Oxford Excellence | Charterhouse School

From the classroom to the international pitch, Caspar Beyer (P23) has embraced every opportunity since leaving Charterhouse. Now studying Spanish and Linguistics at Oxford University while competing at Premier League and international level, he exemplifies the balance of academic ambition and athletic excellence. In this interview, Caspar reflects on his journey so far – at Oxford, in hockey, and on the foundations laid during his time at Charterhouse. 

How are you finding Oxford University life so far, both academically and beyond your studies?

The academic work is incredibly challenging but also extremely fulfilling. My passion for languages has only grown at Oxford, and I enjoy the traditions – from formal balls to Varsity matches – as well as living in a historic college. Balancing academics with international sport has been a challenge, but I relish all the opportunities and have made close friendships along the way.

I was awarded an academic scholarship to Oriel College, in recognition of the First that I achieved in Spanish and Linguistics in my Preliminary exams. I was ecstatic when I found out, but the best part must be the gown! I also received the Adrian Mee Scholarship for Team Sports from the Vincent’s Club, Oxford, whose support has enabled me to fulfil my dream of international hockey.

How has your hockey journey developed since arriving at Oxford, especially your move into the Premier League and the pathway that led to World Cup selection?

In my first year, I represented the Blues in both weekend leagues and BUCS, finishing the season as top scorer and earning player of the season. Now in my second year, I have transferred to Reading HC in the England Hockey Premier League. I have thoroughly enjoyed playing at the top level and competing with the best. Playing against internationals has improved my hockey dramatically, and with the strength & conditioning, psychology, and nutrition support available at Oxford, I have been able to pursue my dream of international hockey for Ireland. It all happened quite quickly, with me making the U21 Irish training squad in September, and my subsequent selection at the start of November for the Junior World Cup in India in December. 

Following the World Cup setback, what goals are you now focusing on in both your academic studies and your hockey career?

The setback was unfortunate. Having previously injured my hamstring in October, I pulled my hamstring in a warm-up match against Malaysia while out in India – three days before the World Cup started. I am looking to bounce back and keep competing at the international level in 2026, aiming towards World Cup qualifiers in Chile, the Senior World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands, and the European Championships in 2027. In addition, as part of my studies of Spanish at university, I am in contact with professional hockey clubs in Buenos Aires and Barcelona and hope to play for one during my year abroad.

Which aspects of your time at Charterhouse have helped you most with the workload or expectations at university?

The emphasis placed on balancing sport and academia, and the skills that come from sport, have helped me massively. During my time at Charterhouse, beaks and my Head of House helped me to recognise the importance of sport in my academic life, and how it can be beneficial, by building discipline, helping with time management, and organisation. Having boarded also made the transition to university life smooth.

In what ways did your time at Charterhouse influence your development as a hockey player, both technically and personally?

The facilities at Charterhouse are incredible. I made full use of the gym, running track, and pitches to develop physically and technically. The sports department supported my hockey development alongside my time in the football First XI, balancing my workload and helping me to achieve my goals on and off the pitch.

There’s a lot to be said for the skills that sport gives you, and I think the beaks (teachers) at School will agree with me in how transferable the skills of discipline, organisation, and time management from sport are into the classrooms and academic life. Charterhouse fully supported both my sporting and academic endeavours, and I have lot of people to thank for their support.

Do you have a standout hockey memory from your time at Charterhouse?

Friday Night Lights was always a great night, especially in terms of raising the profile of hockey across a traditionally football-focused school. I love playing in front of a crowd!

My highlight, however, would be from my final year at school, as a Second Year Specialist (Year 13), when I was named Captain of the hockey First XI and selected for the England and Great Britain U21 squad at only 18 in the same month – an unforgettable achievement.

Caspar’s story reflects how the habits of commitment, structure, and time management shaped through sport continue to support the way he approaches academic life. 

We wish Caspar good luck as he vice-captains the Oxford University side as they compete in the 126th Varsity hockey match against Cambridge University on 15 March.