Cokethorpe Review 2024

REVIEW the

VALUING ENDEAVOUR

Looking back on a year filled with purpose, drive and achievement.

Nurturing Learning

Stretch, rigour and enrichment with a research-informed approach.

Magical Moments

Spellbinding performances from Matilda the Musical to St Cecilia.

Community Spirit

Fundraising for charity, CPFA extravaganzas, and House events.

CONTRIB UTORS

Content Contributors:

Mr D Ettinger (Headmaster)

Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Molly Grinham (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Sam Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Mrs N Black (Head of Prep School)

Mr W Griffiths (Head of Marketing)

Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Dr Elizabeth Gemmill

Harry Adams (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)

Alfie Moore

Layla Moran (MP)

Poppy Symonds (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Reverend Greg Downes

Henry Cook (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)

Dr Jane Cooper

Ollie Cameron (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne)

Rafi Layish (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Gabriella Hancox (Upper Sixth, Harcourt)

Tamsin Townson (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Ben Monaghan (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne)

Charlie Kerton (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Mr I Elkin-Jones (Head of Scholars)

Miss A Hutchinson (Head of Scholars)

Finn Van Landeghem (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Evie Walker (Fourth Form, Swift)

Oscar Smith (Reception Class, Symonds)

Emily Mardle (Reception Class, Symonds)

Oliver Beechey (Year 1, Symonds)

Ruby Jennings (Year 1, Symonds)

Eliam Gounongbe (Year 2, Lockwood)

Phoebe Mardle (Year 2, Symonds)

Charlie Laight (Year 2, Lockwood)

Leonardo De Silva (Year 3, Lockwood)

Ruby Resek (Year 3, Lockwood)

Arthur Abraham (Year 3, Gwyn)

Harry Hope (Year 4, Gwyn)

Oliver Noon (Year 4, Symonds)

Jaden Orewa (Year 4, Lockwood)

Lucas Manson (Year 4, Gwyn)

James Clayton (Year 4, Baker)

Starla Firth (Year 4, Lockwood)

Catriona Rounce (Year 4, Lockwood)

Isla Cruickshank (Year 5, Gwyn)

Islay Jameson (Year 5, Lockwood)

Avalon Harris (Year 6, Baker)

Marco Scott (Year 6, Lockwood)

Edward Chorley (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

William Hansen (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Seb Uglow (First Form, Queen Anne)

Gabriella Hughes (Second Form, Feilden)

Henry Turner (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Mrs H Hammond (Teacher of Art)

Mrs J Pollard (Teacher of Textiles)

Mr E Bosse (Teacher of Maths)

Mr E Tolputt (Head of Sixth Form)

Mr J Robinson (Director of Sport)

Ms E Williams (Head of Art and Textiles)

Miss M Wilcox (Teacher of Prep Drama)

Mr B Wilson (Director of Music)

Isy Noon (First Form, Gascoigne)

Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Mr D Baker (Head of Prep Sport)

Mr T Slader (Head of Outdoor Education)

Mrs R Luckett (Head of Prep English)

Ms J James (Deputy Head of Prep School)

Miss C Garitey (Teacher of MFL)

Mr J Bown (Head of Geography)

Mrs S Naylor (Deputy Director of Sport)

Mrs L Wilkinson (Head of Wardrobe)

Alice Smith (Upper Sixth, Swift)

Jasmine Hammond (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Mr M O'Connor (Lower House Housemaster)

Matthew Rees (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne)

Mr J Hughes (Feilden Housemaster)

Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Mrs E Semenzato (Gascoigne Housemistress)

Miss A Woodcock (Harcourt Housemistress)

Mrs L Bowden (Queen Anne Housemistress)

Mr M Joiner (Swift Housemaster)

Ms L Mountain (Vanbrugh Housemistress)

Bella Caffyn (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Miss E Griffiths (Charities Coordinator)

Ms N Wynne MBE (Director of Development)

Rod McKenzie (OC 1977, Harcourt)

Patrick Wood (OC 1983, Queen Anne)

Najib Chowdhury (OC 1989, Swift)

Editor:

Mrs L Williams (Communications Officer)

Design and Layout:

Mrs T Logan (Digital Marketing Officer)

What is it to be British, leaving aside the more obvious questions of passport, parentage and place of birth? I recall the input of a leading politician in the 1980s, who seemed to equate being British with the cricket side one might support in a Test Match! It was mainly aimed at those with roots in the Indian sub-continent. But, given that the cricket team in the frame was ‘England’, it might be a test for some people from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland!

A more fruitful line of enquiry might focus on possessing British values. A sense of ‘fair play’ is often mentioned, and our long tradition of democracy. There is perseverance in adversity, something evidenced over 80 years ago with the endurance of the Blitz. Recent remembrances of D-Day also reminded us of comradeship, which we greatly value - of being a ‘band of brothers’, to use a phrase from Shakespeare’s Henry V. There are also the long-standing values of Christianity, which came to Britain early in the first half of the first millennium and remains the established religion.

But there are problems with any attempt to create such a list. In some cases it would seem somewhat arrogant to frame them as simply ‘British’ values. There is also perhaps a feeling that some of these values are ephemeral. For example, some say that the current British generation would not face adversity with the same endurance and selflessness as their grandparents. And Matthew Arnold thought the sea of faith to be on the wane as long ago as the 1850s.

Perhaps we should at least consider the thought that there are no fundamentally British values. Rather, there is a compound British identity which, like that of other nations, is forged by geography and history. We were a sea-faring nation. Indeed, we were a colonial power. Partly because of that, the makeup of our nation and its values is very broad-based. We are an amalgam of our ancient roots – British tribes like the Iceni and the Brigantes, and also Viking and Celt, Saxon and Norman – as well as the more recent mix that has resulted from centuries of migration. At the same time, we are an island race, and perhaps we sometimes display a touch of insularity. These factors result in diversity and wide-ranging attitudes to moral, social and political values. Though maybe they are not always in harmony, certainly some immigrants say they find that many British people welcome integration without conformity, that we enjoy this mix.

Is this view too ‘woke’, to evoke a now common term? Certainly not everyone welcomes diversity. This is not an easy question to grapple with and I would be very interested to hear the sense others have of British values, not least some of our pupils. Are there indeed qualities that may be said to belong, at least in large part, to being British? All schools are required to uphold and promote ‘British values’, making the challenge of defining what they are all the more potent.

ACADEMIC

A Year in Reflection

'Looking back over the past year at Cokethorpe, I am reminded what a busy year it has been. The year started for me with writing the introduction to the blue book, and at the time I did not know what my last year of academic learning at Cokethorpe held. Moving from Lower to Upper Sixth was an exciting prospect despite the looming presence of external exams, and my new role as Head of School presented me with the opportunity to give back to the Cokethorpe community. Working alongside the Deputy Heads of School and the Prefect team, we were able to organise several charity events and get involved across the School. Taking part in whole School activities has always been one of my favourite parts of the academic year, and this last year was no exception. The first event as Head of School is the Senior school Sports day, and I think that this event is the perfect opening to the role. With very competitive Houses and high spirits, sports day set the tone for the upcoming year, with the fierce House competitions that took place throughout.

Despite the impartial tendencies of my role, I will admit that Gascogine was robbed of a few prizes. As well as House competitions, Cokethorpe’s extracurricular programme is unmatched. Between school plays, concerts and the wide range of sporting options, everyone finds something to suit them. For me, my extracurricular highlights include being the captain of First team sailing and performing in the Senior School orchestra as well as in peoductions.

Even though trying new things can be daunting, this past year has truly shown me that throwing yourself into something you have not tried before is the best way to not only talk to people you might not normally get the chance to talk to, but also to discover new things about yourself. This is a sentiment that can apply to anyone at any time in their school journey, and I would very much encourage the next Head and Deputy Heads of School to make sure that, in spite of their busy schedules, they find time for themselves to do something different.'

Dee Biles Head of School (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

' Seven years ago, when I first stepped foot into the Cokethorpe grounds I was scared that I would not fit in, find a group of friends or enjoy myself. Little did I know, the incredible friendships, sense of community and amazing times I would have, were all yet to come. I can safely say, being here today at the end of my Cokethorpe journey, I could not imagine growing into the person I am today at any other School. Despite my final year at Cokethorpe being one that came with a lot of stress due to exams, I would say it was one of my happiest years. With it, came an incredible sense of accomplishment throughout the year as we progressed through our mock exams, then receiving offers from university, as well as coming together as a year to support one another. Some highlights for me include the many Sixth Form socials we had, including the Christmas dinner and BBQs, which were a nice break from the academic work. Being Deputy Head of School created a lot of new opportunities for me. Speaking in assemblies every other week which has really helped to develop my public speaking skills, which is something that will help me in the future. It has given me an opportunity to voice not only mine, but also other pupils’ ideas and opinions, whether that be during Prefect

Sam Richards (Deputy Head of School), Dee Biles (Head of School) and Molly Grinham (Deputy Head of School)

meetings or meetings with the Headmaster. My advice for the new Heads of School and Prefects is to never be afraid to voice your opinions. This is a time where your ideas can create change, but also be open to other ideas! Have fun with what you do and enjoy your final year.’

Molly Grinham

Deputy

(Upper

Head of School

Sixth, Feilden)

'After five years at Cokethorpe, I think the thing I will miss most is the strong sense of community cultured throughout the School. Be it cheering on at a House event, supporting one another in sporting endeavours, Cokethorpe’s community spirit always manages to shine through. An area that has always been a big part of my time at Cokethorpe is all the amazing extra-curricular activities available - some of my favourites have to be climbing, kayaking and all the many musical ensembles I was part of, and of course the music concerts.

Whilst my last year at Cokethorpe has been filled with mock exams, revision, university applications and A Level exams. This has not however stopped it from being an enjoyable year. One area I have really enjoyed is being Deputy Head of House, this role has allowed me to help improve the School in a meaningful way and develop new skills, such as public speaking. Being part of the Prefect team has been fun, particularly being able to organise cake sales and raising money for charity, running the lunch queue and being a role model in the School.

My advice for the new waves of Prefects would be make the most of the incredible opportunity

you have been given, if there were something you would like to do, change or start, then make it happen. Help to make the School the best it can be for everyone.

And lastly thank you to everyone at Cokethorpe who has made my time here so enjoyable and memorable, to all the teacher, staff, pupils and leadership team, thank you.'

PREFECTS 2023-2024

Head of School

Dee Biles (Gascoigne)

Deputy Heads of School

Molly Grinham (Feilden)

Sam Richards (Feilden)

Feilden

Prefects’ Dinner

Sam Richards Deputy Head of School (

Rachael Elliott - Head of House

Aoife Kirkham

Upper Sixth, Feilden)

‘On Thursday 8 May, the Prefect team came together just before study leave to celebrate the culmination of their time together in Upper Sixth. With a year filled with charity events, socials and ideas to unite year groups, the Prefects had the opportunity to take the time to reflect on the last year at Cokethorpe and how we were able to help the community while in the company of Housemasters and Housemistresses as well as members of the Senior Management Team.

Along with wonderful food and conversation, inter-House competitiveness made an appearance in the evening during the annual Prefects’ general knowledge quiz. Many thanks go to the Catering Department for the preparation and serving of the amazing dinner, to Mr Stevens for supporting the Prefects throughout Upper Sixth and finally to the Prefect team for all their hard work this year.’

Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Anna Pratley

Gascoigne

Grace Gunn - Head of House

Jasmine Hammond - Deputy Head of Prep

Charlotte Griffiths - Sixth Form

Harcourt

Tara Lockhart - Head of House

Flo Adepoju

Gabriella Hancox

Amelie Pierce Williams

Queen Anne

Freddie Murfitt - Head of House

Matthew Rees - Head of Lower House

Daisy Herbert

Rohana Saunders

Lyla Simpson

Morgan Thomas

Swift

James Stiger - Head of House

Alice Smith - Head of Prep

Vanbrugh

Bella Caffyn - Head of House

Emily Middleton-Bray

Bea Payne

Henry Shortland

Prep School Prize Giving

‘The sun shone on the Prep School Prize Giving Ceremony – a wonderful celebration and end to the School Year. Mrs Black, Head of Prep School, spoke warmly about the many successes of all the children throughout the year and how success is, in the words of Jonny Wilkinson, ‘no accident; it is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and, most of all, a love of what you are doing.’ She explained that finding the thing you love to do is at the very heart of Prep School education. This year we welcomed children from across the Corinthian Partnership schools, who were recipients of the Corinthian Spirit Award in recognition of their exemplary behaviour, fairness, and respect for others in various aspects of school life including academics, extracurricular activities and interactions with peers and teachers.

Mr Stevens, Deputy Head, was also invited to present each of the Year 6 pupils with their Prep School Portfolio, the series of independent projects for which each pupil was awarded bronze, silver or gold. Every single Year 6 pupil worked hard on these projects and was rightly proud to collect their award and mark the end of their time in the Prep School. They will be much missed in the Mansion House next year, but one of the many benefits of being a through school is that we can follow their journey through Senior School first-hand.’

Mrs N Black Head of Prep School

Reception and Year 1

In recognition of their exceptional hard work in Reception Class and Year 1 this year, each of the children received a book which has been carefully selected by their class teachers.

Academic Prize Winners

Emmy Theyer (Year 2, Symonds)

Reggie Firth (Year 3, Baker)

Rupert Heaton (Year 4, Lockwood)

Islay Jameson (Year 5, Lockwood)

Roemer Tweehuijsen (Year 5, Lockwood)

Oliver Mettrick (Year 6, Symonds)

Molly Sheer (Year 6, Symonds)

Pupil of the Year

Ramona Isoo (Year 2, Gwyn)

Leonardo De Silva (Year 3, Lockwood)

Harry Hope (Year 4, Gwyn)

Chloé Langridge (Year 5, Baker)

Julia Pisanello (Year 5, Baker)

Bella Ferguson (Year 6, Symonds)

Berry Drake (Year 6, Gwyn)

End of Year Awards for Effort

Debbie Donald (Year 2, Baker)

Lorenzo Dodd (Year 3, Baker)

Orlando Bayes (Year 4, Baker)

Will Rainey (Year 5, Baker)

Scarlet Milles (Year 5, Gwyn)

Scarlett Miles (Year 6, Lockwood)

Scout Andreasen (Year 6, Gwyn)

Corinthian Spirit Award

Cokethorpe School

Esmae Lakey-Dodson (Year 6, Lockwood)

Aston and Cote Primary School

Charlie Tattersall

Combe Primary School

Molly Birkett

Ducklington Primary School

Poppy Brooks

Cup Winners

Julie Stormont Art Cup

Jolyon Uglow (Year 6, Symonds)

Claire Hooper Drama Cup

Lucy Smith (Year 6, Symonds)

Louise Bridge French Cup

Sophia Burton (Year 6, Baker)

Improvement and Progress Shield

Maxwell Imbusi (Year 6, Lockwood)

Music Cup

Imogen Jones (Year 6, Baker)

Sports Cups

Megan Bartlett (Year 6, Gwyn)

Oscar Rivers (Year 6, Gwyn)

Maureen Marchbank Shield for Services to the Community

Harry Skeen (Year 6, Lockwood)

Clarke Award

Molly Sheer (Year 6, Symonds)

Prep School Cup

Juno Bayes (Year 6, Symonds)

Year 6 Leavers

Scout Andreasen (Gwyn)

Megan Bartlett (Gwyn)

Juno Bayes (Symonds)

Sophia Burton (Baker)

Harry Convery (Symonds)

George Crossley (Baker)

Jemima Diffey (Lockwood)

Naemi Dirksen (Gwyn)

Xavier Dodd (Baker)

Berry Drake (Gwyn)

Bella Ferguson (Symonds)

Avalon Harris (Baker)

Melissa Hernandez (Lockwood)

Maxwell Imbusi (Lockwood)

Imogen Jones (Baker)

Esmae Lakey-Dodson (Lockwood)

Mateo Luis Medel (Gwyn)

Oliver Mettrick (Symonds)

Scarlett Miles (Lockwood)

Benjamin Morgan (Gwyn)

Oscar Rivers (Gwyn)

Marco Scott (Lockwood)

Molly Sheer (Symonds)

Harry Skeen (Lockwood)

Gabriel Smith (Symonds)

Lucy Smith (Symonds)

Aria Taylor-Edwards (Baker)

Jolyon Uglow (Symonds)

Noah Vincent (Gwyn)

Jasper Weir (Baker)

Eddy Woodley-Green (Baker)

Senior School Prize Giving

‘The Great British Summer met the Great British Bake-Off at this year’s Senior School Prize Giving, with Dame Prue Leith DBE our guest speaker amid the squalls and the ‘come what may’ determined picnicking that followed.

An auspicious occasion marking the culmination of the academic year, Prize Giving interweaves the recognition of pupils’ achievements with speeches demanding us to step forward with ambition and integrity. This year, our outgoing Head of School, Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) managed to bake in more than a spoonful of bakery puns and word plays as she encouraged pupils to take advantage of every opportunity offered to them during their school careers. Dame Prue, through amusing anecdotes of her early career spoke of the importance of relentless perseverance, making your own luck, and, above all, to keep moving forward.

Whilst the Headmaster addressed our Upper Sixth leavers, encouraging them to remember the lessons of their schooling, to strive forwards with purpose, vigour and optimism, even with the odd pothole along their routes. And the Chair of Governors thanked staff for their efforts and commitment over the course of the year.

A warm and heartfelt thanks to parents for attending in great number, and for your generosity of spirit in celebrating the pupils’ successes so fully.’

Mr Griffiths

Head of Marketing

Award Winners

Performing Arts Prize

First Form

Emilie Ayllon (Feilden)

Second Form

Lottie Graves (Gascoigne)

Third Form

Xander Luckett (Vanbrugh)

Languages Prize

First Form

Belle Larsson (Queen Anne)

Second Form

Charlie Parks (Queen Anne)

Third Form

Eylül Kaban (Swift)

STEM Prize

First Form

Sam Young-Gale (Queen Anne)

Second Form

Freya Vincent (Queen Anne)

Third Form

George Berlanger (Feilden)

Creative Arts Prize

First Form

William Woodwards (Swift)

Second Form

Ningxuan Zhu (Gascoigne) Third Form

Xander Luckett (Vanbrugh)

Humanities Prize

First Form

Will Chandler (Gascoigne)

Second Form

Freya Vincent (Queen Anne)

Third Form

Eva Graves (Gascoigne)

Named Awards

Allen Scholarship for Outstanding Academic Ability

Freya Vincent (Queen Anne)

Trevis Scholarship for Excellence in Modern Foreign Languages

Kassia Walwyn (Vanbrugh)

Cantwell Award for Music

Diwen Zhu (Swift)

Crawford Award for Sport

Georgia Standbridge (Queen Anne)

Goldsmith Award for Art

Reuben Uglow (Gascoigne)

Fourth Form Prizes for Academic Excellence

Art Amelie Boyle

Biology Louis Mott

Business Studies Alex May

Chemistry Cory Zheng

Design Technology Alex May

Drama Emmeline Black

English Language Evie Walker

English Literature Sophie Sharp

Geography Evie Walker

Greek Ellie Lunn

History Sam Weldon

Latin Emmeline Black

Mathematics Cory Zheng

MFL (French) Alex May

MFL (Spanish) Maya Kelly

Music

Sophie Sharp

Philosophy Emmeline Black

Physical Education Aneliese Sagar

Physics Emmeline Black

Psychology Alex May

Textiles

Audrey McCormick

Art Pippa Allen

Biology Ebony McDowall

Business Studies Zoe Robertson

Chemistry Scarlett De Reuver

Design Technology Emma Campbell

Drama Kacy Nguyen

English Language William Hansen

English Literature Bryony Wyatt

Geography Felicity Hill

Greek Theo Coecup

History William Hansen

Latin Theo Coecup

Mathematics William Hansen

MFL (French) William Hansen

MFL (Spanish) Edward Allen

Music Luke Flemming

Philosophy Joshua Briscoe

Physical Education Felix Pool

Physics Felix Pool

Psychology Kacy Nguyen

Religious Studies Alice Lines

Textiles Pippa Allen

Lower Sixth Prizes for Academic Exellence

Art Grace Soden

Biology Simran Panesar

BTEC Double Amelia Wiley

BTEC Extended Lottie Lifely

Business Studies Dan Pickford

Chemistry Nicolas Woods-Cano

Classical Civilisation Sam Farr

Design Technology Fletch Jewell

Drama Henry Cook

Economics Fletch Jewell

English Literature Henry Cook

Further Mathematics Nicolas Woods-Cano

Geography Edward Harris

History Seb Tattersall

Latin Finn Van Landeghem

Mathematics Fletch Jewell

MFL (French) Finn Van Landeghem

Music Caellum Sharp

Philosophy Oliver Davies

Physical Education Findlay Knox

Physics Patrick West

Politics Dan Pickford

Psychology Harry Adams

Sociology Elsa Winfield

Textiles Nancy Christensen

Upper Sixth A Level Prizes

Art Lily Yang

Biology Aoife Kirkham

BTEC Business Emily Collier

Business Studies James Nott

Chemistry Thomas Avery

Design Technology Bea Payne

Economics Alexander Brazier

English Language and Literature Daisy Watkins

English Literature Daisy Herbert

EPQ Ollie Cameron

Further Mathematics Lily Yang

Geography Charlotte Griffiths

History Henry Shortland

Latin Aoife Kirkham

Mathematics Thomas Avery

MFL (French) Dee Biles

MFL (Spanish) Rafi Layish

Music Grace Gunn

Physical Education Molly Grinham

Physics Thomas Avery

Psychology Gabriella Hancox

Sociology Tamsin Townson

Textiles Emily Middleton-Bray

Open

Awards

The Cranham Prize

Charlie Kerton (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

The

Oscar

The

Oscar

The Grove Prize

Sam

The Sonia Tollady Memorial Prize

Austin Hunt (Fifth Form, Feilden)

The Kate Perritt Prize

Charlotte Griffiths (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

The Martin Browne Memorial Prize

Harry Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

The Gordon Dennis Memorial Prize Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

The Daniel Sumpter Sportsman of the Year

Ross Gray (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

The Boggis Rosebowl Sportswoman of the Year

Alice Smith (Upper Sixth, Swift)

The Richard Reah Award

Molly Grinham (Upper Sixth, Feilden) Sam Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

The Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Award

Thomas Avery (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

The Peter Small Theatre Production Award Flo Adepoju (Upper Sixth, Harcourt)

The Headmaster’s Prize

Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Recommendation Cup

Michaelmas Term Swift

Lent Term Feilden

Summer Term Swift

Lancia Fulvia Prize

Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Stephen Cookson Memorial Prize

Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

GCSE Results

Across the Fifth Form, results were up this year from last in all grade band measures. Pupils achieved 79% at grades 9 – 6, up 14% from last year; 52% of results were awarded at 9 – 7, up 10%; whilst 28% were 9 - 8 grades, up 5%; and 12% of all grades were returned at grade 9, up 2% on 2023.

Among these results were several pupils worthy of particular acclaim. These are William Hansen (Queen Anne) achieved nine 9s, one 8, and an A in Additional Maths; Emma Campbell (Vanbrugh) with five 9s and four 8s; Zoe Robertson (Feilden) and Kacy Nguyen (Vanbrugh) have six 9s, one 8, and two 7s apiece; and Joshua Briscoe (Feilden) achieved six 9s, two 8s, one 7, and one 6.

Results Day 2024

As a community, Cokethorpe prides itself on celebrating equally the diversity of pupils’ talents, interests, and achievements. Across today’s results, the School’s overall A* percentage increased by 4% from last year to 10%, whilst 27% of grades were awarded at A* - A and 52% were awarded A* - B grades.

Congratulations to Daisy Herbert (Queen Anne) and Charlotte Griffiths (Gascoigne) who achieved all A*; to Thomas Avery (Gascoigne) with three As; Lily Yang (Queen Anne) with two A* and two Bs; Gabriella Hancox (Harcourt) with two A*, one B, and an A in the EPQ; and to Tamsin Townson (Feilden) with two A*, one B, and a B in the EPQ.

Among those studying the BTEC Extended Diploma in Business, notable highlights included a Distinction Star and two Distinctions for Emily Collier (Swift), Isabel Collier (Swift), Freddie Fellows (Vanbrugh), Ross Gray (Feilden), Thea Moore (Swift), and Amelie Pierce Williams (Harcourt)

Whilst these results for our students are a significant moment in and of themselves, there are also many notable next steps their results have provided, with a variety of exciting and challenging courses being embarked upon at many laudable institutions. These include Chemistry at the University of St Andrews; Engineering at Durham University; Psychology at the University of Bristol; Business at the University of Exeter; and Geography at the University of Edinburgh.

Enlightenment Lectures

The Enlightenment Lecture Programme 20232024, themed ‘The Lived Experience,’ was a remarkable journey of intellectual exploration and discovery. The series featured an impressive line-up of speakers, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the table.

Overall, this year’s Programme was a memorable series of lectures that offered students a wealth of knowledge and sparked engaging discussions on a variety of topics. The success of the programme is a testament to the efforts of Mr. Elkin-Jones and the enthusiasm of the guest speakers and students alike. Each lecture was a unique experience, leaving the audience with new perspectives and a deeper understanding of the world around them. The series truly lived up to its theme, providing a platform for speakers to share their experiences and insights, and for students to engage with these ideas in a meaningful way. The Enlightenment Lecture Programme 2023-2024 was not just a series of lectures, but a journey of enlightenment that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all those who attended.

Theme: The Lived Experience

‘On Tuesday 19 September, the Sixth Form were delighted to attend our first in this year’s series of Enlightenment lectures. The Shed was packed with students waiting with bated breath, to hear what knowledge the guest lecturer, Dr Elizabeth Gemmill, a fellow of Kellogg College, had decided to enlighten us with. And it’s fair to say we were all slightly surprised when the words ‘Cokethorpe Graffiti’ were projected onto the board.

Dr Gemmill’s vast knowledge, however, did not concern the modern, spray-paint-on-tubestation style graffiti made famous by artists such as Banksy, but instead focussed on what modern humans can learn about the people of the Middle Ages from the graffiti they left behind. Dr Gemmill shared a multitude of

interesting facts, images, and anecdotes with us, which allowed us to learn more about the ‘ordinary people’ of history, and even how a piece of graffiti, which the Doctor herself discovered, led to the knowledge that Anne Boleyn had a brother. Our thanks go to Mr Elkin-Jones for organising the lecture, and of course to Dr Gemmill for accepting the invitation to talk to us about a genuinely intriguing topic.

Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

‘I was delighted to give a lecture in the Enlightenment programme at Cokethorpe School. I had contacted the School about the very special graffiti on the door jambs in the School Chapel for a catalogue of medieval inscriptions that is being published early next year for Oxfordshire Record Society; and this led to an invitation to talk to students about the project. The lecture on medieval graffiti and inscriptions in their various forms – on stone, wood, metal, textiles - was very well-attended and it was great to have such an engaged and lively audience. The starting point was the School Chapel which is recorded as early as the tenth century in a charter of King Edgar! As always, the most rewarding part for the lecturer is the question time at the end. Cokethorpe students (and their teachers) had some very thoughtful points to raise - about how inscriptions were discovered, how they should be conserved, and the representation of ‘ordinary’ people in art and artefacts. After the lecture Mr Elkin-Jones kindly took us to see the Cokethorpe graffiti in the Chapel itself –and there is no substitute for seeing medieval artefacts in the setting for which they were originally intended.

So – many thanks to Cokethorpe School for letting me share my love of history and of Oxfordshire’s amazing medieval heritage with you!’

Dr Elizabeth Gemmill

Alfie Moore – It’s a Fair Cop! Can you Catch the Villain?

‘It was a true privilege to have Alfie Moore, an esteemed ex-police officer, grace us with his presence for his Enlightenment Lecture entitled ‘It’s a Fair Cop’. With over 20 years of valuable experience in law enforcement and a celebrated BBC Radio 4 series titled 'It's a Fair Cop,' Moore's breadth of knowledge and captivating storytelling skills were evident throughout the evening. He skilfully shared a compelling array of comic and tragic experiences from his career, taking us through a real-life scenario involving his dog, Zeus. The audience was engaged as we were prompted to consider the choices we would make at crucial

junctures in the scenario, offering us deep insight into the dilemmas of everyday policing.

The subsequent Q&A session was particularly enlightening, as Moore showed genuine interest in understanding how the police are perceived by the younger generation. We extend our gratitude to Mr Elkin-Jones for providing this wonderful opportunity to hear Alfie Moore speak, making it an unforgettable hour of enlightenment and introspection.

‘Thank you for inviting me to Cokethorpe School to give a presentation in your Enlightenment Lecture series to about 150 of your students who very much enjoyed it. Policing is my background and I’m very curious to engage with the community and discuss policing and what they think of the police these days. There is a lack of confidence in policing, and I am very curious to know why. We had some very interesting views from the audience for which I am grateful. I loved it, enjoyed it and hopefully they got a bit of something as to a different side of policing.’

Layla Moran – Beyond the Soundbites: A day in the life of an MP 'Oxford West and Abingdon’s Liberal Democrats MP, Layla Moran, visited the Cokethorpe Sixth Form for their Enlightenment Lecture in November. Ms Moran spoke candidly and eloquently on the day-to-day goings on in the Palace of Westminster, the surprising amount of inter-party cooperation outside of the House of Commons chamber and the weekly, Wednesday morning showpiece at Prime Minister’s Questions, and the challenges facing politics at the moment.

Ms Moran also highlighted the importance of international cooperation, referencing the 7 October attack by Hamas on Israel, the subsequent military actions by Israel against Gaza, and the members of her family caught up in the middle of the conflict along with the hundreds of thousands of civilians on both sides.

Dr Elizabeth Gemmill – Cokethorpe Graffiti

Harry Adams (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)

Alfie Moore

Answering questions on her time in parliament, the policy involvements she was most proud of pursuing, her wider record, and life on the campaign trail, among other things, Ms Moran answered all the students’ questions with grace and candour.'

Mr Griffiths

Head of Marketing

‘I was delighted to have the chance to speak with the students at Cokethorpe School, whose questions and engagement with the big issues of the day are so important for the future of the country. We need young people to be engaged in politics and the democratic process. Who knows, maybe I will be greeting some Cokethorpe students on the green benches of the House of Commons in the years ahead!’

Layla Moran MP

Reverend Greg Downes – It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vicar

‘Today we had the wonderful pleasure of being spoken to by Reverend Greg Downes as part of our series of Enlightenment Lectures organised by Mr Elkin-Jones. He provided us all with laughter and smiles at his humorous perspective on religion and his experience with it in a talk titled ‘It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vicar’. He enlightened us on famous people he had met (including Ed Sheeran and James Corden) and even spoke about his recent meeting with Lord Tebbit and their conversations about spirituality and faith. Finally, Reverend Greg Downes gave us all an insight to three motivational principles. The truth will set you free - finding reality, Knowing your ‘Why’ – what makes us tick, and Pursuing Integrity –which is pursuing your character.

It was an absolute pleasure to have him visit Cokethorpe today and every one of us has walked away with a new perspective in mind.’

Poppy

Symonds (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

‘What a joy it has been to be here at Cokethorpe to deliver one of the Enlightenment Lectures. I really enjoyed it that people were so receptive to my talk: ‘It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vicar’ was the theme. I looked at three kinds of motivational-typed principles that were applicable regardless of faith. The first was entitled ‘The truth will set you free’ – that is, find reality; ‘Know your why’ – which is what makes you tick; and ‘Pursue Integrity’ – which is pursue character. The audience were all receptive and laughed at my jokes, which is always a bonus, and there were some great questions at the end, so fantastic to be here.’

Reverend Greg Downes

Dr Jane Cooper - Should we Cancel ‘Cancel Culture’?

‘Sixth Form students were lucky enough to hear a talk from Dr Cooper about the growing issue of ‘Cancel Culture’ and how its roots can be traced back as far as ancient Greece, with philosopher Socrates being put to death due to

a form of the culture. Dr Cooper spoke with eloquence and gave a clear and digestible breakdown of the issue’s origins, allowing everyone in the room to take a dive into the history of the fascinating topic.

After illustrating the problem by including the modern-day example of Kathleen Stock, Cooper moved on to offering a solution to the matter. She advocated the use of the Socratic Dialogue method – encouraging the youth to discuss our differences in perspective with an open-minded view, in order to diffuse the toxicity that is brought through the act of ‘cancelling’ someone. Finishing with some thought-provoking questions from Cokethorpe students, Dr Cooper discussed these and gave fascinated answers, rounding-off an engrossing lecture.’

‘It was a pleasure talking to the Sixth From about ‘Cancel Culture’. I found the students to be very mature, very engaged and they gave me lots of challenging questions, so it was a real honour to come and present here. We talked a lot about the Socratic method as a good way of counteracting the binarizing effects of Cancel Culture on public discourse; we also talked a little bit about how social media exacerbates Cancel Culture and scapegoating. I was definitely pleasantly surprised by the reception, so thank you.’

Dr Jane Cooper

Henry Cook (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)

Layla Moran, MP

Extended Project Qualification

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an optional programme requiring students to investigate a topic of their own choosing and leading to a 5000-word essay or an artefact. It allows our students to extend their curiosity into new and fascinating areas, and to master a range of key skills from project-management to academic research.

This year twelve Upper Sixth students completed the programme and submitted essays. Several members of staff were involved during the process as supervisors, helping to clarify the students’ ideas, and offering advice on research, writing and presentations.

The following twelve Upper Sixth students completed their EPQ in 2024:

Charlie Anthony (Gascoigne)

Alexander Brazier (Swift)

Ollie Cameron (Queen Anne)

Grace Gunn (Gascoigne)

Gabriella Hancox (Harcourt)

Charlie Kerton (Gascoigne)

Rafi Layish (Vanbrugh)

Ben Monaghan (Queen Anne)

AJ Rowe (Harcourt)

Tamsin Townson (Feilden)

Alice Smith (Swift)

Daisy Watkins (Gascoigne)

Upper Sixth

The essays this year embraced a wide range of topics focused largely on contemporary questions of political and social concern. Ollie Cameron investigated the practice of money-laundering in the UK: what it is, how it is done, and how individuals and corporations get away with it. His extensive research led to a nuanced analysis of the legal and economic labyrinths involved, and a clear account of various strategies including shell companies.

any country but are exceedingly popular in those that are considered tax havens or have low regulatory standards. The countries that offer the facilities for shell companies to operate benefit from the collected tax revenue on the money deposited or the value of the asset placed under the shell company. Therefore, their country’s GDP would increase and there is more money to spend on healthcare, education, and infrastructure to move the country towards a more thriving economy that can be used to reinvest in becoming a global superpower. This moves the British territories away from their dependence on the British economy and provides a source of income for the government.

It is simple enough to create a shell company. Even in the UK it takes a matter of minutes to create a shell company attributed to a fake identity, which can be used for illegal transactions and then abandoned with little chance of ever being traced to who initially created it.

Shell corporations are also often used by companies or high-earning individuals to avoid or evade tax; this is still considered money laundering. Tax avoidance involves avoiding paying while obeying the letter of the law, while tax evasion is unlawful avoidance of tax. If the money laundered is for a more legitimate purpose and not to conceal its illegitimate nature, then the shell corporation process is much simpler. Shell companies are used to move assets overseas to maximise the tax efficiency or to minimise the tax liability payable. Tax avoidance could be creating a business in the British Isles to ‘write-off’ some liabilities and expenses to lower the tax burden that one would pay - most likely in tax havens as the cost of opening the company and holding the money is far more insignificant as there are lower taxes.

Excerpt from Rafi Layish (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)

‘Is Brazil an Example of the Pitfalls of the Western Democratic Model?’ Jobim, one of the founders of the Bossa Nova musical movement, once said of his homeland, “Brazil is not for beginners”. Westerners, attracted by images of Rio’s bustling and sunny Copacabana beach, the magnificent Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the new wonders of the world, often think of Brazil as a tourist destination. Its colonial history has formed it into a society of many diverse cultures, races, and skin tones, as we will consider later. All of this may lead one to believe that Brazil is a progressive and liberal country, but according to leading research, and as is clear from recent political developments, “Brazil is much more socially conservative than people outside the country generally appreciate”. Despite Lapper’s valuable point, Brazilians are highly critical of their government and country, which is highly polarised between left and right, and there is regular protest. “This is not to say Brazilians lack patriotism, but simply that patriotism in Brazil exists differently than in countries elsewhere.” Brazilians are proud of their ability to improvise under challenging circumstances, and they bring this pride together into a patriotic sentiment.

‘A critical exploration of money laundering in the British jurisdiction and the laws put in place to counter the money laundering.’

Primarily a shell company’s purpose is to move or hold assets in a manner where it is not immediately obvious who the ultimate beneficiary is. Shell companies can be set up by a third party, often a lawyer or accountant, to further obscure this; and a shell company is able to have any number of subsidiary shell companies under it. Shell corporations can exist in

Tax evasion however would be to conceal assets in various shell companies and trusts in OFCs to avoid paying taxes entirely. If the taxable income or assets are hidden illegally in an OFC’s shell company, then that is illegal and tax evasion.

Rafi Layish used his EPQ to understand Brazil better, specifically the failures and successes of the Western democratic model. As his introduction indicates [excerpt], Brazil is a complex and unique country whose experiments with democracy have much to teach us.

Brazil is the fifth and sixth largest country in the world, in terms of territory and population respectively, with a population of nearly 220 million people. It is thus a country of immense importance, and in this essay I hope to evaluate how a form of democracy that grew out of Europe has functioned in Brazil, which has unique issues that make this challenging, as we will see. The country is often written off as “mired in corruption, inequality, poverty and violence”. I wish to consider democracy in Brazil through a multitude of lenses: I believe that democracy is more than the constitution, or politics, so I will, for example, look at how society in Brazil affects democracy and put this in the context of case studies both historically and in recent political events in Brazil.

Gabriella Hancox decided to evaluate the popular confusion between psychopaths and sociopaths. Her conclusion traces various misconceptions to the medical profession and their ambiguous diagnostic criteria - no surprise, then, that the confusion is so common in the media.

Excerpt from Ollie Cameron (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne)

Excerpt from

Gabriella Hancox (Upper Sixth, Harcourt)

‘To what extent is there a misconception of psychopaths and sociopaths and who is responsible?’

After analysing all the research, I believe that uncertainties of definition caused by professionals is the main reason for misconceptions surrounding psychopathy and sociopathy. This has historically been the case, as when the term was first used in the early 1900s in Europe and the US, the two were often used interchangeably by clinicians and academics. Furthermore, there has been disparity geographically, as shown by the differing cut-off scores for psychopathy from the PCL-R checklist. In North America, a score of 30 designates someone as a psychopath but in places such as the UK and Europe, a score of 25 is more commonly used. If there is not a consistency between these western developed countries, how can psychopathy be a universally applied concept? As there is comorbidity between many symptoms of sociopathy and psychopathy and other disorders, professionals believe, “psychopathy lends itself to professional libertarianism under which the psychopath is not a single (and differentiated) clinical disorder but a convenient label”. This is reflected through the DSM as psychopathy and sociopathy are not listed as separate clinical diagnoses, with psychopathy instead being a form of anti-social personality disorder. It is therefore uncertain what the differences between the two terms are or whether they even are different, with this misconception being created solely by professionals and their uncertainty. This poor communication in turn will be expressed by lazy journalism and the media as it is unlikely they will attempt to gain a deep understanding surrounding the terms, using them as umbrella terms for unexplained abnormal behaviour. The media also must be held responsible for the stigmatisation surrounding psychopaths, particularly regarding the stereotype of them being violent murderers. This was demonstrated by an article following the Virginia Tech shootings, which expressed their concern that “the media had chosen to peddle fear, violence and hatred through disseminating videotapes and photos of the psychopath”. Statistically psychopaths are shown to be successful and able to function adequately in the real world, as shown by the statistic that roughly four to as high as twelve% of CEOs display psychopathic tendencies as well as the strong link shown between psychopaths and heroes.

Serious issues arising in popular culture were also explored by Tamsin Townson (Upper Sixth, Feilden) and Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne). Tamsin wondered why we have become so fascinated by serial killers: the depth and organisation of her investigation is amply demonstrated by the project plan included on one of her slides.

By contrast, Grace held Disney to account for their use of gender stereotypes: the title slide of her presentation captures the unexpected range of her investigation.

Ancient history was also a popular topic this year. Ben Monaghan (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) reflected on the last 5000 years of human development, and how lifestyle changes have affected our evolution: he focused on three main areas before drawing a nuanced conclusion.

Charlie Kerton (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) explored ancient Roman politics and warfare in his analysis of the First Punic War between Rome and Carthage, identifying the key role played by the two Roman consuls.

Lower Sixth

As usual, the Lower Sixth spent their f irst term learning advanced study skills in preparation for their EPQ projects. These timetabled lessons covered projectmanagement, research, writing and presentation skills. Then in January 33 students began working on their chosen projects, to be completed in December this year. Most will be essays, covering a typically broad range of topics including flying cars, music festivals, AI, hip-hop, Land Law, war poetry, witchcraft, social inequality, D-Day and the Reformation. We also look forward to artefacts including musical compositions, a PC cooling fan and a model Mayan temple.

Summary

Although a smaller number of students completed their EPQ this year, there was a very high standard of research, writing and presentation throughout. All the Upper Sixth students who completed the EPQ should be warmly congratulated for their effort and their achievement.

Scholars' Round Up

Dare to be curious

Scholars are not appointed by measuring exam results alone, or top-slicing those simply by test results; rather, we select those we judge to demonstrate ‘scholary-ness’. Afterall, curiosity might drive a person to enquire, but it requires intellectual ambition to get to that point in the first place. Determination will energise a person to learn, but it also requires rigorous study habits to adapt to changing situations when a goal is not easily attained. When all four elements are in play, there is a good chance that a scholarly mind is at work.

Philosophical Investigations

The Fourth and Fifth Form Scholars follow a bespoke curriculum taught by Mr Waldron and the Headmaster, introducing them to some key topics in Philosophy and developing their critical thinking skills.

This year, the Fourth Form have been learning about reason and argument, and applying these tools to big questions like free will, the nature of evil, the gap between appearance and reality and personal identity over time. It is difficult to overstate the significance of these questions, and the implications of (say) determinism or Platonism can strike some Scholars quite forcibly. The Fifth Form have explored issues in politics, authenticity, consciousness and language, and finished the year by submitting work for the School Certificate in Philosophy. Particularly impressive were the essays of Josh Briscoe (Fifth Form, Feilden) and Felix Pool (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), who both explored the different conceptions of human nature to be found in philosophers like Hobbes and Rousseau.

The Philosophical Investigations course has helped all the scholars to discharge their obligation to think clearly, deeply and responsibly about the world around them.

New Scientist Live! Trip

was off-limits. The Scholars explored the many booths, meeting numerous big names in STEM as they demonstrated their curiosity.

The Scholars used ideas from this to embark on their own research projects, inspired by the academic pursuits and methods that they saw across the many sectors including medicine, agriculture and robotics. For many, this fed directly into the Scholars’ Exhibition.

Scholars’ Exhibition

The annual Scholars’ exhibition provided an invaluable opportunity for our Scholars to flex their cognitive muscles and showcase the fruits of their research labour. Twenty-three Scholars from the First Form to Lower Sixth presented their independent research projects, demonstrating the diversity of their interests and commitment to their scholarly pursuits through their thorough research.

A variety of topics were represented, with projects from ‘Memory’ to ‘Murder’ to ‘What Constitutes a Soul?’. Judges of the exhibition, Head of School, Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and Ellie Lunn (Fourth Form, Swift), had the impossible task of choosing this year’s winners. Dee said ‘I was impressed with how passionate each Scholar was about their subject, engaging in deep discussions about their hypotheses and findings. Ellie and I spoke to all the Scholars individually and were impressed by the extraordinary amount of effort behind each project. We are, therefore, excited to read the upcoming Scholars’ Journal articles where they will have a chance to explore their subjects in greater depth.’

Congratulations to all our Scholars, but particular congratulations go to our winning Scholars: Lottie Graves (Second Form, Gascoigne); Emmeline Black (Fourth Form, Feilden); and George Keates (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) for their research and displays.

Sixth Form Scholars’ Christmas Formal

The mid-point of the year was punctuated for the Sixth Form by the annual Sixth Form Scholars’ Formal. This is always a glorious occasion, when our most experienced Scholars celebrate their achievements and contributions alongside a selection of invited staff. The evening began with a welcome drink in the

Dining Hall; as students and the staff invited by the Upper Sixth arrived, dressed for the occasion in formal attire that reflected their cultural heritage.

This year, the theme was a celebration of the variety of cultural identities at Cokethorpe, a theme reflected in the diverse five-course menu. Before each course, Upper Sixth students Rohana Saunders (Queen Anne) and Marit Tweehuijsen (Feilden), who had designed the menu in partnership with our excellent Catering Department, confidently introduced the background of their choices and pairings of food and wine.

Publication of the Scholars’ Journal and the Scholars’ Dinner

‘This year’s Scholar’s Dinner was, as always, a delightful event where our Scholars and their parents had the opportunity to convene as an erudite community for a night of great conversation and fabulous food. It also marked the successful conclusion of their articles presented in the recently published Scholars’ Journal. We were delighted to welcome Sir Ralph Waller, an eminent theologian and current director of the Farmington Institute at Oxford University, who - through various allegories - encouraged the audience in their academic endeavours.

Sir Ralph spoke about his friend who, on a mission in the Amazon rainforest, discovered in the middle of the night that his whole arm up to his shoulder had been swallowed by a

Scholars from across the Senior School ventured to London to the 'New Scientist Live' exhibition at the Excel Centre, Central London. From brain surgery to parachutes to the science behind headless chickens, nothing

snake. After telling us about how his friends saved his arm by chopping off its head, plus a generous estimate for the length of his arm, Sir Ralph explained that life is like a game of snakes and ladders: with a mixture of luck and disappointment.

His inspiring words, the spirited conversations and the hard work of the Catering Department created an atmosphere of intellectual fervour. Many thanks to all involved for a truly wonderful evening.’

Finn Van Landeghem (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

In class

Whilst the first two terms of the year were chiefly taken with researching, drafting and preparing for the exhibition and subsequent journal article, the Summer Term provided opportunity to stretch and challenge Scholars regarding their preconceptions about the world.

Scholars were presented with a series of microlectures delivered by staff and our current Fifth Form Scholars, designed to expand their horizons and engage them in discussion about ‘big ideas’. These included The Philosophy of Identity, Signs and Symbols, and a range of topics that sought to unpick the underlying issues in current affairs. These included the factors involved in the cost of living; exploring the tropes of tragedy in drama; and the compromises required to make democracy work. As a final challenge, some pupils took part in a series of informal gaming challenges, ranging from a form of three-dimensional scrabble to movable crossword-type puzzles.

Scholars' List

First Form

George Bains (Feilden)

Ollie Black (Feilden)

Will Chandler (Clarke) (Gascoigne)

Florence Nixey (Gascoigne)

Second Form

Lottie Graves (Gascoigne)

Freya Vincent (Queen Anne)

Third Form

Eva Graves (Allen) (Gascoigne)

Luella Hickey (Swift)

Katy Stiger (Trevis) (MFL) (Swift)

Fourth Form

Emmeline Black (Clarke) (Feilden)

Amelie Boyle (Trevis) (Harcourt)

Alex Hancox (Harcourt)

Ella Hogeboom (Allen) (Swift)

Ellie Lunn (Swift)

Alex May (Vanbrugh)

Evie Walker (Swift)

Sam Weldon (Harcourt)

Fifth Form

Josh Briscoe (Feilden)

Tijn Camoenié (Harcourt)

Archie Clarke (Queen Anne)

William Hansen (Allen) (Queen Anne)

Nathan Hunt (Vanbrugh)

Mida Loci (Feilden)

Joe Norman (Feilden)

Henry O'Brien (Harcourt)

Felix Pool (Queen Anne)

Archie Pryor (Swift)

Zoe Robertson (Trevis) (Feilden)

Lower Sixth

Harry Adams (Harcourt)

Nancy Christensen (Swift)

Sam Farr (Swift)

George Keates (Vanbrugh)

Finn Van Landeghem (Vanbrugh)

Oscar Luckett (Vanbrugh)

Simran Panesar (Queen Anne)

Caellum Sharp (Vanbrugh)

Upper Sixth

Thomas Avery (Gascoigne)

Dee Biles (Gascoigne)

Rachael Elliott (Feilden)

Aoife Kirkham (Strickland) (Feilden)

Freddie Murfitt (Queen Anne)

Rohana Saunders (Queen Anne)

Henry Shortland (Vanbrugh)

Marit Tweehuijsen (Feilden)

Scholars' Project Excerpts

What is a Genius?

The world without genius would be stuck. Stuck in a line in which no new ideas would ever be formed.

When people picture a genius, they typically see Albert Einstein studying at his desk, or they see Isaac Newton dropping an apple. They do not open their minds to the world of possibility that is genius. The myriad of thought, the new ideas and wonderful creations, the journey of one single idea, changing the course of society forever. That’s what a genius can do. That’s the power that genius holds. Genius is subjective (Tracy V Wilson, 2006). There is no specific test for genius, there is really no exact definition for what the word entails. Everyone has a bit of genius in them, some much more than others. The word is a scale, and everyone is on that scale. Genius is thinking outside of the box. It’s an innate ability to ask questions few others have ever asked before, and in some cases, to answer them (Hannah Beresford, 2021). One genius can shape society. It’s almost scary, that one single being has the power to literally

change the way the world works, simply with their minds. It’s incredibly important, however, that this happens. Because if there were no geniuses, we’d be stuck in a world that had no new ideas, no creativity, no originality. A genius is a breath of fresh air. We would be stuck in a stuffy room, with nothing new to live off, without these brilliant minds.

Intelligence and genius are often mixed up. The stereotype of being a genius is often linked with academic ability, but we know this isn’t always true. Intelligence is often about representing a high level of cognitive ability, about being curious to answer a question but perhaps never quite answering it (Michael Michalko, 2012). An intelligent person might be highly logical and think clearly. Genius represents a high level of creativity and innovation. They may also be highly logical and think clearly, but they simply go above and beyond; they use their intelligence; they use their talents and combine them to create something entirely new and different. It’s almost beautiful. An intelligent person follows the rules; a genius breaks them.

The dictionary defines ‘insane’ as a state of mind which prevents normal perception. Creative work involves out of the ordinary thinking and willingness to stand alone and take risks. So genius and madness are incredibly similar, perhaps even interlinked. Those who are perhaps called ‘mad’ often see the world differently, perceive things in ways we could never even imagine. Whilst these ways of thinking are weird and wonderful, they are often not ways that society agree with (Arne Dietrich, 2023). The difference between these geniuses and these insane people is the way that society views them; the way in which we choose to value their opinions. The difference between insanity and genius could also be success. If Albert Einstein had not contributed to the physics world what he had, perhaps he would be regarded as some loopy old man who sat at his desk all day. This once again proves that genius is subjective, and the topic often revolves around the thoughts and views of what a genius is, rather than what the word actually means. There might be so many geniuses who could have added so much to this world, but haven’t, simply due to the judgement of society, due to the prejudice of people.

Neurodivergence is also something that is also interlinked with genius. The dictionary defines neurodivergence as ‘differing in mental function from what is normal or typical.’ Once again, these characteristics are incredibly similar to that of a genius. Both neurodivergence and genius are entirely about changing perspectives, seeing the world an entirely different way, putting a different lens on the camera. This isn’t to say that a genius is neurodivergent, nor that someone who is neurodivergent is a genius, but simply to point out the many similarities between the two…

…Another stereotype is that often geniuses are thought to only be about academic brilliance, physics, maths, chemistry. When actually genius is about so much more. There are so many artistic geniuses, musical geniuses, philosophical geniuses. It is blatantly untrue if someone thinks that a genius can only be book smart. Pablo Picasso, for example, changed the artistic world forever. Socrates asked questions that had never been asked before. Mozart composed music never before even thought of. These people have changed the world for the better, yet the stereotype still remains.

Genius is both innate and acquired. Whilst genetics can explain up to 75% of variation in things such as IQ level, we know that intelligence massively depends on the environment as well (Barbara Kerr, 2007). Genius is only acquired through hard work. Before you can start asking questions, you have to have a very good grasp of the subject you are actually studying. Mozart couldn’t have become a genius if he had not learned the piano in the first place, which would have taken years of dedication. Also, many people, as previously mentioned, simply do not have the facilities to embrace their full potential. Things such as home environment, parenting, healthcare and access to education all play large parts in becoming a genius (Dean Keith Simonton, 2017). It’s incredibly hard to be one without good access to any of these resources.

Both Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso have obvious differences, having made massive contributions to the world, but in very different respective fields. Pablo Picasso having cofounded the cubist movement and helped to kickstart abstract art – inspiring future artists. Albert Einstein developed the theory of relativity, bringing groundbreaking research to the world of physics, completely changing the way we look at the world and space. Whilst they both have obvious differences; their similarities are even more evident. They both saw the world through a different lens. They were both able to take the information they already had, and moulded it into something new, something that was able to help and change the world.

In conclusion, genius is the highest form of creativity. The work a genius produces, the way a genius thinks and the way a genius combines their knowledge to create something new, is beautiful. The world without genius, wouldn’t be the world, but we also know that the idea of genius isn’t completely fixed, the definition doesn’t fit into a box. Society's thoughts and feelings surrounding the topic are constantly flowing and changing, a never-ending line, rather than an objective feeling.

Truth, Deception, and the Human Mind: Is the Perfect Lie Truly Possible?

Lying: the act of conveying a false impression or practicing deception, it’s something we all do, and to which we are all exposed. Whether the lies be of the 'white' variety (a lie told with good intentions), or the more malicious kind, an average person living in the West will be lied to at least ten times a day, although that number has been known to reach as many as two hundred (Meyer, n.d.).

Humans have been lying for millennia and as a result, we like to think that we have become quite good at it. Indeed, we are often proud of ourselves when we manage to deceive someone, especially if it provides personal gain. Often our lies will go undetected, leading us to consider ourselves talented falsifiers. We attribute our ability to deceive to our own skill at hiding the truth, but in this sense, we are lying to ourselves. The real reason we get away with lying is because the victim of our deception doesn’t know how to recognise a liar. The truth is that our bodies betray our lies every time, and it is not within our control. In this way, we are a species of very bad liars, so is it possible to tell a perfect lie?

The science of how our body betrays us How exactly does our body betray our deceptions? And why is it nearly impossible to control? Put simply, it is all in the mind. Lying is a very conscious act, and while we deceive, we must pay close attention to our story to keep it consistent and believable. Acting on impulse is not an option. Unfortunately for us, we have a system in our brains, known as the Limbic System or the Lizard Brain, which reacts to

everything with pure instinct, and it is the action stimulated by this system which betrays us (Navarro and Karlins, 2009).

The importance of the Limbic system

The Limbic System was one of the earliest systems to develop, and therefore is also one of the most primitive. Its purpose was to ensure our survival, and it brought about systems such as the Freeze, Flight, or Fight response, which was triggered whenever humans faced danger, whether it be from predators or otherwise. These days, the same limbic responses are still being exhibited because the lizard brain was so good at its function that it barely changed with evolution. The only thing that seems to have drastically altered is that modern day limbic responses are triggered by dramatically different stimuli (Navarro and Karlins, 2009). Rather than the Freeze, Flight, or Fight response being enacted due to an encounter with a predator, or a warring tribe, we now exhibit the symptoms when faced with a business deal we don’t like, a colleague who unnerves us, or while watching a frightening film. In addition to facilitating human survival, the limbic system is also in control of the expression of human emotions, and it is its control over emotion which allows it to betray us (Cuddy, n.d.).

By learning to read non-verbal, emotional 'leakage' (Meyer, n.d.), facilitated by the Limbic System, we can learn to detect when another is deceiving us; the best place to start searching, while in conversation, is the face. Although it is the least honest part of the body, it is less intrusive to search for deception in the face than it is to search the most honest part of the body, the legs, which have garnered such a reputation due to their close link to the Limbic System, a connection established and strengthened due to their instrumental role in the Freeze, Flight or Fight response. (Navarro and Karlins, 2009).

Micro-Expressions

The most dramatic example of non-verbal leakage in the face is the 'micro-expression' discovered, and the term coined, by an American psychologist named Dr Paul Ekman. A micro-expression is a facial expression, visible for one-fifth of a second, which displays a person’s true feelings before a mask of the emotion the person wishes to display comes up to disguise it (Ekman, 2023). Ekman

Evie Walker (Fourth Form, Swift)

discovered the micro-expression while working as a psychiatrist in 1967. He would record the interviews held with his patients and watch them back to further his ongoing research into human emotion. Whilst working with a patient known to have lied during the session, Ekman slowed the footage and noticed, for a brief moment, an expression revealing true emotion moments before they regained deceptive composure….

…Seven Universal Emotions

After noticing this phenomenon on the faces of many other of his patients, and from those in the Papua New Guinea study, he concluded that there were seven universal emotions expressed identically in every human on the planet: happiness, sadness, contempt, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust. Furthermore, he revealed his theory on micro-expressions to the world (Paul Ekman Group, 2023). Using his new-found knowledge, he developed a program called the Facial Action Coding System, or FACS, which analyses recordings of people’s faces, in order to numerically outline which muscles are functioning, and to read micro-expressions that others may miss.

Learning to recognise and interpret microexpressions is an incredibly valuable skill to possess, since it is a sure-fire way to discern the true emotions a person is harbouring. It is a brilliant example of the limbic system in action. The micro-expression is the limbic, reactionary response to the emotional stimulus. The 0.2 second delay between the micro-expression surfacing and the mask being installed, is a depiction of the time-lag which takes place when one person is attempting to deceive another.

This is only one of the myriad examples of this form of leakage which deception experts use to catch liars. In fact, people who can read and interpret this kind of signal are so often accurate that law-enforcement agencies such as the FBI employ them and their techniques to hunt criminals. Joe Navarro is one such person; an ex-FBI agent who literally wrote the book on reading non-verbal leakage.

Catching Liars: Spies, the FBI and playing poker Joe Navarro was an FBI agent for twentyfive years and worked in the spy-catching department of the agency. He developed a skill for reading non-verbal communication at a very young age, when he arrived in the United States from Cuba. Initially unable to speak any English, when joining school, he learned, instead, to read his classmates’ body language (Navarro and Karlins, 2009). As an adult, he was recruited to the FBI to help catch spies (Navarro, 2020). In his book; What Every BODY is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed-Reading People, written with Marvin Karlins, Navarro provides examples of a multitude of different nonverbals. To outline the utility and truth of his

methods, he litters the book with anecdotes from his own work in which he uses his ability to read others to discover the truth.

As a spy-catcher, he dealt with people highly trained in the art of lying. In one story he gives an account of how he and his colleagues apprehended three rogue agents by reading micro-expressions. Navarro describes how at one point in his career he was interrogating an American spy, who had confessed to being involved in espionage against the USA, but who would not name his co-conspirators. Navarro appealed to his morality and his conscience but made no headway, and so resorted to speedreading.

He and his colleague provided the spy with flashcards, with names of suspects written on them. The spy was asked to describe his relationship with the person whose name appeared on the card. While his words were of no interest, his reactions to the names on the cards provided sufficient evidence. On two separate occasions, when registering the name before him, the spy leaked a micro-expression of surprise, his eyes widened momentarily, and his brow raised, before his pupils contracted and his eyes narrowed. The initial expression showed shock and worry that the name was in contention, and the second suggested he felt the names were putting him in danger. Navarro and his fellow agent took note and questioned the two agents to whom the spy had reacted. Sure enough, they confessed to their crimes, and to working with the first agent arrested (Navarro and Karlins, 2009)…

…Can we tell a perfect lie?

What both examples prove is that for everyone, whether you be a fourteen-year-old schoolboy, or a mature agent trained in the art of deception, these non-verbal leakages are still present, nearly impossible to quash, and in reading them we can tell, with almost complete certainty, when a person is lying.

So, is it possible for a person to tell a perfect, undetectable lie?

The short answer is no. A typical human being cannot lie without their limbic system giving them away. However, there are ways in which a person can relax their body, by taking a muscle-relaxant for example, which can hinder the responses of

the limbic system making them more subtle or stop them surfacing entirely (Navarro and Karlins, 2009).

This is not fool proof since the effects of taking such a drug differ slightly from person to person and is, of course, extremely dangerous. I would suggest that telling the truth will be less damaging in the long run than muscle relaxants. Setting that aside for the moment, we cannot rely on there being muscle-relaxants at hand in situations where deception is deemed to be necessary. Thus, the perfect lie is still not achievable.

Is it necessary to tell the perfect lie?

Perhaps a more pertinent question would consider whether it is necessary to tell the perfect lie. Learning to read non-verbals accurately and consistently in all their variety takes years to perfect. Navarro admits that even he does not know everything there is to know about the science (Navarro and Karlins, 2009).

If someone manages to detect and interpret a non-verbal correctly, there is a good chance that this is more by luck than by judgement. I know that I have been lied to many times without detection.

Being able to lie verbally, in most scenarios, is sufficient. We are not often faced with a Navarro or Ekman who can spot our deceptions a mile away. The perfect lie doesn’t need to be possible.

Why lie at all?

Therefore, the final question I would like to propose is this: why lie at all? With the possible exceptions of 'white lies', why do we ever need to deceive anyone? Even on a purely practical level, a lie may provide instant protection or relief, but remembering to stick to that same story, and maintaining the illusion, becomes nearly impossible as time progresses, and eventually our deceptions come back to bite us. Surely, if the world was honest as a matter of course, all our lives, and the lives of everything around us, would be improved dramatically. Surely a world in which we do not need people like Navarro and Ekman, is a better world in which to live.

Conclusion

I am sure that this too is a pipedream, a fantasy, and that the world will continue to lie to itself for the rest of recorded time. In that case, at least we can take solace in the fact that the perfect lie is practically impossible to commit, and if we know what to look for, we can, theoretically, detect them every time.

Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Prep Academic Work

I get bad tempered when mummy wakes me up and I am still tired. To feel better I count to 20.

Oscar Smith (Reception Class, Symonds)

I get bad tempered when I don’t get the ice-cream I want. To make myself feel better I watch TV and eat food.

Emily Mardle

Year 1

Bog Baby

A typical day for Wilbur the pig First, Wilbur woke up and immediately ate his breakfast. After that, he looked under his trough to talk to Templeton, even though he wasn't the nicest rat to talk to. Then, he dug a hole in the soft mud to find a snack for when he would be hungry later. In the afternoon Wilbur peacefully watched the swallows flying in the sky.

Phoebe Mardle (Year 2, Symonds)

Butterfly

Beautiful butterfly

Up in the cloudy sky

Tiny body, fragile wings

Turning looking for food

Eating juicy watermelon

Ruby wings

Fragile and fluttery

Landing it is tired

Young butterfly, fly away

Oliver Beechey (Year 1, Symonds) and Ruby Jennings (Year 1, Symonds)

Year 2

Alliterations based on Charlotte's Web

Charlotte has scary spots covering her soft body. Wilbur, the pink, proud piglet ran in the green grass. The soothing spring water was swaying softly.

Eliam Gounongbe (Year 2, Lockwood)

My Imaginary World I quickly ran to the door, in the doorway was mountains of snow. I was excited to run through the new door because I could see a small cabin in the distance.

As soon as I was through the door, I saw children playing happily in the glistening, white snow. I could hear snowy owls calling to their friends far away. I could smell logs burning on a fire from a mile away.

I was delighted I went through the door because the snow was so bright and white.

Charlie Laight (Year 2, Lockwood)

kissed, the handmade cabin is well-hidden. Air can taste of many things, but this air tastes of wonder and mystery. The sky blazes! It would be quiet aside from the wind rushing through the frosted trees. Fireworks of emerald, plum and turquoise. Powered snow crunch with the weight of me. I would feel a buzz of electricity run through me.

I’m dying to see this place. Many cartwheels would be done inside my tickled tummy. It would be hard to talk after this spectacle because my breath would be taken away the second I saw it. I would remember, restlessly, this realm which is out of the world. Have you ever seen this?

Leonardo De Silva (Year 3, Lockwood)

The sky is like a pastel rainbow made of gas. It’s a magical blanket sprinkled with diamonds made from fairy dust. It’s as if a swirling pot of rainbow paint mixed together with glitter has been poured slowly into the sky from space. It makes all the little people stand, looking up from their dark, night-time gardens say ‘Wow!’ and feel amazed.

Ruby Resek (Year 3, Lockwood)

The Aurora danced across the silky silhouetted sky. It was a ruby red and emerald explosion that lit up the mountains below. The blue waters shimmered like a mermaid’s tail. Under this amazing light show, stands the mountain giants protecting the barren land. Would you like to be one of the people there? What would you be thinking?

Arthur Abraham (Year 3, Gwyn)

Year 4

Autism Group Work - 1

Harry Hope (Year 4, Gwyn), Oliver Noon (Year 4, Symonds), Jaden Orewa (Year 4, Lockwood), Lucas Manson (Year 4, Gwyn) and James Clayton (Year 4, Baker)

Year 3

The Arctic Circle I would love to go to the Arctic Circle, especially to see the Northern Lights. I’m planning to go in 2026, it’s now 2024. This is what I would imagine it to be like.

Flickering, the Aurora Borealis would move like waves of colour in the ink night sky. Swiftly, the thicket of pine and evergreen whisper “that’s supernatural” in the howling wind. Snow-

Phoebe Mardle (Year 2, Symonds)

Autism Group Work – 2

Starla Firth (Year 4, Lockwood) and Catriona Rounce (Year 4, Lockwood)

Year 5

Creative Writing on the Aurora Borealis

Far away, in the heart of the forest, stands a little cabin. The Aurora Borealis shines brightly above with its dazzling display of turquoise, emerald and azure colours. They dance across the cobalt sky like a gently blowing curtain. A blanket of pristine snow covers the mossy floor, glistening and shining beneath the illuminated sky.

Fallen snow sits heavily on tall trees, creating statuesque characters surrounding the solitary cabin. A faint glow beams from the window creating a sense of comfort and enveloping warmth. This contrasts with the icy outside air. The whispering wind flows through the forest on its journey to the unknown. This is magical!

Islay Jameson (Year 5, Lockwood)

Magical, swirling rivers of turquoise Aurora Borealis contrast dramatically against the inky black sky. These colours more dazzling that the finest emeralds and more vibrant than cobalt. Wind whispering through statuesque trees disturbing pristine snow on feathery branches. Dancing yellow light glows from the comforting fire inside the little hytte providing safety from the brown bears. The temperature outside is drastically different from the enveloping warmth inside. Pure, white snow cocoons the hytte's roof making everything look magical. Merry Christmas everyone!

Isla Cruickshank (Year 5, Gwyn)

"Wow!" I thought as I pushed the door and stepped into the new Wonder.

It nearly blinded me; it was the most dazzling thing that I had ever seen. I walked in further. There were trees all around me, I could hear them swaying to and fro, and on them there were tiny little glowing orbs floating.

In the middle of the Wonder was a glass bridge so that you could walk over the stream that was running around the room. I stood on the bridge and leaned forward to try and reach an orb but it fell off and landed in the stream. The water felt cool on my skin as I waded in and thought of what I most wanted.

I looked into the orb expecting to see my reflection but that's not what I saw. Instead, I saw my dog. Her name was Lulu, we were the best of friends but she died a year ago. "To see her again is what I most want!" I exclaimed to no one in particular.

I turned away from the stream, my heart thumping. Suddenly, something burst out of the bushes and bounded towards me. Lulu! She was looking at me with happy eyes and a smile on her face. Her tail was wagging side to side and she started running around me in circles. I looked at her and ran. I ran straight to her and gave her the biggest hug in the world. This really was what I wanted most in the world.

A feeling came over me like I had to go. I didn't want to leave her, I wanted her to come with me but I had to go. walked over to the door and watched her toddle along after me. With tears running down my face, I hugged her for the last time.

"Good bye," I cried.

The thought of leaving her made my heart ache but I had to go. She belonged there without me. I turned to the door and walked through.

Avalon Harris (Year 6, Baker)

This place made me shiver.

Finally, I reached the staircase leading up to the chapel; it smelt of old religious frippery. Then I saw Queen Anne Boleyn sitting next to His Majesty.

Later, as I walked down the garden, I saw the King on his tennis courts (for the size of him I think he played well!)

In the evening the front entrance became covered in carriages and horses as people arrived for the banquet.

When Henry entered The Great Hall, he was covered in gold, shining like the sun.

Year 6

Longing

I stood at the door, my tummy bubbling with excitement. I read the plaque above me that said 'What You Most Want.'

Hampton Court Palace

As I walked under the tall, intimidating wooden gates, I saw lots of servants scurrying across the quad. They were carrying heavy buckets of food on their way to the smoky kitchens. I tasted the fine venison meat wafting on the air and drank a cup of the sweet wine. There were gentry-folk wearing their velvet costumes and expensive leather shoes. I was here to see King Henry in person. I was nervous, as everyone always was. Did I belong here?

Marco Scott (Year 6, Lockwood)

Year 6 Maths Group work

Sierpiński’s Triangle

Pascal’s Triangle

Prep Portfolio

The current Year 6 cohort are piloting a new initiative entitled ‘the Prep Portfolio’ which aims to help prepare pupils for Senior School and beyond by fostering a greater sense of responsibility and independence. Pupils are undertaking six units: Multi-Generational, Financial Literacy, Out of Your Comfort Zone, Entrepreneurial, Eco-sustainability, and Community Outreach.

Over the course of the project, pupils will create a physical portfolio of evidence to support the work they have done towards each of these units. In doing so, pupils will earn themselves a Bronze, Silver or Gold certificate, dependent on the quality and amount of work pupils have done. The School provides the opportunity for all pupils to achieve the Bronze Award, it is then the responsibility of the pupils to go the extra mile to achieve the Silver and Gold certificates.

Multi-Generational

The multi-generational certificate recognises pupils who have demonstrated a commitment to helping others, particularly those from different generations. Examples of ways in which pupils have achieved this, is by volunteering at a local nursing home or mentoring younger pupils. Year 6 have already been busy setting up lunchtime clubs for younger pupils which they advertised with posters, including: cricket, art club, book club, football and board games to name just a few.

Financial Literacy

As part of their Prep Portfolio Year 6 have been studying Financial Literacy. They now have a solid grasp of banking terminology such as interest, loans, mortgages, tax and insurance as well as the advantages and disadvantages of debit and credit cards. In teams, the pupils very much enjoy solving the real-life, age-appropriate financial scenarios and dilemmas presented to them. Reassuringly, Year 6 have an impressive understanding of responsible spending!

Out of Your Comfort Zone

The Out of Your Comfort Zone certificate encourages pupils to try something new and recognises pupils who have stepped outside of their comfort zone and tried something they would not normally do. This may be participating in a public speaking competition, trying a new sport or activity, travelling to a new place or meeting new people.

Entrepreneurship - Charity Afternoon

In a display of remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, our Year 6 pupils spearheaded a most successful charity afternoon. This enterprising endeavour, meticulously planned as part of their Prep Portfolio's entrepreneurship unit, showcased a vibrant array of games and merchandise for the Prep School pupils and parents. The year group raised over £265.00 donated to the following charities: Cancer Research; Purple Advisory Care; The Rafiki Foundation; Shelter and Race Against Dementia.

As part of the eco-sustainability unit, Year 6 pupils visited ‘Wildfarmed’. Building on their motto, ‘Transforming Lunches and Landscapes’, the Year 6 pupils were able to witness first-hand how delicious food can be produced in harmony with the environment. The eager pupils arrived

at Wildfarmed, ready to dive into the world of sustainable agriculture. A team of passionate experts greeted them, excited to share their knowledge and transform the day into an ecoadventure.

Community Outreach

The Outreach certificate recognises pupils who have made a positive impact on their community through involvement in outreach or charity work, such as organising a fundraiser for local charity or doing some voluntary work. This year, Dr Flaherty and some Sixth Form students met with Year 6 to discuss the Outreach programme, hoping to inspire our young philanthropists.

Senior Academic Work

Classics

Does the portrayal of fighting in Homer’s Iliad become tedious?

While Homer’s repetitive description of killing and death in the Iliad can feel slightly tedious at times, it is essential to remember that "Homer and his audience understood fighting and liked to hear about it " (Malcolm Willcock). Furthermore, Homer also uses plenty of devices and perspectives to add depth and variety to battle, resulting in his complex and intense portrayal of war in the poem. A significant part of this comes from his use of direct speech, which is littered in multiple forms throughout the fighting taking place. Speech shows us a different side of battle which cannot be seen through actions.

Supplication is the first of these forms of speech that I will touch on. In supplication, Homer’s warriors beg to be spared punishment that is due to them as a result of failure on the battlefield. Here we see a range of human emotions portrayed that often contrasts with the heroic and brave emotions shown in other areas of battle. Supplication also enables us to see the ethics of the heroes who receive supplications.

A good example of this occurs in Book Six, when Menelaus receives a supplication from the Trojan warrior Adrestus. Adrestus throws his arms around Menelaus’ knees” – the classic pose of supplication in the Homeric world. Menelaus

Eco-Sustainability - Wildfarmed Trip

is about to tell his attendants to take Adrestus to the Greek ships as his prisoner when his brother Agamemnon cuts in: “We are not going to leave a single one of them alive”. Agamemnon then stabs Adrestus ‘in the flank’. This shows how ruthless and bloodthirsty Agamemnon is, adding tension to the battle as we realise that no-one is safe. It also allows us to see a more forgiving side of characters such as Menelaus and, later, Achilles in their response to supplication, giving a different perspective on them compared with what we see of them killing man after man.

Other forms of speech in battle are oaths and prayers, both of these providing us with a religious perspective on the action that recalls how much the warriors rely on the help of the gods. We also frequently see taunts in the Iliad, which heighten tension and allow us to see a boastful and almost humorous side of the characters. An example of this is Hector’s taunt in Book 16 during Patroclus’ death; “You innocent ...miserable wretch! Even great Achilles could not save you”. In such taunts hubris can be present, where a warrior boasts of his prowess, only to fall later in the battle. These forms of speech prevent the relentless description of battle from becoming tedious and, as Donald Lateiner points out, the two sides “duel with words as well as with spears”, adding a huge amount of variety that contrasts with the relentless death occurring.

The repetitive deaths in the Iliad, as well as the repeated phrases Homer uses to describe them, can nevertheless have a tedious quality. Peter Jones comments that death “unrealistically nearly always comes quickly and cleanly after a single blow.” The lack of multiple exchanges between warriors can leave one dissatisfied with the action taking place, as well as making the description of battle repetitive. A commonly repeated phrase can be seen in Phaestus’ death in book five: “Phaestus crashed out of his chariot and hateful darkness engulfed him”, with a variation of this phrase “darkness engulfed his eyes” also frequently being used. There are many episodes where death alternates between Greek and Trojan, making the fighting feel very even.

It is in passages like this where the battle can start to feel slightly long-winded, as neither side seems to gain any advantage. However, the various ‘aristeias’ sprinkled throughout the Iliad – episodes where one warrior goes on the rampage and kills a succession of his opponents - do alter this repeating pattern, as they show a single warrior putting the other side under pressure. In these moments of high intensity we focus for extended periods on the acts of one hero as he slices through the opposition, Homer drawing us along with him.

Other types of action that provide variety are divine intervention, one-to-one duels between the heroes and, finally, strings of deaths of minor

characters. The duels in particular provide us with some of the most detailed descriptions of fighting. One of the most significant is that between Paris and Menelaus in Book Three. Evidence of the level of detail that takes place here can be seen in the lines: “Paris hurled his long-shadow spear”, “Menelaus then drew his silver-riveted sword…but the sword shattered” and “Paris was choked by the pressure…of the embroidered helmet-strap”. This long, eventful contest, with multiple exchanges taking place, gives a taste of what is occurring elsewhere in the battle between more minor characters. Homer focuses in this level of depth on only a few major duels, those between Patroclus and Sarpedon and Hector and Patroclus being two of the most important.

The different types of action Homer describes go a long way to keeping the reader’s interest. As Jones remarks: "Even though there are many typical sequences and features to the battlescenes, Homer varies them with great ingenuity”. Another argument against battle scenes being overly relentless are the frequent references to Fate and the occasional use of Homer’s own voice, which often foreshadows future action within the battle, adding tension to the unfolding events. In fact, Fate often coincides with the Homeric voice, a good example of which can be seen in Book Sixteen. Here Homer comments about Patroclus, who has gone into battle for the Greeks in place of Achilles: “He was completely deluded, the blind fool. Had he kept to his orders from Achilles, he would have saved himself from evil destiny”. In these lines we hear the perspective of Homer and his observations regarding the battle, a perspective that could in some ways be compared to that of the gods.

When one considers the fact that “to be a hero means to kill or be killed for honour and glory” (Seth Schein), a whole new layer is added to battle, as we see the reason for the actions of the heroes as well as their consequences. An example of the result of pursuing ‘kleos’ (renown) and ‘geras’ (booty) in battle is in Book Four in Simoisius’ death: “His life was too short to repay his parents for their loving care”, which outlines the cost of heroic achievement. This cost and the effect on others that comes with battle heightens the emotion of the scene when a warrior is killed.

Similes also pay a significant part in adding variety, as they act as an escape from battle and introduce an alternative world of peace and prosperity that reminds us of the lives the heroes must have enjoyed before coming to Troy. They provide a break in the unrelenting description of death, with a hero’s death sometimes being compared to events in the natural world. When Simoisius is killed, his death is “like a poplar… a chariot maker cuts it down”, comparing Simoisius to a tree

felled by a craftsman in the pursuit of his craft. The constant similes throughout the battle offer a different perspective on the unfolding action and allow us to see it through a lighter more enjoyable angle.

In conclusion, there is plenty of evidence that the portrayal of fighting in the Iliad avoids any charge of tedium, with Homer providing variety through different types of action and an alternate perspective through the use of speeches and the intrusion of the ‘Homeric voice’.

Edward Chorley (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

English

The Road to Nowhere

The rain dripped, dripped, down the taxi window. Grey, thoughtless clouds crowded the early February sky like smoke in a room. The car trundled along the barren road, the path unknown, the destination forgotten.

He stared silently through the windscreen, eyes forced ahead, slumping: his mind empty of thoughts. His jeans itched his legs as they numbed from the continual push on the gas. His black hoodie was draped over his head, blocking out his peripheral vision to reveal only the blanket of clouds fading into the road, leading somewhere, if anywhere. His short, cropped hair felt snug beneath the comfort of the hood; his comfort only unbalanced by the lack of thought. He felt the awkward apprehension of a lack of ideas, where the dull, mindless sky enveloped his future. His eyes weighed on him, wearisome from the long night before, heavy like bricks, slumping down his face.

Yawning profusely, he began to ponder last night. The further he travelled from the city, the quieter the drone and buzz became. The bustle of jobs and abundance of people seemed increasingly distant, irrelevant to him. Despite consistent pushes towards a positive future, lack of motivation had led to the enduring role he occupied in life as a chauffeur. His mother had always warned him of persistent procrastination, the dangers this provokes, of a life without purpose: the remarks were always met with deaf ears. His education was selfishly squandered with a social life prioritised, prohibiting the drive and determination required to succeed. Where had that gotten him? His friends moved on without him, as they matured with life. He stood still. Trapped encircling his hometown each night, only aided by each small income provided by customers. The restless job as a taxi driver seldom provided energy for him. Yesterday was no different. Today is no different. Creeping through his brain, more memories fused together.

Countless customers had casually come and gone. Most had departed without a word of conversation. Listless from the belittlement and boredom, a call had brought him back to consciousness. The biggest fare for weeks – 100 miles south. The night sky taunted him with the option of sleep, battling with the dangerous pull of money. Reprieve from bored life prevailed, a chance to enjoy some time with extra money. His hands slowly, subtly moved, the endemic demand for money hypnotised him…

The hours continued to weigh on him as the Scottish landscape flew by. The few, unexplored towns and cities were invisible and irrelevant to him. He rejected the opportunity to seek motivation for his future from them. He reached the pick-up point for the customer and began the long journey. His eyes felt separated from his body, knowing they should be ahead but wrestling to try and fall. His mind begged him to rest, but still the promise of money forced him forward.

How long had passed? You’ve missed my stop, son’.

Startled, momentarily wide awake and alert, he acknowledged his passenger, handing a quick apology. This was only met begrudgingly, an eye roll denigrating the driver’s esteem. He performed a U-turn; concentration was key for the final moments before the bill arrived. The car slowed to a halt, a weight lifted off his shoulders acknowledging the money he had just earned, only to be instantaneously replaced by tiredness, weighing on him like bricks. The passenger departed without a word of gratitude. He didn’t care, he’d finished his shift. The idea of sleep clouded his mind as night drifted slowly onwards. His bed called for him. The journey home began.

Time passed; he didn’t know how long. He should’ve been in bed hours ago. The slow-burning, morning sun gently lifted from its slumber, signalling the dawn of today: still he pushed on. His whole night had passed. It had never been this bad. The promise of his bed was the only motivation he had left. His legs ached, cramp scorching his calves. The night’s work had burdened him. Where his hands felt numb from the continual grasp on the wheel, he pressed harder. The unrelenting pain provided refuge as he battled with sleep. His mind was in another world.

He often pondered over his teenage years with regret. The disappointment of his parents scarred him. His lazy nature had led him to this, it was his fault they used to say. He knew no better. Even now, he lacked motivation. He worked for only the small profit in his immediate future. His life floated past him, no path being sought after, and none being found. He was destined to circle his town for life.

autopilot activated as he passed a neighbouring town’s hotel, further taunting him. He knew he was nearly home, a few more kilometres and he could sleep. Allowing himself to relax on the empty morning roads, he was surrounded by dormant clouds that blanketed the sky, his car a speck in the otherwise empty landscape. He began to feel at ease, tiredness finally overpowering him as his eyes slowly lost focus, the heavy eyelids gentling probing his eyes, as his mind was engulfed by the never-ending grey.

In the distance a signpost for his town could be seen, but amidst the greyness, a shape stepped out onto the road from the unknown. It was blissfully unaware. Closer, closer the shape grew. What was it? The car continued forward. 200 metres away, 100, 50, 10. Time stood still. The car was unstoppable, the shape was too close, the driver was too tired. It was too late. They collided. They collided before the boy could react.

He felt the sudden lurch of the car as his body was shocked into alert. He checked his rear mirror. Something was in the road.

A body? No. it can’t be. It can’t have been anything. But it was.

Terrified and in a state of shock, adrenaline overwhelmed him. Legs shaking and rattling, overcome by fear. What had he done? His tiredness fell away, a sharp, stabbing of regret replaced it. He’d hit someone.

His foot continued to press the gas, trying to control the shaking, his mind raced. He had to tell someone; to turn around and see what he had done. He must go home; he must choose the right decision. But he can’t go home, he knows he hit someone. He can’t face the fear. He can’t disappoint again. His foot ploughed on. What else could he do?

Where was he going? The dull clouds offered no reprieve. He was trapped, pushing forwards and further away. He was lost. On a road once so familiar to him, now leading nowhere.

William Hansen (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Geography

History

Climbing Boy

Darkness swept through the dirty, tired streets of London. Gaggles of men strode giddily towards the next pub, soon followed by the sweepers clearing all the horse muck from the busy day before. All this Albert saw peeking through the gap beneath the door that never closed properly. He was growing out of the hallway where he and his fellow sweeps slept. His feet pressed against the cold bricks as he listened to the faint sounds of a parade as yet another ambassador came to greet Queen Victoria at Windsor Palace on the edge of London. Apart from that, the whole city seemed to be quiet all dreading the next day…

Albert sighed as he reached his first house of the day. For the benefit of a poor meal in the evening and a single pair of clothes, going up a dark chimney was not worth it. He pulled his brush closer as he remembered some of his old friends. Blind Thomas- the soot had blinded him - Charles, Alma and his best friend Archie, all “taken before their time” as their master sweeper had said. But Albert wasn’t sure he hadn’t just wanted more work out of them. Being a chimney sweep was a rubbish job, but as most other jobs involved poo or blood it wasn’t the worst.

The rich gentleman looked at him with distaste as he stepped inside the house and pointed towards the chimney. Albert could tell just by the look of it that the chimney was new and therefore not as dangerous as others. Even so, soot sprang into his eyes as he began his ascent. He placed one foot above the other cautiously, bracing himself for a sharp sudden bang in the head as he moved upwards, expecting a brick hanging out but none came. He kept moving and then all the light disappeared, and he plunged into darkness.

Albert had been sold to the master sweep when he was ten. He was now twelve and the oldest child there. Most children were six or seven but the youngest came at the age of three! Most children Albert’s age would have been useless but because he was small and nimble the master sweep had decided to keep him on.

Albert hated his job; there were too many deaths

Eva Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) and Abi Hick (Third Form, Feilden)

Freddie Cartwright (Second Form, Swift)

and it was terrifying every time it went pitch black. The rich men and women he worked for treated him like filth and all for one meal a day and a hallway to sleep in. He had good reason to dislike it -this was why he was going to run away…

He had his escape planned. He was going to creep out during the day after pretending to head towards the house the master sweep sent him to clean. During the day would be perfect he thought, as the busy street would be too crowded for anyone to see him.

Soon the day came, and Albert was ecstatic. He was nervous but excited to be leaving the pit of misery that was his life. ‘‘It will all work out’’ he told himself as he walked with the master sweep to the usual part of the city that they worked in. As he got sent towards his first house, Albert waited until he was covered by the mass of people and then slipped down a small alleyway. He was out!

Albert’s elation quickly turned to fear and caution as he found himself coming down a dark street with many homeless people and a quiet market happening. He hurried past, not making eye contact with anyone in case they became suspicious of him. He didn’t have much of a plan from this point, but the one thing he must do was to get out of London. A church bell chimed eleven when Albert finally stopped and settled down for the night. “This isn’t much worse than sleeping in the hallway – at least I have more space” he croaked to himself. One thing Albert hadn’t thought about when preparing his getaway was food and water. He knew he could survive with very little food as his dinners every night had proved, but coming across clean water was very hard in London. He had to find some and there was only one way a single orphan in the middle of the city with no money could get the resources he needed - he was going to steal.

In London stealing wasn’t a big thing; many people stole and got away with it but the people who got caught did not get off lightly. Stealing was punishable by death but children were usually sent away to hard labour. The last thing Albert wanted was to be forced to work again so he had to be careful.

Soon, sleep overcame Albert, leaping over him like a blanket and he fell asleep. Albert’s blissful sleep was short as a small rat crawled over his foot and coldness bit at his ankles. He sighed, got up and made his way towards the market.

Even though it was not yet dawn and it was cold the market was bustling and busy. Albert slipped behind an old lady and ran across to a bread stall. He lingered around it for a while trying to look as innocent as he could before seizing a bit of bread and moving away. Relief flooded over him but he wasn’t done yet. He strode past the

fruit stall and grabbed an apple. He had done it! He hadn’t been caught!

“Hey!” screamed a man behind him, “Come back!” But Albert was gone, tearing down the market, running into people and all the time hearing the angry stall holder gaining on him yelling at others to help catch Albert. A butcher tackled him to the ground with a bang and Albert felt blood pouring from his nose. He wriggled away and ran towards the biggest group of people, knocking them aside only for a carriage driver to crack his whip and graze Albert’s back, but he kept going until he darted down the nearest ally and hid in the shadows. Exhausted and scared, his back buckled and he fell over into a little corner, bashed his head on the bricks and knocked himself out.

He wasn't sure how many hours - or days - had passed when he came to. The room swam as Albert opened his eyes and lifted himself up. His back didn’t hurt but he could feel ointment had been applied. The room was large with two clear windows there was a desk in the corner apart from that the room was empty. Then a man came in he had a bushy white beard and a small smile on his face they stared at each other for a while. Then the man spoke, “Hello young man, are you ok? I found you in the alley behind my house. I am Lord Shaftsbury, a campaigner for children's rights, particularly chimney sweeps, I would like to help you," Albert was speechless until it came to him " I am Albert sir, could I go to school, please?" Lord Shaftsbury smiled and said “I think we will do great things together Albert.”

Albert went to school and became very clever, and once he finished his education he worked with Lord Shaftesbury abolish the use of children as chimney sweeps.

This tale is based on a true story of Lord Shaftesbury discovering a chimney sweep hiding behind his house in Brock Street. The boy was sent, by Lords Shaftesbury, to the Union School at Norwood Hill. Lord Shaftesbury was one of the leading campaigners of better working conditions and worked against child labour. In 1834 the Chimney Sweeps Act was passed meaning no one under the age of ten could go up a chimney but the campaigners didn’t stop. In 1840 a law was passed so nobody under the age of twenty-one was allowed to ascend a chimney. Lord Shaftesbury died October 1885.

Seb Uglow (First Form, Queen Anne)

sont des champignons noirs et du riz. Haïti a été fondée en 1492 par Christophe Colomb.

Résumé

Culture : Sa langue officielle est le français, mais on parle aussi l’espagnol et l’anglais. Elle a également sa propre langue appelée créole haïtien.

Plat national : Diri Ak Djon Djon, qui comprend des champignons noirs séchés, des piments forts, du bœuf ou du poulet et des échalotes. Situation : Elle partage une frontière avec la République dominicaine, et elle est aux 3/8 de l’île d’Hispaniola

Histoire : Haïti était à l’origine un poste militaire, en 1795 ils ont vaincu les troupes anglaises. Fondée : L’île a été fondée par Christophe Colomb le 1er janvier 1492.

Lieux à visiter

Bassin Bleu, une cascade naturelle et une piscine à l’eau bleue et à la végétation verte.

La Citadelle Laferrière, une forteresse de montagne classée au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO.

Cathédrale Notre Dame de Cap Haïtien, une cathédrale historique et un symbole de la ville.

Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien, un musée qui met en valeur l’histoire et la culture d’Haïti.

L’île d’Amiga, une petite île avec des plages immaculées et des récifs coralliens.

MFL

Haiti

Haïti est basé sur l’île d’Hispaniola, où l’on parle le français, l’espagnol, l’anglais et le créole haïtien. Un aliment très courant en Haïti est le Diri ak Djon Djon, certains ingrédients

Barbancourt Rum Distillery, un endroit pour apprendre et déguster le célèbre rhum haïtien.

Hughes (Second Form, Feilden)

Gabriella

Second Form Independent Research

How has Artificial Intelligence Developed in the Last 10 Years?

Artificial Intelligence or AI is a term used for computer systems being able to do tasks that normally humans would do. These tasks could include interpreting speech, identifying objects and facial recognition. AI learns how to complete these human tasks by processing huge amounts of data and finding patterns and similarities to complete its goal. Over time the computer system will increase its learning from all the data it processes and will produce better and better results.

An idea of AI first came around at the beginning of 1950, when Alan Turing, who invented the first modern form of computer, raised the idea that a machine could have intelligence and could copy a human in his article “computing, machinery and intelligence”.

Artificial intelligence is already a part of our daily lives, with face recognition on our phones and voice recognition on Alexa and Siri, it will dominate our lives more and more over time. This is why I wanted to do research on AI and look into how it can help the world.

Types

of Artificial Intelligence

Machine Learning uses algorithms and data to be able to learn like humans and improve its accuracy over time. The machine will find patterns in data without being told to do it. Examples of machine learning we may all use in daily life are:

Speech recognition – It can turn human speech into a written format. Examples of speech recognition are Siri and Alexa who can understand speech and find a solution to your question. Also, it can improve people’s ability to text as it can use speech to send a written message.

Image recognition – A digital image is made up of pixels, each of these pixels identifies a small part of the picture. The human brains take these pixels and identifies the image. AI imitates this process. We use image recognition to unlock our phones and in google lens.

Medical diagnosis – Image recognition can also help medical diagnosis by allowing doctors and consultants to identify certain diseases and conditions in patients. It also allows the medical staff to track the progress of a diagnosis for example tracking the patterns of growth in a tumour.

Machine Intelligence is when a Machine is told some aspects of human intelligence but not all aspects and can-do things that humans can do. Alexa and Siri use machine intelligence by taking the information we give them to then research and give a sensible answer.

Deep learning is a step on from machine learning, it uses an artificial network to reach an accurate conclusion. It is a more advanced version of machine learning.

Deep learning robots can be used in manufacturing to automate the processes. They can increase the efficiency and accuracy of making products.

Image caption generation is where a computer can look at an image and create relevant text about the image using deep learning.

Text generation is a process in AI that can produce written text as if it was written by a human based on a prompt given to it.

An autonomous vehicle is a vehicle with the technology that can see traffic, pedestrians and hazards and make decisions to adjust the speed and direction of the vehicle without a human having to do anything. This is possible through deep learning.

AI over the last ten years

2011 - IBM wins Jeopardy. In 2011 IBM Watson a question and answering computer system played to former jeopardy champions and beat them. Jeopardy is an American game show where contestants are given the answer and must work out the question. This showed that computers are capable of understanding human language.

2013 - Boston Dynamics revealed Atlas. Atlas was a humanoid robot designed for search and rescue tasks where it would be unsafe for humans to complete the task. This created the path for robots becoming family members.

2014 - GANs Invented. GANs (Generative adversarial networks) is an image changing piece of technology. A GAN can take images and generate new images based on the first ones. GANs are used in the aging apps and refacing apps we use today.

2015 - Open AI founded. In 2015 Elon musk founded Open AI aiming to research the field of AI. Its aim is to create safe and beneficial AI for the world. One of the most well-known developments of open AI is ChatGPT.

2016 - Google assistant AI released. Google assistant is an AI virtual assistant that is used on mobile phones and home automation devices it can answer questions and schedule events and alarms.

2018 – Deepfakes. Deepfakes are people using AI to create fake videos often of famous people. It can be very difficult to tell the difference between deepfakes and real videos.

2018 - Waymo travels 10 million miles. Waymo is a fully automated self-driving system with 10 million miles driven on the road and 7 billion miles in simulation their aim is to make the most experienced and safe driver. In the future passengers won’t even need to know how to drive. 2019 - AI beat doctors in lung cancer detection. In 2019 an AI created by Google and northwestern medicine was able to detect the lung cancer quicker and more accurately than doctors by using deep learning to detect cancer from a scan.

AI In the Future

Based on a 2023 IBM survey, 42% of large businesses use some sort of AI and 40% are considering using AI.

In healthcare, AI can accurately diagnose patients and in the future, will be able to predict a patient’s chance of illness from medical records and from data provided e.g. from a fitness watch or app. People will not even have to see the doctor to get diagnosed.

Education in the future will be tailored to a person’s needs. Using machine learning, language processing and facial recognition, AI will be able to digitise textbooks, detect plagiarism and assess the emotions of students and adapt to their needs.

In manufacturing, the use of robots will continue to increase productivity throughout the years. In our day to day lives AI will continue to make our lives easier. We may even have robots running our homes.

Henry Turner (Gascoigne)

Social Science

Do different genres of music have an effect on heart rates?

Abstract

The aim of this research was to see which music genre (classical or drum and base) causes the greatest increase in heart rate whilst running. The experimental hypothesis in this study is that drum and base music will cause the greatest increase in heart rate whilst running. 20 participants were used, who all varied in gender and minimally in age and they all had high levels of education. All participants were taken using opportunity sampling due to the convenience and low cost. Participants had to sit for 3 minutes in order for their resting heart rate to be determined, run for the duration of one song, sit again until their heart rate was back to its initial resting heart rate and then run again for the duration of the other song. The results drawn showed that drum and base music caused the greatest increase in heart rate. Due to these results, I concluded that different genres of music can have an effect on heart rates. In the future, this research could have implications for athletes that need to work within certain training thresholds, using their heart rate to help them, so they could use certain genres of music to aid them with this.

Introduction

Lots of previous research has been done into the effect of music on the cardiovascular system. For example, Thakare et al (2017) researched the effect of music tempo and heart rate among young adults. They found that music increased the duration of exercise significantly both in boys and girls of 19-25 years of age and that there was no-correlation between increase in heart rate with duration of exercise

of music. Given this past research and the findings, I wish to investigate this in order to confirm the findings or find results that provide contradictory evidence to this research. The research conducted by Kono et al into the effects of music during exercise on RPE, heart rate and the autonomic nervous system is a further example of research that has been conducted into the effect of music on the cardiovascular system. They found that when completing low intensity exercise, listening to a favourite piece of music might decrease the influence of stress caused by fatigued which therefore increased the ‘comfort’ level of performing the exercise. Therefore, I am interested in how stress is either comforted by music or not and whether it impacts heart rates.

Method

Design and overview

I used a laboratory experimental design in my research to ensure that I had high control over any extraneous variables, for example any background distractions. By conducting my experiment in a controlled environment of the school gym I ensured that there would be no other variable influencing my dependant variable (running performance) other than my independent variable (genre of music). The environment was controlled as the participant was the only participant taking part at that time with the researcher (myself) present within the gym and any distractions, for example activity outside the window, were removed.

I used a repeated measures design as both conditions of the experiment need to be completed by the same participant to ensure that I could test my aim. This experimental design ensures that participant variables are controlled, increasing the validity of my experiment and I spent less time recruiting my participants. However, order effects are an issue with this experimental design, but I dealt with this by using counterbalancing as I varied the order in which participants listened to the different music genres (drum + base or classical).

My independent variable in this experiment was the genre of music and my dependant variable was running performance, determined by heart rate. Every participant completed the experiment in the same environment, so the situation would not be an extraneous variable. I conducted the study in the same period of time during the day to ensure that this did not act as an extraneous variable. However, participants varied in a number of key characteristics like height, age, sex etc as well as athletic ability and energy levels which could not be controlled so acted as confounding variables.

Participants and investigators

I was the only investigator in this experiment. 20 participants were used from an

independent school in Oxfordshire, and they all completed both conditions of the experiment as I used a repeated measures design. Participants varied minimally in age as all that took part were ages 16-18, due to having a small target population that I could draw participants from, and most were welleducated from working class and middle class from Oxfordshire. I used opportunity sampling because as mentioned previously the target population was too small for me to be too selective by using random, systematic or opportunity sampling.

Apparatus and materials

I used an apple watch to measure heart rate, a pair of noise cancelling beats headphones, my phone which had the two songs on it (Say Nothing and Ave Maria), a timer which was also on my phone and a treadmill. In order to choose the songs, I randomly chose 10 songs from each genre and numbered them and then put them into a random number generator on google in order to choose them in order to reduce the chances of researcher bias.

Procedure

The participants sat for 3 minutes in silence with the noise cancelling headphones on in order to let their heart rate settle so their initial resting heart rate could be taken after the 3 minutes. I then played them either the classical music or drum and bass music at a moderate pace of 7 on the treadmill. The participants ran for 3 minutes and 30 seconds which was the duration of one of the songs. The participant than sat again with the noise cancelling headphones on in order to return their heart rate back to their initial resting heart rate. The participants then ran again for 3 minutes and 30 seconds for the duration of the second song.

Ethics

I read a short consent form (see appendix 1) to each participant which explained the aims of the study, their right to withdraw and confidentiality of their results. The participants then signed this. After the study was over, participants were read a debrief (see appendix 2) which highlighted their right to withdraw, confidentiality and were told a clearer, explained aim. Contact details were provided if they wish to find out the results of the study.

Results

This table shows the way in which I initially delt with my data before reducing complexity to see clear differences by calculating the average changes in heart rate from the participants resting heart rate. Participant 7 had the greatest heart rate after listening to DNB of 132 bpm and therefore had the greatest difference in heart rate after listening to DNB and participant 13 had the lowest heart rate after listening to DNB and

therefore had the smallest difference in heart rate after listening to DNB. Participant 8 had the greatest difference in heart rate after listening to classical music and participant 15 had the smallest difference in heart rate after listening to classical music.

In this table, it can be seen that drum and base music caused the greatest increase in heart rate after running for the duration of the song of 47.7 bpm compared to 37.3 bpm which was the difference in heart rate after listening to classical music. This shows that music genre can have an effect on heart rates. Heart rate was also raised the most after listening to drum and base music as it increased to an average of 118.55 compared to classical music raising the participants heart rates to an average of 108.15.

Changes in heart rate after listening to classical music or drum and base music

In this table, overall heart rates after classical music were lower than drum and base music, apart from one anomaly in participant 13 where their heart rate was raised the most by classical music as their heart rate was raised to 103 bpm after listening to classical music compared to 99bpm after listening to DNB music. The participant with the highest increase in heart rate caused by classical music was participant 8, with an increase of 46bpm, and the highest increase in heart rate for drum and base music was participant 7, with an increase of 59bpm. If I were to conduct a statistical test using my results, I would use the Related T test in order to find significance. A reason I would use the Related T test is because my study is a test of difference not correlation. A further reason I would use the Related T test is because my data is interval data, not ordinal or nominal. As I used a matched pairs design in my study, this also makes the Related T test suitable for my data.

Discussion

Findings

In the study I found that drum and base music caused the greatest increase in heart rate whilst running, which suggests that different music genres do have an effect on heart rates and further from this my finding supports the original experimental hypothesis I stated in the abstract. With classical music often being associated with relaxing environments this could have caused participants to feel relaxed therefore not work as hard whilst running which therefore caused a smaller increase in their heart rate. Drum and base music is often associated with more upbeat activities like dancing and due to this participants often worked harder for the duration of the song which resulted in greater increases of heart rates. The song for drum and base used was often recognised by the participants which was clearly visible due to lip syncing and making people smile when it first

started to play, however the classical music was often not recognised, and people seemed to run in quite a relaxed manner. Although my findings do not directly relate to the previous research I found that is stated in my introduction, Thakare found that music increased the duration of exercise, so therefore it would have been interesting to see if the participants would of continued running for longer with either the drum and base music or the classical music, despite the possibility of becoming fatigued earlier with the drum and base music as the increase in heart rates could demonstrate that the participants were working harder.

Limitations

One limitation with this study is that due to the small sample size used and the sample being drawn from similar types of people in terms of education the results cannot be generalised to all people. A further limitation with this study is that only two genres of music were used so other genres of music were not considered and these genres of music could have different influences on heart rates.

Future implications for my research

As I found that different genres of music can have an effect on heart rates this could be effective in many aspects, particularly in the health and fitness industry. For example, as drum and base music has a greater effect on heart rates than classical music, DNB music could be used to prepare an athlete for an event in order to increase heart rate and therefore blood flow to the working muscles. Further from this, further research could be done to see whether alternative genres of music can also provide either physiological or behavioural changes, which could be used to help mental illness or in marketing. This research is similar to the research done by Kono et al, as spoken about in my introduction.

Molly Grinham (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

2

4

0

7

5

4

3

8

6

7

Lower School Results

Gold, Best in School, Best in Second Form

Diwen Zhu (Second Form, Swift)

Gold, Best in First Form

Will Chandler (First Form, Gascoigne)

Freya Richards (Second Form, Feilden)

Aurora Smith (Second Form, Swift)

Reuben Uglow (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Freya Vincent (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Silver

Darcy Atkinson (Second Form, Feilden)

Sam Bartlett (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Lewis Campbell (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Ben Chapple (Second Form, Harcourt)

Callum Church (Second Form, Feilden)

Jemima Jewson (Second Form, Swift)

Charlie Parks (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Henry Turner (Second Form, Gascoigne)

George Bains (First Form, Feilden)

William Crossley (First Form, Vanbrugh)

Sam Young-Gale (First Form, Queen Anne)

Bronze

Ella Allsop-Davis (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Samuel Byrne (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Emily Campbell (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Isla Colling (Second Form, Swift)

Rose Cruickshank (Second Form, Harcourt)

Ruby Daly (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Ava Fegan-Smith (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Lottie Graves (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Barney Hope (Second Form, Swift)

Alvin Jomy (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Maxi Shaw (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Joshua Spolander (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Ningxuan Zhu (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Nicholas Burrow (First Form, Feilden)

Adhvay Celamkoti (First Form, Feilden)

Annabella Clifton (First Form, Vanbrugh)

Emily De Mestre (First Form, Queen Anne)

Sammi Eagle (First Form, Queen Anne)

Louis Francis (First Form, Feilden)

Tony Garner (First Form, Gascoigne)

Belle Larsson (First Form, Queen Anne)

Florence Nixey (First Form, Gascoigne)

2 0 8 8 8 0 3 2 2 2 5 9 7 4 4 9 9 2 5 5 1 1 62 6 3 4 8 3 0 5 7 7 4 7

Upper School Results

Gold, Best in School, Best in Fifth Form

Daniel Elliott (Fifth Form, Feilden)

Gold, Equal Best in Fourth Form

Emmeline Black (Fourth Form, Feilden)

Cory Zheng (Fourth Form, Feilden)

Gold

Hysen Jangulli (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Silver, Equal Best in Third Form

Eva Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne)

Eylül Kaban (Third Form, Swift)

Silver

Kacey Nguyen (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh)

Felix Pool (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Luke Taylor (Fifth Form, Swift)

Curtis Woo (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh)

Bronze

Tom Badger (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh)

Archie Clarke (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

William Hansen (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Mida Loci (Fifth Form, Feilden)

Beth Morris (Fifth Form, Feilden)

Toby Nicol (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Zoe Robertson (Fifth Form, Feilden)

Jack Turner (Fifth Form, Gascoigne)

Aryun Verma (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Ella Hogeboom (Fourth Form, Swift)

Poppy Lloyd (Fourth Form, Feilden)

Thomas McAllister (Fourth Form, Feilden)

Sukhmani Panesar (Fourth Form, Queen Anne)

Liam Rowe (Fourth Form, Harcourt)

Evie Walker (Fourth Form, Swift)

George Berlanger (Third Form, Feilden)

Nina Larsson (Third Form, Queen Anne)

Elsa Linehan (Third Form, Swift)

Benji Longman (Third Form, Vanbrugh)

Ben Picking (Third Form, Vanbrugh)

Josh Rosenow (Third Form, Swift)

NEWS

Prep News

Learn Together

During October, we were delighted to welcome parents to Prep School for our first ‘Learn Together’ Maths Session. Parents were invited to join their children, from Reception through to Year 6, for a maths lesson with their child’s class teacher. Many parents find that elements of maths are taught in a different way to that which they learned at school and are keen to be able to support their child at home. All sessions were extremely well-attended, as pupils enjoyed learning alongside their parents, delighting in explaining their work.

Parental feedback was extremely positive, with many parents commenting on the sustained focus and attention of the pupils, as well as the high level of engagement and pace. Parents were able to see how concrete manipulatives are used in the classroom to support understanding, as well as take away numerous ideas for mental maths activities that can easily be done at home. One parent remarked that ‘It was lovely to see how well the pupils respond to you and how you teach them new things in a fun way. Subtraction was an exciting homework in our house yesterday!’ We hope to offer more such opportunities in Prep School in the future, welcoming parents to learn alongside their children.

Cotswold Farm Park

Reception Class children got up close and personal with some farmyard friends on their trip to Cotswold Farm Park. The day began with helpful hands feeding the goats and sheep, followed by bottle feeding hungry lambs and kids. Once the bigger animals had been fed, the children made their way to the barn to visit the smaller animals. The children were extra careful as they gently cuddled adorable baby chicks before Chip the rabbit became the focus of their attention.

After lunch, they played in the wonderful parks and had fun in the sandpit. A stroll through the woods and mini-beast habitat area and some creative cookery in the mud kitchen ended a busy day for our adventurous Reception Class.

Katya Balen Author Visit

There are books that we enjoy, books that we treasure and, just once in a while, there will be a book that is absolute perfection on every level. October, October by Katya Balen is that book. It tells the tale of a girl called October who lives off grid in the woods with her father and a baby owl until...

Katya's writing is like no other and is brimming with rich and unexpected first-person descriptions, written in an unconventional punctuation style that explores the complexities of family, freedom, nature, individuality and self-expression.

It was wonderful to welcome Katya into School, in the month of October, to teach a writing workshop for pupils in Years 5 and 6 from Cokethorpe and from Combe Primary (one of our Corinthian Partnership schools). She spoke about her life as a writer, explained how she writes, and shared insights into what inspires her remarkable imagination.

In her workshop, she first challenged the pupils to practise Free Writing before giving each child a lemon sherbet as a stimulus for a live immersion experience. She asked them to set about describing the full experience of the sweet by searching for the least obvious descriptions. For example, they should entirely avoid describing the taste, and focus instead upon the sound of the wrapper, the look of the object, its smell and the sensation of it in the mouth. Amongst other things, the children compared it to the crunching of autumnal leaves, the fizzing of a firework on the tongue, and the glow of a bright yellow pebble that demands to be eaten.

Members of our Catering Department had also read and enjoyed the book in order to prepare a wonderfully themed lunch with beautiful owl balloons, autumnal decorations and rice-paper covers of the book. Katya was delighted, having never been anywhere before that had gone to such lengths to celebrate her work. She said that she had had a wonderful day and would love the opportunity to come to Cokethorpe again.

To meet your book's author is a magical and inspirational experience and to be taught how to write by someone as skilled as Katya is surely invaluable.

The Story Museum

The children in Reception Class and Year 1 spent a wonderful morning exploring The Story Museum in Oxford. The day began with a space themed story telling workshop, the children then entered an atmospheric, darkened room with sensory lighting and 3D images to set the scene, and took off in their imaginary rockets and landed on a strange planet.

Next, the children were full of enthusiasm and wonder as they explored the Small Worlds area. Highlights included finding the home of Winnie the Witch and her cat Wilbur, complete with dressing up costumes, and jumping on the super-sized bed. Some children went on a bear hunt, whilst others made dinner for a very hungry tiger!

It was a thoroughly enjoyable morning, enhancing our youngest pupils' love of literature.

La Fête des Rois is always a popular feature of the Prep School calendar, and a welcome start to the Lent Term for staff and pupils alike. The festive French-style celebration of Epiphany sees pupils excitedly watch as the galette is cut to find out who has been fortunate in finding a fève, a ceramic charm, in their slice. Those

lucky enough to find the fève are crowned king or queen for the day and marched in the Dining Hall during the parade of kings and queens.

This occasion marks the day when the Three Kings visited the baby Jesus in Bethlehem, and French families across the world celebrate this on the first Sunday in January, when they eat the traditional galette cakes served by the youngest member of the family.

Year 1 and 2 Trip to Science Oxford

The Year 1 and 2 children embarked on a trip to Science Oxford early one May morning. The centre aims to inspire young people about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

The children’s first session was an outdoor ‘Water Explorers’ workshop. They set to work at the Water Lab eagerly creating dams, building boats and investigating which objects would float and sink. They then visited the Exploration Zone, where they could explore, discover and play. There were many different, exciting activities set up for them to try at their own leisure, including microscopes, a spinning table, a scarf shooter and a curious camera. The children enjoyed making and testing their own creations to hover over the Air Table. Some were amazed observing the beauty of ice crystals as they watched water freeze whilst others spent time developing their problem-solving skills with the Circuits Workbench.

The children then went into the theatre room for a Science Show called ‘Wow to Wonder’. They were encouraged to notice the odd ones out in groups of animals, minibeasts and sounds. It was an exciting day filled with plenty of opportunities to progress their

understanding of scientific concepts as well as to develop their enquiry and problem-solving skills.

Year 3 Natural History Museum Trip

As part of their studies on ‘Earth’ and ‘Rocks’ in their Science and Geography topics, Year 3 pupils visited the Museum of Natural History in Oxford. They spent the day exploring the Museum making detailed sketches and notes on the prehistoric creatures and fossils they discovered. The trip underpinned their studies on the wider Creative Curriculum theme of ‘This Land is Our Land’, and our young explorers demonstrated their interest in the subject with their engagement and exemplary behaviour throughout the trip.

The highlight for most was seeing a full fossil of an Ichthyosaur, the same kind Mary Anning discovered. Year 3 have been studying Mary's life and work, so it was exciting for the pupils to put some of what they have been learning in the classroom into context.

La Fête des Rois

Year 1 Trip to Cotswold Wildlife Park

It was not long before our Year 1 children were off on their first school trip of the year, on an exciting and informative visit to Cotswold Wildlife Park.

The children walked around the expansive grounds of the park, peeking into the enclosures, and were thrilled every time they managed to identify and name the different groups of animals such as reptiles, birds and mammals. They were interested to see what many of the creatures were eating, which inspired lots of discussion around carnivores, herbivores and omnivores. Along with enhancing their topic work on animals, the children had a chance to ride on the train, play on the adventure playground and enjoy a delicious ice cream to reward their hard work.

A highlight of the trip was seeing the new additions to the park, rhinoceros calves named Susie and Henry who were born in August last year.

Year 6 Hampton Court Palace

Year 6 have been studying the Tudors and the English Reformation, so to find out more about Tudor life and the marriages and Court of King Henry VIII, they visited Hampton Court Palace.

Upon arrival through the King’s Gate, they bumped into Anne and George Boleyn who told them not to idle and showed them how to properly bow and curtsey for any nobles they might see. After an exploration of the palace, it was time to try and escape the maze. Luckily,

everyone made it out in time for a workshop about the hierarchical Tudor Court.

Pupils were offered a choice of three Tudor jobs to take up: including a Scullery servant to keep the kitchens clean, a Turn-brooch to keep the King’s meat cooking evenly or they could earn double pay as a Gong Cleaner. Most of the pupils were keen to earn double pay until they found out their life expectancy was halved by working in the ‘House of Easement’ and what ‘gong’ was - it was a bit of a smelly job!

Fire Fighters Visit

The Reception Class and Year 1 children were delighted to welcome fire fighters from Witney Fire Service into School to find out all about what they do. The highlight of the visit was seeing the fire truck, which parked at the front of the Mansion House, and hearing the very loud sirens. Each child had the exciting opportunity to try out holding and turning on the hose pipe, which was not as easy as it looked! Year 1 teacher, Mrs Peace, also tried on the fire suit which was extremely heavy. The children thoroughly enjoyed the visit and learnt a great deal about what is involved in being a firefighter. They also learnt the number they need to call should they ever need them in an emergency.

Moving Up Day

Moving Up Day 2024 proved to be a huge success and culminated in the traditional House Tug-of-War. By this point the nerves had clearly receded as Year 6 pupils took on the Tug-of-War with fierce determination. The all-important House loyalty was palpable, exemplified by supportive chanting.

Swift were the worthy winners, and pupils showed fantastic sportsmanship as they congratulated each other – with the odd bit of friendly House banter of course!

If the tenacity of the pupils during the Tug-ofWar is anything to go by… the Senior School pupils had better be prepared for the First Form of 2024/25!

Year 3 Ancient Greek Feast

During the Lent Term, Year 3 have been learning about Ancient Greece in their History and English topic. They have learnt all about Greek history, including the origins of the Olympics in preparation for Paris 2024. They were particularly fascinated by the Ancient Greek myths and legends such as Achilles, the Minotaur and Medusa. So, in a fitting end to the

topic, they celebrated with an Ancient Greek feast of feta and figs, fit for Odysseus.

Year 1 and 2 Castle Trip

As part of their topic of castles Year 1 and 2 had an exciting trip to Oxford Castle and Prison. They all loved getting to climb the 62 stairs to the top of the tower, explore the prison cells and have a turn throwing rats and tomatoes at each other trapped in the stocks! Truly getting a feel for life in the medieval castles. They then got to explore a range of artefacts, looking at bowls, floor tiles, armour and shoes, as well as, getting to smell some of the rather unpleasant things they would have had in those times, such as, mouldy walls, rotting food and even sewage! It was a truly immersive experience and one the children loved and learnt a lot from.

Prep School Pantomime

Never too old for Panto, all classes of the Prep School, from Reception Class to Year 6, thoroughly enjoyed going to see Cinderella at the Chipping Norton theatre. Set in the rainforest, the familiar story had a Latin American twist. Prince Charming, aka Don Francisco, found the midnight glass slipper and won the heart of Cinderella despite the hopeful interception from traditional comedy dames; ugly sisters Quasimodo and Adnausea.

A highlight for all pupils was their personal shout out during the performance, not forgetting the spray of sweets into the audience! They joined in heartily with a carnival version of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer and samba danced in their seats. It was delightful to see their enchanted faces enjoying a colourful explosion of festive jollity.

Year 6 Disco

It was Ms James’ privilege to organise a disco for the deserving and hardworking Year 6 pupils following their First Form Entrance Assessments.

The festivities began with splendid supper in the Dining Hall. Then, with glow sticks at the ready, the Class of ‘24 shimmied the evening away in The Shed to the tunes of Katy Perry, Taylor Swift and Harry Styles making room for some Abba classics and a timeless Macarena routine led by our energetic Lower Sixth choreographers Nancy Christensen (Swift), Jasmine Hammond (Gascoigne) and Grace Gunn (Gascoigne)

Asked if they had fun, a Year 6 child replied ‘we didn’t want it to ever end!’.

Prep Snozone Visit

In preparation for the inaugural Prep School ski trip at Easter, Mrs Hammond took an enthusiastic group of beginner skiers to Milton Keyne’s indoor Snozone for their first lesson on snow.

The introduction to skiing first had pupils learning how to stand and walk in the very heavy and rigid ski boots, then learning how to clip on their skis. The courageous group were soon getting the hang of the ‘magic carpet’ or ‘travelator’ which took them up the slope. Getting off was not as easy as it looked, but after a few goes, all pupils were happily skiing to the bottom – with varying degrees of success!

World Book Day

At Cokethorpe Prep we celebrate and enjoy wonderful children's books every day of the year, but especially so on World Book Day. This year, the challenge was to dress up as a character who you either aspire to be or with whom you already identify for some reason. On arrival, pupils and staff paraded around the mansion house displaying a wonderful array of imaginative costumes including 'Susan the Gentle' from Narnia, Pippi Longstocking, Anne of Green Gables, Hal from Adventures on Trains, Professor McGonagall, Sherlock Holmes, Éowyn from Lord of The Rings and many more.

Back in classrooms, pupils completed written explanations for their choices consistently mentioning, above all else, their aspirations to be as brave, kind and adventurous as their character of choice.

Following the parade, we gathered together as a whole School to begin our sharing of a book called Journey by Aaron Becker. Through the text, pupils began to release their imaginations and explore the worlds in which they wish to live.

Our wonderful Catering Department themed the lunch and Dining Hall to reflect the book. Finally, we announced the winners of the 'Design-a-Book-Hoodie' competition. The winners were Emmy Theyer's (Year 2, Symonds) Goldilocks And The Three Bears design, and Jolyon Uglow's (Year 6, Symonds) design for The Eagle of The Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff.

Prep Ski Trip

'Not long after school had broken up for Easter, Mrs Hammond, Mrs Arbuckle, Ms James and Mr Robinson took 21 Prep School pupils along with nine First Formers to Italy to be part of Cokethorpe’s very first Prep School ski trip.

Getting through an airport is always a stressful experience so I am sure you can imagine what it was like escorting 30 excited pupils through security and onto a plane. But we all made it to Italy in one piece and all of us, the teachers included, were excited for the week ahead, especially as we had heard that the snow conditions were excellent.

The resort of Marilleva sits at 14oo metres and was covered in snow when we arrived. After settling into our rooms we trudged across the snow to the ski school where we were all fitted with ski boots, skis and helmets. An early night was in order as everyone was so tired after the journey and we had a busy week of skiing ahead. We awoke to our first day of skiing on April Fools Day. This oppertunity was too irresistible to miss, so the word was spread that due to a leaking ceiling in the breakfast room, all pupils were to wear their helmets to breakfast. I think the teachers found this much funnier than the pupils! The rain and sleet on the first morning did not dampen our spirits. Everyone was eager to get out and experience the Italian, snow covered mountains. Getting all 30 pupils buckled up into their boots and kitted out with gloves and goggles was exhausting but we were hopeful that this process would get better as the week progressed. Once out on the mountain the children met their ski school instructors; three very patient and kind men who were with the children for five hours a day and worked with each child to get the very best out of them.

After long days of skiing the pupils were relieved for some ‘down time’ in the hotel. We made use of the hotel pool, were entertained with a quiz one evening and even went out and had a fun session of 'bum boarding' followed by hot chocolate up the mountain, organised by Mr Robinson. The food at the hotel was excellent and we were made to feel very comfortable and welcome by the very friendly staff.

The pupils faced many new challenges throughout the week; for many it was the first time they had skied on snow or had been in a foreign country away from their family. For others, flying on a plane and riding the gondola was a new experience. The pupils met each challenge with confidence and maturity.

Many of our pupils started as beginners, but under the guidance of our experienced instructors, they quickly gained confidence. From mastering the snowplough technique to linking turns, their determination and enthusiasm were evident. Our group explored a variety of slopes, from gentle nursery slopes to more challenging red runs. Some even ventured onto the black runs at the end of the week. Each day brought new challenges, and our pupils embraced them with enthusiasm and bravery. The ski trip was not just about skiing—it was a holistic experience. Our pupils developed resilience, teamwork, and independence. They learned to support each other, overcome fears, and appreciate the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Our Prep School Ski trip was a success on multiple fronts. We witnessed growth, laughter, and camaraderie. Now back at school, we carry not only memories of snowy peaks but also the knowledge that learning extends far beyond the classroom.'

Mrs Hammond Ski Trip Coordinator

British Museum Trip

It was an exploration of antiquity for our Fifth Form and Lower Sixth Latin and Classics pupils as they spent the day at the British Museum in London. There was plenty of inspiration for our Classicists as they explored the statues, monuments and artefacts from ancient Greece and Rome. The morning was spent in the Roman rooms, examining the magnificent portraits of the Emperors (especially Augustus) and the Roman Gods. The Rosetta Stone was also popular with pupils, as were the Egyptian mummies.

Pupils also had the opportunity to examine an array of ancient Greek artefacts including the stunning red- and black-figure vases, the impressive Nereid monument and the controversial Parthenon sculptures. These exhibits gave form to many ideas they have encountered in their lessons and set texts and will help them to visualise the Classical world more clearly.

STEM Week

STEM Week is a stalwart of the Cokethorpe calendar, engaging pupils from the Prep School to Upper Sixth in a week packed full

of stimulating STEM related activities, based around a different theme each year. This year the theme was inclusion, which opened up a host of opportunities to explore STEM subjects across the School.

The week began with an inclusive product design workshop for the First Form, challenging pupils to redesign the humble toaster and develop a garden aid for those with limited dexterity. A Discovery Lecture to the First and Second Forms from Mr Richards compelled pupils to delve deeper into the wonderful world of science. Cokethorpe teams participated in the 'Faraday Challenge’, a national competition aimed at inspiring future generations of problem solvers. The teams worked incredibly well in finding a solution to a complex real-world problem that involved using electronics and moving parts.

The Third Form took part in a sensory deprivation exercise to help them understand what they might need to consider when designing products, and Second Form took part in an excellent workshop run by Miss Ryan focusing on AI and how it could be used for developing design. The annual STEM fair generated lots of excitement with a range of activities for pupils to try from the Maths, Science, PE and DT Departments.

First Form Bletchley Park Visit

As part of the array of activities on offer during STEM week, First Form pupils enjoyed a visit to Bletchley Park, the once top-secret home to the World War II code breakers. As part of this thought-provoking trip, pupils heard the stories of the brave and inspirational people who worked at Bletchley Park. They also got the opportunity to see an actual Enigma Machine and put their code-breaking skills to the test. First Form learnt more about how the code breaking done at Bletchley Park helped plan the D-Day invasion and how significant the work done there was, to winning the war.

Art and Textiles Trip to Bristol Aquarium

‘The Art and Textiles GCSE and A Level groups visited Bristol Aquarium to collect visual research for their current coursework themes of Nature, Habitat and Environment. They enjoyed sketching and taking photographs in the Sunken Shipwreck as well as exploring the Ocean floor and mangroves. They studied Coral seas and Tropical Marine Biomes and the Lower Sixth made friends with a Giant Grouper fish and a Honeycomb moray eel that seemed to pose for their sketches. We continued our search for other interesting natural habitats by visiting Bristol University’s Botanic Gardens. The glasshouses

here were steamy hot and we viewed giant waterlily and enormous cacti before cooling off in the surrounding gardens.’

Sixth Form Taster Day

Fifth Form pupils were given the opportunity to sample the Sixth Form experience at the Sixth Form Taster Day. Pupils attended four full-length Sixth Form taster lessons (which they had chosen in advance); for many this was a chance to try subjects that they have yet to study, such as Psychology and Philosophy.

In addition, pupils enjoyed various enrichment elements: a wonderful lecture given by Alex Hibbert, Polar Explorer, about an unexpected winter in Greenland; a ‘life’s meandering river’ workshop (featuring Mrs Orton and Mrs Cooper); and a carousel of life skills workshops, including ‘How to Cook’, ‘How to Buy a House’ and ‘How to Manage Difficult Conversations’.

Mrs Pollard Teacher of Textiles

An enjoyable, challenging, and illuminating day was had by all and a chance for our Fifth Form to think about their next steps.

History Trip to Berlin

Fourth and Fifth Form History pupils visited Berlin for an illuminating and informative, albeit emotive, trip to Berlin. On arrival, pupils embarked on a walking tour of the historic centre of Berlin, including stops at the Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.

The second day was spent visiting the famous dome at the Reichstag building before learning about persecution and repression in Nazi Germany at the Topography of Terror Museum. In the afternoon, pupils visited the Olympiastadion Stadium, the centrepiece of the 1936 Olympic Games as well as many famous football matches, concluding the day with a spectacular view of the lights of Berlin from the top of the TV Tower.

The final day of this poignant trip began at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, followed by a visit to Wannsee Conference House, the site where leading Nazis planned the implementation of the Final Solution, before heading to the airport to return home.

Oxfordshire Youth Chemistry Conference

The Oxfordshire Youth Chemistry Conference, held at Wychwood School, had the topical theme this year of ‘Out of this World – how chemistry contributes to space exploration’. The conference aims to inspire and showcase excellence in science across the county. The conference opened with an inspirational recording from Helen Sharman CMG OBE,

chemist and the first British astronaut. Her words were particularly moving, where she explained how people set their own limitations, pupils should be courageous and push themselves, as you never know where the road will take you. This was followed by a very (very) brief introduction to astrochemistry, an exciting talk that set the scene for the presentations from pupils from Fifth Form upwards and from a range of schools.

Ella Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) and Sophie Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) eloquently discussed the role of the lunar cycle in our lives, Poppy Lloyd (Fourth Form, Feilden) and Evie Walker (Fourth Form, Swift) spoke passionately about the formation of a nebula and Samarth Agnihotri (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) confidently proposed his view of the vital work being done using the James Webb telescope. It was an absolute delight seeing the pupils present beautifully on their subject of choice, they were absolutely amazing.

FA Cup Football

It was a wonderful day for Cokethorpe as we welcomed women's football legend, Claire Rafferty, alongside our sports equipment partners, Sports Directory and Team Mitre, to the School. Claire not only brought her wealth of sporting experience with her - having played for England and Great Britain as well as a glittering

club career, including over 100 appearances for Chelsea - she also brought with her the iconic Women's and Men’s FA Cup Trophies. Claire led a football session, sharing her invaluable coaching expertise and offered personalised feedback to our eager pupils. Claire then faced a challenge of a different kind, answering insightful questions posed by our First Form Sport Award Holders, leaving pupils inspired by her career in professional sport. But the magic did not end there, as every pupil throughout the School had the incredible opportunity to see the legendary Men's and Women's FA Cup trophies. This unforgettable experience left a lasting impression on the entire Cokethorpe community, drawing to a close a day that will be cherished for years to come.

Ancient Schoolroom Experience

Second Form pupils had a day at School like no other, as they travelled back in time to learn what it was like to be a school pupil in the ancient world.

On arrival, pupils found that The Shed had been transformed into a Romano-British schoolroom by the expert team from the Reading and Oxford Classics faculties. They were then dressed in Roman tunics, sandals and head bands, before entering the class to meet their teachers with a greeting of 'salve, magister!' (hello, teacher!), as was usual at the time. They were then given a number of assignments in different

subjects typical of a Roman school, including Mathematics and reading archaic poetry. Equipment included 'styli' (pens), inkpots, wax tablets and 'tabulae' (counting boards) with Roman numerals.

This immersive experience really brought the world of the ancient school to life - technologyfree and thoroughly absorbing. Many thanks to the Reading University outreach team for providing this fascinating glimpse into what life would have been like in a Roman school two thousand years ago.

Top of the Bench Chemistry Competition

The Royal Society of Chemistry's annual ‘Top of the Bench’ chemistry competition, challenges teams to take part in a series of practical activities, using lab techniques beyond the curriculum, to problem-solve and hone their chemistry skills.

was an opportunity for pupils, supported by their parents, to begin the process of Sixth Form subject choice and to learn a little about the Sixth Form: what to expect and what is expected. There were two elements to the evening: a 30-minute series of presentations, and a Subject Fair. The presentations, given by students in both year-groups: Amelie Pierce Williams (Upper Sixth, Harcourt), Harry Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden), Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth, Feilden), Fletch Jewell (Lower Sixth, Feilden), Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), Isabella Davies (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) and Calla Whitby (Lower Sixth, Feilden) focused on the journey through the Sixth Form, and included advice relating to the process of subject choice. Also included was a short presentation given by Alice Smith (Upper Sixth, Swift) about her EPQ, based on the enduring success of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships. For the Subject Fair, each department was represented by both teachers and students – it was an opportunity for guidance, conversations, and lots of questions.

First Form History Trip to the Tower of London

First Form pupils delved into the past on their recent visit to the historic Tower of London as part of their studies on the Norman Conquest.

This was a fantastic opportunity for the team of pupils who competed at the world-class Chemistry Teaching Labs at the University of Oxford.

Jasper Stott (Fifth Form, Gascoigne), Sukhmani Panesar (Fourth Form, Queen Anne), Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden) and Henry Nixey (Third Form, Gascoigne) worked superbly together, allocating tasks to tackle the problem with admirable effort and skill. Sofia reflected that this was ‘an amazing opportunity to discover what a career in chemistry would look like and to use equipment that we had never seen before’.

The competition closed with a talk from Fiona Marston OBE PhD (Chair and CEO at Erebagen Limited), who took the opportunity to highlight just how varied careers in chemistry are and encouraged pupils to relish the challenges that come from this. The Chemistry Department are extremely proud of the pupils involved who were superb ambassadors for the School.

Sixth Form Preview Evening

On Tuesday 10 October, Fifth Form pupils were joined in the Dining Hall, Library and Sixth Form Centre for the Sixth Form Preview Evening. This

They relished the opportunity to explore the medieval White Tower, which was originally built on a huge mound at the City's eastern fringe. This told the citizens of London that they were now a conquered people and sent out a clear signal that the Normans were here to stay. Pupils learnt that the Tower took around 20 years to build and enjoyed seeing many unique and extraordinary arms and armours on display, including the royal armours of Henry VIII, Charles I and James II. The Crown Jewels exhibit was one of the most exciting parts of the visit, as pupils were dazzled by the impressive display of crowns, learning that the Crown Jewels have been stored and displayed at the Tower of London since 1661.

The trip to the Tower of London was a fantastic experience which sparked the curiosity of our First Form and left them eager to learn more about the past.

Battlefields Trip

Third Form pupils embarked on an emotive and poignant visit to the First World War battlefields in Belgium. As they crossed into Belgium, pupils were reminded that the journey they were completing would have been the same route completed by soldiers arriving at the front during the First World War.

The trip began with a visit to the Passchendaele Museum at Zonnebecke which, with its interactive galleries, reconstructed trench bunkers and replica trench network, quickly captured the imagination of the pupils. They then headed for Ypres where they attended the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate, and although it is currently undergoing restoration work in preparation for celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2027, the poignancy of the ceremony was not lost. The group then visited the Somme region, exploring the vast Lochnagar mine crater and finished the day with visits to Thiepval Ridge where the memorial arch has etched on it over 72,000 names of those allied soldiers who were missing in action.

On the final day, pupils visited Essex Farm Cemetery and Langemark Cemetery, the only German Cemetery on the Western Front. This was followed by a visit to the Hooge Crater Museum and the largest British Commonwealth War Graves site anywhere, Tyne Cot Cemetery, where we paid our respects to the fallen as a group with a minute’s silence and Henry Nixey (Third Form, Gascoigne) reading Wilfred Owen’s 1917 poem Anthem for Doomed Youth

Holocaust Memorial Day Holocaust Memorial Day falls on the 27 January – the day on which Auschwitz-Birkenau was liberated. This year, the theme was the ‘fragility of freedom’, and the History Department prepared and delivered a series of ageappropriate talks designed to encourage pupils to reflect both on the way in which freedoms can be eroded and the importance of standing firm against such efforts.

The Sixth Form learnt about the Rwandan Genocide, exploring the way in which Tutsi people were ‘othered’ and harassed by Hutu extremists in a programme of persecution that led, ultimately, to their massacre in 1994. Parallels were drawn between the way in which the Nazis created scapegoats of the Jewish population after World War I and the way in which propaganda was mobilised to foment hate and systematically undermine freedoms.

In their WIT lessons the Fourth Form and Fifth Form learnt about the definition and concept of genocide including the Holocaust, Rwanda, Cambodia and Srebrenica through the theme of this year's Holocaust Memorial Day the Fragility of Freedom'. Much of the discussion that followed centred around the 10 Stages of Genocide created by Professor Gregory Stanton. Finally, in a Discovery Lecture the First and Second Form learned about the how restrictions were slowly placed on the Jewish people in Germany and occupied Europe. Before turning to look at the Kindertransport, which sees its 85th anniversary in 2024.

The Cokethorpe Public Speaking Team put in a performance to be proud of at the English Speaking Union's regional final. The team,

comprising Evie Walker (Fourth Form, Swift), Eylül Kaban (Third Form, Swift), and Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden), competed against six highly talented teams.

After dedicating many lunchtimes to perfecting their roles, the team was excited to have an opportunity to demonstrate their hard work. Our speaker, Evie, had been given the difficult task of preparing a new speech. She elected to explore 'Are anxiety disorders caused by nature or nurture?' and confidently delivered a well-researched and personalised speech with purpose and clarity. Our chair, Eylül, and questioner, Sofia, gave an impressive demonstration of their skills, thoughtfully introducing, summarising, and questioning their speech on whether schools harm pupils' creativity.

Although they did not progress to the Grand Final, all the pupils involved should be proud of the responsibility, courage, and ambition they have demonstrated throughout their time in the competition.

Barcelona Trip

Third and Fourth Form pupils studying Spanish recently embarked on a cultural adventure to Barcelona, where they explored this fabulous city steeped in culture whilst honing their linguistic skills learnt in the classroom.

First stop, was a trip to La Sagrada Familia, a basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí, with an insightful guided tour. No time to rest however, as pupils were quickly put to work completing their ‘Barcelona booklets’ – answering GCSE style comprehension questions testing their newly learnt cultural knowledge. Pupils then

visited The Family Language School, where they practised their general conversation skills in real life situations by interviewing members of the public. Other highlights of the trip included a visit to Gaudí’s beautiful Park Güell and a steep ascent to the Bunkers del Carmel, which rewarded the group with panoramic views of Barcelona from the Spanish Civil War bunkers. Overall, Barcelona offered the pupils an educational and linguistically enriching experience in one of Spain’s most impressive cities. ¡Qué fantástico!

First Form Trip to the British Museum

On Tuesday 14 May, the Classics Department travelled to London with the entire First Form to the British Museum. For many of the pupils it was their first ever visit.

Our main focus was the exciting new exhibition: 'Legion: Life in the Roman Army'. Exhibits included the only surviving Roman long shield and items of military equipment and clothing such as swords, sandals and helmets. There was even a miraculously preserved red ankle sock from Roman Egypt, as well as wooden postcards with messages from people living in the fort at Vindolanda on Hadrian's Wall. Another highlight was two skeletons, one with a nail in its ankle showing evidence of crucifixion.

Our First Formers greatly enjoyed the many interactive displays, giving them the chance to play Roman dice games and to try on soldiers' helmets. Brief visits were also paid to the Assyrian gallery and the Parthenon sculptures, where the famous Elgin Marbles are displayed. Pupils were awed by the magnificence of the museum's Great Court and the size and range of the exhibits. Many commented on how much they had enjoyed the day and how keen they were to revisit the museum at a later date to explore more of the collections.

Mock Elections

The hustings are over, the votes have been cast, and Cokethorpe has decided the outcome of our mock General Election.

Congratulations to our Lower Sixth Politics students who acted as candidates, and to

ESU Public Speaking Regional Final

their wider campaign teams, who all showed immense dedication and prowess in their efforts to garner votes, dissecting the party manifestos and running a thoroughly professional and thoughtful campaign. Indeed, the strength of their campaigning was clear to see, with voter turnout of 76%, a significantly higher return than many national elections.

Second Form Paddle Testing

On the most splendid summer day so far this year, the Second Form took to the water, paddles in hand, for a trip to remember. After designing and making their paddles in Design and Technology lessons, they had the opportunity to test their creations on the tranquil waters of the lake at Hardwick Water Sports.

The pupils' laughter and chatter echoed across the water, but this excursion was far more than just fun; it also served as a practical lesson. As they paddled, the pupils engaged in reflective evaluation, considering the functionality of their paddles. This hands-on experience provided them with invaluable insights into the principles of design and the satisfaction of seeing their projects come to life.

French Exchange

Friendships were forged for our Fourth Form linguists on their French exchange. Earlier in the year, our exchange pupils were paired with their Francophone counterparts from Saint Louis, Sainte Marie, a school in Marignane, in the Southeast of France.

The exchange began with a visit to Marseille, where our pupils traversed the beautiful boulevards taking in the cultural sights and sounds of France. The cafes and shops provided the perfect opportunity for pupils to put the French they have learnt in the classroom into practice. Pupils spent time with their French families and visited their school, getting a taste of what life is like for pupils in France. Soon, it was time for their exchange partners to get a taste of life in England, as they returned to stay with their host families. During the return visit, pupils visited Christ Church in Oxford, the History of Science Museum and went punting on the river. The also took in the splendour of Blenheim Palace and explored the quaint village of Bourton-on-the-Water.

The bonds formed during this trip transcended borders to create lifelong friendships. For many of our linguists, they discovered their passion for languages, art, and history, perhaps even influencing their future career paths.

Fifth Form Dinner

The Fifth Form end of year dinner, held after the conclusion of the exams, was a resounding success. The event was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and camaraderie that has defined this group over the past five years.

On arrival, pupils and parents walked the red carpet and were greeted with a glass of fizz and a selection of canapés, setting a celebratory tone for the evening. The pupils arrived looking smart and well-dressed, their attire reflecting the significance of the occasion. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the magnificent Lebanese banquet. The spread was a feast for the senses, with a variety of dishes that catered to all tastes. The pupils savoured the culinary delights, their enjoyment evident in their expressions and the lively chatter around the tables.

The emotional high point of the evening came when some of the pupils gave heartfelt speeches, reflecting on their journey over the last five years, they shared memories, expressed gratitude, and spoke of the friendships and bonds formed. These speeches were a poignant reminder of their shared experiences and the growth they have undergone during their time in the Fifth Form. The atmosphere throughout the evening was one of joy and celebration. There was plenty of laughter and fun, with pupils letting their hair down after the rigors of exam season.

The Fifth Form end of year dinner was a fitting tribute to a remarkable group of pupils. It was an evening of celebration, reflection, and camaraderie that will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

MFL Day

Head of School, Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne), and Head of Harcourt, Tara Lockhart (Upper Sixth, Harcourt), shared their passion for languages with pupils across the School in the first student-led Modern Foreign Languages Day. They organised an array of linguistic and cultural activities, allowing pupils to widen their global knowledge, enhance their linguistic skills and gain an understanding of how learning a language can offer opportunities in the future. The Second Form watched a film entirely in French, then later sampled a wide range of cuisines from around the world. Third Form pupils took part in a competitive United Nations style debate with each team arguing for or against factory farming. Fourth Form pupils then participated in a debate of their own, exploring the topic of preservation of traditions and cultures.

In the evening, Fifth Form pupils and their parents attended two talks, beginning with one from Madame Garitey, exploring the value of taking languages at A Level and beyond. The second talk was from a truly inspirational guest speaker, Polly Cameron, who shared some highlights of her career: achieving a first-class Russian language degree, her time in the army where she was deployed to various ex-USSR operations, being awarded the British Empire Medal, and finally her current position as Chief Security Officer for National Gas.

Congratulations to Dee and Tara for organising such a fantastic event.

History Department Lectures

The first of the History Department half termly lectures was delivered by Mr Uglow and posed the question ‘Why do we need a Black History Month?’. The talk covered the history behind the foundation of Black History Month, and the importance of telling a previously largely ignored history. Pupils were encouraged to discuss the themes raised, why it is important for us to mark Black History Month and how they thought it should be marked.

For the third edition of the History Department's Lecture series, to tie into the 100th anniversary of his death on the 21st of January 1924, the topic

of the lecture was The Legacy of Lenin. The talk, given by Mr Tyer, focused on the influence of Lenin both within the Soviet Union and on a global scale, but also the importance of evaluating the legacy of historical figures and the changing perception of Lenin in modern Russia. In the last history lecture of the year, to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Mr O’Connor delved into the intriguing life of Juan Pujol García, a man who lived a double life so convincingly that it helped turn the tide of World War II. Pujol, codenamed ‘Garbo’, was a Spanish spy who played a pivotal role in deceiving the Nazis and aiding the Allies.

Onatti Theatre Visits

Onatti Theatre returned to Cokethorpe for a French performance of Le Cours d’Art for Second and Third Form pupils.

The play focuses on six pupils who have been set the task of painting each other’s personalities at an after-school art class. They soon discover that they have been locked in the classroom and while some pupils look for a way out, others look for food to last the night. The two Onatti performers each played multiple characters with Immy Harris (Third Form, Gascoigne) joining them on stage to play the part of the sixth pupil. The play was an excellent opportunity for pupils to build on their understanding of French, the use of mime throughout the play helped to cement an understanding of the conversations taking place.

The MFL Department welcomed Onatti back, this time for our Second and Third Form Spanish linguists. The play, aptly titled ‘Una reserva duplicada,’ promised a morning of laughter and amusement, and it certainly delivered on that front. From the moment the curtains rose, the audience was drawn into a world of comedic chaos. The premise of the play, revolving around two unsuspecting parties who mistakenly book the same Air BnB for the same weekend, set the stage for a series of hilarious misunderstandings and mishaps.

The play provided an excellent opportunity for our younger Spanish linguists to engage with the language in a fun and interactive manner. The use of colloquial expressions and situational humour added depth to their understanding of the Spanish language and culture, making it a valuable learning experience beyond the confines of the classroom.

Second Form Astronomy Talk

Multi-award winning astronomer and author Colin Stuart came to talk to Second Form today about how we will live on Mars. Scientists believe the first person could walk on Mars in around 25 years, Neil Armstrong was 38 when he first stepped foot on the Moon so the first person to walk on Mars could well be in Second Form today. Colin spoke to pupils about the technical challenges of getting to Mars, deciding on a suitable landing spot, and taking shelter in underground tunnels until structures have been built on the surface.

The Val Cenis Ski Trip

As the rest of the School packed up for the Christmas break, a group of sixty pupils from Second Form to Lower Sixth were busy packing their salopettes and skis, preparing to travel to Val Cenis for a thrilling skiing trip in the Alps.

Pupils and staff were raring to go and could not wait to get to the picturesque resort. The group arrived at their accommodation, conveniently located near the slopes which allowed everyone to make the most of their skiing time. Luckily, there was plenty of snow and, after a week of tuition and a flurry of fun, everyone honed their skills on the slopes and made the most of their time in the beautiful resort of Val Cenis.

It was not all salopettes, snow and slopes for our skiers though, they also had the opportunity to explore the charming village, go ten pin bowling and dust off their dance moves at the annual ski trip disco. This year, they even braved the Karaoke one evening.

The Val Cenis ski trip was an incredible experience that allowed everyone to develop their skiing abilities and enjoy a wonderful week in the Alps.

Sixth Form News

Lower Sixth Trip to Cardiff University

The whole of the Lower Sixth got their first taste of university life on a visit to Cardiff University. On arrival, they received a warm welcome from the student ambassadors who lead them to what they called a ‘standard’ university lecture hall, where they received two talks – the first discussing university workloads and what is expected from them during their three to five years as an undergraduate.

Following this, they were given a tour of the campus by some very helpful current students before receiving the second talk of the day. This time, the Lower Sixth heard about student life, including budgeting, part time jobs and counselling. To round off this interesting and enlightening day, they were given the opportunity to ask university students –varying from an undergraduate in Business to a PHD student in Architecture – any questions they had. Our Lower Sixth left feeling more confident for the next step after they complete their A Levels.

Upper Sixth Geography Trip to Studland

Whilst other Sixth Form students enjoyed the last remaining days of their holidays, fifteen Upper Sixth Geographers embarked on an enjoyable field trip to Studland Dunes on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline in Dorset to collect data for their NEA coursework project. The NEA is an independent investigation project which equates to 20% of their Geography A Level.

The Geographers were kept busy on their residential collecting samples, diversity checking and measuring the many undulations of the dunes. Fortunately, they were also blessed with some lovely clear weather, which certainly helped during their night walk and star gazing evening.

All students worked tremendously hard and placed themselves in a great position to produce a high-quality project.

A Level Fine Art and Textiles Visit to Cornwall

A Level Fine Art and Textiles students visited Cornwall to gather visual research for the coursework theme of ‘Environment’. First stop was The Eden Project, where the colourful plant life was the subject of their first sketches and photographs. An early start to St Ives gave students the space and peace they needed to explore the harbour and take in the breathtaking scenery on the coastal path to the Tate St Ives, where students admired the modern and contemporary artwork on display.

The following day, students heard an intriguing talk from a miner who worked in the Geevor Tin Mine during the 1980s. The eerie backdrop of the locker rooms left exactly as they were when the last tin was extracted in 1986, and the distinct red dust coating on the hanging clothes, gave students a chance to gather atmospheric visual research for changing environments.

They also explored abstract artist David Mankin’s local beach before visiting his studio for an inspiring talk about his creative process. Energised by his words, it was back to the stormy beach to capture details and collect jetsam for their sketchbooks. With sketchbooks and minds brimming with visual research and ideas, we are looking forward to seeing what the students create from this wonderful trip.

‘On the art trip to Cornwall, I took this photo on the beach in St Ives. I saw the rock before we went into the Tate Gallery and wanted to capture the sea spraying over the rock. I liked the way the sea enveloped the rock and thought it would look incredible in a photo. I also felt that in a

painting it would be interesting to explore how I could show the different textures of the sea.

To take this photo I had to wait patiently and get as close as I could without getting in the sea. I took over 200 photos of this rock before I got this one. It took me a while to get the framing of the photo correct as it was difficult to stay still because of the conditions. I also wanted to include the beach and the sky in the photo and to capture this angle I had to be low to the ground to get this perspective on the rock. Once I had taken the photo, the mood it portrayed to me felt exciting, invigorating and thrilling.’

Politics Trip to Houses of Parliament and Supreme Court

Just before Parliament dissolved for the General Election, a group of Lower Sixth students visited London for a tour of the Houses of Parliament and the Supreme Court. The tour began in the historic Westminster Hall before moving to the floor of the House of Commons and the further opportunity to view the proceedings in the House of Lords from the public gallery. The trip also included a visit to the UK Supreme Court where pupils learnt about the role the court plays in the UK Justice and the important cases heard within its walls.

MUN Conference

During the Michaelmas half term, Finn Van Landeghem (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), Sam Farr (Lower Sixth, Swift), Rafi Layish (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), Marit Tweehuijsen (Upper Sixth, Feilden), Rohana Saunders (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) and Lily Charles (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) represented Cokethorpe at the Oxford Global

Grace Ponsford (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

Model United Nations Conference. Representing a diverse range of nations from Mongolia to Denmark the pupils excelled, debating complex issues including the protection of marginalised languages to the circumnavigation of sanctions. Special mention must go to Rohana who co-chaired COP28 and Rafi (Brazil) who won Outstanding Delegate for the ECOFIN Committee. The pupils are looking forward to further conferences in the new year.

Design and Technology Trip to JSP

Embarking on a school trip to the leading protective equipment manufacturer, JSP proved to be an enlightening and captivating experience for a group of enthusiastic Sixth Form students in October. The excursion provided a firsthand glimpse into the intricate world of manufacturing, encompassing the entire spectrum from research and development to design and the bewildering array of robots and automated machines in the manufacturing process.

The students were absorbed in discussion of the evolution of a product, from its early conception in the research and development phase. The manufacturing floor, a hive of activity, buzzed with energy as students observed the transformation of raw materials into refined quality products. This immersive experience left an indelible mark on the students, fostering an appreciation for the complexity of the manufacturing world. Safety aspects took centre stage next, highlighting the meticulous protocols and safety standards in place to ensure the highest of standards for both the products they make and those who wear them.

As the day concluded, the students left JSP with a newfound appreciation for the journey a product undertakes before reaching the consumer. The school trip not only broadened their understanding of manufacturing but also sparked inspiration and curiosity about potential career paths in the dynamic realm of design and technology.

A Level Maths in Action

‘On Wednesday 22 November, a group of Sixth Form students headed to the University of Warwick for a ‘Maths in Action’ event. The day consisted of a series of talks from a variety of expert mathematicians - and in one case also a

professional juggler. Students found the talks fascinating, particularly Dr Colin Wright looking at the area of topology, a new one for students to consider, and how this works with a Möbius strip. They were also intrigued by Dr Tom Crawford, who explored the mathematics involved in Pokémon games. He looked at the equations that determine the likelihood of being able to catch your favourite Pokémon, with Phanpy being the target of the talk, and checking the consequences of some of the statements made in the Pokédex, such as Wailord being less dense than air. Hopefully the day has inspired students to see mathematics in the wider world.’

Mr Bosse Teacher of Maths

Six Five Dinners

‘In September, we introduced the Six Five Dinner Challenge to the students in the Lower Sixth. The idea is simple: in pairs of Houses they plan, organise, budget and host an early evening dinner (plus entertainment) for pupils in the Fifth Form (plus their parents). Inspired by The Apprentice, the challenge is a test of teamwork, leadership, imagination, organisation, initiative and – above all – flair; the end result, was three wonderful social events in the Dining Hall and Sixth Form Centre, organised entirely by students.

The first Six Five Dinner was hosted by the Lower Sixth of Feilden and Gascoigne. The theme was Treasure Island; food was a squid starter followed by ribs, and the Dining Hall was decorated into a galleon. There were plenty of buccaneers and there was plenty of buried gold. The highlight of the evening was a Treasure Hunt around School. The prize? A bottle of rum. The second was hosted by the Lower Sixth of Harcourt and Queen Anne. The theme was Cosy

– with plenty of excellent slippers on display. The food was as comforting as the slippers, and the evening ended with a Bingo in the Sixth Form Centre.

The third and final Six Five Dinner was hosted by the Lower Sixth of Swift and Vanbrugh, and the theme was Christmas. We ate delicious braised beef, and, after the meal, adjourned to the Sixth Form Centre for part pudding part activity: in teams of six, guests were challenge to a Gingerbread House construction competition – bricks (AKA gingerbread) and cement (AKA icing) were provided. It was competitive, to say the least, and the winning house was fit for a king. A small king.

The Six Five Dinner Challenge was a great project, enjoyed by all involved; it brought together the Lower Sixth, and it gave welcome to the current Fifth Form (and their parents), who – in only a few months’ time – will be calling the Sixth Form Centre their home.’

Mr Tolputt Head of Sixth Form

Sixth Form Christmas Dinner

The Sixth Form and staff had an evening to remember at the eagerly anticipated Sixth

Form Christmas Dinner. The festivities were energetic, exuberant, and all in good spirit, with all the traditional Christmas Dinner trimmings in tow. The fancy dress was as creative as it was impressive on the theme of Individuals and Groups, with the Inbetweeners, two groups of Spice Girls and two wine bottles among the many highlights on show.

The evening began with a Drinks Reception in the Sixth Form Centre, with a carol sung by a group of Sixth Form singers marking the start of the formal dinner. Further highlights included a bingo led by Charlotte Griffiths (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne), ably assisted by Sam Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden), and the enormously popular rendition of the Twelve Days of Christmas – the Catering Department’s ‘Five Gold Rings’ was delivered with all its usual gusto! Several hundred pounds was also raised in support of the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, capping off a splendid and memorable evening.

Visit from OC Matthew Barber – Police and Crime Commissioner

The Politics Department were delighted to welcome Matthew Barber (OC, 1999, Harcourt), the Police and Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley and former Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council to the School to speak to students.

Mr Barber provided a unique insight into the importance of the commission, the daily life of a Police and Crime Commissioner and the challenges of the role. Mr Barber then spent time answering questions from students on local issues, policing priorities in the Thames Valley and the connection between the public and policing, exploring how the Police and Crime Commission fits into that relationship.

The talk provided a fantastic insight into the complexities of the role and was extremely informative for our students currently studying Politics.

Warwick Ancient Drama Festival Greek and Classical Civilisation pupils enjoyed a festival of ancient drama held at Warwick University. The day included a powerful performance of The Persians by Aeschylus, the earliest surviving Greek tragedy and the only one to draw its plot from historical events, together with inspiring talks from scholars of Greek drama.

Dr Xavier Buxton spoke on ‘Fear and the feminine in Aeschylus' Persians', exploring how the Persian characters in the play were presented from an Athenian perspective a mere seven years after the end of the Persian invasion

of Greece in the Fifth Century BC. Dr Paul Grigsby explained the historical context of the play, giving the large audience of students a clear overview of the expansion of the Persian empire in the Sixth century and how this was brought to an end by the victory of the Athenians at the battles of Salamis and Plataea.

It was an enjoyable and enlightening day for our pupils that added much to their understanding of the ancient world and the extraordinary drama it produced.

Social Science Fair

Upper Sixth Psychology and Sociology students presented their research findings at the annual ‘Social Science Research Fair’. Students have spent the past year planning, conducting and analysing their data.

Congratulations go to the overall winner Molly Grinham (Upper Sixth, Feilden) who researched whether different genres of music have an effect on heart rate, to the recipient of the ‘Students’ Choice Award’ Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth, Feilden) who investigated whether women find men with dogs more attractive and to the recipient of the ‘Innovative Research Award’ Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) who researched attitudes towards women returning to the workplace after maternity leave.

We

Sixth Form General Knowledge Quiz

The Sixth Form Inter-House General Knowledge Competition is always fiercely fought and feistily contested, and this year was no exception. Spread over three lunchtimes, the format was the same as University Challenge - including starters-for-ten, buzzers, and Paxman-style chivvying from the question-master.

The early rounds included questions about British cathedrals built during the Middle Ages, the names of characters described by the titles of Shakespeare plays and, of course, a question about the dogs of Dennis the Menace (everyone knows Gnasher, but can you name – and spell

– the other?). It also revealed the surprising but inevitable fact that teenagers of 2024 do not know who sung Heartbreak Hotel and Blue Suede Shoes; the teachers in the room felt very old…

The final was between Gascoigne, captained by Charlotte Griffiths (Upper Sixth) and Harcourt captained by AJ Rowe (Upper Sixth). It was neck and neck throughout, with questions on the James Bond franchise, the Spanish royal family, and three words beginning with M-A-R (marmalade, marmoset and maroon, for those interested). In the latter stages, Harcourt pulled ahead; accompanied by a symphony of whooping across the Sixth Form Centre (especially from Miss Woodcock), the competition was sealed with a final score of 270 to Harcourt and 230 to Gascoigne.

PolEcon Conference

Sixth Form Politics students heard a packed and exciting programme of talks at the PolEcon Conference in Westminster. A Level students heard from voices across the political spectrum touching on many of the important issues and questions facing the United Kingdom. The roster of speakers included: the Shadow Health Secretary, Wes Streeting MP; Sir Jacob Rees Mogg MP; Leader of Reform UK, Richard Tice; and the Deputy Leader of the Green Party, Zack Polanski. The event concluded with an appearance from the presenters of The Rest is Politics, Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell.

The trip was hugely enjoyed by the students who took away lots of ideas and information to include in their Politics essays.

would like to thank our judges for this year; Miss Gaertner and Heidi Robertson (OC 2022, Feilden).

Chemistry Olympiad

Sixth Form Chemistry students took part in this year’s Royal Society of Chemistry’s Olympiad. This was an exceptionally challenging paper, with over 1,000 schools taking part. The 2024 paper covered topics such as the composition of the FIFA 2023 Women’s World Cup trophy, iodate salts, fuel-producing bacteria, the MRI contrast agent gadopiclenol and sulfur-containing molecules in the atmosphere. The Chemistry Department was delighted to see students really applying their knowledge, showing real determination and true spirit.

Congratulations to Lower Sixth students: Akil Jomy (Queen Anne), Simran Panesar (Queen Anne), Caellum Sharp (Vanbrugh), Patrick West (Feilden) and Nicolas Woods-Cano (Swift) for achieving the Bronze Award, to Upper Sixth students: Flo Adepoju (Harcourt), Aoife Kirkham (Feilden), Freddie Murfitt (Queen Anne) and Rohana Saunders (Queen Anne) who were awarded Silver, and Thomas Avery (Gascoigne), who received the Gold Award. Only 8% of all entrants were awarded the Gold Award so this is an incredible achievement. Many congratulations to all our talented Chemists.

Lower Sixth Biology Field Trip

As part of the ecology topic of their A Level course, Lower Sixth biologists travelled to Preston Monfort Field Work Centre to put what they have been learning in the classroom into practice. The group were there to investigate populations and learn about the various ecosystems at the field centre.

They carried out experiments in and around the site, including ‘Mark, Release and Recapture’ with woodlice, and estimating distribution of Lord and Lady plants around the woodlands. Mr Gale proved an avid fisherman and spent hours with the students, examining and identifying different types of aquatic insects.

The final day was a culmination of their work during the trip, where students were tasked with designing and carrying out their own ecological investigation. The budding ecologists gathered the data, carried out statistical tests and completed biological drawings. The trip gave the students a deeper understanding of ecology in an engaging and enjoyable way.

Art Trip to London Galleries

On Thursday 6 June, the Lower Sixth Art and Textile students went to London to visit the Victoria and Albert Museum and the National Portrait Gallery as inspiration for their independent projects exploring the theme of environment.

The students enjoyed photographing and sketching the art, paying attention to the mood created by the textured brushstrokes and depth of colour. At the V&A, the students enjoyed being inspired by the impression fashion collection of historical garments and the numerous statues and international ceramics. They are looking forward to challenging their projects with new inspiring artists and techniques.

Norway Trip

‘Back in the middle of July, eleven pupils from the Fourth and Fifth Form ventured to Norway to embark on their World Challenge expedition. Accompanied by two staff and the World Challenge leader, Niel, the group had a relaxing evening at camp after a long day of travelling, enjoying some wood-fired pizzas and preparing for the challenging days ahead.

Our first full day involved a day-trek to a local waterfall, and hiking and scrambling up the side of the waterfall itself! This certainly helped the group acclimatise to the country, the conditions we would be hiking in, and working together before returning to camp for the night, and the first dinner cooked by the group. The second day was a slight change from the original plan due and we set off hiking to the local town to sort out provisions for the rest of the expedition.

The following day saw the start of the wild trekking and camping portion of the expedition, heading up the side of the valley with full backpacks ready to find a scenic spot to camp. We certainly achieved this, with pupils setting up wild camp next to a picturesque lake, and the evening spent basking in the sun on the shores of the lake and a few waterfall showers for those brave enough. A day of exploring the local moors and lakes followed, with more waterfalls and wildlife discovered along the way. That night, the group showed true resilience, with stormy weather hindering mood and activities, but all persevered and found enjoyable ways to spend it.

We then headed back to base camp, with the most energetic taking the opportunity to hike the other side of the valley in the afternoon and see the beautiful scenery from a different perspective.

We then embarked on the canoeing expedition the following day, with the sun blazing in the sky as we paddled the tranquil waters of the Otra. With a few beachside breaks along the way, we found ourselves fortunate enough to be wild camping on an uninhabited island, making the most of the chance to explore and relax in this unique location.

The last couple of days allowed us to experience some white-water rafting, with everyone in the group thoroughly enjoying it despite some initial apprehension. A few then ventured into town again in the afternoon to pick up souvenirs and taste the local delicacies. The final day was a mix of paddle boarding on the fjord and zip lining on the high ropes course, before having to pack up ahead of a 3am departure in the morning. I was also lucky enough to celebrate my birthday on the last day, with the pupils managing to bake a fantastic cake for me!

World Challenge is all about pupils taking responsibility for themselves, and showing independence through organising their own budgeting, shopping, cooking and other activities. Our pupils were certainly successful in this and have hopefully developed some joyful lifelong memories in the process.’

Mr Bosse Trip Coordinator

South Africa Trip

‘On Monday 19 August, our Senior Hockey and Rugby teams comprised 41 pupils and six staff, embarked on a two-week tour of South Africa. Based on the Western Cape, both the First XI Hockey team and the First XV Rugby team played four competitive fixtures against a range of schools in Cape Town, Stellenbosch and the Paarl area of South Africa.

The Hockey team won two of their games against De Kuilen and Milnerton High School. There were stand out performances from Mae Serjeant (Lower Sixth, Swift), Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift), Libby Lawman (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) and Bryony Wyatt (Fifth Form, Swift).

The Rugby team had victories against Stellenbosch High School, Paulus Joubert and Connect Rugby Performance academy, with some stand performances across the tour from Murray Gray (Fifth Form, Feilden), Felix Batchelor (Lower Sixth, Harcourt), Philip Croker (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) and Joseph Westmoreland (Fifth Form, Harcourt).

As well as the fixtures, the tourists experienced some of the finest cultural activities that South Africa has to offer. A morning was spent at one of the 52 education centres based on the western cape where pupils met the 83 children there whose parents work on the local farms. Our pupils were very popular with the children and it was lovely to see them immerse themselves and learn about the work that the charity does. In the afternoon we had a recovery swim in the hotel pool and then some yoga as the sun set in front of the mountains. After another day of fixtures, the weather conditions meant a trip to Robben Island had to be cancelled. Instead, Mr Sheer spoke to the whole group about South Africa’s history from British Empire through to the present day. This was followed by a visit to the District Six Museum - dedicated to an area of Cape Town that saw the forcible eviction of 60,000 black South Africans during the 1970s. With a little more free time than originally anticipated, we then took the touring party to the Two Oceans Aquarium. With over 8,000 animals and over 300 species there was plenty to look at.

Another fabulous day was spent exploring the Cape Peninsula with its stunning views, fascinating wildlife and interesting architecture. We visited the seals at Houts Bay, climbed up to the southernmost tip of the Cape of Good Hope and visited the African penguins at Boulders Beach. Two other highlights of this tour include zip wiring across the cape canopy 100 metres above sea level and a fantastic safari at the Aquila Private Game Reserve. More important than all of this were the friendships developed, the memories made, and the lessons learned. The trip of a lifetime that will be remembered forever.'

Mr Robinson Trip Coordinator

ARTS

Prep Art

It has been yet another busy year up in the Prep Art Department with all pupils from Reception Class through to Year 6 learning and improving a variety of skills.

Reception Class had fun making ‘Hungry Caterpillars’ out of clay, Years 1 and 2 have been improving their painting skills with giant colourful compositions of ‘Brave Bears’, whilst Year 3 have focused on Colour this year and have been creative with a variety of topics inspired by the artist, Kandinsky. Year 4 put down the brush for a term and learnt how to paint with hands to reproduce the painting ‘The Great Wave’ produced by the Japanese artist, Hokusai.

Meanwhile, Year 5 looked at the artwork of another more contemporary Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama. They studied her intriguing, patterned self-portrait installations and worked on creating their own take on her work. T-shirts were painted, and matching backgrounds were carefully produced. This all came together with a photoshoot where the young artists produced their own portrait creation.

The focus for the Summer Term was the end of year musical, The Lion King. Each year group worked tirelessly, producing artworks with a Lion King theme and these were displayed in the Marquee during the production. Reception Class produced enormous chalk pastel elephants, Years 1 and 2 created very impressive chalk Mandrill monkeys as well as camouflaged collaged zebras. Year 3 looked at African patterns. Year 4 made very powerful lion masks and Year 5 have been busying themselves with wildebeest masks. Year 6 have been lucky enough to have Design Technology lessons as well as Art lessons this year and have made beautiful tissue paper bird kites in DT and collage silhouetted landscapes in Art.

Senior School Art Exhibition

The Summer Exhibition delighted visitors this year with an outstanding collection of work. Our A Level artists demonstrated their flair with their creative responses to this year’s set task ‘observe, seek and challenge’ with superb painting, textile, mixed media and sculpture projects developed from this interesting theme. In their coursework too they excelled with outstanding self-portraits, animations,

garments and abstract landscapes. So much to inspire our GCSE students whose own response to the theme of ‘structure and nature’ produced an array of outcomes. Many of the students studying textiles this year created wearable items as they creatively combined constructive and decorative techniques. The fine artists commanded paint to great effect in their examination pieces, beautifully creating layers of interest and texture with superb command of colour. We very much look forward to seeing their work develop in Lower Sixth.

Ms Williams Head of Art and Textiles

A Midsummer Night's Dream

'In a magical blend of mischief, and enchantment, our Year 6 pupils brought William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream to life in a wonderful performance. The intricate web of love, mistaken identity, and fairy mischief unfolded seamlessly on stage, captivating the audience.

From the opening scenes to the final bow, the pupils displayed remarkable talent and enthusiasm. All embraced their roles, from the lovestruck couples to the mischievous fairies. Each pupil brought a unique spark to their performance, drawing the audience deeper into the mystical world of the play.

Our pupils also excelled in capturing the humour of Shakespeare’s language, delivering their lines with confidence and clarity, which reflects their enormous amount of hard work both in and out of rehearsals.

The magnificent costumes played a pivotal role in bringing the production to life. A huge thank you to Mrs Wilkinson whose unparalleled creativity and dedication once again graced us with an array of extraordinary costumes.

Overall, our Year 6 pupils delivered a charming rendition of the timeless comedy, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate to witness it. '

Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher

The Lion King

'On Thursday 4 July, the Prize Giving marquee was transformed into the vibrant and enchanting world of the African savannah, where our Prep School pupils brought The Lion King to life. From the moment Rafiki’s iconic chant echoed through the marquee during the opening of Circle of Life, it was evident that the production was brimming with passion, talent, and dedication.

The entire cast delivered outstanding performances, working together seamlessly to bring the story to life. Each pupil embodied their character with remarkable skill, a testament to their hard work both in and out of rehearsals. The palpable energy and enthusiasm of the pupils created a dynamic and engaging experience for the audience.

The production masterfully balanced humour and seriousness, capturing the essence of the show. The comedic moments, especially those involving Timon and Pumbaa, had the audience in stitches, while the more serious scenes, such as Mufasa’s tragic death, were handled with the gravity and respect they deserved. This balance ensured that the audience was fully engaged and emotionally invested throughout the performance.

The set design was nothing short of spectacular. The creative use of props and backdrops transported the audience to the heart of the Pride Lands. The incredible Mrs Wilkinson provided the pupils with dazzling costumes. Each costume was thoughtfully crafted to reflect the unique characteristics of the animals, from the majestic lions to the playful meerkats.

The live music, courtesy of our wonderful band, added an extra layer of magic to the performance. Our pupils delivered powerful renditions of iconic songs like Be Prepared and Hakuna Matata Harmonies that were also beautifully executed in songs such as The Mourning and Shadowland. A special mention goes to the soloists whose voices soared and captivated the audience.

The production concluded with a heartfelt rendition of He Lives in You, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and unity. The Prep School’s production of The Lion King was a roaring success, filled with laughter, tears and unforgettable moments.'

Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher

Harvest Play -

The Enormous Turnip

Pre-Prep brightened up a rainy morning with their celebration of Harvest. The Chapel was covered in some lovely Autumnal decorations, which set the scene beautifully. Our spectacular festival began with Reception Class singing Thank You God for the Harvest and Big Red Combine Harvester. Reception Class sang with such enthusiasm and confidence.

Year 1 delivered delightful performances of Under the Harvest Moon and Mr Scarecrow, with angelic singing and wonderful actions. They then presented their Harvest artwork alongside some amazing poems, which they wrote themselves. It culminated with The Enormous Turnip, starring Year 2 and supported by Year 1. The performance included both incredible acting and fabulous singing.

Our celebration ended with We Plough the Fields and Scatter, which sent an important message to our youngest pupils.

Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher

Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf

On Thursday 22 November, Years 3, 4 and 5 stepped into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl with a fresh take on the classic fairytale, Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf. The pupils delivered an outstanding performance with a mixture of wit, humour and mischief.

The acting was nothing short of fantastic, with standout performances from our Year 5 principles. All the characters were bursting with personality and charm, this reflects the pupils’ hard work in and out of rehearsals. But we cannot forget our amazing Year 3 and 4 supporting cast, who showed off their exceptional storytelling skills.

The production contained challenging music, with the help of Ms Du Feu, the pupils certainly rose to the challenge. Each song was delivered with enthusiasm and captivated the audience. The incredible singing was supported by Year 6 members of the Prep Choir. Our fabulous live band added another wonderful layer to the performance. We would very much like to thank Mr Wilson, Mr Lewis and Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden).

As always, Mrs Wilkinson’s vibrant costumes provided a feast for the eyes and transported the audience into the story.

A story that contained so many unexpected

twists and turns, also contained some valuable life lessons; resourcefulness, cleverness and to never judge a book by its cover. The production was not just entertaining, but thought-provoking for the pupils.

As many would agree, our Prep School pupils provided an evening of such joy.

Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher

The Twinkly Nativity

Pre-Prep sparkled once more, with two performances of their fabulous nativity. The Twinkly Nativity was a heart-warming performance which celebrated the true meaning of Christmas. The children brought the timeless nativity story to life with their infectious enthusiasm - from fabulous acting to magnificent singing, our children delivered a magical performance which left everyone feeling exceptionally proud. As always, Mrs Wilkinson provided us with amazing costumes, which further enhanced the wonderful performance. The memorable and joyous event reminded us all of the wonder and happiness that this season brings. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

LAMDA

In March, 48 performance examinations were conducted under the scrutiny of a visiting examiner from the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Candidates from both the Prep and Senior Schools showcased their talents through solo, paired, and group devising and acting pieces. The examiner was notably impressed by the students’ exceptional skill and thoughtful responses to performance questions. A remarkable 98% of the candidates were awarded Distinctions, reflecting the outstanding calibre of their performances.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance

Joshua Crumlish (First Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 3 – Duo Distinction

Sam Rainey (First Form, Swift) Acting Grade 3 – Duo Distinction

Mia Beechey (First Form, Swift) Acting Grade 3 – Solo Distinction

Bella Ferguson (Year 6, Symonds) Acting Grade 2 – Solo Distinction

Samuel Idiahi (Year 5, Baker)

Acting Grade 2 – Solo Distinction

Shannon Edwards (Year 5, Symonds) Acting Grade 2 – Duo Distinction

Isla Cruickshank (Year 5, Gwyn)

Acting Grade 2 – Duo Distinction

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance

Zoe Cameron (Fourth Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 5 – Solo Distinction

Archie Pryor (Fifth Form, Swift) Acting Grade 5 – Solo Distinction

Iona Mettrick (Second Form, Swift) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Freya Richards (Second Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Grace Clear (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Lottie Bayliss (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Seoyeon Lee (Third Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Merit

Emmeline Black (Fourth Form, Feilden) Devising Drama Grade 5 – Solo Distinction

Elsa Linehan (Third Form, Swift) Devising Drama Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Nina Larsson (Third Form, Queen Anne) Devising Drama Grade 5 – Duo Distinction

Gabriella Hughes (Second Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 4 – Solo Distinction

Evie-Rose Burdick (Fourth Form Queen Anne) Acting Grade 4 – Solo Distinction

Maya Rajakyla-Smith (Third Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 4 – Solo Distinction

Lottie Graves (Second Form, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 4 – Solo Distinction

Tibby Bignone (Second Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Distinction

Tillie Read (Second Form, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Distinction

Rose Cruickshank (Second Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Distinction

Olivia Wood (Second Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Distinction

Georgia Cross (First Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Distinction

Belle Larsson (First Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Distinction

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance

Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 8 - Solo - Gold Medal Merit

Zachary Wheeler (Fifth Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 7 - Solo - Silver Medal Distinction

Henry Cook (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) Acting Grade 7 - Solo - Silver Medal Distinction

LAMDA Group Graded Examination – Peacocks

Etta Jennings (Year 3, Baker)

Islay Jameson (Year 5, Lockwood)

Julia Pisanello (Year 5, Baker)

Samuel Idiahi (Year 5, Baker)

Ella Townsend (Year 5, Gwyn)

Scarlet Milles (Year 5, Gwyn)

Chloé Langridge (Year 5, Baker)

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

Group Devising Drama Grade 1 Distinction

A Christmas Carol

On a cold winter’s eve, the audience for A Christmas Carol were heartened to join a joyful welcome in the Mansion House, in the festive glow of carol singing and a roaring fire. Fuelled by mulled wine and song, the merry crowd sang their way up towards The Shed, only to be halted by a sombre scene in the Upper Quad, where black-clad Victorian undertakers stood as solemn sentries around the open coffin of Jacob Marley. This dramatic shift of tone characterised the inventive and emotional journey that the audience was about to experience.

We were plunged into the dour existence of Ebeneezer Scrooge, brilliantly characterised by Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), who spat and threatened with menace. He crushed any attempt to allow a smidgen of warmth to infect his miserable hovel, despite the exuberant efforts of Freda, played with joyful cheer by Stella Willis-Bund (Fifth Form, Feilden) and Henry Cook’s (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) wonderfully earnest portrayal of Bob Cratchit. This misery was to meet a horrifying challenge however, in the rasping, shrieking, terror of Kacy Nguyen (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh), whose disturbing depiction of tortured soul Jacob Marley, set the tone for the Scrooge’s night of dread and cognisance.

The ‘Ghost of Christmas Past’ was marvellously captured by the triple-act of Lottie Bayliss (Fifth Form, Gascoigne), Grace Clear (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) and Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden), whose creepy choreography and ghoulish gaze led Scrooge through his past mistakes. There were charming performances by Xander Luckett (Third Form, Vanbrugh) as Young Scrooge, Tibby Bignone (Second Form, Feilden) as Little Fan, and the jubilant cheer of Mr and Mrs Fezziwigs was superbly provided by Adam Rees (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) and Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne). Such nostalgia was tempered by bitter scenes however, as Bella Caffyn’s (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) sincere performance as Belle, and husband Herbert, played with great humour Kai Pullen-Campbell (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), demonstrated the melancholic realisation of how Scrooge might have enjoyed the love and warmth of family life.

We were thrown into the magic of ‘Christmas Present’ with a high-spirited performance by Bryony Wyatt (Fifth Form, Swift) as the ghost who sweeps Scrooge through the reality of his self-isolation. They visited the warm hearth of the Cratchit family, all of whom were excellent in their portrayal of happy siblings and commandingly led by Darcey Snaith (Fifth Form, Harcourt) as Mrs Cratchit. These happy scenes swiftly led to dread however, as the dawning

of ‘Christmas Yet to Come’ arrived in Scrooge’s baleful bedroom. Audience members were terrified as glowing eyes and floating limbs drifted through the mist to converge into a horrific spirit. At ten feet tall, with flowing white tendrils and silent trepidation, this puppet was skilfully rendered by the exquisite design of Mrs Wilkinson and the talented puppeteers, who worked together to veer, point and drift through one baleful scene after another. Such haunting menace was matched by the many cackling characters of the scavengers, who divide up Scrooge’s meagre possessions. There are too many to name here, but particular mention must be made of Evie-Rose Burdick (Fourth Form, Queen Anne), Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift) and Jasmine Hammond (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) who shrieked with glee and delight at Scrooge’s demise.

Particular mention must also be made of Isy Noon (First Form, Gascoigne) who, due to unforeseen circumstances, stepped in at the last minute to play the ‘Boy’ with courage and aplomb, and also to mark Ruby Daly (Second Form, Gascoigne) bravura debut as Tiny Tim. With outstandingly professional performances from the wonderful Pit Band and expert dedication from the backstage crew, this was a production which demonstrated the very best elements of teamwork, responsibility and leadership from our pupils. With stunning visuals and charismatic performances this was a moving and mesmerising production, loaded with talent and future promise.

Theatre Trip to see Kin

Fifth Form and A Level Drama students had the opportunity to see Kin at the Oxford Playhouse in the Michaelmas Term. The experience added a valuable dimension to their studies, providing a live example of innovative physical theatre which many used in their Live Theatre Evaluation work. Kin is an incredibly powerful and visually captivating show which explores contemporary themes such as migration, racism and the fight for survival. One of the most striking aspects of ‘Kin’ is its use of movement and multilingual dialogue, making the performance universally accessible. The powerful performance style of this groundbreaking company offered the audience a unique and immersive exploration of personal and generational forced migration.

Third Form Paper Birds Workshop

The Paper Birds Theatre Company conducted a series of workshops, leaving a lasting impression on both pupils and staff. These sessions were a blend of creativity, innovation, and practical theatre-making techniques, tailored specifically to the needs and interests of the pupils.

One of the standout elements of the threehour workshops was focused on devising, where pupils delved into the process of turning research into performance. They explored direct address and choreographed movement, engaging in exercises that helped them develop their own devising processes. The hands-on approach and use of relevant stimuli made the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Feedback from the pupils was overwhelmingly positive; describing the workshop as a unique experience that broadened their understanding of non-naturalistic scenes and provided practical techniques useful for their own devised performances. Teachers appreciated the fresh perspectives and the way the workshops complemented the school’s Drama curriculum.

Overall, The Paper Birds’ workshop was a resounding success, leaving pupils inspired and eager to apply what they had learned to their future theatre projects.

House Drama

This year’s House Drama Competition revealed some sterling House efforts and some truly outstanding performances. Taking an extract from The Lord of the Flies as a stimulus, each House was given the opportunity to perform the scene as scripted, or to devise a new sequence, taking inspiration from the theme, settings, and characters of this classic text. Alongside this, Houses had to provide either a monologue or duologue from a different script of their choice. Performances were submitted online and then the four highest scoring pieces made it through to a live final in The Shed. The four finalists were judged by Vamos Theatre’s Rebecca Harrison, who was full of praise for the invention and courage of the successful pupils.

In the monologue category, Adam Rees (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) created an hilarious and expertly nuanced performance for Queen Anne and particular commendation must be given to Amelie Pierce Williams (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) and Tara Lockhart (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) who delivered their Cokethorpe Drama debut, representing Harcourt in a joyous duologue, full of expressive characterisation and convincing Northern Irish accents. In the Ensemble category, Swift created an energetic and passionate recreation of the split tribal

loyalties on the fateful island, whilst Vanbrugh responded with a highly original piece of devised Drama. Taking Frantic Assembly as their inspiration, they wrote a frenetic physical piece, depicting a hypothetical future trial of the character of Ralph, which was layered with substance and pathos.

There are two awards given in this competition, one for the Best Individual Contribution, and one for the Overall Winning House. In the individual contribution category, particular mention must be made of Josiah Smith (Third Form, Swift), Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift) and Sam Farr (Lower Sixth, Swift), whose hard work and organisation in delivering Swift’s Ensemble piece was very impressive. However, the award for the Best Individual Contribution went this year to a pupil who, along with his brother Xander (Third Form, Vanbrugh), wrote, directed, produced and performed for their House. That winner was Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) of Vanbrugh House, which also won the competition overall.

A Level Drama Exam

On Wednesday 20 March, the Upper Sixth A Level Drama candidates took to the stage for their ‘Text in Performance’ practical examination.

In the monologue section, Jasmine Hammond (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) performed an hilarious piece from Alan Ayckbourn’s Confusions: A Talk in the Park as dog-loving Doreen, who seeks company of a stranger in the absence of her canine companion, ‘Ginger boy’. Bella Caffyn’s (Upper Sixth, Vanburgh) heartfelt portrayal of Valerie from Road by Jim Cartwright exposed the harsh realities of life in Lancashire 1980’s for families of the unemployed.

The group piece, Mosquitoes by Luck Kirkwood, explored the relationship of two very different sisters, Alice – a rational, levelheaded scientist working on the search for the Higgs Bosun particle and Jenny – a skittish, gullible conspiracy theorist, whose vivacious personality hides a deep well of sadness. Bella Caffyn (Alice) and Jasmine Hammond (Jenny), ably supported by OC Tom Orton (OC 2022, Swift), as Alice’s troubled son, Luke, gave superb performances in this darkly comic piece which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.

A Level Devised Performance

A Level Drama students presented their devised work in The Shed for a live audience, entitled Virtuality. The fascinating piece explored escapism in the modern world and questioned whether we know ourselves as well as we think we do. Utilising the methodologies of theatre practitioners, Gecko, the storytelling was beautifully presented via physical communication, with little reliance on dialogue. On the surface, the story concerns Alice who, when she eventually gets what she so desperately wished for, a long-awaited baby, her life begins to fall apart, and she loses herself in a virtual world to escape her demanding reality, but the piece raised many more issues about self-worth, desire and whether it is possible to truly live in the moment.

Vamos Theatre Mask Workshop

Over two separate dates, the entire First and Second Form were lucky enough to enjoy a Drama workshop with the renowned and exciting Vamos Theatre company. Capitalising on the current term’s exploration of mime and physical expression, our pupils experienced a masterclass in how to use professional techniques such as ‘clocking’ and ‘leading’, using the guise of Vamos’s unique set of expressive masks. Everyone was free to experiment with props and masks and they devised scenes which were moving, sincere and hilarious in equal measure. The Shed was ringing with laughter throughout both workshop sessions, and pupils will now hopefully build upon this experience and knowledge, as they explore the realms of stage craft and communication in the Drama curriculum.

Gecko Workshop

We were incredibly privileged to host Kenny Ho from Gecko Theatre Company, fresh from their sold-out tour of Kin, which culminated in a groundbreaking run at the National Theatre. Our Fifth and Sixth Form dramatists were fully immersed in their bespoke physical theatre

Our Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Form Drama pupils recently visited the Belgrade Theatre, to see Frantic Assembly’s production of Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis, with an original script adapted by the poet Lemm Sissay. With a focus on political messaging, rather than the social elements of exclusion and isolation, this was an interesting interpretation of the nightmarish story concerning a man who transforms into an insect. The performance contained Frantic Assembly’s trademark

workshop, which was challenging, exhausting and inspiring.

These students made the most of this incredible opportunity to question and learn from one of our most innovative practitioners working in theatre today.

physical theatre, choreography and wholebody lifts, but it was the stunning visuals which dominated the production. There were striking combinations of set, projection and lighting, and these complimented the frenetic and highly expressive physical skills from the lead actor, whose corporal transition was alarming to witness.

This experience gave our dramatists plenty to consider, as they develop their critical language, and expand upon their own repertoire and skill set.

Frantic Theatre Trip

GCSE Drama Exam

Fifth Form GCSE Drama candidates presented their ‘Performance from Text’ work in front of a live audience and the visiting examiner on Tuesday 19 March in The Shed. There were thirteen performances including monologues, duologues, and group work from extracts written by contemporary playwrights, which allowed pupils to create some wonderfully detailed characterisations.

There were some excellent comical performances from Lottie Bayliss (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) and Grace Clear (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) from Mark Schultz’s A Brief History

of Helen of Troy as two teenage girls discussing beauty products, their parents and dreams of a better future. Darcey Snaith (Fifth Form, Harcourt), Bryony Wyatt (Fifth Form, Swift) and Kacy Nguyen’s (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) characters from Girls Like That by Evan Placey revisited happier times when they were eight years old, forming bonds that would last a lifetime. Their physical retelling of the story and individual characterisations were excellent examples of theatrical invention. Harold Pinter’s darkly comic The Hothouse gave the audience a glimpse into a strange institution where the temperature was rising, and order was beginning to crumble. The staff, played by Luke Yesudian (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), Alexander McGibbon (Fifth Form, Harcourt)

and Zachary Wheeler (Fifth Form, Harcourt), possessed sinister undertones, creating an unsettling, yet comical, view of a collapsing establishment. In extracts from Polly Stenham’s That Face we were transported to the dorm of a boarding school where Izzy and Mia, skilfully played by Stella Willis-Bund (Fifth Form, Feilden) and Jordyn Everett (Fifth Form, Gascoigne), were ‘initiating’ a new pupil, and as the unsettling ceremony began to backfire, the comedy intensified.

It was a very entertaining evening, showcasing some truly excellent performance, teamwork and creativity. The candidates now await their results from the examiner, which they will receive in August.

First Form Production

On Tuesday 25 June, the entire First Form took to the boards to bring to life, in glorious technicolour, a selection of classic Roald Dahl favourites. Reimagined for the stage by the Roald Dahl Company, these witty tales continue to delight both audiences and performers with their zany brand of madcap shenanigans.

The Witches delivered the grotesque conference of some despicable characters, led by the Grand High Witch, in their quest to rid the world of children, in a hotel whose hapless porter deals with badgers in the beds and hamsters in the toilet. Fantastic Mr Fox told of another tale of hubris where the loathsome farmers of Boggis, Bunce and Bean are defeated by the wily and determined woodland animals, led by the remarkable Mr Fox and The Twits, in another tale of success against insurmountable odds, brought to life the end to the tyranny of this atrocious pair.

Every pupil in the First Form firmly grasped the opportunity to bring these magical plays to life. All pupils performed tremendously well, with courage and ambition; focus and vigour and made this such a memorable and special occasion.

eco

Second Form Production

In June, the entire Second Form took to the stage to perform their devised drama projects to a full house in The Shed. Mastering Physical Theatre and Masked Performance, each class provided a unique and original response to the topic of ‘Society’. One group explored what it means to be human in the digital age, using physical theatre to chart the decreasing scope of personal interaction, with the battle cry of ‘Disconnect to Reconnect’. Drawing upon their own ‘Hopes and Fears’, another class took us on a surreal journey of aspiration and anxiety with scenes of horse racing, the creation and loss of wealth, a plane crash, and a heartbreaking depiction of dementia.

From there we went back to the future and a bleak dystopia of constant surveillance in the atmospheric ‘We Are Watching You’. Set to a trance soundtrack and utilising phones and choreography, this group painted a pessimistic picture of a society where every movement is tracked by a sinister giant face, and citizens, swiping through their phones, are subjected to a spiral of hate and fear. The tone was lifted by the final class, who’s delightful ‘Parklife’ introduced us to a wide range of characters and their cheerful and chaotic interactions in a public

park. Using the famous Vamos Theatre masks, they explored what it means to interact with another and expertly created comedic scenes with mime and self-expression.

Having created the many storylines entirely themselves, this evening was an exceptional performance, from a highly talented year group, who demonstrated what can be achieved through empathy, courage and leadership.

Matilda the Musical

Well, thank the thespian gods for the Cokethorpe production of Matilda the Musical It tells the tale of Matilda. About First Form age, she is the clever, much teased, book-worm daughter of Mr and Mrs Wormwood, played here by the comic geniuses of Barney Hope (Second Form, Swift) and Atalanta Cannell (Second Form, Queen Anne) respectively. She is a bling-obsessed mother; he is a plausibly moronic second-hand car dealing father. They both hate reading and send her to a third-rate private boarding school which is run by the autocratic Trunchbull - Xander Luckett (Third Form, Vanbrugh) - the ex-Olympian Hammer throwing headmistress. She is suffered by her timid but kind niece, the divinely, and entirely appropriately named Miss Honey, played to perfection by the perfectly cast Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden)

Several things made this production hilariously entertaining, thrillingly dramatic and slickly performed. The music is surely the first amongst those things, with Tim Minchin’s arrangement making full use of every instrument. This was a very well-rehearsed musical cast. Articulation was crystal clear; tuning was precise; harmonies resonated. The sound was beautifully reproduced and the crew were fast and efficient in getting sets on an off.

Lottie Graves (Second Form, Gascoigne) as Matilda sang with angry passion and longing poignance; Cory Gardiner (First Form, Vanbrugh) as the much-bullied Bruce thumped out revolutionary cries as he rose to lead the charge against Trunchbull; the coy and camp ‘Little Kids’ made us chortle, giggle then sigh. Sofia Bell sang as her surname suggests, her anxiety and altruism brought tears to the corner of my eyes. Rudolpho played by Olivia Wood (Second Form, Harcourt), the hugely camp dance teacher of Mrs Wormwood performed the most rhythmic cha-cha-cha. And the Ensemble who operated as one supportive volumous body, and they fill the stage with revolutionary fervour. And the epically hippy librarian, Mrs Phelps, played by Immy Harris (Third Form, Gascoigne), captures the true message of the piece.

Xander Luckett stole the show as the steroidenhanced Trunchbull. At nearly six foot tall, dressed in a tinpot dictator army uniform, Xander’s Trunchbull towered above the children and flung them from the stage, complaining bitterly about the incompetence of her students. Literally, the audience roared with laughter. Those who have seen the professional show running in the West End can vouch for the fact that Xander Luckett was certainly better than the professional equivalent.

The 39 Steps

Exploding into The Shed in a riot of ludicrous slapstick and silliness, the latest venture from Cokethorpe Drama was a roaring success. Drawing on the classic John Buchan tale of spies, intrigue and assassination, this production had its tongue firmly in its cheek, as it hurtled through a cacophony of stereotypes, cut-glass accents and melodrama.

A very talented cast and crew fell over themselves (quite literally) to provide gag after gag, whether it was with makeshift cars, trains and planes, poorly timed sound cues, or unconvincing deaths, all carried along on a wave of energetic over-acting. These mistakes were of course intentional, and deliciously timed, as the highly talented cast and crew worked seamlessly to create organised chaos.

The lead ‘Richard Hannay’ was expertly played with deadpan sincerity and pencil-moustached urgency by Henry Cook (Lower Sixth, Harcourt), whose cavalier attitude to danger hurled us headlong into the thrilling narrative. He was superbly supported by Sam Farr (Lower Sixth, Swift) and Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) as the bumbling ‘Heavies’ amongst other roles, marking for them both, a debut on the Cokethorpe stage. Oscar Luckett (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) multiroled several extreme villainous characters, from the ludicrously Scottish ‘Crofter’ to the ominous Nazi mastermind ‘The Professor’ and Adam Rees (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) revelled in his several flamboyant roles, including the ill-fated ‘Mr Memory’. There was an exceptional performance by Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift), who delivered her heroine ‘Pamela’ with panache and pitch perfect inflection, and Evie-Rose Burdick (Fourth Form, Queen Anne) was hilarious as both the lovelorn ‘Margaret’ and the doddering ‘Mrs McGarrigle. There was excellent support from Amelie Boyle (Fourth Form, Harcourt) in several roles and also in her Cokethorpe debut, and a marvellous cameo from Emmeline Black (Fourth Form, Feilden) as the classic femme fatale ‘Annabella Schmid’.

The crew were everywhere all at once, working hard to provide visual gags, light switches and dog-fighting planes, and they were as invaluable to the swift comic timing as the rest of the cast. This new young team under the leadership of Eylül Kaban (Third Form, Swift) should be congratulated for their professionalism and teamwork. This was spectacular performance, loaded with such laughter and energy that it was positively breathtaking in its blundering joy.

Christingle Service

With the beautiful backdrop of the Chapel, the Prep School gathered together for a magical and somewhat moving Christingle Service. Christingle (Christ Angel) is related to a word of Germanic origin, Christkindl, meaning ‘Christ Candle’ or Christkind meaning ‘Little Christ Child’, and it is used to celebrate Jesus Christ as the ‘Light of the World’.

The pupils made a joyful noise, singing traditional carols, including: In the Bleak Mid-Winter, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and a beautiful, candle-lit version of Silent Night. The service provided pupils with the opportunity to reflect on the love that God has for us, and how God’s mercy and grace are with us always, spreading across the globe.

Thanks to Mr Wilson for some magnificent organ playing, for the Year 6 readers who shared the story of the nativity, to the Chamber Choir and soloists who took part, and for those who angelically held the Christingle itself.

Prep Choir Dragon Days

Prep choir rehearsed a selection of songs for the Spring Concert from the musical Dragon Days, which tells the story of a small village with a terrifying dragon (who is actually rather nice).

The Prep Choir consists of pupils from Years 3 to 6. For the Spring Concert performance, the audience will enjoy listening to Years 4, 5 and 6 narrating the story with some additional surprise costume elements to look forward to as well.

Advent Services

Over two nights, the Senior School visited St Mary’s Church, Witney, alongside parents and family, to attend Cokethorpe’s Services of Lessons and Carols.

On each evening, the music was provided by the School Choir, totalling almost 60 members, with singers from the Prep and Senior Schools, augmented further by members of staff.

The Choir’s combined sound was glorious and powerful, but always beautiful, as they led the congregation in well-known carols and sang choral anthems, including Joubert’s Torches, Rutter’s Star Carol and Skempton’s Adam lay ybounden; the hard work each and every single singer contributed paid dividends in abundance, as they impressed and moved parents, staff and pupils alike.

Christmas Concert

Prep and Senior pupils who arrived at the Chapel suitably attired in Christmas jumpers and hats for the Christmas Concert, as the audience were treated to a selection of festive treats by ensembles and soloists from both.

Highlights from this wonderful evening included the Senior Clarinet Choir who began proceedings with a programme of three confidently played pieces, followed by a most poignant piece on violin by Sophie Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh). Prep School Glockenspiel and Brass Ensembles lifted the mood with a rousing rendition of Jingle Bells, as did some songs performed by Mia Beechey (First Form, Swift). Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) featured not once but twice, firstly with his outstanding performance on violin and later in a duet with Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift) on piano. The Senior Brass Ensemble sprinkled everyone with Christmas cheer. Katy Stiger (Third Form, Swift) delighted with her clarinet performance of Feliz Navidad and then it was the turn of Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden) and Sam Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden) with their spirited clarinet duet of Jingle Bells Boogie. Prep School Choir concluded the evening with the warm hearted and powerfully sung That’s Christmas to me and impressed with their part singing.

Senior

Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Music Exam Results

Grade 8 Clarinet

Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift) Grade 7 Piano

Edward Cale (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

Grade 5 Trumpet

Eva Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) Grade 5 Clarinet

Darcy Snaith (Fifth Form, Harcourt)

Katy Stiger (Third Form, Swift)

Ningxuan Zhu (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Leo Middleton (Third Form, Gascoigne)

Bing Brown (Third Form, Queen Anne)

William Woodwards (First Form, Swift)

Grade 5 Rock and Pop Vocals

Grade 5 Oboe

Grade 5 Piano

Grade 4 Violin

Grade 3 Piano

Grade 2 Singing

Mia Beechey (First Form, Swift) Grade 1 Piano

Mia Beechey (First Form, Swift)

Bing Brown (Third Form, Queen Anne)

Nicholas Burrow (First Form, Feilden)

Johannes Dirksen (Second Form, Feilden)

Johannes Dirksen (Second Form, Feilden)

Grade 1 Singing

Grade 1 Piano

Grade 1 Singing

Grade 1 Singing

Grade 1 Violin

Daisy Mathieson (Second Form, Gascoigne) Grade 1 Singing for Musical Theatre

William McHale (Second Form Feilden)

Grade 1 Rock and Pop Vocals

Joseph Palmer (First Form, Feilden) Grade 1 Piano

Lili Radulovic (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Grade 1 Singing for Musical Theatre

Charlie Warrilow (First Form, Harcourt) Grade 1 Trumpet

Prep

James Clayton (Year 4, Baker)

Grade 2 Piano

Isla Cruickshank (Year 5, Gwyn) Initial Violin

Roemer Tweehuijsen (Year 5, Lockwood)

Grade 1 Trumpet

Eloise Young-Gale (Year 4, Symonds) Prep Test Piano

Corinthian Concert and Cake

This academic year, during our Corinthian Concert and Cake weekly recitals, we have had: almost 30 in total, with over 150 Prep, Senior and staff musicians taking part. From bagpipe to double bass performances, improvisation to premieres of compositions, we have been treated to an array of astonishing music making, all accompanied by deliciously made cake in front of appreciative audiences.

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Pass

Pass

Distinction

Merit

Merit

Merit

Distinction

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Merit

Distinction

Merit

Merit

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Present

Theatre Trip to Matilda

‘The trip to Matilda in London inspired me as it enabled me to see what the character I will be playing is like. As an actress it was helped me think of ideas of what i can do in our play, such as the actions, facial expressions and the exaggeration of certain words in sentences which really brought their characters to life.

It was great to see how the full cast came together and worked as a team to contribute to a truly magnificent performance.

I really enjoyed the experience of going to the west end with my friends and it is a memory that I will never forget. My only regret was spending my money on ice creams for me and my friends but sometimes as Matilda suggested 'You have to be a little bit naughty!'

Isy Noon (First Form, Gascoigne)

House Singing Competition

The Senior School came together for the annual House Singing competition, and what an incredible occasion it was too. We were treated to six different performances spanning a range of musical styles, unified only by the dedication and momentum of its happy singers, with staff and pupils sharing the stage. House Singing is a unique competition amongst House events: it brings together all pupils from all year groups, sharing responsibility and having an equal part to play and contribution to make. Each House chose what it wanted to sing which resulted in an extremely close and impressive competition.

Swift – Pompeii by Bastille

Queen Anne – As It Was by Harry Styles Vanbrugh – Hold Back the River by James Bay Gascoigne – What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction

Harcourt – Counting Stars by One Republic Feilden – Budapest by George Ezra

Every House song was accompanied brilliantly by a live band, formed, this year: Dr J Winkley, Rory Evans, Adam Stowe and Tom Alford (OC 2020, Swift). My thanks go to all of them for their sterling playing, as they transitioned effortlessly from one song to the next.

It was a pleasure to welcome back Dr Richard Dunster-Sigtermans to adjudicate this year’s competition who was extremely impressed by every House’s performance and offered some really excellent feedback, with the unenviable task of choosing the winner. The Pupil Leadership Award went to Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), with Swift and Feilden awarded joint second place, and Harcourt crowned the overall winners for their performance of Counting Stars by One Republic.

Mr Wilson Director of Music

Music Award Holders Concerts

The Music Award Holders’ Concert was a wonderful occasion, showcasing the talents of our incredible musicians. From the First Form to the Sixth Form, pupils from across the Senior School came together to perform on a range of instruments covering a variety of styles. From voice to violin, oboe to cello, each performance was a celebration of music.

There were some exceptional performances from our experienced musicians, however, it is not just experience that makes a Music Award Holder, but interest, aptitude and enthusiasm. Many pupils who have only been playing for a few months such as Emilie Ayllon (First Form, Feilden), Johannes Dirksen (Second Form, Feilden) and Florence Nixey (First Form, Gascoigne) played with aplomb and have improved dramatically since the first performances of the year.

Eva Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) commented; ‘These young musicians displayed not just talent, but also immense bravery, performing excellently across a range of instruments, their progress and resilience is beyond admirable.’ Lucy Picking (First Form, Vanbrugh) said of her performance ‘When I was watching all of the others perform I was amazed because of all of the funky music being played. When it was my turn to perform I was really nervous. I had practised so much beforehand and I think it well.’

Spring Concert

‘The Spring Concert was a wonderful evening of music which saw musicians from the Prep School through to the Upper Sixth come together to share their talents with parents, staff, and their peers. Several ensembles performed over the course of the evening, with a variety of repertoire including traditional Greek music, Classical music and show songs.

Some highlights from the evening included the Clarinet Choir, the Prep Ensembles and the Senior Choir. The Orchestra played a piece of professional repertoire; Haydn’s Sinfonia No.82 Movement 1, a moving piece which showcased the talent of the musicians. This was a fantastic concert enjoyed by all who attended and marked a triumphant end for the Upper Sixth students’ musical careers at Cokethorpe.'

Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

On Wednesday 1 May, members of the School Choir and staff, gathered on the Mansion House balcony in front of the whole School to sing three madrigals in honour of May Day. Thankfully, the rain held off and the Choir sang beautifully in front of pupils and staff. It was a lovely morning and a wonderful opportunity to capture the joy and spirit of May Day.

Songs from the Shows

On Tuesday 5 March, the 'Songs from the Shows' concert was held in the Corinthian Room. It was a lovely hour of music making, in which nine pupils took part, singing an eclectic mix of songs ranging from The Sound of Music and Oliver to Mamma Mia. The performances were all fantastic and aptly complimentary shortbreads were served afterward to add to the immersive experience of ‘Songs from the Shows with Shortbread’.

Evensong

On Thursday 19 October, the Chapel was host to the first Evensong since before covid. The Senior Choir sang; Magnificat, Nunc Dimittis, The Lord is my Shepherd and I give to you a new commandment. There were also two readings given by Sixth Form students. The evening was enjoyed by all with pupils from First Form to Sixth Form performing alongside each other in harmony.

Gig Night

Our talented musicians took to the stage for another sensational night of music at the Lent Term Gig Night. Pupils from the First Form to the Upper Sixth took to the stage to showcase their talents, performing everything from jazz clarinet to piano and bass guitar to vocals.

Congratulations to Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift) and Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) for organising such a successful evening and thanks go to the Upper Sixth students who supported them by assisting in running the event. This is always a hugely popular event amongst both the performers and the audience.

St Cecilia Concert

It is just as well that Cokethorpe’s Dining Hall does not have rafters, with a programme and an audience that were packed well beyond where rafters might have been for the eagerly anticipated St Cecilia Concert.

Sat amidst the glorious acoustics provided by the Hall, the audience were treated to an equally splendid programme of music from the Prep and Senior Schools, with orchestral, choral, ensemble and band performances alongside mesmerising duets and trios from well over one-hundred participating pupils.

Haydn’s Symphony 104 in D was followed by Fantasia on British Sea Songs by Henry Wood, played with great aplomb by the Orchestra, setting the tone for the evening’s musical mesmerism to come.

The Senior Choir showed great skill as they admirably dealt with their challenging pieces from Dyson, Menken, and Rutter. They were followed by a captivating piano duet from Eloise Young-Gale (Year 4, Symonds) and Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), before the Prep Choir dazzled with a selection of songs from this term’s Prep production of Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf by Roald Dahl to round off the first half.

After the interval, the First Form and Brass Ensemble’s had the audience swaying in their seats with their respective performances of a Medley from The Lion King and Neil Diamond’s perennially crowd-pleasing Sweet Caroline. The Rock Band brought proceedings up to the ‘nineties’ and ‘noughties’ with assured performances of songs from Amy Winehouse and The Cranberries, before the Senior Clarinet Ensemble returned us to the classical, with Rhosymedre by Ralph Vaughan Williams.

The evening closed with Sicilian Mariner’s Hymn, Can You Hear Me, and Torches from the Clarinet, Prep Chamber, and School Choirs respectively, and a string trio of Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), Ella Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), and Sophie Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh).

A superb performance from all involved.

Young Musician of the Year

On Tuesday 6 February, Cokethorpe’s best musicians came together to battle it out as part of this year’s Musician of the Year Finals. Over 50 pupils entered the competition. representing a whole host of musical instruments and genres, and they performed in the heat rounds which took place the week before the Finals. Mr Hughes, Mr Wilson and Mrs Warren, the adjudicators for the heat rounds, were incredibly impressed with the high standard and it was a very difficult decision deciding on who to put forwards for the Finals.

Both the Lower Grade and Higher Grade finals were awash with stunning music making, as pupils played and sang their hearts out, impressing audiences and the guest adjudicators alike. Every single performance was a triumph, displaying beautiful poise, phrasing, technique and emotion.

The adjudicator of the Lower Grade Final, Miss Megan Sharp (Director of Music at the Chandlings Prep School) said ‘I was really impressed with the standard of performances.’

Mr William Morris, Director of Music at The Dragon School said; ‘There was so much talent on display that Cokethorpe should be really proud’. The adjudicators had the most arduous and unenviable task of choosing the winners and the results were as follows:

Lower Grade

Commended: Lottie Graves (Second Form, Gascoigne) - voice and Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden) - voice

Highly commended: Ralph Hyne (Second Form, Harcourt) - saxophone

Third place: Xander Jordan (Second Form, Vanbrugh) - clarinet

Joint Second place: Nicholas Burrow (First Form, Feilden) – voice and William Woodwards (First Form, Swift) - voice

First place: Ben Picking (Third Form, Vanbrugh) – piano

Higher Grade

Commended: Sophie Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) - violin

Highly Commended: Xander Luckett (Third Form, Vanbrugh) – voice and Leo Middleton (Third Form, Gascoigne) - piano

Third place: Ella Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) - oboe)

Second place: Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) - violin

First place: Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden) - clarinet

SPORTS

Prep School Sports Report

The Prep Sports programme takes immense pride in the completion of yet another successful academic year, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our pupils. Our programme places a strong emphasis on fostering a love for sports. Our dedicated coaches and staff work closely with pupils, providing guidance and training to enhance their technical abilities in their chosen sports. Regular practice sessions and competitive fixtures have allowed our pupils to refine their skills, instilling discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic.

We extend our gratitude to all the parents for their unwavering support and the sense of community spirit they bring to our School. Additionally, this year’s Prep School sporting calendar has seen some exciting new additions, including: Swimming Galas, sport tours for our Year 5 and 6 teams, and expanded events within our Corinthian Partnership and local club links.

Rugby

The Rugby season provided abundant opportunities for boys in Years 3 to 6 to compete against other schools. Regular fixtures allowed our pupils to put their skills to the test and experience the exhilaration of competitive rugby. Beyond the game, these opportunities also instilled important values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and resilience.

Year 3 and 4 Boys: They engaged in fantastic end-to-end tag rugby throughout the term, especially during matches against The Manor Prep and St Hugh’s Prep. Noteworthy performances came from Hunter Everson (Year 3, Symonds) and Lucas Manson (Year 4, Gwyn), who demonstrated outstanding tackling and passing skills this season.

Years 5 and 6 Boys: Demonstrating great camaraderie and sportsmanship, they collaborated effectively during each fixture. Rarely tasting defeat, they played with determination and skill. Special mentions go to Will Rainey (Year 5, Baker), Noah Vincent (Year 6, Gwyn), and Marco Scott (Year 6, Lockwood).

Hockey

The dedication and talent of our girls in Years 3 to 6 have shone through in the Hockey programme this year. Their achievements in various matches and triangular tournaments are a testament to their hard work and commitment.

(Year 4, Gwyn), and Oliver Noon (Year 4, Symonds). Their strong partnership created numerous scoring opportunities, while Copter Komhom (Year 3, Symonds) stood firm in goal with a string of phenomenal saves.

Years 3 and 4 have honed their stick skills, mastered playing positions, and developed a strong understanding of game tactics. Sophie Campbell (Year 4, Baker), Catriona Rounce (Year 4, Lockwood), and Eloise Young-Gale (Year 4 Symonds) deserve special recognition for their contributions.

Building on prior years' groundwork, the Years 5 and 6 girls showcased advanced techniques and strategic awareness throughout the season. A huge congratulations to the U11 Peacocks who qualified to represent Oxfordshire in the In2Hockey regional finals. Special mentions go to Isla Cruickshank (Year 5, Gwyn), Molly Sheer (Year 6, Symonds), Berry Drake (Year 6, Gwyn), and Esmae Lakey-Dodson (Year 6, Lockwood) for their unwavering commitment throughout the season.

Football

Our young footballers enjoyed a stellar season, with all teams showcasing their talent and teamwork. The Year 3 and 4 teams secured some impressive victories against Hatherop Castle and Kitebrook. A true highlight was the fantastic passing and movement displayed by Lorenzo Dodd (Year 3, Baker), Harry Hope

The Year 5 and 6 boys displayed outstanding football throughout the season, focusing on building play from the back and keeping possession even in tightly contested matches. They faced strong opposition like The Dragon, Abingdon Prep, and Hatherop Castle, emerging victorious in many games.

A huge congratulations to the U11 Peacocks for winning the Sibford Football Tournament in a heart-stopping penalty shootout. Maxwell Imbusi (Year 6, Lockwood) delivered the winning penalty after an impressive display of saves by Xavier Dodd (Year 6, Baker). Throughout the season, individual brilliance also shone through with fantastic solo goals from Oscar Rivers (Year 6, Gwyn) and Harry Skeen (Year 6, Lockwood). These were just some of the many standout performances by both U10 and U11 teams.

Netball

The girls put their footwork, passing, and shooting skills to the test in numerous matches throughout the season. The Year 3 and 4 teams displayed boundless enthusiasm and resilience, showcasing their talents in a variety of fixtures.

Etta Jennings (Year 3, Baker) and Zoe Imbusi (Year 3, Symonds) particularly stood out with their impressive movement and passing abilities.

For Years 5 and 6, a packed schedule provided ample opportunities for them to develop as a unit, transitioning from five-a-side to seven-a-side in preparation for Senior School. Megan Bartlett (Year 6, Gwyn), Jemima Diffey (Year 6, Lockwood), and Arabella Ferguson (Year 6, Symonds) impressed visiting schools with their exceptional performances. Their understanding of attacking and defensive patterns was evident throughout their matches.

Cricket

The Cricket season was a delight for Years 3 to 6, filled with exciting matches and skill development.

Years 3 and 4 developed their bowling skills throughout the season. Sophie Campbell (Year 4, Baker) and James Clayton (Year 4, Baker) deserve special recognition for their dedication and perseverance in improving their batting and bowling.

Years 5 and 6 shared some phenomenal achievements. The U11 Hardball team dominated the season with stellar batting and bowling performances by Oscar Rivers (Year 6, Gwyn), George Crossley (Year 6, Baker), and Harry Convery (Year 6, Symonds). Their contributions led to thrilling victories against Kitebrook and Sibford.

The mixed team displayed great teamwork, strategically navigating close matches against St Helen and St Katharine. Molly Sheer (Year 6, Symonds) and Berry Drake (Year 6, Gwyn) impressed with their growth in both bowling and batting throughout the season.

Swimming and Cross Country

The swim squad actively participated in galas this year, competing against schools like Oxford High, The Dragon, and Cothill. Scout Andreasen (Year 6, Gwyn) consistently delivered outstanding performances at each gala.

Congratulations to Megan Bartlett (Year 6, Gwyn) for qualifying and running in the National Cross-Country Championships. Her exceptional performance at the School's termly cross-country event at Radley College secured her spot.

Sport Tours

The Year 5 and 6 girls embarked on a pre-season Netball tour to Surrey Sports Park in partnership with Surrey Storm. The workshop provided valuable training and prepared them for a successful Netball season.

Adding to the excitement, the Year 5 and 6 boys enjoyed a local football rivalry at the Kassam Stadium, witnessing an end-to-end match between Oxford United and Reading Football Club.

Mr Baker Head of Prep Sport

Prep School Sports Day

There was excitement in the air on Thursday 20 June as the Prep School held its annual Sports Day. The four Houses: Baker, Gwyn, Lockwood, and Symonds, were all vying for the coveted title of 2024 Sports Day Champions. The festivities kicked off with the Pre-Prep races, where young athletes like Eliam Gounongbe (Year 2, Lockwood), Charlie Laight (Year 2, Lockwood), Blue Milles (Year 2, Symonds), Debbie Donald (Year 2, Baker), Ramona Isoo (Year 2, Gwyn), Emmy Theyer (Year 2, Symonds), and Phoebe Mardle (Year 2, Symonds) showed their determination and talent. Their competitive spirit and sportsmanship was truly inspiring.

The Year 3 to 6 pupils continued the momentum with a series of thrilling track and field events. From explosive 60-metre dashes to impressive displays of endurance in the 800-metre races, these young athletes gave it their all. Year 6 even introduced the long jump, meticulously calculating their steps before launching themselves into the sandpit. The day culminated in a nail-biting final relay race between the four Houses. In a display of exceptional teamwork and athleticism, Baker House emerged victorious. Throughout the day, all the participants demonstrated the true Cokethorpe character, embodying the spirit of the ‘Go for it Gorilla’ with incredible perseverance and sportsmanship. It was a day filled with cheers, camaraderie, and a celebration of athletic achievement.

Special Mentions

Year 3

Hunter Everson (Symonds) 60m dash

Woody Heaton (Gwyn) overall attitude and perseverance in all events

Copter Komhom (Symonds) speed bounce and standing long jump

Year 4

Eloise Young-Gale (Symonds) 400m

Catriona Rounce (Lockwood) 400m

Sophie Campbell (Baker) vortex throw

James Clayton (Baker) 400m

Oliver Noon (Symonds) standing long jump

Year 5

Julia Pisanello (Baker) 60m dash

Will Rainey (Baker) 60m dash, 800m and 75m hurdles

Isla Cruickshank (Gwyn) 800m

Year 6

Oscar Rivers (Gwyn) 60m dash, long jump and 75m hurdles

Maxwell Imbusi (Lockwood) long jump

Megan Bartlett (Gwyn) 60m dash and 800m

Scarlett Miles (Lockwood) 200m

Mr

Baker Head of Prep Sport

Senior School Sports Day

There was much anticipation surrounding Cokethorpe’s 2024 Sports Day. A new 400m grass track based next to the field events, for one, allowed all sports to take place within a stone's throw of each other, giving pupils, parents, staff and other spectators, a real chance to bask in the glory of all things Cokethorpe Athletics. The weather shone fondly upon our treasured parklands, giving pupils some reprieve from the heat that had prevailed in recent weeks. The sun was not the only shining light on the day, as we saw some electric displays of speed, power, endurance and accuracy, over the course of the afternoon. One resounding leadership trait displayed was courage, and Izzy Corkish (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) showcased this in abundance as she battled like a warrior to finish the 1,500m, much to the delight and joy of the onlooking crowd.

Joshua Spolander (Second Form, Queen Anne), who won the Burfitt Cup in 2023, despite winning the First and Second Form 1,500m, was devastated to just miss out on another incredible record, by just two seconds. But knowing Joshua, he will return in 2025 with the ambition and hunger to break further School records. Following on from her Cross-Country heroics in September, Gascoigne’s Immy Harris (Third Form, Gascoigne) who has such grace and integrity on the track, raced to victory in the Third and Fourth Form Girls' 1,500m with a tactical masterclass in how to pace a longdistance running event. Fletch Jewell (Lower Sixth, Feilden) in his first Sports Day appearance gave a demonstration of raw speed, taking the 100m final by storm, clocking an impressive 11.6 seconds. He led Feilden with integrity throughout the day, also winning the 1,500m and dominating in the 4 x 100m relay.

Responsibility was clearly at the forefront of the mind of Lola Fitzgerald (Third Form, Feilden) who has showed much promise on the sports fields this year. That promise came alive in the Third and Fourth Form 100m and 200m finals, winning both events with a turn of speed and power the like of which we have not seen for many years at Cokethorpe. Such was her dominance, that she was presented with the coveted Burfitt Cup, which is awarded to the outstanding athlete of the day.

For the overall Sports Day Cup, despite the judgement and perseverance of Harcourt, particularly on the track, where Liam Rowe (Fourth Form, Harcourt) was in devastating form in the 100m, 200m and a record-breaking time with his relay team. Harcourt were unable to hold off the powerhouse that is Swift, who just snuck the win, to claim a threepeat of victories under Mr Joiner. Incoming Head of School, Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift), held the cup aloft in triumph, to bring another wonderful sporting event to a close.

Mr Robinson Director of Sport

Rugby

First XV

Four years ago, we set ourselves the challenge of exposing our players to the best schoolboy Rugby this country has to offer. The mindset shift involved was huge - dropping fixtures that would have yielded big wins in favour of new opponents and likely defeats was always going to be a tricky sell, but our players understood and so too did the parents, so much so, that when the tournament at the prestigious Sedbergh National Rugby Tens Competition 2024 came around the majority of parents were able to travel the five hours north to Cumbria and join us for the three-day competition. After three attempts, we won our first game at Sedbergh, with the potential for more. King’s Macclesfield had a very lucky escape and at half time we were leading Brighton College - Marcus Smith’s old school. The word went around that there might be a huge shock result about to happen. The numbers on the touchline swelled, but it was not to be. The aim next season is to win two games and between now and then there is the School’s first tour to South Africa (alongside our Senior Girls’ Hockey Squad) and another tough regular season. Nothing worth having ever came easy.

After the successes of last year, the challenge for this outstanding group of boys was not only to maintain these high standards, but to push on and raise them even further. Once again led by their captain, Murray Gray (Fifth Form, Feilden), and his Vice-Captain Josca Chapman (Fifth Form, Swift), this team started the season off coming back from 26-0 down at half time against a very strong Oratory side, to draw 26-26. It was this strength of character, of never being willing to accept defeat, that has brought them so much success over the years and laid down the marker for the rest of the season. Further wins were the just reward for this outstanding group of boys. It was fitting testament for all their effort and hard work to see the likes of Jonty Armstrong (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), Luke Taylor (Fifth Form, Swift), Joseph Westmoreland (Fifth Form, Harcourt),

Murray Gray, and the player of the season

Jack Potter (Fifth Form, Gascoigne), gain caps for the First XV over the course of the season, as well as being part of the Senior squad that travelled up to Sedbergh for the prestigious Tens tournament at the end of March. These boys have been a pleasure to coach over the past two years and it is hugely exciting to see what they can go on to achieve in their time at Cokethorpe and beyond.

U15

The U15 team had a challenging, but ultimately rewarding season, that saw the group come together and play with commitment and cohesion. Despite suffering a number of losses, notable wins came against Burford and Lord Williams School. Despite a series of injuries and difficult fixtures, the morale of the team never wavered and, overall, this should be seen as a positive and developmental season - with a number of boys potentially ready to play Senior Rugby next season.

U14

The U14A team had a season of many highs and delightfully few lows. An unbeaten season is hard to come by, but this talented bunch produced game after game of stellar work rate, powerful running and good execution of the basic skills. All of this was achieved with smiles on faces. The team was commandingly led by Stanley Harris (Third Form, Vanbrugh) who was also top point scorer of the season with 50 points. Will Stevenson (Third Form, Queen Anne) with eight tries and Harry Rivers (Third Form, Feilden) with seven had superb seasons and Archie Ricks (Third Form, Harcourt) looks

like a real player for the future with six tries this season, an impressive return considering he had never played a game of rugby before September. The boys should go into next season with a lot of confidence and hopefully put together a good cup run.

U13

This year, the U13A rugby team made significant strides in their development and have focused on enhancing their skills in contested rucks and scrums, applying what they had learned in First Form. Throughout the season, the U13A team faced formidable opponents, yet they consistently demonstrated resilience and determination, fighting until the final whistle. Captaincy was a shared responsibility among the team members, with a new captain each fixture. This fostered leadership qualities in everyone. The highest try scorer of the year was Joshua Spolander (Second Form, Queen Anne), whose speed and agility made him a formidable force on the field, often leaving defenders in his wake. Special mention goes to Sam Bartlett (Second Form, Vanburgh), Charlie Parks (Second Form, Queen Anne) and Felix McGill (Second Form, Gascoigne) for their vital contributions and outstanding performances throughout the season. Most improved player of the season goes to Fraser O’Driscoll (Second Form, Gascoigne). The team looks forward to the next season with enthusiasm, eager to build on their experiences and continue their growth.

U12

The U12s season started incredibly well, winning the first four fixtures, including winning a tough triangular tournament at St Hughs, also including Hatherop Castle, and a large victory over Abingdon Prep. Ironically our best performance of the season against a very strong Dragon team ended in a loss: we defended extremely well and put into play the structures we had been working on in training, which is all anyone can ask for. More victories followed, and a loss against another very strong team from Winchester House. The boys developed well through the season, with their structure and understanding of game play improving with each match. If they keep up this level of improvement they should approach next season with confidence.

Across the term Sam Rainey (First Form, Swift) scored an incredible two tries in thirteen of the matches and was duly recognised as the Player of the Season. Lucas Kelly (First Form, Harcourt), with his formidable defensive efforts, was chosen as the Player’s Player of the Season.

U16

Hockey

Although the newly re-laid Hardwick astro heralded an exciting new chapter for hockey at Cokethorpe this year, the foundations for the hockey programme have been very much in place for quite some time.

Building the requisite skills to compete in hockey fixtures continues to be the focus for each of our age groups – gameplay alone simply cannot lead to sustained longterm success. Although our pupils undoubtedly place a lot of emphasis on the outcome of their fixtures – rightly so, it could be argued – hockey at Cokethorpe is about much more than that. Encouraging our pupils to continue playing hockey beyond their time at School is important. There is every chance we will encourage our pupils to do just that by honing their team-building and social interaction skills, which is surely a far greater achievement than the victories we claim today.

First XI

Following the departures of several Upper Sixth First XI players at the end of the previous academic year, it was a term of rebuilding for the current First XI squad. Although this year’s cohort could not successfully defend their crown as County Champions, there were still notable victories against Magdalen College School, Headington and Oxford High. Mae Serjeant (Lower Sixth, Swift) was voted player of the Michaelmas Term, Libby Lawman (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) impressed in her first season for the First XI, whilst Calla Whitby (Lower Sixth, Feilden) and Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth, Swift) were imperious in defence. Thanks must go to Molly Grinham (Upper Sixth, Feilden) for her continued show of encouragement as First XI captain.

Boys’ First XI

It was also a year of transition for our Boy’s First XI squad, with many of last year’s cohort made up of Upper Sixth players. So, although there were few notable results, many of the

boys who played during the Lent Term demonstrated vast improvement in what, for some, was their first experience of hockey. Edward Smith (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) made some outstanding saves during his debut season in goal ensured Cokethorpe were competitive in many of their fixtures. Archie Griffiths (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) and captain Matthew Hamilton (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) carried the goalscoring threat throughout the term.

Second XI

A sign of strength within our Second XI squad is that our girls continue to be pitted against First XI opposition, and they continue to rise to the challenge. Goalkeeper Anna Pratley (Upper Sixth, Feilden) was voted player of the Michaelmas Term and was singled out for praise in impressive victories against St Edward’s, Oxford and Princethorpe College. Poppy Symonds (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Francesca Evans (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) also stood out in the heart of defence whilst Grace Soden (Lower Sixth, Swift) proved to be a potent finisher in the forward line.

U16

With a handful of Fifth Form pupils called into the First XI squad, our U16s continued to display a togetherness in some spirited displays this year. Georgia Tibble (Fifth Form, Swift) and Connie Quartley (Fifth Form, Swift) were consistent performers in central positions whilst Amelia Atkinson (Fifth Form, Feilden) and Bryony Wyatt (Fifth Form, Swift) were at the double for Cokethorpe in attack. Returning from the hockey tour to South Africa in August, this cohort will undoubtedly be chomping at the bit for a place in the First XI squad in the Michaelmas Term.

U15

It was an indomitable season for the U15 age group this term, winning five and drawing two of their fixtures. Impressive performances from Aneliese Sagar (Fourth Form, Swift) and Freya Chandler (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) saw these pupils selected to represent the Oxfordshire U15 age group, whilst Audrey McCormick (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), Margot Willis (Fourth Form, Swift) and Hattie Hunt (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) also stood out for Cokethorpe. Following their hockey tour to Yorkshire this summer, it is hoped this age group will hit the ground running for the new hockey term in September.

U14

The U14 age group were the most improved squad this year, demonstrating commendable resilience in what is always a difficult transition from seven a-side to eleven a-side hockey. With some outstanding goalkeeping from Kitty Hyland (Third Form, Swift) forming the basis for an increasingly confident defensive unit, promising victories against Rye St Anthony and Burford School reflected the hard work that pupils have shown during Games sessions. Martha Pumfrey (Third Form, Harcourt) and captain Bella Smith (Third Form, Harcourt) proved to be the linchpins that held the team together.

U13

There is a growing sense of excitement surrounding the U13 age group, after finishing as runners-up at the County Hockey Tournament in January and representing the School at the Regional Hockey finals for the second year in a row. Georgia Standbridge (Second Form, Queen Anne), Gabriella Hughes (Second Form, Feilden) and captain Sienna Timms (Second Form, Vanbrugh), made up a strong spine of the team this year. As these pupils progress to play eleven a-side hockey next year, there is a belief that this age group can go from strength to strength and achieve even further success.

U12

With many of our U12 pupils experiencing hockey fixtures for the first time in September, finishing third at the country hockey tournament this year is quite a remarkable achievement. With a sharp focus on the important technical aspects of the game at an important phase of their development, our pupils were able to retain possession of the ball with greater purpose as the year progressed, culminating in some impressive performances and results against St Helen & St Katharine and Oxford High. Scarlett Gould (First Form, Harcourt) captained the team with aplomb, whilst Tamsin Pratt (First Form, Feilden) was awarded player of the Michaelmas Term.

Boy’s Lower Years

Hockey continues to surge in popularity for boys in First, Second and Third Form at Cokethorpe. Although there were notable victories over St Hugh’s and Thorngrove School, fielding two sides each week during the Lent Term is, perhaps, a more appropriate indicator of success. After standout performances for the Lower Years team this season, Bing Brown (Third Form, Queen Anne) and Barnaby Cale (Third Form, Gascoigne) will progress to play First XI boy’s hockey next year. Sam Young-Gale (First Form, Queen Anne) provided a glimpse of what is to come for this age group, with an impressive hat-trick against Thorngrove School in the final fixture of the term.

Football

First XI

The First XI enjoyed an outstanding season and were unbeaten in all competitions. Ably led by Captains Freddie Murfitt (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) and Jack Rivers (Upper Sixth, Feilden), the team went from strength to strength. Trying to adopt a more possession-based style of play, the team quickly adapted and put in some excellent performances, dominating teams on a number of occasions. Other wins came, but perhaps the most enjoyable victory was a hard-fought 1-0 win against local rivals Abingdon. The culmination of the season was the Society of Heads National Final, where the squad put in a brilliant performance to overcome Concord College 5-1 – an outstanding achievement. This really was a perfect season, blending players across the ages – and whilst it is sad to say goodbye to a number of superb Upper Sixth boys, the future is bright with the quality of younger players coming into the team this year.

U16

The U16s final season as a squad was made special by winning the Society of Head’s Cup competition 3-1 against Oswestry School in an extra time thriller. The squad had developed a cohesiveness over the past few seasons, having been disappointed on more than one occasion. Their ‘bounce backability’ and team ethic is woven through the core of the team and this season proved to be their crowning achievement. Some fantastic results showed what is possible with hard work, grit and determination. Managing an ever changing team as boys played up in the First XI, the team learnt fortitude and resilience through some tough fixtures and were stronger because of the experience. Having played ten, won seven, scored 35 and conceded only thirteen, the boys should be rightly proud of their efforts.

Captain Luke Taylor (Fifth Form, Swift) and Vice Captain Tijn Camoenié (Fifth Form, Harcourt) lead the team superbly and all members of the squad demonstrated the key leadership traits: ambition in playing positive, front-foot football; responsibility to make a decision on and off the ball; and courage to play through pain and fatigue for each other.

U15

The U15s had an indifferent season, showing glimpses of what they were capable of in every single one of their fixtures, but unfortunately on too many occasions were simply unable to capitalise on their sustained periods of pressure by not being able to put the ball in the back of the net. Their courage and teamwork were a prominent feature of their displays throughout, ably led by Captain Ernie Morgan-Sanders (Fourth Form, Swift), who worked tirelessly throughout the season in midfield and led by example. Ollie Herbert (Fourth Form, Queen Anne) was often a handful for the opposition with his skilful and direct approach, whilst Sam Weldon (Fourth Form, Harcourt) and James Keeling (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) worked tirelessly for the team throughout. The boys finished the season with a very well deserved 1-0 win away at Pangbourne, a result which would not have gone their way had it not been for the courage and resilience that they had displayed over the course of the season.

U14

The U14 team, captained by Archie Ricks (Third Form, Harcourt), embarked on this season with a mix of anticipation and nerves. New faces dotted the roster and it took time for the boys to find their rhythm. Despite the initial challenges, they left an indelible mark on the pitch. Their opening cup match tested their mettle but still the U14s showcased promise, leaving parents and spectators eager for what lay ahead. The U14's final game of the season showcased remarkable progress and talent as they secured a 6-2 victory—a true highlight of the season. This season, Joel Davies (Third Form, Harcourt) emerged as the team’s beacon –

scoring the most goals. The opposition feared him and teammates relied on his magic. Credit must also go to Hugo Du Plessis (Third Form, Harcourt), solidity defined. He thwarted attacks, read opponents’ minds and, as the team leaned on him, he rarely wavered. The team looks to capitalise on their existing strengths, with the hope of achieving even greater success next season.

U13

The team had a mixed season but showed undoubted ability throughout the team. The captain Georgia Standbridge (Second Form, Queen Anne) displayed exceptional defensive skills. Her timely tackles, solid positioning, and ability to read the game made her a key asset for the team. Joshua Spolander’s (Second Form, Queen Anne) performance in midfield was nothing short of remarkable. His energy, passing accuracy, and ball control allowed him to dictate play in many of the matches. His highlight was a mazy run and finish against Bartholomew School in the Cup. Dan Wahid (Second Form, Harcourt) and Sam Bartlett (Second Form, Vanbrugh) formed a formidable attacking partnership. Their speed, agility, and understanding of each other’s movements troubled opposing defenders. Dan’s clinical finishing and Sam’s creative runs made them a handful for any defence.

U12

The U12s had an enjoyable season on the football field, showcasing some superb football and brilliant camaraderie. Highlights included a 5-0 win over Carterton Community College, executing the game plan to beat a strong Bartholomew School and making it to the West Oxon League final, where, despite a valiant effort, the boys were agonisingly unable to finish the season with some silverware. Special mention must go to Cory Gardiner (First Form, Vanbrugh) who scored nine goals in his seven matches, including the goal of the season and a hat-trick against Carterton, and to Sam Rainey (First Form, Swift) for his tireless energy and seven assists and four goals. Toby Keates (First Form, Vanbrugh) developed as a leader and a voice of positivity as the season developed and looks set to be a stalwart in goal for the seasons to come.

Netball

The Netball season was exhilarating across all age groups. The U12 and U13 teams went to Bath for a pre-season netball tour where they participated in strength and conditioning and a technical session led by Team Bath. Alongside friendly fixtures they also entered County Netball Tournaments and the ‘Sisters n Sport’ competition. As we archive this season’s memories, we celebrate not just wins and losses but the spirit of netball—the camaraderie, the laughter, and the unwavering love for the game.

First VII

The First team netball squad showcased their determination and teamwork throughout the season. They attacked each fixture with courage and ambition with Calla Whitby (Lower Sixth, Feilden) stepping up most weeks playing out of her usual position. Led by their captain, Alice Smith (Upper Sixth, Swift), the team demonstrated resilience and sportsmanship throughout the matches. Both Bea Payne (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Alice Smith’s shooting accuracy was unmatched. Despite facing tough opponents, the First team netball squad achieved bookend victories to the season. Their resilience and positive attitude contributed to their overall progress. Strengthening communication during fast-paced games and refining set plays will be a key focus points for next season.

Second VII

The Second team highlights were their first and last game. During the first game, they showed great skill in passing the ball quickly down the court and to the shooters. By the last match, they came together well to play some brilliant netball, showing great communication and netball skills. Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth, Feilden) as team captain and Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) as Vice-Captain showed great responsibility in their roles. Gabriella Hancox (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) showed amazing improvement in all areas of netball over the term, her footwork, passing and receiving the ball and communication with her teammates.

U16A

The level of skill, teamwork, and determination of the U16s this season has been truly inspiring.

Their success is the result of their hard work and dedication. Each player on the U16A team brought a unique set of skills to the court. The shooters were accurate and consistent, the mid-court players were agile and quick-thinking, and the defenders were tenacious and unyielding. Player of the season went to Bryony Wyatt (Fifth Form, Swift) and Most Improved Player to Connie Quartley (Fifth Form, Swift). The team won numerous matches and tournaments, often against teams that are older or more experienced.

U16B and U16C

The U16B squad showed a positive, cheerful and united approach to their netball throughout the season under the enthusiastic leadership of Rosie Pickering (Fifth Form, Harcourt). In most matches they came up against tough opposition, but remained buoyant. Ellie Shortland (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) was awarded player of the season for her skill and commitment in defence across the term. The U16C players were flexible and adaptable, with several players asked to play out of position in order to help the team. Player of the Season, Thea Walwyn (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) was a prime example of this and was magnificent both on and off the court as Captain.

U15A

The U15A Team played with dynamism and fierce grit and determination. Their energy was relentless, no matter what the scoreline, the strength of the team resonated throughout. Imogen Wilde (Fourth Form, Harcourt), Margot Willis (Fourth Form, Swift) and Maya Kelly (Fourth Form, Harcourt) worked the attacking circle with purpose and their shooting was consistently on target. The defense also stuck tight to their players, often intercepting midair and regularly turning over the centre pass. The teamwork of this squad is steadfast and their fitness excellent, resulting in fast and athletic netball.

U15B and U15C

A strong U15B team had a good season. The centre court was covered effectively by Ella Hogeboom (Fourth Form, Swift), Izzy Treadwell (Fourth Form, Swift), Grace Chapple (Fourth Form, Harcourt), and Megan Symonds (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) was consistent in the role of Goal Shooter. The etiquette of this team was exceptional throughout the season. The U15C exemplified determination and resilience in their netball fixtures. The team had several wins and a few close losses. Stand out players included Ella Sharp (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), Freya Winfield (Fourth Form, Feilden), and Poppy Lloyd (Fourth Form, Feilden).

U14A

The U14s played with purpose and were often able to turn the scoreline over mid-game, an excellent

example of courage and determination. Immy Armstrong (Third Form, Queen Anne) showed adaptability and a rare ability to shoot under pressure too. Nina Larsson (Third Form, Queen Anne), Eva Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) and Martha Pumfrey (Third Form, Harcourt) allowed the shooters plenty of opportunities by intercepting mid-court and then attacking with precision, speed and accuracy.

U14B

The U14B girls showed determination in some challenging fixtures this season. Evie Greatrex (Third Form, Harcourt) captained us with real heart and determination and was one of our most improved players. Emily Von Braunschweig (Third Form, Vanbrugh) shows real promise for future seasons and two other consistent stand out players were Lily Treadaway (Third Form, Vanbrugh) and Grace Garner (Third Form, Gascoigne).

U13A

The U13A team finished the season losing only one game. More important, was the teamwork, energy, passion, and camaraderie that this team displayed over the term. Player of the Season was undoubtedly Sienna Timms (Second Form, Vanbrugh) whose athleticism and speed up and down the court was too much for opposition schools to handle, but special mention must also go to Captain, Freya Vincent (Second Form, Queen Anne) who led the team with dynamism and purpose.

U13B, U13c and U13D

This year, the U13B team focused on the key components of successful attacking and defending. The team had a very impressive end to the season. Player of the Season went to Freya Richards (Second Form, Feilden), someone who showed impressive shooting skills and was always willing to help with the organisation of the team, displaying her effective leadership skills. The teamwork displayed throughout the season for the U13C reflects the growth that has happened in this group over the course of the season. The U13D team had a very successful term of netball. Their commitment, enthusiasm and ambition were particularly noteworthy and allowed them to complete the season with only two losses and have some excellent wins.

U12A, U12B and U12C

A fantastic season that involved every girl in the squad participating in competitive matches against other schools. Players of the Season for each team: A Team - Kacy Scott (First Form, Vanbrugh), B TeamNell Greatrex (First Form, Harcourt) and C Team - Grace Bassey (First Form, Vanburgh). Looking ahead, the future looks bright for the U12 netball teams. With their talent, teamwork, and tenacity, there is no limit to what they can achieve.

Tennis

In Tennis this year, the U13 mixed team played a fixture against Pinewood School. For several players, it was their first tennis match, and it was great to see their enthusiasm and ambition. Well done to Olivia Wood (Second Form, Harcourt) and Lissy Mercer (First Form, Queen Anne) for winning their games.

Athletics and Cross Country

Cross-Country

This year, the cross-country team has consistently achieved remarkable success at local, county, and national competitions. The season began with the exhilarating inaugural Corinthian Run, followed by the Oxfordshire Championships at Abingdon Prep School. With numerous debut performances and a diverse mix of Prep and Senior pupils, the Junior Girls and Senior Boys stood out, both teams comfortably qualifying for the regional championships. The regional finals at Stowe School brought together the finest runners from Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Norfolk, and Bedfordshire, underscoring the intense level of competition.

Cokethorpe U13s and U15s played an action-packed fixture against d'Overbroecks, with six of our astro courts seeing plenty of action, including six matches out of eighteen finishing at the tie-break. The U13s did a superb job in their match, winning six matches to three with amazing performances from Olivia Wood and Ethan Scott (Second Form, Gascoigne), who won all of their three matches conceding only one game to the opposition. The U15s showed great motivation but, in the end, they lost six matches to three against stronger opposition.

A return match against Tudor Hall saw the U18 team continue their winning streak winning eight sets to four, losing two agonisingly close sets in tie breaks. Special mention must go to Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth, Feilden) and Max Fletcher (Upper Sixth, Swift) who remained unbeaten this year after six sets.

Huge congratulations to Alice Smith (Upper Sixth, Swift) who was awarded the ‘Rising Star’ award by LTA Tennis Oxfordshire in recognition of the inspiring work she does with juniors from a range of backgrounds, in particular her coaching of the junior girls. The committee was also impressed by her work she put into the LTA Wheelchair competition.

team secured eighth place. Many pupils competed as the youngest in their age groups, showcasing their potential. Leading the pack for Cokethorpe were Harry Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden) and Tom Dunlop (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) for the Senior Boys, and Jemima Jewson (Second Form, Swift) and Olivia Wood (Second Form, Harcourt) for the Junior Girls.

The season culminated with three pupils being selected to represent Oxfordshire at the National Schools Cross Country Championships. In his final School race, Harry Richards finished with an outstanding time, placing third among Oxfordshire runners, contributing to the County team's ninth place finish out of nearly 50 teams—a significant achievement for a smaller county. Additionally, Megan Bartlett (Year 6, Gwyn) and Sam Rainey (First Form, Swift) made their debuts, representing the School with exceptional determination and skill, despite not being club runners. Their performances highlighted their dedication and promise. Overall, it was an outstanding season, brimming with achievements and promising prospects for the future.

Athletics

This summer saw the introduction of athletics as a summer games option. Pupils were incredibly dedicated to the games training sessions, working across many track and field disciplines. Each week they worked effectively to jump higher, run faster or throw further.

We had successful fixtures against Chipping Norton school, Rye St Antony and Kitebrook, attended an open meet at Horspath, and took teams to the Radley Multi Event Competition. Pupils also hosted an athletics competition for our Prep School, demonstrating exceptional leadership skills. Congratulations to Joshua Spolander (Second Form, Queen Anne) for representing Cokethorpe at the Oxfordshire Schools Athletics Competition with high hopes of progressing through to the next stages of the competition.

The Senior Boys' team achieved an impressive sixth place finish, while the Junior Girls'

First XI

Brilliantly led by Captain Ross Gray (Upper Sixth, Feilden), and Vice-Captain Louis Stanfield (Lower Sixth, Swift), the First XI were keen to adopt a new era of playing positive cricket. With a large squad, an energy and enthusiasm to want to play week in week out, it was clear that things were looking good for the season ahead. An early season win against Pangbourne gave the side the confidence they needed to realise just how good they could be. Opening bowlers Matthew Hamilton (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) and Felix Pool (Fifth Form, Queen Anne) always proved tricky to face for batsmen, ably backed up by Ross Gray, and the spin options of Louis Stanfield and Dan Westmoreland (Lower Sixth, Harcourt). With the bowlers often doing their jobs to restrict the opposition, our focus after half term turned to making sure our batsmen went on to to make big scores. It was therefore fitting that off the back of a comfortable win against a young Burford side, Edward Harris (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) (56), and an outstanding unbeaten 110 from Dan Westmoreland came in the last game of the season in a narrow win against Oxford Downs. It was a fitting end to an excellent season for a great bunch of boys. What is most exciting is that with only three Upper Sixth leavers from this squad, the foundations are there for Cokethorpe cricket to go from strength to strength over the coming years.

U15 Boys

The U15 Cricket Team had a season filled with both challenges and triumphs, showcasing impressive cricketing skills, though the initial matches resulted in losses. However, as the season progressed, the team found their rhythm, delivering remarkable performances and demonstrating their true potential. Special recognition goes to our exceptional captain, Sean McFadden (Fourth Form, Swift) whose leadership was instrumental in setting high standards and inspiring the team. His strategic

acumen and ability to lead from the front were pivotal in our resurgence. The accolade for the highest-scoring batsman of the season goes to Rowan Powell (Fourth Form, Queen Anne), who dazzled everyone by scoring three consecutive half-centuries. His consistent performances were the cornerstone of our batting lineup, providing stability and firepower. The fielding moment of the season undoubtedly belongs to Noah Wahid (Fourth Form, Harcourt), who, with impeccable timing and agility, pulled off a breathtaking diving catch at point. As we reflect on the season, it is evident that our journey was marked by growth, perseverance, and a collective effort to overcome obstacles. The future looks bright for this talented group of cricketers.

U15 Girls

The introduction of hard-ball only is somewhat of a milestone in the journey of girls cricket at Cokethorpe. But as one might expect, our U15 girls took to the challenge with energy and enthusiasm. A mix of net sessions and small sided games alongside pairs matches allowed the more confident girls to progress their skills and supported those less confident girls to develop the techniques required. The passion and comraderie shown by those girls chosen to represent the U15 team in fixtures was excellent. The level of encouragement and praise offered to each member of the team by other players was inspiring and it is clear that this is a tight knit group of pupils. Results were mixed over the season with some chastening losses providing work-ons for training and exciting wins fuelling the fire to succeed. Both the batting and bowling improved tremendously over the season and each player contributed positively in every match.

U14 Boys

Before the season started, the foundation and principles of training were built around teamwork and high-level fielding skills. We tried to create an environment where effort was rewarded over skill and where any pupil could see an opportunity to play for the team. This was evident over the course of the term with all 21 pupils involved in the squad representing either the U14 A or the hybrid Second XI that was created to allow more pupils to represent the School. Hugo Du Plessis (Third Form, Harcourt) led the team with responsibility and empathy, shining with the bat himself, with a notable 92 not out against Oratory. His vicecaptain, Tommy Hewlett (Third Form, Harcourt) was a calm, assured, and presence behind the stumps and his integrity with the bat often dug his team out of trouble. The ambition of Archie Ricks (Third Form, Harcourt) is a force to be reckoned with and if he continues to thrive with the bat, he is going to be a fantastic First XI player in the years to come. We had the courage of Sam Clarke (Third Form, Feilden) whose fielding at times was inspirational, saving key runs that allowed the team to get over the line. Most improved players, and two young men who showed great judgement to improve

over the term, were Rohan Fernandes (Third Form, Vanbrugh) and Finn Winfield (Third Form, Feilden).

U14 Girls

This age group is extremely talented indeed, so much so that several were asked to play up in an older age group on a regular basis. In particular, Martha Pumfrey (Third Form, Harcourt) and Lola Fitzgerald (Third Form, Feilden) excelled with both bat and ball. Additionally, it was hugely pleasing to see some of our less experienced players improve in all aspects of the game and how much they gained in confidence. In terms of results, we had mixed success between both winning and not but also managed a couple of creditable draws. There were several individuals who displayed a fantastic attitude throughout, not only during matches but in training as well, namely Immy Harris (Third Form, Gascoigne), Abi Hick (Third Form, Feilden) but especially Grace Garner (Third Form, Gascoigne) who volunteered for absolutely everything, even the bag carrying duties. This included taking on wicket keeping duties whilst also wanting to bat and bowl! It is therefore no surprise that Grace was player of the term as she was a wonderful example to many others.

U13 Hardball

Of the five fixtures we played this season, Cokethorpe won three.

The players worked hard on their fielding skills through the season and, although this is an area that they still need to develop further, it was pleasing to see progress being made. The team was thoughtfully captained by Fraser O’Driscoll (Second Form, Gascoigne), who did an excellent job of ensuring a large number of bowlers were used in all matches. The standout performances came with the bat at various stages through the season. Fraser batted very sensibly, but the finest moment of the season was the win in the final game against the Crypt School. Chasing 104 to win, the score was 40-4, only for Dan Wahid (Second Form, Harcourt) and Sam Bartlett (Second Form, Vanbrugh) to come together and build a beautifully paced, unbeaten 60 run partnership and win the game in the final over. It was a tremendous finish to a hard fought and enjoyable season.

U12 Hardball

The U12s had a good season of energy filled performances. Electric in the field and impressive with bat and ball the team was ably led by Nicholas Burrow (First Form, Feilden). After a couple of close defeats, including a nail-biting game against Burford that came down to the final ball, the team finished with a superb win over Cothill, Tony Garner (First Form, Gascoigne) managed to hit his half century and take four wickets in the match.

Equestrian

There was plenty to celebrate for our Equestrian team this year. Harry Vigors (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) finished second in the 105cm class in the NSEA Show Jumping Championships qualifier at Rectory Farm, narrowly missing out on first place by just 0.11 seconds. He then ran an easy winner in the 115cm class which meant he qualified for the Championships at Addington.

He also rode in the 100cm Pony Club Arena Eventing Challenge at the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials and a lovely clear round helped his team to secure third place out of 26 teams. He finished second pony racing at Lingfield Park to qualify for the National Championship Final at Aintree in October.

We also had a team compete in the National Schools Equestrian Association NSEA competition hosted by Berkshire College of Agriculture. Sophie Simpson (Third Form, Feilden), Grace Garner (Third Form, Gascoigne), and Ella Allsop-Davis (Second Form, Vanbrugh), dominated in both the 90cm arena and the

90cm show jumping categories, emerging as the champions in the team division and qualifying for the championships. Individually, our riders showcased their exceptional skills with Sophie riding her way to victory, claiming first place, while Ella secured third place and Grace achieved an impressive fifth-place finish. The Equestrian team celebrated further success at the NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association) competition in February. The team of Arthur Butler (Fourth Form, Swift), Sophie Simpson and Grace Garner came second in the 1m Hickstead team show jumping qualifier and qualified for Hickstead Elite Schools team show jumping championships in May. Arthur also came second individually, and third in the 110cm class. Sophie came third in the 90cm. Superb achievements from them all.

Sports Representation

(County, Regional* or National Representatives**)

Athletics

Joshua Spolander** (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Badminton

Jasper Weir (Year 6, Baker)

Basketball

Asa Coughlan* (First Form, Harcourt)

Climbing

Patrick West (Lower Sixth, Feilden)

Cross Country

Megan Bartlett (Year 6, Gwyn)

Sam Rainey** (First Form, Swift)

Harry Richards** (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

Dance

Savannah Jones (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Figure Skating

Jack Hammond** (Fifth Form, Gascoigne)

Football

Philip Croker** (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

Sam Rainey (First Form, Swift)

Georgia Standbridge* (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Obstacle Racing

Jake Jolleys** (Second Form, Queen Anne)

Padel

Sienna Timms (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Cricket

Tristan Amy (First Form, Vanbrugh)

Nicholas Burrow (First Form, Feilden)

Hugo Du Plessis (Third Form, Harcourt)

Tony Garner (First Form, Gascoigne)

Tommy Hewlett (Third Form, Harcourt)

Freddie McGibbon (Second Form, Harcourt)

Archie Ricks (Third Form, Harcourt)

Golf

Ava Fegan-Smith (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Rugby

Jonty Armstrong (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

Ben Charlesworth (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne)

Zack Galliford (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

Murray Gray* (Fifth Form, Feilden)

Ross Gray (Upper Sixth, Feilden)

James Keeling* (Fourth Form, Gascoigne)

Charlie Kerton (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Findlay Knox (Lower Sixth, Feilden)

Freddie Leefield (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)

Edward Morgan (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)

Ernie Morgan-Sanders* (Fourth Form, Swift)

Luke Taylor* (Fifth Form, Swift)

Sam Weldon* (Fourth Form, Harcourt)

Dan Westmoreland (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)

Joseph Westmoreland* (Fifth Form, Harcourt)

Swimming

Grace Clear* (Fifth Form, Gascoigne)

Hockey

Freya Chandler (Fourth Form, Gascoigne)

Gabriella Hughes (Second Form, Feilden)

Bella Smith (Third Form, Harcourt)

Aneliese Sagar (Fourth Form, Swift)

Mae Serjeant (Lower Sixth, Swift)

Sienna Timms (Second Form, Vanbrugh)

Tennis

Julia Pisanello (Year 5, Baker)

Olivia Wood (Second Form, Harcourt)

Michaelmas Term

Full Colours

Molly Armytage (Queen Anne) Hockey

Bella Caffyn (Vanbrugh) Hockey

Charlotte Griffiths (Gascoigne) Hockey

Molly Grinham (Feilden) Hockey

Lyla Simpson (Queen Anne) Hockey

Alice Smith (Swift) Hockey

Tara Lockhart (Harcourt) Hockey

Half Colours

Jasmine Hammond (Gasgoigne) Hockey

Aoife Kirkham (Feilden) Hockey

Lydia Summons (Swift) Hockey

Lent Term

Full Colours

Flo Adepoju (Harcourt) Shooting

Olly Beech (Gascoigne) Hockey

Alexander Brazier (Swift) Rugby

Bella Caffyn (Vanbrugh) Netball

Lewie Camidge (Vanbrugh) Hockey

Pearse Chapman (Swift) Rugby

Sports Colours for Upper Sixth

Jack Deeker (Feilden) Football

Ross Gray (Feilden) Football

Ross Gray (Feilden) Rugby

Matthew Hamilton (Harcourt) Hockey

Charlie Kerton (Gascoigne) Hockey

Charlie Kerton (Gascoigne) Rugby

Ben Monaghan (Queen Anne) Football

Ben Monaghan (Queen Anne) Rugby

Freddie Murfitt (Queen Anne) Football

Bea Payne (Vanbrugh) Netball

Anna Pratley (Feilden) Kayaking

Harry Richards (Feilden) Hockey

Jack Rivers (Feilden) Football

Alice Smith (Swift) Netball

Morgan Thomas (Queen Anne) Shooting

Half Colours

Charlie Anthony (Gascoigne) Football

Molly Armytage (Queen Anne) Netball

Alexander Brazier (Swift) Football

Tom Dunlop (Vanbrugh) Rugby

Jasmine Hammond (Gascoigne) Netball

Aoife Kirkham (Feilden) Netball

Henry Shortland (Vanbrugh) Kayaking

Edward Smith (Harcourt) Hockey

James Stiger (Swift) Climbing

Marit Tweehuijsen (Feilden) Kayaking

Sebastian Wall (Harcourt) Football

Summer Term

Full Colours

Dee Biles (Gascoigne) Sailing

Jack Deeker (Feilden) Tennis

Rachael Elliott (Feilden) Tennis

Max Fletcher (Swift) Tennis

Ross Gray (Feilden) Cricket

Matthew Hamilton (Harcourt) Cricket

Henry Shortland (Vanbrugh) Tennis

Alice Smith (Swift) Tennis

Oscar Talbott (Gascoigne) Tennis

Half Colours

Thomas Avery (Gascoigne) Climbing

Olly Beech (Gascoigne) Cricket

Rohana Saunders (Queen Anne) Tennis

OUTDOOR

EDUCATION

Paddle Sports

The Paddlesports Games option offers an opportunity for pupils to develop a wide range of paddle experience, skills and understanding in canoes and kayaks. Working towards the Paddle Explore award, pupils have been given the skills to safely navigate a range of waterways in different crafts. Fun games, journeys and challenges are incorporated within these sessions, with more experienced paddlers given opportunities to lead.

Racing Kayaking

Arguably one of the toughest and most gruelling Games options for our pupils takes the form of Racing Kayaking. The narrow, lightweight craft have a steep learning curve and require good balance, determination and motivation. It is a discipline that takes commitment and resilience and is often not witnessed in the same way as more traditional school sports. Selection for the team takes place in September, making the most of the warmer weather, and is now open to pupils from Third Form, not just Sixth Form.

With a younger team this year, the focus was to prepare the pupils to complete Waterside A, a fourteen-mile race along the Kennet and

Avon Canal. Training takes place in nearly all weathers making use of the excellent boathouse facilities or, when the river is too high, the nearby canal systems.

A high awareness of race tactics and technical understanding is required as they navigate the waterways, portaging locks and learning how to sustain energy levels over multiple hours of paddling. Racing takes place in K2s, two person kayaks, and requires pupils to work together as a cohesive team through the highs and lows of race training.

This year witnessed many new highlights for the team. We have expanded our training areas, utilising Farmoor Reservoir for sprint racing, and have completed point to point challenges

along newly explored sections of the River Thames and even raced into central Oxford. Our experienced and older paddlers have been an invaluable support coaching the younger members of the team and have taken an active role coaching sessions and passing on hard earned experience.

The focus for the next academic year will be for the returning pupils to set their sights on the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race, a relentless 125-mile challenge along canals and the River Thames all the way to London. It will take many hours of commitment both on and off the water to be at a standard to complete this endeavour with training kicking off on our return after the summer break.

Climbing

'It has been an extremely exciting and eventful year of climbing at Cokethorpe School. We have seen more people than ever before participate in this popular and developing activity from both within School and externally. The opening of the new climbing tower in the Lent Term paved the way for a more accessible and dynamic facility that is able to challenge our top climbers and facilitate first timers simultaneously.

The opening was marked by the Everest Challenge- a feat to cumulatively climb the vertical height of Everest across a single school week. Over 100 participants added to the target of 8,848 metres from staff at the School to younger participants from our Corinthian Partnership. Our ambitious climbing team took on the challenge to gain the most ascents with pupils scaling the eight metre tower over 100 times in a single day.

Continuing this competitive ambition, the Senior Climbing Team entered the Independent School Climbing Competition. The standard of climbing was incredibly high with over twenty schools represented across the bouldering, top rope and lead climbing categories. Patrick West (Lower Sixth, Feilden) delivered a hard earned stand out performance taking first place in the roped climbing category.

In contrast to the more competitive climbing scene, the team attended the annual climbing trip, this year to Portland. The trip provides an opportunity to climb some of the UK’ s best crags and rocks whilst learning key skills to climb outdoors. Making the best of the Easter weather, the group really challenged

themselves on the wide range of bouldering and roped climbing on offer as well as developing their lead climbing skills.

The Senior Climbing Games option has proved extremely popular with the creation of a second development group in the Michaelmas Term and the facilitation of selected Third Form pupils training with theTeam in the Summer Term. At a more grass roots level, pupils can get involved in weekly climbing sessions as part of the AOB programme or through the Prep Climbing Club. This continued popularity will pave the way to wider access for pupils in the Michaelmas Term and aims to be an exciting time for climbing at Cokethorpe.'

Mr Slader Head of Outdoor Education

Sailing

It has been a restless sailing year with the expansion of the programme, trips and opportunities available to our pupils. The keelboat offering, a boat that takes up to five people to race, has developed from an occasional annual race to dedicated Saturday training meets, national competitions and even taking part in Cowes Week at the end of July. The team and fleet racing in the Fireflys has seen regular fixtures against Warrick School and targeted training sessions, making great use of the new Cokethorpe sails. Sailing has also been accessible to a wider audience through the new Summer Term First and Second Form Games option, AOB offering and Third Form Outdoor Adventure group.

On Wednesday 22 November, the First Team sailing squad travelled to Draycote Reservoir in Rugby to race against Warwick School. Having raced at Warwick before, the team were excited to see how much they had improved since the last time where they narrowly lost by a margin of three points. With excellent sailing from all the First team, Cokethorpe celebrated a convincing victory over Warwick with three out of four first place finishes and never finished a race below third.

The First team sailors and new members of the racing squad travelled to Warwick School again to compete in the termly regatta. Warwick and Cokethorpe were now drawing, and this was the deciding match. Our First team sailors did not disappoint, winning four out of four races. Well done to all members of the sailing First team and the new racers, with a special mention going to Seb Tattersall (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) who placed first in every race.

In the Oxford Schools Sailing Regatta, Cokethorpe entered eight crews across the handicap and Firefly disciplines. Heather Homewood (Third Form, Vanbrugh) and Andrew Homewood (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) earned Cokethorpe a hard won first place in a field of 24 other crews, outsailing the hosts, Magdalen College School.

On Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 June First team sailors competed in the largest team racing competition to be held this year worldwide – the BSDRA finals. This competition saw international schools from America, China and Ireland compete with schools from across England at Farmoor Reservoir. Starting near the bottom of the leaderboard after the first day, out of the 30 teams Cokethorpe sailors climbed the positions well into the top half, ending the competition in thirteenth with many winning races. Congratulations to Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne), Seb Tattersall (Lower Sixth,

Vanbrugh), Jack Turner (Fifth Form, Gascoigne), Andrew Homewood (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), Edward Chorley (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) and Caellum Sharp (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh).

The SB20 Sailing team also competed in Cowes Week with great success. They came first in the longest race of the SB20 class, as well as securing a third place in their class over two previous days. They came in second place overall in the mini slam, which is three long races, and seventh in the grand slam.

The sailors dealt with changing tides, big wind gusts and avoided container ships, ferries and Royal Navy ships. They also had front row seats in the rib for Cowes saluting the Royal Navy flagship, the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth and their salute to Cowes. Congratulations to all involved.

The following Junior sailors have achieved their RYA national sailing scheme awards, which reflects their competency, commitment, and skill on the water. Felix McGill (Second Form, Gascoigne), JC Edwards (Second Form, Feilden), and Henry Turner (Second Form, Gascoigne) have all achieved their Level 2 stage and Reuben Uglow (Second Form, Gascoigne) has successfully achieved his Level 4 stage.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Bikeability

Thrills shifted into high gear for Year 3 and 4 last week as they conquered Level 1 Bikeability Training. This exciting course marked the epic launchpad for their cycling journeys. Just like Tour de France champions, these young riders began their adventures with those very first pedal strokes. Level 1 provided a safe haven for them to master their bikes in a traffic-free zone.

Skipping Workshop

The Prep School erupted in excitement as Skip2Bfit visited to deliver high-energy skipping workshops. Skip2Bfit use personalised counting jump ropes and promote skipping as a fantastic exercise to do to maintain fitness. Each pupil gets their perfect fit of rope, then attempts to see how many skips they can do in two minutes.

Sixth Form Tutor Partnering Programme

At Cokethorpe we believe passionately in the concept of a through School. From our youngest pupils in Reception Class to our oldest students in the Sixth Form, the focus is on nurturing a sense of belonging, developing a community and building relationships that breed confidence in the young people we care for.

A key part of this is our Tutor Partnering Programme, where Sixth Form students are allocated to a lower years Form group within their House or a Prep School class, spending Tuesday morning registration periods playing games, helping with academic work or simply talking with the pupils. The aim of the programme is to foster a sense of responsibility and good judgement in our Sixth Formers and to provide a stage on which they can showcase their amazing interpersonal skills.

Often younger pupils are wary of the older students around the School (their sheer size can be intimidating!) but the Tutor Partnering Programme has helped to break down barriers. By deploying our Sixth Formers in such a way we have been able to build understanding

on both sides and have fostered genuine friendships. Seeing Lower Sixth students playing football with First Form pupils, laughing and joking, is evidence of the power that such a programme can have. For our younger pupils, the Sixth Formers are role models, people to aspire to be like and to learn from and offer a window into the world that is yet to come.

All pupils and students involved in the initiative are benefitting from the time spent together and what better way is there to truly become a community than to share experiences together?

Years 3 and 4 Residential

The Bushcraft Camp for Year 3 and 4 pupils in Badminton Woods was an unforgettable adventure, filled with a variety of activities that engaged all the senses and taught valuable survival skills. The camp's culinary experiences were a delight, with pupils enjoying delicious s'mores and firing their own pizzas, a testament to the amazing camp food on offer.

The thrill of axe throwing, and the practicality of first aid training provided a balance of excitement and education. Building waterproof houses for marshmallow people and roasting marshmallows over the fire brought out the creativity and teamwork among the children, while campfire songs and sleeping under the stars (for some of us) added a touch of magic to the evenings. The hands-on experience of den and trap building, coupled with the hilarity of trying to catch teachers in snares, fostered a sense of camaraderie.

Camouflaging faces and rolling in mud allowed for immersive play, and the unique opportunity to fillet salmon, including the daring consumption of fisheyes by two brave pupils, highlighted the camp's emphasis on direct interaction with nature. A nature walk to learn about trees, collecting firewood, and cooking burgers were not just fun activities but also educational moments where pupils learned about self-sufficiency and the environment. The trip was a resounding success, with pupils demonstrating outstanding participation and having immense fun, truly a fantastic time for all involved. Thank you to all who made it possible, but mostly, thank you to the children for giving absolutely everything a go!

Year 5 Residential

'Year 5 pupils set off for a five-day residential in Woodlands Activity Centre near the Brecon Beacons in South Wales. Little did they know that they were embarking upon a week of tremendous personal challenge and growth which would prove to be positively transformative in many respects.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed by their instructors and organised into their dormitories where their first major challenge was to make their bed single-handedly including fitting the sheet, duvet cover and pillowcase. Exhausted by such exciting endeavours, they immediately headed out into the grounds for some fun and challenging team-building activities ahead of a delicious evening meal and a late-night walk in which to experience deep darkness and clear star gazing.

In the days that followed, the pupils and staff spent their days canoeing down the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, orienteering in the dark, climbing and abseiling, completing a breath-takingly high ropes course, walking through a disused railway tunnel in total darkness and, finally, climbing to the summit of Hay Bluff on an incredibly windy day.

It was truly wonderful to see the pupils growing in courage and empathy, playing spontaneous games in their down time before evening meals together, and embracing the joys of social commensality. Bonds were formed, relationships deepened and personal discoveries were made a-plenty. Never once did thoughts of screens or televisions enter their heads as great appreciation of the outdoors blossomed.

The coach ride home was an unusually quiet affair with pupils exhausted and contented by lungs full of fresh air, pleasantly aching muscles, contented minds and excited anticipation of great tales to tell when they arrived back to warm hugs from family.'

Mrs Luckett Head of Prep English

Year 6 Residential

'As a finale to their time at the Prep School, Year 6 embarked on a hugely successful residential trip to the Isle of Wight, taking part in a week-long programme designed to nurture resilience, teamwork, and a spirit of adventure.

Their journey began with a ferry crossing, transforming the pupils into intrepid explorers for the duration of the trip. Upon arrival on the island, they eagerly embraced a diverse range of activities demonstrating remarkable courage as they tackled challenges such as sea canoeing against a tough current; the formidable Jacob's Ladder; a blind sensory muddy obstacle trail; a bucolic island hike; and made exhilarating leaps of faith onto an enormously high trapeze. Whilst the giant swings provided a thrilling physical experience, the Matrix Escape Room tested the group’s impressive mental agility.

No obstacle proved insurmountable for this determined cohort. Their stamina, unwavering teamwork and resolute spirit were truly commendable, solidifying their position as exemplary ambassadors for the Prep School. This residential trip transcended mere leisure; it provided a platform for conquering fears, forging lasting friendships in dormitories and dining halls, and created enduring memories.'

Ms James and Mr Baker Prep Teachers

Duke of Edinburgh's Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Cokethorpe offers a platform for pupils to make full use of the opportunities available to them at School. The benefits of a residential expedition speak for themselves, but this is not the only aspect to the Award. Taking ownership on the skill, volunteering and physical sections encourages pupils to explore opportunities in their local area and find worthwhile activities that they may well continue after they have finished School.

Within School, we have had pupils challenging food waste in the Prep School, supporting sports programmes and engaging with our Corinthain partnerships to name a few. Outside of School, pupils have been developing mountain bike tracks, cooking for the elderly and even completing online courses in a range of subjects.

Bronze

At the end of the academic year, Third Form pupils take part in a two-day self-sufficient expedition across the Cotswolds. This satisfies the DofE Bronze qualifying expedition section for our pupils and offers an opportunity to make decisions, work together and solve problems without the direct intervention of staff. Utilising skills taught during the training, pupils plan and complete a walk carrying everything they need for the expedition.

For many, this is the first time walking this distance, with weight, whilst having to make navigational decisions as a team. Pupils faced drizzling rain, strong winds and glorious sunshine throughout the expedition. Cokethorpe leadership traits were demonstrated as pupils overcame the various challenges that present themselves on such expeditions. Well done to all pupils involved and for stepping up to this test of resilience and integrity, and also for remaining positive in the face of adversity.

Silver

It has been an exciting year for Fourth Form pupils involved in the Silver DofE programme. With a new expedition format, navigating the River Wye in canoes, there was lots to plan and prepare for. Training and practice took place on the River Thames based out of the School’s Boathouse, the Greaves Outdoor Centre. This involved revisiting land-based skills such as campcraft, cooking and emergency procedures under the guidance of experienced staff. Paddle skills were the main focus of the training, working to ensure pupils could efficiently and safely paddle their craft as a group. Portaging, loading and unloading, and rescue training also featured to help ensure pupils were at a high standard to take ownership of the upcoming qualifying expedition.

Starting just south of Hereford, the qualifying expedition descended the Wye passing through Ross on Wye, Symonds Yatt and Monmouth over three days. Pupils carried all equipment required in the boats, cooked in teams, and dealt with decisions as they completed this incredible journey. Highlights included paddling the rapids at Symonds Yatt, an intimidating grade two rapid section that put skill and teamwork to the test. The aim of the expedition was to explore the uses of the River Wye, a topic closely linked to what many pupils have been studying in their Geography classes. This offered a hands-on investigation they could do, from canoes, on a meaningful topic.

Gold

At Gold level, the Award offers the highest level of challenge and commitment as well as requiring the students to go on a residential trip in addition to the expedition. Juggling the various commitments required to complete the Award whilst working towards their A Levels can often be challenging. This teaches our students to be organised, committed and driven in order to complete all sections of the award.

The pinnacle of this is completing the four-day self-sufficient walking expedition across Dartmoor. This requires teams to work closer together to plan and complete this undertaking as well as overcoming the challenges such experiences offer. Carrying heavy bags, wild camping, and maintaining positive relationships with peers over the four days are essential features and students often finish with a fantastic sense of accomplishment on completing the Award.

Curriculum Enrichment Week

First Form MFL Trip to Paris

Curriculum Enrichment Week was the perfect opportunity for the MFL Department to invite First Form pupils and a group of Lower Sixth students to a ‘promenade à Paris’.

Pupils immersed themselves in French culture, taking in the sights and sounds of Paris, as well as some less conventional cultural sites, such as Disneyland, Paris. The visit included a trip to la Tour Eiffel, du Musée du Louvre et de la Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The timing of the trip was such that pupils also had the opportunity to see first-hand the incredible infrastructure in place for this year's Summer Olympics.

The group then ascended new heights, climbing the 222 steps to the Basilique du Sacré Coeur, whilst some pupils sat on the steps of la butte de Montmartre to sample some French cuisine, others had their portraits sketched by Parisian painters.

In the evening, the group had dinner in the busiest district of Paris, l’Avenue des Champs Élysées and strolled to Napoleon’s imperial site, l’Arc-de-Triomphe. However, the hot topic of conversation that evening was naturally ‘Which ride will we do first?’ as the group eagerly anticipated their trip to Disneyland Paris the following day, which concluded an unforgettable CEW week for our First Form.

Second Form Reach Outdoors

The Second Form CEW trip to Devon was a week packed full of fun and adventure. Pupils honed their bushcraft skills and paddled on giant stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) whilst spending their nights under the stars camping in bell tents.

Much laughter was heard, and teamwork seen, as pupils enjoyed coasteering along the rocks and sea in Devon and worked together as a team on the SUPs.

Map skills were developed on a refreshing coastal walk and imaginations put to the test as the Second Form created their own dens during a morning or afternoon of bushcraft. Kayaking enabled pupils to gain a sea view of Devon’s wonderful Jurassic Coast.

A huge well done to Second Form for being such a collaborative and kind team and for sharing their good nature with everyone they encountered.

Third Form

Rockstar Climbing

Our Third Form pupils have demonstrated ambition, courage and resilience during an exhilarating visit to Rockstar Climbing Centre. The climbing walls ranged from beginnerfriendly to advanced, allowing everyone to take on a new challenge and get stuck in. Some pupils tackled the towering walls with determination, while others opted for the bouldering routes—short, intense climbs that demanded agility and problem-solving skills.

The overhangs and tricky holds provided an extra thrill, encouraging teamwork and resilience. Rockstar Climbing Centre offered an unforgettable adventure that pushed our pupils to new heights.

Snozone

The Third Form visited the Snozone in Milton Keynes. Pupils showcased their impressive skiing and snowboarding skills, racing down the slopes with enthusiasm and agility.

For some, it was an opportunity to demonstrate their prowess, while others appreciated the lessons provided, learning at their own pace under the guidance of professional instructors. The trip was not just about physical activity; it was also a chance for pupils to bond, cheer for each other, and create lasting memories. Laughter and camaraderie filled the air and was testament to the fun they had. This excursion to Snozone was more than just a day out; it was an enriching experience to apply their skills, learn new ones, and create memories that they will cherish for a long time.

Fourth Form Paintballing

Deepest Gloucestershire was the scene for a battle of wits, wisdom and warfare. Thankfully not of the bullet variety, but of the paintball type! Three minibuses of Fourth Form pupils took part in seven rounds of battle with 100 paintballs each per round. It was a battle between two teams where resilience, ambition and lots of competitiveness was on display. Highlights of the day include Mr Hughes’ gallant but ultimately futile rush on the opposition’s

flag during the ‘capture the flag’ round, however vanquished by the strong defence of the red team. Praise should go to the red team for their coordinated assault on the opposition protecting their fortress with special mention to Ellie Lunn (Fourth Form, Swift) who ran a brave solo charge under fire of pink paint to grab the blue team’s staff and bringing it safely to the red team’s base.

Uffington White Horse Walk

Fourth Form pupils were blessed with good weather on our invigorating walk along part of the Ridgeway, which is known as Britain’s oldest road. As well as exploring Wayland’s Smithy, a Neolithic burial chamber, pupils enjoyed their glimpse into the ancient landscape on the route with its breathtaking views. Lunch was in a beautiful wildflower meadow, in the grounds of the magnificent Ashdown House, a 17th Century Dutch mansion, managed by the National Trust. The nine mile route was completed through paths leading through fields of wheat and oats, blowing gently in the wind. It was an enjoyable day appreciating nature and memorable for everyone.

Rockstar Climbing

Climbing amongst spiders, grappling to the underside of spikey boulders, all hidden away in an aircraft hangar in an unprepossessing industrial estate in Swindon: this was the venue for Fourth Form’s Rockstar Climbing Challenge. The climax of the Curriculum Enrichment Week saw 32 amazing athletic pupils tackle bouldering, top roping and auto belay climbing with skill, determination and good cheer. The heroes of the day were many, but Samarth Agnihotri (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) must be commended for gripping the holds on the overhangs with style, as was the sheer grit and agility shown by Izzy Treadwell (Swift). Jacob Liu (Gascoigne) was the ‘Ninja Warrior’ of the day, scaling the chimney with style and grace. Perhaps the most impressive feats however were those pupils who climbed the ‘New York skyline’ blindfolded. It was to the credit of the Cokethorpe pupils that all challenges were embraced with happy humour and genuine camaraderie, with wonderful team spirit and resilience exhibited throughout the day.

Sailing

The Fourth Form donned their wet gear and ventured out on to Farmoor reservoir to challenge their sailing skills. Unfortunately, the sunshine and aquamarine water of Costa del Farmoor were AWOL, alas this did not dampen the spirits of the Fourth Form! Base camp was windy, so all the boats enjoyed a tow by powerboat across the reservoir to ‘Little Venice’. Here the sailors could enjoy the shelter, and this allowed them time and the optimum conditions to perfect their sailing skills. In the afternoon they enjoyed a sail back to the beach. To finish the day the sailors were thrilled by a high-speed power boat ride back to ‘little Venice’ to practice their Olympic diving routines off the pontoon. They also had a chance to try the board walk, or for many it quickly became a board splash. Well done to Fourth Form for trying something new, not being put off by the weather and generally being good sports. Hopefully some will join the sailing team next year.

Dorset Geography Fieldwork

Fourth Form Geographers went on their GCSE fieldwork trip to Portland and enjoyed a great time. The first day was spent in Lulworth walking and studying the UNESCO Heritage coast - with its coves, arches and distinctive landscape. Tuesday and Wednesday were spent in the Victorian seaside resort of Weymouth studying its function and along Chesil Beach.

The trip ended with a hunt for pirate graves on Portland and a trip to Portland Bill. The pupils were excellent throughout and thank you to Mr Joiner, Mrs Webb and Miss Gaertner for accompanying the trip.

Prep Activities

Hamma Beads

Prep pupils have enjoyed a new activity this year at Hamma bead club. This club has given pupils the chance to quietly focus, practise their dexterity, strengthen their hand eye coordination (it is rather fiddly) and pattern making. The most exciting part of the club is getting to take home the finished design the next day. Each week children have taken home their personally designed koala, octopus, star, car, flower and much more. The templates offer a guide to the design; however, the wide array of colours allow the children to unleash their creativity and make the designs truly unique and personal to them.

Prep Recorder Group

This ever-popular woodwind instrument has proved to be one of our most popular ensembles. Even in the Pre-Prep, children learn their pieces independently to achieve their coloured ‘Karate belts’ to decorate their Recorders). Years 4 and 5 meet once a week and learn to play and read music with exciting accompaniments, as well as improving their technique, and everyone has their own recorder to take home.

Sheet music is provided and practice at home is encouraged especially when rehearsing for a performance such as the Spring Concert. This ensemble is an excellent springboard for additional lessons in other orchestral instruments such as the Flute, Oboe, Clarinet or Violin.

Glockenspiel Group

The Prep Glockenspiel Group introduces Year 3 to learning about the language of music through playing a keyboard instrument. From their very first lesson, pupils will be learning to hold the beaters correctly to achieve the best resonating sound, as well as recognising musical notes from a stave. But most importantly, we have a great deal of fun in this ensemble and particularly enjoyed performing Classroom Rock during the recent Spring Concert.

Pre-Prep Stay and Play

Pre-Prep have relished the opportunity to join Stay and Play which is part of the wrap-around care we are proud to offer at Cokethorpe. After a busy day of learning they have enjoyed a healthy snack from home in our Pre-Prep space overlooking the beautiful grounds, taken advantage of our extensive outdoor spaces and participated in an array of play based activities tailored to their age. Constructing marvellous inventions, problem solving with puzzles, building dens together, exploring the sandpit and engaging in imaginative play have all been popular choices to occupy their time.

There are, however, always quieter options to be enjoyed such as reading a book in a cosy corner, listening to a story with the headphones or some mindfulness colouring. Stay and Play is available to all pupils from Reception Class to Year 2 and it is a fantastic option for those children that may not want to join a club but still wish to take full advantage of all the fun to be had with their friends. The children take great pleasure in mixing with other year groups and it is lovely to see our older children interacting with the youngest members of the School The new climbing frame has been a particularly exciting addition and an extremely popular activity this term. This is evident when children ask, ‘please can I stay just a little bit longer’.

Prep Archery Club

This brand-new lunchtime club offers an exciting platform for Prep pupils to learn how to use a bow and arrow. Starting on the smaller bows and foam tipped arrow, pupils learned how to safely use the equipment and soon progressed onto developing good technique. A wide range of games and activities took place during the sessions. Favourites included a timed shooting course, archery golf and trick shot challenges! As the pupils progressed, sessions incorporated the use of ‘pointy’ arrows in the School’s range. This allowed pupils to fine tune their accuracy and understanding of archery with amazing progression being made by all.

Prep Climbing Club

With the construction of the new climbing tower facility, Prep Climbing Club has proved to be a very popular option this year. Sessions involved teaching the pupils basic movement and climbing techniques as well as some of the basic knots and equipment required to safely climb using ropes. At eight metres tall, the tower is an intimidating and difficult challenge for most. Our pupils had to work together, providing encouragement, advice and support to help get each other to the top of the wall.

The Gardening Club in the Prep School is a flourishing activity that brings pupils together in the great outdoors, fostering a love for nature and teamwork.

Pupils relish the opportunity to be outside, engaging with the environment, which significantly contributes to their mental wellbeing. They learn the delicate art of sowing tomato seeds, nurturing these plants from tiny specks into sprouting plants The process of weeding and preparing the soil teaches them the importance of a solid foundation, both in gardening and in life. Teamwork is at the heart of the club's ethos; pupils collaborate to maintain the garden, including the challenging task of weeding the concrete areas, ensuring that every plant has its place to thrive. Watering the plants is not just a chore, but a lesson in responsibility and the cycle of life. The club also incorporates elements of planning and celebration, as pupils organise picnics that showcase the fruits of a farmer's labour.

Moreover, the club is an interactive classroom where pupils identify various insects, engaging in discussions about the life cycles of the animals they encounter. This hands-on experience with the ecosystem provides invaluable lessons on interdependence and biodiversity. In essence, the Gardening Club is more than just a pastime; it's the joy of growing together.

Digital Learning in Languages Club

Prep School pupils relish taking their learning of languages to the next level. At our Digital Learning in Languages Club we are discovering what resources are useful to develop our own individual needs. Pupils may be wishing to improve and consolidate skills in French or Spanish or they may be fulfilling a desire to learn new languages like Hindi or Mandarin.

This year we had a range of ages from Reception Class to Year 6, using a wealth of different material including online stories, websites helping to widen vocabulary, others that practise speaking and writing, and some sites geared towards grammar too. Our pupils chose what skills they wished to hone under the watchful eye of their languages teacher. Naturally, part of using online resources, it about making choices that are productive for each individual’s learning.

So, we had discussions dipping into metacognition and how to go about learn languages. I am very proud of the progress that so many of our pupils have been able to make progress in their studies this year and the biggest success is shown in how much it helps them in our Languages lessons and the motivation they instil.

Drama Games

Pupils in Years 4, 5 and 6 took part in a variety of drama games that not only entertained, but also offered numerous educational benefits. The pupils were required to think on their feet, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, share ideas and think outside of the box. Our Drama Games club provided the pupils with a fantastic opportunity to have fun, while developing important life skills. The positive feedback from pupils highlighted the club’s impact on enhancing cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Kitchen Garden

Senior AOBs

Michaelmas Term AOBs

Adventure Club

Adventures in Origami

Air Rifles

Ancient Greek

Archery

Over the course of the term, Third Form pupils have been developing key archery skills and techniques during Games lessons, as part of the Archery AOB. To test these skills in a less conventional way, pupils were set the challenge of completing a six-hole archery golf course. Paralleling the existing golf course at School, pupils aimed to get their arrow into the hoop in the fewest shots possible. Just like golf, pupils were challenged against a set par, with an overall winner at the end of the course. Congratulations to Harry Kybett (Third Form, Harcourt), who scored birdies on nearly all holes, winning this fun and highly competitive activity.

Art Awards Holders

Art Club

Badminton

Boxercise

Boys Football

Boys Hockey

Brilliant Board Games

Card Games

Carnegie Shadowing Book Club

Carving and Campfires

Ceramics

Chess

The Chess AOB has been a very popular choice amongst pupils from First Form to Fifth Form,

and during the Michaelmas Term we have been fortunate to have lots of enthusiastic players. What has been particularly pleasing, is that pupils of varying levels of experience have joined the AOB. This has meant that we have introduced new players to the wonderful game, as well as the more experienced players who can then share their knowledge whilst themselves improving their game.

Together with the occasional Sicilian Defence or Queen’s Gambit, plus heated debates on the ‘en passant’ pawn move, everyone has demonstrated a passion for Chess regardless of their level of skill or experience.

Climbing

Climbing Mixed Seniors

Coding

Coding Crafters: The Programming Olympiad Concert Band

Costume Design

Creative Writing

Debating and Public Speaking

Debating, Model United Nations and Public Speaking

Design in Minecraft

Digital Languages Club

Dissection Club

Pupils in First to Fifth Form have been taking part in Dissection AOB throughout the year, exploring the anatomy and physiology of a range of specimens. They have considered the role of dissection in learning about the structure of different animals, ranging from more simple invertebrates such as locusts, squid and starfish, to the more complex vertebrates including the rat, the frog and the dogfish. Pupils have discovered the importance of working safely with dissection equipment, and some have been able to practise producing biological drawings, which differ in their format to ‘artistic’ pieces. They aim to be informative and realistic rather than always pleasing to the eye!

Donald Trump - Hero or Villain? And other political talking points.

Drama Award Holders

Drama Club

Drama Games

Drama Production

Drawing for Beginners

Drawing From Still Life

DT Award Holders

DT Club

DT Workshop

DT: Computer Aided Design

DW Kayaking Mixed Seniors

EAP (Elite Athlete Programme)

Eco Club

Experimental Drawing

First Aid

59% of deaths from injuries could be prevented had First Aid been carried out before emergency medical services arrived. We want everyone to have the skills to save a life and the best way to build people's confidence is to start young.

First Aid AOB helps children and young people learn life-saving First Aid skills, empowering them with the ability to help in an emergency. In addition, it helps them learn how to understand health issues, care for themselves, and make a contribution to their communities. Throughout the term, pupils cover the complete First Aid at Work curriculum, with lots of hands-on practice, scenarios and fun quizzes and competitions designed to build their confidence.

Fitness Group

Football

GCSE Ancient Greek

Girls Football

Glockenspiel Group

Golf

Great Sporting Moments

Grow It, Eat It

History Movie Club

Hockey Girls

Homework Club

Indoor Archery

Indoor Football

Kaleidoscope

LAMDA

Logic Puzzles

Magic: The Gathering and D&D

Mixed Football Skills

Mixed Tennis Seniors

Modern Dance

Music Theory

Mythology

Nemo's Gym Club

Netball

Outdoor Adventure Mixed

Outreach

Paddlesports

Pathway Boys Invasion

Pathway Girls Invasion

Pathway HITT

Pathway Net Games

Pathway Outdoor Ed

Pathway Outdoor Running

Pathway Strength and Stretch

Pathway Weightlifting

Philosophical Investigations

Pottery Club

Puzzle Club

Recorder Karate Friday

Recorder Karate Thursday

Robotics

Rock Band

Rugby Boys

Running Club

Running, whether it be cross country, track or for general fitness and enjoyment, is undergoing a re-birth at Cokethorpe. For the last couple of years we have offered a ‘Sports Focused Running and Exercise’ AOB, with various aims and ambitions. It is for those who wish to build fitness and stamina to support their sporting endeavours in all fields and disciplines. It is also aimed at pupils who just enjoy being fit and active and developing their cardiovascular, and mental, health and well-being. It is increasingly also becoming a means by which we are now supporting athletes who are looking to excel at School and county level in cross country and track events. In recent terms, we have seen Cokethorpe athletes become county track champions at 800m and 1500m events, and also compete at County Cross Country events in Abingdon and Radley. We are also now sending athletes to compete at school athletic meets with real success, and they are also taking on the challenge of Open Meets at the Oxford Athletics Club, where they run with some very experienced athletes, in order to hone their track craft.

We are blessed in being able to use diverse areas of our beautiful parkland for our training, and as such sometimes we take on hill work, other times endurance and stamina, and sometimes we work on strength and speed. We also used our glorious surroundings for the

inaugural Corinthian Challenge Cross Country event in September 2023, in glorious sunshine. With the work and training that has taken place since then it will be exciting to see how this event grows and develops in the years to come as we hopefully see records broken and more athletes striving for excellence.

Sailing

Sci-Fi Symposium

Self Portrait Drawing and Painting

Shooting Senior Mixed

Sixth Form Skills Programme

Sixth Form UCAS

So You Think You Can Maths

Sport Focused Running and Exercise

Sport Research Projects: What makes great players, teams and coaches?

Sports Award Holders

STEM Club

STEM Ninjas

Strength and Conditioning

String Quartet

Student Investor

Swimming Club

Table Tennis

The table tennis AOB has proved to be a popular AOB for First and Second Form pupils eager to explore the world of competitive and recreational table tennis. A group of dedicated young players have embraced the sportfrom mastering the correct grip to perfecting footwork and stroke execution – they have demonstrated a commitment to honing their skills and refining techniques.

Engaging workshops and instructional sessions have improved their game and instilled an understanding of the sport. At the core of the club's identity is its commitment to providing a platform for spirited match play. Regular friendly matches within the club have allowed participants to learn new skills and the group are now seeking local tournaments to put these skills to the test.

Tennis

Textiles

Textiles: Cross-Stitch

Textiles: Knitting & Crocheting

The Cokethorpe Collective

The Periodical

The Scholars Club

Top Up Your Maths

Touch Typing

Vets and Medics

Watercolour Painting

Yoga

Lent Term AOBs

Adventure Club

Air Rifles

Ancient Greek

Archery

Art Awards Holders

Art Club

Badminton

Beginners Climbing

Boys Football

Boys Hockey

Canoe Senior Games

Card Games

Carnegie Shadowing Book Club

Carving

and Campfires

As the cold weather enveloped the School over the Lent Term, a brave selection of pupils would regularly head to the Woods for the Carving and Campfire AOB. The carving and whittling was focused on developing pupils patience, control and creativity. Fine motor skills were put to the test as pupils created wispy curls on their sticks that they later used as fire lighters. Building and maintaining a fire in the wet condition really tested our pupils and highlighted their understanding of the fire triangle. They were able to build successful campfires to roast marshmallows, makes pancakes and even produce Bannock style breads.

Ceramics

Chess

Climbing

Coding

Coding Crafters: The Programming Olympiad Concert Band

Contemporary Christianity

Costume Design

Creative Writing

Cricket For Beginners

Dance

Debating Global Issues: How to solve the challenges facing our world

Debating, Model United Nations and Public

Speaking

Design in Minecraft

Digital Languages Club

Dissection Club

Drama Award Holders

Drama Club

Drama Games

Drama Production

Drama: Fourth Form and Lower Sixth

Production

Drawing for Beginners

Drawing From Still Life

DT Award Holders

DT Club

DT Workshop

DT: Computer Aided Design

DW Kayaking Mixed Seniors

EAP (Elite Athlete Programme)

Eco Club

Experimental Drawing

First Aid

Fitness Group

Football

GCSE Ancient Greek

Girls Football

Glockenspiel Group

Golf

Great Sporting Moments

Grow It, Eat It

Hama Beads

History Movie Club

Hockey Boys

Homework Club

Indoor Archery

Kaleidoscope

Kitchen Garden

LAMDA

Lego

Logic Puzzles

This academic year has seen the introduction of the Logic Puzzles AOB. Throughout the year, the group have looked at a variety of different puzzles. This started with classic logic puzzles and how to set them out in a proper manner, looking at Einstein’s famous riddle. Following this introduction, pupils have looked at more familiar puzzles, such as sudokus and minesweeper.

Pupils have relished the opportunity to look at new puzzles and learn the different methods

of tackling them including bridges, kakuro, and futoshiki. This is a thriving AOB, offering pupils the chance to think in ways that differ from what is usually required of them in lessons.

Love Food, Hate Waste (DofE Volunteering)

Magic: The Gathering and D&D

Matilda The Musical

Mixed Football Skills

Modern Dance

Multi Sports

Music Theory

Nemo's Gym Club

Netball

Netball Skills

Orienteering

Outdoor Adventure Mixed

Outreach

Philosophical Investigations

Photography

Pottery Club

Problem Solving and Reasoning

Puzzle Club

Recorder Karate

Robotics

Rock Band

Rugby 7s

Running Club

Sailing

The sailing group enjoyed a variety of conditions at the start of this term. Some windier sessions enabled a few of the sailors to perfect heeling which had them leaning out of the boats as far as they could. The usual practising of jibing and tacking should stand them all in good stead as they try to improve their skill in a racing situation. Credit is due to the group who stoically continued to sail when faced with freezing conditions.

Sailing Mixed Seniors

Sci-Fi Symposium

Self Portrait Drawing and Painting

Shooting Senior Mixed

Sixth Form Skills Programme

Sixth Form UCAS

So You Think You Can Maths

Social Media and Videography

As a new AOB option, Social Media and Videography proved to be a popular one. In these sessions we discussed how social media works, going over trends and sharing knowledge. We also learned about videography and video editing skills. The pupils then used their new found skills to create their own interview-style videos and social media reels on School interests or life.

Sport Focused Running and Exercise

Sports Award Holders

STEM Club

STEM Ninjas

Strength & Conditioning

String Quartet

Student Investor

Student investor AOB gives pupils the opportunity to learn about investing in the stock market. This also means that they are learning about market trends and the economy. Pupils are each given £100,000 of virtual money to invest in companies that are listed on the London stock exchange, whether that be a company listed on the FTSE 100, for example Next or BP, or a company listed on the Alternative Investment Market, a much riskier investment.

The aim is to have the most profitable portfolio at the end of each half term and so choosing the right investment strategy is key, balancing this with how much risk to take. The current group of pupils have certainly been taking large risks with their investments, and at the time of writing, this strategy is paying off.

Swimming Club

Table Tennis

Tennis

Textiles

Textiles: Cross-Stitch

Textiles: Knitting and Crocheting

The Cokethorpe Collective

The Scholars Club

Top Up Your Maths

Touch Typing

Vets and Medics

Watercolour Painting

Yoga

Zentangles: Mindful geometric drawing

Summer Term AOBs

Air Rifles

Ancient Greek

Archery

Art (Portraiture)

Art Awards Holders

Art Club

Basketball

Beginners Climbing

Boys Football

Card Games

Carnegie Shadowing Book Club

Carving and Campfires

Ceramics

Chess

Christian Union

Climbing

Coding Crafters: The Programming Olympiad

Concert Band

Costume Design

Creative Writing

Croquet

Dance Design in Minecraft

Dissection Club

Drama Award Holders

Drama Club

Drama Production

DT Award Holders

DT Club

DT: Computer Aided Design

EAP (Elite Athlete Programme)

Eco Club

Experimental Drawing

First Aid

GCSE Ancient Greek

Girls Football

Girls Touch Rugby

Golf

Great Sporting Moments

Grow It, Eat It

Homework Club

Kaleidoscope

Lawn Games

Logic Puzzles

Love Food, Hate Waste (DofE Volunteering)

Magic: The Gathering and DandD

Matilda The Musical

Music Theory

Netball

Outdoor Cricket Nets

Outreach

Paddlesports

Philosophical Investigations

Public Speaking: How to create a Ted Talk

Rock Band

Rugby 7s

Sailing

Sci-Fi Symposium

Sixth Form Skills Programme

Sixth Form

UCAS

So You Think You Can Maths

Sport Focused Running and Exercise

Sports Award Holders

STEM Ninjas

Pupils have been honing their skills in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) over the last terms in this AOB. They undertake their own investigative work and enquiry-based research in order to obtain 'real-life’ experience of being a scientist or engineer. Pupils choose projects, driving their own research and experimental design, which are all then externally assessed by experts.

Jake Jolleys (Second Form, Queen Anne) explored ‘What brand of crisps have the best crunch’, looking into the best ways to assess scientifically the ‘crunch’, an essential for all crisps.

Reuben Uglow (Second Form, Gascoigne) and Diwen Zhu (Second Form, Swift) researched and explored ‘How to get the best fingerprint results’, experimenting with different methods and evaluating how this can be applied in a real-world setting. ‘How does white light split into different colours?’ was the focus point for Daniel Luis Medel (Second Form, Queen Anne), as he investigated the various ways to blend colours, inspired by how coloured lighting is used to create different atmospheres.

Each project showed real flair and creativity with all pupils successfully achieving a prestigious Bronze CREST award.

String Quartet

Tennis

Textiles

Textiles: Cross-Stitch

Textiles: Knitting and Crocheting

The Scholars Club

Top Up Your Maths

Touch Typing

Vets and Medics

Volleyball

On Monday’s in the Summer Term, the AOB volleyball club gather for exhilarating sessions in the sun. Led by Mr Gallagher, pupils from various year groups engage in an inclusive volleyball experience tailored to accommodate all skill levels.

The ethos of our club is inclusivity, welcoming both beginners and seasoned players alike. Throughout the sessions, participants have the opportunity to refine fundamental volleyball skills, including set shots, dig shots, and serves. Individuals hone their techniques, fostering a supportive environment where improvement is celebrated. Beyond volleyball proficiency, the club places significant emphasis on character development. Participants not only enhance their athletic abilities but also cultivate qualities such as resilience, teamwork, and leadership. Through collaborative drills and team-based activities, pupils learn the value of communication, cooperation, and perseverance, essential attributes both on and off the court.

The highlights of our sessions are the opportunity to engage in friendly matches. With spirits high and determination abound, pupils enthusiastically take to the court, showcasing their newfound skills in a series of spirited contests. These matches not only provided a platform for applying learned techniques but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants.

Watercolour Painting

Yoga

Dance AOB

'Dance AOB has been a hive of energy, creativity and sheer joy this year. The dancers have explored a variety of dance styles and genres, from contemporary, to street, and everything in between. The focus has been on improving and enhancing movement repertoire, technical accuracy and performance quality within a number of dance performance pieces, with the exhilarating The Greatest Showman Medley being a particular favourite.

We have also spent some time developing individual choreography and considering the effective use of actions, space, dynamics and relationship (ASDR). Carla Mohun (Fifth Form, Queen Anne) developed powerful and emotive motifs for her GCSE Physical Education coursework which resulted in an expressive and highly engaging final piece. Tibby Bignone (Second Form, Feilden) and Brooke WoodleyGreen (Second Form, Swift) showcased their exceptional leadership and chorographical ability by teaching their own choreography to the group. It was both inspiring and exciting to see such independence and ambition from Second Form pupils and encouraged others in the group to also volunteer to lead, to share their skills and creative choreography for all to enjoy. Many of the pupils participate in classes and competitive dance competitions outside of School and it was excellent to see them come together as a dance community at Cokethorpe to challenge and support one another, to embrace dance, be active and express themselves.'

Mrs Naylor Assistant Director of Sport

Costume Design AOB

'The Costume Design AOB works in conjunction with our Drama AOB and productions each term. It enables an understanding of the processes involved in developing a design into a completed costume that will be seen on stage. It is a wonderful opportunity to explore the fantastic costume store at School, to share ideas about character portrayal and learn a range of skills. Pupils have had the opportunity to research in to style and period, machine sewing, pattern cutting, sourcing, clothing adaptationall the imaginative and hands-on skills needed to create a costume and fit an actor. There may also be opportunities to assist with props, puppets and set dressing as each production comes to fruition. This AOB requires creativity, inventive collaborative thinking, resourcefulness, and a committed interest in drama - indeed, all current participants are also acting in the productions we are working on.'

Mrs Wilkinson Head of Wardrobe

HOUSES

Prep

School Council

Bella Ferguson (Year 6, Symonds)

Melissa Hernandez (Year 6, Lockwood)

Julia Pisanello (Year 5, Baker)

Shannon Edwards (Year 5, Symonds)

Orlando Bayes (Year 4, Baker)

Arthur Abraham (Year 3, Gwyn)

Year 6 House Captains

Gwyn - Noah Vincent (Head) and Berry Drake (Vice)

Baker - Imogen Jones (Head) and Avalon Harris (Vice)

Symonds - Molly Sheer (Head) and Gabriel Smith (Vice)

Lockwood - Esmae Lakey-Dodson (Head) and Marco Scott (Vice)

‘Being Head of Prep School has given me the opportunity to reminisce about my own experience in the Prep School. Being part of assemblies and the anticipation as we announced the House point winner, getting to know some of the Year 6 and answering any questions before they begin their Senior School journey and leaving a memory of us behind with a creative visual House point system has been a lovely way to bring our time at Cokethorpe to and end. It has been a pleasure to work with such enthusiastic children and watch as they have thrown themselves into everything given to them, even a Paddington Bear themed movie night.’

Alice Smith (Upper Sixth, Swift)

‘Being the Deputy Head of Prep School, this year has been a joy. I have loved every second of it. They are a wonder to talk to and every time they saw me walking around the School they would always say hi with the biggest smiles on their faces. Going to the Prep assemblies were a lovely end to my week as we got to hear about what they got up to and who won the House points that week. Being able to organise events for the Prep School has been so much fun, such as; a film night and the Year 6 disco. I wish the Year 6 pupils all the best as they move up into the Senior School and to the rest of the Prep School, enjoy your time as these years are full of wonder and creativity.’

Jasmine Hammond (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

An exciting addition for the Prep School is the introduction of a new, visual House point collection system. Having raised money at the Prep School Film Night when they showed Paddington 2, the Prep School Prefects Jasmine and Alice were able to design and purchase this fantastic installation which from now on will sit proudly at the top of the wooden stairs. For super work or behaviour, children will collect tokens in their House colour and deposit them down the respective Perspex chimney belonging to their House. Will it be Baker, Gwyn, Lockwood or Symonds to fill up first?

Harvest Hamper Donations

As part of the Harvest Festival, pupils and parents generously donated food supplies to put together hampers which were donated to Witney Food Bank. Our wonderful House and Vice Captains delivered the donations to the Food Bank.

Butterfly Book Display

Should you be lucky enough to take a stroll through the corridors of the Prep School, you would notice a beautiful, eye-catching display along the length of the wall.

In vibrant House colours (yellow for Baker, red for Gwyn, blue for Lockwood and green for Symmonds) each child contributes a butterfly upon completing a book that has been read for pleasure. All reading counts - newspapers, comics, graphic novels, novels - with each child sharing in conversation with Mrs Luckett to answer questions to evidence their comprehension upon completion.

House Points are assigned according to the level of challenge that the book represented for that child; one for an easy read, through to three for appropriate ambition. Each butterfly evidences the title and author of the book read together with a star rating. Pupils share their butterfly with their peers as a reading recommendation so that the pleasure can be passed on.

Inter-House Competitions

Inter-House Literature Quiz

It was pens at the ready and thinking caps on for our Prep School pupils as they were put through their paces in an inter-House Literature quiz. Teams of four, led by their House captains, along with pupils from each year group from Year 3 upwards, competed in the quiz organised by Head of School, Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne), and Head of Gascoigne House, Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth).

The three rounds tested the pupil’s knowledge of both classic and modern literature and put their reflexes to the test in the quickfire buzzer round. In between rounds, pupils demonstrated their general knowledge and were able to confidently answer questions on literature, geography, film, and food. The competition was nail-bitingly close, with only a few points separating first and last place. A huge congratulations to all the teams and especially to Lockwood who won by one point.

Prep Inter-House Netball

An exciting afternoon, with the boy and girls from Year 3 and 4, coming together to compete against each other in their respective Houses. For some of the boys, it was their first experience at Netball.

For the girls, it was an opportunity to show the boys their skills, and that is exactly what they did; they took charge and led each of their teams admirably. After a full round of games, it was Symonds who came out victorious, winning all their games.

Prep Inter-House Singing

After weeks of rehearsals, the four Prep School Houses finally took to the stage for only the second ever Prep inter-House Singing Competition. Each House chose a song related to the theme, ‘Reach for the Stars’, and their choices did not disappoint. Lockwood sang A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay, followed by Gwyn with Let in the Sun by Take That. Both Houses performed with a good balance of emotion and energy, with some nice choreography too. Mr Adlington’s Clarinet ensemble then performed a lovely version of Scarborough Fair before the other two Houses, Baker and Symonds, performed their songs. Baker’s interpretation of Rhianna’s song, Diamonds, included some beautiful solos with some clever harmonies.

Symonds ended the show with a powerful rendition of The Final Countdown by Europe. They performed with incredible confidence and energy, with perfectly timed choreography, which made for a very entertaining performance.

After much deliberation, our Upper Sixth judges: Head of School, Dee Biles (Gascoigne), Head of Gascoigne, Grace Gunn, and Prep School Prefects, Jasmine Hammond (Gascoigne) and Alice Smith (Swift) crowned Symonds the winner. Year 3 Inter-House Fencing

Year 3 spent a term mastering the art of fencing, focussing on the use of their swords and the strategy of fencing. Year 3 then had the opportunity to put the skills they have learnt to the test, in the inter-House Fencing Championships. It was a fantastic event which all pupils committed to and played with enthusiasm. They showed great sportsmanship and represented their Houses impeccably.

Lower House

As the academic year draws to a close, it is time to reflect on the journey of Lower House. From the crisp mornings of the Lower House camp to the glittering disco lights at the end of the first half term, our House has been a hub of activity, enthusiasm, and achievement.

At the start of the year, Lower House embarked on the annual Lower House camp. From teambuilding challenges to bushcraft skills Lower House camp set the tone for the year ahead.

At the end of the first half term Lower House came alive under the disco ball. Our pupils danced, laughed, and celebrated their hard work. The disco was a roaring success, greatly helped by our Head of House, Matthew Rees (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) and his willing band of Sixth Form volunteers.

Many Lower House pupils took part in various House competitions. We cheered them on as they sprinted in the Crawford Relay, battled conundrums in the House Countdown, harmonized in House Music, and dazzled on stage in House Drama. Their dedication and sportsmanship made us proud, reinforcing the spirit of Lower House.

As Housemaster of Lower House for six rewarding years, I have witnessed both laughter and anxiety, but leave with countless memories. It is with a mix of sadness and excitement that I pass the torch to Mrs Pryor, our new Housemistress. I would like to wish her all the best on this exciting journey! I would also express my gratitude to all Lower House members—pupils, tutors, and parents—for making these years unforgettable.

Mr O'Connor Housemaster

‘Being the Head of Lower House has been a real honour and an enjoyable experience over the last year of my Cokethorpe journey, helping the younger years with questions and helping organise events was a great break in between the heavy revision and workload between the year and I wish the best for all of them in their academic journeys at Cokethorpe School.’

Matthew Rees (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne)

Feilden

'As we bid adieu to an eventful Curriculum Enrichment Week, Feilden House convened to commemorate the conclusion of the academic year and to acknowledge our shared and individual accomplishments. The anticipation for the forthcoming Prize Giving and the ensuing summer vacation was palpable. Pupils and their tutors took turns to reminisce about the year and express gratitude for the collective efforts throughout the past terms.

The joy of convening as a complete House for the first time since the commencement of the summer examinations was tinged with the sorrow of bidding farewell to those departing. We extended our best wishes to our Upper Sixth as they embark on their journey beyond the Cokethorpe family.

As anticipated, the staff and pupils of Feilden House had numerous achievements to celebrate – the year was brimming with competitions and events. Notable individual highlights from House competitions included victory in the Cross-Country Spirit competition and the Lent Term Recommendations Cup as well as a large number of podium finishes in other events; these experiences provided valuable lessons for the coming year.

Our Sports Day in June served as an exhilarating finale to the year, with Feilden House pupils demonstrating their commitment and enthusiasm in this annual event. It was heartening to witness everyone giving their best. This spirit was evident throughout the year, with Feilden pupils excelling in House Singing, Drama, STEM challenges, debating, and sporting competitions, among others. Those who immerse themselves in these activities, regardless of their prior experience, seem to have the most enriching Cokethorpe experience, and I urge others to follow suit in the next academic year.

As we look ahead to the next academic year, we are ready to face the challenges and joys that await Feilden House with optimism and resolve. We bid a warm goodbye to our Head of House, Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth), and welcome our new Head of House, Jack Berry (Lower Sixth), along with his team of prefects: Deputy Head of School, Fletch Jewell (Lower Sixth), Head of Lower House, Calla Whitby (Lower Sixth), and Findlay Knox (Lower Sixth). I am confident they will do an outstanding job of representing and supporting the House and wish them every success in their final year.'

Mr Hughes Housemaster

‘Being the Head of House for Feilden this year has been an incredible experience. From leading the House in sporting events, to competing in the House Debating Competition, it has been non-stop. My highlight has to be the House Cross Country Competition at the start of the year. Not only were we in second place, but each member of the House took part and it made for a wonderful afternoon. I would like to thank the other Prefects who have helped organise teams, as well as the amazing tutors. I am going to miss being part of such an incredible community and I wish the new Head of House my very best.’

Rachael Elliott (Upper Sixth)

Gascoigne

'It is with a heavy heart that I write this House year review, knowing it will be my last. I have recently found myself reflecting upon all the last House commitments I have been asked to lead, and I was glad to see that, once again, the Gascoigne community came together to make them successful and memorable events. Starting from our last tennis tournament, I am proud to announce that we were once again crowned overall champions, with excellent performances from Chloe Webber (Third Form) and Reuben Davies (Fourth Form). House Captains Philip Croker (Lower Sixth) and Grace Garner (Third Form) worked incredibly hard to put together competitive teams for our last House Cricket competition, which I am reliably informed was a success for Gascoigne House. However, it almost seems ironic that our last Sports Day was the first one where pupils truly worked together and for one another, producing some remarkable performances and showing the strong community spirit that characterises our House.

With my thoughts directed at my last House assembly, I cannot help but thinking about those

families who will also be with us for one last time at this year’s Prize Giving. To the Biles, Gunn, Hammond, Kerton, and Watkins families go our heartfelt thanks for their unwavering support over the years. We do wish your youngest offsprings all the very best in the future.

It seems therefore fitting that I conclude this review with the words of Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth), who, as Head of House for this academic year, has been called upon for one last duty:

‘It has been such a privilege to be Head of Gascoigne this academic year. One of my favourite parts of the House system is seeing everyone supporting one another and celebrating each other’s successes. The House system is unique and special as we all have different strengths. Whether that be sport, music, art, DT, academic or drama, we are all brought together by being part of the same community. House Music remains my favourite event as it is one of the few opportunities where the whole House come together to sing on a stage, in some cases with cringey moves! A highlight from this year has been coming second in the House Football competition and the excellent performance in the Sixth Form General Knowledge Quiz. Being a tutor partner

for the First Form was a lovely opportunity to get to know the new pupils, help them ease into Senior School and to watch them achieve new goals. It has been a great experience and a pleasure to lead the House this year.

105

I would also like to take the opportunity to welcome and congratulate the new Gascoigne Prefects for the academic year 2024-2025: Phillip Croker (Lower Sixth), Freddie Leefield (Lower Sixth) and Zack Galliford (Lower Sixth) as Head of House: I wish them all the best of

in their new roles.

As strange as it feels coming to the end of another year and for some of us leaving School altogether, I would like to finish with one of my favourite quotes from Winnie the Pooh: ‘Remember, you’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.'

luck

Mrs Semenzato Housemistress

Crawford Relay

House Countdown

House Singing

Lottie Graves (Second Form) as Matilda Sports Day House

Harcourt

'As I reflect on another action-packed year, I am immensely proud of the collective efforts of our pupils and staff. Together, we have achieved remarkable success, and I appreciate the hard work that each member of our fabulous team has contributed. Looking ahead, I am excited to see what we can accomplish together in the coming year. Throughout this year, the development of leadership traits within our school community has been evident. Whether through individual pursuits or group activities, ambition and integrity have shone brightly. It has been my pleasure to support you all in your academic and extracurricular endeavours, and I eagerly anticipate the next chapter of our journey together.

Our talented pupils showcased their musical abilities by performing Counting Stars by OneRepublic. Led by of Head of House, Tara Lockhart (Upper Sixth), their harmonious voices resonated throughout the Sports Hall, earning Harcourt House a well-deserved victory in the House Singing Competition for the second consecutive year. The dedication and teamwork displayed by our singers were truly commendable. Particular mention must once again go to Darcey Snaith (Fifth Form) who took a leading role, showcasing her vocal range with a solid solo performance as well as all those who were involved in the ensemble. Fingers crossed for next year!

Harcourt House continued its winning streak in the DT Competition. Our pupils’ innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship secured the top spot for the second year running. Their ability to blend creativity with technical skills is a testament to their hard work and determination.

Intellectual prowess was on full display during the Sixth Form General Knowledge Quiz. Our students demonstrated an impressive breadth of knowledge, answering questions on diverse topics - from history and science to current affairs. Their curiosity and hunger for learning propelled Harcourt House to victory.

The Michaelmas Term brought the newly anticipated Corinthian Challenge, this set the scene for the House, coming third in the ‘House Spirit’ Trophy, with ten runners finishing in the top three in each race. The Boys’ rugby and football teams faced intense battles on the field. While narrowly missing the top spot, their skill, determination, and teamwork were evident. Controversial decisions aside, they proudly claimed second place, leaving us all in awe of their athletic abilities. The girls came together to pull of some significant wins against the tougher opposition, working well to take

advantage when errors were made. Finishing Fourth overall, the Girls' game together and showed tremendous team spirit.

A highlight has been the mixed hardball and softball cricket events. Our teams dominated the pitch: The First to Third Form teams emerged victorious in every match, displaying raw talent and enthusiasm. The Senior teams continued the winning streak, showcasing their experience and strategic play. The softball team’s third-place finish added another feather to our cap. Overall results? A comfortable win. Thank you to Hugo Du Plessis (Third Form) and Edward Morgan (Lower Sixth) for captaining the sides to victory.

Sports Day marked the grand finale of the year. The entire House came together, cheering and competing with unwavering spirit. Our athletes sprinted, leaped, and threw with determination, breaking records as the afternoon developed. Special mention in particular to the Third and Fourth Form teams who dominate on the track, taking five seconds of a relay record, Sam Weldon (Fourth Form), Liam Rowe (Fourth Form), Joel Davies (Third Form) and Archie Ricks (Third Form) coming together to bring the baton home for Harcourt.

The Tug-of-War competition also added extra excitement to the week, with First and Second

Forms pulling out all the stops to take fifth place, Third and Fourth Forms taking a good fourth, it was the Lower Sixth, winning the competition that meant the House finished in third place, led by next year’s Head of House , Edward Morgan (Lower Sixth), the team took an easy victory, winning each heat without any pressure.

In the end, Harcourt House secured second place overall—a fitting conclusion to a year filled with achievements and camaraderie.

Good luck to all our amazing Upper Sixth students and Fifth Form pupils. I wish you all the very best of luck as you move on to your next chapter, whether that be university, travelling the world or in the world of work. Please remember that the best things you will accomplish are the results of being challenged, have ambition, and never let anyone tell you cannot do something.

I extend heartfelt thanks to all pupils, staff, and supporters who contributed to Harcourt House’s success. Special recognition goes to our Head of House, Tara Lockhart, whose leadership and passion inspired us all. As we celebrate our accomplishments, we eagerly look forward to the challenges and triumphs of the next academic year. She will pass on the baton to Edward Morgan (Lower Sixth) who I know is excited and ready for this challenge.'

Miss Woodcock Housemistress

Queen Anne

'It has been a year of firsts for me as Housemistress of Queen Anne and I have spent most of these occasions, bursting with pride for all that our pupils have achieved. The first event that the entire House took part in was the Corinthian Championship Cross Country and Joshua Spolander (Second Form), Georgia Standbridge (Second Form) and Antonio Virk (Fourth Form) showed unrelenting stamina in their runs. Continuing the theme of running, Queen Anne went from strength to strength and kept up their winning streak in the Crawford Relay. The pace of our team was impressive, and notable performances came from Seb Uglow (First Form), Immy Armstrong (Third Form) and Evie-Rose Burdick (Fourth Form), to name but a few. Let us do the same next year! Another win for us in sport was the House Football, where we rose to victory, led by Freddie Murfitt (Upper Sixth), our outgoing Head of House. A great team spirit from all of the pupils involved.

One observation I have made about the pupils in Queen Anne is that they are fiercely ambitious and, as such, give their utmost effort in competitions. Creativity shone through Queen Anne this year in our House Drama offering, carefully guided by Matthew Rees (Upper Sixth), with his younger brother Adam (Lower Sixth), going on to the final with his outstanding performance in the monologue category. We were delighted with our act in this competition and Adam’s delivery of his monologue was outstanding.

Beyond the House competitions, the dedication of our pupils in the Arts has been palpable throughout the year. In Michaelmas Term, Queen Anne raised the roof with their rendition of As It Was by Harry Styles in the House Singing competition. The School productions of Matilda the Musical and The 39 Steps saw Queen Anne well represented and the talent showcased by so many of our pupils was magical. Atalanta Cannell (Second Form) gave a seamless performance in Matilda, along with many others. I have been honoured to hand out numerous certificates in our House Assemblies for achievements in LAMDA and Music Examinations, and I look forward to watching and listening to more performances next year.

Another first for me as Housemistress, was watching with trepidation as our Queen Anne Countdown team went head-to-head with other Houses. We were ably represented by Sammi Eagle (First Form) and Sam Young-Gale (First Form), Charlie Parks (Second Form), Bing Brown (Third Form), Sukhmani Panesar (Fourth Form), Archie Clarke (Fifth Form) and Simran Panesar (Lower Sixth). Pupils thought on their feet to work out their answers under the ticking of the Countdown clock and handled the pressure admirably, coming in second place. We were also represented in the House DT competition by pupils from First Form to Lower Sixth who were: Kayden Gounongbe (First Form), Freya Vincent (Second Form), Isaac Pool (Third Form), Antonio Virk (Fourth Form), Felix Pool (Fifth Form) and Adam North (Lower Sixth). Well done and thank you to all of those who took part, giving up their time to do so.

It has also been a year of great academic success, with recommendations coming in thick and fast from teachers. Some pupils were recognised this year for their excellence by receiving the new Optimum Award. Sukhmani Panesar (Fourth Form) and Freya Vincent (Second Form) were among those pupils, and they have demonstrated throughout the year that they are worthy of such nominations. I look forward to seeing how the pupils progress next year in their academic journeys as well as their sporting and creative endeavours.

It brings me onto another first as Housemistress this year; Sports Day. What a fight we gave against the other Houses. The highlight was in the build up to this event, watching our team spirit grow. The heats for the Tug-of-War were tough, but in every heat for all age categories, Queen Anne won. The final of the Tug-of-War took place on Sports Day itself and after a gruelling battle against some fierce opponents, Queen Anne won the Maskery Cup for the Tug-of-War. This was a wonderful way to end our year, with the award being collected by our incoming Head or House, Ben Charlesworth (Lower Sixth). I know he will be a role model for Queen Anne, alongside our prefects, Finley Gregory-Newman (Lower Sixth) and Simran Panesar (Lower Sixth). We say farewell to our outgoing Head of House, Freddie Murfitt (Upper Sixth).'

Mrs Bowden Housemistress

House Singing

Crawford Relay

House Countdown

House Tug-of-War

Sports Day

Joshua Spolander (Second Form) Cross Country

'As the end of another academic year rolls around, it is yet again with great pride that I am able to reflect upon the achievements that we have achieved both individually and collectively as a House over the past twelve months. The resilience, empathy, hard work, and courage that the pupils have shown in fully immersing themselves in all aspects of school life never fails to impress me. I could not be prouder of what each and every individual has achieved this year and I am delighted to share with you some of the highlights.

Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth) led the House brilliantly in the House Drama competition, ably supported by Sam Farr (Lower Sixth) and the rest of the Lower Sixth tutor group, as well as the star of the show Josiah Smith (Third Form). Despite being pipped to first place in the ensemble category by a brilliantly polished performance from Vanbrugh, the group managed to put together a fabulous piece from The Lord Of the Flies, and it was a pleasure to watch such incredibly talented

individuals. Earlier in the year saw successes in the House Football and Hockey competitions, as well as strong showings in the rugby and netball, winning the House Countdown, and second place finishes in both the House Music competition and Crawford Relay. In addition to this, we managed to compile the highest number of recommendations in both the Lent and Summer Terms, showcasing the wonderful breadth of talent that we are lucky to have in Swift, and just what a successful year this has been across the board. The togetherness, support, encouragement, and willingness to simply ‘work hard’, are often things that we talk about as a House, and it has been clear that each and every pupil that has represented Swift this year has shown these qualities in abundance.

As the end of the school year approached, it was lovely to see so many of our parents at the Senior School Sports Day, a highlight for many, and this year it, again, did not disappoint. Chasing our third win in three years was always going to be a huge ask, especially given the abundance of talent on show across the Houses. A huge effort was

given by all participants, many having to step out their comfort zones and compete in events they would not usually choose to compete in. Having gained an early lead in proceedings, we managed to cling on and secure a brilliant win again, pipping Harcourt into second place. It was a great way to round off a very successful year and for our new incoming Head of House, Dan Pickford (Lower Sixth), to lift a trophy in his first week in the role - the bar has been set to go again in September!

At the end of another academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank all of the Swift tutors, who have been an amazing inspiration and support to myself and all of those in their care over the course of the year. Also to all of our leavers in Swift who are moving on, and in particular our outgoing Head of House, James Stiger (Upper Sixth). Your efforts and contributions to the House over the years have been hugely appreciated, and I wish you all the best in your new ventures, please do stay in touch.'

Mr Joiner Housemaster

Crawford Relay

Nancy Christensen (Lower Sixth) in The 39 Steps

House Singing

Vanbrugh

'For the members of Vanbrugh House it has been a largely pleasant and successful year, culminating as it does in the Senior School’s Sports Day. On the day we were proud, if a little disappointed, to come in fourth place. Particular praise should go to our Third and Fourth Form girls’ team who, having sustained a couple of injuries, calmly and confidently reorganised themselves to ensure all events were covered. I know I speak for everyone in the House when I say how much it means to have parents come and support and enjoy what is always one of the highlights of the year. I would also like to commend the Sixth Form team who were a force to be reckoned with at the Tug-of-War when competing for the Colin Maskery Cup. It was noteworthy that there was a depth of skill, strength and determination amongst the Second Form and I firmly believe they will lead us to our winning the cup for the first time in the years to come. It is fair to say that we will need to redouble our efforts in both Rugby and Hockey in the 2023-2024 competitions.

Although we were not the leading lights of the School in terms of sport this academic year, we have benefitted from having really honed our creative talents over the last few years. As runners-up in the House Drama we pulled together a fine ensemble piece in which most of our First Form dipped their toes in the water and gave excellent performances (inspired by the GCSE text The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time) in front of the whole School. We were represented in the monologue our new Head of House whose live performance left her audience in stunned silence. It was magnificent. We achieved our highest accolade for the House film competition. Our directing team’s clarity of vision, sophisticated use of the monochrome and evocative use of sound left the competition in the dust.

There is, of course, far more to being a member of Vanbrugh House than participating in competitions. Each pupil had the opportunity to contribute to the production and organisation of an assembly. Each pupil has had the opportunity to share their thoughts with their peers and teachers and to explore the world in which we live.

Being part of an academic House is to have a sense of belonging to more of a family-shaped community during the school day. This sense of connection has shone through this year in the ways that our pupils interact with each other, showing compassion and care for individuals outside of their immediate friendship groups. As their Housemistress I am immensely proud of the kindness they extend throughout the School.'

Ms Mountain Housemistress

‘It has been an honour to lead Vanbrugh House, this past year. When I first joined Vanbrugh seven years ago, I was immediately proud of the House I was a part of, the kindness, courage, and empathy that floods the House is overwhelming. Vanbrugh has had many successes, which would not have been possible if the whole House had not participated. Vanbrugh is a family, and I will always cherish the time, when I lead Vanbrugh House.’

Bella Caffyn (Upper Sixth)

COMMUNITY

Parents' and Friends' Association

Fireworks Extravaganza

Over 1,500 visitors gathered around the Mansion House for an explosive night of fireworks organised by our wonderful CPFA. The roaring bonfire was quite the spectacle as it blazed away on the field. Visitors, young and old, embraced all the fun of the fair, as they enjoyed the fairground rides whilst warming up with hot drinks and mulled wine, or sampling some of the delicious food on offer.

There was even more excitement this year as, for the first time, the fireworks were choreographed to music. As the first fireworks lit up the sky in an explosion of colour, music boomed through the large speakers set up along the Ha-Ha and flames burst out to the beat. The fireworks were truly incredible, and every year the display surpasses the last. The crowd were delighted with the spectacular display, which truly made it a night to remember.

Murder Mystery

‘The Last Resort’ Holiday Camp was the scene of this year’s annual CPFA Murder Mystery evening, as the audience tried to uncover the culprit in this hilarious ‘whodunnit’. The workers were tragic, forgotten performers of yester-year hoping to renew their contracts for another season. However, emotions are running high and relationships are strained, secrets are unveiled and old wounds reopened in a fight to stay alive.

The audience were lucky enough to see the workers share their ‘talents’ in their fight for survival: the bumbling ventriloquist and his dummy, Mr Pickles, the rather disturbing twins who could read both the future and the past, the Greek Odyssey whose magic tricks left a lot to be desired, the bubbly but hapless escapologist, and her son, the quiet singer and performer (it’s always the quiet ones...).

It was up to the (rather sunburnt) police officers to guide the audience through this tragic tale to solve the mystery and find out who was responsible for bringing the owner of this disastrous rundown holiday camp to his grisly end in his chalet’s hot tub.

Written by our talented pairing of Mrs Hooper and Mrs Ringham, and performed by the cast of current staff and OCs, the Murder Mystery evening is always a sell-out event which never fails to disappoint. The performance had the audience captivated from the beginning and laughing to the very end, and the delicious curry by the Catering Department provided the well-needed fuel to get the grey matter working and solve this heinous crime.

Christmas Fair

Whether it was gifts, stocking fillers or some delicious festive treats you were looking for, there was something for everyone at this year’s CPFA Christmas Fair. With over 30 artisan stalls selling everything from bespoke jewellery to handmade clothes, local cheese and holidays. The Catering Department were on hand, selling delicious hot food and refreshments to keep the cold at bay and visitors were greeted by giant fire lanterns as they entered the Quad. The Lower Library was transformed into a winter wonderland, as visitors queued to meet Santa in his North Pole grotto.

Thanks, as always, to Mrs Thomas, Mrs Rivers, Mrs Priestley-Smith and the whole CPFA team for all their hard work in ensuring this was a wonderful event enjoyed by all.

Quiz Night

The recent Cokethorpe Parents’ and Friends’ Association quiz saw teams of parents, staff and friends battling out to be 2024 champions. The evening started with our fabulous Catering Department serving up a delicious fish and chip supper, followed by ice creams in the interval.

Our quiz master, Mr Bosse, put together a great quiz, starting with two picture rounds, one dingbats and the other photos of ‘bad’ celebrity wax works. Teams then pitched their general knowledge against each other with the victors being team ‘Three Men Down’ (Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and her parents Simon and Olga, and Grace Gunn (Uppper Sixth, Gascoigne) and her parents Vince and Tanya). The CPFA would like to thank Mr Bosse for delivering such a fantastic quiz, the Catering Department for the delicious supper and the Marketing Department for all their help advertising the event. It was a great evening of fun and socialising. Congratulations again to the 2024 champions.

The Peacock Ball

On the evening of Friday 5 July 2024, students, parents and staff gathered on the Mansion lawn for an evening to remember: the 2024 Peacock Ball. The Ball, organised CPFA, was on the theme of James Bond; Bond-style accents included Martini cocktails, a casino (Blackjack, Roulette), and a giant car racing game,

The food was delicious, and the wine flowed. Before the meal, guests were entertained by the Singing Waiters (who worked undercover from the start of the evening to preserve their identities – James Bond would have been most impressed). After the meal there was dancing to an excellent covers band. From Queen to Queen Latifah, no song was left unturned and no corner of the dance floor was left undanced on. A stunning display of fireworks at 10pm provided brief respite for the hips, and then the guests were back on the dance floor.

In my speech I told the story of the composer, Monty Norman, who stumbled across the James Bond theme tune almost by accident; the story serves as a reminder that you never quite know what life has in store, but that good things can be found in surprising places. The Peacock Ball was a heart-lifting opportunity for family, friends and teachers to raise a glass to the Leavers of 2024, and to wish all the best for the new chapters ahead.

We are indebted to, Miss Sheldon, and the Catering Department for delicious food, Mr Bowsher and the Maintenance Department for the stunning backdrop, Mr Griffiths and the Communications Department for logistical support; but, above all, I would like to extend a huge and heartfelt vote of thanks to Clare Priestley-Smith, Lara Beechey and the CPFA for making it happen. This was the last of a line of Peacock Balls organised by Clare PriestleySmith (during her leadership of the CPFA) – and it was the perfect occasion with which to mark her legacy.

Mr Tolputt Head of Sixth Form

Fundraising

‘As Charities Coordinator, it has been particularly encouraging this year to meet and liaise with an increasing number of pupils wanting to put their ideas forward for charitable fundraising events.

The fundraising year began in September with a Harcourt House cake sale raising £319.00 for the Moroccan Earthquake Appeal, followed by a Gig Night in October organised by Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and Sam Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden) raising over £200.00 in aid of the Nordoff and Robins Music Therapy charity. November saw the first whole School home clothes day for the year raising £2,730.00 for Médecins Sans Frontières. Again, a pupil-initiated event from our Head of School, Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne).

A second home clothes day in February saw the highest amount raised yet of £3669.00 with donations from both Prep and Senior School pupils for the Thames Valley Air Ambulance Service. The final home clothes day for this year was held in June raising a spectacular amount of £1432.00 for Breast Cancer Now.

Throughout the year there have been cake sales led by the Peer Mentors and other Sixth Form groups raising a combined amount of over £500.00 for charities which are meaningful to them such as the mental health charity APCAM and Young Lives vs Cancer.

It has been a busy and rewarding year as Charities Coordinator liaising with pupils and observing how involved and more aware pupils and staff have become in their charitable giving. The charities we have given to have been those that work overseas and those that work locally, all directly involved in supporting wellbeing and health.

Thank you to every pupil, member of staff and parents who have supported and donated to all these causes so generously over the year.’

Miss Griffiths Charities Coordinator

Prep School Sponsored Walk

The annual Prep School sponsored walk is always a popular event in the Prep calendar, and this year was no exception. Emulating the route taken around London during the Marathon, pupils looked for the landmarks of London as they followed their own route around the School grounds. This year, pupils were generously raising money for the fantastic charity, NSPCC.

Many of our enthusiastic walkers set off at quite a pace, making light work of the course. They marched round to the Tower of London, had a spin around the London Eye, and said hello to the animals at London Zoo. The money raised also helped support Miss Freeman who recently ran the London Marathon, also raising money for this wonderful charity.

Eddie the Eagle Charity Dinner

We were delighted to welcome the British ski-jumping legend, ‘Eddie the Eagle’, to Cokethorpe’s 2024 Charity Dinner, organised by Upper Sixth student, Alice Smith (Swift), to raise money for local charity, Helen & Douglas House, which supports families of terminally ill children.

The evening began with the CEO of Helen & Douglas House, Jane Long, and Head of Sixth Form, Mr Tolputt, sharing their stories, inspiring guests about the incredible work done by the children’s hospice. After a delicious dinner provided by the Catering Department, it was over to Eddie the Eagle (Michael Edwards) to entertain the audience with highlights of his illustrious ski-jumping career. This was followed by a Q&A, and of course, the opportunity

to have photos taken with the man himself. The evening closed with an online auction, where guests had the opportunity to bid for a selection of fantastic prizes which included a week in Devon, a lunch with at Pierre Victoire and even one of Eddie the Eagles jumping skis! Congratulations to Alice for organising such a wonderful evening, and a huge thank you to everyone who supported the event, donated prizes and gave so generously on the evening.

Home Clothes Charity Fundraising Day

A home clothes charity fundraising day and cake sale was held to raise funds for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The charity was proposed by our Head of School, Dee Biles, who put a lot of work into co-ordinating the day. Here are some words from Dee:

'Dear Parents

Thank you all very much for your support with our recent home clothes fundraising day for Médecins Sans Frontiéres (Doctors Without Borders).

Donations from the Prep and Senior School pupils and staff, along with a cake sale organised by Sixth Form, achieved a total of £2,253.12 for MSF, one of the highest amounts raised through a home clothes day.

This is a wonderful amount to have been donated by our School community and demonstrates the impact of coming together to help others. With these funds, MSF can buy ten sets of surgical equipment for emergency situations, or new refrigerated storage for blood, necessary in emergency surgeries. Cokethorpe has genuinely contributed to saving lives through your donations, and I want to thank you all for being so willing and generous in both your donations and enthusiasm. I believe this is a true show of what Cokethorpe is capable of.

Once again, thank you all for supporting the MSF. I wish you a lovely last week of term, and a wonderful Christmas holiday.'

Head of School, Dee Biles (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Michaelmas Term Gig Night

Gig Night is always a popular event, offering our talented musicians and performers the chance to perform music of their choosing. The result is always a wonderful night of music showcasing an array of different styles and genres. The evening included performances from across the Senior School, including members of staff, with instruments ranging from jazz clarinet and piano, to vocal performances and an electric violin. The event was organised by Grace Gunn (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and Sam Richards (Upper Sixth, Feilden) with the support of a group of Upper Sixth students to help run the evening. The event was held in support of a music therapy charity: Nordoff and Robbins. The charity provides one-to-one and group sessions where individuals can grow and express themselves with the support of a music therapist. The event raised £654.00 for Nordoff and Robbins, which will provide music therapy in organisations such as schools, care homes, hospices and hospitals.

Prep Charity Day

In a display of remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, our Year 6 pupils spearheaded a most successful charity afternoon. This enterprising endeavour, meticulously planned as part of their Prep Portfolio's entrepreneurship unit, showcased a vibrant array of games and merchandise for the Prep School pupils and parents. The year group raised over £265.00 donated to the following charities: Cancer Research; Purple Advisory Care; The Rafiki Foundation; Shelter and Race Against Dementia.

Wider Community

Year 2 Lego Workshop

We welcomed children from Year 2 at our Corinthian Partnership Schools, Aston and Cote Primary and Ducklington Primary to take part in a Lego workshop day. After getting into groups with children from the other schools, they worked together on a bridge building challenge and then created buildings to populate their Lego town.

Their ideas were brilliantly imaginative and as well as the houses, hospital, bank, camera shop and police station, they featured an air base as well as a ‘portal to another world.’ It was an excellent morning of teamwork and problem-solving for all involved.

Year 3 Art Workshops

The Prep School Art Room was awash with colour and creativity as pupils from Aston and Cote Primary School and Combe Primary School, two of our Corinthian Partnership Schools, were welcomed to the Prep School for a fabulous art workshop.

Armed with paintbrushes and paint sticks, the young artists got to work preparing their entries for the Young Art Oxford competition. Twenty-six pupils from Year 3 spent an inspiring morning responding to the title ’My Future World’. They created original and colourful robots of the future and learnt many new art skills in the process. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all involved.

Year 3 and 4 Cricket Festival Sunshine, sixes, and smiles were all on display at the Cokethorpe Year 3 and 4 Cricket Festival during the Summer Term. Cokethorpe Prep School welcomed five local primary schools, ready to unleash their inner cricketing heroes.

The afternoon buzzed with the crack of bat on ball, a friendly competitive spirit danced in the air. Young bowlers unleashed their best deliveries, while budding batsmen and batswomen swung with gusto, aiming for the boundary. But beyond the scorecard, the true magic of the day lay in the spirit of teamwork, sportsmanship, and the sheer joy of playing cricket with friends, both familiar and newfound.

Year 4 Drama Day

On Monday 18 March, an exciting celebration of creativity and collaboration unfolded during the Year 4 Drama Partnership Day. This event brought together pupils from four schools, fostering a dynamic environment where every child was an integral part of the creative process. Throughout the day, the pupils were immersed in the world of drama, engaging in various workshops that focused on the elements of storytelling, character and sound effects. The pupils worked together, sharing ideas and learning from one another, as they explored the many components of creating a theatrical piece.

The workshops provided platform for the pupils to express themselves and understand the value of teamwork. The event concluded with a performance that had been devised throughout the day, where each pupil took to the stage with confidence. Before each of the schools left, we took a moment to reflect. It was then that the pupils expressed their delight over the day’s collaborative learning and the collective joy of creating something together.

STEM Day – Hatherop Castle

On Thursday 11 January, pupils from Hatherop Castle came to Cokethorpe to enjoy a day of STEM activities focussed on research around the theory of how catapults work, including the chance to build and test their own. They looked at the Maths of how to construct the best form for a catapult.

In Science they considered the practical challenges to overcome in the use of a catapult, including angle of trajectory, how to create the spring action needed and what sort of missiles might be best. Our guests then had the opportunity to put this theory and research into practice by building a catapult in the Design labs. This included thorough testing, with some of the groups achieving excellent accuracy and distance. Hopefully the left having had an enjoyable and exciting day and having learnt from their experiences.

Outreach

It has been another busy year with Cokethorpe helping other schools and the wider community through our Outreach programme.

Students in the Lower Sixth have visited Aston Primary School weekly during a Thursday lunchtime. During the winter, the focus was on helping pupils in a lunchtime club with their cognitive development post pandemic by the Sixth Form students engaging them with educational games, such as Boggle and Junior Scrabble. This was a great success.

When the weather improved, different members of the Lower Sixth demonstrated their Sixth Form skills by organising a number of sports for the younger pupils including archery, football, basketball and tennis.

A visit to Ducklington Primary School also occurred weekly, and Sixth Form students ran coaching sessions on football and cricket with pupils in Years 3 to 6. It was fantastic to see the empathy of our students towards the younger pupils and how well they built good relationships and encouraged pupils of all abilities to take part, to improve their skills and to value fair play.

During March, to inspire future scientists during National Science week, the ‘Fire and Ice Show’ was performed by Dr Flaherty to delighted pupils from Combe Primary School and the Windrush Primary School.

In mid-March, Year 5 pupils from Aston Primary School came to visit Cokethorpe and enjoyed making bouncy balls, as well as trying out our new climbing tower.

In early June, it was the turn of the Year 5 pupils from Combe Primary School to ‘scale the dizzy heights’ of the climbing tower.

In mid-June, as part of their Activity week, Year 5 pupils visited and took part in a carousel of exciting sporting events including climbing, cricket, rounders and football-rugby and they had a wonderful time.

Five of our talented Sixth Form students who are studying Mathematics and the Sciences at A Level, trained and used the Colet Mentoring app to help students taking GCSEs in these subjects in other schools. Some of the pupils in these schools, which are mainly in London, are less fortunate than our students, both socio-economically and in terms of the help they can access from specialist teachers. They benefitted from our students help and our students also honed their communication skills and enjoyed the opportunity to help others.

SOCIETY

Climbing Tower

Thanks to the wonderful generosity of an anonymous donor, we were delighted to complete the final phase of The Greaves Outdoor Centre, Cokethorpe’s new Climbing Tower. This stunning facility is situated near the exit of the School and replaces a much older version close to our Sports Hall. The eightmetre climbing tower offers a versatile space for various outdoor adventure activities with an emphasis on teambuilding and challenge.

Given it is in a carefully positioned, easily accessed location and offers flexible usage, we have been delighted to share this new facility with the School and our local community.

The Greaves Outdoor Centre, with its expanded facilities, not only serves as a hub for adventure and teambuilding but also aligns with the School’s sustainability goals and we embrace the holistic approaches to learning and development.

Transformational Project

On Tuesday 26 March, the Governors, Headmaster, Senior Management Team, and Development Department were delighted to welcome members of the wider Cokethorpe community to a special Governors Reception event. Over 75 guests were invited to attend and learn about the forthcoming fundraising campaign. Subject to gaining the income needed, the School has ambitious plans for a 'Brighter Future', through a transformational project which will re-imagine our spaces as the physical embodiment of the School's vision for 2027-2030.

Craig Cullimore, Chair of ADP Architects, shared details of the approach being taken, as they look to support the School's intent to revitalise existing spaces and create new

learning environments for Science, the Arts, and our Prep School. The vision is in keeping with the rapid changes in our environment and is mindful of sustainable development and our commitment to becoming carbon neutral.

Guests included one of the Campaign's Ambassadors, Levi Roots, recently out of his adventures on Celebrity Big Brother, who attended in support of the launch event.

Chapel Preservation Appeal

When entering the School grounds, it is difficult for your gaze not to be drawn towards the charming Chapel nestled within the parklands. Believed to predate the structures that later became the Mansion House, the Chapel served as the focal point of a small village, tragically wiped out by the Black Death.

The earliest documented mention of the Chapel dates to a Saxon Charter of 958 AD, where it was referred to as the Old Church, Eastleigh. In 1976, the Chapel suffered damage from a fallen elm tree and was deemed too costly for the modest parish to repair. Consequently, the church commissioners opted to sell it. Fortunately, in 1978, the Chapel was acquired as a gift to the School through funds raised by the Old Cokethorpean Society.

Over the years, the Chapel has hosted various School events, from alumni weddings to

Christmas carol concerts and music lessons, endearing itself to past and present pupils alike. However, to ensure its continued use for generations to come, the Chapel now requires extra attention and enhancements.

Thanks to the drive and passion of Tony Baker (OC 1964), former Treasurer of the OC Society during the Chapel's acquisition in 1978, we are undertaking a Chapel Preservation Fundraising Appeal. His deep connection to the Chapel and the School positioned him perfectly to spearhead this Appeal. We are seeking funds for repairs and improvements, such as new guttering, roof plastering, lighting, improved seating, window replacement, wifi connectivity and the installation of an eco-friendly toilet.

On Saturday 16 March seventeen Old Cokethorpeans gathered at the School to join Tony in officially launching the Chapel Preservation Appeal. The guests strolled to the Chapel, welcomed by the Headmaster and Tony, who shared their vision for the historic building. The event was followed by a lavish brunch, and everyone shared cherished moments of reminiscence in the Mansion House.

If you would like to contribute to the Chapel Preservation Appeal, please make payments or a standing order to:

Cokethorpe Educational Trust 60-24-60 42918553

The Cokethorpe Business Breakfast on Friday 10 May saw some 100 representatives of local businesses welcomed to the School for the inaugural Cokethorpe Business Community networking event, launching the Cokethorpe Business Directory. The business breakfast was bookended by networking, with the room

abuzz with discussions of the local picture for businesses and new relationships being formed.

In between, attendees were treated to two inspiring and thought-provoking talks from guest speakers Robbie Black, Head of Marketing at M&S Food, and Emma Fisher, Accounts Manager at AJF Taxation and representative of Business Buzz, Witney. Robbie and Emma gave their respective accounts of the marketing-led transformation of M&S Food and the importance of establishing and developing local connections to deliver business growth.

Commenting, Director of Development, Ms N Wynne MBE said, ‘We are delighted to have established the Cokethorpe Business Community through such a wonderful inaugural event.

To launch the network with some 100 guests in attendance just shows the importance of collaborative working for businesses across our community, and the opportunities available to us that we can all recognise and benefit from. It is the first of many, and we are thrilled to be underway.’

Society News

Gig on the Green

It was an honour to welcome back our Prize

Giving speaker, the wonderful Levi Roots, to headline our inaugural ‘Gig on the Green’. Over 640 tickets were sold to the event which welcomed old, current and new families to the School.

Visitors were blessed with blazing sunshine (perhaps a little too much!) and fabulous music courtesy of Anna G, WineStain, Nineteenth Hour, Stage Dive Dave, George Lewis with Lucille and the Lightning Soul Train, The Deadbeat Apostles and, of course, Levi Roots, who performed a fantastic DJ set.

A selection of food stalls kept visitors fed and watered, including our very own Catering Department who provided a delicious paella, mini doughnuts and Pimms. Ue were on hand with fresh coffee and ice lattes, the 'Shandy Shack' and 'Little Ox Brewery' provided ice cold Beverages and 'Childhay Manor' had a constant queue for ice cream! A little festival magic was brought by 'Root and Gather' and 'Shade of Grey Body Art' with floral headbands and glitter face paints, with many more food stalls and pop-up shops adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the day.

We would also like to thank our sponsors: Gridserve, PS Coaches, Banbury Litho, Muddy Stilettos and Red Kite Days who helped to make this an amazing event enjoyed by all who attended.

Upper Sixth Leavers’ Drinks

St Edmund Hall, Oxford, once again played generous host to the Christmas Drinks gathering for the School’s most recent Upper Sixth leavers in the company of Mr Tolputt and Mr Gale.

Returning home to Oxfordshire from their first term’s university studies at institutions across the country, around twenty members of the Class of 2023 made their way to the College bar

to swap stories of their new experiences and reminisce about their fond memories of School.

Cokethorpe Revisited - By Rod McKenzie

On Wednesday 29 May 2024, Rod McKenzie (OC 1977, Harcourt) visited the School and joined Ms Hodgkins, Alumni Relations Manager, for a tour and trip down memory lane:

‘Forty-seven years after I left Cokethorpe, this alumnus returned to his Alma Mater and my, how it is changed. I achieved the role of Head Boy in 1976 (proof on the board in the entrance hall) as well as captain of the football and cricket teams, under the watchful eye of the legendary Peter Green, Housemaster, and cricket coach extraordinaire. In those days it was a boarding school just for boys. The Headmasters during my time, were Peter Allen (1959-1976) and then John Trevis (1976-1979).

‘The grim, cold dormitories decked with bunk beds, now replaced by light, airy and colourful Prep School classrooms. The Senior boys’ bedrooms and dorms on the third floor, now replaced by the Prep School library, comfortable sofas, and art rooms – one of them replacing which was my bedroom in my final year as Head Boy. The Round House which used to be a malodorous bathroom, with a Biology lab upstairs wafting of formaldehyde from rat dissections– now pleasant sitting rooms and study areas.

‘The old chemistry room is now the staff common room, and as for the expanded classrooms and sports facilities, they are beyond are amazing.’

OC Brunch

Saturday 18 November 2023 marked a joyous occasion as 24 Old Cokethorpeans gathered at the School for a sumptuous brunch. The air was filled with laughter, camaraderie and nostalgia as they revisited the School – some of whom had not been back since their last day as a pupil. In attendance was Mr Peter Green, who played a pivotal role in the success of the prior year’s Sports Campaign. The event served as a fitting opportunity to give our thanks to Peter for

his unwavering dedication to the cause. His commitment will not only enhance the sporting facilities of the School, but his untameable approach has meant that old friends have been brought back together in joint support of his fundraising efforts.

Ms N Wynne MBE, our Director of Development, took the guests on a heartwarming tour down memory lane. As they strolled through familiar grounds and shared anecdotes from their student days, a flood of happy (and mischievous!) memories engulfed the group. The echoes of youthful laughter resonated in the quads, and the spirit of camaraderie was clear to all.

The reunion was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the bonds forged within the walls of Cokethorpe School ranging back as far as the 1950s, to our more recent leavers of the last decades. Friendships that stood the test of time were rekindled, and our OCs reminisced about shared experiences that shaped their foundations for their careers after Cokethorpe.

Amidst the laughter and conversations, it again became evident that Cokethorpe School holds a special place in the hearts of its OCs. The School’s impact extended far beyond academics, shaping individuals who went on to contribute significantly to various fields. Our Old Cokethorpeans left full of gratitude, a renewed sense of connection, and a taste for the events we had planned for 2024.

A word from Patrick Wood (OC 1983, Queen Anne)

'It may have been an overcast November day, but it was quickly brightened up when my

former History teacher, and First XI cricket coach and umpire Mr Peter Green, was quick to remind me of my sense of humour as First XI cricket scorer at Dean Close. The score had reached an unusually high score of 180 and the voice came from the score box impersonating the now late darts referee Jack Price.

The Headmaster, Mr Ettinger, gave a speech in which he welcomed us back for our visit, and thanked Peter Green whose project to raise money for sport at Cokethorpe is proving a tremendous success. Brunch was served, followed by tours for us to see the School as it is now. It was interesting to see my old dormitory and the old matron’s office now as classrooms.

It was also good to see and share memories with my fellow OCs, especially a friend who was in the Third Form when I was in the Fifth Form. Not only is he a former pupil, but he has also sent his own children to Cokethorpe, the youngest of which is still at the School. A wonderful couple of hours. Thank you to all who helped in making the event a great success.'

Society Events

Reunion Dinner

On the evening of Saturday 15 June, Cokethorpe’s sumptuous and spacious Dining Hall opened its doors to warmly welcome over one hundred alumni guests and their friends and families. It was a truly celebratory atmosphere with younger Old Cokethorpeans (OCs) sharing tales and even a dance or two, with our older OCs. Guests travelled from as far as Colorado and Bangladesh.

The evening began with a sparkle of glamour, as guests walked the red-carpet entrance, adding an air of elegance and fun to the occasion. The excitement was palpable as old friends embraced, exchanged stories, and posed for photographs that captured joyous moments. As guests mingled and reminisced about stories of youthful adventures at the School, it was heartening to see how bonds have remained strong despite the decades.

One of the most captivating aspects of the reunion was the interest shown in the archive

display. Old yearbooks, photographs, and memorabilia were laid out for guests to peruse, sharing countless memories and sparking conversations. It was a touching reminder of the shared history and the passage of time, bringing both smiles and laughter.

Another highlight of the evening was the sumptuous buffet that catered to every palate; the culinary offerings were nothing short of spectacular. The style of the buffet not only satisfied all appetites but also provided a perfect opportunity for informal conversations and socialising.

The entertainment was particularly fitting, with a band made up of five OCs taking the stage, led by our very own Mr G Lewis who attended the School until 2009. Their performance, featuring a mix of classic hits and floor fillers, had everyone singing and dancing along. Tony Baker (OC 1964), and the President of the Cokethorpe Society, proved to us all that he will not be hanging up his dancing shoes anytime soon!

We also welcomed back to the School, as our keynote speaker, Najib Chowdhury, (OC 1989, Swift). Najib gave a heartwarming and inspiring speech as he shared memories of his time at Cokethorpe and how he has used his School experience to shape himself and his extraordinarily successful business based in Bangladesh.

The Reunion Event was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, offering a perfect blend of elegance, nostalgia, fun and heartfelt connections. It was more than just an evening; it was a celebration of a shared history.

Some comments from our guests:

‘A note to thank you very much for an excellent evening on Saturday 15 June. Our hosts were so welcoming and friendly, the food and drink were superb, and the party went with a real swing –well, for those Old Boys mobile enough to keep up with the band, who were also very good.’

‘Thank you and all your colleagues for a great evening, and special thanks to Mr Ettinger for allowing us to use the School facilities. I thoroughly enjoyed myself - It was lovely to catchup with old friends and find out what they

are doing now. I have already arranged to meet up with a couple of them later this Summer.’

‘Thank you for organising a very successful Reunion on Saturday it was a great evening. Lovely to catch up with some old friends. Great to see Mr Green and Jenny and Michael De Weyman my old Rugby coach. I enjoyed the photo gallery, several of the Old Boys present were featured. It was good to see all the old copies of the Peacock magazines.

‘I just wanted to thank you for such a lovely evening on Saturday. It is the first time that I have ventured back after 45 years!’ I really did not know what to expect but you have obviously been busy, and parts of the School have grown out of recognition.’

OC Feature

Here is a speech from Najib who read at the Reunion Dinner:

‘It is great to see many familiar faces after so many years.

My life changed quite drastically in 1985. I was fifteen years old and my father had just passed away. Only a month later I came to Cokethorpe straight from Bangladesh. It was a huge culture shock for me.

At the time, I felt that that the only thing going for me was that I spoke English well, as I studied in an English school back in Bangladesh.

There were three Houses when I joined, and I was put into Swift House, where I met Mr Peter Green, our Housemaster. Peter mentored and guided me for the four years I spent at Cokethorpe.

Everything was new to me. I lived in a room called a ‘dorm’ with eleven other boys, in a common room called Swift – made up of boys aged from thirteen to seventeen.

I had never heard of a sport called rugby, or clay pigeon shooting. We even went cross-country running in the middle of the winter. I learnt so much! I started playing rugby from the first day I joined the School, and eventually I was playing for the First XV.

I met people from all over the world - from Africa to China,

Europe to America, and across the subcontinent, who soon became friends for life. My best friend to this day is Mike Wariebi (OC 1989, Queen Anne), whom I met here. I am his daughter’s Godfather, and he is the same to my daughter.

Here we were, all these very young boys, who were guided by a group of extraordinary and selfless men and women - the Masters and Tutors to us, such as Mr Goldsmith, Mr Peter Green and Mr Daniels. They taught us so much, both inside in the classroom, and outside in the sports grounds.

When I look back and reflect on the life lessons they taught us, I realise they taught us so much: to become independent, to respect rules, to learn to work in teams and to have respect for one another. Whether that be against your housemate, or your ‘rival’ from Queen Anne or Harcourt who might have just won a game against you, respect was key. I learnt to be humble but also be proud of my achievements, for example by wearing my House colours. One of the most important things I learnt in Cokethorpe was discipline, which I still live by today.

And all of this happened at Cokethorpe.

Today I run a business of my own, we manufacture textiles and garments for the international market and employ 6000 people.

And being completely honest, I am what I am today because of Cokethorpe and the wonderful people who made Cokethorpe my home for a fifteen-year-old Bangladeshi boy like me.

What I learnt in Cokethorpe I still use every day in my life. I use it at work, I use it at home.

Cokethorpe has elevated my life.’

Najib Chowdhury (OC 1989, Swift)

STAFF

Achievements

List of Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts

Mr D Ettinger

Mr A Ladell Stuart

Miss A Woodcock

Mr J Hughes

Mrs E Semenzato

Dr C Flaherty

Miss C Garitey

Miss E Hewson

Mr E Bosse

Miss R Dodson

Mr J Everling

Microsoft Showcase School

Welcomes

Starters and Leavers

Michaelmas

Welcome to Mr A Nott, who has joined as a Governor.

2023-2024

SHOWCAS E SCHOOL S & COLLEGES

Cokethorpe School is delighted to have been recognised by Microsoft for a second year running as a Microsoft Showcase School. An accreditation bestowed for demonstrating a continued commitment to innovation in the use of technology to supplement teaching and learning, only a small number of institutions globally earn this designation each year.

Mr Ladell-Stuart, Head of Digital Learning, said, ‘it is gratifying to have again received this recognition from Microsoft. The School has continued its digital evolution, enhancing our pedagogy and exploring new ways to develop the classroom experience for teachers and pupils alike.’

Commenting, the Headmaster, Mr Ettinger, said, ‘it is a credit to the efforts and quality of our teachers that Microsoft have chosen to recognise Cokethorpe as a leading centre for educational innovation in schools. There is a real skill in balancing all the benefits of the traditional classroom environment with new tools and methods of teaching that inspire and enhance the experience of our pupils. It is pleasing that Microsoft have awarded their Showcase School status again, with our pupils the direct beneficiaries of these determined efforts.’

As a Showcase School, Cokethorpe benefits from being part of a global network of schools and colleges, allowing the School to share best practice with teaching colleagues around the world, further enhancing our pupils’ own learning environment.

Congratulations to Mr J Mackey and Miss M Wilcox for successfully completing their teacher training.

Miss M Boubkari, Head of MFL

Mr J Everling, Teacher of English

Miss S Freeman, Pre-Prep Teacher

Mr J Granados Trujillo, Teacher of MFL

Mr W Horton, Teacher of Physics

Mr S Howells, Head of English

Miss A Hutchinson, Teacher of History and Joint Head of Scholars

Miss O Jones, Teacher of Sport

Miss A Lloyd-Jones, Teacher of MFL

Mr J Mackey, Teacher of Classics

Mrs S Naylor, Assistant Director of Sport

Dr E Regardsoe, Head of Chemistry

Mrs K Thorpe, Teacher of Science

Mr C Tyer, Head of History and Politics

Mrs S Brownless, Music and Development Administration

Mrs J Slader, Prep School Teaching Assistant

Miss M Tomlin, Prep School Teaching Assistant

Miss M Wilcox, Trainee Teacher of Drama and Prep School Teaching Assistant

Lent Term

Mr T Kelly, Teacher of Science

Mrs A Prior, Teacher of DT

Summer Term

Ms S Funk, Head of Psychology

Mrs J Gregory-Newman, Teacher of Business Studies

Farewells

Michaelmas

Miss C Clarke, Teacher of DT

Mr M Mullin, Music Coordinator

Miss A Perrin, Prep School Teaching Assistant

Dr E Winkley, Head of Music

Lent Term

Mrs E Warren, Teacher of Music

Mr T White, Teacher of DT

Summer Term

Mr G Biggs, Teacher of Business

Mrs C Cooper, Teacher of LAMDA

Ms S Funk, Head of Psychology

Mr G Gilles, Teacher of Mathematics

Miss E Hewson, Teacher of Maths

Mr W Horton, Teacher of Science

Mrs R Luckett, Prep School Teacher

Mr M O’Connor, Housemaster and Teacher of History

Ms A Sanches Reyes, Teacher of MFL

Farewell from Mr M O’Connor I began working at Cokethorpe Prep School in 2005 and finished in the Senior School in 2024. Over these years, I had the privilege of contributing to the School community in various roles. For many years I worked as Deputy Head of the Prep School and spent one year as Acting Head. As Deputy Head and Acting Head in the Prep School, I had the opportunity to shape young minds and foster a positive learning environment, as well as working with some fantastic teachers, who taught me a lot.

After twelve years I moved to the Senior School and took on the role of Housemaster of Lower House. Serving as Housemaster in Lower House allowed me to build strong connections with pupils beyond the classroom, which is something I have always enjoyed. Guiding them through challenges, celebrating their achievements, and creating a sense of belonging were integral parts of this role. As a History teacher I was also able to share my passion for history with pupils and found this immensely rewarding.

The thing I will miss above all is all the wonderful colleagues, who have made working at School such a joy. It is not only the teachers that make the School such a wonderful place, it is the Catering Department, the Maintenance Team and all of the support and admin staff who work so hard to make Cokethorpe what it is. For me working at Cokethorpe School was a joy; driving into the beautiful surroundings never lost its appeal and the historic buildings, and supportive community made each day fulfilling. As I bid farewell, I will carry cherished memories and the camaraderie of my colleagues with me and obviously Cokethorpe School will always hold a special place in my heart.

Staff News

Congratulations to Teacher of Science, Mr Kelly and his wife Helen who were married on Thursday 22 August in Elmore Court, Gloucestershire.

Congratulations to Teacher of MFL, Mrs Moore and her husband Andrew, on the birth of their son Raphael Andrew, born on Wednesday 11 October, weighing 9lbs 3oz.

Congratulations to Prep School Teacher, Mr Lewis, and his wife Kate, on the birth of their baby daughter Sophia Rae, born on Monday 25 March weighing 7lb 3oz.

Congratulations to Prep School Teacher, Miss S Freeman who recently ran the London Marathon raising money for the NSPCC.

Mrs G Stubbings, Secretary to the Deputy Headmaster – Skydive My husband’s charity at Burford Golf Club is 'On Course Foundation', supporting service veterans affected mentally/physically to regain their lives. In a moment of madness I said ‘I’ll do a sky dive!’ Date agreed, sponsorship set up, target smashed. I’ve currently raised around £3000.00 thanks to all my sponsors. Safety briefing, harness on, I clambered aboard the plane with my instructor ‘TJ’, photographer and videographer. A cosy climb to 13,000 feet! I remained calm…excited. The plane hovered, the pilot shouted ‘door!’, TJ shuffled me towards it. The crew now outside. ‘Let’s do this!’ I was suddenly in free fall (every 1000 of the first 5000 feet being covered in five seconds at 120mph). The canopy opened, tap on the shoulders - time to enjoy the view and have fun doing aerobatics during the descent to my perfect landing as my husband, friends and Mrs Scaysbrook looked on. Awesome!