Berkhamstedian 2025

2024-25 The Berkhamstedian

2025 • Contents

Contents Principal's Foreword 3

Year 9 History Trip to Normandy

63

Houses 5

Year 7 PGL to Osmington Bay

64

Adders 5 Bartrum 7 Bees 11 Cox’s 13 Fry’s 16 Greenes 18 Loxwood 20 Swifts 23 Tilman 25 Holme 27 New Stede 29 Old Stede 31 Russell 34 St David's 36 Stephenson 38 Wolstenholme 40 St John’s 43 Incents 45 Sixth 47

Activities 65 Personal Development

66

Library 68 Character Education & Leadership

71

Combined Cadet Force

74

Outdoor Education 81

Departments

84

Art 85 Classics 93 Design & Technology 94 Drama 97 English 104 Food and Nutrition 106 Geography 107 History 108 Modern Languages 109 Music 111 Politics 117

Trips 2024-25

49

Psychology 118

Sixth Ski Trip to Banff

50

Sociology 119

Classics Trip to Greece

51

STEM 121

Year 7 French Trip to Normandy

52

Year 9 French Trip to Burgundy

53

Sport 126

Ski Trip to Italy

54

Geography Trip to Iceland

56

Sixth Trip to Washington

57

Diving Trip to Egypt

59

Cricket Tour to Spain

60

Art & Photography Trip to Lisbon

61

2025 • Contents

Director of Sport Review

127

Rugby 130 Netball 132 Girls Football 135 Boys Football 137 Basketball 139

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2025 • Contents Lacrosse 140 Eton Fives 143 Girls Cricket 146 Boys Cricket 147 Athletics 150 Golf 150 School Records, 2025 151 Tennis 152 Squash 153

Sixth Opportunities 155 AI Super-Curricular 159 Young Enterprise 160 The Student Consultancy

161

Employability Dinner 165 Oracy Mentoring 166 Academic Gala 168 Crawford Society 168

Charities & Community Charities 171 Chaplaincy 172

Beyond Berkhamsted Valetes 175 Other Leavers 186 Senior Posts of Responsibility

188

Sixth Posts of Responsibility

189

Leavers’ Destinations 192 GCSE Results 2025 196 A Level Results 2025

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Staff List 2024-25 198 The Old Berkhamstedians

208

Berkhamsted Society 209 Friends of Berkhamsted

211

Image Galleries

213

2025 • Contents

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2025 • Principal's Foreword

Principal's Foreword

The 2024–2025 academic year at Berkhamsted was one of momentum, connection, and achievement. It was a year in which the rhythm of the School was rich with learning, laughter, shared purpose, and positive outcomes.

This magazine offers a glimpse in the rear-view mirror, but more than that, it captures the essence of what it meant to be part of Berkhamsted last year. The School innovated and did new things, occupied a new building, set new records in a number of respects; but the School also continues to value its traditions: Founders Day, Sports Day, House Performing Arts, and so many more.

What remained unwavering throughout was the spirit of pupils—their resilience, humour, and ambition.

The support of parents and the dedication of staff were, as ever, the essential foundation of our community.

Across these pages, you’ll find evidence of excellence in every corner: in sport, academic endeavour, the arts, charitable work, and in the relationships that make Berkhamsted such a special place. These successes are the result of shared values, purposeful collaboration, and a deep commitment to doing things well.

As we reflect on the year, it feels fitting to end with the words of Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Mr R Backhouse Principal

2025 • Principal's Foreword

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Adders 2025

Adders Henry H House Captain When reflecting on my time as Adders House Captain, what I feel the most is pride for what our boys have achieved this year. Adders has really taken one step forward in developing our community and unity as a House and I am pleased to have played a part in this.

Our most notable achievement this year was raising just under £3,500 in our charity swim event. This was the second time we set ourselves this challenge, which was completed by the majority of the boys in Adders and demonstrated the camaraderie that Adders House shows towards one another. This large sum of money was raised for and donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital, one of our House charities, and a very worthy cause in our eyes. A huge congratulations to not only the boys for their

Adders 2025

laps, but to everyone who donated and supported this wonderful event. Our second charity event was a bake sale in order to raise money for the WWF and we again raised a significant amount: just over £165, thanks to the many boys who took time to bake a variety of cakes and biscuits and also the boys who took time out of their break and lunch to man the stall.

Adders further demonstrated this wonderful team spirit in our excellent rendition of Never going to give you up, by Rick Astley, earlier in the school year during the annual House Performing Arts competition. Whilst we did not win, we showed courage and commitment to give it our best shot.

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Adders 2025

We practiced singing and dancing every morning for multiple weeks to truly master our performance and it was amazing seeing everyone come together.

Additionally, Adders demonstrated resilience in all sporting events with very large turnouts of boys participating. Most notably, every boy in Year 11 turned up to House Fives giving us a huge advantage in the points tally.

In terms of House Socials, during the Michaelmas term, the Y7 and Y8s enjoyed pizza making alongside Wolstenholme House at Kings. We also attended a Christmas trip to Aylesbury Waterside to see the panto, Return of Captain Hook, which was a really fun and enjoyable evening. During the Lent term, we organised a trip to Rush in High Wycombe, which parents were also invited to come along to. Finally, during the Trinity term, the Y11 enjoyed a leavers’ meal at the Fat Buddha whilst the whole House took part in the annual Mill Street Derby – paintballing against Fry’s House, which Adders won!

To summarise, Adders has had a fantastic year, and I want to thank all the tutors for their outstanding support and commitment to the boys this year.

A huge thank you especially to the tutors leaving this year; Mr Caidan and Miss Sayliss, who are both moving on to other areas of the school and Mr Pierce, who is taking on a role outside of Berkhamsted. Lastly, thank you to Mr Margerison, our Head of House who has continuously pushed every boy out of their comfort zone and supported them to truly improve themselves. A big well done to everyone!

Adders 2025

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Bartrum 2025

Bartrum Archie W, Marcus J, John M and Josh K House Captain and Prefects Michaelmas term proved to be as action-packed as ever! We were delighted to introduce the new Bartrum Year 7s and 9s to Berkhamsted and to the House, and as they quickly settled in, we started preparing our song for the House Performing Arts competition. Having sung brilliantly in the 2023 competition, the Bartrum boys had a high standard to maintain… and they certainly did that! Great credit to Dom – for a Year 9 boy to inspire and lead 61 other boys in singing confidently on stage, is a remarkable achievement.

engaging the House and leading many rehearsals.

Bartrum sang 'Don’t Look Back in Anger' by Oasis, with all the boys in bucket hats, baggy trousers, and vintage 90s style clothes (creating a lot of nostalgia for parents). Across the stage you could see the boys sing their hearts out, jumping up and down, and playing inflatable guitars! The theatre’s audience was blown away by the singing, dancing, and sense of community which makes every boy proud to be a part of Bartrum House! Thanks to Max and Jake for overseeing sound and lighting for our performance.’

Ben writes: ‘The Bartrum Boys enjoyed great success in the Performing Arts competition. We were awarded third place out of nine for our wholeHouse song! Year 9 boy Dominic performed an incredible solo at the start and was responsible for

Other Michaelmas term activities included a charity cake sale. Josh writes: ‘Bartrum hosted an extremely successful cake sale this half-term. The cake sale took place to raise money for Sense, which is our new chosen charity. In just forty minutes we

Bartrum 2025

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Bartrum 2025 had raised a total of £329.32! This was a huge achievement for all the boys and the Bartrum staff.’

Thank you very much to all the Bartrum parents who helped with the baking!

A great deal of sport was played in Michaelmas term. Marcus writes: ‘This term has once again proved Bartrum as a House which gives its best, always turning out a large number of players to sport competitions. They include Years 7 and 8, accompanied by their prefect ‘coaches’, who achieved notable finishes in their inter-House Football. Year 7 finished fourth, led by Archie W, Josh K and Josh G; the Year 8's finished fifth, with support from both me and John M. Bartrum were commended at the football for their impressive turnouts. Meanwhile, Year 10 secured first place in House Rugby. Finally, in Year 11 rugby, where positive atmosphere shone through against the results; Year 11 finished 9th, although their exceptional turnout once again proved how the striking spirit of Bartrum encourages resilience and respect.’

In other sporting events, well done to Adam and Seb who secured second place for Bartrum in the final of Year 10 Fives. Our five Year 11 Bartrum pairs, who secured fourth place overall in their Fives competition, were one of only two Houses who had 100% turnout from pairs. Adam was also in action with Will to achieve third place in Year 10 squash.

Year 10 Bartrum boys also gave a very good account of themselves in the inter-House Cross Country, finishing fourth overall and with top-ten individual finishes for Dexter (4th) and Joe (7th).

Lent term In another busy term, Bartrum impressed once again in Inter-House Debating. Sam and Charlie performed brilliantly in the Year 7 competition and managed to make it through to the final.

Otto and Ethan were similarly impressive in the Year 8 competition, missing out narrowly on the final. Meanwhile, three of the six boys chosen to represent Berkhamsted School in the International Competition for Young Debaters at Cambridge University were Bartrum boys! Well done to Dom, Adam and Ben! Sport trophies may have eluded us this term but there is no denying the great sense of camaraderie which characterised the Bartrum boys’ involvement.

We fielded large teams for all the Saturday interHouse Events and the boys have kept battling throughout. Well done to our Bartrum Y9s for a great effort at Saturday House Football. There was an equally impressive turnout from our Y10s at football; and well done to our Y11s for going unbeaten for much of their tournament.

Well done to Charlie (Y8), who represented the school at skiing in France. Charlie was the highest placed Berko boy, finishing 14th with a best time of 51.46. To put these achievements into context, the boy who came first overall had a fastest time of 44.24 seconds - he was in the U18 category.

Well done to Charlie D for representing the school in Herts cross country.

Well done to our fine Bartrum Y10 rugby stars Joe, Oscar and Seb, for representing the school so well this term at the Merchant Taylors’ Sevens tournament.

Bartrum 2025

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Bartrum 2025 Year 11. With thanks to Mr Gardiner for organising the evening, to the Prefects for running a great quiz and to the Chartwells staff for baking our pizzas!

Bartrum musicians entertained audiences throughout the term! The Music Gala concert in Nash Harris was sold out and it featured Dom and Ben in the brilliant ‘Barbershop’ group, Louis in the flute ensemble and Micah swapping his acoustic guitar for electric!

Bravo to Ryan A for achieving a personal best at a recent long jump competition at Brunel University and coming top of his age category!

Great commitment to swimming this term from Y7 boys Leo, Sam and Charlie A, including regular earlymorning training in the pool!

Thank you, too, to our Y7s Charlie, Ryan, Michael and Sam for representing Bartrum in inter-House squash and achieving a respectable 5th place.

Well done to Michael for his ongoing, highly impressive progress in shooting this term.

Well done to Adam, Seb and Ben for representing the school in the U15 National Fives tournament this term.

There was a great turnout at this term’s social event at Nash Harris Dining Hall, with large numbers from every Year group. The boys began by creating their own pizza toppings, with some very unusual food combinations on show! Thanks to the kitchen staff, the baked results were received very enthusiastically! Alongside the eating, we had a highly competitive quiz evening, including Bartrum-themed questions, organised brilliantly by the prefect team. Our quiz champion was Arthur in

Bartrum boys worked especially hard this term!

Since the start of the Lent term in January we had been towards the top of the House Merit totals, as we have been in the past few terms, but many Bartrum boys strived this term for higher standards of work. The strong encouragement by the Prefects in our weekly House meetings certainly helped the boys to give their best! The final merit totals were announced in the end-of-term assembly and we were delighted to win the Inter-House Merit Competition this term! Our challenge now is to hold on to the cup next term!

Trinity term After winning the Inter-House Merit Cup in the Lent term, we knew it would be a big ask for us to retain it in the Trinity term. The Bartrum boys rose to the challenge, however! The cheer erupting from the Bartrum-occupied area of Dean's Hall conveyed the delight of the boys to have held on to this honour. Retaining the Merit Cup is the result of the hard work of all Bartrum boys this term, but special mention should be made of Charlie D, with 39 merits - highest number of merits in Bartrum this term. We were delighted to learn in the final assembly that the boys had also earned the highest number of subject commendations per House this term, by some margin. Further evidence of a good deal of hard work!

Bartrum’s reputation as a House of fine debaters was strengthened further this term, as Ben and Adam made it through the final of the Year 10 competition. Well done, boys!

This term’s Sports Day was a great success for the Bartrum boys! Thanks to fine leadership from House Captain Josh, ably assisted by Mrs Deeley-Kelly, by the lunchtime break Bartrum were in first place overall. The boys maintained their effort throughout the afternoon and, in the final overall standings

Bartrum 2025

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Bartrum 2025 Bartrum were pipped to the post by Tilman and Adders, finishing in third place out of the nine boys’ Houses. This was a splendid achievement, which was the result not only of some excellent individual performances but a great team spirit.

were presented with their Bartrum-logo mugs, which hopefully will evoke fond memories for our ‘Old Bartrumians’ for many years to come! Wishing success and offering thanks again to Archie (House Captain), Arthur, Cameron, Dylan, Jake, John (House Prefect), Josh G, Josh K (House Prefect), Louis, Marcus (House Prefect), Max, Sasha and Thomas. Sadly, we also had to say farewell to Mr Gardiner at the end of term after four years of outstanding service to Bartrum. Thank you, Mr G!

It is not only at Sports Day where Bartrum athletes impressed this term. Congratulations to Ryan A for breaking TWO school records: long jump and triple jump! He has also represented the school in 200M. Well done, too, to Nate, Oscar and Seb for representing the school in athletics this term.

Many Bartrum boys enjoyed their cricket this term!

They include the following who have represented the school (* = Cricket Values Award announced in final assembly): Ryan M, Seb (U15A Player of the Season), Harry*, Oliver S, Oliver L, Leo, Adam, Ben*, Charlie H*, Rajveer, Samuel, Charlie D, Rohan, Ori*, Josh*, Otto P, Matthew, Sam, Ethan*, Yagnesh* and Yogesh. Special mention needs to be made of Charlie D, who as well as being named U12A Player of the Season, was presented with the coveted Clixby trophy in final assembly, in recognition of his superb, unmatched six wickets (for six runs!) in a single match. It is rare for a Year 7 boy to win the award. Bravo, Charlie!

It was with sadness that we said farewell to our brilliant Bartrum Y11s just before they began their study leave for GCSE exams. Whether they joined the House in Year 7 or in Year 9, every one of them has made a positive impact on Bartrum and we applaud them for their many contributions. The Y11s enjoyed a leaving event at Orbital adventure centre near Luton (with no broken bones to report!) and during their final House meeting they

Bartrum 2025

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Bees 2025

Bees Mr G Reid-Davies Head of Bees House Bees House has once again been a very kind, happy and friendly place this year. It was particularly lovely to arrive in September into our House which has been decorated in the new Bees colours – mustard and black – the colour of Bees! The boys came up with a Bees motto which is emblazoned in the House Room – ‘apes fortissimo in alveario sunt’ – ‘Bees are strongest in the hive’!

All year the boys have thrown themselves into activities with great enthusiasm – not least when winning the House Performing Arts competition in the Michaelmas term singing ‘Freed from Desire’ with the words ‘Bees House on fire! This was brilliantly orchestrated by Year 9 tutor and new Deputy Head of House, Miss Jarvis. We also welcomed Mrs Bodlaendar as new Year 7 tutor and Ms Lloyd-

Bees 2025

Buckingham as Year 8 tutor. Mr Barton remained with his Year 9 tutor group and helped them through Year 10, while Miss Attfield stayed with her group into Year 11 and helped them through their GCSEs. I am delighted that all of our tutors will remain in Bees next year.

The new Year 7 boys settled in extremely quickly and they are a lovely bunch of boys, who have very varied interests, and ran out winners of Sports Day at the end of the year.

Bees House were extremely well represented in the school productions of ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’, and the musical talent on show from Bees boys in the ‘Proms on the Quad’ was breathtaking.

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Bees 2025 In addition, one Year 10 boy has been signed by Crystal Palace for their football academy, underlining the breadth of talent in the House, and it has been very rewarding to see one of last year’s Bees named as Head Boy of the school.

As the school year draws to a close we have already met next year’s new Bees and we are very much looking forward to welcoming them into the hive.

Bees 2025

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Cox’s 2025

Cox’s Ethan G-C, Tom M and Dylan M House Captain and Prefects It’s been another great year together in Cox’s, sporting great achievements and memories across all Berkhamsted has to offer. Embodying the school’s values is something we all strive to do and believe we have done again.

My personal highlight of the year – which I felt embodied our school values - was our victory in House Football as Year 10s. A true moment of joy and victory for us after aiming high and being adventurous together across the Lent football term.

Of course, we all found it difficult at times last year, but those moments are what help us grow. We all struggle with things like exams or homework but our house sense of togetherness means we’re in it together. I truly believe Cox’s house has grown stronger together across the journey of the school year ending 2025.

Cox’s 2025

It is now our job to pull together the Cox’s Berkhamstedian article for 2025. I hope you enjoy!

House Performing Arts This year, Cox’s were brilliant in House Performing Arts, seeing participation across the whole house.

Across the many rehearsals, you could sense our togetherness growing as a house. Despite narrowly losing out on first place to Bees, we placed what is still an excellent second. A special mention must go to Tom S of Year 10 who sorted the technical aspects of our play – doing such a great job that we were awarded a prize for 'Best use of technical elements!' Our song, a specially selected mashup of ‘Singing in the Rain’ and ‘Umbrella’ allowed us to put together a magical performance involving not only group vocals but choreography with real umbrellas!

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Cox’s 2025 Overall, it was an event which brought a sense of togetherness to our house, growing closer with each rehearsal.

Charity At Berkhamsted, I feel everyone in every house truly believes in the importance of charitable work.

After all, it really helps embody the school value of “serving others”. We all came together to put in an inspiring effort at raising money last year, something which we will strive to continue into next year and beyond.

Mulligan’s Minigolf

This year, we organised an online auction on Jumblebee, with countless Cox’s families donating amazing items for others to bid on. Our efforts were in support of a wonderful cause; Dementia UK. Their nursing team for Dementia patients is truly vital. After receiving the donations, the prefect team need a special mention for their tireless work to photograph, wrap and write a heart-warming thank you card for every item. In the past five years, we have raised an astonishing £11,000 for Dementia UK, as well as providing a lot of fun for families to bid on some really interesting items.

Last year, the whole house took the after school trip to Hemel for an evening playing minigolf. It was a special occasion, with everyone enjoying the time we had playing golf as well as some casual competition between pupils playing electric darts.

Of course, we all sat down together as a house to enjoy a tasty meal of pizza and chips while we were there, which went down well with everyone.

Overall, it was a memory made as a house which I’m sure will live in the memory for a long time.

House Socials

Each year in Cox’s, we hold a picnic with all students and parents to attend. Last year, we had a good turnout, with a lot of people enjoying not only the food but the game of rounders altogether at the end. We heard speeches from teachers and wished farewell to leavers. It was an evening of joy for anyone involved in Cox’s.

One excellent social organised yearly in Cox’s is the Year 7 and 9 pizza night, organised for new pupils.

It is a chance for them to get to know one another while watching a film and enjoying a tasty pizza.

I have fond memories of this event from when I joined the school a few years ago, and I am sure the new pupils did too. I have heard good things about the evening talking to a boy in Year 7 at the time, and it goes down as a fun memory like all House Socials do in Cox’s.

Cox’s 2025

House end of year picnic

Rugby Rugby is a sport dearly loved by many in Berkhamsted. An example of this passion for rugby is demonstrated by Rowan M of Year 7, who told

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Cox’s 2025 me although he does not like rugby particularly, House Rugby is still “a great opportunity to represent the house”. Every year group partakes in House Rugby, and all boys are expected to turn up on the weekend to give back to the House. It really is, as Rowan said, an opportunity.

Football This year, Cox’s had a great victory in football. Year 10 won the entire competition, only losing two matches. I was part of this team myself and what an experience it was. We fought hard in all our matches, a true testament to where hard work can get you. Of course, all boys across all years also put in incredible shifts for their own House Football competitions. These efforts did not go unnoticed and it is brilliant to see a whole house of students involved in one cause.

Cricket Cricket has been of great enjoyment for all the boys this year. Every year group of course participated in a house competition, bonding everyone together through the power of teamwork in sport. I believe our house performances in cricket and beyond embody the school value of serving others through teamwork and aiming high with integrity with the sheer amount of effort and participation put in by all of us.

Thank yous and farewells On behalf of the boys, we thank all of the brilliant community at Berkhamsted including tutors, parents and support staff for allowing such a magnificent year to take place.

To some of our tutors which we said farewell to, we wish them the absolute very best.

Miss Psarros will forever be remembered for overseeing such a great year as Deputy Head of House and tutor to Year 11.

Thank you to everyone for your continued support of Cox’s and Berkhamsted.

Cox’s 2025

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Fry’s 2025

Fry’s Josh V House Captain As we near the end of the 2024/25 academic year we would like to take some time to reflect on Fry's great achievements and remarkable stories. Fry's has continued to create a spirited and tight-knit group of boys, who prove themselves week in and week out as exemplary pupils of the school.

Sport This year Fry's has seen great success across all of their sporting events and above all the demonstration of great sportsmanship and humility.

Starting with football, the Year 7s, 8s, 10s and 11s all put in strong performances many of which led to favourable finishes in the competition. A highlight would definitely be the Year 9s as they won the competition, unbeaten, perfectly highlighting what it means to be in Fry's.

Fry’s 2025

Moving on to Rugby we saw the Year 9s continue their winning form along with the Year 11s, who both won their respective house competitions. We also saw brave and bold performances from the Year 7s, Year 8s and Year 10s who left it all on the field representing their house. Fry's continued to prove themselves on the cricket field, with all the years finding success.

We also continued to dominate in the other competitions such as cross country or fives where Year 9s and Year 8s took over.

Overall sport has been an integral part of Fry's this year as it has provided a platform for skill to flourish and the boys to test their mental fortitude in difficult situations, always demonstrating what it means to be a Fry's pupil.

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Fry’s 2025 Socials

Merits

Beyond the academic trips, Fry's has hosted a number of social events for the boys to network and create new relationships with others within the house. These events also always include a major element of enjoyment in the form of activities and games. Some of our favourites this year include the trip to Haresfoot where we climbed up towers, crossed gaps with ropes and bonded with roasted marshmallows around a campfire. We also, more recently, took a trip to Hemel Hempstead's Mulligan's where we played games like mini golf and darts and indulged in a sweet treat of pizza. This was a great opportunity to take a step back from academics and enjoy an afternoon of socialisation and relaxation. Events like these are always so special and definitely something to clear your calendar for. We also have a "It's a knockout" social planned for early next year, definitely something to be excited for.

Fry's end off the year with spectacular merit numbers, with 4148 in total, paying tribute to the hard work of the tutors and students in and outside of lessons to be the very best people they can be.

A special mention should also go to Year 9 as they got the most merits out of any tutor group in the school, with 1317. Key players in this achievement were Khyan L and Sam K (both of Year 9) who received 133 and 130 merits respectively, as well as Ted D who also got 126 merits for his Year 8 tutor group. Although these are just numbers, it really highlights what it means to be a Berkhamsted pupil and sets the standard for all of those who aspire to do well throughout their school career.

Charity Fry's continued their school famous food bank this year, reaching record numbers all while giving back to those who cannot always have the resources they would require. Spearheaded by Alex G, the Fry's food bank regularly saw donations upwards of 100 items per week all going to an important cause.

Leavers We are sad to say goodbye to another fantastic group of Fry’s Year 11 students. We wish them all the best in their next stage of education, whatever and wherever that might be. They will always be very welcome in Fry's to come and say hello. Thank you Year 11, we will miss you.

Prefect changes As the Year 11s leave, a handful of Year 10s have been selected to take a step up as Prefects for Fry's house over the next academic year. Brad L, Hugo K and Seb B are going to be the Prefects, as well as Joshua V who will be the next Fry's house captain. They are grateful for the help they have received from their predecessors and wish them the very best in their next endeavours. They hope to continue the success of the last Prefects with their own changes, putting a focus on inter-year connectivity and house pride.

Fry’s 2025

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Greenes 2025

Greenes Alec G House Captain Hello all, I’m Alec G, here to share Greenes House highlights from the past year. Throughout the year, we’ve fostered a happy, supportive environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best. This positive spirit has been key to our many successes, both on and off the field.

We’ve competed strongly in many events, welcomed new members, raised money for charity, and much more...

Greenes House enjoyed a strong year across a wide range of sports, amassing a solid total of 114 points that placed us competitively among the nine houses.

Standout victories included Year 9 Cross Country and Year 9 Football. Additionally, Year 10s delivered

Greenes 2025

impressive performances with top-three finishes in Eton Fives, Squash, and Tennis.

At the sun-drenched Sports Day, Greenes gave a spirited performance, finishing 4th overall with an especially strong showing from Year 10, who placed 2nd. Standout athletes included Hudson F, Tom F, and Adam M in Year 10, along with an impressive relay and individual successes across all year groups.

Though narrowly missing a podium spot, the day was marked by determination, teamwork, and pride—well done, Greenes!

A huge thank you to everyone for your dedication and enthusiasm in this year’s House Events. It was fantastic to see so many people getting involved, creating the spirit and unity that define Greenes.

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Greenes 2025 While we may not have come first overall, your commitment and camaraderie made it a truly successful and memorable year.

This year featured many exciting trips and events that brought everyone together and created great memories. A highlight was our visit to Hollywood Bowl, where the fun and competitive atmosphere gave everyone a chance to relax and bond outside the classroom. We also enjoyed a football and pizza evening on the Castle Astro, with the orange team winning after a display of excellent teamwork and strategy. The evening ended with delicious pizza, laughter, and good conversation, helping to build friendships and strengthen our year group community.

Charity is very important to Greenes. We support the Willow Foundation, a charity that provides special experiences for seriously ill 16 to 40-yearolds and their loved ones. This year we raised a few hundred pounds through a couple bake sales.

The Values Committee, Mr Stallard, and the Prefects have all been searching for glimpses of brilliance. The Values Committee outlined our house's core values as kindness, teamwork, integrity, and tenacity. Each week, the House nominates someone to receive an award to honour their exceptional behaviour and its positive impact on our community.

Some notable nominees: Freddie D has shown remarkable resilience throughout his back injury, staying positive despite surgeries and consultations. We’re thrilled to see him returning to sport this week after a long break—well done, Freddie!

Finally, we have selected new junior Prefects for next year! These will rotate each term through different boys in Year 8. The prefect team and I can’t wait to see the younger years begin creating more positive change in our house!

As we bid farewell to another academic year, we wish our Year 11 pupils the best as they move on in their academic journeys, carrying forward the values and spirit of Greenes House. With both sadness and gratitude, we say goodbye to Ms Barnes, who has helped us a lot in trips and House Socials, who will be going to Bartrum in her new role. Miss Ashford leaves us to travel the world, and Miss Geldard is heading back to university to complete a Masters.

We also welcome Dr Monks to his new position as Deputy Head of House. Although he is already a valued member of the House, we look forward to formally welcoming him into this new role in the year ahead.

Tom F continues to prove that hard work pays off, setting a new school and county record in the 1500m with a time of 3:58, ranking him top in the country for his age group!

This term, we saw the new prefect team begin our leadership of the House. We have already begun organising House Socials and charity events, as well as setting up a mentorship programme for Year 7. Throughout our time in Greenes, we hope to inspire younger years and create a tight-knit community where we all feel happy and comfortable to be ourselves.

Greenes 2025

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Loxwood 2025

Loxwood Nathaniel C, Adam L, Monty H and Giles Y House Captain and Prefects As the 2024–2025 academic year draws to a close, it’s remarkable to reflect on just how much we’ve achieved together. Loxwood House has once again proven itself to be a vibrant, spirited, and highachieving community, full of energy, camaraderie, and ambition.

A true highlight of the year was our electrifying performance in the House Performing Arts competition. Channelling the energy and attitude of School of Rock, Loxwood took to the stage as a full band, delivering a high-octane, crowd-pleasing performance that had the audience on their feet.

The atmosphere was unforgettable, and the judges were clearly impressed. We proudly secured 2nd place for Best Whole House Performance, and 2nd place for Best Overall House

Loxwood 2025

Academically, Loxwood also shone brightly.

Congratulations to Finlay, George, Samuel, and Adam, who triumphed in the House Academic Challenge, demonstrating sharp thinking and teamwork under pressure.

A special mention goes to Colin, who was recently awarded a Distinction in the Maclaurin Olympiad — one of the most prestigious mathematics competitions available to students. This is an exceptional achievement, with only a handful of pupils in the school’s history ever receiving such an accolade.

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Loxwood 2025 performed admirably. The Year 9s finished 2nd, narrowly missing out on the top spot after a hard-fought final match. The Year 10s came 7th but recorded their highest attendance yet and celebrated a memorable win over Adders, who missed out on 1st place by just one point.

The term wrapped up with House Squash, where the Year 10s triumphed — highlighted

by Beau’s outstanding performance in winning the entire competition. The Year 9s finished 7th in this final event of the term.

In House Cricket, both Year 7 and 8 finished in 4th place.

In House Athletics, a big well done to the Year 9s, who placed 2nd.

House Sports – by Nathaniel C On the sports field, our pupils continued to impress. The past three terms have been actionpacked for Loxwood in Inter-House sports, filled with impressive performances and great team spirit.

We kicked off with the Year 9 and 10 cross-country competitions, where Ollie S delivered a standout performance, securing 2nd place for the second consecutive year — a fantastic achievement. This helped the Year 10s finish 3rd overall, while the Year 9s also ran strongly, placing 5th.

The Michaelmas term brought some excellent rugby action. All three-year groups - Years 9, 10, and 11 - took part. The Year 11s had a particularly strong showing, finishing 3rd. The Year 9s and 10s showed great determination throughout the day, finishing 2nd and 6th respectively.

One of our most successful House Sports events this year was fives. Highlights included our Year 9s finishing 2nd, and our Year 8s winning the entire tournament.

Our House Socials are a special time during the term where boys can mingle and enjoy themselves.

Whether playing cricket, competing at Topgolf, or navigating the obstacles at Ninja Warrior, Loxwood showed resilience, skill, and fantastic team spirit.

These events not only showcased our athleticism but also strengthened the bonds that make our House so special.

The Michaelmas term provided many amazing opportunities for musicians at Berkhamsted To begin the year, pupils performed for prospective parents at open day, with Bertie A (Year 7), and Finlay R (Year 7) among some of the younger musicians to play. Some of the Loxwood boys performed in the sunshine in the gravel quad and many parents and teachers stopped to watch and enjoy the performances, with everything from classical to rock and Les Misérables to Dire Straits.

We also had the first award holders’ concert, with many stand out performances. The St. Cecilia’s Day Concert was warmly received by the audience and featured staff and pupils, with many performing in multiple different ensembles and choirs. The Barber Shop Group, Big Band and jazz noodling were particular highlights. In Chapel at the Christmas Carol Service, parents and pupils enjoyed a wonderful festive celebration in the beautiful atmosphere of Castle Chapel, with music from across the school, including Junior Choir, Senior Choir and Year 6 Chamber Choir.

In the Lent term, football took centre stage.

Only Years 9 and 10 competed, but both teams

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Loxwood 2025 Year 10 – Nathaniel (103) Year 11 – Matthew (63) Our new prefect team — Nathaniel, Adam, Monty, and Giles — have stepped into their roles with energy and vision. From organising socials and charity drives to mentoring younger students, they’ve already made a significant impact. We’re also grateful to our junior Prefects, whose leadership and creativity have added a new dimension to House life.

The standout performances from the boys continued in the Lent term with a sell-out Gala Evening in the Nash Harris Dining Hall, featuring some ensemble pieces from Year 7 and 8 Band, Barbershop, and the Big Band, complemented by delicious curries prepared by the school catering team. We also had the Music from Films evening, conducted by Mr Noithip, featuring music from films like Star Wars, with an amazing orchestra from across the school.

We also had a second award holders’ concert, featuring performances from Finlay R and Arthur M (Year 7). As part of a wider school music festival, the Young Performer of the Year event was won jointly by Miles F (Year 9), and Bertie A (Year 7).

At the time of writing, we are only part way through the term, but music performances have been at their best, as always, despite the distraction of exams and sunshine. We have had our second open day of the year, and ensemble and solo performances at parent breakfasts. Upcoming events include Proms in the Quad and Prize Day, which will both be very exciting for everyone involved.

The Trinity term marked the departure of a truly exceptional group of Year 11 boys as they left for study leave, bringing their five-year journey in the Senior School to a close. We are deeply grateful for their many contributions to house life and for the positive legacy they leave behind. A special thank you goes to Sean W, Louis S, Toby S, and Zac S for their outstanding service as House Officers throughout this academic year.

As we bid farewell to our Year 11 students, we also say a warm goodbye to Elise Johnson, who is taking on an exciting new role as Deputy Head of House at the Girls’ School. Her kindness, leadership, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact, and she will be greatly missed.

I’m incredibly grateful to the entire tutor team for their unwavering hard work and commitment to the boys. I suspect many of the boys may not fully appreciate just how many extra hours the Loxwood staff dedicate behind the scenes to ensure they are well supported, cared for, and given every opportunity to thrive.

Year 8 – George (157)

As we bring this incredible year to a close, it’s impossible not to feel a deep sense of pride in all that Loxwood has accomplished. From outstanding musical performances and academic triumphs to unforgettable sporting moments and meaningful community contributions, every member of our House has played a part in shaping a truly memorable year. The spirit, resilience, and camaraderie shown by our students have been nothing short of inspiring. As we look ahead to new challenges and opportunities, let’s carry forward the values that define us; kindness, integrity, perseverance, and collaboration. Thank you to both the pupils and parents for being part of this journey.

Year 9 – Samuel (133)

Here's to an even brighter year ahead!

We’ve also continued to celebrate the values that define Loxwood — kindness, integrity, perseverance, and collaboration — through our weekly awards. A huge well done to the pupils in each year group with the highest merit totals: Year 7 – Finlay (163)

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Swifts 2025

Swifts Mr M Francis Head of Swifts House This academic year has been a full, happy and extremely varied one for the boys in Swifts House and it has been a real privilege to pick up from Douglas Foster, who led the House with such skill for a decade. The Swifts boys are a caring and positive group without exception, and I am constantly impressed by how wholeheartedly they throw themselves into school life, term after term.

We welcomed fifteen new boys to Years 7, 9 and 10 in September and they have all individually made their mark. The year commenced with a joint House Social with Holme House, where Kitchener’s Field was transformed into a mobile fairground.

The House Performing Arts competition provided the boys with the opportunity to perform in front of peers and staff from the Boys School, kicking off

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the afternoon with a rendition of Queen’s ‘Don’t Stop Me Now.’ Special mention goes to Gabriel R-M, Lewis G, Barney W, Oliver K and Harry L for their solo efforts.

As a House we continue to support the Dacorum Emergency Night Shelter (DENS) and on October 17th thirty-five boys and staff ‘slept out’ under the cloisters with sleeping bags and cardboard boxes for mattresses. It was a hugely eye-opening experience for all those involved and a reminder of the need of members of our own borough – the total raised through the generosity of family and friends was £1,800. We continue to support Rectory Lane Cemetery and for the fourth year have undertaken a morning of work to tidy graves, flower beds and to plant perennials.

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Swifts 2025 The Lent term saw the boys win the Order Mark cup, as the house with the least number of order marks throughout the term. It has been so pleasing to see the consistency and commitment to all that they do and how mature their decision-making is.

A highlight of the term was Luca D and Robbie B representing the Football 1st XI, having both been key figures in a hugely successful U16AXI. The Trinity term saw the departure of our Year 11 boys for study leave, that brought to an end their five years in the Senior School. We are grateful to them all for their contributions to house life and all that they have done to leave the house in a better position than they found it – special thanks must go to Robbie B, Lewis G and Dylan S for their work as House Officers for this academic year. All of the boys prepared for and completed end of year exams in differing contexts and there were some excellent performances in the House Debating, with Max R and Nicholas D finishing 2nd in the Year 10 competition, as well as the house academic challenge which resulted in a 3rd place finish for the team of Rishi M (returning Year 12), Nicholas D, Shaan S, Rory T and Harry L. I am grateful to all of the tutor team for their hard work and commitment to the boys and close by wishing Dr Khare and Ms Perry-Jordan well as they move on to new endeavours beyond Berkhamsted.

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Tilman 2025

Tilman Mr G Campbell Head of Tilman House This year has been a truly remarkable one for Tilman House, with our boys excelling across a wide range of areas, from sport and academics to music, drama, and performing arts. The energy, commitment, and camaraderie shown throughout the year have made Tilman a vibrant and supportive community.

In sport, Tilman has enjoyed a particularly successful year. We launched the inaugural Tilman House Table Tennis Competition, open to both pupils and staff, which brought out fantastic competitive spirit and friendly rivalry. Our Year 7 footballers claimed victory in their House competition, while Years 9–11 performed strongly in House Rugby, all finishing in the top half. Tilman also made a strong showing in House Cross Country, with many

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boys putting in determined performances. Squash has been another area of strength, with Tilman dominating the Year 7 and 8 House tournaments.

The finals in both age groups were all-Tilman matchups, showcasing the depth of talent in the sport. A special mention goes to Harry and Oscar, who won the Eton Fives Nationals as a Tilman pair.

Oscar continued his winning streak by also securing the U12 Rugby Fives singles and doubles titles, an outstanding achievement. This sporting success saw Tilman win the House Sports cup for the 5th consecutive year.

Creativity has flourished this year. In House Performing Arts, Tilman placed third overall with a lively and enthusiastic rendition of 'Call Me Maybe' by Carly Rae Jepsen. A special mention

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Tilman 2025 2023 goes to Thomas L (Year 7) for his moving solo performance of 'Someone You Loved' by Lewis Capaldi, accompanied by Justin J (Year 10). Thomas not only won the solo category but performed in front of the entire school just weeks after joining— an incredible achievement.

Congratulations also to Baxter Y for his contributions to the Young Musician of the Year competition, and to Justin, Baxter, Vincent, Harry, and Henry for their performances in the St Cecilia’s Day concert.

Many boys have reached new grades in music and drama this year, with an impressive number of distinctions across the house. Their hard work and dedication continue to enrich the creative life of Tilman.

Academically, our Year 11 pupils completed their GCSEs in the summer, and we wish them a restful and well-deserved summer break. We’re confident they’ve done themselves proud and look forward to celebrating their results in August.

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our tutors and of the prefect team. Their guidance, encouragement, and tireless work behind the scenes have helped shape Tilman into the warm, collaborative, and high-achieving environment it is today.

As we reflect on the year, it’s clear that Tilman House continues to develop remarkable people: young men who strive for excellence, support one another, and contribute positively to every aspect of school life. We look forward to building on this success in the year ahead.

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Holme 2025

Holme Laila B, Becky F and Bea M House Captain and Prefect Team Michaelmas term was a great start for our House, with lots of eventful socials, House Performing Arts and the start of House Debating. We began with an exciting Inflatable Extravaganza House Social combined with Swifts House. We had inflatable obstacle courses, games and lots of candy floss!

term, we were also racking up lots of merits and won the cup for the highest number overall!

Lent term was jam-packed with fun, with House Netball, a pub quiz style social, and House Debating.

House Netball was a brilliant morning, with a historic first ever win for Year 10 in their final We also had our House Performing Arts and our House Netball. Year 7 also smashed it in their first theme this year was Trolls. We had some brilliant ever House Netball, coming 1st place as well! We choreography made by our House Prefects and had joined up with Swifts House from the boys for our lots of fun singing on stage together in our bright quiz social, where we battled it out through rounds costumes and glittery face paints. This was followed of general knowledge, true or false, Disney films, by our Christmas gingerbread social, combined celebrities, and guessing the teachers from their baby with New Stede House, where we participated in a photos. Eliza and Tabbie from Year 8 represented gingerbread decorating competition with friends. We Holme in House Debating, and did an excellent job. also had a super start to House Debating with Holly After a long day, Eliza and Tabbie came out on top, and Ellie representing Holme for Year 9. Across this helping to secure our House win.

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Holme 2025 Holme has had a very busy Trinity term, with lots of exciting events. To begin, Lottie and Sophie represented year 10 in House Debating and came 2nd. Overall, throughout Year 7-10, Holme House came first amongst both boys and girls houses, which is a great achievement. Well done to everyone that represented Holme House in House Debating! Holme House had 5 representatives for the House Academic challenge:

Both events were very successful, and we made over £300 for the worthy cause. Thank you to all the teachers that participated in Sponge the Teacher (we really appreciate it!)

Holme House has had an amazing year, and we can’t wait to see what next year has in store!

Year 7: Chaya Year 8: Isla Year 9: Holly Year 10: Becky Year 12: Verity Well done to everyone that participated!

We had a very enjoyable House Social in Trinity term where we played rounders against our parents which was an extremely tight game. After this, we had a picnic with our parents and the ice cream van came!

To finish off this incredible year, we had Sports Day, which was an extremely exciting day with so many events that lots of Holme House participated in. Our Charity event for Sports Day was Sponge the Teacher and we sold sugar free drink cans for Breakthrough: T1D.

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New Stede 2025

New Stede Kate H, Neve T and Maya K House Captain and Prefect Team This year in New Stede has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the very first term, a vibrant energy pulsed through the House, fueled by students who embraced every opportunity - on stage, on the sports field, in the classroom, and in the community. The arrival of our new prefect team, Kate H as House Captain, Neve T as Charity Representative, and Maya K as Council Representative, brought a fresh wave of enthusiasm. Their vision of celebrating individuality while fostering a strong, inclusive spirit shaped the tone of the year, and their warmth and dedication were felt throughout every aspect of House life.

One of the most unforgettable moments occurred during House Performing Arts, where New Stede took the stage with a cowgirl-themed performance

New Stede 2025

of 'Got a Feeling,' 'Party in the USA,' and 'Timber.'

The choreography was electric, the costumes were bold, and the energy was infectious. Thanks to the leadership of Sophia, Grace, and Lexi, along with the halftime sparkle provided by Georgia, Alissa, Kate, and Maya, we proudly secured second place.

That same spirit of excellence extended to academics, where we achieved first place in the Academic Challenge, the first in New Stede's history. Our team, Gaby, Alissa, Arianna, Emily, and Robyn, impressed everyone with their poise and knowledge, particularly Robyn, whose standout performance in the flag round earned special praise.

Beyond competitions, the year was rich with discovery and reflection. A visit to the school

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New Stede 2025 archives revealed fascinating stories from New Stede's past, including the tale of the school donkey and the House's origins in 1913, followed by the split into New and Old Stede in 1934.

These glimpses into history sparked thoughtful discussions, including a debate on the significance of Blue Origin's all-women crew and the meaning of feminism in today's world. Pupils created presentations on inspirational women such as Yeonmi Park, Edith Cavell, Lilian Bland, and Amelia Bloomer, each story serving as a powerful reminder of courage and impact.

Charity work was another area where New Stede excelled. Led by the unstoppable Neve, we raised £151.50 through a cheerful ice lolly sale and £47 from face painting on Sports Day. These efforts reflect the compassion, creativity, and initiative that define our House.

Meanwhile, pupils continued to achieve individually: Maya completed her Russian GCSE in Year 10, Alicia took a leading role in the Year 7 and 8 play, and Zoe (Year 7) completed a triathlon. Freya, Sophia, and Tabbie (Year 8) qualified for nationals in athletics, while our ski team, comprising of Freya, Katie, Emily, Liza, and Ellie, competed in multiple events throughout the year.

Throughout the year, pupils earned a remarkable 5000 merits, with Daisy (Year 7), Emily (Year 8), Indie (Year 9), and Ava (Year 10) recognised as our Merit Superstars. These achievements, both big and small, were celebrated with pride and joy, reinforcing the sense of belonging that makes New Stede feel like home.

As we bid farewell to our Year 11 pupils at a dinner filled with heartfelt speeches, performances, and even a dance-off between Miss Finnigan and Mr Botschin, it was clear just how much this group had contributed to the House. At the heart of it all was Miss Finnigan herself, whose unwavering support and belief in every student helped create a nurturing environment where everyone felt seen, valued, and inspired.

Looking back, academic year 2024-2025 has been a year of growth, celebration, and unforgettable memories. Every pupil, every staff member, and every shared moment has contributed to the vibrant tapestry of New Stede. We look forward to seeing what next year brings.

The House's sporting achievements were equally impressive. We finished second in House Lacrosse and third overall in House Netball, with Year 9 winning their group. Notably, during Sports Day, New Stede secured second place, highlighted by outstanding performances from Maya, who set a new record in her event. However, beyond the results, it was the camaraderie and resilience that stood out.

That same spirit was evident during our socials, from the roller disco and pizza night to the high ropes adventure, where pupils faced their fears and supported one another in reaching the top. A particular highlight was the lifeguard training in the pool during House Service Day, where pupils not only learned life-saving skills but also developed a more profound sense of responsibility and teamwork. The end-of-year rounders event brought everyone together, including pupils and staff, for plenty of laughter and a perfect send-off into summer.

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Old Stede 2025

Old Stede Mr C Botschin Head of Old Stede House

What a year we have had in Old Stede with our dedicated tutor team and our fabulous pupils. In my first address to the house I presented the House values, things that I wanted the house to embody including being: Kind, Respectful, Ambitious, Inclusive and Honest. Throughout this whole term I am delighted that the girls have embodied these values in everything they do!

To start the year our Year 7s took part in various induction days, supported by their fantastic tutor Miss Bashford as well as our prefect team. They bonded over a high ropes activity, showing some superb resilience to playing at such heights! This was carried over into their Bushcraft where they spent the day doing fun teambuilding activities such as building shelters and fire lighting.

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We have had a very busy start to the year with one of the most important competitions of the academic year... House Performing Arts!

The preparations were extensive and our prefect team really did step up to the challenge of orchestrating some superb choreography to some of ABBAs finest songs, including Mamma Mia, 'Gimme Gimme' and of course 'Dancing Queen!'

All of the girls in House gave it their all in the competition with such a powerful performance and huge stage presence. Whilst we sadly did not win the overall prize, Lottie and Emmy did the House proud by securing a sound victory for the technical award and Mia M was awarded 'Best in House' for her effort and energy that certainly helped in all of the practices leading up to the final show.

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Old Stede 2025 Girls... thank you for the music!

Old Stede proudly supports Mind as our House charity. During the recent House Performing Arts competition, Willa S (Yr 11) led the initiative with our annual sweet sale where we raised an impressive £156.80 on the day!

This academic year we seen lots of success in the different Inter-House sport competitions. The House did well in the annual Netball competition.

Our highest scoring team were our Year 7s finishing third overall. Whilst Old Stede didn’t quite make it to the podium this year there was still a great team effort from all. MVPs for each year are:

This year, our house charity is launching “We See Hope,” and we’re not just talking about it – we’re building a primary school from scratch in Malawi!

We’re not just focused on construction; we want to create real connections with the community and the kids, getting to know them and watching them grow. Our hope is to keep this project going for years, building lasting relationships and changing lives along the way. We’re excited to see what the future holds – let’s make it happen!

Year 7 - Ameline K Year 8 - Jessie P Year 9 - Lottie L Year 10 - Evie D This was repeated in the recent Inter-House LAX competition! There were some stand out performances from both the junior and senior teams meaning that Old Stede came 4th in the whole competition - with the Juniors coming in 3rd and narrowly missing out on medals! I especially loved the enthusiasm shown for wearing the sacred mascot costume - even whilst playing LAX! Old Stede has had a phenomenal term of sporting success, particularly in lacrosse and cricket.

Congratulations to Edie S, Evie D, and Isla D For being part of the LAX squad that were crowned National Champions—marking their second consecutive national title after winning last year as well! Huge congratulations also go to Mia M and Sienna G who secured their first National Lacrosse title—an incredible achievement.

The U15B team also performed brilliantly, earning third place in the National Lacrosse finals after facing extremely tough competition. Representing Old Stede in that team were Jessie T, Martha A, and Genie P, and we couldn’t be prouder of their grit and determination.

On the seventh of March the girls school celebrated International Women’s Day, and to do this the Prefects across all houses ran a IWD mini market in the quad where we raised money for CAMFED (a charity that supports female education in Africa).

We had chalk, finger painting, a bake sale, nail polish and face paint. We raised over £250 for this cause.

We’re also thrilled to celebrate Edie S (Year 10) and Sienna G (Year 8) for winning the Indoor County Cricket Tournament. They now move on to represent in the next round, taking place in Surrey this April—best of luck to them both!

Old Stede has had many wonderful opportunities to come together and celebrate the spirit of our House throughout the year. Our whole house was thrilled to join forces with Fry's House for an

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Old Stede 2025 exciting social, enjoying an afternoon of friendly competition and laughter at a crazy golf course (some staff clearly in need of some lessons!). In the Michaelmas term, we embraced the festive season with an ice-skating Christmas social at Milton Keynes, where pupils glided across the rink, warmed up with hot chocolate and made joyful memories as a House.

During the summer term, our final celebration took the form of a relaxed picnic where pupils and staff came together to enjoy good food, good company, and a lively game of rounders in the sunshine. It was the perfect way to round off a year of fun, camaraderie, and Old Stede pride.

With the year coming to an end, we need to say goodbye and thank you to the Year 11s, who have been great role models to us, especially looking into our prefect roles for the next academic year. We will miss seeing them every morning in the House room, and hope that their exams have gone well.

In our final term in Old Stede we say goodbye to the brilliant Miss Ledsham, Miss Cant and our fantastic Deputy Head of House, Miss Legg. Miss Ledsham quickly established herself as a fantastic tutor for our current Year 11s who have just finished their GCSEs. In the short time she has been with us she has been instrumental in helping our Year 11s get prepared and was supported by Miss Cant who stepped in to help in the first term and has stayed with us ever since! Miss Ledsham will be joining St David's next year as a tutor whilst Miss Cant will be leaving the school to go travelling (we are all very jealous!).

After being at Berkhamsted for 7 years, we are sadly saying goodbye to Miss Legg who will be starting a new position at Bedford Modern School in their Classics/ Latin department. She has been instrumental in helping her tutor group as well as showing all of us the ropes this year and will be terribly missed for her enthusiasm, energy and the genuine care she showed everyone in house. We wish you the very best in your future endeavours and hope that you pop in from time to time!

Coming into Old Stede and starting as Deputy Head of House from September will be Miss Johnson who currently teaches at the school as a Drama teacher and is currently a tutor in Loxwood at the boys school.

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Russell 2025

Russell Jess K House Captain As the school year draws to a close, it is a joy to reflect on everything Russell has achieved over the past twelve months. From sporting triumphs and dazzling performances to brilliant socials and community service, our House has truly embodied friendship, energy, and determination. The support, laughter, and camaraderie across all year groups have made 2024–2025 a year to remember.

Our House Events have been a fantastic way to create memories together. We kicked off with a September movie night, watching Legally Blonde with pizza, fizzy drinks, and sweet bags. This was a perfect relaxed evening for bonding. The annual theatre trip to London followed, where we saw Mamma Mia, delighting everyone, especially our Year 7s on their first theatre adventure. We also

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had a Silent Disco (neon paint and dodgy dancing included!), our I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here evening full of challenges and creepy crawlies, and then our parent vs pupil rounders social in the last term.

House Performing Arts was undoubtedly a highlight of the year. With a ‘Dua Lipa’ theme, every pupil contributed, whether dancing or cheering from the sidelines. Seeing students practicing in the mornings and watching it all come together on Centenary stage was incredible. The Year 7s were particularly enthusiastic, embracing their first House Event with great energy!

On the sporting front, Russell has excelled across the board. The Year 9 and 10 teams triumphed

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Russell 2025 in House Tennis, while our Cricket team took 1st place in the 6-a-side competition. Then came Sports Day… where Russell was crowned champions for the first time in years! Every member of the House contributed, from running in the mile, competing in events and cheering each other on. It was a day full of effort, smiles, and well-deserved celebrations.

sale was another triumph, raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital and demonstrating the generosity and creativity of our girls.

Leadership this year has been in safe and capable hands. As Prefects Emma, Sophie, and I step down, we hand over to Thea, Lara, and Lucy. A huge congratulations to all Year 10s who applied for prefect roles - you should be proud of your ambition and enthusiasm. We know the new prefect team will continue to nurture Russell’s inclusive and encouraging spirit.

We also say goodbye to Ms Phillips, who retires this year after years of dedication. She has been a wonderful tutor and mentor to our Year 10 girls and will be dearly missed in the House room every morning. We wish her a happy and well-earned retirement, hopefully full of adventure, travel, and relaxation!

Looking back, it is clear that every pupil has contributed to Russell’s successes, whether through sports, creativity, academics, or community spirit.

From the thrill of House Performing Arts and Sports Day victories to the laughter shared at socials like the Silent Disco and Jungle challenges, this year has been filled with energy, achievements, and memories we will cherish.

Creativity and collaboration have shone throughout the year. From House Debating and the Young Musician of the Year competition to the senior production of 'Legally Blonde' and the Year 7 & 8 play 'Peter and the Star Catcher,' Russell girls have displayed incredible talent. Proms in the Quad showcased musical brilliance, while morning activities - from scavenger hunts to quizzes and tutor group photo competitions - encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and a bit of friendly chaos.

We are immensely proud of all that Russell has accomplished and cannot wait to welcome the new Year 7s in September. With our unique spirit, friendship, and enthusiasm, there is no doubt that Russell will continue to shine in 2025–2026. Here’s to another fantastic year.

Russell has also embraced opportunities to give back. Our annual House Service Day saw pupils washing the school vehicles in a huge Russell carwash (water fights included!) helping the staff while having fun. The House Lacrosse charity bake

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St David's 2025

St David's Mr J Mahadevan Head of St David's House The 2024–2025 school year has been one of bold moments, beautiful memories, and heartfelt goodbyes for St David’s House. From the very first days of September to the golden light of summer, our pupils have embraced every opportunity with warmth, determination and joy.

Year 7s began their journey with an exhilarating bushcraft adventure—building fires, sheltering under stars, and forging new friendships. That same confidence and camaraderie carried through as pupils stepped up to lead Chapel readings and assemblies, offering their voices and stories with pride.

Creative expression came alive through vibrant Diwali celebrations, festive socials, and a joyful

St David's 2025

House Performing Arts performance featuring dazzling duets from Izzy and Sylvie. Roller discos and pizza nights, chalk murals for International Women’s Day, and a Book Swap for World Book Day all brought our community closer together. Pupils also showed generosity and initiative through fundraising for Toyhub and designing posters for the Great Big Green Week.

It’s been a standout year for sport and celebration.

From pancake races to House Cricket and Netball, Rounders and Tennis, to an energetic Sports Day, our girls competed with pride and bonded through teamwork. The Easter social was a highlight, and ECW Week was packed with adventure—including an unforgettable Year 7 trip to Osmington Bay. The Summer Service Day, where pupils gifted painted

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St David's 2025 flowerpots to staff and the local community, was a beautiful expression of kindness and creativity.

We’ve cheered incredible individual successes too.

Poppy’s medals at nationals, Issy’s achievements in water skiing, Lily’s football cup win, Isla’s big screen debut, and Ava and Emma’s national championship victory—every moment has filled us with pride.

Prize Day this year gave us a special opportunity to connect with pupils and families before the holidays—a reminder of what truly makes this House special. To every parent, every pupil, and every member of our team: thank you. May your summer be full of rest and sunshine, and we’ll see you in September, ready for all that’s ahead!

Ella K’s adjudicator award in Young Musician of the Year and Eleanor’s outstanding academic achievement further showcased the remarkable talent and drive within the House.

A huge thank you must go to our House Officer team for their leadership and spirit throughout the year. To Darbey, our House Captain, and to Emma and Ava, our Prefects—your hard work, positivity, and pride in St David’s have helped to bring every event and moment to life. You’ve been true role models, and we’re so grateful for all you’ve done.

But most of all, this year was marked by a heartfelt goodbye to Mrs Cresswell, who stepped down after seven years as Head of House. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering belief in her students have defined St David’s. Her leadership has shaped our House culture and brought out the best in so many. Though she now begins a new chapter in Hampshire, she leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity and community.

As Head of St David’s, I would like to take this moment to reflect on what has been a busy and truly rewarding year for our House. I want to extend my deepest thanks to all of our pupils and their families—your support of your daughters and the St David’s community has been steadfast, and it has been a genuine honour to walk alongside them throughout their journey. I am especially grateful to our dedicated tutor team—Mr McWalter, Ms Shipp, Ms Gonzales, Mr Curtis, Ms Cardwell, and of course, the ever-reliable Mrs Anker. Her calm guidance and wealth of experience have made an extraordinary difference to our Year 11 girls—and to me personally.

We also bid farewell to Mr McWalter, heading to Russell House, and Ms Cardwell, who takes on a new role at Adders House—thank you for everything. And we extend a warm welcome to our new tutor team, who bring energy, kindness, and an eagerness to lead.

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Stephenson 2025

Stephenson Zoe M House Captain It’s safe to say that this year, Stephenson has continued to shine brighter than ever, and once again, gold has truly been our colour. 2024–2025 has been another incredible year for our House, full of laughter, teamwork, and that unstoppable Stephenson spirit that never fails to impress.

From competitions and charity events to socials, sports, and creative projects, every single girl in the House has played a part in making this year one to remember.

In the world of competitions, Stephenson has absolutely sparkled. We kicked off the year in style with a sensational win in the House Performing Arts Competition - a true display of our creativity, confidence, and teamwork. Not stopping there, we also triumphed in House Lacrosse, showing the

Stephenson 2025

grit, determination, and skill that defines our House.

Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines, Stephenson girls gave it their all, proving that our golden energy is unbeatable.

This year has also seen a variety of new and muchloved events that have brought our community even closer together. The 4th year of the Mothers vs Daughters Netball Match went down an absolute storm and yes, the girls kept their winning streak alive! We also enjoyed a mini golf and arcade trip, full of laughter, friendly competition, and (somewhat questionable) putting skills. The Parents vs Daughters Cricket Match returned for its second year, and after the Dads’ victory last year, the girls were determined to make a comeback which they did brilliantly!

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Stephenson 2025 Charity has once again been at the heart of Stephenson spirit. Our annual ‘Strawberries and Cream’ charity event was another huge success, raising a fantastic amount for a brilliant cause, while bringing everyone together for a fun and sunny afternoon. It was the perfect example of what Stephenson stands for kindness, community, and, of course, great desserts!

Another standout moment this year was when Stephenson ran the very first pupil-led Chapel for the Easter service - a modern-day retelling of the Easter story, written, organised, and performed by our own pupils. The creativity, confidence, and teamwork shown by everyone involved made it a truly special event, and one we were so proud to share with the school community.

friendships that make them possible. Every girl in Stephenson has contributed to the warmth, pride, and energy that make our House a home.

And to top off this golden year all that effort, teamwork, and dedication paid off, as Stephenson were crowned overall winners of the House Trophy for 2024–2025! From merits to competitions, every contribution counted, and it’s safe to say the result couldn’t be more deserved.

As another incredible year comes to a close, I couldn’t be prouder of everything we’ve achieved.

From the performances and victories to the laughter and support we share every day, Stephenson continues to prove that it’s not just a House - it’s a family. Here’s to another year of shining bright, aiming high, and always going for gold!

None of this could happen without the people who make Stephenson so special. A huge thank you to my amazing fellow Prefects Zoe, Freya, and Harriet for their endless enthusiasm, organisation, and humour (especially when things don’t quite go to plan!). And, of course, a massive thank you to Miss Graham and our wonderful tutor team, whose energy, encouragement, and occasionally questionable jokes keep the House running smoothly and spirits high. Stephenson truly wouldn’t be the same without them.

This year, our Whole House theme has been about connection and celebration, taking time to recognise not just our successes, but the people and

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Wolstenholme 2025

Wolstenholme Lucy H, Lily K and Holly A House Captain and Prefect Team This year has been a busy but exciting year for Wolstenholme, full of triumphs, laughs and collaboration across year groups. Wolstenholme has encouraged every pupil to embrace their character by showcasing their individual achievements during house times, enabling them to be the best they can be!

We began the academic year by welcoming our new Year 7s and they took part in various induction days which strengthened their tutor group bond.

This was carried over into their Bushcraft where they spent the day doing fun teambuilding activities such as building shelters and fire lighting. This was a lovely way to start the year getting to know each other better.

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This year has been full of events, not just for the Year 7s but the whole House. We have all thoroughly enjoyed participating in the many House sports events across the year, including House Netball where the Year 7s came 6th, Year 8s 3rd, Year 9s 4th and the Year 10s came 2nd in their year group teams. Also, we enjoyed mixing the year groups during House Lacrosse where came 6th for the Juniors and 4th in the Seniors. As a House, we came away with high spirits and smiles after a fun filled day. We are looking forward to spending time together as a house during Sports Day, where each member of Wolstenholme has the opportunity to compete in different events and represent the House across the day.

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Wolstenholme 2025 At the very beginning of the year we performed in the annual House Performing Arts competition, where we danced, sang, and coordinated lighting to a combination of pop songs, carefully selected by the former Prefects around the theme of seasons.

It was an amazing experience for the House, and we know that everyone enjoyed not only taking part, but also watching other Houses' performances throughout the morning. Other events such as House Debating and the academic challenge were a great opportunity for pupils across the year groups to step out of their comfort zones and be adventurous.

Individually, Wolstenholme has had lots of successes, both in sport and other areas of school life. For example, Several Wolstenholme pupils have enjoyed participating in the National Schools Lacrosse tournament. The U13As (Ellie H) and the U15As (Lucy H, Bella S and Freya C) were crowned National Champions. In Year 11, Poppy D and Rose F have represented the school in the 2nd and 3rd teams in lacrosse recently. The Year 7s had the opportunity to participate in the County lacrosse tournament and the U12As (Anya A) and U12Bs (Izzy R and Soraya S) won with the U12Cs (Marley B and Arabella P) coming in second. Lucy H and Bella S in Year 10 participated in the SNS Netball cup finals and came second nationally. Furthermore, Wolstenholme are proud to see Sarah M and Lucy C representing Berkhamsted in our first entry to the British School Girls Ski Race Championships in France where they did amazingly well.

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This year has also been very exciting for Wolstenholme in terms of charity events. Our chosen charity is Water Aid, which is a charity that aims to make clean drinking water and good sanitation more accessible and available in places where these resources are limited. Already, we have put together a bake sale and raised £159 for WaterAid which could be used to fund 100 metres of pipes to distribute clean water in Chinganji, Malawi or buy 5 taps providing children in underdeveloped countries easy access to clean water instead of relying on shallow wells!

Wolstenholme and New Stede are organising a Summer Fair & Barbeque, during House Netball, to raise money for our charities, and we plan on encouraging pupils from various year groups to get involved in running the stalls. For International Women’s Day, we enjoyed helping the other House Captains in organising a charity fundraising event in support of CAMFED which supports the education of vulnerable girls and young women in Africa.

Wolstenholme has had a lot of opportunities to come together and celebrate being part of a House.

The annual Year 7 and 8 pizza making took place combined with the Boys School House Adders, which is a lovely chance to integrate tutor groups across both campuses. In Michaelmas term, we enjoyed celebrating Christmas by having a cosy movie and pizza night as a House, and enjoy some laughs together, watching our favourite Christmas movie as a collective. In Lent term, our House Social consisted of a fun evening out at a trampoline park, and loved spending time and coming together as a House to celebrate the fun that we had had during our time together so far. At the end of the year, we joined Holme House with a game of rounders which became an opportunity to reinstate our sense of competition as a House.

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Wolstenholme 2025 We have loved taking part and running House times that have been tailored to incorporate our House termly themes, some of our favourites have been 'gratitude' and 'celebration of excellence'. Having these themes has allowed everyone to reflect upon becoming their best self and appreciating everybody else in the House at the same time. Wolstenholme has developed a great community by integrating the year groups in a buddy system and arranging 'vertical groups' so that the whole House can get together and feel that they can easily go to others for support, or simply just a laugh. Organising fun activities such as a 'gratitude tree', biscuit decorating, Pictionary and growing sunflowers have been an excellent way for us to build a sense of community across the House.

Wolstenholme have taken part in House Service Day, where we enjoyed doing some crafts alongside Holme House to bring to the Pre-Prep pupils at Haresfoot Campus. The year 10s were delighted to read to some of the Pre-Prep children, while the rest of the House took part in some outdoor games.

Overall, House Service Day is a great opportunity for everyone in Wolstenholme to come together with other Houses and collaborate with pupils from different year groups to serve the community, as well as fitting in some fun and relaxation nearing the end of the year.

With the year coming to an end, we need to say goodbye and thank you to the Year 11s, who have been great role models to us, especially looking into our prefect roles for the next academic year. We will miss seeing them every morning in the House room, and hope that their exams have gone well.

We would like to thank all the Wolstenholme tutors for all their help and support for their tutees and their inspiration within the House and good luck to Mrs Hughes and Mrs Wang for their next steps.

Finally, we would like to say a massive thank you and goodbye to our incredible Head of House, Miss Turner. We are very sorry to see her go but hope that her new role of Director of Sport in her new school is just as fulfilling. As Prefects, we have had a lot of opportunities to work with Miss Turner, and have developed skills such as leadership, teamwork and collaboration. We will miss her humour and seeing Blue (Wolstenholme's wellbeing dog) each morning, thanks for all the support and opportunities you have given us!

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St John’s 2025

St John’s Ada A-T House Captain I am filled with gratitude and joy as I reflect on the memories we made and the moments we experienced this year in St John’s. We have formed unbreakable bonds and have all truly made the best out of the opportunities we were given. I am incredibly proud of all of the girls as despite being new to this journey, they all had a positive attitude since day one. The house was filled with laughter and smiles even from the first induction and it continued to be a safe place where the girls felt that they belonged and were celebrated for their unique cultures.

We started the year off with a trip to London followed by a tour of the sights on an afternoon tea bus with delicious English treats. We also had other amazing trips such as seeing Six the Musical in

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the West End accompanied by our drama teachers in the house. Besides the trips, the house still maintained the community and inclusive culture all together with activities in the house such as cerebrating The Mid-Autumn Festival in the garden with some of the girls singing and playing special instruments. We also had lovely dinners and came together for Chinese New Year and Christmas.

These celebrations were truly magical and special for everyone as we got to spend it all together as a community and especially as a family.

As a house and as individuals we embodied our school values both academically and outside the school. It was amazing to see so many of the girls join activities in school and around town to serve others such as helping out with the Open Door Cafe

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St John’s 2025 charity stand in town, Valentines Hearts from Herts as well as running for fund raising. The St. John’s girls also strived academically and aimed high such as Vanessa drawing the Berkhamsted Rose using 48 equations on graphing software.

Overall, this year in St John’s was filled with forever friendship bonds, laughter and lasting memories as well as experiences. As we part our ways, I would like to say a thank you to our house parents and residential tutors who helped make everyone’s experiences as happy and as easy as possible.

The sense of community within St John’s is truly unlike any other. Meeting people from a wide range of backgrounds—and being able to share my own—has created opportunities to celebrate traditions and festivals that none of us might have experienced otherwise. Before this year, I had never decorated a Christmas tree or exchanged red envelopes for Chinese New Year, and I’m so grateful to have now taken part in both.

Apart from the cultural experiences, living with friends while gaining a sense of independence has taught me invaluable life skills that will serve me well beyond Berkhamsted. Whether its spending time relaxing with each other, supporting one another through exams, or even just enjoying everyday moments together, the friendships and memories I’ve made here will stay with me for life. I am deeply thankful to St John’s and its staff for making such an impact with its lovely environment.

-Maisha C

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Incents 2025

Incents Mr W Findlay Head of Incents House

This has been a fantastic year in Incents House.

With the House hosting its largest-ever population of boarders, we have witnessed a wide range of achievements and celebrations. As ever, however, none of what follows would have been possible without our fantastic team of tutors, our wonderful matron, and our brilliant domestic crew, who keep the House running smoothly.

We were very fortunate to have poached Lou Beddall from the Pre-Prep, and she has done a wonderful job in her first year—keeping the boys in check and ensuring they are both known and cared for at all times. Mr Gardiner, Miss Talbot and Mrs Findlay have been tremendous support for the boys and all of them have helped our boys settle in to life at Berkhamsted.

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Michaelmas term saw us welcome four boys linked with Saracens, joining our two Year 13 1st XV stalwarts and our enthusiastic flexi-athletes. This made for tremendous representation on the 1st team, with seven full or flexi boarders starting at the StoneX showcase event. While we excelled on the sports field, we also witnessed outstanding performances in the music halls and classrooms. It truly was a fantastic term!

We wrapped it all up with a wonderful Christmas Party held alongside St John’s—highlights included karaoke and wrapping up the Housemaster in wrapping paper!

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Incents 2025 Lent term kicked off with Year 11 mock exams, in which the boys did themselves proud. We had many students representing the School in football— particularly in Year 10—which was great to see.

January also brought our joyous Lunar New Year celebration, complete with red envelopes, dragons, and a range of culinary delights. Year 13 mocks were tackled with gusto, with some boys even topping their year group.

Trinity term, as ever, has been dominated by public exams and end-of-year assessments, which the boys have approached with commendable commitment and effort. But it hasn’t been all work—many of our boys have taken part in Proms in the Quad and various House Events in the Day School.

We’ve also enjoyed a number of memorable trips this year, including outings to London, Arsenal Women’s matches, the cinema (lots!), fun meals out, high ropes courses, and Berkhamsted Bowls, to name a few. At weekends, the boys have made full use of the excellent facilities on offer— swimming, basketball, football, and perhaps most enthusiastically (if not most skilfully), the dartboard.

As we say goodbye to our Year 13s, we wish them the very best for the future. Hani, Chester, and Johnson have been remarkable Prefects, and the entire year group has made a tremendous impact on the House. Welcoming our new boarders for their trial has already offered a glimpse into the exciting future ahead for Incents—we can’t wait to see them all in September.

Having experienced the rewarding and unique, yet challenging environment of the Incents House, I feel greatly appreciative of its members and staff who I have grown increasingly close to. Namely Mr Findlay, our House Master who has helped us overcome numerous challenges and not only helped us develop as people, but as a community.

Alongside this, being able to bond with friends through games and sports like our Interhouse weekly badminton games or Nintendo Switch tournaments that many of us regularly take part in has helped us get to know each other more than I had ever anticipated.

Incents House has a wide variety of boys from all ages, and this has led me to gain a sense of responsibility for some of the younger years and made me feel more like an older brother than I thought, getting to know each and every member and relating to them in different ways has broadened my social capacity. I feel a great sense of appreciation for this and how it has helped me grow as an individual.

- Gary B

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Sixth 2025

Sixth Mr N Cale Head of Sixth As we draw to the close of an extraordinary academic year, it is a pleasure to reflect on the accomplishments, experiences, and milestones that have defined our journey together across the Michaelmas, Lent, and Trinity terms.

The year began with inspiration as its central theme. In assemblies, students shared what inspires them, offering personal reflections, celebrating global figures, and finding meaning in everyday experiences. These moments also highlighted one of our central focuses this year: Oracy; finding and confidently using one’s voice.

A highlight of the Sixth academic week were the Crawford talks, in which topics such as The Nature of Nothing, The Insanity Defence in Law, The Influence of Gothic Literature on Modern Media, and Geopolitical Identities were presented.

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These sparked lively question and answer sessions, showcasing intellectual curiosity and rigorous debate akin to that seen in universities.

The term was also marked by a strong sense of community. Social events brought Year 12 and Year 13 together, while the International University Fair and Employability and Entrepreneurism Dinner encouraged students to think ambitiously and purposefully about their futures. The value of Serving Others was evident in our student mentoring programmes and wellbeing initiatives, such as our Learning Leaders and Year 12 Wellbeing Ambassadors. In the wider community, Sixth students assisted elderly individuals on the High Street, marking their empathy and responsibility.

As the calendar year closed, students were encouraged to rest, recharge, and prepare for upcoming exams: Year 13 mocks after February half

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Sixth 2025 term, and Year 12 end of year exams in the first two weeks of Trinity.

The Lent term will be remembered as the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Berkhamsted Sixth, with the long anticipated opening of the Zaha Hadid Building on 24 March 2025. This was a project more than seven years in the making. As the scaffolding was removed before the start of term, it symbolised the journey that students undertake during their time in Sixth: as they transition from structure and support to independence.

Academically, Year 12 focused on exams shaping their university choices, while Year 13 concentrated on their final A Levels. Oracy remained a central focus, with over 70 students contributing to assemblies, including reflections on belonging, International Women’s Day, and Prep School Oracy Training.

Serving Others was evident in Year 13s organising revision sessions for Year 12, who in turn mentored GCSE pupils. Aiming High with Integrity shone through record EPQ results, 87.23% A*–A and 98.94% A*–B, alongside 117 students attending Crawford Society talks, 80 students awarded full or half colours across arts, humanities, STEM, and sport, and 115 students completing Gold DofE (with 16 Year 13s already achieving it). Musical flair was showcased in the Music Gala Evening, and sports teams excelled in Football, Netball, and Rugby.

As the term ended, students balanced academic, cocurricular, and social commitments with remarkable energy. Year 12 exams loomed in Trinity, and Year 13 study leave was set to begin on 8 May. The Trinity term, always characterised by exams, saw over 1,500 completed across Year 12 and Year 13. This was a remarkable achievement reflecting dedication, resilience, and ambition. This was also the first full term in the Zaha Hadid Building, which transformed study habits, with students embracing writeable walls and staying late into the evening to revise independently or collaboratively.

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Beyond academics, students threw themselves into wider school life. Landmark sporting moments included the inaugural girls’ cricket tour and the first Saturday 2nd XI fixture for the girls. 65% of Sixth students represented Berkhamsted in at least one sport across 14 disciplines.

Achievements extended to English Schools competitions, Prep School language lessons led

by Sixth linguists, Art collaborations at Swing Gate School, and Year 13s serving as teaching assistants. Creativity flourished in music and drama, most recently in the Young Singer of the Year competition.

Cocurricular commitment was equally impressive: over 40 students represented the Combined Cadet Force, 97 signed up for or completed Gold DofE, and 10% of the year group successfully completed a Music or LAMDA exam. These achievements reflected the breadth of talent and the value placed on character, ambition, and selfexpression.

What stood out most was how students balanced academic rigour with creative arts, sports, and personal development. Their humility, humour, and care for one another was inspiring to witness.

To our Year 13 students, we wish you every success as you step into the next stage of your journeys – whether university, apprenticeships, or gap year plans. You leave with our utmost admiration and warmest wishes, and you will always remain part of the Berkhamsted Sixth story.

To our Year 12 students, may the summer offer rest and preparation for the exciting final stage ahead.

Across Michaelmas, Lent, and Trinity, Berkhamsted Sixth has been defined by inspiration, service, ambition, and achievement. From intellectual debate to sporting triumphs, from creative expression to acts of kindness, our students have embodied the values of Aiming High with Integrity and Serving Others.

Thank you to all students, staff, and families for your continued support and enthusiasm. Together, we have created an environment where every student can thrive, be themselves, and become the remarkable people that they are.

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Sixth Ski Trip to Banff The Banff ski trip 2024 was an incredible and unforgettable experience for which I am very grateful. The views in each of the three ski resorts we visited were breath-taking, especially Lake Louise and Banff Sunshine. Aside from skiing, we did evening activities, one of which was curling. This is a sport that none of us had tried before which was enjoyable and a great experience to share with others. Being on a school trip allowed me to make new friends and spend time with people I don’t usually see in school, which was really lovely.

My highlight of the ski trip would have to be the first day we spent at Banff Sunshine, after a huge dump of snow the night before. The powder was magical to ski on, and my delightful ski instructor used the powder to our advantage and took us on lots of gladed runs (runs through the trees). I was lucky to have such an experienced ski instructor who was a great role model and who’s inspired me to potentially do a ski season abroad as a ski instructor myself. In addition, the hotel we stayed in was very cosy and welcoming and had a huge hot tub which was especially beneficial for our muscles after a long day of skiing. I thoroughly enjoyed going out into Banff village every night for dinner as we got to see the festive lights and visit lots of souvenir shops afterwards. Overall, skiing with my close friends during the week was simply fantastic because it’s not something which happens often.

Skiing in Canada compared to Europe is really something else. A resort like Banff has huge, wide slopes which were so much fun for cruising down, especially if the weather conditions were good (which we were lucky to have the entire trip). In contrast to skiing in Europe, I found there were very short queues, if there were any, for ski lifts, which allowed us cover more kilometres.

Many thanks to all the amazing staff who made this possible and allowed us to have a trip of a lifetime.

- Annie W

Berko's recent school trip to Banff was truly an unforgettable experience during my time at the school. Having not skied for many years, I was a little apprehensive at first, but I quickly got back into it and fell in love with skiing again. I think the real positive shock for me was how uncrowded the slopes of the Banff region were compared to skiing in Europe, allowing for more time on the slopes and truly appreciating the breath-taking backdrops that surrounded us.

We were also given time for free ski sessions at the end of each day allowing us to ski with people we didn't spend time with during the day, something that is only possible due to the exemplary staff that came. A highlight was our opportunity to watch a local ice hockey game, something which was a firm favourite for many and we were also able to take part in other authentically Canadian activities like curling, which caused much amusement amongst the staff and students alike!

- Freddie T

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Classics Trip to Greece As part of the Greece trip 2024, we visited several different places within the country and explored numerous archaeological sites, which allowed us as Classicists to make links with any prior knowledge of these places. Our first two days were spent in Athens, with the aim of visiting the Athenian Acropolis; this is one of the sites that the A-level focuses on, so this was an exciting experience for the Sixth Formers! It was an enriching experience, and a key memory from the trip. We visited the Acropolis, and were able to see the major buildings, such as the Parthenon or the Erechtheion On our first night, we experienced a ‘Greek dinner’ and even took part in some traditional Greece dancing!

We were accompanied by many brilliant tour guides during the trip, who were very knowledgeable of the sites. Day two in Athens had a particular focus on the National Archaeological Museum, which gave us a detailed insight into the history of Athens itself. We also had some free time for shopping and exploring the markets; the amount of ‘evil eye’ souvenirs in the stores was simply astounding!

It was incredible to see how the sites changed as we ventured further into the Athenian Attica. We also visited the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion, and it presented a magnificent view over the Aegean Sea. Overall, the trip was an amazing opportunity to experience in person how the Ancient Greeks lived, and how these sites are representative of this. It even allowed us to make links with Greek mythology, and it was simply brilliant to be able to do so. It’s a trip I would recommend for all Classicists!

- Shanzae M

The fourth day included a long journey to the archaeological site of Delphi, and it allowed us to imagine how hard it must have been for the Ancient Greeks to reach Delphi. For me, personally, this site was the highlight of the entire trip, and the preservation of the site was simply astonishing. The Delphi Museum, as well, was a wonderful collection of artefacts from the site and was extremely knowledgeable. We finished the fourth day with dinner at a local restaurant, and some more time for exploring! The fifth day, as well, consisted of some travelling to Mycenae and Epidaurus. We visited an ancient Mycenaean Tomb, before another key highlight of the trip... the Asklepion sanctuary! While it was not as well-preserved as the other sites, it was simply fascinating to see the similarities it had to a modern hospital.

The day ended with some more exploring of the surrounding area by our hotel, and a quick beach stop! Our final day consisted of a visit to Ancient Corinth, and exploring the Theatre of Thorikos.

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Year 7 French Trip to Normandy First, we arrived at Knox Johnson at 09:00 and loaded our luggage onto the coach. After being put into our groups and saying our last goodbyes to our parents, we left for Normandy! At around 20:00, we finally arrived at La Grand’ Ferme. We had dinner and soon after went to bed.

The next morning, we woke up and enjoyed cereal, hot chocolate, bread, orange juice and some water.

We were introduced to one of the chefs, but, because were staying in an all-French hotel, we really had to listen to what they were saying to make sure that we knew what we were doing.

That day, we did activities like bread-making, archery, and circus skills. For the bread making you had to list the ingredients and then, after we finished that, we moved on to making the bread and everyone’s bread turned out amazing! In circus skills we had to do throwing and catching with soft balls and we also did some plate spinning. It took a while, but we all managed to get the plate to balance on the stick! Archery was great as we had to use our aiming skills and determination. We all took in turns at shooting and some people were lucky enough to pop a balloon which was the hardest thing to do! All this hard work quickly led us to the end of the day, but lucky for us if wasn’t over yet! We had a French Dress-up Party and there were costumes from French people in stripes to French fries and even the Louvre! For dinner we had snails! Most people didn’t eat them, but one boy ate about 20!

The Adventures of Tin-Tin! But sadly, the sound wasn’t on our side, and we couldn’t watch it. So instead, we all played a game of Cash-Cash (hide and seek)!

The last day was full of tired faces. After breakfast we had about ten minutes to finish packing and put our luggage in the coach. After we left, we stopped at a supermarket to get some more treats for the way back. After that, we carried on our journey until lunch time. We were given a packed lunch with a baguette, a packet of crisps and a chocolate bar.

Soon we arrived at the Euro Tunnel and surprisingly the journey back felt quicker than the journey there! When we got off the shuttle, we didn’t make another stop, and it was about 4 hours before we got home.

Once we finally got back to Berkhamsted, we took our bags out of the coach, hugged our parents and went home.

- Georgia D

For our next day of activities, we went into the Normandy town and spent our time there mooching about the stalls and looking for filling to go in our Baguettes that we were having for lunch. In the afternoon, we went to a place called Le Mont Saint Michel. It was lovely there! We got a tour around the place and then we had about 30 minutes to have a look around some of the shops and buy some food or souvenirs. After that, we all met together outside the place and headed back on the coach to La Grand’Ferme.

That night, we ate dinner and had about 10 minutes until our evening activity. After 5 minutes had passed, we all sat down in the barn, hoping to watch

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Year 9 French Trip to Burgundy The French trip to Maison Claire Fontaine in Burgundy, which happened in October half term, was a delightful trip that I learnt so much from, even more than just the French. This was my first trip with the school as I had just joined this year and in all honesty, I was not that excited at first, as I thought I would not enjoy it, but I am so glad that I went as it was completely the opposite - I had an amazing time with my friends and I got a lot closer to them all and I also learnt lots, all because of this trip.

Throughout the five-day trip, speaking French was a regular occurrence, which gave me the ability to learn and practice French that would help in later life, whether it was asking for simple things like water to basic and more complex conversations.

Because of this, my French skills and confidence have improved very noticeably, and I am able to speak more fluently and use lots of useful French.

We also participated in a cooking challenge where we bought food from a small French market. Our group made sandwiches with fruit and caramel biscuits for pudding. I enjoyed this because our group won, but also because I learned how to correctly buy food in French.

These were all some of my favourite parts of the trip because we were able to be independent in a city and market that we had not been to, and I enjoy exploring new places.

We also took part in high ropes course, which I especially enjoyed because these were very high and there were some challenging trapezes. We played a traditional French game called Le jeu du Béret and a French version of Bowls, made mosaics, had a puzzle competition, baked a tartouillat, which is like an apple pie and which I especially liked, and to conclude our stay, we had a disco on Halloween!

Finally, I want to give a huge thank you to Mr Margerison, Miss Graham, Miss Knibb and Mr Gilman for organising such an amazing trip. I would one hundred per cent recommend anyone to go on this trip as you get to learn and try new things and explore a beautiful area of France.

Almost every day of the trip, we would have French lessons with very enthusiastic and fun teachers. In these lessons, we learnt about Burgundian culture, and we got to try many foods that originate from the -Maximus M region. All the instructors were so nice and kind to us, especially Enora, who taught us a very fun dance, but was also so nice to everyone and very patient and upbeat.

Now, my favourite part of the trip was exploring the French town of Vézelay and its Basilique (basilica), as the views were magical and it was very nice to see old French culture and architecture that had been preserved there, but also all the small, very interesting shops that I enjoyed going round.

Another highlight was when we went to Dijon.

Whilst we were there, we all had to find certain landmarks, such as the owl of Dijon and an ice cream shop.

After this, we went to the Centre commercial de la Toison d’Or, which was a huge shopping centre that we were allowed to look around for a few hours.

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Ski Trip to Italy At 04:30 on Sunday 16th February, 115 students were gathering at the turning circle at Knox waiting for the coach to take us on ‘the trip of a lifetime’. All of us, despite being exhausted , were very excited for the trip. We arrived at Stansted and flew to Venice. Once we arrived we all made our way to the coaches and started our journey to the hotel.

Once we arrived everyone was very excited and we all gathered in the lobby to have our first briefing by the legend Mr Duncan Hardy. Once we all got told our rooms we settled nicely and unpacked ready to go and get all our ski equipment fitted and put into lockers. When we got back we had dinner and all went up to bed to get some sleep before our first day of skiing.

On the morning of the Monday all the pupils came down to breakfast in their drippy ski gear. Shout out to the highlighters on the trip. We trekked down to the bottom of the slopes where we got our skis and headed up the gondola. A pupil quote, said ‘the atmosphere of the locker was crazy.’ It was so busy and hot, but when we got to the top of the mountain it was all so perfect and calm. We were very lucky to have perfect weather the whole week.

We started off by skiing and then after lunch at Bepi’s (our favourite place ) we did a Berko ski-off to determine our ski groups. After a long hard day we went back to the hotel (most of us went to raid the local shop) and we had a great pasta dinner and had a super fun evening of a quiz night in the hotel and we all fell asleep extremely quickly as we were exhausted.

were all progressing in our ski groups, most groups were doing red and black slopes. We also started exploring other sides of the mountain and doing great off piece and jump parks and we were all looking pretty professional. After yet another great day of skiing we headed back and this evening (after a very inspirational briefing by Mr Hardy and Nigel) the Year 8's and 10's swapped activities and the Year 8's went off to go tobogganing and creating chaos and the Year 10’s stayed to watch the great movie Surf ’s Up and we celebrated all the birthdays on that trip that evening with cake and song before we all headed up for a much needed sleep.

On Thursday everyone was very excited as that evening we were doing night skiing. Throughout the day everyone was in their ski groups and everyone was a lot more comfortable skiing as we had all learnt more. Lunch on Thursday was really good as we got to eat pizza and chips at Bepi's. Lunch was really fun all week as it meant everyone got to hang out together and enjoy the weather and snow around us. We were very lucky with the weather all week as it was very sunny.

On Thursday evening everyone made their way over to night skiing. Everyone was very excited and had all dressed up in costumes. There was a huge range in costumes and they were very funny.

We had some people in t-shirts, onesies and even a few in blow up costumes. We had people as dinosaurs, sumo wrestlers, animals and characters

On Tuesday we woke up (all our bodies aching) but we were so excited for another day on the mountain. We skied for two hours in the morning had a lovely relaxing lunch at Bepi’s which served the best pasta I have ever tried and then some teachers took us out skiing and we could never keep up with Mr Fowler and we did another two hours with our ski groups. In the evening the Year 8's had a movie night of Shrek and games and Year 10's did the annual Berko tobogganing evening, and if you ask us it was one of the favourite nights. We zoomed down the hill racing each other bouncing on the bumps and flipping all over it was so much fun.

On Wednesdays we were all ready to go and we

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2025 • Trips On Saturday sadly it was our travelling day and we had to go back home and leave the amazing views and skiing with our friends. We took the bus and plane back and when we got back to Knox Johnson everyone was happy to see their families, but was sad that the trip had ended.

Overall the ski trip was so fun and an amazing experience. Everyone had fun learning to ski with their friends and one of the best things was how amazing the views were. The trip was a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. Every evening was filled with laughter as we had great activities. I would recommend that anyone offered the next ski trip goes as everyone had so much fun and it is an experience you don't want to miss out on.

- Tilly P and Sophie M

from movies. The whole evening was such a fun experience as you were able to ski with people that weren't in your normal group and it was so fun going down the slopes after dark with every one dressed up and happy.

On Friday it was our last day of skiing which was a shame as the trip had been so fun and gone so quickly. We all made the most of our skiing on Friday and had our final falls and laughs in the slopes that day. That evening, for the last night, we had a karaoke night and the awards from the week. This was a perfect way to end the trip as everyone was together laughing and singing. The awards were so fun to give out as we had a bread eating competition for an award. We also gave out awards for the best and funniest skiers. Every one was high in spirits and cheering for each other throughout the awards.

Mr Nicholls started the karaoke night out with an interesting rendition of 'All Star' and we had some lovely duets from Miss Finnigan and Mr Godman.

Year 8s and 10s all joined in and went up in groups to sing together and the evening was the perfect last night on the ski trip. Hannah in Year 8 finished us off with the last song and everyone sang along with her and it was so fun. After karaoke we all headed to bed to get an early night as we were having to wake up early for travel the next day.

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Geography Trip to Iceland The Geography Iceland trip was one of our favourite experiences at Berkhamsted involving some amazing moments and natural wonders. Our personal highlight was being fortunate enough to see the Northern lights – twice! We saw them in various colours of green, pink, and purple. Learning about the magnetic field of earth and the sun creating the spectacular Northern Lights was astonishing.

One of the most popular moments on our trip was the glacier hike. It was wonderful to be able to climb up the glacier and do various activities such as hang over big craters and explore secret ice caves. We had a packed itinerary and every day brought new experiences, for example the Secret Lagoon which was unforgettable and refreshing.

We were lucky enough to experience the natural volcanic heated waters and we refuelled with some of the best tomato soup we have ever eaten whilst learning how places like the tomato farm harness the heat for their own use and growing the delicious tomatoes.

Both the Perlan Centre and Lava Centre gave us an excellent insight into Iceland’s history and the formation of its wonders such as the volcanoes, geysers and hot springs. The use of technology and interactive experiences (such as the ice caves) really helped to bring Iceland to life. The Lava centre was also the perfect introduction to our stop in Grindavik where we saw some still-cooling pyroclastic flow from an active eruption.

We spent the last day of our trip in Reykjavik. It was incredible, we saw some historical buildings and some beautiful monuments and all members of staff were able to share their expertise with us. We were then allowed some free time to explore the city whilst others went up to the top of the church.

Anyone thinking about going to Iceland, don’t think twice, it is 100% worth it and a privilege to be able to see how beautiful natural Iceland is.

- George T and Katherine N

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Sixth History and Politics Trip to Washington Our trip to Washington was an incredible experience for both politics and history students.

On the first day, we jumped straight into politics with our visit to the US Supreme Court and Congress. For politics students it helped solidify our understanding of how these two key parts of government work and operate, and for history students there were lots of interesting links too such as sitting in the court room where some of the key civil rights cases were delivered.

For many of us the highlight of the trip was the guided walking tour of DC on the second day.

Though the many hours of walking were tiring, the tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and extremely engaging, really making the experience interactive and memorable. We found viewing the various presidential and war memorials dotted around the capitol extremely moving, especially the Lincoln Memorial which was the site of MLK’s famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. It felt very moving to stand where Dr King once stood delivering his profoundly inspiring speech to around 250,000 protesters. We stayed in this spot for quite a while and you could really feel an atmosphere around the monument of historical weight and respect.

Just viewing the memorials was quite powerful, but what really stuck with many of us was the tour guide explaining the significance of each; for example on the Korean war memorial the statues were built next to a mirror surface, reflecting the images of all the statues to create 38 figures which reflects the 38th parallel, the boundary between North and South Korea.

On the next day, in the glorious sunshine, we travelled an hour out of Washington to Virginia to visit the home and burial place of George Washington, the first President. We spent most of the day here learning about life on the Mount Vernon estate, which included a tour of the estate grounds where our really knowledgeable guide talked to us about how it had been on a slave estate under George Washington.

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In recent years they have identified the unmarked resting places of many slaves who were buried on the estate, and we finished our time here with a small memorial to the slaves buried on the estate.

On the way back to DC we stopped for a tour of Georgetown University undertaken by one of our old students who is studying for a Masters Degree there in Security Studies.

On our last day we visited an incredibly moving and impactful museum - the National Museum of AfroAmerican History and Culture, which is part of the Smithsonian. This museum delved into the deeprooted historical problems of slavery, segregation and the civil rights struggle for African Americans.

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2025 • Trips Due to how interactive the museum was, with a mixture of artifacts, creative displays, informative videos and voice recording, it really created an immersive experience and gave us an insight into this incredibly shocking and immoral period of history.

This really was a powerful reminder for many students of the significance of studying our subjects, exposing shocking passed attitudes and making us appreciate the opportunities we had been given in the duration of our trip.

So, with new-found knowledge, a few new purchases, and full of American food, we took the flight back and prepared for both jetlag and our mini-mocks. It was a brilliant trip, and special thanks should be assigned to Mr Moseley, Mr Anker and Miss Hansen for organising and taking us on this trip!

- Maya B and Will J

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Diving Trip to Egypt The Egypt dive trip was easily the best school trip I have been on during my time at Berkhamsted. I was quite nervous at first because I have never dived before and the idea of getting straight into the water with all my new kit on was quite daunting but as soon as I got to the dive centre and met my guide, I was instantly a lot more relaxed. All the guides at the dive centre were so friendly and welcoming which made my experience over the week of diving even better.

During the first few days we learnt all of our open and confined water skills as well as getting to know how all our kit worked together and buddying up with a friend so we could always help each other underwater. After the first two days I was confident on how all my kit worked, efficiently equalising underwater, working well with my buddy, using hand signals and knowing how to stay neutrally buoyant underwater by controlling my breathing.

The next three days diving off the boat were the highlight of the trip. We went to the most beautiful dive spots in Egypt and the marine life we got to see was amazing. There were so many bright corals that had lots of brightly coloured fish swimming around them. We even got to see octopus changing colour underwater to match the coral colour as well as a turtle swimming in the blue. My favourite animal I saw underwater has to be a ray because of how gracefully it was slowly swimming in the water, it was truly amazing to see, my group were very lucky to see it. As well as the lovely staff on the boat, the hotel staff were friendly too which made the transition from England to Egypt very easy. The hotel we stayed at had great food and hospitality, our rooms were spacious and we were able to come back and relax after a long day of diving.

During the October half term Year 10 got the opportunity to go to Sharm El Sheik Egypt for a week scuba diving. Although I was already advanced at open water diving, I had never been diving in Egypt before, and I was excited to dive somewhere new and with my friends. It was a fun experience, and I loved each of my twelve dives. My favourite movement had to be when I spotted a turtle swim past me so effortlessly. Overall, it was an amazing trip - Sebastian B

I was so sad to go home, I wish the trip lasted longer! I can’t recommend this trip enough to anyone no matter if you aren’t the best swimmer or you’re not comfortable in the sea because you will easily overcome those fears when you get into the water.

- Poppy A

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Cricket Tour to Spain During the Easter holidays, the first ever Girls Cricket tour took place as we travelled to Spain to compete in the La Manga T20 tournament. The tournament featured a wide of teams participating, including some international teams, and club teams from back in the UK. Our opening match was against Streatham & Marlborough CC, and it proved the perfect start to the tour. We batted confidently setting us up well for the second innings which we followed up with an excellent fielding performance. This set up a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.

The Hursley Park ladies were lovely enough to let us keep the winner’s trophy after themselves successfully winning it for the last 2 years.

We finished off the tour with some fun team awards, celebrating individual performances and some of the many memorable moments from the trip.

Overall, this was the perfect way to kick off our season, gaining invaluable experience playing against high level teams, and coming together as a squad.

The tour has set us up brilliantly for what we hope will be a competitive and exciting season ahead.

- Amelia D

Unfortunately, day two brought heavy rain, which led to all the games being cancelled for the day.

Making the best of the situation we headed off to play mini golf. Despite our best efforts, Mr Costin came out on top with Willa and Eloise a close second. This was great fun and a competitive team bonding activity that really brought the team closer.

With only one playing day left, the tournament was reshaped into a fast-paced T10 format, with three group games and the potential for a final later in the day.

We started the day off well with a solid win against Cricket Switzerland, building some confidence before we headed into our next game against a strong Hursley Park side. Despite a closely fought match, we narrowly lost in the last few balls meaning that if we wanted to get into the final we would have to win our next match.

Our final group game was against the Spanish National Team, and we knew it would be tough.

Everyone gave it their all, and thanks to strong performance had a great game with both the bat and ball, we came away with a memorable victory.

This was an amazing accomplishment for the team, as it meant we had beaten an ICC recognised team, proving that all the hard work we had put in during the winter had paid off.

This meant that we were in the final against Hursley Park. However once again the weather was not on our side and halfway through the first innings the game was called off and the victory was shared.

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Art & Photography Trip to Lisbon On Friday 7th February, we were met by glorious Portuguese sunshine, as we touched down for our three-day Art trip, after a more than early (4am) rendezvous at Knox-Johnson. We hopped onto our coach and had a short journey to our youth hostel that we were staying in. After we had dropped our suitcases off, we ventured on a walking tour through the heart of the city and we were immediately immersed in Lisbon’s rich architectural charm. Every corner seemed to burst with colour — from the traditional azulejo tiles adorning the buildings to the pastel-hued facades that lined the streets. The contrast of old and new, of worn stone and bright paint, offered endless inspiration. Cameras clicked non-stop as we took in the sweeping views, intricate balconies and lively street scenes.

After soaking in the cityscape, we made our way to the tranquil Parque Eduardo VII, one of Lisbon’s most iconic green spaces. There, we enjoyed a relaxed lunch among the perfectly trimmed hedges and open lawns. The park offered us more than just a peaceful break, we discovered a large area with fallen columns and a hidden waterfall, perfect for artistic snapshots and quiet sketches. Just as we were beginning to settle in, a sudden downpour surprised us — but the rain couldn’t dampen our spirits. Armed with umbrellas, raincoats, and lots of laughter, we carried on with the adventure.

from the rain but a chance to immerse ourselves in a range of different art ranging from beautifully decorated wood masks to rich Victorian paintings and everything in between. Everyone was inspired and managed to take lots of pictures to be able to use later in our coursework. After departing the gallery, we hopped onto the metro to the National Museum of Contemporary Art of Chiado. Over three levels, with great examples of contemporary art, it mixed immersing experiences such as a light room, with sculptures, pictures and installations.

This helped expand everyone’s minds to what the concepts and representation of art could be.

After this we then headed off through the city to Mercardo da Ribeira (Time out Market) where we were exposed to lots of different food stalls from all over the world all bursting with flavour no matter the food. This is where we had our dinner for the night. After everyone had eaten and gotten anything they needed for the night we then headed off to Rua Augusta which was a bustling set of streets with an amazing archway and architecture. We were able to go off in groups and purchase any souvenirs or food we wanted for the trip before heading back to our hostel for a well-deserved rest.

On day two we were up and ready and out of our hostel for 09:00, fuelled by breakfast. We headed through the streets of Arroios to immerse ourselves in the beautiful buildings and graffiti work that Lisbon has to offer. One of my favourite moments of the trip was when we discovered a group of chickens and a rooster flapping on the streets and on top of stalls, as it made everyone on the trip come together and be amused by the same thing.

Our next stop was a visit to the Calouste Gulbenkian museum which was not only a shelter

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2025 • Trips We then went to the amazing Sao Vicente which was a bustling Portuguese street market filled with vintage items, clothing, jewellery and some amazing food. After we had all spent an hour looking around and getting an ice cream in the hot weather, we walked past the beach front, seeing different impressive sand creations, adding to our growing idea of what forms art can take. We ended up in the LX Factory which was once a textile complex but now full of delicious restaurants and quirky shops. The walk to LX factory and the factory itself made some amazing opportunities for street photography.

After this we made our way past 25 de Abril Bridge on our way to Miradouro do MAAT which was and still is my favourite art exhibition I have ever seen in my life. When we entered the vast room

every wall and floor space was filled with massive colourful tapestries that took my breath away. If you thought we had finished there then you would be wrong as we then visited Museum Colcecao Berardo which has opened my eyes to the world more than I thought any exhibition could. The one exhibition that really struck a chord for me was in a dark room, with different shaped chairs and an hour-long video on loop with no music, showing different people in a foreign country and tiny 10 second snippets of moments of their lives. It made me realise how differently people can live, just because they have a distance between them but especially how differently people can live within the same country.

private Fado show for the night which is the folk music of Portugal’s rustic neighbourhoods. After a large meal out and a full days’ worth of sightseeing and walking it’s safe to say I think every had a very good night’s sleep that night!

Having packed so much into the last two days, we were up bright and early on our final day, packed up and ready to go. We loaded ourselves and bags onto the coach, but we were not ready to leave just yet, first going to the National Palace of Pena which is the most magical vibrant building I think I have ever witnessed. Situated on a high point, we were able to walk the grounds and see the different levels of landscapes around us, but most importantly, how beautifully the different buildings had been painted in rich colours. After a few hours we made our descent back down to the coach which then took us to the beautiful town of Sintra, with its cobbled paths and an abundance of choices of restaurants.

After our time was up, we hopped back onto the coach and made our way to the airport in our “I heart Portugal” tops which definitely didn’t make us look like tourists!

It’s safe to say by the time we got back home, everyone had created hundreds of special memories and a very full storage from all their pictures. For me, the opportunity to see such a rich variety of exciting and colourful art and architecture was inspiring and no doubt everyone felt the same way.

- Darcy W

After this exhibition we headed back to the hostel, but there was still more to be fitted into our busy day. We headed back out to an authentic Portuguese restaurant and were greeted by a

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Year 9 History Trip to Normandy In May, some Year 9s took a trip to Normandy, France, to improve our knowledge of World War II history specifically D-day. We began our journey on Friday 23rd May, setting off from school and travelling via Portsmouth for a ferry crossing to France. After a long journey, we arrived at La Petite Falaise Hostel in Lion-sur-Mer late in the evening, where we went straight to bed mainly because we were all so tired.

Over the following days we visited many cemeteries, memorials and museums. On Saturday, we went to Pegasus Bridge (which is where the first troops landed the day before D-day) and visited St. Mere Eglise, with some free time to explore the area.

Later in the day, we visited the Dead Man’s Corner Museum and the German War Cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the war. Unlike other cemeteries the German cemeteries are focused not on glorification of the dead, but it had a somber feel to the place. After dinner, we had a fun evening of bowling.

The bowling later that night gave us a break from the memorials, and it was a good way to end the day, with many also playing a game of cricket.

On Monday, we began our journey back to England.

We had an early start with breakfast at 6am before heading to Caen to catch the ferry. The journey back was very interesting, including 2 cinemas, arcades, and very nice places to eat for the long journey throughout the day.

Overall, the trip was an important to understand the events of D-day and how they unfolded. In a classroom it is very easy to read from a textbook that there was over 10000 casualties at D-day but actually going to visit the memorials and seeing the graves puts it into a whole new perspective.

- Shaan S

Sunday took us to the American Cemetery at Colleville and the dramatic cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, followed by a visit to Arromanches and the German Longues Battery. The American Cemetery and Pointe du Hoc stood out because of how large and open the areas were. At Pointe du Hoc, we could still see the huge craters left behind from the bombings, which gave us a better understanding of just how intense the fighting was. In the afternoon we also went to the British Normandy Memorial, which felt quite different from the American and German sites we had already seen. Each one had its own way of remembering those who had died and comparing them was something we talked about a lot.

Saturday felt like one of the busiest days, with visits starting early and not finishing until late in the evening. Each location we went to had something new to show, and even though we had learnt a bit in school, being there in person helped make sense of what happened.

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Year 7 PGL to Osmington Bay As part of ECW week Year 7 pupils, from both Castle and Kings, accompanied by twenty members of staff, spent three nights in Osmington Bay, Dorset on PGL camp for four days of activities and adventure.

The excitement was palpable as the groups boarded boarded the bus, ready for a trip filled with new experiences. Upon arrival, the pupils were greeted by the friendly staff and shown to their cabins, where they would be staying for the duration of their trip.

Across the three days pupils did a carousel of different activities both at the centre and also around Weymouth Bay. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, the children learned the basics of abseiling, trapeze, the vertical challenge and ‘Jacob’s ladder’ as well as ground based activities like laser tag and fencing.

A highlight for each of the groups was the raft building exercise, where pupils were given materials that needed to be bound together in whatever way they thought best in order to make a raft that would support all of the pupils in the group on the water in Weymouth Bay. Lunchtimes were spent cooling off in the water for all of the groups and the evenings were spent around a campfire and other games at the centre.

The trip was a resounding success, with the children returning home tired but happy, brimming with stories of their adventures. The experience not only provided them with new skills and memories but also strengthened their friendships and fostered a sense of teamwork and resilience. Special thanks goes to Miss Finnigan and Mrs Wates for their organisation of the trip and to all the members of staff who supported over the course of the four days.

-Mrs Wates

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Activities

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2025 • Personal Development

Personal Development Through our dynamic Personal Development curriculum - spanning Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World pupils have been engaging with contemporary issues that equip them with the knowledge, skills, and awareness needed to navigate life beyond the classroom.

During the Michaelmas term, pupils examined ways to maintain good mental health, identifying strategies that promote positive habits for themselves and others. Developing fulfilling relationships remains a key focus of our programme, with pupils exploring the foundations of stable relationships, conflict resolution, and effective communication.

Sessions delivered by our school nutrition team have supported pupils in KS3 with making positive and healthy choices with regards to making meals and preparing snacks.

A new addition this year is our Online Safety course, delivered in partnership with the Online Safety Alliance. Introduced in the Lent term, this programme helps pupils recognise digital risks, equipping them with tools to stay safe online.

Over two Personal Development lessons, pupils completed interactive tasks - including reading, watching videos, and answering questions - to earn their OSA Certificate of Online Safety.

Learning about the wider world is an integral part of the curriculum and our aim is to prepare pupils to be effective, responsible global citizens. Year 8 carried out investigations into human rights around the world and Year 7 enjoyed learning about the criminal justice system and the rights and responsibilities of living in British society.

Continued use of UNIFROG and Morrisby has helped pupils to refine their ideas about potential career pathways and all year groups have examined their own skills and competencies, identifying pathways that they may be well suited to.

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In addition to this, Year 7, 9 and 10 have benefitted from sessions, facilitated by Elevate Education, focusing on study skills, memory mnemonics and time-management skills.

In Key Stage 5, students have engaged in a diverse range of topics designed to prepare them for life beyond school. From motivational talks with John Hoskison on making choices, to discussions on emotional intelligence with Georgie Fienberg, students have explored personal growth and selfawareness.

Financial education took a hands-on approach with the Time is Money Escape Room, while workshops on career planning, including Investin CV writing sessions and LinkedIn guidance, along with a presentation on degree apprenticeships, have helped students consider their professional aspirations.

Health and wellbeing have remained a core focus, with sessions on consent and positive relationships, and drug education with The Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation, followed by harm reduction strategies.

Awareness initiatives covered testicular cancer with the Oddballs Foundation, as well as breast cancer via Coppa Feel, and broader wellbeing topics, including work life balance and road safety for new drivers.

Students also examined global and societal issues, such as the Holocaust with Roger Moorhouse, the Migrant Leaders programme with CEO Elham Fardad, and disability awareness with James Shone.

The Year 12 PD programme has also encouraged students to explore opportunities beyond the classroom, from adventure experiences with Simon Parker to career insights into degree apprenticeships and the dangers of gambling with Patrick Foster. At Berkhamsted, it is our aim that these enrichment opportunities empower students with invaluable knowledge and practical skills, equipping them to navigate real-world challenges, make informed decisions, as well as thrive, and stay safe, in their lives beyond the classroom.

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2025 • Personal Development Allies and Advocates and Rising Allies, 20242025 Now in its third year, the Allies and Advocates and Rising Allies programme at Berkhamsted continues to grow in strength, reach, and impact — a powerful testament to the value of student-led support across our school community.

The journey began with Year 12 students volunteering to speak with Year 9 pupils about key themes identified through student voice. Topics included handling pressure, managing expectations, building resilience, and preparing for exams — all areas Year 9 students had expressed interest in exploring as part of their personal development.

The sessions were both insightful and reassuring, with Year 9 pupils saying they found the advice relatable and the conversations impactful. Hearing from those just a few steps ahead of them created a supportive atmosphere where open dialogue flourished.

One of the most powerful elements of the programme was that all year groups created their own resources. With guidance, they collaborated with one another to tailor their sessions — from slides and videos to interactive activities and open discussions. This creative freedom meant every delivery felt authentic, personal, and entirely student led.

In January, Rising Allies extended the programme even further. Year 12 Allies worked closely with Year 8 pupils, coaching them to deliver a series of sessions to Year 5 at the Prep School. These focused on preparation for life in Senior School, covering topics such as healthy digital habits and making new friends.

This cascading model of mentoring and leadership allowed students across different year groups to develop an impressive range of skills: public speaking, empathy, coaching, teamwork, digital literacy, and resource creation — to name just a few. Three years in, this is not just a programme.

It’s a movement of student empowerment, across different stages of the Berkhamsted journey.

Mrs A Warren Personal Development Teacher

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2025 • Library

Library "Reading isn't important because it helps to get you a job. It's important because it gives you room to exist beyond the reality you're given. It is how humans merge.

How minds connect. Dreams. Empathy. Understanding.

Escape. Reading is love in action." – Matt Haig, Notes on a Nervous Planet

Thank you to EVERYONE who attended this event and to those who worked so hard to make it happen. It was such a poignant, yet beautiful afternoon.

At a time of widespread anxiety around the decline of reading habits, particularly in young boys and men, the introduction and use of AI and the impacts of screen-time and social media on the younger generations, Haig beautifully expresses how crucial reading is for us all. As a Library team, where possible, we have incorporated this concept into the heart of all our projects, new reading materials, events and displays this year.

Centenary of Castle Memorial Library We proudly celebrated the 100th anniversary of our beautiful library in November. The library opened on Founder's Day on 27th September 1924 and was built to commemorate the staff and students, both boys and men, who perished in the First World War. To mark the occasion with friends old and new, we had a delightful afternoon tea and great speeches were delivered by the Principal and Andrea Roberts, our Library Services Manager.

As part of the ceremony, we unveiled our beautifully commissioned artwork piece by Debbie Shrimpton and this is displayed proudly for all to see in the library entrance. Our knowledgeable School Archivist, Lesley Koulouris, honoured the Library's history with a wonderful exhibition and last, but certainly not least, we had powerful WW1 poetry readings and piano accompaniment performed by our wonderful students.

In the run up to the event, we curated a 'Centenary Collection' of favourite books published from 19242024, one for each year since the library opened.

We asked staff and students to nominate their favourite books of the century to be included in our permanent display.

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Centenary Snow Globe and a visit from Malfoy, the naughty book elf!

In the countdown to Christmas, we selected ten books, chosen by our staff and students, to feature in our ‘Centenary Snow Globe’ display – however, Malfoy caused chaos by shaking the snow globe and jumbling up the decades! We tasked students with restoring order and pairing each book with the correct decade which they managed – thankfully!

Maybe it had something to do with the gold chocolate coins…?

The Summit Challenge Reading Scheme Launch & Matt Dickinson author visit In January, we were beyond delighted to welcome award-winning filmmaker, author and storyteller, Matt Dickinson, to talk to Year 9 and 10. Matt was part of the first ever camera crew to summit Everest. When devising our brand-new reading scheme, we could not think of a better person to champion it and we were incredibly fortunate to have his support launching the scheme this academic year!

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2025 • Library Matt not only took us through some of his intrepid adventures but also ran a creative writing workshop in which pupils had to argue the case: “Should Mount Everest be closed?” in a journalistic style.

Points included ethical and environmental issues, scientific breakthroughs and religious aspects.

National Reading Champions Quiz In March, tensions were running high during the online regional heats of the National Reading Champions Quiz. It was Berkhamsted’s first time entering this competition – 2 teams from both Boys and Girls, made up of sixteen pupils from Years 7-9, were battling it out and they had lots of fun in the process. Eight epic rounds in total and huge congratulations to Berkhamsted Girls, Team B for coming third overall!

Considering the Summit is a non-mandatory reading scheme, we are pleased with the level of support the challenge has received in its first year.

Vinson Massif, the Library Mountain, was the most popular as students were drawn to our Fantasy, Sci Fi and Historical Fiction offerings. Mount Everest, the Languages & Literature Mountain, was a close second with French being the most popular subject. Congratulations to our top readers: Isla S, Sebastian F and Thomas L! We look forward to seeing everyone flourish as we continue the scheme in Year 10.

World Book Day – The Traitors & Kiran Millwood Hargraves author visit In March, we kick-started World Book Day week in the best way with an author visit from none other than the spellbinding Kiran Millwood Hargraves. It was a jam-packed theatre with our Year 7 and 8s trying to contain their excitement as they learnt about hurricanes of butterflies, ancient sharks and walking trees (yes, they do exist)!

During WBD week, our staff and pupils were also challenged to solve riddles, banish the Book Traitors and win a shield of protection… Some Faithful had a lucky escape but sadly not everyone was as fortunate… The Book Traitors were deliciously deceitful!

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Carnegie Shadowers’ Event Our Year 8 Shadowers had the BEST time at the Dacorum Carnegie Event, held at Kings Langley School. The winners for 2025 were revealed and our pupils were also lucky enough to take part in a creative writing workshop run by Catherine

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After eight weeks of reading and reviewing the books on the shortlist of these prestigious Book Awards, the pupils and Library Team were all incredibly happy that Nathanael Lessore won the Shadowers' Choice award for The King of Nothing.

Bookopoly/+ Reading Schemes Y7 concluded the Bookopoly scheme for 2024/25 on a high, having submitted 1,554 reviews – they were up by 156 reviews on the previous year, despite being one set less! This year group are clearly keen readers.

age, 93% of the books that were reviewed in this scheme were physical books. Our most popular reviewed book was The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and the top author was Alice Oseman.

7K-ENx dominated the leader board for most of the year so it figured that they reigned victorious and had their set code etched on the desirable Bookopoly trophy alongside all previous winners.

Y8 completed the year with 1,115 Bookopoly+ reviews. The aim of Bookopoly+ is not to complete the board, but to earn as much BerkoCoin (BC) as possible along the way in order to purchase items from the Bookopoly+ shop. Between them, they earned one million, nine hundred and seventyseven thousand BerkoCoin, with the highest individual earnings of 44,000 BC. With ‘purchased’ donations and pooling of all remaining BerkoCoin, the donation (real money) figure stands at approx. £37 and will go the charity the students chose at the beginning of the year – Go Beyond. Congratulations to our top reader, Zahra B! The top author this year was Suzanne Collins – no surprises there with the launch of her newest book, Sunrise on the Reaping.

All year there was a battle between the top two classes at Kings and the top two classes at Castle... all year it raged... but in the end the Bookopoly + trophy went to 8K-ENw! Well done!

Miss B Downing Senior Library Assistant

Huge congratulations to the following seven students who completed the board and were awarded a certificate and a highly coveted booklight: Charles H, Charlotte E, Eleanor R, Josephine W, Klara D, Lauren B and Marley B. According to our data, it is so encouraging to see that in this digital

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Character Education & Leadership Character Education: Nurturing Future Leaders

The Roots-Shoots-Fruits Model

In our ongoing commitment to developing remarkable people, we are excited to share the latest developments in our character education programme. This year, we have introduced new character language posters in every classroom, designed to enhance our pupils' understanding and application of character strengths. Here’s an overview of the key components of this initiative:

What it is: Inspired by the work of Stephen Covey and the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtue, this model visualizes the relationship between character (roots), behaviour (shoots), and outcomes (fruits). It helps pupils understand that their actions stem from their inner character strengths and lead to tangible results.

Character Strengths What it is: The Values in Action (VIA) 24 strengths, derived from psychologist Martin Seligman’s positive psychology programme, provide a comprehensive list of character strengths essential for personal flourishing. These strengths include qualities such as kindness, perseverance, and creativity.

How we use it: The VIA 24 strengths serve as a common vocabulary for pupils and teachers to discuss and reflect on character development. Pupils can identify which strengths they wish to cultivate and understand the character basis for their actions and behaviours. This shared language empowers pupils to articulate their personal growth goals and track their progress.

The Flourishing Cycle What it is: Adapted from the Harvard Flourishing Programme and Neo-Aristotelian approaches to character education, the Flourishing Cycle emphasizes that character development is a continuous process. It illustrates how regular actions form habits, which in turn shape character.

How we use it: The Flourishing Cycle is a practical tool for both teachers and students. It guides them from identifying a character strength to work on, to finding opportunities to practice and grow in that strength. Reflective practice is a key element of this model, reinforcing the idea that improvement comes from consistent effort and self-reflection.

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How we use it: This model is integrated into classroom discussions and one-on-one tutor sessions. It helps set clear lesson objectives and review learning outcomes, making the connection between character and academic performance explicit. Additionally, it provides a framework for structured feedback, helping pupils see how their character development impacts their achievements.

By embedding these models into our daily routines, we aim to create an environment where character education is not just an abstract concept but a lived experience. Our new character language posters are a visual reminder of this commitment, encouraging students to continuously strive for personal growth and excellence.

We are confident that these developments will not only enhance our pupils' academic performance but also prepare them to be compassionate, resilient, and ethical leaders of tomorrow.

Mr B Kerr-Shaw Director of Character Formation & Leadership

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TED-Ed Student Talks Showcase 2025 Ideas worth sharing took centre stage in Extended Curriculum Week as Berkhamsted hosted its second annual Year 10 TED-Ed Student Talks Showcase.

Seventeen pupil speakers delivered a remarkable range of talks, captivating their audience with topics as diverse as the future of NHS funding, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the continuing relevance of battleships in modern warfare.

As the applause faded and the day drew to a close, one thing was clear: the ideas shared from the stage will resonate far beyond Deans’ Hall. We are immensely proud of every participant and look forward to seeing how these voices continue to grow.

Mr B Kerr-Shaw Director of Character Formation & Leadership

The breadth of subjects was matched by the depth of insight. Each talk revealed not only careful research but also the courage and clarity of expression required to bring complex ideas to life.

Teachers and fellow pupils alike were struck by the pupils’ ability to present arguments with conviction, balance, and flair.

At the heart of the event was the development of oracy skills. Throughout the year, Year 10 pupils have been taking part in the STRETCH programme, a super-curricular initiative designed to nurture both intellectual curiosity and character strengths. The TED-Ed Student Talks represented the culmination of this journey, providing a platform for pupils to demonstrate the bravery, love of learning, and creativity they have cultivated along the way.

For many of the participants, stepping onto the stage was a transformative moment. One student reflected, “I never thought I would be able to speak in front of the whole year group!”

Another admitted, “I was so nervous, but actually it was totally fine. I enjoyed it looking back.”

Their comments capture both the challenge and the reward of the experience.

The audience, too, played its part. Listeners responded with empathy, attentiveness, and genuine curiosity, creating an atmosphere of support that allowed the speakers to shine.

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Combined Cadet Force

It gives me great pleasure to report on another exceptional year for the Berkhamsted School Combined Cadet Force. The 2024–25 academic year was full of challenge, learning, camaraderie, and, thankfully more sunshine than rain, though of course we had our fair share of the latter too. The aim of CCF remains the same as ever: developing leadership, resilience and teamwork through purposeful adventure. Judging by the year we’ve had, I’m confident we’ve done just that.

We kicked off the summer in fine style, with both the Army and RAF Sections heading off on their annual camps in July. These are always highlights in the cadet calendar: an immersive opportunity to develop fieldcraft, aviation knowledge, teamwork, and independence. It was a busy week, but the cadets threw themselves into every challenge, returning home a little muddier, slightly sleepdeprived, but definitely more capable and confident.

The new academic year began in September with our most popular fieldcraft weekend at Pirbright. It’s always a fast turnaround from the summer holidays to the first deployment, but the cadets were straight back into the swing of things. With a Thursday evening departure, we maximise our time in the

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field, an opportunity to practise patrolling, cooking rations, and setting up bashas under starlight. It’s the kind of experience that bonds a section quickly and reminds everyone why we do this.

In October, we ran our Method of Instruction course for Year 11s and 12s. Delivered at Haresfoot Campus, this marks the beginning of formal leadership training, learning how to teach others, develop command presence, and embody the quiet confidence we expect of our NCOs. It’s also where we start to see emerging leaders come into their own, often surprising themselves and each other.

December saw our Corps Christmas dinner night, always a firm favourite. A black-tie event with mess silver, good food, and even better company, it’s a rare chance to see cadets out of uniform and enjoying a well-earned celebration.

In February, we braved the elements once again for our Longmoor field weekend. Winter camps build more than just fieldcraft, they build character though cold weather exposure! Crisp days in the woods, punctuated by ambush drills, section attacks, and warming meals of pasta pesto from a Jetboil. Nothing brings a section together like shared

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March brought the Yates Drill Competition, one of the longest-running school cadet competitions in the country and still fiercely contested. The standard was incredibly high once again, with precision, discipline, and timing all on show. There’s nothing quite like the sound of perfectly timed drill echoing across Castle Campus.

Following Yates, we deployed once again, this time on a Camp in the Brecon Beacons. Steep hills, tough terrain, and low visibility made for a physically demanding camp, but morale remained high, and cadets rose to the challenge with characteristic good humour.

In May, our Year 12 cadets took part in a new highlight of the CCF calendar: an empathetic leadership and adventure training week in Snowdonia. This was not your average ‘expedition’.

Designed to challenge not only physical endurance but emotional intelligence, it included rock climbing, gorge scrambling, night navigation, and team-building in some of the UK’s wildest terrain. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with cadets showing genuine growth in confidence and connection as a result. The trip also prepared them perfectly to step into leadership roles during the Year 9 Recruit Camp, which followed almost immediately afterwards.

The year concluded with our General Inspection and the Year 13 Leavers’ Dinner, held this year at the Army and Navy Club in London. A fitting and memorable location. It was a chance to say thank you to our most senior cadets and hear, in their own words, what their time in the Corps has meant to them. As always, their reflections made it clear: CCF has been more than just a co-curricular, it has been a defining part of their school experience.

Looking ahead, the Corps is in excellent health.

Our numbers remain strong, morale is high, and the sense of purpose and pride in the contingent is as tangible as ever. I look forward to everything 2025– 26 will bring.

Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Hardy, Royal Marines (Retired) Contingent Commander, Berkhamsted Combined Cadet Force

Throughout the year, our cadets also played a proud part in the Berkhamsted town Remembrance Parade, led with dignity and pride by the School CCF. It remains a non-negotiable fixture in our calendar, an opportunity to honour the past and demonstrate the values we stand for.

As ever, none of this would be possible without the tireless support and dedication of our staff. I remain deeply grateful to our team of officers and volunteers, who give up weekends, endure weather extremes, and somehow still laugh through it all.

A special mention must go to our School Staff Instructor, Mr Steve Carter, whose professionalism, patience and deep knowledge of cadet training are central to everything we do. His behind-the-scenes work is immense and often unsung, but make no mistake, our success rests on the shoulders of a strong Staff team.

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CCF RN Sailing Weekend

Snowdonia Adventure Training

For this sailing trip, we arrived in Gosport, Portsmouth on Saturday where we got settled onto our two yachts, Amarylis and Bellerophon, and got to meet the crew we would be sailing with. Once we set sail on the two different boats, everyone got to take turns sailing and navigating, including the teachers, with a combination of the sails and the motor depending on the weather. We also got to use the genoa when the wind picked up enough. We arrived in Cowes where we stayed the night, eating at an Italian restaurant and chatting with everyone all evening. The next day was even windier and slightly wet, so we got splashed whenever we went over larger waves. We stopped by in Seaview where it had luckily gotten bright and sunny and we had lunch and got some ice cream. We eventually made our way back to Gosport, everyone having sailed at least twice and everyone not being able to wait for the next sailing trip!

Ten of our dedicated senior NCO’s travelled up to Snowdon for a leadership and team bonding trip.

The group eagerly immersed themselves in various activities, starting with kayaking down a beautiful lake. The next day, we scrambled up Trifan in the glorious sunshine. The group helped one another up the hardest parts of the mountain, which brought the team ever closer. This teamwork continued to grow as the group went gorge scrambling up the river in the Keltic rainforest and ended on another scramble up a waterfall near the Devil’s Kitchen.

- Amy L

Throughout our adventures, we were taught how to use our parasympathetic nervous system to calm our nerves. We were taught techniques such as deep breathing which helped the group adapt to situations when they were outside of their comfort zone.

On top of these adventurous activities, the group also bonded over dinner and charades in the evenings. We helped one another make our lunches and spent time together preparing food in the kitchen. We all bonded by going on early morning dips in the freezing lake and were the first cohort where every member got involved.

This trip brought us all closer together and taught us many vital skills about leadership, teamwork and empathy so that we can return to the CCF with a refreshing perspective on how to lead the new recruits. Snowdonia was more than a CCF trip; it was an adventure and a journey of self-growth that brought the CCF leadership team impossibly closer together.

-Gaby I

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RAF Section Report This year, the RAF section has undertaken a variety of enriching trips, ranging from numerous RAFexclusive and combined section camps, to detailed flight experiences.

Over the summer, many cadets volunteered at the prestigious Royal International Air Tattoo. This renowned event allowed us to collaborate with hundreds of RAF cadets, offering invaluable support and providing an opportunity to witness a diverse array of aircraft, both domestic and international, in action. Additionally, we participated in the RAF annual camp, where cadets visited RAF Valley to explore the operations behind fast jets and gain insight into the construction of these incredible aircraft.

Throughout the year, RAF cadets have continued to expand their knowledge of aviation, focusing on the fundamentals of flight, various types of aircraft, and much more. We also worked closely with other sections on activities such as fieldcraft and weapons handling, which were later applied during joint section camps at Pirbright and Brunswick.

In addition to the longer camps, we have participated in day-long flight details at RAF Benson, open to both new cadets and experienced flyers. These sessions provided many of us with a firsthand experience of the excitement of flying, and sparked an interest in gliding for several cadets. The flight details offered an opportunity to familiarise ourselves with the instruments used by pilots and, for some, even the chance to try their hand at aerobatics. These experiences have not only contributed to our personal growth but have also strengthened our teamwork, fostering closer bonds among all cadets!

-Flight Sergeant Daisy G

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Army Section Report This year has seen the Army Section continue to grow in confidence and skill, taking part in a range of challenging and rewarding activities across multiple camps. From sharpening fieldcraft techniques to carrying out complex section attacks and live firing, each experience has helped develop both junior and senior cadets into more capable, resilient, and collaborative individuals.

Our first camp of the year took place in October at Pirbright, where the Year 10 recruits had their introduction to life in the field. While there was no blank firing on this camp, it proved vital for laying the foundations of their cadet training. The focus was on essential fieldcraft skills including observation, navigation, and weapon handling.

These are key elements that underpin everything we do on exercise, and it was impressive to see how quickly the recruits adapted to life in the field.

We had a unique opportunity to practise casualty

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During the Easter holidays, we embarked on Battle Camp in the Brecon Beacons — and for the first time in memory, the sun decided to join us for more than two hours at a time. This made for an ideal training environment where we conducted some of our most advanced exercises to date. From pairs fire and manoeuvre to full platoon-level attacks, cadets were immersed in realistic tactical scenarios and gained a deeper understanding of battlefield operations. On one exercise, we carried out a night reconnaissance of an enemy position, gathering intelligence that was used by the SNCOs to plan and brief a successful section attack the following day.

Another highlight was a CASEVAC scenario, where cadets applied first aid while under fire — testing both their composure and their knowledge of first aid. evacuation drills with the senior cadets posing as injured personnel. This not only tested the recruits response to realistic scenarios, but also gave the seniors a chance to put their acting skills to good use in order to simulate battlefield injuries and conditions.

February saw us return to Pirbright for a much more advanced camp. This time, we were joined by some Old Boys — now Captains in the Royal Anglian Regiment — who brought a wealth of experience and professionalism to the training. Their instruction focused on individual and pairs fire and manoeuvre, culminating in a section attack on a well-defended, in-depth enemy position using blank rounds. The cadets learned to move under fire, communicate effectively, and adapt their approach to changing threats. In addition to the practical work, the officers gave a fascinating presentation on their roles within the regiment, including their work currently serving as an adjutant.

To wrap up the camp, we held the Parsons Cup — a competition between two sections, assessed across a range of military skills. From navigation and camouflage to shooting and fire and manoeuvre, each section had to demonstrate not just individual talent but cohesion, leadership, and adaptability.

It was a fitting way to end a camp that challenged every cadet and brought out the best in us all.

Overall, this year has been a memorable and formative one for the Army Section. With every camp, we’ve built on our skills, deepened our camaraderie, and created experiences that will stay with us long after we leave Berkhamsted. We look forward to continuing that momentum into next year.

- Warrant Officer Charlie W

They also showcased some of the advanced equipment used in the reconnaissance platoon, giving us an eye-opening look into the modern battlefield through the use of night vision and drone technologies.

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Navy Section Report This year, the Royal Navy section has continued to provide cadets with challenging and rewarding opportunities, focusing on leadership, teamwork and developing core naval skills. Weekly parade nights have allowed cadets to build on fundamental naval skills including chartwork, knotwork and ship identification tasks. Our training this year was all in accordance with the Royal Navy's cadet training syllabus. A particular highlight of the year was the sailing trip which took place in May 2025. 3 Cadets, Able seaman George P, Chief Petty Officer Leah E and Petty Officer Amy L embarked to HMS Portsmouth. This was a fantastic experience for the group as last year the corps was unable to run this trip. Most notably, the cadets were able to catch a glimpse of HMS Prince of Wales, one of the UK's flagships, in port, a fantastic memory for the cadets.

Although joining numbers were low for the section, it was great to welcome George P to the group. He has shown great grit and confidence with everything he does, showing this confidence when he steered the ship on the sailing trip for the group. His future in the corps is looking bright and prosperous.

Petty Officer Issy S was a cadet who brought great energy to the group, despite not always being able to turn up for weekly parades. For Chief Petty Officer Leah E, it was another outstanding year.

Through the corps' impressive list of camps on offer, she attended the First Aid and Junior Leadership courses, which involved developing skills such as teamwork. I cannot wait to see how she leads the Navy section next year. Petty Officer Amy L also demonstrated outstanding commitment to the group, joining Leah on the First Aid and Junior Leadership courses. It is great to see cadets, old and new, taking advantage of the extensive list of opportunities that the school's CCF provides.

Jack Baker. He is vital not just to our section, but to everyone else as well. His work with the NATOcertified simulator has been nothing short of exciting and revolutionary for the corps. I am very excited to see how he can use this software to teach the cadets a greater variety of skills next year.

While low numbers have led to the suspension of a Navy group at the Yates Drill Competition, the cadets were still always willing to keep focused and carry on taking advantage of every opportunity that was presented to them. Personally, I am very proud to have been a senior NCO for this group for this year, taking over from Jack, Katherine and Seb from last year. Furthermore, I am very excited to see what the future holds for the operation and success of the Navy section in Berkhamsted School's CCF. Finally, I'd like to take the time to say that it's been a real privilege to be part of the Royal Navy section from 2021-2025. I've learned so much not just about naval skills, but about responsibility, teamwork and leadership. I'm proud of what we've achieved together and I'm confident that no matter how grey the future may seem at times, the section will keep going from strength to strength. Thank you to everyone who's made it such a rewarding section.

-Chief Petty Officer Maxim G

This year saw the introduction of a new staff member: Petty Officer Martin Rutter da Costa, a volunteer from the Aylesbury Sea Cadets. He has been invaluable towards teaching the cadets various naval skills, smartly using sweets as a motivator for cadets to get the right answer! It has been very interesting learning these various skills from him, as much of it relates to everyday boating, such as navigation lights at sea. Another vital staff member to the operation of the section is Sub-Lieutenant

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Lord Lieutenant Cadet's Report It has been a tremendous honour to serve as a Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet for Hertfordshire over the past year. This prestigious role allowed me to represent both The CCF and our school while supporting the Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Robert Voss CBE CStJ, in his official duties across the county.

One of the most memorable aspects of this appointment has been the opportunity to meet and assist during visits by members of the Royal Family. A particular highlight was meeting His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, during his engagement in Hertfordshire at Haberdashers' School. Being involved in such occasions was not only a privilege but also a remarkable insight into the role of the monarchy in public life.

In my role as a cadet aide, I accompanied the Lord-Lieutenant at a variety of civic and ceremonial events. These included royal visits, ceremonies, and Remembrance services. My responsibilities ranged from greeting dignitaries to assisting with formal proceedings and supporting the smooth running of official engagements.

I also had the honour of meeting many distinguished individuals throughout the year, including The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire and The Chief Constable of Herts Police. These encounters gave me a greater appreciation for the work carried out by civic leaders and the vital roles they play in supporting the community and promoting public service.

This experience has significantly developed my confidence, leadership skills, and understanding of civic duty. It has been both amazing and inspiring to witness the dedication shown by those who serve our county in various capacities, and I feel privileged to have contributed in some small way.

- C/Sgt Luke B

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Outdoor Education The Outdoor Education department has had another bustling year of activities and adventures during the 2024/2025 academic year.

As always, our year started with a spark as we welcomed Year 7 for a day of bushcraft. A fantastic opportunity for pupils to get to know their peers and work together to problem solve and explore!

As always, the pupils quickly disappeared into the woods for a game of ‘rabbits’ before the real challenge began. Off they went, into the woods with their tutor groups, to build shelters, cook lunch on an open fire and get to know one another. Climbing trees and building rope swings are just some of the mischievous antics that pupils get up to! At the end of the day each house gets the opportunity to show off their hard work and present their unique woodland space. This included some impromptu performances by some houses of classics from the likes of Taylor Swift and more!

September and October were bustling with activity, with house high ropes activity sessions after school.

St John’s, Bees, Frys, Old Stede, Tilman, Loxwood and Bartrum all braved the high ropes course to test their head for heights. Each house was able to challenge themselves not only as individuals but also as a team, and these sessions provided an excellent opportunity for pupils to get to know one another and be able to support and encourage each other.

In October half-term, a whopping 26 pupils attended a five-day Gold DofE training expedition in the Brecon Beacons. The teams were blessed with good weather, beautiful scenery and autumnal colours of the Welsh countryside after a wet and windy first night, rounding off the expedition with a tranquil mountain wild camp.

With little more than two days to turn around, Mr Petrie, Miss Smith and Mr Fowler were off on another expedition – this time to the somewhat warmer climate of Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. 15 Year 10 pupils were put through their paces with the PADI open water dive course. The fantastic team at Emperor Divers gave us a varied week of shore

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and boat diving, with an array of exciting sightings including turtles and rays!

Next on the agenda was the Sixth ski trip to Banff, Canada! An enormous cohort across Year’s 12 and 13 saw 94 students and 10 staff members undertaking the long journey from London to Calgary. The group was lucky enough to enjoy the ‘Big 3’ resorts; Lake Louise, Norquay and Banff Sunshine, each with their own charm. After the ski day, students enjoyed the opportunity to watch a local ice hockey match, learn the art of curling

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2025 • Outdoor Education and explore the beautiful resort town of Banff. On the way home we had just enough time to hit the outlets before catching our flight – perfect for those last-minute Christmas gifts.

In February, we were off to the Italian Dolomites with Year 8 & 10, ready for another week of skiing in Civetta. 113 pupils attended the trip, enjoying the usual delights of Italy in February; fantastic skiing and fantastic Italian food! Après activities included Karaoke, kicking off with a fabulous rendition of 'All Star' by Mr Nicholls, tobogganing and the everpopular fancy dress night skiing.

April brought us back into DofE season. With the Year 10’s having completed their Silver DofE training and practice expedition at the start of October, they were ready and excited for a three day final expedition in the New Forest. Pupils were particularly fortunate to enjoy three days of sunshine as the backdrop to the New Forest’s notoriously beautiful scenery and wildlife. Our expedition this year fell across the Easter weekend, so pupils celebrated with Easter eggs and a Celebration of Light which was facilitated by the wonderful Reverend Taylor.

In May, Year 8 were off on their next exciting adventure; a week of outdoor activities in the Peak District! They headed to Edale to enjoy a multitude of activities in the stunning backdrop of the national park. The students enjoyed a week packed with activity, from climbing, canoeing and caving to archery and high ropes. Pupils also had the unique opportunity to take part in an 80ft, free hanging abseil from a viaduct! The fan favourite though, as always, had to be weaselling, where pupils squeeze their way through passages in between boulders and large rock formations. Exhilarating and entertaining, it was a fantastic way to spend an afternoon!

Trinity is always a busy term for us in Outdoor Education, and we love getting to spend sunny days outside with pupils! The final half term saw us busy running activity days and camp outs for pupils across the Schools Group. After attending a weekend of training, extended curriculum week saw roughly 160 pupils through their Bronze DofE final. With a heatwave hitting the nation, pupils did exceptionally well to look after themselves in tough conditions and enjoyed the cool shade of the Ashridge woodland.

Onto summer, and some of our favourite trips of the year! Two weeks in the Lake District saw 39 pupils complete their Gold DofE final expedition, and a further 13 students complete their training.

The first week saw a rainy start for the Year 11 pupils completing their training and practice expedition. The final expedition kicked off for Year 12 the following week, boasting more favourable weather and scenic wild camps.

August saw the return of the Outdoor Education team favourite; the Gold DofE canoe expedition to Sweden! This year saw the expedition grow in popularity and we embarked on the adventure with

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2025 • Outdoor Education 20 eager pupils. The expedition would encompass the Gold DofE training, practice and final expedition, with a focus on traditional wilderness skills. With a mixed bag of weather, we saw everything from blue skies and t-shirt weather to torrential rain and lightning! Students earned their stripes with canoe skills training to kick off the trip. Students camped on the banks of islands, cooked meals over the open fire and whiled away the evening as the sun set over the lake before us. With a successful Gold DofE final under their belts, pupils were able to relax and enjoy some of the cultural offerings of the local area. The wood-fired sauna was a particular favourite of staff and pupils alike. All in all, a great success!

The final trip of the year, the climbing club trip to Swanage! 15 pupils from Years 8 – 12 enjoyed a sunny trip to Dorset, enjoying the stunning sea cliff sport climbing as well as paddle boarding, arcades, fish and chips and even a sunrise sea swim!

A hugely successful year of Outdoor Education here at Berkhamsted and, as always, a big thank you to all the staff who make it possible! We look forward to doing it all again this year!

Miss B Smith Director of Outdoor Education

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Departments

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2025 Art

Art It has been another jam-packed year of creative activities within the Art Department. This began with a hugely successful visit to Venice during the summer, which saw 38 students make the most of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and the magnificent contemporary art bonanza that is the Biennale di Venezia. Both staff and members of the public alike were hugely impressed by the amount of drawing and photography being undertaken by our students, so much of which was to form inspiration for their own artwork during the subsequent academic year. This residential was swiftly followed by a day trip for Y10, Y12 and our budding GCSE photographers in Y9 to London, where the wonderful interiors and structures of both the Barbican Centre and surrounding architecture provided ample source material for future projects.

Another unveiling early in the term saw the outcome of this year’s winning Sixth Form Creative Commission piece being submitted after its realisation during the summer break. Won by Caleb B in response to the theme of ‘Conflict’, his technically masterful, large-scale drawing explores internal conflict between the heart and the mind within an intentionally disturbing and hyper-realistic portrait. Caleb received art material vouchers as his prize and the piece itself is a permanent acquisition for the School to add to a group body of previous commission pieces which are now amounting to an impressive archive of thought-provoking artworks.

On a lighter note, the Christmas Card Competition attracted numerous entries inspired by the theme of ‘Joy’ and was won by Lois L for her beautiful digital painting depicting a clip from an old family video of a familiar Christmas tradition, putting the star on top At the start of the Michaelmas term we were able to of the tree. ​ welcome Kings pupils into their freshly refurbished top floor studios. A root and branch re-design Further enrichment opportunities were continued as allowing for substantially improved storage, new standard features of the department’s programme, furniture and refreshed display solutions has created such as the term of Sixth Form life classes in the spaces that are fit for the 21st century and beyond. autumn, but we were happy this year to introduce Our thanks go to all those with the Governing body something new aimed specifically at pupils in Key and SMT who supported the project, along with Stage 3. From September to March, Miss Holmes the contractors and our own technicians that were ran a co-educational group of keen creatives in fundamental to realising the vision. It was a joy to making personal artwork within a weekly after see the faces of older students as they arrived for school club, culminating in a submission to the their first lessons!

Royal Academy’s Young Artists’ Summer Show. The summer term then saw an enthusiastic group of

Poppy A, Year 13

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2025 • Art Y12 Art and Photography students working with even younger artists, inspiring them to make sea life artwork during a workshop at Swing Gate School.

To round off the summer term, and on what was the hottest day of the year during Extended Curriculum Week, our incoming GCSE artists within Y9 were treated to a workshop with visiting artist, Sunil Pawar. Responding to his highly successful commercial career as a maker using stencils and aerosol spray paint, they each developed a set of self-portraits full of vibrancy and texture.

As always, the last word should go to our out-going Y13 as they embark on the next exciting step of their futures. With outstanding results across the A level cohort, including 100% A* for the Photography course, it is no surprise that many students secured excellent university places in the creative arts:

Eloisa C, Year 12

Fashion Design BA, Kingston University, Product Design, Loughborough University, Product Design, Kingston University, Architecture, University of Sheffield, Product Design, University of Leeds.

Ms C Ferguson Head of Art & Design

Willa S, Year 11

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Ethan O'S, Year 13

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GCSE Art

Jessica K, Year 11

Lois L, Year 11

Holly R, Year 11

Martha S, Year 11 Anna C, Year 11

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Emily-Beth T, Year 11

Zoya K, Year 11

Jasmine R, Year 11

Alex M, Year 11

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Theo L-E, Year 11

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A Level Art

Kiana D, Year 12

Annie P, Year 12

Cindy L, Year 12

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Lauren A, Year 12

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Gary B, Year 12

Daisy G, Year 13

Charlotte H, Year 13

Ting Z, Year 13

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Alex H, Year 13

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A Level Photography

Eloisa C, Year 12

Chloe C, Year 12

Charlotte W, Year 12

Annie P, Year 12

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Swing Gate Art Workshop On the 12th June, a group of Year 12 students from Art, Photography and Product Design headed to Swing Gate Infant School in Berkhamsted to run an Arts & Crafts afternoon workshop with Year 1 pupils. Armed with their exemplar, 150 paper plates and a pile of apprehension they embarked on an unforgettable afternoon of laughs, crafting and experience of working with young children.

Getting into the thick of it from the start, pupils organised their classrooms and activities of creating sea life creatures from recycled materials. During afternoon break the Year 1 pupils invited the Berkhamsted students outside into the sun to play games with them including Café’s and tig, this gave an invaluable experience of what working with young children would be like both in and out of the classroom.

"This experience has given us new and improved skills as for many it was something we have never done before, working with young children taught us how to adapt our plans, the way we communicate and the way we learn. While also boosting vital skills such as leadership, creativity, collaboration and resilience. I found this opportunity particularly valuable as it as it helped me decide in studying Education at University."

- Eloisa C Overall, it was a highly successful day out for Year 12 and is a collaboration that the Art Department hopes to keep running in years to come.

Miss A Robinson Art & Photography Teacher

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2025 • Classics

Classics What a year it has been for Classics and Latin at Berkhamsted. Yet again, we have introduced scores of students to the fascinating world of the Greeks and Romans, broadening their horizons and giving them new perspectives; and we have challenged them with a language that develops precision, logic and analytical thinking – in short, we have helped them sharpen their academic tools ready for the future that lies before them in a changing world.

performance of Oedipus last year, to immersing our Year 11 pupils in original archaeological material at the British Museum. The highlight was almost certainly the overseas trip to Greece for 40 pupils and 5 staff, taking in Athens, Delphi, Epidauros and more.

Those who study Latin and Classics genuinely love it.

At a time when our subjects are increasingly under threat, it has been heartwarming to witness the huge groundswell of support from parents and pupils.

In the classroom, we bring this subject to life with dramatic performances of Latin stories, re-enacted Who said Latin was a dead language?!

Roman dinner parties and debates over which Greek hero would garner the most Instagram followers were they alive today; this love of Classics infects Mr T Allen all ages, from our disproportionately large number of Oxbridge applicants through to the Prep School, Head of Classics where we ran a regular after-school club and a yearly assembly.

At a time when visitor numbers to Pompeii have never been so high, our numerous trips have added to our pupils’ experiences: from the unforgettable

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2025 • D&T

Design & Technology Arkwright Engineering Scholarship

Tom Pellereau In January Year 9 was visited by Tom Pellereau, CEO and founder of STYLPRO and ‘The Apprentice’ winner 2011.

He delivered a talk discussing his career in innovation, offering valuable insight into studying D&T and where it might take students in the future.

As Year 9 had begun to think about their GCSE options, this talk was inspiring and perfectly placed to spark valuable conversations on Year 9’s future academics.

Pellereau encouraged pupils to find out what they loved and were good at, promising that it would take them far. Thank you to Tom for an engaging and inspiring talk!

Anna M and Emma P, Year 11 pupils at Berkhamsted Girls, have both been awarded the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship. Over 1500 pupils applied for the scholarship this year, so we are incredibly proud to see two pupils from Berkhamsted Girls receive the honour.

The aspiring engineers undertook a rigorous application process which included submitting a portfolio, completing an exam and attending an interview.

With the backing of the Arkwright Scholarship behind them, both Anna and Emma will receive specialist support, mentoring or work experience to help them achieve their career goals. Arkwright states that the scholarship aims to support young people in becoming “future leaders” so watch this space! A huge congratulations to Anna and Emma on this achievement – we look forward to seeing where this opportunity takes you.

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Rotary Technology Tournament This was the third year that Berkhamsted have taken part in the Rotary Technology Tournament, and it was an amazing event to be part of. There were over 31 teams from 9 schools competing across 3 categories and we were invited to field 3 teams: • Foundation Tasks are for students in Key Stage 3 – where we had a mixed team of boys and girls from Year 9 • Intermediate Tasks are students in Key Stage 4 – where we had 1 team of boys and 1 team of girls from Year 10 Students were assessed on: • Planning & Teamwork – use of time and resources; team organisation and management.

• Design Analysis – analysis of the problem; awareness of physical constraints and principles.

• Design Development – generation of more than one idea and the development of the solution, presentation, and communication of ideas.

• Realisation – making skills; appropriate use of materials.

•

Project portfolio

Their prototypes were then tested to see if they would work. Our teams had a great time, and all made working prototypes. We were very proud of how they worked together to solve problems they faced. There’s no doubt they would all make excellent future engineers!

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Year 10 girls who won the Intermediate category!

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Bentley Hatfield competition This year Bentley Hatfield came to us with an exciting competition for our pupils – where they had to design a wrap for their new Bentayga. We offered this to all Year 7 – 10 pupils with a criterion that it must be based on the three school values.

We had some incredibly creative entries and found it hard to whittle those down to a shortlist of 10 designs that went off to Bentley for the final judging.

On Saturday 21st of June Bentley announced the winners at their summer event – we are pleased to announce that Flora was a well deserving runner up with her amazing designs shown here.

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D&T and Business Trip to the BMW factory Our Year 12 students recently enjoyed a fantastic day of business discovery with visits to Bicester Village and the BMW Mini Plant in Oxford. The trip began at Bicester Village, where students explored the inner workings of a luxury retail environment. They examined how high-end brands craft immersive customer experiences through visual merchandising, strategic pricing, and targeted marketing aimed at international visitors.

In the afternoon, the group headed to the BMW factory, where they experienced the cutting-edge world of automotive manufacturing. From watching robots assemble car parts with incredible precision to learning about lean production techniques and global supply chains, students saw how technology and efficiency drive one of the world’s most iconic automotive brands.

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2025 • Drama

Drama What a fantastic year it has been again for the Drama Department!

This has been a year of creativity, challenge, and growth. Students have explored a diverse range of texts, practitioners, and performance styles in lessons, developing both their practical and analytical skills from Year 7 all the way up to A-Level; there really has been something for everyone.

Our LAMDA programme this year has also been as popular as ever, giving us as students the confidence, qualifications and opportunity to excel after our time at Berkhamsted.

As an A-Level student myself, devised work has been a particular highlight, allowing us to bring our own ideas to life through collaborative creation. It is also always exciting to be able to perform our hard work on the Centenary Theatre stage – something that Year 10s, 11s, 12s and 13s all benefit from and enjoy.

Outside of the classroom, our productions have been immense. Our Y10-13 production of ‘Legally Blonde’ in Michaelmas term directed by Miss Thackray and choreographed by Mrs Bradfield painted Centenary pink, with nearly every night sold out!

Our Year 7s production of ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’ Directed by Mr Brown was also particularly impressive, putting a modern spin on the classic play of ‘Peter Pan’ – with the brilliant opportunity of performing at speech day and sharing their work with friends and family.

It is clear Drama is a subject that challenges, inspires, and connects.

- Orissa H

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Year 9 Ballet Shoes Trip On Wednesday 15th January, most of the Year 9s at Berkhamsted Boys went on a trip to see a play called 'Ballet Shoes' at the National Theatre as part of their Drama curriculum. As soon as we were allowed in, the atmosphere was amazing; the stage was already set up with lots of dinosaur bones in tall shelves and few actors were in the audience, interacting with the audience, making us try ballet 'exercises'.

Year 9 Berkhamsted Girls recently had the chance to see a live performance of the play called 'Ballet Shoes' at the National Theatre in London. It was my first time watching a play there, and the whole experience was thrilling and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.

First, we caught the bus and headed into London.

We shortly arrived after Miss Jarvis's London tour on the bus which was absolutely phenomenal! After we ate our packed lunches and sat down, it was time for the play to start.

When the production started it really sucked me in to the storyline of the 'Fossil sisters' and their journeys through childhood. The set, and the way it moved and operated, was incredible and the colour of the costumes and lighting really brought it to life! I especially liked the storyline and relationships between the lodgers and the Fossils' family.

After leaving this ecstatic and playful atmosphere, we had a Q&A from one of the main cast members, Sid Sagar, who used to be a Berkhamstedian himself!

He really highlighted the importance of Drama in his life, the valuable life skills he has learnt from it, and he shared with us how Berkhamsted helped him in his career; he also shared some of his own experiences with us from his acting career. Overall, this day was an amazing experience and inspiration to all of the aspiring actors in this year.

The play itself was about three girls who all want to be different people. Personally, my favourite scene was towards the end; their Great Uncle, after many years, came home just before they were all about to leave.

After the play, we were spoiled and met one of the actors that performed, Sid Sagar. He used to be a Berkhamsted student and enjoyed Drama in school.

He answered questions thoroughly and took time to reply. He told us stories about meeting famous people, such as Robert Downey Jr and Robert Pattinson. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed spending the day in London watching Ballet Shoes. This was a massive opportunity to get to know what the subject is like outside of school.

- Aine O'B

- Evan R

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Brainstorm Our Year 9 cast for 'Brainstorm' came together and produced an amazing show. 'Brainstorm' told the story of ten teenagers and how our brains are developing, growing and learning in the modern world. The struggle between phones and parents were the main themes of the show and how these conflicts shape teenagers today.

There are lots of plays for all year groups at Berkhamsted every year, including the Year 7 and 8 play. Always come and watch the plays at Berkhamsted because so much work goes into them behind the scenes. If you are interested to be in a production yourself, always sign up because you never know what you might achieve!

- Sam K

We had an outstanding set to show the many differences between the characters we played and there were plenty of conversations directed to the audience. Towards the end of the play, we gathered responses from the audience on a question that helped all the cast, these responses answered the question of everything we needed to know to be teenagers, and this interaction with the audience made the show rewarding for the cast and audience, something really special to be a part of.

This is one of the times where Kings and Castle pupils integrate with each other and the Berkhamsted productions are an amazing way to do this. Being new to the school, having interactions with Kings Campus was an amazing opportunity, everyone who takes part in the plays are overwhelmingly kind and supporting. I have made lots of friends in the process and I know that almost everyone who took part in 'Brainstorm' has met new people.

The whole group had an incredible amount of fun during the rehearsals, even with Sunday rehearsals.

Mr Curtis did an amazing job of directing such a tech-heavy play, with screens displaying YouTube videos, Snapchat, and WhatsApp, and the tech team did an incredible job displaying the messiness of the teenage brain. This made 'Brainstorm' an utterly unique show with lots of potential, the show turned out looking incredible and was a visual masterpiece.

A massive thank you to everyone who helped including Miss Johnson who helped with choreography, the tech team, and of course Mr Curtis, thank you all for giving up your time to produce such a complex show.

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Peter and the Starcatcher The production of 'Peter and the Starcatcher' was an experience that we will never forget. There was a range of people from Years 7 and 8 at the Girls School and at the Boys School. We are Ben and Harry S in Year 7, and we played Hawking Clam and Ted in this production.

The experience of being in the show was fun and enjoyable and it was a fantastic opportunity especially for the new Year 7s to meet the rest of the year group. We got to meet lots of new people and make some new friends with people who also like drama. Performing in this show was incredible and the thrill of the proper lights, and radio mics was like no other show we have ever done before.

We loved every moment of it, from the first rehearsals to the final shows. One of our favourite moments was meeting the cast at the start and due to there being two casts we got to work with people that we do not usually collaborate with. We also got to help our counterpart. Another of our favourite moments was helping create the show and watch it come together as we went through the weeks. Because this was our first ever Senior School production, we learnt hard work and dedication because unlike shows we have done before. This one, we got to do Sunday rehearsals which started at nine and finished at five. We also had late rehearsals after school.

Also, for us, working with the girls was very new because at our old school it was an boys only school, so I think that because we were working with the girls more, it boosted our confidence and social skills to a higher level to talk to them more and be around them more than on a usual school day. Sometimes, the rehearsals were hard and as with most shows, it was not looking good but then in the final week it started coming together. The overall feel of the show was incredible because it was an experience like no other and both of us cannot wait until next year’s production.

- Harry and Ben S

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Legally Blonde December evenings can be dark and cold, but the Senior and Sixth production of Legally Blonde brought a bright pink whirlwind of nonstop fun to the Centenary Theatre.

Based on the now-iconic 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon, the musical charts sorority sister Elle Woods’ journey to becoming a ‘serious lawyer’.

Although she initially applies to Harvard Law School in the name of love, she quickly discovers she has more to offer. With an all-singing, all-dancing ensemble cast – led by a Greek chorus of sorority sisters – the show is a joyous reminder of the importance of believing in yourself.

As ever, Berkhamsted pupils brought immense talent and energy to the stage. Anna M kept the audience captivated throughout the show, balancing humour with vulnerability as a pitch-perfect Elle. Both Harry V and Ellie H delivered hilarious performances as Warner and Paulette, while Tom C brought earnest compassion as Elle’s love interest Emmet.

The quirky characters at Harvard law were brought to life by Zoe A, Matilda H and Ollie M, who were sternly overseen by Byron B as their law professor, Callahan. Hannah-Maria B whipped the second act into shape with a spirited portrayal of Elle’s new defendant Brooke, delivering some impressive multitasking of singing, dancing and skipping!

Meanwhile, enthusiastic support from Delta Nus was never far away, with a bubbly trio (Seren M, Alex H, Tilly W) lighting up the stage throughout the night.

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While principle cast members shone, it was ultimately the combined efforts of every pupil involved that made this show the uplifting and moving experience that it was. Whole ensemble numbers were electric and showcased some fabulous choreography. Much of the play’s comedy was found in its smaller parts, with one-line deliveries and comedic timing bringing the audience to raucous laughter on many occasions.

The incredible set pieces transformed the Centenary Theatre from UCLA’s sorority house to Harvard Law School, to a hair salon, to the courtrooms, and even a bathroom! With every scene change came a new and exciting piece of set to feast your eyes on. The pupil stage management team led by Scarlett J and Leah E ensured everything moved like clockwork, despite difficult and fast-paced scene changes. A live band provided an immersive musical experience and included two pupils, Bea M and Charlie M, who took on the extremely challenging task.

A huge thank you to the hard work and dedication of our teachers, particularly Miss Thackray for directing this fantastic production – it could not have happened without you!

Thank you also to Mr Bond, Mr Melling, Mr Curtis and Miss Johnson for their support with the show, and to the Centenary Theatre team for pulling the production together and creating a truly aweinspiring experience.

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2025 • Drama Finally, congratulations to every pupil involved in the production. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, every cog in this bright pink machine worked incredibly hard and should be extremely proud of themselves! It was a worthy reminder that “being true to yourself never goes out of style.”

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Young Actor of the Year Berkhamsted’s staff, friends and family were treated to an unforgettable night showcasing our pupils’ remarkable acting ability during the Young Actor of the Year Competition.

With a special seating area reconstructed on the stage of the Centenary Theatre, pupils performed monologues and duologues in an intimate, striking setting. Pieces ranged from the comic to the tragic and featured writers as established as Shakespeare and Steinbeck, as well as pieces devised by our very own pupils.

We were delighted to invite OB George Warburton back to the School as our adjudicator. George participated in Young Actor of the Year multiple times before leaving Berkhamsted in 2021 – even claiming the title himself – so was able to offer words of advice to pupils before the competition commenced. It is always wonderful to see our old students return to support current events and continue to embody our School value of Serving Others after leaving.

The pupils displayed commendable confidence in their performances and showcased a variety of theatrical skills: comedic timing, creative use of staging, body language, projection and more. A pupil-led stage management team also ensured the transitions between pieces flowed smoothly.

A huge congratulations to our winners and to everyone who performed on the night. We certainly saw some stars in the making!

The final results are as follows: Years 7-9 First: Sam K Second: Charlotte A Third: Edward F Years 10-13 First: Elvira H Second: Eliza S Third: Jemima S

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2025 • English

English The English Department has enjoyed a truly remarkable year, full of creativity, discovery, and enrichment for students across the school. From theatre trips and writing competitions to themed celebrations and unforgettable residentials, the joy of literature has been at the very heart of our community.

Our pupils’ talents shone in both school and national writing competitions, while key events such as National Poetry Day and World Book Day were celebrated with energy and enthusiasm. These occasions offered wonderful opportunities for pupils of all ages to share their voices and their love of reading. The annual Senior School Poetry Competition was won by Harry S (Year 7), Malik G (Year 8), Khyan L (Year 9), Thomas B and Lucy B (Year 11). The Arnold Prize for Poetry (Sixth Form)

had an exceptional entry rate. The shortlist poets selected by the English Department and the Library team were: Hamza M, Alex R, Soph F, Maisy M and Sebastian H-R. The poem which received the most votes was crafted by Maisy M on account of its rich lyrical voice and startling imagery.

Highlights from the year included a vibrant Sixth Form residential for Year 12. The group immersed themselves in Shakespeare’s world with a visit to the Globe Theatre in Stratford to see 'Titus Andronicus.'

The adventure continued with a Shakespearean treasure hunt through the historic town, culminating in memorable student performances of monologues and scenes on the lawn beside The Swan Theatre. The tour bus headed down through the Cotswolds to Bath, where students explored the Jane Austen Centre and tested their wits in the imaginative ‘Frankenstein’ escape rooms.

Our theatre programme was equally exciting for other year groups. Year 11 relished a magical production of The RSC’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Barbican, later screened to Year 10 students in Deans’ Hall, while Sixth Formers experienced a striking production of Hamlet in Stratford, uniquely staged with a Titanic-inspired set.

These performances sparked lively discussions and deepened students’ appreciation of Shakespeare’s timeless works.

Beyond the stage, we welcomed inspiring speakers, including published writer Hamish Morjaria, who shared his insights with the Enrichment Club, and author-adventurer Matt Dickinson, who spoke powerfully to KS4 students. Such visits brought the world of literature vividly into the classroom and offered fresh perspectives on writing and storytelling. The Sixth Form English Enrichment Club discussed a wealth of workshops on writers from Hart Crane to Nathaniel Hawthorne as well as judging The Booker Prize. Oxbridge English classes have allowed students to explore Medieval mystical poetry, Renaissance tragedy and Victorian dramatic monologues.

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2025 • English Creativity was celebrated in many other ways too. Year 8 impressed with their innovative ideas during Dragon’s Den–style pitches during Extended Curriculum Week, while Year 12 English Literature students enjoyed a literary pilgrimage to Thomas Hardy’s cottage at Bockhampton and Max Gate.

The Key Stage 3 Handwriting Competition entries highly impressed our Sixth Form Judging Panel.

J P E and Millie V won the Year 7 Competition, Sophia H and Henry R won the Year 8 Competition and Henry P and Jemima D won the Year 9 Competition.

The English Department continues to be a place where stories come alive, where literary cake rotas are in abundance; we are excited to see where the next chapter will take us.

Mr A Harrison English Teacher

Within the department itself, themed department meetings —ranging from Mrs Guillet’s ‘Great Gatsby’ party to Mrs Simons’s ‘Shakespearean’ gameshow, Miss Dunbar’s ‘Gothic’ evening to Mr Harrison’s ‘West Country’ literary afternoon tea —added colour and camaraderie to our community.

It has been a year defined by imagination, engagement, and enrichment. Mrs Phillips, an academic tour de force and ballerina, took her final bow after 25 years in the classroom – we thank her for her wisdom, dedication, loyalty and laughter.

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2025 • Food and Nutrition

Food and Nutrition It’s been another fantastic year for the Food and Nutrition Department. We’re thrilled to see so many students discovering their passion for food — with 69 pupils in Year 11 and 61 in Year 10 choosing to study GCSE Food and Nutrition. From learning the importance of a balanced diet to mastering the art of cooking delicious, healthy meals from scratch, our pupils have truly risen to every challenge. We’re lucky to have three amazing food rooms and a brilliant team of teachers and technicians who make learning both fun and inspiring.

In January, Natalie Revell and I had the privilege of attending the British Nutrition Foundation Conference at Sheffield Hallam University. A real highlight of the day was celebrating the success of our former student, Anran Cai, who won the prestigious Drummond Education Award for achieving the highest marks in the country in the Level 3 Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition — an incredible achievement! The conference was packed with fascinating lectures and workshops that have given us lots of fresh ideas to bring back to the classroom.

represented by a talented Year 10 student who faced the tricky technical challenge of making five identical chocolate mini rolls — and they did not disappoint! The judging panel, Mr Hockedy and Mrs Vila, had the enviable task of tasting every creation before selecting the winner. A huge thank you goes to Beth Thomas for organising such a fun and creative competition — we can’t wait for next year’s Bake Off and hopefully a few more foodie competitions.

As I transition to part-time working, I’m pleased to announce that Beth Thomas will be succeeding me as Head of Food and Nutrition. We all extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to her in this new role.

Mrs S Rowe Head of Food & Nutrition

A definite highlight of the summer term was the first-ever Great Berkhamsted Bake Off, held during our Extended Curriculum Week. Each House was

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2025 • Geography

Geography Year 10 trip to the River Chess In the Lent term, Year 10 went on a trip to the River Chess. We went for our Geography GCSE fieldwork to study the downstream changes in the river. We started the day by travelling to Chesham, near the river source where we were taught by two very nice tutors from the Field Studies Council.

They gave us information about the river and gave us our worksheets that we would fill out throughout the day. We went to two different sites. One that we could go in the water and take measurements and one that was polluted so we had to take our measurements from the riverbank. We measured the velocity, width of the river, depth of the river and the size of sediment.

We did this trip for our GCSE as there is a section in the exam that asks you about your fieldwork and data collection. It was a great day out and provided us with an experience to do lots of hands-on work with the river. We really enjoyed this and found it was a very memorable trip. Our highlight was getting into the river and physically measuring all of the data we would then later use for our End of Year exam and our GCSEs next year.

- Adam R and Sebastian S

Year 12 trip to Swanage In May, Year 12 A-level Geography students headed to Swanage for a one-day field trip. After an early start, we arrived at Leeson House Field Centre to meet our field guides for the day before making our way to the first destination, West Lulworth. There, we studied the formation of the Jurassic Coast, focusing on Durdle Door, where we learned how the natural limestone arch was created through coastal erosion, with less resistant rock gradually worn away, leaving behind more resistant rock.

Next, we visited the village to examine Lulworth Cove, where we observed the landslide that occurred in February 2024 and its impact on local tourism. This was highly beneficial for our understanding of mass movement within our weathering topic. We then studied the geology of the Lulworth Crumple, observing tightly folded sedimentary rocks formed by tectonic compression during the Alpine Orogeny. During our break, we enjoyed burgers and fish & chips by the seaside while trying to keep the seagulls at bay and learnt about the flood management strategies implemented to protect the Swanage Sea front from climate change related flooding and rising sea levels.

Lastly, we visited Studland Beach and conducted ecological fieldwork using quadrats. Every 10 meters from the sea into the sand dunes, we measured pH, soil moisture, slope angle, wind speed and soil temperature. This trip was invaluable for providing us with a solid foundation for our coastal topic which we will be studying at the start of Year 13 and allowed us to take apply classroom theory to the real-world case studies.

- Eidan S

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2025 • History

History The History Department has continued to promote our excellent subject, both in lessons and with other events.

In lessons we have adapted schemes of work for Key Stage 3 to reflect the decolonised curriculum with new units on China in Year 7. Mia Hansen has helped to develop a new scheme of work on various parts of our schemes of work which have gone down especially well with the pupils. We have started a new IGCSE syllabus from September 2024 with Edexcel. We have been looking at Germany 1918-1945, Superpower Relations in the Cold War and America 1918-1945 and we shall be teaching Modern China for the first time since I have been Head of Department.

The department continues to be blessed by excellent teachers who continue to provide fresh ideas for teaching and learning at all age ranges. I would like to thank Jacob Savill for mentoring our ECT teachers this academic year. I would like to thank James Gardiner for assisting me in my role as Head of History as my deputy this year.

Mr T Savill Head of History

The department has organised three trips abroad this academic year. The Sixth Form went to Washington as part of their studies on the American political system and on American Civil Rights in October 2024. 40 students in Year 11 will be enjoying their trip to Munich, Nuremberg and Berlin as part of their studies on Germany and the Cold War in October this year, organised once again by William Findlay. In May, Alex Maynard is running a trip to Normandy with 38 students to remember the D Day landings of June 1944 in the anniversary year. There have been day visits to Hampton Court with Year 8 in November 2024.

This year we have welcomed three visiting speakers to talk to our students. Professor Sarah Badcock from Nottingham University spoke about Russia in January 2025 as part of our annual Dingwall lecture in memory of Edward Dingwall, an ex-colleague of the department who died from cancer. Ian MacGregor has delivered an excellent lecture on Hiroshima based on his recent book of that title.

In June Anne-Marie Lever, grandmother of one of our students in Year 12, spoke movingly about her experiences surviving the Holocaust to our Year 9 students.

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2025 • Modern Languages

Modern Languages In September 2024, the Modern Languages department welcomed Anabel González.

pupils ate snails for the first (and probably the last) time in their life.

Throughout this academic year pupils were offered a wide range of activities as part of our enrichment programme. Pupils from Year 7 to Year 9 experienced a Chinese Culture Day in which they learned about various Chinese Art forms and had a taste of Chinese Kung Fu. During our extended curriculum week, all Year 8 pupils took part in a World dancing and music workshop where they enjoyed exploring different types of dances and instruments.

Some of our more adventurous sixth formers took their own initiative and arranged work experience abroad or attended summer schools. Other students took different adventure routes by entering some of the prestigious competitions such as the Anthea Bell Prize (Queen’s College, Oxford) or the Stephen Spender Prize (Association for Language Learning).

KS4 pupils of Chinese had a day trip to London to visit the British Museum and Chinatown, exploring the prosperous Qing Dynasty during 18th and 19th century. The trip finished with a delicious food tour in Chinatown, where our students sampled different dishes in Canton cuisine. Year 10 pupils studying Chinese also offered assemblies on Lunar New Year across the whole school, introducing fun facts and Chinese Zodiacs. To celebrate the Year of Dragon, all year groups studying Chinese learnt about festival traditions, foods and New Year greetings in Chinese.

Year 7 pupils also made beautiful paper dragons to decorate our Chinese classrooms.

We strengthened our links with the Prep and Pre-Prep by working collaboratively, in which members of the department and pupils from different years delivered language and culture-based lessons. This activity was particularly popular among our language learners who are keen to show off their language skills to lower years, and inspire our younger pupils to take up languages in future.

The wide range of residential language trips that we offered are one of the biggest experiences that our pupils can have when learning a language as it allows them to immerse themselves in the culture of the language they are studying.

Year 7 pupils explored Normandy, Year 8 pupils visited the norther region of Cantabria in Spain, Year 9 spent a few days in Burgundy, where some brave

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Year 7 and 8 Trip to Chinatown In February, Ms Tan led a fun day out in the famous London’s Chinatown for Years 7&8s…

We got to see traditional Chinese medicine shops and bakeries with fluffy bread, which showed off all their lovely baking skills and yummy food!

At around lunchtime, we found this delicious Chinese buffet with lots of nice traditional Chinese foods cooked by professionals which tasted fantastic. Shortly afterwards, followed by a sweet treat at Mary’s sweet bites for a bubble waffle drizzled in chocolate and Oreos.

They saved the best until last with Tai Chi, which is a form of Chinese martial arts. I learnt new moves and different greetings. I’m not going to lie some of the moves were hard!

This was such a great experience to be able to immerse ourselves in the Chinese culture whilst in London! It was even more special being around at the time of Chinese New Year getting to see traditions for Chinese New Year and how they celebrate this occasion. Personally, for me, a trip to China would be amazing!

Thank you, Ms Tan and all the teachers, for taking and making it such a special day!

In the afternoon, we attended a calligraphy class where we learnt how to correctly hold and do calligraphy in the Chinese culture way. We learnt new phrases such as – Gong xi fai cai! Meaning wishing you prosperity and wealth – this experience was so fun and cool to learn!

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2025 • Music

Music This has been another outstanding year for the music department, as our academic programme has gone from strength to strength, along with a busy schedule of extra-curricular events across the three terms.

Academic music in Key Stage 3 has seen pupils explore music from computer games to traditional classical music, to exploring music from across the globe from South America to the Far East. Pupils have revelled in practical sessions, whether singing, playing solo or as part of a group. They have also been given a glimpse into the future by being able to explore the use of music technology in a wide range of musical activities. The introduction of a new specification at GCSE in September 2024 has been a big success and the GCSE and A Level pupils on both campuses have amazed us with their creativity, energy and musicality. It is truly an exceptional period for music students at Berkhamsted and we look forward to many of them continuing their musical journey in the coming years.

The Michaelmas term commenced with our Music Award Holders concert, an opportunity to showcase the wide range of talented musical soloists we have amongst our student cohort. The quality of performances from our exhibitioners and scholars continues to grow and we were treated to pieces from all instrumental families: voice, strings, brass, woodwind and percussion. In line with our encouragement of performances on endangered instruments, we were pleased to be treated to a performance by oboist Emma B (Year 12) of Morricone’s ‘Gabriel’s Oboe’ - an outstanding performance that also featured at this year’s Prize Day. There were so many award holders expressing interest in performing at the concert, we had to include a second performance date in January which featured an equally enjoyable programme of repertoire.

As well as the uplifting choir and brass performances at Founder’s Day, the Michaelmas term also featured the Young Musician of the Year Competition with

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adjudicators awarding top prizes to flautist Olivia H, violinist Mikaela E B-K (joint Young Instrumentalists of the Year), pianist Miles F and guitarist Bertie A (joint Young Performer of the Year) and violinist Bea M (Young Musician of the Year) for their outstanding efforts. The second half of the term was focused on preparing for our biennial St Cecilia’s Concert, taking place in Deans’ Hall at the end of November. The quality and range of music

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2025 • Music produced by ensembles at this event raised the bar once again, resulting in another standing ovation from our audience following last year’s Christmas Concert success – a credit to the excellent musicianship displayed by our pupils. The term ended with our traditional carol services, featuring our Brass Ensemble, Junior and Senior Choirs performing a range of sacred music for the festive season in the school Chapel.

The Lent term included significant events for our instrumental and vocal ensembles. Following our second Music Award Holders’ Concert in January, February provided an opportunity for the Big Band and smaller ensembles to showcase their pop and jazz repertoire at the ever-popular Gala Night. The event was well received by those who attended, and the ever-charismatic Mr Melling hosted the evening with his usual pizazz, aided by expert technical support from the sound and light team of the Centenary Theatre. At the end of March, the School Orchestra performed a dazzling stage and screen music-themed concert in Deans’ Hall, playing both large symphonic and chamber music extracts of famous movie and show themes accompanied by moving images projected on the big screen. The quality of this event was truly outstanding, as was Mr Noithip’s ‘Lord of the Rings’-themed conductor’s costume which was a highlight of the concert’s finale performance! The term concluded with our Junior and Senior Choirs’ performances in Chapel to accompany whole-school and Evensong services respectively. The quality of the singing was truly outstanding, with one audience member commenting it was ‘worthy of BBC radio broadcast’.

The quality was exceptional, including several of our pupil-led ensembles setting the standard for the subsequent Prize Day performances and eagerly anticipated summer music tour to Barcelona and Catalonia in July.

Mr O Bond Director of Music

The summer term featured our Young Singer of the Year competition, attracting a wide range of talent across the school of vocalists from all year groups singing in every genre. Special congratulations to Alice W (Young Voice of the Year), Eva V (Young Vocalist of the Year) and Zoe A (Young Singer of the Year) for their success in winning the finals.

The term concluded with both student and staff ensemble performances at the much-loved annual Proms in the Quad to get all those who attended into both a patriotic and summer mood (despite the threat of rain!), showcasing an eclectic programme and the usual Last-Night-of-the-Proms singalong anthems.

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Young Musician of the Year Berkhamsted’s annual Young Musician of the Year Festival is a week-long celebration of musical talent, giving pupils from Prep to Sixth the opportunity to perform in front of their friends and family.

The Festival Concerts were informal showcases across a range of levels, while more advanced instrumentalists competed for the titles of Young Instrumentalist of the Year (Year 6 and below), Young Performer of the Year (Year 9 and below) and Young Musician of the Year (Year 13 and below).

groups in a celebration of music across all ages and continue the growth of music at the School.

The whole week was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to practise their performance skills, including introducing their pieces and bowing, while remaining in a supportive and informal environment. A huge congratulations to everyone who participated, and to the winners of this year's competitive sections, the winners of the instrumental classes and all those presented with the adjudicator's awards.

Winners – Finals (Adjudicator – Mr Aaron Parker) Young Instrumentalist of the Year Joint Winners:

In both the Festival Concert and the competitive rounds, pupils demonstrated remarkable confidence in performing in front of their peers. For a number of pupils this was their first time ever performing in public, and it was lovely to see the support of staff, pupils and parents in the audience. ‘These events are designed to be a platform to promote not just the development of musical ability, but to offer each musician the opportunity to participate at the level that suits them best’, says Mr Noithip, Head of Solo Music.

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Olivia H (flute)

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Mikaela E B-K (violin)

As ever, the variety of musical instruments on display was a feast for the ears. Pupils performed on the piano, flute, clarinet, violin, cornet, classical and electric guitar, voice, cello, bassoon – the list goes on! Performance pieces also spanned classical compositions, musical theatre and modern pop.

Advanced instrumentalists were inspirational to both their audience and each other as they Aimed High and tackled complex pieces in the competitive rounds.

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Miles F (piano)

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Bertie A (electric guitar)

An orchestra workshop was also held on Monday, in which pupils from Year 4 to Year 13 participated in an ensemble where less experienced players learned pieces from scratch alongside members of the Symphony Orchestra. ‘It was brilliant to see some very young pupils who took part in the Orchestra Workshop as inexperienced ensemble players being coached by senior pupils’, says Mr Noithip. ‘They left with a real sense of excitement for their own future learning’. Both the Orchestra Workshop and Festival Concert enabled pupils to interact with other year

Adjudicator’s Awards:

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Adjudicator’s Awards: •

Poppy K (flute)

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Rose K (violin)

Young Performer of the Year Competition Joint Winners:

Adjudicator’s Awards: •

James C (trumpet)

Young Musician of the Year Competition Winner: •

Bea M (violin)

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Sean W (piano)

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Emma B (oboe)

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Alexandra G (piano)

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Winner – Brass & Wind: James C (trumpet)

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Winner – Strings: Chelsie L (violin)

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Winner – Piano: Miles F

Adjudicators’ Awards: •

Josephine W (piano)

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Micah L (classical guitar)

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Bertie A (electric guitar)

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Emmy L (piano)

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Clara I-R (piano)

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Ella K (alto saxophone)

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Edward F (clarinet)

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Music Award Holders Concert Berkhamsted’s talented Music Award Holders demonstrated their musical prowess during a wonderful evening this week. Our Music Award Holders Concert was an opportunity for our community of pupils, staff and parents to come together to celebrate the vast array of musical talent on display.

This was the first of many concerts and music events scheduled to occur throughout the year. ‘It’s great to see the level of support and encouragement that our pupils give to each other’, says Head of Solo Performance Mr B Noithip.

‘We are delighted to welcome friends and family members to this fantastic platform that showcases the dedication and achievement of many of our musicians’.

The concert was a great opportunity for pupils of all year groups to come together and celebrate one another’s talent. A rousing performance of ‘Tico Tico’ was played by Year 9 George T on the trumpet and accompanied on the piano by Year 11 Lawrence F, showcasing a great sense of cross-year group collaboration. Accompaniment is a challenging skill for pianists to explore and one that Mr Noithip is keen to get more musicians involved in.

A huge well done to all of our award holders for demonstrating such bravery and talent in their performances.

Performances ranged from Beethoven and Tchaikovsky to 70s rock, musical theatre and film scores. There was a broad variety of instruments on display, including drums, classical guitar, piano, violin, singing and flute – to name a few!

Pupils demonstrated remarkable confidence in performing in front of their peers. It was fantastic to see so much talent as pupils overcame their nerves to shine brilliantly. For Year 7 pupil Bertie A, this was his first time performing at a Senior School concert, but he wowed the audience with a rocking rendition of Dire Straits’ ‘Sultans of Swing.’

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Young Singer of the Year Adjudicator's Awards: The annual Young Singer of the Year competition saw pupils across Berkhamsted Schools Group vying to be crowned Young Voice, Young Vocalist, and Young Singer of the Year.

Competitive rounds were held simultaneously in four different venues, making this the largest music competition of the year. Pupils performed songs from a variety of different genres, including folk, classical, musical theatre, jazz, pop and more. The range and talent of pupils was truly remarkable, as was their confidence in performing in front of their peers – particularly our youngest pupils from Berkhamsted Prep and Heatherton.

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Matthew R- Berkhamsted Boys

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Lauren C- Berkhamsted Girls

Young Singer of the Year Competition Winner: •

Zoe A- Berkhamsted Sixth

After a highly competitive first round, pupils returned the next day to compete in the finals.

We welcomed Director of Performance at All Saints Catholic College, James Slimings, to adjudicate. James, who holds a PhD from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and St Andrew’s University, commented on the high standard of performance and explained that choosing a winner was an incredibly difficult decision. Pupils were assessed on both their singing skills and ability to perform the emotion of the song.

A huge congratulations to all our performers! The final results are as follows: Young Voice of the Year Competition Winner: •

Alice W- Heatherton

Adjudicator's Awards: •

Bea W- Berkhamsted Prep

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Toby K- Berkhamsted Prep

Young Vocalist of the Year Competition Winner: •

Eva V- Berkhamsted Girls

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Politics Politics continues to thrive as an A Level subject with record numbers this academic year (89 students studying the subject across both Year 12 and Year 13), and we are now the 3rd most popular A Level subject at the school. This is partly driven by our excellent results – and in the summer exams we were delighted with the 50% A*/A grades our students achieved (compared to 27% nationally) and the fact that more than 50% of those Year 13 students went on to study a politics-related degree at University.

Our study of UK and US Politics continues to be as dynamic as ever, with new events happening all the time that students can use to back up their analysis and work. These include political events such as the 2024 UK election and the rise of a dominant Labour government, the increasing influence of other parties such as Reform UK, the victory of Donald Trump in the US election and the challenges he is making to the US governmental system. This is what makes Politics such a lively subject that really grips our students – the political landscape is always changing!

In October half-term we organised and ran our annual trip for Year 13 Politics and History students to Washington DC. They visited Congress (including a visit to both the Houses and the Library of Congress), the Supreme Court and we stood outside the White House as Marine One flew overhead! Students also undertook a walking tour of the city that took in some of the famous sites such as the Lincoln Memorial (where MLK gave his famous ‘I Have a Dream' Speech), the Washington Monument, and a range of other Presidential memorials. One of the most moving visits was the Museum of African American History which really brought the issue of slavery and the struggle for civil rights to life for our students. There was also an excellent day trip to Mount Vernon (the home and burial place of George Washington) and an extremely popular evening visit to a shopping mall!

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Outside of the classroom, many students worked on the editorial or writing teams for our awardwinning blog – The Crossbencher. We also initiated a new essay writing competition for Year 12 students with a range of titles such as “To what extent has populism been a feature of UK and US Politics in the last decade?” and “Britain is broken in 2025.

To what extent do you agree with this statement?”.

The quality of the entries was excellent and congratulations to our winners: Hannah M, Jessie C, Rishy M, and John C. As a department with our student numbers continuing to grow, we are being joined next year

by Mr Gardiner (the Deputy Head of History).

This brings our total teaching numbers to six highly motivated and experienced teachers who are passionate about bringing the study of politics to life.

We can’t wait to get started!

Mr R Moseley Head of Politics

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Psychology Trip to Bethlem Museum of the Mind

‘diagnosis’ available at the time being either ‘mania’ or ‘melancholia’. The museum shows how, over time, these views shifted slowly toward a more compassionate and scientific approach to care and understanding.

On Monday the 2nd of June, our A Level psychology classes had the opportunity to visit the Bethlem Museum of the Mind, located in Beckenham, South London. It was an incredibly enjoyable and eye-opening day, blending historical discovery with psychological exploration in one of the most intriguing museums.

Despite the serious subject matter, the day was thoroughly engaging and enjoyable. The museum staff were friendly and informative, and the interactive exhibits made learning fun. We left not only with more knowledge about history and mental health, but also with a deeper appreciation for the progress society has made, and the work that still needs to be done.

The museum itself is found in the former administrative building of Bethlem Royal Hospital, a name that has been constant through centuries in the history of mental health care. Originally founded in 1247 and known as the Bethlehem hospital, Bethlem is the oldest psychiatric hospital in the world and is still in operation to this day. The visit helped us understand how ideas about mental illness and its treatment have evolved over time.

A fascinating point we learnt was that the word ‘Bedlam’, meaning uproar, chaos and confusion, comes from the hospital itself!

Visiting the Bethlem Museum was a memorable experience that combined education, empathy, and creativity. It reminded us of the power of history to teach us about ourselves and how we treat others.

Mrs K Craigen Psychology Teacher

One of the highlights of the day was exploring the museum’s art collection, which includes pieces created by former patients, such as Richard Dadd and Louis Wain. Their artwork was not only beautiful but also gave us a powerful insight into their personal experiences and emotional states. It made us reflect on how art can be both therapeutic and an important form of self-expression. An especially interesting part of our day was analysing a painting called ‘The Maze’, which was created by a patient at Bethlem hospital. The man, named William Kurelek created the painting in an attempt to explain how he felt to his doctors and help them piece together his mind.

We also learned about how attitudes towards mental health have changed over the centuries. In earlier times, people with mental illnesses were often treated with fear or superstition, with the two

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2024 • Sociology

Sociology What is Sociology?

INSIGHT

One question, always asked, is: what actually is Sociology?

This year, the Sociology department launched an exciting new initiative: INSIGHT, our Sociology enrichment club designed to extend learning beyond the traditional classroom. Sociology is a fascinating subject, rooted in real-world relevance, and INSIGHT gives students a space to explore pressing social issues through debate, discussion, and interactive experiences.

At A Level, Sociology is the study of how society shapes us—and how we, in turn, shape society.

Following the AQA curriculum, students explore big, thought-provoking questions through topics like Families and Households, Crime and Deviance, Education, and Beliefs in Society. From understanding why certain groups are more likely to be criminalised, to analysing how religion influences social change, Sociology helps students see the world in a new light—and critically question the structures many take for granted.

Tutor2u Workshop Our Year 13 Sociology students had a fantastic experience at the recent Tutor2u Grade Booster workshop. The event was filled with energy and enthusiasm as expert tutors delivered focused sessions on exam technique, essay writing, and key topics. The interactive format kept students engaged throughout, helping them build confidence and sharpen their revision skills. It was an incredibly valuable day that left everyone feeling more prepared and motivated for the upcoming A Level exams.

From exploring flaws in the criminal justice system to questioning the role of religion in modern society, our aim was to create a forum where students could apply sociological theories to contemporary debates. The club kicked off in Michaelmas with our Year 12 students watching a thought-provoking documentary linked to topic crime and deviance, accompanied by pizza and informal but powerful discussion. The documentary sparked rich debate on emerging issues in the US. With Year 13, the focus shifted toward critical literacy and applying Sociology to academic and real-world contexts. Students selected from a range of challenging readings, documentaries, and articles—then conducted deep dives into topics like social class, race, and gender. The resulting reviews demonstrated exceptional insight, showing how students were linking theory to real issues.

These reflections have supported both their UCAS applications and their broader sociological understanding.

To round off the term, we hosted a forensic science experience day. Students suited up in hazmat gear and investigated a staged crime scene—learning about the science, ethics, and societal impact of criminal investigation.

INSIGHT has been all about widening perspectives—challenging students to think critically, question deeply, and apply Sociology to the world around them,

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2025 • Sociology Berkhamsted Takes on New York: A Global Learning Experience This year, our Year 13 (current year 12s) Sociology students have the exciting opportunity to take part in an unforgettable trip to New York City.

Designed to enrich their understanding of global sociology, the trip includes a visit to the United Nations—offering firsthand insight into international cooperation on issues like human rights and social justice. Students will explore immigration and cultural identity on a guided walking tour, deepen their understanding of religion with a cathedral visit, and engage with collective memory and societal change at the 9/11 Museum. This immersive trip promises to bring Sociology to life beyond the classroom, offering powerful context and inspiration for their studies and future pathways.

Goodbye Year 13s – As we said farewell to our Year 13 Sociology students, we were filled with pride and excitement for what lies ahead. It was incredibly rewarding to see how many of them are going on to study Sociology or related fields at university—a true testament to their passion and hard work. We’ve no doubt they’ll go on to accomplish great things, and we wish them every success in this next chapter.

Miss I Fernandez

Student Reflection "Picking up Sociology at A Level has completely changed the way I view the world. It’s encouraged me to question things I used to ignore and to think more critically about the structures and systems that shape everyday life. Offering a fascinating insight into the deeper implications of our actions, institutions, and dynamics in society.

I’ve found Sociology highly relevant as well as a lesson I genuinely look forward to. I have particularly enjoyed opportunities beyond the classroom - conducting a dissertation-style research project on education, taking part in real-life forensic workshops and addressing the academic Crawford Society on the ‘Sociology of your personality’ have been some of my highlights, to name a few. These experiences have not only brought the subject to life but also equipped me with valuable skills for university and beyond.

What draws me most to studying Sociology at university is its focus on healthy debate and challenge. As the Sociologist Durkheim wrote, ‘Society is not a mere sum of individuals.’

Understanding the different lenses through which we interpret the world feels more important than ever — and I believe it’s something all young people should explore, especially if we hope to create positive change, no matter how small."

- Orissa H

Head of Sociology

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2025 • STEM

STEM F1 in Schools It has been a fab competition with displays from each of the teams looking highly professional and testament to the hard work they have put into gaining sponsorships and developing their race car.

Before lunch, teams completed their interviews, car scrutinising and enterprise portfolio. After, they were tested to see how the cars would fare in the races!

A great effort from all of the students involved where a number of our teams received special mentions. Our Vortex team came out as fastest car from Berkhamsted coming third in the Professional class overall!

Peregrine racing received a judge's nomination for the best pit display. Carbon 6 received a judge's nomination for best vocal presentation and for the judges choice award. Sennematic racing received a judge's nomination for best sponsorship and marketing.

I am delighted to announce that Peregrine racing placed 3rd overall in the professional class, a fantastic achievement and means that they have a chance to get through to nationals later this year!

The first team from Berkhamsted to reach the podium!

Finally, I would like to congratulate all teams who have competed in this competition and really feel that we have really stepped up our efforts as a school and I continue to be impressed by the innovation and diligent approach our students put into their work. Well done!

Mr C Botschin D&T Teacher

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STEM Careers Insight: Exploring the World of Orthopaedics In February, Year 10 and selected Year 13 boys took part in an inspiring and hands-on session led

by Mrs Orme, who returned for a second visit to Miss Graham’s class following a successful event last year. The session, delivered in collaboration with Stryker Orthopaedic Instruments, gave pupils an exciting insight into careers within the medical and biomedical engineering fields.

Pupils explored the rapidly growing role of Artificial Intelligence in the medical industry, from diagnostic technology to robotic-assisted surgeries. The highlight of the session was the opportunity to work with real orthopaedic instruments, examining how knee, elbow, and hip replacements are performed.

This practical experience brought textbook theory to life, allowing pupils to understand both the complexity and innovation behind surgical procedures.

The visit was not only informative but also deeply motivating, encouraging pupils to consider future careers in STEM, medicine, and related industries.

We are very grateful to Mrs Orme for once again sharing her expertise and passion, and for continuing to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals.

Miss N Graham D&T Teacher

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Williams F1 Trip Upon arriving at the Williams Racing factory, we were excited to see how physics and engineering can be applied in a real-world context - and what better place than the headquarters of a Formula One team! We started the day with some friendly competition, battling it out against each other with the state-of-the-art F1 car simulators used by the Williams Esports team, going wheel to wheel around five iconic circuits. After this we were given a guided tour of the largest private collection of F1 cars in the world, spanning the entire history of Williams, even getting to see Nigel Mansell’s famous Red 5.

We learned about the heritage of the team, going all the way back to the 1970’s when Sir Frank Williams founded the team and sought Saudi investment to compete in F1. The tour also introduced us to the evolution of car design, including the shift from aluminium to carbonfibre monocoques for strength and weight savings. We tried a pit-stop drill, handled George Russell’s steering wheel and after lunch worked in teams to design and crash-test a nose cone, exploring ways to increase crash impact times for safety. At the end of the day, we were treated to a once in a lifetime visit to the wind tunnel, where engineers were busy gathering data to develop the car.

We also stepped into the DIL (Driver-in-Loop) simulator, where drivers provide feedback to their race engineers about the feel and performance of the car by tackling laser-scanned Formula 1 circuits.

Not only is this facility very new but there was even a test-driver with two engineers working with the simulator at the time we visited. It was fascinating to witness the level of technology and engineering at Williams, and I’ll always remember the focus and determination of the team — a reminder that hard work and precision are key to achieving top performance.

- Ferdy M

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Year 12 Biology Trip to Dorset After a super early start (6am), the coach departed the Knox Johnston and set off to Swanage for the annual Y12 biology field trip. On the first day, students dropped off their bags and headed to Studland beach renowned for its sand dunes and the home of some of the UK's rarest species.

Students carried various survey equipment and had a talk delivered about the history of the beach. 400 years ago it didn’t exist and it has been growing ever since. This provides an excellent opportunity to investigate primary succession (how species colonise new areas of land over time). Starting on the beach and heading inland it is possible to effectively walk back in time, and pupils monitored how species changed as the conditions required for life became less hostile.

Students surveyed the various abiotic factors (such as wind speed, temperature and moisture levels) and recorded the species they found along a transect.

Along with 3 heather and gorse, other highlights included the interesting sundew (a carnivorous plant). As it was a hot day, we were also lucky enough to spot some rare reptile species including sand lizards and a very healthy sized slow worm.

It was then back to field study centre for data analysis and stats tests followed by a well-deserved evening meal. The next morning, pupils carried out their own practical investigation using the skills they had gained the day before. This including surveying lichen species and the effect of compaction of soil on grasslands species.

This year’s group were hard working and showed passion for subject. This work contributes to their A Level practical competencies and gave pupils a change to do some field work in a different setting and it was great to see them get their teeth into it with such enthusiasm.

Mr M Hudson-Reeve Director of Science

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Year 7 Maths Trip to Bletchley Park Today at Bletchley Park was so fun. Our tour guide showed us lots of cool things like the Enigma machine. We had a session on different codes, and I learnt how to work the Enigma and do some codes too. We also got to look around the mansion which was really big and even had a ballroom! There were interactive things in some of the rooms like lining up the rotors on the Enigma and decoding an encrypted morse code message. We even got to type letters on a real live Enigma used in the war! It was an amazing day out.

-Robyn R

Hans Woyda Maths Challenge Mr Mercer drove up to Haberdashers' Aske's School. The school was big, warm and welcoming.

One of the teachers and a student led us to where the challenge took place. We all sat down and the challenge begun. The questions were all fun questions that required you to think creatively. The main focus was on time, and you had to be really quick on your solution. The other team was strong, and we lost, but we enjoyed the game. They were very friendly and we had a good time. It was a wonderful experience -Joy Y

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2025 • Sport

Sport

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Director of Sport Review What an incredible year it’s been for Berkhamsted Sport! Across the school, we’ve continued to grow, innovate, and strive for excellence with three key priorities at the heart of all we do:

1. Fitness and Health for All – providing opportunities for every pupil to find joy in movement, promoting lifelong health and wellbeing.

2. Performance and Participation – proudly maintaining our place as a national leader in school sport, ranked 7th in the UK by School Sport Magazine and the top co-educational day school.

3. Growing from Within – investing in our people, from welcoming expert coaches to delivering outstanding internal CPD that is raising the standard of teaching and coaching across the board.

A Year of Unprecedented Participation From Prep to Senior School, we’ve played an extraordinary 1,307 fixtures across 194 teams, an increase from last year’s 1,260 – a testament to our vibrant sporting culture.

It is a source of enormous pride that over 90% of pupils up to Year 11 represented Berkhamsted in competitive sport this year. Remarkably, 57% of our Year 13s also continued to play for the school – far above the national average of 48% for all UK schools, including boarding schools.

Our focus on breadth and inclusion has meant that 1,139 pupils in the Senior School alone played competitive fixtures across 16 sports. Year groups regularly achieved 90%+ participation rates, with Year 7 and Year 8 both seeing over 94% of students taking to the field, court, or track in school colours.

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The culture of sport at Berkhamsted continues to thrive through: •

241 pupils accessing specialist athletic development sessions in our new gym facilities.

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A significant expansion of Senior Games, including new options such as Yoga, Zumba, Pilates, and Open Gym.

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Continued success of our house competitions, which remain a core part of Berkhamsted’s sporting DNA.

Performance and Progress Amongst a huge volume of fixtures and events, Berkhamsted athletes and teams have consistently excelled at local, regional, and national level. Here are just some of the standout achievements:

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National and Regional Team Success Athletics: U13 Girls Hertfordshire Schools County Champions 2025; and have also qualified for the National Track and Field finals.

Lacrosse: U15 and U13 National Schools Champions; multiple county champions across all age groups.

Netball: U19 National Schools Silver medallists; U15 SSM Magazine National Cup Winners; U13 and U15 SNS National Cup Runners-Up. Rugby: U18 Schools Championship 7s Plate Winners; U16 QE Barnet 7s Winners; U12, U13, and U15 Tournament Champions.

Football: Girls’ 1st XI ISFA Shield Winners and Girls U13A ISFA Plate winners; Boys’ 2nd XI, 3rd XI, and U15B Southern League Winners.

Cricket: U13 and U15 Girls Hertfordshire Indoor County Champions, U17 Boys XI Regional finalist.

1st XI Girls reached Last 16 of both The Cricket Paper 100 Ball Cup and the School Sports Magazine National T20.

Lacrosse: •

Molly K (Y13) represented England U20.

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Emily S-J (Y11) represented South Africa at the Home Internationals.

Fives: U12 and U13 Boys’ National Champions; U15 Girls’ National Runners-Up.

Netball:

Golf: U18 ISGA Plate Winners.

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Skiing: National Indoor Team Champions (Ellie, Liza, Lucy, Sarah); Berkhamsted’s first ever entry in National Ski Racing Finals for boys and girls.

Evie L (Y12) selected for the England Roses Academy.

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Sophie T (Y12) selected for Ireland U17s in Netball Europe.

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Grace T (Y12) competed with the London Mavericks NPL Squad.

Individual National and International Achievements Rugby: •

Alex (Y13) signed for Saracens Senior Academy.

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Logan, Charlie, and Oli selected for England U17 Rugby Training Camp.

Cross Country: Tom F and Emily F represented Hertfordshire at the National Finals.

Squash: •

George (Y7) finished 10th at the National Championships.

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Jack T (Y12) U17 County Champion.

Football: •

Hugo (Y10) signed by Crystal Palace Academy.

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Sophie (Y12) signed by Oxford United Academy.

Equestrian : Bella O (Y9) finished 3rd overall in the Junior National Championship at Hickstead.

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Ski Racing: Ellie U represented Great Britain, achieving top 10 international finishes and 3rd overall at the English Championships in Italy.

Waterskiing: Issy C (Y9) broke the U14 British Slalom Record and is now ranked 2nd in Europe.

Cricket : •

Edie S selected Hertfordshire 1XI and played in the vitality blast.

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Freya L-W selected in Hertfordshire 1XI

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Ed H – Northants academy and selected for the 2XI Northants. He is also playing 1XI Buckinghamshire.

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Edie S scored the first 1st XI hundred against Bedford as a Y10.

Athletics : •

9 County Champions.

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6 pupils selected for the English Schools Finals for Hertfordshire: Haydan L (Year 12), Tom F (Year 10), Maya M (Year 8), Freya U (Year 8), Theo L-E (Year 11) and Evan R (Year 9).

But above all, it’s the way our pupils have represented themselves and the school with integrity, humility, and relentless team spirit that defines this year. The leadership shown by our Year 13s, the support between peers, the willingness to own performances, and the joy in both success and setback – these are the qualities that make Berkhamsted’s sporting culture so special.

As I reflect on Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters triumph, I am reminded that sport is not only about winning, but about perseverance, self-belief, and staying authentic under pressure. To all our young athletes: keep striving, keep dreaming, and never let anyone place limits on what you can achieve.

T.E.A.M – Together Everyone Achieves More.

Thank you to our brilliant pupils, committed staff, and supportive families for another unforgettable year.

Mr T Pierce Director of Sport

Personal Highlights Among the many moments of sporting brilliance this year, several stand out: •

The return of Girls' Rugby 7s to Rosslyn Park after an eight-year absence – their fair play award was richly deserved.

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The historic evening at Berkhamsted Football Club where the Girls' 1st XI lifted the ISFA Shield alongside the Boys’ 1st XI in a joint showcase under the lights.

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The continued growth of aspirational sports such as squash, skiing, and equestrian, with multiple national finalists and champions.

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The remarkable StoneX Stadium community event – a true celebration of Berkhamsted’s sporting spirit.

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Rugby 15s This past season has seen us challenge ourselves across 7, 10, and 15-a-side rugby — not only against familiar opposition, but also in new tournaments and against unfamiliar teams. This balance has allowed us to push both the boys and girls out of their comfort zones and develop their skills across different formats of the game.

In the Senior School, we played 124 fixtures, with 329 boys from Years 9–13 representing the School.

While our overall win percentage was slightly lower than last year, I’m really pleased with the season.

In the Cup, our U14 and U15 teams both reached the fourth round, while the U16s made it to the last 16, narrowly losing to a strong Northampton School for Boys side — who went on to lose a close final against another familiar opponent, Stowe.

Over the season, we achieved a win percentage of 49.7%, playing 9 blocks — drawing 2, losing 1, and winning 6. Our senior sides, in particular, had one of their best seasons in recent memory, winning 88% of their matches.

The 3rd XV won 8 out of 9 games, including standout victories against Harrow and Dulwich.

Their only loss came in the first match of the season against Warwick.

The 2nd XV went unbeaten again this year, claiming notable victories along the way — including a dominant win against Aylesbury Grammar School’s 1st XV, where they played some superb rugby to win by over 50 points. Hard-fought victories against Warwick (8–7) and Harrow (29–21) also stood out.

In the final match of the season, Maxim G scored and converted the final try, becoming the highest points scorer in 2nd XV history.

The 1st XV had a much-improved season compared to last year, winning 7, drawing 1, and suffering a heartbreaking loss to Harrow after leading by 12 points with 10 minutes to go.

Notable victories included a 1-point away win against Bromsgrove, a commanding 57–19 win over NSB, and an excellent 31–5 victory over Dulwich in very tough conditions.

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At the annual StoneX fixture, we played out a physically intense draw against Kirkham. Although the scoreline was close, the match was a joy to watch, with both teams giving their all. The final score was a fair reflection of the contest.

Over the October half-term weekend, we were invited for the first time to the prestigious St. Joseph’s Festival with our U15 and U18 teams.

The U18s faced a tough group including Seaford, Millfield, and St. Michael’s College from Dublin.

Over the weekend, we beat Seaford, Blundell’s, and Hurst; lost close matches to Millfield and Kirkham; and were comprehensively beaten by the eventual tournament winners, St. Michael’s. Reaching the Bowl Final was a fair reflection of our performance and gave us a strong benchmark of where we stand nationally.

Individual Honours Alex M has been offered a professional contract with Saracens. Logan P-K, Oli K and Charlie H were all recently named in the England U17 camp. It was also fantastic to see Old Berkhamstedian Tobias Elliott named in the latest England Men’s Senior squad.

Junior Rugby In Years 7 and 8, we played 43 matches, with 135 boys representing the School — a notable increase over the last four years. Although our win percentage wasn’t as high as last year, we played stronger blocks against two-term rugby schools, raising the overall standard and supporting the longterm development of the boys.

7s We had an excellent 7s season across all age groups and were proud to field a girls’ team at Rosslyn Park for the first time in many years.

In total, we played 60 games — almost double the number in recent seasons — with 86 boys and 14 girls representing the School, a significant increase on previous years.

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2025 • Sport In terms of results, this was one of our strongest 7s seasons in recent memory: U18s: 75% win rate, Trophy winners at The Schools Championship 7s, finalists at the Surrey 7s (first time in school history), and finished in the top six schools nationally in the Rosslyn Park Cup. U16s: 80%-win rate, Hertfordshire 7s champions, first-ever winners of QE Barnet 7s, and finished in the top ten schools nationally in the Rosslyn Park Cup. U14s and U15s: Win rates of 63% and 70% respectively, with the U15s winning the Merchant Taylors’ 7s for the second consecutive year.

U13s: Winners of the Summerfields Schools 7s.

U12s: Runners-up at Summerfields, and winners of both Reigate 7s and the Hertfordshire U12 Festival.

Mr Hockedy: Thank you for being a fantastic ally over the past two years in both 15s and 7s. Ending your Berkhamsted rugby journey with an unbeaten 2nd XV and great success with the 1st XV is a testament to your expertise and dedication.

Looking Ahead Next season will see more exciting changes to the fixture list. We’ll be adding fixtures against the likes of Wellington, St. Paul’s, St. Joseph’s (Ipswich), and Cranleigh. A full block fixture weekend against local rivals RGS High Wycombe will also be a highlight.

The boys have a challenging and exciting schedule ahead that will test them every week.

Mr R Pryor Head of Rugby

Girls' 7s It was fantastic to see an U18 girls’ team back in action. Despite a tough draw that included a Cup semi-finalist and a Plate finalist, the girls played superbly, recording wins against St. John’s Leatherhead and Sevenoaks. The squad consisted of 13 Year 12s and one Year 13 — an exciting sign for next season.

Staff Farewells A massive thank you to all the staff for your incredible hard work throughout the year. From long coach journeys to supporting Saturday fixtures and Sunday tournaments, none of our success would have been possible without your dedication and professionalism.

Sadly, we must say goodbye and thank you to several members of staff who are either leaving or moving into new roles: Ms Griffin, Ms Perry-Jordan, and Mr Piper: Thank you for your contributions during the Michaelmas and Lent terms.

Mr Burgess: Your work on the strength and conditioning programme has been invaluable.

Mr Goldthorp: Games afternoons won’t be the same without your detailed and thoughtful coaching.

The 3rd XV will miss you.

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Netball This year has been nothing short of spectacular for our netball teams. Our goals were ambitious: to increase pupil participation in competitive fixtures while maintaining our high performance in national competitions. What a year it has been!

We witnessed a remarkable surge in pupil participation, with an abundance of games played across all year groups. Our teams competed in prestigious competitions such as the England Netball School Nationals, School Sports Magazine Cup, Sisters in Sport Cup, Herts County Cup, County League, and District League, primarily featuring our performance squads (A-D).

Additionally, our development squads enjoyed numerous block friendly fixtures, ensuring everyone had a chance to shine. In total, we played 266 fixtures with a win-loss ratio of 59%, and 387 pupils taking part in fixtures!

Our performance squads aimed high, and their efforts paid off with extraordinary success. The U19s had a phenomenal season, with the U19A team finishing as School National Finalists (2nd), ISL Champions, SNS Cup semi-finalists, Regional Champions, County Champions, and County League Winners. The road to national finals is not always easy, as we discovered last year being knocked out by golden goal in the county round semi-final. This year the squad returned with a renewed vigour to show the country what they could achieve.

The team were merciless in both attack and defence at County and Regional rounds, finishing both stages victorious. The Final round in Sheffield was a change of pace to an indoor competition where the squad faced winners and runners-up from the other eight regions. A nervous start saw the squad go down by two in their first fixture – the only game we dropped in the pool rounds. A blistering semi-final against Hurstpierpoint School secured a spot in the gold medal match against Hartpury College. An earlier victory over Hartpury College couldn’t be replicated and the girls finished their campaign with a hard-fought silver medal.

The U19B team also made us proud as SNS Shield Champions. Often the opposition could not believe they were playing a second team as they faced A teams every step of the campaign. Final fours day in Loughborough was a brilliant showcase of the squad’s depth, skill, and resilience. A strong performance against Wakefield School in the semifinal guaranteed a medal for the girls. We faced tough competition in the gold medal match from Sir William Perkins School. The game was goal for goal, with neither team able to find a comfortable rhythm. However, our Berko side were able to hold their nerve, even with a player down for two minutes, and finish their campaign as undefeated national champions.

The U15A team were crowned SSM National Champions and SNS Cup finalists. Two incredible achievements for a squad who continue to perform in any sports arena! The team travelled to Birmingham to face Edgbaston School, giving a masterclass in netball, to become SSM

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2025 • Sport Midlands Champions. We then faced Northern Champions, Woodhouse Grove School, in the semi-final. The girls travelled, via Pizza Express, to Bradford following their national victory in Lacrosse. The squad had a morning centre pass following their long and exciting day. Showing true grit and character, the girls continued to deliver a performance to be proud of in a goal-for-goal game where they earned their home final spot.

The final was an exceptional display of netball and the U15s showed their dominance and depth from the very first whistle. A fierce performance against Lingfield School saw them crowned SSM National Champions.

Grace T, Sienna L, and Ashley D S also made us proud by becoming U19 NPL silver medallists.

We are thrilled to announce that 25 pupils are now representing at franchise level, and 18 pupils have been selected for the county and satellite academy.

These accomplishments highlight the depth of talent within our school and the bright future ahead for our netball programme.

More success from our performance squads included the U16A who earned County Bronze medals, and the U16C who reached the SNS quarterfinals. The U14A team reached the SNS Cup quarterfinals and secured County Bronze medals.

Our fixture programme also included the everpopular House Netball event! This vibrant competition for Years 7 to 10 saw enthusiastic participation, with House support complete with face paint and mascots creating an electric atmosphere. In the end, netball was the real winner, showcasing the spirit and camaraderie of our school community.

The U13A team were SNS Cup finalists and SSM quarterfinalists. The U12A team reached the SNS Plate semi-finals, while the U12B team made it to the SNS Shield quarterfinals.

Beyond team successes, we celebrated outstanding individual achievements. Evie L was selected for England Roses Academy and alongside Ella N-S won the U19 NPL championship with London Pulse, showcasing their exceptional talent within their franchise squads. Sophie T represented Ireland at the U17 Netball Europe competition, demonstrating her skills on an international stage.

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We have continued to strengthen our partnership with London Mavericks, our local Netball Superleague franchise. This collaboration included pupil masterclasses at Berkhamsted with NSL player Suzie Liverseidge, two fixtures against their NPL Squad, places on London Mavericks Camps for pupils, staff coaching opportunities, and a PE Department CPD session with Tamsin Greenway!

These initiatives have not only improved the skill levels of our players and staff but also fostered a deeper love for the game.

We have two exciting trips planned in May and July to support London Mavericks and London Pulse in their arena games against Manchester Thunder and Loughborough Lightning, respectively.

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2025 • Sport Another of the year's netball highlights was the Year 8 tour to Los Alcázares, Spain. Forty-six pupils embarked on this fun-packed tour, filled with opportunities to learn new netball skills in attacking and defending masterclasses and put them into practice against other schools in the final tournament. Alongside netball, pupils also experienced early morning runs, recovery sessions in the pool, beach workout sessions, and paddleboarding! This experience not only enhanced their netball abilities but also fostered teamwork and cultural exchange.

We are incredibly proud of all our pupils for their dedication and achievements this year. Their hard work and passion for netball have truly shone through in every lesson, training session, and match.

We are excited to continue to build on this next year!

Mrs D Titmuss-Morris Head of Netball

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Girls Football This academic year has seen an incredible rise in the popularity, participation, and performance of girls' football at Berkhamsted.

What was once a relatively underrepresented sport in the School’s sporting calendar has now become a success story. With more opportunities, greater visibility, and outstanding achievements across all age groups, girls' football is firmly on the map and thriving.

The growth of the sport has been felt across all age groups, with teams now competing nationally at U11, U13, U15, and U18 levels.

In the Prep school, the U11 team recently qualified for Nationals after finishing runners-up in their regional qualifiers - an achievement that promises a bright future for girls’ football at the School. The final will be held at the iconic St George’s Park, against teams from all around the UK in June.

The 24/25 year has marked a historic milestone for girls’ football at Berkhamsted, with the introduction of the School's very first 1st XI Girls Football team.

This pioneering squad has not only taken to the pitch with determination and talent but also gone on to make headlines.

The inaugural 1XI Girls home fixture was played under the lights at Berkhamsted Town stadium, with a busy crowd consisting of staff, pupils and parents. This was the match that kickstarted our cup run. Some nail-biting matches and a close semifinal against St Edwards later, captain Sophie B held the shield up high, with the 1XI winning an ISFA National title.

Whether entering tournaments with the goal of victory or simply to enjoy the game, the spirit of inclusivity and competition has defined the girls' football programme.

One recent highlight was the U12 GSA football festival, where team selection was based purely on participation in the after-school club, encouraging fun and inclusivity over performance alone. The after-school club itself has seen phenomenal growth. At the start of the year, numbers were low; now that number averages around 40 per session.

The club is now one of the most popular at the

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school for both prep and senior pupils, a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment of the players and coaches alike.

Some Berkhamsted girls are even making waves beyond the school gates, playing for clubs such as MK Dons and Oxford United.

One particularly notable success story includes Maya K, who has earned an international cap for Romania - a proud moment for the school and proof of the pathways that are now opening up for talented female footballers.

Importantly, girls’ football at Berkhamsted is about more than trophies. In recognition of its growing popularity and impact, football has now been added to the curriculum for Year 7 and 8 girls. Both year groups now complete a dedicated half-term scheme of work focused solely on football - an important shift from the previous occasional multisport sessions.

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2025 • Sport The progress made this year is just the beginning.

Girls’ football at Berkhamsted is no longer just an extracurricular activity - it’s a movement that’s changing the future of 'girls' sporting experience.

Miss E Ashford Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant

In just our first year of existence, the Girls’ Football First Team has made history by winning the ISFA Shield; an incredible achievement for a brand-new squad. Many of our players were completely new to the sport, while others finally had the opportunity to play competitively at Berkhamsted for the first time.

Our debut match at Berkhamsted Town Stadium even drew an impressive crowd, showcasing the growing excitement around girls’ football within the school. The younger teams have also been thriving, helping to build a strong pipeline of talented players who will one day progress to the First Team. This year we have seen a record number of girls choose football as their games option, marking a new era of participation and passion. We now look forward to continuing our journey with a promising run in the ISFA Trophy.

- Sophie B

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Boys Football

Year 8 teams impressed too, particularly the U13B, who had a strong season with notable victories over Dr Challoner’s and Highgate. The U13E also enjoyed a fantastic season, securing some emphatic wins. Meanwhile, the U13A squad competed in 24 matches due to their success in both ISFA competitions: the top-tier Cup and the second-tier Trophy. Their cup runs were remarkable, eventually reaching the quarter-finals in both competitions which is a magnificent accomplishment that speaks to their skill, determination, and teamwork.

Overall, it was marvellous to see so many Year 7 and 8 boys representing the School, developing their skills, and enjoying the camaraderie and spirit that football at Berkhamsted fosters.

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Junior Football – Michaelmas 2024 Year 7 and 8 played a staggering 110 fixtures in the first term, from September to December, competing in both midweek and weekend matches. With A–F teams representing each age group, almost every boy at some point pulled on the Berkhamsted shirt, showcasing their skill, commitment, and enthusiasm.

The U12s had a strong season overall, showing great promise as a group and marking themselves out as a team to watch in the coming years.

Memorable performances included wins against Hampton and Highgate, as well as a thrilling 5–5 draw against HABS. The standout team was the U12B, who went unbeaten across 11 matches with 10 wins and 1 draw - an incredible achievement!

U12C, D, E, and F also enjoyed success and plenty of fun along the way.

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The Lent term brought another busy period of football for Years 9–13, with 146 fixtures planned.

While a number of matches were lost to poor weather and wet pitches, the boys made the most of every opportunity once the term got underway.

Berkhamsted continued to compete in the prestigious ISFA Southern Independent School Lent Term League, facing some of the strongest schools in the South of England, as well as in the ISFA Boodles Cup, which brings together the best talent from independent schools nationwide.

After an impressive previous season, the 1st XI had a remarkable campaign, only losing four games and winning twelve. Their ISFA Cup run was particularly memorable, with brilliant victories against Ardingly and Haileybury before narrowly losing 3–1 to Repton in a closely fought encounter. In the league, the team dominated, winning all but one match to finish second to Haileybury. Leadership from Noah H was outstanding, while Charlie N was prolific in front of goal, scoring an incredible 17 times.

The 2nd–5th teams also enjoyed fantastic seasons, all achieving win ratios of 70% or higher. The 2nd XI was a standout side, losing only one match all season which is an incredible feat given the calibre of opposition – this meant they secured the league title in style. Other teams also enjoyed notable successes: the U16A impressed with Mr Costin’s high-risk attacking formation, the U15C under Mr Evers showed excellent organisation

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2025 • Sport and determination, and the U14Bs delighted with their attacking flair, consistently challenging their opponents.

Football at Berkhamsted continues to flourish, with outstanding participation and commitment across all year groups. The skill, teamwork, and dedication displayed this season were remarkable, and we look forward to seeing these players develop even further in the coming years.

I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the staff who have supported football this year. Your commitment, particularly at weekends, has been extraordinary, giving up your time to coach, manage, and attend fixtures, often in challenging weather, ensures that every boy has the opportunity to develop, compete, and enjoy the game. The success of our football programme relies entirely on your dedication, enthusiasm, and encouragement, and we are incredibly grateful for all that you do to make Berkhamsted football succeed.

Mr D Vila Head of Football

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Basketball The Basketball 1st team competed in seven matches this season as part of the North London U18 League. With a young and developing squad, the team showed impressive progress as the year went on. Among the season’s highlights were two excellent wins against Merchant Taylors’ and Mill Hill, showcasing the team’s growing cohesion and skill.

Team captain Jerry S led by example, finishing as the top scorer for the second consecutive year. Strong contributions also came from Seb M and Joe C, who both delivered solid performances throughout the season.

This year saw the sport’s popularity continue to grow across the school. As a result, two recreational after-school basketball clubs were offered on Thursdays and Fridays, giving pupils of all ages and abilities the chance to enjoy small-sided and full-court games in a fun, inclusive environment.

Basketball at Berkhamsted School has been a fantastic experience. Being provided the ability to play with our fellow teammates has built strong connections that run deeper than anything I have experienced before. It is inspiring to be able to play matches together against other schools, like Aldenham where we first played together as a team. Every year and every season we will strive to get better and become more successful, but also to reinforce our skills in the game. Now with our training with Hemel Storm Basketball Team on Tuesdays and Thursdays it is irrefutable that that will be the case. Under our new mentoring, we are enhancing our skills and propelling through the trials and tribulations of what is required of basketball at Berkhamsted School. Our Basketball team is rapidly advancing, and we can only be excited for what the future may bring.

- James M

Despite being a younger and less experienced group, the 1st team consistently demonstrated outstanding attitude, respect for opponents, and strong sportsmanship and teamwork on and off the court.

The U13 and U15 teams also had the opportunity to play a small number of matches, gaining valuable experience in competitive play—a significant step up from casual 3v3 weekend games with friends.

Well done to all players for their enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment throughout the season. The future of basketball at the school is bright!

Mr C Sutton Head of Basketball

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Lacrosse The 2024/25 Berkhamsted Lacrosse season has truly been unforgettable! Not only have we achieved remarkable success on the field, with two teams crowned National Champions, but we've also seen a fantastic rise in the number of pupils proudly representing the School on Saturdays.

Alongside this, we have seen pupils embody the school values in every moment of the season. We have seen constant displays of Serving Others through the epic goal celebrations, MVP highlights or selfish play. Pupils Aimed High with Integrity by attending all extracurricular sessions available to them to develop their skills; not to mention the endless amount of independent wall ball sessions carried out during break and lunchtimes. And as some would argue, most importantly, our pupils have constantly pushed themselves outside of their comfort zone to explore new skills in order to excel; optimising how to Be Adventurous.

The passion, dedication, and growth of our lacrosse community have made this season one for the history books!

Throughout the season, we've provided and participated in a diverse range of friendly and competitive fixtures across all year groups, starting from U11. With 21 teams taking to the field, we've played an impressive 206 matches, with 390 pupils proudly representing the red, white, and blue. We take immense pride in the breadth of competitive opportunities we've created for our junior teams, ensuring A-C teams are battling it out every weekend.

A standout achievement for the programme this year has been the incredible engagement at the senior level, with over 100 girls from Years 11, 12,

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and 13 selecting Lacrosse as their Senior Games option. This enthusiasm has allowed us to field an outstanding five senior teams, marking yet another milestone in our ever-growing lacrosse programme!

Each season, our calendar is packed with Saturday fixtures, tournaments, and high-stakes competitions, giving our teams the opportunity to test their skills against top schools nationwide. The journey begins with a carefully planned preseason schedule, ensuring the girls are mentally and physically prepared for two action-filled terms of sport.

Shortly after the return to school, we host the highly anticipated Berko 10s tournament - an extension of preseason, designed purely to reintroduce as many players as possible to competitive lacrosse after the summer break.

Unlike traditional tournaments, Berko 10s isn’t about winning; instead, its focus is on participation, growth, and embodying the Berkhamsted school values. MVP badges are awarded to players who exemplify these values throughout the day. This year, we were thrilled to welcome over 30 schools to the event, creating an incredible atmosphere and fostering connections across teams. As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue developing and strengthening this inclusive sporting experience, ensuring every player feels valued, challenged, and supported in their lacrosse journey.

One of the standout moments of the year was our annual Sporting Showcase at StoneX, where our 1st X took centre stage under the lights, playing in front of a roaring crowd. We had the privilege of welcoming Moreton Hall from the North of England for this one-of-a-kind fixture, and the atmosphere was electric. From the very first whistle, the 1st team asserted their attacking dominance, delivering a thrilling performance to claim victory at the prestigious event for the first time in three years. Their hard-fought 9-6 win over a formidible Moreton side was a true testament to their determination and skill.

Beyond the result, this match once again highlighted the incredible community spirit that defines Berkhamsted School. Regardless of age or experience, pupils rallied together to support the team, celebrating not just a win, but the unity, passion, and pride that make our sporting culture so special.

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The County tournaments are always thrilling occasions, offering each year group the chance to go head-to-head with some of our fiercest rivals.

This season, our teams showcased extraordinary skill, teamwork, and determination as they fought for glory in each round-robin competition.

Continuing the trend of an exceptional year, we were thrilled to see our A teams crowned County Champions across every age group—an outstanding achievement against formidable opposition. Adding to the triumph, our U12B, U15B, and 3rd X teams also emerged victorious in their respective competitions.

The 1st X enjoyed a truly exceptional season, remaining unbeaten in all of their Saturday fixtures against top schools from across the country.

Their success was underpinned by the incredible team culture cultivated by captain Molly K, whose leadership fostered an inclusive and driven environment where every player understood their role and rose to it with confidence.

journey wasn’t just about results—it was about setting a standard for what it means to play with heart, purpose, and pride.

The season came to a spectacular close at the National Schools Lacrosse Championships in Aldershot—always a highlight on the calendar and a cherished opportunity for our teams to showcase their talent, flair, and teamwork on a national stage.

The opening two days saw the 1st and 2nd X take on some of the fiercest competition from across the country.

Early in the season, the team took part in the prestigious South Schools Tournament hosted

by LEH, competing against the strongest teams in the region. From the opening whistle, they dominated play with effortless teamwork and rock-solid defence, powering their way to a thrilling final; where they were crowned winners. Their performance not only reflected the strength of each individual but also the unity, grit, and determination that defined the squad.

The 1st X battled their way into the top 16 in the nation, while the 2nd X soared into the top 4, delivering resilient and values-driven performances that made us all incredibly proud. Day three was the stage for the U15A and 3rd X squads to shine. The 3rd X boasted an exceptional defensive display— conceding zero goals throughout the group stages and the last 16. They narrowly missed out on a spot in the final after an intense 2–1 semi-final loss, earning an impressive place among the top four teams in the country. The U15As proved equally outstanding. After winning 4 out of 5 pool games, they powered through the knockouts to reach a gripping final against a formidable Putney High side.

Later in the year, they competed in the South East Schools Tournament, once again displaying resilience and cohesion to finish as runners-up after an intense day of competition. The 1st X’s remarkable achievements this season are a true reflection of their relentless drive, commitment to training, and a shared passion for the game. Their

What followed was an edge-of-the-seat battle: a see-sawing scoreline, three rounds of golden goal overtime, and finally—an unforgettable goal that sealed them the title. Watching this group claim a National Championship for the second consecutive year was a magical and emotional moment, underscoring their extraordinary determination and

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2025 • Sport unity. The final day featured the U14A and U13A teams. The U14As impressed with a dominant pooltopping performance, ultimately securing a top 8 national finish.

Meanwhile, the U13As—navigating their first ever Nationals together—rose above the pressure with calm, cohesive play that belied their inexperience.

Conceding just six goals across the day and finishing undefeated, they were deservingly crowned National Champions. Their composure, maturity, and skill left a lasting impression on everyone watching.

their heroes in action, they saw not just skill, but a powerful reminder of what’s possible long after school days end.

While talent undoubtedly plays a role, the success of our Lacrosse teams this season is a true reflection of the dedication, effort, and unwavering commitment shown by our pupils. Their hard work has made these accomplishments genuinely deserved, and serves to reinforce the strength, pride, and spirit of our lacrosse programme.

The U15Bs took to the pitch at the rescheduled Nationals tournament and once again proved their prowess, showcasing remarkable skill and determination to secure a place among the top four teams in the country. From start to finish, the tournament was a celebration of talent, resilience, and the unwavering spirit that runs through our lacrosse programme.

Our final season highlight was an unforgettable clash between the 1st X and the formidible Old Berkhamstedians. This year’s OBs lineup was nothing short of extraordinary, featuring current and former England and Wales stars—a team both admired and feared by the 1st X. What unfolded was more than just a game; it was a thrilling celebration of Berkhamsted Lacrosse, past and present.

The match showcased the enduring passion for the sport, as so many OBs returned to the field with pride and purpose, proving that their connection to the game—and the school—remains strong. The presence of a large, enthusiastic crowd of younger pupils added a special buzz to the day, their cheers echoing with excitement and inspiration. Watching

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As we look ahead, our ambition is to provide every pupil with the opportunity to represent the red, white, and blue in a Saturday fixture—because everyone deserves to experience the magic of being part of a Berkhamsted Lacrosse team. We’ll continue to strive for excellence in every training session and match, pushing ourselves to grow, compete, and lead with purpose. And above all, we hope that our leaving players carry their passion for the game into the next chapter of their journeys— and hold their Berkhamsted Lacrosse memories close, wherever their sticks may take them.

Miss C Steed Head of Lacrosse Playing lacrosse for Berkhamsted is an incredible opportunity. Lifelong bonds and memories are made, no matter the team or level. We would like to thank all the teachers who make this possible.

- Ella W

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Eton Fives

Senior Success and Leadership We are fortunate to have a strong cohort of senior players, and their achievements this year have been outstanding. Our top six players remained unbeaten in the league—a testament to their consistency and teamwork.

Special recognition goes to Ben S and Ed H, who defended their national title with distinction. They fell only to an exceptional St Olave’s pair in the final, following a gruelling five-set semi-final against Eton.

Their performance was nothing short of heroic.

As the statistics suggest, this has been a highly successful and rewarding season for Fives at Berkhamsted. Our players have demonstrated not only technical skill and competitive spirit but also the values of reflection, resilience, and sportsmanship that define our programme.

A colleague recently posed a thoughtful question: “Knowing what we know now, what might we have done differently—yesterday, a week ago, a term ago?” This spirit of reflection is at the heart of progress. A reflective player is one who grows; a reflective player who acts on those insights is one who improves. I hope this mindset has taken root across all age groups this season.

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Alex W deserves praise for his leadership, guiding the games group from early fixtures through to appearances at both the main Nationals and the Festival. Tom A and Rishy M, despite being a scratch pairing, performed admirably on day one before also encountering the formidable St Olave’s team.

The key lesson at this level is clear: the top players are playing club Fives regularly. They are sharp on set pieces, dominant on the top step, and make very few unforced errors. That is the standard we must continue to pursue.

Girls – a small group but what an impact.

Whilst this was our smallest group of players they were perhaps the most committed and dedicated.

Rosie W and Indie C were runners up in the U14 nationals losing semifinalsits in the U15 competition

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2025 • Sport and were part of the mixed team that debuted at the nationals . They also attended senior national tournaments making the most of all opportunities available to them At the U18 nationals Hannah M and Hannah M reached the quarterfinals and Ellie P and Imogen G were plate winners in the same competition. At U12 level, Matilda B made her national debut at qualifiers.

Middle School: Maintaining Momentum Sustaining engagement in the middle school years remains a challenge, but there were encouraging signs. We fielded a strong number of pairs at U14 level, with nine pairs competing. However, the U15 and U16 groups struggled for consistent court time, which was reflected in their results.

That said, Lawrence F, Theo LD, and James B made significant strides and show great promise for their senior years. Archie S and James B, our top U16 pair, were unable to shift the momentum in their key match, while Lawrence F and Theo LD were edged out by a single point against QEB—a result that shaped their tournament path.

Several younger players stepped up to play above their age group, embracing the challenge and gaining valuable experience. Conor F, Ben H, Beau C and Rocky H all impressed at U16 level and I hope they are looking to return next year. At U15 level, Felix S and Matt B reached the final despite limited preparation. Though disappointed with the result, they should be proud of their journey.

Both Adam L and Henrik A-M really improved throughout the year, and it was great to see Seb G and Will F back on court after a late season audition.

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U14 & U13: Depth and Development The U14s trained regularly and showed their progress by dominating the national qualifying event. The full tournament revealed areas for improvement—particularly in set-piece execution and movement around the buttress. Our First pair of Dylan R and Flynn M lost in a tight quarterfinal. The competition was intense and athletic, and we hope it has whetted their appetite for next year, when the top eight pairs will be seeded out presenting opportunity for others.

The U13s also had a promising season. Theo A and Ollie H performed well at the Prep Schools competition, narrowly losing to a strong Sunningdale pair. Several U13s competed at U14 level at Shrewsbury and made a real impact. Players like Theo A, Austin C, Charlie R, and Ollie H have the potential to reach the final stages next year.

I hope the current Year 8’s can see the future potential they have and the core group of Hayden , James , Sam, Ted, Charlie and Will who have played in most of the matches really developed their base game . Now to improve consistency and develop a big cut!

A national final defeat and a plate win at U14 level are strong foundations to build on.

U12: A Rising Generation Our U12 group has shown excellent development in both numbers and quality. Our first pair had an outstanding season; Oscar M and Harry S won a thrilling national final in a third-set reset, displaying tremendous character and composure. Four of our pairs reached the quarterfinals—an outstanding achievement and it shows our real potential in this year group- well done to Campbell G, Rafa S,

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2025 • Sport Theo LD, Wiliam LD, Cam D and James B. Oscar M also won the Rugby Fives singles and doubles.

We had the courts full on Friday night practice and I hope we can maintain that energy enthusiasm and quality next year. There are several players who can make a big impact at U13 level: Jack P, Oliver K, Albie K, Barnaby P, Arthur M and Will H to name but 6. Micah L and Charlie A have come so far having never played before and I really hope we can continue to impress in fixtures and at competition level.

For those who didn’t reach the quarterfinals , the message is clear: next year’s U13 Nationals is your time to shine.

Final Reflections Were we successful—as individuals, as pairs, or as a team? That’s for each player to decide. But if success is defined as being the best version of yourself on the day, then this was a remarkable season.

I’ve been consistently impressed by the way our players embraced every opportunity while remaining gracious and respectful—on and off the court. Fives is unique: there’s no VAR, no referee to appeal to. It demands cooperation with your opponent while competing fiercely. It challenges modern sporting norms—and is all the better for it.

To all our players: thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your character. I hope you’ve enjoyed the journey. If I missed a name check I apologise but I am nonetheless grateful for your support and commitment. Now ask yourself— what’s your Fives story next year- and how will you achieve it?

Mr A Stephenson Fives Coach

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Girls Cricket The 2025 season saw 570 girls play cricket as part of their games lessons, 284 take part in House Cricket and 347 represent the school across 197 fixtures!

Cricket starts with the winter programme and this year saw more pupils buy in than ever before. With weekly 1-2-1 sessions for our most able, to wicket keeping club, fast bowling group, masterclasses, strength and conditioning and squad sessions happening every week, the pupil ability increased greatly. This was evidenced with the U13 and U15 sides both being crowned ECB indoor champions for Hertfordshire.

As we got nearer the season a “Senior XI” squad travelled to Spain in the Easter holiday on the inaugural girls tour. They took part in the La Manga Women’s Classic T20 tournament, which after beating full ICC Associate sides Switzerland and Spain they reached the final against ECB Premier League team Hursley Park CC. The game was eventually abandoned after 9 overs due to torrential rain and the trophy shared. Captain Amelia D finished as the top wicket taker in the tournament with 10 dismissals across the 4.5 matches.

Back on English soil the season was hugely successful with large numbers participating and enjoying their cricket. The 1st XI and the U15’s reached the last 16 of both the Cricket Paper 100 ball Cup and the School Sport Magazine National T20, whilst the U13, U14 and U15 sides were finalists in the Hertfordshire County Cup. More girls than ever before scored big runs with 50’s being hit most weeks in multiple teams.

Martha A and Edie S both hit hundreds. On the bowling front, Mary S, Eloise D and Amelia D all took more than 20 wickets with Amelia finishing with 40 overall, her final wicket of the season being to dismiss Mr Costin in the 1st XI v Staff XI fixture!

The school’s relationship with Berkhamsted CC continues to flourish with Ben Caidan working as Cricket Coach across both organisations. The flow and continuity of message sees numbers wanting to play the game rise and rise. It is great to see the BCC women’s 1st XI with a strong school contingent challenging at the top of the Home Counties League.

The season finished with the bonanza that is Cricket week which saw fixtures against MCC, Hertfordshire U18, Kent Street School, Berkhamsted CC, St George’s and Cranleigh in the first ever girl’s two day, time, game.

Mr M Costin Head of Girls Cricket

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Boys Cricket It was a summer to remember for Berkhamsted boys’ cricket, with some wonderful performances across the school.

The U15As showed excellent improvement throughout the season, with Mr Goldthorp delighted by the progress made by both individuals and the team. There were impressive wins against the Royal Grammar School High Wycombe and Merchant Taylors', and a thrilling match against Bedford where Berkhamsted finished just 10 runs short of the target. Will W was the leading wicket-taker, while Henry D batted with determination and skill at the top of the order. The U15Bs, superbly led

by Mr Middleton, won five of their ten matches.

Alex P scored a brilliant 55 not out against RGSHW, while Tom S, George G and Jonny C all made strong contributions with the ball. The highlight of the U15 season came from the U15C team, who won all five of their matches to go unbeaten across the campaign. Leo W was the leading runscorer, including an excellent 53 not out against St Albans, while Trey L led the bowling attack with seven wickets. Remarkably, Mr Pryor has now gone unbeaten as a cricket coach for two consecutive years.

The U14As showed great promise, recording wins against Haberdasher's, St Albans, Abingdon and Royal Grammar School High Wycombe. Two standout performers emerged: Zac F, who scored an outstanding 357 runs at an average of 44.63, including a brilliant 95 to help secure victory over

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Habs; and Ori B, who took 16 wickets at 19.19 with his off-spin—an impressive feat given he only began bowling spin at the start of the season. The U14Bs also played excellent cricket, with victories over Stowe, Magdalen College and Bedford. The leg-spin of Tom L was instrumental to their success, taking 16 wickets, including 5 for 27 against Stowe.

The U14C and U14D teams also enjoyed highly successful seasons, winning the majority of their matches, with Edward A, Rohan K and Fraser F all making notable contributions.

Under the guidance of Mr Pierce and Mr Caiden, the U13As developed strongly throughout the year. Tom T and Theo A were outstanding with the bat, scoring 291 and 251 runs respectively, while Oliver W took 13 wickets with his accurate medium pace. The U13Bs won seven of their eleven matches, while the C and D teams played some excellent cricket, recording wins against Swanbourne House and Beechwood Park.

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2025 • Sport The U12A team showed great promise in their first year at Berkhamsted, and it will be exciting to watch them continue to develop as they move through the school. Charlie D was the standout performer, taking 14 wickets and scoring 132 runs. There were also valuable contributions from George O, James B and Tom B. The U12B, C and D teams demonstrated what a talented year group this is, producing excellent performances across the season.

Mr Vila’s 2nd XI enjoyed a series of wonderful results, with wins against Abingdon, Stowe and Habs. Ted S was the surprise package with the bat, scoring an impressive 222 runs in five innings at an average of 74. Captain George C was also outstanding, with his 99 not out against Abingdon one of the season’s highlights. The off-spin of Ollie L was consistently effective, earning him 12 wickets at an average of 13.50.

The 1st XI had a season to remember, with 14 wins, two draws and four defeats, featuring several historic performances. Captain Fin W scored a remarkable hundred against William Perkin School off just 39 deliveries—the fastest century in Berkhamsted history. Ed H amassed 994 runs at an average of 55.22, another school record.

One of the most extraordinary displays came in a T20 match against Dr Challoner’s, when James SJ and George C opened the batting and remained unbeaten for the full 20 overs, posting 206 for 0.

Other memorable wins included a thrilling 22-run victory over Merchant Taylors’, defending 167 thanks to a tremendous team bowling performance, and the school’s first-ever win against Bedford School, highlighted by a sensational 160 not out from Ed H. His innings featured superb stroke play and acceleration, with his final 50 runs coming off just 16 balls.

The school bids farewell to several outstanding Year 13 cricketers who have served the programme with distinction. James SJ, who joined in the Sixth Form, made an immediate impact with his elegant stroke play and the ability to clear the boundary at will.

This season he converted his starts into big scores, recording two centuries for the 1st XI—against Dr Challoner’s and Kent Street College. Dan T has opened the bowling for the 1st XI for the past three seasons; an aggressive bowler who swings the ball away in all conditions, he is capable of dismissing

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top-quality batters and brings great energy to the team environment. George C, a regular in A teams throughout his school career, had to wait until Year 13 for his 1st XI opportunity but seized it with a brilliant 77 not out on debut against Dr Challoner’s.

George D, an elegant wicketkeeper-batter, and Olly F, an accurate inswing bowler, have both been regulars for the 2nd XI and made valuable contributions whenever called upon for the 1st XI. Tommy T, a 1st XI player for the past two years, batted with determination and energy wherever he was placed in the order and was a superb fielder with a safe pair of hands. He played several crucial innings and will be greatly missed.

Finally, captain Finlay W has been one of Berkhamsted’s great school cricketers. Breaking into the 1st XI in Year 10, he immediately made an impact with his leg-spin. Despite missing nearly a full season through injury, he went on to score over 1,000 runs—including two centuries—and took 45 wickets. As captain, Fin led by example, creating a team culture built on trust and admiration.

His contribution to Berkhamsted cricket has been exceptional.

All the departing players will be sorely missed, and we look forward to welcoming them back next summer for the Old Berkhamstedians match.

A huge thank you goes to all staff involved in the cricket programme this year, with special mention to Mike Herring and his team for preparing outstanding wickets throughout the season. Finally, an enormous thank you to Su and Anna for the warm welcome and wonderful service they provide each week— Berkhamsted cricket simply wouldn’t be the same without them.

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2025 • Sport Cricket Awards Full Colours: Finlay W, Ed H, Dan T, James SJ, Tommy T Half Colours: Rishy M, Henry M, Ollie S, Tom A, Oliver F, George D, George C, Elliot K Cricketer of the Year: Ed H F. J. Davies Trophy - Outstanding Junior Batter (U12 U15): Zac F (Year 9) Clixby Trophy: Charlie D U12A 6/6 vs Bedford 21/06 Bowler of the Year: Theo A

Mr G Campbell Head of Boys Cricket

Throughout a flourishing 2025 cricket season, where Senior teams played over 40 games, memorable highlights include a highly contested draw against the Marylebone Cricket Club and a sociable Sunday against the Old Boys. With the 1st XI playing 20 games, losing only 4, winning 14, and an abandoned game in a dominant position costing a win against Haileybury, it is one of the most successful seasons on record for a Berkhamsted side. Unbeaten on a Saturday but for an inspired Stowe side, under the leadership of Fin W the squad grew from strength to strength. Special mentions must go to the commendable efforts of Elliott K, topping the wicket charts for a third year running with 29 1ST XI wickets; Rishy M, for similarly impressive consistency, notching up over 20 1st XI games and plundering 400+ runs for the third time; Dan T, capping off his school career with a miserly spell of 3/2; and Abhi R-C, completing an astounding 4th year of Senior cricket. Individual accolades aside, it was a season to remember for boy’s cricket: testament to everyone’s dedication.

- Ed H

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Athletics

Golf

The season concluded with a strong 5th place finish in the Track and Field Cup National Finals for a talented group of Year 7 and 8 girls, who also triumphed in the Hertfordshire Schools Grand Final. A special mention goes to Maya M, who remained unbeaten in the 200m throughout the year, setting both School and County records along the way. Also, congratulations to Freya U in the hurdles—both athletes qualified for the English Schools Final a year early. Maya is currently ranked in the top 15 nationally for the 200m.

Swift Foursomes (4 matches in a pool setting)

Tom F, now entering Year 11, continued to dominate in the 1500m, breaking both County and School records in the 1500m and 800m. He capped off the season with a 3rd place finish at the English Schools Finals in the 3000m. Tom is also ranked in the top 15 nationally and looks forward to representing England in the Cross Country season this winter.

In the Inter Boys and Junior Boys teams, we welcomed several new members, including James S, who now represents Dacorum in the discus and is throwing close to the 30m mark. Tom T (Year 8) performed excellently throughout the season in shot put. The Junior Boys team was bolstered by several Year 7 athletes: Sam K (Pole Vault and 1500m), Cameron D (Hurdles and High Jump), Campbell G (Pole Vault, Javelin, and sprinting), and Ryan A (Long Jump and 200m). Luke R broke the 100m record and impressed with his performances a year early for the Inter Boys.

Team from Max B (Captain), Shaan P, Tom McD, George C, Tom A, Max O’M, Seb G, Bradley B, Matthew R and Toby S. This was our best season ever in this competition beating Haberdashers', St Columbas and Mill Hill.

Unfortunately, we lost to Merchant Taylors', who went on to win the National title.

ISGA knockout tournament We were well beaten in the first round against Stowe.

In the plate semi final Max B and Tom A held their nerve to see us home versus John Lyon. In the final Max, Ben and Tom helped us get over the line and beat St Columbas. This was played at Moor Park in Rickmansworth on a fantastic course.

In the National Plate final played in June we finished 8th Nationally. Well done to Max B, Tom Mc and Ben S for giving it their all.

Mr B Evers Head of Golf and Athletics

Elsewhere, Maya K continues to progress toward English Schools qualification in the Shot Put, having won both the County Championships and her recent Club Championships. Theo L-E, who set a School record, qualified for the English Schools in Shot Put. Emily F, Dylan H (Javelin School record), and Liv A all became County Champions. Finally, Haydan L had an outstanding season, breaking School records in both the 400m flat and 400m hurdles, and finishing a commendable 5th in the English Schools Finals a year early.

A heartfelt thank you to all the staff for their invaluable support throughout the term. We made it!

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School Records, 2025 Name

Year

Event

Time/Jump/ Throw

Event

Lulu S Campbell G Ryan A

7 7 7

Cameron D Mary S Maya M

7 7 8

Freya U Alex F Tilly H Arush B Evan R Tessa W Luke R Maya K Tom F

8 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 10

Theo L-E Emily F Haydan L

11 12 12

Dylan H

12

300m Pole Vault Triple Jump Long Jump High Jump Discus 200m 100m 75m Hurdles 300m 300m Shot Pole Vault Triple Jump 100m Shot 1500m 800m Shot 1500m 400m Hurdles 400m Javelin

46.0 1.7m 9.63m 4.87m 1.5m 20.26m 25.23 12.20 11.90 41.1 45.1 11.99m 3.2m 9.23 11.70 10.78m 3mins 58 2mins 02 14.23m 4mins 58 56.13 50.7 48.28m

League 4, 22 May League 4, 22 May League 5, 5 June League 5, 5 June Sports Day League 6, 12 June County Champs, 7 June Sports Day County Champs 7 June Track and Field Cup, 9 May League 4, 22 May Sports Day League 6, 12 June League 5, 5 June Sports Day Track and Field Cup, 9 May County Champs, 7 June Sports Day County Champs, 7 June County Champs, 7 June County Champs, 7 June County Champs, 7 June County Champs, 7 June

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Tennis The 2025 tennis season has been a remarkable one, filled with energy, achievement, and a growing passion for the sport across the school. From packed lessons to thrilling match days, tennis has truly flourished this year. One of the most exciting developments has been the continued growth in participation. More pupils than ever have taken part in tennis—whether through lessons, lunchtime practices, or competitive fixtures. This surge in involvement reflects the inclusive spirit of the sport and the enthusiasm of our players and coaches alike.

With a strong foundation, rising talent, and a vibrant tennis culture, the future looks bright. We can’t wait to see what next season brings. Wishing everyone a restful and sunny summer break—see you on court next year!

Miss E Turner Head of Tennis

Our teams have competed in a wide range of events, with several standout performances. At the prestigious ISTA National Doubles at Eton, the U15 girls’ pair of Isla A and Bea K-H impressed by reaching the Plate Semi-Final, showing great composure and teamwork against tough opposition. Another highlight came from the U14 girls’ doubles, where Isla A and Layla J claimed victory in the Plate Competition—a fantastic achievement that speaks to their growing confidence and skill on court. Throughout the season, both boys and girls have entered numerous doubles tournaments, building camaraderie and match experience. The commitment shown by all players has been outstanding, and the improvement in match play across the board has been clear to see.

This year’s House Tennis competition brought a brilliant mix of competitive spirit and community energy. With players from all year groups representing their Houses, the matches were closely contested and full of excitement. The standard of play was high across the board, and the final results came down to just a few points—highlighting how evenly matched the teams were. It was fantastic to see so many pupils getting involved and cheering each other on, making it one of the most memorable House Events of the year.

As we celebrate the season’s successes, we also bid a fond farewell to four players who have been pillars of the 1st team throughout their school careers: Seb M, Helena U, George B, and Georgie H. Their dedication, leadership, and love for the game have made a lasting impact on school tennis. We thank them for everything they’ve contributed and wish them all the very best in their future endeavours.

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This year, our school’s U18 tennis team had the incredible opportunity to compete at the National Tennis Tournament — an exciting milestone for such a young and developing squad. Despite facing tough competition, our players rose to the occasion, showing great skill, teamwork, and determination.

The team proudly won two out of their three matches, a fantastic achievement that highlights both their talent and potential for future success. It was an unforgettable experience that inspired everyone to aim even higher next season!

- Theo P

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Squash This year has been the most successful year in recent history for Berkhamsted School Squash. I would say success this year has been shown in two ways: the School’s depth, reaching the national finals with every age-group, and the breadth of engagement throughout the School.

Our pupils have seen consistent success across all age-groups, with U14 As & U16 As reaching the top 8 nationally, along with the U14Bs & 1st V also reaching the National Plate finals. This had Berkhamsted representing at every day of the finals competitions in Edgbaston. I’m particularly proud of our statistics in the U14 category – not only did our top team finish 7th in the country, but our B team also outperformed half of the schools in the country to reach the National Plate finals!

Fuller. Thanks to Will Digby (17-22) & Ali Coker (8393) for their help rallying together the first OB side, and to Berkhamsted Squash club for their support.

Our hope is this will grow year on year – if you’d like to be involved next March, please reach out!

The McIlwaine cup, our internal competition, this year was won by up-and-comer George O. George was fortunate to see top seed Jack T unavailable to defend last year’s title but nonetheless still earned the cup on the day, showing the great skills that we’ve come to appreciate since his joining Year 7 in September. Well done to him in battling through a tight best-of-3 versus James B in the final to take the title. This set may set him up (all going well!) for a legendary 7-year run at the title! Time will tell…

As well as the high performance at the top end, numbers this year playing have been overwhelming.

Each week through the winter terms on average has seen over 200 pupils on a squash court. One Year 7 after-school club this year even had a player-to-court ratio one evening of 12:1!

The growing fixture card has led to some enjoyable clashes with the likes of Bedford, Stowe, Eton, Harrow, and our tough local rivals Aylesbury Grammar. Some of my personal highlights were:

On reflecting over the 1st V’s season, George B, our leaving captain, had this to say:

The inaugural OB v School v Berkhamsted club triangular, which saw our most eager pupils taking on OBs of varying degrees of form & fitness. On this occasion, the club got the better of the OBs, who got the better of our pupils. The afternoon was finished OB and ex-pro Chris Ryder (91-98) [HWR 33!] playing an exhibition game versus club coach Adam

“We might not win everything, but we definitely had the most fun,” said Mr Davey after we were bagelled again (congratulations to Conrad S for having the school record for most bagels). This pretty much summed up our experience of playing squash at Berkhamsted. After a rocky Year 12, Year 13 was much more successful, with the 1st Team making it to the National Finals. Despite

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2025 • Sport numerous, sometimes severe injuries. We stuck together as a team through thick and thin and gave 100% to every game. We’ve learnt to win and lose graciously as a team and have represented the School to the highest standards.

The 2024/25 season has shown us just how far we’ve come as a team, how much more we can achieve, and most importantly, that we’re on the right path."

I was recently asked what the root of this year’s success was by some friends: “Did the participation numbers drive the performance, or did the performance encourage more students to play Squash?” After some consideration I decided it was neither. I think the proudest part for me of what we’re achieving is the growth in our culture. For this, I am grateful to our oldest students for continuing to create a sport where we can see our U18s getting on court with our U9s as one club finishes and another starts.

As always, our appreciation goes to all that Adam Fuller has done to support our pupils, and to Berkhamsted Squash club for its continued support with the programme.

Mr C Davey Head of Squash

Credit goes to those Sixth Formers for making that happen, as with those that came before them, and I hope, after.

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2025 • Sixth Opportunities

Sixth Opportunities Academic Writing Competition Berkhamsted Sixth holds a yearly academic writing competition entitled, 'Reflecting on the Holocaust.'

This is judged by eminent historian and OB, Roger Moorhouse.

Read the winning entries of 2024 here:

Non-Fiction- Maisy M Reflecting on the Holocaust: The dehumanisation of the Jewish People Nazis used process, legal means and societal change to legitimise their antisemitic ideology and dehumanise the Jewish race. There is a danger of homogenising our horror at the unimaginable scale of the Holocaust, which is why individual memorials and remembering human stories are so important, as it reinstates the dignity and humanity of the Jewish people.

Antisemitism has existed throughout time – occurring even in the Hellenistic age with the rise of social segregation following refusal to worship emperors as gods, seen as a mark of disloyalty. Continuing throughout our history, in the Middle Ages Jews faced continued persecution, denied rights such as positions in government or memberships in guilds. They have been isolated and ‘othered’ in society for thousands of years, culminating in the abhorrent atrocities of the Holocaust in which the Nazis systematically killed over 6 million people, an almost unfathomably high number.

Nazi ideology sought to feed on this deeply rooted societal and historical divide, and use it to develop their grotesque ideology, gradually reducing the freedoms and rights of the Jewish people,

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marking their separation from society. Propaganda consistently reinforced detrimental stereotypes and imagery about the Jewish people, often capitalising on historical inaccuracies or assumptions such as that of blood libel, contributing to the depiction of the Jews as ‘other’ in Nazi society.

Nazi power marked an extraordinary expansion of antisemitism, dehumanising the Jewish people through a brutal series of increasing regulations and treatments over the course of the genocide.

In the first 6 years of Hitler’s dictatorship alone, over 400 regulations were enforced, removing rights and property and transforming the legal and social status of Jewish people. Decrees ranged from national to more regionally based directives and signified a rise of dehumanisation in the era, excluding Jewish people from almost all aspects of public life or government (take the Law for the Restoration of the Professional Civil Service in April 1933, which excluded Jewish people from state service alongside those deemed ‘politically unreliable’). Jewish students were capped in numbers from German schools and universities with quotas restricting places in these institutions to 1.5%, then from positions in medical and legal areas. Jewish doctors were not permitted to treat those outside the Jewish community (Munich), whilst lawyers and notaries were not allowed to work on legal matters (Berlin) – all within April 1933 alone.

Dehumanisation reached as far as to ban Jewish people from sectors of public life as basic as access to park benches or local facilities such as swimming pools, completely segregating and alienating them from the wider populace.

In the arts sector, Jewish actors were forbidden to perform from early 1934, whilst also being denied employment in the radio and press industries. They were excluded from farming, the stock exchange and brokerage. This legalised alienation from society gave permission to antisemites and legitimised their abhorrent views on the Jewish people, who were used as a scapegoat, blamed for all issues faced by Germany in the era. Indoctrination into such ideas was ingrained in the school system and free time of

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children, who faced legalised membership of Hitler Youth groups and contributed to the dehumanising ideology, intended to continue for generations to come.

Every aspect of Jewish life was harshly impacted, yet minimised resistance occurred, perhaps exposing the widely felt suspicion and antisemitic sentiment in the German population and emboldening the Nazi government to take further action. Significant violence and manifestations of rising antisemitism against the Jewish people also occurred before mass transportation to the camps. Kristallnacht, or the Night of the Broken Glass (November 9–10, 1938) marked the first mass arrest of Jews – 30,000 were taken to camps. The government officially blamed the event as an outpouring from the German people in response to the murder of a diplomat in Paris, yet in reality it was a carefully orchestrated and constructed attack on the Jewish people, leading to the destruction of as many as 7,500 Jewish owned business which were looted or smashed, although the death toll was officially only 91 (later studying has suggested far higher figures).

However, yet again the German people lacked significant resistance, signifying the extent of the alienation and dehumanisation of the Jewish people in Nazi Germany; even when facing such extreme violence, the people refused to rebel.

The introduction of the Nuremberg laws were arguably the most significant of these imposed regulations. Announced on the 15th September 1935 at a Nazi party rally in Nuremberg, the laws were titled ‘The Reich Citizenship Law’ and the ‘Law for the Protection of German Blood and German honour’. The laws changed the legal status of German Jews, therefore forming a legal framework eventually leading to the Holocaust.

Later laws relied on the definition of a ‘Jew’ as found in the Nuremberg laws, such as the Decree on Passports of Jews (October 1938) or the Police Regulation on the Marking of Jews (September 1941). The Nuremberg Laws were an important step in the Nazi regime’s process of isolating and excluding Jews from the rest of German society, transforming them from citizens to subjects of the state, laying the foundations for the ‘legitimisation’ of the Final Solution.

Building on this dehumanisation was the Police Regulation on the Marking of Jews, from September

1941 requiring the infamous use of the yellow badges with the Star of David in public when aged six and over. This public marking was a literal way of ‘othering’ and dehumanising Jewish people, signifying their difference and ‘lower’ social status.

Jewish people also began to be forced into ghettos, with 1,143 established in the occupied eastern territories alone. One of the most infamous examples of such ghettoisation can be found in Warsaw, with over 400,000 Jews in an area of just 1.3 square miles. Many of these were seen as a temporary measure until further introduction of the ‘Final Solution’, where in the interim Nazi brutally appointed Jewish councils (last major ghetto in Lodz destroyed in 1944), responsible for both daily life and the infinitely cruel deportations to killing centres, enforced by a police force. Following the implementation of the ‘Final Solution’ the ghettos were destroyed, with residents even deported to killing centres or shot, with some sent to forced labour or concentration camps.

Inhumane treatment can be found even before arrival at the camps via the transport used. Jewish people were herded like animals into cattle carriages, literally treated like farm animals, with many not surviving appalling conditions. Even the reduced use of the Einsatzgruppen stemmed more from concern for the soldiers involved and the toll such killing took on them, not the brutal deaths of their victims, deemed not worthy of even the bullet it took to kill them. The system of recordings of this genocide was dehumanising, with extensive records kept ranging from paper trails to the infamous animalistic branding through tattoos. The process offered a means of legitimising genocide, as if by documenting the horror it was reduced to a process. Much of this extensive paper trail was attempted to be destroyed as the allies advanced and it is a testament to the inhumane level of sterilised record keeping of such genocide that such extensive evidence remains today, such as that used in the Nuremberg Trials following the end of the war, in which many Nazi leaders and organisations were finally prosecuted for their crimes.

It is easy to be lost in the vast scale of decrees and dehumanising practices carried out by the Nazis, which is why it also important to memorialise the Holocaust through recognition of individual life and sacrifice. Take the life of Henryk Goldszmit (pen

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name Janusz Korczak), who made the decision to stay with children in the home he ran when they were forced into the Warsaw Ghetto, remaining with them even when being deported to Treblinka and their deaths in 1942. He worked tirelessly for the children, attempting to continue with education and provisions for them even within the horrific conditions of the ghetto, refusing opportunities offered to him to escape. His ideas and life were so inspirational that many have been included in the UNESCO charter for children’s rights after the war – it is incumbent on each generation to continue to memorialise both the vast scale and the individual victims of the Holocaust.

The Nazis’s dehumanised the Jewish people in every aspect of their power and control, exacerbating antisemitic feeling. Modern memorials pay tribute to the Jewish people, and we need to continue to remember individuals, people by name, honour victims stories to always remember and to truly facing up to the inhumanity of the Nazi’s actions, lest we sleep walk into another rising of the far right. This is particularly relevant given the current global geo-political precarious state, and confronting the Holocaust deniers, it is ever more crucial to humanise the unimaginable suffering of the Jewish people. With the passing of time, and remaining survivors having been children, it is imperative to keep the individuals’ memories alive and rehumanise the people behind the 6 million lost.

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Fiction- Mira R Whispers between the tracks The air is thick, heavy, dense with unspoken prayers.

The train rattles violently along the tracks, the metallic screech of wheels against iron rails cutting through the silence like a scream. It’s an eerie, high-pitched wail that drowns out the murmurs of passengers. My breath is shallow, each inhale sharp and unsatisfying, as if the very air is refusing to fill my lungs. Bodies press together in a twisted, suffocating dance, limbs tangles, warmth unbearable. No one speaks of our destination, but we all know – this is no journey home.

Once, I sat cross-legged in front of my mother as she braided my hair, her fingers gentle, her voice a quiet melody humming in my ears. The rhythm of her hands was steady, comforting, a ritual of love woven into each strand. Now, my hair hangs in tangled clumps before my eyes, heavy with dust, sweat, and the weight of days without water.

Somewhere in this crowded car, she is here- her body among the press of limbs, her voice lost in the hush of whisper and muffled sobs. But I cannot see her. The labyrinth of bodies between us is an unyielding wall, swallowing her whole.

of sweat, fear, and blood. It smells wrong. Rotting.

Burning. Someone shifts, inhaling sharply, but before they can voice their horror, the sound of footsteps better the gravel outside, growing louder, heavier.

Boots. Many of them. Then, the barking – vicious, relentless, tearing through the silence like knives.

The doors groan open, metal shrieking against metal, and blinding light floods our prison. It is unbearable. After so much darkness, even the sun feels cruel.

I stumble into the light, my feet dragging, following the others in front of me as if they can somehow lead me to safety. My nails dig into my palms, digging so deep I almost welcome the sting, anything to remind me I’m still here. Still alive. Guards with rifles stand motionless, like shadows, their faces unreadable, unsympathetic. I try not to meet their gaze, to look anywhere but at them. Instead, I look up. A murder of crows soars overhead, their harsh squawks slicing through the air, mocking us as they glide freely. They have the sky. We have whatever is waiting for us beyond these gates. I do not know what it holds, but in this moment, as I stand here, I am still breathing. Still human.

A trembling voice shatters the silence that had once riddled the car. “It’s just a labour camp,” an older man mutters, his voice barely rising above the relentless clatter of the wheels against the tracks.

“We’ll be together. We’ll be safe.” No one believes him - not even himself. The words fall from his lips like a broken prayer, rehearsed and hollow, spoken not for reassurance but for survival. A child, not much younger than me, clings to his mother’s dress just as I wish I were. His eyes were wide, searching for comfort in a world that offers none. No one dares correct the man. No one dares to say what they are all thinking. Hope is all we have. Hope is easier than truth.

The taunting screech of the wheels finally ceases, plunging us into an aching silence. For a moment, there is nothing but the sound of our own breath – rags, shallow, uneven. Then, something worse fills the air. A scent, thick and pungent, seeps through the cracks of the wooden walls. It coils around us, suffocating, far more wretched than the stale stench

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AI Super-Curricular As artificial intelligence continues to revolutionise the world around us, Berkhamsted Sixth remains committed to ensuring that all students are equipped with the tools and knowledge to engage with such transformative technology. The Advanced AI course, offered to students with a growing interest in AI, encouraged us students to implement AI into our daily life, but not just as users, but as critical thinkers, and ethical leaders.

Taking part this year in the school’s Advanced AI course as a Super-Curricular activity offered us Year 12 students a unique opportunity to explore the ever-expanding landscape of AI, through both hands-on applications and exploring the themes behind AI itself.

Led by Joanna Hughes with Mo Tanweer and supported by the Year 13 AI Ambassador, we took a dive into these two components. In our practical sessions with the AI Ambassador, we were taught the key features of an effective prompt, and exploring a variety of different AI platforms, allowing us to utilise our tools to the best extent we could.

We explored the downsides of using purely AI for certain topics, allowing us to understand that AI does make mistakes, and can be extremely bias and misleading. The practical element was there to show us how we could develop strategies to use AI responsibly for revision, research, and becoming much more productive, while remaining mindful while doing so. We learnt to use AI not just for answers, but as a study aid, and a discussion partner.

I signed up to this course through a dormant interest and my love of computer science, however the course opened my eyes up to the hidden aspects of AI, and how it affects almost all areas of the real world, whether you want to be a mathematician, doctor, or even an entrepreneur. For others, they found that the course taught them how to take control of and use all parts of AI, and despite how we all had very different goals in life, we all found that AI is, and will be a huge factor in the coming years.

From transparency and bias to ethics and law, or even the unintended consequences we would never expect, the course challenged us to think further than what AI can already do, but to what it should do. And with AI becoming vital in many industries, some that don’t even exist yet, courses like this ensure that we students are not just keeping up with the future, but that we are prepared to lead it.

- Dylan C A

Through the thematic element, Ms. Hughes guided us through the real-world implications of such technology. As a group we discussed the ethics of AI and its societal impact, tackling the crucial question of how human values clash with machine intelligence. We highlighted on the potential legal issues surrounding AI, and took a look into how by using AI people can have their identities stolen and used for malicious purposes. This sparked insightful debate, for everyone attending, about consent, digital permanence, and the future of identity and copyright in an AI-dominated world.

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Young Enterprise Forty-three pupils embarked on the Young Enterprise Company programme in September, developing a range of entrepreneurial soft skills along the way. They demonstrated remarkable resilience and worked collaboratively within their companies to overcome various challenges.

Their journey began with company allocations based on job interests, followed by interviews to appoint two managing directors per team. The first major challenge was selecting a suitable product or service to create and sell. With valuable support from DT and their facilities, numerous products were successfully commercialised. Piece by Piece crafted wooden accessories, including coasters and Christmas decorations. Ruff ‘n’ Renew produced upcycled dog-related products such as Celtic knots and tug balls. Book Bloom designed, wrote, and created several children’s books, achieving impressive sales.

This year’s Young Enterprise programme proved to be another successful journey for Year 12 pupils at Berkhamsted School, reinforcing the importance of entrepreneurial learning.

Mr V Fung Head of Young Enterprise and Teacher of Business Studies

The Michaelmas term presented challenges, with two events cancelled due to adverse weather. The Festival of Light was stopped due to high winds, hampering an excellent sales opportunity. However, students adapted, securing a successful market opportunity at the Sunday antiques fair. After Christmas, two further selling events took place in Watford and High Wycombe. The first, sponsored

by Young Enterprise, was a proud moment as Book Bloom won overall against more than a dozen other companies, earning recognition for their captivating books and entrepreneurial spirit. The other two companies also won awards at the Sunday event.

Following the submission of their annual report, all three companies attended the regional finals, showcasing trade stands and delivering presentations to the judges. Each company represented themselves admirably, with Book Bloom securing the overall regional winner title and competing honourably in the East of England Finals at Bedford School.

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The Student Consultancy At Berkhamsted Sixth, we are proud of our students’ strong sense of community spirit and desire to Serve Others. That’s why we offer the opportunity for students to undertake Oxford University’s highly successful Student Consultancy programme.

An innovative and unique programme, The Student Consultancy (TSC) equips students with key and demonstrable consulting and teamwork skills as they help local charities and community organisations.

This year, students focused on two important local enterprises: Sunnyside Rural Trust and the Hospice of St Francis.

The scheme trains teams of students in essential Management Consulting skills as they explore solutions to a particular business issue faced by a local charity, not for profit organisation or social enterprise. TSC is now in its sixth year at Berkhamsted as an extension of the placements we offer through our Careers and Community Service Departments.

“It was all the more rewarding when I realised we were helping a Hospice!”

“It was a privilege working alongside the students,” said Zoe McGee, Deputy Manager of Sunnyside Rural Trust. “They really listened to the information that we gave them, and they took great care in finding suitable recommendations to further develop our cafe and farm shop. I look forward to implementing their suggestions and seeing them at the cafe.”

Would this year’s student consultants recommend the programme to others? Definitely! “It allows you to gain real world experience interacting with real clients,” one student said. “You get a fulfilling feeling knowing you have actually helped people.”

A key objective of the project is to encourage students to see volunteering and engagement with the local community as the norm, whilst gaining valuable business experience and developing key employability skills.

These include independent learning and research skills, strategy, communication with clients, presentation and communication skills, teamwork, confidence, and real-life business experience. Most importantly, students learn to deliver – no matter what!

The skills that TSC offers to students makes it a popular choice among budding business and consulting students, providing a unique experience that stands out on a personal statement or CV. “I was interested in a career in consultancy after investigating specific roles in the business sector, and saw that this opportunity was available, so I decided to take it,” one student said.

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Learning Leaders This year Learning Leaders continues to be a grow as a unique enrichment opportunity for our Sixth Form. In October we put our shortlisted applicants through a tough team task which mirrors industry recruitment assessment centers.

Our aim is to enhance links between industry and the learning processes students are developing in school to make them more attractive candidates for employers, develop vital soft skills that employers are looking for and enable them to flourish in future careers.

As well as expanding their understanding of metacognition our Learning Leaders receive internal training including coaching based on the Graydin model adopted by staff. They have also enjoyed talking to experts from industry such as Andrew Hart, lawyer, on the theme of interview techniques, resilience and career development plan, and Georgie Fienberg Exceptional Leadership, on the theme of emotional intelligence, psychology, diversity, inclusion and high performance.

Most recently they visited Understanding Recruitment in St Albans where our Learning Leaders gained so much from the team there, including from recent graduate recruits and those who recruit them about recruitment, CVs and personal branding Our Learning Leaders are invaluable in leading learning in our school community through a host of activities including preparing revision advice and reflection videos for Years 9, 10 and 11, supporting in Learning Pathway sessions and cascading their learning through Sixth and Senior assemblies.

Ms A Attfield Head of Leadership

Learning leaders has given everyone involved an array of exciting and unique opportunities. I feel that the Learning Leaders of 24/25 have made a real difference within the school community.

Successful projects including assemblies to spread our knowledge to younger years and the Year 9 Learning Leaders initiative, have given us confidence and taught us a lot. We have had expert training on metacognition, coaching, public speaking and more.

We have had a lot of fun whilst gaining so much crucial knowledge for life beyond school and becoming a better team here at Sixth. I am so grateful I could be a part of this programme and I am excited to see where the next team will take it!

- Lauren A

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Humanutopia In November, newly appointed Year 12 Student Wellbeing Ambassadors undertook two workshops run by Humanutopia, an organisation working to “empower young people to make positive change”.

The morning of the first workshop focused on developing essential soft skills such as communication and leadership, teaching the Year 12s ice-breaker games and questions to make people feel comfortable in new environments. In the afternoon, it was time to put these skills into practice as Year 5s and 6s from Berkhamsted Prep and Heatherton joined the session – to the surprise of the Year 12s who had no idea they were coming!

Pupils were put in mixed groups, interacting with new people from different year groups and schools.

Year 12s stepped up to the challenge to become ‘Team Heroes’ and lead their group through a series of games. These activities were a chance for Year 12s to take the lead and encourage younger pupils to be confident, while Prep pupils were able to meet with older students and hear from them as role models.

“These workshops plant seeds in young minds to give them the confidence to step outside of their comfort zones in an unfamiliar environment,” says Mr G Anker, Deputy Head Pupil Wellbeing and Development.

“This provides them with a safe space in which to do so.”

This took the form of a ‘Who Am I?’ session with Year 9s across both the Boys and Girls Schools.

Humanutopia representatives started the day with a reflection on some of the hardships they had faced throughout their lives, sharing their unique experiences and inviting a few brave pupils to do the same. Pupils were shown that you can never know someone’s life experience just by looking at them, which reinforced the message of treating everyone with kindness and respect.

While there were certainly a few nervous faces at first, by the end of the session there was laughter and enthusiasm from everyone across the different year groups. The Year 12 Heroes displayed kind and inclusive behaviour that made everyone feel a valued member of their team. Pupils even managed to find five things they all had in common with each other, despite their perceived differences!

The second part of the ‘Who Am I?’ session was much more uplifting, although not without its own challenges. Once again placed in mixed groups, pupils faced the intimidating task of working and communicating with people they did not know.

Light-hearted games and ice-breakers gave pupils to opportunity to ask ‘Who am I in a team?’ and work on developing their conversation skills.

After the success of the first Humanutopia workshop, the Year 12 Heroes were ready for their second challenge.

Year 12s imparted some words of wisdom to their fellow pupils, looking back at their Year 9 selves to consider what they would have done differently.

“Remember that change isn’t a bad thing,” one student said. “Put yourself out there, and don’t always follow your friends,” another advised.

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2025 • Sixth Opportunities At the end of the session, Humanutopia asked pupils why these activities are important. “It builds good foundations and skills for later life,” one pupil suggested. “You will always have to work and interact with different people throughout your life,” another pupil wisely reminded the group.

The day ended with a series of ‘shout-outs’ to members of each group who had contributed positively – as a good leader, a keen listener or a team player. Despite only having met each other a few hours ago, every group was eager to nominate each other, showing the impact that a bit of effort can have in a team dynamic.

One Year 12 Hero described the workshop as “a day like no other.” “We persuaded a few of the shyer participants to put their hand up and offer an opinion, and this development was the highlight of my day,” he said. “I’m so glad I signed up for Humanutopia.”

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Employability Dinner Year 12 and 13 students had the opportunity to broaden their horizons at the Old Berkhamstedian Employability and Entrepreneurism Network Dinner.

The dinner was a chance for students to meet OBs who have become experts in their field since leaving Berkhamsted School, and hear about the important skills and practices that supported them.

While the job market is ever-changing, advancements in technology and artificial intelligence mean employers are seeking out demonstrable soft skills more than ever. As the OB speakers highlighted, communication, leadership and teamwork are essential facets of success.

The evening began with a drinks reception for students to introduce themselves and mingle with the OBs. Students confidently approached their guests and asked them about their careers, gaining an insight into the variety of sectors represented across the event. The range of fields included a Parliamentary Assistant, a Global Talent Acquisition Lead, a Sustainability Consultant and a Modern British Art Specialist. Students were placed on tables with someone related to their field of interest, however, the guests addressed the entire room with inspiring speeches in between courses.

Speakers shed light on their career journeys, imparting useful advice that even students not interested in their field could take away. Many of the OBs spoke about embracing uncertainty and having the courage to try something different, even if that means risking failure. Adam Nickless, a Brigade Staff Officer for the British Army, discussed imposter syndrome and the myth of the ‘golden career pathway’. He reminded students that if they ever feel nervous or underqualified in a position, they should remember that their employer trusted them throughout every step of the application.

Helen Richardson, Company Secretary for FTSE listed Investment Trusts, highlighted the importance of flexibility and pivoting away from the path you might have initially planned. She also encouraged using university as a chance to explore extra-curriculars and develop soft skills, citing her passion for musical theatre as a great way to build the confidence she now applies to her career. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to see real-life examples of adaptability, resilience and determination from past pupils who are now flourishing in their fields.

The evening gave students the chance to build contacts with established people in their sector, as well as practise networking skills that will prove vital for them in the future. It was also a great time to pick the OBs’ brains on career guidance and university choices, allowing students to better prepare for the future.

Berkhamsted is delighted to continue a long-standing relationship with our alumni and extend our thanks to everyone who returned to offer advice our current students. We hope to see these students return in a few years’ time to continue to Serve Others and support future students in achieving their ambitions.

“You will always add value to your organisation,” he said.

“It may seem small to you, but it will be huge to them.”

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Oracy Mentoring A group of Year 12 students worked tirelessly during Lent term to design and deliver an oracy workshop for Year 6 pupils at Berkhamsted Prep.

The students were tasked with designing a session that would inspire pupils to face their fears and embrace their voices.

Led by Anna Chatwin, Deputy Head of Teaching, Learning and Innovation, the workshop was formed of two parts. First, the Year 12 students attended training hosted by an external speech coach, where they were asked to consider what makes a good orator. Examples such as Stephen Fry, Tony Blair, Barack Obama and even some Berkhamsted teachers were discussed in detail. Students identified that pitch, tone, volume, speed and emotion all contribute to a compelling speech. These can be boiled down to the cornerstones of public speaking: the three Ps (pitch, pace and pause).

Armed with their new knowledge, the Year 12s set to work designing workshops for the Year 6s. With only two Sixth Form students per group of ten Year 6s, they had to brainstorm ideas for keeping pupils engaged. Discussions around inclusivity, setting boundaries and promoting listening all helped build productive session plans that would help the young pupils embrace their voices.

“Sometimes the best teaching is when we’re not involved,” Anna Chatwin says. “This is a great leadership opportunity for the Year 12s, and the impact they will have on the Year 6s is arguably greater than that of teachers – they are influential figures in their school journey.”

On the day of the workshop, the excited Year 6s were introduced to their mentors and quickly got stuck in with some icebreaker games that focused on the importance of communicating.

One group was tasked with organising themselves into categories without speaking to one another, while another played an energetic game of charades.

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A play on the classic radio show ‘Just a Minute’ saw pupils try to talk for as long as possible without hesitating or using filler words – certainly a challenge!

After a round of games, the Year 12 mentors focused on storytelling and using the three Ps to help elevate speech. Pupils shared their fears and how they overcame them, and gave feedback to one another on their use of pace, pitch and pause.

Mentors stepped in with constructive comments like ‘speak more slowly’, ‘project your voice’ and ‘think about what you’re going to say before you say it’.

At the end of the workshop, pupils were confident in the skills needed to be a good orator.

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2025 • Sixth Opportunities But this was just the beginning of the challenge for the Year 6s! Pupils were then asked to create a video on the theme of ‘embracing your voice’, using the lessons they had learnt in the workshop to take their speech to the next level.

Some of the Year 6s were then invited to speak at a Sixth Form assembly to showcase their skills and model strong oracy back to their mentors. This was a daunting task, but one they were well equipped to tackle!

This student-led approach was empowering for both year groups involved and will continue to forge strong connections across the Schools Group.

For many of our current Year 6s going into senior school as Year 7s next year, their oracy mentors will be at the top of the school as Year 13s – acting as role models and mentors, but also a friendly face representing the end of their Berkhamsted journey.

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Academic Gala With a theme this year of ‘Sustainability’, we were delighted to invite Nicola Stopps to speak at the Academic Gala Evening in March. A memorable night included a keynote speech by Nicola, an expert in the sphere of corporate sustainability, speeches by many current Berkhamstedians, a lively debate conducted by Bea and Owen in Year 11 and live music performed, yet again, by our very own students.

It is this proactiveness from students that defines the annual event - this, its third incarnation. It really is the finest display of organisation from a student body that exists at Berko, with everything from the ice-breakers and quizzes to the catering arranged by members of the Academic Committee. We will once again very much look forward to hosting the event in 2026, with a new cohort of young students able to experience a truly remarkable event.

- Henry M

The Crawford Society The Crawford Society is our School's academic committee, led by Mr Harrison where students are able to freely present on a topic which interests them in front of other students. This occurs weekly and crosses a wide variety of topics from ‘The Physics of Roller Coasters’, ‘Social Media and its Impact on Criminal Cases’ and ‘How Social Labels can Become Life Sentences’.

The Crawford Society also hosts an annual ‘Crawford Conference’ in Trinity term, which gives all Year 12 students a chance to present a shorter talk to a smaller audience if they didn’t get the opportunity to throughout the year, or if they are not typically confident public speakers. Over 110 students signed up to do a talk in the conference covering the theme of Origins. It was amazing to see the way students interpreted the theme, with talks ranging from ‘The Origins of Black Hole Physics’ to ‘The Origins of Christianity in the Roman Empire’.

- Patrick L

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New Sixth Form Building opens We are delighted to announce that our new Sixth Form is now open and in use! Named after leading architect and Old Berkhamstedian, the Zaha Hadid Building is purpose-built to foster independence and collaboration, preparing our students for life beyond Berkhamsted.

Students were buzzing with excitement as they took their first steps into the state-of-the-art building.

The impressive size and space of the building, with secure keycard entry, offers a learning environment tailored to the needs of Sixth Form students as they transition from school to adulthood.

Year 13 settled in to the building in March, making use of the modern work spaces to prepare for their upcoming exams, and unwinding with a coffee in our brand-new café and social space. In our innovatively designed classrooms, students now sit around boardroom-style tables to promote studentled discussion and debate. This style of learning, built around the Harkness Model, encourages active learning and prepares students for university and the workplace.

The open-plan design of the building imitates modern offices and inspires students to grow into independent young adults. Our dedicated ‘Future Zone’ is open for local entrepreneurs to co-work and meet with our students, offering vital advice and networking opportunities far beyond the realms of the classroom.

With its distinct identity and design, the Zaha Hadid Building provides the space for students to flourish as they take the next steps in their Berkhamsted journey and look to the future.

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Charities & Community

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Charities Berkhamsted's Social Entrepreneurs Project As part of the Social Entrepreneurs Project in STRETCH, my group and I decided to host a Just Dance Party at the Pre-Prep for Year 2.

We came up with this idea as we found it was the best way for us older years to mix with the younger ones and get to join various parts of Berkhamsted community together: Kings, Castle, Pre-Prep and the Outdoor Ed Team.

The charity that we were raising funds for is called WeSeeHope, providing education and apprenticeships to 17-year-olds and other ages in Sub-Saharan Africa, who do not have those same opportunities as us. The target we initially set ourselves was £500, and we began planning the event. First, the marketing team (Eliza, Lottie and Immy) set up a JustGiving Page, where the whole group chipped in and immediately started receiving donations from keen parents.

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After that, it was the finance team – Hudson, Harvey, Ethan, Seb, Finley H and Finley S – who decided on the budget and financial reporting for sweets and other things needed for the day. Later on, the Sales team consisting of Sophie, Saskia, Poppy, Ruby, Joseph and Kevin lead the sales and monitoring of donations, and throughout our MD’s Lottie and Eliza and HR’s Saskia and Finley S helped regulate what was going on in our Stretch lessons.

Finally, when the day arrived, Beth and Ross from Outdoor Ed kindly drove us to the Pre-Prep with Madame Knibb and Mr Kerr-Shaw. We set up our station of sweets and drinks and with a pre-planned list of songs got started! It was amazing seeing how energetic and cheerful everyone was, with pupils and the teachers getting involved with the younger ones and the dances.

It was a huge success with £ 1,015 raised for WeSeeHope, meaning we doubled our initial target!

Thank you so much for everyone that donated and contributed to such a lovely afternoon.

- Eliza S

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Chaplaincy ‘ I lift up my eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth’ (Psalm 121:1)

We began this academic year with a Chapel service reflecting on Psalm 121 – our School Psalm.

We explored the Psalmist’s description of their journey through the mountains, facing all sorts of adventures, dangers and obstacles, but how the Lord helped them to reach their destination safely.

As we look back on the past year of Chaplaincy at Berkhamsted, we too can give thanks that our help has come from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.

Our Founders Day in October was a special celebration of the founding of our school by Dean John Incent in 1541. Rev Taylor shared the story of how she found her voice as a teenager when a teacher encouraged her to speak in assembly for the first time. It’s been wonderful to see many of our pupils stepping into speaking roles in Chapel, whether reading at our Carol Services; speaking on Remembrance Day; or sharing their testimonies at our Confirmation Service. The skill of oracy is something we’ve been particularly helping our pupils to develop at Berkhamsted this year.

Christmas provided many opportunities to celebrate, with our choirs and brass band enabling us to sing along to familiar carols and enjoy listening to some magnificent anthems. In the season of Lent, we had a special Evensong service that reflected on the theme of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness.

We entered chapel to a wonderful organ voluntary played by Lawrence and then the choir sang a Litany to the Holy Spirit before leading us beautifully through the sung responses of Evensong. Easter was a joyful time, marked by services across our six schools. We had Archdeacon Charles Hudson as our guest speaker at our Sixth Form Easter Service and he explored the Christian hope that Christ is risen and has gone ahead of us.

A highlight of this year was our Confirmation Service on 10th June. We had nine candidates, both pupils and staff, who attended confirmation

Remembrance Day was a poignant moment across our school community, particularly as we marked two minutes silence in our Quads at Castle and Kings at 11am on the 11th November.

Members of the CCF did the exhortation and we had trumpeters playing the Last Post. During our Chapel services that week a Sixth Form student, Jashan, delivered a moving presentation about the contribution of the Indian army in the First World War and helped us to remember all those young men and women who have died in conflicts around the world. Students also helped us to mark special faith festivals, including Kashvi, who created some stunning Rangoli sand art for Diwali in October.

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2025 • Chaplaincy classes exploring the Christian faith and deciding for themselves to make a public commitment.

The Bishop of Hertford, Jane Mainwaring, came and confirmed the candidates in a lovely service in our school chapel. The choir sang beautifully, the candidates and congregation received Holy Communion, and our students courageously shared their journey of faith. After the service we celebrated with drinks in the School House Gardens.

Throughout this academic year we’ve had different groups meeting to enjoy chocolate croissants and discuss Christian belief and thinking. Our sixth formers have met on Monday mornings at Castle and a group of girls have met at Kings on Wednesday breaktimes. We’ve looked at the book: ‘Reality and Other Stories – Exploring the life we long for through the tales we tell’. We’ve also enjoyed discussing the themes of chapel, asking questions and thinking about the relevance to our own lives. Kings Chapel has hosted several Prayer Spaces throughout the year, where pupils could engage in activities to help them find peace, reflect or pray.

Towards the end of the year, we came back to Psalm 121 as the theme for our Year 7 and Year 8 Retreat Days. The Psalm begins: ‘I lift up my eyes’ and so we used this as opportunity to see what we notice when we lift up our eyes from our phones, laptops and screens. We did a scavenger hunt at Kitcheners Field and Butts Meadow and then went for a nature walk, noticing what we could see, hear and smell in the world around us. There were wildflowers, ladybirds, butterflies, badger sets, birds, and one pupil even spotted a deer! It has encouraged all of us to take a break from our screens over the summer holidays and to practice ‘lifting up our eyes’ and seeing what treasures, beauty and help we might discover all around us.

Revd. B Taylor School Chaplain

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Digital Retreat Day In June, we held a Digital Retreat Day for all Year 7 pupils to reflect on their use of technology and social media. The day was split into two parts: a device-free nature walk followed by a discussion of the addictive dangers of online algorithms.

Led by our chaplaincy team, pupils were invited to get outside and take note of the natural world around them. Starting with an energetic scavenger hunt, pupils were able to enjoy the benefits of exercise and working as a team. The session then took a more reflective tone as Reverend Becky Taylor reminded pupils of the importance of “lifting up your eyes” from screens and appreciating the world around them. With this advice in mind, pupils continued the nature walk in silence, picking up interesting plants and listening to the sounds of the outdoors. Finally, they used their findings to create beautiful pieces of nature art!

Classroom learning is an essential part of life at Berkhamsted, but we make sure pupils have many opportunities to enjoy fresh air and exercise. While this Digital Retreat Day was designed to spark conscious engagement with the outdoors, our pupils have the chance to get outside each day, whether that be through Games sessions, sports clubs, outdoor education or just kicking a ball around at break.

The second session of the day was focused on technology addiction and echo chambers. Led by our Director of EdTech, Jo Hughes, and Director of Character Formation and Leadership, Benjamin Kerr-Shaw, the session started with a quiz to identify what type of technology user pupils are. Are you a passive scroller, a social sharer, a keen gamer, or a curious clicker? While social media, messaging platforms, entertainment, games and the internet all have value, spending too much time on any one of these can be damaging. Once pupils identify where they spend the most amount of their time online, they can start to put strategies in place to limit their use.

that knows what you like to watch can be great for entertainment, but may have limitations if it turns your social media into an echo chamber. The importance of fact-checking and listening to a wide range of opinions was emphasised, demonstrating how our pupils are already becoming responsible and critical technology users.

In September 2025, pupils from Year 7 will not be allowed to bring a mobile phone onto the school site. This is part of our plan to protect pupils from the distracting and potentially dangerous influence of social media. While we utilise technology to enhance pupils’ learning experience during the school day, this is rigorously monitored and led by the latest EdTech research. And it is always balanced out by a healthy dose of running around outside!

Pupils then moved on to discussing how social media companies design addictive content to make money and gather data. They considered how an algorithm

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Valetes Emma Watson (2018-2025)

But perhaps more impressive is the way Emma balanced all her brilliance with warmth, humour and a healthy sense of mischief. She has brought kindness and clarity to students and staff alike, and we’re all the better for it. Emma’s passion for education, but in particular girls’ education, has shone through over recent years, looking to break down barriers and empower girls to believe that anything is possible.

Emma was truly a force of nature at Berkhamsted: a leader, a confidante, and a whirlwind of positivity.

Her energy and coaching wisdom will be sorely missed.

Thank you, Emma- it has been an absolute joy.

- Nick Cale and Tom Hockedy

Emma arrived at Berkhamsted in 2018, to the newly created role of Deputy Head of Pupil Wellbeing, and since then has carved out not only a job, but a legacy defined by tireless dedication, laughter and advocacy for girls’ education. She went on to work as Deputy Head of Sixth, before becoming Head of the Girls’ School for three years, and brought an unstoppable energy to each role.

Emma is maddeningly capable of everything she turns her hand to. A strong advocate for girls’ education, leadership and curriculum development, she was able to drive strong positive changes across the School. Her numerous academic accolades, including a BEng in Aerospace Engineering, an MBA, and MRAeS status (Member of the Royal Aeronautical Society), reflect how intelligent and driven she was as an individual.

The School community would best be reminded of her extraordinary talents on Remembrance Day, where she would proudly display her Army Air Corps medals, from two tours of Iraq in 2005 and Afghanistan in 2008. Her ability to fly a helicopter always left staff in awe.

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Tom Hadcroft (2022-2025)

that boys could run across the grass, and he took care to prioritise the development of the role of Head of House, as well as those in the role.

One didn’t have to spend long with Tom to hear him guffaw with laughter, or for him to offer encouraging agreement (“a hundred percent” was one catchphrase!), and he was meticulous in discovering what the interests of others were, and learning about them, so that he could engage in conversation on others’ terms. He was a permanent fixture at pupils’ performances, on Chesham Road Fields and Kitchener’s (pushing his bike around the touchlines), supporting, celebrating and chatting.

Tom Hadcroft joined the Boys School in January 2022, and left at Easter 2025. He remains the only colleague of my experience whose previous and next employers have asked for a bit more of him: when he was moving here, his headteacher asked to keep him for one additional term, and when he was leaving, his next employer tracked me down on sabbatical and pleaded with me to release him a term earlier. His tenure at the Boys’ School demonstrated why.

First of all, Tom’s care for the boys was clear: he was grieved if they let themselves down, and he was elated at their successes. Boys knew that he cared about them individually and collectively. He sought to ensure that each boy was well looked after, developed and – where necessary – challenged. He was positive to the boys, proud of them, and set high standards and expectations. In particular, he set out to continue the work of his predecessors to make the Boys School a kinder and more inclusive place – on one occasion inviting a school friend of his to talk about life as a gay professional sportsman in the 1990s, to highlight the importance of inclusivity.

Tom’s congenial company made him an excellent Head, to pupils and to his colleagues, in public and in private, in good times and bad. His empathy, integrity and sunny disposition were allied to an ambition which made him restless for pupils to do their very best, and he could be tenacious and persevering in continuing to demand better from some pupils, too.

Recruiting good people, and working hard at training them, makes the news that they are moving on a constant risk. And so Tom’s departure, to be Deputy Director of Aiglon College – one of the leading private schools in Switzerland, a country he had worked in earlier in his career – was not surprising.

They say that the secret of show business is always to leave your audience wanting more – and, like the schools which bracketed Tom’s employment at Berkhamsted, the school community was sorry to say goodbye, while at the same time grateful for the ‘Hadcroft years’.

-Richard Backhouse

In three and a half years, Tom fully embraced Berkhamsted and its community. He was delighted to discover a famous professional sports photographer was a former pupil and invited him back to speak to boys, and launch a photography competition, he liberalised use of the Grass Quad so

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Justine Phillips (2000-2025)

Russell, yet her influence is profound. She has enriched countless Shakespeare Days and I was grateful for her assistance at my Berkhamsted Finishing School. Her humour, hidden just beneath the surface, has lit up the Common Room — as long as you're prepared for the occasional excuse my French moment (quite literally — being part French herself!) Justine will freely give nutritional advice – her look of horror when saccharine treats are passed around at department meetings always amuses us - she will not sugar-coat her sentiments!

The Portrait of a Lady

Great Expectations From the moment Justine arrived at Berkhamsted 25 years ago, she brought with her an extraordinary professionalism, a quiet determination, and an almost mythical devotion to the apostrophe.

Whether teaching the soaring poetry of Keats, the tragic cadences of Miller and Williams, or the moral depth of To Kill a Mockingbird, Justine has guided her students with clarity, precision, and care.

Stylish, sophisticated, and self-deprecating, Justine has always carried herself with poise. The girls have long admired her fashion sense; we have admired her grace under pressure. Her radiant smile — usually the result of a well-placed naughty joke — can truly change the tone of a day. Two of Justine’s greatest legacies came through the school themselves: Nicholas and Madeleine, of whom she is rightly proud. Her devotion to them is inspirational and both have flourished under her steady, loving guidance.

Hard Times

Behind the classroom door, Justine is at her best.

There, in her natural habitat — armed with her resources — she has quietly, effectively, and inspirationally shaped minds and lives. She’s generous with her ideas and is a greatly revered academic presence in the department.

Justine has been a friend to many during life’s more challenging chapters. She’s the person you can rely on for a thoughtful ear over a cup of tea; her presence has been a comfort more often than she likely realises. With the very recent passing of her mother, we are in awe of Justine’s strength and can only impress upon her that whilst she is leaving Berkhamsted, we are certainly not leaving her.

Much Ado About Marking

Far from the Madding Crowd

No one marks quite like Justine. Justine has managed to convince generations of students (and a few colleagues) that semi-colons do matter. Her red pen dances across the page with the same grace she brought to the Strictly Common Room Dancing floor — a trained ballerina, who could forget her moving so beautifully to Skyfall? Like everything she does, it was poised and polished with a twinkle in her eye.

Justine’s retirement promises dancing, art, reading, and wonderfully — her new allotment. There is something quietly perfect about that image: Justine tending to nature, far from the red pen, but still with purpose and care.

A Room of One’s Own

As You Like It Justine may not be too well known beyond the English Department corridors or beyond the houserooms of Reeves, Wolstenholme, and

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A Farewell to Arms As Justine takes her final bow at Berkhamsted, we know she’ll continue to dance through life with elegance, wit, and just a hint of mischief. We thank her for 25 years of wisdom, dedication, loyalty, and laughter.

- Alastair Harrison

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Janet Biddle

Justine Bohitige

(2008-2025)

(2009-2025)

As we say goodbye to Janet, we celebrate the remarkable 17 years of service that she has contributed to our community. Janet has been a steady presence throughout countless seasons of change at Berkhamsted, meeting every new challenge with grace and adaptability. Her depth of knowledge, eagerness to always learn more and her unwavering willingness and patience in supporting others, have made her an invaluable member of the team.

Justine joined Berkhamsted 15 years ago as a Teacher of Media. She has really transformed the subject in her time here. Ex-students have pointed to her teaching and leadership as instrumental in their decisions to do Media at University and in subsequent careers.

Her love of plants transformed our office into a thriving jungle—at one point, we genuinely wondered if a parrot might move in! And it wasn’t just greenery she shared with us. Janet’s baking was always a welcome treat, and her allotment fruit regularly made their way into the office, much to everyone’s delight.

As Janet embarks on a well-deserved retirement (hopefully not just to water more greenery), we wish her endless relaxation, happiness, and absolutely no Teams calls. She will be deeply missed by all of us at Berkhamsted.

She is an excellent teacher inspiring students with her love of the subject and she is an effective practitioner with a calm approach. I noticed in my four years as her line manager that she is exceptionally efficient- she always followed through on students who missed deadlines.

Justine is also a really effective tutor in the Sixth Form combining efficiency with real consideration for the students in her care. She will leave a huge gap in the Sixth From tutoring system next year.

Justine has not made her plans clear yet. They will involve staying in Hatfield close to her mother, daughter and sister. We wish her well for her future plans.

- Ted Savill

- Ash Bavisha & David Ginn

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Natasha Cresswell (2013-2025)

Tasha arrived at Berkhamsted in 2013, a young, free-spirited netball specialist with a genuine care and passion for working with and developing young people. From the very beginning, she was a big character in the department; full of fun, energy, and enthusiasm. Whether socialising with colleagues, playing sport alongside one another, or travelling together on school trips and adventures, Tasha’s presence was always kind, generous and uplifting.

She built connections with pupils effortlessly, and it is easy to see why. With her big smile, kind and open heart, patience, and willingness to listen, she invested deeply in those around her. Pupils felt seen, heard, and encouraged, and through her expertise she coached and developed young people across all ability ranges. From contributing to National Schools and Cup competition wins, to ensuring every pupil found their spark and love for the game, Tasha’s influence has shaped both sporting success and lifelong passion.

care, support, and belonging that pupils and tutors instantly connected with. Under her leadership, St David’s was a happy place to be. She invested in wellbeing, encouraged pupils to flourish, and helped them discover their true selves. She saw leadership potential in every child and constantly sought opportunities for them to take charge and shine.

Alongside her pastoral role, Tasha also spearheaded the development of girls’ cricket within the PE Department. What began with a handful of talented girls playing in boys’ teams quickly grew, under her drive and determination, into a thriving programme.

Within just a few years, multiple girls-only teams were representing the school weekly. Today, the programme boasts over 20 senior girls’ teams, with many pupils progressing into club and pathway representation, and top teams reaching the final stages of national competitions. This remarkable growth is a testament to Tasha’s relentlessness: her commitment to upskilling staff, fighting for facilities, showing up to every practice and fixture, and inspiring others to join her on a journey she truly believed in.

Tasha now leaves Berkhamsted to begin an exciting new adventure with her family. We wish Tasha, Liam, Ottilie, and Boden every happiness as they set up their new beginning together. She has made a lasting mark on the lives of so many staff and pupils, and her friendships will be held dearly.

Stay in touch Tasha, look after each other, and remember the Berko memories with fondness and heart.

- Jo Vila

In the classroom, Tasha taught and led on the GCSE PE curriculum, as well as across the wider PE and Sporting life of the school. She embraced multiple roles and responsibilities, always keen to lend a hand while also developing herself and gaining valuable experience.

Her ambition and love for pupils found a new dimension in pastoral life, where her appointment as Head of St David’s House at the Girls’ School marked the next stage of her leadership journey.

Tasha was meant to work with children, and in the House environment she created a culture of

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Caroline Spooner (2014-2024)

Caroline (Cazza) arrived in 2014 and quickly got to grips in building strong relationships with staff and pupils, and became a favourite amongst the senior, U15 and U13 lacrosse players. She is kind, calm, caring, honest, trusting and emotionally intelligent, and has a brilliant ability to bring the best out in her players, setting high expectations for everyone to reach their own potential, each girl made to feel that they matter, because they genuinely do.

Cazza brought a wealth of experience from the top level of Lacrosse, a genuine love of the game, a willingness to work with all pupils across the ability range, an instant connection with the girls and an absolute gem of a colleague within the department, a lot of fun to work alongside and treasured by us all!

2015 was a memorable year for Lacrosse at Berkhamsted… as a school we had waited 15 years to bring back another National title, and in that year, we managed to claim three!!! Cazza and her mighty 3rd team brought home the inaugural 3rd XII National title, after what was a ‘grey hair growing’, rollercoaster of a day… but… in the final they were never in doubt – they played a calm, steady, possession-based game which confidently won them the title, and I remember the celebrations and joy that followed, cementing core memories for the girls and Cazza, of the feeling, connection and bond that was formed through that moment and triumph. They were National Champions, and no one could take that away from them!

The Boys and Girls PE departments were beginning to merge in 2015, and Cazza saw an opportunity and way forward that would assist the Department in achieving its vision of one whole school Department for Sport. Cazza made the decision to ‘hang up her teaching boots’ and took on the newly formed role of full time PE Department Administrator. Experienced, good fun, a firm understanding of the school, an amazing eye and attention to detail, with a foot placed firmly in our camp, but also with the lens, ears and eyes of a Berkhamsted parent, she enabled us to make decisions that would not only propel the department forward, but in a style and manner that would be well received and supported by pupils, parents and families.

Cazza literally makes the department tick. She is the brains, the engine room, the consistent and the constant. She genuinely cares about the work she is doing and the potential it has to positively impact so many. She plans ahead, often the first in and last to leave, takes work home if she has too, never leaves a job unfinished, will drop everything to prioritise the urgent.

She is kind, respectful, trustworthy and creates excellent working relationships with colleagues.

She has welcomed so many new faces into the department and made them instantly feel at home.

It does not matter whether you have known Cazza for a month, a year, or 11… we have all formed a bond, connection and friendship, we all recognise her generosity, the lift and energy she brings, the release of laughter, and the relief of sharing a worry or concern.

The saying "People will forget what you said, will forget what you did, but will never forget how you made them feel” captures the essence of human interactions and the lasting impact of our emotional connections with others. It's a reminder that the way we treat people and the emotions we evoke in them are what truly leave a lasting impression.

We wish her all the best as she begins the next, new exciting chapter and will always be grateful for her dedication, passion and commitment to the Berkhamsted Sport cause.

-Jo Vila

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Ben Wille

Emma Turner

(2016-2025)

(2016-2025)

Ben Wille leaves Berkhamsted after 8 years teaching Classics. He is a true scholar, and countless students have benefited not only from his sharp mind but also the extremely high expectations he set for all of them. With his background in Natural Science, Ben was, like many a convert, a fanatical Classicist: his knowledge of the Classical world appeared to be encyclopaedic, and he added Greek to his earlieracquired Latin, even offering it in his own time as a subject for those few keen students.

We bid farewell to one of Berkhamsted’s most cherished figures. Emma Turner has been far more than a remarkable colleague. She has been a treasured friend, an inspirational sportswoman, and, without question, a vital force behind the wellbeing and spirit of our community in recent years.

With a love of drama, Ben could be heard reciting passages of Latin in animated fashion, bringing the language and the stories alive. In his time at the school, he has re-fashioned schemes of work, led numerous trips to places ranging from Verulamium and London to Greece, and been a vocal member of the department in debates about the teaching of Classics in our changing world. In addition to this, he oversaw the EPQ programme to a growing cohort of Sixth Formers, managing countless staff and constant project deadlines; the extraordinary results speak for themselves.

He will be sorely missed, and Merchant Taylor’s gain is our loss.

-Tom Allen

A firm favourite at Kings, Emma’s radiant smile could brighten even the greyest of days, and her embrace had the power to steady the nerves of an entire team before a final. Her presence has been a beacon of joy, generosity, and just the right touch of sporting flair.

Emma’s Berkhamsted journey began at the Prep School, where she was already breaking boundaries, becoming a trailblazer by playing on the boys’ football team at a time when girls’ football had yet to receive the recognition it does today. She continued into the Senior School, where her passion and talent for sport truly flourished, particularly in lacrosse and tennis. A true sports enthusiast, Emma’s pedigree is exceptional: a former international lacrosse defender, and a keen player of tennis, squash, skiing, and golf. Yet beyond her accolades, what truly defines her is her openness to growth, her constant willingness to engage, to learn, and to model the journey of self-development she so passionately encourages in others.

In 2016, Emma returned to Berkhamsted as a Teacher of Physical Education, and from that moment, she has been a dynamic and uplifting presence. As Head of House, she inspired and empowered a generation of Wolstenholme pupils.

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Sarah Legg

As Head of Tennis, she championed inclusivity and opportunity for all. And as the legendary Super 2s lacrosse coach, she led with humour, heart, and those signature, soul-soothing hugs. Whether under floodlights, on long coach journeys, or in quiet moments of reflection, Emma has been a steadfast teammate, lifting us with laughter and grounding us with care.

(2018-2025)

By her side throughout has been Blue, her loyal and beloved dog. More than a pet, Blue has served as a wellbeing ambassador, a furry therapist, and an honorary member of staff. Together, Emma and Blue have brought comfort, companionship, and joy to countless members of our community.

Now, Emma embarks on a new chapter, returning to the South Coast, to the sea air and the embrace of family and friends. As she steps into her new role as Director of Sport at Sherborne Girls, we have no doubt she will continue to champion girls’ sport, nurture individual potential, and lead with the same courage, authenticity, and warmth that have defined her time with us.

-Louise McCallum

Seven years ago, the wind changed direction, and like Mary Poppins floating down on her umbrella, Sarah Legg landed in Berkhamsted. With a twinkle in her eye, she rolled up her sleeves and got down to the serious business of teaching Classics, quickly realising that the best way to get her pupils to learn was to make it fun. To watch one of her lessons was to return to childhood oneself, to be drawn into the story-telling, the characters, the magical ancient world. Her enthusiasm for her subject is infectious, and there is a generation of Berkhamstedians who have her to thank for kindling their love of Latin and Classics. Commitment is a word often over-used, but in Sarah’s case it is barely ample to describe her utter dedication to her pupils, which she put at the very centre of everything that she did. And they knew this: she was a firm favourite, especially at King’s, where she was a devoted Tutor and then Deputy Head of House, but also amongst Prep School pupils – where she ran a weekly after-school club for several years. So many of our students have left the school but kept in touch with ‘Miss Legg’. It was apt that in one of her last acts, the Staff Pantomime Berkmythsted, she guided us all around the Classical world. The wind changed direction once again, of course, and she leaves the School, the Common Room and the department immeasurably worse off without her, taking her unique brand of positivity to Bedford Modern; they are lucky to have her.

-Tom Allen

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Clare Tan (2018-2025)

Clare’s contributions to both the academic and pastoral life of the school have been remarkable.

Her creativity, warmth, and dedication have left a lasting mark, and she will be greatly missed by colleagues, students, and parents alike. We wish Clare, along with her sons Diego and Enzo, every success and happiness as she embarks on the next chapter of her life in Thailand.

-Alyson Le Francois

Janet Ward Clare joined Berkhamsted School in 2018, arriving from Cambodia with her two young sons to build a new life in the UK. From the start, she has been a valued member of the Chinese Department, gaining her teacher training here under the mentorship of the highly regarded Mr Cruickshanks. Her dedication and passion have made her an inspiration to students, whether through classroom teaching, workshops, clubs across both Senior and Prep schools, or educational trips, including visits to London’s Chinatown. Clare has also contributed to the wider educational community, leading A Level Chinese CPD sessions for teachers from other schools and organising the successful Singapore/ Malaysia trip after a previous excursion was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Beyond her teaching, Clare has made an exceptional contribution to pastoral care. She began her pastoral work in Churchill, moving on to St David’s, Reeves, and then spending two years as Deputy Head of Fry’s before becoming Head of House. Parents have praised Clare for her enthusiasm and dedication, noting her commitment to supporting students and fostering a strong sense of community and loyalty within her house. One parent commented: “Clare has inspired my son with a passion for learning a really tricky language as well as a love of languages. She is one of those teachers he will always remember fondly.”

(2018-2025)

Jan began working at Berkhamsted in April 2018.

Together with Sam Harrison they became the first ‘job share’ receptionists at the Kings Campus and what a team they made.

We will miss Jan but wish her the best of luck in her next adventure as she gets to spend more time with her mum, playing lots of golf and just enjoy retirement with her husband Dave travelling back and forth to Majorca.

- Pat Hayball

Tutors have also remarked on her energy and commitment, recalling how she could make even the smallest initiatives , such as students donating old shoes for charity, a source of excitement and engagement.

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Kim Dollow

Jonathan Bruce

(2018-2025)

(2018-2025)

Kim has been a truly valued member of the maths department. She has played a massive roll in the development of our Key Stage 4 curriculum, creating Programmes of study three years in advance. She planned each of her lessons in meticulous detail and demanded high standards of all the students under her care.

Jon Bruce joined Berkhamsted in 2018. He was an inspirational teacher and an exceptional Head of Geography. Jon was deeply loyal to his subject and even more so to the people around him. He nurtured colleagues with generosity and foresight, empowering them by aligning their responsibilities with their passions. His commitment to caring for and developing others created a department full of confidence, creativity and purpose.

Kim stood out for the quality (and quantity) of feedback she provided. She played a role in the wider range of activities the Maths Department has engaged in. In particular, she was instrumental to the establishment of a Maths Puzzle Day as well as the Year 10 Maths Feast competition. Kim was full of original ideas, always keen to help with mentoring new members of staff.

Kim was a tutor in New Stede, where she has looked after the pastoral needs of her tutees with kindness and understanding. Her tutees have been very fortunate to have such a dedicated professional.

We’ll miss her sense of humour and ability to bring a smile to everyone she met.

- Simon Fraser

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At the heart of everything Jon did was his unwavering dedication to the pupils at Berkhamsted.

Their wellbeing and academic success guided every decision he made. Jon’s evidence-led approach and tireless work ethic quickly led to excellent public examination results and growing numbers of pupils choosing to study Geography at university.

Jon’s sense of humour and irreverent charm made many of us laugh and was the perfect counterbalance to the only very occasional grumpiness! He is much missed.

- Alison Murray

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Gareth Loh (2019-2025)

a coaching culture at Berkhamsted, from his memorable “how-to” videos to leading intensive coaching camps—demonstrating his commitment to the growth and development of remarkable people, both staff and students.

Gareth’s impact has also been strongly felt in the Sixth Form, where he has had the opportunity to put his coaching to use as a Sixth tutor. His thoughtful and compassionate approach to tutoring has received excellent feedback from both students and parents. He has built trusted relationships and provided consistently wise and empathetic guidance during a crucial stage in students’ lives, setting them up for success at university and beyond.

Gareth Loh leaves Berkhamsted this year to take up a well-deserved promotion as Head of Mathematics —a role that reflects his outstanding contributions and the high regard in which he is held by colleagues and students alike.

Since joining the Mathematics Department, Gareth has grown into a central figure within the team.

With a background in both music and mathematics, he has brought a unique combination of creativity, clarity, and precision to his teaching. His deep subject knowledge and calm, methodical approach have been particularly valued in the teaching of Further Mathematics A Level, where he has been a cornerstone of the provision.

Gareth leaves Berkhamsted with our warmest thanks and congratulations. He takes with him not only a promotion but the deep respect and admiration of all who have worked alongside him.

We wish him every success and happiness in this exciting new chapter -Catriona Buffham

In recent years, Gareth has played a leading role in the development of the KS3 Maths programme.

Working closely with year coordinators, he has revitalised assessment by introducing low-stakes quizzes and a structured programme of reflection, all designed to promote genuine understanding and long-term progress based upon research. A passionate advocate for accessible and conceptually rich teaching, he has also championed the use of manipulatives in KS3. His involvement with the Maths Across Berkhamsted Schools working party has been key to increasing continuity from the prep schools through to the senior school.

Beyond his academic role, Gareth has contributed widely to school life. A talented musician, he has been a familiar and much-valued presence at musical events, including Proms in the Quad. He has also played a central role in introducing andembedding

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2025 • Staff Leavers

Other Leavers Forename

Surname

Years

Caroline Ben Jane Carrena Fiona Rahela Zoe Chloe Maximilian Eleni Mona Katie Gemma Thomas Iain Mandy Chloe James Tom Oliver Elizabeth Sofie Brigita Elliot Lucy James Alice Edward Alexandra

Picton Olamide Challis Thorburn Hicks Rahim Cooper Hopkins Bird Psarros Bowers Stevens Tomlinson Burgess Harrington Chase Wang Goldthorp Pierce Bond Mitchell Gajendra Karaliute Kenyon Pierce Perkins Nicholson Twigger Cant

2004-2025 2005-2025 2011-2024 2012-2024 2013-2024 2019-2025 2019-2024 2021-2025 2021-2025 2022-2025 2022-2025 2022-2025 2022-2024 2022-2025 2023-2025 2022-2025 2023-2025 2022-2025 2023-2025 2022-2025 2023-2025 2023-2025 2023-2025 2023-2025 2023-2025 2023-2024 2023-2024 2023-2024 2024-2025

Laundry Assistant Cleaner Cleaner Cleaner Cleaner Assistant Exam Officer Laundry Assistant Sixth Form Pastoral Coach Physical Education Teacher Geography Teacher & Deputy of Cox's Learning Support Assistant Cleaner Receptionist Head of Performance Peripatetic Music Teacher Senior Admissions Officer Head of Mandarin Head of Academic PE Director of Sport Director of Music Graduate Assistant Chaplain Physics Teacher Graduate Assistant- Visual Content Graduate Teaching Assistant Learning Support Teacher Peripatetic Music Teacher Peripatetic Speech & Drama Teacher Science Technician Sports Graduate Teaching Assistant

Amber

Perry-Jordan

2024-2025

Graduate Teaching Assistant

Ataya

Ombima

2024-2025

Graduate Teaching Assistant

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Position

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2025 • Staff Leavers Edmund Ellie-Marie Francesca Hettie Katherine Miranda Nathan Nicholas Praveen

Wilson Ashford Geldard Griffin George Crawford Piper Welton Riat

2025 • Staff Leavers

2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025 2024-2025

Graduate Teaching Assistant Sports Graduate Teaching Assistant Graduate Teaching Assistant Sports Graduate Teaching Assistant Sports Graduate Teaching Assistant Graduate Assistant- Copywriting Sports Graduate Teaching Assistant Geography Teacher Peripatetic Music Teacher

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2025 • Posts of Responsibility

Posts of Responsibility KINGS HOUSE CAPTAINS AND PREFECTS 2024-25 Holme

House Captain: Molly B

Charity: Grace K

Council: Ellie H

New Stede

House Captain: Sophia B

Charity: Grace H

Council: Lexi L

Old Stede

House Captain: Eliza K

Charity: Willa S

Council: Amber V

Russell

House Captain: Jess K

Charity: Emma P

Council: Sophie S

St David's

House Captain: Genevieve G

Charity: Freya C

Council: Poppy O-H

Stephenson

House Captain: Lucy B

Charity: Seren M

Council: Matilda H

Wolstenholme

House Captain: Ellie H

Charity: Rose F

Council: Katie H

CASTLE HOUSE CAPTAINS AND PREFECTS 2024-25 Adders

House Captain: Henry H

Prefects: Thomas Q, Bradley B, Eisa B

Bartrum

House Captain: Archie W

Prefects: John M, Marcus J, Joshua K

Bees

House Captain: Will S

Prefects: Henry E, Will B, Lawrence F, Charlie M

Cox's

House Captain: Edward B

Prefects: James T, Eddie S, Daniel T

Fry's

House Captain: Thomas C

Prefects: Josh F, Oscar M, Oliver W

Greenes

House Captain: Theo L-E

Prefects: Andreas G, Nikhil L, James B

Loxwood

House Captain: Sean W

Prefects: Toby S, Zac S, Louis S

Swifts

House Captain: Robbie B

Prefects: Lewis G, Dylan S

Tilman

House Captain: Owen S

Prefects: Jamie S-S, Louis C, Archie S

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2025 • Posts of Responsibility SIXTH POSTS OF RESPONSIBILITY 2024-25 Head Girl: Alice S Head Boy: Bruno A Deputies: Emma H, Dominic T, Jashan J, Zaynab U-H

Prefects: Sophie B, Amelia D, Amir K, Ada A T, Joe C, Noah H, Molly K, Poppy C R, Thea G, Hani A

St John's (Boarding House Captain): Ada A T Incents (Boarding House Captain): Hani A

Digital Innovation Rep: Tom P

TUTOR GROUP REPS: HOUSE Aspen Birch Elm Hawthorn Juniper Oak Rowan Willow

A Becky McC Sophie B Lorcan F Alice S Amir K Noah H Ting Z Jonny M

B Maddie M Dominic T Joe C Hugo S Hani A Thea G Hazel T Holly H

2025 • Posts of Responsibility

C Poppy C R Zaynab U-H Dylan E Grace T George B Evie L Tom N Blessing A

D Oliver F Emma H Molly K James B Jashan J Lucy C Anna M Darcey B

E Tasbeeha R Amelia D Tom P Byron B Tom H Bruno A Luke B

189

2025 • Posts of Responsibility

An Interview with the Head Boy and Girl Once the start of Michaelmas term was in full swing, we caught up with Alice S and Bruno A, Berkhamsted’s new Head Girl and Head Boy. We heard about their plans for the year, their takeaways from the position so far, and what they value in a leadership role.

Both Alice and Bruno joined Berkhamsted Prep from schools overseas, from Australia and the USA respectively. Reflecting on his experience, Bruno describes how his nerves at moving to a new country were eased by the ‘really accepting’ school community. For Alice, the ‘incredible’ opportunities that Berkhamsted offered were worlds away from her previous school: ‘I feel so privileged to go here’, she says.

2025 • Posts of Responsibility

Now in Berkhamsted Sixth, the pairs’ responsibilities as Head Girl and Head Boy are driven by a profound belief in Serving Others. ‘Part of the reason I applied was wanting to give back to the school’, Bruno says.

He describes his proposal for a ‘buddy system’, which would see Year 12s tutor Year 11s during their lunch break. ‘We’ve been speaking a lot about legacy. How are we going to impact the school positively, not just for ourselves, but for future years?’

Alice similarly decided to apply for the role with a view to benefitting other students: ‘I wanted to encourage my peers to try everything’. Hoping to inspire engagement with Berkhamsted’s extracurricular opportunities, Alice describes the School’s

190

2025 • Posts of Responsibility ethos as ‘if you want to do it, do it’. She also stresses the importance of interacting with other year groups and meeting new people through extracurricular engagement.

Half a term into their new roles, the pair are enjoying being part of a wider team of legacymakers. ‘It’s really weird to be looking from the other side of the window and seeing the inner workings of the school’, Bruno says. ‘You’ll be talking about something in meetings, and then a few weeks later you’ll see it happening in school and think – wow, I knew about that!’

With both our Head Girl and Head Boy Aiming High, they are keen to stress the importance of taking risks, even if they don’t always succeed.

‘Mistakes are okay’, Alice says. ‘That’s something I’ve learned from this role and throughout my time here. Mistakes are a learning curve, not a failure’.

‘Never treat something as a failure or as a loss’, Bruno adds. ‘Always look on the positive side and wonder – how can I improve from this? How can I better other people from this experience?’

The knowledge and perspective that this role offers reflects the process of working in a real-world environment – something that Alice finds particularly enlightening. ‘It’s obvious that change doesn’t happen quickly’, she says, drawing on an image used by a senior member of staff. ‘It’s like turning a large ship. You’ve got the motivation and the morale; it’s just getting it all moving. There’s a lot of different parts which work together’.

As role models to the lower years, the pair reflect on what makes a good leader. For both, leadership is relationship-based and collaborative, centred around listening to others rather than taking an individual approach. ‘I remember a teacher telling us in Year 8 that in order to be a good leader you have to be a good follower’, Bruno says, ‘so that’s the thing I try to embody’.

‘Empathy as well’, Alice adds. ‘You can never know other people’s personal situations just by looking at them’.

So what does the future look like for our young leaders? Bruno admits that at the start of Year 12 he felt ‘really unsure’ about whether he wanted to pursue his interest in computer science at university or with a degree apprenticeship. However, after meeting with the careers department, he feels ‘very confident’ that he wants to go to university.

Alice similarly faced some uncertainty: ‘I’m really hoping to be a dentist, which does require going to university. I’m not a triple A* academic student, so dentistry is a highly ambitious goal’. On the advice of the careers department, she is planning on taking a gap year before embarking on her ambitious adventure.

2025 • Posts of Responsibility

191

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

Leavers’ Destinations University

Course placed

London School of Economics and Political Science Politics and Philosophy University of St Andrews Biochemistry Biology University of Oxford Chemistry x2 Engineering History Law Mathematics/Mathematics and Statistics Durham University Biological Sciences Business and Management Business and Management with Placement Year Combined Honours in Social Sciences Economics x3 English Literature English Literature and History x2 English Literature and Philosophy Finance Geography History Liberal Arts x2 Marketing and Management Mathematics Natural Sciences Philosophy Theology Imperial College London Civil Engineering University College London Biochemical Engineering Biochemistry History Human Neuroscience Medicine Population Health Sciences University of Bath Computer Systems Engineering Criminology with professional placement International Development with Economics with professional placement Management with work placement Mathematics and Statistics with professional placement or study abroad Physics University of Warwick Classical Civilisation Economics, Psychology and Philosophy (EPP)

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

192

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

Loughborough University

University of Bristol

Lancaster University University of Exeter

University of Sheffield University of York

University of Edinburgh

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

Hispanic Studies History and Sociology Law Mathematics Mechanical Engineering Psychology Sociology Accounting and Finance (with placement year) Economics Politics and International Relations (with placement year) Product Design and Technology (with placement year) Sport and Exercise Science Sport Management Economics x2 Economics and Finance with Industrial Experience Economics with Study Abroad in a Modern Language Geography Law Physiological Science Politics and French Social Policy Social Policy and Politics Business Management x2 Chemistry Accounting and Finance Biochemistry Biomedical Sciences Business and Management with Year Abroad Business Economics Business Economics with Year Abroad Business with Year Abroad Economics Finance: Investment Banking with Year Abroad x2 Media and Communications Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) Psychology x2 Architecture Accounting, Business Finance and Management with Year in Industry Biochemistry Mathematics and Statistics Physical Geography and Environment Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) Psychology Interdisciplinary Futures Mathematics Politics Sustainable Development Veterinary Medicine x2

193

2025 • Leavers' Destinations University of Southampton

University of Surrey University of Birmingham

University of Liverpool

King's College London

University of Reading Queen's University, Belfast University of Manchester University of Leeds

University of Nottingham

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics (BSc MORSE) Midwifery Psychology International Management and Modern Languages (Spanish) with Study or Work Abroad Biochemistry Business Management x2 Business Management with Marketing Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery Criminology x2 Geography Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year Modern Languages and English Literature Politics and International Relations Psychology x2 Psychology and Psychological Practice Sociology Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences x4 Sports Management Business Management International Management Marketing Psychology Accounting and Finance with Year in Industry Artificial Intelligence and Philosophy International Management Physiotherapy Politics Social Sciences Psychology Real Estate Development and Planning Real Estate Finance Medicine Fashion Marketing Mathematics Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) Computer Science Journalism Liberal Arts Mechanical Engineering Politics x2 Product Design Civil Engineering Environmental Science x2 Industrial Economics x2 Industrial Economics with Placement Year

194

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

Kingston University Queen's University, Belfast Kent University Worcester University

International Media and Communications Studies Liberal Arts x2 Philosophy and Psychology Politics and International Relations x2 Politics and Philosophy Psychology x2 Zoology Accounting and Finance Business Management Economics and Finance Geography Marketing and Management Politics and Sociology Sport and Exercise Science Criminology and Sociology Creative Writing Liberal Arts Law Accounting and Finance Business Management and Marketing Business (with Foundation Year) Business Management Business and Management Business and Marketing Management Foundation in Humanities Sport Media Media and Performance Music Television and Film Production Creative Music Technology Product Design Sport Business Management Sport and Exercise Sciences Graphic Design Sport and Exercise Sciences Psychology Biomedical Sciences

Goldman Sachs

Degree Apprenticeship

Newcastle University

Cardiff University University of Sussex Queen Mary University of London Nottingham Trent University Northumbria University Oxford Brookes University Cardiff Metropolitan University University of Salford Falmouth University Bath Spa University Bournemouth University Leeds Beckett University

International Higher Education Music College, Madrid, Spain Barnard College (affiliate of Columbia University), NY, USA University of Mary Washington, VA, USA Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan Application to Australia, 2025 entry 8 students are taking a Gap Year 1 student is applying to the RAF next year

2025 • Leavers' Destinations

195

2025 • Academic Results

GCSE Results 2025 Berkhamsted Boys and Berkhamsted Girls celebrated record breaking results, with 75.5% achieving grades 7–9 – even higher than the results achieved in the covid years. In addition, a remarkable 26% of results were at the top grade 9.

to create the conditions for their success at A Level, but also to prepare them exceptionally well for university and/or the professional world.

Congratulations to Year 11 Class of 2025 on your fantastic results!

Tom Hockedy, Headteacher of Berkhamsted Boys, stated: “Our pupils have made us all very proud today with the maturity they have shown in their approach to their GCSE studies. These outstanding results are the outcome of learned behaviours such as self-motivation, curiosity and perseverance which have led to the cohort securing the highest results on record for grades 7-9.

This is especially impressive when you consider they started their secondary schooling during Covid. Each pupil should feel proud of their achievements today.”

Jo Vila, incoming Headteacher of Berkhamsted Girls from September 2025, agreed and commented: “I have been so impressed with the attitude and resilience of the girls in my role as Deputy Head, and following this incredible set of results, I am looking forward to seeing what this cohort goes on to achieve after Senior School at Berkhamsted Sixth and beyond.

They have demonstrated strong leadership qualities and set an ambitious pathway for their peers to learn from and aspire to.”

With strong GCSE results in hand, pupils at Berkhamsted Boys and Berkhamsted Girls are now excited to be transitioning to Berkhamsted Sixth where the new Zaha Hadid building, the pastoral, academic and careers support, and the continued focus on character development will help not only SUBJECT

9

8

7

6

5

TOTAL 482

491

427

264

123

4 AND UNDER 68

RAW% 26.0%

26.5% 23.0%

14.2%

6.6%

3.7%

CUMULATIVE % 26.0%

52.5% 75.5%

89.7%

96.3%

100.0%

2025 • Results

196

2025 • Academic Results

A Level Results 2025 Berkhamsted celebrated another remarkable cohort of students who made the staff at Berkhamsted very proud. In their 2025 A Level examinations, 21.9% of students achieved the top grade of A* and 57.2% of students achieved A*-A grades – a continued increase on 2024 achievements, reflecting their selfmotivation, resilience and ambition.

We spoke to some of our students on A Level results day: “At Berkhamsted, I studied A Level History, Maths and Biology, and I managed to secure the grades I needed to study Law at Oxford. Applying to Oxford is certainly no easy task, but I do believe that Berkhamsted truly equips applicants with whatever resources they need to make a strong and successful application.”

Another student commented: “I achieved an A* in Maths, and As in Physics and Computer Science. I also earned an A in AS Level Further Maths. I have secured a degree apprenticeship in Software Engineering with Goldman Sachs.”

As Berkhamsted publishes our 2025 A Level results, the message is clear: academic excellence is the fruit of a deeply rooted character education. The school’s commitment to developing remarkable people ensures that students leave not only with outstanding qualifications, but with the values, skills, and mindset to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Congratulations to our students who are now embarking on their next journey!

A*

A

B

C

D AND UNDER

TOTAL 155.5

251.5

183

96.5

25

RAW% 21.9%

35.3% 25.7%

13.6%

3.5%

CUMULATIVE % 21.9%

57.2% 82.9%

96.5%

100.0%

2025 • Results

197

2025 • Senior & Sixth Teaching Staff

Staff List 2024-25 As of 22 April, 2025 Senior Management Team Mr Richard Backhouse Principal Mr Martin Walker Vice Principal, Academic Mr Julian Anthony Chief Operating Officer Mrs Tracey Evans Chief People Officer MrThomas Hockedy Headteacher, Berkhamsted Boys Ms Emma Watson Headteacher, Berkhamsted Girls Mr Nicholas Cale Headteacher, Berkhamsted Sixth Mr Richard Thompson Assistant Vice Principal - External Relations Mr Richard Mackay Deputy Head, Berkhamsted Boys Mrs Sarah Gledhill Deputy Head, Berkhamsted Girls Mrs Rebecca Miles Deputy Head, Sixth Mrs Joanna Vila Deputy Head, Co-Curricular Mr Greg Anker Deputy Head, Pupil Wellbeing & Personal Development Mrs Anna Chatwin Deputy Head, Teaching, Learning and Innovation Mr Richard Falder Deputy Head, Curriculum and Assessment.

Mrs Joanna Hughes Group Director of Ed Tech Senior School Teaching Mr Tom Allen Head of Classics Mrs Alison Anker Biology Teacher/Deputy of St David's Miss Cristina Asensio Garcia Head of Spanish Miss Anna Ashby Spanish Teacher Miss Cristina Atkinson Head of Holme House/Spanish Teacher Ms Amanda Attfield Head of Design & Technology Mr Nicholas Baker EAL Co-Ordinator Mrs Rebecca Baker English Teacher Mrs Hannah Barnes English Teacher/Deputy of Greenes Mr Martin Barr Head of Psychology Mr Giles Barton Maths Teacher Mr Stephen Belfield Classics Teacher Mr Maximillian Bird Physical Education Teacher Mrs Nicole Bodlaender

2025 • Staff List

Subject Lead Chemistry 198

2025 • Senior & Sixth Teaching Staff Ms Justine Bohitige Head of Media Mr Oliver Bond Director of Music Mr Christopher Botschin Head of Old Stede House & Design and Technology Teacher Miss Sophie Brand Economics Teacher/Acting Head of Research & Acting Head of Learning Pathways Mr Callum Brown Drama Teacher Mr Jonathan Bruce Head of Geography Mrs Catriona Buffham Head of Maths Mr Jordan Butcher Physical Education Teacher Mr George Campbell Head of Tilman House & Head of Boys Cricket Miss Sarah Cardwell Music Teacher Mrs Mandy Casey Learning Support Teacher Mrs Lynne Chambers Learning Support Teacher Mrs Katy Costin Assistant Director of Sport Mr Mark Costin Head of Girls Cricket Mrs Kate Craigen Psychology Teacher Miss Natasha Cresswell Head of St David's House & Physical Education Teacher Mr Ian Cruickshanks French and Spanish Teacher Mr Dominic Curtis Director of Drama Dr James Cutler Head of English Mrs Ciara Deeley-Kelly Design and Technology Teacher Mrs Kim Dollow Maths Teacher Miss Katie Dunbar English Teacher/Deputy of Russell Mr Richard Egglesfield Economics Teacher Mr Benjamin Evers Physical Education Teacher Mrs Caroline Ferguson Head of Art and Design Miss Gemma Ferguson Head of Religion and Philosophy Miss Isabella Fernandez Head of Sociology/Deputy of New Stede Mrs Katherine Fielden Physics Teacher Mr William Findlay Head of Incents & History Teacher Miss Holly Finnigan Head of New Stede & Maths Teacher Mr Douglas Foster Economics, Business Studies & History Teacher Mr Mark Francis Head of Swifts House/Spanish Teacher Mr Simon Fraser Maths Teacher Mr Victor Fung Business Studies & Economics Teacher Miss Sofie Gajendra Physics Teacher Mr James Gardiner History Teacher/Deputy of Bartrum Mrs Georgina Giusti Art Teacher

2025 • Staff List

199

2025 • Senior & Sixth Teaching Staff Mr Matthew Godman Assistant Head, Berkhamsted Sixth Mr James Goldthorp Head of Academic PE Miss Anabel Gonzalez Rodriguez Spanish Teacher Miss Nicole Graham Head of Stephenson House /Design Technology Teacher Mrs Harriet Green Biology Teacher Mrs Olivia Guillet English Teacher Ms Mia Hansen History & Politics Teacher Dr Andrew Harker Classics Teacher Mr Alastair Harrison English Teacher Mr Thomas Harrison Maths Teacher/Deputy of Frys Mr Russell Hatt Cover Supervisor Teacher Dr Thomas Hedges Computer Science and IT Teacher Mr Amal Hirani Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Miss Amelia Hockedy English Teacher Mrs Meri Holland Cover Supervisor Teacher Miss Elizabeth Holmes Art and Design Teacher Miss Kimberley Holt Joint Assistant Head, Berkhamsted Sixth Mr Andrew Hopper Biology Teacher Mr Luke Hornsey Chemistry Teacher Mr Matt Hudson-Reeve Director of Science Dr Paul Hundal Biology Teacher Dr Adam Jackson Computer Science and IT Teacher Mrs Vathani Janakan Maths Teacher Miss Lucinda Jarvis Acting Assistant Director of Drama/Deputy of Bees Miss Elise Johnson Drama Teacher Mrs Jacqueline Kelley SEN Teacher Mrs Tracy Kergon Chemistry Teacher Mr Benjamin Kerr-Shaw Religious Studies Teacher & Director of Character Formation and Leadership Dr Punit Khare Maths Teacher Mrs Emma Kingdon Learning Support Teacher Mr Nicholas Kirwan Chemistry Teacher Ms Mel Knibb French Teacher Mr Richard Knights Chemistry Teacher Miss Maisy Ledsham Physical Education Teacher Miss Alyson Lefrancois Head of French Miss Sarah Legg Classics Teacher/Deputy of Old Stede Mr Benjamin Lewin Physical Education Teacher

2025 • Staff List

200

2025 • Senior & Sixth Teaching Staff Mrs Charlotte Livingston Assistant Head - Berkhamsted Sixth Miss Gemma Lloyd-Buckingham Design and Technology Teacher Mr Gareth Loh Maths Teacher Dr Glyn MacPherson Physics Teacher Mr Jegan Mahadevan Acting Head of St David's/Maths Teacher Mrs Katie Mahadevan English Teacher Mr Richard Margerison Head of Adders House & French Teacher Mr Alexander Maynard History Teacher/Deputy of Holme Mrs Elizabeth McCloskey Learning Support Teacher Mr Paul Mcgowan Physics Teacher Mr Grant McWalter Teacher/ School Timetabler/Acting Head of Religion and Philosophy Mr Malcolm Melling Head of Ensembles Mr Neal Mercer Maths Teacher Mr Martin Middleton Maths Teacher Dr Neale Monks Biology Teacher Mr Robert Moseley Head of Politics Mrs Alison Murray Geography Teacher Miss Julie Neill Maths Teacher Mr Ben Noithip Head of Solo Performance Miss Jenna Osborn Physical Education Teacher Mr Andrew Ottaway Head of Economics/Business Studies Mr Benedict Oxenham Biology Teacher/Deputy of Loxwood Mr Thomas Padfield Subject Lead Biology/Deputy of Swifts Mrs Diane Pearson Physical Education Teacher Ms Ana Perlini Cover Supervisor Teacher Mrs Justine Phillips English Teacher Mr Tom Pierce Director of Sport Mrs Lucy Pierce Learning Support Teacher Miss Robyn Porter Maths Teacher Mr Richard Pryor Head of Rugby Miss Eleni Psarros Geography Teacher/Deputy of Cox's Miss Vanessa Radom French Teacher Mr Graeme Reid-Davies Head of Bees House/Maths Teacher Miss Natalie Revell Food and Nutrition Teacher Miss Anna Robinson Art and Photography Teacher Mrs Sally Rowe Head of Food and Nutrition Dr Maxim Samson Geography Teacher Mr Simon Savage Physics Teacher Mr Ted Savill Head of History/Senior Head of Department

2025 • Staff List

201

2025 • Senior & Sixth Teaching Staff Mr Jacob Savill History Teacher Miss Zoe Sayliss Geography Teacher/Deputy of Adders Mr George Seller Business Teacher/Deputy of Stephenson Mrs Fiona Seymour Teacher Learning Support Mr Kyle Shiels Head of Academic Music Ms Elizabeth Shipp Religion & Philosophy Teacher Mrs Olivia Short Biology/Chemistry Teacher Mr Stuart Simons Assistant Head - Berkhamsted Sixth Mrs Jane Simons English Teacher Mr James Smith Subject Lead Physics Mrs Carly Spencer French and Spanish Teacher Mr Max Stallard Head of Greene's House & Religion and Philosophy Teacher Miss Charlie-Mae Steed Head of Lacrosse Mr Chris Sutton Head of Boarding and Director of International Admissions & Physical Education Teacher Mrs Cheryll Swarray-Dean Learning Support Teacher Ms Clare Tan Head of Fry's & Mandarin Teacher Mrs Emily Taylor Sociology Teacher Miss Jessica Thackray Head of Cox's & St John's Houses & Drama Teacher Miss Bethany Thomas Food and Nutrition & Design Technology Teacher Mrs Danielle Titmuss-Morris Head of Netball Miss Emma Turner Head of Wolstenholme/Physical Education Teacher Mr David Vila Head of Russell House & Head of Football Teacher Ms Lisa Waitt Head of Learning Support Mr Jeremy Walters-Chong English Teacher Ms Chloe Wang Head of Mandarin Mrs Rachael Warburton Maths Teacher Mrs Anna Warren English & PD Teacher Mrs Danielle Wates Head of Loxwood & Physical Education Teacher Mr Christopher Wells Head of Computer Science and IT Mr Andrew Wilkes Head of Bartrum House & Religion and Philosophy Teacher Mr Benjamin Wille Classics Teacher Senior School Support Staff Mrs Julie Andrews Senior Exams Officer Miss Ellie-Marie Ashford Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Lucy Ashley Food and Nutrition Technician Miss Kathryn Attrill Art Technician Mrs Sadia Azad Head of Senior School Careers and Sixth Careers Coordinator

2025 • Staff List

202

2025 • Senior & Sixth Teaching Staff Mrs Talieh Baird After School Bus Duty Mr Joshua Barton Sports Coach Miss Kelsey Bashford Graduate Teaching Assistant Ms Iona Bewers School Nurse Mrs Mona Bowers Learning Support Assistant Mrs Lynn Boyd-Hall School Counsellor Mrs Fiona Bridgeman Learning Support/Reprographics Administrator Mr Benjamin Caidan Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Miss Alexandra Cant Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Mr James Dudley Athletic Development Coach Mrs Susan Eakin Receptionist (Kings) Mrs Nadine Flanagan Attendance Officer Mrs Rachel Fleming Receptionist (Kings) Mrs Nicola Gann Learning Support/Reprographics Administrator Miss Francesca Geldard Graduate Teaching Assistant Miss Katherine George Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Ms Leanne Gloag School Counsellor Mr Mark Goodman Theatre Manager Miss Hettie Griffin Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Katie Hannah Receptionist (Castle) Mrs Samantha Harrison PA to Headteacher, Berkhamsted Girls Mr Adam Hartley Design and Technology Technician Mrs Patricia Hayball School Secretary/Office Manager Mrs Kathryn Hemming Purchasing Manager Dr Lindsay Hewlett Science Technician - Chemistry Miss Chloe Hopkins Sixth Form Pastoral Coach Ms Margaret Howlett Cover Manager and Co-Curricular Administrator Miss Karin Huber School Healthcare Assistant Mrs Helen Innes Receptionist (Castle) Mrs Rachel Jenkins Senior School Nurse Dr Emily Kenefick School Psychologist Mrs Helen Kennedy Purchasing Administrator Mr Elliot Kenyon Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Melissa Marchant Food and Nutrition Technician Mr Scott Middleton Trainee DT Technician Miss Elizabeth Mitchell Graduate Assistant Chaplain Mr Scott Mitchell Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Susan Mundy Science Technician - Biology Miss Olivia Murray Theatre Technician

2025 • Staff List

203

2025 • Support Staff Dr Barbara Naisbett-Groet Science Technician Mrs Sally Norton Receptionist (Kings) Ms Ataya Ombima Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Cathy Pearson Science Technician - Physics Miss Madeleine Perry Science Technician - Physics Ms Amber Perry-Jordan Academic Graduate Teaching Assistant Mr Nathan Piper Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Sharon Pitcher Sports Department Administrator Mrs Katherine Porter PA to Headteacher, Berkhamsted Sixth Mr James Powell Science Technician - Chemistry Mrs Claire Rees School Nurse Ms Anne-Louise Robens School Nurse Ms Helen Seaward Science Technician - Biology Mrs Nathalie Seymour Music and Drama Co-ordinator Mx El Southwell Theatre Technician Mr Andrew Stephenson Fives Coach Miss Becky Taylor School Chaplain Mrs Nikki Thomas Careers Administrator Mrs Gemma Tompkins PA to Headteacher, Berkhamsted Boys Mrs Kellie Venner Food and Nutrition Technician Mr Lewis Webb Sport Graduate Teaching Assistant Mrs Fiona White Art Technician Mr Edmund Wilson Academic Graduate Teaching Assistant Admissions Mrs Louise Aspell Admissions Manager Mrs Lauren Ginn Admissions Manager (Maternity Leave) Mrs Nicola Doe Admissions Assistant Mrs Donna East Admissions Assistant Mrs Nicola Hutton Acting Admissions Manager Mrs Jennie Peachey International Admissions Officer Central Office Mrs Catherine Barham Mrs Sharon Kirby Mrs Joanna McCulloch Miss Joanna Russell

Compliance Officer PA to COO and Vice Principal Clerk to Governors PA to the Principal

Mr Anthony Tyrer

Data Protection Advisor

Mrs Lucy Carter

School Uniform Assistant

Mrs Alison Harrison

School Uniform Assistant

2025 • Staff List

204

2025 • Support Staff Estates Mr Nicholas Saunders Estates Director Mr Vincent Barling Caretaker Mr Scott Glass Caretaker Mr Giovanni Mazzamuto Caretaker Mr Lee Stickland Caretaker Mr Richard Barley Caretaker/Groundsperson Mr Paul Kuhne Caretaker/Groundsperson Ms Julie Harper Estates Adminstrator Mr Stephen Cripps Facilities Head Caretaker (Senior Schools & Boarding) Mr John Norman Gardener Mr David Pike Gardener Mr Gabriek Chadwick Grounds Person Mr Michael Dell Grounds Person Mr Martin Henderson Grounds Person Mr Steven Davis Grounds Person (Kitcheners) Mr Jonathan Pescott Head Gardener Mr William Herring Head Grounds Person Mr Alan Gillman Head of Estates Services Mr Aaron Jumnoodoo Head of Maintenance Miss Lorraine Clark Head of Project Management (Major & Minor) Miss Shelley Howells Health and Safety Manager Mr Errol Thomas Painter Mr Simon Harris Project Supervisor Mr Keith Parsons Repair & Maintenance Engineer (Electrician) Mr Steve Hammond Repair & Maintenance Engineer (General) Mr Martin Rance Repair & Maintenance Engineer (General) Mr James Smillie Repair & Maintenance Engineer (General) Finance Mr Steve Elliff Finance Director Mrs Tracy Kelley Banking and Finance Administrator Mrs Sharon Mead Management Accountant Mrs Teresa Metcalfe Credit Controller Mrs Andrea Pavoski Ryan Finance - Purchase Ledger Clerk HR Mrs Tara Day HR Manager Mrs Lee Barnes Payroll Officer

2025 • Staff List

205

2025 • Support Staff Mrs Helen Clayton HR Compliance Coordinator Miss Chloe Jackson HR Officer Mrs Helen Janson HR Assistant Boarding Mrs Louise Beddall Incents Matron Miss Laura Beattie St Johns Matron IT Mr Charlie Cochrane Director of IT Mr Ayodeji Agun Digital Innovation Manager Mr Dominic Arnold Senior IT Technician Mrs Ashita Bavisha MIS Manager Mrs Janet Biddle MIS Administrator and IT Support Mr Tristan Bowerman Business Systems Analyst Mr Jason Collingwood Apprentice IT Support Technician Mr Sami Frih Network Technician Mr David Ginn IT Support Manager Mr Sam Heffernan IT Support Technician Mr Christopher Marriott IT Infrastructure Manager Mr Stuart Marriott Media Studies and IT Technician Mr Carl Pepper Power Platform Developer Mr Chris Wye Business Systems Manager Library Ms Andrea Roberts Library Services Manager Mrs Beth Awdry Senior Library Assistant Ms Anna Bosch Librarian Mr Asher Cooper Library Assistant (Maternity Cover) Mrs Bethany Downing Senior Library Assistant Mrs Lesley Koulouris Archivist Mrs Sara Martin Senior Library Assistant (Maternity Leave) Marketing and Communications Mrs Joanne Sammars Head of Marketing and Communications Miss Miranda Crawford Graduate Assistant - Copywriting Mrs Jennifer Hallesy Creative Artworker Miss Brigita Karaliute Graduate Assistant - Visual Content Mr Oliver Moore Visual Content Manager Mrs Karen Rattray Marketing Development Manager

2025 • Staff List

206

2025 • Support Staff Miss Abigail Southam Marketing Officer Mrs Louise Tripos Social Media Officer Outdoor Education Miss Beth Smith Mr Jack Baker Mr Steven Carter Mrs Holly Cross Mr Ross Fowler Mr Duncan Hardy Mr Joseph Nicholls Mr Robert Petrie

Director of Outdoor Education Outdoor Education Development Instructor School Staff Instructor Duke Of Edinburgh Awards Manager Assistant Director of Outdoor Education Contingent Commander of the CCF Outdoor Education Instructor Logistics/High Ropes Lead and Diving

Berkhamsted Society and Old Berkhamstedians Mrs Sarah Cox Berkhamsted Society Office Assistant & Old Berkhamstedian Office Assistant Mrs Vicky Rees

Old Berkhamstedian Office Coordinator

Berkhamsted School Enterprises Mr Jamie Nelson Mr Darren Springate Mrs Vicky Rees Mrs Elaine Winter

Commercial Operations Manager Commercial Operations Officer Manager - Knox Johnston Manager - Knox Johnston

2025 • Staff List

207

2025 • The Old Berkhamstedians

The Old Berkhamstedians With a membership of nearly 8000, The Old Berkhamstedians continue to thrive, enabling former pupils of Berkhamsted School to maintain their friendships long after they have left the School.

Email: ob@berkhamsted.com Tel: 01442 358 111

Berkhamsted Connections, our main communications platform, which has over 3600 members registered online, provides an easy and safe way to communicate between alumni, former members of staff and those within the Berkhamsted School community, and can be accessed through https://connections.berkhamsted.com The website shares news of Old Berkhamstedians, the School and its archives as well as offering a wide range of clubs for our alumni to join including university, sport and industry clubs as well as regional clubs to help spread our network globally.

The website also features our mentor scheme where members can help those Berkhamstedians requiring work experience and career advice, and, when they are looking for work, access to our jobs board.

2024 - 2025 saw us develop more and more events and activities. Highlights of the year including 5,10, and 20 year reunions, the A Level Art exhibition evening and London drinks receptions, as well as our usual sporting fixtures both in local leagues, and, against the School. Next year we are hoping to add to our calendar with industry specific events.

We continue to work with the School, in particular the Sixth Form, offering mentoring, work experience, careers advise and speakers for both the School Entrepreneurism and Employability Dinner as well as part of the super curricular programme. The Old Berkhamstedians continues to support Year 12 students with the Travel Grant and Knox-Johnston award schemes, financially helping students develop their passions and interests over the summer break with an ever-expanding list of activities, charitable work and learning opportunities.

More information on The Old Berkhamstedians can be provided by contacting the TOB office.

2025 • The Old Berkhamstedians

208

2025 • Berkhamsted Society

Berkhamsted Society This has been a fantastic year for the Berkhamsted Society, filled with exciting events and inspiring speakers for the entire Berkhamsted community to enjoy.

On Sunday 25th and Monday 26th August, the Berkhamsted Society, in association with the Berkhamsted Chamber of Commerce, hosted the 2024 Medieval Festival at Berkhamsted School’s Kitchener’s Field.

Over the two days, we welcomed 3,000 visitors who enjoyed a full on programme including battle re-enactments, a falconry display, long bow shooting, a fire eater, a roving minstrel and a medieval village.

Many local businesses and charities exhibited at the event, either selling goods and services or raising their profile within the community. It was a Festival for everyone and one which put the Berkhamsted Society at the centre of the local community.

On Thursday 6th February, we stepped into the world of magic when a capacity audience welcomed Harry De Cruz to Centenary Theatre.

Harry has performed in over 30 countries, from London’s West End to an international arena show, performing for celebrities and four different Royal Families, including our own! Most recently, Harry competed in a competition which he won, crowning him London Magician of the Year 2024/25.

Harry is also the man behind much of the magic you see on stage and screen. He has consulted for some of the world’s biggest magicians and theatre shows including working for Dynamo for eight years as 'Head of Magic' on his TV shows, brand collaborations and worldwide arena tour.

He was the Resident Director for Derren Brown’s 'Unbelievable' and a consultant for West End Shows including 'Groundhog Day The Musical', 'Oliver!', '2:22 A Ghost Story' and 'Back to the Future The Musical'.

On September 6th, we hosted our annual Wine Tasting evening in Old Hall. A large percentage of the participants were parents who were new to the School which was great to see. During the evening, the guests were introduced to six wines from different countries around the world, learning about the different regions, grape varieties, tasting techniques and what to look for when choosing wines. A selection of cheeses and bread accompanied the wines. Father Michael Eggleton, an accredited tutor with the Three Counties Wine School, was the guide for the evening.

At the end of November, we invited guests to our annual Festive Wreath Making Workshop in Old Hall. Florist, Laura Thompson, guided the participants through each process from wiring moss, creating the base, and adding the finishing touches using a mixture of fresh flowers and foliage. With all materials provided, each individual creation was unique. All guests were in full creative swing and would, most certainly, have the most festive front doors in their streets! Neighbours must have been impressed!

2025 • Berkhamsted Society

209

2025 • Berkhamsted Society We were truly entertained as Harry took us through his life story, highlighting major steps in his journey through his exciting brand of magic. A tremendous performer and magician!

On Thursday 27th March, we were honoured to welcome one of the most successful players in rugby league history and now a major fundraiser for charities associated with Motor Neurone Disease, Kevin Sinfield CBE. Kevin has won many Championship and Challenge Cup successes as part of great teams. He also earned individual accolades as winner of the Lance Todd trophy and the Harry Sunderland trophy.

Kevin is one of only five British players to ever win the coveted Golden Boot as well as receiving the following honours: •

MBE: 2014 (services to rugby league football)

•

OBE: 2021 (services to rugby league football and charitable fundraising)

•

CBE: 2024 (services to motor neurone disease awareness)

He started fundraising by running seven marathons in seven days and, since then, he has continued to push himself and others through further physical challenges to raise much-needed funds and awareness for this cruel and debilitating disease.

To date, Kevin and his team have raised millions of pounds from challenges such as: •

7 Marathons in 7 days in 2020

•

101 miles in 24 hours in 2021

•

7 Ultra Marathons in 7 days 2022

•

7 Marathons in 7 days plus THE EXTRA MILE 2023

At the end of the Lent term, the Berkhamsted Society published its Community Impact Report 2025, highlighting its partnership work in the local area.

On 22nd June, the Berkhamsted Society held it's annual 'Proms in The Quad' concert and, for the very first time, invited members of the wider Town community as well as the School community. Once again, it proved to be a resounding success and, I'm delighted to say, the rain just about held off.

The event was compered by Old Berkhamstedian Jed Thirkettle, and pupils from the Prep School all the way up to the 6th Form entertained the 500 strong audience. All genres of music were well and truly represented at this family fun concert.

Funds raised went to 'Team Jed', a charity dedicated solely to raising money for research into Muscular Dystrophy, The Swan Youth Project, a youth drop-in centre in Berkhamsted, and Berkhamsted School's Music Departments.

This was an amazing evening and Kevin's presentation clearly had an effect on the entire audience. His story was both inspiring and humbling as he talked about his friendship with Rob Burrow which captivated those present.

At Berkhamsted, we help to develop 'Remarkable People', and we can say without doubt that Kevin Sinfield is a 'Remarkable Person'. The minute's standing ovation after he had finished speaking was testament to that.

2025 • Berkhamsted Society

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2025 • Friends of Berkhamsted

Friends of Berkhamsted September 2024 marked the start of a new CoChairs group taking on the running of the Friends after the departure of the previous Chair, Secretary and Finance Co-ordinator. We kicked off the year as usual by welcoming new parents in Years 7, 9 and 12 with a coffee morning giving them a chance to meet their Friends House reps and each other. We also held an evening drinks event at the Kings Arms where 60 new parents joined House and Committee reps to be informally welcomed to the community.

October saw the Friends host drop-in coffee mornings in Berkhamsted, Beaconsfield, Amersham and Tring. It was lovely to meet new parents and see them connect, sharing their first impressions of the school and offering any words of wisdom.

Our first big event of the 2024/5 school year was our annual Quiz and Curry Night raising funds for Herts Young Homeless. As usual the quizmasters provided a challenging yet fun set of questions. The evening raised over £2,600 for the charity and this was doubled as part of the the Big Give matching scheme.

The Pre-Prep and Prep ran a hugely successful Christmas Fair which provided festive fun for all the family.

In place of our usual Burns’ Night celebrations we decided to offer a different type of event and organised a Hamper Ball in February. This event involved attendees providing their own food, drink and table decorations competing for a prize for the best. The evening’s entertainment was provided by an Oasis tribute band who brought the house down.

March saw the younger ones enjoying the everpopular Prep Disco which is a highlight of the children’s social calendar attended by nearly all in the Prep School. The Prep Friends also ran a quiz night, again for Herts Young Homeless, which raised £850. This was also doubled via a donation matching scheme.

2025 • Friends of Berkhamsted

The Trinity term started with the Senior school House reps attending House induction evenings where they met with new September 2025 Y7 and Y9 joiners and their parents, helping to allay any fears and answer their questions. We also had the chance to meet those parents again in June at the Induction Day coffee mornings.

A busy weekend in June involved the Pre-Prep and Prep Summer Fair which is a mammoth undertaking and a huge thank you to the Pre-Prep and Prep Friends Chairs, volunteer helpers and staff who put in such a large amount of work. The children all had a fantastic day and the weather largely played ball.

Proms in the Quad was taken over by the Berkhamsted Society this year in conjunction with the Music Department so the event was opened up to local people as well as the School community.

The Friends ran the Pimms and strawberries and cream stalls and a wonderful time was had by all.

Funds from this year’s Friends events have been donated to Senior school Houses for a go-karting trip, house room equipment, an evening at the theatre to see Mamma Mia and an honours board, to name a few and the Friends have also contributed to the annual Y13 Final Fling celebration. There are plans for an adventure play set at the Prep school.

On behalf of the Friends, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended our events over the course of the year either as a guest or a volunteer helper - or both! We could not do this without the support of parents. I would also like to extend a special thank you to my fellow CoChairs, Nicola Barnard, Tanya Odom-Haslett, Jess Paterson and Caron Roberts; the Prep Co-Chairs, Nigel Hogg and Tessa King; the Pre-Prep Co-Chairs, Ciara Kent and Kelly Smith and all the House reps and those on the Friends Committee.

-Clare Edwards, Co-Chair

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2025 • Berkhamsted Boys • Image Gallery

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2025 • Berkhamsted Girls • Image Gallery

Life at Berkhamsted Girls

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2025 • Berkhamsted Sixth • Image Gallery

Life at Berkhamsted Sixth

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2025 • Berkhamsted Boarders • Image Gallery

Boarding at Berkhamsted

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