Students from Years 8 to 10 visited Berlin over 4 days at October half-term and visited sights including Checkpoint Charlie, the Bundestag (Parliament), the Jewish Holocaust Memorial, the Berlin Wall (East Gallery), the DDR museum, and completed a 3-hour walking tour of the city. Despite the cold weather, the sun was shining and students had lots of time to shop in The Mall of Berlin and undertook a German language trail task at Alexanderplatz, where they also visited the famous TV Tower.
REMEMBERANCE ASSEMBLY
Our senior school and sixth form gathered for the annual Remembrance assembly. Together, we paused to honor and remember those who have served and sacrificed on behalf of the United Kingdom’s armed forces. We were especially grateful to have Councillor Neil Houston, Mayor of Elmbridge, join us on this meaningful occasion. His presence added a special significance as we reflected on the courage and resilience of those who have fought to protect our freedoms. Lest we forget.
VALENCIA
During the October half-term break, a group of 45 pupils travelled to the beautiful city of Valencia for the annual Spanish study trip. There, they explored the picturesque historic town as well as the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences complex. A highlight of the trip was the visit to La Devesa School in Carlet, where pupils experienced life inside a Spanish school. The visit wouldn’t have been complete without indulging in the traditional paella, which our pupils cooked themselves. It was a trip packed with adventure and memories that we hope will be cherished by all for many years to come.
TWICKENHAM STADIUM
JGP INSPIRE LECTURE
SERIES
We had the incredible honor of hosting Professor John Mullan, a renowned scholar in 19th-century literature, for an engaging and thought-provoking talk as part of the Joyce Grenfell Programme of academic enrichment and super-curricular events. Professor Mullan, currently the Lord Northcliffe Chair of Modern English Literature at UCL, brought his vast expertise and passion for literature to our senior school and sixth form audience. A huge thank you to Professor Mullan for sharing his knowledge and time with us!
The Year 9’s had a great day at Twickenham rugby stadium. They learnt about the sustainability of the stadium and how the RFU are trying to make it more environmentally friendly. The highlight of the day was the stadium tour and sitting in the players seats in the changing room. Now back in school, they will evaluate all that they have seen and advise the stadium on what they could do to improve their green credentials.
FIRST GIVE
Over the past month, our talented Year 9 social science students have shown extraordinary dedication and creativity, raising funds for their chosen Claremont 100 charities. Each group organized fundraising events and developed compelling projects, which they presented at the grand final in hopes of securing the £1,000 prize for their charity.
During the final presentations, the students demonstrated how they engaged the school community in their initiatives and explained the impactful ways the funds would benefit their charities. We were honored to host representatives from the Fircroft Trust, Grace Dear Trust, Rainbow Trust, and Stripey Stork in our Great Room for this inspiring event.
Our panel of distinguished judges—including the Mayor of Elmbridge, Surrey Young Mayor, our School Captains and Mr Brierly—had the challenging task of selecting a winner. After much deliberation, we are thrilled to announce that Stripey Stork was awarded the £1,000 prize! Congratulations to all the students for their outstanding efforts and to Stripey Stork for this well-deserved recognition.
Christmas carol service
Sixth form ice skating
This half term has been a vibrant and competitive one for our school houses, filled with a variety of exciting events and activities. From the energetic house netball yournament to the creative Christmas card decorating and festive Christmas tree decorating contests, students showcased their talents, teamwork, and house spirit. The term culminated in the always entertaining house singing competition, where each house delivered fantastic performances. It was a nail-biting finish between Stanmore and Radnor, with Radnor taking home the top spot.
As we close out the term, the points have been tallied, and it’s Norwood who holds the lead for this half term! A huge congratulations to all houses for their enthusiasm and dedication across all events. Your creativity, sportsmanship, and holiday spirit have made this term truly memorable. Well done, everyone!
Christmas Tree Decorating HOUSE UPDATE
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