Flick over to page 6 for an exclusive interview with Mrs Huggett and gain some insight into her experience as Head of College.
08
SOCIETIES IN THE SPOTLIGHT & CLUBS
Explore some of the many highlights in College’s societies as well as our new Film and Videography Club, and the highlights of CCF and DofE at College
14
16 GET TO KNOW YOUR TEACHERS BETTER!
Enjoy some funny and lighthearted interviews with teachers from various departments.
CAPTAINS’ CORNER & SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
Interviews with some of our first team captains and their perpectives and mindsets regarding sports and success. Also enjoy the highlights of sports in 2025
24
INTRODUCING OUR NEW PREFECTS
Get to know the new 2025-26 Heads of School, Heads of Houses and College Prefects, and their motivations for the upcoming year.
14 REVIEWS & ART IN 2025
Viva Cheltonia’s Book and Film recommendations, accompanied by an overview of the Art Department this year and our very own VC Competiton Winners.
26
OLD CHELTONIANS & ACADEMICS
An interview with Boo and how her career has taken off since her time at College. Enjoy the useful study and revision hacks from our very own students
12
MUSIC, DRAMA & QUIZZES
Explore the impressive array of music and drama performances this year, with interviews from contributors. Finally, enjoy our very own College Crossword & Wordsearch!
It has been a real pleasure to serve as the student leaders of this first edition of Viva Cheltonia Collaborating with such a talented and driven team of writers has been an immensely rewarding experience, and we are incredibly proud of what we have created together.
One particular highlight has been the editorial freedom we were given, which allowed us to shape the magazine with creativity and authenticity. Stepping into this kind of leadership role - and supporting younger pupils throughout the process - has been both challenging and deeplyfulfilling. We are especially grateful to Dr Samuel and the Marketing Department for their guidance and encouragement along the way.
We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it, and we look forward to many more editions to come
Sophia & Allegra
e been hugely impressed by the pupil rship on this magazine. The project has been pupil-led, pupil-managed and created. The articles give vivid images hat’s happening at College, while also ring life after College The winning etition entries are fantastic! My thanks the editorial team, the journalists and ose who were interviewed for creating a brilliant first edition!
Dr Samuel
What made you want to become a teacher?
Although we all know of Mrs Huggett both a teacher of history and a hea the age of twenty, a career in ed never crossed her mind Mrs Hugg first years of her working life in a agency in London where she companies like the Red Cross, Pi Andrex. However, after spending so the city, she decided that the coun suited her and her hobbies Know people in the teaching profession, few weeks shadowing teachers in a and later a primary school which she loved and fuelled her decision of becoming a teacher.
What is your favourite thing to do when you gettime off?
On the weekends, you may have seen Mr and Mrs Huggett walking their much-loved cocker spaniel Ruby around town and these walks are allegedly what have inspired some of Mrs Huggett’s best ideas She has also been taking regular lessons at the Cheltenham College swimming pool and now relaxes by swimming twice a week when her schedule allows.
How did itfeel being the firstfemale head ofthis institution?
Although it is inevitably a struggle to challenge stereotypes in such an old school, Mrs Huggett told us that as she had alreadyfaced the issue of being the first female headmistress at her previous school, she felt more comfortable establishing herself when she arrived at College In addition, she felt particularly welcomed by the staff when she joined the management team, even saying that she never felt they presented her with obstacles but supported her as a team in making decisions and adapting to her style
interviewed &written by Isa and Charlotte
What have been y achievements as head o
Mrs Huggett believes that on achievements has been increas pupils attending Cheltenham C around 740. She has also oversee of College Lawn, extended the S up a student board of represen groups who feedback on college made it clear that College woul place that it is without the pupi incredible range of clubs and soc
Where do you plan on portrait painted?
Although she remains undecided, Mrs Huggett is hoping to have her portrait painted in an outside setting, somewher d ll h h b a precious space t
How do you names?
As this is a matter College, we thoug she managed to r year. She put this houses when new herself to new performances and most importantly annotating her boo a new fact about s her book and this name, face and (if to do
UpperCollegeSociety
The Upper College Society is an interdisciplinary academic society, enabling pupils to test themselves in debate, diplomacy and team work This year, we hosted a Model United Nations, chaired by Ellen and Sophia: pupils skilfully represented their nations’ interests in response to the political crisis in Sudan. Sessions also addressed a range of extra-curricular topics ranging from Iona’s history of ‘Hong Kong cinema’, giving people a choice of which period to learn about, to Melissa’s and Ishbel’s Imperial University Lung Prize Competition entry on the feasibility of a new monoclonal antibody called ‘Pneumixab’ Adam and Emily also staged our first-ever parliamentary debate in Chapel. This was excellent since Chapel mirrors the structure ofthe House of Commons, allowing for fiery debates on taxing private education and on giving prisoners the rightto vote.
We invite pupils to make the most of the society, speaking to Wangari about performing music, speaking to Adam and Emily about getting involved in the debates or speaking to any of us about other sessions. It’s fun and confidence building and looks good on your personal statement when you apply to University. So please do get in touch and make the most of your time at College!
written by
PhilosophyatCollege
Looking ahead, there will be a big change happening next year We are saying goodbye to the old Religious Studies A Level, and welcoming in the new PhilosophyA Level
The Lower Sixth Philosophy Elective this year, led by Dr Samuel, attracted 11 members, and pupils have presented on philosophers ranging from Plato through to Gottlob Frege, engaging with the primary texts. The A-Level will build upon the success ofthe Elective
The TPE (Theology, Philosophy, Ethics) Society this year included presentations ranging from rationalism v. empiricism to life after death. A highlight was a talk about assisted dying from professionals working both in theological and medical fields. TPE Society is open to everyone and always welcomes challenging arguments!
written by Kitty C
Science Society is a brilliant opportunity for pupils to meet and discuss all things science Supported by Dr C.J. with Gareth as president and Ishbel, Paddy and Will W as deputies, 2025 has been an eventful year, packed with incredible presentations, including Isla’s presentation on stem cells and their ethics as an extension of her EPQ, Paddy’s ‘hydrogen love story’ – a riveting tale that explored the many unique characteristics of hydrogen, Sunny and Taka ‘man vs ant’, which entertained questions of who between humans and supersized ants would be victorious in war, Mr Jones’ ‘A night at the movies’ which explored the actuality of science in films and recreated a few scenes, as well as Hector’s very exhaustive deep dive into the biology behind breeding roses. Despite being one of the largest societies, we hope to see even more pupils attending next academic year, as Science Society is also an excellent opportunity for pupils to build confidence and public speaking skills, while presenting to their peers on topics they are passionate about – regardless of how niche they may be – leading to engaging discussions and inspiring curiosity. The c soc m art f term y of events this year, with highlights including a Sherlock Holmes style escape room, where pupils had to use maps of London and newspaper clippings to identify not one but two killers, an open mic night with presentations on anything from general trivia to an elaborate overview ofthe Trump presidency and of course, the annual Christmas quizwhich consisted of an assortment of blookets and kahoots with ‘Guess The Movie’ and ‘Name The Song’ featuring heavily. Finally, the yearwas rounded offwith the traditional ‘Lower College Society Feast’ where pupils gathered around a sizable amount of pizza to discuss theirfavourite meetings from the past year and what they would like to see in the coming academic year – including discussions of possible designs for a Lower College Society tie
LowerCollegeSociety
The start of this year welcomed a new club to College’s assortment of Monday activities Led by Mr Douglas, videography gives pupils an opportunity to develop skills in film production, including lessons in lighting, filming and editing, as well as encouraging teamwork and communication.
This year pupils were tasked with working in small groups to produce short films of about ten minutes or so. They were given creative freedom and worked togetherto explore potential id their films, before preparing a brief presen on why their project should be chosen much discussion, three projects were chose pupils teamed up to realise them Th challenge was script writing, followed by v sessions experimenting with lighting, camer aud
written
by
March 2025, the groups started to film One ent a weekend filming in various locations including Leconfield House and our Sports Centre. The second group spent a particularly long Sunday filming outdoors as well as in the Dining Hall and Drama Studio The third group filmed an external cast consisting of various aspiring actors and ten members of staff. This required producing various casting calls and organising filming days around the availability of the cast They filmed off site in Dowdswell Woods and various locations on Bath Road and in school over a whole weekend
Once all of the shooting had been finished it was time for the groups to move onto the editing process. This consisted of ordering the clips and exploring different sequencing before implementing flashbacks and finally introducing sound to the films
This past year has been an exciting one for videography, full of many firsts, and after a long year of dedication and commitment from all those involved, pupils will have an opportunity to showcase their films at the start of next school year.
It has been a busy year for College’s CCF; cadets have participated in a wide and enriching range of activities and field days, building up skills ahead of the annual Summer Camp, which will take place in June Each week, Fourth Form cadets are involved in a carousel of activities such as drills, navigation, and FirstAid
Inter-platoon competi favourite amongst th Compteitions have inc of War, drill, turnou obstacle course Desp competitions to date be 5 Platoon, there is eve to play for – the overal be announced afte Camp, alongside promotions for the highest performing cadets
written by
Charlotte
In the older years, cadets work towards qualifications through a series of engaging lessons Staff and volunteers have given up theirtime to run activities outside of the typical Wednesday slot, such as Skill atArms training.
Founded over 150 years ago, our CCF has a long standing affiliation with the Rifles Regiment We visited 5 Rifles at Bulford Camp in March for a field day, where soldiers in the regiment hosted us for activities such as observation, PT, and exploring a Warrior (Infantry Fighting Vehicle)
This year, the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme at our school has been a great success, across Bronze, Silver and Gold levels key skills have been embraced, like overcoming challenges, teamwork and personal development. They embarked on expeditions, helped with meaningful volunteering, enhanced their skillbuilding and built a strong focus on physical fitness In the older years, cadets who went on the expeditions saw the exploration of some of the UK’s most rural and beautiful landscapes Bronze participants took on the trails of the Forest of Dean and the picturesque Wye Valley. Silver groups took on more rugged terrain in the Brecon Beacons and the Peak District Meanwhile, Gold students took on two expeditions one in the unforgiving Brecon Beacons, and the other in the mountainous region of Snowdonia
Volunteering has also been a vital and rewarding part ofthe DofE experience this year The DofE groups gave their time generously across a variety of local placements, including charity shops, care homes, primary schools, after-school clubs, and even coaching sports or helping at Scout groups
For the skills section, many DofE team members chose Coding Club, Book Club, Drama Club, and Chess Club to complete the section. Others found their voice in the Debating Club or showcased their musical flair in the Symphony Orchestra Lastly, the physical section encouraged staying active and healthy by engaging in sport and exercise at least three times a week
Get2know... the teacher
What is yourfavourite year group to teach?
I love the excitement of the new Third Form and the extension of teaching A Level, but GCSE is my favourite, because you get the balance between potential and understanding It’s the point where you go from children to young adults – Mrs Coates
My favourite year group to teach is the Upper Sixth, because it is where I learn the most Students are now more confident, raising insightful challenges to theories; they help me to think through the issues myself. – Dr Samuel
My favourite year group to teach is undoubtedly the Lower Sixth because it is the first-year group where you start to get an understanding of how chemistry actually operates It is the first time where we get to breakdown the fact that chemistry is a lie and everything you’ve been taught at GCSE is just a massive oversimplification - Dr CJ
If you could change one thing about the world, whatwould it be?
I would have people value the Humanities more. It is a narrow view to claim that success in society can only be driven by STEM subjects. I would like more people to see the value in the humanities as a way of making the world better - Mrs Coats
I am looking for a community that values understanding for its own sake. I want to help people find real support on how to live better lives – Dr Samuel
I would change people’s understanding of the chemical industry, because we hear people talk about sustainability and renewable energy so much and they should also understand that our entire existence on this planet is dependent on an efficient chemical industry, even for our food - Dr C.J.
DrC.J.'s drawingofhimself
When you’re not being a teacher what do you like to do?
When I was a child I loved riding, I would arrive at school with straw in my hair and covered in hay. What I am absolutely obsessed with is Italy I love everything about it! So, any of you out there who are really into Italy, or just want to talk about your holidays there, come to Room 46, I would love to chat! – Mrs Coates
I like to spend time with my family, and I like to walk and read at the same time with my faithful hound Plato at my side! – Dr Samuel
My passion is chemistry, I love everything about it So, to unwind, if I am not gardening, I will be either reading about chemistry or solving problems about chemistry sentto me by pupils. I also spend a lot of time thinking about how to further our Oxbridge provision at College and how we can prepare pupils for chemistry atthese universities. - Dr C.J.
CAPTAINS’ CORNER
At Cheltenham College, sports captains play a vital role not just on the field but also in inspiring their teammates, balancing demanding schedules, and embodying the spirit oftheir respective games We caught up with four of our sports captains from netball, football, hockey, and cricket to learn what motivates them, how they manage their responsibilities, and the advice they have for fellow sportspeople Hebe has been playing netball for 10 years and describes her favourite part of the sport as “being part of a team, having a run around!”. As captain, Hebe takes on extra duties such as ensuring the team warms up properly before games and practices, while also supporting her teammates both on and off the court She particularly enjoys inspiring younger players to keep up their involvement and embrace the opportunities the sport offers.
Hebe - Netball Captain
Being a captain does come with pressure, she admits, but “it’s a good pressure” Hebe copes by focusing on the game and controlling what she can, an attitude that clearly serves her well. One of her standout moments was playing in the 2024 charity match a highlight of hertime at Cheltenham. Balancing netball with her studies means missing many evening prep sessions, but Hebe maximizes her free periods by working in the library With supportive teachers who understand her sporting commitments, she manages to stay on top of her academic work. Her advice to all sportspeople? “Keep going, there will be times you won’twantto but it’s worth it”
awesome1stVII
Cheltenhamvs Malvern
Tuesday 11 March brought us the annual charity netball match in support of Gloucester young carers Cheltenham College’s netball 1st VII fought fiercely against a strong Malvern side with passion and energythroughout, creating a competitive and exciting atmosphere!
From the first whistle, the atmosphere was exhilarating, with both teams showcasing impressive skill and determination. Each goal was met with terrific applause, and Malvern players were also met with encouraging shouts, reflecting the supportive spirit of the event The centre court players, Maddie, Tilly, Eme and Alice (VC) worked seamlessly with each other, feeding balls from the defensive players, Tilda, Katie and Hebe (C) to the shooters, Connie, Matilda and Gabby The two teams were closely contested, resulting in an end-to-end game, however, College came out on top sealing a well-earned victory
written by Rose and Clara
The event was also a huge success in raising significant funds for the College’s charity of the year, Gloucestershire Young Carers We would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to the entire College community for their incredible support of both the charity match and Gloucestershire Young Carers.
ourfantastic school charity
Ava R - Football Captain
Ava R has been playing football for two years, and what she loves most about the sport is “playing as a team with all my friends.” Her responsibilities as captain include organising matches and making sure everyone enjoys themselves while building team morale something she considers her favourite part of the role.
Unlike some of her fellow captains, Ava does not feel any extra pressure She credits the team’s collective effort for making her role easier, showing how important teamwork is both on and off the pitch. Ava’s fondest memory is from her final year playing, celebrating with her teammates regardless of the match outcomes She balances sport and school through careful organisation, and dedicating specific times for both work and training
“Academic work comes first, but communication with coaches helped me stay on top of everything.”
"Don’tforgetthat it is forfun. Y
Max - Hockey Captain
away games and organising warm ups His favourite part of captaining is leading a strong team.
Max does not feel added pressure in the role. When it comes to balancing hockey with academics, he says, “Academic work comes first,” and credits good communication with his coaches for keeping worries at bay.
One of his favourite moments at Cheltenham was winning the first hockey game of the season in Upper Sixth, breaking a 12-year losing streak against Bradfield a true highlight for the team His advice to all sports players is simple: “Sport is tough but it is there to be enjoyed so don’t always let it getto you.”
Oscar - Cricket Captain
Oscar, who has been playing cricket since he was four, loves “the mental and tactical side of cricket” As captain of the 1st XI, he takes pride in leading by example both on and off the field. Responsibility and accountability are what he values most about being captain. Unlike others, Oscar says he does not feel pressure in his role, and credits careful planning for balancing sport with academics “Knowing when you won’t be able to do work means you can get it done in advance,” he explains.
His favourite memory at Cheltenham was making his debut for the 1st XI, topping the orts Day in front of the whole moment he clearly treasures. to young sportspeople is a eep improving: “Never believe ough”
Oscar's favourite sporting memory
“Making my debutforthe 1stXI in Third Form, scoring the top runs with the whole school watching after Sports Day — I will neverforget it."
These captains exemplify leadership, resilience, and passion across Cheltenham College’s sporting community Their stories show that being a captain is about more than just skill it is about inspiring others, managing responsibilities, and maintaining a healthy balance between sport and academics. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, their advice is clear: embrace the challenge, enjoy the journey, and never stop striving for excellence.
interviewed by
The Cheltenham
POLO POLO SOCIETYDAY SOCIETYDAY
as the e Old headcrowds fter an st two out on t (and kindly two of
written by Zara
On 23 May, the whole of College came together fo anticipated Sports Day With sunny weather and b was an exciting and competitive day. The day began representing their Houses in the 100m sprint, fo wider range of events including the 1,500m race, javelin, relays, welly-wanging and a tug of war (10 st each House competing against each other)
Every pupil was able to join in at least one event an of pupils performed outstandingly across the ev breaking records and in doing so, highlighting the high level of athletic achievement across College Anna set a new Senior Girls Triple Jump record and Jess ran a record-breaking time the Junior Girls 800m, showing remarkable endurance a speed Meanwhile, Boyne House broke the Senior Boys 4x10 relay record with a fast and well-coordinated performance, J P also came impressively close to breaking the boys 1,500 finishing just half a second short ofthe school record.
The day concluded with prizes and awards as well as announcement of the overall House winners for Juniors a Seniors. Newick House claimed the top spot for the Junior Bo and Queen’s House triumphed for the Junior Girls. Ashmead secured victory in the Senior Girls category and Lec the win for the Senior Boys Overall, Sports Day highlight in the College calendar as well as a conclude the first half of the Summer Term, offeri deserved breakto ouryears currently sitting exams.
Eating well isn’t just about salads and avoiding sweets it’s about giving your bodythe rightfuel to feel good, stayfocused, and powerthrough your day
Carbohydrates are your body’s main energy source, found in foods like whole grains, fruit, and vegetables. These foods give your brain and muscles the energy they need to perform at their best especially during long school days or sports training. Proteins, found in meat, eggs, nuts, dairy, and legumes, help repair and build muscle (which is especially important if you are still growing or playing sport) Healthy fats (think avocados, olive oil, or salmon) support brain function and help keep hormones balanced
Do not forget about the small but mighty nutrients: vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, and iron. They help with everything from boosting your immune system to keeping your bones strong And water? It keeps your body cool, your mind clear, and your systems running smoothly.
Healthy, balanced diet includes colourful fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and good fats
Try to limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and salty takeaways they might be tasty in the moment, but too much can impact your energy, mood, and health in the long run
Good nutrition does not have to be complicated - it is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind, now and in the future
Your“Top 4”
As Cheltenham College welcomes another exciting year, its newly appointed heads of school are eager to make a meaningful impact. Head Girl Maisy, Head Boy Charlie, Deputy Head Girl Sophia, and Deputy Head Boy Jerry look forward to representing the student body and supporting the school's new charity Together, the “Top 4” bring enthusiasm, leadership, and teamwork to their roles, setting the stage for a dynamic year ahead
Introducing
I reallywantto encourage all Cheltonians to embrace the opportunities we are given, and I am looking forward to supporting the rest ofthe PLT!
Maisy Rosie
Leadership is rooted in influence rather than authority; I look to encourage this within the Chandos community next year!
With excitement for the year ahead, Cheltenham College’s six Boys’ House Heads are set to ignite friendly rivalries Gabe (Southwood), Caspar (Newick), Adam (Leconfield), Bosco (Boyne), Harry (Hazelwell), and Max (Christowe), all plan to spark healthy competition through interhouse events from sports fixtures and quizzes to creative challenges while cultivating unity and mutual support. By welcoming every pupil into their House community and collaborating with fellow prefects and staff, they’re committed to ensuring every Cheltonian feels valued and engaged. The Heads of the Girls' Houses are ready to lead with creativity and dedication Kitty (College Lawn), Matilda (Westal), Tilly (Queen’s), Ellie (Ashmead), and Rosie (Chandos) are looking forward to supporting pupils across all aspects of College life. Together, they aim to create a welcoming environment for new Third Form pupils and work closely with staff to ensure every Cheltonian thrives Their leadership will foster a strong sense of community, helping the girls in their houses make the most oftheirtime at College
20252026
Otto and Tereza will be taking on the roles of International Prefects and look forward to the range of events that they will organise in the upcoming year. Fliss has been appointed the Inclusion Prefect and Courtney will lead Chapel in her role as Keeper of Chapel and Anti-Racism Prefect.
Lewis and Emily will be working together as the Third Form and Prep School Liaisons, while Isa takes on the role of Upper College Prefect. Darcey (not present in the photo) has been appointed the Lower College Prefect Tom and Lily will be taking on the Marketing and Visits Prefectships.
interviewed by Courtney
COLLEGE COLLEGE PREFECTS PREFECTS
Courtneys favourite bible quote
If I have faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” - 1 Corinthians 13:2
Curtis and Maddie are our new Co-curricular Prefects and will ensure that every pupil can make the most of their time here at College. Maya and Emily will support the academic sphere of school life, in their roles as Academics and Societies Prefects.
Hannah and Caspar will be bringing the fun in their roles as Socials prefects. Ben looks forward to developing the pupil experience as Initiative and Pupil Welfare prefect Our school’s charity engagement will be headed by Zara, our new Charity Prefect Flo looks ahead to a year of growth and care for the environment as Sustainability Prefect
Where are they now?
Boo Bruce Smith is a graphic designer and illustrator She studied French, History and Geography here, leaving in 2015 to take a gap year. She then studied Politics at Newcastle University and first got into Design after Covid. Here she talks to us about rejection, overcoming failure and how hertime at College impacted her
Looking back, how did your time at College shape who you are today?
It is insane the high quality of education we have access to at College I learned a lot but could have learned so much more; I should have taken greater advantage of its opportunities And I am grateful to my tutor Mr Evans, who didn’t insist that I go to university, but allowed me to figure out what was right for me
If you could give your younger College self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Use all the resources you have available I joined in Sixth Form and I spent a lot of time making friends and living in a bit of a bubble. It was great fun, but looking back, I wish I had got more involved in activities while at College. My advice for life at Cheltenham College is work harder, have fun and don’tworry about rejection!
Any advice on how to enter specialist industries like graphic design, and what excites you about the future of your industry?
Build your network attend industry events, connect with others, and keep in touch. That’s how I get the majority of my work. You start by making friends who are also new to the industry, and over time, you grow, improve, and succeed together They might also recommend you for future opportunities, so it’s important to research the types of roles available and identify the companies you would love to work for, and be patient! As for what excites me about the future AI is a big one It both excites and terrifies me But you have got to engage with it Used well, it allows us to create things that simplyweren’t possible before.
You talk about overcoming a lot of rejection. How do you stay motivated in your field?
You have to see beyond any rejection to what inspires you. Design is often about problemsolving, and that definitely inspires me. My motivation is also fresh because I am still relatively new to the industry And I keep discovering things that excite me I especially enjoy working with brands I genuinely believe in particularly in Fem Tech. I have learned a lot through this work, such as how the BMI scale was originally based on data from white male populations, making it an unreliable tool for many people Insights like that fuel my passion and keep me engaged.
When starting out, how did you overcome imposter syndrome?
I don’t think I have ever really overcome it! I have studied hard to understand what works in my field and that gives me confidence. I also get a lot of feedback on my work, and some through word of mouth. That validation helps overcome the doubts I may have I’m not saying
What is one failure or setback that ultimately helped shape your successes?
I think my biggest failure was my lack of planning when I started out in illustration and design it felt like I was free-falling through the industry, with no real understanding of how to network, outreach or land clients Through my setbacks, I learned the hard way that I needed to have some sort of structure when starting out.
There is a podcast with Elizabeth Day called How To Fail She encourages her guests to talk about their three main failures and helps them see how they are not just setbacks, but moments of growth It is a good way to frame it I wasn’t getting much paid work originally and this was initially very disheartening . In the long run however, it is now on my portfolio, helping me to get me the paid jobs That’s how I have learned to play the long game
Writtenby FlissandAvi
When it comes to school life organisation is key. Whether it or revision, great organisation you through. At school we heavy workload that we are ex to complete among various commitments, but there are manage your time at College by having specific, p timetables and lists as to when your work done it is a lot e manage your workload, and it better in the long run if you don’t procrastinate and leave your work to be done the night before the due in date. Furthermore, to avoid sleepless nights worrying, remember that it is easier when revising if you are going over topics you know, not learning them afresh and trying to teach yourself, so it is key to have clear notes from your lessons when you were initiallytaughtthe information
Next, school life is full on, and breaks are vital, this might be going for a walk, reading a book, watching your favourite programme or simply talking to yourfriends It can be easyto forget that without having down time, it would be impossible to keep up a good work ethic without burning out. Also, a good night’s sleep is vital for a productive day ahead and even though this is sometimes hard to achieve, it is important to prioritise sleep so you can getthe most out ofyour school day
As well as this, a good method of revision is important. This will be different for different people, some people are more visual learners and therefore colourful highlighters are useful but others find it easier to revise from flash cards or by teaching other people and it is important to find the right technique that works for you.
This leads me on to my next point, with our long list of commitments it is crucial to prioritise For instance, do your assignments in order from what is due first not in order of what is easiest. You will thank yourself later if you don’t leave that tricky piece of work until last minute! Finally, with all the stresses of school life it can become overwhelming and remember that it is always better to talk to someone before the problem gets worse and your Tutor, friends, teachers, Matrons and House Parents are always there if you need a chat.
Written by
Take breakswhen revising
We all knowthatrevising can be boring, and it istemptingto do itall in one big chunk, howeveryourbrain needs a break! Having a breakboostsyourfocus andpreventsyou burning outallyourenergy, meaningthat althoughyou mayspend lesstime revising, it helpsyou more
Teach the topic to someone else
Explaining a topic aloud to a family member, a friend (or even yourself) is one ofthe bestways to revise It can help you to find yourweaker areas and improves your memory ofthe topics.
UseActiveRecallmethods
Instead of re-reading your notes, instead, quiz yourself on your memory You could write out the answers again or speak aloud without lookingatyournotesandthenseewhatyougot right. Active Recall is scientifically proven to improveyourresults!
Turn your notes into flashcards
Flash-cards are a great way to test yourself on your knowledge and to learn key definitions and equations. You can make them on apps like Quizlet which has lots of different learning features and spaced repetition Or, you could make them on paper too so you can use them anytime.
Do past papers early
Most people think that you should not be doing past-papers until right before the exam, but it is never too early! If you do a past paper just after you have revised a topic it tests how well you really understand it. Also, it will help you to feel more prepared when you do your actual exam paper
Written by
Film Reviews
Kaos
Kaos is a new release, bringing together many different Greek myths into one engaging narrative It follows the ongoing tensions between the Gods and the mortals, with disbelief becoming more evident and the Gods becoming more paranoid The intense plot contains many twists and turns which left me shocked at each new revelation. The acting is amazing, and I would say that the cinematography is the best element It is a beautiful TV show, effectively elevating the narrative with its specific and revealing shots which make it an incredibly compelling watch Even if you know very little about Greek mythology, it is still an easy and enjoyable watch which we would definitely recommend!
But I’m A Cheerleader
‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ is a widely loved cult classic from its release to now, for its campy nature and progressive satire of conversion therapy. The plotfollows a blonde girl, played by a young Natasha Lyonne, whose family holds an intervention on account of them thinking she is a homosexual and her experience at conversion camp and falling in love with another girl there Even though it was released in 1999, it is extremely radical in its positive portrayal of homosexuality and well loved by the LGBTQ community. It portrays the challenges that questioning your sexuality and finding your identity can pose and is also extremely funny It has RuPaul playing a stereotypical straight man, and lots of tongue in cheek references to common gay stereotypes, making it a successful satire of negative attitudes towards homosexuality in the 90s. It is colourful and bright, and a delight to watch with its romance and characters you can’t not relate to and jokes you can’t not laugh at. We, at Viva Cheltonia, thoroughly recommend written by
BookReview
A Crane Among Wolves’ is an all-too-relevant tale, based on the true story of King Yeosan’s tyrannical rule in the late 1400s to early 1500s Korea We follow a young, sheltered girl, Iseul, as she attempts to rescue her sister from the King‘s ever-growing harem in the inner capital city. This gripping saga blends elements of classic murder-mystery, dramatic romance and complex politics. The author masters the art of balancing the dark, disturbing history with themes of love, family and inner strength. The book serves as a brilliant reminder that if we do not learn from the past, we will be doomed to repeat it and we at Viva Cheltonia feel that it is a book that will never lose relevance A thrilling read for pupils across all year groups, this is a book I would recommend to any who want a book with an engaging plot and loveable characters.
written by Tamara
This yearthe art pupils have been up to a range of different things There is a large number of resources on offer allowing pupils to develop their creativity and innovation within their art.
In Sixth Form, pupils choose between A-Level Fine Art or a ceramic based course called 3D Art
3D Art is taught mainly by our ceramic specialist, Ms Millar alongside other teachers in the Art Department. This unique course helps pupils to work with the clay to produce beautiful ceramic pieces that can then be glazed and decorated once fired Pupils have also builttheir own 'smoke firing' kiln, which creates an intricate and beautiful pattern on the pots surface. Pupils love the course’s creativity and innovation
Within Fine Art, pupils focus on traditional and contemporary two-dimensional visual expression such as drawing, painting and print-making. Their impressive work hangs in Thirlestaine Long Gallery and artists discuss theirworkthere.
Both A-Level courses develop skills in observation, composition, analysis, conceptual development and experimentation They cultivate creative thinking, critical insight, and visual literacy.
Junk Kouture is a sustainable fashion event that the Lower Sixth A-Level Textiles pupils have partaken in. It is a global competition with the main focus being that pupils create high couture garments made from recycled materials. The competition promotes both sustainability and innovation by making people get creative with what they make their garments out of A large part of the competition is not just about what recycled materials are used but also how the garment is constructed with the 17 sustainable development goals set bythe UN.
The Lower Sixth pupils used a vast range of materials and sourced them from a vast range of places For example, Zara created her garment, ‘Juicy Kouture’, from orange peels and a recycled tent. Allegra used cling film and feathers to create her garment, ‘Spread Your Wings’, as well as recycling old fake tan-mits Avrille created her garment, ‘Uncanny Valley’, using a recycled tent. Frankie created her garment, ‘Rust and Reflection’, using scrap pieces of calico and recycled CDs. Lilli created her garment, ‘Re-bloom Kouture’, using recycled fabrics and recycled fake flowers Delilah also created her garment from a range of different materials such as recycled fabrics and broken glass as well as moss. Flo created her garment from 100% recycled plastics including bottle lids and cling film from the dining hall
Zara has impressively got through to the next round in the competition and has also showcased her fantastic garment in anotherfashion show
written by
Lottie
This image shows broken classical imagery found on the BBC depicting the ruins of Historical Catholic Churches, once symbols of strength and culture, now in ruins reflecting the destruction caused by the war in Ukraine and Russian bombings The black-and-white tones high-light the sense of loss, while the sharp red cross cuts through the scene like a wound or a warning
The image challenges how we see history and power, reminding us that even the strongest structures can fall. It reimagines reality as fragile and broken yet also points to the strength of those who survive and remember.
I entered this Art competition because I saw it as an opportunity to create something entirely on my own, which I had not done for a while. I wanted to challenge myself to create something that I had never attempted before. I decided upon drawing glasses of different shapes and sizes. There is not really any in-depth meaning to the piece itself, but it overall stands as a reminderthat creating art isn’t exclusive to those who study art as a subject
Eloise
“What makes a good leader?” seems to be impossible to answer, as all leaders have their own character, shaped by history and those who write about it It is the victors who write history, immortalising some people in marble, while vilifying others in books.
But can we see beyond the appearances and identify what makes a leader ‘good’? “Good at what?” we might ask. Good in the sense of morality? Good in the sense of success on the battlefield? Should we appeal to legitimacy, power or authority? In his Republic, Plato identified the good leader with the “philosopher king”: someone who is a virtuous, moral and wise leader. One who is not overshadowed by self-interest or egoism, butwho prioritises the state overtheir own self-interest
But what about actual historical leaders who are judged to be good? Let’s consider the Tudor Dynasty, examining the leadership of HenryVIII and Elizabeth I
Elizabeth I, is a widely esteemed monarch whose 44-year reign marked the so-called “Golden Age.” She had to settle England after her father’s tyranny, and decades of religious conflict. Rather than impose rigid control, Elizabeth adopted a policy of relative tolerance and pragmatism, notablywith the Elizabethan Religious Settlement of 1559. She understood that unity could not be achieved through centralised force, and that collaboration is a form of political strength
Elizabeth I also knew how to get people on side, famously evidenced by her speech in Tilbury in 1588, in which she famously declared, “I know I have the body but of a weak and feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king.” Consistent with Plato’s view of a good leader, Elizabeth I’s leadership was rooted in vision, selfawareness and service, allowing her to balance powerwith responsibility and wisdom
But different times require different leaders. When revolutionary change is needed, control, strength and power are necessary. In The Prince, Niccolò Machiavelli, presents a cynical yet arguably realistic view of leadership, concluding that “It is better to be feared than loved, if you cannot be both” He favours strong, effective leaders rather than principled figureheads. And Henry VIII presents us with such a commanding historical figure
Henry VIII took extreme measures to consolidate power friends and wives He executed over 54,000 people durin Thomas Cromwell and Thomas More, and two of his sixw have a male heir and so secure his dynasty His first wife, and gave birth to only a female child, Mary. Given this marriage to Catherine When the Roman Catholic Church the Roman Catholic Church in 1534 and established hi Supremacy This gave Henry VIII, as the monarch, cont marriages that failed to give him a male heir. In short, Henry VIII is a Machiavellian leader, successful in consolidating power by challenging previous standards of legitimacy and employing violence
Both Elizabeth I and Henry VIII therefore highlight key aspects of leadership Henry VIII is a Machiavellian leader, successful in consolidating power by challenging previous standards of legitimacy and employing violence to command obedience He shows us howto be an effective leader But it is in Henry’s daughter Elizabeth I that we see good leadership because she wields power without being consumed by it For her, power and responsibility are two sides ofthe same coin And this gives her leadership vision, self-awareness and service And so it is in Elizabeth I rather than in her father HenryVIII thatwe truly see good leadership.
MUSIC IN 2025 Cabaret night MUSIC IN 2025 Cabaret night
it has been an eventful for year for music with lots of opportunities for musicians to show offtheir skills, including cabaret, the jazz festival, showcases, lunchtime performances and of course the school musical Legally Blonde!
At cabaret we were treated to many outstanding musical performances with solos from an emotional rendition of 'Creep' by Radiohead by Melissa, and an outstanding performance of 'Maybe this time' from Cabaret by Daisy
We enjoyed various bands and dynamic groups which wowed the audience, with a small group of five playing ‘Take me where my heart is’ by Caitlin Ava R’s vocal performance was outstanding, supported by her talented peers The night was lively with many acts lined up, not one disappointing and all very entertaining for all to appreciate in both set one and settwo
The night welcomed people from all different aspects and parts of College, from music pupils who take itfor GCSE orA Level to those who take music lessons or just have a general interest in music It was lovely to see such a great turnout for the showcase, but also to give students the chance to gain experience in performing and increase their confidence.
Even though music is not a physical thing, it has always been my safe haven. It is like a whole other world I can escape to whenever I need a breakfrom reality. How has College Music developed already in your nearlyfouryears at College?
Each member ofthe Music community at College has contributed in one way or another, helping create what it has become today But I think overall credit goes to Mr Pwho has added so much to College Music with new events, as well as developing the old ones. Looking backto when I was in Third Form, the Music Department at College has changed so much, and in the bestways possible. The growth that comes with each year is so exciting and I can notwaitto see how it flourishes in the years onward.
Sophia G
Is the Jazz Festival one of your favourite music events of the year? If so, why? And what other music events do you cherish?
The Jazz Festival is one of my favourites, as it is simply such an incredible experience. But there are so many other music events at College that I will never forget. It is so difficult to narrow them down, but I really love the regular College concerts as all the ensembles come together to perform, and it is our main chance to display ourselves as a whole Music Department
“What is your favourite thing about performing Music and being a part of the Music Department at College?
Performing allows me to share my love for music with others. For me, it is a way of communicating. A way to express emotions without just using words But none of it would be possible without the Music Department at College, and the support that comes with being a part of it. The close-knit community that has been created within it is something I will hold in my heartforever
The gig opened with the Chandos Band 546’s unique cover of ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’, featuring harmonised vocals No Strings Attached impressed with ‘This Love’ by Maroon 5, while 404 Founded had the crowd swaying to ‘Someone Like You’. GL53 closed the first halfwith an energetic ‘Still Into You’. Dazed Dreamers kicked off the second half with the night’s only original song, ‘Groove’, followed by Rock Heart’s choreographed performance of ‘I Want You Back’ Headliners Quiet Attraction ended the night with ‘Sex on Fire’ and ‘Mr Brightside.’ After a tie with Rock Heart, crowd cheers crowned Quiet Attraction the Battle ofthe Bands 2025 winners
INTERVIEW WITH INTERVIEWWITH Aoife asPaulette
This year one ofthe many productions we saw at College was ‘Legally Blonde’ with our leading lady ‘Elle Woods’ played by Maisy Itwas a fantastic production with pupils from all around school joining in whetherthatwas acting, lighting, set and costume design or backstage. The production went on to be a favourite and to go down in musical legend at College
“What/who was your role in the play?”
I played the role of Paulette in Legally Blonde, the big-hearted hairdresserwho becomes Elle’s close friend and biggest cheerleader. The two rely on each other and help the other achieve their goals throughoutthe musical
“Can you give a brief synopsis of Legally Blonde forthose who weren't lucky enough to see the play?”
Legally Blonde follows ‘Elle Woods’, an upbeat sorority girl who follows hertrue love Warnerto Harvard Law School She is underestimated by everyone, including her peers and teacher, but defies these expectations through hard work and bringing her own unique charm to the lawworld. She discovers friendships and love along the way, learning howto be confidentwith her own ideas The musical is funny and uplifting, teaching you notto judge people on their appearance.
“Whatwas yourfavourite thing aboutthe play?”
I love the uplifting message ofthe show as we see the character of Elle become a great lawyer and find a new purpose in life, bringing her own individual charm and flare to her job The musical also included many upbeat dance numbers which I enjoyed performing in, such as the ‘Bend and Snap’.
“Why does drama excite you, as you have been seen on the stage many a time in Grease, for example?”
I love to be able to workwith all the year groups in College, with like-minded creative individuals to put together incredible productions. You not only develop vital transferable skills, butyou have greatfun and make newfriends College provides great opportunities for everyone to perform on stage, no matteryour skill or ability. I would encourage everyone to take part, either on stage or off stage, at some point in their College career.
A Monster Calls is a powerful theatre adaptation of Patrick Ness’s novel, where a young boy, Conor, grapples with his mother’s terminal illness. Visited by a storytelling monster, Conorfaces his deepestfears and truths in a haunting, emotionally raw journey exploring grief, courage, and the complexity of letting go.
This production by our drama scholars was impressive, showcasing each person’s outstanding talents.
“Who was your role in the play, and can you give a brief synopsis ofthe play, please?”
"I played Conor’s Mum, who’s a really loving and strong character in the play She gets diagnosed with cancer early on in the play, and even though she tries to stay positive and keep itfrom affecting Conortoo much by shielding him from the truth, it is clearthat she is getting worse and deteriorating from her illness Eventually, she needs a wheelchair and has to be honestwith him about how serious it is that she is going to die soon That moment becomes one of Conor’s biggestfears
The play is really about how he deals with all of that and those feelings of grief, fear, and finally accepting what’s happening. It’s emotional, but also really powerful watching him start to make peace with everything"
“Whatwas it like working in a group of drama scholars to make this play?”
"Working with the other drama scholars was a really rewarding experience. Everyone in the group is so talented and inspiring to work with People put the success of the production first, building on each other's ideas and creative energy. Because we were all experienced in acting, we were able to stay focused and productive while still enjoying the process It felt great to be part of a team that was so dedicated, and itwas reallyfulfilling to play my part in bringing the playto life through my character"
A MONSTER CALLS SCHOLARS PLAY A MONSTER CALLS SCHOLARS PLAY
How many ofthese College related words can you figure out using the hints below, think sports, music, languages and so much more - how many can you get right out of15?
designed by
S U D O K U A N D A
W O R D S E A R C H
Did you enjoy this edition? Let us know your thoughts!
Thank you for reading our first volume of Viva Cheltonia! We’d love your feedback! Please scan the QR code or click the link for the Microsoft Form Would you like to see particular articles in our next magazine, or if you have suggestions for improvements, your feedback would be helpful!
Would you also like to join the Viva Cheltonia pupil-led magazine? If so, please come along next year to work on its second edition! Help is always appreciated and we would love to welcome you into the team!
Published bythe Cheltenham College StudentEditorialTeam
