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FROM THE HEAD
What a privilege is it to be joining the College at a time when we are celebrating the best ever combined A level, IB and GCSE results, see page 18. Such achievement speaks volumes for the intellectual dynamism and ambition of Bradfield as it stands in 2025. We should pay tribute to Dr Christopher Stevens and the teaching staff who have inspired, supported and encouraged Bradfieldians to aim high. All Bradfieldians should be rightfully proud of this summer of success. As you can imagine that there is a very buoyant and optimistic spirit here in College and we are very much looking forward to the beginning of the new academic year.
We are delighted to share the latest annual edition of the Bradfieldian with you. Covering the entirety of the 2024-25 academic year, it is overflowing with stories from across the College and its wider community in this, the College’s 175th anniversary year. From the unveiling of the 175 Timeline in January to the 175 Gala evening in June, it has been wonderful to celebrate Bradfield’s 175 years together.
We also rejoice in the things that make Bradfield unique; a decade of the Bradfield Diploma, the quirky yet brilliant Golden Egg Awards to embed sustainability and the groundbreaking College founded Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform Campus-XR initiative.
All this in addition to the ‘normal’ hectic pace of Bradfield life, with annual reviews of sport, music and drama; insights into the International Baccalaureate programme; how we select our pupil leaders and examples of that leadership in the pupil led Model United Nations and speeches from our leaving Heads of School.
Let’s not forget our alumni achievements; the OB Golfing Society won the Halford Hewitt 2025 one year shy of their centenary and the Waifs also won the over 50s Cricketer Cup for the second year in a row.
Finally, on a personal note I’d like to thank everyone for welcoming me, my wife Fiona and our children Caitlin, Alicia and Teigan to Bradfield. Bradfield is a very special place and we are very proud to become part of this community. I look forward to meeting you in the coming weeks and months and hopefully adding to the many achievements shared in these pages.
Jeremy Quartermain Head
INTRODUCING JEREMY JEMMA WHITTAKER (I 20-25)
Bradfield’s new Head provides an insight into his values and his ambition for the College
A night of stunning performances celebrating Bradfieldian talent
175 SUMMER GATHERING
Alumni and friends reunite to enjoy the perfect Bradfield summer experience
‘Bradfield has prepared me for whatever is to come’
JEREMY BALL (D 87-92) ‘MY BRADFIELD’ 66 40 22 04
A combined appreciation from the Wardens
A rich tradition of academic ambition and global-minded learning
REV PETER HANSELL
Bradfield’s Social Media savvy Chaplain speaks on divinity, debating, chess and change
An uplifting commnity endeavour in support of the 175 Bursary Campaign
Welcoming the 2025 leavers into the Bradfield Society and sharing Society benefits
Sharing the words from his memorial that celebrated a life of friendship, kindess and wisdom
Showcasing Bradfield’s unique and celebratory approach to embedding sustainability
Alumni share their treasured memories for the popular 175 video series
PARTNERSHIPS
The successful pupil lead initiative in partnership with local schools
Long awaited success for the OB Golfing Society in this presitgious alumni match
EXPANDING HORIZONS
The tailored five year plan of the ‘Beyond Bradfield’ programme explained in an infographic
Our Commercial Director explains how he is powering excellence through enterprise
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INTRODUCING THE NEW HEAD OF BRADFIELD...
Jeremy Quartermain joins Bradfield at a challenging time for the independent schools’ sector. We asked him some key questions to gain insight into his plans for headship and the College’s next strategic cycle…
WHAT ARE YOUR AMBITIONS FOR BRADFIELD COLLEGE?
‘Bradfield College is an outstanding school in so many regards and I am conscious of the responsibility of building upon the impressive legacy of my predecessors. I am intensely ambitious for this school and its pupils. Since I was appointed Head there has been plenty of
time to listen, reflect and engage in strategically important conversations and I am confident that all Bradfieldians will be genuinely excited by the contents of the forthcoming five-year strategic development plan. It will set out an ambitious programme that will enable us to become increasingly outward-facing and internationally minded as a community, within the context of the economic and social challenges of our time. Most importantly it will have the provision of outstanding teaching and learning at its very core.
It is my aim that all pupils will feel inspired and encouraged in all aspects of their school life. I am absolutely determined that children should fulfill their potential no matter what their starting point in life.
FOR ME, IT IS ALL ABOUT ADDING VALUE AND ENSURING THAT CHILDREN ARE SUPERBLY WELL PLACED TO LEAD PRODUCTIVE PROFESSIONAL AND HAPPY PERSONAL LIVES
I want Bradfield College to enhance its reputation for sporting excellence, creativity in the performing arts and progressive approaches towards learning. I do not think that schools should endeavour to develop a specific type of pupil. I hope that all pupils will leave us as confident, compassionate and creative young people who feel empowered by virtue of their formidable communication skills and strong desire to understand the world around them.
It is our responsibility to ensure that we continue to thrive well into the future. A headship of a decade or
more is still comparatively fleeting when measured against the illustrious history of an institution which stretches back in time to the midVictorian period. When I do pass the baton on, it is my hope that Bradfield College is thriving in every regard and full of happy pupils and staff pursuing their dreams in the bucolic beauty of the Pang Valley.’
WHAT ARE THE GREATEST CHALLENGES FACING HEADTEACHERS TODAY?
‘Gosh, where to begin? Obviously, there is the fallout from the imposition of VAT on school fees. Affordability is a very real issue, and parents have every right to expect value for money. The challenges presented by the global pandemic were immense but I do think that we now face an existential threat which is both societal and political. We have not always been desperately good at communicating our social relevance to the world around us. The independent sector needs to become more outward facing and more cognisant of the negative ways in which we may currently be perceived by much of society and resolutely determined to succeed in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
NO INSTITUTION HAS A DIVINE RIGHT TO EXIST IN PERPETUITY, IT IS UP TO US TO PROVE OUR IMMEASURABLE WORTH TO SOCIETY. “ “
We are in a unique position to enrich society and become compelling engines of change. We are not the problem, but we do have the potential to be a part of the solution. We must value freedom, and we should make optimal use of our independence.
It is difficult to prepare children for an unknowable future. School curricula need to evolve to take account of emerging knowledge and skills requirements. Fortunately Bradfield has already made innovative steps in this area with the introduction of the Faulkner’s curriculum that explicitly introduces and inculcates critical thinking, selfregulation, presentation skills, digital literacy and complex problem-solving before pupils start the formal exambased curriculum.
HELPING CHILDREN TO BECOME KIND, CONFIDENT AND EMPOWERED YOUNG PEOPLE IS OUR GOAL “ “
Our most important challenge is to respond to the exponential rise in mental health problems. Nowadays, we tend to be over-protective of our children in their physical environment whilst allowing them to roam free in a digital world fraught with dangers. Jonathan Haidt’s book The Anxious Generation advances the theory that the rapid deterioration in adolescent mental health is attributable to the ubiquity of mobile devices. Bradfield’s mobile phone policy promotes the safe, respectful and responsible use of mobile devices and has age-group discriminated usage restrictions in place that give pupils increasing responsibility for the mobile phone usage as they become more senior.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF LEADERSHIP?
‘I would be very hesitant to describe my leadership style as I would much prefer all members of the Bradfield community to have the opportunity to form their own opinion of me. What it means to be an effective leader is something that I often
contemplate and I have read many books on the subject by the likes of Simon Sinek and David Marquet. Additionally, I look to the world of sports for inspiration and reflect on impressive leaders whom I have had the opportunity to work for or alongside.
I hope that I show compassion to those who are experiencing personal difficulties and my door is metaphorically, and often physically, open.
During the pandemic [at Rossall] we furloughed the ground staff, so I taught myself to drive the tractor and started mowing the fields. I have to say that I found this surprisingly rewarding.
I LIKE TO FEEL CONNECTED AND I AM VERY HAPPY TO ROLL UP MY SLEEVES AND DO WHATEVER NEEDS TO BE DONE AT A PARTICULAR MOMENT “ “
Above all else, leaders need to possess real moral courage. We are here to serve our pupils and their families. Schools underperform when leaders choose to take the path of least resistance and do what is expedient rather than what is right.
YOUNG PEOPLE DESERVE THE VERY BEST AND IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT WE PROVIDE THIS “ “
You can read more about Jeremy on our website Meet our New HeadBradfield College
175 GALA EVENING
Celebrating the extraordinary talent of Bradfield performers across the generations; from music to spoken-word, dance to drama...
The billing did not disappoint. The Greek Theatre reached capacity several times on the booking system but space was found to ensure that the maximum number of attendees could safely attend the event. The performance was also live-streamed to cater for an eager online audience, keen not to miss out on the electric atmosphere in the Greek Theatre.
Alumni Jonny Saunders (F 88-93), Eve Niker (K 0810) and George Leaver (H 17-22) took to the stage as compères, delivering slick lines, singing and comedy. Their witty patter and energy, held the bonanza, overflowing with Bradfieldian talent together, if not entirely to schedule.
Performances included musical sets from alumni; the Lottie Klafkowska Band, the OB Jazz Band, the ‘Trombone Trio’ and standout performances by ‘Flair on a G-String’ and ‘Buckets’.
Pupil musicians acquitted themselves with excellence as ‘Take 4’ and ‘The Musical Theatre Company’ and combined seamlessly with the alumni as ‘Bradfield Voices’ past and present.
Pupil dancers were phenomenal and showcased the extensive range of their superbly choreographed dancing skills in their multiple stage appearances throughout the evening.
Spoken word ranged from the Harrison Charles (G 09-14) set which trod a line so fine as to be tackled only by this expert tightrope walker to a parody on Shakespearean actors, stress on the ‘o’, featuring the Headmaster as a surprise guest performer. The things you only find out when they are leaving…
On stage, performances were interspersed with the compère’s reaching into the crowd for sources of Bradfield community inspiration including Alex Acton, Roger Wall, Trevor Kidson and Chris Saunders (SCR 64-80), where Jonny most certainly came unstuck, but it afforded a good deal of amusement.
The Gala also marked the end of the Bradfield Giving Day in support of the 175 Bursary Campaign. It was therefore fitting that Bradfield’s bursary award holders occupied prominent roles from which to demonstrate their talent; Eve Niker as compère, whilst Katie Mazur (K 13-18) wowed the audience with her ‘Flair on a G-string’ performance which was greeted with tumultuous applause.
The biggest round of applause was however reserved for Head of Music Events, Mark Etherington who managed to deliver this extravaganza of an evening seemingly without a hint of fuss or fluster… All this having already coordinated Jeremy Ball’s memorial as well as Jazz on a Summer’s Evening but a week before, not to mention all the pre-exam preparation in his role as an MFL teacher. Quite simply breathtaking, we are all exhausted just thinking about it.
For those who wish to experience or relive the magic of the 175 Gala Evening, you can watch the event recording online.
175 SUMMER GATHERING
Saturday 21 June, Midsummer’s Day, was the perfect day to host our Summer Gathering in celebration of the 175th anniversary of the College.
A ‘Garden Party’ style event, Quad was set up with multiple gazebos stocked with tempting refreshments and House flags fluttered in the gentle breeze. The occasion rightly attracted a lot of interest and in the end it was the question of ‘will it be too hot?’ rather than ‘will it rain?’ that caused a bit of a dent in attendance. Nonetheless, the College was delighted to welcome over 350 guests back to Bradfield.
Upon arrival guests enjoyed a welcome drink and mingled freely with alumni ranging from the Class of 1950 to the Class of 2021 including notable returning alumnus Louis de Bernières (D 68-72). B House put in a particularly strong showing being the most numerous group to return.
Alongside our alumni, we were delighted to welcome former
members of staff including Colin Burgess (SCR 72-18), HSMs Quentin Edwards (SCR 75-92) and Christopher Saunders (SCR 64-80), Edward Fairbairn (SCR 82-02), Sandie Ankers (SCR 02-24), Richard Osborne (SCR 67-88), Hailz Osborne (SCR 85-98) and Amanda Barr (SCR 91-95) who jointly directed the 1995 performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Special mention should also go to Dr David Wright, MBE (E 48-53), President of the 1850 Society, who manned his stand with diligence. Of note, if anyone has chosen to leave a legacy to the College he would be delighted to know so that they can be invited to future 1850 Society gatherings.
Following the introductory address by Al MacEwen, Head of Engagement, guests were encouraged to congregate under their House flags before being whisked away on History Tours of the College led by current staff and pupils. Those who did not fancy the exertion opted for more leisurely wanderings to the St Andrew’s Study Centre and to marvel at the 175 timeline that now adorns Bloods corridor. Some intrepid guests opted for self-guided tours following the trail of the new 175 Information Boards that now denote the key historical features of the campus.
Brimming with newly obtained Bradfield facts, or at least having had a great opportunity to natter with old contemporaries and make new Bradfield friends, guests returned to Quad hungry and ready to indulge in the splendid afternoon tea prepared by the Bradfield catering team.
Delicious savoury and sweet spreads of sandwiches, sausage rolls and small cakes topped by mounds of strawberries and cherries, not forgetting the ice cream, a real treat on a hot day.
During tea Dr Christopher Stevens addressed the gathering, warmly welcoming everyone back to the College, delighting in the ability to share such a glorious summer’s day with so many friends and emphasizing the importance of the Bradfield community to the College.
With time pressing on, many of the attendees made their way eagerly to the Greek Theatre for the fitting opening performance of the 175 Summer Play ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in the Greek Theatre. The perfect end to what had been an amazing summer gathering.
WOW! BRADFIELD EXCELLED ITSELF YESTERDAY. IT WAS A TRIUMPH AND MY FAMILY ENJOYED EVERY MINUTE “ “
Thank you to everyone who joined our celebration and for sharing your memories on the day.
175 SUMMER PLAY: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Choosing the Summer Play is never an easy task and choosing one for the Bradfield 175 Celebrations even trickier; Director Rosie Davies explains her choice to revive Shakespeare’s classic comedy in the programme…
‘Let’s talk about the bard in the room. Not everyone loves Shakespeare. I do. I absolutely love him and before I accepted my position here at Bradfield, I was on track to study his works as part of a Master’s degree at Oxford. However, Bradfield called and here I am instead. Part of choosing ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ as the Summer Production was to try to dispel the myth that Shakespeare’s plays are difficult to understand and inaccessible to some. But it was mainly because I love it and felt that it could absolutely fit with the Bradfield 175 celebrations.
Since its inception in the late 1590s, the play has been performed countless times in countless ways, proving that Shakespeare’s plays do indeed transcend time. They explore universal themes and human emotions that continue to resonate with audiences across centuries and cultures. His works are not merely reflections of the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras but rather delve into the complexities of the human condition making his plays relatable and timeless.
As, arguably, one of his most famous comedies, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ is, on its surface, a tangled web of love, fairies and mistaken identity. Re-reading the play to centre on a theme was a delight and I worked my way through many iterations before
realising that I kept coming back to the 1920s. It ticked all the boxes, including explaining the Victorian mindset of a woman being her father’s property.
Given the beautiful setting of Bradfield, and the stunning grounds on which our Head Gardener, Simon Myhill and his team work endlessly, it was easy to transport the original setting of Ancient Athens to the English country gardens of the 1920s. The lovers became bat and racquet players in my head; Hermia and Lysander are tennis players, Helena is a female golfer and Demetrius favours cricket.
The Rude Mechanicals have also been given a 1920s makeover, in careers as well as era. Tom (H) had a very distinct idea on how he wanted to play Bottom, so I gave him (relative) freedom on how he interpreted his character. The rest of the Mechanicals have been elevated somewhat from the working class ‘workmen’ they are painted as to more middle-class professionals. The group had some input on their characters with the tailor becoming a designer, the tinker becoming a jewellery maker, the joiner remaining a joiner and ‘Peter’ Quince becoming ‘Rita’ Quince – a carpenter turned interior designer/part-time playwright. It was a bonus having a talented musician playing Flute the Bellows Mender, as Luca (H) and I realised that bagpipes are not dissimilar to bellows, so Flute became a musical instrument restorer.
Having settled on that, I had to consolidate my thoughts on the fairies. Anyone who knows me knows that I don’t like to run with the norm. In fact, if I am told that the latest movie/TV show/play is the best thing ever, I am unlikely to watch it. Some may call that churlish. I like to think that I simply buck the trends.
The fairies I saw as a challenge and the more I researched them, the more sinister I found them. My mind kept flitting to the Mafia, and movies like ‘Bugsy Malone’, ‘Mobland’ or ‘The Gentlemen’. I was cooking Sunday lunch for my family towards the end of last year, listening to some jazz when I realised that this notion fitted perfectly. Oberon and Titania, seen as ethereal, magical and mystical were, to me, actually quite menacing. Behind the airy charm, the acts that they undertake are anything but fairy-like!’
Rosie’s imaginative retelling was supported by a committed and capable cast with notable performances by George (G), Tabitha (M), Bea (J) and Hendrix Bennett as the four Athenian lovers, Paddy (A) and Jemima (I) as Oberon and
Titania and Ben (D) and Charlotte (I) as Theseus and Hippolyta. However, for anyone who was fortunate enough to see the production, it is unlikely they will forget Ginny (M)’s mysterious, menacing, yet magical turn as Puck and Thomas (H)’s scenery chewing Nick Bottom, resplendent in odd socks and transformed in donkey’s ears loaned to the production from the Royal Shakespeare Company from their 2024 production.
This 1920s style production, with its stunning costumes and a soundtrack of jazz was without doubt a success and a wonderful addition to Bradfield’s 175 celebrations, the opening performance described by many alumni as ‘the perfect way to end the 175 Summer Gathering’ that had taken place earlier in the day.
A DECADE OF ‘EDUCATION FOR LIFE’
An abridged version of Dr Christopher Steven’s speech given at Commemoration.
‘Education for Life’ has underpinned our vision over the last decade. It is the principle that the value of a good education far outlasts results day. Likewise, a holistic education, encompassing the pastoral, cocurricular and academic spheres, seeks to prepare pupils for a wide range of opportunities and challenges, not just for the exam room.
Finally, and crucially, a great education encourages pupils to have a positive impact on the world beyond their school…
‘Many of the individual achievements of the last year are recognised in prizes awarded here and in Houses today. We hope that academic efforts will also be rewarded through strong public exam results from two able cohorts who might surpass the record results of last year, which saw 90% of leavers achieve their first-choice university offer and the College listed as a top IB world school.
The St Andrew’s Study Centre was ready for their final term of revision and has continued to prove a transformative addition to the campus. It was one of a range of initiatives envisaged to enhance the life of the mind when I arrived in Bradfield. An expanded Minerva lecture series was another. This year guests have visited Bradfield to talk on subjects ranging from intercultural understanding to exoplanetary science. Along with the pupil-inspired TiB talks, Science Week, Articulation, Inter-House Maths, House general knowledge, Olympiads, debating, ESU and more, there have been many opportunities to pursue intellectual excitement in byways of personal enthusiasm as well as the highway of the curriculum.
Further learning opportunities have once more come through the Horizons team who, with the invaluable help of parents and friends, offer interview practice, advertising and marketing challenges, career reflections and windows on the world of work. The same is true of trips, which have included a tour of the Mini factory in Oxford, a visit to CERN, a science conference in Boston, a Classics trip to Rome and Naples, a Politics visit to Westminster, and a battlefields tour. Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau on Holocaust Memorial Day in Virtual Reality was made possible by Campus-XR, the edtech platform incubated at Bradfield by our own team and now spun out as an independent company. I am delighted to confirm that it is attracting a good deal of interest from educators and IT giant, Meta. All this activity ensures our pupils leave well informed about the world of work.
Bradfield pupils have a lot of fun in the classroom and learn a lot outside it, as well as vice versa. Indeed, the curriculum and co-curriculum combine to help them enjoy school whilst developing invaluable attributes for later life. Inquiry is sparked in the classroom, innovation nurtured by the creative arts, collaboration fostered in teams, communication skills honed through public speaking, open-mindedness developed through volunteering and resilience grown in the CCF. Crucially, confidence is built in multiple ways for our diverse pupil body. A Bradfield education is about knowing and doing because we recognise it’s ultimately more important to know how to make ratatouille than to know how to spell it.
Once more this year, the collective experiences of Michaelmas Goose and House Singing, Remembrance and Carol Services, the Golden Egg and the Steeplechase, and the major shows and concerts have brought the community together. It has been an exceptional year for performance with an eclectic and challenging dramatic repertoire culminating in a great summer Shakespeare and multiple concerts including a wonderful community performance of Haydn’s Creation. More recently, the service of commemoration for our beloved former colleague Jeremy Ball proved an uplifting tribute to a man who enriched many lives This week’s 175 Gala was also a joyful eclectic testimony to the rich creative talent of Bradfieldians past and present as well as the staff who inspire them.
The Co-Curricular sphere has also seen many team and individual successes. A second successive ISFA final and an ESFA Semi-Final for the boys’ football, National Plate victory for Senior girls’ squash, narrow defeat in the Semi-Final of the National Netball cup, two cricket finals days for the girls and multiple successes at the Ultimate Dance Championships are some of the team highlights. Eight pupils have represented their country in Cricket, Hockey and Shooting, two have qualified for National Showjumping Championships, two were Berkshire Badminton champions, five were selected for the England Hockey Talent Academy and another footballer has joined a distinguished list of recent leavers to be offered a professional contract.
It has also been a vintage year for Old Bradfieldian sport, over the course of which the cricketers did the double last summer retaining the main Cricketer Cup and winning its inaugural over-50s spinoff, the golfers won the prestigious Halford Hewitt trophy for the first time, and the footballers lost agonisingly in the Semi-Final of the Arthur Dunn Cup.
The celebration of the 175th anniversary of the College’s founding has brought many OBs back to Bradfield for the first time in years and has also been a wonderful team effort, including two fascinating histories, a visual timeline in Bloods passage, obstacles reintroduced to the Steeplechase, the splendid Gala, and even 175 umbrellas, wine and gin! Our 175 Giving Day galvanised the whole community in support of Bursary fundraising. Thank you so much to all those who supported this so generously.
Partnerships, outreach and charity work have continued to flourish with extensive fundraising activity for the Oscar Foundation who will visit us again in October, and numerous other charity initiatives, including the
collection of some 1300kg of Harvest produce for the West Berks Foodbank and 169 Christmas shoeboxes. In all, over £30k has been raised for multiple charities. Alongside this activity, initiatives like the Model United Nations events with local schools, visits to and from the Bradfield Club in Peckham, the Restless Triathlon, the Carwarden School adapted Olympics, the ABC to Read scheme and our after school and community sports programmes have seen over 300 Bradfieldians working alongside nearly 1000 local young people, offering over 3000 hours of reading support, sports coaching and volunteering. A massive thank you to everyone involved.
Service to others is at the heart of much activity within school as well as beyond it. Pupil leadership is essential to the whole range of College activity. Senior pupils set the tone for the wider pupil body and they in turn are led by the Heads of House and Prefects. Once more, the JCR has been superb this year. They have been outstandingly led by the multi-talented Heads of School and Deputies. I would like to take this occasion to formally thank Gemma and Alex, Anna and Jackson, and the whole JCR and Upper Sixth, for their lead over the last year. The 173 leavers of the College’s 175th year have set a fine example; we wish them all the very best for life beyond Bradfield.
Over the years, I have often highlighted some of the qualities of Bradfieldians by selecting a few pupils who exemplify the many strengths of their peers. On this occasion, with the same intent, I have invited back some leavers from the last decade for whom I hope their Bradfield education continues to prove valuable.
The first OB I am delighted to welcome today is Katie Mazur (K 13-18), a highly accomplished violinist who has electrified Greeker on many occasions with the quality of her performances including on her own Commemoration Day in 2018. Katie’s modesty and gratitude to the people who supported her journey to life as a professional musician are just as impressive as her playing. They exemplify the mutual respect between pupils and staff which is central to the Bradfield experience.
George Knight (G 11-16) was Captain courageous of the Bradfield football team who offered me the first opportunity to travel to Milton Keynes to watch a Cup Final. On the day, he led the team as superbly as ever keeping us in the game with his defending until deep into extra time when a penalty was awarded against him for a last-ditch tackle in what seemed a very marginal decision. As several Bradfield players rushed towards the referee to protest, George ushered them away. In some ways, this
demonstration of sportsmanship and integrity in a game we lost remains my proudest ISFA moment, despite the fact we have so memorably gone on to win four subsequent finals.
Kia Lawrence (I 14-19) was one of the friendliest and bounciest pupils you could hope to encounter. A multiple world champion junior tap dancer, she energised and led what feels like the never-ending rise and rise of Bradfield dance alongside the first of three staff members who have taken the annual show to spectacular heights. Kia’s generosity of spirit is typical of Bradfieldians. She matched her talent with great kindness, such that instead of daunting less able peers she inspired them.
Tom Houston (F 15-20) and Alice Masquelier Page (I 15-20) arguably deserve to be in a full Greeker today more than anyone else for, as Heads of School in 2020 they returned to Bradfield to speak at a socially distanced ceremony for a dozen people streamed to a locked down College. I paid tribute that day to the three-pronged pupil strategy they initiated. They would be proud to see the progress made over the next five years. It is easiest to measure in terms of sustainability, but the equality and transparency are evident in the emphasis on inclusivity in so much of what we do. Tom and Alice were themselves wonderfully inclusive Bradfieldians. They were multitalented but also knew vulnerability and overcame challenges that many never knew.
Finally, I turn to Jeevan Singh (C 16-18) who threw himself into school life and embraced all things Bradfield whilst remaining himself and winning over the school community with his unfailing positivity. My abiding memory of Jeevan came one Saturday morning when, in a speech to prospective parents, he outlined the unimagined experiences the College had offered someone from a very
different background before concluding, ‘Bradfield hasn’t just taught me how to make a living, it’s taught me how to make a difference’. It’s for moments like that that I love my job.
So, Katie, George, Kia, Tom, Alice and Jeevan thank you again for everything you did for Bradfield, thank you for joining us today and thank you for exemplifying the College values of respect, integrity, kindness, inclusivity and positivity. I wish you, like today’s leavers, the very best of luck as you continue your own journeys. I count myself very fortunate to have seen your time here in Bradfield.
It has been an immense privilege to be the steward of this special place over the last ten years and to witness the Bradfield careers of hundreds of young people like our Leavers and guests today. Over that time, like them, I have benefited from the efforts of a superb team, not only those who teach, coach and tutor, but the domestic and medical teams, the estates and administrative staff and the College Council. Playing my own part has only been possible with the backing of many people: staff, pupils, parents and alumni.
In particular, I am enormously grateful to my senior colleagues and to the great team in my office for their support. Above all, however, it is to my family and especially to my wife, who has assisted in so many ways, counselled me wisely and borne by proxy the pressures that come with this role with unwavering love that I owe the greatest debt. Helen, I simply could not have done it without you.’
BRADFIELD IS A WONDERFUL
PLACE AND A WONDERFUL COMMUNITY; I HAVE LOVED BEING PART OF IT.
DR CHRISTOPHER STEVENS: A COMBINED WARDENS’ APPRECIATION
2015 - 2017
‘When a Housemaster at Uppingham, Chris was affectionately known as ‘The King’ so I was a little nervous at the start about what kind of relationship ‘the King’ would build with his Bradfield subjects. It soon became apparent that Chris was a natural Headmaster; supremely energetic, immensely hardworking, with an astounding memory and a strong desire to raise Bradfield’s profile across the board.
From the outset Chris set about improving the academic culture of the College. A completely new appraisal and reward system for the teaching staff was introduced. The Academic Office was strengthened and greater use was made of pupil data to improve academic performance. Classrooms were refurbished, technology upgraded and recruitment of new pupils emphasised what the school and the pupil could contribute to each other.
Chris is organised and time efficient and I was always amazed how much he fitted into a day. I soon realised I needed to be on top of the reading material distributed to Council so the debate could be on equal terms. He usually spoke without notes which was often a masterclass in both saying the right thing and the order and rhythm of the delivery. At Commemoration in 2016, Chris made the traditional Headmaster’s speech and introduced his
educational philosophy which he labelled ‘Education for Life’ and that strap line, included in the College’s Mission Statement in 2018, has endured for the whole of his Headmastership.
I was fortunate as Warden that Chris was a complete Headmaster, there is nothing worse if the Warden must jump in the boat to help the Headmaster row! That never happened and I am happy that the Council’s selection of Chris in 2015 has resulted in a decade of significant achievement by the College under his leadership.’
Martin Young (C 59-64), Warden 2011-2017
2017 - 2022
‘I very much enjoyed my five years of working closely with Chris. As many know, he is a very talented individual with a strong work ethic and drive, highly intellectual and a strategic thinker, he has always had a clear vision for the College. Chris’s substantial positive impact on the College is evident, his list of achievements endless, so I am only going to touch on a few in my short tribute to such an outstanding Headmaster.
Through ‘Education for Life’ he raised the academic standards and image of Bradfield whilst being mindful of its ethos and the wellbeing of its teachers and pupils and
there is no doubt that he has been the main driving force behind Bradfield’s recent growing reputation. Instituting change in an institution is never easy but Chris has managed to achieve this success.
We were all fortunate that Chris was Headmaster during COVID when his calm, level-headed approach to such complicated challenges and attention to detail in mastering plans at short notice was very much needed. He saw the advantages of uniting with St Andrew’s Prep and was instrumental in the talks which made this happen. Chris also encouraged Council to take on bond finance which helped secure the long-term financial security of the school. He was instrumental in the St Andrew’s Project and its fundraising campaign.
Chris is a compassionate man. He is kind and thoughtful with a sense of humour. He really cares about the pupils and the issues facing adolescents and believes in education and public service. He is also very modest. I am therefore pleased to have this opportunity to congratulate him on his time as Headmaster. I hope he will look back and appreciate what an incredible impact he has made on Bradfield.’
2022 - 2025
‘Before joining Council as Warden in 2022, my last contact with Bradfield had been as a parent in 2016, my daughter’s final year and Chris’s first year as Headmaster. I immediately noticed substantial changes in the intervening period that had strengthened and repositioned Bradfield as an educational institution. Very impressed by what had been achieved, it was quickly apparent that Chris had been the architect of these positive developments and the upward trajectory has continued.
Chris has an extraordinary work ethic which he combines with a formidable intellect and this combination has resulted in a long list of improvements and achievements for Bradfield. Amongst the most notable are the academic performance of pupils and the quality of the co-curricular provision. Bradfield’s academic reputation has improved to the extent that Bradfield now ranks pari passu with previously preferred competitors. Recognised by the ISI Inspectors in 2022, Bradfield College was ranked outstanding in every aspect of its provision for the first time in its history. In this respect Chris succeeded where previous Heads had struggled to move the dial in a very competitive market.
The St Andrew’s Study Centre is a fitting legacy to Chris’s determination for the best possible academic provision for Bradfield pupils. These improvements have not been at the expense of the school’s wider offering, quite the opposite. Bradfield’s sporting reputation is excellent, standards in music and drama have also improved and the pastoral reputation of the school is undiminished. Chris has a strong reputation in the education sector and this has benefitted Bradfield significantly. He developed a clear and compelling vision for Bradfield and during his tenure the College’s horizons have broadened into that of a Group, including St Andrew’s Prep, ventures into VR and AI with Campus-XR and potential international expansion.
Bradfield has been fortunate to benefit from Chris’s leadership over the last decade. He has cared deeply about its success, its staff and pupils. He leaves with Bradfield in its 175th year and poised for further growth and development.
We offer our sincere thanks to Chris for all that he has done and wish him every success in his role as Director of Education for a leading Indian education provider that operates schools in and around Delhi prior to assuming his role as Executive Head of Clifton College and CCEG from September 2026.’
Sophia Bergqvist, Warden 2017 – 2022
Tom Beardmore-Gray, Warden 2022 – Current
THE BRADFIELD DIPLOMA: A BRADFIELD SUCCESS STORY
Head of the Bradfield Diploma, Roger Keeley, provides an insight into the latest iteration of the Diploma, an initiative that he began over a decade ago in 2012 and is still an integral part of Bradfield’s ‘Education for Life’ agenda.
The Bradfield Diploma is an important compulsory aspect of the pupils’ Lower School curriculum; one that provides momentum and structure, so pupils have the opportunity to learn and be challenged in ways that develop their skillset and mindset. The five-term Diploma rewards sustained application to the school’s cocurricular programme, as well as taking pupils out of their comfort zone in developing key attributes such as openmindedness, confidence and resilience. In doing this it helps to prepare pupils for the world that ‘is’ and ‘will be’.
Common to all pupils is a diverse range of ten CORE components which encourages both individual and team pursuits, as follows:
CORE
The Diploma kicks off in the Summer term of Faulkner’s with three days of camping and trekking in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. The Diploma then bridges into Year 10 (Shell) with a summer holiday project chosen by the pupil, about which they give a presentation during their first fortnight in the Senior House.
In September 2024 a very diverse range of ‘icebreaker’ talks included tales of a trip to Juneau in Alaska, the creation of a recipe book, a visit to Paris for the Olympic Games, a course of flying lessons, work experience in a car-washing business, a social media detox and the achievement of a Level 4 sailing qualification.
In late September 2024 Charlie Walker delivered the inaugural talk in the Shell Diploma Lecture programme, Through Sand & Snow: 43,000 miles on a bicycle, followed in the Lent Term by a fascinating lecture by filmmaker and investigative journalist Katie Arnold entitled To Democracy and Back: 10 years reporting on Myanmar. In each case a Shell pupil introduces the visiting speaker and another proposes a vote of thanks at the end.
CORE components also include the encouragement of a critical engagement with current affairs, a broadening of reading interests, the running of Bradfield’s iconic wholeschool steeplechase, a creative introduction to marketing and the completion of an independent research project.
Pupils also choose six from a list of twelve elective OPTIONS as follows:
These OPTIONS give the pupils the flexibility to play to their current strengths and interests, as well as exploring new aspects of life in and beyond Bradfield. So far this year a dizzying array of activities have been completed by Shell pupils, including: attending British Science Week events such as a documentary on the discovery of gravitational waves and a live Q&A with scientists at the South Pole (Option 5); launching a mountain biking club (Option 6); coaching 7 to 13-year-olds on a cricket camp (Option 3); supporting events from ‘Frankenstein’ to football matches (Option 1); reading Bible extracts to 400 people in Chapel (Option 7); and joining a percussion group for a live orchestral accompaniment to ‘The Snowman’ (Option 2).
Each pupil navigates the challenges and rewards of the Diploma with the support of their Tutor, using a bespoke online interface to track progress and reflect on which life
skills they have developed from each activity. In the end, every individual Diploma is different, but all pupils have a firmer foundation for life beyond the GCSE years.
PUPILS HAVE BEEN BENEFITTING FROM THE BRADFIELD DIPLOMA FOR OVER A DECADE…
This is the second iteration of the Bradfield Diploma which was initially created as a new concept in September 2012, following a year of planning by a small working group. The first cohort of Year 10 pupils have certainly embraced the new-look Diploma 2.0 with enthusiasm, and they will be presented with their Diplomas in Spring 2026.
At the time, the 2012 Diploma transformed the breadth and depth of engagement of Year 10 and 11 pupils with the College’s co-curricular provision, as well as requiring pupils to develop a wide range of skills. The Diploma, supported by a national exam board, put the focus on pupil-driven initiatives with individuals taking on the additional responsibilities of recording and reflecting on their achievements. We also observed an improvement in reading culture, public speaking and research skills putting pupils ahead of the game on arrival in the Sixth Form. Each year, for the next decade, 300 pupils were engaged in fulfilling the ten components of the Diploma; in the Sixth Form they looked back fondly on being propelled out of their comfort zone and being provided with a firmer foundation for life after Bradfield.
‘The Bradfield Diploma provided the perfect chance to be involved in everything that the school has to offer, especially activities I wouldn’t have previously considered. I loved meeting lots of pupils as part of the school play, leading an RS lesson and what started with Bronze DofE has progressed to the Gold certificate.’
Jemima (M)
HEAD OF SCHOOL: JEMMA WHITTAKER (I 20-25)
‘
I feel extremely honoured to be standing here today and to have the opportunity to talk a little bit about my journey at Bradfield and what I have taken away from the privilege of growing up in such a special place.
For those of who have been taught GCSE biology by Mr Clegg you will know that the first line of any answer to a question about evolution should begin with ‘there is variation within a population’. This is because naturally for any community to develop and evolve there needs to be variation in opinions, approaches and beliefs. It can be really tempting in any setting to spend time and surround yourself with people like you. Alongside this social media is designed to provide us, as famously influenceable teenagers, with more things that we like, further directing us towards similar people with similar interests.
“ “
MY INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCES HERE AT BRADFIELD ARE UNDOUBTEDLY DUE TO
SPENDING TIME WITH A
HUGE RANGE OF PEOPLE AND PERSONALITIES
By making the most of the variety of Co-curricular activities I have formed connections with so many people here all of which have taught me something different and inspired me and helped me to prepare myself for life after Bradfield, starting tomorrow.
My year group joined Bradfield in 2020. I was mortifyingly embarrassed as my mum stood outside Faulkner’s crying her eyes out as her oldest child was moving further from home. However, fortunately for her, 60 days later we were sent home again for four and a half months due to the second Covid lockdown. This meant that when we returned we were in small bubbles, we had a one-way system and we had to isolate with our roommates on multiple occasions.
Covid not only highlighted how we had taken our everyday life for
granted, but also limited the choice on who we were able to spend our time with and exposed the benefits of being open minded and creating relationships with people who you wouldn’t normally consider to be ‘your type of person’. Most of my closest friends now are people who are nothing like me. Bradfield has fostered this sense of individuality and confidence in oneself to allow people to excel in whatever they decide and to feel comfortable in themselves. I cannot put into words how grateful I am for the education both academically and socially that Bradfield has provided for me. It’s only apparent to appreciate this fully when you’re one of the Leavers sitting in Greeker today.
There are obviously a few others who have had a particularly big impact on me. Starting with my family who have not only provided me with the extreme privilege of attending a school like this but have also supported me every step of the way. My Dad is probably the kindest man I have ever met who puts up with my mother and I who are both extremely high maintenance and expensive people. For those of you that know her well, my mother is a consistently caring woman who inspires me constantly. Then there is my brother, who despite his ability to keep me humble and teach me the art of patience, he has had arguably the biggest impact on me and he is an annoyingly impressive individual.
My family recently attended the London Marathon to support my mother who inspired us all with her determination and resilience in her first, but admittedly probably her last, running event. However, whilst standing within the crowds, the influence of support and external motivation became very apparent. I watched people at the top end
striving for records and those further back, who were pushing for their own personal goals, equally as impressive. In both scenarios the crowds’ overwhelmingly supportive atmosphere undoubtedly pushed them to their very best.
It became clear to me that this influence of supporters was not just applicable for marathons. Everyone requires people encouraging them on from the sideline, in order to maximise their potential, in every walk of life.
“ “
BRADFIELD HAS GIVEN ME THE CONFIDENCE TO WORK OUT NOT JUST WHAT, BUT WHO I WANT TO BE WHEN I’M OLDER, AND THE VALUES THAT MATTER TO ME WHEN I AM IN THE BIG WIDE WORLD
Over the last year I have been able to develop a range of skills in my role as Head Girl. Fortunately for me, the JCR have been phenomenal and huge credit needs to go to them for all of their efforts; it has made my role very easy. Alex has been a huge part of this and I feel very honoured to have been able to get to know him more over the last year. He manages to deal with me when I’m stressed, late and chaotic, and as you’ve seen, he is an absolute public speaking weapon and ultimately just an extremely kind individual. In addition to this, the Deputy Heads of School are wonderful people. Both Anna and Jackson represent the extremely impressive Upper Sixth with their consistent achievements and ability to make me laugh at any opportunity.
It was suggested when writing this speech that I could propose a piece of advice which has helped me
personally or that I believe is important. Now, I have thought very long and hard about this as teenagers receive overwhelming quantities of advice and this is a VERY large group of people. Nevertheless, here we go; I have always been a very stubborn individual but, along with standing up for what you believe in and being confident, I have learnt in my time at Bradfield that it is also important to be open minded and make a conscious effort to spend time with people who are nothing like you, you might find you’ll develop as a person far more than you realise.
To conclude, I have written this speech four times now and nothing seems to do justice to the gratitude and honour that I feel to be standing here today. After five years of Bradfield any speech is merely a snippet of the love and thanks that I have to the College and everyone in it and I will be forever indebted for the education that I have received.
“
ALTHOUGH
I AM VERY NERVOUS TO BE STANDING HERE TODAY, I DON’T FEEL NERVOUS TO LEAVE BRADFIELD. I TRULY BELIEVE THAT BRADFIELD HAS PREPARED ME FOR WHATEVER IS TO COME
“
Thank you all for everything that you have all done to support me and the 2025 leavers as a collective, I hope you have a lovely rest of your day and an amazing summer.’
JUNIOR COMMON ROOM SELECTION
Sixth Form leadership positions are highly prized; historically a JCR role attracted 60-70 applicants but in the last four to five years this has risen to 150, demonstrating the real desire to take on additional responsibility. Such competition requires a comprehensive process; former Head of Sixth Form, Phil Clegg, talks it through...
“ “
JCR SELECTION IS OPEN AND TRANSPARENT AND MIRRORS A FORMAL JOB APPLICATION PROCESS. IT IS HIGHLY COMPETITIVE SO SOME PUPILS WILL BE DISAPPOINTED NOT TO BE SELECTED BUT THE EXPERIENCE OF APPLYING IS A VALUABLE ONE
JCR ROLES
JCR RESPONSIBILITIES
• Promoting Pupil Voice - turning concepts into reality
• Information Sharing - being the bridge between Staff and Pupils
• Public speaking, event management, activity coordination and marketing and communications
• Turning ideas into reality
*Each Prefect takes the lead in area and supporting roles in a couple of others
3 STAGE APPLICATION
The process starts with a formal application by the pupils; we then approach the House for a reference and then there are formal interviews with Senior staff. The interviews put a little bit more pressure on the pupils, not to intimidate them but because it is great practice. The process itself also continues to evolve; to enable a more level playing field and support neurodiversity this year we have released the interview questions in advance.
We refer to a wealth of information to take all the different aspects of a pupil’s contribution to College life into consideration: their Bradfield diploma; their contribution to community charity; their Individual Grades, Effort not Attainment to name but a few sources. We also give pupils new into the Sixth Form a fair chance by considering what they have done in their previous school.
Selection is always hard but it is about choosing the best pupil for the role and for some it will be their first interview rejection; however, learning how to learn from this experience is obviously important. We are also conscious that with so many pupils volunteering to take on leadership roles we have a demand that we need to meet. We are keen that those seeking an opportunity can contribute in a meaningful way.
There are two streams of Sixth Form leadership, in addition to the JCR there are House roles and in recent years we have increased the in-House opportunities to meet the demand. A great exampleA great example of this would be the House Sustainability Prefect, who reports into the Head of House but also to the JCR Sustainability Prefects. These College wide deeper networks enable real responsibility to be shared and valid participation and conversations about the roles on offer are ongoing.
“ “
THE PROCESS HAS LED TO EXCEPTIONALLY STRONG SIXTH FORM LEADERSHIP IN RECENT YEARS, AS PREFECT ROLES GROW AND EVOLVE
JCR VOX POP
‘As an Academic Prefect we have introduced the idea of in-House academic mentoring. We have created a subject area rota and during Prep one of the Upper Sixth pupils studies in the House workroom, available to answer questions. There is no disadvantage for us, in fact it creates focus and being asked a few questions is a good opportunity to consolidate our own learning.’
Ashton, Academic and EDI prefect
‘One of the most rewarding experiences was delivering the Bradfield College Harvest Festival contributions to the West Berkshire Foodbank. It’s an initiative that has been going for a while but being part of the process gave me an insight into its real value to foodbank recipients, an appreciation of how fortunate we are and a desire to continue to make a difference’
Sophia, Charity and Co-Curricular Prefect
‘The opportunity to practise public speaking in many different forums, from Admissions Open Mornings where we address a crowd of prospective parents to School assemblies when we are speaking in front of a full chapel of pupils. My confidence in this area has improved.’
Sophia, EDI and Faulkner’s Prefect
‘I have enjoyed engaging with The Bradfield Club in Peckham. I coordinated a pupil visit to the Club earlier this year to learn about their work and to help with some activities. It was good to start building connections and I hope this will continue’
Ned, Academic and Social Prefect
THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA AT BRADFIELD
Since introducing the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in 2011, Bradfield College has cultivated a rich tradition of academic ambition and globalminded learning. What began as a pioneering initiative with 16 carefully selected high-achieving pupils has flourished into a thriving cohort of over 100 students today, testament to the programme’s enduring value and our community’s confidence in its vision.
Over the past decade, the IB has been instrumental in shaping pupils into inquisitive, well-rounded individuals, equipping them with critical thinking, intercultural understanding and a passion for interdisciplinary inquiry. These skills have propelled our students to remarkable successes, both academically and beyond.
This summer, our largest ever IB cohort achieved grades 7 to 5 (the equivalent to A* to B in A Levels) in 92% of Higher Level subjects. Nearly one fifth were awarded 40 points or more, above the threshold for even the most competitive universities. As we reflect on this journey, we take immense pride in an educational framework that not only challenges pupils to excel but also prepares them to thrive as compassionate, globally engaged citizens.
Below we explore the core strengths of the IB, underpinned by its alignment with Bradfield’s ethos of Education for Life and its proven success in preparing pupils for university and beyond.
A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
A cornerstone of its philosophy is InternationalMindedness, resonating deeply with Bradfield’s vision to develop pupils as compassionate global citizens. Through the IB learner profile, which prioritises attributes like open-mindedness, multilingualism and intercultural
understanding, pupils engage with diverse perspectives, both in the classroom and beyond. Subjects such as Global Politics, Spanish ab initio, and German Literature challenge pupils to examine global issues, from climate change to migration, through a critical and empathetic lens. This outward-looking ethos is further enriched by Bradfield’s partnerships with international schools, virtual exchange programmes, and opportunities for pupils to participate in Model United Nations debates.
Pupils like Theo (G), who studied German B (HL) alongside Global Politics and Economics, exemplify this global outlook. His exploration of EU policy frameworks in TOK (Theory of Knowledge) seminars, paired with CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) projects, highlights how the IB fosters both academic and humanitarian engagement.
CAS TAUGHT ME THAT LEADERSHIP ISN’T ABOUT TITLES, IT IS ABOUT MAKING A DIFFERENCE “ “ “ “
I’VE ENJOYED IB SO MUCH IS BECAUSE IT GIVES YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENGAGE IN REAL WORLD CONTEMPORARY ISSUES LIKE MIGRANTS FAILING TO ACCESS HEALTHCARE SERVICES
HOLISTIC EDUCATION
At the heart of the IB lies a triad of topics that align seamlessly with Bradfield’s commitment to an Education for Life, fostering resilience, curiosity and ethical leadership.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), Pupils design projects that blend creativity, physical activity, and community service, such as organising charity art auctions, coaching youth sports teams or volunteering at local care homes. These experiences cultivate empathy and teamwork.
Theory Of Knowledge, challenges pupils to interrogate the nature of knowledge itself. Through debates on topics like ‘Can History Be Objective?’ or ‘The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence’, pupils learn to think critically and articulate reasoned arguments, a skill that universities consistently praise.
The Extended Essay, a 4,000-word independent research project, prepares pupils for the rigours of university study. Recent standout topics include ‘therapeutic intervention for dementia’, ‘antimicrobial properties of everyday food’ and the ‘use of linguistic tools in advertising’. These projects not only hone research skills but also ignite passions that often shape university choices.
ACADEMIC BREADTH
Unlike traditional A-Levels, which often narrow focus early, IB allows pupils to retain a diverse academic portfolio while exploring interdisciplinary connections. There are six subject groups and pupils craft timetables that balance their strengths with intellectual curiosity. For example:
• Lila (M) combined English Literature (HL) with Psychology (HL) and Music (HL), alongside Standard Level Maths Applications and Spanish ab initio. This blend supports her ambition to study Psychology with a minor in Creative Writing.
• Sage (E) paired Physics (HL) with Visual Arts (HL), demonstrating how the IB bridges STEM and creativity, a balance that earned him a place to study Architecture.
• Theo (G)’s mix of Economics (HL), German B (HL), and Global Politics (SL) reflected his goal to work in international diplomacy.
The interdisciplinary approach is highly valued by universities. In 2024 93% of the cohort achieved over 32 points, where Russell group offers now begin. Furthermore, many receive tailored offers that recognise the IB’s rigour. While A-Level students might face higher grade thresholds, IB pupils often benefit from holistic admissions policies. A 2025 study by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) revealed IB students are 40% more likely to achieve a first-class degree and three times more likely to attend a Top 20 UK university.
EXTERNAL RECOGNITION
In 2024 and 2025, Bradfield’s IB graduates earned offers from institutions such as Harvard, IE Madrid, Durham, LSE, UCL, KCL, St Andrew’s, and Bath, a reflection of the programme’s ability to prepare pupils for diverse academic and professional pathways. This success is rooted in the IB’s unique emphasis on independent inquiry, critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning, qualities increasingly prioritised by leading universities.
As UK higher education evolves, the IB’s value continues to shine. Recent data reveals that 10% of university admissions officers regard IB graduates as better prepared for tertiary education than their A-Level peers, citing their proficiency in self-directed research, time management and adaptability.
PUPIL REFLECTIONS
Bradfield’s IB pupils consistently highlight the transformative nature of the programme, emphasising how its breadth and depth have prepared them not only for university but for life beyond the classroom.
I CHOSE TO STUDY THE IB BECAUSE I WANTED TO TAKE A RANGE OF SUBJECTS, I COULDN’T JUST PICK THREE. ALSO THERE’S MORE CONTACT TIME, CLASS TIME AND TIME WITH THE TEACHER SO YOU CAN UNDERSTAND THE SUBJECTS BETTER
The Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component is equally transformative, embedding service and leadership into daily life through initiatives such as mentoring refugee communities or organising charity events.
I’M DOING ABC TO READ, WHERE I READ TO PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN, GIVING THEM PROPER ONE-ON-ONE TEACHING, WHICH THEY DON’T HAVE A LOT OF. I’M ALSO DOING A LEADERSHIP COURSE AT RUSHALL FARM, GREAT FOR MY COMMUNICATION SKILLS
As they balance rigorous academics with CAS projects and the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, many discover a renewed passion for learning.
IB REQUIRES A GOOD WORK ETHIC AND TEACHES CRITICAL THINKING SO WHEN YOU GET TO UNI YOU ARE BETTER PREPARED
Ultimately, pupil experiences underscore the IB’s success in nurturing not just academically accomplished individuals, but empathetic, globally-minded leaders ready to thrive in an interconnected world.
AT BRADFIELD, OUR PUPILS’ TRIUMPHS, FROM SECURING COMPETITIVE OFFERS TO THRIVING IN DEMANDING COURSES, DEMONSTRATE HOW THE IB’S HOLISTIC APPROACH FOSTERS RESILIENCE, CURIOSITY, AND A READINESS TO EXCEL IN AN EVERCHANGING GLOBAL LANDSCAPE.
REV PETER HANSELL ON DIVINITY AND DEBATING, CHESS AND CHANGE
Rev Peter Hansell is the Bradfield College Chaplain, significant enough in itself, yet his reach extends far beyond the Chapel. Omniscient in ‘the Bradfield way’, he leads the Debating Society and Chess Club, as well as becoming something of a Bradfield social media with followers keen to know, what will Peter post next?...
From around the age of thirteen, Peter had a strong inkling that he would enter the Church. During this time, he was particularly close to his grandmother, whose faith carried her through her final illness and greatly inspired him. Another significant influence was his school Chaplain at Norwich School, with whom he remains in touch. The Chaplain encouraged Peter to think more deeply about his faith, leading to his confirmation at school.
After attending Norwich School and Selwyn College, Cambridge, Peter earned a PhD in Theology, focusing on the historical development of ideas of forgiveness. Following his PhD, he lectured in Bangalore, India, before returning to the UK for ordination. Peter trained for ministry in Birmingham and served in a multicultural and multifaith parish
for a few years before becoming a Rector in his native county of Norfolk. After some time in parish ministry, Peter felt called to serve as a Chaplain; immediately before joining Bradfield, he was Chaplain at Clifton College. Of his philosophy regarding Chapel at Bradfield he says,
EVERYONE IS WELCOME REGARDLESS
OF
“ “ “ “
PERSPECTIVE ON
RELIGION,
IT IS
A SAFE SPACE WHERE YOU CAN FLOURISH AND DEVELOP YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT MORALITY AND SPIRITUALITY
Chapel services are designed to expose pupils to a wide range of different perspectives. One great initiative is that every House leads a service once a year. The topics discussed are very varied, and the pupils have (almost) free rein. The important thing is that it is meaningful for the pupils and has a positive impact on their lives.
Army House recently led a service on men’s mental health and shared a wonderful football video about Norwich City football fans. He approved of this initiative on two levels: firstly, the topic chosen, and secondly, because Peter supports Norwich.
AS A TEACHER IT’S IMPORTANT TO ADAPT AND GROW TO MAKE YOUR TOPIC RELEVANT FOR TODAY
He is impressed with the debating module developed by Campus XR, which enables pupils to gain confidence in their arguments before entering a debate. ‘It’s amazing; you put the headset on and find yourself in the Greek theatre, able to debate JFK.’ He is also keen to see where the development of this technology could lead, enthusing that there might be the potential to debate against a school from a different country, each speaking their native languages using AI translation.
Marvels of technology aside, Peter is clear that the debating environment is not a place where you need to be the competitive alpha, rather someone seeking a means of expression and a place to find your voice. The Bradfield Debating Club welcomes pupils of all abilities, and the more debating the pupils do, the more accomplished and confident they become with their public speaking.
He is delighted that over time the ranks of the debating club have swelled. The College has started entering debating competitions, reaching the regional finals of the National Debating League and championing the ever-competitive Inter-House debating competition. There is also hope of an Old Bradfieldian vs College debate.
I LOVE THE FACT THAT YOU CAN’T STEREOTYPE A BRADFIELDIAN, THERE ARE PUPILS WITH ALL SORTS OF DIFFERENT STRENGTHS AND IT’S A PLACE WHERE THOSE WITH DIFFERENT SKILLS CAN REALLY FLOURISH
you could find that a new Faulkner’s entrant is the strongest player in the College. As with debating, the Bradfield Chess Club is welcome to all comers.
The Bradfield Chess tournament begins in January. It’s a knock-out tournament with the winning pupil given a chance to play Peter in a special staff vs pupil match. A former tournament player, he smiles when he says that he remains unbeaten but recognises that his time is nigh given that players reach peak performance at 28 and he is a touch beyond that.
As you would expect from someone in his position Peter embodies a holistic and philosophical perspective and the words of wisdom flow easily. A parting gift,
YOU CAN’T ALWAYS CONTROL WHAT LIFE HAS TO OFFER, BUT YOU CAN CONTROL HOW YOU RESPOND TO THOSE OPPORTUNITIES “ “ “ “
Moving on to Peter’s other love, chess. He sees it as a great leveller;
OUR CULTURE OF CARE: HOW BRADFIELD BOARDING IS TRANSFORMING PASTORAL SUPPORT
Walking around the Bradfield campus, it’s easy to see why pupils feel a deep connection to the school. Young people thrive here thanks to the contemporary pastoral care that serves the diverse needs of every pupil. Richard Penny, Deputy Head Pastoral shares how…
‘SPEAK TO THINK’, ‘THINK TO SPEAK’ APPROACH
For many pupils, the rhythms of school life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Recognising this, Bradfield has made subtle but powerful changes to ensure these pupils don’t just cope but flourish. One of the first changes has been to refine the Year 6 Admissions process, broadening the pastoral interview to acknowledge a wider range of interests and strengths and fine-tuning scoring systems to allow scope for reflective and analytical answers to reduce confirmation bias towards the extrovert.
Beyond Admissions, Bradfield has been actively reshaping its physical and social spaces. A new quiet workroom in Palmer House, reconfigured dining hall seating for more intimate meals and dedicated ‘timeout’ rooms in the Medical Centre are all part of a larger effort to create reset space, areas where pupils can take a breather when the pace of school life feels too much.
I SOMETIMES FIND IT HARD TO FOCUS ON MY EVENING PREP IN MY ROOM, THERE ARE TOO MANY DISTRACTIONS… THE QUIET WORKROOM ALLOWS ME TO SEPARATE WHERE I WORK AND WHERE I RELAX AND SLEEP
Current Pupil
Staff, too, are playing a vital role in this cultural shift. Teachers have received training designed to support quieter pupils, offering them the time and space to process ideas before sharing them. The approach recognises that while some pupils speak to think, others
think to speak, a simple but transformative shift in perspective that ensures all voices are heard
REIMAGINING WELLBEING IN FAULKNER’S
In Faulkner’s, the Year 9 Boarding House, pupil wellbeing is being reshaped in simple yet profound ways. A recent shift in the mobile phone policy now encourages more face-to-face interactions by structuring phone use in a way that prioritises in-person socialising during downtime. The change is designed to foster stronger, more meaningful friendships and reduce reliance on screens for connection. This is supported by the provision of mindful activities including colouring, Lego, board games, baking and knitting. Hobby Horsing and karaoke are less quiet but great fun!
Equally transformative is the introduction of ‘readaxation’, a concept that encourages pupils to unwind with a book before bed. Restocked book nooks, supported by reviews and book bingo, aim to create better sleep hygiene. The initiative aims to replace the glow of screens with the comforting rhythm of a good story. It’s a small change, but one that’s already having a big impact on stress levels and sleep quality.
THE PHONE CHANGE HAS BEEN POSITIVE AS I FEEL I CAN CHILL IN MY ROOM AND CALL MY PARENTS WITHOUT FEELING LIKE I AM MISSING OUT ON FREE TIME, AND THEN I GET MORE OUT OF FREE TIME BEFORE SLEEPING BETTER
Current Pupil
IT ALLOWS FOR MORE SOCIALISING, RELAXATION AND ENGAGING AMONGST THEIR PEERS LATER IN THE EVENING JUST BEFORE BED. A GREAT MOVE AND WE ARE FULLY SUPPORTIVE “
THE PUPILS APPEAR CALMER AND ARE MORE SETTLED WHEN IT IT TIME TO GO TO BED. THERE ISN’T THE MAD RUSH AT 9PM TO GET ALL TECH AWAY
ONLINE INNOVATION
The Lower Sixth girls of Stanley House recently had an enjoyable evening getting to grips with the immersive experience provided by the VR headsets from Campus-XR. The pupils are trialling their use in the House environment, testing how they can apply this new ‘virtual world’, to their prep for consolidation of knowledge, research or revision use. The girls donned jet packs and visited New York’s Statue of Liberty, the trenches of the Somme and our very own Greek Theatre - where Cecily debated with Einstein, Emmi contested in German and the girls watched an imaginary Donald Trump argue the benefits of fake tan! If the girls didn’t know it already, anything is possible in this new curated world.
The girls have now been tasked with identifying topics from their own studies, and over the coming weeks and months they’ll be providing invaluable feedback on their immersive experiences and how they have benefitted their own personal learning.
EVOLVING PASTORAL CARE
Bradfield’s evolving approach to pastoral care is not about grand gestures, it’s about the thoughtful, everyday choices that make pupils feel heard, valued and supported. From reset spaces and structured transitions to weekend connections and community engagement, the school is actively shaping an environment where every pupil can thrive. Pastoral care, at its best, is not just about offering support, it’s about fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
AS BRADFIELD CONTINUES TO EVOLVE, ONE THING IS CLEAR: HERE, EVERY PUPIL HAS THE SPACE TO GROW, THE FREEDOM TO BE THEMSELVES AND THE SUPPORT TO FLOURISH.
Current Parent
SPORTS REVIEW
Asthe successes of this year provide testimony to the dedication and skill of the pupils and their coaches, perhaps more satisfying has been the positive way pupils have approached their sport, Director of Sport, Matt Ruxton talks through the sporting year…
“ “ IT IS FANTASTIC TO SEE PUPILS TAKING FULL ADVANTAGE OF THE OPPORTUNITIES AFFORDED TO THEM AS THEY HAVE STRIVED TO SUCCEED. THEIR EFFORTS HAVE HELPED TO MAINTAIN THE POSITIVE SPORTING CULTURE THAT EXISTS AT BRADFIELD; LONG MAY THIS CONTINUE!
As the boys’ 1st XI grabbed many of the headlines for retaining the ISFA Cup on a memorable evening in Milton Keynes, there have been many other notable individual and team successes. Amongst these, the girls’ squash sides had a superb year with the U18 team winning the National Plate competition, the U14s finishing as runners-up and the U16s achieving fourth position. The golfers also performed strongly to win the Micklem Plate competition, they progressed to the regional final in the Swifts Foursomes and Yeva (K) won the net competition at the Junior European Open.
College dance continues to go from strength to strength with the squad winning the best group dance at the Berkshire Schools’ Dance Competition. The netballers also built on their high level of performance in recent years with both the U16s and 1st VII reaching their respective semi-finals in the National Sisters n Sport Cup. The highlights kept coming in the Summer term with John Harvey Cup success for the boys’ 1st XI cricket side and strong performances by the girls’ 1st XI and U17A sides in three National Cup competitions that help cement the College’s reputation as one of the highest performing schools in the country for girls’ cricket.
At an individual level, Sam (LH) achieved a bronze medal whilst representing the Belgium U15 squad against seven other nations. Other international honours were achieved by Aine (I) who was selected to play for Ireland U19s in netball, Jess (M) for England in hockey and Pippa (M) and Ethan (D) for their respective Scotland cricket sides. The shooting squad have again achieved notable selections with Will (H) and Amelie (M) being selected to represent the GB U19 team, and Roanna (M), Alex (F) and Bertie (A) also achieving international honours. Finally in football, Matilda (LJ) represented the ISFA U14 squad against Wales, whilst Carter-Blue Bowdery did brilliantly to earn a professional contract with Reading FC.
“ “
THE 2024-2025 ACADEMIC YEAR HAS SEEN PUPILS CONTINUING TO ENJOY THEIR SPORT AND TO EXCEL IN IT IN EQUAL MEASURE
FOOTBALL
In the Michaelmas term over 400 pupils were involved in the football programme. With 27 teams across Junior and Senior Boys and Girls, there has been a large range of opportunities for pupils to get involved; from beloved House matches to Saturday block fixtures and several successful mid-week Cups. By the end of the term we had played over 200 competitive matches against other schools and entered teams in ten cup competitions. Across year groups and skill-levels, football has provided a positive mix of challenges and triumphs and featured significant cup runs for the U16, U15 and U14 sides. In the seniors the 1st XI girls progressed to the ISFA Cup quarter finals, whilst the boys enjoyed another memorable evening at Milton Keynes.
ISFA 2025 MATCH REPORT
Bradfield College’s 1st XI retained the Boodles ISFA Cup with a thrilling 2–0 victory over Shrewsbury School at MK Dons Stadium, marking their third win in four years and cementing their status as the UK’s top independent football school.
Shrewsbury started strongly, but Bradfield’s defence held firm, with goalkeeper George (G) making several crucial saves. Midway through the first half, a long ball from Bradfield’s half caused confusion in Shrewsbury’s defence, allowing Micah (E) to slot home the opener. Bradfield grew into the game, resisting Shrewsbury’s pressure with disciplined defending.
The second goal came in the second half when Sam (G) unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box after slick buildup play. Despite Shrewsbury’s efforts, Bradfield’s defence remained impenetrable, and the final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations as the team became only the third school to win back-to-back ISFA titles in the competition’s 32-year history.
Director of Football Performance, David Chatwin, praised the team’s resilience and tactical execution: ‘We weathered an early storm, but the back five and George were outstanding. The second half showed real control and creativity, and Sam’s goal was a moment of brilliance.’
Bradfield’s journey to the final included wins over Denstone (3–1), Eton (penalties), Millfield (penalties), and a dominant 4–0 semi-final win against Hampton. Since joining from Charlton Athletic in 2023, Chatwin has led Bradfield to multiple successes, including the 2024 HUDL League title and consecutive ESFA semi-final appearances.
GIRLS’ HOCKEY
It was another successful and enjoyable Hockey term at Bradfield. The girls played almost 150 fixtures across 16 different teams. Alongside a busy training schedule, strong Inter House competition and a growing indoor programme it was a full-on season with lots to celebrate both on a team and individual level. The 1st XI had a particularly good season, playing some eye-catching hockey as they progressed to the quarter final stage of the England Hockey Cup with wins against strong opponents Charterhouse, Gordon’s and St John’s. Frustratingly, one of their
finest performances came in their 1-0 quarter-final loss to a good Ardingly side, where the team did everything but score.
In the indoor hall it was a similar story; winning the County Tournament in style meant qualifying for Regionals where they topped their group, beat Pangbourne convincingly in the semi-finals before losing to Sir William Borlase in the final. Nevertheless, it was a great indoor season with some stand out performances and goals from Roanna (M) and Emma (M) in particular, and superb leadership by Jazzy (I).
She and other members of the 1st XI have given up their time to coach and inspire the younger age groups during their games afternoons, which has provided significant motivation for them to keep improving as they work to perform in the 1st XI themselves. A special mention must go to Fifth Form pupils Scarlett (J) in goal and Kat (M) who looked comfortable as they stepped up to Senior level.
BOYS’ HOCKEY
Boys Hockey in the Lent term is always action packed and this year was no different; a multitude of fixtures across 16 teams squeezed into
11 short weeks. The progress that the pupils make is astonishing in such a short space of time and no team showed this more than the 1st XI. Only two members of the squad had played for the first team before the start of this year so the boys had to adapt to the pace of first team hockey quickly. The lack of experience showed in the first half of the season, with some disappointing results against Cheltenham, Dean Close and Marlborough. Despite the losses, the performances improved week by week and the confidence grew. Unfortunately for the side, their cup run was ended amongst this early run of poor results in a closely fought contest with Abingdon, with the College coming out on the wrong side of a 3-2 scoreline.
Fast forward to the second half of term and the story was very different; unbeaten after the break with a standout win against a Cranleigh side who made the last eight of the National Cup. The game had twists and turns before goals from Nathanial (F) and Ted (G) in the final five minutes gave Bradfield
a well-deserved victory. The team has been led brilliantly by Ted (G) (Captain) and Archie (G) (Vice-Captain) along with many of the Upper Sixth boys who were playing their final year of hockey for Bradfield. Hopefully the improvement shown this year will lead to them continuing their hockey careers at university and beyond. Mr Boddington’s 2nd XI should also be commended for their consistently strong performance this season, which resulted in another set of strong results.
NETBALL
Training for the National Cup competitions began in September as the A-team players prepared for the county round of the England Netball Cup and the Sisters n Sport Cup. First came the county competition in November, where the U14s, U16s, and U19s were competing. The U14s, a newly formed squad, made it to the semi-finals, just missing out on a place at the regional finals. For a new team this is a huge achievement and we are excited to see them
develop in the coming years. The U16s also had a fantastic tournament, despite the loss of their GS who represented the 1st VII on the day. A few U15s stepped up to represent the team and gained some valuable experience in the process, seeing them placed third, a significant achievement.
The highlight on the day was, however, the U19 squad’s standout performances. They won all but one of their fixtures, finishing second and qualifying for the regional finals in the process. The Sisters n Sport Cup also produced some notable results. The 1st VII had the best cup run to date, reaching the semi-finals, narrowly losing by one goal in the dying seconds of the game. This was a fantastic achievement nonetheless with victories over Churcher’s College, Canford School, Worthing College and Millfield School. The U16A team matched the 1st VII’s success by reaching the semi-finals of their cup competition; this is also the furthest this team has ever progressed, with notable wins over Queen Anne’s and South Hampstead.
TENNIS
The summer tennis season was a busy and competitive one for Bradfield College with an impressive 38 teams competing regularly in friendly fixtures, LTA competitions and inter-school events. On the girls’ side, Fenella (K) and Elisa (J) achieved the impressive accolade of being undefeated throughout the season. Fenella also achieved notable additional success as she partnered Alice (M) to victory in the plate competition of the St. George’s Cup, before her and Elisa (J) completed the season by winning the Loveband Trophy at the end of season finals at the ISTA Championships. The boys’ teams wrapped up the season with a 51% win rate, with every one of the 1st VII team’s results ending either 5-4 or 4-5, demonstrating how competitive tennis has been. 1st VII captain Billy (A) and his partner Theo (A) played some great tennis as they progressed to the Semi-finals of the St George’s Cup Grass Court Event. Having won the county round of the national ‘Play Your Way to Wimbledon’, Thomas (H) and Joe (C) progressed through the regional qualifiers unbeaten.
CRICKET
The fact that there was so much cricket left to play as the College entered the final week of the Summer term was indicative of the success of Bradfield’s cricket season. Over a quarter of the College represented Bradfield in cricket fixtures during the term with valuable opportunities to enjoy the benefits of competitive sport alongside their studies even extended to those sitting exams.
Through a series of consistent performances, our boys’ 1stXI won the John Harvey Cup for the first time since 2015, a team that contained current Old Bradfieldian professionals Harry Came (D 11-16) and England’s Gus Atkinson (A 1116).
Captain Ethan (D) led the run scoring with centuries against Winchester and the MCC while wickets were spread around, particularly between the three spinners Ollie (D), James (D) and Francis (A). The winning habit also rubbed off on the U15 boys, with the A team winning the County T20 Cup and the B team the County Plate Competition, the first time ‘the double’ has been achieved.
In the last week of term our girls’ U17s reached the National Girls Schools U17 T20 Finals, coming second to Repton in the final match. Then, at the start of the holidays our girls’ Cricket 1stXI placed third in the School Sport Magazine National Schools U18 Girls T20 Cricket Cup, narrowly losing to Epsom College in the semis, with a fantastic 53 from Pippa (M). In the third-place playoff Pippa (M) hit 100no reaching her century off the last ball of their innings, as Bradfield (171-2) edged Ipswich (169-9) by eight wickets.
The senior girls’ side have been well led by captain Emma (K) who has contributed with both bat and ball while leading run scorers Pippa (M) and Shristi (J) have consistently dominated opposition bowling attacks.
The achievements highlight the consistently high levels of performance over recent years and the success of our teams is testament to the commitment and camaraderie with which this group have approached their cricket.
A TRUE BRADFIELDIAN:
A LIFE OF FRIENDSHIP, KINDNESS AND WISDOM
JEREMY BALL (D 87–92), SCR (02–24), 1973–2024
College Chaplain, Rev Peter Hansell led Jeremy’s Memorial Service on Sunday 15 June in front of friends, family, colleagues and contemporaries; here he narrates the memories and stories from that sunny afternoon in the Greek Theatre…
Jeremy was one of those rare people one meets in life; a truly inspirational man, someone so special he left a lasting, positive impression on everyone he encountered. A lifelong Bradfieldian, Jeremy’s presence at the College spanned many happy years, as a pupil, teacher, cricket coach, Housemaster, mentor, colleague and friend. He was loved and valued in every one of these roles. Bradfield remembers him above all for his kindness and selfless care which enriched the lives of generations of pupils and staff alike.
On a personal note, when I first arrived at Bradfield, I was fortunate to meet Jeremy early on. I was settling in, living in Great Oaks, and Jeremy was just above me. From the very beginning, he welcomed me with genuine warmth and generosity. He quickly became much more than a neighbour; he became a dear friend, someone I trusted completely. I often ran ideas past him, he had that uncanny ability to know when to affirm them and when to gently and wisely rechannel my energy, something he always did with grace and wit.
Jeremy’s care extended into every corner of life at Bradfield. He lived with a quiet assured authenticity, unfailingly kind, consistently compassionate and guided by deep integrity at the core of his being. In one of his many memorable and inspirational Chapel talks, Jeremy said
“ “
WE LOVE, WE ARE MERCIFUL, COMPASSIONATE, KIND, CARING, CONSIDERATE, NOT BECAUSE SOMEONE ELSE JUDGES US TO BE SO, BUT BECAUSE WE ARE
That was the heart of Jeremy, not just saying the right thing but doing it, simply because it was the right thing to do. He never sought praise or recognition and his goodness was not for show; it was who he was.
Jeremy arrived at Bradfield as a pupil in 1987, already showing the razor-sharp mind, mischievous wit and deep empathy that would be recognised throughout his life. From the outset, he stood out as a scholar. Peter Fraser (SCR 87-97), his Housemaster, recalls that Jeremy needed constant challenge, academic and otherwise, just to keep him occupied. Appointing him as Head of House was, Peter says, one of the most popular decisions he ever made. Even as a Sixth-Former, Jeremy commanded deep respect across the school. It wasn’t just his intellect that set him apart as Jeremy had, even then, a rare capacity for
kindness. As Head of House, he would quietly spend time with those who felt displaced or uneasy. He made people feel they mattered.
David Evans (SCR 87-01), one of his teachers, had a lasting influence on Jeremy’s spiritual formation, nurturing in him a lifelong love of St Paul. Stuart Williams also played a pivotal role, first as Jeremy’s Year 9 Tutor and later as a colleague and lifelong friend.
Simon Gathercole (H 87-92), a close friend and contemporary at both Bradfield and Cambridge, remembers ‘Jes’, the top scholar, always self-deprecating and someone who got on with everyone. He was clever without pretence, a Christian without dogma and always a warm and loving friend. He captained the mighty 3rd XI cricket team, famed for his wily slow left-arm spin; he became a skilled fives player and a devoted Bob Dylan fan. Jeremy loved fives and cricket, avidly following the test match while he worked. In a tribute in his last weeks, he received a fitting mention on Test Match Special as he was listening in hospital.
It is deserved that a special prize for cricket, the Jeremy Ball Prize for ‘The Spirit of Cricket’, has been established in his memory. Awarded to a pupil in the Upper Sixth, it celebrates the qualities Jeremy modelled throughout his life: fair play, integrity and a love for the game. The prize stands as a tribute to all that was enriching and empowering about Jeremy’s life.
After becoming an OB, Jeremy went on to read Arabic and then Theology at Cambridge, attending Gonville and Caius College. He returned to Bradfield in 2002, beginning more than two decades of devoted service as a teacher.
Jeremy was universally respected and cherished as a much-loved colleague in the SCR. Jeremy Preston, his friend and fellow teacher, recalls: ‘He didn’t take himself, or others, too seriously. But at the same time, he genuinely cared for the wellbeing of his colleagues, always knowing when to encourage us to rest.’
Jeremy loved comedy and frequently went to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with many of his colleagues and friends. He had a wonderful sense of humour in the everyday. Jeremy’s legendary wit was on full display even in the weekly duty email. As Jeremy Preston recalls one read ‘Some rooms were so hot that you had more chance of falling asleep if you dipped yourself in cognac and flambéed yourself.’
He was an exceptional Tutor, displaying great support in pastoral care and treating each pupil according to what they needed most, whether that meant supporting the shy or gently deflating a little too much teenage bravado. Few schoolmasters could strike that balance quite like he did.
In the SCR, Jeremy was a trusted colleague, a loyal friend and a generous mentor to many staff. Louise Marshall (SCR 05–14) remembers him as someone who always seemed to have a remarkable ability to make time for everyone, offering a kind word at just the right moment and maintaining a sense of perspective about what truly mattered. Jeremy loved the company of others and was deeply devoted to the Bradfield community.
He was appointed young to the role of Housemaster of Field (Stone) House (E) and in that role he was beloved by his charges. One of his former Head of House pupils, Alex Holcroft (E 01-06), remembers how Jeremy brought calm simply by being nearby. His famous raised eyebrow, gentle interventions and countless quiet acts of kindness stayed with people long after they left school. Jeremy always combined warmth with wisdom, humour with authority; not many people can pull that off, but he did, and he made it look effortless.
“ “ “ “
AS A HOUSEMASTER HE GAVE RESPECT, NOT THE KIND YOU DEMAND BUT THE KIND YOU SHOW AND QUIETLY PASS ON
Alex Holcroft (E 01-06)
In the classroom he was perceived by many of his pupils as the best teacher in the school. He loved teaching and was a master at his craft. He was central to the success of his department. Former pupils refer to the inspirational and amazing Philosophy classes that he taught and all pupils who went through his class felt lucky to be taught by him. Jeremy was also an amazing Scholar’s Tutor stretching pupils in the art of critical thinking. Jeremy discouraged seeing learning in terms of results and instead focused on the journey enabling pupils to challenge themselves and seek wisdom.
To his nieces and nephews; Charlotte, Edward, Benji, Theo, Maisie, Toby, Theo and to great-nephew Felix, he was ‘Uncle Jes’. He is remembered fondly as an Uncle who was witty, generous, full of fun, always supportive, helpful and full of love.
Jeremy’s legacy is written deep in those he taught, mentored, and befriended. He was a man of high intellect without arrogance, a man of humour who was never cruel and a man of faith without pomposity. Jeremy showed our community how to live with grace, generosity and kindness and in doing so, he helped us all believe that we mattered as we are. As Jeremy once said
TO BE IS NOT TO BE PERCEIVED.
TO
BE IS
TO
UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE
FEARFULLY
AND WONDERFULLY MADE. TO BE IS THAT YOU ARE A UNIQUE CREATION. THAT IS WHAT MAKES YOU SPECIAL AND THAT IS WHERE YOUR WORTH LIES
IN MEMORIAM
ADLER, Douglas (E 51-55)
BARLOW, Richard (C 41-45)
BILLINGTON, Tony (H 59-63)
BLAKE, John (F 45-49)
BLATCH, Bill (F 61-65)
CHARNAUD, Michael (C 46-49)
COLLIEU, Antony (SCR 62-05)
COTTERELL, Chris (C 78-83)
DORAN, John (D 46-50)
FLINT, Anthony (H 38-41)
FOSTER, Michael (D 53-57)
HATFIELD, Brian (B 49-54)
HOUSTOUN, Euan (E 59-63)
HUTCHINSON, Anthony (G 54-59)
LEVER, Jeremy (F 46-51)
MAY, Anthony (G 54-59)
MCCANN, John (B 51-56)
MEANOCK, Colin (A 66-71)
MERRYLEES, David (G 56-61)
MITCHELL, Robert (G 73-78)
PARKINSON, Michael (G 47-52; SCR 60-86)
POORE, David (A 67-72)
RAIT, Timothy (F 54-59)
RIGG, Henry (G 39-43)
SKINNER, Anthony (F 56-59)
SKURRAY, Stephen (E 46-50)
STEELE, Elizabeth (Matron H 89-00)
TAPSFIELD, Robert (A 39-44)
TOD, Simon (G 63-67)
TURNER, John (A 46-50)
VAN KOETSVELD, Guy (D 77-82)
WORTHINGTON, Charles (G 43-48)
WYLIE, Alan (G 51-56)
Any obituary information provided on the above is available on the Bradfield Society online website
BRADFIELD GIVING DAY
The Bradfield Society and Foundation Team ran the College’s first Giving Day in support of the Bradfield 175 Bursary Campaign in June and were bowled over by the positive response from the Bradfield Community…
409 DONORS
£151,026 RAISED
From the excitement of the Headmaster’s and House’s 175 Taskmaster Challenges which generated more than 400 donations, to the spectacular 175 Gala Evening, our inaugural Giving Day was truly a celebration of everything that makes Bradfield special.
We were delighted to see that the response came from right across the community, as exemplified by the messages of support on our donor wall.
‘Such fond memories of Bradfield and we are delighted to support such a good cause.’
James and Anne Nalty (SCR 01-13), Former Staff
‘The most important years of my life. Thank you and God Bless Bradfield!!!’
Vasco Bonini (A 66-71)
‘Thank you for all the effort that has gone into celebrating the 175th year of Bradfield College and raising funds for a worthy cause. Well done for a great 175 Gala concert too!’
Meenu Thompson, Former Parent
‘Templers and Moss-Gibbons have been at Bradfield since 1899 and I’ve now been associated with the school for 75 years! A wonderful place that has shaped my life.’
Nickie Moss-Gibbons, Friend of Bradfield
‘I received a bursary and the two years in Sixth Form that I spent at Bradfield were the most formative of my life. I made friends for life and so many happy memories. Thank you to the dedicated staff too. As I teach now myself, I can see how much they gave to the school and the pupils.’
Buffy Dismorr, (K 02-04)
The Giving Day saw Bradfield College pupils and staff rally together to complete ‘175 Taskmaster challenges’ with the aim of unlocking extra challenge funds once sufficient donations had been reached. The theme for the challenges was ‘to do something fun, quirky or thoughtprovoking that somehow includes the number 175, spreads cheer and creates an impact’. Every House developed their own unique challenge, emblematic of their character and desire to support the 175 Bursary Campaign.
View the 175 Challenges on the Bursary campaign webpage
Charlie Sykes, Economics Teacher and the new Housemaster of Hillside, cycled a staggering 175km through the hilly Berkshire countryside. Setting off at 6am, he faced a tough head-wind throughout the day but made it back in time for the 175 Gala Evening.
Meanwhile Rich Penny, Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Anthony Hough, Director of Estates, came up with the idea of the ‘175 Triathlon’; 175 laps of the College pool, 175km bike ride and 175 laps of the College track a total distance of 500km total distance which they remarked was amongst the toughest things they have ever done.
Finally, the Headmaster undertook a challenge set by the newly-appointed Heads of School, only to be released when 175 donations had been secured. His challenge was
to run 17.5km followed by a ‘refreshing’ dousing with 17.5 litres of the River Pang’s finest below Ironbridge, cheered on by the pupils.
As well as thanking all those who took part in the challenges we would also like to sincerely thank our wonderful bursary award holders; Devan Thanesh (G 23-25), Danny Mihaylov (D 23-25), Hattie Pearson (K 03-08) and Katie (K 13-18), who allowed us to share their stories. They did so not to self-promote but as a token of their gratitude and desire to support future bursary award holders.
THANKS TO THE INCREDIBLE GENEROSITY AND ENTHUSIASM SHOWN DURING GIVING DAY, THE FUNDS RAISED WILL HELP PROVIDE 2 YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A SIXTH FORM BURSARY, PROOF OF THE LIFE-CHANGING POTENTIAL OUR COMMUNITY HOLDS.
At a time of economic uncertainty, the need to protect and future-proof access to transformational opportunities is more important than ever. Looking to the next 175 years, our aim is to build on the success and spirit of Giving Day by encouraging a culture of regular giving and building an endowment, helping ensure talented and deserving young people can continue to access the transformative opportunities of a Bradfield education for generations to come.
IF ANOTHER 409 PEOPLE PLEDGED JUST £17.50 PER MONTH FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, WE COULD SUPPORT FIVE YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A 6TH FORM BURSARY.
Should you be interested in making a regular gift, or indeed supporting the development of an endowment, please reach out to Head of Philanthropy, Kirsty Perkinson, on kperkinson@bradfieldcollege.org.uk
HEAD OF SCHOOL: ALEX BROWN (E 20-25)
Let’s take a moment to Stop… Look left… Look right… Look Up… The beauty of the place that surrounds us need not be stated: I’ve smiled here; I’ve laughed here; I’ve been happy here… but the truth is that feeling, that emotion does not come from the place it comes from the people.
The people that you go to breakfast with, the people that are in your lessons, the people that are in your activities, but even, it is the people that you exchange those micro moments with, it’s a laugh in a corridor or a smirk across a football pitch.
THE BEAUTY DOES NOT LIE IN THE PLACE, IT LIES IN THE PEOPLE
There are many more people that I could thank for the impacts they have had on my day to day at this school, but there is only actually one reason that I get to come here in the first place and that is because of my parents. It’s quite hard to put it into something tangible how much of a life changing experience an education like this is.
TO MY PARENTS AND TO EVERY PARENT IN THIS THEATRE THAT IS GIFTING A LIFE CHANGING EDUCATION, THANK YOU VERY MUCH
So what am I leaving here with, well other than the serious amount of branded sportswear that I don’t know what to do with, I’m leaving with a plethora of fond memories and friendships that will last me a lifetime. I would sincerely like to express my deepest gratitude for the experience of a lifetime that I’ve had here, so to all the teachers, staff, friends and peers. Thank you.’
There are a few of these people though in particular that deserve special thanks for what it is they have contributed to my education. Firstly I would like to thank Jemma for being an absolute machine of a Head Girl, it’s been an absolute pleasure. I know I’m definitely going to miss our Saturday morning breakfast and preAssembly pep talk, so a massive thank you from me. Further I would like to extend that thanks to both Anna and Jackson for their efforts as Deputy Heads of School and to the wider JCR for all they have contributed to making the school a better place; thank you. Next I would like to thank my Tutor, Mr Hall, for being a truly inspirational individual. Our “tutorials” never cease to brighten up my day. They are going to be one of the parts of Bradfield that I will miss the most, so a massive individual thank you to him.
The typical question that you get asked when you get near the end of the school year is ‘are you going to miss it?’. Whilst I’m conscious that the entirety of our SMT and governors are sitting behind me, I would have to say I’m not, because, as I said, the truth is that the beauty does not lie in the place, it lies in the people. And the people are going to be with me for my lifetime, irrespective of if we still attend the school or not. They are connections that truly mean the most to me and I’m sure many of the other Leavers would feel the same.
BE BOLD, DON’T BE AFRAID TO BE DIFFERENT, DON’T BE AFRAID TO STAND OUT… “ “ “ “ “ “
My advice to anyone would be to do what it is that makes you happy. Because your life is all about you, you need to find what it is that you enjoy and just do it. There are so many things that you can do at this school and I really can’t emphasise it enough and often it is the things that you least expected to enjoy that you end up enjoying the most of all.
… as there is nothing that is more rewarding than making yourself happy.
MUSIC REVIEW
The year has seen the continued growth of ensemble music, the emergence of new performance groups, and an ambitious breadth of programming that has involved pupils from every stage of their musical journey. Whether performing in largescale orchestral concerts, chamber recitals, musical theatre showcases, or Jazz on a Summer’s Evening, our pupils have approached each opportunity with energy, commitment, and creativity.
David Quinn, Director of Music looks back on another brilliant year of music at Bradfield.
The first major concert of the academic year was the Michaelmas Concert which returned to the Old Gym and featured over one hundred pupils. The evening opened with the newly reformed Concert Band, performing publicly for the first time in nearly a decade. This marked the culmination of a term’s renewed energy in ensemble playing and highlighted the Department’s expanding instrumental provision.
The second half of the concert was devoted to Howard Blake’s The Snowman, performed in its school edition. Led by Miss Sarah Smith, the project brought together over 50 pupils and several staff musicians to accompany a live screening of the film. Without the support of a click track or visual cues, pupils tackled the intricacies of synchronised film music, including the technique of “Mickey Mousing”, with precision and care. Building on the success of the previous year’s Nutcracker Suite, the performance reaffirmed the value of accessible, multidisciplinary repertoire that brings the wider musical community together.
The Advent and Christmas season saw the Chapel Choir and Brass Ensemble take a central role in no fewer than seven carol services, both within College and beyond. These included services for pupils, parents and staff in Chapel, as well as the Charlie Waller Carol Service, Winter Bradfield Day, and a special London service at St Gabriel’s, Pimlico. Across each occasion, the Choir sang with poise, clarity and expressive musicality, performing
a varied programme that included Judith Weir’s Advent Prose, Stopford’s Lully, Lulla, Lullay and Rutter’s Sans Day Carol, alongside traditional favourites such as Hark! the Herald Angels Sing and O Come All Ye Faithful, arranged by David Willcocks. The Brass Ensemble made a notable contribution to the festive atmosphere. Together, these services offered a reflective and joyful musical response to the season and highlighted the strength and versatility of Bradfield’s Senior musicians.
The Faulkner’s Concert provided a valuable platform for our youngest performers to take to the stage in an evening that celebrated variety, confidence and developing artistry. It was particularly pleasing to feature Faulkner’s-specific ensembles, including the newly established Trumpet Group and the Faulkner’s Choir. The concert offered a wide-ranging and contrasting programme, from Bowie to Debussy and Lauper to Haydn, reflecting the musical curiosity and individuality of the performers. A highlight of the evening was Maria Kerobyan’s performance of Haydn’s Sonata in A-flat Major on the piano. The concert provided a strong foundation for future musical development at the College.
The annual Yattendon Concert offered pupils a valuable opportunity to perform in a public setting beyond the College and to contribute to a community-focused evening in aid of Berkshire Women’s Aid. The concert featured an eclectic programme of soloists and ensembles, drawn from multiple year groups and supported by the House Band and members of the music staff. It was especially encouraging to see pupils take the initiative in programming and hosting the event, with proceeds supporting a local charity whose cause was close to their hearts. Among many strong performances, Acacia (LK)’s rendition of Silver’s Nica’s Dream stood out, earning a standing ovation from the audience, an exceptional moment for a Year 9 performer.
Much effort in the Lent Term went into the preparation of Haydn’s Creation, which was performed in the College Chapel to great acclaim. This oratorio showcased the talents of our most advanced singers and instrumentalists and exemplified the department’s commitment to ambitious repertoire and high-performance standards.
The term concluded with the Easter Concert, which celebrated musical theatre, pop and jazz. A particular highlight was the debut performance of the newly formed Music Theatre Company, directed by Mr Matt Blaker, a West End actor and dedicated member of the College’s music team. Inspired by the 1998 concert
Hey Mr Producer, the Company presented a sequence of musical theatre numbers from a range of productions. The first half closed with a collaborative performance of One Day More, performed by the Company and the school orchestra.
Two concerts at the start of Summer Term provided final opportunities for many Upper Sixth pupils to perform before their final examinations. The Bedford Club in London hosted an evening of pop, soul and jazz featuring many of the College’s senior ensembles and soloists, in what has become a highlight of the summer calendar. Notable among these were IV, a close harmony vocal group comprising Anna (K), Claudia (I), Olivia (K) and Jazzy (I), who have performed together since Year 9 and whose set opened the concert with style. The evening also featured polished sets from So What and Mixos, two senior jazz ensembles coached by visiting staff, alongside a closing sequence of vocal performances by Upper Sixth singers. A few days later, the Summer Soirée in the Music Hall offered a contrasting evening of classical and chamber repertoire, with performances from members of Bradfield Brass, Chapel Consort and a range of soloists. This elegant concert provided a fitting musical opening to the Summer term and marked the final public performances for several leavers, including some who have played a central role in both classical and popular musical life at the College.
Summer term brought Jazz on a Summer’s Evening, now in its eighteenth year and a firmly established tradition in the College calendar. Held in the Greek Theatre, the event featured jazz, funk, latin and soul performances from a wide range of pupil groups, soloists and vocal ensembles. Among the many memorable moments of the evening was Oscar (F)’s performance of All Along the Watchtower, which earned a standing ovation from the audience in Greeker. Oscar has been a central figure in the musical life of the College and we wish him every success as he begins his studies at music Conservatoire next year. The concert also served as a farewell to many Upper Sixth musicians whose contributions have shaped and sustained music at Bradfield over recent years. The evening raised funds for the British Heart Foundation and concluded with a massed performance of Earth, Wind and Fire’s September, arranged and directed by Miss Janette Mason.
THE GOLDEN EGG AWARDS: A CELEBRATORY APPROACH TO EMBEDDING A CULTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY
Encouraging friendly inter-house rivalry towards initiatives that deliver real results for the College’s Carbon-Footprint as well as giving pupils lifelong learning on sustainable practices, we go behind the scenes of this pun-ridden initiative inspired and led by Phil Clegg, former Head of Sustainability…
2025 GOLDEN EGG CATEGORY RESULTS
Sustainability was a core strand of Strategy 2025 and has been embedded into the Bradfield pupil experience as The Golden Egg Competition, the launch point for which is Sustainability week in the first half of the Autumn term, that leads into the Golden Egg awards in the first half of the Summer term. Being a competition means that Houses are keen to know how they are doing, so emails on water and energy consumption have a great open rate. Whilst Mr Clegg provides
the sustainability framework, the activity is driven by his team of JCR Sustainability Prefects and their counterparts throughout the school. This year JCR representatives were Danny (D), Theo (G), Flora (J) and Emma (M);
‘This year the Sustainability Committee was the largest it has ever been with 55 members, representing every year group and House as well as being open to anyone with a passion for
sustainability. This larger committee generated a wider range of ideas and opinions, leading to more effective problem solving and reinforcing that sustainability requires a collective collaborative effort. Wider representation has been vital for the progression of sustainable practices and influencing the attitudes and habits of the wider pupil body’ Flora (J)
Having driven the sustainability initiatives throughout the year the Sustainability Prefects joined Deputy Heads of School, Jackson (A) and Anna (K) to coordinate the Golden Egg Awards Ceremony and host the evening; “ “
30% OF CHANGE IS DOWN TO BEHAVIOUR, SO BUY-IN IS AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF SUCCESS
‘Creating a competitive dynamic between teenagers is the key to involvement. The Golden Egg Ceremony is upbeat and high energy and having this focus goes a long way to changing pupil attitudes towards wanting to be more sustainable’ Emma (M)
‘Anna and I were keen to make the evening as engaging as possible as presenting spreadsheets of stats is quite dry. Dance performances are popular so we wanted to include them and then Mr Clegg ran a poll on the songs that House captains would lead on the Night. We also wanted to integrate Faulkner’s for the first time; so they understand the importance of sustainability in Senior Houses. It’s a great competition, something that Houses are keen to win, and the effect ripples out across the school, so it’s very effective.’
Jackson (A)
In the first iteration of the Golden Egg Ceremony in 2023 Mr Clegg directed the entire event with contributions from pupils, the following year he introduced the event and handed over and this year the entire event was pupil run so pupils now have a template upon which they can build.
Hillside has an unbroken record in the Golden Egg competition, having been victorious three times in a row. As they have an unbroken record they feel the pressure to maintain their lead and as one of the oldest houses it is a real challenge. Sustainability Prefect is one of the major House Prefect roles because it’s a full, year-round responsibility and in Hillside you have to interview for the role.
‘One of the first things I did was to do an audit of the leaking showers in the House and put in a maintenance request as this tripped us up in the water consumption category before’ Sustainability Prefect, Tom (F)
‘We review the Golden Egg Stats in House meetings and look to see where we can make improvements in each era, so we take it very seriously. You do get the odd complaint about rooms being cold but you just put on a jumper don’t you?’ Head of House, Jack (F)
Whilst achieving sustainability benefits and cost saving for the College, the broader aim of the Golden Egg initiative is to educate Bradfieldians to be conscious of sustainability and to create a ‘sustainable mindset’ within the pupil body so that they are more aware and considerate of the issues. This mindset is firmly embedded in Hillside culture and if every House had those processes in place it would be ‘mission accomplished’.
We recognise that the behavioural changes we must make to be more sustainable are tough and through the medium of the Inter-House competition the pupils all now have experience of making the necessary choices and changes.
PUPILS CONSCIOUSLY HAVE TO MAKE THE DECISION TO ‘DO THE RIGHT THING’, SO THEY KNOW WHAT IT TAKES AND THAT THEY CAN SUCCEED IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Armed with this knowledge and experience they can take it with them beyond Bradfield, propose and implement changes in their workplaces and make more sustainable lifestyle choices. Ultimately, the College hopes that they will be the leaders who help to drive sustainability in their lives and careers.
COLLEGE SUSTAINABILITY STATS
Since FY 2018/19 and the introduction of Sustainability initiatives, including the Golden Egg competition in 2022 we have…
- reduced our Annual Energy use by 1.7m kWh or 16% - reduced our Carbon emissions by over 500 tonnes or 21%
Footnote: The substantial energy price increase has wiped out initial cost reduction based on reduced usage, but without this decreased usage our energy bills would be £150k higher.
DRAMA REVIEW
2024/25 was a very literary themed year with the Drama Department choosing to stage play adaptations of its staff’s favourite books. Mr Saunders, Head of Drama, chose Dale Wasserman’s adaptation of Ken Kesey’s counter cultural classic, One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, whilst Mrs Davies choose Rona Munro’s take on Mary Shelley’s Gothic masterpiece, Frankenstein.
SENIOR PLAY: ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST
The book by Ken Kesey was an immediate bestseller when published in 1962 and when adapted into a play just a year later it ran for an astonishing six years in San Francisco. In 1975, Czech director Milos Forman successfully translated the book for the cinema and with Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher taking the lead roles, the film went on to win five Academy Awards cementing its status as an American classic. Addressing themes such as the treatment of the mentally ill, freedom and control, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is as powerful today as it was when originally written and is one with personal resonance for its director, Mr Saunders, as the play remains his one professional acting credit before he became a teacher.
The Old Gym was transformed into the sterile environment of a psychiatric hospital somewhere in the Pacific Northwest. Jackson (A) took the role of antihero Randall Patrick McMurphy and gave a formidable performance, particularly for an actor of his age. He was
ably supported by the ‘cracked pots of society’ as the other patients refer to themselves. Luca (H) was outstanding as the fragile Billy Bibbit; Paddy (A) convinced as Chief Bromden and George (G), Ginny (M), Paula (I), Harry (E), Lottie (K), Scarlett (K) and Tom (H) completed the picture with their sensitive and empathetic portrayals of the other members of the ward. Harry (A) and Emma (M) portrayed the two aides who keep order for McMurphy’s nemesis, the Big Nurse, who was played to chilling effect by Jemima (I). With a hospital staff that also included Tabby (M), Trixie (J), Seb (A) and Bella (K), the audience were transported and transfixed by McMurphy’s rebellion on the ward that, despite the appearance of Nell (J) and Sophia (M) in a moment of hope, was doomed to failure.
At times both comic and tragic, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is a play that lives long in the memory and got the 2024/25 Drama Season off to a flying start.
JUNIOR PLAY: FRANKENSTEIN
Staged in the Lent Term, Mrs Davies wrote in her programme notes, “Victorian Gothic literature has always held a fascination for me. I remember reading ‘Dracula’ and ‘Frankenstein’ when I was in my Senior school and being terrified of them but intrigued enough to seek out more of the same. The macabre nature of the stories running alongside the human qualities of these ‘monsters’ appealed to me, leading me into a lifelong relationship with these types of tales …. Playwright Rona Monro has adapted the novel to retell the story of Frankenstein, but with Mary Shelley present the whole time … For me, this was a chance to explore something that I have been in love with for decades, and with a cast who definitely came along for the ride.”
Beatrice (J) and Ariana (I) shared the role of Mary Shelley across the four performances and were both utterly convincing in the part as they wrote their novel whilst effortlessly blending in with the onstage action. Max (F) gave an energetic performance as Victor Frankenstein and was able to convince firstly about his passion for creating his creature and then his desire to do nothing more than destroy it. Able support came from, amongst others, Charlotte (I), Oscar (LE), Cristo (LD), Eliza (LI) and Emily (J), but it is hard to single out any of the cast who all did a great job, especially when one remembers that they were all from the Junior school. However, it was Jasper (LH) who deserves the biggest mention for his role as The Creature. Not only did he totally inhabit the role, but he did so with no sense of inhibition or embarrassment which is testament to his commitment to the part; he is a star in the making for sure.
BRADFIELD’S NEW DRAMA BLOCK
As one would expect in a school like Bradfield, change is constantly afoot as the needs of the pupils and curriculum change and that is why this year has seen the Garrett Library repurposed at the new Drama Block.
Originally built in 1900 to house Bradfield’s Classics Department, the building that became known as the Garrett Library remained a teaching space for almost one hundred years before being converted into a library in 1996 thanks to the generous patronage of Edward Garrett (F 63-67) and his family. However, with the opening of the St Andrews Learning Centre, the library once more was transformed, this time as the permanent home of the Drama Department.
Whilst still retaining its impressive street side façade, the inside has totally changed. The Lower Reading Room now houses two small offices, a large bright and airy teaching space and a ‘break out’ space for private study that is always full of pupils working away.
The Upper Reading Room has become a black box-style rehearsal room, ideal for rehearsing GCSE and A Level examination work, as well as doubling as a teaching space. Unfortunately, the narrow width of the room prohibits it from replacing Big School entirely, but with some more work it may become usable for GCSE Drama and LAMDA examinations in the future.
The building also houses a costume store and a props store allowing Drama to no longer require storage spread more randomly across the school site.
The entrance hall boasts a display dedicated to Edward Gordon Craig (May 1886 – July 1887). Craig remains best known for his theory of uber-marionettes and his modernist set designs of the early 1900’s, most notably his set design for “Hamlet” for Russian director Konstantin Stanislavski. The display contains first editions of all three of his most well-known books as well as a handwritten letter from Craig to a colleague from 1923 and serves to remind current pupils of Bradfield’s rich theatrical history of which they are now part. An oil painting in the main teaching space reminds pupils of great Old Bradfieldian, Tony Hancock (G 38-39).
Productions will continue in Big School, The Old Gym and, of course, The Greek Theatre, but the new block has given Drama a stronger sense of identity and a base within the school that was much needed and much appreciated signalling the College’s commitment to the subject and the work it does.
CO-CURRICULAR PROFILE: TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING
Head
of Shooting, Steve Bates, talks us through a year of one of Bradfield’s most successful sports…
MICHAELMAS
A fast start to the year, College shots competed in seven matches and won the Hicks Suffield Jones Cup at RGS. We had teams in the British Schools Small Bore Association League (BSSRA); the A team won their division and the B team came second in theirs; Berkshire County Winter League; West Kent Rifle league Prince of Wales competition as well as individuals shooting in Junior and Ladies leagues for Berkshire in the Inter County league for 2024/25.
Of note Amelie (M) achieved “The possible” with a 100/100 shooting a card for Berkshire in the Intercounty Championships. The English Long-Range Challenge saw Will (H) and Alex (F) win the Senior pairs category and Cecilia (J) win the 14-year age group.
Additionally 23 Faulkner’s Pupils were introduced to Target Rifle shooting on the indoor range with a promising start for Max (LF) scoring 193/200 on his College team debut.
LENT
A popular term for shooting with 39 pupils choosing to shoot every Tuesday and Thursday on the college indoor range. Another 24 Faulkner pupils had chance to experience .22 shooting.
Six teams represented the College in the British Schools Smallbore RA Spring leagues, four teams in the Berkshire County Winter Leagues and seven firers have been representing Berkshire in both Junior and Ladies teams in the Intercounties Championships. The College placed second in the Staniforth Trophy and third CCRS Trophy, winning the Salver for the highest placed second team and we had a top end to the term by winning the Wiltshire Regimental Cup in the annual match against Marlborough College.
Individually four shots were selected for their countries in the National Smallbore match; Bertie (A) for England B team, Will (H) for Wales A team, Amelie (M) for England C team and Roanna (M) for England D team. Amelie (M) was the top shot in her team with 196/200.
SUMMER
Following the very successful Easter Training camp at Bisley attended by 16 pupils, the term started well by winning the 11 Brigade Cadet Championships; seven individual medal winners and Clara (J) was also the Individual Champion. We then took part in the Berkshire heat to shoot in the Astor Trophy at the Imperial placing third. The Berkshire County Championships was a true test of our shot’s marksmanship skills, Bizzy (J) won three individual Tyro Trophies and our Tyro team won the
the short-range tyro match. Roanna (M) was the College top scorer and crowned the College Champion for 2025. Roanna was then called up by the Berkshire team to shoot in the Inter County Championships; they were placed third at short and long range and overall and Roanna won three Bronze medals and was the Counties second top scorer.
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
The Bradfield College Shooting team competed in the CCF Schools Meeting 13-17 July. 17 cadets represented the college over the four days shooting at 300,500,600 yards. We very fortunate to have five Alumni coaches; Bella Cox (M 19-24), Christina Cuming (M 15-20), Keisha Farley (I 18-23), Matthew Keel (E 17-22) and Elliot Sewell (C 12-17) all of whom have shot for GB and their experience and knowledge was a huge benefit to the team.
The Ashburton was held at the end of the week and saw the Bradfield VIII finishing just shy of the hoped-for podium finish in fourth place. The VIII shot brilliantly at 500 yards and won the Green Howards bowl and 8 gold medals for this performance. The Cadet IV, Cadet pairs and Schools’ pair all won bronze medals. Roanna (M) shot in the Spencer Mellish also winning a bronze medal.
Eleven shooters then remained at Bisley for the 156th year of the Imperial Meeting, the World’s premier shooting competition which is dominated by the Target Rifle competition and culminates in the final of the King’s Prize. Brilliantly, every shooter appeared on at least one prize list which will see them receive a commemorative NRA Medal plus bars if earned. Of note, Roanna (M), Amelie (M) and Will (H) in the victorious UK Cadet team at short range and Amelie also qualified for and shot in HM The King’s Final.
THE TEMPERLEY TROPHY
A chance meeting on Stickledown range during the 2023 Imperial meeting led to some Bradfield College Shooting history being uncovered. Peter Temperley, London and Middlesex Rifle Club, told me that his Grandmother had presented a shooting trophy to the College in 1983 marking the centenary of his great great uncle, Captain Robert Temperley, the Bradfield College master who had formed the BCRVC (Bradfield College Rifle Volunteer Corps), a forerunner of the CCF and the current shooting team. Serendipitously, the ‘Temperley Trophy’ had been rediscovered at the College 6 weeks prior. Delighted that the trophy had resurfaced, it was decided to present it to the best shot in HM The King’s Prize. So, for 2025 Peter presented the Temperly Trophy to Amelie (M).
PARTNERSHIPS:
PUPIL LED MODEL UNITED NATIONS
Inspired by recent leaver Seb Pease (G 20-25), the Model United Nations (MUN) partnership between Bradfield, Kennet School in Thatcham and Theale Green School has embraced the spirit of collaboration…
By definition, a partnership is an agreement between organizations or people to work together. The Model United Nations partnership has given pupils a much richer and more meaningful experience than if the schools had participated in isolation, enabling them to engage with current affairs and enhance their skills for the future, perhaps even a career in diplomacy or politics.
Bradfield had already developed a successful partnership with Kennet through a shared vision to deliver an outstanding CCF provision. Kennet lacked the physical resources, space and equipment but had motivated pupils wanting join Bradfield’s unit to make it an exciting and dynamic offer. The CCF is thriving with a recent session seeing the pupils take on the Bradfield assault course working so well together an outsider would assume they were all from the same school.
In Year 10, Seb enjoyed the CCF sessions but his real passion was for diplomacy and international relations and he was keen to reinvigorate Bradfield’s Model United Nations (MUN). He managed to encourage between 50-100 pupils to participate each year with 10-20 really engaging and benefiting. He reached out to Kennet to see if they were interested in joining forces again and extended the invitation to Theale Green and other local schools.
MY AIM WAS TO DRIVE PARTICIPATION FURTHER SO THAT THERE WOULD BE A LARGE ENOUGH CORE GROUP ACROSS THE SCHOOLS THAT WAS ENTHUSIASTIC TO DISCUSS LOCAL, NATIONAL AND GLOBAL ISSUES
Seb Pease, (G 20-25)
Small classes at Theale Green School meant running a MUN on their own was not possible. Their pupils taking part are studying History and Politics and are considering these and Law as degree courses. One pupil we spoke to said he had a genuine interest in current affairs outside of his subject curriculum and it was difficult to access ways to engage with this but MUN gives him an opportunity to discover a greater insight into what is happening in the world.
Ben, a teacher at Kennet, described the benefit of the MUN initiative to his pupils; ‘the platform to interact with real world situations and not just from a Western centric viewpoint.
THE MODEL UNITED NATIONS PROGRAMME HAS GIVEN OUR PUPILS THE OPPORTUNITY TO DEVELOP IMPORTANT STRATEGIC SKILLS INCLUDING HOW TO THINK CRITICALLY AND FORMAT IDEAS. IT ISN’T SOMETHING YOU GET TO EXPERIENCE IN MANY STATE SCHOOLS
Ben, Kennet School Teacher
Students consider a wide range of topics when preparing for a MUN conference. These are topical and thought provoking as well as relevant, for example debating the use of AI in warfare. It is also fun; imagining you are Donald Trump, Xi Jinping or Giorgia Meloni faced with a global crisis and trying to negotiate with other world powers to achieve a resolution is exciting and gives participants a chance to explore issues from new perspectives and craft arguments both orally and in writing.
Earlier in the academic year, the joint delegation from the three schools attended their first conference in Oxford, but without Seb. “I took the hard decision not to go to the Oxford conference as spaces were limited due to us participating as a combined team as one country, not competing against each other as usually happens with partner schools when they get to events. I felt it was important for legacy reasons to give Lower 6th pupils the opportunity to ensure they got the experience to encourage and compel them to continue with the partnership in the Upper 6th. It was worth missing out as they did come back inspired by their experience and hungry to take up the challenge and lead next year.”
In fact, they have done better than waiting until next year, as at the end of the summer term at the MUN conference at Abingdon the partnership group represented not one but four countries: Russia, Haiti, Burkina Faso and Turkey.
Throughout the process pupils from all the schools have developed their understanding of international relations alongside each other, as well as making lots of new friends.
IT WAS SUCH A PLEASURE TO SEE THEIR WORK BEING RECOGNISED WITH MULTIPLE AWARD WINNERS. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO CONTINUING THE PARTNERSHIP IN THE NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR “ “ Jo Foad, Head of Partnerships
For Seb, now studying Economics, Public Policy and Maths at Duke University in the US, the ultimate goal would be to hold an MUN alumni and student event in the future to really cement the partnership and keep it going and to offer participants opportunities to discuss, debate and connect for many years to come in support of their own career development and those of the pupils who
follow them. If you are interested in participating in such a venture, please email bradfieldsociety@bradfieldcollege.org.uk
HORIZONS ‘BEYOND BRADFIELD’: A
TAILORED FIVE-YEAR PLAN
We believe that preparing students for life beyond school is just as important as their academic achievements. The ‘Beyond Bradfield’ journey is more than just a careers programme, it is a transformational experience that equips every pupil with the confidence, knowledge and skills to excel in their chosen path.
Spanning Years 9 to 13 this structured yet personalised programme, referred to as the Futures Programme, guides pupils through a progressive pathway of self-discovery, career exploration and employability skills development. Aligning with the Eight Gatsby Benchmarks of Good Career Guidance, it nurtures key
competencies such as self-awareness, innovation, creativity, marketing and networking, ensuring that students receive a world-class careers education that is both structured and adaptable to their individual needs.
‘Beyond Bradfield’ ensures that every pupil is equipped with the skills
necessary to make informed decisions about their future. Whether heading to university, securing an apprenticeship, or entering the workforce, the aim is for Bradfield pupils to finish school with a clear sense of direction and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing professional landscape.
FROM 2025 LEAVERS TO BRADFIELD SOCIETY NEW JOINERS
Leaving a place where you have made so many lasting memories is tough, but the 2025 Leavers went out in style…
RESULTS DAY CELEBRATION
For the first time this year we invited our leavers to return to Bradfield and share their results together…
momentum hosting 10/20/30 year reunions for year groups who are interested. We have started pencilling in a three year reunion for our recent leavers, so we look forward to seeing 2023 leavers next year! Fancy getting together with your year group – let us know and we can help you to plan your reunion.
Alumni Clubs. Popular clubs include double winners of the Cricketer Cup, the Waifs; the OB Golfing Society who have just won the Halford Hewitt tournament, the OB Football Club which has male and female teams, the OB shooting team and the OB running Club. Can’t see a club you like? You can always set one up…
Networking. In a tough and competitive job market, Bradfield doesn’t just give you academic results, it gives you access to a network of highly skilled and wellconnected alumni and parents across a wide range of professions to whom you can reach out to ask for advice, seek mentoring or work experience opportunities. Join one of our professional clubs and get talking! Look out for our networking events run in collaboration with Horizons.
Always a Bradfieldian. Stay connected; we have currently have 4500 alumni that we regularly communicate with about events and news of the College. It is great to be part of such a diverse and talented community, so if you need a hand with anything on the Bradfield Society site do reach out to the Bradfield Society team, we’re here to help. Email us on bradfieldsociety@bradfieldcollege.org.uk
Other perks…
Reduced Rate Private Member Club membership. If you like going out in London, we have close relationships with a few private members clubs who offer greatly reduced rates for their young members. To join a Club you usually need to be recommended and seconded by current members, but as an Associated School with some London Clubs, if you are a member of the Bradfield Society we can help with letters of recommendation from the Headmaster to fast-track your application.
As our 2025 Leavers move on, we wanted to share what they can look to going forward as active members of the Bradfield Society, as well as remind existing members of the benefits of being involved with our vibrant community…
Reunions. We have loved hosting so many Bradfield Society members as part of our 175th anniversary events programme and look forward to maintaining the
Reduced Rate Bradfield Sports Centre membership. Alumni aged 25 years and under receive a 50% discount on sports complex membership and can also take advantage of the Youth Rate for Golf at the Bradfield College Golf Course. Discounted membership is also available to Alumni, Current and Former Parents. Please email frontdesk@bradfieldcollege.org.uk for all membership enquiries.
BRADFIELD SOCIETY BENEFITS
‘MY BRADFIELD’ VIDEO SERIES
Released on Social Media since the start of January in honour of the College’s 175th anniversary, the ‘My Bradfield’ video series aimed to capture the spirit of Bradfield and Bradfieldians over the generations and asked them to recall their treasured memories…
Claudia Harrison (I 92-94), Actress talks about performing in the Greek Theatre Watch the video series on the Bradfield 175 webpage
‘... It is that moment of quiet when you have that many people listening to you, you feel like they are in the palm of your hand… when you are going into the gloaming of that early evening light and silence… the susurration of trees, the slight rustle and sound of birds, it is utterly magical, it is an extraordinary experience to have.’
Richard Benyon (H 74-78), Former Politician and Lord Chamberlain shares his love for the Pang and Bradfield’s grounds
‘One of my passions is the River Pang… just being down there on a summer’s evening, trying to catch a trout and having a laugh with your mates… it is one of the most beautiful campuses you could ever wish to study at and that part of it stays with me.’
Simon Cox (G 96-01), Royal Marines reflects on coming back to speak for Remembrance Day 2024
‘It’s nice to come back to Bradfield and to see that some things have changed but many things haven’t and if I look back and see some of the cadets marching, that was me 24 years ago… who knows if some of them will follow in my footsteps…’
Tim Dellor (G 89-94), Sports Commentator and Reporter refers to the 1994 Leavers’ reunion
‘It is so difficult to try and pick one treasured memory … the thing that springs to mind is the people. We had a big get together last summer when 60 of us, half the year, came back for drinks and a tour …. I think in some ways the College has moved on and is unrecognisable and in some ways is really similar and that is the joy of the place, you’ve still got that connection with the past, but it moves on and looks to the future.
Richard Benyon (H 74-78)
Claudia Harrison (I 92-94)
Simon Cox (G 96-01)
Tim Dellor (G 89-94)
Hattie Pearson (K 03-08), Radio Presenter and Ultra event competitor remembers her favourite teacher Theatre
‘Academically I really loved French, Madame Jones was my French teacher and I absolutely adored her. She was one of those teachers who had a lot of time for me… it makes you want to be more engaged in the subject and makes learning a lot easier… it sticks with you’
Attending Bradfield on a bursary, Hattie’s video bridged into the ‘My Bradfield Bursary’ series.
In support of our 175 Bursary campaign we also filmed a series of videos that focused on the stories of bursary holders past and present…
‘I performed in Romeo and Juliet, Persae and Godspell, I think Bradfield inspired me to be able to take on any role, all of those creative moments in the plays contributed to what I do now, going on stage, performing different types of music, expressing different emotions, dark to happy’
Katie (K 13-18), professional violinist
‘One of my roles in the JCR is as Charity Prefect and at the start of this year we brought in a ton’s worth of donations, it was good to see how much that will actually help people. Becoming a prefect is perhaps my greatest achievement which I didn’t know would be possible as I was new, but having shown what I could do in the last year I proved myself as someone worthy.’
Devan (G), Royal Springboard Scholar
‘Football was a big thing for me, as I stepped on the football pitch I realised that it was a really good level, really serious players. When I started my second year and Mr Chatwin told me that I was going to be the Captain I was happy. I know that naturally I can be a good leader, I can achieve big things with this team.’
Danny (D), HMC Scholar, Captain 1stXI Football, Boodles ISFA Cup 2025 winners
LOOK FORWARD TO… ‘MY BRADFIELD FAMILY’
Concluding the ‘My Bradfield’ series we have also interviewed a couple of families with multi-generational experience of Bradfield. The Saunders family represent five generations of Bradfieldians, featuring current pupil Lottie (K) and her brother Harry (A 18-23), current Housemaster and former radio presenter Jonny Saunders (F 88-93), his father Chris Saunders (SCR 64-80) and before them Jonny’s wife Kate’s father Robert Roe (E 37-42) and grandfather Robert Roe (1899 – 1904) also attended Bradfield.
Also look forward to the Young family video, featuring our former Warden Martin Young (C 59-64), his son Toby (F 89-94) and his wife Sarah, sister of John Tyndall (H 57-62), an active Bradfield sportsman whose legacy gift helped fund Bradfield’s Indoor Golf Performance Centre project that opened in 2018.
‘MY BRADFIELD BURSARY’ SERIES
Hattie Pearson (K 03-08)
Katie (K 13-18)
Devan (G)
Danny (D)
THE HERITAGE OF BRADFIELD 175
Bradfield’s 175th anniversary has given the College a fantastic opportunity to celebrate what makes Bradfield so special, a chance to reflect on its history and its beautiful geography as well as to open its doors to the local community…
BRADFIELD: A PICTORIAL CELEBRATION
Following the release of the latest History of Bradfield College, by Stuart Williams, English and Classics teacher Oli Gent was commissioned to produce ‘a pictorial history that reflected all aspects of Bradfield’s ‘Education for Life’ philosophy’, which gave rise to ‘Bradfield 175: A Celebration of Bradfield’s 175 year history’, a rich visual tapestry of contemporary and archival photographs that weaves together the present and past lives of the school in a volume lavishly illustrated with more than 200 photographs. The publication, collated with the support of College Archivist, Dr John Cardwell, was launched in Spring 2025. Oli talks about the project that he completed alongside his teaching obligations…
‘My brief was to review the College’s 175-year history and visually compare the aspects of Bradfield that have changed and those that haven’t. One of my initial challenges was to consider how this narrative might best be conveyed to create the framework for the archive and contemporary materials. In the end, the decision was a very natural one, the experience of being at school is a very cyclical, or rather more like a helix. You go through the same seasonal rotation with similar activities
happening at a similar time but that with each year, as you rise through the helix and progress higher in the system, your experience and perspective evolve.
WE REALISED THAT MANY OF THE THINGS THAT DEFINE A MONTH IN THE COLLEGE CALENDAR TODAY HAVE BEEN DEFINING IT FOR 175 YEARS
‘The publication starts in September with ‘New Beginnings’, comparing new arrivals from 1900 to those in 2024. It then progresses through the year in what will be a cycle that will be very familiar to Bradfieldians, thereby evoking memories of when they too had those experiences. The book includes images of sports and plays, as well as significant occasions such as Handshaking, Remembrance, Carols in Chapel, The Steeplechase, productions in the Greek Theatre and Commemoration.
I was careful to curate the ‘then and now’ comparisons throughout the publication, in the hope that each one might be a favourite page for a particular reader. True to my roots as a Classics teacher, my favourite page tracks a series of Greek Play productions, namely Agamemnon. Having just seen Agamemnon’s victorious return in the 1892 production, one now sees the same silhouette in 1949. Equally, the scene of Clytemnestra’s vengeance upon him plays out below, labrys in hand. She then stands overleaf in 1976, though now her shadowy cloak is discarded, and she parades in the full pleasure of her deed. Perhaps modernity has brought sardonic ease and liberality to the performance, but the bowed chorus, with their hollow eyes of judgement, span the century. For me, this set of four images, tracking the same play from 1892 to 1976 (page 230 for those interested), is the strand that runs throughout the book: that the more things change, the more they stay the same.
A BEAUTIFUL PUBLICATION THAT TRULY ENCAPSULATES THE BRADFIELD EXPERIENCE, IT IS THE PERFECT GIFT FOR A BRADFIELDIAN
OPENING BRADFIELD’S DOORS TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 175
ROLLS ROYCE ENTHUSIASTS CLUB CLASSIC CAR DAY: SUNDAY 25 JUNE
OPEN GARDENS FOR THE NATIONAL GARDENS SCHEME: SUNDAY 1 JUNE
The first time that the gardens had been opened for an event like this, the occasion saw over 400 visitors to Bradfield and raised £3403 for the National Garden beneficiary charities. Guests were encouraged to wander the beautiful borders in Quad, visit the elegant Sunken Garden designed by Jane FearnleyWhittingstall and were also invited to see inside both the College Chapel as well as the newly converted St Andrew’s Study Centre. Our amazing gardens’ team, led by Head Gardener Simon, did fantastic work preparing the gardens for the day and were on hand to talk visitors through the planting and provide helpful gardening tips.
EMPOWERING OUR MUSICAL COMMUNITY
HAYDN’S THE CREATION
Bradfield Society and College Choral Collaboration in the College’s 175th year
120 voices from the Bradfield community; Chapel choir, Bradfield College Choral Society, St Andrew’s Chamber Choir, Old Bradfieldians came back to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the founding of the College by performing The Creation. The performance was excellent but what was so special about the evening was the way that it brought together such a wide variety of people from across the College community.
In recent years we have tried to incorporate a major choral work into our yearly programme and I view these events as an essential piece in the vast puzzle of music education. Having performed Vivaldi’s Gloria, Rutter’s Gloria, and Fauré’s Requiem in recent years, this year’s Bradfield 175 celebration offered the perfect opportunity to scale up. What could be more fitting, in the 175th year since Bradfield’s founding, than The Creation by Joseph Haydn?
Composed in 1798, Joseph Haydn’s glorious masterpiece is a three-part oratorio that celebrates the creation of the world as depicted in Milton’s Paradise Lost and the Book of Genesis. The score, while rooted in tradition, is remarkably innovative. Inspired in part by Handel’s Messiah, a performance of which marked the 150th anniversary of the College, Haydn’s score has moments which verge on the cinematic, foreshadowing the programmatic music of the 19th century. Haydn’s oratorio is one of optimism and it is precisely this spirit of unbounded joy and celebration that has ensured The Creation’s enduring appeal, making it an ideal piece to mark this significant milestone in Bradfield’s history.
US THE BEAUTY OF THE ORDER OF GOD’S CREATION FOR US TO ENJOY “ “
IN A WORLD OF UNCERTAINTY HAYDN OFFERS
Rev Peter Hansell, College Chaplain
The performance on the 15 March was very much a community endeavor with the choir being a blend of Bradfieldians, past, present, and future, singing alongside College and St Andrew’s staff and singers from the wider
Bradfield Society, supported by an orchestra that includes several alumni and staff. The traditional four archangel soloists, were replaced by a variety of pupils, OBs, and teachers, George (E), India (K), Jecca (M), Theo (LC), Charlotte (I), Acacia (LK), Luke (A), Samuel (LA), Fede (F), Luca (H), Tom Klafkowski (G 16-21), Alex Jones (teacher) and Liz Croft (Director of Music, St Andrew’s).
I SANG THE ARIA FROM THE THIRD DAY WHEN GOD SEPARATED THE LANDS FROM THE SEA. HAYDN’S USE OF ORCHESTRATION AND WORD PAINTING HERE CREATES AN INCREDIBLY VIVID PICTURE
“
Luca (H)
Many thanks to Liz Croft for acting as ‘Chorus Master’ for the morning rehearsals and for preparing the St Andrew’s pupils so well, to Carol Hultmark, Head of Strings for bringing the orchestra together and Philippa Mo (J 91-93), violin teacher for leading the orchestra.
David Quinn, Director of Music
The story, by librettist April De Angilis, follows Lola, a student, who after being overwhelmed by the loss of the rainforest refused to go to school. Despite the protests of her parents and mockery from her peers, she persisted and eventually inspires schoolchildren around the world to take up her song of protest. The use of humour in Act I to distract the audience from the horrific events taking place in the work is a technique reminiscent of Cabaret which only makes the meaning of the piece even more vivid and hard hitting.
The story, by librettist April De Angilis, follows Lola, a student, who after being overwhelmed by the loss of the rainforest refused to go to school. Despite the protests of her parents and mockery from her peers, she persisted and eventually inspires schoolchildren around the world to take up her song of protest. The use of humour in Act I to distract the audience from the horrific events taking place in the work is a technique reminiscent of Cabaret which only makes the meaning of the piece even more vivid and hard hitting.
In February the Music Department took a few lucky pupils to experience the grandeur of a Glyndebourne Opera. We went to see Jonathon Dove’s Uprising, a new youth and community opera in which aims to rally against the older generation destroying the planet.
The opera itself was an outstanding spectacle of what a modern opera can offer audiences. Uprising brought both the close-up connection with a soloist whose voice draws us into the inner world of their character with the thrill of the massed chorus, the big orchestral sound and the epic storytelling.
The Richard Osborne Music Trips’ fund was established by John Lyon (C65-69) in 2020. John wished to show his gratitude to the Master who encouraged his enthusiasm for music during his time at Bradfield. The fund allows current Bradfieldians who love music to benefit from high quality musical experiences during their time at the College. If you are also interested in contributing towards this fund please contact our Philanthropy Lead, Kirsty Perkinson on email kperkinson@bradfieldcollege.org.uk
RICHARD OSBORNE MUSIC TRIPS 2025: GLYNDEBOURNE
Music Scholar, Luca (H)
BRADFIELD SOCIETY SPORTS EVENTS
Our annual sports events are a great way for all members of the Bradfield Society; Alumni, Friends, Parents and pupils to be involved, socialise and have fun…’
FOOTBALL
The OB Women’s Squad; top row left to right; Phoebe Kime (K 14-19), Sarah Thompson (M 12-14), Freya Taylor (I 20-23), Scarlett (K), Georgia Lines (M 13-15), Ruby Paish (K 22-24), Poppy Tulloch (M 19-24), bottom row: Olivia Lines (M 12-14), Rosie Caulfield, staff spouse, Merle Gibson (M 09-14) and Emily Stannard, Head Librarian. Absent from photo but played: Annie Berry (K 12-14). Poppy was unable to play due to the confines of her professional cricket contract with Southern Vipers.
The day dawned bright and crisp for the Spring Match participants. First up were the OB Women’s Football team. Sarah Thompson (M 12-14) did a great job rallying the girls to return for what proved to be an evenly matched game on Rectory 2:
‘On Saturday 15th March our Old Bradfieldian Women’s football team returned for our annual match against the Girls’ 1st XI. The OBs opened the scoring first, with a very early goal from Phoebe Kime (K 14-19). Despite the Girls’ 1st XI’s best attempts at getting a goal over the line, the halftime score was 1-0 to the alumni guests. Into the second half, this time it was the pupils who started the half well, as Ava (K) took a well-placed goal from the edge of the box. The girls
kept pushing on and managed to go a goal ahead thanks to top goal scorer Ava (K). Despite a couple of injuries, the OB women kept pushing for a leveller and managed to get one back through Georgia Lines (M 13-15). This meant the final score was 2-2 and would be ended on penalties. In the end the Girls’ 1st XI took the win with a gruelling 6-7 shoot-out. Special shout-outs should go to Scarlett (K), granddaughter of Michael Joy (A 53-58) who joined the OB side as first half goalie, Flo (J) who stepped up to play in goal for the 1st XI and Emma (M) and Lila (M), the only Upper Sixth playing who will sadly be leaving at the end of the year. Many thanks to all the OBs who travelled from far and wide to be a part of the day and we hope to see them join us again next time.’
CROSS-COUNTRY
The OB Runners returned to Bradfield to run the 5.46 mile ‘Bostelmann Trophy’ course as a ‘Club Run’ this year, in the absence of a current College running team. The first runner round the course was the sprightly recent leaver Blake Scaddan (G 19-24) closely followed by Simon Smedley (C 97-00) who both ran the route in just under 45 minutes.
FAMILY FOURSOMES GOLF
The most popular event in Bradfield Society calendar is our Stableford tournament which took place on Sunday 27 April in perfect golfing conditions.
16 pairs of parents, pupils and alumni registered to join us for an afternoon on the Bradfield College Golf Course. ‘Fun and friendly’ are key descriptions for this event yet perhaps ‘competitive’ should also be added as Mike Goodwin, tournament organiser, recognised this year as the most closely challenged match to date.
DEC 07
Current Parent
The Best Stableford Score as an individual was won by parent Matt Holloway and Best Stableford Score as a pair was won by Tom Liddell and his son Jack (D) with a score of 37. ‘Nearest the Pin’ and ‘Nearest the Pin in two’ were won by current students: Ollie (D) and Ed (LE) respectively.
THE DATE: WINTER BRADFIELD DAY 2025 SUNDAY
The OB Runners: left to right; Ned and Tom Fortune (F 91-96), Simon Smedley (C 97-00), Blake Scaddan (G 19-24), Jeremy Winter (F 67-72), Tony Henderson (E 79-84), Dean Makar (C 84-86) and Adam Robinson (G 11-16) IT WAS GREAT TO MEET OTHER PARENTS AND PUPILS AND PLAY ON A LIVELY COURSE
Huxham V: 5 mile Cross-Country competition
Huxham X: 10 mile Cross-Country competition
Annual College vs OB Shooting competition College vs OB Hockey competition
Thank you to everyone who supports our sports events, they are a brilliant way to bring like-minded people in the Society together for some friendly competition. We look forward to encouraging wider participation in the forthcoming year, check out and register for our sports events on the Bradfield Society Events page:
https://www.bradfieldsociety.org.uk/events
OB GOLFING SOCIETY VICTORIOUS
IN THE 2025 HALFORD HEWITT
The Halford Hewitt (HH) is the largest amateur golf event in which 64 public schools put forward ten players to compete on two prestigious golf courses on the Kent coast – Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club (RCP) in Deal and Royal St George’s Golf Club (RSG) in Sandwich for a four-day tournament each Spring.
First played in 1924, Bradfield first entered in 1927 and has been playing ever since, a total of 211 matches.
Bradfield have fielded an increasingly strong team and succeeded in reaching three previous finals in 1988, 2001 and 2014. The 2025 tournament played 10 – 13 April was finally their time.
Halford Hewitt Team Captain, Mike Jones (F 67-71) shares his tournament report…
IT HAS CERTAINLY BEEN A LONG TIME COMING, BUT WHAT A SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT BY ALL INVOLVED
‘It has been my job and privilege to captain and run our side for the last six years with the support of Simon Denehy (E 71-76). At the start of my tenure my primary and clear message to our squad of potential players was to both win the Hewitt and ensure that we all enjoyed the journey. 2025 marks the final year of my captaincy, so it is even more special that we have succeeded, our long-held dream has finally become a reality.
WE HAVE CREATED A WONDERFUL TEAM SPIRIT AND HAD A LOT OF FUN ALONG THE WAY
In preparation for the event this year we played trial matches against the Old Wellingtonians and the Old Wykehamists at Sunningdale; the following team was selected from the trial at RSG in early March;
• Angus Creighton (H 15-20) & Tom Watson (D 13-18),
• Jonny Rafferty (H 03-08) & Dan Torrance (C 01-04),
• Justin Foord (C 00-04) & Matt Ruffell (A 15-20)
• Jack Banton (G 11-16) & Jamie Gallacher (B 90-95),
• Aidan Benger (G 15-20) & Adam Williams (E 87-92),
• Jeremy Silver (H 88-93) Reserve
Royal St. George’s, Sandwich
Standing left to right –
Dan Torrance (C 01-04), Jamie Gallacher (B 90-95), Jonny Rafferty (H 03-08), Simon Denehy (E 71-76) assistant to Mike, Mike Jones ( F 67-71) non-playing Captain, Adam Williams (E 87-92), Tom Watson (D 13-18), Jeremy Silver (H 88-93) Reserve
Kneeling left to right
Jack Banton (G 11-16), Aidan Benger (G 15-20), Angus Creighton (H 15-20), Justin Foord (C 00-04), Matt Ruffell (A 15-20)
Objectively we had a very strong team of golfers, most off a handicap of 1 or better, who all got on well together, so we had high hopes. The above pairings were used for all our matches but we opted to change the order in which they played on a regular basis to both suit our own ambitions, as well as confuse the opposition!
Round 1 v Blundell’s Won 4/1
Round 2 v Whitgift Won 3/2
Round 3 v Wellington Won 3.5/1.5
Quarter Final v Cranleigh Won 4/1
Semi Final v Harrow Won 3.5/1.5
Final v Winchester Won 3.5/1.5
A special mention to Angus/Tom who did not lose any matches, maintaining their undefeated record since 2022. All players should however be commended for their commitment on and off the course, it was a fantastic team effort.
Jonny Rafferty (H 03-08) now takes over the Halford Hewitt Team Captaincy and we wish him the very best of luck in the tournament that takes place in the OBGS centenary year.
AND FINALLY…
The John Allday Legacy Fund
The late John Allday (E 53-57) contributed so much to enable our success and I know he would be so proud of us all. The John Allday Legacy Fund has been established from John’s kind legacy gift to the OB Golfing Society and will be used to help fund future Halford Hewitt campaigns.
Look forward to 2026 OB Golfing Society Centenary
From quiet beginnings to winning the Halford Hewitt win in our 99th year. We looking forward to celebrating our ‘significant’ anniversary with a special golf event at Bradfield on Sat 6th June and a Centenary Dinner currently pencilled in for Wed 11th Nov.
If you are interested in joining the OBGS visit the Club page or contact Club Secretary Andrew Shilton on andrew@janeshilton.co.uk
WIN-WIN VOLUNTEERING
FOR THE BRADFIELD CLUB
Current Parent, Christa Simpson-Wong, HR Director for Financial Services company, Mount Street, shares her experience of organising meaningful and effective team-building opportunities at The Bradfield Club in Peckham and the mutual benefit of ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’.
Christa first learned of the Bradfield Club from skimming through a copy of The Bradfieldian that she had received when still a prospective parent. The article, ‘The Bradfield Club: A Safe Haven for Peckham youngsters’, immediately grabbed her attention and resonated with her on several levels. Her heart recognised the challenge of growing up in a tough neighbourhood and wanted to do something for the kids whilst her head saw a brilliant opportunity for cost-effective team-building.
PERSONALLY I’VE SEEN THE BENEFIT OF VOLUNTEERING, IT’S A GREAT WAY TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY WITH THE ADDED BONUS OF ALSO BEING A TEAM-BUILDING OPPORTUNITY AT THE SAME TIME
She emailed the Bradfield Club sharing her idea and Club Manager, Daniel Campbell responded immediately; the initiative was born.
The jobs list included;
• Clearing rooms that had become filled with junk and repainting of internal spaces
• Clearing a garden area that had become overrun with rubbish and weeds, allowing the kids to make best use of their outside space
Some people had never picked up a paintbrush in their life ‘and it showed’ Christa says with a wry smile but Dan was very generous with his praise
THE VOLUNTEERS DID A GREAT JOB AND THERE WAS A REAL ‘FEEL-GOOD FACTOR’ AROUND EVERYONE’S EFFORTS
“
Daniel Campbell
Christa planned the volunteering initiative to aid team cohesion in the widest possible sense. She saw that even in her relatively small institution siloed working meant that people didn’t always know each other. Christa deliberately built volunteer groups from people who worked in opposite corners of the building, and the result was better than she could have imagined.
I KNOW HOW SPENDING A COUPLE OF DAYS WITH SOMEONE WHO PREVIOUSLY YOU JUST MIGHT KNOW TO SAY HELLO CAN BREAK BARRIERS DOWN AND PAVE THE WAY TO A MORE COHESIVE ORGANISATION
“ “ “
It took the garden team a week to clear the outside space. The CEO was on this team and Christa received feedback that he really ‘dug in’, forgive the pun. Even though he is good at being visible in the office and visiting people at their desks, the team enjoyed the opportunity to properly get to know him. Of the CEO, they said that he worked harder than anyone else, something the team respected and he loved the experience of being ‘on the ground’.
The volunteer work also provided many benefits to the Club. Serendipitously Dan received a call from a group that supports children with learning disabilities interested in hiring an outside learning space. Due to the work of the volunteers, Dan was able to rent the newly cleared garden to them, great for those children and also a great revenue generator for The Bradfield Club.
‘The timing of the initiative was perfect, Dan would not have been able to rent the space without the work of the Mount Street volunteers’
The DIY jobs also provided a level of interaction with the Bradfield Club attendees and insight initiatives were born. Their Information Security Officer has subsequently visited The Club separately to do a pitch on social media safety and how to be aware of scams.
Christa also recognises that financial services is such a massive employer in the UK, yet some kids might immediately disregard it as an option because of their background. The Mount Street team were keen to break down those perceived barriers.
I DON’T LIKE STEREOTYPING. SOME PEOPLE COULD SAY THAT I COME FROM A TOUGH, DISADVANTAGED AREA, BUT I DON’T SEE IT THAT WAY. IT’S ABOUT KNOWLEDGE AND HOW YOU DECIDE TO DEAL WITH THE HAND THAT YOU ARE DEALT
Mount Street also made an offer of work experience to members of The Bradfield Club which was taken up by Shaunie. Shaunie shadowed the Mount Street Info
Security team for a few days in March and has independently been accepted by the Met Police, subject to physical training tests, where she hopes to take up a role in Cyber Security which is excellent news.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE INVOLVED?
Following this initiative Christa also became a Trustee for The Bradfield Club in March. The Club are looking for trustees or for those who would not like full trustee obligations, committee members, with property experience (eg chartered surveyor) and law (charities or property preferred).
If you are interested in volunteering, becoming a Trustee or committee member, please reach out to the Club Manager, Dan Campbell on daniel.campbell@thebradfieldclub.org.uk
BRADFIELD COMMERCIAL LIMITED:
POWERING
EXCELLENCE
THROUGH ENTERPRISE
AtBradfield we deliver exceptional education supported by outstanding facilities. Bradfield Commercial Limited (BCL) underpins this by generating vital revenue to enhance the pupil experience, strengthen infrastructure, and keep fees competitive. In this article, Commercial Director Kester Russell outlines how BCL’s ventures benefit the whole community and shares new developments, including the growth of Bradfield’s cricket programme.
OUR MODUS OPERANDI
BCL exists to strengthen Bradfield’s financial foundations while enhancing the experiences of pupils, staff and the wider community, here’s how;
1. Subsidising Costs
Running premier facilities like the Sports Complex, Tennis Centre, and Golf Course comes at a significant cost. BCL’s revenue helps offset these expenses, allowing the College to redirect charitable funds towards other vital projects, from bursaries to campus improvements
2. Enhancing Offerings
Every pound of profit generated by BCL is covenanted back to the Charity, helping to fund upgrades such as the refurbished Sports Complex Gym and cutting-edge ecofriendly heating systems. These investments ensure our facilities remain among the best in independent education
3. Ensuring Sustainability
By diversifying income streams through memberships, lettings, and partnerships, BCL reduces reliance on school fees and thereby helps safeguard Bradfield’s financial future
In 2024 – 25, BCL generated nearly £4.5 million in revenue, with £3.4 million coming from external commercial activities, funding essential to covering much of the annual operating cost of the facilities.
KEY AREAS OF BCL BUSINESS
SPORTS COMPLEX: A HUB OF EXCELLENCE
The Bradfield Sports Complex is a cornerstone of school and community life which offers
• A state-of-the-art Fitness Suite with Technogym equipment
• A 25m six-lane swimming pool, spinning room and wellness studio
• A double-sized sports hall and two championshipstandard squash courts
Recent Investments:
• £1 million sustainability upgrade, replacing oil boilers with 90% cleaner HVO systems, installing solar panels, and introducing air-source heat pumps
• A full gym refurbishment, enhancing training facilities for pupils and members alike
Exciting Expansion:
From September 2025, BCL will take over management of the St Andrew’s, Berkshire sports facilities, extending our commercial expertise to our Bradfield Group prep school.
TENNIS CENTRE: SERVING SUCCESS
Bradfield’s Tennis Centre boasts
• Three indoor Plexipave courts and six outdoor clay courts (all floodlit)
• A thriving Junior Academy, coaching 300+ children weekly—from beginners to county-level players
• Competitive club teams and high-profile tournaments
This dual focus on school tennis and commercial membership ensures the facility remains a vibrant asset for pupils and the local community.
LETTINGS & EVENTS: MAXIMISING OUR SPACES
BCL’s lettings team ensures our stunning campus is utilised year-round, hosting
• International Programmes; nearly 30,000 bed nights annually for students worldwide, including courses like the BEO Masters
• Exclusive Events in our historic venues
• Corporate Partnerships; a growing portfolio, including FA training camps and corporate meetings in the stunning St Andrew’s Study Centre
These initiatives not only generate income but also showcase Bradfield’s facilities to a global audience.
RETAIL: KITTING OUT BRADFIELD
The College Shop supplies pupils and staff with everything from uniforms to sports gear. This coming year, we’re expanding our reach by taking on the shop at St Andrew’s Berkshire, streamlining retail operations across the group.
GOLF CLUB: A COURSE FOR THE FUTURE
While golf faces national membership declines, Bradfield’s course is bucking the trend with
• A focus on junior participation, particularly parentchild memberships
• Indoor training facilities for year-round coaching
A NEW FRONTIER: COMMERCIAL CRICKET
BCL is transforming cricket at Bradfield, creating a high-performance pathway for pupils and a new revenue stream through the England Prep Schools Cricket Association (EPSCA) chaired by Rob Ferley with former England star, Geraint Jones, as President.
High-Performance Cricket for Bradfield Pupils includes
• Elite Coaching: BCL now employs dedicated cricket coaches on behalf of the College, ensuring pupils receive professional-standard training
• 1-to-1 Sessions: Paid coaching for internal and external players already covers the team’s annual costs
• Indoor Cricket Centre: Plans for an 8-lane indoor facility promise year-round training, with a five-year return on investment
Outreach & Growth plans include EPSCA Programmes and events like the Bradfield Cricket Schools’ Festival. These initiatives not only elevate Bradfield’s sporting profile but also create a pipeline for future pupils, ensuring cricket remains a cornerstone of school life.
BCL’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE
BCL’s success underpins Bradfield’s success. By blending commercial innovation with educational values, we ensure the College remains a leader in sport, facilities and holistic education.
As we look ahead, projects like the St Andrew’s sports expansion, Padel courts and the Cricket Centre promise even greater opportunities. Every commercial venture whether a tennis lesson, a summer lettings booking or a golf membership helps fund the Bradfield experience we all cherish.
Stay up to date with BCL latest developments, visit our new website; www.bradfieldcommercial.co.uk
CAMPUS-XR: INNOVATION IN ACTION
Afounding partner and key supporter of Campus-XR, Bradfield continues to champion cutting-edge educational tools that redefine how students engage with the world around them, both real and virtual.
Now fully launched and already in use across an expanding number of UK schools, Campus-XR is a groundbreaking Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform that brings the curriculum to life. This revolutionary tool empowers students to explore 3D environments, create their own artefacts and spaces and even converse with AI-powered versions of famous historical figures such as Shakespeare, Henry VIII and JFK.
CAMPUS-XR IS MORE THAN A TECH TOOL; IT’S A COMPLETE REIMAGINING OF HOW YOUNG PEOPLE LEARN, INTERACT AND ARE INSPIRED “ “
Since its formal launch into the education sector earlier this year, the response has been exceptional. Several schools are already signed up and using the platform in classrooms and by the end of 2025, Campus-XR is expected to be in use at over 30 UK schools.
The platform made a notable impact at the BETT Show in London this January, where Campus-XR had its own stand as well as supporting Meta at theirs. That event generated over 270 registrations of interest, including 80 UK schools requesting formal follow-up. Interest has also been strong internationally, particularly from the Middle East, and by the time of this publication Campus-XR expects to welcome its first international customers based in Dubai.
Bradfield’s leadership in this space is underscored by Campus-XR’s growing influence in the EdTech community. The company is working directly with Meta to promote VR in education and has formed a strategic partnership with Academia, a major education reseller,
helping to introduce the platform to schools across the country. Earlier in the summer, Campus-XR hosted training sessions at Meta’s London HQ for both Meta and Academia staff, equipping them to deliver live demos to schools.
Campus-XR was a featured exhibitor at Meta’s ‘Extended Reality in Education’ event in London in May, where it was one of just two companies chosen to present to 150 leading UK schools. The company also joined Meta at its European Education Summit and travelled to Austin, Texas, for SXSW’s EdTech showcase in the spring, affirming its place on the international stage.
While Campus-XR is now forging its own path as an independent venture, the College remains a proud originator and incubator of its core vision. Following a successful investment round in the spring, which was supported by many from within the Bradfield community, a new developer has joined the team to help build Campus-XR’s first Business-to-Consumer (B2C) product, opening exciting possibilities beyond the school environment.
What truly sets Campus-XR apart is its focus on inclusive and personalised learning. The immersive nature of VR, combined with the adaptability of AI, makes this a gamechanging tool for all learners. By engaging the primary senses; sight, hearing and touch, VR draws students into a safe, stimulating space where they can learn through exploration, repetition and play. The AI component tailors the experience to individual preferences and ability levels, promoting both comfort and academic stretch without overwhelming the student.
Campus-XR includes 10 immersive learning environments, each designed to spark curiosity and creativity.
All these environments are enhanced by a powerful web portal, where teachers can build custom lessons, quizzes, and VR content. Data is stored safely across user profiles, tracking progress, preferences and achievements as well as safeguarding indicators to ensure responsible use.
For parents and alumni of Bradfield College, Campus-XR stands as a shining example of how the College continues to lead from the front, championing innovation, nurturing creativity and reshaping education for future generations. With its impressive momentum and vision for the future, Campus-XR is set not just to follow trends but to shape them.
AND FINALLY…
BRADFIELD WAIFS WIN OVER 50S CRICKETER CUP AGAIN
Bradfield Waifs showed their mastery of cricket by once again winning the Over 50s Cricketer Cup at Bradfield on Sunday 27 July 2025, repeating their victory in the inaugural match versus the Oundle Rovers in 2024.
Uppingham Rovers, their opponents this year, succeeded in making 68 all out in 22 overs, a total the Waifs overtook in 13 overs for the loss of just one wicket. Greg Nice (E 81-86) took 3-21 and Stuart Seymour (F 87-92) made 33 not out to steer them home under the captaincy of Hampshire’s Will Kendall (A 87-92).
Congratulations to all players.
CREATING A SUSTAINABLE BRADFIELDIAN MAGAZINE
Many thanks to those who responded to the ‘Bradfieldian: Have your say’ survey sent out with the last edition of the Bradfieldian. One of the topics raised was the sustainability of the publication so we thought that we would share what we are doing to ensure that The Bradfieldian is as sustainable as possible.
This edition of the Bradfieldian has been printed by the Lavenham Press, based in Suffolk, a forward-thinking print house that holds ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems certification. The Bradfieldian is printed using environmentally friendly vegetable oil-based ink on FSC® accredited and carbon balanced paper and the magazine
packing is a compostable poly-wrap, consisting mainly of potato and maize starch. There is no polythene in it, so no microplastics are left behind in the soil or watercourse, meaning it is fully compostable in your household compost heap.
In addition to improved materials, the Lavenham recycles 98% of everything they use and unlike other print providers who outsource elements of the process to third party suppliers, the Bradfieldian publication is printed and mailed to you from a single site, helping to cut down huge amounts of waste and emissions that would be created from transportation between the multiple production sites.
Thank you for your feedback and helping to create a more sustainable magazine.
BRADFIELD 175 COLLECTION
A carefully curated selection of Bradfield products available to purchase from the Bradfield Society online shop via the QR code
Bradfield Gin
Limited edition Bradfield Gin, infused with honey from Bradfield’s own bee hives and locally sourced botanicals. Perfect with ice and a slice.
Bradfield: A Pictorial Celebration
A collation of archive and contemporary images of Bradfield through the seasons. A beautiful addition to your coffee table or bookshelf.
College History
Most recently written history of the College, with a fresh take on the Founder’s intentions and including the last 50 years of development. An enlightening read.
Bradfield Print
A playful interpretation of the College’s Campus painted by widely collected landscape artist David Kirk. A stunning feature for your wall or as a gift.
