Summer 2025
Nursery
What a busy time we have had in our happy little Nursery! We have enjoyed the weather warming up and making good use of the garden. The children have planted lots of flowers, courgettes, and tomatoes, and they are working hard to keep them well looked after with lots of watering. We are looking forward to a good harvest and maybe even making some ratatouille! We have welcomed several new children and their families into the Nursery this term and the children are enjoying making lots of new friends. Well done everyone!
Watercolour Painting
My goodness, how our little Owls have grown! This term, they had a go at watercolour painting. They selected the colours for their painting and were careful not to mix them up by rinsing the paintbrush in between colours. What wonderful, budding young artists!
Hard at work
A secret den
How does that work
Carefully does it!
Mixing
The children were excited to celebrate Miss Besley’s birthday and some of them helped Mrs Knowles make a surprise birthday cake, while others made some lovely homemade cards.
Farm Visit
It was with great excitement that the farm came to visit! Farmer Tom and Holly brought along so many wonderful animals, from the huge, handsome turkey called Gobble to the slow little tortoise. The children had the chance to groom the donkeys and stroke the pigs, goats, and sheep. Some of the children even had a go at milking the pretend cow.
Thank you, Mill Cottage Farm.
wonder
The
of a water wheel
Reception
PE in the Sunshine
We love that in the Summer Term, our P.E. lessons can move outside, and the children have loved exercising in the sunshine and playing different movement and athletics games. Here, they are doing a fun race where they jump from hoop-to-hoop balancing on a different number of body parts in each hoop.
Making Healthy Sandwiches
After a trip to Sainsbury’s to buy sandwich ingredients, Reception children enjoyed making their own healthy sandwiches and then having them for their afternoon snack! Yum!
Beautiful Butterfly Paintings
Whilst exploring our book of the week, ‘The Hungry Caterpillar’, Reception children explored the symmetrical patterns seen on butterflies. They loved ‘fold painting’ to see the mirror pattern, as well as a cheeky bit of colour-mixing too!
Anyone for ice cream?
Jumping
Learning about doubling numbers has been a hit, and the children have played many games to support their learning.
Forest School Trip
Children had an absolute ball during their forest school trip this month. They spent the day exploring the woodland, climbing trees, making dens, balancing on small bridges and negotiating how to travel over rocky terrain. The children also loved swinging on the rope swings and finding treasure whilst on the pirate ship. Dolphins and Puffins helped to collect elderflower from the trees and make it into cordial. They also spotted a wild rabbit and lots of birds. Reading books whilst tucked up in the hammock, and toasting marshmallows around the campfire, was a wonderful end to a great day.
Weald and Downland Museum Visit
Year 1 children have been learning about the significant historical event, The Great Fire of London. To consolidate their learning, they visited the wonderful Weald and Downland Museum, where they kneaded bread in the bakehouse and learnt how easy it would have been for a single spark to cause such a devastating fire. They even used flint and steel to create sparks, which caused lots of excitement. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and fascinating day!
Maths in the Great Outdoors
We have taken lots of our Maths learning outside. From measuring and place value to adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing, every topic was brought to life through hands-on activities in the fresh air. This approach helped deepen understanding and made lessons more engaging.
Magic Beans
One ordinary day, Year 1 had a surprise visit from a boy called Jack who delivered a bag of mysterious beans! We wondered what they might grow into and set about imagining and writing about our own magical plants: a fluffy kitten plant, a lasagne plant, and a diamond plant were just some of the ideas. We put the beans into a clear bag with a wet paper towel, carefully observed the growth each day, and recorded any changes in our bean diaries.
Mini Explorers
In Geography, we set off on an exciting journey around the United Kingdom! We became explorers as we uncovered the differences between human and physical features, by building brilliant 3D models of mountains, rivers, castles, and even The Shard. Our adventure continued as we uncovered the national flowers and flags of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, sharing fascinating facts about each country along the way.
Year 2
Electrical Circuits
In a recent science activity, Year 2 students explored the fascinating world of electricity by creating their own electrical circuits. Using simple materials, such as batteries, bulbs, and wires, the children learned how to connect the components to form a complete circuit. They worked collaboratively, problem-solving and testing their circuits to ensure the bulb lit up successfully.
Plastic Bag Weaving
Building upon their impressive basket-weaving skills, Year 2 collaborated to design a large-scale woven installation in the infant play area, transforming the space into a colourful tapestry of interconnected threads. This hands-on project not only enhanced their fine motor abilities but also provided an opportunity to work as a team. What a way to recycle plastic bags!
Grandparents' Afternoon
Early in the Spring Term, Year 2 welcomed grandparents, family members, and close friends for a special visit. The children were thrilled to give them a tour of the school, work together on family trees, and enjoy a lovely afternoon tea. The day concluded with everyone joining in a heartfelt rendition of ‘Kum ba ya’. Our students and visitors had a lovely time!
Creating Goldsworthy Art
In art lessons, the children have been exploring the artist Andy Goldsworthy and his creations. We had a wonderful time collecting and using natural resources to create our own Andy Goldsworthy-inspired artwork.
Languages News
It has been an exciting time for languages at the Junior School. Year 6 spent a week in France, immersed in the language and taking part in exciting activities, such as visiting a bakery and a goat cheese farm, and taking on high ropes challenges. Spanish Club made cascarones (confetti eggs), and Years 4 to 6 were visited by a French theatre company! Meanwhile, Year 3 produced their own French performances as part of the Year 3 Showcase.
3M performing a French poem in their Showcase
Making cascarones in Spanish Club
Tasting snails on the Year 6 French trip
Years 4-6 enjoyed a hilarious French theatre production about space
Year 6 learned how to make croissants during their trip to France
Bravo, tout le monde!
Computing
Data Handling
All the children in Year 1 to Year 6 studied data handling in the Spring Term. Year 1 looked at grouping data by characteristics while Year 2 created their own pictograms. Years 3 and 4 were looking at databases - Year 3 sorted items using a branching questionnaire and Year 4 used tools of searching and sorting to find answers in a large database about countries. Year 5 thoroughly enjoyed using 'micro:bits' for their data collection. They built the code to turn their micro:bit into a movement tracker, collecting data about how they walked, so they could create the code for a step counter, which was then tested by attaching a micro:bit to their shoe as they walked about! Meanwhile, Year 6 impressed with their knowledge of spreadsheets and how to use formulae to calculate numbers in Excel.
Mouse and Keyboard Skills
The children in Reception are quickly gaining confidence in using a mouse and a computer keyboard! They have been working hard to gain control over precise mouse movements by clicking, dragging, and drawing and they have put their phonics to the test by typing words onto Seesaw.
Learning to Code
The first half of the Summer Term has all been about coding, which always brings much excitement. Reception and Year 1 have been experimenting with the Beebots and Blu-bots, finding routes and choreographing dances, and they will finish off by creating a game based on the Great Fire of London on Scratch Jr. Year 2 are also busy on Scratch Jr making a dodging game of their own design, building up their coding skills, ready to take on the challenges of the full Scratch software next year.
Creating Games and Apps
Inspired by their Ancient Egyptian topic, Year 3 are writing and coding a conversation animation on Scratch, using their skills to create an interview with Tutankhamun or a chat with a mummy! Year 4 and 5 are also creating games, this time making use of infinite loops and code to collect and avoid items, with Year 5 also incorporating conditions and cloning code to level-up their designs. Year 6 have moved into the world of JavaScript as their next challenge and will be designing apps with their newfound skills.
Testing out the step counters we coded!
Year 3
Year 3 were proud to show off their finished puppets
Peaking Their Interest!
In Geography, Year 3 children explored mountains, learning how climate changes with altitude and how mountains can impact nearby weather. They discovered fascinating facts about the Alps and the Andes through maps and research, and then concluded the term by designing and building their own 3D mountain range models.
Drama Club Visit
Year 3 were treated to a performance from the Senior School’s Drama Club, celebrating the work of Roald Dahl with some incredible storytelling and acting.
Haslemere Museum
Our trip to the Haslemere Museum furthered our learning on the topic of Ancient Egypt. We found out more about the pharaohs and how they were mummified for the afterlife. Our soft toys and action figures were the perfect models for wrapping up and everyone was relieved that no toys were harmed in the process.
A Poetry Performance
This term, Year 3 have been learning and performing animal poems in their English lessons, and had the opportunity to perform them to an audience of parents.
Learning Resilience
Year 3 have shown tremendous resilience, thanks to practical sessions with Dr Kate and Dr Sarah this year.
Leaf it to Science!
Year 3 have been busy working as scientists, exploring flowers and plants in detail. They created carefully labelled drawings and investigated the differences between plants grown from seeds and those from bulbs. In a fun, hands-on lesson, they acted as detectives to identify which parts of various fruits and vegetables were roots, stems, flowers, leaves, seeds, or fruits.
Year 4
Electricity
Everyone enjoyed making safety posters about electricity for the younger pupils, and using bright colours to make them as informative and attractive as possible.
Library Garden
Year 4 have been enjoying reading in the new covered outdoor area of our library, which has an 'Alice in Wonderland' theme.
Creating Volcanoes
Geography is fun! Year 4 have loved learning about volcanoes in all sorts of different ways. They have researched, drawn, planned, and exploded them over the course of the Spring Term. A real high spot was exploding their models - thankfully done outside! The combination of coke, bicarb, water, and washing up liquid worked so well, and produced a wonderful fake explosion. A high degree of awe and wonder shown here as the children erupted their models.
Shoe Project
Year 4 have created imaginative and creative shoes, sandals, and boots! Fashion designers of the future, well done!
Bright Sparks!
Science is always a real favourite for Year 4—lots of experimenting and trying things out make this subject hugely enjoyable. Our Summer Term work is a unit on electricity, where pupils engage with lots of different aspects of this topic from electrical safety to making circuits work and bulbs and buzzers light up. Enormous fun!
Inaugural School Pancake Race
The Junior School held its first House Pancake Competition – fiercely competed by Years 3 to 6 who had to run across the tennis court whilst flipping a pancake to score valuable House points.
Music & Drama
Year 4 Take on Frozen
At the end of March, the children from Year 4 delighted friends and family with their production of Frozen. It was a fabulous night with village folk, dancing, the summer chorus, and snow chorus all providing us with a variety of entertainment and talents. Miss Danni, as ever, produced some real highlights with 4TR dancing to ‘Let it Go’, and 4M showing their dance talents to ‘Love is an Open Door’. What a wealth of acting, singing, and dancing talent we have here and we are fabulously proud of everyone involved.
A Brass Masterclass!
Trumpets, bugles, and fanfares galore! This term, Mr Lowe led a Brass Masterclass to 4TR. Everyone in the class tried the trumpet in small groups and managed to have a blow!
Petersfield Music Festival
Back in March, Year 5 took part in the combined children's choir as part of the Petersfield Music Festival. It is always a wonderful opportunity to join forces with local schools, both independent and state. They sang brilliantly over two long nights at the Festival Hall, and they loved fun tunes such as ‘A la cart’, telling tales of a young Mozart and his go-cart! There were also some classic tunes from Simon and Garfunkel, but the resounding favourites came in the shape of songs from Matilda. ‘Revolting Children’ was a firm winner, but we shall not read too much into this!
On Guard!
Year 5 were treated to a fabulous theatre stage combat workshop, led by our fencing coach, Derren. The children absolutely loved the opportunity to learn how to very safely ‘slap’ and ‘punch’ one another - what a great learning experience, and lots of fun!
Sport
Cricket Season Has Arrived!
Year 4 have been busy enjoying the sunshine and have relished the chance to play cricket as often as possible. Meanwhile, Year 5 children have represented the school in cricket fixtures, showing great enthusiasm and team spirit.
U11 Hockey Tournament
The U11 hockey tournament was a thrilling showcase of teamwork, skill, and determination, with all teams delivering their best performances of the season. The A team earned third place, with strong defense and attacking play, while the Reds impressed with coordinated effort and secured a close second-place finish. Beyond results, the tournament highlighted each player’s development, passion, and progress, making it a proud and memorable day for all involved.
Multi-Year Athletics
Year 5 and 6 pupils travelled to Barfield to compete against West Hill Park, St Hilary’s, and Ripley Court in our first athletics meeting of the Summer Term. Whilst the forecasted storms did their best to dampen our spirits, Churcher’s pupils were not to be beaten and they romped home to impressive places in a number of different disciplines, from 50m sprints to long jump, cricket ball throw, and javelin. And of course, no athletics event is complete without the standard relay and sack race to send the pupils off with smiles on their faces!
Swimming
Hampshire Primaries
Our swimmers showed incredible determination at the Hampshire Swimming Primaries, winning both the 4x25m freestyle and medley relay events. Their speed, teamwork, and discipline earned them a place in the County Finals. This achievement reflects their hard work and inspires them to keep pushing forward against even tougher competition. Bravo!
IAPS Qualifiers
Eighteen swimmers competed in individual races and relays at the regional IAPS qualifiers at Bishopsgate School. All their hard work and training paid off as they faced tough national competition. Although they didn’t reach the finals, the experience was both rewarding and memorable.
Year 6 Gala
The Year 6 swimming gala was an unforgettable event, filled with energy, excitement, and close races that showcased the athletes’ determination, resilience, and sportsmanship. Hamble claimed first place with consistent performances, followed by Meon in second, Arun in third, and Rother in fourth, all showing impressive effort and spirit. With roaring support from families and outstanding effort from every swimmer, it was a proud celebration of teamwork and perseverance.
Year 5
Dale Chihuly Project
Year 5 have been working in groups to create sculptures from recycled bottles in the style of Dale Chihuly, who is famous for his glass sculptures, which can be seen all over the world.
Book Week
Danceathon for Comic Relief
Year 5 thoroughly enjoyed strutting their stuff to some tunes from the ages, as they took part in this year’s Danceathon for Comic Relief. Year 5 were led masterfully by Mr Blackman, with cameos from the Year 5 team, caps donned and dressed in red. The children performed with smiles across every face. A real win for all concerned!
An annual highlight was the epic Book Week. The children loved all of the author visits and had a wonderful time buddying up with Year 3 to share books.
Theatre Brings French to Life
This term's celestial theme continued with a visit from the Onatti Language Theatre. The play was called, ‘Ticket pour l'espace’ and it was especially designed for those at the beginning of their French learning. The students thoroughly enjoyed this new experience.
Mill Cottage Farm
The children were also treated once again to a wonderful visit from Mill Cottage Farm. It was a lovely opportunity for them to pet lots of different farm animals.
Out of this World!
3, 2, 1... Blast Off! Year 5 has been on an outof-this-world scientific journey this term, exploring the wonders of Space! Our young astronomers absolutely loved delving into the cosmos. They tackled the fascinating phases of the Moon with delicious Oreo cookies, demonstrating their understanding with every twist and bite. Inspired by real-life adventurers, pupils enjoyed reading all about astronaut Chris Hadfield's incredible experiences. To truly grasp the vastness of our universe, they even created a scale model of the solar system using various fruits, proving that science can be both educational and delicious fun! It was truly a stellar exploration for everyone involved.
Year 6
A French Escapade!
Year 6 had a wonderful, cultural experience on their excursion to France. The trip included a visit to the war memorial in Etaples, buying their lunch at Le Touquet market, a treasure hunt in Bolougne, and visiting a boulangerie, and a goat farm to see how bread and cheese are made.
Assemblies
For 6NR’s assembly, the children enjoyed using 'Masterchef' and 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire?' sketches, to share with the rest of the school the activities they had participated in for their citizenship curriculum. Meanwhile, 6AR’s Assembly shared their learning about World War 2 with the school. The children reflected on the life of the Canary Girls, the Blitz, and the D Day landing, bringing history to life through music and drama.
STEAM Project
Year 6 have been working on creating LED-lit lanterns. They have designed and sublimated printed fabric, constructed nets, used sewing machines and added LEDs to their completed lanterns using conductive sewing thread.
World Book Day
We were treated to an eyecatching array of characters on World Book Day, as pupils dressed to impress! From teens serving time in the desert (Holes) to dastardly dames (101 Dalmatians), it was a real pleasure for the children to be their favourite book character for the day and play the game of ‘Who are you?’, as they appraised each other’s efforts.
Music
Chamber Choir Evensong
On a Sunday in March, the Senior Chamber Choir returned to the church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Hambledon, to sing evensong. After weeks of preparation, the choir delivered a polished performance, beginning with Adrian Batten’s O Sing Joyfully and continuing with Moeran’s canticles in D, and Radcliffe’s preces and responses. The highlight was Bruckner’s powerful motet, Locus Iste. A full church, thanks to a parish meeting, joined in rousing hymns including Cwm Rhondda and Jerusalem. The Hambledon bell ringers, including three Churcher’s students, added to the occasion. Warm hospitality, and an abundance of cake, made the evening especially memorable and we look forward to returning in 2027.
Symphonic Superheroes
In March, GCSE and A Level music students travelled to Portsmouth Guildhall to hear the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra perform a concert titled Heroes and Superheroes. The programme featured a thrilling selection of film music inspired by legendary figures, both real and fictional. Highlights included scores from Robin Hood, The Magnificent Seven, Saving Private Ryan, Apollo 13, and superhero favourites such as Superman, Batman, and Captain America. The BSO’s outstanding performance was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Musicians' Dinner
The annual Upper Sixth Musicians’ Dinner is a special occasion to thank our senior musicians and their parents for years of dedication, talent, and support. Guests enjoyed a black-tie threecourse meal, with performances from Will M, Max C, Alex W, a Rock School ensemble, and a Jazz Quintet. Speeches were given by Dominic H, Max C, Tristan L, and Lucas P. The evening, attended by 28 Upper Sixth musicians, their families, senior staff, and music teachers, was a fitting farewell as they continue their musical journeys beyond Churcher’s College.
Lower School Recital
This term’s Lower School Recital opened with a spooky performance of Saint-Saëns’s Danse Macabre, by Junior Strings, followed by impressive sets from smaller ensembles including Horn Chorus, Junior Jazz, Guitar Group, Third Year String Quartet, and Second Year Brass Group. Weekly rehearsals paid off with confident, polished performances. Standout solos included Fraser N’s relaxed piano piece, All is Calm, and Lucy M’s expressive flute solo, Cantilena. Junior Choir closed the evening with lively renditions of Somewhere Only We Know, and One Short Day, inspired by the recent Wicked movie release.
Lower School Cabaret
This year’s Lower School Cabaret was a vibrant showcase of music, dance, and comedy, featuring students from the First to Third Year. Performances included musical theatre hits from Frozen, Wicked, Six, Matilda, and The Greatest Showman, alongside pop classics such as The Beatles’ Hey Jude and an energetic ABBA medley. Talented student instrumentalists formed bands and a string quartet to accompany the singers, delivering a polished, professional sound. Dance highlights came from the Junior and Intermediate Dance Squads, while ensembles such as the Junior Barbershop, Chamber Choir, Jazz Group and Highway Band wowed the crowd. Comperes Peter Z, Romilly C, and Lucy C, kept energy high, and the evening ended on a high note with the 100-strong Junior Choir singing Hold My Hand.
Inspiring the Junior School Students!
In February, two year groups from the Junior School visited the Senior School for what they thought would be a simple assembly, but were treated to a lively musical concert instead! Mr James and the Wind Band kicked things off with Pirates of the Caribbean, followed by Mrs Purchase’s introduction to the strings family and a talented String Quartet from the Third Year. Mr Cree wowed the audience with a fun brass demo using tubing and a funnel. The event ended on a high note, with Katy Perry, and a Junior School pupil conducting the Wind Band!
Spring Concert
The annual Spring Concert at St. Peter’s Church was a vibrant celebration of musical talent, showcasing a wide range of styles and moods. The Orchestra opened with an energetic rendition of the ‘William Tell’ Overture, followed by medleys from Phantom of the Opera, and Lord of the Dance. Vocal ensembles, including the Junior and Senior Chamber Choirs, SSA Choir, and a growing Barbershop group, delivered polished performances. Finlay T impressed with Scarlatti’s Piano Sonata in A, and the evening concluded with the Senior Choir’s dynamic finale, featuring Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, and more.
Petersfield Music Festival
This much-loved annual festival once again brought together local junior schools, Churcher’s College, TPS, and Ditcham Park in a heart-warming celebration of ensemble music. Churcher’s musicians featured in the Combined Wind and Jazz Bands, and many supported smaller ensembles in accompanying the impressive Junior Choir. The varied programme included Broadway medleys, Pirates of the Caribbean, Matilda, and lively jazz. With a full house and fantastic performances all round, it was a joyful evening, and we’re already looking forward to repeating it next year.
Adventurous Activities
Gold DofE
In the Lakes
Sixty-four Lower Sixth students, divided into 10 teams, took part in the hiking expedition in the Lake District. Four days and three nights were spent taking in some well-known peaks, including Scafell Pike and Helvellyn, and experiencing overnight stays in local campsites, and wild camping next to tarns. The weather was mixed with some sunshine and a good deal of wind and rain. The teams had to be re-routed off the high ground on one of the days, due to 50-70 mile an hour winds over the tops. It all made for a great challenge, and all came through successfully and have now completed this element of the Gold award.
DofE at the Palace!
In May, current and former Churcher's students joined more than 8,000 Gold DofE award holders to celebrate their achievements at Buckingham Palace. The sunny event marked the culmination of challenging journeys, such as expeditions in the Rhinogs and Lake District. His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, a Gold Award recipient himself, congratulated the attendees from the West Terrace, engaging with many Churcher's students about the positive impact of their DofE experiences. It was a proud recognition of their perseverance, resilience, and remarkable achievement.
On the Water
Nine Lower Sixth students ventured to the Wye Valley at half term, to paddle from Hay-on-Wye to Monmouth. The weather tested them for the first two days - there’s nothing quite like driving rain all day on a 40 km route to make you question your life choices. Thankfully they all stuck with it and were rewarded for their perseverance with sun for the remainder of the expedition. All successfully passed their Gold DofE expedition and have some good adventure stories for the future.
DofE Bronze Expedition
The Easter Holidays saw 138 Third Year students complete their Bronze DofE assessed expeditions in the New Forest. Each team had to plan and complete a two-day expedition, carrying all of their kit and food, with an overnight camp. The teams had to navigate their way, with varying degrees of success, over a 15km route each day. There were a couple of geographically embarrassed teams who eventually showed up, but that’s all part of the experience! All participants were successful… bring on Silver next year!
OSCA
Round-Up
OSCA’s evening activities this term have included expedition planning for the Rother Valley trip, a Ready Steady Cook challenge, knife work, and climbing. The students have really enjoyed learning new skills!
Reaching for the Summit
In April, Churcher’s was privileged to host a lecture presented by OC Tom Livingstone. Tom is a world-famous alpinist and outdoor writer, described as “one of the finest climbers in the world” by Sir Chris Bonnington. The talk expanded on Tom’s approach to climbing, and the experiences that have led him to where he is today. The photo and video show was aweinspiring! The lecture finished with Tom’s description of his two-year journey to create a new route on Gasherbrum 3 in Pakistan - pure alpinism over 7,000 metres. The event was very well attended, and the volume of questions demonstrated his engagement with the audience.
Rother Valley Expedition
This term, OSCAneers worked in teams to plot their maps and navigate around the South Downs for the Rother Valley expedition. Once the teams successfully made it to the campsite, they put up their tents and settled into an evening spent cooking on fires, roasting marshmallows, and playing games.
Fun on the Water!
At the beginning of May, OSCAneers headed to Cobnor for a Watercraft Day. The students worked hard, building rafts to test in the estuary... all of which were very successful! The students also took part in canoeing and kayaking. There was great team work shown throughout the trip—a key component of OSCA’s aims.
Devizes to Westminster Canoe Marathon
The Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race took place over Easter Weekend, with Alice, Felix, Dom, Jake, and Alec forming the final team. The race began in Devizes on Friday, with teams paddling to Newbury for their first overnight camp. Saturday’s stretch to Marlow was especially challenging, covering both the Kennet and Avon Canal and the Thames. Sunday’s leg from Marlow to Teddington was the longest and fastest, followed by a final sprint to Hammersmith on Monday. All teams finished smiling, marking a huge achievement. Alec and Zhara placed 2nd in the DW Endeavour category, Jake and Dom finished 3rd in the U17s, closely followed by Alice and Felix in 4th.
Ten Tors
Ten Tors is the largest outdoor youth challenge in the UK with 2,400 young people navigating their way over the moor. It is an extremely tough, two-day event, and this year Churcher’s had two teams - a Fourth Year team in a 35-mile route and a Lower Sixth team in the 45-mile route. Both teams completed the challenge successfully, with the 35-mile team arriving at the finish at 10.40 and the 45 milers at 13.46. All 12 students had sore feet from their endeavours but managed big smiles as they were presented with their medals. This was an experience that will live with them for the rest of their lives!
The Creative Arts
A Celebration of Colour and Pattern
Our First Year students have been exploring the vibrant world of colour through the lens of pattern. Drawing inspiration from the bold, expressive style of the Fauvist movement and the iconic paper cut-outs of Henri Matisse, they have created striking heat-pressed patterns on textiles. The results are as dynamic as they are colourful, and showcase the students’ growing confidence in using art to express emotion and rhythm.
Building a Better World
For our Second Years, the focus turned to form and structure as they delved into the world of architecture. Investigating the spaces we inhabit and the urban environments around us, students designed imaginative buildings with a purpose—structures that contribute meaningfully to society. The project culminated in the creation of impressive 3D models, each one a thoughtful response to community needs and the built environment.
Stitching for Change
Third Year students have taken on a project that combines skill development with social awareness. By refining their embroidery techniques and working with recycled materials, they have explored how art can serve as a powerful tool for social commentary. Each student has crafted a unique segment of summer bunting, representing a personal and conscientious response to global issues. The final pieces not only demonstrate technical prowess, but also a deep understanding of the role of art in shaping the world around us.
Design & Technology
Like a football game, the NEA process (extended project), is split into two distinct halves, the design portfolio and the practical manufacture. To provide an idea of the scale of this challenge, our typical GCSE student will produce approximately 28 A3 slides, and the average portfolio at A Level is usually in excess of 70 slides. The portfolio is a journey through the design process that sees students cover the following key elements: research, design brief and specification, generation and development of design ideas, planning and manufacturing specification, manufacture, and, finally, evaluation.
This process starts between May and June, taking a further nine months to complete. Featured here are a range of projects that have been completed this year by the 52 students at GCSE and A Level who took this journey. Hopefully the examiner will enjoy seeing the fruits of their labours as much as you do!
Sport
Regional Runners Up
Following their victory in the Hampshire tournament, our U12 boys played in the Regional Finals at Reading HC, on 25 March, finishing as runners-up. They made it to the final but unfortunately lost 0-1 to a well-drilled Magdalen College side. A great effort from all the boys, who received runners-up medals to add to their growing collection!
Hockey Round-Up
It has been a standout hockey season at Churcher’s. The 1st XI Boys and Girls teams secured a clean sweep against strong OC sides, with the boys winning 7-4 and the girls edging a 1-0 victory. The U16A Boys reached the quarter-finals of the England Hockey Tier 2 Plate, narrowly falling to Cheltenham College 1-3. Meanwhile, the U15A Boys impressed in the U16 Tier 3 Regionals, defeating several older teams before finishing runners-up after a close 1-2 loss to Bohunt School. The U14A Boys, crowned county champions earlier in the term, capped off their season with a 3rd place finish at the Tier 2 Regional Finals, beating John Hampden Grammar in the playoff.
Bath Cup
A highlight of the term was the prestigious Bath Cup, where our fastest swimmers competed at the London Aquatic Centre. The boys' team delivered a strong performance, placing 13th in the 4x100m freestyle and 17th in the 4x50m medley relay. Meanwhile, the girls' team put up a valiant effort, securing 18th in the 4x50m freestyle and 22nd in the 4x50m medley. Every swimmer gave it their all, making the school proud with their determination and talent.
Swimming Round-Up
Churcher’s students continue to excel in the pool, showcasing their dedication and skill in both swimming and water polo. Recent galas against RGS, Salesians, Edgeborough, and TPS saw impressive performances across all age groups. Standout swims included Charlie S’s dominance in the 100m IM and 50m freestyle, Will D’s strength in the 50m backstroke, and fantastic 50m fly races from George S and Charlotte J.
Ending the Rugby Season on a High!
The Spring Term brought a fitting and happy conclusion to the rugby season at Churcher’s, as both our U14 and U18 teams delivered outstanding performances at the Embley 7s tournament. The U18 squad completed the day unbeaten, showcasing excellent skill, teamwork, and determination to secure the Cup competition victory. Their consistency and composure throughout the tournament were a testament to their hard work and commitment across the season. Meanwhile, the U14s impressed with a strong run of performances, losing only one game all day. Their resilience and flair were rewarded with a well-deserved win in the Plate competition, marking a significant achievement for this developing group of players. Well done to all involved!
Water Polo
It’s been an exciting term for Churcher’s water polo teams across all age groups. The U15s reached the National Bowl Finals, showing grit against London Oratory, before storming to a 7–1 win in the bronze medal match with standout performances from George H and Wilf H. The U18s competed in the Plate Semi-Finals at Millfield, demonstrating great skill and determination despite tough opposition, and left feeling proud of their progress. Meanwhile, our U13s made an impressive debut in the national competition, advancing to the semi-finals. Strong performances from Tom S in defence and George S in attack highlighted a promising start for this enthusiastic new squad.
Sport
Eaton Games
The Sports Science Department’s termly Eaton Games was a lively evening of laughter, teamwork, and high-energy netball, with a fancy-dress twist! GCSE and A Level Sports Scientists took to the court in everything from Hawaiian shirts and animal onesies to sharp black-tie outfits, adding a touch of flair to the fast-paced action. Fifteen mixed teams competed fiercely for the title, delivering standout moments including sharp interceptions, pinpoint passes, and clinical shooting. Beneath the costumes was serious skill, with students showcasing athleticism, teamwork, and determination. Whether in sunglasses or suits, every player brought passion and spirit to an unforgettable evening of sport!
The Science of Sport
Sisters n Sport National Finals
The U14 netball team enjoyed a remarkable run to the final four of the ‘Sisters n Sport’ National Final. After progressing through knockout rounds since September, they became one of the top two teams in the South Region, earning a place in the national semi-finals at Loughborough University. There, they delivered a strong performance against Great Sankey High School, securing a convincing win. In the final, they faced Samuel Whitbread Academy in a fiercely contested match. Despite some brilliant play and a determined effort, the girls narrowly missed out on the title, finishing 17–22 in an exciting finale.
Success at PGL
Our PGL Netball weekend remains a firm favourite with First Year girls, blending competitive netball with exciting outdoor activities. This year, five teams took part—a fantastic turnout, showing the enthusiasm for the sport. Over two days, the girls balanced tournament matches with climbing, zip lines, the big swing, and more. Finals Day on Sunday saw excellent results—the A team finished 1st in their division, with the B team placing 4th. In Division 2, the C team came 2nd and the D team 3rd, rounding off a fun and successful weekend of sport and adventure.
Our Lower Sixth Sports Science students enjoyed an unforgettable visit to Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Sport and Exercise Science Department. The day began in the biomechanics lab, exploring sprint speed and lower-body power using light gates and contact plates. In the motion capture lab, students analysed joint movement and force production with advanced technology. After lunch, they tackled a VO2 max test and the demanding Wingate test in the physiology lab. The final session featured a live ultrasound of a student’s heart and practical blood pressure testing. The trip provided valuable insight into university-level study, bringing classroom theory to life through hands-on experience and cutting-edge equipment.
An Historic Win Against the MCC
Congratulations to the 1st XI, who secured an historic victory over the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) from Lord's—an exceptional feat that highlights the calibre of the cricket being played at Churcher’s. In a memorable match, Elliot L delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring a magnificent 135 not out to lead his team to victory.
Girls Play at the Utilita Bowl
The combined U14 and U15 girls’ cricket team reached another milestone by making it to the county finals at the prestigious Utilita Bowl. Competing in the National ECB Indoor Tournament, they showed outstanding dedication, skill, and resilience against some of the county’s top schools. Finishing third overall out of six teams was a testament to their hard work and passion for the sport. Their semi-final against Priestlands School was especially intense, ending in a narrow and heart-breaking loss. Despite the setback, the team displayed exceptional character and commitment throughout the tournament.
Bowled Over!
Second Year, Astrid R, delivered a standout performance in a recent U13 match against Ryde, excelling in all facets of the game—batting, fielding, and particularly when bowling. Traditionally, a bowler who claims three wickets in three consecutive deliveries is awarded the match ball. Astrid surpassed this milestone by taking four, finishing with an impressive five wickets across just two overs. Her exceptional efforts helped propel her team to a commanding victory, securing the win with an outstanding total of 252 runs.
Play Your Way to Winbledon
On a Saturday in early May, students competed in the nationwide competition, ‘Play Your Way to Wimbledon’, with our winners going through to the regional finals In June. With more than 120 pupils competing in doubles and singles matches across the day, it was a fabulous day of tennis, and congratulations go to all our winners—we wish them the best of luck for the next round!
Sixth Form
Dodgeball Fun!
As the final bell rang on the last day of half term, the Lower Sixth swapped their uniforms for costumes in an unforgettable Sixth Form Committee Fancy Dress Dodgeball Tournament. The Ramshill garden buzzed with excitement as Oompa Loompa’s battled bath-robed boys, and footballers faced-off against Frat Boys in friendly competition. The promise of ice lollies and highoctane sporting entertainment brought out a large and vocal crowd. More than just a game, the event provided students with the perfect opportunity to decompress after a busy half term.
Ramshill Boules Competition
Now in its third year, a highlight of the Summer Term is the Ramshill Boules Competition. In a three-way final that took place on Leavers’ Day, it was Archie M who beat off the threat of Ollie W and Mr West to take the crown.
Easter Egg Hunt
Students traded textbooks for Easter baskets as the annual postmocks Sixth Form Easter Egg Hunt transformed the Ramshill garden into a colourful playground of stress relief. More than 300 participants scattered across the grounds in search of hidden treats. The Sixth Form Student Committee organised the event specifically for the post-mock period, recognising the mental health benefits of playful activities after, and in the build up to, another intense period of academic pressure. Students compared their egg-hunting spoils and celebrated the end of the term in the sunshine.
Bidding Goodbye!
Sports Dinner
In March, we hosted the annual Upper Sixth Sports Dinner – a highlight of the school year, celebrating the dedication and achievements of our senior sportsmen and women. This year’s event was especially memorable thanks to guest speaker Helen Richardson-Walsh, Olympic gold medallist and Team GB hockey legend. With a career spanning 17 years and four Olympic Games, Helen delivered an inspiring talk on the highs and lows of elite sport, emphasising resilience, teamwork, mental well-being, and authenticity. The evening also saw the presentation of awards recognising excellence, leadership, and commitment across various sports. It was a fitting celebration of our students’ sporting journeys and achievements.
Prefects' Dinner
A very convivial evening was enjoyed at the Prefects’ Dinner, which was held at the Princess Royal Gallery at Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard. The fantastic meal was rounded off by a witty and erudite speech by the Captains of College, Maddie and Max, and was a fitting thank you for the Prefects’ outstanding service to the school.
Prefects' Training
The One Day Film School forms part of our Prefects’ Training, for those Lower Sixth newly appointed to their roles. Students practice the skills of working together, assigning roles and responsibilities, compromising, being creative and decisive, and, for some, it also helps to develop confidence. The day was a lot of fun, and this is reflected in the feedback from students. The films produced on the day are surprisingly good too, and after national success for one of the films last year, hopes are high that this year’s efforts will bear similar fruit!
Sixth Formers in Hiss-terics!
Earlier this term, the Sixth Form welcomed a return visit from Tom’s Talking Reptiles. Students were fascinated as they met an array of exotic creatures, from snakes and lizards to a surprisingly friendly tortoise! Tom shared fascinating facts about each reptile, encouraging students to engage with, and handle some of the animals. The session sparked curiosity, laughter, and a few squeals - an unforgettable hands-on learning experience for all involved!
Leavers' Day
The Upper Sixth enjoyed a wonderful Leavers' Day, prior to heading off on study leave. Fueled by a Full English breakfast, there were some outstanding performances in the Ramshill Variety Performance, where presentations were also made to the Housekeepers for their outstanding efforts this year. At break time, the Ramshill lawn was packed with spectators who witnessed a thrilling denouement to the boules tournament, before a final assembly with Mr Williams, and a BBQ lunch on the lawn, with crazy golf, rounded things off.
Drama & Dance
Drama Showcase Evening
Students from all year groups shone in this year’s Drama Showcase. GCSE and A Level Drama students presented powerful, devised pieces exploring themes such as identity and the ‘Snowflake Generation,’ drawing on styles from Frantic Assembly and Bertolt Brecht. Lower School Drama Club were revolting, with their lively Matilda number, while Musical Theatre groups charmed the audience with songs from The Sound of Music and Footloose. A new addition this year was the ‘John Godber Trilogy,’ featuring extracts from three of his best-known plays, highlighting students’ comic timing and multirole skills. It was a vibrant, varied evening that celebrated creativity, talent, and hard work across the whole school. Well done to all involved!
Drama Workshop
GCSE and A-Level Drama students took part in a unique Artaud workshop led by Initiate Theatre. Exploring Antonin Artaud’s Theatre of Cruelty, they embraced unconventional techniques to provoke cathartic audience responses through non-verbal sounds and intense physical expression. Stepping out of their comfort zones, students portrayed emotions like anger, frustration, and loneliness. In small groups, they performed unsettling interpretations of Three Blind Mice, capturing Artaud’s vision of confronting and disturbing theatre. The workshop offered valuable insight into a challenging theatrical style and will enrich students’ exam preparation—especially for the A Level class, who will continue studying Artaud in depth next academic year.
Dance News
This term, Dance Squad performed in the Lower School Cabaret with two different dance styles, Classical Greek to a Frozen medley and Musical Theatre to ‘Ladies Choice’, from Hairspray. They were flawless in their transitions and made sure they knew their choreography, so they could really enjoy the dance. They then went to watch Hairspray at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking, and the groups loved to watch the amazing choreography performed by the professionals. It also reminded some of our Third and Fourth Year students of when they had performed ‘The Nicest Kids in Town’, from the same show.
Humanities
The Annual Grill Lecture
“Why are some people left out of the history books?”, was the question posed at the annual Grill Lecture, by award-winning novelist, playwright, performer, campaigner, and non-fiction writer, Kate Mosse. Highly entertaining and inspirational, she left the audience to question their own role in the world, and issued a challenge to all: bear witness to history and avoid being mere bystanders. Earlier in the evening, Kate had met with a select group of students, and their discussion, particularly about women, who had been omitted from the annuls of history, was lively and engaging. The Grill Lecture, a legacy from former Head of R&P at Churcher’s, Judy Grill, is a chance for us all to be inspired and moved, but more importantly to challenge, investigate, and question the world in which we live. There was no doubt that Kate Mosse fulfilled that role magnificently.
France in Turmoil
We were very fortunate to welcome Professor William Doyle, a leading authority on the French Revolution. He gave a fascinating talk to more than 80 of our Sixth Form historians, focusing on the immense instability that underpinned France in 1790. He talked about the unreliability of the army, the role of the people of Paris, and royal ambivalence. He looked at how France became highly unstable because of the religious schism that shattered consensus and created counter revolution, and how it led to Louis XVI aiming to flee France. Above all, war created the fear that then drove France to incessant radicalisation, which created a terror State. He ended with Napoleon coming full circle, by bringing peace, ending religious schism, and making himself a monarch.
1790-93:
Professor Emeritus William Doyle
Thursday 20 March 2025
4:25 - 5:25pm
Refreshments at 4pm in Dining Hall
Lecture Theatre
Geography
HERO Day
Last term, the Geography Department hosted an exciting and immersive 'H.E.R.O.' day (Hazard Emergency Response Organisation), simulating the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the fast-paced decision-making required in the aftermath of a major natural disaster. Students tackled disaster response, mapping the zone, and directing relief efforts like the UN. The immersive workshop, grounded in Tectonics and International Development studies, offered practical application of classroom learning. Students engaged in fast-paced decision-making, navigating the complexities of post-disaster scenarios. This hands-on experience bridged theory and reality, preparing them for advanced geographical discussions. The day was both fun and educational, providing a memorable insight into real-world hazard response and the challenges faced by international organisations.
English
Macbeth screening
The Lecture Theatre was transformed into a cinema in the Spring Term, for a movie screening of David Tennant's theatrical performance of Macbeth. The English Department was lucky enough to secure access to the film on the day it was released to cinemas nationwide. Widely praised as a powerful and captivating performance, it gave our Fifth Years a fresh perspective of the play in the run-up to their English Literature coursework submission, and offered them a memorable experience of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.
Poetry World Cup
Did you know there is a Poetry World Cup? Even more amazing – did you know that England is being represented in this competition by a student at Churcher’s? We are so proud of Freya W, Lower Sixth student and very talented poet, for this amazing achievement. Out of countless entries, Freya’s incredibly moving poem, ‘Dust to dust’, (which has been published in ‘Wax Poetry and Art Magazine’), was selected as the national winner by the judges, and now goes on to the international final. We wish Freya all the best in the World Cup final.
Visiting Academic Inspires Students
It was a pleasure to welcome Professor John McRae, formerly of Nottingham University, to the English Department in the Spring Term, for a day of lectures, seminars, and lively debate. He delivered lectures on An Inspector Calls to our Fourth Year, explored the ‘underdog’ in Of Mice and Men with our Third Year, and led a Gothic Literature in Context seminar with our Sixth Formers. Current (and aspiring) A Level students were also invited to have lunch with Prof McRae, and had the opportunity to discuss university and literature with him. As something of an academic video celebrity, he proved extremely popular with our students, and by the end of the day could barely escape the constant requests for autographs!
Reading Champions Competition
In the Spring Term, our First and Second Year students joined forced with Year 6 from Churcher’s Junior School, and competed in the South England round of the national Reading Champions competition, run by Literary Trust. According to the coordinator, our teams demonstrated immense book knowledge, and it was wonderful to see everyone joining in so enthusiastically. Out of the 26 schools competing in the competition, our Churcher’s teas achieved 7th and 8th place!
Science & STEAM
Biology on the Beach
The Lower Sixth fieldtrip to Slapton Ley Field Centre in South Devon is a standout part of the Biology A Level, offering students hands-on experience in sampling and data analysis. Over three days in May, students explored a range of habitats and developed key ecological fieldwork skills. On day one, they visited the rocky shore at East Prawle to study limpet shell morphology and zonation, deepening their understanding of gastropod and macroalgae distribution. Day two involved systematic sampling on the shingle ridge near the Ley to investigate ecological succession, accompanied by sightings of a pod of common dolphins and a grey seal in Start Bay. Students also conducted a mark-release-recapture study to estimate snail populations. That evening, a bat walk revealed several UK species, including lesser horseshoe, pipistrelle, Daubenton, and noctule bats. On the final day, moth traps revealed species like the grey dagger and well-camouflaged buff tip. The trip concluded with a study of ecological energetics in Slapton stream, comparing organisms in pools and riffles, and even included the exciting capture of an elver, a juvenile European eel.
Rube Goldberg Adventures
Rube Goldberg was an American cartoonist, famous for drawing wild and wacky machines (similar to Wallace & Gromit adventure series). His machines are well-known, and the Upper Sixth, in their last ever Physics lessons before the summer exams, decided they wanted to build a few working examples in the labs. These photos showcase a few of their best ideas, all created with a 90-minute countdown!
Pizza Under the Stars
As part of our Sixth Form enrichment program in the Physics Department, we organised a visit to the South Downs Planetarium, in March, following the students’ second round of mock exams. Here, more than 50 students enjoyed the presentation under the dome, in Chichester, listening to the enthusiasm and fabulous knowledge of Dr John Mason OBE on the Universe, the life cycle of stars, and the cosmos of the future. His talk was tailored to the A Level Physics course, helping bring the subject material to life in a new and fascinating manner. Dr Mason delivered his presentation in two halves, with the interval supper consisting of... pizza!
Space Design Competition
Congratulations to Sixth Former, Olly H, who has been selected from almost 300 students to be part of the 12-person UK team taking part in the International Space Settlement Design Competition (ISSDC). Olly and his team took part in qualifying rounds and in the National Finals at Imperial College over the course of this academic year, and he was selected for his ingenuity and unique design skills. The UK team will travel to Florida in late July and visit the Kennedy Space Centre as part of their exciting and enriching experience. Olly follows in the footsteps of Churcher’s Alumni Daisy (2023) and Caitlin (Winner, 2024). We all look forward to hearing how the UK team fair this year; good luck Olly!
Computing
Cyber Explorers Competition
Alistair R Mitchell Will Al really change the world?
The Robot Revolution
Lower school students once again took part in the Cyber Explorers Cup, a nationwide cyber security competition led by the UK Government. Aimed at students aged 11–14, the competition challenges participants to complete a mission to secure a high-tech headquarters, tackling puzzles across the areas of People, Processes, and Technology. The goal: to think critically, work as a team, and protect the Cyber Squad’s systems from cyber threats. This year, Churcher’s entered four teams, and we are incredibly proud to announce that our top-performing team, The Phish Fingers, achieved 9th place nationally, a phenomenal result for a First Year team in a field of hundreds of schools across the UK! Our second team, The Holy Tomatoes, also performed brilliantly, securing an impressive 14th place! Well done all!
Raspberry Pi Competition
Churcher's achieved remarkable success in PA Consulting's annual Raspberry Pi competition, where students design and build innovative products. Out of 252 schools, all three Churcher's teams reached the finals held at Google's London building—an unprecedented feat! Teams ‘Pi-Rates’ created a smart cup to monitor hydration and liquid temperature, while ‘F.A.R.M.’ developed an autonomous robot for surveying land conditions.
‘Cyber-Cane’ engineered a smart cane with ultrasonic sensors, GPS, and a digital compass to aid visually impaired individuals. Judges lauded the students' innovation, teamwork, and presentation skills, noting their projects "Stood out from the crowd." Although they didn't win further awards, reaching the finals with all entered teams is an "Amazing achievement," demonstrating the students' exceptional talent and dedication.
On 11 March, Churcher’s welcomed Alistair Mitchell to talk about Artificial Intelligence. An audience of 40 students from all years listened intently to the question, “Will AI really change the world?” The reach of AI is huge—it is currently being used to evaluate 2.3 million US government workers’ jobs to see if they are still required. Ali spoke about driverless cars, which are now a common sight in the USA. AI agents and robotics is the next big thing—robots are now more agile and nimble, offering dexterity that was previously lacking. Whilst the future is exciting it is also daunting. Students asked Ali many questions to round off a very interesting evening.
Adventurous Training Camps
Isle of Wight
In the second week of the Easter break, 43 cadets travelled to the Isle of Wight for four days of water-sports, based at the UKSA centre in Cowes. The cadets enjoyed paddle-boarding and kayaking outside the centre on the River Medina, dinghy and keelboat sailing in the Solent, and windsurfing in Thorness Bay. The weather was unseasonably sunny and the wind plentiful!
Bannau Brycheiniog
Fourteen CCF cadets travelled to Brecon for four days of Adventure Training over the Easter holidays. After arriving at their bunkhouse, they shopped for food and took turns catering in small groups. Day two saw cadets split for mountain biking—half of them rode downhill trails at Bike Park Wales, while the others completed an adventurous trail ride. Tired but cheerful, they cooked dinner and enjoyed the evening activities led by Lt Newton. The third day involved open-boat paddling on the canal, with games such as water polo and a canoe stake—some cadets even went for an unplanned swim. The final day featured five climbing routes, and an 18-metre abseil. Glorious weather and high spirits rounded off a fantastic week.
Cadet Training Centre
RAF Summer
After months of poor weather, 12 cadets finally took to the skies in the Grob Tutor aircraft. Some performed thrilling barrel rolls, while others enjoyed scenic flights over the Wiltshire countryside, including views of Stonehenge. Meanwhile, Third and Fourth Year cadets practiced rationpack cooking, shelter building, and camouflage skills—learning valuable lessons when top sheets let in the ‘rain’ (an accurately thrown bucket of water) and thickly applied camo cream wouldn’t come off! We also bid farewell to our senior cadets, Flt Sgt Jessica T, Sgt Isaac W, and Isobel C, as they leave to focus on A Levels. They pass the torch to WO Rupert H, Flt Sgt Ellie G, and Sgt Anthony E.
Four CCF cadets from our Royal Navy section went to Frimley Park Cadet Training Centre to represent cadets across the UK and support the release of the University of Northampton’s report on cadet forces in schools. In attendance at the event were Al Cairns, the Minster of Veterans, and Prof Van-Tam. The cadets took part in field gun activity to showboat just some of the skills, leadership and teamwork that comes from being a CCF Royal Navy cadet.
Foreign Languages
Spanish
A Spanish Fashion Show
First Year Spanish students threw themselves into their fashion show with a twist, putting their vocabulary to good use to skilfully compere and describe the wonderful outfits on show!
Spelling Bee with a Twist!
Three First Year pupils competed in the South Regional Spelling Bee competition at Southampton University, on 20 March. Oliver C in French, and Jessica S and Joey K in Spanish, were up against stiff competition but performed amazingly well and can be very proud of their performances. Joey even finished in the top four and has booked his place in the Grand National Final at Cambridge University, on 27 June! Well done to all participants!
Adios!
Señora Robertson bade a traditional ‘adios’ to her Fifth Formers as they departed for study leave, with a lesson where all conversation was in Spanish, and tapas to accompany the chat! They all enjoyed living the ‘tertulia’!
Spanish in Action
The Onatti production, ‘La Primera Cita’, was a hit with our Third Year Spanish students! The actors kept the energy high with plenty of audience participation, getting everyone involved in the fun; Lucas M and Charlie I were just a couple of our brave volunteers. The plot was predictable, but that’s what made it so enjoyable—plenty of silly and comedic moments that kept everyone laughing. The jokes were light-hearted and easy to follow in Spanish, and kept our students amused from start to finish!
Au Revoir from our Wonderul Language Assistants!
Anna: Coming from Switzerland, I immediately felt welcome and at home in the UK, thanks to the wonderful staff and students… the best part for me was seeing the students grow in confidence when speaking German! Clara: It has been an incredible pleasure to be able to help all the Spanish students in such a great school. My favourite part has undoubtedly been all the time I have spent with the pupils. Eloise: I don’t think I can begin to explain how much this year has brought to me… I am so grateful for everyone at Churcher’s for welcoming the three of us so openly, be it staff or students, and I feel so lucky that I got to spend this year in such a supportive and wholesome environment!
Trips
Adventures in the Azores
Despite facing torrential rain and strong winds on the first day, the 25 students who travelled to the Azores held on to their optimism, and were rewarded with blue skies and stunning landscapes. Over five days, they explored volcanic wonders, including the crater lakes at Sete Cidades and Lagoa das Furnas, bubbling fumaroles, and the lush Caldeira Velha national park. The subtropical climate supported diverse plant life, witnessed at Terra Nostra’s botanical gardens and fertile pastures, which were home to tea, pineapples, and more dairy cows than people. Located on the junction of three tectonic plates, the Azores experience daily tremors; students got to experience first-hand the power of volcanic activity, standing in the 5,000-year-old lava tube caves of Gruta do Carvao.
A Visit to Alitex
In February, Fifth Year Business students visited Alitex, the renowned Victorian greenhouse manufacturer, for an insightful two-hour experience. They explored how Alitex markets and designs its products, toured the shopfloor to see greenhouses and orangeries being made, and learned about the company’s culture, history, and values. The visit concluded with an interactive challenge, where students tackled hypothetical business scenarios from the perspectives of customers, investors, and employees. The trip offered a valuable, real-world glimpse into how a successful British business operates, blending tradition with innovation.
Château de Warsy
Fifty students and five teachers enjoyed the very best that France has to offer, from the Asterix theme park, to cheese, snails, and frogs-legs tasting, adding the all-time favourite goats farm visit, chocolate sampling, mayonnaise, and crêpes making. The sun was shining on our Eco pods every morning, spirits were high and much French was spoken! There was a lot of singing and clapping on the coach, and many games of Werewolf were played with great passion and giggles. All in all, a most successful French trip, during which life-time memories were made, and, hopefully, a love for the other side of the Channel was ignited.
The Academy Visits Oxford
In March, the Third Year Academy Club visited Oxford University to gain a small insight into what it might be like to study at a world-class university. They visited Trinity College and other key sites, including the Bodleian Library.
Guided by current university students, they learnt about both the academic and social aspects of studying at Oxford, and saw some of the key locations for the filming of Harry Potter! The afternoon ended with an exploration of the Ashmolean Museum and hopefully the day has set some aspirations very high for future study.
Tennis Tour to Portugal
During the Easter holidays, 54 pupils from the Second to Fourth Years took part in an exciting pre-season tennis tour at Vale do Lobo Tennis Academy, in Portugal. The group trained intensively, with morning and afternoon sessions, and competed in two match days against other schools, including Epsom, Bradfield, and Stamford. Beyond the courts, pupils thoroughly enjoyed their downtime, taking full advantage of the facilities by swimming in the hotel pools, trying their hand at padel, and joining in a giant football match on the beach!
Historians Visit London
Lower Sixth historians had a sun-soaked day in London, exploring the Imperial War Museum and the Cabinet War rooms. Both locations had a plethora of exhibits that linked to their Churchill source paper and their knowledge of the Second World War. They saw many Churchill memorabilia from his pre-war life, as well as from his time as Prime Minister during the war, and his subsequent political career as an international statesman. The Holocaust galleries were incredibly sobering and students had an emotional journey through them. We had a lovely picnic in St James Park and saw all the preparations for ‘Trooping the Colour.’
In Other News
Farewell Football!
On the first Friday of the new Summer Term, we said goodbye to the Fifth Years as they headed off on study leave for their GCSE exams, but not before some fierce competition on the football pitch! Complete with homemade shirts, the red team played the blue team, and it ended happily in a 1-1 draw.
Nelson Gets Trolleyed!
Nelson’s latest challenge was a 12-hour endurance trolley-marathon that united the entire house in a display of teamwork, creativity, and determination. Every tutor group, from 1N to 6N, took part, decorating their trolleys and keeping them moving non-stop for the full 12 hours. The result was an outstanding 3,756 laps of the netball court, covering 300 kms and raising a fantastic £3,278 for Dementia UK. This incredible achievement was made possible by the combined efforts of pupils, parents, families, and tutors. More than just a fundraiser, the event was a celebration of community spirit and shared purpose—a true showcase of Nelson Pride. Go Lions!
Political Blog Success
Lower Sixth student Kian N has been named joint runner-up in the 2025 Political Studies Association’s national Student Blog Competition. With more than 60 entries, Kian impressed the judges with his thoughtful and analytical response to the question: “Can Social Media help save Democracy?” His blog showcased critical insight into political issues and offered fresh perspectives on the digital age and democracy. As one of the top UKbased finalists, Kian attended an exclusive event at the Houses of Parliament on 10 June, featuring high-profile guests including Channel 4’s Cathy Newman and Baroness Carmen Smith. This is a fantastic achievement and recognition of Kian’s growing political awareness and communication skills.
Sailing Club
In March, our sailing team launched their season with a sail-training day at the Andrew Simpson Centre in Portsmouth. This valuable session gave pupils the chance to develop their racing tactics and sharpen their skills ahead of the upcoming Itchenor Schools Week at the end of June. The team proudly debuted their new team jackets with enthusiasm for the season ahead!
Chichester Challenge
A number of Churcher’s pupils recently took part in the Chichester Corporate Challenge—a unique series of evening road races through the heart of Chichester, open to all ages and abilities. Our students put in some outstanding performances, with many securing top-10 finishes across the events. A special congratulations goes to our First Year team, who were crowned team winners—a fantastic achievement. In the Year 7 race, Emmy finished 3rd, Sophia 4th, and Emmy G 6th. In the Year 8 category, Amelia came 4th, Martha 6th, and Arabella 9th—rounding off a strong showing from Churcher’s in this popular community event.
Leo Hits the Big Screen
We are very proud of Fifth Former, Leo Cropley, who features as a main cast member in the recently released Disney Snow White movie! Shooting at Pinewood Studios in 2022, Leo worked on set with Hollywood film director Marc Webb (Spiderman), choreographer Mandy Moore (La La Land), Rachel Zegler (West Side Story), and Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman). Leo performs a song in the film and on the official soundtrack alongside Rachel Zegler and his fellow child actors.
A National Champion!
Third Year student Jocelyn H achieved outstanding success over the Bank Holiday weekend, winning the 1m National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Eventer’s Challenge at Hickstead. Competing as an individual against top riders from schools across the country, Jocelyn delivered an exceptional performance to take first place. Her victory in such a prestigious and competitive national event is a remarkable achievement, and sees her crowned NSEA National Champion!
Churcher's Legacy Sets Sail
Walking along the path by the Headmaster’s lawn, you'll see the new tercentenary ship atop its oval plinth—commissioned to mark 300 years since Richard Churcher’s founding pledge. Designed by Mr Robertson from the Art Department, the ship began as sketches, scale drawings, and a 3D card maquette. Mr Edington from D&T then used CAD software to digitise and scale the ship, adding key structural supports. The components were laser-cut in stainless steel, with welded gunports adding detail. Mr Jamouneau brought it all together— creating bespoke fixings, masts, sails, flagpoles, and finishing each part to a polished sheen. His craftsmanship ensured durability and elegance. This collaborative masterpiece now stands proudly, intended to inspire and endure for the next 300 years.
Back in Court!
We had our third and final visit to Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court in June, this time with a very well informed and engaged group of Fourth Years. They thoroughly enjoyed being hosted by two experienced Magistrates, and relished the opportunity to look round the various courts and learn about their different functions and the people working in them. They then sat in on a court proceeding, with a District Judge presiding. Pupils emerged feeling like they had learned a lot, and been given a unique and valuable insight in to our legal system.
Futures Convention
On 6 March, Churcher’s held its largest-ever annual Futures Convention, attracting more than 400 pupils and parents to the bustling Sports Hall, where nearly 60 companies showcased their opportunities. Alongside the exhibition, talks ran in the Donald Brooks Auditorium covering Churcher’s Futures provision for pupils whilst at school and beyond, including a new support package for Old Churcherians. Dr Verney and Callum Russell of Independent Gap Advice delivered inspiring sessions and a key new feature this year was the CV Clinic, where nearly 30 volunteers helped pupils refine their CVs—a hugely popular addition now set to become a regular part of the event.
Lower Sixth Futures Conference
After half term, we held our Lower Sixth Futures Conference, providing two full days off-timetable for students to continue their research, refine their future plans and start applications. The conference consisted of talks, workshops and dedicated time for them to start their personal statements, work on their CVs and register on the UCAS Hub. Sixth Form staff were available throughout to provide support, as well as teachers providing subject-specific workshops.
Prepping for Medical School
In June, Lower Sixth aspiring medics attended the Medicine Applicants’ Thames Valley Conference at Reading Blue Coat School. The event offered a valuable insight into the realities of life as a newly qualified doctor, giving students a clearer understanding of the challenges and rewards of the profession. Attendees also received practical advice on navigating the competitive medical application process, including tips for exam preparation and interviews. The students were inspired by talks from current professionals, and were introduced to the wide range of career paths available within medicine.
Thank You Michael!
Rain or shine, camera in hand – Michael Huggan has been part of the Churcher’s family for a decade. Grandfather to the Hodges boys, our volunteer photographer has captured countless moments with his signature smile and quiet dedication.
From sports days to school adventures, he's been there, lens at the ready – always generous with his time and talent. As he hangs up his camera bag this term, we say a huge thank you.
We’ll miss you, Michael – and your brilliant eye for a shot. Here’s just a little snippet of the many photos Michael has taken over the years — there are plenty more to explore on the website.
With our best wishes, Your friends at Churcher’s
Volunteering Opportunities
The wide range of extra-curricular activities we offer at Churcher’s simply couldn’t take place without parental support. For more details, or to discuss how you could help, please contact Louisa Taylor at ltaylor@churcherscollege.com.
Francis Chamberlain
Thursday 9 October 2025
4.25pm
Refreshments from 4pm
Lecture Theatre Re-appraising the case for appeasement: Neville Chamberlain 1937-1940