The magazine of Bredon School, Gloucestershire Issue no 10
Contents Welcome from our Headmaster............................3 Jarrett House.................................................................4 Sharp House...................................................................5 Thomas House.............................................................. 6 New Staff..........................................................................7 Boarding........................................................................... 8 House Competitions................................................ 10 Fireworks....................................................................... 14 Christmas.......................................................................15 King Charles II Coronation.....................................16 Junior School ...............................................................18 Sixth Form.................................................................... 20 Wainwright Enrichment Series............................22 The Calendar................................................................ 23 Academic Life............................................................. 24 Sports..............................................................................26 City and Guilds...........................................................32 Founders Day.............................................................. 33 Cambrian Patrol.........................................................36 The Adventures of Alice.........................................38 Art and Photography..............................................40 Bredon’s Got Talent................................................. 46 Music...............................................................................47 Combined Cadet Force.......................................... 48 The Duke of Edinburgh Award.............................50 On the Farm.................................................................54 Ski Trip............................................................................56 Outdoor Education................................................... 57 The Royal Three Counties Show.........................58 Dyslexia Show............................................................ 60 Visit from CReSTeD...................................................61 Bredonfest....................................................................62 Prom .............................................................................. 64 International Boarders............................................66 A Year on.......................................................................68 Old Bredonians...........................................................70
On each of my visits to Bredon I get a real sense of something truly special happening here. Set in a calm oasis of 84 acres, the school, the staff and most importantly the remarkable pupils are shining beacons of what education is trying to be. In the wider educational landscape, there is much debate about the emergence of artificial intelligence and robots, building a sustainable planet, and whether the national curriculum is suitably preparing young people for the skills for the future. What I find magical about Bredon is that it is already ahead of the game in addressing these global challenges and teaching the skills that pupils will need by 2030 as defined by the World Economic Forum. Outdoor learning equips young people with the need to think on their feet and whatever robots will do for us in the future, we will always need thinkers! The Farm to Fork project alongside the school farm teaches young people about sustainability in a practical way. The care of animals and the sale of farm goods provides valuable welfare and entrepreneurship skills for our pupils. The Bredon Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which has been ranked in the top 1% of UK Army and CCF Cadets, demonstrate leadership, creativity and an insight into lifelong learning. At the recent CCF Noncommissioned Officer’s (NCO’s)
regimental dinner, I met a number of our senior cadets - some of whom had just come off Pen Y Fan and their Duke of Edinburgh trip. Their professionalism, immaculate dress, politeness, hard work, ability to speak and engage was evident throughout the evening. Being honest I was totally blown away and proud of these cadets. Academic success is undoubtedly important, and Bredon continues to excel here, but the formulaic inadequacy of public exams is well known to all in the sector. Despite this gargantuan challenge, Bredon has recognised that the journey is just as important as the destination and it knows what a genuinely holistic and well-rounded education looks like and it delivers on this with fun and flair. As I have said many times before, I wish I was a pupil at Bredon School. Congratulations to Mr Oldham and his staff on another exceptional year, and thank you to the parents for their continued support. The biggest thank you is reserved to the people that inspire us daily, the remarkable Bredon pupils.
Aatif Hassan, Chairman of Governors and Founder of Cavendish Education
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Welcome from the Headmaster, Mr Nick Oldham I am delighted to bring you the 2022/2023 edition of the Bredonian. A year in the life of our wonderful pupils and School and what a year it has been! As I reflect it is clear that we have done a great deal, achieved so much and experienced so many different opportunities and moments. From our exceptional CCF, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, investment projects that have made a significant improvement to the School through to the King’s Coronation and life on the Farm! There is never a dull moment but as I said at Founders Day, the true test of what makes Bredon so special lies with our pupils.
academic programme as possible was the way forward and a key element that still underpins our teaching today. Of course we have come a long way since then and developed a standard of excellence that sits at the forefront of Dyslexic teaching. Bredon continues to go from strength to strength and there has never been a better time to be a part of the Bredon community than now. We don’t just teach Dyslexia we understand it and we live it every day.
Our GCSE and A Level results show our academic rigour and underpins why Bredon is fast becoming the go to school for Dyslexic pupils. Our value added particularly in English is a standout element that resonates with our Dyslexia specialism. Bredon School pupils achieved almost two grades higher than their GL assessment score predictions. These results are a reflection of the hard work and commitment our pupils and teachers have worked tirelessly to achieve. This goes to show that a fully focused dyslexic approach and a commitment to learning is not a barrier to success.
Our vision of returning to our founding principles as a mainstream Dyslexic Specialist school is now fully embedded. Our pupil numbers are the strongest we have ever seen and enquiries for September 2024 are firmly under way. We have been teaching Dyslexic pupils since 1962 when Lt-Col Sharp welcomed Bredons first trailblazing cohort to the school and Dyslexia was disputed by many doctors and teachers in Britain at the time.
Whilst these results reflect strong academic achievement, they don’t reflect the way we educate the whole child. Our curriculum is enriched with a huge selection of activities that develop the pupil’s wider development and ultimately turn them into well rounded individuals who are ready for the future. We have an incredible 80% of pupils who have represented Bredon in sporting competitions. Our opportunities are endless and our pupils are thriving in our all inclusive curriculum.
Bredon was already ahead of the curve in developing strategies and classroom support for Dyslexia. Enhanced tuition in English and Maths whilst following as normal
From welcoming new pupils at the start of their journey with us to bidding a fond farewell to those that leave us for new adventures and the next step of their lives the following
pages really encapsulate what being a Bredonian is all about. Being a Bredonian walks with you for the rest of your life and connecting with others who have travelled the same path as you is a wonderful way to keep connected with us. This year Mr Rob Wainwright has kindly agreed to Chair The Bredonian Society for us. As a former pupil of the school and one of our first cohort of pupils, Rob really knows what it is to be a part of our history. Pupils far and wide are invited to return for visits, events and to support current pupils in as many ways as possible through a number of avenues such as our Wainwright Lectures, work experience and networking opportunities as well as a number of calendared social events. Please let us know if you would like to join our Alumni by emailing hodkinsonl@bredonschool.co.uk Whatever stage you are on in your journey with us and no matter how much the world tries to hold you back from time to time, always continue with the belief that whatever you want to achieve is possible. Believing you can become successful is the most important step in actually achieving it. Thank you for all your support, I look forward to new adventures and sharing even more special moments with you in 2023/2024. Yours sincerely
Mr Nick Oldham
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Jarrett House By Miss Eaton
Jarrett House has exhibited exceptional dedication and achievement in various house events throughout the academic year. Pupils unwavering determination, teamwork, and passion resulted in first place in the Tug of War Competition, Inter-house Drill Competition and the Rowing race. These victories highlight pupils extraordinary commitment to success and their ability to work together effectively. Furthermore, their meticulous practice and preparation for the “house shout” also resulted in a well-deserved top position. In addition to an outstanding performance in events, Jarrett House has actively participated in weekly house assemblies since the Michaelmas term. The pupils, with guidance from their form tutors, have taken the initiative in preparing and delivering these assemblies, covering a wide range of important topics. These topics include stress management, seeking support when in need, debunking myths about Mathematics
“(I am) impressed with the strong sense of unity and camaraderie exhibited” and promoting confidence in numbers, children’s mental health, St. Andrew’s Day, Earth Hour, St. David’s Day, Coronation of King Charles, Sun Awareness, World Bee Day, British Heart week, and diabetes. Jarrett House’s commitment to raising awareness and educating their peers on significant issues is truly commendable. The active involvement in these assemblies demonstrates every pupils dedication to creating a well-informed and supportive community within the house.
The tutors and Miss Eaton are highly impressed with the strong sense of unity and camaraderie exhibited by the members of Jarrett House this year. They eagerly anticipate witnessing further successes and the continued development of a vibrant community spirit in the upcoming academic year. While relinquishing her position as Housemistress, Miss Eaton shared her heartfelt commitment to remain an avid spectator from the sidelines, cheering on Mrs Deary as she spearheaded the efforts of Jarrett House in their ongoing pursuit of excellence. Miss Eaton also conveyed her sincere wishes for Mrs Deary’s success in this endeavour.
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Sharp House By Mr Phillips
“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back...”
The academic year 2022-2023 will go down in history as the reign of Seb RD as Head of Sharp House, and what a year it has been. As action packed as ever, it has been immensely rewarding to watch Sharp pupils thrive inside and outside of the classroom. We continue to imbed our House ethos, asking all pupils to be friends with few but friendly to all. Our Sixth Form have been tremendous role models to our younger pupils and I have enjoyed seeing them speak in front of the whole House on a regular basis. Success in learning has been evident for all to see, our improved Mathematics and English provisions are truly outstanding and watching pupils push themselves more than once a day in these areas is wonderful. I hope all this hard work has paid off for our examination year groups. We wish them all the very best with their future endeavours, knowing they will do both their House and their school
proud. I hope they keep in touch. I wrote to our leaving upper sixth with the following passage. May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. Outside of the classroom we have been pushing the boundaries once again. We have had new and exciting House events, such as House Gamestation competition, as well as some old favourites like the whole school Steeplechase. All I ask of Sharp pupils is they try their best and try something new. We pride ourselves on filling all events and all being ready to put our hands up and volunteer. This is most evident in events such as House Golf, where Sharp had the most pupils involved. A huge thank you must go to the fantastic Sharp tutor team. All of whom are the absolute rock that our
pupils can depend on day in and day out. As we say goodbye to some and welcome new faces next year, I am comforted in the knowledge that Sharp pupils are so well looked after. As I look forward to next year I am reminded I can never do the House justice in articles like this, so much goes on in a busy school like Bredon. I hope pupils can take some time to reflect on the year they have had and come back in September with new ideas and plenty of energy. Until then, I hope the Sharp community has a restful and enjoyable summer holiday, they really have earned it this year. Well done, Sharponians.
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Thomas House By Mr Richardson
“As our motto aptly states, without fear, there can be no courage...”
The year has been full of great energy and enthusiasm in Thomas House. Thomas House has flourished under the leadership of Jake R and Leo R, along with the support of Max R (Head of School) and Matt C (Head of Corps). Steeplechase was the first competition of the year and Thomas House pupils defended our title. Maddox C and Erin K stood out as exceptional runners showcasing their individual skills. The collective effort put forth by the entire team is inspiring to see. In the CCF Interhouse Drill Competition and Rowing Event Thomas House narrowly missed out on the top spot, showing the competitiveness and determination of pupils. The Lent term was busy with various activities from Tug of War and House Gaming to Football, Netball and Rugby 7’s. I was particularly delighted to see the house engage in singing
and pupils stepping out of their comfort zone for ‘The Adventures of Alice’ performance. The new House Academic Challenge was a highlight for me. Thomas won the title and pupils even challenged the staff team. Well done to Will A, team captain. The Trinity term saw a focus on exams for many pupils, however there was still time for House Climbing Competition, House Fishing Competition and the House Golf Competition. Moments of triumph in these competitions have created lasting memories. Thomas is currently at the top of the House points league. Huge congratulations to Marvin B in Year 8, who has achieved sixty seven House points. It is commendable to see pupils actively participating and earning points. Thomas House pupils are developing a strong sense of identity through their shared values and principles
Working with the pupils and staff of Thomas House has been a great pleasure. The time spent together will hold fond memories and leave a lasting impact. As our motto aptly states, without fear, there can be no courage. The pupils’ willingness to embrace challenges and step out of their comfort zones is truly commendable. Overall, Thomas House is flourishing, both in terms of achievements and the development of a supportive and close-knit community. The efforts of the pupils, staff, and leadership are laying a strong foundation for the future success of Thomas House. The involvement of Mrs Odam, who will further nurture and build upon this culture, promises a bright future for Thomas House.
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New Staff We are pleased to welcome two new Housemistresses to Thomas and Jarrett House. We asked Mrs Odam, Thomas Housemistress (left) and Mrs Deary, Jarrett Housemistress (right), to answer a few quick questions...
What do you hope to bring to the role? Mrs Odam: Coming from a farming background, I believe it is important to work hard, have a positive attitude and ensure good communication. I hope to help pupils build self confidence and I want pupils to feel safe in discussing both the hard times and the good so that we can go through them together as a house! Hollie the dog is also very excited to be the new dog mascot! Mrs Deary: I am very much looking forward to building relationships, working closely with pupils and being available for them when they need support. I am approachable, a good listener and really enjoy working with pupils to help them understand their behaviours and work on strategies that they can use independently. I have an open door policy and my room is a safe place where pupils are nurtured, valued and able to talk. I am incredibly excited to begin my new role and see the pupils (and myself) thrive and grow.
What do you enjoy about Bredon? Mrs Odam: I love many things about Bredon from the choice of subjects within the pathways, the focus on the individual, the responsive learning techniques and the opportunities available to all pupils. Ask a Bredon pupil what their favourite thing is about the school and the answers range from ‘performing arts’ to the ‘Farm’ showcasing the endless opportunities. My favourite area of the school is the Farm as pupils gain so much from their time there. Mrs Deary: I joined Bredon School over three years ago and I’m still amazed at what a friendly place it is to work. One pupil commented that I smile all the time - how could you not when you are lucky enough to come to work here? I take great satisfaction from watching pupils grow in both confidence and self-esteem. I’m so proud to be a part of their journey and to enable each and every one of them to realise and reach their full potential. Bredon is an inclusive environment, with fantastic
opportunities for the pupils. The small classes allows me to understand pupils better and encourage them to do the best they can, both at school and at home. What is the vision and ethos of your house? Mrs Odam: I aim to enable every pupil to discover their strengths and skills. I will always find the time for pupils and want every pupil to feel part of the Thomas family. As a Rugby player I know you are always part of a team, even when cheering and spectating. Go Thomas! Miss Deary: I have an amazing team behind me. We will encourage pupils to become the best version of themselves. The strong foundations are already there and I intend to build on them to make them even better! I would like every member of Jarrett House to feel valued and listened to. The most important ethos we have is to enjoy being part of the Jarrett House family, to help each other and most importantly, to have fun!
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Boarding A T
B R E D O N
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As we end this academic year we are extremely proud of all of our boarding pupils for their ‘can do’ and ‘let’s give it a go” attitude.
This year the girls landings have been a hive of activity. Their willingness to try new ideas has meant the girls have had many great opportunities and are ready for upcoming challenges. The boys’ landings have grown from strength to strength. The gym and pool table have been extremely popular. Year 13 pupils have thrived with the extra responsibility and trust given to them. Consequently pupils have received more privileges. This year a number of outstanding instructors have facilitated the evening activities with Kitch and Kaboodle, Drama and Gym sessions. This has given the pupils the chance to try new activities, discover new abilities and prepare for the future. Extended use of the gym with a qualified instructor has made this a popular activity, building pupils confidence. Our co-curricular Saturday mornings have been a great success offering horse riding, sports and dog walking. There really is something for everyone. The Saturday morning fixtures have also been a great success. Boarders throw themselves fully into representing the school, which makes us very proud.
This year we have focused on three elements within boarding: Be Valued; Stability; and Growth. Be Valued allows all boarders to value themselves, each other and the grounds they live in. This builds respect and empathy for one another. Stability means we continue to offer a structured and routine approach to everything we do to prepare pupils for the future. Growth ensures pupils are supported to grow academically, emotionally and socially. I am pleased to say these elements have ensured boarding pupils have a secure and safe setting where they thrive. The past year has seen plenty of fun and laughter, and our boarders have had the opportunity to make memories of a lifetime and experience all that Bredon has to offer. I am immensely proud to be the Director of Boarding at Bredon and to work with a dedicated team and amazing group of individuals who try their very hardest every day to offer an exceptional experience for our boarders. We are proud of the community we are forging. We are one big happy family at Bredon.
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H O U S E
C O M P E T I T I O N S
The school calendar has been very full this year with a number of House competitions taking place. Well done to all involved. It was great to see such house spirit and support for each other across the full age groups in the school.
Tug of War The Tug of War, held on the lawn is one of the highlights of the Bredon Calendar. Rich sunshine and warm temperatures firmed up the battlefield, ready for the three pastoral Houses to pit their wits against each other. In the first round Thomas took on the might of Sharp. With every year group being represented and countless more taking part there was a real carnival atmosphere. Thomas came up trumps against a young, but well drilled Sharp side that more than held their own. Sharp then took on pre-event favourites Jarrett in the next round and they lived up to their billing. Pulling in unison and with real determination Sharp could do
nothing to stop the green machine, with Jack G anchoring the squad. Into the third and final round Thomas won the toss of the coin to choose ends. The first bout was so tense and close it went on for nearly five minutes with pupils straining to their very limits. Will A (captain) was willing his troops on, anchored superbly by Franny V-R. In the end Thomas prevailed. Jarrett had other ideas and it seemed more stamina as they easily won the next bout after a change of personnel from both teams. No team wanted to give an inch of ground, feet digging in trying to retain position. Thomas stole a march with a pull in unison but Jarrett held firm and withstood Thomas’s best efforts and won the final bout. Well played Jarrett House.
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Inter House Football Years 10-13
Report by Billy T Year 12, Thomas House The first game between Thomas and Sharp started off with a bang as Maddox C was able to put away a nice finish past Joshua Q. North B came close for Sharp after a free kick on the edge of the box, but Edward W was able to stretch out and tip it wide. Louis D would equalise for Sharp before the end of the half leaving it 1-1. Sharp would concede an indirect free kick which was tucked away by Soliman I. Maddox C would score another goal for Thomas and would complete his hat trick with a good finish off a cross. North B would score for Sharp after a misplaced pass but it was not enough to rally a comeback as Thomas would take all 3 points with a 4-2 Victory.
House Climbing Competition The House Climbing Competition was an exciting and competitive event! Having pupils participate from different key stage groups was a great way to build school spirit and encourage teamwork. Using average time as a way to determine the winner was an interesting twist that added an element of strategy to the competition. It was great to see pupils using their analytical skills in a fun and engaging way. The House Climbing Competition bought the whole school community together and showcased the talents and abilities of pupils across different age groups. Thomas came out on top, beating Sharp into second place by only 0.5 of a second and the fastest pupil of the day was Toby H of Thomas, who set a new record of 8.2 seconds.
The second game of inter house football was between Jarrett and Sharp. The first half was a very tense occasion with both sides exchanging shots. Edward H would miss early on for Sharp while Oscar J would miss a chance for Jarrett. Into the second half Sharp would break the deadlock as Louis D would put the ball past Lawrence. Joe W would add to the score line at the end of the game after a nice lay off by Louis. Sharp would win this match 2-0 with Jarrett taking on Thomas in the final game of the tournament. The third and final game started off tense once again as there was some brilliant defending from both sides. Matthew H would beat Malte Z in a 1v1 to give Jarrett the lead. Maddox C though had a different idea and would continue his goal scoring antics with a lovely finish tucked
into the bottom corner. Elliot M would take back the lead for Jarrett in the second half, capping off a brilliant performance by him. But once again Maddox C would find the net to equalise with some brilliant build up play by Thomas to win the tournament for his house.
Years 7-8 Inter House Football The house football tournament took place on Thursday afternoon for the younger age group in a round robin competition. The level of football has improved under the tutelage of Mr Philips. A win each for Sharp and Thomas against Jarrett set up a tense final between Sharp and Thomas. The game ended in a close and nail biting draw. However, it was Sharp who took the spoils due to their superior goal difference.
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House Rowing This year saw the first ever Inter House Indoor Rowing Competition, taking advantage of the three new Concept 2 machines. The event was held outside Pull Court and the weather was perfect. Pupils from Years 6 to Sixth Form took part with great determination. The competition was very close, however it was Jarrett who took the eventual lead.
Steeplechase The year started off with Steeplechase. The event saw pupils cheering one another on with gusto, and personal bests beaten. Special mention should go to Junior pupils Raphy P, William C, Rosie B, Charlotte H and Genevieve R, all of whom performed exceptionally. In Year 7 Erin K set a new record- her time was only twenty seven seconds slower than the boys. Annabelle W and Molly B made up the podium for the girls with excellent effort by all. In the boys race Finn F and Max C set out in an early tussle and so it continued to the finish with neither willing to give in. Finn F nudged ahead by a fraction to take the win with Oliver G coming third. Max I and Theo H led the field in the Year 8-9 race. Max I took the win at the front of Pull Court. One of the most impressive runs of the day was Flo R, guesting in the race she showed real
quality to almost match the boys and come in a commanding first and third overall in the race. Barney R made up the podium for the boys, whilst Maddison H finished second and Boo S third in the girls. In the final race Noah H and Maddox C fought for first place, with Maddox C taking the lead and breaking the course record. The battle for third was intriguing. Jack L took third place but he was chased hard by Hugo C, Max L, Dillon S and Salvador A. In the girls race Lucy B (still only in year 10) was a convincing winner. Pushing Rebecca B and Rhiannon K (last year’s winner) into second and third place respectively.
House Drill This is a proud competition where the house world delves into that of the CCF. A squadron from each house is assembled and then they drill in front of the commanding officer under the guidance of a drill sergeant. Done in the fantastic setting of Pull Court Courtyard the troops were really put through their paces. Thomas House, the previous winners, were missing Ed W who had performed so admirably last year. Sharp looked good at first but lost marks on some of the strict presentation issues. The contest in the end came down to presentation and it was Jarrett who were more suitably turned out to the commanding officers eye. This is a great competition which leaves an excellent buzz around the school. Well done to all those who took part.
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There are some pupils who deserve special mentions for thier fantastic rowing: Katie S got Thomas off to a commanding start gaining 10 seconds on the other two teams Alicia M and Dom B impressed early on. Seb W, Crystal E, Lily W-T and Ezra F rowed with real authority and rowed twice for Thomas in the 200m and 400m. Lucy B completed two lots of 400m Percy T, Elliot M and Rollo L rowed like men possessed and built Jarrett a comfortable lead at the end of the competition. A special note must go to Sharp House, they managed to fulfil every place in the team with boys and girls of the correct age groups.
House Singing Competition
House Gamestation
Academic Challenge
The Bredon House Singing Competition was a thrilling event that brought the entire school community together. The determination to involve every student in the whole-school production of “The Adventures of Alice” led to the creation of three parody songs that became the highlight of the competition. Jarrett House’s outstanding performance secured them the top position, with Sharp House claiming second place and Thomas House finishing in third.
Each year group was represented in their house, with three players playing at once. In total there were seven races. The game of choice was Mario Kart, with the sports hall set up to resemble the biggest screen anyone had ever seen. The competition got under way. The competition was so hotly contested that the crowd was also getting involved. The score was tied between Sharp and Thomas, but Sharp would prevail as the rules stated the house with the most wins across the seven races would take the victory. This was an excellent house competition and something that will stay in the calendar for the forthcoming year.
The Academic Challenge was a really exciting competition and it was great to see the pupils in a different light, testing themselves for all to see. The questions were well received and the atmosphere in the room was electric as the lead ebbed and flowed. Those pupils watching behaved impeccably and even got to have an attempt at the questions that the teams couldn’t answer (there weren’t many). Thomas House got out to an early lead with Will A (team captain) answering questions, left, right and centre. His general knowledge knows no bounds. James W was also on electric form for Jarrett as was Etienne P for Sharp. All three teams, in this university challenge style match, answered the starter questions well. Thomas House though would come through first due to the high volume of follow up questions they were to get correct.
The competition was a testament to the talent, dedication, and competitive spirit of the Bredon School pupils. It served as a reminder of the vibrant and supportive community within the school, where each individual’s contribution was celebrated. The House Singing Competition will be remembered as a cherished and exciting event in Bredon School’s rich history of artistic endeavors.
Bredon’s annual fireworks event just gets better and better! The Bredon and local community came together and enjoyed the excitement! The CCF managed the carpark and welcomed the visitors. The pupils enjoyed the excitement of being out in the evening with their woolly hats and scarfs. This year catering pupils sold toffee apples and various other treats which they had prepared. The pupils also sold glow sticks and glasses. Bredon’s catering staff handed out delicious Hot dogs, which everyone enjoyed. The food was then followed by several “oooooo’s and arrrrr’s” as the firework display brightened up the sky with so many different colours and bangs!
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. 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. Bredons 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. The event allowed pupils and parents to celebrate the start of the festive holidays.
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C E L E B R A T I N G
T H E
C O R O N A T I O N
O F
King Charles II
To celebrate the coronation of King Charles II the Bredon community chose to celebrate with friends and family, mirroring the nationwide ‘Big Lunch’. The perfect way to commemorate this special occasion. On 5th May over 400 guests enjoyed the Big Lunch. It was lovely to see Pull Court decked out in red, white and blue. To start the celebrations Mr Chance, Head of Humanities held a special assembly to talk about the Coronation, the traditions and events of the weekend. A particular highlight was during the event was the CCF parade in the sunshine, which was held at the front of Pull Court.
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Days before the Bredon Big Lunch, pupils were amazed to see King Charles II appear in various areas of the school.
F R O M F I E L D T O F O R K Our team of young farmers were excited to share their latest Field to Fork project. Eddie K, Marvin B and Will M propagated plants from seeds and took care of pigs. They also were responsible for branding and costing the produce. On the day of the Big Lunch a farm stall was created in Pull Court and our young farmers sold the plants and sausages under the new Bredon Farm brand. The sausages were delicious and overall the pupils took £400 in their first business venture.
We are delighted to share with you the brand new Bredon Farm Logo. Pupils were invited to design a new logo for the Bredon farm, and we received some exceptional entries. However it was Rhiannon K’s entry who won first place, congratulations!
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Junior School
Round up The Junior School has once again been a hive of activity this academic year. We pride ourselves on being a school where all children can reach their potential. This year I have been delighted with the progress that our children have made both academically and socially. The results in Reading, Mathematics and Spelling are testament to the hard work all of our children put in and to the skill level of our staff, who help children achieve.
This year has seen the implementation of the Literacy Tree Curriculum across the Junior School which has helped our children to learn English through text and given a consistent model to our English provision. This along with the introduction of Ed Shed and the upcoming introduction of Nessy Reading and Spelling, means that the English provision in the Junior School continues to excel. An emphasis on stand alone foundation and humanities lessons, means that our children have once again received History, Geography, PSHE and RE/Philosophy classes each week of the school year, providing them with a varied and thorough curriculum. We pride ourselves on a full offering and this has remained unchanged. This year we have introduced the Junior Duke. This offers a unique opportunity for the Junior children to enhance their learning outside of the classroom and prepares participants
for future success. The award, like its Senior Counterpart offer three levels of awards: gold, silver and bronze. I have been delighted by the uptake of this and the commitment that the children have shown.I look forward to this developing further as we aim to have every child complete gold award by the time they leave Year 6. Outside of the classroom The Spring Garden show provides children with both an opportunity to shine outside of the classroom. This year the children created a garden based on Enid Blyton’s ‘The Faraway Tree’ and gained a commendation from the show. Each child had an opportunity to promote and give tours of the garden. Every pupil represented the school in a fantastic manner. A visitor to the show praised the garden and Junior pupils, commenting pupils were helpful and extremely knowledgeable. The visitors said, ‘They certainly put a smile on our faces’.
This year our Residential was a wonderful way to finish the school year. Friendships made throughout the year, were nurtured in a different environment. As part of our all inclusive offering, this three day visit acted as a wonderful learning experience.
As the last event of our activity week, the swimming gala was a fantastic event and remains a staple of the Junior School calendar. By Mr Stafford
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Junior School
Production
- A Funny Thing Happened on the way to Camelot -
This year’s production was our most successful one yet, as the children performed ‘A Funny Thing Happened on the way to Camelot’. The show provides an opportunity for the children to work on their speaking and listening skills, as well as ingraining the confidence needed to speak in front of others. Vital skills as they further their education.
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A YEAR IN THE
Sixth Form This year, Sixth Form has been spent building the values and attitudes (CARDS) that all Bredonians would want to leave with; Commitment, Active in the Community; Respect; Discipline and Self Organisation. Over the year pupils have celebrated successes after discovering unique ways to relate to these values and skills. Here are some of the highlights of the year in relation to each of these values. Commitment
Active Member of the Community
Respect
Discipline
Self Organisation
Cambrian Patrol
Prefects
New pupils
Exams
University lectures
Work Experience
Peer mentors
Adapt to new rules for Common Room and Study Room
CCF
DofE
Burns Supper Lifeguarding
Each passing year at Bredon brings change. New faces, new subjects and for this year, a new Sixth Form courtyard. The courtyard consists of Stable House, the Sixth Form boarding house, the Common Room and Study Centre. This means Sixth Form pupils have an area to call their own. An area to look after, use effectively and take pride in. Distinguishing between a Common Room and a Study Room has made a large difference to pupils. They now have a quiet area to study in to prioritise their academics.
Self respect with uniform
Stable House
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The year began with a team building week at the Wilderness Centre in the Forest of Dean. A great opportunity for pupils to get to know one another. Falling off an 8 metre stack of crates while someone else is holding you by a rope, really shows you need to be able to hand over control and trust others. We were fortunate enough this year to visit two different universities and apprenticeship fairs. At the beginning of the year, a trip to Bristol gave Lower Sixth pupils insight into life after Bredon, and Upper Sixth pupils a chance to consider their plans more deeply. Half of Upper Sixth this year have applied for university and have received offers. I would like to wish them all the best for 17th August. Other pupils have either explored college routes for further education, or plan to apply for apprenticeships studying subjects such as Mechanics, Outdoor Education, Stonemasonry, and the Media. It is heartening to see the breadth of further education that is achieved from Bredon.
I have also enjoyed seeing the fruits of their work, whether that is the coursework that has been completed in Geography and History, or sampling the food that is coming out of the Catering and Hospitality area, or indeed seeing the magnificent art and photography exhibitions. It is clear that the Sixth Form pupils are not only working hard but are finding their passions. Alongside the academic commitments, we have many pupils helping throughout the community. From pupils who are qualified lifeguards helping others in the pool, to pupils helping in the junior school, and pupils working as peer mentors.
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Wainwright Enrichment Series
Enrichment sessions feature weekly in the Sixth Form timetable. Every week a guest is invited to hold a session with pupils to explore a variety of topics from career pathways, life skills or adventuring. Guests this year have included Lara Vafaidis who visited with her boat just before embarking on her solo row across the Atlantic. We followed her online for nearly 100 days as she completed her race! We are looking forward to having Lara back to tell us all about it.
Guests have also included civil servants and Mr Wainwright himself. We explored some of the more serious topics such as road and driving safety with the Gloucestershire road safety team, and river and water safety this year with SARA. We were also especially privileged to hear from our very own Emily to tell us about how she lives with EDS, and what strengths she has gained from managing it.
Talks are already being diarised for next year, but if anyone would like to inspire the students with their career path/life’s experiences, we’d love to hear from you!
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The calendar for Sixth Form pupils is always busy with Duke of Edinburgh, CCF, the Cambrian Patrol, sports fixtures and sessions in the Gym.
The Calendar Burns Night is a new tradition for Sixth Form pupils, offeirng the first black tie, formal event of the year. The night began with traditional speeches, “A toast to the lasses” and “The reply on behalf of the lasses”, from the heads of school. Our numerically light lasses came out very much top dogs in the Burns’ supper, with the laddies being very tastefully lampooned. Haggis, neeps and tatties were located and imported from North of the border. The dancing or Ceilidh, with live music from a fiddle and keyboard, and calling by the resident Scott; Mr Cradock was successfully chaotic. Some dances were learnt in part, and everyone had a great time.
The much talked about and anticipated Leavers Ball is a highlight to mark the end of the year at Bredon. This year it has been organised by Year 12 as a gift and tribute to the departing Year 13 pupils. With a James Bond theme, and Casino entertainment, as well as a fabulous array of food, Pull Court is very likely to be shaken, not stirred by the departure of this year’s amazing Year 13 pupils.
Burns Night supper and speeches
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Academic Life Our new Mathematics and Science classrooms have provided an inspiring learning environment for pupils
At Bredon we ensure that the individual flourishes and reaches their full academic potential by instilling a passion for learning through our broad and innovative curriculum. This develops skills pupils will carry with them for life beyond the school gates. This year our new Mathematics and Science classrooms have provided an inspiring learning environment for pupils. The Science rooms include access to the latest technologies and resources to provide more opportunities for our scientists, including the opportunity for more practical experiments and investigations. Investigations this year have included the Year 10 Forensic week where pupils tested blood samples and investigated blood splatter patterns. Pupils studying A Level Environmental Science have been using the grounds fully when investigating carbon in the trees. The investigations reflect Bredon’s multi-sensory approach to learning., where learning is reinforced and the application of knowledge is tested.
The core subjects (English, Mathematics and Science) are the main focus at Bredon. Pupils in Years 4-9 have daily English and Mathematics lessons to provide a strong foundation for the future. This year saw the introduction of our ‘Bredon Bitesize’ initiative aimed at Year 11 pupils. The ‘Bitesize’ sessions were lunch time revision classes that focused on learning and effective examination techniques, three times a week. We are extremely proud of our Year 11 and Year 13 pupils.
In September we will be introducing two new initiatives in English, Mathematics and Science: Head Start Heads of English, Mathematics and Science will be tutoring small groups during morning registration. Core Prep Sessions Teachers in the core areas will deliver revision sessions three times a week Our innovative curriculum is based on the combination of the three unique educational pathways - Academic, Professional and Vocational. From Year 10, pupils choose subjects to study within these pathways, which match their own passions and strengths. In Year 10 there are 24 subjects to choose from and an incredible 28 subjects in Sixth Form. Our Sixth Form has an average class size of six pupils. Pupils will gain a tailored education enabling individuals to thrive.
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STEM Forensics day As part of our December Co-curricular day Year 10 took part in a forensic science experience. Pupils visited a ‘crime scene’ and completed activities to gather and process evidence and solve the crime. Evidence was gathered by testing for the presence of blood on samples taken from the scene, analysing blood splatter samples and looking at cell samples under microscopes. The pupils also completed a DNA profiling activity before concluding who had committed the crime.
Pupils from Years 7, 8 and 9 concentrated on practical science in February. Teachers chose their favourite experiment for each class to experience. Plants were dissected and tested to see if they had been photosynthesising. Cabbages were used to test acids and alkalis. Different fuels were assessed for their energy content and various sandwiches were tested and categorised into food groups.
Cheltenham Science Festival In June the whole of KS3 made the short journey to Cheltenham to visit the Science Festival. The day began with the most amazing and captivating talk from astronaut Tim Peake. We were bombarded with tales of his time in space as well as learning out of this world facts from beyond our solar system. There was also an opportunity to ask Tim questions about anything to do with his time onboard the International Space Station. We learnt that an astronaut’s favourite snack is a raw onion, that the most amazing sight is seeing the aurora borealis from space and where
all the lost items on the ISS end up. We even learnt how astronauts go to the toilet and the disastrous, stomach churning consequences if you don’t follow the instructions! During the second half of the day we all had free time to explore the rest of the Science Festival where there were opportunities to explore flight simulators, construction activities, VR, engineering challenges and games and displays by the Woodland Trust, as well as meeting the all female transatlantic rowing team. A great day was had by all.
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SPORTS We have seen many achievements over the last academic year in sports. Over 80% of our pupils have represented the school in competitive fixtures. Pupils’ efforts and commitments have ensured we have competed in a wide range of sports. Of particular note; Christiaan M, Finn F, Oliver M, Madison H, Harriet T and Lucy B have all played in over twenty separate fixtures this year across at least four different sports.
Hockey
The hockey teams have displayed a great work ethic throughout the whole season, playing a number of schools. The fixture against Stonar School was an excellent display of hockey, with the U13 working extremely hard on the pitch to retain the ball. The U15 saw commendable performances and showed overall improvement. The squad came together very well. The U18 team have worked hard on their fitness and shown great team spirit, and strong communication. The team’s attitude has remained cheerful in all weathers.
Rugby
This year has seen some big wins and close games. Memorable matches have included playing Sibford and Kingham on the same day and the final game against Wycliffe School. The U15 have shown fantastic progress and willingness to play Rugby the right way. The U13 team have had a busy and successful season with a memorable victory against the Worcester B team.
Netball
This year we have seen more girls competing in fixtures. Over the season pupils have managed to intercept many balls in defence, attacked with increased confidence and played some excellent netball. The U13 have played well and consistently trained all year. The U15 team has played confidently together, going from strength to strength. The highlight of the season was the
definitive 8-6 win against Wycliffe College. The U18 have learnt to play to their strengths with the stand out match against Kingham Hill School.
Cross Country
Cross country is a sport growing in popularity following the introduction of the annual whole school Steeplechase. Pupils took on the course with increased confidence and the healthy rivalry between the houses and individuals is really encouraging. In the Lent Term Raphy P, Flo R, Max I, Lucy B and Will A qualified for the ISA South West Trials and it was great to see the school so well represented on the starting line. Due to the popularity of running, Running clubs have been introduced in the summer term before and after school, and we are sure this club will grow in popularity.
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Rugby Sevens
Following the successes of the rugby squads and the remarkable rate of progress that our pupils had made in their performance standards, we could not resist the temptation to add additional rugby sevens fixtures into the Lent Term. Preparation for these was not straightforward with the majority of the squad having to balance training for these events with their football commitments. The U13 squad attended a challenging day at the ISA National event that exposed our pupils to the standard of play that we should be aspiring towards moving forwards. Both this U13 team and the U15 squad also took part in the Sibford Sevens tournaments hosted in collaboration with Northampton Saints. Both teams enjoyed a busy afternoon of quick fire fixtures against schools with a great deal of experience in rugby sevens.
Athletics
When we offered pupils the opportunity to work on their individual athletics events and to trial for selection for an ISA South West event at Exeter Arena their enthusiasm was really encouraging. During the event at Exeter the way our team encouraged each other through events and celebrated each other’s successes was a clear example of Bredon School at its very best. Raphy P (300m) and Ezra F (100m) secured the honour of being selected to represent the South West at the National Finals. This presented them with the opportunity to run at the Alexandra Stadium in Birmingham, the host venue of the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Cricket
Throughout the Trinity term we have fitted in many training sessions and lunchtime clubs to help the teams
develop. Despite the challenging weather the boys have demonstrated their skills and played some good fixtures. The U13 and U18 teams beat Bowbrook convincingly. The U15 had a good game at Kingham. The standards have been high and we hope for better weather next time. The girls have shown great team spirit, working hard training twice a week in the run up to fixtures. The U13 were fortunate enough to participate in the Worcestershire CC Tournament at Stourport Cricket Club. A highlight for the U15 was the Worcestershire Cricket Club tournament which was designed to provide players with access to a fun, inclusive and fast paced format of the game. The girls showed great enthusiasm and kept concentration throughout. All players should be proud of how well they have done this season.
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Football In the Lent Term it was fantastic to see so many boys from across the school stepping forwards take up opportunities to play in football teams. The enthusiasm for the sport meant that we managed to fill a couple of teams across all of our age categories. Having ‘B’ team games this season meant that some boys that had never previously played in a school football fixture had the opportunity. It was a real pleasure to see the wide range of pupils getting involved. Under the guidance of Mr Phillips, the U13 group worked diligently in training and all developed a great deal of technical skills and tactical understanding. Mr Phillips picked Finn F for recognition in the end of year sports awards for his consistently excellent approach to training. In the U15 group Mr Keyte inspired over 30 boys to represent their school across a busy fixture list. A Saturday morning 4-3 victory against RGS Worcester was the highlight of the season. Hugo C was nominated player of the season. Both Mr Keyte and Mr Phillips shared responsibilities for our 1stVI squad that squeezed 6 fixtures into a busy term with Maddox C, Solomon I and Noah H leading the group admirably.
Players of the Season Hockey
Maddison H for her defensive play Annabelle W and Erin K have been outstanding in all games Rhiannon K for her enthusiastic leadership role Sophie CW as keeper Lauren B, Flora B and Sienna S for timely interceptions
Rugby
Ezra F as top try scorer Alex C for high work rate and tackle rate Max I gave a new dynamic Elliot G for working hard as captain Christiaan M for excellent leadership
Netball
Lilly F for good leadership Bronwen C for most improved player of the season Willow O for confident leadership Rose G and Phoebe K for scoring excellent goals Lucy B, Boo S and Grace G for defence skills Flora B for outstanding play in all games Ellouise H for most improved player Rhiannon K for enthusiastic leadership
Cross Country
Raphy P, Flo R, Max I, Lucy B and Will A for qualifying in the national finals Flo R for her top performance Will A for achieving his ambition of running in the event
Rugby Sevens
Oliver M for his drop kick conversion Alex C as player of the tournament
Athletics
Flo R, Annabelle W and Will for achieving top three in their events Raphy P and Ezra F for being selected to represent the South West at National Finals
Cricket
Freddie S, Percy T and Will C for stand out performances Soli I for a great debut Harry T, Freddie R, Stephen R, Ovjit D and Ed W for great effort Bronwyn C, Lilly F, Molly B, Lucy B and Alicia M for fantastic playing
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Sports Colours Lunch
Understanding the value of teamwork and the importance of representing the school in sports is crucial for personal and team growth both on and off the field. The sports Colours Lunch celebrated the achievements of pupils in their sporting endeavours. This feast was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to celebrate their hard work and dedication, with fellow pupils. The Lunch began with a speech delivered by the Headmaster about teamwork and what it means to play for Bredon School. The distribution of prizes for Coach’s Player of the Year and Player’s Player of the Year further acknowledged the exceptional talent and commitment displayed. These awards recognised not only individual skill but also the ability to contribute to the team’s success and earn the respect and admiration of their peers and coaches.
In the last academic year we have played, as a school, one hundred and twenty four fixtures, including rugby, hockey, football, netball and cricket fixtures. All the pupils deserve a great deal of credit for their achievements.
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This year’s sports day took place on Tuesday 27th June. The event was sure to be exciting as the overall house competition remained incredibly close. Despite challenging weather conditions on the day, and other schools locally opting to cancel their events, we persevered. All events were squeezed into a busy afternoon. Parents and guardians were invitied to the event, and it was wonderful for families to celebrate the pupils’ successes. It clearly meant so much to so many of our pupils to be performing in front of their family and friends.
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Junior School
Boys Years 7-8
Charlotte H
High Jump
1m
Casey R
High Jump
1.3 m
Auro C
Shot Put
5.04m
Peter CH
Shot Put
7.94m
William W
Long Jump
3.25m
Oliver B
Long Jump
3.55m
Alberto M
Archery
Peter CH
Archery
Raphy B
300m
53.6
Charlie V
300m
53.27
William W
200m
38.6
Ollie B
200m
31.13
Raphy B
600m
2.03.8
Christian M
600m
2.06.00
Raphy B
100m
12.16
Ollie B
100m
14.3
Junior Only Races
Girls Y 9-13
Harrison J
50m
11.72
Lucy B
High Jump
1.15m
Charlotte B
80m
14
Rhianna K
Shot Put
5.79m
Willow O
Long Jump
3.5m
Iris W
Archery
Girls Years 7-8 Molly B and Flo R
High Jump
1.05m
Boo S
300m
49.74
Harriet T
Shot Put
5.26m
Boo S
200m
32.8
Molly B and Flo R
Long Jump
2.73m
Willow O
600m
2.09.00
Alicia M
Archery
Lulu B
100m
15.08
Flo R
300m
56.92
Flo R
200m
33.94
Boys Y 9-13
Flo R
600m
2.17.00
Ethan B
High Jump
1.25m
Flo R
100m
15.5
Percy T
Shot Put
9.45m
Ezra F
Long Jump
4.42m
Reuben S
Archery
Felix G
300m
49.2
Ezra F
200m
27.68
Ed B
600m
1.57.00
Ezra F
100m
12.61
Soli I
High Jump
1.35m
Ed W
Shot Put
10.13
North B
Long Jump
4.5m
Elliot M
Archery
Maddox C
300m
44.81
Hanson T
200m
30.19
Will A
600m
1.51.00
Maddox C
100m
13.4
Boys Years 12-13
Jarrett House won the field events to set up a close competition but it was Thomas House that dominated the track. Following the completion of the final relay, Mr Oldham announced Thomas House as the victors and presented Will A with the trophy.
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City and Guilds Centre
Within the Professional and Vocational educational pathways pupils have the opportunity to study a number of City and Guilds qualifications, following Bredon becoming a City and Guilds approved centre. City and Guilds qualifications are highly practical qualifications which have been developed for learners who wish to specialise in a technical occupation. The qualifications offer an alternative to traditional academic courses. Pupils gain specialist knowledge and skills, enabling progression into employment, apprenticeships, further study and higher education.
City and Guilds courses are available at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. Key Stage 5 courses on offer include: Animal Care Agriculture Site Carpentry Principles of Quarry Shooting
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Founders Day Founders Day 2023 was a wonderful celebration of pupils achievements throughout the school year.
The event began with a speech by Mr Oldham, followed by wonderful speeches by the Heads of School, Max R, Emily C, Simon E-B and Matthew C. The speeches were inspirational and there were no dry eyes in the marquee. Pupils and parents also had the opportunity to view the incredible art and photography coursework. Prizes were collected and proud moments were had. Fond farewells were also said looking over the fields of Pull court whilst enjoying the canapes on offer.
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Founders Day 2023
Awards - Years 7-9 Endeavour Ben C Religious Education Madison H Science Peter C-H History James W
Sportsman of the Year Maxwell I
Health and Social Care Level 2 - KS4 Fraser W
Clay Pigeon Shooting - Best Gun Rhys H
Cisco Academy: GCSE IT Essentials Award Ben W
Victrix ludorum Senior girls (year 9 to 13) Boo S
Awards - Years 10-13 Graphic Communications GCSE Joseph M
Agriculture Level 2 Sophie C- W ASDAN PSD Coby B Victor ludorum Senior boy (year 11 to 13) Maddox C
Business Studies Level 2 Reuben S
Coryn Abbott Trophy, all round contribution to sport Edward W
Business Studies Level 2 Dillon S
Childcare Level 3 - KS5 Emily C
Best in Boarding Boys year 10&11 Ovijit D
Health and Social Care Level 3 - KS5 Rebecca B
Best in Boarding Girls year 10&11 Rianna B
Best in Boarding Girls Sixth Form Mariana M
Best in Boarding Boys Year 9 and below Oliver M
Cricket man, Cricketer of the year Freddie R
Best in Boarding Boys Sixth Form Charles P
Best in Boarding Girls Year 9 and below Katie S
Science - Key Stage 4 Ovjit D
The Raymond Trophy Athlete of the Year Victor ludorum Inter boy (Year 9-10) Ezra F
Mathematician of the Year Joseph M
Practical Scientist Ben C Farmer of the Year 7 to 9 William M Victor ludorum Sports Junior boy Ollie B Junior Champion Athletics Victrix ludorum Sports Junior girl Florence R
Art Matilda D English Miriam M Most Creative Bayley S Design & Technology Bayley S Sportswoman of the Year Grace G Mathematics James W Technology Engineering Edward K Technology - Food Jude S Geography Grace G Computing Molly B
Photography GCSE Ava B Religious Studies GCSE Francesca R English Lawrence G English Literature Thomas C Geography GCSE Joseph W Art GCSE Flora B
Combined Cadet Force Charles P
Design and Technology - GCSE Rollo L
Science Sixth Form Ronan O’L
Sport Level 2 Lucy B
Geography A Level Max R
History GCSE Jack L
Business Studies Level 3 Leo R
Hospitality and Catering KS4 Noah H
Sportsman of the Year Noah H
Health and Social Care Level 2 - KS4 Rianna B
Sportswoman of the Year (Trophy) Willow O
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Founders Day 2023 Performing Arts Champion KS3 Miriam M
The W John Trophy for Diligence Emilia B
Performing Arts Champion KS4/5 Andreas H
Junior Farm Award Jacob R
Musician of the Year (voted by peris) Matilda D
The Cecelia J John Cup for All Round Initiative Emilie T
Awards - Junior Junior Pupil of the Year Rosalie B Geography Ruby P
Junior Gardener of the Year Hector B Junior Sportsman of the Year William W Junior Sportswoman of the Year Olivia S
ASDAN CoPE Oscar J
English Ava W
A W Brook Trophy for the all round Girl Athlete Olivia S
Clay Pigeon Shooting KS4/5 - Best Gun Jamie E
Reading Florence S
Junior Duke Award Charlotte H
Endeavour Elliott G
Maths Katie S
Junior Cross Country Champion Raphael P
Film Studies A Level Jamie E
Science Alberto M
Junior Sporting Achievement Outside School Joshua P
Film Studies A Level Jake R
History Henry G
History A Level William A
Philosophy and RE Alexander D
Art A Level Adam P
IT and Computing Finn P
Photography A Level Emily C
IT and Computing Luca H
Engineering Btec Hanson T
Equestrian Amelie N-C
Hospitality and Catering Sixth Form Francisco V-R
Catering George B
The John Brown Cup for Duke of Edinburgh Achievement William A
Forest School Oscar B
Sport Level 3 Max R Cisco Academy: 6th Form Level 2 Award Toby W -W Cisco Academy: 6th Form CCNA Award Joseph T The Jarrett Cup awarded to the winning House on Sports Day Thomas House Animal care Erin S
Art Genevieve R Performing Arts & Music Auro C SLS Award Penelope G The Westlake Cup for Endeavour in all Areas Emily U The Lucy Bliss Trophy for Perseverence Ruby N
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BREDON CCF CONTINGENT IS IN THE TOP 1% OF UK ARMY AND CCF CADETS
Be Bredon | 37 Bredon School Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia) is proud to announce that a team of eight cadets has accomplished a remarkable feat by earning the Bronze Award at the esteemed Cambrian Patrol, held in the historic Brecon Beacons from May 19th to 21st, 2023. The Cambrian Patrol, renowned as a challenging cadet exercise, puts participants’ physical and mental stamina to the test while evaluating the skills they have acquired. With teams from across the United Kingdom participating and vying against each other, this achievement highlights the exceptional capabilities of Bredon School’s cadets.
to another part of the training area to perform an advance to contact and engaged in a challenging fire fight. The cumulative scores from all components were collected and calculated, ultimately leading to Bredon School Cadets being bestowed with the prestigious Bronze Award.
Out of an impressive pool of approximately 70,000 Army and CCF (Combined Cadet Force) Cadets, only 152 individuals were handpicked to partake in the Cambrian Patrol. Bredon School Cadets embraced this unique opportunity, arriving at the Sennybridge Training Area on Friday evening, eagerly awaiting their orders for the weekend’s demanding challenges. On Saturday 19th May 2023, the Bredon Cadets embarked on a rigorous patrol spanning a 26-kilometer route across the area, punctuated by several checkpoints. At these points, the team was required to showcase their observational skills, perform a medical evacuation out of a simulated minefield, engage in advance-to-contact exercises, demonstrate military knowledge, and execute Section Attacks. Undeterred by the physical demands and mental pressure, the cadets exhibited exceptional composure, resilience, and teamwork throughout the arduous day. As dusk settled, the team set up their own Harbour area, meticulously attending to routine tasks such as nourishment, personal and equipment hygiene, and maintaining vigilant watch over the surroundings for safety. Enduring a night in the field, the cadets embarked on the final leg of their journey, proceeding
The attainment of the Bronze Award at the Cambrian Patrol is a testament to the unwavering dedication, resolute spirit, and exceptional skills exhibited by the Bredon School Cadets. Their performance not only showcases their proficiency in vital military skills but also reflects the school’s commitment to fostering leadership, discipline, and personal growth among its students. 2Lt Eaton, CCF Contingent Commander expressed her immense pride in the cadets’ achievements, stating, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Bredon School Cadets for their outstanding performance and their remarkable representation of our institution at the Cambrian Patrol. This accolade is a true testament to their hard work, determination, and the guidance provided by their dedicated staff instructors. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments Be Bredon. Be UNIQUE!”
Bredon School remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing the talents and potential of its cadets, empowering them with the skills and qualities needed to thrive in any endeavour they undertake. The achievement at the Cambrian Patrol serves as a resounding example of Bredon School’s commitment to excellence in cadet training and development.
The Adventures of Alice Article by Mrs Haines
The Bredon School community took on the challenge of producing a whole-school play “The Adventures of Alice”. For the production thirty pupils took to the stage and a dedicated team of staff provided support for this unforgettable production.
T
he cast of “The Adventures of Alice” delivered exceptional performances that went beyond simply reciting lines. Each of the cast fully embraced their characters, bringing them to life with believability and endearing charm. Joseph C, Dormouse, displayed incredible comedy timing, eliciting laughter from the audience with impeccable precision. Tilly D, Mad Hatter, sang her solo part with gusto, captivating the audience with her incredible voice. Miriam M, in the role of Alice, portrayed the character with the perfect amount of attitude, captivating the audience. The cast as a whole was outstanding, and special mention must be given to the hilarious double act between Alicia M as the Duchess and Heidi S as the Cook, Andreas H’s uproarious portrayal of the ever-late White Rabbit, and Bronwen C’s depiction of the notoriously depressed Mock Turtle. The inclusion of Junior pupils in their debut appearance on the Senior School stage was a heartwarming aspect of the production. This allowed the Juniors to showcase their talents and fostered a sense of unity and community. The play was performed to both the school community, governors and parents. The laughter and enthusiasm from the audience created an immersive experience for all.
The success of the production was made possible by the dedicated creative team behind the scenes. Director Mrs Haines, who also re-wrote and adapted the script, along with Co-Director Matt Lucas, provided invaluable guidance and direction to the cast. Mrs Rogers’ coordination of professionally handmade costumes, Mrs Folkes’ management of extraordinary props and Mrs Berry’s stunningly hand painted scenery added depth and authenticity to the production, enhancing the overall visual experience. The collective effort and wider support of the entire staff involved truly made this production a remarkable team effort. Bredon School’s adaptation of “The Adventures of Alice” was an outstanding achievement. The months of rehearsals, the exceptional performances of the cast, and the enthusiastic engagement of the audience created an unforgettable theatrical experience. This wholeschool play showcased the immense talent and unity within the school community, leaving a lasting impact on all those involved. The production was a highlight of Bredon School’s theatrical endeavours.
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The academic year has been marked by exceptional artistic achievements across all year levels Article by Mrs Berry The academic year in the Art Department at Bredon has been filled with creativity, innovation, and outstanding artistic achievements. Pupils from all years have showcased their talents and passion for art through a series of captivating schemes of work. The collaborative Starry Night project in Year 7 was a resounding success. Pupils came together to explore different mediums and techniques, working in teams to create a giant Van Gogh jigsaw. Pupils developed their artistic, problem solving, teamwork and risk taking skills. Additionally, the sculpture project, an extension to the Starry Night Collaboration showcased their growth in three-dimensional art, as they created intricate and imaginative sculptures that are on display in the Old Library. The Beetles and Bugs project saw Year 8 pupils delving into the fascinating world of insects. This project challenged their observational skills as they studied these creatures and translated their intricate details into stunning artworks. The pupils’ attention to detail, use of various artistic techniques, and ability to capture the essence of these creatures were truly impressive. Mrs Pruden-Lawson’s groups have worked with clay and produced the most wonderful textural Fantastic Fish sculptures. Year 9 pupils explored the world of Op Art through an exciting shoe design project. Experimenting with optical illusions, patterns and colour to create captivating shoe designs. This project encouraged pupils to push their creative boundaries to showcase their unique style. The results were remarkable.
The independent creative self-set work of our GCSE and A-Level pupils this year has been nothing short of amazing with some exceptional grades at examination level. These pupils demonstrated their artistic maturity, technical skill, and personal expression through their chosen themes and mediums. Their artworks were thought-provoking, visually stunning, and reflective of their individual artistic journeys. The dedication and commitment shown by these students in developing their portfolios is highly commendable. The Art Department’s open house policy, which encourages pupils to work during breaks, has fostered an environment of independence and self-motivation. This has allowed pupils to fully immerse themselves in their creative process, resulting in a year filled with remarkable artistic achievements and personal growth. The academic year has been marked by exceptional artistic achievements across all year levels. From collaborative projects to individual explorations, pupils have exhibited creativity, technical proficiency, and a deep passion for art. The department takes pride in nurturing and encouraging the artistic growth of its pupils. The outstanding work produced by Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, as well as GCSE and A-Level pupils, is a testament to their talent and hard work. The Art Department looks forward to continuing to inspire and support these budding artists in their future artistic endeavours.
Be Bredon | 41 A
D
E
B
F
C
A. Artwork by Rosie H B. Artwork by Harry T C. Beetles and Bugs by Year 8
D. Cinderellas Revenge by Year 9 E. Starry Night Project Year 7 F. Artwork by Flora B
Be Bredon | 42 A
C
D
B
E
A. Artwork by Rianna B B. Artwork by Oscar W
C. Artwork by Obi NT D. Artwork by Erin K E. Artwork by Willow O
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P H O T O G R A P H Y The Portrait by Joseph M
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Capturing Creativity A Year of Visual Storytelling in Photography and Graphic Communications Mrs Haines In the realm of visual arts, the photography and graphic communications courses at Bredon School have experienced an exhilarating year filled with exploration, creativity, and impactful visual storytelling. Through a diverse range of projects, pupils have harnessed their artistic skills to delve into themes such as landscapes, portraits, diversity, mental health, children’s books, advertising, clothing designs, and postcards. The photography department embarked on a captivating journey, capturing the essence of various subjects and concepts. Pupils delved into landscapes, immersing themselves in the vibrant colours of nature, using their lenses to capture the beauty and tranquility of different environments. From sweeping vistas to intimate close-ups, their photographs allowed viewers to witness the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world. Portraits became a medium through which the pupils conveyed emotions and stories. Each image was a window into the soul, highlighting the unique personalities and experiences of their subjects. Through skilled composition and thoughtful lighting, pupils painted vivid portraits that evoked a myriad of emotions, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer. Diversity and mental health took centre stage as pupils sought to promote understanding and compassion through their photographs. Exploring themes of identity, culture, and personal struggles, they showcased the power of visual storytelling in raising awareness and fostering empathy within our school community.
In the graphic communications course, pupils unleashed their imagination and honed their design skills through a variety of captivating projects. They embarked on the enchanting journey of creating children’s books, crafting narratives that transported young readers to magical worlds filled with delightful characters and meaningful lessons. The exploration of advertising and media opened doors to the fascinating realm of persuasion and communication. Pupils crafted advertisements that combined captivating imagery and compelling messages, promoting products and ideas with a creative flair. They delved into the psychology behind effective marketing and harnessed their skills to engage and captivate audiences. Clothing designs and postcards provided pupils with a platform to showcase their artistic talents while exploring the intersection of fashion and visual communication. From eye-catching designs that pushed the boundaries of style to beautifully crafted postcards that captured the essence of places and experiences, pupils left their artistic mark. Beyond their individual projects, the photography department played a pivotal role in documenting the spirit and excitement of various school events and sports competitions. The photography and graphic communications courses at our school have embarked on an inspiring journey of visual storytelling this year. We commend our talented pupils for their dedication, passion, and the profound impact they have made through their artistic endeavours.
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A. Photography by Sam C B. Design by Hunter D C. Photography by Sienna S
D. Photography by Joe M E. Design by Hanson T F. Photography by Adam P
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Back by popular demand was the amazing Bredons Got Talent. It was a fantastic and fun event. The judges were put to the test. The most exciting moment of Mr Oldham giving the Golden Buzzer to our very own Rockstar in the making, Amie L in Year 4.
It was amazing to see how much talent we have at Bredon from singers, dancers to musicians and a live science experiment. Bredons Got Talent will be a firm favourite to end the Year next year. The whole school also got to hear the school band, “rock” everyone out and get the end of term spirit in full swing
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Celebrating Musical Excellence
Bredon School is thrilled to highlight a year filled with exceptional musical talents and accomplishments. From the formation of our new school band to the resounding vocal performance by the school choir at the Christmas Tewkesbury Abbey Service, our pupils have consistently showcased their passion and dedication to music.
The introduction of our school band marks an exciting milestone in our musical journey. The band is set to captivate and inspire the school community with their extraordinary skills. Our peripatetic lessons continue to thrive. Our dedicated music instructors have nurtured and guided students in mastering various instruments, from vocals, piano and guitar to violin and drums.
A standout moment this year was the vocal performance by the school choir at the Christmas Tewkesbury Abbey Service. Their collective voices resonated through the Abbey, filling hearts with warmth and joy. The choir’s commitment, hard work, and amazing talent left an indelible impression on all who had the pleasure of witnessing their fantastic performance.
The values and standards of the British Army are expressed in the mnemonic CDRILS: courage, discipline, respect for others, integrity, loyalty, selfless and commitment. In our CCF these inspiring qualities develop the responsible, mature team players that consistently amaze and inspire us.
The school year had just started when we heard the sad news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. With no instruction from staff the CCF boarders donned their uniforms and organised their own parade to lower the union flag to half mast, watched by the remaining boarders paying their own respects in silence. This example of initiative and teamwork set the tone for a busy year.
Be Bredon | 49 In October we had our first field day featuring several guest instructors sharing their expertise. Stands included observation, fighting in built up areas, air rifle range, laser tag and close quarter battle with paintball guns. November saw the cadets parading at school on Armistice Day and two days later they joined the Tewkesbury Remembrance Parade. Their turnout and performance were impeccable and they were awarded the Town Mayor’s annual trophy for best uniformed youth organisation. It should be stressed that this was not luck. They had trained hard in the cold, wind and rain to be the best they could be it worked!
Cadets then took part in the Inter House Drill Competition. Keenly contested with great sportsmanship all round, it was Jarrett House that took the title. In the first field day of the Lent Term some of the cadets trained in weapon handling skills whilst others practised navigation in conjunction with their Duke of Edinburgh awards. For the second field day we were lucky enough to have Rhiannon and Erin’s mum bring her RAF medical team to show us the latest equipment and procedures for battlefield first aid and casualty evacuation. In the afternoon a laser tag battle took place in the woods with the RAF team evacuating the virtual casualties!
Receiving the Town Mayor’s Annual Trophy
The cadets paraded for the school and parents again for our celebration of the King’s coronation and a couple of weeks later a team departed for our most prestigious venture yet - Cadet Cambrian Patrol. Whether it’s proudly parading, organising the car parking, or representing the South West at the premier army cadet competition- our cadets lead the way.
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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a UK charity that makes a difference to young people’s lives and prepares them for life and work. Over 300,000 young people per year from every background take part in the DofE programme to broaden their horizons, develop their leadership skills, learn to work with others, volunteer in their local communities, increase their employability, and prove to themselves they can succeed at a serious challenge. Pupils choose their own activities and set their own targets. Their level of achievement depends on their own enthusiasm, commitment and self-motivation.
Be Bredon | 51 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award The Year 9 Bronze participants took part in a fantastic training day. The training day included navigation, first aid, cooking, packing and teamwork to provide the necessary skills to complete their qualifying expedition. Throughout Lent Term the Year 9’s learnt all the skills necessary to thrive in their Bronze Expedition. This year, the Bronze qualifying expedition took place in the Forest of Dean at the end of the Summer Term. All participants who took part in the expedition section proved that by working together as a team they can overcome serious challenges and strive to greatness.
Silver Duke of Edinburgh Training Pupils on their Silver Duke of Edinburgh training travelled to a haunted castle in St Briavels in March, with very unpredictable weather. Three groups of pupils were walking and these pupils practised navigation skills including walking on bearings and keeping maps orientated, as well as dodging mud slicks. For the pupils on mountain bikes, highlights included a 40 kilometre bike ride, blamed on some creative map reading, and trying to navigate a flat route back to the castle. All groups were on a steep learning curve and it almost became a competition to make it back to the castle at the end of the day. They cooked a mixture of expedition foods on trangia stoves. Not all of the cooking was a success however all pupils had plenty of opportunities for learning.
Be Bredon | 52 Silver Duke of Edinburgh Qualifying Expedition The expedition took place in the Brecon Beacons, for three days and two nights. The walkers battled navigational difficulties, tough routes, high mountains and weather conditions. The mountain bikers with their full panniers strapped to their sides kept morale high throughout. I was proud to see that no matter the challenge the teams stuck together and looked out for one another. All participants overcame huge personal challenges and goals completing this expedition. There were tears, crashes and some tired individuals at the finish line but as a team and in true Bredon style they pulled together. Year 13 Gold Duke of Edinburgh Training This year saw eighteen pupils take part in their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, the biggest group so far. The training occurred in September 2022 in the Brecon Beacons. Pupils practised camping, cooking, navigation and being self sufficient for an extended period of time. All participants demonstrated to not only the staff but to themselves they were capable of supporting each to overcome the long challenging days and cold hungry nights.
Emily C receiving the Gold Award
Year 13 Gold Duke of Edinburgh Qualifying Expedition The eighteen prepared pupils in three teams were ready for anything the Lake District could throw at them in October. The Lake District did not disappoint with rain, sunshine, wind and fog. Nevertheless the expedition was a huge success. Each team worked together to keep morale high and shared their equipment around group members in order to be efficient across valleys, caves, waterfalls and mountain tops. One of the highlights of the expedition was when two teams on separate occasions, decided to enjoy the mountains and rain a little bit too long and arrive back at camp in the dark with head torches guiding them home safely.
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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has released stats for 2022/23. Last year was a record breaking year. Volunteering hours soared by 64% to more than 3.5 million – equivalent to £17 million in paid working hours. The impact that this has on local communities and on young people themselves can’t be overstated.
Volunteering, Physical and Skill Sections Also included in the Bronze, Silver and Gold DofE Award are three other sections (Volunteering, Physical and Skill). Participants have to commit themselves for one hour a week as this shows resilience and perseverance to complete their goals. There has been a wide range of exciting options pupils have independently decided to take part in. This year’s highlights were young leaders, reading groups, pen pals, animal care charity work, shooting and coaching younger years in CCF. Thank you parents, guardians, teachers and instructors for supporting The Duke of Edinburgh participants. To all participants, well done for an amazing year of personal growth and enjoyment in the outdoors.
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Autumn Term
The dry conditions through the summer and autumn meant that the winter feeding routine began earlier due to a lack of grass. The good weather allowed the cows to stay outside longer than normal. Pupils were kept busy with a competition to design a new farm logo and pupils in Key Stage 3 freshened up the pig pens, by pressure washing and painting. This year we have introduced the Animal Care Course. We have also welcomed two Guinea pigs and gerbils to the farm. The pupils have loved getting to know the animals.
Spring Term
The dry autumn turned into a long wet winter and the care of livestock including feeding, bedding and cleaning took up most of the time. Pupils assisted with a successful lambing season. Each class got involved in one way or another and a Level 3 agriculture pupil helped on night shifts. The end lambing percentage was 170%. One morning we had an incident with a struggling ewe. Luckily our Animal Care pupils were quick to volunteer to lend a hand with a couple of pupils successfully lambing two big lambs, one of which was coming backwards. Well done!
Summer Term
The main project at the start of the summer term was to repair the Farm garden fountain, Pupils impressed us with their skills and the fountain was repaired. As a reward for all of their hard work with their coursework Years 10- 13 Agriculture and Animal Care pupils attended the Three Counties Show in June. Six pupils from Years 7-9 were chosen to take part in the British Pig Association, Junior Pig Club Future Stars Workshop at The Elms. Pete CH, Mal D, Marvin B, Eddie K, Will M and Rhys H completed a workshop on learning how to show pigs and stockjudging.
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Academics
Throughout the year, pupils from Years 10 and 11 have been focusing on the livestock element of their course - learning about production systems, health and welfare of farmed animals, practical feeding and care of farmed animals. The highlight of their year was helping in the Lambing sheds and the trip to Cirencester market to see ewe lamb, culls and cattle sales. Our Year 12 and 13 pupils had a tractor driving morning where they were taught the ropes in the school’s tractor. Following this the pupils took part in an obstacle course where they had to pick up a football using the pallet forks, slalom around some cones, drive to each corner of the field and successfully tip the ball into a small bucket. Miss Lamb was very impressed with some of their driving skills! Year 13 pupils focused on the estate skills elements of their course learning about health and safety regulations, services and waste disposal with practical elements including, fencing, pressure washing, strimming. Pupils were very proud of the access path, which they laid from the farm classroom to the Wainwright building. To understand the impact of Animal Therapy, Year 13 pupils visited Tewkesbury Fields care home with Goat kids and Valais Blacknose sheep. The residents shared their stories of helping on farms in the war, and the pupils enjoyed the visit as much as the residents! The carers couldn’t believe the stories the residents were telling them and the positive change in mood the animals had had on them. A very successful trip!
SKI TRIP SESTRIERE ITALY Article by Mr Michel
In February pupils boarded the coach for the eagerly awaited Ski Trip to Sestriere .Sitting in a snowy bowl in the centre of the Milky Way circuit, Sestriere’s pistes suit a range of abilities. Pupils hit the slopes without a moment’s notice after collecting ski hire equipment and started to make themselves familiar with the area, conditions and the snow! The weather for the week was excellent which led to all involved having a great time. It was great to see pupils learning to ski and
improving their technique. Hopefully this will set pupils up with more confidence going forward into future trips and endeavours. It was Mark Patterson who said “The best education you will ever get is travelling. Nothing teaches you more than exploring the world and accumulating experiences.” This will be a trip that our pupils will remember for a lifetime and hopefully discuss into old age. The staff look forward to hosting the next ski trip to Italy in 2024.
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OUTDOOR EDUCATION Outdoor Education encompasses a variety of activities and programs that take place in the natural environment. Activities can include hiking, camping, backpacking, canoeing and kayaking. Cycling Cycling has been offered as an option during sport afternoons to Key Stage 3 and 4 pupils. The focus for this year has been mainly on off-road skills, group riding skills and the necessary road skills used when linking off-road sections during the off-site rides. Each term started with a skills session. Pupils were taught how to carry out a pre-ride ‘M’ check on their bicycle and how to do basic repairs. The changing weather has meant pupils have built up their skills on both dry, dusty and muddy swamp like trails. The improvement in skills has been demonstrated by the increase in speed, and line choice chosen by pupils, as the trails become drier.
Climbing Climbing is a great activity at Bredon School for Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 because it helps pupils develop a variety of skills such as; improving cardiovascular health, building strength, flexibility, and coordination. When pupils climb they are constantly problem-solving as it requires them to figure out how to reach the top of the wall across different routes. This can help develop critical thinking and creativity. The climbing wall has not only been used for lesson’s but was host to the first climbing house competition.
Kayaking Kayaking is a popular activity at Bredon school and allows pupils to make the most of the swimming pool. Throughout the year pupils have progressed from learning and perfecting basic skills through to practising more challenging techniques, including how to rescue themselves. Pupils have also had the opportunity to play fun games in the pool such as Kayak Polo and capsizing games.
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The Royal Three Counties Show was a weekend full of excitement and memorable moments.
Congratulations to pupils for their entry into the Badgerface Ewe and Ewe Lamb Classes. Pupils prepared and exhibited the ewe and ewe lamb showcasing their hard work, expertise and efforts towards raising and caring for the animals. Congratulations go to Rhys H, Eddy K and Peter C-H for their impressive performance in the National Show
of the South Devon Young Handlers. The objective of the competition was to identify future stockmen and stockwomen who excel in showcasing cattle and who have a foundation in livestock breeding. The competition included preparing and exhibiting the heifer. Rhys and Peter both won second place, a remarkable achievement.
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A Pig Day Out Congratulations must also go to Harriet T for her excellent result in the Young Handlers Competition.
Well done
to the pupils who entered and won competitions at the event.
Pupils in Year 7, 8 and 9 attended a workshop at The Elms School where they covered the following topics in relation to stock judging, interviews, washing and showing. In stock judging pupils were given hands-on experience with live pigs. They had to explain the criteria and factors to consider when evaluating the quality of pigs, whilst demonstrating how to analyse and assess various aspects such as conformation, breed characteristics, and market suitability.
Harriet’s willingness to learn and help Sammie, Livestock Assistance/ Farm Hand, with her Valois Blacknose sheep demonstrates her kindness and generosity. Harriet showed great skill, ability and knowledge achieving fourth place in the competition. Pupil participation in events shows their dedication and skill. Competitions such as these also develop important life skills including responsibility and teamwork. In the interview process the pupils had to discuss the importance of showcasing skills and knowledge. Explaining the typical interview structure and questions, whilst presenting oneself professionally. Pupils also had to review the expectations and standards for washing animals before showing. Pupils were taught the process of entering the show ring, including proper positioning, walking, and handling of the animals. Emphasis was placed on the significance of presenting animals in the best possible condition to make a favourable impression on the judges. Throughout these sessions, there were opportunities to ask questions, engage in discussions, and receive feedback. Practical demonstrations and interactive activities were incorporated to enhance the learning experience.
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Dyslexia Show
The Dyslexia Show is the first national exhibition dedicated entirely to Dyslexia In April 2023 Mrs Grant, Head of Learning Development / SENDCO gave a presentation at the Dyslexia Show. During the session, Mrs Grant, explored how a child’s journey through school is equally as important as the academic results. Mrs Grant discussed the endless opportunities available at Bredon, along with sharing some steps every parent can take to help pupils with Dyslexia flourish. The presentation was well received by the audience and it was a pleasure to meet our visitors at the show.
The presentation, along with some helpful hints and tips can be found at www.youtube.com/@bredonschoolofficial4953
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Visit from CReSTeD
The Council for the Registration of Schools Teaching Dyslexic pupils
In February, Mrs Grant and her team welcomed CReSTeD (The Council for the Registration of Schools Teaching Dyslexic pupils) into school with the aim to verify the SEN provision and in order for school to remain on the CReSTeD Register - a list which is provided free to families recommending SpLD settings. This provided the opportunity for Bredon to demonstrate what we offer all of our pupils on a daily basis. Two Consultants spent a whole day with us; visiting classes, watching SLS lessons and talking with the teachers and pupils. It is always a pleasure to show visitors around the school and the pupils come into their own, proving to be well mannered, mature and kind. Something that we already know but is always nice to show others.
The report following the visit described the range of subjects and opportunities as ‘extraordinary’ and acknowledged the efforts to ‘unlock the gifts’ in pupils. Bredon School is ‘fully recommended for acceptance’.
Article by Mrs Deary The second year of Bredonfest did not disappoint! The sun was shining and birds were singing. My prayers to the weather God’s had paid off. The focus of this year’s Bredonfest was the pool party- the perfect way for Year 11 pupils to celebrate the end of exams
The Quad was full of excitement as pupils were armed with their bucket hats, festival clothes and the all important Bredonfest lanyards and wristbands. Much coveted keys to access the funThey were buzzing to wear them.
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upils were delighted to see how Bredon had been transformed into Bredonfest. The mocktails with doughnuts, sweets, popcorn and crisps were the perfect festival food. On the lawn there was a bungee run and gladiator duel. This gave the festival goers a chance to express their competitive edge against each other. Next to the pool the beach towels and sunscreen were ready. There was lots of splashing to be heard whilst playing with the six foot unicorn, ice lolly, hotdog, basketball hoop and other inflatables. Luckily I managed to avoid being pushed into the water this time! After all the swimming and battles the festival goers were extremely hungry until the BBQ started! Some enthusiastic Sixth Form pupils added to the summer vibes with music. It was so lovely to see everyone relaxed, laughing together and thoroughly enjoying life!
Alongside Bredonfest, parents had been invited to a Tea Party. Parents were able to see their little cherubs enjoying themselves and then settle down for a chat and to reminisce about their child’s time at Bredon. The event finished with Mr Monk giving a speech wishing everyone the best of luck for the exciting next adventures. With lanyards, leavers hoodies and fantastic memories in hand the pupils said their goodbyes to one another and went off to enjoy their summer holidays. I was overcome with emotion when Noah H made a speech to everyone and gave me presents to thank me for organising the party. What a wonderful way to round off a perfect day.
This year our Sixth Form pupils celebrated the end of the Bredon year with a James Bond inspired evening, including cocktails and Casino. Staff and pupils arrived in style, in tractors, vintage cars and by horseback. Speeches were made by the Headmaster and Rob Wainwright handed out the Old Bredonian pins to our Year 13 leavers.
Pupils had a wonderful time dancing and memories were made. We look forward to hearing all their wonderful stories in the future and welcoming our leavers back to Bredon.
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International Boarders
Edward Trinidad & Tobago What is your favourite subject? Science, Specifically Biology What makes Bredon so special? The attention and patience that teachers have to the students like myself helps us to achieve the grades and personal skills to go on and succeed in life. My advice for an international boarder? My advice is to occupy yourself with as much as possible when you first arrive, because it distracts you from being home sick. It’s okay to be homesick but you should let your house parent know because they can, and want to help you!
Mariana Portugal What is your favourite subject? My favourite subject is English because I like to make up stories, I have a lot of ideas and a strong imagination. What makes Bredon so special? My favourite things about Bredon School are the choice of courses, the different cultureand the activities on offer. Bredon offers subjects other schools do not. My advice for an international boarder It will take time to settle in, make sure you do things at you time and speed. Be yourself and you will fit in and find friends naturally.
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Aaronde Bermuda What is your favourite subject? My favourite subject at Bredon are Maths and Games. I love to be active and I’m very competitive. I also enjoy Maths because I’m naturally good at it. What makes Bredon so special? Bredon is bigger than my other school which allows me more space to do sport but also to gain more friends. I enjoy boarding due to the weekend activities and full access to the school sports facilities. My advice for an international boarder Make your room feel like home and join in all the fun activities. Keep in touch with family at home but also keep busy.
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A year on...
Clemmie S Leaver 2022
What have you been up to since you left Bredon? In my gap year I have been working in a school. It happens to be my old prep school. I have also just got my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, which I started at Bredon. In September I will be going to Exeter University in Penryn to read History and International Relations. Hopefully one day I will go on to work for the Foreign Office. Bredon teachers helped and supported me throughout my whole time at Bredon and I am so excited to be going to University. I have also been volunteering for a charity that helps Ukrainian children understand English. This has been really rewarding and interesting. I also got a puppy called Tiggy who has been an amazing addition to the family. However, she has been no good for my shoe collection due to the amount of chewing!
What do you miss about Bredon? The thing I miss the most about Bredon school is the Art department and some of the amazing people who helped me get through my time at Bredon, Miss H, Miss Fawdry and Miss Lamb. The one thing Bredon helped me with more than ever is being on time and to believe in myself .
“I can’t thank Bredon enough, and I am so excited about my future.”
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We all went out to France Antibes, while we were there we gained experience through day jobs on boats and we also travelled around France. It was beautiful. I managed to get work on a yacht. It was great fun and definitely a lot of hard work, but it was an amazing time which I will never forget.
Emily K Leaver 2022 What have you been up to since leaving Bredon? When I left Bredon school I already had a plan to work on a yacht for my gap year. I wanted to do something that I could travel and earn money for my future. I took a big interest in Superyachts and found a school that did the STCW course. I took part in a two week course on the Isle of Wight with Flying Fish. The first week of the STCW course I completed first aid, sea survival, fire safety, and radio modules. I also got my power boat licence. The fire safety pushed me mentally and physically to places I never thought I would get to. We had to go into big crates, fight a fire and get casualties out. It was dark and full of smoke. I was at the front of the hose pipe so I had to think of the safety of the others behind me. Whilst I led the team to the fire, my heart was pounding. As soon as I safely opened the door the heat that hit all of us was immense. It was an amazing experience. The second week included stewardess training, ironing, how to make a bed properly, cocktail training, barista training, napkin folding, table set ups, and food safety. At the end of the course we all got our certificates and licences and we all said our goodbyes.
I returned home and began working in London. At this point I did not know whether to continue working on yachts or go to University. I love Art and Photography and chose these subjects at A level. I looked at Fine Art courses and the Oxford Brookes course jumped at me because I could incorporate Photography and Art. Whilst visiting the University I could see myself studying there. It made me feel so excited. There are only forty spaces on the course, and they had already received two hundred applications so I was very worried. I made my portfolio and personal statement with confidence.
It must have impressed them as within one day of sending them over I was offered a place. I start in September! I’m so happy that I have chosen to pursue my love for art, art is what has helped me become me. I want to show people my art and make a change in body image as it’s very personal to me. I want my art to show you are beautiful just the way you are, and you should love every bit about you. Social media and people shouldn’t tell you otherwise because most online images are fake and photoshopped. I am very thankful to Bredon for helping me achieve all of my GCSES and A Levels. I don’t think I would have achieved them without the help from the teachers and SLS staff who helped me find my confidence and show me that I can do it. I am really excited for my next few years at university! Thank you Bredon!!!
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Old Bredonians From the very beginning Col. Sharp wanted an active and engaged alumni for the pupils and staff of Bredon School. Originally called Bredon Old Boys, back in the 1960’s Bredon had yet to have female pupils, and now we refer to the OB’s as Old Bredonians, in part because we are totally inclusive. Often a key Bredon learning, other than the obvious academics, is what is today called EDI, Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity. For OB’s current and ‘old’ this includes more than gender, faith, colour, ethnicity, disability, etc. it includes neurodiversity. We know likely better than most the value of EDI. In the mid 70’s I became an Old Bredonian and later during the late 70’s and into the early 80’s was lucky enough to be elected to the OB Committee. It was an active Committee meeting once each term and arranging with the school various events. Very popular at the time was the OB Rugby, where OB’s would play the Bredon First 15. Times have changed and such matches are no longer appropriate, officially for the safety of the pupils still maturing but more likely the reality was for the safety of the mostly overweight and under fit OB’s being run ragged. Like many Old Bredonians, we are interested to keep in touch, to maintain friendships, to see how the ‘old place’ is getting on and to see
how our friends have faired in life. Friendships with their foundations in our time together as youngsters runs deep and often last a lifetime and should any one of us be in need you’d want to know, and you’d want to help. Live can sometimes steer us in different directions, OB’s contact details can change, records are not updated and so OB’s can lose touch. It was the situation for me, but from time to time and because I live not too far away, I would still call in to see the School. Fortunately, because of this periodic contact, in recent years Bredon has asked that I get involved. The Old Bredonians for a number of reasons have not been very active in recent years, not helped by the recent pandemic. However the Headmaster and his team, want to work with us to re-start the Old Bredonians. This is a great opportunity to build an active and engaged alumni. The Old Bredonians celebrated 50 years a few years ago, so we want to ensure the next 50 years and beyond. In December Old Bredonains were invited to attend the School for a tour which included pupil made mince pies (very yummy, so nice we acquired some to take home), a lunch, then onwards to Tewkesbury Abbey for the annual end of term Christmas Carols service. It was good to meet a few old faces plus some new faces. All very impressive.
The Headmaster and his team, want to work with us to re-start the Old Bredonians. This is a great opportunity to build an active and engaged alumni. The Old Bredonians celebrated 50 years a few years ago, so we want to ensure the next 50 years and beyond.
Going forward the Old Bredonians and the School are looking at planning regular activities for each term, starting this summer (2023). We want to rebuild the Old Bredonians which means starting with rebuilding the Committee, setting in place a structure so there are regular events, an AGM and to have an alumni that has a real purpose including support for new leavers, pupils and Old Bredonians. It will need input, help and support for us all, so if you want to get involved please contact the School and they will connect you. Looking forward to seeing you sometime soon.
Bredon School Pull Court, Bushley Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 6AH T: 01684 293156
E: enquiries@bredonschool.co.uk www.bredonschool.org
Part of the Cavendish Education Group