A trip to Disneyland was not all about Mickey and Minnie for a team of avid netball players.

Students from Epping St John’s School took a two day trip to Paris to take part in an international tournament.

The 28 Year 7 to 11s spent months fundraising to kit themselves out in new netball dresses ahead of the event, which had them training with England netball coaches and games supervised by England umpires using full rules and regulations.

Sarah Montgomery, PE teacher, said: “Our under-16 A team were unbeaten on day one, winning all of their group matches which put them into the cup competition.

"The under-16 B team got into the shield competition, while the under-14 team made it through to the plate competition.

“The under-16 A team were only beaten in the semi-final by a netball club – rather than a school team - who went on to win the whole tournament. They finished as the first place school and fourth overall.

“It was a really good opportunity for them to experience international competition as they are only used to playing local netball against teams they know of.

"They were nervous for their first games, but their confidence grew and their teamwork got them through playing some really big netball clubs used to taking part in those competitions.”

Player also got a chance to enjoy some time in Disneyland.

Miss Montgomery added: “Year 11 have not missed a training session in five years.

"Their dedication to the netball squad has been amazing.

"All of the girls were invited on the trip because of their attendance and participation with the squad.”