Inside Bredon March 2023

InsideBredon

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Welcome from the Headmaster

Welcome to our March edition of Inside Bredon. Over the following pages, we look back at the Michaelmas Term highlights. The pages are filled with all the activities our pupils have enjoyed and taken part in; from Science in our fantastic new labs, incredible artwork, sporting achievements, CCF to school life in general.

A particular highlight for me has to be our Christmas celebrations and service at Tewkesbury Abbey. Our Choir filled the Abbey with their wonderful voices and afterwards at Pull Court as we gathered around the magnificent Christmas tree. Our Fireworks evening is one of our most spectacular key family events and it was wonderful to see so many families join us on the night. Events that bring us all together as a community are so important and the way our pupils always

rise to the occasion when called upon never ceases to impress me.

We have so much to be thankful for as our pupils continue to benefit from the endless opportunities Bredon has to offer. The development of our site is continually improving with many new projects in the development stages and although a little too early to talk about, we will continue at pace to ensure our School continues to look to the future and invest in our offer.

As we are now at the end of the Lent Term and a much needed break is upon us, I hope that you all enjoy the Easter holidays. We have one of the busiest terms ahead that will be filled with new and exciting opportunities and hopefully some very overdue sunshine!

Enjoy Easter

Please take a moment to enjoy this edition of Inside Bredon. We look forward to welcoming you all back on Tuesday 25th April 2023.

Events Fireworks and Christmas Junior School Adventures and more Vocational Roundup Sports and House News

Professional Roundup HSBC and CCF Academic Roundup Science, Art and Results

Pupils returning to school after the summer were delighted to discover the brand new Science Hub. Our science lessons have hit new heights following this significant investment to completely redevelop four laboratories in our Science Department. The state of the art classrooms offer an exceptional space for our pupils to learn and enable us to tailor our teaching methods to individual pupils' needs.

The laboratories allow for group work alongside practical and theory sessions.

Teachers can adapt lessons to pupils' learning styles, from incorporating neon lights through to creating a crime scene in biology.

The dedicated Sixth Form laboratory allows pupils the opportunity to work more independently with supervision.

SCIENCE HUB

Following on from the creativity of last term, The Art Department has been busy creating some exceptional pieces of art.

Year 7 pupils are working on a large project exploring the work of Van Gogh and looking in detail at the Starry Skies Artwork.

Every pupil has recreated a section of Starry Skies, using a variety of mediums. The project will culminate in a large piece of art work which we look forward to seeing next term

RESULTS

Exam results for the academic year ending July 2022 were very strong. At Level 3 pupils achieved 100% pass rate in their A Levels, with 75% achieving A to C grade. BTEC and NCFE pupils at Level 3 also achieved 100% pass rates.

At Level 2 61% of GCSE pupils achieved at least a grade 4 or above. All Level 2 BTEC pupils achieved at least a pass, and Level 2 NCFE Uniformed Public Services achieved at least a Merit Grade.

In CISCO Level 2, 100% of pupils passed IT Essentials and PNIE.

H S B C

As well as arranging for some of our students to visit the HSBC Headquarters in Birmingham earlier in the summer. In September HSBC hosted a workshop for pupils studying towards Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Business Studies and CISCO.

The workshop explored the unique skills and talents that the pupils felt they had to offer to an employer, as well as exploring possible barriers that they may face when trying to enter the workplace, such as an over-reliance on written application forms. The pupils split into small groups and worked with a HSBC representative to suggest simple adjustments that employers could consider to 'level up' the application and recruitment process for neurodiverse individuals.

Alongside Elliott Morrison, Senior Manager and Co-Neurodiversity Lead, was Peter McIntyre, Managing Director of HSBC Commercial Banking, their Early Careers Lead, Joanne Reynolds and People Engagement Manager, Lisa Swain. The workshop also included a session on interview skills and how to present the best version of yourself at an interview.

We are so very grateful to the team at HSBC for giving their time so generously. It was an inspirational and uplifting session.

Achievements

Oscar H has gained a BT Apprenticeship and we look forward to hearing about his journey in the future

Georgie M has passed out of HMS Raleigh into the Royal Navy

Stephen R has completed the basic rock climbing course at Capel Curig in North Wales

Georgie W, who finished Bredon Year 13 in July, has just achieved his full Duke of Edinburgh Gold award thanks to Bredon

CCF

Field Day

The new term began with a Multi Activity Field Day, held on the school grounds.

Cadets took part in a number of activities including an Air Rifle Qualification shoot where cadets achieved Marksman / First Class and Pass Badges. An Observation Stand was run by one of our parents, Mr Gilks, and a Close Quarter Battle Stand run by WO2 Jason Gwynne from Cheltenham College.

The cadets used paintball weapons to take out enemy targets that they came in contact with.

A Laser Tag Death Match and Capture the Flag war took place in the woods with plenty of energy and daring by most cadets. The day was enjoyed by all.

School Fireworks Car parking

A number of Cadets helped at the school Fireworks Bonfire with parking of cars and ensuring that spectators were escorted to the entertainment area. Cadets also helped out with numerous tasks throughout the event.

School Remembrance Service

The CCF Contingent led the Schools Remembrance Parade at the allotted time of 1100hrs. The Contingents new flags were used for the first time and lowered in respect for the fallen.

On 13th November thirty Cadets attended the Remembrance Parade in Tewkesbury. The cadets were part of a big parade along with many other organisations. The cadets were exemplary throughout the marching, the church service and laying of wreaths. Their efforts were rewarded by being presented with this year’s 'Best on Parade Cadet Unit' and received the Lord Major of Tewkesbury Shield.

Inter House Drill Competition

This year’s House Drill Competition was held at Pull Court and fought over by the three Houses. Two teams from the house were represented and all teams were inspected prior to their Foot Drill being scored. The scores were very close but the overall winner of the Drill Competition was Jarrett House.

Steeplechase

On 28th September there was a sense of excitement as the annual Steeplechase competition was held.

The event saw pupils racing over the tarmac, into the woods towards the meadow. All pupils did their very best, with some pupils achieving personal bests, and new records.

The Junior pupils gave all of their efforts, with some great performances. Raphy P set the early pace and he was cheered on by over two hundred and fifty pupils and staff. Despite a great effort by William W, Raphy won the race and set a new record. In the girl's race, there were three pupils who competed for first place. With only a piece of paper between Rosie B, Charlotte H and Genevieve R the race was extremely close, however there could only be one winner: Rosie B.

The day continued with close competition and personal bests. Highlights of the day included Erin K who set her second record. In the Year 8-9 race Theo H and Max I kept exchanging places, with Max taking first place with a last minute surge of speed. Flo R, guesting in the race showed real quality to almost match the boys.

In the final race of the day eighty six pupils were set free to scour the very perimeter of Bredon School, Maddox C and Noah H had nothing separating them throughout the whole course. It came down to a Farm Lane finish once again. Maddox showed his courage and determination from the Sports Day and managed to gain a lead on the impressive Noah H which he held until the finish. Both boys finished inside thirteen minutes and Maddox broke the record for the course.

In the girl's race Lucy B was a convincing winner. Well done to all who competed and gave their very best efforts.

Race 1

Raphy P

William W

Hector B

Alberto M

Rosie B

Charlotte H

Oscar B

Race 3

Max I

Theo H

Flo R

Barney R

Freddie S

Bryn F

Toby H

Race 2

Finn F

Max C

Erin K

Oliver G

Annabelle W

Jude S

Toby G

Race 3

Maddox C

Noah H

Jack L

Hugo C

Max L

Dillon S

Salvador A

Cross Country

Article by Director of Sport, David Hughes

Working with the race organiser, five time Olympian and multiple world medalist in sprint canoeing, Andy Train we adapted the route from previous years to keep our runners interested. The first part of the race saw the group work their way up the hill to Pull Court. This was followed by a sharp turn through the trees, before heading back down the hill adjacent to the main drive. They then entered the woods near Queenhill gate and from here they worked their way through the woods on the mountain bike tracks that Jenny Parkes has established and maintained for the enjoyment of our pupils within games sessions. After around a kilometre of twists and turns in the woods, the route reappeared at the swimming pool before a sprint finish along the pool boundary to the finish line located at Pull Court.

The event was only possible due to the support of our sixth form pupils who are currently studying for their Level 3 NCFE Sport qualification. Between them they took on roles of supporting arrangements for the car park, greeting our visitors, walking pupils around the course prior to the races, marshalling the event, helping with scoring and organising the presentation. They all took on their tasks with impressive commitment, allowing our guests to focus on enjoying their running.

Following the racing, a presentation was held in front of Pull Court and Mr Train invited the top three runners from each race up to the podium to collect their medals and to receive their applause. Representatives from Bredon Hancocks, Sedgeberrow, Ashton and Overbury first schools shared the individual accolades.

Following some deliberation regarding the team results, a recount was required before the final results could be revealed. Mr Train then delivered the following team medals around the schools so that the pupils involved could receive their medals and trophies prior to the end of the school day.

Year

Bredon Hancocks

Cropthorne

Sedgeberrow

Year 4 Girls Overbury

Year 5 Boys Ashton

Bredon Hancocks Overbury

Year 5 Girls Ashton

Bredon Hancocks

Sedgeberrow

Bredon Hancocks

Cropthorne

Cropthorne Broadway Eckington Overbury

4 Boys

Sports Roundup

Article by Director of Sport, David Hughes

As we started the Michaelmas term our revised timetable meant that pupils across the senior school now had two games sessions each week allowing time for both training and competing in fixtures. We have also made adaptations to the age categories in which we compete meaning that we are now combining age groups in both hockey and rugby teams at U11, U13, U15 and U18.

Our hockey provision benefitted from the expertise of our new coach Lauren as part of a collaboration with the RO Coaching. Lauren took responsibility for coaching the U15's team in games sessions as well as adding an additional extra-curricular club that was open to both girls and boys after school on Tuesdays. Highlights from the season included all of our U13's representing their school on a Saturday with their away fixture at Stonar. Our U15's enjoyed tough fixtures against RGS Worcester, RGS Dodderhill and Kingham Hill School early in the season. As they developed through the season they went on to earn a well deserved draw with RGS Worcester before finishing their season with a win against Wycliffe School. Our U18 team worked hard on their hockey throughout the term and enjoyed competitive fixtures with both Wycliife and Kingham Hill. Rhainnon K captained the squad with distinction on both occasions demonstrating impressive leadership skills.

In rugby our U13 team had a busy season nine fixtures in the term. Highlights of their season included a strong performance against Kings Worcesters 'B' team that earned them the opportunity of a rematch against Kings Worcester 'A'. In this game they stepped up against their toughest opponents yet and showed each other just what they could achieve when they worked together as a team with some outstanding defensive efforts. Their final game of the season was against a previously undefeated team from Sibford and Dean Ryan visited the school to help prepare them for this fixture. This game was a triumph with the sidelines packed with supporters. Christiaan M, Oliver M and Seb W led their team to a victory that will live long in the memory. Our U15 team also enjoyed a successful season that culminated with a triangular fixture with both Kingham Hill and Sibford School in horrific conditions. That afternoon Bredon came away as victors in both of these games with Rhys E, Ezra F, Elliot B and Elliot G all impressing. Our U18 side bounced back from early season defeats against Bromsgrove School's 3rd XV and Bedstone College before going on a strong run earning wins against Sibford, St Edwards Cheltenham and Bedstone College in the return fixture. Elliot M, Rollo L and Percy T all enjoyed dominant performances throughout the season.

Interhouse Competitions Results

Junior School

The Michaelmas term is always a busy one in Junior School with the return to classrooms and the preparation for the Junior School Production.

We are pleased to have signed up to the Literacy Curriculum which offers a complete, book-based approach to the teaching of primary English. Pupils have been taken on ‘The Polar Express’ and discovered messages washed up in bottles.

Junior School pupils also have had the opportunity to explore the grounds during Forest School, particular highlights were practicising the Cobra knot and harvesting blackberries which were then made into delicious sandwiches offering cross-curricular learning opportunities. Anti bullying week saw Mr Phillips and pupils from the Upper Sixth helping us with graffiti art to spread messages promoting goodwill. This was the perfect end to our Reach Out project in Art.

Trips this term have included watching Snow White at The Roses Theatre and visiting the Black Country Museum. The Black Country Museum complimented our studies on the Victorians, Edwardians and Industrial Revolution. Pupils loved exploring the shops, seeing industry on display and a trip on the Antique Bus.

We are extremely proud of the efforts made by all pupils in preparation for our production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Camelot and the production has been the highlight of the school year so far.

'We were all given a mysterious ticket.... As we walked through the doors, we had to give our tickets to the staff and we were amazed to find ourselves onboard the Polar Express. In the dim light, onboard the train, Mrs L. Dickson read us the ‘The Night before Christmas’.... it was a really fun morning and it was an interesting English lesson!"

Photo: Reach Out Graffitti

Boarding

In the first term of the academic year, we have worked towards enhancing life skills for our older boarding students. We have witnessed our Sixth Formers embracing more responsibility for areas such as their washing and this has been a great learning curve which will now continue as they expand their life skills. We have also welcomed two new members to the boarding team as Assistant House parents this term. We have had numerous weekend pursuits including shopping trips, escape rooms, laser tag, bowling, cinema (to name but a few activities). As I write I am planning ahead for the next term's activities.

Building the boarding community and improving the offer is top of our priorities and my weekly meetings with the Headmaster allow me to ensure the continued development of boarding is at the forefront of his mind. The continued popularity of boarding has been evident this term with the large number of guests and prospective parents we have had visit.

We are always looking forward to improving the weekday evenings which involves the in-house gym and multiple sport offerings, Kitch and Kaboodle, Art and of course our ever popular debating evenings where students can really express views and listen to others opinions.

We continue to engage all our boarders in surveys and meetings and we have definitely seen the impact of the boarding voice improve our surroundings. Another great term in boarding where friendships have formed, confidence has grown and fun had by all.

Fireworks Night

Fireworks Night is always a much anticipated event at Bredon School, and this years event was no different. Pupils, parents, staff and members of the local Bushley community came together in November for our annual fireworks evening. Our outstanding catering team served delicious pumpkin soup and hot dogs to all that attended. Our pupils also sold glow sticks, light up torches and apple juice to everyone who attended the events.

Sixth Form Leadership Camp

Mariana M.

In my second week of school as a new student at Bredon, I attended the Sixth Form leadership camp outside school for four days. Admittedly, I was quite nervous as I was unsure what lay ahead and I didn't yet have many friends. After being on the bus for about an hour, we arrived at the Wilderness Centre in the Forest of Dean. The house in which we were going to be staying was an impressive old estate house. There was even a ‘haunted’ chapel in the grounds!

The first day was nice and easy, we had a briefing, then we went to our rooms and unpacked. Before the first activity we explored the grounds. The setting was lovely, there was a shooting range, forest area and lots of animals including horses, cows and dogs.

The activities that we got involved in included tunnelling, kayaking, climbing, crate stacking, search and rescue, first aid and shooting. For crate stacking, we had to split into teams of three. Team One kept Team Two safe with the ropes and climbing gear, whilst Team Two built a really high tower of unstable crates given to them by Team Three. We had to work in teams and come together as one. I enjoyed them very much, but I particularly liked shooting because it gives me a great sense of joy. Kayaking was a real challenge for me; I'm not a huge fan of getting unnecessarily wet! However I would love to go back and do it all over again.

Overall, I had a fantastic time at the leadership camp in the Forest of Dean, and I made some really good friends along the way.

Christmas

What a wonderful festive few weeks we had at school. The festivities began with our Christmas tree entering Pull Court by tractor, and bringing with it the excitement of the holidays!

We started the Christmas joy with our 12 Days of giving. We were overwhelmed with donations for the Tewkesbury foodbank and showed our pupils the real meaning of Christmas.

Bredon was also lucky enough to have a snow day and looked spectacular covered in snow. The boarders enjoyed snow fights and making snow angels with their friends.

The Junior School jumped on the Polar Express that had been built in their classroom, which took them on a journey of Maths in the Arctic and Science in the North Pole.

Catering provided an exquisite annual Christmas lunch, stomachs were full, laughter was had, and everyone really enjoyed themselves.

The end of the Michaelmas term soon came and our beautiful Carol Service was held at Tewkesbury Abbey. Bredon's Choir was fantastic filling the Abbey with wonderful carols. Family and friends came back to Pull Court to gather around the christmas tree with mulled wine and mince pies and left feeling happy and ready for their christmas break.

FESTIVE SPIRIT

Miss Eaton

Deputy Head (Safeguarding)

Miss Eaton is an experienced Safeguarding Lead who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role.

Miss Eaton joined Bredon School in 2015 after working as a Pastoral, Behaviour and Safeguarding Lead in a variety of schools.

Miss Eaton thoroughly enjoys working alongside children, young people, parents and staff, and is passionate about raising standards and striving for excellence. She wants our students to continue to feel safe and cared for in an environment where they feel valued, respected, listened to, understood, and have a sense of purpose and belonging. This will be accomplished by fostering a positive culture that is inclusive, supportive, compassionate and kind, as well as instilling the importance of responsibility.

Away from school Miss Eaton enjoys time outdoors; cycling, paddle boarding, hill walking and running.

Meet the staff in their new roles SPOTLIGHT

Mr Richardson Deputy Head (Co-curriculum)

Mr Richardson joined Bredon in September 2021 as the Housemaster of Thomas House. After studying Geography and Physical Education at the University of Leeds he took up a position as a Geography Teacher at Sedbergh School in Cumbria.

Mr Richardson stayed in employment at Sedbergh for a further 20 years working in roles as Lead Internal Verifier & Head of Department in BTEC (covering Sport & Exercise Science, Business and Agriculture), Master in Charge of Running & Athletics, whilst working as a coach in Strength and Conditioning, Rugby, Football and Triathlon. He’s even coached wrestling. Mr Richardson also worked as an Assistant Housemaster, tutor and a GTP mentor.

Mr Richardson has organised and created national and international events in fell running and hosted shows at the prestigious Kendal Mountain Film Festival. One of his real passions is to commentate on running events, particularly the national relays.

When not teaching Mr Richardson enjoys spending time with his family, cycling, running and fishing.

Meet the Senior Prefect Leadership Team

Head Boy Simon EB

Simon joined Bredon School as a day pupil in Year 10 from Cheltenham College. During his time at Bredon School, Simon has felt supported and thrived as a result of the encouragement offered to him. Simon’s proudest moments so far have been receiving his GCSE results, enabling him to continue his studies in Biology, Geography and Photography. As Head Boy, Simon hopes to particularly support the Year 6 to Year 7 transition by making it as seamless as possible and being on hand to guide them on their journey through the school years. On leaving Bredon, Simon plans to have a gap year, and then continue his studies at Bristol Veterinary School.

Head Boy

Max R

Max joined Bredon as a day pupil in Year 7, after attending Kings Hawford. Max feels Bredon and his incredible teachers changed his world. Max has had many positive experiences at Bredon, however other than having the honour of Head of School his proudest achievement would be in Bronze and Silver DofE expeditions. This is because of the incredible memories, the sense of achievement and connections made. As Head Boy Max hopes to ensure Bredon will always be a friendly and supportive school. A place where students can come alive, thrive and be themselves. He will lead by example and move forward the school that has made him. Max is currently studying Geography, Sport and Outdoor Studies, Business Studies and an EPQ, and hopes to become a Pilot in the Royal Navy.

Head Girl Emily C

Emily joined Bredon School as a boarding pupil in Year 9. Since joining, Emily has grown in confidence and supports the other girls as a mentor in a nurturing and supportive role. Emily’s proudest moment at Bredon is becoming Head Girl. This is a position she hopes to develop to encourage other girls to follow in her footsteps and become leaders and grow in confidence. Bredon has offered Emily the opportunity to flourish within a small community with a feeling of happiness and belonging. Emily is currently studying Childcare, Photography and Hospitality with the aim to pursue a career within childcare.

Head of Corps Staff Sergeant Cooley

Staff Sergeant Cooley is Bredon Schools new Head of Corps. This is the second time this position has been offered at Bredon School. Staff Sergeant Cooley hopes to move the CCF to new heights, growing the numbers and creating a greater presence within the school. Staff Sergeant Cooley joined Bredon School as a day pupil in Year 4 and Bredon has supported him to grow into a mature and dedicated individual. His proudest moment was achieving his GCSE results. Staff Sergeant Cooley is currently studying Business Studies, Photography and Sport, and he plans to attend University of Falmouth.