthusiasm, teamwork and willingness to learn are creating a real buzz around the school and the embankment.'
Racing is on the plan for the year ahead and other new developments include the introduction of a smart new kit sourced by JL Racing, as well as plans for an Easter training camp in Italy, and a Boat Naming Ceremony to celebrate the school's branded fleet.
Other new developments for Harrodian Rowing this year include the introduction of a smart new kit sourced by JL Racing — featuring striking purple, white and black unisuits — as well as plans for an Easter training camp in Sabaudia, Italy, and a Boat Naming Ceremony to celebrate the school’s branded fleet. The club has also launched a new Instagram account, offering a glimpse into life on the water and behind the scenes of training and racing: @harrodianrowing.
Follow @harrodianrowing on instagram
As Harrodian continues to grow as a boat club, the aim is to expand the fleet further to support ongoing development and the school’s aspirations of becoming a high-performing squad.
'I want every pupil to walk away from this year with a positive experience of rowing,' says Iona. 'Feeling confident, challenged and proud of what they’ve achieved.'
I want every pupil to walk away from this year with a positive experience of rowing...feeling confident, challenged and proud of what they’ve achieved
For further information regarding our rowing programme and associated costs, please contact Head of Rowing, Iona Riley.
* Photos taken last academic year in May 2025