HEAD’S BULLETIN
Spring 2026
HEAD’S MESSAGE
This Spring term has brought a wonderful sense of momentum across the school, with pupils embracing new challenges, deepening their learning, and contributing enthusiastically to our shared community life. It has been a pleasure to see such positive engagement in classrooms and beyond, and I am grateful to our staff for the care, energy and expertise they bring to their work each day.
The breadth of experiences this term has been especially enriching. Our musicians have represented the school beautifully through choir rehearsals, the Prep School Orchestral Day, and performances in the community. Pupils have explored language and culture during Languages Week and through visiting Spanish workshops, while events such as Science Week, the Mini Model United Nations, and the Debating Competition have encouraged curiosity, confidence, and thoughtful dialogue.
Learning has also extended beyond the classroom through memorable educational visits, including Year 1’s day at Drusillas Zoo and Year 2’s trip to the Brighton Toy Museum. We celebrated creativity and imagination on World Book Day, welcomed Mrs Gutierrez to share her veterinary expertise with Pre-Prep, and pupils shared their talents in the Dance Showcase. Further highlights included Year 3 Roman Day, the Performing Shakespeare Competition, and our community’s participation in Red Nose Day.
As we move into the final part of the academic year, I encourage all pupils to continue approaching their work with commitment
and pride. Small, consistent efforts build confidence and achievement over time. My sincere thanks go to our staff, who model our values of courage, compassion, curiosity, and conscientiousness so consistently. I also extend my gratitude to our parents and guardians for the support, encouragement they provide at every stage and partnership with us.
Please continue to check the school calendar and website for updates on forthcoming events.
I wish you and your families a peaceful and restorative Easter break.
Mrs Morris, Head of the Prep School
YEAR 2 VISIT THE SENIOR SCHOOL ZOO
Year 2 embarked on a wild adventure to the Senior School Zoo in January, bringing their Science curriculum to life!
The journey began with the lemurs, where our wonderful guide shared some fascinating facts about these spirited primates. The excitement continued at the squirrel monkey enclosure; the children were absolutely captivated by their playful antics and adorable faces.
Moving indoors, the group entered the world of nocturnal creatures, meeting the binturongs who (with a little gentle encouragement) woke up to greet their visitors. The children were fascinated by the marmosets but watched them from a careful distance after being warned about their territorial marking behaviour! For many, the highlight was the “hands-on” session, where they got up close and personal with a variety of animals
including a snake and a lizard. The visit sparked deep curiosity, with the children asking insightful questions about animal diets and habitats. To top off a perfect morning, everyone enjoyed the ultimate treat: a cosy cuddle with a very soft chinchilla!
The children had a wonderful day exploring and demonstrated courage and curiosity in each animal encounter.
Mrs Surridge, Year 2 Teacher
NEW UPPER SCHOOL TO OPEN AUTUMN 2027
Bede’s has announced a significant evolution in its educational offering with the extension of its Eastbourne provision to Year 11. From September 2027, the seafront site in Dukes Drive, Eastbourne which is currently home to Bede’s Prep School and Nursery, will now extend its provision to welcome pupils from Year 9 to Year 11 in its new Upper School.
This strategic expansion is designed to offer families greater flexibility, providing a streamlined, day-school alternative with lower fees, alongside Bede’s flagship Senior School in Upper Dicker. The move comes as a direct response to the changing needs of modern families and the evolving economic landscape of independent education.
Two Distinct Pathways for Senior Education
From Year 7 onwards, Bede’s will now offer two complementary senior models:
• Bede’s Upper School, Years 7-11 (Eastbourne): A streamlined, high-impact day school focused on specialist, personalised teaching and bespoke pastoral care within a familiar setting with lower termly fees.
• Bede’s Senior School, Years 7-13 (Upper Dicker): Day and boarding school, renowned for its global reputation in holistic breadth, strong academic results, world-class sports coaching, and expansive rural campus.
The Academic Vision: Innovation and Rigour
The Upper School curriculum is designed for the modern world. We are pioneering a hybrid model that integrates core academic GCSEs with specialised BTEC and vocational pathways. A central pillar of this experience will be our STEM Excellence initiative, featuring dedicated modules in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Financial Literacy.
Our vibrant co-curricular programme focuses on a “healthy breadth” of experience, prioritising character, teamwork, and the joy of new hobbies. Pupils can explore everything from debating and coding to outdoor education and horse riding. In addition, for our older pupils, prestigious accredited Leadership Foundation courses, including the Environment Leaders Programme, STEM Leadership, and the Foreign Language Leader Award will be on offer. Instead of the expansive and elite sports coaching and facilities on offer at Upper Dicker, our Eastbourne programme emphasises personal growth and well-rounded skills in an energetic, inclusive environment.
Campus Investment
To ensure the seafront campus reflects the maturity of older pupils, Bede’s is undertaking a significant programme of infrastructural investment.
A premium common room will be opened for older pupils and there
will be a significant programme of classroom investment including state-of-the-art IT and interactive whiteboards for GCSE-level study. The campus will be re-configured with Years 4–11 based in the Main Prep School building featuring age-specific form areas and dedicated specialist suites for creative and technical subjects. The Nursery, Pre-Prep and Year 3 will be based in the Holywell building next door.
Commenting on the announcement, Head of Prep and Upper School Leigh-Anne Morris said “At the heart of this evolution is a commitment to choice and community. We recognise that while many pupils thrive in the expansive, holistic environment of our Senior School at Upper Dicker, others flourish in a more intimate, town setting. By extending our current Prep School provision through to Year 11, we are providing an academically and community-focused pathway which allows pupils to remain within Eastbourne throughout their critical GCSE years.”
FIRST STEPS IN FIRST AID WORKSHOPS
We were delighted to welcome Lily Dean Training to the school to deliver First Aid sessions for every pupil from Reception through to Year 8.
Using a carefully scaffolded approach, the training was tailored to be age-appropriate and accessible for every year group. Pupils were empowered with the knowledge to stay calm, assess danger and handle a variety of emergency situations safely and confidently. Moving beyond theory, the sessions also included highly practical elements, giving pupils the opportunity to physically rehearse critical interventions, such as the correct response to choking and practising CPR.
It was incredibly inspiring to see our pupils, from our youngest Pre-Prep children learning how to call for help, right up to our Year 8 cohort mastering life-saving techniques, approach these mature topics with such focus and responsibility. They are now better prepared to look out for themselves, their families and their wider community.
Mr Bennett-Tomlin, Deputy Head
YEAR 6 DRONE WORKSHOP
Year 6 pupils had a wonderful time working with drones earlier this term.
Mr Barclay returned to the Prep School to deliver a dynamic and exciting Drones Workshop! Pupils were learning to programme with accuracy, inputting complex and accurate information in order to fly drones through specific routes. They even managed to fly their drones through rings! Working with innovative new technology, pupils were able to detect any glitches in the system and suggest possible improvements to the coding software. They showed true critical thinking skills and really rose to the challenge.
Mrs Jones, Curriculum Enrichment Projects Lead
RAD AND ATAP BALLET EXAMINATIONS
It has been an incredibly busy and rewarding season for our dancers!
This year, our pupils took on both Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) exams (Grades 2 through 4) and The Royal Ballet’s Affiliate Programme assessments (Levels 1 and 2). I am immensely proud of the professionalism, commitment and incredible work ethic every pupil displayed during their preparation. Most importantly, it was wonderful to see that throughout the hard work, everyone truly seemed to enjoy the process. We are elated to be able to share with you our dancers’ outstanding results: three ‘Merits’, ten ‘Distinctions’, and a coveted ‘High Distinction’! Congratulations to all our performers on these fantastic achievements!
Mrs Manes, Principal of Legat Associates
STEM WEEK
Our school was buzzing with energy, creativity and innovation as we celebrated STEM Week, a dedicated time to explore the exciting worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
From Nursery to Year 8, pupils immersed themselves in hands-on investigations, design challenges and real-world problem solving. The aim of the week was simple yet powerful: to nurture curiosity, build resilience and show children that STEM is not just a subject, it is a way of thinking.
Throughout the week, pupils were encouraged to think like engineers, scientists and mathematicians. They asked thoughtful questions, tested ideas, refined prototypes and, most importantly, embraced the value of learning from mistakes. Classrooms were transformed into laboratories, design studios and innovation hubs.
Highlights included: escape rooms that required teamwork, creativity and perseverance; practical investigations that encouraged pupils to predict, test and evaluate; a frog dissection workshop that was a huge hit for the Year 8s; and coding and drone flying activities that strengthened problem-solving skills.
In a rapidly evolving world, the skills developed through STEM— critical thinking, adaptability, collaboration and analytical reasoning—are more important than ever. By embedding these experiences into school life, we aim to equip our pupils not only for academic success but for future careers and opportunities that may not yet even exist.
We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, determination and creativity demonstrated by every pupil. STEM Week was truly a celebration of curiosity, innovation and the joy of discovery.
Ms
Brown, Head of Faculty for
RECEPTION VISIT PARADISE PARK
Despite the typical January drizzle, our youngest explorers’ spirits weren’t dampened as they delved into the wonders of ‘Science and Dinosaurs’. The children were captivated by the “Earth Lab,” where they explored the history of our planet, marvelled at meteorites, and got up close with fascinating fossils. It was wonderful to see their faces light up as they connected their classroom science lessons to the exhibits on display.
The excitement continued as we braved the rain to trek through the dinosaur trail, spotting life-sized giants hiding among the trees. After proving their bravery outdoors, the children were
rewarded with some high-energy fun in the soft play area, followed by a charming ride on the mini steam train. It was a day filled with laughter, curiosity, and a fantastic sense of adventure. We are so proud of how well the children represented our school— they truly are budding paleontologists in the making!
Mrs Gallagher, Reception Teacher
STEM TRIP TO EURO SPACE CENTER, BELGIUM
Our recent residential trip to Belgium offered pupils an unforgettable opportunity to explore both the wonders of space and the marvels of the natural world. Pupils visited the extraordinary EuroSpace Center, where they experienced what it takes to train, think and work like real astronauts.
Throughout the visit, pupils immersed themselves in hands-on astronaut training simulations, engineering challenges and space science workshops. From experiencing the physical demands of space missions to exploring spacecraft simulators, they developed a deeper understanding of the resilience, teamwork and precision required in space exploration.
The programme was designed not only to excite but to educate. Pupils applied their knowledge of physics, mathematics and engineering in practical scenarios, strengthening their problemsolving skills and scientific thinking. They were challenged to work collaboratively under pressure, mirroring the real-world demands faced by astronauts and mission control teams.
The adventure continued underground with a visit to the remarkable Caves of Han. Here, pupils witnessed spectacular rock formations, vast chambers and underground rivers carved over thousands of years. The visit provided a powerful realworld link to their studies of geology and natural processes. Seeing stalactites and stalagmites firsthand sparked thoughtful questions about erosion, timescales and the forces that shape our planet.
Beyond the academic enrichment, the trip fostered independence, confidence and camaraderie. Travelling abroad together encouraged pupils to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and represent the school with maturity and enthusiasm.
Experiences such as this bring STEM to life in a powerful and memorable way. By connecting classroom learning with authentic, real-world contexts, we aim to ignite ambition and curiosity in every child.
We are incredibly proud of the curiosity, resilience and teamwork demonstrated by all pupils. The Belgium trip was not only an educational success but an inspiring adventure that will remain with them for years to come.
Ms Brown, Head of Faculty for STEM
SPACE DAY PERFORMANCE
Year 3 to 6 pupils were treated to an “out of this world” experience at the Senior School with the ‘Space Day’ performance project. This wasn’t just any show—it was a production with a truly personal touch, as it was entirely scripted by Bede’s pupils.
Drawing inspiration from popular children’s books, Senior School pupils took charge of selecting, adapting, and shaping material to create a theatrical experience perfectly tailored to captivate a younger audience. The project served as a fantastic platform for pupils to develop and apply a wide range of creative skills across the Performing Arts: expressive storytelling and character work, high-energy choreography that brought the lunar landscape to life, and atmospheric scores and vocal performances that tied the whole narrative together.
By blending these disciplines, the performers created a highly engaging show that demonstrated the care, energy, and expertise that pupils bring to the stage.
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
YEAR 6 GOTHIC DAY
Year 6 pupils spent a day at the Senior School immersed in all things gothic!
The day began with some candlelit readings by some ghostly teachers. This was followed by a drama workshop in which pupils learnt to adapt their voices in order to create a sinister and threatening atmosphere. They also learned to ‘sense’ a presence behind them! Creative writing tasks and analysis of some classic literature made the afternoon both challenging and enjoyable. Pupils worked hard and showed real courage, presenting themselves as excellent ambassadors of the school.
Mrs Jones, Curriculum Enrichment Projects Lead
MAKING WAVES IN STEM: YEAR 8 DIVE INTO HYDROMETRY
Year 8 were joined by Theo Parfitt, a Hydrometry and Telemetry Officer from the Environment Agency, for a fascinating insight into local flood management. Theo brought the water cycle to life, explaining how monitoring rainfall is critical to protecting our local community.
The highlight was a demonstration of the latest industry tech, including a new remote-controlled water boat used to safely map river depth and flow. To wrap up the session, pupils put their thinking caps on to solve a real-life hydrological problem, applying their classroom knowledge to a professional scenario.
A huge thank you to Theo and his colleague Joe for showing our pupils how STEM skills make a real-world difference!
Mrs Turner, Science Subject Lead
YEAR 7 ENGINEERING DAY
Year 7 pupils visited the Senior School for a day with a difference. They spent most of it on the construction of bridges which were then destroyed by unsustainable pressure!
They played a game to learn the value of trust as an icebreaker then it was straight into the design phase. The brief was to construct the strongest bridge possible to cross a 40cm gap. Guided by staff and aided by a brilliant set of Lower 5th pupils. Pupils came up with the best designs they could manage, taking inspiration from real life bridge designs. Once approved, pupils worked on their 3D structures using only spaghetti and a bit of glue.
Teamwork and time management was essential. With limited resources pupils had to achieve the best design within the constraints. Pupils also explored centre of mass, problem-solving and physics in sports during workshops provided by the Senior School staff.
A final destruction test was held in the Recital Room. Each bridge was suspended across a 40cm gap, and then masses were added until the point of destruction. Competition was fairly fierce! With the limited resources they had, there were some amazing results, with our winners’ bridges holding up total masses of 0.8kg. Their excellent designs enabled normally fragile materials to hold far more weight than they expected!
Well done to all pupils who were involved, but a special well done to our two winning teams: “Not Yet” consisting of Phoenix, Luca, Esther and Amelie, and “We had to Restart” consisting of Sean, Ava, Theia, Ishaan and Eliza.
Ms Brown, Head of Faculty for STEM
NSPCC NUMBER DAY
We had a fantastic time during our recent Number Day, and the School was absolutely buzzing with mathematical energy from start to finish. It was wonderful to see the children arrive looking so creative in their numbered outfits, which set a brilliant tone for a day dedicated to all things numerical.
Inside the classrooms, the excitement continued with a variety of fun, hands-on activities that showed everyone just how much fun working with numbers can be. To top off the celebrations, our numbered cupcake buns were a massive hit and sold out quickly, providing a sweet treat to end such an active day. We are thrilled to announce that through your incredible generosity, we raised a grand total of £205. As always, we want to extend a huge thank you for your ongoing support. You made the day a resounding success for our school community.
Mrs Howell, Charity Champion
FIRST LEGO LEAGUE COMPETITION
A group of 12 pupils in Years 5 to 8 proudly represented the School at the Sussex Regional of the FIRST LEGO League Challenge, held at the London Gatwick STEM Centre.
The experience was an enormous success in every way that truly matters.
In preparation for the competition, pupils dedicated many weeks to designing, building and coding their LEGO robot. They refined attachments, tested programming sequences and learned to problem-solve when missions did not go to plan—they quickly discovered that this is all part of engineering! Through trial, error and perseverance, they developed resilience and adaptability alongside their technical skills.
Beyond the robotics element, the team also worked on an Innovation Project, researching a real-world problem and designing a creative solution to assist archaeologists. They presented their findings confidently to a panel of judges, demonstrating not only their scientific understanding but also their ability to articulate ideas clearly and respond thoughtfully to questions.
The competition day itself was filled with excitement, teamwork and determination. Pupils supported one another under pressure, demonstrated excellent teamwork and represented the school with pride and maturity. They experienced first-hand what it means to collaborate, think critically and perform in a high-level competitive environment.
Opportunities such as this go far beyond winning medals. They nurture computational thinking, engineering design skills, public speaking confidence and the resilience required to improve and
innovate. Most importantly, they ignite a passion for STEM that extends well beyond the classroom.
We are incredibly proud of our team’s commitment, courage and enthusiasm. Taking part in the first LEGO League regional competition was a valuable and inspiring experience and one that has strengthened their determination for future challenges.
Ms Brown, Head of Faculty for STEM
EASTBOURNE EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP YOUNG ENGINEERS CHALLENGE
Our team of four talented pupils recently took on the EEBP Young Engineers Challenge at Eastbourne Town Hall, diving headfirst into a high-pressure day of robotics and digital innovation.
Utilising LEGO Spike Prime kits, the group was tasked with designing and coding an autonomous robot capable of navigating complex mission objectives. This was far more than a simple building exercise; it required the pupils to stretch their problemsolving skills to the limit as they translated abstract logic into physical movement. Throughout the day, the team faced numerous technical hurdles, from sensor calibration errors to coding “bugs” that required immediate, iterative troubleshooting. These moments of frustration became the ultimate classroom for resilience and critical thinking.
Beyond the technical mastery of motors and Python-based blocks, pupils gained invaluable team-building skills that will serve them long into the future. They learned the art of delegation, how to communicate technical ideas clearly under a ticking clock, and
STAR CHEF COMPETITION
We were very excited to be able to host our second annual Bede’s Prep Star Chef competition this Spring term!
A total of twenty-four eager pupils entered, a massive increase on last year, which meant we held a “cook off” to whittle down to our six finalists. Twelve teams of two pupils each prepared and cooked their chosen main course in one hour, in an attempt to ‘wow’ the judges and secure their spot in the grand final.
The Holroyd Howe team and I were on hand to assist the teams with safe usage of the kitchen equipment, and we provided each entrant with a bespoke Star Chef apron to wear and keep as a memento. We were thoroughly impressed by the standard on offer from each team, and had the unenviable task of picking the best three teams to go through to the main event. After a gruelling deliberation, we settled on our finalists: Irina and Sofiia, Lucie and Lolly, and Lexie and Evie.
The grand final event was held in the Prep Dining Hall’s main kitchen, in full view of some very curious pupils and parents! Each finalist was chaperoned by their own personal chef, to lend assistance and provide advice. Each team was asked to produce a main course and a dessert of their choice within 90 minutes, ready for presenting to our panel of judges, which included Mrs Morris, Mr Bennett-Tomlin and myself.
The atmosphere was special from start to finish, as the Star Chef hopefuls toiled away with their chosen meals. The food was judged on several factors, including presentation and taste. Each team produced an astounding pair of courses, and we once again had the very difficult task of choosing our overall winners.
the importance of supporting one another when a trial run didn’t go as planned. By the time the final whistle blew, our pupils had transformed from individual learners into a synchronized engineering unit! We are incredibly proud of how they represented the School, proving that with the right mix of creativity and logic, they can engineer solutions to any challenge.
Mr Sheridan, Head of Computing
In the end, after much discussion and tasting, we were very proud to announce that Lucie and Lolly were this year’s Star Chef winners! They both received vouchers to some of the top restaurants in London. Commiserations to our runners-up, Irina, Sofiia, Lexie and Evie. Their hard work did not go unrewarded as they had the opportunity to curate the School lunch menu for a day!
A wonderful time was had by all and we can’t wait to run the competition again in 2027!
Mr Wakefield, Chef Manager for Holroyd Howe
YEAR 7 ‘CITY FROM SCRATCH’ COMPETITION
Year 7 were very fortunate to have members of Bede’s SHAPE Faculty and seven fantastic Lower Fifth pupils come to the Prep School to lead and run a ‘City from Scratch’ workshop.
Working in groups, our pupils collaborated in order to design a city for the future. Firstly, they needed to design and lay out their city, taking into consideration what amenities, transport, residential areas could be included and how they would power their population. Secondly, they needed to consider and agree on the rules, laws and philosophy of their city.
At the end, each group presented their completed designs. Mr Martin-Jenkins, Head of Geography at Bede’s Senior School reviewed each group and awarded certificates and prizes to the teams that demonstrated the best team work, the creativity and overall development. Well done to our winners and everyone who took part in what was an impressive afternoon’s work.
Mr Betts, Head of History and Geography
YEAR 6 VISIT CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL
Year 6 have studied events in history between 1066 and 1400 this year and have focused this term on medieval lives and religion. We investigated the famous murder of Thomas Becket in 1170 and we were fortunate to be able to visit Canterbury Cathedral in February.
The class dressed up in some period clothing for a tour of the Cathedral, where we found the exact spot of Becket’s murder and found out about the importance and history of the building. The awe inspiring size and storied tales of the building really took our breath away as we comprehended how much time and history had taken place at this site.
In the afternoon, we took part in several activities related to the time period, such as quill writing and souvenir making. We also got to try out carving some limestone and tried to put into practice how to construct a building as large and intricate as Canterbury Cathedral.
Year 6 impressed me with their knowledge and enthusiasm, and it was a real pleasure being together. The educational guide that showed us around the Cathedral was equally impressed and is looking forward to welcoming Bede’s back in the future.
Mr Betts, Head of History and Geography
YEAR 3 VISIT FISHBOURNE ROMAN PALACE
The Year 3 pupils had an absolutely fantastic trip to Fishbourne Roman Palace, where history truly came to life!
The children were captivated as they explored the various exhibits, showing a keen interest in the ancient artefacts and the impressive remains of the Roman hypocaust heating system. A spirited game of ‘Mosaic Bingo’ kept everyone engaged as they scouted the palace floors, eventually leading them to the famous ‘Cupid on a Dolphin’ mosaic. The children were left speechless to learn that this intricate masterpiece was crafted using approximately 360,000 individual tiles!
One of the highlights was an immersive workshop, which allowed pupils to step directly into the sandals of a Roman citizen. They took part in a variety of traditional activities, including: exploring the flavours and tools of ancient cooking in the Roman Kitchen, learning the patient art of spinning wool and producing mosaics, putting their engineering skills to the test by building a sturdy Roman arch, and practising their Latin letters on authentic wax tablets.
It was a brilliant day of discovery that left our budding historians inspired and eager to learn more.
Mrs Barrett, Year 3 Teacher
RECEPTION VISIT THE SENIOR SCHOOL ZOO
The excitement for our latest trip began with a ride on the “Bede’s bus”, which is always a highlight for our Reception class! Upon arriving at the Senior School campus, our young explorers were ready to dive into the wonderful world of the Senior School Zoo.
The children were greeted by some of the most charismatic residents, including the playful squirrel monkeys, the wide-eyed lemurs, and the unusual binturongs (which, we discovered, smell curiously like buttered popcorn!)
The visit was a fantastic way to bring our science learning to life through a “hands-on” encounter session. It was wonderful to see so much bravery as the children reached out to touch a variety of reptiles, including smooth-scaled lizards, geckos, and even a snake! To round off the visit, we spent some time with our softer “furry friends,” with the chinchillas proving to be a particular crowd favorite. The children returned to the Prep School with huge smiles and plenty of stories to tell—a huge thank you to the Senior School team for making our trip so fun!
Mrs Gallagher, Reception Teacher
LAMDA SHOWCASE
Our latest LAMDA results are in, and they are nothing short of spectacular! With an astounding 94% of pupils securing a Distinction, our performers have shown incredible passion and discipline. To say they excelled would be an understatement; these results truly speak for themselves.
The variety of modules tackled this term was also truly impressive, showcasing the versatility of our young performers. These included Solo and Duo Acting, Devised work, and Shakespeare for Performance. These pupils dedicated weeks of their time refining their acting skills and through this process, they have developed vital life skills: confidence in public speaking, collaborative teamwork, and the resilience to perform under the pressure of external assessment.
ORCHESTRAL DAY
Our talented young musicians traded their usual classrooms for the grander stage of the Senior School for the annual Bede’s Orchestral Experience Day. This event offered our pupils a unique and wonderful opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and experience the power of a full-scale orchestra.
The day was defined by teamwork and musical mentorship, as our pupils performed alongside musicians from other preparatory schools and Senior School pupils and staff, who provided inspiration and guidance throughout the rehearsals.
It was an intensive day of learning, with pupils spending hours playing in a larger ensemble and studying a variety of complex works. The hard work reached its crescendo in the afternoon with a short concert in the Recital Room.
Parents and guardians were invited to witness the results of the day’s efforts, and the performance was a resounding success—a true testament to the musical “momentum” we’ve seen all term.
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
The hard work culminated in a wonderful LAMDA Showcase Performance held later in the day. It was a joy to see the pupils perform for an invited audience of family and friends, finally receiving that well-earned round of applause.
A massive thank you and congratulations must go to Ms Georgeson. Her outstanding work throughout this examination window has clearly inspired our pupils to reach these incredible heights. If your child is interested in developing their performance skills, building confidence, or would like to arrange a taster session for the next LAMDA window, please get in touch.
Mr Garnham, Head of Drama
YEAR 1 VISIT TO DRUSILLAS ZOO
Our Year 1 children recently enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Drusillas Zoo to bring our science learning to life.
The day was packed with hands-on discovery as the children bravely handled a variety of animals, including a snake and a chinchilla, providing a fantastic tactile introduction to different textures and temperaments. To deepen their understanding of animal groups—such as mammals, reptiles, and birds—the children donned vibrant costumes and explored a fascinating collection of artefacts, examining the intricate patterns on a tortoise shell and the size of an ostrich egg. A highlight of the day was visiting the penguins during feeding time, and hearing about how the zoo keepers care for them. We rounded off our educational journey with a delightful ride on the zoo train and some welldeserved fun across the various play parks, making it a truly magical day of learning and discovery.
Mrs Kenward, Year 1 Teacher
CHOIR PERFORMANCE AT THE CHASELEY TRUST
Members of our Junior Choir embarked on a very special musical mission to The Chaseley Trust. After a brisk walk to the centre, our young vocalists were ready to share the power of music with the residents and staff.
The Chaseley Trust provides specialist care for adults with complex neurological conditions, and the arrival of our pupils brought a wonderful sense of energy and great joy to everyone in attendance. The small but highly appreciative audience was treated to a diverse program that showcased both collective harmony and individual bravery. The whole group performed with the professionalism that has become a hallmark of our Performing Arts department this term. Several pupils stepped into the spotlight to deliver fantastic solo performances, which were met with warm applause from the residents.
This visit was a shining example of how our musicians represent the school in the local community, using their talents to make a tangible, positive impact on others’ lives.
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
SUPPER OF CELEBRATION
There is a unique kind of energy that fills a room when a community gathers for a shared purpose. Recently, we hosted our Supper of Celebration, an evening defined by a warm, atmospheric glow, where the air was thick with laughter, shared stories and the hum of meaningful conversation. It was a night not just to count our successes, but to witness them.
The evening commenced with a heartfelt welcome from the CEO and Head, Peter Goodyer, who set a poignant tone for the night. In his opening remarks, Mr Goodyer reminded us all of the fundamental “why” behind our gathering. It wasn’t just a celebration of figures on a balance sheet, but a recognition of the profound impact we are making as a community.
By sharing the Bede’s Development Foundation’s recent achievements, Mr Goodyer underscored the importance of our mission, reminding us that each one of us is making a difference. The message was clear: every guest in the room, be they a parent, donor or trustee is a vital architect in the lives of these young people.
The heart of the evening was the presence of our Foundation Scholars. To see their confidence grow, navigating a room of supporters with such grace, offered the most tangible evidence of what a Bede’s education provides. We weren’t just hearing about “impact”; we were sitting across the table from it. Seeing our scholars speak with such confidence and ambition served as a poignant reminder of why we do what we do. We aren’t just funding places in a classroom; we are building the foundations for lifelong success.
The room fell silent as we listened to a series of heartfelt speeches. Our Director of the Foundation, Charlotte Sutton spoke with passion about the journey to this point, followed by the scholars themselves, who spoke with raw honesty about what the 110% scholarship has meant to them and their families.
The evening also marked a historic milestone: we have officially reached the halfway point in our mission to raise £1.6 million. Every penny raised is dedicated to these scholars, ensuring that financial barriers; from tuition to uniforms and school trips, are completely dismantled, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in school life.
This milestone would have been impossible without the unwavering generosity of our supporters. The evening was a wonderful opportunity to personally thank the people who make this vision a reality: our parents, past and current and alumni whose belief in our ethos strengthens our community every day. Our donors, whose philanthropy provides the engine for social mobility and our Trustees whose guidance ensures every pound is used to its maximum potential.
While we celebrate reaching the 50% mark, our eyes remain firmly on the horizon. There are many more talented children in our community waiting for their chance to shine and we are more
motivated than ever to raise the remaining funds to reach our £1.6 million goal. We are immensely proud of the “Foundations” we are building together as a community, and we are deeply grateful for the ongoing support that allows us to change the narrative for local children.
Mrs Fitzgerald, Alumni Relations Officer
DEBATING COMPETITION
I had the huge pleasure of taking two of our Year 8 pupils, Jack and Eddie, to an interschool debating competition.
With minimal preparation time, the pupils took on challenging topics and spoke with courage and conviction. They challenged the views of others perceptively and learnt a great deal from
LANGUAGES WEEK
Bede’s Prep has enjoyed a vibrant Languages Week filled with immersive cultural and linguistic experiences. Highlights included specialised Spanish dance sessions with Somos Caribe for Years 5 to 8. Pupils also engaged in hands-on classroom activities, such as building spaghetti Eiffel Towers, outdoor learning, and cooking classes. These were complemented by taster lessons in Spanish, Latin, and even Mandarin.
Beyond the classroom, the school community celebrated with daily themed international lunches and a special Chinese New Year event. From a school-wide Spelling Bee Competition, to a series of careers talks featuring alumni, pupils explored how language learning fosters global citizenship and future opportunities. The week reached a colorful conclusion today with the spirited Hat and Flag Day.
Sra Cazorla, Head of MFL
the experience. I was filled with admiration and pride for their performances; very well done to both!
Mrs Jones, Curriculum Enrichment Projects Lead
YEAR 2 VISIT BRIGHTON TOY MUSEUM
Year 2 pupils recently enjoyed an enriching visit to The Brighton Toy and Model Museum, providing a hands-on exploration of our ‘Toys from the Past’ topic. The museum offered a vast collection of historical artifacts that captivated the children from the moment they arrived.
Throughout the day, the children participated in expert-led workshops where they practised chronological sequencing by placing various toys on historical timelines. They were particularly intrigued by playthings dating back hundreds, and even thousands, of years. Taking on the role of museum curators, the children handled and described vintage transport toys with impressive care and respect.
The exploration continued with a viewing of the intricate Meccano displays, followed by a collaborative session where the children worked in groups to try out the Meccano for themselves.
The day ended on a magical note with a storytelling workshop. Our guide’s retelling of a Hans Christian Andersen story left the room spellbound, sparking a wave of creativity as the children began planning their own stories set within the museum’s walls. It was a wonderful experience that truly captured their imaginations!
Mrs Surridge, Year 2 Teacher
VOCAL PERFORMANCE AT ST WILFRID’S HOSPICE
Our talented vocalists once again took their music into the heart of the local community for a deeply moving performance at St Wilfrid’s Hospice. Building on our school’s commitment to “compassion” and “conscientiousness,” this visit was a highlight of our community outreach programme this term.
The atmosphere was one of warmth and connection as our pupils shared their repertoire with the residents, staff, and volunteers. Much like our visit to The Chaseley Trust earlier in the term, this performance brought a wonderful sense of energy and great joy to everyone in the room. The singers performed a selection of pieces that showcased their growing confidence and vocal range.
Our pupils represented the school beautifully, engaging with the audience and demonstrating the power of the arts to uplift and inspire. By taking their talents beyond the school gates, our pupils aren’t just practising their craft—they are learning the vital lesson that their music can make a meaningful difference in others’ lives.
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
“COME AND SING” AFTERNOON AT THE SENIOR SCHOOL
The Recital Room at the Senior School was filled with the powerful sound of voices joining together for our annual community ‘Come & Sing’ afternoon. This event is a highlight of our trust-wide calendar, designed to bring parents, guardians, friends, and pupils together to experience the simple, pure joy of group singing.
We were incredibly fortunate to be led by the renowned Dan Ludford-Thomas. Dan brought a wealth of expert guidance from his prestigious career. One of the most wonderful aspects of the afternoon was its inclusivity; whether participants were seasoned choral singers or had “never sung before”, the event
MINI MODEL UNITED NATIONS
An intrepid group of pupils from Years 5, 6 and 7 accompanied me to the Senior School to participate in a large-scale debating event, designed to be an introduction to Model United Nations.
Pupils were required to prepare a topic in just 30 minutes, writing a speech to be delivered to the ‘delegates’ of a plethora of different countries. Incredibly, all four groups won against their opposition. They also showed great courage in raising challenging Points Of Information (POI). They hugely impressed me with their adaptability and team spirit, as well as their world knowledge. We certainly have some budding politicians and negotiators in our midst!
Mrs Jones, Curriculum Enrichment Projects Lead
was structured so everyone could participate with confidence. The event welcomed the entire Bede’s community.
After an intensive afternoon of rehearsals and refreshments, the day culminated in a short performance of popular pieces covered during the session. It was a fantastic afternoon that perfectly captured the wonderful sense of momentum in performing arts events in the second half of the term.
Mr Farley, Head of Performing and Creative Arts
VOCAL CONCERT
The school was filled with songs as we hosted our annual Vocal Concert. This event is a cornerstone of our musical calendar and is always popular with staff, parents and pupils alike.
The concert featured a wonderful variety of talent. Pupils who learn in and out of school, performed pieces they had carefully prepared with their teachers, Riccardo Simonetti and Christine Broomfield. The School Choir also took to the stage, delivering a performance that tied the afternoon together beautifully.
WORLD BOOK DAY
It was spectacular to see our school community come alive with book characters, book-themed lessons and the magic of storytelling and books on World Book Day!
The day began with children and staff arriving dressed as their favourite book characters, and by breaktime the Astro was bursting with colour and conversation as literary classic heroes met with fairytale characters!
During the day, the children-turned-literary detectives were given detective notes and were missioned to identify mystery readers from the school community, who shared extracts from their best-loved stories. They cracked Science codes using colour cryptography, and played a book-themed game of ‘Traitors’ in the library.
Perhaps the most magical transformation occurred in the Dining Room, which was restyled in the mythical theme of How to Train Your Dragon. With the chefs dressed as Vikings and a collection of spectacular hand-crocheted dragons on display, which were expertly crafted by a member of our incredibly talented catering team, the delight seen on the children’s faces was such a highlight!
A huge thank you to the staff, the catering team, and of course, the parents for supporting such a wonderful celebration of World Book Day.
Mrs Wilson, Head of Faculty for Languages and Humanities
After the final notes faded, performers enjoyed enthusiastic applause, celebrating the courage and commitment shown by every singer. It was a truly empowering afternoon that proved our pupils are finding their voices and enjoying every opportunity.
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
BAFTA YOUNG GAME DESIGNERS VISIT FUTURLAB STUDIO
A group of our budding game developers had the opportunity to visit FuturLab Studios, a Brighton-based game development studio, to help them prepare for upcoming BAFTA Young Game Designer competition.
FuturLab opened their doors to us with a tour of the studios and a behind-the-scenes look at the industry, followed by a presentation by Dan Chequer, Design Director on ‘How a Game is Made’.
The pupils also had the chance to speak to the team from various areas in game development, including Quality Assurance (QA), Programming, Production and Animation. In QA, the QA Tester briefly explained how playing and testing a game works, the difference between structured and exploratory testing, and how bugs are reported. Meanwhile, in Animation, the Senior 3D Artist showed pupils how animation works in both games and film, how to animate in the Unity engine, and, of course, some funny bugs! Pupils demonstrated their curiosity with some probing questions about how bugs are prioritised, how work is delegated, and how everyone keeps track of who is who in the studio.
The pupils were positively buzzing on their return to School, and many were discussing how they were going to improve and amend their projects before the competition deadline over the half term.
Dan had this to say about our visit: “It was a real pleasure showing the students around the studio, the team here at FuturLab really enjoyed the opportunity to share with them how we work. We were very impressed by the great questions that the students asked and wish them all the very best with their BAFTA game design submissions!”
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
PRE-PREP MOTHER’S DAY ASSEMBLY
There wasn’t a dry eye in the Prep School Theatre as we gathered to celebrate the incredible mothers in our lives.
From our youngest Reception children, who held up their masterpieces sharing exactly why their mummies are so special, to the final, enthusiastic “Happy Mother’s Day!” shout, the PrePrep Assembly was a beautiful mix of gratitude, giggles and love! Year 1 treated us to a quick history lesson as they reflected on the origins of Mothering Sunday before taking us on a trip around the world, to explain how different cultures honour their mothers. Not forgetting, of course, their clever recipe for the perfect mothering person.
Everyone sat in anticipation as Year 2 stood proudly to deliver their carefully worded poems sharing just how wonderful each and every mum is, whilst reminding us that anyone can take a caring role. To close the Assembly, Pre-Prep joined together with
a lively song that filled the theatre with joy. Every mummy was then presented with a bright yellow daffodil by the children—a small symbol of the growth and sunshine they bring into our lives. It truly is these moments of connection that make our school feel like a very special family.
Mrs Glen-Roots, Assistant Head: Pre-Prep and Nursery
YEAR 5 AND 6 RESIDENTIAL TRIP TO KENCH HILL
Years 5 and 6 recently returned from an absolutely brilliant four-day residential trip to Kench Hill! Our home away from home was a beautiful big farmhouse that offered plenty of space for outdoor play and some very special furry (and feathered) friends. A highlight for many of the children was getting up in the mornings to help feed the resident animals. We quickly fell in love with the ponies, Chips and Pongo, alongside a charming crew of rabbits, guinea pigs, and chickens.
We packed our days with as much outdoor adventure as possible. On-site, the children tested their aim through archery, discovered fascinating aquatic life while pond dipping, and showed incredible bravery at GO APE!, conquering their fears on the high ropes and zooming down the zip lines.
Our excursions off the farm were just as action-packed. We took a fascinating walk around Rye to learn about its rich history and enjoyed a wonderful visit to Leeds Castle, where we soaked up more history, got hilariously lost in the maze, and let off steam
VOICE IN A MILLION 2026
On Wednesday 18 March, our singers travelled to the iconic OVO Arena Wembley for the musical event of a lifetime: Voice in a Million 2026. Joining thousands of other children from across the country, our pupils became part of a spectacular massed choir, raising awareness for adoption and fostering through the power of song.
The energy in the arena was electric from the very first note. Our pupils gave their all as they enthusiastically sang and danced the night away, fully embracing the experience. It was a joy to see them give their all to a contemporary setlist of pop hits alongside
YEAR 3 ROMAN DAY
Year 3 brought history to life as the classrooms filled with Gods, Goddesses, Centurions, and Emperors for their Roman Day.
The morning began with a fast-paced carousel of activities, where pupils practised their craftsmanship with mosaic making and tested their logic with Roman numeral challenges. They also conducted research to produce ‘Top Trumps’ cards and detailed factfiles on significant historical figures and events. The creativity continued after break in the Art Room, where everyone worked on painting their own Roman shields. Their technical skills shifted to the kitchen as the children visited the Cookery Centre to bake traditional bread and honey oat biscuits. This led directly into a spectacular Roman feast prepared by our wonderful catering team.
While the children were relieved to find dormice dipped in honey and flamingo tongues missing from the menu, they enjoyed a hearty spread of pottage, fresh bread, ‘wild boar’ with vegetables,
in the adventure playground. However, the absolute crown jewel of our days out was a trip to Camber Sands. We were blessed with wonderful weather, making it the perfect afternoon for dune jumping and paddling in the sea!
After such busy days, our evenings were a wonderful time to unwind. We were treated to lovely home-cooked food, followed by cozy campfires and stargazing as the night rolled in. Before bed, the children loved relaxing together with friendly card games or a movie.
We ended our fantastic four days away with some brilliant teamwork during a shelter-building session, some highly competitive pedal go-kart races, and a festive Easter egg hunt to finish the trip on a high note. It was a truly wonderful week filled with fresh air, friendship, and lifelong memories!
Miss Brodie, KS1 and KS2 Teacher
thousands of peers. They matched the music with coordinated moves that kept the momentum going until the final curtain call.
As the show concluded, the sense of achievement was palpable. This event was the perfect “crescendo” for our performing arts calendar this term, demonstrating the courage, compassion, and energy that our pupils bring to every performance.
Mr Farley, Head of Faculty for Performing and Creative Arts
cheese, grapes, and dates. This was all washed down with copious amounts of ‘red wine’. The day was a truly immersive experience and hopefully, the children will take memories of a wonderful day celebrating Roman culture.
Mrs Barrett, Year 3 Teacher
SUSSEX COUNTY INDOOR CRICKET TOURNAMENT
Bede’s hosted the girls U13 Indoor Cricket Sussex Qualifier competition. Each team played 4 matches, playing each other twice across the day.
We achieved two excellent wins against Mayfield and then another against St Andrews, which meant that we headed into our final match with the assurance of finishing in the top position, securing our place in finals day. A narrow loss to St Andrews in the final game did not take away from an excellent all-around team performance from our girls, and over the course of the day all eight players made an impact, whether it was in batting, bowling or fielding.
It was very rewarding to see the pupils’ extra training paying off, but most pleasing was the team spirit, camaraderie and genuine joy they showed at each other’s successes during the matches.
We were proud to host the U13 Girls Indoor Cricket Finals day. We had a tough group, in which we only dropped a single, hard-fought and narrow game against the eventual tournament winners. This meant we played in a 3rd and 4th place playoff game, in which the Bede’s girls secured another impressive victory. The team can be very proud to finish 3rd in Sussex for their age group; I witnessed fantastic effort and energy and there was no small amount of skill on display. The results were a great reward for the many Monday lunchtime sessions they had committed to in the winter months. Well done to the team, we’re looking forward to a very good summer of cricket, too!
Mr Hall, Prep Cricket Lead
DOING SOMETHING “FUNNY FOR MONEY” FOR RED NOSE DAY
We had a truly spectacular Red Nose Day this year as the whole school community came together to raise money for Comic Relief. The atmosphere was full of laughter from the moment the gates opened, and it was wonderful to see our pupils embracing the “do something funny for money” theme with such genuine enthusiasm.
A major highlight of the day was seeing how everyone put their own unique spin on the Red Noses. While pupils arrived and purchased their official noses, the real magic was happening as they set to work designing and decorating the noses themselves. We saw an incredible range of creativity, from noses adorned with googly eyes to hand-painted patterns and glittery masterpieces. It was a fantastic way for the children to show off their individuality while supporting a brilliant cause, and the pride they took in their custom designs was lovely to see.
The excitement continued during break time with our charity ice lolly sale, which proved to be a sell-out success. Despite the brisk morning air, there was a steady stream of pupils eager to grab a treat and contribute to our fundraising total. We are incredibly proud of the effort everyone put in to make the event such a success. A huge thank you goes out to all the parents, carers, and staff who supported the fundraising and helped the children with their brilliant nose decorations. It was a fantastic reminder of the creativity and kindness that makes our school community so special. So far we have raised an amazing £552.45. Thank you!
Mrs Howell, Charity Champion
DANCE SHOWCASE
The annual Dance Showcase brought a wonderful rhythm and energy to the School this term. The event featured spectacular performances from pupils across Years 2 to 8.
Audiences comprising friends, family, peers, and teachers were captivated by the dancers’ dedication and hard work over four separate performances. Their talent, resilience, and courage were evident in every performance, from the intricate choreography to the powerful expressions.
The professionalism and teamwork displayed were truly remarkable. The dancers supported and encouraged one another throughout, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie backstage that reflected the strong bonds created by their shared passion for dance in all its genres.
We are immensely proud of every dancer who participated. Their enthusiasm and commitment ensured this year’s Dance Showcase was another resounding success, upholding the tradition of excellence established by the School’s dance programme.
A huge thank you goes out to all the staff and pupils who were instrumental in making this event possible. We eagerly anticipate the future achievements of our talented dancers!
Mrs Ullah, Head of Dance
END OF TERM AQUATHLON
We like to finish every term with a bang, and this year was no exception with our Intersection Aquathlon!
Pupils eagerly took to the pool to swim lengths together, before heading out into the sunshine to dry off with some running! The Astro had been transformed into a colourful course for the pupils to burn off what energy remained from this action-packed term.
By the end of the event, pupils had managed to work together to complete around 35,000 metres of swimming and 240,000 metres of running! It was a fantastic way to let off steam together before finishing for the Easter holidays. Well done everyone!
Miss Maynard, Prep Swimming Lead
NEURODIVERSITY CELEBRATION WEEK
Founded by Siena Castellon in 2018, Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived by recognising the many skills and talents of the Neurodivergent.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week this year landed during our last week of term and we celebrated in a variety of ways around the school. A number of competitions took place, organised by the amazing Mme Allirot and we also had a visit from four courageous Sixth Form pupils who delivered an informative assembly about the importance of celebrating our differences and strengths.
The week highlighted the importance of empathy, understanding and equity, and the pupils demonstrated great maturity throughout.
Miss Wells, Learning Enhancement Teacher
Bede’s Preparatory School
Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne East Sussex BN20 7XL
T 01323 734222
prep.school@bedes.org bedes.org