From theHeadmaster
Welcome to this year’s Ashfoldian. I hope that you enjoy it, as it truly captures all that happens during a busy year here. One of my personal highlights is always Speech Day, a great celebration of our leavers and the whole school year. My speech from that day is reproduced below, and I’ve included the answers to my Heads and Tails quiz at the end, so you can have the fun of playing along again! So, enjoy the magazine and the many, many memories of a fantastic year at Ashfold.
“
As always, this speech will not be a blow-by-blow account of the whole year. However, I will pick out a couple of highlights. I will also spend a bit of time looking ahead at some of the challenges we face. Most importantly, we will celebrate our leavers and wish them well.
I am going to do something a little different to start us off. I think most people know that I like a quiz – either the full APC version or the regular assembly versions. Today, we are doing it on a grand scale with a game of Ashfold Heads and Tails.
In a moment, everyone will stand up. I’ll ask a question with two possible
answers, which I will allocate to heads or tails. You indicate your choice like this, and if you get it wrong, you sit down. I’ve got 14 questions, which the Maths department tells me should be enough to narrow it down to one winner. And I have a prize – a surprisingly good one. This amazing Ashfold Mug. The winner will be the only person in the world to own one of these mugs – but only for about 45 minutes, because we’ll be selling them afterward. That’s pretty special, isn’t it?
If you’re the sort of person who gets horribly embarrassed by this kind of thing – like me, actually – just sit down after the first question, whether you get it right or not.
HEADS AND TAILS QUIZ
1. There have been lots of trips this year, and the first question is about that. What is the total mileage for Form 5 and 6 trips this year (including Oxford, London, Stratford, Brecon, Dorset, Normandy, and a few others): 1,468 miles or 1,568 miles?
2. Ashfold is a Planet Hero School because of our work supporting Just One Tree. How many trees are in the Ashfold ‘forest’ planted in Africa as a result of our Just One Tree mufti days: 1,159 or 1,659?
3. How many books are registered on the Ashfold library system: 4,832 or 4,833?
4. How many steps did Mrs Britnell walk on the day of The Wizard of Oz performances: 23,871 or 25,871 steps?
5. What came top in our pupil food survey (Fish and Chips were excluded): Chicken curry or meatballs?
6. On days when we have meatballs, does Sally’s team dish up 1,645 or 1,665 individual meatballs?
7. How many hours have Form 3 pupils spent practising their times tables on the Rockstars programme this year: 550 or 650?
8. What is Mr Edmonds’ Rockstar name on TT Rockstars: Skeeter Valentino or Jeff Lightspeed?
9. According to the Accelerated Reader programme, how many words have Ashfold pupils read this year: just over 82 million or just over 83 million?
10. Approximately how many Maoams have I handed out in my study since September: 1,680 or 2,680?
11. Despite the weather, how many cricket matches were played this term: 91 or 101?
12. How many matches did we win: just over half, or just under half?
13. How long was the longest email received from a parent this year: 3,729 words or 5,729 words?
14. How many hours of individual music lessons have been taught this year: 1,768 or 1,786?
Let me tell you about some letters I received this year. I love getting letters. Many of the 5th Form sent me letters or emails as part of their applications to be prefects. Although we said not to worry too much about the letters, some of them were very moving. They wrote about their desire to serve and give something back, how previous brilliant prefects had inspired them, and how the school had meant so much to them and changed them. It was wonderful. The 5th Form has a good year coming up.
Another letter I want to mention is one that I found left on my doorstep one evening. I looked straight to the bottom to see who it was from, and it was signed “Anonymous.” Intriguing. Beautiful handwriting, highly articulate, well-structured, clear paragraphs, cleverly reasoned, and impeccably polite. It was from a pupil, if you hadn’t guessed. The letter made an interesting, if unusual, point: this pupil wanted more maths lessons in the curriculum. But, as I said, it was simply signed “Anonymous.” So I’ll never know who it was from. But... this particular Ashfoldian – very well brought up and very well educated – had been taught how to write a proper formal letter. So, at the top of the page, they had written their full home address!
Well, Speech Day is also our chance to look forward. As Ashfold looks ahead, there will inevitably be two key focuses. The first is a bit negative, perhaps, but the second, I hope, will be very positive indeed. The first is this week’s election result. While our pupil election here at Ashfold produced a victory for the Liberal Democrat Party, and their candidate, Harry Thorne, promised to fix all of Buckinghamshire’s potholes, the national picture was a little different.
It really saddens me that many parents in this country could be priced out of independent education. For so many, here and at other schools, it is a sacrifice, but one that is so worth making.
Although Labour has yet to publish any details of the legislation around charging VAT, and politicians have occasionally been known to go back on their word, this has already been a significant factor in our future planning for the Governors and the school leadership team.
So, in setting next year’s budget, there has been a laser focus on controlling costs while maintaining the highest level of academic and pastoral care.
We will see where the Government lands on their manifesto promises in the next few weeks. We are in a strong position to meet these challenges, with a full school, no debt, and ownership of our freehold. However, we will not be able to absorb this charge entirely ourselves. I would advise caution regarding any school that promises not to pass on the VAT charge. They have either been overcharging for years or, more likely, they are about to make some major, major cutbacks.
What I can promise is that we will continue to do our very best for your children, offering them an exceptional education—academically challenging, pastorally outstanding, with the broadest range of experiences both in and out of the classroom. To that end, we ensure that every pound paid in fees works as hard as possible for your children.
I hope we can agree that today is not the day to dwell on this. However, there will, I am sure, be many conversations and communications in the weeks and months ahead.
But the second thing we look forward to, in the best possible use of the phrase “looking forward,” is the Centenary Hall project. A new hall, located between the Shippon and the Astroturf, with a performance stage, auditorium, and classrooms, comfortably seating the whole school and more, thus creating a new heart for the school.
I spoke about this earlier this term at the drinks parties. Some of you weren’t there, so I will briefly reiterate and repeat some of what I said then. This amazing building we are planning—indeed, we have planned, and it has now gone to planning—will shape Ashfold, both as individuals and as a school community, in incredible ways.
I have three words I want you to keep in mind: Imagine the possibilities.
Because if anyone thinks this building will be used only by a select, arty few, or that it will be empty and unused between concerts, they couldn’t be more wrong. And if someone thinks their child won’t get in there very often, again, they couldn’t be more wrong.
Some of the staff brainstormed this recently, and we reckon that, for individual children, staff, and parents, the following activities would take place in this amazing building on any given day, week, or term:
• School assemblies
• House assemblies
• House meetings
• Plays – more than we have now
• Concerts – the same, many more
• Backstage activities: lighting, sound, set design, stage management
• Drama lessons
• PSHE sessions where we gather whole groups of children
• Pre-prep music and drama
• Public speaking events like the Poetry Competition and the Spelling Bee
• House music
• History off the page
• Off-timetable days
• IPQ presentations
• Dragons’ Den presentations
• Visiting speakers and authors
• Q Club talks
• WOW Days once a term for the Pre-Prep
• An art gallery space in the foyer for exhibitions
• Activities: dance, karate, debating
• Boarding activities
• Cinema nights
• The Spring Disco
• Prize giving
• Parents’ evenings
• The Christmas Fayre
• The Senior Schools Fair
• Careers talks
• Parent information evenings
• Parents’ drinks parties
• Match teas
• And, best of all, the APC Quiz—we definitely need more space for that!
Some of these activities we already do, but with a new hall, we could do them better, more often, with more participants, and for larger audiences. Even those too late to get a front-row spot at the Nativity play will still get to see.
Imagine the possibilities.
This building will shape us as individuals in countless meaningful, significant, and magnificent ways. But as Head, I am even more interested in imagining how this building will shape us as a community. Strange as it may seem, a hall in a prep school is not just about plays and performances and all those other things I mentioned. What is most exciting is that this building will enhance and cement Ashfold’s wonderful and necessary sense of togetherness.
The Prep School children, I think, know what my favourite event of the school year is. It’s a competitive field—we have a lot of great events—but my favourite is the final of the House Singing. It’s chaotic, it’s colourful, and it’s even, occasionally, musical. But most importantly, it brings us together, although just barely. We don’t really fit in the saloon. The Sixth Form has to sit cross-legged for longer than any 13-year-old should. The performers are squeezed in, some completely hidden. We have to operate a one-way system through
the library and the oval to get houses on and off stage. The staff don’t really fit to watch. We’d love to bring the Pre-Prep in to see it. So, as great as this event is, we know it could be much better.
But it’s gloriously about being together, celebrating each other, and enjoying each other’s performances. We just know that more of this sort of thing would be amazing for Ashfold. People love Ashfold for lots of reasons, but the one thing that always stands out is that feeling of togetherness—family.
We talk a lot about the Ashfold family, and rightly so. It isn’t a corporate version of family. It isn’t just our brand or a marketing promise. It’s something that really matters to us, and we hope you’ll see that this vision for developing the building is an important part of that. Planning permission is now in, and after receiving extremely positive feedback from our second pre-application, we should be all systems go by October half-term.
So, we are really excited. That is the vision. And now, with our full planning application safely in, we can really focus on fundraising. I know it isn’t the perfect time. With the rising cost of living and inflation and uncertainty about school fees, some have questioned, quite reasonably, why now? My answer is that I’ve become very aware that there is never a perfect time. I’ve been Head for six years. We’ve faced a global pandemic, national lockdowns, rising inflation, escalating fuel bills with the war in Ukraine, and now VAT increases to school fees. So why now? Because if we wait for the perfect time, we’ll realise that the perfect time never comes.
I’ve received a lot of advice about fundraising, and some people have told me that prep schools like Ashfold just can’t raise a sum of just over £2 million. They might be right. And honestly, being British, I have very little experience in asking people for money.
The warmth and support I’ve encountered so far in my conversations—with current parents, former parents, and Old Ashfoldians—has been startling. There’s been so much goodwill and understanding of why this matters to us. In recent weeks, this warmth has, in some cases, turned into firm offers of financial support. I can stand here today and say that we already have pledges from the Ashfold community totalling over a quarter of a million pounds. This is an amazing start, and we’re on our way. I’m incredibly grateful to those individuals who have enabled us to make this start. We have some cornerstone investors, but we need more.
Our hope is to have at least doubled that amount by September. Everyone is invited to be a part of this, at whatever level you can contribute. This is a project being built by Ashfold, for Ashfold.
Some will offer their services and expertise, and we need you. Some will be lead investors, and we need you too. Some will have companies or businesses that can sponsor us or offer matched funding—we need you as well. Many, I hope, will be able to give smaller amounts, and we need you too. The names of all donors will be on the wall of the new hall. Some will be stars on the pathway, the Ashfold Avenue. I also understand that for some, just paying the fees and sticking with us during these uncertain times might be all they can do right now, and that’s fine—we need you too. Because we need everyone’s enthusiasm and positivity. I really believe that we can do this.
This hall is being built by Ashfold, for Ashfold. This is about the evolution of a great prep school and ensuring that Ashfold faces the future in the best possible shape. It’s about this generation of the Ashfold community providing for our own children, as well as for generations still to come.”
Colin MacIntosh
Heads and Tails Answers
1. 1,468 miles
2. 1,659 trees
3. 4,832 books
4. 23,871 steps
5. Meatballs
6. 1,665 individual meatballs
7. 550 Rockstar hours
8. Skeeter Valentino
9. Just over 82 million words
10. 1,680 Maoams
11. 101 cricket matches
12. We won just over half (51 out of 101)
13. 5,729 words (That’s over a thousand words longer than this speech!)
14. 1,768 hours of music lessons
A heartfelt thank you to the teachers for sharing their reflections on the wonderful opportunities and lasting happy memories in this year’s edition of the Ashfoldian. Special thanks also to the parents who generously shared photos throughout the year.
Freya Ridley-DeMonick | Editor
Jaqui Bursnall | Design
Form 6 Valete
We are thrilled to congratulate all our Form 6 pupils on successfully passing their entrance exams to a wide range of esteemed senior schools. This is an outstanding accomplishment, reflecting their dedication, hard work, and determination throughout their time at Ashfold.
As a school, we take immense pride in the achievements of every pupil, knowing that their efforts have prepared them well for the next stage of their educational journey. We look forward to seeing them continue to excel on their exciting new chapter. Good luck!
Scholarships and Awards 2024
Academic and Art Roxburgh:
• Lucy T to Stowe
Sports:
• Josh H-S to Millfield
• India M-R to Stowe
• Lucy T to Stowe
• Eva B to Bloxham
Design and Technology
• Fran B to Bloxham
• Fran B to Cokethorpe Drama:
• Clem J to Wychwood
• Sophia G to Bloxham
• Gigi W to Wychwood (11+)
• Emilia M to Headington (11+)
Maria
House Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Kamila
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Form 4
Lord Williams
Ambition for the future
Winning the House Music Competition, learning a new language (English) so quickly.
The Form 5 trip to France was unforgettable; I remember every single day. It was the best trip!
Making new friends at senior school while staying close to all my old friends.
Eva
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Lions
Pre-Prep 4 d’Overbroecks
Becoming a prefect, netball colours, achieving distinctions in all my LAMDA exams!
Gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons, jumping in the waterfall, and going on a netball tour in Malaga.
To keep doing sport and perhaps explore a career in fashion!
Most memorable moments Ambition for the future
Dragons Form 3
Bloxham
Winning a sports scholarship, placing in the top 4 every time at IAPS nationals, winning the sports day cup twice (beating the older boys in the 200m), and winning the Wigan trophy twice Netball tour in Malaga.
To win gold medals in eventing, athletics, and skiing at the Olympic games.
James
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Lions
Pre-Prep 1
Kingham Hill
Becoming a prefect, doing well in my CE, and earning rugby and hockey colours.
Brecon Beacons gorge walking and the rugby term.
Architect, professional rugby player, or the army.
Fran
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Lions Form 3
Bloxham
Awarded Head Girl and earning a scholarship to senior school. The French trip (highlight was Esmee, Annabel, and me on the quiz team).
I’m definitely pursuing something in design, possibly fashion.
Sam
House Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Lions
Pre-Prep 2
Bedford School
Appointed cricket captain and doing well in my CEs.
Gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons, the Durdle Door Geography trip, and qualifying for IAPS nationals.
My goals are to achieve 9s and play academy rugby.
Amelia
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Gryphons
Pre-Prep 1
Headington Rye
Performing the Once in Royal solo, playing A team hockey, achieving strong CE results, and Grade 6 LAMDA with distinction. The orchestra and chamber choir, and gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons.
To become a doctor and help people with cancer.
Sophia
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Ben
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons
Pre-Prep 1
Bloxham
Winning best actor at Bloxham.
Boarding with my friends.
To be an actor.
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Pre-Prep 4
Bloxham
Earning a drama scholarship, going to netball IAPS, receiving half netball colours, and becoming a prefect.
The campfire at the boarding campout and the 15ft jump gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons. Aspiring to become an actress.
Josh
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Clem
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moment
Ambition for the future
Gryphons
Pre-Prep 1
Wychwood
A teams in sports, competing at IAPS, and meeting the Prime Minister. Never getting a demerit or a minus!
Miss Leon singing “I Want It That Way” with a toothbrush as a microphone on the Normandy trip. To return to Ashfold as a teacher!
Gryphons
Pre-Prep 4
Millfield
Earning a Millfield sports scholarship and national finals in both hockey and athletics. Climbing Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons with strong winds and the boarding campout. Aspiring to be a professional rugby player.
Ethan
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons
Pre-Prep 1
Abingdon
Being Head Boy and winning the Sanderson Cup for citizenship. Leading the Boys U13A rugby team to a successful season. The Charity Committee, for OSCAR Foundation. Visiting 10 Downing Street and meeting the Prime Minister.
Playing Captain Hook in Peter Pan. To make the world a better, safer, and happier place for all!
Annabel
House Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Gryphons
Pre-Prep 4
Headington Rye
Becoming a prefect, serving as an art ambassador, and reaching the top of Pen y Fan.
Gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons.
Interested in something related to cooking or baking.
Esmee
House Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Pre-Prep 1 Stowe
Becoming Cricket Captain.
The Brecon Beacons trip, and the netball trip to Spain.
Aspiring to be an architect.
Millie
House Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Lions
Pre-Prep 2
Bloxham
Becoming Lions House Captain.
Memories around the campfire during the boarding campout, and the trips to Brecon Beacons and Dorset. The Form 4 summer.
To become a designer.
India
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Pre-Prep 1
Stowe
Earning my sports scholarship to Stowe, becoming netball captain, and one of the first prefects. Crawling down Pen y Fan with Fifi and the Malaga sports tour. My goals are to stay sporty, make great friends, and always be happy!
Liam
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Max
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Form 2
Stowe
Becoming a prefect and qualifying for the IAPS athletics regionals in javelin.
Gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons and winning with the rugby 1st team.
My goal is to make the Stowe rugby 1st team.
Gryphons Form 3
Abingdon
Finishing my scholarship exams
Jumping off waterfalls during the Brecon Beacons trip.
My goal is to improve in tennis.
Sofia
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Pre-Prep 1
Stowe
Being House Captain, earning my Grade 6 LAMDA, and almost always getting a gold super chart.
Form 4 summer term, and the time when all of Form 6 sat by the campfire at the campout. To work in finance or become an accountant.
Henry
House
Joined Ashfold
Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Alex
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Dragons Pre-Prep 2
Wycliffe College
Earning my rugby and hockey colours.
Reaching the first peak of Pen y Fan.
My goal is to make the Wycliffe rugby first team.
Ambition for the future
Dragons Pre-Prep 3
Berkhamsted
Completing a Computer Science GCSE.
Going to the Brecon Beacons with my friends and attending the Fuze workshop.
To fly planes in the RAF.
Storm
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Lucy
House Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future Lions Form 1 Stowe
Earning both of my scholarships (sports and Roxburgh for art) and my CE results.
The Normandy French trip. Playing spotlight outside with Mr Hopkin during boarding. I aspire to work in a people focused environment.
Gryphons Form 5 Cokethorpe
Learning the piano.
Boarding with friends.
My goal is to improve my piano skills.
Harry
House
Joined Ashfold Next School
Proudest moments
Most memorable moments
Ambition for the future
Gryphons 2018 Abingdon
Being House Captain for Gryphons and being awarded the Maths Shield.
The geography field trip to Dorset and climbing Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons.
To travel around the world, including Africa and Australia.
Pre-Prep Year
As another academic year draws to a close and we are so busy, it is always good to stop for a moment and reflect on all we have done and achieved. September always starts with a sense of hope and new beginnings. The excitement is tangible and a lovely way to remind us of the potential in all of us. We all wonder what the year will bring, the highs and lows, and how we will handle them.
Looking back over the year, I spent some time looking at The Hoot and marvelled at how warm and sunny it was in September, which is a sharp contrast to the weather we have had this term! Early in the term, PP1, PP2, and PP3 had the chance to try African drumming, which was a wonderful way to learn self-expression! In October, we welcomed the Oscar Foundation children from India, who shared their culture and stories with us in Pre-Prep. This was closely followed by the Harvest Festival celebrations where we teach the children to think about others and share with those less fortunate. Poetry Week was a highlight, where we focused on fun with words and becoming little poets throughout the week. The highlight was a visit from Isy Mead who delighted us with some of her poems. PP4 had their Sharing Assemblies and impressed everyone watching with their confidence and performances. We also gathered with the whole school to pay our respects on Remembrance Day – it was a calm and thought-provoking moment that even our youngest children understood. And then it was time for the Nativities – much hustle and bustle, tea towel headpieces at the ready, and for the teachers, at least, nativity song earworms for weeks on end! But we love it, and nothing compares to the emotion and sheer joy of the performances. The final week of term is always a whirlwind of events and fun. Father Christmas came along again this year and surprised us all with his wit and a few sneaky early presents!
The Spring Term starts off a bit cold and gloomy, but when you work with such young children their energy and boundless enthusiasm lift everyone’s spirits. PP3 entertained their parents and the rest of Pre-Prep during their Sharing Assemblies, surprising us all with how much they had done and learned in the short time since coming back in January. Crazy Hair and Wear Day did not disappoint, and the children (and staff) turned up in all the colours of the rainbow, with some seemingly magical shapes and lights too! The second half of the term brought slightly improved weather and our traditional pancake races! The Golden Frying Pan was won by the Gryphons, but the race was enjoyed by all! In March, we celebrated all things books during our week-long event. This year, we were lucky enough to have both an author and a storyteller! Ruth Qualye gave the children a workshop on writing stories, while Lucy Walters entertained and delighted them with her stories. The celebrations culminated in a day of dressing up as favourite book characters while completing a carousel of activities in our house groups. The absolute highlight and privilege of the term was the visit from our grandparents, where we shared our work and a few games with them, followed by an assembly to celebrate this very special relationship. Our term ended with quiet reflection on the story and message of Easter, while still enjoying an Easter Bonnet parade and, of course, some chocolate!
The Summer Term is always something special at Ashfold – the whole place buzzes with excitement and anticipation. Although the weather has not been kind and has felt very much like autumn at times, we have still enjoyed many wonderful events and all this beautiful place has to offer. Early in the term, as a school, we went for and achieved our NACE Award. This external body assessed our provision and agreed that we have high expectations for all our children and provide them with the tools to do very well throughout school. PP2 produced the most wonderful Sharing Assemblies, teaching us all about nature and what it means to be a good friend. In early July, we all gathered to showcase the physical development of the children with Sports Day. I’m sure you will all agree that it was a wonderful occasion, celebrating our budding athletes in the beautiful sunshine. In the final week of term, we enjoyed our Empty Classroom Day, where the grounds were full of Ashfold children as we worked together to cut down on our carbon footprint. We all loved our MAD Day, which stands for ‘Make a Difference Day’. All the children from PP2 to Form 6 came together to enjoy activities ranging from sketching to water play and even smoothie making. It was a chance for the children to mix and learn from each other. The older children took responsibility for our little ones, which was great for their confidence but also good for our younger children to see these positive role models. It has been a wonderful term!
Our current PP4, who are graduating from Pre-Prep to enter the Prep School, are a great group of children. It has been a pleasure to watch them grow and become little people. Given what a creative and diverse group they are, I know they are the change-makers of the future. You are a truly unique and special bunch. Good luck as you enter this next phase... you are ready, PP4 – go for it!
This will be my last time writing for The Ashfoldian, as I head off to pastures new. It has been a very emotional decision to seek out a new challenge elsewhere, as Ashfold is such a special place. It has been an honour and privilege to work here in this amazing school. I have memories that will last forever. Thank you to all of you for being part of my journey and for the support I have had over the years. As they say in Zulu – Salani kahle - Stay well.
Elaine Giliomee
Pre-Prep 1
Autumn Term
September saw a new look for PP1, with Miss Van Der Sluis teaching on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and Mrs Pells teaching for the rest of the week, while Mrs Forsyth provided continuity for all five days. Lunch was now eaten in the classroom instead of the dining room, making it much easier for us to eat at our little tables and chairs! There were lots of familiar faces returning to PP1 and plenty of new friends to get to know as well. We were lucky enough to join PP2 in a special African drumming workshop in the Saloon —it was so much fun and certainly got us into the mood for dancing, singing, and playing to a rhythm! We continued to hone our physical development skills and build strong relationships with the children and adults in the classroom. We learned all about Harvest, Poppy Day, and Bonfire Night before the Christmas excitement arrived. The PP1 Christmas Show was the highlight of the term and brought smiles and happy tears to everyone involved.
Spring Term
2024 brought an even newer look to PP1. As the numbers on roll increased daily, we needed more staff!
Miss Atkins became the latest member to join our team and took charge of the rising 3s, while Miss Van Der Sluis and Mrs Pells led the rising 4s. The first half of the term was relatively quiet—learning through play, having fun, and getting used to the new structure and layout of the classroom. Little City came to visit PP1 and PP2—it was amazing to see all the different roles and jobs the children could explore in the Sports Hall. We will definitely have them back again! After half term, we dove straight into the annual Pancake House Race, where the Gryphons claimed victory this year. Soon after that, we celebrated World Book Day in style with a week of author visits, storytellers, and, of course, dressing up. We completed the term with our Grandparents’ Morning, where so many family members came to play in the classroom and then joined us in the Saloon for songs and poems. This was quickly followed by our traditional Easter Hat Parade, which this year took place around the Oval.
Summer Term
For our last term of the year, Miss Van Der Sluis took charge of the rising 4s all week, and Miss Atkins cared for the rising 3s. We also welcomed Miss Benn alongside Mrs Forsyth as our numbers continued to grow! We enjoyed seeing all the parents and carers for our annual Open Afternoon. The room and outside space were bustling and lively, and the children even got to run around in the meadow. We had an amazing time with the animal encounters experience in the Sports Hall, where we touched a tarantula, python, owl, skunk, and tortoise. Things really ramped up after May half term as we practised songs for Speech Day and prepared for Sports Day. Both events were wonderful, and the weather was very kind to us. Sports Day was a huge achievement by the whole PP1 team, and the children were delightful. We also managed to squeeze in Outdoor Learning Day, Make a Difference Day, and PP Speech Day before the summer holidays—no wonder we were all so tired by the 6th of July! Twenty-six of us were now ready to move up to PP2, while the rest stayed in PP1 for another year.
Santana van der Sluis
Pre-Prep 2
In September, PP2 children quickly settled into learning through child-initiated play and teacher-led activities. Learning to read single phonemes soon led to blending sounds and reading simple words. They enjoyed plenty of play, both indoors and outdoors, forming friendships and making exciting discoveries.
The theme “All Around Us” enabled the children to explore the natural environment, and Forest School provided weekly opportunities to learn about nature.
We made a visit to Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, where we learned about caring for sick and injured animals, including hedgehogs, badgers, deer, and owls.
In November, we had a wonderful trip to see the display of our cyanotype lightbox, based on Yuval Zommer’s story The Lights That Dance in the Night. We were thrilled to be invited inside the Manor to see the Christmas trees and stunning displays inspired by Alice in Wonderland and The Snow Queen.
In the Spring Term, the Education Officer visited us to talk about the endangered birds of Southeast Asia. This broadened the children’s knowledge and understanding of the world. A study of British birds also proved fascinating, and moving quietly around the grounds to spot them was a very peaceful activity!
A visit to the Oxford Museum of Natural History included a superb talk by Chris the Scientist about dinosaurs and fossils. The children behaved like scientists, wondering and asking questions as fossilised bones, skulls, and teeth were passed around. We also visited the Pitt Rivers Museum for an enchanting story session using shadow puppets from the Ramayana.
In the Summer Term, the children’s reading skills soared, and many books were being read independently. The children spoke clearly and proudly about their work during a Sharing Assembly for parents. Maths skills flourished, and a trip to Blenheim Palace for a Maths workshop really challenged everyone with activities related to capacity, shape, number, and problem-solving. Minibeasts was the theme for the term, and the opportunity to see butterflies in the Blenheim Palace butterfly house was thrilling, along with playing on the new adventure playground! Sports Day was another highlight of the summer term, and the children raced proudly to the finish line.
Charlotte Snaith and Kiron Wilcox
Pre-Prep 3
Pre-Prep 3 entered Key Stage 1 full of energy, ready for the new challenges ahead. The theme of the term was Celebrations, and the children had a wonderful time learning to celebrate themselves as individuals through the book “Weirdo”.
They went on to celebrate Black History Month and learned about key figures, including Mae Jemison, Mary Seacole, and Martin Luther King Jr. They also enjoyed starting new routines and subjects for the first time, including French, Computing, and Art. We welcomed Madame Candy into the classroom for the first time, and the children learned how to control a mouse through fun, interactive games in the Computer Lab with Mr Lovell. In our art lessons with Mrs Johnson, we explored creativity through different mediums, including clay, painting, chalk, and collage, in the wonderful Art Room. We also had the first of three Ashfold Passport Days, where we focused on all things French— playing games, making crafts, singing songs, eating pain au chocolat, and even taking part in our own Tour de Ashfold using the PP trikes. The afternoon clubs were once again a big hit, with children enjoying activities like Disney, Hama Beads, and Art, just to name a few.
A highlight of our Science lessons was having Mrs Jones visit us to explain how she uses science every day in her job as a doctor. It was a truly inspirational, hands-on experience that the children adored.
As part of our Celebrations theme, after studying Halloween, Bonfire Night, and Remembrance Day, we started looking forward to Christmas and got excited about toys! We welcomed History Off the Page for an immersive experience about toys throughout the ages. Before we knew it, the end of the term was upon us, filled with Nativity rehearsals and Christmas fun as the children created their own version of The Jolly Christmas Postman, which has now become an Ashfold tradition. We were very proud of all the children for their spectacular performance in Baa Baa Boogie.
After the Christmas holidays, the children were excited by our new theme, On Safari, where we learned about the rainforest in Australia, the differing climates of the Polar regions, and animals in Kenya. The theme was consolidated with our trip to the Natural History Museum in Tring, where the children had a hands-on experience, exploring and learning about various animals up close. PP3 celebrated their second Ashfold Passport Day, this time visiting Australia, playing traditional Aboriginal games, making crafts, and enjoying Fairy Bread for snack! In the classroom, we spent time in Science learning how to categorise animals into groups, and the children did a fabulous job of making their own puppets by sewing them in our DT sessions. Later in the term, we welcomed the parents for our Sharing Assembly, where we showcased all the work we had been doing, including artwork, sewing, DT projects, and the facts we learned during lessons. We also celebrated World Book Day with a carousel of book-related activities, a visiting author, a costume parade, and the annual pancake races around the Oval. A highlight of our English lessons was a visit from Mrs Aubrey-Fletcher and her big green tractor to support our work on the class book The Little Yellow Digger. The children loved being able to sit inside the tractor themselves.
The children finished the term with another opportunity to perform a poem and a song for their grandparents on Grandparents’ Day. This magical day gave the children a chance to play games, show their work, and spend time with their relatives in school.
In our final term of PP3, we studied the theme “Once Upon a Time”, where we explored different types of houses and homes. The children enjoyed studying their own homes and produced a fact file outlining different architectural styles, as well as traditional fairy tales.
In English, we had great fun learning about different stories, and we took a trip to the Story Museum in Oxford, where we saw many exhibits inspired by famous authors and had a go at creating our own stories using our imaginations. This term, the children celebrated their third Ashfold Passport Day, where we visited Kenya. We were fortunate to welcome Granny Macpherson into the classroom to share her firsthand experience of living in Kenya. We also heard from a real Maasai warrior, via the MacWhannell family, who answered our questions about life as a modern-day Maasai. We made safari binoculars and bead necklaces, and tried mango and dragon fruit for snack. Later in the term, we welcomed parents into our classrooms, where the children proudly showed off their work—some even displayed every page of every book! There was plenty of house spirit at Sports Day, where all the children participated in various events, making their parents and teachers very proud of their performances.
Overall, the children had a fun and fulfilling year in PP3! Thank you for being such a wonderful year group, and we wish you every success next year in PP4 and beyond!
Chrystia
Reynolds and Elisa Woodford
Pre-Prep 4
In the Autumn Term, we began settling into Pre-Prep 4, establishing routines and learning to walk to their own lessons. The children loved the humanities topic of World War II, learning about how evacuee children lived and imagining themselves in the lives of those children. They were fortunate enough to go on an adventure to the STEAM Museum in Swindon. Throughout the day, they were immersed in various activities, learning about Betty and her family and how people’s lives changed when the war broke out. They also learned about Betty’s father and brother leaving to join the war efforts, while her mother and sister took on new roles and faced household pressures, including rationing.
One of the children’s and adults’ favourite workshops was learning how the railways worked, what the different jobs were, and how the drivers kept themselves unseen. The children also experienced a role-play scenario where they boarded a World War II carriage, were evacuated to the countryside, and waited to be selected by different families. Finally, they met the ARP warden, listened to the air raid siren, took cover, and experienced what it would have been like to stay in a shelter overnight. They considered what games children might have played to pass the time, how cramped the space was, and even how people went to the toilet in the shelter.
The children had a wonderful time celebrating VE Day, marking the culmination of all their hard work on the WWII topic. Dressed in traditional 1940s costumes, they enjoyed a day full of fun and educational activities, including dancing to wartime music, playing traditional games, and enjoying a picnic with ration-inspired treats. The celebration not only honoured the end of the war but also brought their learning to life, allowing them to immerse themselves in the era and appreciate the historical significance of VE Day. It was a memorable and joyous occasion for everyone involved.
Pre-Prep 4 had a fantastic time performing their final nativity in Pre-Prep, titled Boogie Woogie Nativity. The children brought energy and joy to the stage, dancing and singing with enthusiasm. Dressed in vibrant costumes, they shared the traditional Christmas story with a fun, musical twist that delighted the audience. Their hard work and dedication were evident, making the performance a memorable highlight of the school year. The Boogie Woogie Nativity not only showcased their talents but also created lasting memories as they celebrated the festive season together for the last time in Pre-Prep.
In the Spring Term, we enthusiastically kicked off our Fire, Fire, Fire! topic. We began by celebrating the Chinese New Year, where the children enjoyed a drama workshop, made a Terracotta Army figure, and built the Great Wall of China. They loved tasting noodles and fortune cookies, and their wishes, if granted, would 4surely bring a smile to anyone’s face! We were fortunate to have Mrs Hulme visit us, where she shared a traditional Chinese story and taught us how to make origami lucky fish, adding an extra layer of excitement to our learning experience.
Continuing our Fire, Fire, Fire! theme, we looked at the Great Fire of London. The children took part in a drama workshop, creating soundscapes of the fire, acting out how the townspeople would have felt, and creating freeze frames to depict the timeline of events. During the term, the children also designed and made their own aprons, which they wore while making bread like Thomas Farriner used to. In the afternoon, we created 3D houses and coloured them to resemble Stuart houses.
In the Summer Term, with the sun shining, we focused on our geography skills and the world around us. Our topic was based on the diverse country of India, where we explored human and physical geography.
In Design Technology, the children tried their hand at paper quilling to create Indian torans and even squeezed in an India Day. The day began with a brilliant talk from Mr Patel about his trip to India, where he visited family and saw many of the great temples. He also showed us how to dance to traditional music and taught us how to say “hello.” We are very lucky at Ashfold to have such supportive families that help make these Wow Days so special—thank you, Mr Patel!
The children then created their own Indian dances, impressing us with their rhythm and choice of traditional moves. They also played Kabaddi, an exciting game, and made naan bread, which smelled amazing. The day ended in the most fun way possible, with a mini-Holi celebration. Mrs Brant and Mrs Edmonds threw coloured powder as the children rushed by, trying to get as colourful as possible—it was great fun! The children fully embraced the challenge of turning junk modelling into replicas of the beautiful temples seen all over India. They each chose one to research, make, paint, and present to the younger children in Pre-Prep and even to the parents. The children produced fabulous models and showed fantastic teamwork skills.
The final trip of the year was filled with awe and wonder at the Science Centre in Oxford. The children started the day in the auditorium, where they attended a show called Wow to Wonder. The children used their observation skills to “spot odd ones out,” discussing their thoughts and even comparing Mrs Edmonds to a penguin, before finishing the show with an explosion that they had to predict. After a quick snack, the children spent time in the exploration room, enjoying all the activities, including using air tubes to fire balls and fabric, watching ice freeze, and making parachutes. The smiles never left their faces! After an important lunch break, the children participated in the water workshop, where they explored how to build dams, observed floating and sinking, and experimented with water flow —perfect on such a gloriously sunny day. What a memorable day! Thank you, Pre-Prep 4, and your families, for a wonderful and supportive year. Good luck in the Juniors, and we look forward to hearing of your many successes.
Melanie
Edmonds and Abbie Brant
Pre-PrepNativities
An Ashfold Nativity is something very special and never fails to bring a smile (or a happy tear) to anyone watching! This year was no different. PP1 made their stage debuts with their wonderful show entitled The Nativity. PP2 enchanted us all with their superb acting and enthusiasm in The Twinkly Nativity Baarmy Bethlehem was brought to life and performed beautifully by PP3. But it was the day’s finale, performed by PP4, that had the most laughs with The Boogie Woogie Nativity! Nativity performance day is a personal highlight of mine and never fails to put me in a festive mood. It was a magical and happy day, loved by all! A huge well done to all our very talented Pre-Prep performers!
We must also highlight and thank our incredible creative teams working behind the scenes. Miss Leon’s musical genius is indispensable—we would be lost without you! To the staff behind the magnificent backdrops and costumes, your work is always awe-inspiring—thank you! Elaine Giliomee
Sports Day
What a brilliant Pre-Prep Sports Day we had this year! The sun shone, the parents cheered, and the children gave it their all. It was lovely to see the development among the children, from PP1 navigating their way along the track with their eggs and spoons to the PP4s hurtling over the 50m hurdles. We were incredibly impressed by the children’s abilities and the tremendous house spirit they displayed. Well done to the Dragons for their win!
Forest School
This year has been incredibly busy for Forest School. Not only did we expand to include a second regular site for Forest School sessions, adding a shelter and basecamp area to the meadow at the back of Pre-Prep, but we also welcomed Juniors to regular sessions as part of their enrichment programme. Resting our Woodland Forest School site over the winter and through the very wet and muddy spring allowed the flora and fauna to recover, creating an abundance of hands-on learning experiences as we investigated and cared for the thriving wildlife there.
Meanwhile, our new Meadow site now features climbing logs, a mud pit, den-building supplies, a living willow playhouse, a purpose-built fire pit, a wildflower
meadow, tree sapling planting, and a new wildlife pond to complement the gardening beds we created at the end of last year. Children have been involved at all stages of development, from concept design to planting wildflowers around our new pond.
Along the way, they have developed problem-solving skills, resilience, and determination. They have practiced independence and, at other times, worked collaboratively in teams. They have learned about sustainability and biodiversity, while also having numerous opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.
We have measured, sorted, mapped, role-played, built, drawn, designed, planted, tallied, observed, nurtured, discussed, listened, felt, and tasted new things—just a few of the skills the children practice during a typical Forest School session.
Debbie Berrell
Co-curricular Activities
This year, our co-curricular activities programme remained highly popular across Pre-Prep, Juniors, and Seniors. It’s easy to see why – with our extensive grounds and facilities, we offered a wide range of activities that allowed children to explore interests that will hopefully grow into lifelong hobbies and skills.
Creativity and self-expression were encouraged through clubs like Art and Music Masterclasses, Orchestra, Choir, Performing Arts Club, Cooking Club, Hama Bead Club, Paper Crafts, and Model and Warhammer Club.
To ignite passions alongside academic studies, clubs such as STEM, Touch Typing and Computer Skills, Pre-Loved Books, Mandarin, and Greek proved very popular this year.
For fun and competitive enjoyment, the children enjoyed participating in Chess, ‘Just a Minute’ Club, Ashfolopoly, Esports, and Board Games.
Mindfulness clubs encouraged children to develop healthy habits and explore their interests, helping them create a balanced life.
The positive effects of being outdoors and playing sport are well-documented, and the children especially enjoyed working together in outdoor activities like bushcraft, fishing, and willow weaving.
Our co-curricular sports programme offered opportunities for the children to enhance their skills in Sports Masterclass and explore new sports, such as Rugby 7s, mixed ball sports, archery, golf, table tennis, karate, rifle shooting, triathlon, and equestrian.
Lastly, the professional guest speakers at our Q Club, along with clubs like Current Affairs, played an important role in preparing pupils for the challenges of the future, whatever career path they choose.
Our co-curricular activities programme truly had something for every child each week - take a look at the photos on the next page to see highlights from just a few of the clubs!
MAD Day
In July, the entire school took part in “Make A Difference” Day, affectionately known as MAD Day!
Children from PP2 to Form 6 were grouped into mixed age teams, engaging in a wonderful array of activities. These included yoga, bushcraft, nature sketching, arts and crafts, friendship sessions, library time where older pupils read to the younger ones, smoothie making, and team-building sports.
The day celebrated unity and togetherness, giving everyone the chance to enjoy the school grounds, each other’s company, and a slightly slower pace.
For many, the highlights were the incredible friendships, camaraderie, and support within the groups, especially as the older pupils helped the younger ones.
It was a truly wonderful day that indeed ‘made a difference’ to children across the school, strengthening everyone’s sense of belonging within our very special community.
Anthony Macpherson
ArtAs I reflect on my first year in the Art Department, I am filled with great enthusiasm to share the creative and bustling activities that have taken place within our vibrant school community. Throughout the year, students have been engaged in a variety of enriching experiences, from weekly Art lessons and Masterclass sessions to Art and Craft clubs, all aimed at nurturing their artistic talents and expanding their skills in drawing, painting, printing, sculpture, and clay work.
One of the highlights of the year was the whole school Remembrance Day, where students participated in creating poppy art installations to commemorate the occasion. The school was adorned with various art pieces, showcasing the creativity and talent of our students.
The School Photography Competition, themed Illuminated Festivities, brought together both staff and pupils, resulting in a diverse range of interpretations that captivated audiences. The overwhelming participation and high standard of entries made the event a resounding success, with a clear favourite emerging from the Prep school vote.
In an exciting new initiative, the Masked Creator competition saw 21 staff members showcasing their artistic creations, challenging students to guess the creators and encouraging them to explore different artistic mediums. This initiative will continue with the introduction of the Prep Masked Creator for students in Autumn 2024.
Throughout the year, Masterclass sessions provided students with the opportunity to refine their skills through the exploration of new techniques such as linocut printing, acrylic on canvas, still life, and observational drawings.
A small group of Form 4 and 5 pupils had the opportunity to attend a stop-motion animation workshop at Stowe. Collaborating with students from various schools, they spent the day producing a captivating short film. Additionally, the Art and DT Masterclass enjoyed a day trip to London, exploring the breath-taking Frameless Immersive exhibition and the innovative Design Museum.
The Junior and Senior Art Clubs offered students a creative outlet to experiment with a wide range of mediums, from clay pinch pots to quilling and decoupage. These informal settings allowed students to freely express their ideas, seek guidance, and utilise a plethora of materials to bring their visions to life.
The PP3 students were filled with excitement as they visited the art studio for the first time, engaging in projects like Rainbow Fish mobiles, glittery firework prints, clay emus, and Hundertwasser buildings.
Meanwhile, PP4 students immersed themselves in outdoor land art inspired by Andy Goldsworthy, creating clay bowls and vibrant mobiles influenced by artists like Kandinsky.
The enthusiasm continued with Form 1 students delving into a range of topics and mediums, including selfportraits, clay Christmas trees, and collaborative art pieces inspired by renowned artists like Van Gogh.
Cross-curricular themes enriched the experiences of Form 2 students, with projects such as Egyptian hieroglyph polyprints and mixed media pieces inspired by Rousseau. Their exploration of clay techniques and various tools expanded their artistic repertoire.
Form 3 students embraced themes of aliens and the sea, producing fluorescent landscapes, clay aliens, and watercolour jellyfish inspired by Monet. They also engaged with puppet-making techniques and explored the art of Peter Thorpe.
Form 4 students delved into Pop Art, creating vibrant collages inspired by artists like Lichtenstein and Warhol. Their exploration of different mediums led to textured clay tiles and mixed media animal portraits, drawing inspiration from the colourful graffiti style of Romero Britto.
Form 5 students studied Hokusai and Henri Matisse, producing striking artworks incorporating painting, printing, and collage techniques. The art department stairway was adorned with a vibrant mobile inspired by Matisse’s collage work, creating a visually dynamic space in the school.
Form 6 students began the year with Cubism, creating self-portraits and unique slab pots. They further explored abstract portraits by Picasso and culminated their journey with a collaborative textured tile installation, showcasing their individuality and creativity. The Art Studio stands as a beacon of inspiration at Ashfold, where children are encouraged to express themselves confidently and unlock their creative potential. The diverse range of projects and activities undertaken throughout the year have not only honed artistic skills but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and experimentation, enriching the overall artistic experience for our students.
Lucy Johnson
DesignTechnology and Cookery
The Design and Technology department continues to inspire and encourage the children to use their imagination to tackle various design briefs. Each project introduces a new mechanism, skill, or piece of equipment within the workshop. I am continually amazed by what they can achieve when given the freedom to explore.
In Form 1, the children are always excited to begin their lessons in the DT workshop and learn to safely use the equipment. From traditional cutting tools to glue guns, the vacuum former, the heat press, 2D design, and the laser cutter, they eagerly embrace the opportunities. In one of their projects, the children researched textile fabric design, and we joined forces with the Art department to create a cushion. In Art, they explored traditional printing methods and created a Batik-inspired flower design, while in DT, we looked at modern printing methods. The children used 2D design to create a repeat pattern, which was then printed onto fabric using the heat press. It was fantastic for them to explore the benefits of both methods.
Form 2 started the year exploring strong shapes, which they used to work in groups to build a shelter from rolled-up newspaper! The results always have varying degrees of success!
Form 3 students enjoyed learning about pneumatic movement by creating a moving egg box monster! During their project to design and make a model fairground ride, Form 4 students used different resources to investigate how gears work. They improved their accuracy when cutting and joining the wood for the base and had to follow their designs to create the ride.
One of the most popular projects for the staff at Ashfold is the Form 5 Bake Off competition. After making a variety of ‘healthy’ bakes in their lessons, the children work in pairs to wow the judges with their chosen bake. They are judged on their presentation, teamwork, taste, and how ‘healthy’ their bake is!
In June, a handful of Form 5 girls attended a Future Makers and Creators Day at Uppingham School, which focused on upcycling. It was a great opportunity for the girls to gain a different perspective on creatively reusing clothing, paper, wood, and plastic.
I was really impressed with the Form 6 clock project this year. Their brief was to design and make a wall clock inspired by a 20th-century design movement, suitable for sale in the Tate Modern Gallery’s gift shop.
For their Christmas project, they used 2D design to create a light-up decoration; the results were truly beautiful.
Finally, at the end of the summer term, we held the most anticipated MasterChef competition, where the children worked in groups of four to create a three course balanced meal. The standard was excellent, and one standout group earned almost full marks!
Pam Lawson
Computing
At Ashfold, we pride ourselves on our Computing Department, a regional centre of excellence recognised by the British Computer Society, the Independent School of the Year Awards, and Digital Schoolhouse organisations. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements ensures that children receive an enriching and future-proof education in computing.
Engaging Activities for Young Digital Explorers
Our curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and develop a love of computing for all our children, from Pre-Prep up to the age of 13. Here is a glimpse into a few of the activities that the children have experienced at Ashfold this year:
• Creating machine learning models
Children delved into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence through the Machine Learning for Kids application. They learnt how to train computers to recognise patterns, make predictions, and solve problems—essential skills in our increasingly digital society.
• Designing games on a variety of platforms
From the block-based coding platform of Scratch to the versatility of Construct 3, Arcade MakeCode, the Micro, and Kodu, children had the opportunity to express their creativity by building their own games. These experiences not only developed coding skills but also nurtured creative expression, problemsolving abilities, and logical thinking.
• Exploring 3D modelling and simulation
Through the Blockbench Minecraft skin creation tool and Tinkercad’s physics engine, children unleashed their imaginations in the world of 3D design. They learnt to manipulate digital objects, understand spatial relationships, and even simulate real-world physics principles.
• Navigating the online world safely
In our interconnected world, online safety was paramount. We equipped our pupils with the knowledge to protect themselves online, ensuring that they could enjoy the benefits of technology while remaining safe.
We believe that a computing education goes beyond technical skills. Our curriculum emphasises creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, preparing children for success in the digital age.
Finally, we were delighted that our Computing Department’s reputation for excellence extended far beyond our school walls this year. We were proud that activities and resources developed at Ashfold have been used in schools from New York, Toronto, Barcelona, and beyond.
Chris Lovell
Fairy Tale Courtroom
In the Autumn Term, our Form 6 students brought to life the play Fairy Tale Courtroom. This production provided an abundance of comedy, fun, and lively, well-known characters for our cast to immerse themselves in.
The everyday setting of the dining room was transformed into Court Number One for the trial of the century. The Big Bad Wolf and The Wicked Witch of the West were on trial for their storybook crimes, drawing witness statements from Little Red, the Three Little Pigs, Dorothy, and others. The fate of the villains was in the hands of the audience, who decided the verdict based on the evidence presented. The cast had to learn a variety of endings depending on the audience’s choices, adding spontaneity and thrill to the play. From tackling well-known characters to delivering laughter, the evening proved to be a highlight of the term with their strong ensemble performance.
Lynette Britnell
Congratulations to Clem and Sophia on earning drama scholarships to their senior schools!
The Wizard of Oz
In the Summer Term, we embarked on a magical journey to the Land of Oz with The Wizard of Oz. The enchanting tale whisked us away from the familiar plains of Kansas to the vibrant world of the Yellow Brick Road.
Our students skilfully portrayed a diverse array of characters, from the endearing Munchkins and helpful mice to the proud Ozians, caring Tin Man, brainless Scarecrow, and lovable Cowardly Lion. The audience was treated to a spectacle of wonderful singing and dancing as the story unfolded—from the Wicked Witch
proudly telling the audience how “Wicked” she is through song, to the four friends sharing a journey of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery. The final number reminded us all that there really is “No Place Like Home.”
The cast captivated hearts and minds, showing us that magic truly lies within us all.
Lynette Britnel
Form 3 Presents
This year’s Form 3 drama offerings not only entertained but also inspired, leaving a lasting impression on all who experienced them. The cast worked incredibly hard together, producing a triumphant group effort.
Lynette Britnel
Music
It has been another busy and exciting year in the Music Department, with a full schedule of musical events and productions keeping the school buzzing with creativity.
The Autumn Term started strongly, with weekly music lessons for every year group. Pupils explored engaging topics, providing a diverse and enriching experience across the school.
Early in the term, the Harvest Festival celebrations began, filling Dorton Church with both donated produce and the beautiful songs and hymns from all year groups.
After the half-term break, Christmas preparations got under way with nativity plays in Pre-Prep and the Carol Service at St Mary’s. The Pre-Prep children brought their stories to life with costumes, colour, and song, while the Carol Service featured all Prep school pupils gathered at St Mary’s on the final day of term. The service began with a touching solo of the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City and concluded with a triumphant descant in the final verse of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, the perfect start to the Christmas holidays.
The Spring Term always sparks friendly competition in House Singing. Lions, Gryphons, and Dragons showcased their musical talents in celebration of Disney’s 100-year anniversary, with each house preparing a song of their choice. Our guest judge, Mr Ben Andrew, Head of Keyboard at Stowe, was impressed with the talent on display
Congratulations to all who performed and to the Lions for winning the House Trophy.
Junior Vocalist:
Matilda B (winner), Bea K-M, and Delphi M
Junior Instrumentalist: Ariana H-B (winner), Athena W, and Cecily K
Middles Vocalist:
Lottie S (winner), Harriet D, and Fen M
Middles Instrumentalist: Seb L (winner), Desi H, and Chloe T
Senior Vocalist:
Kamila B (winner), Izzy S, and Maxima L
Senior Instrumentalist: Illy H (winner), Lucy T, and Storm T
The term concluded with another brilliant Spring Concert at Bradmoor Farm, where every ensemble and year group performed. Form 3 pupils did a fantastic job introducing the pieces and interspersing the performances with beautifully delivered poetry. The entire Prep School came together for the final number, which even got a few audience members on their feet!
Throughout the year, weekly lessons, half-termly lunch time concerts, evensongs, hymn practices, and over one hundred weekly peripatetic music lessons ensured that music remained a constant presence in daily school life.
The Summer Term ended on a high note, with the school hall transformed into the Land of Oz for our production of The Wizard of Oz. Form 5 took the lead roles, brilliantly supported by Form 4 as the chorus. The musical numbers echoed through the school during rehearsals and, as reported, through the almost imperceptible humming in Prep!
Finally, the performances at Speech Day, with the voices of nearly two hundred pupils singing together, provided a fantastic conclusion to the term and the year.
Anna Leon
The Juniors
Autumn Term
September greeted us with blistering sunshine and a sense of renewal as we returned for the start of the school year. The air buzzed with optimism and enthusiasm, and it was clear from the get-go that this was going to be a year to remember. Both students and staff seemed to walk a little taller, with the prospect of fresh challenges and exciting opportunities on the horizon. On the sports field, our teams hit the ground running. With early victories and a few close defeats, the spirit of competition brought us together. Whether we were watching from the sidelines or competing, there was always a sense of pride in wearing our Ashfold colours.
Form 1 took a step back in time with their visit to Chedworth Roman Villa. They marvelled at the ancient ruins, absorbing every bit of history, only to return to school and—accidentally, of course—recreate the burning of Pompeii on the grounds! Watching their meticulous models crumble in the wake of Mount Vesuvius was tragic yet somehow fascinating. Meanwhile, Form 2 became budding detectives on Egyptian Day, unwrapping the mysteries of an attempt on the Pharaoh’s life! The day culminated in a dramatic reenactment of the Pharaoh’s poisoning, with a few suspects (teachers included!) standing trial before a very unforgiving jury.
Poetry Week brought out the hidden talents of our young bards. We were treated to everything from heartfelt sonnets to side-splitting limericks.
The highlight? An unforgettable reading of ‘Mr Croco-doco-dile’ that had the entire Junior Department mesmerised.
In November, we paused to reflect and honour those who have served in conflicts past and present. The Remembrance Day service was, as always, a solemn and deeply moving occasion, reminding us all of the importance of peace and gratitude.
The term ended on a festive high. Nativities lit up the school with the brightest stars in PP4 taking centre stage, while our annual Carol Concert at St Mary’s in Thame once again filled the air with beautiful harmonies and a heartwarming sense of community.
Spring Term
The Spring Term kicked off with the Ashfold Pancake Races—where else can you see students sprinting around the Oval, flipping pancakes with varying degrees of success? The Gryphons came out on top this year, but everyone had a flipping good time!
Crazy Hair Day was a sight to behold, with towering mohawks, neon spikes, and wigs galore. It was a day of creativity and chaos, reminding us all that a little silliness goes a long way. Book Week brought the magic of stories to life, culminating in World Book Day, where students and staff alike arrived dressed as their favourite literary characters. From Harry Potter to Matilda, the school was awash with creativity.
The Spelling Bee had us on the edge of our seats. With each round, the words got trickier, but our Junior Department spellers were up for the challenge. A special shout-out to the eventual champions—your dedication to the dictionary paid off!
And then came the Easter Egg Hunt, where the only thing more competitive than finding the eggs was eating them before anyone else could get their hands on them. The perfect way to end the term on a sugar high! Form 2 made their annual pilgrimage to Cadbury’s World, returning with more chocolate than their pockets could hold. Thankfully, it didn’t align with the Form 2 boarding night, to everyone’s relief.
The term finished with another fantastic performance – the Spring Concert. It was a triumph, with our young musicians and singers performing beautifully, ending the Spring term on a real crescendo.
Summer Term
As the sun finally peeked out after weeks of rain, cricket season arrived in full swing. The sound of willow on leather echoed across the fields, with every match offering moments of brilliance. The Junior Department embraced a new tradition this term—welcoming PP4 to North Terrace during break times. The older students took pride in their role as Playground Leaders, ensuring that the little ones felt included and had fun.
Of course, no British summer would be complete without its fair share of rain. But did that stop us? Absolutely not. From muddy boots to dripping coats, we soldiered on, proving that nothing can dampen the Ashfold spirit!
We managed to dry off just in time for the whole school photograph. It was a rare moment to gather together, capturing a snapshot of our vibrant community. Form 2 embraced the excitement of boarding nights once again, but this time with a meaningful twist: a talk on Action Duchenne, raising awareness for a cause close to our hearts.
Both Form 1 and Form 2 wowed us with their endof-year showcases, putting on performances that revealed their creativity and hard work over the term. The future’s looking bright for these budding stars!
And who could forget our trip to Whipsnade Zoo? The sheer awe on the students’ faces as they encountered creatures from around the globe was priceless. The giraffes, in particular, were a crowd favourite. Sports Day returned in all its glory, with parents once again cheering from the sidelines. The competition was fierce, but the camaraderie and support shown by all were the real winners.
As the term drew to a close, Empty Classroom Day gave us a chance to learn outdoors and connect with nature. There’s something magical about trading desks for grass and trees, even if just for a day. The Form 4 & 5 performance of The Wizard of Oz was simply spellbinding, and the Festival of Flavours transported us to faraway lands with dishes from around the world — an Ashfold favourite!
MAD Day (Make A Difference Day) was a great opportunity to come together as a school, while Move Up Morning gave everyone a taste of what’s to come next year. And finally, Speech Day was a fitting end to another wonderful year, celebrating the achievements of all our students.
And just like that, the year was over. A year of memories, laughter, and learning. We can’t wait to see what next year brings!
James Edmonds
Form 1
Whipsnade Zoo
The sun smiled down on Form 1 children during their trip to Whipsnade Zoo. The highlight of the day was a special workshop where the children became junior zoologists. They had the chance to observe giraffes up close and even assisted the keepers in learning how to care for these magnificent animals. It was a wonderful experience for everyone!
Form 1 were transported back in time on an exciting educational trip to Chedworth Roman Villa, one of Britain’s most significant Roman sites. The children explored the villa’s ruins, learning about Roman life, architecture, and the hypocaust heating system.
They also took part in hands-on workshops, creating mosaics, dressing up in Roman attire, and engaging in activities that brought history to life – with one the highlights being the chance to sit on the ancient Roman latrines!
The children enjoyed a walk through the surrounding woodland, discovering the natural environment as it might have existed in Roman times. The immersive experience at Chedworth Roman Villa was a truly engaging way to learn about Roman civilisation and its enduring impact on Britain!
Chedworth Roman Villa
Form 2
Cadbury Trip
During the Spring Term, Form 2 embarked on an exciting journey to Cadbury World. The adventure began with a fascinating tour of the factory, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of chocolate making, from the initial stages to the final product. The children had the opportunity to print their names in liquid chocolate and explore an array of chocolate themed zones that celebrate Cadbury’s history and production. Following the factory tour, the children attended an engaging educational talk on rainforests, which linked perfectly with Form 2’s humanities curriculum.
They discovered the origins of the cocoa bean and its vital role in Aztec culture, deepening their understanding of the historical significance of chocolate. They also learned about Cadbury’s global efforts to support communities and care for their workforce. The experience was topped off with a thrilling 4D cinema ride, immersing students in the dynamic process of chocolate production with motion-seated excitement.
The visit proved to be a fascinating educational trip!
Egyptian Day
Form 2 stepped back in time with an immersive Egyptian experience, courtesy of History Off the Page Dressed in impressive costumes, the children embraced roles ranging from slaves to pharaohs, fully immersing themselves in the world of ancient Egypt.
The day was packed with hands-on activities, including carving hieroglyphics into soap, creating cartouches, sculpting clay amulets, and even performing the mummification of peg dolls. The highlight was a grand finale of acting and dancing, as the children showcased their talents in an impressive performance to entertain the pharaoh Nefertiti.
This vibrant workshop of ancient Egypt enriched the children’s learning back in the classroom.
Form 3
Henley River and Rowing Museum
Form 3 enjoyed a fascinating visit to the Henley River and Rowing Museum, supporting their Humanities topic on Rivers and Oceans. The day began with a scenic walk along the river, where the children learned about various river features.
After the walk, the children explored the museum galleries and enjoyed a guided tour of the Wind in the Willows exhibition. Following lunch, they participated in several hands-on experiments that demonstrated how geographical features are formed. The day was packed with interactive learning and exploration, deepening their understanding of rivers and oceans.
Windsor Castle
Form 3 enjoyed a wonderful trip to Windsor Castle, where the Union Flag was flying, indicating the King was not in residence. Nevertheless, there was plenty for the children to see, reinforcing their term’s learning about castles.
The day began with a fascinating lesson on the history of Windsor Castle, the oldest continually inhabited castle in the world. The children impressed the teacher with their knowledge, and Sophie even proved him wrong by successfully shooting two arrows through the arrow slits, which were said to be nearly impossible to hit from the outside!
Afterward, the children explored the castle, recognising its defensive features and even marching alongside the guards on duty. They also enjoyed a guided tour of St. George’s Chapel, where they learned about the Knights of the Garter and saw the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II. The visit concluded with an exploration of the stunning State Apartments, where the children marvelled at the tapestries, paintings, furniture, chandeliers, and the spectacular displays of gifts and weapons.
Caroline Germany and Carol Goodman
Form 4
Bushcrafting
Form 4 set off with excitement to the wilds of Northamptonshire for their annual Bushcraft adventure, facing challenges, games, team-building, and fun. The size of the year group created some interesting challenges in terms of tribal groups and sleeping arrangements, but the children adapted excellently to it all. The weather proved slightly challenging this year, and we were unable to go into the woods to our camp at first due to strong winds. After some introductions and games in the rain in a field, a short walk into the woods took us to our campsite, where we immediately began the first tasks.
There were some changes this year, including eating in a central camp, which took a little longer to organise but was great fun as it led to lots of competitive singing against other schools who were also there. The next three days passed in a blur of activity: whittling with real knives, wood collecting for fires, trap making, learning basic first aid, games in the woods, and shelter building. A few brave souls even camped out under the stars in the shelters they had built, which was especially impressive given the weather conditions. They even built a trench around the central tent to prevent water from getting into the main campfire.
One of the highlights was the airplane crash scene, involving staff with fake blood and the opportunity for students to put their newly learned skills into practice. The children enjoyed excellent and plentiful food, including lots of energy-filled treats. They went home tired and dirty but having had a fantastic time.
The Black Country Museum
Form 4 braved Storm Babet and made the most of an exciting day at the Black Country Museum in Dudley.
As part of their History studies on the Industrial Revolution, the children had the opportunity to see key historical artefacts such as a Newcomen steam engine, a working foundry, and a colliery—all in one location. The museum also offered a glimpse into life over the last two centuries, with shops, houses, a Victorian school, and even a funfair to explore. For some children, the tour of a pitch-black mine was the highlight of the day, while others favoured a visit to the sweet shop! It was a great experience, bringing their studies to life.
Winton Cup
A small group of Form 4 children set off to the beautiful surroundings of Stowe to compete in the Winton Humanities Cup against 11 other prep schools. The team worked together to discuss all the issues surrounding the topic of war in an attempt to answer the question, “Is war ever morally justified?”
Pupils listened to a short lecture by Major Arnold, Stowe’s CCF commander and a former Royal Engineer, before being directed by different Stowe teachers throughout the day, focusing on how the concept of a “Just War” could be explored through the themes of Geography, History, Religion, Politics, and Art.
The children had a wonderful time, collaborated excellently, behaved impeccably, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of learning and living within a senior school for the day. Thanks to the following students for participating: Lottie S, Jessie E, Archie S, Fen M, Betty B, Ameer C, Finlay H, Maggie M, Seb L, and Arthur B.
Special thanks to Mrs Ridley-DeMonick and Mr Parsons for their support.
ISEB Ashfold Diploma Pilot
Form 4 was very fortunate this year to pilot an incredibly exciting new diploma scheme in Humanities that we developed in conjunction with our exam board, ISEB, who run the Common Pre-Test and Common Entrance exams. The scheme integrates all the Humanities subjects, along with English and IPQ (the ISEB Project Qualification), under a termly theme, allowing for true interdisciplinary learning throughout the year. We were so impressed with how engaged and interested the children were in learning this way, and, even more importantly, their knowledge retention and skill development improved significantly.
In Form 4, the children were assessed for the diploma through a group presentation in the autumn, a 1,000 word article (yes, really!) in spring, and finally, a creative assessment alongside their written exams in the summer term. They received certificates from ISEB for each assessment, and more than half of the children achieved a Distinction in at least one of the assessments, which is truly amazing.
I hope they are looking forward to continuing the programme in Forms 5 and 6 as we extend it with them—I know their teachers are!
Freya Ridley-DeMonick
Form 5
Normandy Residential
Form 5 headed off to France in early September. They stayed at Château de La Baudonnière, where the children took part in activities ranging from bread making to a very muddy assault course. During the activities all the instructors spoke in French so they had to listen carefully to understand. Thursday and Friday were focused on culture and history. Their first stop was the D-Day beach at Arromanches and the 360 cinema to see a film about the D-Day Landings. Afterward, they visited the Bayeux Tapestry and the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Bayeux, with a delicious crepe stop in between. On their return trip on Friday, they visited ‘Chez Tony’ to learn about goat farming and making goat cheese, with a little tasting to round it off. They finally returned to school very late, feeling tired but very happy after an excellent trip.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Form 5 enjoyed a busy and enriching day in London investigating the sustainability of the 2012 Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the legacy the project has left for the local community. The children engaged in a research survey, asking members of the public insightful questions and receiving many excellent responses. They did a great job, although some needed a little push to overcome their initial nerves.
The day was filled with exciting activities, including watching cyclists at the Velodrome during lunch (and cheering on one cyclist as he sped around the track), enjoying a tube journey, and taking in the stunning views of London from the Cable Car ride over the Thames.
Both trips were unforgettable experiences that blended learning with fun, and the children showed immense curiosity and enthusiasm throughout.
Richard Parsons
Form 6
Dorset Geography Field Trip
Our annual trip to Dorset began well, with a short crossing over the Chain Ferry from Poole to the Isle of Purbeck, creating excitement for the children.
The first afternoon saw us head straight out for a walk to Dancing Ledge in some amazing sunshine. The next day was focused on data collection along the River Piddle. The groups collaborated excellently throughout the day, gathering valuable information about the river as it flows from source to mouth. Thankfully, the weather cooperated, and the rain held off.
A guided tour around historic Corfe Castle gave some of the budding actors a chance to show off their skills by narrating the stories of key inhabitants. We ended the day by looking at dinosaur footprints and creating augmented reality versions of a Diplodocus on our devices. The final two days included visits to some of the most iconic landscapes of the Jurassic Coast. A beach comparison study of Durdle Door and Man O’War Coves was followed by a walk over the headland to see Stair Hole and Lulworth Cove. On the last day, we took a long(ish) walk over Ballard Down to see the majestic Old Harry Rocks, then returned to Knoll Beach via Fort Henry, where Winston Churchill oversaw some D-Day landing drills.
The children were excellent throughout the week, collaborating well and showing lots of enthusiasm. The weather was kind to us throughout.
Richard Parsons
Form 6
Brecon Beacons 2024
Form 6 departed for their leavers’ trip to the Brecon Beacons with huge excitement, having completed their final exams. As has become a regular feature in recent years, the journey to Brecon was broken up by a stand-up paddleboarding session at South Cerney.
After arriving and settling into our accommodation at the wonderful YHA Danywenallt, the children got down to their duties—first cooking dinner, then clearing up and washing the dishes.
On Tuesday, we travelled to Black Mountain Adventure for a day of canoeing on the River Wye and mountain biking. The mountain biking presented obstacles such as ‘the wall’ (well done to Josh for making it to the top) and culminated in the ‘Bone Shaker’. On Wednesday, we returned to Black Mountain Adventure for gorge walking and climbing, with the chilly gorge walk proving to be a favourite despite the cold water!
Thursday was our hiking day, with an ascent of Pen-y-Fan. The day started well with only a bit of cloud at the top and pleasant conditions at the base. However, as we reached the ridge, the wind picked up, the cloud base dropped, and the rain set in, forcing us to make the decision to turn around and descend.
We rounded off the week with a fantastic session at Go Ape in the Forest of Dean. A huge well done to all the children for their enthusiasm in all the activities, including the washing up!
Owen Venables
Form 6
Post-CE Programme
After completing their CE exams and the adventurous trip to the Brecon Beacons, Form 6’s final three weeks of term were packed with the thrilling Post-CE Programme, culminating in the exciting Dragons’ Den challenge. Having worked hard to prepare their products and sales pitches, the children faced the ultimate test: which team could sell the most for charity to win the challenge? Huge well done to the teams for their fantastic efforts!
The programme included a series of engaging workshops. Form 6 received advice from senior schools, discussing both the benefits and potential pitfalls of Year 9, participated in a careers day, and enjoyed creative sessions like the Ashcars filmmaking competition, an animation workshop, and the Masterchef finals. They also took part in lifeguarding and first aid courses, gaining valuable skills, and showcased their IPQ presentations to parents in a special evening display.
A highlight this year was Ashfold’s Mock Election, held on General Election Day. Form 6 pupils were randomly selected to represent the seven parties standing in the Mid-Buckinghamshire constituency. Form 6 prepared speeches, answered questions, and campaigned to promote their assigned party’s policies and pledges, regardless of their own personal beliefs. After an engaging campaign, 186 anonymous votes were cast by pupils from Forms 1-5 and the teachers. Mr MacIntosh served as the Returning Officer, announcing the Liberal Democrats as the winning party, with Harry T elected as the successful candidate for the seat of Ashfold, receiving 73 votes.
To celebrate the end of these memorable few weeks, the Headmaster and his wife hosted Form 6 in small groups for special suppers in the Head’s garden, savouring the warm evening sun—wonderful events that both the children and Mr and Mrs MacIntosh thoroughly enjoyed. Finally, as a well-deserved reward, Form 6 embarked on the highly anticipated Wet and Wild trip—a perfect way to wrap up the term before Speech Day!
Classics
Form 3 began the year learning about the origins, spread, and legacy of the Roman Empire, gaining an appreciation of how the language of the Romans came to be spoken throughout Europe. Over time, and in different provinces, Latin morphed into the Romance languages of today, making it both useful and interesting to learn. By investigating Roman numerals, the children learned that the Romans followed logical methods, which helped them recognise and make sense of Latin vocabulary and grammar patterns. Over the course of the year, they also studied Roman housing, clothing, food, gods and goddesses, and some exciting stories of heroes and monsters.
Form 4, with a good understanding of how the Latin language works, built on their knowledge so that by the Summer Exam, they had learned all four regular verb conjugations, the verb ‘to be’ in the present tense, all six cases of 1st and 2nd declension nouns, and how to include adverbs and prepositions in Latin sentences. They also studied Roman slavery, the Roman army, and the invasion and Romanisation of Britain.
Form 5 expanded their translation skills by learning to tackle whole passages of Latin and answer questions about the grammar within them. They also learned the imperfect tense of verbs, the infinitive and imperative forms, neuter nouns, and adjectival agreement. Classical Civilisation topics included the story of Heracles, tales from Ovid’s Metamorphoses, the eruption of Vesuvius in A.D. 79, and Roman entertainments. In May, the children took a trip to the Lunt Roman Fort, a report of which follows.
Most of Form 6 prepared for C.E. Latin Level 1, four for Level 2, and two for Scholarship. They also learned about the Trojan War and the Wanderings of Odysseus, with Ethan and Liam even inventing a board game based on the war between the gods and titans of Greek mythology. The children did well in their final exams, with all achieving A*–C grades in both Latin and Classical Civilisation – well done!
Caroline Germany
Form 5’s Trip to Lunt Roman Fort
by Pippa, James, and Maxima - Form 5
On Tuesday, 14th May, Form 5 went on a school trip to the Lunt Roman Fort just outside Coventry. When we arrived, we were greeted by two fierce Roman soldiers who demanded that we explain why we were there and give the password. It felt so realistic! The password was ‘posca,’ which is Latin for cup.
Our tour guide, Gnaeus (pronounced Nias), meaning “birthmark,” led us to the granary (the Roman building where food was stored) to leave our belongings. Then, we were ordered to line up outside and were taught to march by shouting “sin, dex, sin, dex” (short for sinister and dexter—Latin for left and right).
We marched to where the shields lay on the ground, and the colour of each shield determined our team: red, yellow, green, or blue. We learned defence formations like the tortoise and the shield wall. After mastering the formations, each group was assigned a new leader from the brave Gnaeus, the fierce Mr Smith, the courageous Mrs Germany, and the savage Mrs Hill. When team leaders were attacked, they would hold a sword (pool noodles in their team colour) in the air, and the rest of the team would rush to form a circle around them. This led to an all-out, relentless battle with pool noodles and Roman shields. We even had the opportunity to fight each other without shields, which was a lot of fun. After this “bloodthirsty” battle ended, it was time for lunch—delicious packed lunches with sandwiches, crisps, fruit, and sausage rolls.
After lunch, we explored the museum. Since it was Miles’ 12th birthday, he got to dress up as a real Roman soldier, wearing sandals, a tunic, a chest plate, and a helmet, and even wielding a real sword! The rest of us had the chance to hold and feel blunt weapons, some of which were very heavy. Gnaeus then gave us a talk about the Roman Empire, after which we had free time to explore the museum, try on helmets and tunics, and play old Roman games like different versions of tic-tac-toe and checkers. There was also a miniature model of the fort, which was fascinating.
After the museum, we marched to the only remaining part of the fort wall. We climbed the rickety steps to the top of the gateway and looked down at the overgrown remnants of the ditches, which Gnaeus explained were filled with spikes and stinging nettles to deter attackers. The Romans also used a large crossbow-like weapon called a scorpion, designed to kill invaders before they could enter the fort.
We were all very sad to leave, but we had an amazing time. Gnaeus even gave us little goody bags with a small book, pen, pencil, and rubber. I highly recommend not missing this fun trip when you get the chance to go! The Romans believed it was extremely bad luck to write with your left hand, which is where we get the word “sinister.”
English
“
What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George
Bernard Shaw
This year has been another whirlwind of activities and achievements in Senior English, with the added innovation of interdisciplinary learning, which has been a key focus in 2023-24, particularly in English and the Humanities. It made this a year where our Senior pupils didn’t just read stories but, by exploring the connections between literature and the world around them, lived them.
The year kicked off with our annual focus on poetry, and shortly before October half-term, the poetry competition took centre stage. The theme was “Friendship,” and it was a delight to witness students from all year groups pour their hearts into their poems. Our judge, visiting from St Edward’s, Oxford, faced the unenviable task of selecting winners from a plethora of moving entries. After much deliberation, the honours went to William B from Form 1, Clara G from Form 3, and Harry T from Form 6, whose performances were nothing short of fantastic: funny, moving, and impressive in turn. Their poems reminded us of the power of words to forge connections between topics, disciplines, and each other. Meanwhile, Form 6 embarked on a chilling exploration of Gothic literature, culminating in a spine-tingling visit to the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre to experience ‘The Woman in Black’ on stage (causing some jumps and scares not only for the Form 6s but for Mr Downie as well!).
Form 5 delved into war poetry alongside the play script of Private Peaceful, while Form 4’s studies of climate change and global warming brought The Last Bear to life in the most interdisciplinary way possible. Their presentations, linking English with their Humanities topics, were truly impressive. Form 3 soared to new heights with their study of ‘Hidden Figures,’ examining the inspiring lives of the black women who “helped build NASA,” a topic that allowed us to explore the historical elements of the space race, segregation, and the civil rights movement.
World Book Day in the Spring Term stood out as a highlight, as always, orchestrated brilliantly by Mrs Goldman and Miss Leon. This year, a novel approach saw mixed-age groups participate in captivating crosscurricular activities. Students concocted potions in the George’s Marvellous Medicine lab under the watchful eye of a very strict Granny (played with much relish by Mr Smith) and crafted a Neverending (Classics) Story, integrating art, IT skills, and film-making. The DT rooms buzzed with creativity as students engaged in cookery and illustration inspired by the ever-popular Tom Gates and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and, of course, Mrs Britnell’s legendary literary treasure hunt proved as exhilarating as ever. The day culminated with the entire school pausing for DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time, a peaceful moment that underscored our love for reading.
As the term progressed, Form 3 found themselves transported to East London, unraveling a High Rise Mystery, while Form 4 explored immigration and migration through the novel Windrush Child. Form 5 ventured into the mystical world of David Almond’s Skellig, and Form 6 embarked on a rapid journey through 20th-century sci-fi and dystopia, tying these narratives to their historical studies of the Cold War and the Space Race. The integration of English with the rest of their curriculum wherever possible breathed life into these stories, providing students with a deeper understanding of the themes and contexts.
The Summer Term brought with it the tensest event of the year: the Spelling Bee. With stellar performances across all year groups, the competition reached new heights this year. The Junior Bee was particularly intense, lasting a record-breaking hour and a half before Ariana H-B emerged victorious. In the Middle Bee, after navigating tricky words like ‘government,’ ‘constitution,’ and ‘acquire,’ Seb L clinched the cup with the word ‘comfortable,’ though I imagine he felt anything but!
The Senior cup saw Annabel L and James C locked in a thrilling head-to-head battle, with James finally triumphing with the fitting word ‘achievement.’
Our Senior year groups wrapped up the year with topics that tied their lessons in English particularly well to their historical and humanities themes. Form 6 dived into Shakespeare’s world, complementing their EnglishHistory trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, where they saw a performance of The Tempest at the RSC theatre.
Form 3 also explored The Tempest, aligning their studies with Humanities topics on rivers and oceans. Form 4 continued their interdisciplinary journey under the theme of justice and human rights, focusing on the Suffragettes’ mission. Meanwhile, Form 5 travelled back to Anglo-Saxon times, delving into Beowulf, and, for some, challenging themselves by tackling extracts in the original Old English.
As we reflect on a year packed with learning and adventure, we in the English Department are reminded of the power of interdisciplinary education to enrich our students’ understanding of literature and of their world. Here’s to another year of exploration, excitement, and endless possibilities in the English Department and— more importantly—beyond!
Lucy Goldman and Freya Ridley-DeMonick
SPELLING BEE SENIOR WINNERS
SPELLING BEE MIDDLE WINNERS
SPELLING BEE JUNIOR WINNERS
French
The highlight of the year in the French Department is always the Form 5 trip to Normandy. Coming in September, it lays a strong foundation for the children to build upon in the syllabus we cover during the final two years of French. These two years are challenging, as grammar concepts become increasingly difficult and a greater extension of productive language is expected.
However, by the end of Form 6, children are capable of speaking and writing in three tenses, describing themselves and others, recounting holidays (past and future), as well as discussing life at home and school.
The results achieved this year by Form 6 were very good, and it is always encouraging to see such excellent results rounding off their time at Ashfold at a high level.
Lower down the school, the focus remains on building confidence with the language. This starts purely through speaking in Pre-Prep, then progresses to introducing writing and basic grammar understanding in the Junior years, followed by exploring more technical aspects of grammar and advancing from sentence-level work to paragraphs in Forms 3 and 4.
Experimenting with language and making mistakes are key to learning a new language, and Ashfold children are very receptive. The supportive environment they create in the classroom is central to this. We are always looking for ways to expand the children’s exposure to languages, and this year we continued to do so by introducing Form 5 to German, following their introduction to Spanish last year.
Owen Venables
Geography
The geographical year began, as it traditionally does, with the Form 6 field trip in September. The trip was highly successful, with everyone collecting data brilliantly and even (sort of) going to sleep when asked at the end of a busy day. The year concluded with an outstanding set of exam results, including several grades at A*—well done to all the pupils for their effort. In Form 5, things were back to normal in the classroom. The pupils investigated earthquakes and volcanoes, practising “Drop, Cover, Hold” in response to a siren and making key decisions to save lives in a simulation of the volcanic eruption on the island of Montserrat. The annual trip to the Olympic Park went smoothly, and the students embraced the challenge of speaking to members of the public to gather information about the legacy left by the London Olympics. With migration being a prominent topic in the UK news, it was a valuable opportunity for the children to learn why people may want to come and live in the UK and the often very challenging situations they have left behind. Geography in the news!
Form 4 embraced a brand-new cross-curricular themed curriculum. They learned about the causes, effects, and solutions to climate change and global warming, bringing many ideas from this topic into their November presentations, which linked Geography, History, TPR, and English. More geography in the news! They were also introduced to the concepts of migration and push/ pull factors, which informed their Spring essays about people on the move. Some things remained the same, including locational knowledge of the British Isles and Europe, core OS map skills, and the creation of an excellent set of class presentations on various European countries, which are now displayed in the classroom.
Form 3 continued to learn about rivers and oceans, focusing particularly on how erosion alters landscapes and creates features such as waterfalls and oxbow lakes. The trip to the River and Rowing Museum in Henley returned after a closure for renovations. This year, we were treated to some incredible technology where contours showing height were projected onto a tray of sand. As the sand was moved by the children, the contours changed, allowing them to see how different landscapes are represented on maps.
Richard Parsons
History
It was all change for Form 4 this year as we introduced a new cross-curricular approach to Humanities. The three topics studied were specifically chosen to align with the books being read each term in English lessons. There were also numerous links with what was being taught in TPR, Geography, and their IPQ lessons.
Built into each term were new forms of assessment, including a group presentation in the Autumn, judged by a panel of teachers, and an extended essay in the Spring term, using new technology provided by the ISEB. The Summer term featured more familiar-style exams, but also a new assessment focused on their contributions to the term’s Festival of Justice. The first new topic in the Autumn was a massive one: the Industrial Revolution. The children explored what life in England was like before the major changes that began in the late 18th century, then learned all about steam engines and more. A trip to the Black Country Museum gave them a taste of what it was like to live in an industrial town surrounded by factories, workshops, and canals.
In the Spring, we examined migrations throughout history, which linked perfectly with the English novel Windrush Child. Tales of the Irish Potato Famine and the Pilgrim Fathers were well-received before we focused on the migration of people from the Caribbean to the UK after World War II.
In the Summer Term, one of my favourite-ever topics, the women’s suffrage movement, captivated the children as they learned about the different ways Suffragists and Suffragettes campaigned for the vote. The tragic tale of Emily Davison and the 1913 Derby, as well as some of the Suffragettes’ less deadly methods of gaining publicity, were highlights. This provided excellent background for the Festival of Justice, where the children collaborated on campaigns for causes close to their hearts. Form 4 had a shorter History exam this summer, but the results showed how much they had absorbed.
Huge congratulations to Rhys, Fen, and James, who made it to the final of the Oratory History Competition. We spent a fun day learning about real tennis and participating in a history investigation. Rhys’s PowerPoint on Lucius Superbus won first prize, beating entries from seven other schools.
Form 5 learned about Queen Elizabeth I, starting with her sad but privileged childhood. They studied Mary, Queen of Scots, and her rivalry with Elizabeth. They explored the Spanish Armada invasion and could describe in detail why Philip II launched his daring plan and why it failed. Elizabeth’s growing empire and prosperity came at a great cost, particularly during their study of the slave trade, which was just beginning in the late 16th century. As with many Form 5 groups before them, they enjoyed creating a warning leaflet about “sturdy beggars,” a group of people who found many ways to trick others out of their money in Elizabethan England. Their year concluded with an in-depth look at the Gunpowder Plot and a thorough revision for their summer exams. To say Form 5 are keen historians would be an understatement!
Form 6 began their final year of History at Ashfold by studying a pandemic. This is the first time we have focused on the Black Death since Covid-19 turned all our lives upside-down. It was fascinating to see how much more relatable the children found this topic. Of course, they relished the gruesome descriptions of symptoms (such as buboes and pus) and saw parallels between the measures taken in the 1340s and the steps we took just a few years ago to curb the spread of the pandemic. They were surprised to learn that while the consequences of the Black Death were mostly negative, there were some positive outcomes for those who survived.
In the Spring, we began a lengthy study of the first 20 years of the Cold War. This topic dovetailed nicely with our reading of several post-war sci-fi texts in English. The topic has also gained relevance as relations between Russia and the West have deteriorated over the last few years. The children rose to the challenge of grappling with demanding ideas and complex events such as the Berlin Blockade, the Korean War, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. They were introduced to key historical figures such as Stalin, Khrushchev, and JFK. They also enjoyed learning about the Space Race and took a deep dive into the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.
The Cold War topic is often taught at GCSE, and I hope those who go on to study History in their senior schools will have a head start on achieving top marks in their exams.
The Summer Term ended, as always, with revision and exams. I was very pleased with how well this keen and hard-working group performed in their final History assessment. Selecting the recipient of the History Cup was challenging, but Fran edged out the competition for her consistent commitment and enthusiasm over many years. I look forward to hearing about all of Form 6’s future success at GCSE!
Adrian Downie
Maths
Solving problems is a practical art, like swimming, skiing, or playing the piano: you can learn it only through imitation and practice.
George Pólya
The teaching of Maths continues to evolve at Ashfold. Throughout the school, there has been a commitment to the NACE recommendation that places emphasis on high expectations and high-quality, challenging teaching for all. The needs of more able learners are met largely through quality-first teaching with an ethos of teaching to the top. This is supplemented, extended, and enriched as needed by focused interventions, co-curricular activities, and further opportunities. It is essential to remember that while co-curricular opportunities are important in identifying and further developing abilities and talents, they are not the mainstay of provision for more able and challenged learners. The careful crafting and implementation of the curriculum will effectively provide for more able learners and, as a result, increase levels of challenge for all.
Children of all ages have particularly enjoyed the focus on problem-solving. Solving problems is a practical art, like swimming, skiing, or playing the piano: you can learn it only through imitation and practice. As George Polya said, if you wish to become a problem solver, you must solve problems. To become skilled and confident, pupils need opportunities to apply their thoughts and ideas, solving problems with teacher support and guidance. This builds awareness of problem-solving strategies and gives them the confidence to meet future challenges.
Opportunities to develop pupils’ problem-solving abilities occur in most Maths lessons, not just in stand-alone problems. Pupils will become more confident problem solvers when they are asked more frequently to use and explain problem-solving strategies.
Ashfold children enjoy working independently and collaboratively. Form 6 teamed up with some of the Form 1 children for some Maths lessons, which proved popular and beneficial to all involved. The younger children also enjoyed hearing about coding and its link with Mathematics, and next year, we look forward to taking some of the older children to Bletchley Park to explore this firsthand. Fractions are always a great topic when teamed up with chocolate (any excuse for Ms Goldsmith!), making the lesson far more memorable.
The Olympic Games also provided ample opportunity for stretch and challenge work. Forms 1-3 have continued to use online tools to aid their learning and eagerly anticipate their Mathletics lessons. The whole school gets excited each week at assembly to see if anyone has become a Rock Legend on their times tables, and most improved Rock Heroes and Rock Stars are also celebrated.
The Junior Maths Challenge is a particular focus for the top-performing children in Forms 5 and 6. This year, three Form 5 boys achieved Gold Certificates, and two were invited to participate in the follow-up round, which was a huge achievement. In total, students received 3 gold, 6 silver, and 14 bronze certificates.
All the students in Form 6 should be congratulated for their outstanding CE results in June, with 75% of those sitting it (excluding those going for academic scholarships) achieving A or A* grades. Building students’ confidence with numbers is a key focus for the teachers at Ashfold, and they should all feel confident in their mathematical abilities as they head to their next schools.
Amanda Goldsmith
Science
This year has been defined by innovation and change in the Science Department. In the Autumn Term, we welcomed a new team. I took over as Head of Science, succeeding Mr Frise, while Mrs Lloyd became our permanent Physics teacher, and Mr Sturt joined as our new Chemistry teacher. We are fortunate to have specialist teaching in all the sciences. Additionally, Mrs Suz Dryden, took on the role of lab technician and tutor, ensuring the smooth running of practical activities and providing invaluable support in senior science lessons. It has been a privilege to work with such a talented and dedicated team, and this year has seen the launch of several exciting initiatives.
One of the highlights of the Autumn Term was our first “Night Under the Stars.” A group of 6th Form students collaborated with the Bedford Astronomical Society and Bedford School’s astronomer in residence, Mr Linton Guise, for an unforgettable evening.
The students explored the night sky using a bespoke planetarium and observatory, followed by pizza and snacks in the boarding house for a true sixth form experience. Next year, we hope to host an Ashfold-based Night Under the Stars event for seniors, building on the success of this initiative.
In January, we launched the Science Ambassadors programme, offering senior pupils with a passion for science the opportunity to mentor their peers. These 6th Form students applied for the role and worked with younger students who needed help with certain topics. The Ambassadors planned practical activities and learning sessions to support their peers while gaining special access to advanced science experiments. This initiative has been a huge success, with the Ambassadors leading by example and achieving outstanding grades in their final exams.
World Book Day also had a strong science focus this year. The department engaged students with thematic lessons based on George’s Marvellous Medicine, with explosions and experiments bringing the story to life. Mr Sturt and I managed to stay in character for most of the day! It was an exciting way to link literacy with science, and the day was filled with fun and learning.
Mrs Lloyd has been instrumental in developing our More Able Pupil science programme. She led senior students through projects focusing on light, including building pinhole cameras and exploring photographic methods. This initiative has expanded the horizons of our most capable scientists, giving them the tools to deepen their understanding of key concepts.
In the Summer Term, we aimed to make the study of life cycles more tangible for both senior and younger students. Mrs Lloyd brought in chicks from her farm, allowing the senior pupils to study the life cycle of chickens up close. The Pre-Prep children were also invited into the lab to meet the chicks, sparking joy and curiosity among the younger pupils. This hands-on experience enriched the learning of all involved.
Our school grounds have provided excellent opportunities for practical biology lessons. Form 4 pupils conducted flower dissections with great skill, while Form 2 and Form 4 students explored our lake which has been revitalised, with more dragonflies, tadpoles, and frogs than ever before. Without fish as top predators, we have seen a greater diversity of life, making the lake a thriving ecosystem once again.
The 6th Form students performed exceptionally well in their exams, with around half achieving A grades or higher. Many of these students scored above 80%, securing A* grades. Their hard work and dedication throughout the year were truly impressive, setting a high bar for future cohorts.
This year, I had the opportunity to present the Science Department’s progress to the governing body’s academic committee. The committee, which includes esteemed educators from Radley College, Summer Fields, and St. Edward’s, Oxford, praised our efforts to raise academic standards and develop an ambitious plan for the future, including the construction of a new science laboratory.
The department has also undergone several internal and external observations. John Sparks, our academic governor, focused on how well we meet the needs of able pupils. I am pleased to report that he was impressed by the quality of teaching and the students’ work, whether it was junior pupils studying vertebrate classification or seniors grappling with complex physics concepts. His feedback confirmed that we are on the right track in preparing our students for their future educational journeys.
Looking ahead, we are excited to unveil our new science lab in the Autumn Term 2024. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as my base for teaching, as well as a hub for the More Able Pupil programme and Q Club.
The lab’s amphitheatre layout reflects modern teaching approaches, designed to engage all students and raise the bar for learning. We are committed to blending the best of tradition with contemporary, adaptive education, ensuring that Ashfold continues to provide a world-class science education.
Simon Smith
TPR
Celebrating TPR: Exploring Theology, Philosophy, and Religion
At Ashfold, Theology, Philosophy, and Religion (TPR) is more than just a subject; it’s a journey of exploration, understanding, and critical thinking. From Form 4 to Form 6 our students delve into important issues and areas of belief, with each year group focusing on unique and profound topics.
Form 4: Connecting TPR with the Humanities
Form 4 students have made remarkable strides in connecting their TPR studies with other Humanities subjects. This interdisciplinary approach broadens their understanding of religious and philosophical ideas. One fascinating area of study has been religious journeys. Students have explored why people embark on pilgrimages, such as to Mecca or the Holy Land, recognising these journeys as both physical and spiritual quests for meaning.
Environmental responsibility has also been a critical issue for Form 4 students as they investigated how various religions view the stewardship of the earth. From the Christian concept of stewardship to the Buddhist principle of interdependence, students discovered that caring for our planet is a common thread across many faiths.
Additionally, they examined how religious beliefs have underpinned civil rights movements throughout history. Learning about figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and Rosa Parks helped students appreciate the powerful role faith has played in driving social change. This gave them a deeper understanding of how TPR can influence and impact society.
Form 5: Delving into Moral Philosophy
Form 5 students have been engaged with moral philosophy, exploring how we make moral decisions. They examined two prominent theories: utilitarianism and virtue theory. Utilitarianism, which suggests that the best action is the one that maximises overall happiness, led to thought-provoking class discussions. Students debated real-world scenarios, weighing the outcomes of different actions to determine which would result in the greatest good.
In contrast, virtue theory focuses on the character of the decision-maker rather than the consequences of their actions. This approach, which emphasises virtues like courage, respect, and kindness, aligns well with our school’s focus on the ‘Ashfold Values’. Form 5 students discussed how cultivating these virtues leads to a morally good life, exploring examples of virtuous individuals throughout history and today.
Through these philosophical explorations, students came to understand that moral decisions are complex and multifaceted. By considering different ethical frameworks they are better equipped to navigate the challenging moral landscape of the modern world.
Form 6: The Philosophical Debate on God’s Existence
Form 6 students have tackled some of philosophy’s most profound and enduring questions, including arguments for and against the existence of God. They explored traditional arguments such as the cosmological argument, which posits that everything that exists must have a cause, ultimately leading to the necessity of a first cause—often identified as God.
The teleological argument, or the argument from design, suggests that the complexity and order of the universe imply a purposeful designer. However, students also examined the problem of evil, a significant challenge to theistic beliefs.
This argument questions how an all-powerful, all-knowing, and benevolent God can allow evil and suffering to exist.
By engaging with these arguments, students learn to critically analyse and articulate their own beliefs, as well as appreciate differing perspectives.
A Journey of Discovery
Through TPR, our students aren’t just learning about theology, philosophy, and religion; they are engaging with the world around them in meaningful ways. Whether it’s connecting religious beliefs to historical movements, grappling with ethical dilemmas, or debating the existence of God, they are developing critical thinking skills and gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives that shape our world. This journey of discovery is something we proudly celebrate at Ashfold.
Anthony Macpherson
Learning Support
Every star shines a little differently. “
The 2023-24 academic year has seen another period of individualised learning plans, group interventions, and Key Skills lessons within the Learning Support Department.
Our Key Skills classes for Forms 3-6 focused on consolidating essential areas of English and Maths. In Form 3, lessons centred on spelling patterns and rules, punctuation, grammar, reading, and comprehension. A deeper exploration of reading skills allowed us to emphasise inference, summarising, and expanding vocabulary.
In Form 4, the Key Skills class made use of an online Mathematics programme to reinforce skills. Writing skills were improved through planning and proofreading techniques, with an emphasis on spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
For Form 5, exam feedback provided a foundation for improvement. Lessons focused on reflecting on feedback and moving forward in English and Maths. Key areas included reading for inference, identifying evidence to support answers, and refining writing through planning and editing.
Mathematics lessons used an interactive programme, allowing for a more tailored approach to consolidating concepts.
Form 6 pupils focused on study skills and exam techniques. Lessons often involved lively discussions, and individual projects gave students the chance to research and present information to their peers, who provided feedback. It was a privilege to support many of these pupils over the years, and their reflections underscore our department’s efforts:
• ‘I have learned how to manage the time in exams.’
• ‘I can work on things that I need to work on.’
• ‘I learned how to not get too stressed in exams
• ‘I have loved our little groups every week.’
• ‘I enjoyed Key Skills because it was always a safe place to speak freely, relax and learn.’
In the Junior Department, our support has been focused on pupils identified through assessments with individualised learning plans. These plans addressed classroom needs, focusing on reading fluency, text exploration, expanding vocabulary, and writing with purpose. In Maths, breaking down worded problems helped enhance understanding.
In Pre-Prep, our 1:1 support included segmenting and blending phonemes, recognising high-frequency words, and improving handwriting and fine motor skills. Lego therapy groups added a fun, engaging way to improve listening, turn-taking, and group collaboration.
We are fortunate to benefit from the expertise of visiting professionals like our Paediatric Occupational Therapist, Mia, and Speech and Language Therapist, Chris. Mia notes:
“Occupational Therapy is about assessing skills in day-to-day life and enhancing independence. I visit Ashfold weekly and help students with writing, typing, motor skills, sensory strategies, and emotional regulation. It’s always a pleasure to visit such a supportive school with an excellent SEN department.”
Our team of Teaching Assistants (TAs) continue to provide invaluable 1:1 and small group support within classrooms. Their care, sensitivity, and proactive approach help ensure that pupils can transfer skills taught in Learning Support to the wider school environment.
Christina Marsh
More Able Pupils
The rising tide lifts all ships
At Ashfold, we are committed to nurturing every child, including those with exceptional abilities. Our More Able Pupils Programme is designed to challenge and support gifted learners, helping them reach their full potential across academics, co-curricular activities, and essential life skills.
Our teachers work closely with pupils identified as More Able, setting personalised targets that ensure continual growth. For older pupils, scholarship programmes and masterclasses extend their knowledge beyond the standard curriculum. All students have access to resources and experiences designed to stretch and inspire them.
Q Club
From Form 3, More Able Pupils are invited to join Q Club (open to all interested, invitation or not!) where they engage in activities, discussions, and talks that challenge their thinking.
This year, our speakers covered diverse topics, including AI, aesthetics, dancing, disability, life in the military, medicine, paleontology, propaganda, film industry work, and climate change.
A highlight of the year was the Q Club trips: Forms 3 and 4 visited the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford to study the ivory trade, and Forms 5 and 6 took on tricky chemistry challenges at Stowe’s science department.
Academic Vision and the Masters of Challenge Award
This year, we introduced our four academic core values, forming the backbone of our Academic Vision:
• AMBITIOUS: Encouraging students to set high goals and strive for excellence.
• CURIOUS: Fostering a natural inquisitiveness to explore and understand the world.
• RESILIENT: Embracing challenges as growth opportunities, building confidence and perseverance.
• INDEPENDENT: Equipping learners with the skills to think and act independently, preparing them for the future.
We also launched the Challenge Council, allowing Prep pupils to voice their opinions on classroom challenges and support, alongside the Masters of Challenge Award for both Pre-Prep and Prep, celebrating those who consistently demonstrate our academic values.
National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE) Challenge Award
A significant highlight this year was being awarded the prestigious Challenge Award from NACE, recognising our commitment to academic excellence and providing exceptional education for all, particularly our More Able Pupils. This accolade reflects the hard work of our staff and pupils, who embraced changes that led to this achievement. We are proud of this milestone and will continue to strive for excellence, aiming for reaccreditation in three years.
The NACE report praised Ashfold’s “exceptional provision for its pupils both within and beyond the classroom” and highlighted our school as “highly aspirational for its pupils,” with a shared vision for more able learners among all stakeholders.
Our More Able Pupils Programme is closely linked to our broader mission: fostering a love of learning and a pursuit of excellence for all. By offering a personalised and challenging approach to education, we ensure every child is nurtured, inspired, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Freya Ridley-DeMonick
Sport
Autumn Term
The Autumn Term began with scorching temperatures, where we had to limit activity in games sessions due to the heat, and ended with the children bundled up against the cold, with nearly every type of weather in between.
Hockey remained the main sport for the girls, and we welcomed Mrs Candy, Miss Baxendale, and Mrs Mather to the coaching team. The girls trained diligently all term and achieved a high standard of hockey. It was particularly notable how many goals were scored this season, reflecting the attacking style of hockey we aim for at Ashfold. The Senior A Team played some excellent hockey, using the full width of the pitch to exploit space. In the House competition, Gryphons emerged as the winners.
For the boys, rugby took centre stage in the Autumn, with our ongoing link with Chinnor Rugby Club, and we were pleased to welcome Mr Passman to coach the U8 and U11 teams. We continue to adapt our training and matches to ensure all boys can participate, including those less confident with the contact elements of the game. The 1st XIII played an exciting brand of rugby, with several games coming down to the final moments. Their perseverance in each match was commendable. The inter-house rugby competition was won by Dragons.
Spring Term
What a frustrating term! It seemed like every week we were crossing our fingers for the weather to cooperate with our fixtures. Even hockey, typically reliable on Astro, fell victim to torrential rain. Despite the challenges, the children trained hard and with enthusiasm. Netball remains a firm favourite with the girls, who worked diligently on their skills throughout the term.
This year, the girls enjoyed weekly football sessions during half of the Autumn Term and throughout the Spring, culminating in matches for some age groups. It was great to see their skill development, with growing confidence and comfort in the sport. House netball was won by Gryphons.
For the boys, Spring Term is always busy, with both hockey and football on the schedule. Plenty of goals were scored across both sports, with a focus on playing with width and energy. The 1st VII hockey team had a particularly successful season, qualifying for the IAPS Nationals after finishing as runners-up in their qualifying tournament. House hockey was won by Lions, and Dragons took the honours in football.
The Wigan Run
The last week of the Spring Term saw the traditional cross-country competition, which remains a highlight of the school year. Due to the extremely wet weather, a course change was necessary as the off-site fields were too boggy. This adjustment created a corridor across the front of the school, enhancing the atmosphere for the runners. As always, there were fantastic displays of resilience and camaraderie, showcasing what Ashfold values are all about. Well done to everyone who took part.
WINNERS
• Junior Boys: Jack S
• Junior Girls: Charlotte H
• Middle Boys: Arthur B
• Middle Girls: Dési H
• Senior Boys: Josh H
• Senior Girls: Eva B
Summer Term
The Summer Term started miserably for cricket, with many games cancelled due to rain, making it a slow start to the season. Thankfully, our new outdoor astro nets and the astro wicket in the Walled Garden were crucial in keeping hardball cricket going during the first half of the term. It was fantastic to see both the Senior A and U11 A girls playing hardball cricket in all their matches, showing that girls’ cricket is now fully established at Ashfold. Special mention goes to Josh H-S, who scored over 50 in 4 out of 5 innings and was only out once – an incredible achievement. The house cricket competition was won by Dragons.
Athletics
To provide more opportunities for summer sports, children could choose a different sport for one session per week, with options including athletics, swimming, tennis, and netball.
Our Athletics squad (photos above) did extremely well with wins at the athletics meets against other schools.
Sports Day
As ever, Sports Day provided another opportunity for the school to come together in a supportive environment and take part in friendly competition. It was a truly entertaining day, with fantastic support for the houses and great effort from all the children in their races.
Huge congratulations to all the winners and to the Dragons for claiming the House Cup – see photos on the next page!
New Track Event Records
• U9 Boys 600m – Jack S
• U9 Boys 50m – JJ F
• Middle Girls 70m Hurdles – Thea A
• Senior Girls 50m, 100m & 200m – Eva B
• Senior Boys 75m Hurdles – Josh H-S
New Field Event Records
• U8 Boys Javelin – Max H
• Middle Girls High Jump – Jessie E
• Middle Girls Javelin – Betty B
• Senior Girls High Jump – Eva B
Cup Winners
• Cherry Cup U8 Girls – Mackenzie S
• How Cup U8 Boys – Sam E
• Junior Girls Cup U9 Girls – Rosie E
• Dawes Cup U9 Boys – JJ F
• Middle Girls Cup – Desi H & Lottie S
• Cutler Cup Middle Boys – Arthur B
• Senior Victrix Ludorum – Eva B
• Senior Victor Ludorum – Josh H-S
National and Regional Prep Schools Athletics
Once again, Eva B and Josh H-S headed to Bedford to compete in the East Area Prep Schools Athletics Championships, performing exceptionally well against tough competition. Josh narrowly missed qualification for the Nationals, placing 3rd in the 80m hurdles, while Eva excelled by qualifying in both the U14 200m and Long Jump. At the Nationals, Eva achieved an incredible 2nd place in the U14 200m final with a personal best time and placed 8th in the Long Jump. Fantastic achievements by two outstanding athletes!
Swimming
The children have thoroughly enjoyed swimming in the pool during both PE lessons and activity sessions. One of the standout events of the sporting calendar was the inter-house swimming competition, won this year by Gryphons. Every child enjoyed competing in their events and the House relay, showing superb teamwork and spirit.
Our swim squad, pictured above, represented Ashfold with distinction in a swimming gala against other schools. The whole team swam exceptionally well, securing numerous wins across all events!
Special recognition goes to Sophia, Fran, Lottie, Florence, Jenson, Chelsea, and Seb for their outstanding individual achievements in club competitions this year.
Tennis
This Summer Term, it has been wonderful to watch the children developing their tennis skills and enjoying weekly sessions.
They have shown tremendous improvement in their ground strokes, serves, volleys, and court mobility, reflecting their enthusiasm for the sport.
A special mention goes to Elizabeth V for yet another fantastic year of tennis, with numerous impressive wins. Her exceptional skill and dedication have been an inspiration to the younger children.
Triathlon
This summer, the children demonstrated great skill and determination in swimming, biking, and running as they prepared for upcoming competitions, culminating in outstanding performances at the Stowe Triathlon.
A special mention goes to Seb L for his exceptional performances throughout the British Triathlon South Central Series, securing an impressive 3rd place in his region for Male Tri Star 1.
Equestrian
The Equestrian team has had a fantastic year, with enthusiastic participation from pupils across Pre-Prep to Form 6. Highlights included our annual visit to the Horse of the Year Show, numerous team and individual placings at NSEA Shows at Bury Farm, and successful qualification for the Regional Championships. Pupils also competed in the Marsh Gibbon Pony Show and a variety of other events, showcasing their passion and dedication.
A special congratulations to our leading rider, Eva B, who was awarded a Sports scholarship to Bloxham School—a brilliant achievement!
Sarah Morley
Dance
Dance lessons and masterclasses have flourished at Ashfold this year, inspiring both girls and boys across the school to embrace the joy of movement and rhythm.
Children across both Pre-Prep and Prep School have taken part in a diverse selection of dance genres, from the elegance of Ballet and the rhythmic footwork of Tap to the lively steps of Irish Dance and the energetic moves of Street Dance. Each genre brings its own unique challenges and joys, and our students have embraced the various styles and techniques.
Dance at Ashfold is a great source of creative expression, fitness, and confidence. As we look forward to the year ahead, we are excited to see how these young dancers will continue to grow in their love for dance.
Golf
It’s been fantastic to see Cecily and Jemima embracing golf with such enthusiasm this year! Golf has offered them not only a new athletic challenge but also a chance to develop focus, patience, and precision. We’re looking forward to watching their skills continue to grow and seeing more budding golfers take to the green next year.
Gymnastics
Congratulations to all the gymnasts who competed in this year’s Christmas Gymnastics Competition! The event was a fantastic celebration of the hard work and dedication our children have shown in their PE lessons. The children showed great creativity, confidence, and strong performance skills, making it a memorable event for all.
GYMNASTICS COMPETITION RESULTS
Forms 1 and 2
• Winner – Bea K
• 2nd Place – Izzy W and Beatrice H
• 3rd Place – Cecily W, Lottie H, Esme J and Fenella T
• Greatest Difficulty – Wills W
• Best Roll – Delphi M
• Best Balance – Arya S
• Flexibility – Ottilie B
• Most Creative – Lillian M
• Best Cartwheel – Sophie H
• Team Work – Maxwell T
• Fluency – Rosie E
Forms 3 and 4
• Winners – Orla H and Bobby B
• 1st Individual Performance – Aurelia C
• 1st Boy Group – Jack, Zac, Albert and Cam
• 2nd Place – Lara A and Francesca A
• 3rd Place – Olivia S and Freya S
• Best Synchronisation – Bobby B and Orla H
• Best Roll – Anoushka P
• Best Balance – Florence F
• Fluency and Control – Finlay H
• Most Creative – James, Arthur, Henry and Archie
• Best Cartwheel – Lara A
• Artistry and Elevation – Olivia S
A special mention to Sophie E, who impressed with a last-minute solo showcasing excellent improvisation, and to Lottie S, who stepped in at short notice.
Huge congratulations also go to Arabella, Wills, and Sophie for their remarkable individual victories throughout the year. Their achievements truly reflect their commitment to excellence and perseverance.
Shooting
The shooting range has seen tremendous activity throughout the year, with an increase in participants, especially during the Summer Term, thanks to Mr Sturt earning his Range Conducting Officer qualification. This has allowed us to introduce more children to the discipline of shooting, with a special focus on nurturing novice shooters this year. Well done to all our young shooters for their accomplishments, particularly those who achieved Standards and Hall of Fame entries.
A special mention goes to Alexander, who represented Ashfold in the National IAPS Clay Shooting Finals in the U11 category. Competing solo against full teams from top prep schools across the South, Alexander displayed exceptional skill, resilience, and bravery, finishing an impressive 4th out of 38 participants—just one point shy of the bronze medal. We’re incredibly proud of Alexander’s performance.
Boarding
We have had another fantastic year on The Boarding Wing. Numbers of boarders have continued to rise, with more and more children experiencing this unique and joyful part of the school.
The year kicked off with a burst of energy as the Boarders embraced their first Halloween Boarding night. Decked out in a riot of costumes, from ghouls to superheroes, students eagerly took on “Taskmaster”-inspired challenges that filled the mansion with laughter and friendly competition. Apple bobbing and flour dipping became instant favourites, drawing cheers and roars of encouragement from every corner of the dorms.
Adding to the excitement, Form 5 and 6 students ventured to Hollywood Bowl for the annual bowling showdown. Amidst fierce rivalry and thunderous strikes, Max emerged triumphant, hoisting the coveted “Tenpin” trophy to the delight of his peers. As the Spring Term began and the dark evenings set in, the Mansion became a hub of activity in the evenings. Students revelled in games like “Spotlight,” “Hide and Seek,” and the thrilling “Murder in the Mansion,” transforming every corridor and secret nook into playgrounds of mystery and excitement. These games not only entertained but also helped integrate new Gap Year students into the community, forging bonds that would endure well beyond the season.
With the arrival of the Summer Term, the school grounds could finally be used in their full glory. The warmer days brought opportunities for swimming and outdoor adventures, and the Form 3 and 4 pupils enjoyed their trip to Hollywood Bowl.
However, the highlight of the term was undoubtedly the annual Boarding Campout. A vibrant sea of 84 tents dotted the grounds as students savoured pizza, slid down slip and slides, and raced along the 85ft inflatable obstacle course.
As dusk settled, the crackle of the campfire drew Form 6 pupils together for a moment to unwind and reflect, sharing stories and perhaps shedding a tear or two.
As the year has ended, it would be remiss not to mention the Form 6 leavers, who have been the most wonderful senior boarders. With their supportive and engaging leadership each event, from spirited competitions to serene campfire chats, has drawn the boarding pupils together, creating a true family atmosphere.
Amelia Franklin
Charity
A massive thank you to the Ashfold community for their incredible generosity and support in raising funds for a range of important charities this year. Here’s a look at the amazing totals raised for each charity: Just One Tree: £364.41, Action Duchenne: £2851.20, Silver Star Maternity Unit: £418.45, Alopecia UK: £458.82 and Blue Cross: £584.10
This year’s brilliant Charity Committee was comprised of Ethan K, Fran B, Clem J, Max P, Maxima L, Izzy S, Thea D, Jessica E, Fen M, Charlotte M, Sophia B, Aurelia C, Emilia M, Issy P, Braedon G, Lotty M, Millie D, Ciara C, Alice W, Sophie E, Lotty H, Rosie E, Esme J, Matilda B, Sophie H, Orla B, Raphy I, Charlotte B, Athena W, Amaya F, Izzy W, George E, Lilian M, and William R. They made a huge impact, and their efforts were a wonderful celebration of community, encompassing both Ashfold and the OSCAR communities.
Some committee members had the unique opportunity to join the OSCAR children in a dance session with Brendon Cole and even enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime trip to meet the Prime Minister and his wife, Akshata Murti, at a reception at No. 10 Downing Street. The whole school engaged in an assembly and a mixed football match, creating a fantastic atmosphere on a beautiful Indian Summer day. Form 5 students collaborated and learned Hindi with the OSCAR children, while the Junior Hockey group swapped sports and were coached by the OSCAR boys.
The committee’s next task was to choose a main charity for the year. After 17 charities were presented by members of the Charity Committee, a vote was held, and Action Duchenne was selected. This small but significant charity, with a vision to improve the lives of those with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, became our main focus. Events such as Christmas Jumper Day, the Christmas Fayre, retiring collections, and Spring Discos all raised money for Action Duchenne. Victoria Edwards, a senior community fundraiser and support officer, spoke to the school assembly about the impact
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy has on around 2,500 boys in the UK. The Junior Department also enjoyed a fascinating workshop with the Action Duchenne scientific team, learning about the science behind the condition.
The Charity Committee has been endlessly positive and up for every challenge. They diligently researched toys for the Christmas stall, packed sweets for discos, and baked cakes for the Blue Cross cake sale. Their enthusiasm, commitment, and participation were outstanding, with a 92% attendance rate at the new Spring Discos. A special mention goes to Francesca B and Clem J, who were the backbone of the committee, never missing a meeting and going above and beyond to ensure the year’s success, alongside the rest of the amazing Form 6 members: Ethan K and Max P.
Huge congratulations also go to the Form 6 Dragons’ Den teams, who collectively raised and donated an impressive £1,000 to Action Duchenne.
Outside of school, here are just a few of the children who have continued their philanthropic efforts: Sophia B’s Swimathon raised £500 for Marie Curie and Cancer Research UK, Alice W and Izzy W’s sponsored walk raised £150 for PACE, and Matilda B raised £69.20 for Stokenchurch Dog Rescue by growing and selling cucumber and courgette plants.
A big thank you to everyone for all your incredible charitable efforts this year. Enjoy reliving all the fun moments captured in the photos on the next page! Anna MacIntosh
Ashfold Parents’ Committee
A Record-Breaking Year of Fundraising and Community Spirit
The 2023/24 year has been the Ashfold Parents’ Committee’s most successful fundraising year ever! Our dedicated team of volunteers has worked tirelessly to organise events that bring our community together, including the Fireworks display, Christmas Fayre, Easter Egg Hunt, Sports Day after-party, and family sessions at the swimming pool throughout the summer. The pool sessions were a hit, fully booked for most of the holiday.
Funds raised will support exciting projects at Ashfold, including a new science room and a well-being garden, as well as three external charities: Thame and Aylesbury Food Banks and the Redkite Centre in Thame.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to further connect our community with new events. In September, we’re planning an Open-Air Cinema evening and launching a Friday morning pop-up “Owl Café” in the Pavilion, offering great coffee and delicious cakes—a perfect spot for parents to catch up after drop-off.
Thank you to everyone in our Ashfold community for making this year such a success!
Karen Bennett APC Chair 2023/25
A massive thank you to Karen Bennett and the APC for their brilliant work in so many ways. They are an amazing team who work hard for all of us. The Festival of Flavours was such a magical evening.
Colin MacIntosh
Staff News
So that has been our year. As we come to the end of it, we are sadly saying goodbye to some staff. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Mrs Hill, Mrs Byron, Miss Reynolds, Mrs Carr, and Mr Lovell. Each of them has made a truly significant contribution to Ashfold, and they will be missed dearly by pupils and staff alike.
We extend warm congratulations to Mrs RidleyDeMonick and her husband, Gareth, on the safe arrival of their daughter, Beatrice Serena Wren, and to Mrs Goldman and her husband, Nick, on the birth of Poppy Frances, a little sister to Harry. Both will be missed during their maternity leave, and we look forward to welcoming them back in due course.
At Ashfold, we are especially fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented team. It’s often said that while doctors mend people, teachers shape them.
A school’s greatest asset is its staff, and I thank parents for their unwavering support. I am deeply grateful for our exceptional Ashfold team and am confident that this appreciation is shared. They are immensely hard-working, talented, knowledgeable, and, above all, truly caring.
Colin MacIntosh
Jayne Hill
Jo Byron
Chrystia Reynolds
Sally Carr
Chris Lovell
“ Doctors mend people; teachers shape them.
CLASS OF
2023-2024
This photograph has been reproduced by kind permission of Bentley Photographic and can be ordered online at www.bentleyphoto.com
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