The Beachburian 2024

The Beachburian 2024

The Head’s Welcome...

I am delighted to be writing the introduction to the 2023/24 edition of The Beachburian, which tries, as always, to capture the life of our busy school and community.

As I come to the end of my first year as the new Head, I find myself looking back with a mixture of pride and happiness. I am most proud of the children; they are the very reason for our success. Their desire to inquire, investigate, participate and exercise curiosity is testimony to their own investment in their learning, and they are of course supported by parents who want the very best for them. These are the qualities that make our school an exceptional place.

I am pleased to be part of a learning community that puts the children at the heart of everything we do. Where we all enjoy learning; where we are helpful and polite; strive to achieve and be the best that we can be; treat others and the environment with respect and take responsibility for ourselves and our actions. Where we celebrate the children’s happiness, high academic standards and achievement for all. This edition certainly demonstrates these strengths, and it is remarkable to see and read about the rich tapestry of school life, the events, trips, and activities that make Beachborough so rich and rewarding for both the children and staff.

I am indebted to the staff body for all their hard work this year. The academic

curriculum and challenge that goes with it is delivered in such a way to ensure that the children make the progress they deserve. Our work in terms of pastoral care remains outstanding, as does our enrichment and extra-curricular activities through sport, drama, music, clubs, trips abroad and at home, and much more besides. Developing the whole child, caring for their progress and personal development will always be our paramount concern. All the Beachborough staff place the children’s best interests at the heart of their day-to-day work, teachers work alongside the support staff that are essential for for the running of this fantastic school, they are equally responsible for the children’s success, as they provide the right supportive environment in which the children flourish. On a personal note, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the whole Beachborough community for the support afforded to me throughout this year, it has not been without challenge, but it has been exceptionally rewarding and enriching.

For our community, I hope this yearbook serves as a treasured and memorable record of the events of this year. For readers, that do not yet know our school, I hope this edition will give you a flavour of Beachborough and might excite your curiosity and encourage you to visit us.

With my very best wishes,

Simone Mitchell Head

ROLL OF HONOUR

BOARDMAN HIGHLIGHTS

MANOR HOUSE HIGHLIGHTS ACADEMIC

WELLBEING BOARDING CHARITY

BEACHBOROUGH FRIENDS

Roll of Honour

We must congratulate each and every pupil in FVIII, for gaining entry into their senior school of choice. This is the culmination of years of hard work and we are incredibly proud of them all.

Our 2024 Scholars

HARRISON B. Bloxham

ISLA C-B.

Tudor Hall

Tudor Hall

Tudor Hall

Stowe

Stowe

BETHANY D.

St Edward’s

St Edward’s

ISABELLA G.

Tudor Hall

LUCAS G.

Stowe

FREDDIE H.

Quinton House

GEORGE H. Stowe

THOMAS H. Stowe

Drama Exhibition

Academic Scholarship

Music Scholarship

Drama Scholarship

Music Scholarship

Drama Scholarship

Dance Award

Academic Scholarship

Academic Scholarship

Art Exhibition

Art Scholarship

Roxburgh (Sport)

Sports Scholarship

GABRIEL F. Stowe

JACKIE M. Bloxham

BHIM P. Christ Hospital

ELLIE S. Stowe

JACKSON T. Stowe

THOMAS W. Stowe

Academic Scholarship

Sport Exhibition

Art Exhibition

Art Scholarship

Sport Exhibition

Music Exhibition

Sport Exhibition

Design Scholarship (1st place)

Sport Exhibition

Nursery and Kindergarten

SEPTEMBER: In September, we settled into Nursery and Kindergarten. We got to know our teachers, our classroom, and each other!

“Look how high i am!” - Alex

“Watch how fast I can go!” - Archie

“It feels sticky”Arin

“Look at me... i’m balancing”Clementina

OCTOBER: In October, we had our Beachborough Book Bash! We welcomed Paul Geraghty and explored the story ‘The Giraffe Who Got in a Knot’. We also wore yellow clothes for ‘Hello Yellow'.

“Giraffes have really long necks!”Clemmie

“Look how tall i am!” - Seb

“My tower is so tall” - Connor

“This is a match, look!” - Florence

NOVEMBER: November was the month of important events. We visited the church for Remembrance Day - wearing our poppies and celebrated Diwali.

“Dabbing with the sponge” - Christoper

“Thiis is my diva lamp” - Finn E

“I’m

making a rangoli pattern”George H-C

“That will be £10 please” - Finn P-B

DECEMBER: Our ‘Nursery Rhyme Nativity’ was showcased in December. We worked hard to remember all the songs and where to stand on the stage.

“I’ve ordered the presents!” - Helenka

“I

was so proud to play the role of Mary” - Temi

“I carried the gift to the stable” - Zach

“Look at

my Christmas tree”Hugo P-B

JANUARY: Houses & Homes was our topic for the term. In January, we went on lots of wellie wanders to the village to talk about what materials houses are made from, and made comparisons between different houses.

“As I put it on, it gets whiter and whiter” - Halia

“Grey... Line up for the windows and another” - Irina

“Pecky fingers for Dough Gym”George B

“That’s the window, that’s the door!”Jago

FEBRUARY: February saw us make rock cakes (linked to our Houses and Homes topic) as well as celebrating Chinese New Year with all of Early Years.

“I’m mixing all the ingredients” - Lena

“It’s so tall!” - Luca

“i can jump on two feet” - Nathaniel

“This is my Chinese lantern” - Pippa

MARCH: Signs of spring began to appear around the grounds of Beachborough in March. We explored the homes of animals such as nests for birds and celebrated Easter.

“The chocolate is melting” - Elijah

“I’ve found an egg!” - Elsie

“Look at my stegosaurus”Nathan S

“I’m making a nest” - Alexandra

APRIL: In April, we started our topic ‘Under the Log’. We invited our parents to the forest to help us look for bugs on our Bug Hunt! We also planted sunflower seeds.

“My seeds need water” - Miya

“Look Mummy and Daddy!” - George J

“It’s here!” - Dhruv

“I’ll carry the clipboard” - Saffiya

MAY: Our ‘Wriggle and Crawl’ workshop was a super success in May! We were very brave and met and touched lots of different animals. We also invited our Grandparents to school for a tea party in our Nursery and Kindergarten Garden.

“It feels all scaly”Rupert

“My ladybird drawing” - MiaNour

“One

slice of watermelon” - Hugo

“Look

at this page!” - Lucy

JUNE: In June, the sun shone brightly as we prepared for our Sports Day! We worked hard to remember to run in between the tracks!

“I’m putting shoes on my butterfly”Maya

“Concentrating as i balance my egg” - Isabelle

“I’m reading this story, are you listening?” - Willow

Run Zuko, Run!”

“It feels all cold” - Oliver

Rebecca Plowright and Kelly Andrews

Nursery & Kindergarten Sports Day

Reception

The Reception class of 2023-2024 has been exceptional. We feel privileged to have shared this stage of the children’s learning journey. We are proud to have seen the children grow in their confidence, imagination, and kindness.

The start of a school year always brings such a wonderful insight into each other, through our topic of Super Duper Me! We explored each other likes / dislikes. We found a mutual love of ‘Numberblocks.’ We took great care to learn our environment and those who are available to help and support us within our school community, and within our homes. As part of our topic, we explored our similarities and differences celebrating each other’s unique qualities. We investigated how our bodies grow and celebrated the achievements we have made as we have grown from babies to

children. We discussed the characteristics and actions of being a member of a community and created our very own skills and attitudes to help become our very best selves. In the run up to Christmas, we explored the festivals of light throughout the cultures and closed the autumn term with our fantastic performance of ‘The Nursery Rhyme Nativity’.

This is a magical time of year where the children always exceed expectation, demonstrating to everyone just how far they have grown in confidence and showmanship.

The spring term brought a host of fairytale characters to Beachborough. We started our story telling topic with a fairytale tea party where the children turned to their problem-solving skills. Cinderella needed help

with choosing the correct footwear for her outing with Prince Charming, and Snow White faced her fears of apples and asked the children to help make chocolate apple slices. The old lady from The Gingerbread Man also came to decorate gingerbread men with us. At the end of the session, Little Red Riding Hood played a fairytale quiz, where we had to guess the story from three objects.

Do you know which fairytale these objects are from?

A thunderstorm, a mattress, and a pea.

We developed our STEM skills through looking at the stability of the three pigs’ decisions and attempted to create a house to withstand the Big, Bad Wolves huff and puff (hairdryer). We made predictions on what would happen to the gingerbread man if he did fall into the water, which led to us building bridges and exploring the river system.

We stomped and roared our way towards Easter with dinosaurs. This started with a visit to the Natural History Museum, Oxford. The children learnt how to investigate like a palaeontologist, using their senses to reach conclusions regarding fossils and artifacts. This included describing the fossilised skin of a Triceratops and learning how to measure the height of a dinosaur through their footprint. The fossils included the tail bone of the Iguanodon, the backbone of a Branchiosaurus, and the jaw of a T-Rex. The children were particularly fascinated to learn that fossils were not only bones, but skin and poo too! Mary Anning was a key figure when digging deeper into the discovery of dinosaurs, and let us not forget looking into the extinction of the

dinosaurs through creating volcanoes.

Our summer term saw us discovering the big wide world through the eyes of our family and Beachbrorough friends. The children were beyond surprised to find over 45 postcards had been delivered to the Reception classrooms. The children were super excited to discover where the postcard was from and with the help of Google Earth, we travelled to each location with enthusiasm.

We would like to say a very big thank you to all for sending in your postcards. It was very much appreciated. The children showed a great interest in world monuments, capital cities and discovering the world of flags.

We got to know some of the world’s eco warriors: Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough, through exploring their impact on the world, while also thinking about how we can do our part to save it.

We are incredibly proud of being able to watch the children grow into themselves, building their characters and becoming the best they can be.

Gemma Holloway and Tanya Sumner

Pre-Prep 1

This has been a year full of exciting learning for our Pre-Prep 1 children, who have immersed themselves in topics about trees, toys, and transport.

Our year began with exploring the grounds of Beachborough and learning all about the trees that we found. The children observed the changing seasons carefully and watched as leaves started to change colour and fall. As we started to put our ideas into sentences, our English books started to fill up with work based on Stick Man, Stanley’s Stick and Stuck, where a little boy’s kite gets stuck in a tree and he finds lots of unusual ways to try and get it down! As winter arrived, the children had a taste of the limelight and performed in the Pre-Prep Christmas play ‘A Little Bird Told Me’, singing loudly and performing their dance

routines beautifully.

A new year brought a new topic as our learning centred around toys. The children loved hearing about how toys had changed over time. We had our first trip out of school to visit Banbury Museum, and made our own wooden toys when our classrooms transformed into a toy workshop for the day. The children learned about materials in science and conducted tests to decide which of these materials would be best to make different kinds of toys out of. We created puppets, junk models and observational drawings of toys – and played lots too! At the end of the term, we proudly shared our learning with parents in our class assembly and enjoyed another opportunity to perform in the Whybrow.

We all enjoyed the visit by the author Paul Geraghty for the Boardman Book Bash. He was such an engaging storyteller and we used ideas from his books ‘Tortuga’ and ‘Rotten and Rascal’ to create stories and illustrations of our own.

The summer term has been all about transport. We had an exciting visit to the Motor Museum in Gaydon, where we saw some amazing vehicles including the Queen’s Land Rover and some Formula 1 cars that went very fast! We had a tour of Turweston Aerodrome and saw lots of different planes and helicopters. We have written about Mr Gumpy’s Car, Emma Jane’s Aeroplane, and The Hundred Decker Bus, finishing by inventing our own decks for our very own class bus and making some very tall models!

We have been on a fantastic learning adventure this year with a brilliant group of enthusiastic, imaginative and hard-working pupils, and we know that they will have many more adventures as they head into Pre-Prep 2.

Aimee Rowe and Laura Morle

Pre-Prep 2

The Pre-Prep 2 year has been full of excitement and interest. The children have immersed themselves in a stimulating curriculum that has linked English, Maths, Science, History, Geography and Art, amongst other subjects.

FIRE, FIRE, FIRE!

Our year began with in depth discussions and discovery about the Great Fire of London. The children were visited by none other than the key figures from 1666. Through interviewing the King, the Mayor, Samuel Pepys and the maid, the children consolidated their understanding of how it happened and what happened next. It also made them more curious about life during that time. So, dressed up themselves, they ventured into a ‘History Off the Page’ workshop and learnt how to make candles, discover artefacts, tend to

the wounded, write with quills, eliminate the spread of the fire, and rebuild London. In class, they explored what it would have been like to have lived during that terrifying time in 1666 and wrote diaries to explain and record the events, using powerful adjectives. Our topic continued in the Forest School, where they burnt a variety of aprons to find the best material for a bakers’ apron.

Our Performances

How proud we were of PP2 at Christmas, as they stepped out to lead the performance of ‘A little bird told me’ to a large audience of parents. Their singing could be heard by birds across Westbury.

In March, we invited our parents in again to raise the roof with their rendition of ‘What a

Wonderful World’. There was not a dry eye in sight, including our teachers! They took the parents on a tour around the world, sharing facts, songs, and even acting a wild story of ‘The Ugly Five’. The children built on their collaborative skills to pull off an incredible performance of ‘The Magic Paintbrush’. Three children narrated the story, four children drew the backdrop, and others produced costumes or ideas on how to re-enact parts of the story.

Woburn Safari Park

In the spring term, they delved into the topic of ‘Around the World’ looking at animal habitats, continents, and oceans. This led perfectly to our visit of the ‘Animal House’ at Woburn Safari Park to see the giraffe’s close-up. They learnt a great deal from the zookeepers who shared giraffe skulls, facts, and funny stories. Whilst groups were visiting our tall, spotted friends, they went on a walking safari visiting other animals from a variety of climates around the world. But…the monkey’s running up and down the roof of the coach and the runaway ostrich made them laugh the most!

Strawberry and Farm Shop Visits

As the warmer months approached, the children turned their learning to ‘Living and Growing’ with visits to a local Strawberry Farm and Farm Shop. They learnt a lot about food groups, drip-irrigation, and hydroponics. A view of the pigs was most important too.

Woodrow High House

In April, all PP2 children went on their very first school residential. The two days were spent in glorious sunshine where the children were totally engrossed by the fun activities mostly in the cool, sheltered woods. The children loved their Nightline, Bushcraft, Back to Nature and a sticky evening Campfire. The year group were fantastic, and we had so many positive comments about their behaviour and positive ‘can-do’ attitude. They were a pleasure to take away.

Verity Sanders and Anya Thomas

Form III

Wow, what a fantastic year it has been for Form III. The children shared at the end of term assembly that Form III is built on magical foundations, and this couldn’t be truer. A magical spell was cast over the children as they left PP2 and the results in Form III were spectacular.

In the autumn term, we ventured back on our class timelines to the ancient civilization of the Egyptians. Our young historians got into role and loved delving into the world of ancient Egypt. From mummification lessons with Mr. Jackson on Egyptian day, to learning about the many different gods that the Egyptians worshipped, our historians learnt so much and enjoyed sharing their knowledge with one another. The children showcased their creative flair in our Art lessons, and all created their very

own Egyptian death masks, inspired by Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s. Magic and mystery were in the air before Christmas, as a wild dragon went on the rampage in the Boardman foyer. The children went on the hunt for the mythical beast, but alas, they were only able to discover its nest. Five green dragon eggs were the inspiration for our English unit, and the children transformed themselves into dragonologists. Creating their very own species of dragon, each child built detailed fact files and instructions on how to look after and hatch a dragon from an egg. It was a busy autumn term taming dragons and breaking Ancient Egyptian codes and curses.

Travelling through time, the spring term brought a new civilization to discover. The Roman empire captured the children’s interest

and imaginations; this was a standout topic for the year. Did you know that the Romans would eat and eat until they were sick? The vomitorium was a room that our magical archeologists loved learning about. Roman customs wowed all the children, and they sparkled brightly in History and English lessons. Becoming estate agents and selling top of the range villas was a huge success for all. Furthermore, our immersive Roman Day allowed the children to experience firsthand what it could have been like to live during this ancient time, they were very pleased they could all enjoy the underfloor heating in the chilly weather, just as the rich Romans would. Making wares at stalls such as wax tablets, perfume and mosaics, the children had a wonderful time moving around the marketplace in the morning. Come the afternoon, it was time for a feast and celebration featuring a marching soldier display and drama performances that rivaled the West End.

The magic of Form III saw the summer term arrive, with the children lighting up the classrooms like sunshine - which made up for the grey weather and rain. A magical trip to the Living Rainforest brought our Geography learning to life, and the children had a great day exploring the different glasshouses. A particular highlight this year was Harry the armadillo, the children were fascinated by this hairy beast and loved learning about his evolutionary adaptations for living in the rainforest. The next stop on our magical journey was the residential at Cuffley Active Learning Centre. Surrounded by woodland, the children had a wildly adventurous time building campfires, navigating through the woodland blindfolded and bonding with one

another. The smores and shared tents were a huge success, and several tent parties were held before bedtime! Over the two days, Form III demonstrated our school characteristics of perseverance, originality, empathy, curiosity, teamwork and resilience. Form III had a wonderful time camping out and enjoyed the freedom and independence that a residential promotes.

This year has truly been magical and if we could really travel back in time, we would love to revisit and experience every moment with the children once again. Everyone sparkled in the end of year assembly, and as each child moves into Form IV, we know that they will all go on to sparkle even brighter.

Liberty Webster, Janine Preece, and Elaine Jovic

Form IV

As we look back on Form IV, it’s clear that our children have soared to new heights academically, socially, and creatively. Let’s take a thrilling journey through our unforgettable year.

Autumn Term

Our adventure began with an enchanting English curriculum. We delved into “The Matchbox Diary,” igniting the children’s imaginations with its touching story. The children explored themes of memory and family, which spurred lively discussions and personal reflections. Next, we conjured spooky stories just in time for Halloween, allowing the children to embrace their creativity and channel their inner storytellers. The chilling tales were both fun and thrilling, adding a delightful spooky twist to the season. We then

turned to poetry for Remembrance Day, where children crafted heartfelt verses that honoured the past and deepened their empathy.

In the autumn term, we also celebrated the success at the Club Poetry celebrations. This event was a vibrant showcase of the children’s growing confidence and flair for performance, setting an inspiring tone for the year ahead. The energy in the room was incredible as each child took the stage, their voices strong and their spirits high.

In Maths, we constructed a robust foundation in place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division through lively lessons and interactive activities. These essential skills were developed through engaging games, group work, and hands-on

learning experiences that made math both fun and accessible.

Science lessons sparked curiosity as we explored the mysteries of digestion and the marvels of sound. Children learnt how their bodies process food and how sound waves travel. Through experiments and practical activities, they gained a deeper understanding of these everyday wonders, fostering a love for scientific discovery.

Our Humanities studies whisked us across the USA’s vast landscapes and deep into the history of the Anglo-Saxons. These explorations enriched our knowledge and connected us to the world’s diverse history. The children enjoyed projects that involved creating maps and timelines, which helped them visualise and better understand these fascinating topics.

Spring Term

After a joyful Christmas break, the spring term reignited with the much-anticipated weekly swimming lessons, a highlight for many. Each week, children eagerly anticipated their time in the pool, where they developed their swimming skills and built confidence in the water. The progress they made was remarkable, and their enthusiasm was infectious.

In History, we plunged into the captivating world of the Maya civilization. A “History Off the Page” day brought ancient times to life with interactive, hands-on activities that transported us back in time. Children dressed in traditional costumes, participated in ancient games, and learned about Mayan art and

culture. This immersive experience made history tangible and exciting.

English lessons followed Edward Tulane’s adventures, fuelling our creativity. The story of Edward Tulane, a china rabbit who embarks on a transformative journey, resonated deeply with the children. Inspired by the tale, they wrote their own biographies and autobiographies, showcasing their growing writing skills and their ability to reflect on their personal experiences.

Maths took us into the realms of fractions, decimals, length, and perimeter, challenging children to apply their knowledge in new and exciting ways. Practical activities, such as measuring objects around the school and creating fraction art, made these concepts come alive and enhanced their understanding.

Science turned electric as we explored the properties and uses of electricity, offering experiments that energised our learning. Children built simple circuits, experimented with conductors and insulators, and discovered the wonders of electrical appliances.

Our drama production began to take shape, with casting and rehearsals building excitement for the grand performance. The children dedicated themselves to learning their lines, perfecting their roles, and supporting each other through the creative process. The anticipation grew as the performance date approached.

Summer Term

The final term of the year was a spectacular conclusion of our journey. In English, children wrote letters from the perspective of WWII evacuees, blending historical empathy with narrative skills. These letters offered a glimpse into the lives of children during the war, allowing our children to connect with history on a personal level.

Maths lessons tackled advanced topics like decimals, money, time, shape, and statistics, preparing children for future challenges with confidence. Real-world applications helped children see the relevance of these skills. Science took us into the fascinating world of classification, igniting interest in the natural world and making the most of the warm weather for outdoor explorations. Children conducted field studies, researched various species, and created classification charts, enhancing their understanding of biodiversity. Geography whisked us away to vibrant South America, where children discovered diverse cultures and lifestyles, expanding their global awareness. Through research projects and presentations, they learned about the geography, traditions, and challenges of different South American countries.

One of the term’s highlights was our thrilling residential trip, packed with adventure and learning. The children participated in team-building activities, outdoor challenges, and an opportunity to showcase their resilience, whilst creating memories that will last a lifetime. This was followed by an exhilarating visit to Cadbury World, where children enjoyed a sweet mix of

fun and education. They learned about the history of chocolate, the process of making it, and of course, indulged in some delicious treats.

The term soared to a climax with our grand drama performance. The children dazzled on stage, showcasing their hard work and talent. Their performances were met with applause and admiration, clearly demonstrating they are ready for the next chapter of their journey within the Manor House.

The final weeks buzzed with club challenges and a spirited Sports Day, celebrating athletic collaboration and teamwork. The excitement was infectious, and every child had a chance to shine.

Congratulations to every child for their remarkable achievements and hard work this year. A heartfelt thank you to yourselves, as their parents, for your unwavering support. It has been an incredible journey, and we are immensely proud of our Form IV children. Here’s to more learning, laughter, and adventures in the Manor House!

Charlie Plowright, Sara McNamara, and Suzie Johnson

Form V

Individually Strong- Collectively UnbreakableFV Moto.

What an incredible and truly memorable year this has been for Form V; in the blink of an eye, we as Form V tutors, find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable journey our Form Vs have taken. From those early days of stepping into the Manor House, with nervous but happy dispositions, to the confident, polite, fearless and very talented children we see today - Form VI tutors have inherited a wonderful group! Naturally, the journey faced some challenges, but the children truly embraced every opportunity that came their way, demonstrating kindness, camaraderie, and encapsulating the Form V moto.

I would like to take this opportunity to share

some highlights of their first year in the Manor House:

In November, the children showcased their fantastic Diwali dance, demonstrating an appreciation for diverse cultures. Their performance was a beautiful expression of unity and creativity. The fantastic Christmas parade in December brought joy and festive cheer to our school. It was heartwarming to see the children participate wholeheartedly, spreading holiday spirit throughout the Manor House.

As we stepped into 2024, our children continued to make a difference. They actively supported Children in Need, showing compassion and empathy for those less fortunate. Their thirst to support good causes

did not stop there.

From baking cakes to swimming the distance to Malawi, they raised funds for our supported charity, Mary’s Meals, and who could forget the exhilarating ping pong tournament? Their efforts exemplify the values we hold dear at Beachborough.

The standout for me, as I am sure it was for the children, was the memorable trip to York, which left lasting impressions on all present. From the fabulous, fun-filled Jorvik Centre, to climbing York Minster (all of 275 steps - phew!) to the more somber and thought-provoking visit to Clifford’s Tower, the children remained respectful at all times. Their shared memories from this adventure now enrich their history curriculum, connecting learning with real-life experiences.

Finally, the year culminated in the spectacular FV showcase extravaganza. Our talented students explored imagination through various creative endeavours.

As a Year Group Lead, I am genuinely blown away by the creativity, resilience, and kindness our students consistently demonstrated. Their growth and achievements fill me with immense pride. It has been a remarkable year, and I could not have asked for a nicer group of children to have led in my first year as Head of FV. May their journey continue to inspire us all!

Neeru Lorimer

Form V Year Group Coordinator

Form VI

As we conclude this academic year, it’s time to reflect on the excellent year Form VI children have had. It’s been a year of challenges, successes and many memorable moments.

One of the highlights of the year has to be the spectacular musical, ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.’ in the spring term. Form VI demonstrated exceptional teamwork skills, bringing together their range of talents to create a hugely entertaining production! Their collaboration, support for one another, and dedication to the task were evident, showcasing not only their drama abilities but also their ability to work well as a team.

There have been many examples of excellent teamwork skills this year. From impressive matches against competitor schools to club

competitions to fundraising for Mary’s Meals, the Form VIs have demonstrated determination and resilience when faced with a variety of challenges.

The trip to Normandy (in June) was a particularly pivotal moment for Form VI. It provided an opportunity for them to bond outside the classroom environment and forge strong friendships. Exploring historical sites, engaging in team-building activities, and sharing new experiences meant that, by the end of the trip, the students had not only gained new knowledge but also developed a deeper sense of community and belonging. These friendships have flourished in our final term, and long may that continue!

Our ‘values-based’ educational approach, in our

year group assemblies, has underpinned all we have done this year. Form VI students have actively participated in these, learning about core values such as responsibility, kindness, resilience and respect. I have been really impressed to see so many of them demonstrating a deep understanding of these principles in their daily interactions. Isla R, Hattie L, Will M, Calvin F, Annabelle K, Bertie T, Eva M and Rory C are just a few children whose growth has been impressive, reflecting maturity and a moral compass that will guide them in their future endeavours, setting them up extremely well for Form VII.

In conclusion, Form VI has had a brilliant year, marked by many achievements and great personal growth. As they move forward, the values and skills they have developed will undoubtedly continue to shape their futures. Our hope, as their team of tutors, is that they embrace all that has been imparted to them, and that they step up as Form VII role models, leading the way with integrity and wisdom as they continue on their Beachborough journey.

Ruth Andrew Form VI Year Group Coordinator

Form VII

As the school year draws to a close, it is a pleasure to reflect on the remarkable journey of our Form VIIs. This year has been one of growth, exploration, and achievement, marked by milestones in all areas of school life. Form VII has been a year of significant personal growth.

I want to extend a huge thank you to my incredible Form VII tutor team. We have worked collaboratively, positively and professionally, and have always had the best interests of the children at heart. Strong relationships, that have been built on integrity, honesty and respect have been the key building blocks to ensure that every child has had a happy, successful and enjoyable year.

What a truly memorable year! From the quite outstanding Shakespeare performance to the

Outward Bound trip to Aberdovey and the ski trip to Sestriere, it has been a year full of challenges with many opportunities to showcase individual and collective talents, as well as leadership skills and teamwork. A big thank you to each member of Form VII as they have made every day so enjoyable and memorable.

A few highlights of the year:

• The CEL programme which has focused on the importance of leadership and teamwork.

• The Outward Bound trip to Aberdovey which for many, required real resilience as they had to step out of their ‘comfort zone’ and try new skills that were both physically and mentally demanding.

• The Shakespeare performance was a very memorable occasion. Watching every child in Form VII work collaboratively to put on such a fantastic performance was a very proud moment as Head of Year.

• The hugely successful sports teams.

• The music competitions and seeing the phenomenal talent of the children performing with such confidence.

• The wonderful friendships that have blossomed over the year.

• All the club events and the camaraderie shown not just within the Form but across the whole school.

• Enrichment week, where the children were able to showcase their leadership and organisational skills when ‘going to the movies’

• Sports Day and the incredible support and passion shown to fellow club members across the whole school.

• Form VII helping out with the Early Years and Pre-Prep Sports Day, which gave another opportunity to showcase all the leadership skills they had learnt through the CEL programme.

• All the fantastic art and STEM projects that were displayed around the school for all to see.

• The ski trip to Sestriere.

• The ‘girls and boys on board’ sessions that were a chance to talk openly and honestly about any issues or concerns that they were feeling.

As we look forward to the next academic year, we are confident that our Form VII children are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Their enthusiasm for learning, combined with the skills and knowledge they have acquired this year, sets a strong foundation for future success. We encourage them to continue to be curious, diligent, and supportive of each other as they move into Form VIII.

Sam Stoop - Form VII Year Group Coordinator

Form VIII

Dear Form VIII,

Oh my oh my, how do I even begin to write this? I’m not sure anything I write could express how much you all fully mean to me and the magical imprint you have left on me personally, and in my 19 years of a teaching career, but here goes….

So, I believe we all started to get to know each other back in September 2020. The beautiful Old Library became a bit of a home for us and you all sat in front of me on an autumnal Beachborough day, looking a little nervous but also bringing that amazing energy and engagement which you all now have a solid reputation for. I knew right there and then that you lot were rather special.

You eased your way into Manor House life and very quickly teachers noticed you for all the right reasons. I loved our year group assemblies can you remember any of these moments?

‘Thelma’- of course!

• ‘The power of the mind and the magical metal O’

• ‘It was all YELLOW’

• ‘The Book With No Pictures’ ‘The Return of Thelma’ – of course!

You listened intently, always found the meaning, and we had a great giggle on many occasions!

Of course no-one could have predicted what came our way a little later that year but wow,

how you embraced it. Who could ever forget the Covid tree? I know that there were moments that were so sad and tremendously hard, but I honestly believe they made us all that little bit stronger and brought us even closer.

So, we transferred to online learning and somehow became technical wizards and TEAMs champions overnight, you certainly taught me a thing or two for sure! “ MRS HARRISON YOU ARE ON MUTE!”. Can you remember our Friday Kitchen Discos? That will forever be one of my favourite lockdown memories!

We did it guys, and boy oh boy, you smashed that crazy period of time and showed it who was boss.

Of course, not only have I been lucky and privileged to be your Head of Year twice (we’ll get to that bit soon), but of course, I have taught most of your PSHE in the Manor House. I can easily say I have loved every second of our PSHE journey and whatever I have thrown at you, you have soaked it up, empathised with, and hopefully stored ready for the next chapter! At times, I know the topics have been tricky and heavygoing but you took them all in your stride. Please remember those little golden nuggets and use that knowledge out there. We also had a fabulous laugh on occasions too about all the gross bits!

So, fast forward from Form V, and I managed to get my hands on you once more; Mr Preece was almost held at ransom, that is how determined I was to be your Head of Form VIII!

Guiding you, supporting you, having the odd grumble at you, and helping you up when you have stumbled (just a little) has been an

opportunity that I will always be so very grateful for.

I know you were sick to death of my little catchphrases e.g. ‘Time to shine’, ‘Short term sacrifices, long term gain’ etc., yet still you smiled at me.

You have grown up beautifully guys and there’s still a way to go, how could you possibly get any better?

I want you all to grab every single opportunity out there - it’s yours for the taking remember. Be forever true to yourself, be kind, and remember to smile.

It’s been a blast Form VIII, thank you.

Lots of love, Mrs Harrison Form VIII Year Group Coordinator XOXO

The FVIII Leavers’ Dinner

FVIII Residential: The Lake District

TED

Another Year of Innovation and Creativity in the TED Suite

As we reflect on yet another wonderful year in the TED Suite, it is clear that the journey from Form III to Form VIII has again been transformative. Our children have not only embraced the usual huge array of skills and processes, but have also continued to develop a deep appreciation for the importance of design and technology. From cutting-edge 3D printing to the craftsmanship of traditional woodworking, the TED Suite has lived up to its reputation of being a hub of innovation and creativity.

Some of my favourite projects this year have included our Memphis Style Tape holders, which although a bit of a nightmare to laser cut, were well worth the effort with a stunning collection of designs produced by our Form VI year group. They continued to impress with their protest banners as well, tying in with their work in PSHE and creating textile work that has been much admired hanging around the school. Our architecture project was also hugely successful with Form VII making Christmas Village style lights, but with a modern twist! Their table tennis bats were also very popular with an in depth look at ergonomics accompanying the making of some brilliantly fun and quirky designs, with packaging and graphic design also explored. Form V 3D printed ball bearing games and made infinity mirrors, soldering LED light strips as well as learning more traditional woodworking skills when making the frames.

Form IV went berserk with their insect houses, truly embracing the freedom to be original, and I loved their outcomes from that project. Form VIII impressed with their pizza cutters and clocks, showing a level of design maturity that belies their age. Finally, we welcomed Form III into the Ted Suite, who are already using the electric saws like they have been for years, making brightly coloured and beautiful marble mazes as one of their projects, as well as using the laser cutter for the first time with their Roman mosaic inspired pencil pots.

Design and Technology as a subject is vital for the holistic development of our children. It fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity - skills that are essential in today’s rapidly evolving world. We encompass so many different subjects under one roof, from the use of maths with measuring the starting point of the majority of our projects, and also the use of grids in CAD, symmetry, and 3D shapes. Science is integrated, with a look this year at reflective lighting and how light travels, as well as the many projects that have involved electrical circuits. Art obviously plays a huge part in our subject, with many drawings and sketches of ideas, alongside the decoration and the opportunity to be truly unique and creative. History had a look in with investigations into designers, design movements, and architectural trends and of course, we have the practical side. Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, our students learn to navigate and harness technology while also appreciating the value of design principles and craftsmanship.

One of the highlights of our year has been the CTI days for Form V and VI. These special days, where we come off timetable, have allowed us to welcome local primary schools into our workshop. Together, we have built pedalling automatons and electric Mars Rover cars, sharing not only our equipment but also our passion for design and technology. These collaborative projects have been enriching for all involved, fostering a sense of community and shared learning too, and it was a pleasure to watch our Beachborough children sharing their own DT knowledge with our local friends.

For Form VII and VIII, our trip to the Museum of Brands in Notting Hill for the first time, was an eye-opening experience. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of branding and packaging, showcasing how design influences consumer behaviour. Our students explored a vast collection of iconic brands, gaining insights into the history and future of marketing and product design. Our trips, alongside our TED talks, co-curricular clubs, and CTI days all contribute vitally to promoting how DT works in the wider world outside of the classroom, and we are proud of how much more we can continue to offer our children on a weekly basis.

Our co-curricular clubs have been bustling with activity and creativity. The Engineering Club for Form III and IV has tackled exciting projects, such as building catapults and making paper. Meanwhile, Tech Club has ventured into making torches and 3D printed Alessi-style egg cups, as well as giving our scholars the chance to come in and work on their own ideas.

These clubs provide our students with additional opportunities to dive deeper into their interests and hone their skills in a fun, collaborative environment.

We are incredibly proud to announce that we received the top scholarship to Stowe School again this year. Thomas W’s exceptional portfolio, which showcased his love of farming and cricket (I will never forget the Lamb Pram), was a testament to his independent hard work and dedication. Our scholarship program continues to nurture and celebrate the talents of our students, preparing them for bright futures in many senior schools.

Enrichment Week was a memorable experience for all, with the “A Trip to the Movies” theme. Our students delved into the world of animation by creating miniature zoetropes, learning about the first glimpses into animation and the magic of moving pictures. It was a week filled with creativity and exploration, highlighting the interconnectedness of technology and art.

This year, we were thrilled to collaborate with Tuthill Porsche for our Design a Tech Trophy competition. The winning design by Kit S was nothing short of amazing, showcasing the talent and creativity within our student body. Competitions like these inspire our students to push their boundaries and think innovatively, and my huge thanks goes to Richard Tuthill, Director of Tuthill Porshe, and Monika Prew for providing the parts and fabricating such a unique piece that will forever remain in Beachborough’s history.

We truly ended the year on a high by the announcement from Muddy Stilettos that we were a finalist in their Best Schools Awards 2024 for “Excellence in STEM”. To be in the top 5 of all the UK schools was a huge boost and yet further proof that we are on the right track in how we deliver not just DT, but all the STEM subjects at Beachborough. It is a close collaboration between all the departments and one that is certainly cherished by me.

As we conclude this remarkable year, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported and contributed to the continued success of the TED Suite. Erica Oram continues to be invaluable in terms of prepping files, laser cutting thousands of pieces each year, as well as supporting our children during lessons and all the other jobs that are thrust upon her! My thanks also to Tom Knowles, whose teaching support in both our Form VII and VIII lessons as well as our CTI days, has been much needed and valued. Lisa Smith, our Head of Science, leaves us this year and I will miss her greatly, not only for her help with the Form VIIs but for her humour, guidance, and STEM advice that will be a big loss to our department. Finally, just thanks to all the staff that have come in and covered this year too. I hope you had fun!

The TED Suite has proven to be more than just a workshop; it is a place where ideas come to life, where skills are honed, and where the future is crafted one project at a time. Here’s to another fantastic year ahead!

Cam Hodgkinson Head of Technology

Computing

As we reach the end of another enriching academic year, it brings me great pleasure to reflect on the remarkable journey of computing at Beachborough. From PP1 to Form VIII, the children have not only acquired essential computational skills but also explored the limitless possibilities of technology, creativity, and innovation.

From their earliest days in PP1, our pupils embark on an exciting voyage of discovery, exploring fundamental concepts of computing such as algorithms, sequencing, and basic programming principles. As they progress through the years, they delve deeper into the intricacies of computational thought, problem-solving, and the ethical considerations of technology. By the time they reach Form VIII, they have honed their skills

in coding languages and understanding the broader societal impacts of technology, preparing them to navigate the complexities of our digital world with confidence and competence.

Throughout the academic year, pupils have been engaged in a myriad of stimulating projects and immersive learning experiences that have enriched their understanding of computing. From designing and programming interactive games in Scratch to exploring the fundamentals of robotics through hands-on experimentation, they have embraced the challenges with enthusiasm and creativity.

Notable projects this year have included collaborative coding ventures where they have

collaborated to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems, fostering teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills. Additionally, pupils have explored topics such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, gaining valuable insights into the cutting-edge technologies shaping our world today.

Celebrating Success: Robotics Team Reaches UK National Final

We were also thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievement of our robotics team, who secured a place in the UK National Final of the First Lego League Challenge. This prestigious competition provided our pupils with an opportunity to showcase their ingenuity, creativity, and technical prowess as they designed, built, and programmed their robots.

Their success is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and passion for learning, and we couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments. Here’s to another year of discovery, growth, and endless possibilities in the world of computing.

Susi Blithe Head of Computing and Robotics

Science

There was no holding us back in September (with the exception of myself in a sling with a broken arm on day 1 ). With a full team of staff, we started the year with an early visit from Zoolab, Form VIII enjoyed their first visit to Stowe School’s Chemistry Department, and the scholars were prepped with early morning sessions, culminating in successes all around.

The spring term brought news of new laptops, and training for all began in earnest. Our creativity flourished as we experimented with lessons using OneNote. There was surprise and glee when classwork feedback came in the form of personalised ‘Mrs. Smith recordings’ on pieces of work, and pupils began using reflection stickers to demonstrate their understanding of the material. Just like a scene from a Harry Potter movie, mysterious writing would suddenly appear from teachers on pupils screens as they typed up their experiment plans and conclusions. While it was a steep learning curve for all, the foundations were laid for the upcoming academic year and the rollout of our digital strategy.

The spring term also saw the return of the CTI days for Form V and VI, with the data loggers once again taking centre stage in the science activities for Form VI. During Science Week, we took the opportunity to visit Cheltenham College with a small group of our most able scientists. This proved a superb day with owl pellets dissected, bicarbonate rockets released, and rollercoaster tracks built and tested.

The summer term featured a Wetlands Day, another Stowe Science afternoon, and with plans for the Form VIII showcase afoot, the elephant’s toothpaste was set up and water rockets took to the sky on the front lawn. It has been a splendid year, and I have loved planning and facilitating the many activities and events we have squeezed into the calendar. I now say my final goodbye to Beachborough after almost 8 years of striving to make science exciting, engaging, and a subject that every child who passes through our doors will have a passion for. Next year, will see the arrival of Mrs. Caddick, a safe and experienced pair of hands, who will no doubt lead the Science Department into the new year with much energy and new direction. I wish her the very best, along with the rest of the staff, pupils, and parents of Beachborough.

Lisa Smith - Head of Science

Maths

Maths Journey: A Year in Review

In classrooms filled with numbers bright, from dawn till dusk, from morn to night, we journeyed through the realms of math, with laughter echoing along every path. Early Years began with shapes and lines, counting stars and counting pines. Tiny fingers learned to trace, the magic of each number’s face.

PP1 & 2 added sums, ten plus ten and three times three, a world of wonder yet to see.

In Form III, the tables turned, multiples and factors were learned.

Graphs and charts began to grow, as knowledge blossomed row by row.

Form IV learnt fractions, oh so neat, made their learning quite the treat.

Form V saw decimals in play, with every step, we paved the way, For Form VI who ventured far and wide, geometry became their guide.

To Form VII where equations ruled, in algebra their skills were schooled.

Which leads us to Form VIII. Ratio and probabilities danced in view, with each problem gaining skills anew. Club Maths was fun, our skills put to test, Carder came first, proving to be the best.

Chappell took second with strategies strong, Boardman in third, solving all day long.

Sprawson fourth, with efforts so fine, together they all made this competition shine.

The UKMT Junior Challenge 2024 was quite grand, with some Form VIII’s earning Bronze and Silver awards in hand.

Jackson T snagged Gold, his skills shining bright, invited to the next round, where he continued to delight. Several Form IV’s took part in The First Mathematics Challenge’s quest; gaining Gold and Silver certificates, they truly were the best.

Our Beachborough mathematicians have been fantastic, their passion for problem-solving is nothing short of magic.

Throughout the year, in every class, from whiteboard to the smartboard glass, Teachers guided with a smile, making maths worth every trial.

As we close another year, many memories, we hold dear. With formulas solved and theorems embraced, our maths journey pauses for summer’s grace.

Karen Berrington - Head of Maths

English

The A-Z of the English Department 2023-2024

A was for Award Winning Author, Steve Cole

B was for Book Bashes and Blogging

C was for Club Poetry and the Poetry by Heart Competition

D was for Diversity in the books we read and the stories we shared

E was for Essays - persuasive, informative and discursive

F was for Fantastic Fluency in reading, writing and speaking

G was for Grammar and beating those Gremlins

H was for Heavenly Handwriting

I was for Iambic pentameter and how to spot it

J was for Journals and diary writing

K was for Kinesthetic learning

L was for Literary heroes and heroines

M was for Mighty Metaphors

N was for Narratives and class Novels

O was for Onomatopoeia – Ooooh!

P was for Pathetic fallacy

Q was for Quotations in APE and PEEA (comprehensions).

R was for Reading, Reading, Reading

S was for Shakespeare’s sonnets

T was for Themes and decoding the messages they hide

U was for Understanding, inferring and deducing

V was for Varied Vocabulary

W was for World Book Day

X was for eXplanations

Y was for Young Shakespeare Company

Z was for Zippy, Zestful and Zealous Beachburians

Anna Howard - Head of English

Geography

From the rolling hills of the United Kingdom to the plains of Africa, and even with glimpses into the future of transportation, our students have traversed the globe.

Form V kicked off their geographical escapades by diving into the rich tapestry of the United Kingdom and Europe. They learnt about the human and physical features of these locations, before honing their Ordnance Survey mapping skills.

In the spring term, their focus shifted to the vibrant landscapes of Africa. From the vast savannas to the bustling cities, students discovered the beauty and complexity of this diverse continent.

But the adventure didn’t stop there! In the summer term, Form V turned their gaze towards the horizon, imagining the future of transportation. From luxury sea-planes to cars powered by crab shells, their creativity knew no bounds as they crafted innovative solutions to tomorrow’s travel challenges.

Form VI took a walk on the wild side as they delved into the tumultuous world of earthquakes and volcanoes. They learned about tectonic plates, fierce eruptions, and the incredible forces that shape our planet’s surface.

Transitioning to the atmospheric realm, students then explored the mysteries of

weather and climate. From forecasting storms to studying the effects of climate change, they became budding meteorologists, predicting patterns and understanding the importance of environmental stewardship.

Form VII embarked on a watery adventure, exploring the features of rivers and coasts. They navigated through meandering streams, studied the erosion of coastlines, and pondered the delicate balance between human activity and natural processes.

But geography isn’t just about landscapes - it’s also about the people who inhabit them. In the Summer Term, Form VII delved into the world of transport and industry, examining the economic implications and safety concerns of global garment production.

Meanwhile, Form VIII students took a deep dive into population and settlement patterns, unravelling the mysteries of urban sprawl and rural development. Armed with their knowledge, they embarked on individual projects exploring land use patterns, developing their time management skills and independence. They were fortunate enough to witness geography in action, as they visited Cedars Farm followed by a trip to the HS2 compound in Chipping Warden.

As the school year draws to a close, we bid farewell to another chapter in the Geography Department’s colourful saga. From the peaks of Everest to the depths of the ocean, our students have embarked on a journey of discovery, curiosity, and, above all, a love for the world around us.

Katie Exarheas - Head of Geography

History

I have been teaching history for what seems a lifetime and 35 years of it has been at this school. As I come to the end of my teaching career, I have been reflecting on what one of my early inspirations said about History; ‘The most effective way to destroy people is to deny and obliterate their own understanding of their history.’ — George Orwell

I have always believed that the studying of history is essential in a rounded education. At Beachborough we teach history chronologically, starting with the Romans in Form III and moving through to the Stuarts in Form VIII. There is much which we do not have the space or time to teach (to my everlasting regret).

I have always thought that the best way to engage a child in learning about History is to tell him or her a cracking good story. Unapologetically, I will often spend a good part of a lesson just spinning a good yarn; it is what got me hooked on this fascinating subject, so why not. As Rudyard Kipling (an even earlier inspiration!) once wrote ‘If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten’, but history is more than just stories.

As students progress, they are encouraged to critically examine the past in various ways: analysing original sources, questioning the motives and actions of historical figures, and re-enacting significant events. Only with a sound understanding of history can young people make sense of today’s world and

engage knowledgably with our changing society.

This year, and all my years at Beachborough, it has been my goal is to inspire students to take risks in their learning and develop a lasting love for history.

Michael Sanders - Head of History

Classics & Latin

Classics is far from dead at Beachborough! It has continued to capture the hearts and minds of the older children and we have had great fun this year.

Form VI came with open minds to their first lessons of Classics back in September, and were soon swept up into the wonderful world of Minimus the mouse. Through colourful, imaginative and informative ways, we have had a whistle-stop tour of life in Roman Britain blended with the basic foundations of the Roman language. A highlight for them all was our Roman feast, where we reclined on benches, ate grapes and were entertained by our esteemed guests. Bringing a language alive has its challenges, but Form VI have embraced everything we have covered this year. I look forward to carrying on with the brave cohort that have chosen it for Form VII!

200 words to learn for the Form VII and VIII syllabus sounds a lot, but Form VII have taken it in their stride this year. I have bombarded them with noun tables, verb tables, and vocabulary lists. We have chanted things to the tune of ‘The Grand Old Duke of York’ and the ‘Pink Panther’ and all this hard work paid off with their impressive assessment results. I have high hopes for these budding Classicists – well done Form VII!

Admirably, Form VIII have soldiered on through the demands of Level 1 Latin all year to get to their final exam. I have been impressed with their dedication, breadth of knowledge

and determination to show me everything they have learnt about this weird and wonderful language. The delight in their faces when we had a celebratory Roman feast was a just reward for all their hard work. I hope the skills they have gained in learning an ancient language stay with them and help forge a path into furthering their love for the ancient world. The Classics Department can’t wait to see what happens next year as we embark on more learning from the ancient past.

Jemima Cox - Head of Classics and Latin

Food Tech

The Importance and Impact of Studying Food Technology at our School:

Food Technology has long been a cornerstone of our curriculum, but its value has never been more evident than now. We were absolutely thrilled this year to complete the installation of our state-of-the-art kitchen, endorsing our strong Beachburian belief that this subject brings essential lifelong skills to our young children, giving them unprecedented opportunities in a prep school to explore the culinary arts in a safe, inclusive, and innovative environment. We truly believe that studying food technology is crucial and our program this year has continued to make it particularly enriching for our students – and all in a pretty nice kitchen too!

In September, we proudly unveiled the new kitchen facility that has revolutionised our food technology program. This kitchen is not only equipped with the latest appliances, machines and utensils, but also includes a dedicated space for students with allergies and intolerances. This inclusive approach ensures that every child can participate fully in our cooking classes, learning to prepare meals that are safe for their dietary needs while gaining confidence and skills in the kitchen.

Cooking is an art that spans a wide range of recipes from sweet to savoury, and our curriculum continues to reflect this diversity. Our children learn to prepare a huge variety of dishes that cover the entire spectrum of flavours, ensuring a well-rounded culinary education. From baking pastries and cakes to

cooking savoury main courses and sides, our carefully chosen program teaches essential techniques such as chopping, sautéing, baking, and grilling.

This comprehensive approach ensures that our students are well-prepared for any culinary challenge and from a young age as well, with Form III taking their first steps with us each year.

Another vital aspect is the exploration of global cuisines. Introducing our children to dishes from different countries not only broadens their culinary horizons, but also fosters cultural appreciation and understanding. Cooking and tasting a variety of international dishes teaches them about new and diverse ingredients, techniques, and traditions that define each cuisine. This exposure to global culinary practices has certainly enriched their palate and enhances their adaptability in the kitchen. This year, we have prepared Indian curries, Chinese stir-fries, Italian pastas, American Sloppy Joes, Greek salads and Spanish churros to name but a few, with the children learning how to blend different flavours and techniques into their own cooking repertoire.

One of the most exciting additions to our food technology curriculum has been the introduction of our experimental weeks. These weeks are designed to spark creativity and innovation among our students. Activities such as “Design Your Own Salad,” “Create Your Own Smoothie,” and “Ice Cream Sundae Week” have been particularly popular. These hands-on projects allow students to experiment with flavours, textures, and presentation, fostering a deeper understanding of the ingredients they

use and techniques they apply, as well as having a huge amount of fun in the process.

Our Club Chef competition this year was one of the most successful we’ve ever had, with ‘Cheese” as our theme. Just under 100 dishes arrived one Monday morning and with the help of Steve Reid from the Northampton Cheese Company, and Karen Wise, one of our talented Beachborough chefs, we ploughed our way through the most amazing cheesy dishes from scones to biscuits, cheesecakes, crisps, bread and soups. Our winner Sam H (Form VI) had made the most delicious cheese hor d’oeuvres - a very worthy winner of a hamper from Steve’s farm shop. We also had the wonderful news that Steve was willing to stock Paddy B’s cheese biscuits in his shop. Paddy (Form VIII) had not just made the biscuits but had also designed brilliant packaging, making a product that was truly shelf ready. Huge thanks to Steve for all his support with this venture and for judging our competition too.

In November, we again took over the kitchen with the kind help of our food tech ambassadors and other willing helpers to make 150 toffee apples for sale on Bonfire Night. A true team effort; vats of caramel were heated and ribbons cut and twirled to wrap our delicious homemade toffee apples up ready for the evening, raising over £300 for Mary’s Meals in the process.

Studying food technology at our school offers our children a unique blend of practical skills, creative expression, and nutritional education. Our new kitchen facility, with its inclusive design, and the introduction of experimental weeks have significantly

enriched our program too. Our commitment to food technology education ensures that our students are not only prepared for future academic and possible professional endeavours but also for making informed, healthy choices in their daily lives. None of this would be possible without the dedicated food tech team of five staff members who work tirelessly every week, setting up the kitchen when they can, helping each other out and ensuring that we have all the resources, recipes and ingredients that we need to make it successful. My thanks to Vicki Little, Sally Gross, Kirsty Cheshire, Erica Oram and of course Angela Zimmerman, whose knowledge and expertise is invaluable. My thanks too goes to Neil McCluskey and Simon Banham in the Beachborough school kitchen, who are always on hand to help us out with advice and last minute ingredient emergencies!

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Tracey Gascoigne, Tim Rush and Tim Tunks, who between them dealt with the majority of the planning and installation of our lovely new kitchen, dealing calmly with all the issues that arose. We simply couldn’t have done it without them.

Cam Hodgkinson Head of Technology

Modern Foreign Languages

C’est en forgeant qu’on devient forgeron. Literally, it is by smithing that one becomes a blacksmith. In other words, practice makes perfect! And this is precisely what children, across all year groups and in both French and Spanish have been doing. The use of sentence builders are proving to have a significant positive impact on the approach, learning and retention of languages at Beachborough. Never before have had children been so confident in expressing themselves using the target languages. Ideas, quantity and quality of their work are rising and many children are challenging themselves at home on Duolingo which uses the very same methods of repetition across all four skills, listening, speaking, reading and writing. Getting children to use French and Spanish outside of the classroom is always difficult but we are witnessing just this. Whilst during revisions in the middle of the summer term, in my Form VII class, I asked a simple question on one of the topics we had studied. James H replied in perfect French the following: “En fait cette question est trop facile donc je vais laisser quelqu’un d’autre y répondre!” Actually that question is too easy so I’m going to let somebody else answer it. Was James’ answer in one of our sentence builders? No. James had been inspired to work it out by himself at home, and simply waited for the right opportunity to use it in class. Pure class. We also witnessed the benefit of the method in situ during the Normandy trip with Form VI. Children were able to follow explanations in

context and had the confidence to reply at speed when asked a question, in shops or during our visits, at the goat cheese farm for example.

6th June 1944. 80 years later, nearly to the day, Monday, 10th June, Form VI embarked on a memorable journey to Normandy. And like in 1944, the day started badly. Whilst the Allies forces had faced adverse weather in the early hours of D-Day, we faced an adverse coach driver (unfortunately not Carwyn, our usual one) who had managed to empty the coach’s batteries overnight. After an hour and a half delay, we were off to the Channel Tunnel. Our first visit was to the lovely port of Honfleur, where the children got a merry-go-round privatized just for them. We take wellbeing very seriously at Beachbrough. After a long journey, we finally reached our destination for a two-night stay in Bernières-sur-Mer. The food was great and children finally got a chance to consume, a proper baguette, a real one! The coach driver did not want any dinner.

On Tuesday, we made our way to Pegasus Bridge Memorial where we were toured by a lovely and passionate guide called Michel, you can’t make it more authentic than this, who explained to the children how Major Howard and his men had taken the then Bénouville bridge, in the early hours of D-Day. We stood on the actual bridge and saw the impacts that the bullets had left in the heavy metal structure. We then crossed over the new bridge and positioned ourselves by the café Gondrée, the first house liberated. Arlette Gondrée, 4 years old at the time, was there serving her clients. We selected Arlo, Ben and

Ariana to walk into the café to offer her the traditional bar of chocolate. When she saw us, her face lit up (she is known for being a stern French lady!) and she said she remembered us very well from the previous year. We then headed to Gold Beach in Arromanches, to learn about the battle of Normandy. It took some time for our uncooperative driver to take us only few kilometers away to Ver-sur-Mer to visit the new British Memorial where the black silhouettes had been installed. And there, magic happened for our Veterans: Mr Gross and Mr Southwick were reunited with the former Headmaster John Whybrow! A lovely and unexpected encounter on the shores of Normandy. The driver remained insensitive.

On Wednesday, we left Bernières to drive down to Saint Malo. On the way, we stopped at la chèvrerie La Chère rit, laughing goat, to learn all about the making of goat cheese and to try the milk directly from the producers. Tasty! The parking was not to the taste of the driver though, who abandoned us 50 meters above the farm. In the afternoon, we spent a few hours in Saint Malo intra-muros for some shopping and ice creams. We then reached our second accommodation, where turning right then reversing straight proved too challenging for the driver who decided to not park at the place.

On Thursday, we were just a short drive away from La Merveille, Le Mont Saint Michel. The novelty this year was the introduction of tablets to visit the abbey. Some of the features enable you to see each room as it is today, and by sliding your thumb down, how it looked few centuries ago. A great learning tool,

acknowledged by children themselves, as Francisco said “I’m learning so much.”

We were also very privileged to be received by the mayor of Le Mont Saint Michel, Jacques Bono, thanks to Monsieur Perronnet’s brother. We then finished the day at the Grand Aquarium de Saint Malo. In the evening, we held our traditional award ceremony. The coach driver was not awarded any.

On Friday, after packing our bags, we started our journey back to England. It was a long drive but we stopped in Caen on the market place, Saint Sauveur. A last opportunity to spend our remaining few euros and to practise more French at the different food stalls. After a long journey, we made it back to Beachborough at our precise ETA of 10.30pm, thanks to our driver who could not wait to finish the week. Mrs Collyer saw him few minutes later in Buckingham… lost!

The children had an amazing week and as their attitude and behaviour were impeccable, it was a real pleasure to spend a week with them in France. Thank you to Mr Gross, Mrs Collyer, Ms Dolman, Mrs Berrington, Miss Clarke, Mrs Franklin and to our still young pensioner and supreme commander-entertainer, Mr Southwick, for all his stories, most of them about D-Day!

As usual, a huge thank you to the whole MFL team, Mrs Howard, Mr Usher, Mrs Eynon for all her help and support and Mrs Wright, that we are happy to have back in the Department!

Nicolas Perronnet Head of MFL

The Learning Zone

As the academic year draws to a close, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the remarkable journey within our Learning Success Department. This year has been filled with dedication, growth and numerous accomplishments, thanks to the combined efforts of the pupils, parents and Learning Success team.

At the heart of the Learning Success Department are the remarkable children we support and encourage each day, and as I did last year, I particularly want to celebrate each and every one of them. They faced challenges with grace, embraced new strategies, and together, we celebrated every victory. Watching their growth and success has been the highlight of our year. Albert Einstein wisely noted, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity,” and the Learning Success children have exemplified this beautifully.

Throughout the year, our Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) have shown exceptional dedication and commitment. With patience, creativity and adaptability, they have addressed the unique needs of every child they have supported, and their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment has made a significant difference in the lives of all our children.

A cornerstone of our success this year has been the strong partnership between parents, staff and the children. By working together and maintaining regular communication, we provided comprehensive and personalised support for each child. This collaborative approach not only enhanced the educational

experience for our children, but also strengthened the sense of a ‘community within a community’ within our school.

Our ‘Link’ meetings have continued to thrive, providing a vital platform for parents to come together, share experiences, and discuss relevant topics. These meetings were enriched by guest speakers and the new “Connecting Hearts, Sharing Experiences” initiative, which fostered a sense of community and provided valuable insights from within the parent body. The termly visits from James Tearle, our SEN governor, also added significant value, ensuring that our practices are aligned with the best standards and are continually evolving.

We wish our Form VIIIs and all other leavers the very best as they embark on their new adventures. Their journey with us has been marked by remarkable strength and commitment. We will miss them all but recall the wise words of Dr. Seuss:

“You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so... get on your way!”

On behalf of the Learning Success Department, we admire your children deeply. Their optimism, resilience, and enthusiasm inspire us every day. Their achievements make us incredibly proud, and we look forward, even if this is from afar, to seeing them continue to grow and succeed.

Louise Dowson - Head of Learning Success

Music

What a year! Each term, we see so many performances with children across the age range involved, and reflecting on these brings back so many wonderful memories of our musical year.

Each week, 177 music lessons take place and all children involved throughout the school have an informal concert during the year, and this started in the autumn term with Mr Lewis and his brass players, and Mr Planas’ Clarinets and Saxophones. In the spring, our drummers and guitarists took to the stage, led by their teachers Mr Turner, Mr McNulty, and Mr Hamel. Mrs Thurman’s singers followed, and the string players of Mrs Turnock and Mrs Rafter. Mrs Rafter made the difficult decision to retire after over 30 years commitment to Beachborough, and it was moving to see her say goodbye after

her dedication to teaching. We welcomed Mrs Swain to take over the role and she has fitted in perfectly!

The summer term saw all our pianists taught by Mrs Lear, Mrs Sharam, Miss Griffiths, Mr Wilson, and Mrs Thurman perform, and finally, Mrs Sharam’s flute and recorder concert (plus a new oboist encouraged to take part by Miss Griffiths after just three lessons!). This team make the Music Department as good as it is.

Their encouragement, sense of fun and commitment is outstanding, and I am so fortunate to work with them all.

A group of singers were invited to take part in a very special event in aid of Mental Health Awareness in October.

They attended a Les Misérables singing workshop at Stowe School, led by Andy Reiss, former Resident Director of Les Misérables and one of the very few people to have played every leading male role in the show. The day consisted of workshops, learning a medley of songs from the show and stage, in preparation to perform in Stowe School’s World Mental Health Day Concert. The performance was superb, with professional soloists as well as individuals from Stowe and a beautiful solo by our very own Miss Sutherland. A truly wonderful experience.

Members of Form III & IV sang to entertain the ‘Silver Sunday’ event at Westbury Shop in September, FVII took part in our first Music and Monologues evening and some of our super musicians performed, and we had a plethora of festive events as December arrived.

EYFS charmed us with their Nativity, singing with style and tugging at heart strings in their first steps on stage. Chamber Choir sang to open the Christmas Fayre at Westbury Shop and during the final week, the whole of Junior Choir, which includes all Form III & IV, decked the halls once again at the same venue, followed by delicious treats and hot chocolate –very welcome on a cold winter’s day!

There is no doubt that Christmas in the Music Department is extremely special. We have the opportunity to make each day merry, with singing and playing and this year was no exception. The Festive Concert involved 150 children, with bands, guitar groups, choirs, percussion, strings, brass and woodwind, and every child performed with enthusiasm. The audience always helps to keep the jollity high and you really can’t beat singing along to festive favourites.

The Pre-Prep Christmas Production sparkled, Brass played carols on the terrace, staff carols were sung in the foyer, and we ended the term with three superb Carol Services, where Chamber Choir, the children singing, and beautiful readings marked the end of a wonderful musical term.

Spring saw our individual concerts, the music teacher parents evening and the incredible ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’. Form VI were sensational, singing, dancing and acting with such energy, enthusiasm and a real love for the whole project. It was a brilliant team effort and amazing to work closely with the drama and dance departments to put this spectacular show together. At the end of term, our Spring Concert was superb, involving all our groups, led by our fabulous team. It was a really smashing term!

As the summer term arrived, we knew we had a lot to fit in, but were ready for the challenge. Our string players travelled to Bloxham School to take part in their String Day and had lots of fun, working with specialist teachers to rehearse and perform in smaller groups and as one large ensemble.

Over the first May Bank Holiday weekend, members of Chamber Choir went on tour to Belgium. This was a simply wonderful trip with 42 children and four members of staff. Mr Wilson looked after our boys, and Miss Sutherland, Mrs Mitchell and myself had the girls between us. We had excursions to Choco Story which included the history of chocolate, a demonstration, lots of tasting and of course some choccy shopping! We had a concert in Ypres Market Square where lots of passers-by

stopped passing and stayed to listen!

Our visit to Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery was incredibly moving and the children were respectful and considerate, asking questions and reading the information about those who fought and died on the Western Front. Our final day included a tour of Concertgebouw Brugge, the wonderful concert hall in Brugge. This behind-the-scenes tour was full of information and the children had the chance to sing on the stage in both the Chamber Music Hall and the big auditorium. The highlight for me was our final concert at Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk, in De Panne. We were so warmly welcomed, and the church was full as they had advertised our performance. The choir sang beautifully, including our soloists, Isla C-B singing and Isla R on piano. We were given a standing ovation, and it was simply magical. We were all in tears at the end and had so many compliments – a day we all will cherish!

Piano and flute concerts were enjoyed, and we prepared for Club Music and Club Shout. Club Shout started the day of finals with excitement, banners, costumes and masses of energy. Boardman stormed to victory with their brilliant rendition of S Club 7’s ‘Reach for the Stars’. Mrs Gross was delighted as Club Leader and they were definitely worthy winners.

After the initial rounds in the year group classes of Club Music, our finalists were chosen and they performed to our visiting adjudicator, Mr. Christopher Powell, Head of Faculty –Performing and Creative Arts & Director of Music from Akeley Wood School.

Chris brought along a 6th Form musician who ably supported him and between them, chose the winners. Jude won the Form III & IV class, Megan and Zach were victorious in Form V & VI and were also joint overall Club Music winners with Isla C-B, who was also chosen as Form VII & VIII winner. We were overwhelmed by the talent and confidence of all who took part and are so grateful for all the support given by staff.

Form IV performed their musical having been led by Miss Sutherland, who adored working with them and helped to create a wonderful show. Then, we had Enrichment Week, where all children in Forms V-VIII learnt about how to create a movie, adding a soundtrack and sound effects. This was a marvellous week with so much creativity and imagination used preparing their ideas in groups.

The Summer Concert was something special. Over 200 children were involved and every single group’s performances were outstanding. It’s always hard to sum up what the children create on these occasions, but the sense of togetherness, collaboration, support, and enjoyment always astounds me. Thanks go to all the children who have taken part in concerts, and of course to my terrific music team.

Each term, children take ABRSM and Trinity and Trinity Pop and Rock music exams, ranging from Prep test to Grade 5. 43 children took and achieved great results in music exams this year and we are delighted with the standard achieved. The dedication and time it takes to prepare for a music exam should never be underestimated and we are so proud of every child involved.

We say goodbye to many musicians this year, and send them on their way hoping they continue their enjoyment and participation in musical events. It is important to cherish these skills, as I have lost count of how many adults say how much they regret not keeping up their instrument lessons, or playing as part of an ensemble.

My final thanks go to Lucy Sutherland. She has grown to be an outstanding teacher over the past two years and heads off to become Assistant Director of Music at Swanbourne House School, following her PGCE. Having taught Lucy as a child, it was clear she was destined for something wonderful musically and I am so proud to have been a small part of her journey.

So… time to order the Christmas music…

Annie Chatfield Director of Music

Art

Another wonderful year of getting to know the Beachborough artists! It has been great to be back in the sunlit art rooms after a year away. We have had a tremendous amount of fun being creative, getting covered in paint, stuck with glue and very dusty with pastels!

Form V are always a brilliant group of children that start our week off. Looking back to the autumn term, the children delved into the abstract world of Piet Mondrian. Primary colours and marker pens allow the child not to be restricted with drawing and pencil work. We continued our interest in shape and collage with our Matisse project and managed to create some wonderful collaborative pieces, which now adorn the Art room. The spring term saw us travel to Africa and immerse ourselves in the glorious patterns, colours and symbols of tribal life. Together with a savanna full of animals and the inspiring work of Esther Mahlangu, the children loved producing works of pattern and vibrant colour. This led us on to our final term, which has seen us experiment with watercolour and the work of the Impressionists. The children have painted ‘en plein air’ and learnt about the life and works of Claude Monet. A truly colourful and exciting year for our Form V budding artists!

Form VI have continued to enjoy their lessons and have also maintained the high standard of Art they produced when in Form V. We began by experimenting with our observational drawing skills in a Pop Art sweetie drawing. To much dismay, the children

were not allowed to sample their subject and it was an exercise in self-restraint as much as drawing technique!

Next, Yayoi Kusama led us into her wonderful world of pumpkins and polka dots, which the children loved. They practised their painting techniques and had fun with the Posca pens. It is always a pleasure to teach the children about contemporary artists and who better to study than David Hockney – one of our national treasures! The children thoroughly enjoyed learning about Hockney’s diverse style and produced some fabulous paintings of their journey from school to home. To try and elevate the humble stickman, we have also practised drawing figures in proportion and mastered various ways of showing movement in our figures. All in all, a productive and enjoyable year for Form VI.

By Form VII the children have established their style, and we start to really see this coming through in their original and creative pieces. They began the year by tackling portraiture. From studying the incredible style of Van Gogh’s later self-portraits to discovering facial proportions, it was a great term and resulted in some brilliant self-portraits now on display as a fun game of Guess Who? Bridget Riley is a contemporary artist who has paved the way for female artists in the public sphere. She has had a career spanning sixty years and is still producing brilliant works. Together with some other artists, Form VII fell deep into the vortex world of optical illusions. We had a great time creating vortex pieces and Op Art cubes. This term they have been experimenting with printing processes and how we can use different texture to represent water on our landscapes. Their lighthouse prints are now on display and are really impressive.

It goes without saying that Form VIII relish their time in the art rooms away from the rigors of academic subjects. They started the year with a graffiti and street art topic, which enabled us to learn about Banksy and his unconventional approach to art. The children loved this and especially enjoyed decorating the art room windows in their signature styles. Kusama inspired us next, as we made our own papier mâché pumpkins, adorned with her polka dots. The hard hitting and meaningful painting of Guernica by Pablo Picasso was a fascinating insight into how history and art can play alongside each other. The children took inspiration from the gigantic canvas and created their own version in lino print. As a final project, Form VIII took photographs of letters around the school to creatively make their names. A fun and reflective project that finished their time with us in the art room.

Amongst all of this we have had time for a trip to London, Club Art competitions, prop making for all productions, our weekly Art Club and preparing six students for their scholarships. The scholars worked tirelessly on their portfolios, and we are hugely proud of all their achievements. They have continued the long tradition of Beachborough Art scholars and inspired the younger years with their wonderful creativity. A huge thanks to Bhim P, Annie L and Jackie M as our Art Ambassadors and well done to Lily V, Wallis D and Max G-S for stepping into the role for next year. However, the greatest thanks must go to our very own Art Fairy, Miss Flint. We would not be able to achieve any of the above without her exceptional talents, patience, organisation and wonderous displays.

We can’t wait to see what next year brings – thank you Beachborough artists!

Jemima Cox - Head of Art

Drama

THE FV SHOWCASE

The Form V Showcase (written by Mrs Andrew) was an absolute extravaganza that took the audience on an unexpected journey, from the stage to the zoo, all while capturing the spirit and energy of the pupils’ Drama adventures this year. The premise - a play about trying to put on a play, only to partially abandon it for an impromptu zoo trip - was executed with unwavering commitment, energy and flair, from every member of the Form V Drama team.

The showcase provided the audience with a look back at an exciting year of Drama lessons, highlighting their personal growth, as well as their newly acquired range of skills. Each scene was a little window into their journey, filled with nods to the trials and triumphs they experienced together. The inside jokes (sorry, Mr Knowles!) and playful references to their lessons (“Ring Lady Tamba!”) gave a personal touch that only added to the children’s enjoyment of the performance. As the zoo journey unfolded, each student multi-role played. One minute, they could have been a guest at a party and the next they could have been part of a music box! Whatever the character or object being portrayed, every pupil brought each role to life with exuberance and charm.

What Form V created was a shining example of what makes our Drama lessons so special. It showed that we have a safe space for creativity to flourish - so much so that some of the lines

on the night were improvised! This is no easy feat and they should feel very proud of all their efforts. Kudos to Form V for an evening that was a delightful celebration of their successful year together.

FVI CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG JR.

Congratulations to our talented Form VI students, for a show that was truly scrumptious!

Form VI’s rendition of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.” was a dazzling display of talent and endless enthusiasm, transporting us into a fantastical world where cars fly, sweets sing, and dreams come alive.

From the very first note, the audience was whisked away on an unforgettable adventure. Our Form VI stars gave a performance that was nothing short of magical. Weaving the narrative was Caractacus Potts (Keagan L) who handled the quirky inventiveness of his character with flair. His children, Jeremy (Max W) and Jemima (Eliza B) joined him on his daring adventure to save Chitty (Felix C, Edward B, Bertie T, Sam B, Calvin F and Henry K) and free the Hidden Children (Will B, Elsie W, Ariana M, Freddie J, Harvey G, Hattie L, Henry W and Lauchie T). The energy, enthusiasm and effort that each of these children put into their roles was outstanding.

Equally captivating was the performance of Truly Scrumptious (Stella M), who sang beautifully and danced with both grace and precision. ‘Doll in a Music Box’ was a particular highlight. All the children involved worked brilliantly together to create a convincing and magical scene.

A special mention must go to the Baron (Ollie G) and Baroness (Erin K), whose dramatic flair was executed with such exuberance that they nearly stole the show. And let’s not forget the evil Child Catcher (Will McA) whose portrayal was so delightfully menacing that even the

adults were peeking nervously from behind their programmes!

Behind the scenes, the dedication and hard work of the staff shone in every moment. A huge thank you goes to Mrs Boardman for her incredible choreography, Mrs Oram and Wacky Wardrobes for the wonderful costume and props, and Miss Cheshire and Mrs Cox for the stunning set and technical design. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Mr Perronnet for bringing the gleaming mechanical marvel, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang herself, to life.

FVII TWELFTH NIGHT

Form VII’s production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night (adapted by Mrs Andrew) was an enchanting journey that transported the audience to the shores of Illyria. Proving themselves to be budding bards, Form VII delivered a performance that was highly entertaining and impressive.

Like many of Shakespeare’s plays, Twelfth Night is wrought with mistaken identities, merriment and unrequited love. Form VII told this well-known, dramatic tale with vigour, clarity and humour.

Young Viola (played by Beth J) and Sebastian (Kitty M) found themselves in a difficult situation after a terrible storm split them apart. When each of them attempted to find work and happiness, they were met with more confusion and frivolity! One of the most entertaining scenes that had the audience laughing, had to be when Malvolio (Gethin P) arrived in the garden dressed in yellow stockings. Fooled by Maria (Emily A), Sir Andrew (James H) and Sir Toby (Miller Y), he desperately tried - and failed - to impress the formidable Lady Olivia (Bella G). After more confusion and hilarity, instigated by the mischievous Feste (Tim A) and the other members of the court, all was well, ending in Duke Orsino (Jake K) and the others, marrying their correct counterparts.

Taking on traditional Shakespearean language was a challenge fully accepted by Form VII and they should be highly commended for their fantastic efforts. Both the children’s hard work and dedication were evident in every moment. Their passion for the play, coupled with a joyful camaraderie, proved that Form VII could easily conjure magic with the words of Shakespeare.

FVIII VARIETY PERFORMANCE

Form VIII’s farewell variety performance was a heartwarming tribute to their time at Beachborough. Filled with music, dance, monologues and more, the performance left the audience both delighted and teary-eyed. It was a night that showcased not just their talents, but the camaraderie and spirit that has defined their years here.

It was truly wonderful to see such an array of skills. Ranging from Bethany D’s incredible dance talent, to moving monologues delivered by Peter C, William A and Harrison B, to hilarious and witty devised pieces from our ‘Secret Life of Teachers’ team, there was so much for everyone to enjoy. The ‘Teacher Awards of 2024’ was a delightful addition, filled with humour and heartfelt gratitude. Each award, from ‘Being the Most Stylish’ to ‘Being the Best Rugby Coach,’ was a testament to the bond between students and teachers. The laughter and applause that greeted each recipient underscored the genuine affection and respect shared by all.

Another highlight was the delicious set of treats created by our talented students, Annie L, Jackie M and Sadie B. They worked hard and challenged themselves to create interval snacks suitable for a variety of tastes and dietary requirements. All these were thoroughly enjoyed while having the chance to look at the impressive Art and Tech work on show, at the back of the Whybrow.

Rounding off the evening was a photo reel down ‘Memory Lane’, which poignantly reminded us of just how far these young people have come, since starting their Beachborough journey. It was hard to believe that our towering Form VIIIs used to be that

small (and cute)!

As they move on to the next chapter of their lives, this night will remain a cherished memory, and a reminder of the wonderful community they have been a part of.

Bravo to all for a night that was a perfect send-off!

All reports written by Ruth Andrew Head of Drama

Sport

As the 2023-24 academic year draws to a close, it is time to reflect and celebrate the past 10 months of sporting action at Beachborough.

Once again, there has been both individual and collective success in numerous directions, with the pupils embracing opportunities to showcase their skills on a competitive stage. They have each represented the school at various matches, festivals, tournaments, meetings, galas and competitions in a respectful, collaborative and wholehearted manner.

The year provided a number of memorable moments, a number of which you will read about in due course, but it would be remiss of me not to mention five of these in this introductory report:

• In October, our U11 boys’ rugby team won their IAPS Rugby festival held at Rugby School, after beating Bilton Grange in a gripping final.

• In December, Joshua S and Thomas G “did the double” after winning the U13 and U11 boys’ races respectively at the Beachborough Run for the second successive year; a unique achievement.

On the same Wednesday afternoon in late February at St Edward’s School, our U11A boys’ team won their inaugural football tournament with our U10A boys also emerging victorious in an equivalent hockey festival.

• In June, Gabriel F, Beth J and Julia M all qualified for the IAPS National Swimming Championships in their respective age group’s backstroke races, and therefore had the opportunity to compete at the iconic London Aquatics Centre in the Olympic Park. Beth and Gabriel went on to reach their respective finals at the Nationals, both achieving PB’s in the process!

• In July, Edward C, Ian D, Joshua S (for the second consecutive year) and Jackson T all qualified for the National Prep Schools Athletics Championships at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. All four boys earnt that right after a successful day at the Regional Championships in Bedford, with Jackson in particular jumping a huge PB of 1.48m in the High Jump.

• This Summer saw the profile of girls' cricket at Beachborough grow even further. Our U13A's were introduced to T20 cricket for the first time and our Colts A and B sides (Years 5 and 6) had the opportunity to experience hard ball pairs cricket, acquitting themselves very well in the process. Emile S and Isabella B were selected to represent a combined U11 Girls Prep Schools team, playing matches against the county teams of Gloucestershire, Hampshire and Oxfordshire for the Wynyard-Gibb Cup at St Edwards School in early June.

None of this success, or our pupils’ progress in general, would have been possible without a dedicated team of staff to support, nurture and coach them. I would therefore like to acknowledge the contribution of the Games

Department as whole for their input into our diverse sporting programme, providing opportunities for pupils to express themselves. Our groundsman, Dan Carter, deserves great praise for preparing pitches, courts and surfaces for us to play on, not withstanding the inclement weather he has to deal with throughout the winter and spring in particular.

Finally, I would like to say thank you to the parents for their attendance at each of the school’s fixtures on a weekly basis and for their ongoing support of their child’s sporting endeavors.

The motivation and drive it gives the children to perform to the best of their ability cannot be underestimated.

A comprehensive review of the sporting year now follows with a detailed look at each of the different sports.

Mark Usher Director of Sport

Athletics

Athletics continues to thrive at Beachborough, and this year has certainly been no exception. As part of the PE curriculum, all pupils have enjoyed participating in a wide variety of track and field events every week in lessons, with a large number choosing to come along to Athletics Club at lunchtimes. Sports Day was once again a fantastic occasion, with some fiercely contested races and participation by all.

Beachborough’s athletes competed in the annual Stowe Prep Schools’ Meeting against eight other schools – Ashfold, Caldicott, Spratton Hall, St John’s College, Summerfields, Swanbourne House, The Dragon and Winchester House. This was the first inter-schools meeting of the term after the bad weather put pay to the planned Spratton Hall meeting at the end of April. A team of 30 boys and girls all ran, jumped, threw and competed to the best of their ability amongst some stiff competition. Special mention must be made of Josh S’ standout performances in the 800 metres (in a new personal best of 2 minutes 22 seconds) and the long jump (also with a PB of 4.35 metres), as well Bella G’s impressive display in the high jump, clearing 1.35 metres, which earnt both victory in their respective age group events.

The second meeting took place at Winchester House against nine other schools – Kitebrook, Magdalen College School, Pinewood, Spratton Hall, Swanbourne House, The Dragon, Thornton College, Tudor Hall and Winchester

House. There were many standout individual performances, most notably Josh S running a superb 800m and breaking a 20 year old meeting record, as well as the following pupils winning their respective age group event: Chloe L (U11 girls’ high jump), Fergus T (U11 boys’ hurdles), Alex H (U12 boys’ hurdles), Ian D (U12 boys’ javelin), Josh S (U13 boys’ 800m and long jump), Kit S (U13 boys’ 1500m), Tom H (U14 boys’ 800m). In addition, a quartet of Josh, Kit, Lucas C and Max G-S also claimed the gold in the U13 boys’ 4 x100m Relay.

A squad of athletes from Forms VI to VIII made the trip to Bedford for the annual IAPS East Area Regional Athletics Championships. This meeting is always extremely well-contested, with talented track and field athletes competing from fifty schools in the region. Although some of our athletes have competed on this stage before, for others it was a first. A special mention must go to Emilie S, Alex H and Ian D in Form VI - all three have had minimal experience at their respective events but have demonstrated great potential which they certainly displayed when competing.

Track and field events ran simultaneously in all areas of the stadium and our pupils enjoyed cheering each other on, demonstrating great camaraderie. We enjoyed lots of individual success, with athletes qualifying for finals and new personal bests being achieved. We were thrilled to accumulate a few awards throughout the day; bronze medals were achieved by Ian D (U12 boys’ javelin), Bella G (U13 girls’ high jump), Edward C (U13 boys’ 75 metres hurdles) and Jackson T (U14 boys’ javelin). We were also extremely proud to have two gold medal winners - Josh S became

Regional Champion in the U13 boys’ 800 metres, and Jackson T smashed his personal best to win the boys’ U14 high jump with a leap of 1.48 metres. Both boys automatically achieved a place in the East Area team to compete at the Nationals at the prestigious Alexander Stadium in Birmingham.

The following week, 11 pupils in Forms IV and V represented the school at the East Area Regional Athletics Championships in Cambridge, a junior version of the meeting that takes place in Bedford each year which our pupils in Forms VI, VII and VIII attend. Some of the pupils were competing on a tartan track for the very first time and with 30 schools in attendance, this was arguably one of the biggest stages they would have been on in their sporting lives thus far. A special mention should go to Form IV pupils, Krystian B and Amiyah S, who both made their respective 75m finals after qualifying from their heats, and Henry W, who ran an aggressive 600m to finish 5th in the U10 boys’ final. Fergus T in Form V made the final of the U11 boys’ 100m, finishing 6th overall in it, whilst William G ran a really courageous 800m and came 5th in the U11 boys’ final of that event.

The pupils gained great experience from the day which will set them up well for the future. A huge thanks to the Form VII helpers, Edward C, Bella G and Josh S, who were all a great source of support on the day, helping to take the pupils to their events and passing on useful advice and tips to the athletes.

We were delighted to hear that not only were Josh and Jackson off to compete at the Nationals, but Edward and Ian also had a

call-up, having finished third in their respective events at Bedford. It was a wonderful experience for all four to compete at the Alexander Stadium, and a day that will always stay with them. Edward finished 7th in his 75m hurdles heat, demonstrating his efficiency in hurdling off both right and left lead legs, and he now looks forward to tackling the higher barriers next season. Ian threw well in his javelin event, gaining an extra attempt for being in the top 8; his throw of 23.61m resulted in a very credible 7th placing overall. Jackson, having struggled slightly in the practice jumps, finally found his rhythm and enjoyed success over the high jump bar, finishing 6th overall with a 1.45m performance, just shy of his personal best. Last, but by no means least, was the U13 boys’ 800m which saw Josh on the start line. Despite being tripped up and trodden on in the first few metres of the race, Josh demonstrated great resilience, picking himself up and completing his two laps. Occasionally, things don’t go as planned, and this mishap will certainly only contribute to Josh’s hunger on the track next year. We are extremely proud of our Nationalists, and we look forward to seeing their track and field journeys develop in 2025.

Our Form VIII Athletics Captains, Lucas G and Tilly G, have played an important role in leading by example, and helping our younger athletes to achieve their best this season. We would like to thank them for what they have done, and we wish them every success as they begin a new chapter at their senior schools in September. Next season, we welcome Edward C and Bella G into the same roles, and we have no doubt that they too will be excellent ambassadors for the sport.

Congratulations to our Beachborough athletes for their super efforts and achievements this year, and many thanks to all the staff and parents for their continued support along the way.

Vicki Little

Boys’ Cricket

Colts B

The Beachborough Colts B showcased a remarkable blend of resilience and teamwork in their cricket matches this term. The first match against St. Hugh’s highlighted their impressive bowling and fielding, overcoming a modest total to secure a win. In the match against Bilton Grange, a strong batting performance, led by Freddie, and a dominant bowling display, particularly by Arthur K, ensured a comprehensive victory. The team’s spirit and skill were evident, setting a positive tone for the season ahead. The boys did well throughout the term both in the nets, training, and during the matches. The outstanding performers this term were Will, Felix and Freddie.

Nick Blithe

Colts A

After a wet start to the term, our first match against Ashfold was cancelled. St Hugh’s were our next opposition and having lost the toss we were put into bat. On a very soft wicket, it was hard to get to grips with the pace of bowling. We started well but struggled to build any real partnerships. Ralf B played exceptionally well scoring 28 runs off 22 balls. Ollie G also chipped in with a hard fought 16 not out. We were bowled out for 98 which was a competitive total. St Hugh’s came out to bat and we didn’t let them settle. An outstanding spell of bowling from Henry L, who got 3 wickets for 2 runs in his 2 overs, left St Hugh’s 10-4 and chasing the game. Fergus T and Jamie S also

bowled very well and both got 2 wickets each. In the end we were too strong, and bowled St Hugh’s out for 69 winning the match by 29 runs. It was a great start to the season.

Our next match was against Bilton Grange. On a gloriously sunny afternoon we lost the toss and were put into bat. A terrific opening partnership of 47 runs from Ben S (27 not out) and Jamie S (20) put us on top from the word go. Captain Ralf B also hit a very classy 28 not out. With so many runs on the board, I was able to change the batting order up to give everyone a go. Runs kept ticking over and we ended up on 116-6 off our 20 overs. A very pleasing team display. Bilton came out to bat and our opening pair of Henry L and Raff P were on the money from ball 1. They bowled straight and full, making it difficult for the Bilton openers to score. Had we held more catches, the game would have been over very quickly, but instead the Bilton number 3 came out and scored a strong 26 not out. Bilton were always a long way behind the run rate and in the end we ran out comfortable winners, restricting Bilton to 87-9 off their 20 overs. Henry L (2-10) and Ralf B (3-2) were the pick of the bowlers. It was another good team performance.

On a gloriously warm sunny afternoon our next match was against Swanbourne. We lost the toss and were put into bat. Ben and Freddie started well with the former hitting two fours in the first over before Freddie lost his wicket. Ralf came in at 3 and both boys set about the

Swanbourne bowling. Ben was retired when he had scored 50* off 40 balls hitting nine fours, and Ralf managed to score 51* off 37; in doing so, he hit ten fours and was retired. Our final total was 211 for 2 form 20 overs a remarkable scoring rate of 10.55 an over. Ian and Arlo opened the bowling and both boys bowled beautifully. Next to bowl was Bertie, who kept things tight with some accurate deliveries. He gave way to Alex who got the breakthrough with his second ball, a terrific flighted delivery that had the batsman totally flummoxed, tremendous! That was 14/1 and our tails were up. 211 was now a long way away with an opener removed. This joy was short lived however, as we toiled in the sun and did not get another wicket for another six overs. By this time, the hosts had lurched onto seventy runs. It took a superbly straight ball from Ian to dislodge the other opener and smiles reappeared on our faces. On came Alex again and he had the Midas touch, a wicket with the first ball of his second spell combining with the wicket keeper Sam to snare the third wicket and the hosts were now wobbling at 78/3. More was to come from Alex’s magic spinning fingers and with his fourth delivery he scooped his third wicket, bowling the batsman out for a duck! Raff re-entered the attack and bowled a beautiful away swinger which the batsman edged into the gaping hands of the grateful Sam behind the stumps. Two run outs followed soon after, with fine fielding from Raff and Arlo. The final wicket of Swanbourne’s innings fell on the very last ball of the match when Ralf bowled a beauty, accurate and straight. Swanbourne lost five wickets for only twenty-six runs and we had won by 105 runs. An excellent victory and many congratulations to Ralf and Ben for their half centuries.

The Spratton Hall game was cancelled due to rain, so our next match was the local derby against Winchester House School. Sadly, I was away with the U10s at a cricket festival, so this paragraph lacks specific details.

Beachborough batted first and scored 117 from our 20 overs. A strong innings from Ralf B (34) and good contributions from Sam H (14), Freddie J (15) and Arlo W (14) gave us a competitive total. Winchester House never really got going and regular wickets fell and in the end they ended up on 92 all out. An excellent 25 run win and thoroughly deserved.

Milton Keynes Prep were our next opposition and having beaten them by 1 run at the Bedford 6 a side tournament, we knew it was going to be a tough game. We won the toss and bowled first. A good opening spell from Henry L (2-17) and Ralf B (1-9) gave us a really good platform. Unfortunately, we were a little sloppy in the field and dropped a number of easy chances and gave MK Prep a few too many easy runs. Further wickets from Raff P and Ben S restricted MK Prep to 104-5 from 20 overs. It was a very achievable target, but we needed to be patient. We started off our innings with a string of boundaries and after two overs we have raced along to 25-0 and looked very comfortable. Sadly, we lost four very quick wickets for not many runs and after ten overs we were 52-5. The game was in the balance and needed we needed a hero.

That hero was Henry L who came to the wicket and batted outstandingly well for 27 not out. He remained calm while wickets fell around him and as we entered the final over of the game, we needed 9 runs to win. A glorious four from Alex H eased the pressure and a crazy bit of fielding from MK Prep gave us a very welcome three runs. A couple of singles left

us on 104-9 with one ball remaining. Were we going to snatch an unlikely victory. Alas, it was not to be, but the game was tied. A strange result but under the circumstances, one we were very happy with.

On the hottest day of the year to date, we welcomed Maidwell Hall to school for our next fixture. Captain Ralf B won the toss and elected to field. Two very quick wickets thanks to some excellent bowling from Ralf B saw Maidwell slip to 7-2 in the first few overs. From that point onwards we never looked back. We were sharp in the field and took 6 excellent catches. A devastating spell from Jamie S (420) and Ralf B (3-5) and a wicket each for Bertie T, Fergus T and Ollie G restricted Maidwell to 59 all out. Normally, for this talented group of cricketers chasing 59 runs would be a walk in the park but cricket can be a funny game. On this occasion our ever-reliable run scorers did not deliver, so we needed someone else to step up. That person was Arlo W. Batting at 3 for the first time this season, Arlo W showed patience and control scoring a match winning 23 runs. For a few overs the game was in the balance but in the end the team comfortably chased down a very modest total with 10 overs to spare. Another excellent victory and the best fielding performance of the season. Bring on the last game of the season against Bruern Abbey.

Sadly, our final game of the season was cancelled due to the rain, but did it not take the shine of what has been a tremendous season for the Colts A cricket team. An unbeaten season is always very special, and it is something that every member of the team should be incredibly proud of. I would like to extend my thanks to Ralf B who has captained

the team superbly, all the boys who have made the season so very enjoyable and the wonderful support from all the parents.

Final statistics (including festival):

Played: 9

Won: 8

Tied: 1

Cancelled: 2

Lost: 0

Sam Stoop

2nd XI

The Senior 2nd cricket team had a remarkable season, playing all their matches in the 20-over format. The season kicked off with a commanding victory away to Ashfold, where Beachborough posted an impressive 176 for 2. The bowlers then dominated, restricting Ashfold to just 43 for 7, securing a comprehensive win.

In a thrilling home game against St Hughs, the match was impacted by rain but was completed. St Hughs batted first and managed 98 for 9. Beachborough chased the target down in the last over, clinching the win with only one wicket remaining. This nail-biting finish showcased the team’s resilience and determination.

The third game saw Beachborough away to Bilton Grange. Batting first, they scored 95 for 7, but despite a strong effort, Bilton chased down the target with a few overs to spare. Catching mishaps cost Beachborough, yet it was a well-fought contest.

The team bounced back spectacularly in the next match against Swanbourne House, bowling them out for 43 and achieving the target with plenty of wickets in hand.

Beachborough continued their strong form with an away win against Winchester House. We set a target of 123, and despite a hard chase from Winchester, they fell 20 runs short.

The sixth game of the season saw an exciting game against Spratton Hall, where Beachborough scored a respectable 107 for 7. Spratton’s middle order batted well, but Beachborough’s bowlers held their nerve,

bowling them out for 97.

In the final game of the season, Maidwell Hall visited Beachborough on a scorching summer’s day. Beachborough batted first, scoring 99 for 9 wickets. Maidwell Hall chased down the target, securing the win with 7 balls to spare.

Thank you for the memories and the increased heart rate at times. It has been a thoroughly enjoyable season.

Simon Preece

1st XI

With an earlier Easter in comparison to previous years, we returned to school for the summer term in mid-April, fresh off the back of one of the wettest springs on record. This meant that our groundsman, Dan Carter, had the unenviable task of playing “catch up” in terms of getting pitches ready and outfields cut. With a healthy number of boys to choose from – 43 in Forms VII and VIII – and Ellie S to complement them, the school was able to put out four Senior teams, meaning that selection was competitive to say the least!

The 1st XI began their season on a chilly, Wednesday afternoon towards the end of April against Ashfold on our artificial strip (the game only going ahead because of the nature of the surface when other matches had to be unfortunately called off). A solid bowling and fielding effort restricted our visitors to a total of 89-6 off their 20 overs, which we passed with relative ease (only 2 wickets down) thanks to a good partnership between captain, Thomas W, and Gethin P.

One of the individual moments of the season came at St Hugh’s the following week where George H, opening the batting, scored a fluent 50 not out. An innings full of back foot cuts and drives on a wicket with good pace and bounce was just reward for a player who has given great service to the team over the last 2 years. Unfortunately, despite a good fightback with the ball after St Hugh’s got off to a quick start in their reply, led by Thomas W’s 4 wickets, we ultimately didn’t have enough runs to play with to force a victory.

We suffered a blip in the proceeding match against Bilton Grange on a tricky wicket at Beachborough in a very low scoring affair. However, the team came out rejuvenated against Swanbourne House the following week, intent on putting that game to bed. Bowling the opposition out for 73 was better than we could have hoped for, or even expected, as they had two outstanding cricketers, one of whom scored a hundred against Winchester House the previous week, amongst their ranks. It was down to a disciplined bowling performance led by Thomas W with his 4-15 and Ellie S’ 3-15, in her first game for the team. Our reply to this total wasn’t without its alarms but Thomas led from the front with his fine 37, ably supported by Paddy B’s 24 not out, as we managed to claim a very pleasing 7 wicket win in the end.

This would prove to be the main highlight of the season as matches against Spratton Hall and Bruern Abbey were lost to the weather, whilst Winchester House gave us a lesson in being clinical when we faced them just after the half term break. A lovely innings of 42 from Thomas and Gabriel F and Harry R-W’s

partnership of 44 gave us something to bowl at, but this all proved in vain as Winchester House passed out total of 113 for the loss of only one wicket.

Whilst the Form VIII’s were away on their Leavers Trip, the Form VII’s were split into two sides – U12A and U12B – for matches against Winchester House and Pitsford respectively. This gave Harry R-W the opportunity to gain some captaincy experience, ahead of taking over that role in the 1st XI next year. The highlight from that day though came from Tobey V, who took a hat trick in the B’s game played at Westbury Cricket Club.

Despite the results not always going in our favour, the players should be commended for their commitment to self-improvement throughout the season. Cricket is a game in which you have to heavily invest much time and effort and it is to their immense credit, that the pupils’ skills and game awareness came on enormously.

Thomas W was fully deserving of his cricket Colours, leading the side with aplomb and enjoying a prolific season, scoring 128 runs at an average of 25.6 with the bat and taking 10 wickets with the ball. In addition, George H, Tom H and Jackson T were also awarded their Colours too, after playing a significant role in the 1st XI over the past 2 years.

Mark Usher

Girls’ Cricket

Tigers

This season has been a challenging but educational one for the Tigers. The girls have faced a number of losses but despite this, their resilience has been fantastic and even more importantly, their sportsmanship has been excellent in the face of defeat.

Unfortunately, a number of their matches were cancelled, due to unseasonable conditions, which was disappointing for the girls, but they used the time to continue to train and develop their skills with each other instead. With each match resulting in the nomination of a different ‘Player of the Match’, it was evident that each girl considered their individual feedback and worked hard to improve, whether it be their bowling aim; their positioning in relation to the wicket or how to block the ball successfully in the field. It was clear to see that improvements were being made as the last games of the season became very close. In their match against Winchester House, the Tigers lost by a mere two runs and then, all their hard effort, bowling improvements and discussion of fielding and batting tactics resulted in a successful match against Akeley, where the girls were very proud to come away with a significant win. Impressing me throughout the season with her bowling was Juliet W, who ensured the opposition rarely scored highly off her. Another notable bowler was Isla R, who in our successful match against Akeley, achieved two wickets in quick succession and finally, for

excellent improvement in her batting and acting upon her individual feedback, was Tami A. All the Tigers have clearly enjoyed their cricket play this season and I hope they continue to build on their skills they have learnt this term. Well done all of you!

Ellen MacKenzie

U11 Colts B

This term the girls have really enjoyed their cricket and have improved week after week. They had games sessions dedicated to different batting shots such as the pull shot, square drive and forward defensive shot which enabled them to play some excellent cricket. The pull shot has been a favourite of Eliza B, Jenna S and Darcey S. Megan M and Annabelle have favoured the square drive shot. Both shots have enabled them to score multiple boundaries this season. All the girls’ bowling has improved over the course of the season. This has been recognised by many opposing schools saying how consistent and accurate the bowling has been. In particular, progress was made by Gracie R, Olivia W and Sophie C.

The girls had a positive start, winning their first cricket match against Bilton Grange with phenomenal batting innings from Eliza B, Megan M and Ana R and excellent wickets from Jenna and Megan M.

The winning streak continued when the team played Wellingborough. They won this match with great batting produced from Jenna S, Megan M and Ana R who all scored multiple fours! Darcey S was outstanding with her fielding, achieving a catch and bowling a wicket!

They then went to play Winchester House in a very close game, and won their third consecutive match by 5 runs! Annabelle K and Darcey S were the strongest batters scoring boundaries, however, it was the teams fielding that won the match. Fabulous accurate bowling from Gracie R, Annabelle K and Ana R saw some overs only achieving a score of 3 runs. Ana R, Thea R and Eliza B all took wickets to help secure the win!

Next, was the girls first competitive hard ball pairs cricket match against MK Prep. Sadly, the girls lost this match. Darcey S and Megan M were strong when batting, being able to place the ball within the field to score boundaries. Gracie R and Jenna S were consistent with their bowling, only allowing MK Prep to score 8 runs for both their overs bowled. Tilly E and Sophie C both bowled wickets with their accurate bowling. Olivia W was a brilliant wicket keeper staying alert to field the ball.

On the 5th and final match of the season, the team faced Swanbourne House. Not only was it the hottest day of the year so far, but it was also the best batting the girls had performed this season. Darcey S, Jenna S and Eliza B scored a fantastic 97 runs between them! Thea R was brilliant with her bowling

and from 3 overs only allowed the opposition to score a total of 4 runs! Annabelle K had a great over, only conceding 1 run! However, it was the final over where the game was won. Darcey S threw a perfectly aimed ball to stump out one of the batters and Thea R bowled a wicket straight after!

Overall, a fantastic season and very well done to the U11 Colts B. I hope they have all enjoyed the season too!

Jade Mulcahy

U11/U10 Cavaliers

Beachborough U11/U10 Girls Cavaliers Cricket team enjoyed a successful season. Although a few matches rained off, the matches that were played were sunny and victorious!

Throughout the summer term, the team worked incredibly hard to improve their skills in batting, bowling and fielding. When bowling, the focus for the season was to improve the length and accuracy of each bowl to achieve some wickets. In fielding, the girls quickly learnt that it was essential to keep alert so not to miss any catches and to focus on backing up their teammates. In batting, all players worked on keeping their head down and bat straight, prepared to move their feet towards the pitch of the ball, to give themselves the best opportunity to strike the ball. Once mastered, the next step was to hit the ball with more force, at an angle travelling in between fielders, hopefully with enough momentum to reach the boundary! Key matches this term were against Winchester House, Ashfold and Swanbourne –all winning fixtures. Throughout the season, the Beachborough Cavaliers improved

communication with their batting partner and gained in confidence with their decision making, resulting in less risks and more runs! Special mention, this season, goes to Theodora S for her improved bowling technique resulting in accurate bowling during matches, Elsie W and Claire N for the runs they scored when batting and Ayla O for her consistency with catching players out! A positive season, enjoyed by all players. Basic skills grasped and confidence gained. You have been a pleasure to coach, girls! There will be more fun on the cricket pitch ahead.

Sally Gross U11A

After only a couple of sessions practising with a hard ball, the A team were excited to play their first match of the season. Unfortunately, most matches on this day had to be cancelled due to the sheer amount of rain in recent days, however the girls were delighted to have the opportunity to play their first game at Westbury on an astro wicket.

Beachborough won the toss and opted to field first; this was a golden opportunity to show off some impressive bowling, with captain Emilie, and Kitty, both bowling three wickets; Emilie’s being consecutive. This was where our infamous ‘Replay the moment’ phrase originated, with Kitty encouraging Emilie to keep up the great bowling. Eva P did a fantastic job as wicket-keeper, having only practised in one lesson with her protective equipment. Following Bilton Grange’s batting, the girls padded up with determination to exceed their score. This proved not to be too difficult, and a mention must go to Isabella B for some great hitting

beyond the boundary. The team were delighted to finish with a win of 48 runs

Our next match was away at St.Hugh’s, where Beachborough batted first, receiving some fast, accurate balls which proved difficult to hit at times. When the roles reversed, the girls did the same; taking a couple of wickets and making it a challenge for the opposition to score. Erin was impressive in her first game as wicket-keeper, showing great reactions, whilst Eva M took three wickets; one being fielded with pinpoint accuracy from just inside the boundary line. Unfortunately, we came away with a loss, but it was a closely fought game and we brought back lots of positives.

We travelled to Wellingborough for our third match where unfortunately, we lost the toss and consequently batted first. Although using a soft ball for the first time this season, our hitting was good, and we were delighted when Eva M triumphed with a 6. Our time in the nets this week was put to practice, and the girls seemed more confident in choosing which shots to play. Beachborough’s fielding was effective with some great reactions and good backing-up. Poppy and Julia took wickets when bowling and Eva P took a dramatic diving catch, taking the ball just centimetres from the ground. The decision of who should be crowned Players of the Match was unanimous – Team Eva stole the show!

We welcomed Winchester House School for a hard ball match which ended up being very closely-contested. Erin K and Eva P shared the role of wicket keeper, both taking wickets, and Eva P also took a great catch as bowler. Emilie S contributed a couple of hits beyond the boundary and the collaboration between

the girls was excellent. It came down to the last over where Evie CB demonstrated great resilience when she had a ball bowled to her chest whilst in bat. Unfortunately, we couldn’t exceed the opposition’s result, largely due to Winchester House’s exceptional wicket keeper, so we graciously admitted defeat.

Our final home fixture was against Milton Keynes Prep; this time an 8 a-side match. Knowing that the opposition have historically been strong, the girls showed determination from the very first ball. We were missing a couple of players, however the team worked relentlessly in both batting and fielding. Poppy took a fantastic catch, Kitty hit beyond the boundary on the largest pitch they have played on this season and Evie demonstrated some effective fielding. The score could have gone either way, and although we lost by 15 runs, everyone was delighted with the team’s performance as they certainly played their best cricket this summer.

Finally, we were invited to play a T20 match at Swanbourne; we were excited to be playing a new format. We won the toss and elected to field first, showing quick reactions and backing each other up effectively. Swanbourne retired a batter after she had scored in excessive of a half century, and the girls enjoyed taking several wickets with their accurate bowling and a great catch from

Eva P. We knew what we needed to achieve to take the win and battled on with determination, and as we continued to do the maths, Stella and Tilly found opportunities for ‘sneaky runs.’ With two overs left, we needed eight runs to win, with our final pair in bat. Unfortunately, Swanbourne took their final wicket and became victorious. The girls loved the T20 experience and hope to be able to play more next year.

We have been very proud of everyone in this squad; they have collaborated well together, reflected on their training and matches, been keen to learn and enjoyed playing together as a team. We very much look forward to seeing this group’s continued progress next season.

Vicki

Little

U13B

While on paper it may appear that it has been a tough season for the girls’ U13B cricket team, with them struggling to secure a win, the reality is that most matches have been well balanced. The girls have truly developed their understanding of the game, tactics, fielding positions, and equally important, cricket etiquette. As individuals, Bethany D has secured Player of the Match in no fewer than three games for her fabulous bowling, which has increased in pace and accuracy over the season, taking many wickets. Evelyn and Lyla SH have been forces to be reckoned with: Lyla striking the ball with great power, and Evelyn, with her keen eye and superb coordination, making some great catches. Both have also been well-deserved Players of the Match on more than one occasion. Most rewarding of all, however,

has been seeing the girls enjoy the sport more as their skills have developed. Additionally, witnessing the support they have had for each other, with calls from Sadie and Izzy W to remind the team to ‘back up’ and ‘walk in,’ and with players such as Abi C more confidently closing down balls when fielding, has been heartening. Together, as a team, they should be proud of the progress made this season, and I shall miss coaching them next year.

Lisa Smith

U13A

This has been such an exciting season for Girls’ Sport at Beachborough! U13A team were about to make history by being the first girls to play a T20 hard ball cricket match! We were very excited about this prospect; the training was complete, and Mr Stoop had been brought in with his cricket expertise to help with the technical side of the coaching. Match day arrived and typically was the only match of the season to be cancelled due to biblical weather. Luckily, this gave us more time to train and be fully prepared for the next arranged T20 match! Our first official T20 was now against WHS. We fielded first and really struggled to get the opening batswoman out, even with exceptional bowling from the whole team! Eventually, Bhim P created some awesome fielding and batswoman number 2 was out! Chasing a score of 124 was a big feat! WHS fielding was sound, but the Beachborough girls were able to sneak balls past them using an array of shots (defensive and attacking). Tilly G smashing the ball for 4s in all directions. We were finally bowled out with only 3 balls to go, on 90 runs which was a

fantastic effort when playing against experienced County players.

The next T20 match was against Spratton Hall (their team mainly consisting of boys). Our bowling and fielding was epic and it was our game to lose! Once we started batting, we were easily on form to win this match. Then unfortunately, we made some irrational decisions, trying to squeeze a run in when it wasn’t safe to do so and going for big hits when we should have looked to build partnerships. Very quickly, we were flying through our batters with Evie W managing to stay in for the majority of the match. The girls were so disappointed to lose this match, but they learnt so much about the game and the intricate decisions which must be made on the spot which was invaluable.

The final game was against Maidwell Hall (on the only hot day of the summer), the girls had learnt so much over the season. We were playing against a mixed sex team; however, Ellie S was able to stay in for all 20 overs with a final personal score of 53! This was the best I had seen the girls play, both our fielding and batting was on form. The opposition had one experienced boy who was able to hit 4’s consistently. Eventually, he was caught out by our captain Isabella G, but he had gained his team a too bigger lead for us to prevent their win! This has been an incredibly exciting time for the development of Girls’ Sport and I would like to thank these Form VII and VIII girls’ for embracing all new challenges and being keen to learn. They have now set a precedent for all the girls who will follow after them for years to come! Well done!

Faye Howkins

Cross

Country

Cross country is not for the faint hearted, with the physical and mental challenges it brings, but Beachborough has a history of producing fine runners who are prepared to do “the hard yards” in training. It has therefore been encouraging to see the numbers of pupils in Forms III to VIII who have turned up to run during their lunch break once a week, determined to improve their fitness levels and for some, attempting to break into the school’s team.

There are various meetings held across the first two terms of the school year, with the St Hugh’s Relays in November kicking proceedings off, allowing us to have our first look at our U11, U10, U9 and U8 boys and girls in action. Once again, we were one of the leading schools at the event with our U9 boys’ team of George D, Kit K and Henry W and our Under 11 boys’ trio of Thomas G, Alex H and Bertie T all running excellent individual legs to win their respective age group category. Our U9 girls’ team of Maggie J, Sophie L and Cassie S also performed well to finish 3rd in their race.

The Beachborough Run took place on a wet Tuesday afternoon in early December, which due to the rain in the build up, meant that the course was arguably a more challenging one, with standing water and puddles in places. However, this did not deter our runners in the slightest and an extremely strong showing from our Under 11 and Under 13 boys in particular, meant that they both won their age group categories. Remarkably, Thomas G in the U11 boys’ race and Joshua S, in the U13 boys’ equivalent, achieved the “double double”, having won the previous years races, they both emulated that feat this year as well. After Christmas, the Spratton Hall relays was the first event on the calendar which, after a spate of injuries and illness in the camp, gave opportunities to some of our fringe runners to compete. I was delighted with the girls’ efforts in particular, amongst some tough competition, and our U13 boys’ quartet of Lucas G, Tom H, Kit S and Jake T finished a very creditable 2nd behind a strong Bilton Grange team.

Unfortunately, the Swanbourne Chase in February and then the National Prep Schools Championships at Malvern in March, which is easily the most eagerly anticipated event in the cross country calendar, were cancelled this year due to the weather in the lead up to them. This deprived the likes of Lucas G, Tom H and Ellie S one final chance to compete at the Nationals in their last year at Beachborough, which made it all the more frustrating for them!

However, our final meeting of term at Maidwell Hall did go ahead and provided a fitting finale to the season. As was the case with the Beachborough Run, our Under 11

boys and Under 13 boys both won their age group categories, following individual wins for William G and Joshua S in their respective races. In fact, we achieved a 1-2-3 in the U13 boys’ event with Tom H and Kit S following Josh home in the silver and bronze medal positions. Other notable performances on the day came from Henry W, who finished 3rd in the U9 boys’ race and Jenna S, who enjoyed a fine season on the whole, coming 2nd in the U11 girls’ race. 7 months of hard work and toil all paid dividends for our cross country runners on a “Fantastic Friday” for Beachborough to end the season!

Mark Usher

Football

Colts B

Our first foray of the new football season was at home to MK Prep, on a freezing cold but bright day. We’d had little time to prepare for our first match, barely two lessons had elapsed, so the result was not the important factor. I was more interested in how the boys played. Captained by Freddie, we immediately let the visitors through with a loose back pass to Keagan, whose clearance ended up as a corner. Early nerves started to settle as we were able to move the ball around and past the opposition, confidence grew, and we attacked regularly shooting at will and from range. The wind in our backs helped the ball towards their goal. Two nil up at half time thanks to goals from Max and Arthur was perhaps a little flattering considering our performance, if I’m being a little critical.

We started the second half on the front foot, and we had two great attacks down their left wing coming close both times. Tails were up, but unfortunately, positional discipline was lacking. At one point, I suddenly noticed prior to one of our corners, every player bar Keagan in goal was in their penalty area! Blank stares greeted my exasperated cry of ‘who’s meant to be in defence’?! As a result, from two nil up we were quickly three two down! I consoled myself knowing that at least I know what we’re going to practice in the next few lessons! Fortunately, we rallied and from a free kick just on the left-hand side of their penalty box, Ollie fired in a deflected effort into the top left corner! Defeat would’ve been harsh, and a draw is probably a fair result for

both sides. For his efforts in goal and for making several good clearances under pressure and some decent saves Keagan was today’s MotM, well done.

The next match that I officiated was against Ashfold at home, on another very cold day. The boys had worked hard on various areas of their game in the intervening weeks and this paid dividends in this match. Initially, there was a lot of unsettled play with the hefty breeze not exactly lending itself to a flowing game. We took the lead with a fine finish from Otto from close range. A good start. My mantra of ‘positional discipline’ was holding up as the defenders stayed in place this week. Ollie, Felix, and Arthur all starting well in front of captain Keagan. Passing the ball out wide and crossing the ball into the box was working well against a fairly narrow formation that our guests employed. Soon, we were two up thanks to Harvey and any pre match nerves were settling nicely. Whoever had the genius idea to have the wind in our backs in the first half should be commended. Will and Arthur combined very well down the right flank to initiate the build up for our third goal, which Otto obligingly despatched for his second of the day. By half time, it was two for two, the first nice piece of symmetry for the afternoon, as Harvey also got a second goal. A good first half, not a completely dominant display, there were chances for our visitors which would’ve made things interesting going into the final twenty minutes. Keagan picking up the ball more would’ve eased my nerves too!

Warding off complacency during my half time team talk, we set about our task as the second half got underway. Playing into the wind, the realisation dawned that we needed to play the ball on the floor to get any progress up the pitch. Ashley played an important role, although possibly missed by most of his teammates, as he kept his position nicely at the back of the area awaiting any loose ball that came his way. Sadly, this time it was not to be. At times in the second half with the score so favourably in our favour, I felt we lost our shape and were over eager to get the ball as evidenced by more than one player going for the same ball. Max scored first in the second half, a terrific effort that allowed the keeper no chance. Felix moved forward in to midfield due to sub rotations and capitalised with a great goal. A second for Max near the end of the game was shortly followed by a smashing effort by Freddie to finish things off right on the full time whistle. Our second piece of symmetry was now complete with four wonderful goals either side of half time. 8-0 the final score. My MotM was not however on the scoresheet, no disrespect to any of the sharp shooter’s efforts but I decided I would pick the player who silently and fastidiously got on with things and tried his hardest all afternoon, Will. Well done.

And so on to Bedford Modern School for the final match of this shorter term. This week as the U10 cohort of our team was engaged in a tournament elsewhere the team was made up of U11's only. Right from the off it was all Beachborough, camped in the opposition’s half for the majority of the game all boys keen to score, meant a distinct lack of defenders at

times. It was almost as if the teacher had said, ‘boys all play with freedom’. I don’t recall saying it to be honest… Nevertheless, after a few minutes of pressure Ollie poked in off a cross from close range and off we went. This was followed by a good goal by Harvey, who had a great game today. Both Ollie and Harvey got braces today in the first half which was pleasing – Ollie in one those ‘freedom’ roles, advancing ever forward from centre back! Either side of Ollie’s second goal Ashley scored two goals too! A defensive lapse allowed the hosts to score their first goal towards the end of the first half which in fairness was on one of only two forays into our half. Six goals to one up at halftime and we were probably comfortable.

The second half started much the way as the first and we encamped in the host’s half. If goals were purely the result of tenacity and effort, we would’ve scored several more than we did. Two fine goals, one from Felix and our final goal from Freddie sealed a terrific end of half term for the entire team. As much as I love the boys emulating their footballing hero’s, I personally prefer to see them scoring/ saving goals, dribbling the length of the pitch with the ball glued to their foot, etc, however betwixt our second half goals we did have a fairly spectacular miscommunication within the defence, very similar to that of Messer’s Van Dijk and Alisson last Sunday for the Liverpool V Arsenal game. This enabled Bedford to score their second of the game. Oh well, not to worry! The game finished Bedford 2 Beachborough 8, the man of the match was Arthur, for simply just getting on with it! Well done Arthur, and well-done chaps on a tremendous half term of football!

Nick Blithe

Colts A

Throughout the Colts A football team’s remarkable season, their performance was nothing short of exceptional. With five impressive victories and only one loss, they demonstrated their dominance on the field, showcasing their skill, teamwork, and determination.

In addition to their winning record, the Colts A team’s defensive prowess was on full display, conceding just four goals throughout the season. This defensive solidity, coupled with their formidable attacking ability, saw them score an impressive total of 19 goals, overwhelming their opponents with their offensive firepower while maintaining a resolute backline.

The Colts A football team’s season was defined not only by their dominating performances in regular matches but also by their remarkable journey in a highly competitive 6-a-side tournament. After navigating through the group stage, they faced a tough challenge in the semifinals. In a thrilling encounter, the team showcased their free-flowing football, securing a hard-fought 4-2 victory to advance to the final.

In the final, they found themselves facing off against a team they had previously suffered defeat to earlier in the tournament, adding an extra layer of intensity to the showdown. As the final whistle blew, the score remained deadlocked, leading to a tense penalty shootout to determine the tournament champions. In a nerve-wracking display of skill and composure, they held their nerve, delivering a masterful performance in the

penalty shootout to secure a thrilling victory and claim the tournament trophy.

All in all, this season cemented the Colts A team’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with, in the football arena.

Simon Preece

1st XI

After playing 7 a side hockey in the first half of the spring term, the switch to an 11 a side format for the football season after half term can often take some adjusting to. Space is at a premium and therefore, the need for a player’s first touch to be precise and also remain composed on the ball is key. Playing out from the back was encouraged and in doing so, the boys in the 1st team had to be brave and take risks at times, very much adhering to the modern day approach.

The Dragon looked a daunting task on paper for our first game, with the opposition having the luxury of playing together since the start of the term. However, despite falling behind to an early goal, Joshua S scored one of the best individual goals that I have seen at this level to draw us level. An open match with both attacks looking dangerous finished in a 6-3 win for The Dragon, but we were able to take many positives from it.

The following week, we gave a physically imposing Cokethorpe team a real game before succumbing to an unfortunate 2-1 defeat. However, from this point on, the season turned and after putting Ashfold to the sword with a clinical performance

(resulting in a comprehensive 9-0 win), we arguably saved our best display in beating a skilful Swanbourne House side 3-0 on the penultimate Wednesday of the term.

The team was really starting to gel at this point as we approached our final game away at Bruern Abbey, which was played at the Bicester Sports Association ground. Close matches, as this one turned out to be, can be decided by the finest of margins and it was Miller Y, coming off the bench in his first game for the team, who scored the winning goal with his first touch. A hard fought 2-1 win was a fitting way to finish our school fixtures and the match tea afterwards back at Bruern added to the feel good factor!

A playing record of 3 wins and 2 narrow defeats from our 5 matches are commendable stats whilst the staff game was the usual enjoyable affair (just don’t mention the word “penalties” to the boys!). Lucas C will also be taking part in this summer’s Gothia Cup in Sweden, after his selection for the Prep Schools Lions U12 squad, and we wish him well for this.

Usher

Boys’ Hockey

U11A and B

The U11A and U11B hockey teams have highlighted their exceptional skills, teamwork, and competitive spirit in the second half of term. Both teams demonstrated impressive prowess on the pitch, winning their matches against Bilton Grange and Ashfold, two renowned and formidable opponents.

Both teams have shown remarkable potential throughout these matches. The victories against strong opponents are not only a testament to their current abilities but also a promising indicator of future success. The players have demonstrated a high level of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship, which are essential for their development as sportsmen.

Moving forward, continued focus on training, tactical development, and teamwork will be crucial. Both teams have the potential to excel further and achieve even greater success in future competitions. The performances have been nothing short of exceptional and the boys have proven their capabilities and showcased their potential. With continued

Mark

dedication and hard work, both teams are well-positioned to achieve significant success in the future. Many congratulations to all the boys who have played for the U11A and B team this season.

Sam Stoop

1st and 2nd XI

It is always a very short season, but that didn’t stop the 1st and 2nd hockey teams playing some excellent hockey. The first was against a very strong Bilton Grange team. After only two sessions, the 1st team played some magnificent hockey and made Bilton Grange work very hard for every goal they scored. Our intensity and speed around the pitch made it very difficult for Bilton to settle, and some outstanding goalkeeping kept us in the match. At half time, Beachborough were 1-3 down and had we been a little more clinical in front of goal, the score line could have been 3-3. The second half ebbed and flowed, and the final score ended 3-5 to Bilton. It was a great start for the team and gave them a platform to build on for the remaining matches. The second team game was a more even affair, with both teams creating lots of chances. 0-0 at half time was excellent but we ran out of steam in the second half and Bilton snuck a late goal to win the match 1-0. It was

a terrific match and one that was definitely there for the taking.

Winchester House were our second opponent, and a local derby is always a tasty affair. The 1st team were keen to put the defeat to Bilton Grange behind them and played some excellent hockey. They moved the ball well and were patient in attack which resulted in a well worked goal and took us to half time 1-0 up. We dominated the second half, but some strong defence from Winchester House limited our opportunities; eventually we broke through and scored a second. The boys closed the game out well and the final score ended 2-0 to Beachborough. It was a very pleasing display from every member of the team. The 2nd team match was very exciting. Both teams were keen to play quick hockey and attack whenever possible. This left gaps at the back which Beachborough were able to exploit, and we went into half time 1-0 up. The second half was a bit of a stalemate with both sides balancing each other out. Our defence was strong, and this limited Winchester House to any real visits into our D. The final score ended 1-0 to Beachborough which was an excellent result.

Spratton Hall is always a tough fixture, and this was no different. The 1st team started brilliantly and dominated the first ten minutes. We had so many chances to score but our radar was a little off. Spratton came back into the game and scored three quick goals through some poor decision making on our part. We managed to grab a well-worked goal just before half time which gave us the lift we needed. The second half started

poorly as we conceded another goal but in true Beachborough style the boys never gave up. In a five-minute period, we scored three goals to bring the game back to 4-4. The last ten minutes were nail biting, with both teams looking for a winner. The final whistle went, and the game remained a 4-4 draw which felt like a defeat after all the chances we had. That said, the boys showed real resilience to come back from three goals down. The 2nd team game was tough, as Spratton had some big strong boys who could hit the ball hard and this proved the difference especially at short corners. The team lost 2-5 but showed real grit and determination.

The final game of this short season was against Ashfold. The 1st team had an off day and Ashfold’s one outstanding hockey player ran the show. The Beachborough boys were a little in awe of his skill set and allowed him to score seven goals. We did grab two goals in the second half, but it was too little too late, and we ended up losing 2-8. The 2nd team game was cracking match and probably the best team performance of the term. Everything began to click, and the boys played some really excellent hockey, winning the match 4-2.

It has been great fun coaching all the boys this term and I would like to thank them for all the hard work they have shown in both training sessions and matches.

Sam Stoop

Girls’ Hockey

U11 Cavaliers

What a starting fixture we had with, quite possibly, the wettest weather of all year! The girls did such an incredible job against Winchester House, persevering in such miserable conditions, we knew resilience was not going to be a problem this term! We had to wait a few weeks for our next match against Spratton Hall where sadly, we suffered a heavy defeat of 7-0, however, Stella M and newcomer Isla R shone and earned themselves POM. A couple more defeats followed with still no goals, however week 8 was where the magic happened and the first two goals of the season were secured courtesy of Hattie G and Isabella B against St. Hughs. Thriving off this, the following week, the girls went on to secure their first (and only) win of the season, winning 2-0 against Ashfold, with Ayla O bagging both goals in the second half! The girls really must be commended for their resilience and determination this term in fighting for the ball and not giving up. At times, we saw great coachability which meant improvements were made over the term and we look forward to the next hockey season!

Sally Gross, Kirsty Cheshire & Lexi Lamb

U11 Colts A

The U10’s and U11’s were combined in the autumn term to create a U11 Colts team, which meant that places in teams were very competitive. The Colts A team played in two tournaments, including the IAPS regional competition. The girls worked hard throughout the season to improve their positional understanding and pressurise the ball carrier, so that they could create chances to turn over possession and create attacking opportunities of their own. The Colts A team have also played 10 matches against local schools; drawing 4 and losing 6. The team created many scoring opportunities, but weren’t always able to convert them into goals. However, they saw some excellent saves being made from Olivia W in goal. I would like to thank all the U11 girls, I hope they continue to practice their skills and enjoy playing hockey!

Sarah Clay

U13

We had a challenging hockey season to say the least, however the level of progression made over the 15 weeks was quite incredible. I was so impressed with how all of the girls were able to learn new skills and build upon their previous hockey knowledge, to enable to them to make progress and play as a solid team. Players were encouraged to play in different positions (within reason) which gave them a better insight into the job role of each position and therefore, impact our attacking and defensive play. We did loads of work on physical literacy and umpire signals (related to hockey), so all of the girls understood ‘hockey terminology’ which was great when they played in matches by speeding up decision time and speed of play. One thing which really stood out to me as a teacher and coach was the ‘can do attitude’ and ‘never give up’, especially when playing in challenging matches. The scores of the game often didn’t reflect how the girls performed – we just couldn’t always get the ball in the back on the net! Resilience, grit, and determination was a key factor in these matches and the girls had this in abundance. They couldn’t have made me prouder.

Faye Howkins

Junior Sport

Football

The 2024 football season offered the U8 teams the opportunity to play in 4 fixtures against Swanbourne, Ashfold, Spratton Hall, and Winchester House. Overall, the teams claimed 4 victories and drew 2 times, for 5 matches lost. The opposition was tough, but the boys learnt a lot on the way. At school, they developed their control of the ball, their spacing on the pitch, as well as accuracy when in a position to shoot on target. The boys worked on their ability to regroup to defend their goal and by putting advice into practice, we saw some really good runs towards the opposition’s goal. But most importantly, the boys really improved their technique and enjoyed representing Beachborough against the other schools. There are some really good players in the making; well done to Seb C, Zach C and Zane W who were all voted men of the match several times.

Nicolas

Perronnet

Hockey

The U8‘s had a brilliant first term of hockey and tried hard to master the individual skills. At the start of the season, there were lots of nervous and anxious faces when trying to negotiate shinpads and mouthguards, and the worry of being hit by a ball was particularly high. However, the U8’s had a great season; they played 24 matches in total and won 14, drew 3 and lost 7, making this very successful. All girls have had the

opportunity to play in fixtures and represent the school, as well as play for their respective clubs. The U8’s must continue to develop their resilience, but have shown huge improvement in their game play and understanding. Mrs Exarheas and I hope they continue to enjoy hockey and would like to say well done to all the girls!

Sarah Clay

Form IV had a great hockey season. I was so impressed with the standard of hockey that the whole squad delivered week on week. A highlight for me, all 3 teams were hungry to score goals, this becomes very hard to defend! Teaching children with tenacity and competitiveness makes the PE staff’s job a lot easier! All opposition who we came up against were immediately on their back foot with the level of challenge which we put their way. Over the 15 weeks, the children learnt specific job roles for each position that they may play in and learnt from mistakes, which helped them to become better players. When playing in matches, we were able to outwit out opponents by using the width of the pitch to stretch the defence out wide and expose the goal. Lots of key skills were learnt and developed during our lessons, the girls can confidently ‘roll out’, run on an angle, tackle with the correct technique, and dribble with the ball at pace. It has been a thoroughly enjoyable term watching the girls improve their hockey skills, I am very excited for their next hockey season!

Faye Howkins

Cricket

The cricket term was filled with unforgettable moments and remarkable achievements. After a damp start to term, the U8 season kicked off with lots of excitement and anticipation as young cricketers, some stepping onto the field for the first time, eagerly embraced the opportunity to play the game.

Throughout the season, every member of the U8s exhibited remarkable progress in honing their skills. From mastering the basics of batting and bowling to refining their fielding techniques, each player showed dedication and improvement with every practice session and match

The season was marked by several mixed friendly matches with local Preparatory Schools in a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship. These matches provided valuable opportunities for all the children to apply their skills in a fun and supportive environment while enjoying the thrill of competition.

The U8 cricket season was a testament to the power of teamwork and unity. Players rallied together, cheering each other on and celebrating every success, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie within their teams. All the coaches played a pivotal role in nurturing the talents of the U8 cricketers. Their guidance, encouragement, and mentorship not only helped improve individual skills but also instilled important values such as discipline, resilience, and respect for the game.

Above all, the cricket season was a time of creating opportunities and memories for all the children. From the thrill of stepping onto the field for the first time to the jubilation of victory and the lessons learned in defeat, every moment shared with teammates and friends has become a part of their cricketing journey.

The U8 cricket season was a celebration of passion, talent, and the joy of playing the game. Many congratulations to everyone.

Sam Stoop

Netball

After a fun term of hockey, the girls were excited to come back after the Christmas break and focus on a new sport – netball. At this age, England Netball encourages 4 a-side games which are played on one third of a court, with a focus on the fundamental basics. With very healthy numbers in the Form III classes compared to other schools on our playing circuit, we were unfortunately never able to play our entire squad in any fixture. This forced our hand in rotating the girls for the main part, allowing them all the

opportunity to play competitively. We did, however, maintain an A team throughout the season, allowing us to play at the highest level against every school.

Our first game of the season was away at Swanbourne, where we played girls who already had a fixture under their belts. They started confidently, and our girls soon got into the swing of things. We came away with a win and two narrow losses, and lots of fun was had by all.

Chandlings invited us to play three mixed ability teams, and we witnessed a superbly successful afternoon. The girls put their skills into practice, using the space on court and scoring a wonderful eighteen goals in total. We were delighted to step back onto the coach with three victories.

We made the slightly longer trip to Spratton Hall where again, we demonstrated some excellent play on court. The A team’s defensive work was excellent, and the final score of 8-1 was a perfect summary of the domination the girls showed from start to finish. The B team worked hard, though unfortunately lost their match, whilst the C team had a great win. Our penultimate match against local rivals, Winchester House, was our first home fixture, and it was great to have lots of parents and family members supporting us from the sidelines. Once again, the A’s dictated play and ended up with an outstanding 12-1 win, whilst the B team also enjoyed success with some great goals being scored. Sadly, it was a loss for the C’s, though they gave their all and enjoyed the experience.

Finally, we travelled to Ashfold on the minibus, and were treated to a choir of Disney songs there and back! It was a similar story for the A team, who had another convincing win, once again with lots of very tight defending. The B and C teams found themselves against strong opposition, and despite a fantastic battle and lots of Beachborough perseverance and resilience, unfortunately they were not victorious.

As the weeks have passed, the girls have become more and more confident on court, and we were delighted to award ‘most improved player’ to Alice G. The following girls must also have a special mention, as they have formed the backbone of an exceptional A team from the very first week, winning all apart from their first match: Lily R, Isla L, Hermione S and Jasmine M. Cressie LW - also a key player - was unfortunately unable to see the season out due to injury.

The same format will be played next year, so the girls will be able to build on what they have achieved this season. We wish them well and look forward to following their progress.

Vicki Little

Rugby

Tag rugby for the under-8s is a fantastic way to introduce children to the sport. Typically, this involves a series of friendly matches or tournaments where all the children learn the fundamentals of the game. As coaches, we focus on teaching basic skills like passing, catching, and moving with the ball while emphasising teamwork and sportsmanship. The season is more about participation and skill development rather than competition, creating a fun and supportive environment for children to enjoy the sport and build a love for rugby. It’s a time for making friends, gaining confidence and laying the foundation for future involvement in the sport.

Our philosophy with the U8s is very simple. Our aim is to create a positive and supportive environment where every child can learn the fundamentals of rugby. This includes:

1. Basic Skills Development: Teaching children how to pass, catch, and run with the ball. As it’s tag / touch rugby, emphasis is placed on tagging or touching opponents rather than tackling.

2. Teamwork and Cooperation: Encouraging teamwork and cooperation among players is crucial. This involves understanding positional play and supporting teammates on the field.

3. Rules and Fair Play: Introducing simple rugby rules and instilling the values of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for opponents and referees.

4. Physical Activity and Fitness: Promoting physical activity, fitness, and healthy habits through engaging drills and game play.

5. Matches and Tournaments: Providing opportunities for friendly matches or mini festivals where children can apply what they’ve learned in a fun, low-pressure environment.

It has been a hugely enjoyed and successful season for the U8s and I would like to thank all the parents for their fantastic support. The boys have been a delight to coach and we all look forward to watching their rugby journey through Beachorough School as they continue playing recreationally or aspire to pursue it competitively as they grow older.

Sam Stoop

Rugby

U10

The Beachborough U10 Team Blithe and Team Harrison both went twelve games unbeaten this term, a truly remarkable feat! Both teams played exceptionally well throughout the term and were no match for their opponents, to include both Winchester House AND Swanbourne! This group of boys is an extremely talented bunch who have not only been thoroughly deserving match winners each time but they also extolled the virtue of Beachborough’s intellectual charachteristics every game. The boys maintained great team spirit and togetherness, none more so obvious than during our ‘mix n match’ away fixture at Akeley Wood. It was a pleasure for both Mrs Harrison and I to have watched their progress and undoubted improvement since September.

Well done, boys!!

Nick Blithe

U10C

Our first game of the season involved a short journey to local rivals, Winchester House. It was an excellent first match, with plenty of tries being scored. Toby impressed with his dancing feet and was chosen as ‘Player of the Match’. We hosted MCS where the boys collaborated well and did not concede a single try. Thomas K was recognised as being a valuable player, scoring two tries and impressing with his defensive skills. Another win was celebrated at Spratton. Despite needing to work on spreading out across the width of the pitch, the boys played with determination, and some excellent breakaway tries were scored by Zach who was voted as the best player. A trip to St.Hugh’s saw a collaboration with the U11C boys, and rotating teams playing against the opposition. Once again, it was a successful feat, with Freddie W and Major being recognised for their efforts. We hosted Bilton Grange for a contact match, and the boys worked incredibly hard against some much bigger

opposition. The game was end to end, and exciting to say the least. The game finished with just one try separating the two teams; a great reflection of the match. The season closed with the opportunity for some of the U10 boys to participate in a further two contact matches. Having responded superbly to the challenges in lessons, it was a pleasure to witness these players getting really stuck in and demonstrating their skills and confidence on the pitch. We teamed up with the U11’s against Ashfold, and on a particularly icy-cold afternoon, we were thrilled to come away with a convincing win. The boys have been a delight to coach this term, and I have been extremely impressed by their attitudes and the progress that they have made.

Vicki Little

U11

After coaching the age group last year, and with the transition to 9 a side rugby at U11 level, meaning an extra player being allowed at the breakdown compared to the U10’s, I was confident of another enjoyable season; little did I imagine how successful it would actually turn out to be! A strong cohort of boys in Form VI certainly helps, but I was most impressed with their ability to take on board information quickly, be receptive to the coaching given, and find solutions on the pitch to any questions that were posed by an opposition.

The annual Under 11 Prep Schools Festival at Bloxham kicked off the season, allowing an A squad the chance to play a number of shorter matches on the same afternoon in an

attempt to find some cohesion and structure. The players selected quickly hit their straps, which in turn allowed us to win all four of our games; a morale boosting start which was the sign of more promising things to come.

The Bloxham Festival provided the A team with a solid platform to build on and in the first half of the term, they played some scintillating rugby. Their ability to secure the ball at the breakdown, win turnovers at crucial moments, and then move the ball quickly through the hands was a joy to behold. Abingdon Prep, in torrential rain, Spratton Hall and The Dragon, three perennial powerhouses on our circuit, were ruthlessly disposed.

At the Stowe Festival, we were placed into the tougher of two groups, where the resilience and mental strength of the boys would be challenged. Despite suffering our first losses of the season – one of which was to Bromsgrove who we would meet in a Sevens Festival later in the year, we still beat Caldicott, St Hugh’s and Bedford to end the afternoon on a high.

For me though, the undoubted highlight of the whole season, was seeing the team compete at the IAPS Festival held at Rugby School. Maybe it was the fact that the boys were inspired by their surroundings (the pitches were in immaculate condition more akin to Twickenham!) or they'd had their Weetabix that morning, whatever it was, something clicked that day! The boys executed the game plan in the shortened matches to perfection – start strongly by

gaining territory, secure the ball at the breakdown and then move it quickly into space at the earliest opportunity. The result of which was a final against Bilton Grange, which we deservedly edged to become Regional Champions; a truly outstanding effort by everyone involved.

The second half of term provided some fine moments too with wins against Milton Keynes Prep, Maidwell Hall and Ashfold before a second visit in quick succession to Rugby to take on Bilton Grange. The match was played on a Saturday after we were treated to a tour of the school and some wonderful hospitality, acting as a curtain raiser for their 1st XV game against Warwick that afternoon to celebrate 150 years of the game. Another physically bruising encounter saw us come out on top again and complete a magnificent season of many highs for the U11A’s in the 9 a side game.

The B team was equally as successful as the A’s and I was fortunate that my coaching commitments allowed me to referee their matches against Spratton Hall and Bilton Grange, both of which they won. The biggest compliment I can pay the B’s is that training with the A’s, there was often little to choose between them and often meant that when opportunities rose to move up, players grasped that with both hands. Their only defeat came against a powerful Dragon side, whose physicality was something that the boys couldn’t match.

Due to the strength of the year group, the C team were also very competitive in each of

their fixtures with victories against Spratton Hall, St Hugh’s and Ashfold and narrow losses to Abingdon Prep and Bilton Grange. It was heartening to see some Form V boys mixing with our Form VI’s towards the end of the season, providing them with opportunities to experience contact rugby for the very first time. I would like to commend our Form VI boys for the way they made the younger cohort feel comfortable when this happened, the respect and camaraderie they showed was a testament to them as a group of boys.

Mark Usher

U12

Rugby Season Review: A Season of Heart, Desire, and Team Spirit

As the final whistle blows, and the dust settles on another thrilling rugby season, it’s time to reflect on the journey of this resilient squad of 16 players. The season brought us a rollercoaster of emotions, with 4 wins and 4 losses, but it’s the heart, desire, and unwavering commitment to the rugby traditions that defined this team’s legacy.

Playing with passion and desire became the hallmark of our season, as each player left it all on the field, embodying the true spirit of the sport. Beyond the tangible victories and defeats, our team embraced the intangible values that make rugby a sport like no other. The traditions of respect and sportsmanship were not mere words, but a way of life for our squad, extending far beyond the field of play. Whether celebrating a hard-fought win or regrouping after a tough loss, the bond among our players remained unbroken.

One of the defining aspects of our season was our commitment to playing heads-up rugby, at all times. Our players demonstrated intelligence, adaptability, and a mindset that kept our opponents guessing. The ability to read the game and make good decisions became a crucial element of our play, showcasing the maturity and cohesion within the team.

Throughout the season, one resounding theme echoed, “the team always comes first over any individual”. Every player embraced their role with a selflessness that defined the

collective strength of our squad. This commitment to a “team-first” mentality was the driving force behind our unity and success.

Simon Preece

U13 7’s

Our U13 rugby team participated in three highly competitive rugby sevens tournaments, showcasing not only their excellent skills but also their teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. The tournaments were the Northampton Saints 7s, the Winchester House School 7s and the Sibford 7s, and our team acquitted themselves exceptionally well in each event.

Across all three tournaments, our U13 rugby team displayed exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Their ability to adapt to different levels of competition, combined with their strategic thinking and physical prowess, made them a standout team. These tournaments have not only provided valuable experience but also laid a strong foundation for future successes. The team’s performance has been a source of pride for coaches, parents, and supporters

alike, and we look forward to seeing their continued growth and achievements in the years to come.

Sam Stoop

U13A

It has been another fantastic season for the U13A rugby team. They have played some excellent rugby and progressed both individually and collectively. The most pleasing aspect of the season is the level of rugby the team have played and the teamwork, camaraderie, and resilience they have displayed in every match.

The season started off with a very good 30-10 win against local rivals Winchester House. Early season fixtures are always a bit of an unknown, but the Beachborough boys produced an excellent display of fast, flowing rugby. They attacked speed and our ability to move the ball quickly from one side of the pitch to the other proved too much for the opposition. It was a pleasing start to the

season but there was still plenty to work on. The second game was a new fixture against Bloxham School. We did not know a huge amount about them, so it was important that the team were focused and prepared. Bloxham had some strong runners and played a very similar game to us. Therefore, it was imperative that we were ruthless at the breakdown. Our forwards were on fire and although at times we made some silly mistakes and decisions, we ended up winning the game comfortably 40-10. It was another pleasing performance, but we knew there were harder tests to come.

Spratton Hall at Stowe was our next game and it proved a much tougher test than the first two games. Spratton were big and had some very strong runners. We were slow to get going and found ourselves three tries down after ten minutes. The boys rallied well and went into half time 5-15 down. Spratton certainly upped their game in the second half, and that combined with a few injuries proved too much and we were well beaten 10-40. It was a tough afternoon but there were lots of positives to take away from the match.

We got back to winning ways with a very strong performance against Swanbourne House. We fronted up, made our tackles and controlled the game from start to finish. It was the best team performance of the season as we end the match winning 45-15, which was a great way the end the first half of term.

The first game back after half term was against St Hugh’s. Preparation for the match wasn’t great as we got caught in a traffic jam

and ended up getting off the bus and kicking off straight away. As a result, we were rather slow to get going and let in three soft tries. We woke up for the second half and played some really good rugby. We pulled two tries back which made the last ten minutes very exciting. Unfortunately, we could not find a fourth try and ended up losing a very close encounter 20-25. Although the defeat was tough to take, the boys played so well in the second half had we had five more minutes, I am confident we would have scored another try.

Our next three games produced three excellent victories against Bruern Abbey (30-10), Abingdon Prep (45-10) and Pitsford (50-5). The boys put the disappointment of St Hugh’s behind them and produced some really very impressive rugby. Everything had started to click and the boys were playing a level of rugby beyond their age. Patterns were beginning to work, the backline were firing on all cylinders and our speed at the breakdown was impressive.

Our fixture against Bilton Grange was an occasion (apart from the result) that will live long in the memories of every boy in the U13A. The game was played on the famous ‘Close’ at Rugby School. The boys were given a tour beforehand which included the history of how the game came about. It was a very special occasion to be apart of which culminated in us watching the Rugby School 1st XV play Warwick School. A huge thank you to Bilton Grange and Rugby School for allowing us the wonderful opportunity.

We certainly saved the best until last as we embarked on the final two games of the season against Maidwell Hall and Ashfold. Both games were outstanding and optimised what Prep School rugby is all about. Against Maidwell, we were clinical and played some super rugby. Our defence was magnificent and our ability to score from anywhere on the pitch proved too much. We won the game 40-10 but credit must go to Maidwell for never giving up.

The final game of the season was against Ashfold and this was an absolute belter. Two good sides not taking a backward step. In wet, cold and misty conditions, it was Ashfold who scored first. We soon levelled before Ashfold snuck over again to go into half time 10-5 up. In a very physical contest and the boys did well to keep their discipline and stick to the game plan. Knowing it was their last ever game for Beachborough, the boys found another gear. They dominated the second half and levelled the game at 10-10 with six minutes to go. The game ebbed and flowed with both sides showing unbelievable defence. Something had to give, and with a few minutes to go the boys held their nerve, went through a number of phases and created an overlap out wide for us to score in the corner. The game ended 15-10 to Beachborough.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank every boy who represented the U13A this term. You hard work, dedication and passion has been a joy to watch and it has been a real privilege to coach each and evey one of you. I would like to wish all the Form VIII boys the

very best of luck with their rugby and I look forward to hearing how you get on next year at your respective senior schools.

Sam Stoop

Netball

U11 Cavaliers

Netball season is always my favourite and I know lots of the girls share this too, so we were eager to get underway and what a start we had, sending 3 teams away to Akeley and coming home with 3 convincing wins (6-4, 6-2 and 9-0). The following week saw bitterly cold temperatures at home vs Winchester House but with great teamwork came another win. Across the term, the girls worked hard on developing their attacking and defending skills which really showed across the games, and it was evident there was a hunger to intercept and keep the ball. Club Netball was a particular highlight where all demonstrated super collaboration skills, playing with others from all teams, culminating in a wonderfully enjoyable afternoon of netball.

Special mention must go to Sophie C, who showed immense coachability and implemented all advice given to her, resulting in a very well earned ‘Most Improved U10’. With the final standings of 5 out of a possible 7 wins, we very much look forward to what the next season holds.

Kirsty Cheshire

U11 Colts Tigers

Throughout the Tigers’ season, the children had the opportunity to play in mixed teams and by season end, each girl demonstrated great progress and growth.

In their very first matches against Akeley Wood, they secured victories, achieving wins all round. Undeterred by adverse weather conditions, their excellent determination shone through, and the rigorous shooting drills undertaken during school training sessions came into fruition. The subsequent week witnessed the continuation of their winning streak, as they triumphed over Winchester House with Tigers 1 achieving a 3-1 victory and Tigers 2 clinching a commendable 9-3. Notably, the teams demonstrated improved communication and teamwork and there was a discernible development in their understanding of positional play.

As the season unfolded, and alongside school sessions, the Tigers exhibited greater tenacity and resilience, enjoying a tense and close match against Spratton Hall. Sadly, both Tigers teams faced close losses. Nonetheless, it was excellent to see the girls giving it their

all, with spirited commitment to the game. With the season drawing to a close, the girls continued to see success with a fantastic win against Ashfold of 10 – 3. This triumph showcased the development of their skills of great teamwork, super ball possession and their strategic advancement of the ball up the court. Well done girls!

Ellen MacKenzie

U11A

The U11 Netball A Team began their season with a series of challenging matches against MK Prep, WHS, Spratton Hall and St. Hugh’s. Despite losses, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination and commitment to improving and learning from their mistakes. During training sessions, focus was on passing accuracy and positioning on court. Through targeted drills and scenario-based training, our squad of players learnt to make quicker and more accurate decisions. They practiced anticipating opponents’ moves and selecting the best pass options under pressure. Movement off the ball was another critical area of development. Players learnt to create space to support their teammates. Early in the season, Emilie S showed great stamina on court, Kitty G-S demonstrated good decision making within a game situation and her solid skills, especially her centre court play, led her to be consistently nominated as opposition best player, Julia M showed her strength with shooting and Eva M was dominate in the circle both in attack and defence. Following Bee Netball rules, meant that every player had to show versatility on court. Players learnt

that extra shooting practice was necessary. It was essential for team members to adapt to multiple positions. During the mid-season MK tournament - opportunity to play against MK Prep, Ashfold and Akeley Wood - Erin K was voted the most versatile and determined player of the tournament; awesome!

Our highlight of the season was the IAPS Tournament. Being postponed to a later date suited our preparation. Now a cohesive squad of nine, the team’s determination and positive mindset were instrumental in their success to qualify for the Cup round. A win against Bilton Grange and a draw against Repton were our best results of the day. Special mention goes to Tilly E – a secure A team player throughout the season and the only Form V to represent Beachborough in the IAPS squad. This tournament proved to be a valuable experience for the team as well as tremendous growth opportunity for individual players to develop their netball skills in the future.

Six consistent A team players this season: Kitty G-S, Eva M, Julia M, Erin K, Emilie S and Tilly E. Three training partner players and selected for IAPS squad: Stella M, Evie C-B and Jenna S. Congratulations to all players selected for the IAPS squad with all you achieved this season. Your spirit and growing love of the game cannot be faulted. Refusing to be discouraged by setbacks and the ability to listen to your coaches has been brilliant. Next year, you move to 7 a-side netball. For many of you, preparation has already begun through joining local netball clubs. Your experiences this season provide you with a solid foundation to build on for future

success. Never forget, ‘always jump for the ball!’ Your TEAMWORK, DETERMINATION and RESILIENCE is what has driven you this season. Great effort on court this season, girls, and thank you to parents for your support on the sidelines.

Sally Gross

U13 Cavaliers

It was the last game of the season, but finally, the U13 Cavaliers Netball team secured a win against Bilton Grange, and there was much jubilation. This victory was a culmination of effort, skill, and reflection on areas for improvement. Over the season, we have seen excellent play from Wallis and Lily V, who demonstrated pace and agility in the center court, working hard to move the ball quickly towards the scoring circle. Evelyn and Amelia V worked well together as our shooting duo, both understanding the positional differences between GS and GA, and took turns pushing up the court or staying close to the post, maximizing our

opportunities to score from a change in directional play. Abi C and Lyla SH soon became known as my interception queens in their roles as GD and GK. They demonstrated constant focus and determination in their efforts to stop the opposition from scoring, and regularly batted the ball away from the opponent (with a target for next season to secure the ball rather than simply redirecting it). I thoroughly enjoyed my return to the games team after my broken arm early in the year, and was proud of the girls’ efforts and energy throughout the season.

Lisa Smith U13B

The girls embraced the netball season with enthusiasm and determination to succeed. They worked hard on communicating within the team when playing on the court, as well as improving their skills. In games sessions, the girls worked on various passing drills where they had to move forwards into space to outwit their opponents. Lisa Manning, Head of Netball from Bloxham, delivered a fabulous games session to the girls where they learnt player-to-player marking.

The first two matches of the season were against Winchester House. The team played really well in the freezing temperatures. Sadly, in their first match the score was 15-3 to WHS 2nd team. They went on to be victorious against WHS 3rd team, winning 10-4. These games gave us plenty of areas to work on and improve for the remainder of the season. The girls played brilliantly in their match against Swanbourne House 2nd team, winning 15-1. In their games sessions, they

had been working to play in channels on the court to reduce crowding the ball. During this match, it was great to see the team apply this drill.

By the end of the season, the girls were playing fabulous netball. The improved confidence from the team enabled the shooters lots of opportunities to score! The defenders were great, making it challenging for their opponents to score as their marking was very tight.

Jade Mulcahy

Swimming

This year, the Beachborough Sharks Swimming Club has seen up to 37 children regularly attend the sessions held at Brackley Leisure Centre. The commitment to training has seen them improve their swimming techniques across all 4 strokes. The swimmers have also worked on improving their Personal Best times (PB).

In May, 20 children competed at a triangular gala Vs. Swanbourne House and Ashfold. It was a great afternoon, with the swimmers demonstrating their talent and abilities in the pool. Beachborough finished 3rd overall, however there were great swims from Jasmine M, Leo B, Beth J and Gabriel F, who all won their individual races.

Back in February, 17 swimmers represented Beachborough at the IAPS Regional Swimming competition in Coventry. Everyone swam really well with lots of swimmers placing 1st in their heats. We were hopeful that some of our competitors would qualify for the Nationals in June. In April, we had confirmation that Gabriel F, Beth J and Julia M had all qualified to compete at the London Aquatics Centre for the IAPS National Championship competition. This was the third consecutive year Gabriel F had qualified for the event! Gabriel F qualified for the Boys U13 50-meter Backstroke with a time of 34.70 and was seeded 6th fastest. On the day, Gabriel swam his preliminary race in a time of 33.70 which was a new PB! He entered the final 5th fastest and finished 8th overall in

the country. Julia M had qualified for the Girls U11 50-meter Backstroke, with a time of 39.47 and was seeded 11th fastest. She swam her preliminary race in a time of 38.56 and finished 13th overall in the country. Beth J qualified for the U12 50-meter Backstroke event in a time of 35.53, and was seeded 5th fastest. She swam her preliminary race in a time of 34.80 which was a new PB! She entered the final 5th fastest and finished 6th overall in the country.

Well done to all the swimmers this year for their commitment and hard work!

Mark Usher and Jade Mulcahy

Triathlon

Another successful year, and great to see so many children from School regularly at our sessions! Membership continues to flourish with many young members, which is great to see.

Training started once again in the Sports Hall during the colder months before getting outside again, with turbo training, cross fit, and strength & conditioning sessions. The club has invested in more turbo trainers and equipment to support our athlete’s further, and keep mixing things up at our sessions. As the weather picked up, we started to train in the woods, with cyclocross and running sessions. Once it started to get drier (this has been a challenge this year!), we were out on to the playing fields to work on our all-round

fitness on the bike and running. We were also able set up a mini duathlon course to enable our athletes to work on their transitions; we always like to make our sessions hard work but FUN!

It was great to see some old Beachburians (Jess, Noah & Samuel) back this season helping us run the sessions and supporting our younger athletes, and on top of this, helping them towards their bronze DofE.

The Beachborough Triathlon @ Stowe – wow what another great day! And the sun was on our side this year! We had over 40 competitors from the school & Club.

From the club, we would like to thank

everyone for their support; from the staff at Beachborough, Stowe School for providing the amazing venue again, the parents for signing up their children, but lastly, a huge thank you to all the Beachborough children, whether they were part of the Tri club or doing their first triathlon and wanted to give it a go, or just wanted to have fun with their friends on the day. As without them, the day wouldn’t have been so amazing! THANK YOU!

The date and venue for next year’s Triathlon @ Stowe has already been booked for Sunday 15th June 2025, so put it in your diary!

During this year’s race session, our athletes have been competing in the South Central Series up and down the country, which consists of 9 races with 7 completed to date. There have been some great results so far and podium positions! Fingers crossed that some of our athlete’s making it to the IRC’s (Inter Regional Championships).

If you would like to come for a tri, we train at school every Saturday morning 9am –10.30am during term time, so please do contact us if you think your child may like to have a go. They must be 8 years old next year as a minimum (born 2017).

York Harris

Beachborough & Brackley Triathlon Club

Current standings for the South Central Series:

Tristars

Tristars 1

Tristars 1

Tristars 2

Tristars 2

Tristars 2

Tristars 3

Tristars 3

Tristars 3

Tristars 3

1st Isla

9th Oliver

Tennis

Whilst tennis fixtures are played in the Summer Term in each academic year, our various age group squads that we have at Beachborough – U11 boys and girls and U13 boys and girls – each receive a 45 minute session every week at lunchtimes throughout the course of the year. After the trials in early September, the squads are put together and this year, the boys and girls trained together. This allowed the pupils an opportunity to be coached by Paul Valentine and Lana Hurst in small groups, based on ability, to work on their all round game and court tactics and strategies in a doubles format.

For the first time in the school’s history, Paul and I decided to get involved with a charity and help raise awareness for disability tennis. As such, we began fund raising for Bright

Ideas for Tennis, with 8 of our tennis squad – captains Bhim P and Jackson T, George H, Amelia V, Eva M, Bertie T, Arlo W and Isabella B – chosen to spearhead this. With the help of parents and other pupils involved in our school tennis programme, the 8 of them raised over £4,000 for Bright Ideas; a remarkable amount with Bertie contributing nearly £1,000 to that total alone. We held an internal tournament on a Saturday afternoon at Beachborough, but the icing on the cake was heading up to the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton on a late February afternoon. The 8 pupils had the opportunity to play in various doubles matches against current and ex British players, and experience tennis in a wheelchair or when wearing specially designed goggles to mirror a blind player.

This year, tennis matches were arranged with Winchester House, Maidwell Hall and Bloxham. In these fixtures, there were some memorable moments with our U13 girls winning 8 matches to 2 over at Bloxham on a scorching late afternoon in May, and our U11 girls narrowly beating Winchester House 6-3. Arguably, the match of the season actually ended up in defeat, but not before the U13 boys played out a classic encounter with Maidwell Hall. It went down to the final game, which Beachborough lost, but as the saying goes “you take more from defeat than winning” at times and it really could have gone either way.

Despite the results in our school fixtures not always going in our favour, the players have shown a commendable attitude to self-improvement and developed their individual games, and court awareness in doubles, as the season has worn on. Bhim and Jackson have been dependable captains and will hopefully go on to play more tennis at both Christ’s Hospital and Stowe respectively. They hand the baton on to Evie W and Jake T, as appointed tennis captains for 2024-25, and I am confident they will lead from the front, pushing Beachborough’s tennis on further.

Mark Usher

Co-Curricular

There has been much to celebrate across the Co-Curricular Programme this year. With creativity in dancing, drama, music, art, technology and engineering…

The LAMDA students have done exceptionally well this year. They have been exploring character work and vocal modulations for both acting, verse, prose and speaking in public. They have been learning improvisation techniques, and the importance of working as a team. We have had several students successfully gain medals at the Milton Keynes Festival in February, and Form VIII students gaining Drama scholarships in March. In their examinations in June, they were able to perform all their hard work.

In Boardman Art Clubs, what more could you

want at the end of the day than to sit and explore how to draw cartoon characters, create small delicate clay sculptures, get stuck into junk modelling and paint with watercolours and acrylics to create stunning sun, butterfly and flower pictures that they were very proud of. Step by step, they watched demonstrations, discovered key tools, and followed instructions carefully. In Sculpture Club they made a pinch pot apple bowl, it looked rather delicious! They also made a mountain photo holder to keep all those special memories safe. In Quilling Club, they explored the age-old skill of paper art, through methods of curling, to make a quilled fish blowing bubbles, a turtle bookmark, and then a mouse sneaking after some cheese. Once they felt like confident quillers, they began making full quilled

images such as solar systems and underwater scenes. Not to be outdone, Storybox Club chose their favourite stories and brought them to life in a little shoe box. They began with creating their characters who were so cute and carefully made. We then painted and decorated shoe boxes to make them into a scene from the story, using junk modelling, paint, and craft materials. This club was incredibly relaxing, and all were emersed in the land of a tale someone once told. If you were looking for a noisy club, in Bring the Noise, you got one! This club was full of characterful children, who certainly knew how to ‘Bring the Noise’. This was an opportunity to develop skills of playing on the beat, counting in music and working together to plan how to be in a ‘band’. They sang into a microphone, played percussion and used items in the classroom as instruments. They even went hunting in the woods to make as much noise as they could, and to get inspiration for making junk mode instruments.

Pre-Prep were travelling to a different country each week in Explorers Clubeverywhere from France to China! They listened to music, investigated the area using Google Earth, and completed activities related to each country. The children learned lots about each country and even picked up some key words and phrases in other languages. They particularly enjoyed sampling the different foods from each country. Japanese dumplings and Greek dips were particular favourites! Each member of the club had their own passport and got a new stamp for each place they visited.

The Hits Squad continued to perform their repertoire of songs at school concerts, and amazed Mrs Thurman with their commitment and passion for this club. Form IV Engineering Club produced individually decorated wooden bird feeders. They learnt how to use LaserCam to design the main body of the box and improved their measuring, drilling, sawing, and gluing skills in its construction. A finishing touch was to make some seed balls to encourage birds to use their wonderful creations. Their summer project was to make a catapult from lollypop sticks. There was an emphasis on following written instructions for the first part, then creative design on adapting the catapult to move and carry ammunition. Tinkercad was introduced to help with designing the basket on the catapult together with the ammunition. There were some amazing adaptations and ideas added to each catapult so that each one became very different looking designs by the end of construction. Well done to everyone who took part in the club for their originality, creativity and care, producing some excellent project pieces.

In the Manor House, a group of history enthusiasts in Battle Shields Club designed and made Saxon round shields and Norman kite shields out of wood and paper mâché. While they were making them, they watched films about different battles which created some interesting discussions about the nature of medieval warfare. In the spring term, some of the group joined by some new faces, made medieval castles out of cardboard. There was a range of castles, some more closely based on actual medieval castles, and some from the imagination of the

maker. Technology Club has been a thriving activity with a little change in the autumn, when we offered a Food Tech Club to coincide with a brand-new Food Tech kitchen. This was terrific fun, as we focussed on Christmas bakes and made many things from yule logs to peppermint creams and lemon cheesecakes. Our Form V club was based in the TED Suite and made catamarans, laser cutting the bases as well as cutting foam and wiring them with a simple circuit to power the propellers, and of course personalising them in many imaginative ways.

In the spring, we made little torches, soldering the circuits and creating some fabulous designs from old Bentleys to packets of crisps and fish shapes. Form VI and VII scholars had a chance to use their 3D modelling skills, designing Alessi inspired egg cups in Tinkercad with all sorts of outcomes, including a bucket and spade with the spade used to crack the egg, as well as dinosaurs and golf themed cups. This summer saw us making catapults with the Form V’s, using Tinkercad to make the cups and ammo, and we finished our year with Form VI and VII creating infinity lights, soldering the circuits and using traditional woodworking skills to create different sized frames and shapes to match their laser cut shapes inside. Hobby Club was a lovely, relaxing group with different projects each week. They designed and made bird tables out of Lego, created thought pebbles and decorated drinking jars with acrylic pens. They created friendship bracelets, went on nature walks, made wish boxes, tackled origami sets, flew paper aeroplanes and worked on a giant house colouring with watercolour pencils. The

group happily chatted, listened to music, and told a lot of jokes! A really smashing time each week. Throughout the year, Reception to Form IV children have grown in confidence in their Ballet and Modern Dance classes; performing to their parents and working towards examinations in these areas.

There has been success in a wide variety of sports…

Every evening in the Boardman, there has been competitive and friendly games of Football, Mixed Sports, Basketball, Cross Country Running, Athletics and Cricket with Coach George and the children giving their very best and eagerly waiting to see who Player of the Week is. From Reception to Form VIII, children have participated in Karate lessons, improving their skills and completing grading to move up levels, and gain new belts. In Judo, children from Form III to VIII have learnt to throw to each other safely and work through grading. We entered the Wade Gymnastics Competition with our Gym Squad and Pre-Prep Gymnastic Club, and returned with gold, silver and bronze medals and a happy team of gymnasts. For some, this had been their first competition and performing in front of a large crowd of supporters was a challenge in itself. Tennis continues to be a popular club for children across the school and Paul Valentine has been thrilled with their progress and enthusiasm for his sport. Bendy Pre-Preps were feeling rather relaxed every Wednesday, as the land of Cosmic Yoga Club came to the rescue to help ground our busy days. They travelled across many stories and lands, doing downward dogs and cat/cow poses and

developed excellent balance. Parachute club saw the children working intensely on their listening skills and truly understanding the meaning of teamwork, as they lifted the parachute for various competitive games such as ‘Cat and Mouse’ and ‘Sharks and Lifeguard’. It was super energetic and lots of fun!

In preparation for the school ski trip, 17 children from the Manor House went to the Milton Keynes Snozone every Monday evening for Ski Club. They were all beginners and needed to be ready for a week in Sestriere at the end of March. Over a 10-week course, they learnt the skills of sliding and speed control, how to change direction, control through turning, how to do linked turns on steeper terrain, parallel skiing, and how to negotiate lifts in a safe manner. It was a huge success, and the children continued their skiing in the summer term. Over the course of 14 exhilarating autumn weeks, our afterschool Multi-Sports Club soared to success, driven by the vibrant voices and passions of the participating pupils. Each week presented a new adventure as they delved into a diverse array of sports, all guided by the enthusiastic feedback and enjoyment of the children.

Flexibility was the cornerstone of the club’s approach. While a schedule was set, if a particular sport captured their hearts and ignited their spirits, a session was easily adapted. From basketball to dodgeball, and from capture the flag to longball, the club provided a platform for them to explore their talents, express their personalities, and use their imagination. In the spring, Indoor

Hockey Club for both girls and boys from Form IV to Form VII provided sessions for the children to learn the rules of indoor hockey, which are quite different to field hockey. The ball cannot be lifted (any higher than 1cm is a turnover ball - unless shooting at goal), the ball cannot be hit or slapped, you can play the ball off the wall and you use a thinner stick! It took a few weeks for the children to adapt the way that they played their hockey, but very quickly they were able to advance their stick skills to play at the pace needed for a small space. They had great fun, playing very competitive games against each other! Finally, the rounders bats came out for Rounders Club where the children enjoyed the evenings out on the field with this traditional summer sport.

The children have tested their cognitive skills… Pre-Prep Reading Club was a delight this year. They were swept away to different worlds, exploring the settings and getting to know new characters. Julia Donaldson stories were the main focus, and the children roared like Zog through a self-creating roar machine, created super worms and a stickman. They used critical thinking to discuss the actions of the Highway Rat and discussed the important message of The Smegs and Smoos. They were swept away to far off lands with 'The Snail and the Whale' and considered the practicality of travel via whale! ‘Lost and Found’ by Oliver Jeffers became a firm favourite, and the resounding thought during that session was ‘friendship is vital to our well-being’. In Pre-Prep Lego Club, the children all loved the challenge of taking part in timed building trials.

In addition, learning the new skill of building in a large group created super large models designed by the whole club. They’ve been working on adding and subtracting skills with dice to determine how many pieces of Lego to select. Map drawing and then incorporating vehicles has been extremely popular. They had great fun attempting a colour challenge, solving the colour riddle and collecting as many of those colours as they could in just 15 seconds. With only 5 minutes to build before the next riddle, it certainly was tricky!

Further up the school in Reasoning Club, there has been a mixture of games, strategy, and problem solving; with connect four competitions and other games played on the interactive whiteboards such as proximity, looking at different types of verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions, and time to play a few games of strategy like chess and tangrams. Overall, a fun and productive time had by all. Manor House Lego Club was an exciting and imaginative group, and each week was started with a ‘challenge’ set by one of the children. They would decide upon a theme and each child would get 20 minutes to design and make something out of the Lego provided. Their creations were quite brilliant, and each were given explanations for how they worked and their purpose. They had a lot of fun listening to the whacky and inspirational descriptions. Every member also had their own Lego pack and by the end of the term, they had completed their sets and happily took them home to admire or take apart and re-create! Congratulations to all Quiz Club stalwarts for your passion across the spring term. It was a pleasure to see such

energy and enthusiasm each week. Mr Knowles was truly amazed by what everyone knew and what he realised he thought he knew, but actually didn’t! Initially, he thought ’Beat the Teacher’ was a good idea, but soon realised it was more of a challenge for the teacher to beat the pupils! He would also like to mention the brilliant success our Form V and VI teams had in reaching the National Quiz Club Semi Final. Next year will be our year! Keep quizzing and learning everything to know about absolutely everything. He is looking forward to our seasoned quizzers returning next year and hoping lots more will join the club. The more the merrier, and the more we all collectively know together. The Debating Club was a hub of lively discussions and critical thinking. Excitement filled the air as students eagerly voiced their opinions on a range of topics, from global politics to school policies. Through structured debates, members honed their public speaking skills and learned to construct persuasive arguments. Mrs Exarheas found it heartening to witness debaters become more confident in expressing their ideas, listening actively to opposing viewpoints, and respectfully engaging in debate. Voyagers Club embarked on an exciting journey of exploration and discovery, delving into the wonders of the world. Through engaging geography games and activities, the children embarked on a quest to enhance their location knowledge while having fun along the way. From competitive rounds of Seterra to captivating board games, every session was filled with learning and laughter. As they navigated through continents and oceans, their understanding of global geography deepened, and their confidence in

identifying countries, capitals, and physical features blossomed.

The Young Enterprise had another brilliant year. The Great Westbury Pumpkin hunt was bigger and spookier than ever, and attracted over 120 pumpkin hunters from Westbury and the surrounding villages. The team were delighted to have organised such a popular event for the local community and managing to raise £270 for Mary’s Meals. Their Christmas project was also very successful. The team created some beautiful crafts and trinkets to sell at the Beachborough Bazaar, and a special mention must go to one of our entrepreneurs, Harry L. Harry went above and beyond the call of entrepreneurial duty, putting in so many extra hours with the glue gun and adding special touches to the decs with an aim to entice the buyers! It paid off, as we raised over £170! Another mini business which the entrepreneurs have been quietly but effectively running, is the clay bead bracelet shop. This has attracted lots of interest from the Beachborough community and a big thank you to Jackie M for his time and inspiration on this. It never stops at YE club as they are all now busy thinking of great ideas on how to raise money for our wonderful additional charity ‘Dogs for Good’. So far, they are exploring the possibility of making their own dog treats to sell, doggy accessories and even ‘Puppicinos!’ Who knew? Mrs Harrison couldn’t be prouder of the YE club - they bring bucketfuls of energy and enthusiasm every single week.

And of course, the children have had the opportunity to get out and enjoy our wonderful school grounds…

In Forest School, the children across the school explored every corner of the woods with their favourite games of Hide and Seek and Tied to the Tree. Whilst the younger children enjoyed rolling down the hills, playing in the muddy puddles, toasting marshmallows and hunting for wildlife, the older children in the Manor House followed maps in a treasure hunt, built shelters, cooked fish underground and a full English breakfast on the open fire. The children learned all about how to have fun and stay safe in the outdoors in Backpack Adventure Club too. They followed trails to find wildlife and set trails so that they could find their way through the woods. They investigated how to build the best shelter, including which materials would keep them safe, warm and dry. They learned how to find firewood and other fire lighting materials in the woods, before practising setting up their own fires. The children also discovered lots about the different kit they need for different environments and weather, as well as how to do some simple first aid to help them stay safe on their adventures!

Verity Sanders Co-Curricular Coordinator

The Beachborough Racing Team

Goblin started in April 2016, with a small group of Form V pupils. The TED Suite had not yet been built and we struggled to get the first chassis out through the single door. We then gave it its test run, with our VIP guest, Rob Smedley, race engineer to Brazilian F1 driver Felipe Massa at Ferrari then Williams. Two more chassis have since then completed the team, in which 20 children in Form V and VI build, maintain, and race Arty Abby, Merry Mary and Funky Phoebe for the Beachborough Racing Team.

The Gathering of Goblins usually takes place early July, but after the end of the school year. In July 2023, the team celebrated a second victory at Goodwood, after 2019, beating 70 other cars and finishing 1st and 2nd with respectively Arty Abby and Funky Phoebe.

Hard to do better in 2024…

We raced again at the Renishaw New Mills event at Wootton-under-Edge in May, and came 1st, for the 4th year in a row, and 3rd overall. However, unlike 2022 and 2023, we were not accused of cheating!

We knew that Goodwood would be a whole new experience for this year’s brand new team, with only 4 remaining Form VI, and despite some good runs, we did not make it on the podium this year. But as Otto said very wisely, “We need to learn that we can’t win every time.” However, thanks to regular and clever practice, we won the pitstop challenge, 1st and 2nd!

From September, we will resume training,

practicing hard to stop in the tiny garage, and once back in the TED Suite for the Winter, we will endeavor to extract all the speed we can from the cars, thanks to new motors and more aggressive set up options. The Beachborough Racing Team will win Goodwood again!

On behalf of the children and their parents, an immense thank you to Paul Eastman for his kindness and his continuous involvement in leading the team to success, and teaching so much to the children along the way.

Nicolas Perronnet Co-Curricular Coordinator

Equestrian

The 2023/2024 equestrian season has been slightly quieter, due to a smaller team than usual.

We have had a junior team shining through the Grassroots series, and two senior boys riding very competitively at the higher level.

Beachborough Eventer Challenge

The Beachborough Eventer Challenge was held at Dallas Burston on the grass for the first time, a super venue for a very testing competition. Organised by Alana Cowley with the help of Lloyd and Mary Hunt, and his team at LandS Eventing. The event was enthusiastically supported by Mrs Mitchell, Mrs Wood and the marketing team of Lauren Boutle. With the addition of a stepping stone warm up class, we saw a bumper turn out of entries, keeping the flow of riders jumping all day.

In the warm up class, Max H had a confident start to set him up for jumping another solid round in the 70cm.

Jack J and Edward C both competed as individual in the 80/85, with Edward finishing 11th, just out of the placings.

Edward again jumped well in the 90/95 class.

NSEA Grassroots Championships at Hickstead: August 2023

In August, a small team headed to Hickstead for the Showjumping Grassroots Championship, this had been qualified for the previous season.

The team consisted of Kitty G-S, Dougie H, Max J and Sam H. They had qualified for two classes as a team.

The 40cm team class gave all the riders a chance to get their eye in and warm up. They moved on to the 50cm class to ride 4 super rounds, and finished 3rd out of 17 teams.

Congratulations to our four Beachborough riders competing at their first of many Championships.

Grassroots 2022-2023 season

We have a new younger group of talented enthusiastic riders coming through the grassroots level, and it will be great for them to follow on competing for the Beachborough Equestrian Team.

Equestrian news on where they are now

It’s been a quiet year for the Beachborough Equestrian Team, so I thought this was a lovely opportunity to take a look back at previous Beachborough equestrians, and their journeys into the world of affiliated competitions.

William H has put his Equestrian scholarship to good use and followed his passion of Showjumping. William has produced young horses and ponies up to Newcomers level - 110cm classes. William has qualified for the BSJA National Championships and second round classes on a selection of horses and ponies.

Bridget H has been busy competing as an allrounder in Showjumping and eventing, recently winning her first British Eventing class at Aston Le Walls. Bridget was part of Bloxham team which won the Eventer Challenge at Hickstead and qualified for the Royal Windsor Horse Show in the NSEA class, which due to heavy rain, was cancelled and moved to an autumn venue.

Jemima L this spring and summer has had a fruitful time, joining Bridget to qualify the Bloxham team for Royal Windsor and winning the prestigious team Eventer Challenge at Hickstead. Jemima has also shown hers and her horses versatility to qualify and compete at the JCB Pony Club Championship in the month of August.

Gracie C, another equestrian scholar who has concentrated on eventing with additional competitions in dressage and Showjumping. Gracie has been competing British Eventing under 18 classes at 100/105 cm with the aim to step up to pony trials. Gracie is due to compete in her first international competition this August.

Gracie recently also won The Pony Club National Dressage Championships.

Bunny H this season has stepped up to British eventing and made a super start to win her first under 18 class at Ascot-under-Wychwood.

Bunny has also qualified for The Pony Club Championships this August, held at Offchurch Bury.

Violet H's success has been phenomenal, being one of the youngest competitors at her level, Violet has this summer been shortlisted for the British European pony dressage team. Secondly to that, Bridget has represented Great Britain 3 times during 2024, as well as

being regional medium champion and winning Addington Premier League.

All the riders that have left Beachborough show that with their commitment and with the support from Beachborough, they can really progress and follow their dreams. Hopefully they have been great role models for the younger team to follow in their footsteps. Here’s to more trophies and national titles.

Alana Cowley

Enrichment Week 2024

Wellbeing

‘Positive vibes only’ isn’t a thing. Humans have a wide range of emotions and that is ok.

We have had a fantastic year in Wellbeing, especially with the addition of our newest recruit. Arnie, our resident boarding dog and qualified Pets as Therapy dog, joined us in January and has been a tremendous asset. His laid-back nature makes him a great member of wellbeing and the children thoroughly enjoy his company.

The Wellbeing Room in the Manor House has been bustling with activity this year, offering a safe and nurturing environment where children can share their successes, worries, and anxieties. I have provided support through 1:1 sessions and small groups,

focusing on various areas including friendship, bereavement, anxiety, worry, and self-esteem. The Drawing & Talking Therapy and Lego Therapy sessions I have conducted have proven to be particularly effective.

Beyond these sessions, I have collaborated closely with teachers and parents to ensure a cohesive support system for the children. Collaboration between school staff and parents is crucial for fostering a supportive environment that enhances student wellbeing. This partnership ensures a cohesive approach, where the needs of the child are understood and addressed consistently both at home and in school. By working together, parents and school staff can identify early signs of distress, implement effective interventions, and celebrate

successes, creating a united front that encourages students to reach their full potential.

We have continued to incorporate weekly Wellbeing sessions into the curriculum. These sessions have been opportunities to foster positivity, through planned activities covering topics like resilience, reflection, problem-solving, and understanding physical and mental health.

To further support wellbeing at Beachborough, I have worked closely with the Wellbeing Ambassadors to support students who might feel more comfortable confiding in their peers. The Ambassadors also initiated the ‘kindness rocks’ project, placing rocks with positive quotes and affirmations around the school grounds for children to find and hide again, spreading messages of kindness throughout the community.

I am excited for the coming year and look forward to working with staff, parents and ambassadors, to support the wellbeing and emotional needs of our children.

Angela Crook Wellbeing and Nurture Practitioner

Boarding

As we conclude another exceptional year at Kites, our seventh in post - we reflect on the wonderful journey we have all embarked upon. Boarding at Beachborough has continued to flourish, bringing with it an array of new opportunities, deepening friendships, and cherished memories. This year stands out as a particularly vibrant chapter in the life of our community.

The breadth of opportunities available to our pupils has been a cornerstone of this year’s success. Kites has offered a rich tapestry of academic support and extracurricular activities, encouraging pupils to explore their interests, develop new skills, and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Our Friday night gatherings have become a

beloved tradition, providing a perfect balance to the busy school week. These evenings of fun and fellowship have strengthened the bonds among pupils, creating a sense of unity and joy that permeates our boarding house. The laughter, games, and shared moments of these nights are what make Kites a place of warmth and belonging. Our final Friday night this year was the Form VIII formal dinner. Everybody dressed to the nines and after photographs, we enjoyed a fine meal followed by a disco. A wonderful way to end the children’s time at Beachborough.

The surge in boarding participation has injected new energy into Kites. This dynamic mix of personalities has created a vibrant environment where pupils learn from each other, build empathy, and celebrate their

unique qualities. It is this spirit of collaboration and acceptance that makes Kites a special place for everyone.

To our incredible pupils, especially our Form VIII leavers, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and spirit have been the driving force behind our successes. As you step into new adventures, carry with you the friendships and lessons learned here at Kites. Your presence has left an indelible mark on our hearts.

This year, we also bid a heartfelt farewell to our beloved matron, Caroline Smith, who retires after 37 years of exemplary service. Her kindness, dedication, and nurturing presence have been the bedrock of our boarding house. She has shaped the lives of countless pupils with her compassion and care, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication. We wish her all the best in her retirement and thank her for her unparalleled contribution to Kites.

We also say goodbye to our gap students, Sam, Megan, Elsie and Molly and the senior boarders Will, James, Tilly and Isabella. Your time with us has been invaluable, and your contributions have helped shape the vibrant community we cherish today. As you move on to new horizons, know that you will always remain a part of the Kites family.

We ended the year as is now tradition, with the now near legendary Kites BBQ and water fight party, a fabulous and fitting fun end to the year. Everybody loved the exuberance and merriment! There was not a dry child or member of staff in Kites come the end.

just a boarding house; it is a thriving community and a beacon of growth and opportunity. How we love the memories made and look forward eagerly to next year we can start to make many more. Here’s to Kites – a place where joy, growth, and unforgettable experiences are the hallmarks of our journey together.

and Susi Blithe - Houseparents

As we turn the page on this extraordinary year, we are reminded that Kites is more than

Nick

From our Senior Boarders

The greatest and most acknowledged part of boarding is the countless activities to do, and all the fun stuff to experience with your friends. The endless fun includes Didi cars, the Astro, Cricket Nets, Manhunt, Games Room, Art Room, Skateboarding, Scootering, High Jump, Long Jump, Sports Hall and many more.

As senior boarders, boarding has a special place in our hearts. The reason for that is all the lovely people that make it happen. Mr and Mrs Blithe for always being there for everyone and putting a smile on our faces. Our lovely Matron (Miss Smith) who has always looked after everyone no matter what.

Boarding is a place that is not only fun but a family, where the children from the Boardman to the older years in the Manor House can bond together and make special traditions to be passed through the years, to keep the boarding spirit alive. From doing the Lord’s Prayer at night to Mr Blithe’s music in the morning, the pupils and the staff work together to create the perfect environment to learn and grow as individuals and as a team.

Finally, the boarding house would not be complete without our amazing boarding dogs, Jeffro and Arnie, who get Mr and Mrs Blithe out of bed in the mornings so our day can start. We are incredibly lucky to have the support we do, and we leave the boarding house in safe hands with the new senior

boarders, who will learn as we have, what an honour it is to board at Beachborough and how it is an unforgettable experience.

Senior Boarders: Will, Tilly, Isabella and James

Charity

Our wonderful Beachborough community has continued to give generously over the last 10 months. Supporting 10 charities, this year, we have raised an astounding amount of money which will improve the wellbeing of others and promote positive change locally as well as in communities around the world.

In September, a team of dedicated staff set in motion our fundraising by taking part in the London to Brighton 55 mile charity cycling event. A beautiful day – 16 hours of energetic team work – raising a staggering £3,100 for our main school charity, Mary’s Meals.

Also in September, supporting a charity closer to home, we collected donations for Brackley Food Bank. This whole school initiative gave every pupil the opportunity to donate food items for our ‘CLUB Charity Colour Harvest’ collection. The mountain of food donations was gratefully received and helped to stock the shelves at our local foodbank.

Following on from our harvest collection, we launched our 10th year of fundraising for Mary’s Meals with our unique Beachborough porridge assemblies; a time to reflect on how popular and life-changing the feeding programme is to the pupils at our sponsored school in Malawi, and how lucky we are to have a plentiful harvest.

Fundraising target 2023/2024: 798 pupils x £19.15 = £15,282. A Beachborouogh promise to ensure all pupils, at our sponsored school, receive a daily mug of vitamin enriched porridge for a school year.

And so, our wonderful cycle of fundraising began. Everyone commited again, without hesitation, to donate their time, energy and money. Our incredidbly generous Beachborough families started organising, creating, sewing, sponsoring, baking, running, swimming, dancing, cleaning, working collaboratively or individually – a huge amount of effort so that individuals in need – either in the UK or abroad - would benefit. The ultimate aim, to help others in need live happier, healthier lives in the future.

‘The Great Beachborough Pumpkin Hunt’ was followed by a pumpkin sale; our food ambassodors made toffee apples; we organised a Christmas raffle and made Christmas wish decorations; we put on our disco clothes and danced for Children In Need and we filled 126 shoeboxes for the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Appeal. To close the year, we sang carols and enjoyed CLUB Christmas fancy dress and individuals continued to fill their coin collecting mugs to donate to the Mary’s Meals ‘Double the LOVE’ campaign.

To start the new year, six Beachburians swam the distance from Beachborough to Malawi (7644m) raising an exhiliarting £1765 and hundreds of Beachborough families and friends splashed, flew down the flume or raced across the giant inflatable at our

annual pool party – SPLASHTASTIC 2024.

An outstanding five months of charity work which enabled us to donate our largest ‘Double the LOVE’ amount ever: £10,225. So many Beachborough pupils passionately giving to help those less fortunate than themselves.

Throughout March, brain tumour awareness month, we supported the charity ‘Brain Tumour Research’ by selling hat badges and then traditionally ended the spring term with our whole school hat parade and cake sales. Proudly wearing hat badges, parading eye-catching head wear, and purchasing delicious end of term cakes, we raised a magnificent £2170 to help fund research into finding a cure for brain tumours.

A new initiative this year was becoming a Dogs for Good Puppy Partner. In April, we set ourselves the goal of raising £5000 to support the first year of training for a puppy at the local Banbury based charity, ‘Dogs for Good.’ So far, we have held our own ‘virtual pet show,’ created dog themed merchandise, dyed staff hair purple and launched a summer read-a-thon. Our tantalising total is currently £1440.

Another new charity, supported by Beachborough families and staff, that helps adults and children with learning, sensory or physical difficulties is Bright Ideas for Tennis. A team of dedicated fundraisers have raised £4310 to help provide opportunities for more people to play tennis.

Beachborough children raising money for other children is part of being a Beachburian. All the charities we have donated to this year support children including the national charity Place2Be, a charity with a mission to improve child mental health. This year, we raised £574 which will provide much needed counselling in schools.

The Beachborough commitment to take part and raise money for charity extends to global charity work. In May, 87 Beachborough pupils participated in the Schools Triathlon 2024 raising an incredible £5223 for the charity, Restless Development and £1735 for Mary’s Meals.

To end the year, our Beachborough School Midsummer Charity Ball raised £3000 for Brackley Food Bank, our local Air Ambulance and Mary’s Meals.

Our continued dedication and enthusiasm for fundraising at Beachborough has led to the grand total £31,407.

Charity work at Beachborough is important. We know we need to take care of each other. Thank you for continuing to help make a difference to thousands of vulnerable children – locally, nationally and internationally.

We are TOP FUNDRAISERS at BEACHBOROUGH!

Sally Gross Charity Coordinator

Beachborough Friends

Beachborough Friends

Beachborough Friends organise social events to bring together the school community. It’s a great way to meet other parents across the year groups, whilst supporting the school at the same time. We raise money for our school charities, but also for Beachborough.

Michelle and I have really enjoyed our first year as Co-Chairs, and with the help of our extended committee, have arranged some really fun and well attended events; here are some of the highlights.

Beachborough Fireworks Night

A firm favourite in the Beachborough calendar, our Fireworks display this year sold out. Families crowded onto the front terrace to enjoy locally sourced organic hot dogs, mulled wine and hot chocolate, served by our wonderful volunteers. Young Enterprise sold wooden and paper lanterns, a big thank you to Mrs Harrison for organising this. Our 15 minute fireworks display set to music is always such a hit. This year, Beachborough families danced along to Tom Grennan, Joel Corry, Mimi Webb and Ed Sheeran. We raised over £1000 for our school charities. This year’s event will be held on the 5th November 2024.

Christmas Bazaar

Our bi-annual Christmas Bazaar was held on rather a soggy Saturday in November.

Families were treated to a shopping extravaganza, with over 50 traders coming to sell their wares. Shoppers listened to Christmas carols sung by our school choirs, thank you Mrs Chatfield for making sure the children were in fine voice. The Whybrow Theatre was a buzz with families enjoying chef Neil’s delicious mince pies, shortbreads and pastries. We had Shetland ponies dressed as reindeer, and a local brass band playing carols in the courtyard. The children’s activity area was buzzing with tombola’s, games, and arts & craft activities. Thank you to Suz Widdowson and the group of parents and children from the Manor House, who lent a hand running these stalls. Extra special thanks to Kevin and his team from the American Base, who set up and helped Santa in his grotto, it was magical!

Disco’s

This year, we hosted our first all school parents Christmas party at Blackpit Brewery. Parents enjoyed an evening of delicious buffet style food, music and dancing to the small hours, a great time had by all.

Our Childrens School Disco hosted by Bouncing Bobbie was a real hit, with kids and teachers throwing shapes to the YMCA, Shake It Off and the Conga.

Scottish Reeling

Over 25 Beachborough families came together in April for our first Scottish Reeling event. Under the direction of our kilt clad caller, we learnt the Flashing White

Sargent, Strip the Willow, and the Eighsome Reel. It was a great way to spend time with your family, the children loved it, the grown up’s really loved it, it’s a great work out & way to burn a few calories! We raised a modest £137 for Marys Meals. Huge thanks to Liv Syrett and Ellie Colby-Butcher for their help with the organisation, and for introducing reeling to the school. We will be hosting another event in the spring term.

Beachborough Midsummer Nights Dream Ball

Our school ball for parents & teachers is hosted every other year and we were all chomping at the bit! This year hosted off site at Blackpit Brewery, and our drinks reception with canapes on the lawn saw the evening off to an elegant start. Many parents embraced the Midsummer Nights Dream theme, we had antler clad dads & mums in wings, and flower crowns taking to the dancefloor! Thanks must go to Mr Preece & Mr Blithe for expertly running the Heads and Tails game; to Dani Slater for her help in organising the silent auction; to the mums, Vicki W & Lucy J, who gave up their Saturday morning to help us make up bouquets for the tables, and also to Janelle Jenkinson for money managing on the night. Our band the Blue Jets who kept the party rocking, and to the Blackpit staff for looking after us so beautifully.

We have lots of events planned for the autumn term, and details will be shared via emails and WhatsApp groups.

With a generous donation from the Murray

family, Beachborough Friends purchased two static table tennis tables, bats and balls that have proved incredibly popular amongst the pupils.

We have asked the Head for a wish list. In previous years having accrued quite a sizeable sum of money, a lighting rig for the Whybrow Theatre was purchased. Last year, BBF bought goblin racing suits and helmets. If there is anything you feel the school would benefit from, please get in touch. We feel it would be better to be working towards a fundraising goal.

Thank you to everyone who attends BBF events and especially to those who give up their time to help put on these events, it is really appreciated and wouldn’t be possible without you.

Michelle and I are really enjoying the role of co-chair and are happy to continue for another year; after that, it will be time for fresh eyes. If you would like to take on this rewarding role or be involved in the committee, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact: beachboroughfriends@beachborough.com for further details.

Faye Tennant and Michelle Hall

The Head Beachburians farewell

For those who don’t know us, my name is Ellie and my friend here is Freddie. This year, we were fortunate enough to be chosen as the Head Beachburians.

It’s fair to say on behalf of everybody in Form VIII, we have mixed feelings about leaving Beachborough. Of course, we’re excited about the next step and all the challenges that our senior schools will bring, and yet saying goodbye is tough. Beachborough has been an amazing place to grow up, and we count ourselves extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to have been here. When I (Freddie) look back at my time at Beachborough, I can honestly say I have loved every second of it. The memories I have made here will stay with me forever.

Form VIII were recently in the Lake District on our final residential, and it brought back memories of another adventure way back in Form III when we had an amazing few days away with PGL - despite a distinct lack of sleep!

Whether in the classroom, on the games field, or staying away on a school trip, Freddie and I agree that the overriding lesson that Beachborough has taught us is that a little bit of ‘grit’, and a little bit of ‘determination’ gets you a long, long way – and, when faced with a 5 hour climb up Helvellyn, carrying 14kg packs, that Beachborough ‘grit and determination’

enabled each and every one of us to succeed.

Award winning author and former children’s laureate, Michael Morpurgo once said: ‘It’s the teacher that makes the difference, not the classroom’, and we’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the amazing teachers at Beachborough. Their thoughtfulness, expertise and kindness are remarkable.

As we in Form VIII head off on new adventures, there are also three treasured members of staff who are beginning their own new chapters. Matron, we think you are an amazing role model. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul the Apostle wrote ‘and be kind and compassionate to one another’. During her 37 years in the service to others, you have shown countless children just how to do that. Whether reading a bedtime story, cleaning a grazed knee, mopping-up after a nasty sickness bug, or simply wiping away our tears, your amazing ‘selflessness’ has been a lesson to us all. Thank you for everything you have done for all your Beachborough children, past and present.

Although Morpurgo said it was the teacher, and not the classroom who made a difference, there is a teacher who may be an exception to the rule. When Mr Sanders painted his classroom back in 2006, he might never have imagined the effect it had on the 100s of children who sat within those ‘castle walls’. It’s been said that the best

history teachers are those who show you where to look, but don’t tell you what to see, and Mr Sanders has done just that. Whether it was the romans or revolutionaries, medieval knights or abdicated monarchs, Mr Sanders has brought history to life. We have loved your lessons, not to mention your terrible dad jokes!

Of course, Mr Sanders is just one half of a legendary Beachborough couple. Mrs Sanders must be one of the most extraordinarily inspirational teachers. Her energy, imagination and passion for dressing up at the slightest opportunity has kindled a love for learning in, quite literally, hundreds of small Beachburians. Mr and Mrs Sanders – from the bottom of our hearts - thank you.

So, we have reached the end of our Beachborough journey, but for those lucky enough to be returning next year, make the most of every day. Dig deep – find that ‘Beachborough grit and determination’ and you will be sure to succeed in all you do.

Ellie

S and Freddie H

Head

Beachburians 2023-2024

End of Year Speech Days

A Message from the Chair of Governors...

On behalf of the Governing Body, I must express my great pleasure and joy in seeing so many of you at the Leavers’ Service and Prize Giving. I was honoured to be part of this very special day in which we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Beachburians.

I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our Beachburians. Once again, in 2024, all our Year VIII pupils have achieved acceptance at their first school of choice, and 23 scholarships have been awarded

I must commend those who help with your Beachborough journey. My heartfelt thanks go to all our Beachborough teachers for their unwavering support and commitment to our pupil body, but I would especially like to mention three wonderful people who together have served and supported the school and the pupil body for over 100 years!

Mr. Michael Sanders, who has brought history to life for our pupils, memorably recreating a World War 1 trench for the pupils to experience a little of the challenges faced by the troops during that dreadful conflict. Mrs. Verity Sanders, with her fantastic creativity and enthusiasm, who recently created an alien spaceship landing in the Beachborough woods, bringing the topic of space to life for our youngest learners. Additionally, thank you

to Matron, Caroline Smith, whose constant kindness and nurturing of all our pupils mean she will always have a special place in their hearts. On behalf of the Governing Body, I want to thank you and wish you all much success and happiness in your next chapters.

I also wish to acknowledge the broader Beachborough staff. Under the management of Charlotte Wood, our Bursar, there is an entire community of people who keep Beachborough looking and working so well, including the chef and his team in the kitchen and the estates team who keep the school grounds in tip-top condition. During the summer, they are working to improve the fabric of the school, from the boarding area to the front hall, and look forward to sharing these improvements with you on your return.

Many congratulations to Simone Mitchell, our new Head, who has completed her first year at Beachborough. Simone’s commitment, understanding, and embodiment of our school’s ethos have been truly inspiring. Her leadership has already brought positive changes and strengthened our community in remarkable ways. Thank you for your dedication to our pupils and to Beachborough.

My final thank you is to our exceptional group of school governors for their time and

and commitment to ensuring the absolute best for Beachborough. Your dedication truly makes a difference and helps to shape the future of these young minds. This year Ben Wood, Elizabeth Wilson and Rebecca Donaldson all retire from the Governing Body, thank you so much for your exceptional service - we wish you well with your new chapter.

Today, I’d like to share a story that I believe will resonate with all of you. It’s about a young student named Alex. Alex had a passion for football but wasn’t the star player on the team. Despite not always being the best, Alex practiced diligently every day, often when it seemed easier to give up. One pivotal day, during an important match, Alex had the chance to score the winning goal. With nerves and excitement intertwined, Alex remembered all the effort put in and, with determination, took the decisive shot and scored. This moment was a powerful reminder that perseverance and dedication often lead to success, even in the face of doubt.

This story about Alex is not just about football; it reflects a broader life lesson. Each of you will encounter challenges and moments of self-doubt. However, success is often found in the quiet persistence and the unwavering belief in your potential. Life will present you with numerous opportunities and obstacles, and how you approach these moments will define your journey. It’s not about being the best in comparison to others; it’s about striving to be your best self.

Like Alex, each of our Beachburians possesses unique talents and strengths. As you progress through life, you will face obstacles and setbacks. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Understand that mistakes are not failures but

stepping stones towards success. Keep your dreams alive, remain curious, and persist even when faced with difficulties. Your potential is boundless, and your aspirations are within reach. Have faith in yourselves, as we at Beachborough have faith in you.

Remember, you are never alone on this journey. Your parents, teachers, friends, and the Beachborough community are all here to support you. They will always believe in you and cheer you on every step of the way. Lean on them when you need help, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Together, we can achieve great things.

As some of you move on to the next exciting chapter of your lives, remember that Beachborough will always be a place where you are welcome. Whether you’re here to share your achievements, seek advice, or simply reminisce, our doors are always open to you. Your journey may take you far and wide, but you will always have a home here, filled with people who care about you and your success.

In closing, I want to leave you with a quote from Dr. Seuss: ‘You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.’

So, Beachburians, continue to go out there and steer your way to greatness. Remember Alex’s story and know that with hard work, resilience, and the support of your community, you can achieve anything. Keep that Beachborough magic shining!

Warmest regards,

Sue Barrett Chair of Governors

Goodbye from our Matron

Before Beachborough, I was a Nanny with a family in Harrogate. In August 1986, we all moved here to Westbury and without them, I would not be where I am today; so Jenny, Tom, Edward and the late Simon, a massive thank you.

During that time, I also used to help deliver meals on wheels which took me down to Beachborough to collect the dinners, and this is where I met several of the staff. One of the assistant matrons was leaving in the July of 1987, and I was approached by Mrs Carder (Headmasters wife) and asked if I would be interested in joining Beachborough as Assistant Matron and take on Head of Girls games. As they say - the rest is history......

I started with Beachborough in Sept 1987, at the tender age of 20, and I can still recall my first night. Having never worked in a boarding school before, dealing with children who were home sick really got to me, but I soon got used to it. Mr Dowson, who was Housemaster at the time, gave me a small sherry to calm my nerves.

Jumping forward to 1993, I took on the role as School Matron and this was where I stayed for the next thirty years - doing the job I love. Where has the time gone?

Over the years, I have accompanied an array of school trips from skiing, canal boat holidays,

day trips to France, educational holidays to Spain, not forgetting the fun days out with Form VIII at Drayton Manor as their ‘bag lady’. Treading the boards in three school plays was a definite highlight for me.

It warms my heart to see the children who have completed their Beachborough journey, return many years later with their own children who are ready to start their own Beachborough journey. It really is so lovely and special, and they still insist on calling me Matron and not by my first name.

I have met and made friends for life, and always said Beachborough was my second family. After losing my own parents, it also became my home and I will cherish my last 37 years here for many years to come.

From sorting boarders’ uniform, washing kit, making boarders’ toasties, making beds, helping with parents’ match tea, to sitting on the golf buggy on match days. Not to mention, putting out first aid kits and sick buckets for trips, to drying tears, tying shoelaces, cleaning grazed knees, giving out Calpol, listening to the children’s worries, giving an abundance of TLC; the list really is endless. But, I would not want it to have been any other way. I truly feel it has been an honour and a privilege and, from the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every person I have come across during my time here for adding to my memories and

making my own Beachborough journey what it has been.

As I leave Beachborough at the end of this term, I am embarking on the next chapter in my life and will own my first home, which is extremely exciting.

I will finish with this: goodbye tension - hello pension!!! Take care everyone.

Caroline M. Smith Matron

Staff Goodbyes...

At the end of the 2023/24 academic year, we said goodbye to the following staff:

Charlie P lowright

Carolin e Smith

Verity S anders

Michael Sanders

Lisa S mith

Rebecca P lowright

MATRON

MANOR HOUSE TEACHER

TEACHER

GRADUATE TEACHING

Elain e Jovic

Sarah T urnock Megan Marriott

Elsie Ba ttersby

Sam H a llett Molly C larke

To Finish...

Thank you for reading this edition of The Beachburian. We hope you have enjoyed reflecting on another remarkable year. As we draw to a close, we will leave you with some quotations from some external reviews this year.

Muddy Stilettos

“The vibe at Beachborough Prep is informal and friendly but academically strong – not an easy mix to pull off. The superior sport, drama and music facilities are impressive and all childten get to participate fully. Good flexible after-school care is particularly helpful for busy working parents.”

Hero Brown, Editor in Chief, Muddy Stilettos

Talk Education

“There is so much to celebrate at Beachborough, from the articulate and amiable children themselves to the common sense that clads pupils in boiler suits and wellies at breaktime so they can protect their uniforms, while squeezing every ounce of fun out of the grounds and woodlands that they are given the freedom to play in.”

Good School’s Guide

“A co-ed, mixed-ability prep school with fantastic weekly boarding, it delivers a quality education and much besides. With it’s 35 acres of land, access to wetland and woodland, passionate staff make the most of learning in and about the great outdoors.”

“The teachers and staff at Beachborough Prep are warm and nurturing and have a fantastic relationship with the children. We love the huge range of opportunity the school provides and appreciate that the education Beachborough offers is so well rounded, which inspires our children on a daily basis and is exciting for us, as parents, to see their development in so many different areas.”

Emily, Current Parent

“We have found Beachborough to be a fantastic school for our children. The school is friendly, nurturing and welcoming whilst also displaying a real rigour for academics and sport; a balance that can be difficult to achieve. The school’s facilities are impressive, particularly the TED suite and theatre, both of which our children absolutely love.”

Nicola, Current Parent