CHIGWELL SCHOOL SPEECH DAY
Saturday 5th July 2025
Report from the Chair of Governors
Ms R. Serrelli M.A.
Report from the Head
Mr D.A.P. King M.A.
Distribution of Prizes and Address Fergal Keane OBE
Vote of Thanks Kayuki (Head of School)
Prep School Prize-Giving 2025
Academic Achievement prizes are awarded for outstanding academic progress this year.
Effort prizes are awarded to a pupil for consistently demonstrating substantial effort in all that they do at school.
All-round Contribution prizes are awarded to a joyous pupil that demonstrates an outstanding attitude towards all aspects of school life.
Lower I, Upper I and Lower II
Academic Achievement Effort
All-round Contribution
Lower IB (03B) Shivani Luca Mila
Lower IC (03C) Henry Kamara Greta
Lower IE (03E) Faedra Shreyan Maya
Upper IT (04T) Hugo Valentine Livia
Upper IW (04W) Lucian Teddy Darcie
Upper IZ (04Z) Francis Asma Ryan
Lower IID (05D) Shayan Emily Reevah
Lower IIM (05M) Max Kinaari Sathvika
Lower IIP (05P) Ambar Knox Myla
Upper II form prizes are awarded for Effort and All-round Contribution
Individual subject prizes are awarded across the year
Effort
All-round Contribution
Upper IIH (06H) Rian Hargun
Upper IIJ (06J) Jack Eliot
Upper IIK (06K) Arabella Alice
Upper II Individual Subject Prizes
English Sam Mathematics
Science
History
Geography
French
Music
Art, Design & Technology
Aarav
Clara
Robin
Kam
Aran
Shekinah
Ashika
Laxmi
Cassie
Computing
Sport
Armano
Aiza
Stanley
Academic Excellence prizes are awarded for exceptional academic attainment.
Academic Engagement prizes are awarded for outstanding commitment to the academic values and life of the school.
All-round Contribution prizes are awarded for commitment to and participation in the wider life of the House and school.
Third Form
Excellence
IIIAC (07AC) Diyan Eddie Nye
IIIBW (07BW) Harley Alexander Elizabeth
IIIHC (07HC) Alex Maia Saanvi
IIIKE (07KE) Sienna Jeremy Luca
IIIMS (07MS)
IIITC (07TC) Chinemelum Emily Emma Eisa Ethan Eva
Fourth Form
Excellence
IVB (08B) Abhay Xavier Caterina
IVC (08C) Jacob Sonakshi Felicity
IVG (08G) Jasmine Adam Anya
IVP (08P) Sienna Alayna Woody
IVS (08S) Ayat Jack Jayden
Special Prizes
Lower School Sportsman of the Year Jack
Lower School Sportswoman of the Year Isabelle
Contribution
Contribution
Middle School Prize List
In the Removes and Lower Fifth, prizes are awarded for Academic Excellence across the Year Group and for Academic Engagement and All-round Contribution by House
REMOVES
Excellence
Sofia
Indira
Helena
Kyle
Ishayu
William Engagement
Caswalls’ Maxi
Lambourne Dexter
Penn’s Leo
Swallow’s Shyla
All-round contribution
Caswalls’ Milly
Lambourne Betsy
Penn’s Danyal
Swallow’s Albert
Special prize
Junior Musician of the Year
Milan
LOWER FIFTH
Excellence
Ethan
Alexandra
Husain
Annabelle
Holly
Ada
Krish
Ella
Engagement
Caswalls’ Lara
Lambourne Joseph
Penn’s Keya
Swallow’s Sumaya
All-round Contribution
Caswalls’ Amelia
Lambourne Amy
Penn’s Scarlet
Swallow’s Lana
UPPER FIFTH
In the Upper Fifth prizes are awarded for Excellence in individual subjects
Sweet Prize for English Language Mya
English Literature Isabella
Mathematics Dilan
Biology Yuvan
Chemistry Taran
Physics Dilan
History Yuvan
Geography Zain
Classics Isabella
Religious Studies Mishal
French Rosalie
Spanish Myah
German
Graphic Communication Joshua Harry
O.C. Lodge Design and Technology Dexter
Bowling Drama Yuvan
Music Taran
Art & Design Rosalie
Computer Science Aidan
In the Middle Sixth, prizes are awarded for Excellence in individual subjects and involvement in extra-curricular activities
Sweet English
Mathematics
Thomas
Karol
Computer Science Rian
Davies Science Tomas
Thurairajah Joanna
Tonks Biology
Helena
Chemistry Barbara
McKenzie Physics Rhys
Jacobsen Psychology Livvy
Naldrett History Thomas
Miriam Landsman Classics Ava
Annenberg Geography
Farr Economics
Clark Religious Studies
Dylan
Eleanor
Rebecca
Art & Design Mehaki
O.C. Lodge Design & Technology
Bowling Drama
Dean Saunders Drama
Browning Chapel Music
Farmer Chapel
Samuel
Inaaya
Beth
Kabir
Samuel
German Zahra
Spanish
Thomas
French Julianna
Packford Chapel Praefect
Mitchell Prize for an Outstanding
International Student
Daniel
Karol
Risham Sarao Award Mehaki
Rose Birdi Patricie
Grace Boxall Award Zara
Chigwell Young Musician of the Year
Daniel
Friends of Chigwell Merit (Sport – boys) Thomas
The Keith Mitchell Cup (Sport – girls)
Governors
Allpass Kayuki
Beth Kabir
Brian Wilson House Prize
Caswalls’ Lily
Lambourne
Penn’s
Rebecca
Mehaki
Swallow’s Cheryll
Savill (Praefects)
Roma
Rayaan
Korobi
Beth
Mehaki
Grace
Sophia
Annabel
Thomas
Kayuki
Lily
Kabir
Joanna
Tola
Kylan
Zahra
Larissa
Aimee
Headmaster’s Prize
Kayuki
Academic
The following reports are intended to provide a sense of Chigwell both within and beyond the classroom.
As ever, there were outstanding results in last year's public exams. Notable achievements include:
A Level
Suraj (A*A*A*A)
Caelan (A*A*A*A)
Lucas (A*A*A*)
Nayan (A*A*A*)
Grace A*A*AA)
Jack (A*A*AA)
Magdalena (A*A*AA)
Molly (A*A*A)
Dariia (A*A*A)
Isabel (A*A*A)
Olivia (A*A*A)
Mateusz (A*A*A)
Danielle (A*A*A)
Justina (A*A*A)
Kinneri (A*A*A)
Sarah (A*A*A)
Mulan (A*A*A)
GCSE
The number of GCSEs at Grade 9 is shown.
Ayaan (10)
Lakshya (10)
Aarush (9)
Hermione (8)
Tristan (8)
Oliver (8)
Holly (8)
Alex (7)
Rithun (7)
Rajvir (7)
Hermione (7)
Art and Design
In Art & Design, pupils have confidently and skilfully explored a wide range of themes and techniques. Their work demonstrates a strong willingness to experiment and innovate across different media, resulting in ambitious and highly successful outcomes. Projects have been inspired by topics such as architecture, life cycles, gender equality, symbolism, family, world cultures, and both contemporary society and historical subcultures like Punk. It has been rewarding to see both their creativity and confidence grow over the past academic year.
Our enrichment programme has given pupils the opportunity to enhance their practical skills and explore their creativity beyond timetabled lessons. They have experimented with new artistic methods and entered competitions such as the David Shepherd Wildlife Trust and the Royal Academy of Arts’ Young Artists Summer Exhibition. Pupils also collaborated with the MFL department to celebrate aspects of French culture. As part of the High Achievers’ programme, they explored Abstract Expressionism, producing expressive paintings inspired by gesture, colour, mark-making and texture, demonstrating individuality and a commendable willingness to take creative risks.
A Level and GCSE pupils have visited leading galleries and independent art spaces in London, where their engagement with a diverse range of contemporary art had a significant influence on the development of their ideas - particularly in their recent exam projects.
In January, James represented the school in the ARTiculation Prize, organised by the Roche Court Educational Trust and The National Gallery. His presentation on Frank Auerbach demonstrated not only his confidence in public speaking but also his impressive ability to convey complex responses to a major artist with clarity and authority. We are also delighted that several members of our current Sixth Form will go on to study artistic and creative subjects at university, and we look forward to seeing their future work.
Biology
In extracurricular activities, the Dissection Club has expanded its range, dissecting organisms such as dogfish, frogs, and jellyfish. This initiative was made possible through the efforts of Ms Whitby, and three Sixth Form pupils. Additionally, the department is proud to announce the release of the Biology Journal this Trinity term, with a genetic focus, showcasing work from Year 8 to Year 12, and a new Biology Podcast is also in the works. Thank you to the pupils leading on these exciting projects.
In the classroom, Year 7 pupils have been busy creating their own model cells. Year 8 pupils participated in the Biology Society Nancy Rothwell competition, producing impressive anatomical drawings and conducting a moss safari to identify organisms living in moss. Furthermore, many Year 8 and 9 pupils attended a lecture by Prof. Lord Robert Winston, where they were highly engaged and contributed thoughtful questions after the talk.
Pupils from Year 10 to Year 13 participated in Biology Challenges and Biology Olympiads, testing their knowledge and skills with great success. To support our Sixth Form Medics, the department provided both in-school and external interview practice, as well as support for students from partner schools applying for Medicine. Enrichment sessions allowed students to explore the history of medicine and the moral and societal factors influencing its impact,
fostering curiosity and independent thinking.
The Biology Department looks forward to encouraging more students to explore the wonders of Biology both inside and outside the classroom.
Careers
What an extraordinary year it has been for our Careers Department! From intimate networking breakfasts to our largest convention yet, we have opened doors to countless possibilities for our pupils.
The year began with our popular Networking Breakfast, where Year 12 pupils engaged in meaningful conversations with Old Chigwellians and professionals across diverse fields –from architecture and TV production to finance and law. These connections prove invaluable as our students navigate their future pathways.
Activities Week brought our comprehensive Year 10 Futures programme to life. Pupils participated in our dedicated Futures Day, honing essential skills in presentation techniques, interview preparation, and workplace etiquette before embarking on three transformative days of job shadowing.
March witnessed our crown jewel – the Careersand Higher Education Convention. This year's event was truly spectacular, featuring thirty exhibitors representing prestigious institutions including Imperial College, University of Birmingham, and City University of London, alongside dynamic organisations from the NHS and Met Police to the Royal Society of Chemistry. A particular highlight was Stefan from Study Options, whose presentation on studying in New Zealand and Australia captivated audiences, reflecting our commitment to global opportunities.
Perhaps most exciting has been watching our Year 7 pupils begin their career journeys through our enrichment carousel sessions. Working with parents, exploring leadership qualities, and using Unifrog to map their interests, these young minds are already envisioning their futures. Recent talks from a JP Morgan Degree Apprentice and architects from MP Chartered Architects have shown them the multiple routes to success.
We're deeply grateful to our Old Chigwellians, parents, and industry partners who generously share their expertise. Their enthusiasm creates an infectious energy that reminds us: it's never too early to dream big and plan for an extraordinary future beyond Chigwell
Chapel
As we come to the end of another academic year at Chigwell, I am filled with deep gratitude for all that we have shared together in the Chapel. It has been a year rich inworship, reflection, and spiritual growth - a true testament to the vibrant faith life of our school community.
Each week, the Chapel has been a place of gathering, not only for prayer and praise, but for connection. From the first whole-school services in September to the moving moments of our Easter reflections, and the joyful celebrations of our recent leavers' services, we have seen the rhythm of the Christian calendar mirrored in the life of the school.
Our pupils have led with thoughtfulness and sincerity, reading scripture, offering prayers, and sharing personal reflections with humility and grace. Special services - such as Harvest, Remembrance, and the beloved Christmas Carol Services - have once again reminded us of the Chapel’s role as a space where tradition meets the present, and where faith and learning walk hand in hand.
I am especially thankful for the contributions of our music department. The choir’s voices, the organ’s resonance, and the many instrumentalists who have brought beauty to our serviceseach have lifted our spirits and brought us closer to something beyond ourselves.
The Chapel has also been a place of comfort and stillness amidst the busyness of school life. Our quieter services, prayer spaces, and reflective gatherings have given pupils and staff alike a chance to pause and be reminded of the deeper values that underpin all we do.
As we look ahead to the summer and beyond, I pray that the peace and joy we have found in our worship together will continue to accompany every member of our Chigwell family. Whether returning in September or stepping into a new chapter elsewhere, may each heart carry the light of this special community and the enduring truth that we are all deeply loved.
Chemistry
During the Michaelmas term, pupils in Years 8, 9 and 10 had the exciting opportunity to attend the Science Live lectures in London. A small group took part in the Key Stage 3 show in March and the Key Stage 4 event in December, accompanied by science staff. Both events were packed with fascinating demonstrations and talks from leading scientists, giving pupils an inspiring glimpse into the breadth and wonder of the scientific world.
As is tradition, the department also entered a team of four pupils into the Top of the Bench competition. This began with an online quiz and led to an exciting final in which our team tackled the challenge of analysing unknown chemical samples. Chigwell finished in an impressive second place overall, a fantastic achievement considering the fierce national competition. With this being the final year of the competition in its current format, we now wait to see how it will evolve going forward.
January brought further opportunities to shine. Twenty-one Year 12 and 13 pupils sat the prestigious Chemistry Olympiad, which is a notoriously tough, two-hour exam typically aimed at Year 13 due to its demanding content. One Year 12 pupil achieved a Gold award, placing him in the top 8.2% of over 16,000 entrants nationwide. Three pupils earned Silver (top third), and five more achieved Bronze. That same month, our Year 11s took part in the new Junior Challenge, earning a spread of Copper, Silver and Gold awards - an excellent showing for a new competition.
In May, a group of pupils took part in the Chemistry Analyst competition, where they stepped into the shoes of real-life analytical chemists for the day. Tasked with identifying the contents of contaminated soil samples, pupils conducted a series of practical tests and analysed their results with great focus and enthusiasm.
Most recently, our Year 12 pupils have tackled the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge - a rigorous exam designed by Cambridge University to stretch even the most able young
chemists. We look forward to seeing how they’ve performed in this prestigious national competition.
Classics
It’s been an action-packed year in the Classics department! Over the Easter holiday, 29 KS3 pupils embarked on a fascinating three-day journey through Roman Britain. Based in historic Bath, they explored iconic sites including the Roman Baths Museum, the military fortress at Caerleon, and the ancient towns of Silchester and Caerwent, bringing their classroom learning vividly to life.
Mythos Club remains a lunchtime favourite, with senior pupils delving into creation myths from around the world, while younger pupils immerse themselves in the epic tales of Greek heroes like Ajax, Achilles, and Agamemnon. This year also saw the launch of Ancient Greek Club in the lower school, sparking a passion for classical language and culture among a dedicated group of newcomers.
Our Sixth Form pupils have enjoyed enriching trips to watch powerful productions of Sophocles’ Oedipus and Aristophanes’ Frogs, deepening their appreciation of classical drama.
We are proud to celebrate that one of our Year 13 pupils has secured an offer to continue studying the ancient world at a leading university - an inspiring testament to the strength and enthusiasm within our Classics community.
Computer Science
Year 7 pupils have been avidly completing the iDEA award this year. The iDEA award – or 'Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award' – is an international award-winning programme through which pupils complete a selection of modules, working towards accreditation at Bronze, Silver and Gold level. Our budding pupils have enjoyed challenging themselves and we should hopefully be receiving some Bronze Certificates soon.
Higher up in the school, pupils attended several engaging and successful trips where they have been enthused about Computer Science "in the real world". Year 12 pupils attended a gaming workshop at the Science Museum, where they learned about the history of video games and how technology has developed; Year 11 and 13 pupils attended the 'Computing Live!' conference in Disneyland Paris, where they engaged in talks focused on the growth of artificial intelligence, its ethical risks and on working for a games company; Year 13 pupils attended a specialised Amazon Centre tour focused on the use of robotics and technology in the supply chain.
Our Year 13 A Level cohort submitted another successful year of coursework projects, which involves pupils completing an industry-level programming project that they must independently plan, create, test and review. Well done to Rian P, our Year 13 prize winner, for his fitness app which achieved the top provisional mark in his cohort. We would also like to commend Ariyun L, who created a 'grocery all-in-one' app in which he wrote his own algorithms for autonomously determining the best price for a single product sold in multiple
places, and Kabir B, who painstakingly created a stealth-based video game using the Python programming language. We are incredibly proud of our Year 13, with over half of the cohort going on to read Computer Science, Robotics, or Artificial Intelligence at university next year. Best of luck to all!
Design and Technology
This year, Design and Technology department has once again been a hub of practical activity. All KS3 classes have engaged in a rich variety of projects, which has resulted in the pupils learning many new workshop skills. Year 7 have experienced casting, thermoforming, CAD/CAM work, dye sublimation printing and cutting and drilling - just to name a few. Year 8 enjoyed soldering electronic circuits, using bamboo as a sustainable material choice and have also learnt the advanced CAD programme Solidworks, which has enabled them to 3D print their designs. Year 9 also developed their understanding of the design industry by learning about the work of established, diverse designers in preparation for the GCSE course.
This academic year has also seen a full extra-curricular programme, with many clubs and clinics taking place, such as the Greenpower Kit Car club that several Year 10 D.T. pupils have been involved in. The pupils helped to 'reverse engineer' several of the car's components, along with designing and making the car body panels. The pupils then raced the finished car in the Regional Heats at the Lotus test track, in Hethel, Norfolk at the end of May. Although the 'Chigwell Bolt' did not make it onto the podium, the pupils did exceptionally well and exhibited impressive teamwork on the day.
We also had several Year 11 pupils apply for the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, run by The Smallpeice Trust, and we are delighted that two pupils have been granted the scholarship, which will start in September.
Drama
As the curtain falls on another remarkable year for our Drama Department, we celebrate the creativity that has flourished across every year group, with our pupils truly embracing the magic of theatre both on and off the stage.
Our two major co-curricular productions captured hearts and imaginations, with our Senior School play and whole school musical featuring an impressive eighty pupils. The pinnacle of achievement came when our Senior School performers received nominations at the prestigious National School Theatre Awards for their outstanding work in A Streetcar Named Desire – a testament to the exceptional talent within our community.
Behind the scenes, authenticity took centre stage as our Senior School pupils visited the National Theatre Costume Store, hiring professional pieces that elevated their productions to new heights. The renowned Frantic Assembly brought their expertise directly to our pupils, delivering dynamic workshops for GCSE and A Level Drama pupils that transformed their approach to physical theatre and devising.
Our commitment to experiencing world-class theatre came alive through carefully curated trips. Year 11 and Year 13 pupils were captivated by Stranger Things: The First Shadow at
the Phoenix Theatre, while Year 10 witnessed the powerful Dear England at the National Theatre. Year 9 enjoyed the hilarity of The Play That Goes Wrong, and Year 12 were enchanted by the mythical Hadestown. These experiences provide invaluable inspiration that we're excited to expand next year.
Activities Week showcased our community spirit at its finest, with the entire Year 7 cohort collaborating to stage The Wizard of Oz in an incredible two and a half days! Individual performances were remarkable, and congratulations go to Tudors for their well-deserved victory.
With momentum building and exciting opportunities already planned, next year promises to be our most ambitious yet. The Drama Department continues to grow, nurturing tomorrow's performers, directors, and theatre enthusiasts.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
This academic year, 68 Year 9 pupils signed up to participate in the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Over the course of the year, these pupils, along with those completing their Silver and Gold Awards, have volunteered in a range of settings - from helping in libraries and supporting children with reading in the Prep and Pre-Prep, to working with charities, animal shelters, local churches, food banks, and conservation projects.
In the skills and physical sections, pupils have been developing abilities such as cooking, coding, musicalandLAMDA exams, touch typing, driving, technical stage lighting, and referee courses, among others. Altogether, pupils involved in the Chigwell DofE programme have contributed 1989 volunteer hours this year, with a social value estimated at £10,500.
With the clocks springing forward, pupils embark on their expedition sections for Bronze, Silver, or Gold, heading into the countryside to experience teamwork and campcraft without the comforts of home. Easter marks the main training period for Silver and Bronze expeditions, ensuring our younger pupils are well prepared for their qualifying journeys.
This year’s Silver groups included walking and canoeing teams. The walkers qualified in the South Downs, enjoying an eco-campsite and stunning views over the hills, while the canoeists stayed local, paddling the River Chelmer due to the Thames remaining unsafe for pupil groups. After Activities Week, Year 9 Bronze pupils returned to Skreens Park to complete their expeditions. Although many routes mirrored those travelled at Easter, the landscape had noticeably changed with some footpaths grown over, presenting fresh challenges after weeks of sunshine.
Our Year 13 Gold groups recently completed their expedition in Ullapool, while the Year 12 pupils are preparing to undertake similar training next week, including canoeing, walking, wild camping, and sailing on lochs.
In total, 62 Chigwell pupils have been awarded their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards this year. Congratulations to all! Special recognition goes to James B, Isabelle K, Richard H, Nadia B P, Dhanjot L, Keashigan R, Ben P, and Vikka B, who had the honour of visiting Buckingham Palace this summer to collect their Gold Awards.
English
Pupils have seen several productions this academic year in order to enrich their understanding of set texts specified by examination and also to widen their literary horizons more generally.
In the Michaelmas term, pupils in KS4 and KS5 visited The National Theatre to see a production of Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath and a modern interpretation of Sophocles' Oedipus starring Mark Strong in order to underpin their understanding of tragedy. These performances provided invaluable insight into the dramatic power of these works when brought to life on stage.
In the Lent term, our A Level pupils once again visited The National to see an outstanding production of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest, which really enlivened their understanding of their A Level set text An Ideal Husband. The Trinity term concluded with visits to The Great Gatsby and Nye, creating perfect synergy with their close reading coursework.
Our Literary Society has had a really successful year with pupils reading widely and writing creatively. A shared reading of Coriolanus was brought to life with a trip to see it at The National, and the pupils have produced some outstanding creative writing in response to Hemingway's Iceberg Theory and the quest to find a narrative's one true sentence. It was really pleasing to see this lively and academically rigorous initiative spotlighted in the recent edition of The Good Schools Guide.
In conjunction with the library, we have hosted author visits and creative writing workshops delivered by a diverse range of writers from Cliff McNish to Bali Rai, who came into school to support the delivery of our English curriculum. These encounters have provided pupils with valuable insights into the writing process and contemporary literature.
We are delighted with the number of A Level pupils offered places to read English this year at top institutions, including Edinburgh and King's College London. Their success reflects both their hard work and genuine engagement with literature throughout their studies.
Geography
The Geography Department has enjoyed a highly successful year, marked by a series of memorable trips and growing student interest in the subject. A standout moment was the Year 13 field trip to Iceland, where students had the rare opportunity to witness active volcanic activity firsthand, deepening their understanding of the geographical theories and concepts explored in the classroom. Closer to home, the department organised local fieldwork visits to Walton-on-the-Naze for Year 10 and 12 students. These trips offered valuable insights into the dynamic nature of coastal and urban environments.
During the Michaelmas term, seventeen Key Stage 3 students from Years 7 to 9 took part in the highly prestigious Young Geographer of the Year competition, organised annually by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). This national competition attracts thousands of
entries from schools across the UK and internationally and is a recognised platform for celebrating excellence in geographical thinking and creativity. Although we did not win this year, every participating student received a Certificate of Commendation from the Royal Geographical Society, recognising their impressive efforts and thoughtful engagement with the competition. We are extremely proud of our students’ contributions and hope this experience encourages even broader participation next year, with the exciting possibility of attending the national awards ceremony in London.
At A Level an amazing 46% percent students achieved an A* and at GCSE 88% of students achieved a grade 9-7. We continue to be the largest option at GCSE with over 130 students in the cohort. Additionally, the department’s ‘Prisoners of Geography’ literacy project in conjunction with the English department has offered engaging and meaningful opportunities for Year 10 and 12 students to explore the history, culture, and global influence of countries across the world in a time where knowing about geopolitical issues between countries is of immense significance to students.
Government & Politics
The Politics department returned to the London School of Economics for LSE YouthMUN this year, engaging in committee work on a diverse array of topics.
These included simulated historical and future crisis situations relating to FARC guerillas in 1980s Colombia and the Space Race to 2030 respectively; BRICS (economic governance) and a multipolar world order; military seizures of power in developing countries; healthcare access for women in the Indian subcontinent; and a simulated European Court of Human Rights trial pertaining to the refoulement of refugees from Latvia to Belarus.
Congratulations go to Year 12 students Amelia T, Saif K, Emilia Z and Maria Z on receiving honourable mention awards for their diplomatic engagement in their BRICS, UN Peacebuilding and UN Women committees.
Elsewhere, the work of the International Relations Society continues apace, where acutely significant geopolitical developments are discussed weekly, open to Years 9-13.
High Achievers
Fortnightly mentoring sessions have taken place throughout the year to work in small groups to discuss a variety of issues. Year 7 scholars met to discuss the theme of identity before having an off-timetable day in November where they visited The Royal Institute of Chemists to harvest their own DNA from their cheek cells. In the afternoon, they worked with an artist in residence at the British Museum looking at how artefacts had been used to promote, celebrate and defend cultural and personal identities.
In the build-up to World Book week, the scholars discussed the Melvyn Bragg reading list of The Twelve Books that changed the world, discussing the impact of each text and then voting for which one they thought was most influential. Students also had the opportunity to discuss any texts that were conspicuous by their absence and add texts that they considered to be
We are delighted to celebrate the exceptional success of one of our Year 13 pupils, who took up their place at the University of Oxford to read History with English following results day last summer. This achievement stands as a testament to their intellectual curiosity, dedication, and the high standards of historical scholarship nurtured throughout the school.
Throughout the year, our pupils have been encouraged to see history not just as a study of the past, but as a vital tool for understanding the present. Through trips, discussions, and independent research, they have demonstrated curiosity, critical thinking, and a genuine passion for the subject.
We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and look forward to another year of discovery, discussion, and historical adventure.
Learning Support
The Learning Support Department has had a dynamic and engaging year, focusing on enhancing the educational experience for all pupils. Throughout the year, the department has organised various workshops and activities aimed at fostering a supportive learning environment. These initiatives have included study skills sessions, social skills workshops, and peer mentoring programs, all designed to help pupils develop essential skills and build confidence in their academic pursuits.
One of the highlights of the year was the introduction of a new inclusive learning initiative, which aimed to ensure that every pupil, regardless of their learning needs, has access to tailored support. This initiative involved collaboration with teachers across different departments to create individualized learning plans and provide targeted interventions.
Additionally, the Learning Support Department has worked closely with pupils to develop selfadvocacy skills, empowering them to take an active role in their education. Through regular one-on-one meetings and group sessions, pupils have been encouraged to voice their needs and preferences, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in their learning journey.
Mathematics
Over 450 pupils at Chigwell School competed in the UKMT individual challenges this year, earning 43 Gold certificates, 114 Silver, and 133 Bronze. A total of 29 pupils qualified for the prestigious follow-on rounds, with top scores in each year group achieved by Eva R, Benjamin M, Kyle S, Joshua D C, Leo F, Jeremy Q, and Adam S. Special recognition goes to Karol D, who achieved a Certificate of Distinction in the British Mathematical Olympiad - the highest award the school has received in this competition in over a decade.
Chigwell School achieved its best-ever result in the UKMT Team Maths Challenge Regional Finals, placing 6th out of 24 schools at the event hosted by the City of London School. The team, consisting of Kyle S, Danyal A, Oliver A, and Abhay S, dropped only 15 marks out of a possible 296.
Ten students from Years 10 to 13 represented Chigwell in the international Náboj competition at Dulwich College. Competing against teams from fifteen countries, they placed in the top 30% and were awarded commemorative maths T-shirts for their efforts.
The Hans Woyda team have made significant progress this year. After an initial defeat by Forest, the team secured a win against St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School and narrowly lost to Bancroft’s by just one point in a closely contested final match. Congratulations go to Saanvi A, Danyal A, Joshua D C, Dilan P, Cindy L, Jeremy Q, Teodor G, and especially Karol D for his leadership and preparation.
A group of Year 10 pupils attended the Maths Inspiration Day, a series of interactive lectures delivered by some of the UK’s most engaging maths speakers, including Matt Parker, Ayliean Macdonald, Rob Eastaway, and Dr Jen Visser-Rogers. The talks explored real-world applications of mathematics, such as the statistics behind Covid vaccinations, fair division problems, fractal geometry, and Matt Parker’s campaign to update UK road signs to reflect the correct geometry of a football.
The Maths Department also welcomed Dr Tom Crawford from Oxford University, who led a workshop with Further Maths students. He later delivered a talk to Year 12 mathematicians titled ‘Using Maths to Clean the Ocean’, in which he demonstrated how mathematical modelling can simulate ocean currents to identify pollution hotspots and guide the deployment of ocean-cleaning technology.
Modern Foreign Languages
We have had another successful year in the Modern Foreign Languages department at Chigwell. Among the highlights, Mr Twinn and Mme Megnin ran the Linguistics Olympiad, with excellent performances from a range of pupils. Mme Saunders also held the Festival of the Foreign Word, showcasing some incredible performances from our current Sixth Formers and Year 11 pupils. Mr Coppell and Mr Burbidge organised essay writing competitions for our keen linguists, resulting in some stunning pieces of writing. Additionally, Year 7 pupils had the chance to participate in a spelling bee competition, and Mme Sternberg, Mme Loughlin, and Mme Saunders took some of our German linguists to the Goethe Institute in London.
As we have done for several years, we continued to offer extracurricular Mandarin clubs for the many pupils interested in Chinese language and culture. We are grateful to Mrs Sau for leading these Junior School clubs. Throughout the year, Mr Twinn, Mme Megnin, Mme Hutcheon, Mme Sternberg, and Mme Saunders ran speaking workshops with some GCSE pupils, helping to develop their linguistic awareness and cultural understanding. In September, select classes were given the opportunity to learn additional European languages to celebrate European Day of Languages, and foreign poems and short stories were read during DEAR.
We look forward to building upon our successes as a department next academic year and to continue showing pupils at Chigwell how valuable and rewarding language learning can be! Music
This year has further expanded the diverse range of musical opportunities available to all pupils, while maintaining the highest performance standards. Pupils take part in over thirty weekly musical activities, with rehearsals filling every available moment in the Music School. These include Guitar Ensemble, Ukulele Club, Cello Ensembles, String Orchestra and Quartets, Senior Rock Band, Music Theory Club, Intermediate and Senior Orchestras, Percussion, Flute and Saxophone Ensembles, Wind Quintet, Junior and Senior Wind Bands, Big Band, and a wide variety of choirs including Choral Society and several Chapel Choirs. Most groups are open to all, ensuring there is something for everyone.
There have been many highlights throughout the year, beginning in September with a leavers’ concert by the Senior Chapel Choir at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. The Michaelmas Term saw over 100 pupils in the triple-cast KS3 musical Cinderella, a great success thanks to Miss McCarthy’s dedication. Other notable performances included the Carol Service by the Intermediate and Senior Chapel Choirs, Jazz Night with Big Band and soloists, and a concert at Christ Church in Wanstead featuring the Intermediate and Junior Chapel Choirs
In February, over 240 pupils from Year 5 to Year 13 took part in the Cadogan Hall concert, centred around Rutter’s Requiem, performed by massed choirs from Chigwell and guest schools our largest choir yet. Directed by Mr Ebden and Mr Lukin, the performance was elegant and emotive. The concert also featured a piano solo by Noah Marcovitch with Big Band, in a work specially commissioned by visiting teacher Mr Nick Tomalin, and a horn solo by Rosie Jackson OC, now studying at the Royal College of Music.
Other Lent term performances included the Senior Chapel Choir opening a concert at Cadogan Hall, the Big Band playing at the Rotary Youth Makes Music concert, and a Teatime Chamber Concert showcasing 15 ensembles from Year 3 to Year 13.
The annual Young Musician of the Year competition in April featured 34 participants across Junior and Senior categories, with Daniel A and Milan P emerging as winners. The Trinity Term concerts saw every ensemble perform, with solo farewells from Year 13 leavers. The year concludes with our Bands and Barbecue night on Tuesday at 6pm - all are warmly invited!
Alongside ensemble concerts, the department hosted numerous ‘Live@6!’ recitals, teatime showcases led by visiting music staff, and trips to see The Marriage of Figaro, Hamilton, and a Baroque workshop for younger players. Over fifty senior musicians are now preparing for a summer tour to Tuscany, featuring performances from the Chapel Choirs, Big Band, Wind Band, String Ensemble and Orchestra.
Instrumental lessons remain a cornerstone of our provision, with around 400 lessons delivered weekly by 21 visiting teachers. Pupils take ABRSM, Trinity, and Rock & Pop exams up to nine times annually. Individual successes include Luca C singing with the Royal Opera House children’s chorus, Caterina G earning a place at Junior Trinity Laban, and Milan P at Junior Guildhall. We also wish Daniel A the very best as he begins studying Percussion at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire this September.
Philosophy and Religious Studies
The Philosophy and Religious Studies Department has enjoyed an excellent year with much to celebrate. We have seen remarkable growth in pupil numbers studying the subject at A Level, with three pupils now progressing to study Philosophy or Theology at university.
One highlight was a visit from Dr Simon Berry, a medieval historian educated at Cambridge and Oxford, who gave a fascinating lecture to senior pupils on the theology of The Lord of the Rings, exploring “Truth amidst Fantasy.” Next year, we look forward to hosting many more inspiring speakers!
Philosophy and Religious Studies remains a popular choice at GCSE, offering pupils from both junior and senior school the chance to develop research skills and build confidence in discussions and presentations on a variety of contemporary religious, ethical, and philosophical topics. A recent debate on the aims of punishment and the potential reintroduction of capital punishment sparked particularly insightful work.
Our lower school pupils participated in the Spirited Arts competition alongside hundreds of schools worldwide, creating artwork in diverse forms - from posters and poetry to photography and music. We eagerly await the competition results early in Michaelmas term.
The department continues to support and collaborate with the school’s faith clubs, providing pupils with opportunities to experience religion as living faiths in vibrant communities. The Christian Union, Jewish Society, and Islamic Society remain active, and this year saw the launch of a Sikh Society. These clubs are open to all pupils, whether from these faith backgrounds or simply curious about different religious beliefs and practices.
Additionally, we continue to strengthen our partnership with the school chaplaincy, integrating spiritual and moral development into the wider school vision to promote the flourishing and well-being of all pupils.
Physics
The Physics department celebrated numerous successes this year, with pupils enthusiastically engaging in a wide range of extracurricular activities. William C (Year 9) triumphed in the East England ‘If you were an Engineer, what would you do?’ competition with his innovative design of a kinetic floor tile using piezoelectric crystals to harness the energy of commuters to power underground station lights. Four Year 12 pupils showcased their talents at a Physics for Girls interschool tournament, securing first place in the experimental skills round. Six Year 13 pupils participated in the Gold Industrial Cadets, working with Airbus as their industry mentor and visiting UCL to experience a university laboratory, where they built a working model of a semi-autonomous rover to be presented at Cambridge University. Pupils from Year 12 to Year 13 demonstrated their academic prowess in the British Physics Olympiad, from Junior to Main Olympiad level, achieving an impressive total of 8 gold medals, 16 silver medals, 20 bronze medals, and 1 commendation.
Trips included Year 12 pupils visiting the Greenwich Observatory, where they participated in a workshop on starlight and explored the planetarium and museum. Seventeen pupils from Year 11 to Year 13 visited CERN in Geneva, touring the facility, exploring exhibitions, and attending a laboratory workshop to build and investigate their own cloud chambers. Sixth
Form pupils also attended an inspiring engineering lecture by Prof Tim Minshall and Dr John C Taylor, Professor of Innovation at the University of Cambridge, on ‘Manufacturing a Better World’ as part of the Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society Christmas lectures.
Throughout the year, several successful clubs - including Astronomy, Geology, and Starburst - have enriched the department’s vibrant extracurricular programme.
Psychology
The Psychology Department closes the academic year celebrating intellectual curiosity and dedication. Throughout the year, students have tackled profound questions such as the interaction between cognition and physiology and the nature of free will. Their engagement with seminal research, including Maguire’s (2000) MRI study on taxi drivers, has reinforced fundamental principles such asneuroplasticity, famously articulated by Hebb (1949): ‘neurons that fire together wire together.’ Independent research has been a cornerstone of learning, allowing students to design experiments, establish ethical research protocols, and refine their understanding of inferential statistics. Classroom discussions have been dynamic, with pupils debating key psychological questions, including whether aggression stems from nature or nurture. These exchanges have fostered critical thinking, strengthened chains of reasoning, and demonstrated intellectual prowess.
The department commends the exceptional contributions of its pupils, with special recognition for Andreja M-B. Her essay, ‘How can knowledge of hemispheric lateralisation and language centres in the brain help us understand case studies of brain damage?’ showcased independent research and original thought, setting a high standard for scholarly inquiry. With over one-third of students preparing to study psychology or neuroscience at university, their commitment to the subject is evident. Looking ahead, the department anticipates new discoveries, deeper explorations, and continued engagement with the complexities of human thought and behaviour. The enthusiasm and academic excellence displayed throughout the year serve as a strong foundation for the future.
Sixth Form
It has been another very active year for our Sixth Formers, and a notable one historically, too. This year’s Middle Sixth leavers are the first year group through with a Head of Year (Mr Burbidge) for their time in the Sixth Form, and also the first to finish Chigwell having started in the Pre-Prep (in year 2).
Away from the headlines of nine offers for Medicine and fourteen for Law, and many other notable achievements, there have been some particularly intelligently and carefully researched choices such as Robotics Engineering at Warwick, Artificial Intelligence at Bristol, and Comparative Literature with a Year Abroad at UCL. It’s always refreshing to see our young people really think in detail about their university courses, and the class of 2025 is no exception.
All this is still to come for the Lower Sixth, but if their industriousness this year has been anything to go by the future is similarly bright. They raised a huge amount of money in
Charities Week, and we were delighted to welcome representatives from Guide Dogs for the Blind UK and Place 2 Be into school to bring to life what our students’ donations will mean in the real world. We’re aiming to establish a display board in the Sixth Form Centre to mark these achievements on a yearly basis because of what this means to our students and to the charities they work with.
Ms Nairac encouraged the creation of a successful Social Committee at the start of the year, which instigated the first Movie Night as well as stepping up with the Friends of Chigwell to coordinate the Easter Egg Hunt. More recently we received a significant 40+ entries from this year’s Lower Sixth for the Howard and Mitchell essay competitions whose results are announced today, showing a fantastic level of commitment to super-curricular study.
Sport
Sport at Chigwell is very much on an upward trajectory, following the opening of the Sport and Wellness Centre and the increase in size of the Sports Department. Our aim is to encourage lifelong physical activity for all pupils, as well as providing the environment and support for aspiring performers to thrive. It has been so pleasing to see marked progress in each of these areas during this academic year.
The PE & Games curriculum continues to expand with opportunities for spin and boxercise classes, dance, wellness walks, and orienteering all being available to pupils. House competitions this year have included table tennis, golf, pickleball, and water polo, in addition to the traditional focus sports, sports days, swimming galas and cross-country competitions.
As a school we have played over 750 fixtures across twelve different sports during this academic year. All pupils in Years 5, 6, 7 & 8 have been selected to represent the school at some stage throughout the year, and this is also the case for over 95% of pupils in Years 9. We have fielded girls outdoor cricket teams across Years 4 to 8 for the first time, whilst also entering our first IAPS triathlon competition with a Year 6 team. There has been an increase in the number of athletics and cross-country competitions entered, as well as hosting more swimming galas for our prep school year groups.
School sports tours have travelled to Barcelona for football and to the Netherlands for hockey, with a cricket and netball tour to Barbados set to depart in Easter 2026. Trips to Super League netball fixtures at the Copperbox Arena and the Basketball Play Offs at the 02 Arena have also been very popular with pupils.
This year we have introduced the Junior Sports Academy which supports those pupils in Years 7 & 8 who aspire to compete at a high level in their chosen sport. This programme will be widened across the whole of the senior school year groups from September.
Here are some of the very top sporting highlights from across the year:
- Latif K has been chosen to represent England U16 hockey team as goalkeeper at the upcoming European Championships in the Netherlands.
- Blake I has been a regular in the Tottenham Hotspur F.C Academy teams and this year was called up to an England Goalkeeper Training Camp at St George’s Park.
- Sonny W has represented the ISFA U17 team.
- The U11 boys football team progressed to the quarter finals of the National IAPS competition at Millfield School.
- 4 pupils qualified for the IAPS Swimming National Finals at the London Aquatic Centre. Congratulations to Nicholas D who finished in 3rd place in the U11 boys’ 50m
breaststroke. Jack L, Isabella N, and Cassie B allput in excellent performances against the best in the country.
- Waiz Y won bronze in the 100m at the Essex County Athletics Championships.
- Jack L won 14 medals in the Essex Swimming Championships, including gold in 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle, as well as 100m butterfly.
- 5 pupils qualified for the Prep School National Athletic Finals held at The Alexandra Stadium, Birmingham. Congratulations to Harrison D, Lottie O, Jack T, Chloe W, and Pheobe W.
Motto
Vision, Mission and Values
Find a way or make a way.
Vision
To inspire our pupils to fulfil their potential and forge their own path to success.
Mission
Our school is a nurturing community. We strive to ensure that everyone is the very best they can be; independent in spirit, adventurous in approach and empathetic in how they treat others. Since 1629, we have empowered our pupils with a deep respect for lifelong learning, ensuring they are ready to make their positive mark around the world.
Values Happiness First
We create a nurturing space where happiness underpins our achievements and drives us forward.
Courageous and Resilient
We seize opportunities all around us and have the confidence to embrace them wholeheartedly.
Innovative Approach
We adapt and evolve, influencing our changing world.
Community of Kindness
We support and collaborate with each other, making a positive contribution to the community.
Lifelong Learning
We cultivate curiosity, keeping the passion for learning alive beyond the school gates.
School Strategy 2029
