THE COKETHORPE REVIEW 2025
the
REVIEW THE COKETHORPE REVIEW 2025
CELEBRATING CURIOSITY, CHARACTER AND COMMUNITY Pupils embraced new challenges, championed causes, and grew together across all areas of School life. Moments that Mattered We look back on the highlights that defined the year – from unforgettable trips and School productions to personal triumphs and shared successes. Stories that Shaped the Year From outdoor pursuits to pupil-led projects, the moments that enriched.
CONTRIBUTORS
Content Contributors: Dr S Squire (Head) Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift) Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden) Mrs N Black (Head of Prep School) Mr W Griffiths (Head of Marketing) Mr I Elkin-Jones (Joint Head of Scholars) Professor M Osman Professor E Stride Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) Mr S McAleese Henry Cook (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) George Berlanger (Fourth Form, Feilden) Professor Sarah Hart Mr R Mower Bryony Wyatt (Lower Sixth, Swift) Dr C Laoutaris Mr A Waldron (Head of EPQ) Seb Tattersall (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) Finn Van Landeghem (Upper Sixth, Swift) Professor M Scott Freya Vincent (Third Form, Queen Anne) Molly Sheer (First Form, Vanbrugh) Lottie Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) Florence Ogg-Rogers (Reception, Symonds) Vivi Hughes (Reception, Lockwood) Bertie Franklin (Reception, Baker) Colby La Reservee (Reception, Symonds) Arléo Gindre (Reception, Lockwood) Laurie Garitey Bartels (Reception, Gwyn) Milly Senior (Reception, Baker) Maokun Akinrolabu (Reception, Gwyn) Tilly Lang (Year 1, Gwyn) Ruby Jennings (Year 2, Symonds) Jack Bishop (Year 3, Baker) Arthur Abraham (Year 4, Gwyn) Marnie Perkins (Year 5, Gwyn) Ella Moffatt (Year 5, Gwyn) Harry Hope (Year 5, Gwyn) Samuel Idiahi (Year 6, Baker) William Crossley (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Florence Tate (Second Form, Swift) Isla Colling (Third Form, Swift) Louis Stanfield (Upper Sixth, Swift) Abi Hick (Fourth Form, Feilden) Aneliese Sagar (Fifth Form, Swift) William Woodwards (Second Form, Swift) Ben Ferguson (Second Form, Queen Anne) William Hansen (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) Josh Drake (Lower Sixth, Swift) Beth Morris (Lower Sixth, Feilden) Mr D Baker (Head of Prep Sport) Mrs A Woodcock (Housemistress) Adam Asplundh (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) Calla Whitby (Upper Sixth, Feilden) Mr A Gale (Deputy Head of Sixth Form)
Edward Harris (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) Mrs H Hammond (Art Teacher) Ms E Williams (Head of Art and Textiles) Miss M Wilcox (Prep Drama Teacher) Mr J Everling (English Teacher) Mr A Uglow (Director of Studies) Mr B Wilson (Director of Music) Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) Mr J Robinson (Director of Sport) Ms Hayward Mr T Walwyn (Drama Teacher) Mr T Slader (Head of Outdoor Education) Madame C Garitey (Teacher of MFL) Mr J Gallagher (Head of Physical Education) Ms A Prior (Housemistress) Mr J Hughes (Housemaster) Jack Berry (Upper Sixth, Feilden) Mr O Richards (Housemaster) Zack Galliford (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) Edward Morgan (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) Mrs L Bowden (Housemistress) Ben Charlesworth (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) Mr M Joiner (Housemaster) Dan Pickford (Upper Sixth, Swift) Ms L Mountain (Housemistress) Mrs L Beechey (Chair of CPFA) Mr T Kelmour (Science Teacher) Miss S Freeman (Year 1 Teacher) Mr H Chitsenga (Nyanga North School) Dr C Flaherty (Assistant Director of Studies) Ms N Wynne MBE (Development Director) Ms A Hodgkins (Alumni Relations Manager) Ms D Clayton (OC 2007, Gascoigne) Mr R Bourke (OC 1978, Swift) Ms A Pratley (OC 2024, Feilden) Mr F Jewson (OC 2014, Swift) Mr D Cook Mrs S Du Feu (Head of Prep Music) Mrs J Neame (Learning Development) Mr G Lewis (Year 3 Teacher) Mrs G Nunn Mrs J Southwood Mr P Green Mr J Stevens (Deputy Headmaster) Editor: Mrs L Williams (Communications Officer) Design and Layout: Ms T Logan (Digital Marketing Officer)
Walking among the grounds and buildings of Cokethorpe creates an inescapable sense of serenity. The grand buildings in their honeyed Cotswold stone, the ancient trees and the manicured parkland present a vision of timeless calm. But when you walk those same routes during the school day, there is a sense of something else too. Cokethorpe is a community full of life, of focused and determined busyness, of countless opportunities sought and taken. In a few short weeks it has made quite an impression. Reading The Review – a collection of selected highlights from the past school year – further enriches that feeling of purposeful activity. If the last year is anything to go by, what a vibrant tapestry we will be weaving in the months ahead! From concerts and performances via the sports fields and riverbanks to the creative arts, from rigorously prepared academic work to the fullness of House life, or from the extensive AOB programme to the enrichment trips, talks and discussions, there is a breath-taking amount that goes into a Cokethorpe year. When I wrote to you at the start of the year, I referenced ‘community’. Community is a word that is used a lot in schools. It is often deployed to evoke togetherness and cooperation, a shared purpose, a sense of tradition and culture. But there is something more to the word at Cokethorpe. There is a feeling of belonging to ‘community’ here, of mutual support and celebration of the diverse accolades of each child equally among pupils and staff. You can see it as readily in the day-to-day interactions of school life as you can lifting off the pages of The Review. It is true to say that no two days are the same in a school environment. Though it is also true that there is something comfortingly cyclical as well. As students progress up the year groups at school there is an energy provided by looking forward to experiencing those next opportunities. I am excited to begin this new cycle with you.
ACADEMIC
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CONTENTS
05 06 08 10 11 12 14 16 17 20 22 23 29
Introduction from our Head of School Deputy Heads' Reflection Prefects' Dinner Prefects 2024-2025 Prep Prize Giving Senior Prize Giving GCSE Results Day A Level and BTEC Results Day Enlightenment Lectures Extended Project Qualification Scholars Round Up Scholars' Project Excerpts Prep Academic Work Prep Portfolio Senior Academic Work Maths Challenge Results
SPORTS
68 70 71 72 79 80 81
Prep Sports Report Prep Sports Day Senior Sports Day Sports Reports Sports Representations Sports Colours Outdoor Education
COMMUNITY
106 CPFA News 107 Peacock Ball 108 Fundraising and Charity 109 Wider Community
NEWS
THE ARTS
30 35 41 44 45
48 50 52 55 56 62 63 65 67
46 47
Prep News Senior News Sixth Form News History Trip to China Senior Ski Trip Classics Trip to Pompeii Art Trip to Barcelona Morocco World Challenge
Prep Art Senior Art Exhibition Prep Drama and Productions LAMDA Results Senior Drama and Productions Prep Music Senior Music Music Exam Results Musician of the Year
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
HOUSES
84 85 86 87 88 90 95 96
98 Prep 99 Lower House 100 Feilden 101 Gascoigne 102 Harcourt 103 Queen Anne 104 Swift 105 Vanbrugh
Prep Outdoor Activities Year 3 and 4 Residential Year 5 Residential Year 6 Residential Prep Activities AOBs Duke of Edinburgh's Award Curriculum Enrichment Week
DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIETY
STAFF
112 115 117
118
Development Society News and Events OC Features
119 121
Achievements Starters and Leavers Staff News Farewells Cokethorpe Camps
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ACADEMIC A Year in Reflection ‘As my final year at Cokethorpe draws to a close, I have had time to reflect on my journey throughout the School, including the lifelong memories I have made and skills that I have gained. From my first day in First Form, to having the honour of being Head of School this past year, I can only see the confidence and courage School has given me to challenge myself in new ways. I have been able to develop my appreciation for performance in music and drama through being surrounded and inspired by my talented peers. I feel so grateful to have participated in weekly fixtures against other schools across the region, understanding the values of being part of a team. Particularly this past year, taking on a leadership role has given me the opportunity to engage with students and pupils from all year groups. Performing side by side and playing as a team allows us to get to know each other, and this is something I particularly like about Cokethorpe. My role as Head of School has been made all the more enjoyable by being supported by my deputies Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden). I have loved sharing this experience
with you both and I could not have asked for better deputies to have by my side. I am so pleased to hear that Mida Loci (Lower Sixth, Feilden) will be taking on the role of Head of School for the upcoming year. She is truly so deserving of this role, and I know she will do a fantastic job. If I could give one piece of advice to next year’s Prefects, I would say to take every opportunity as it comes as you only get this experience once. You have been given this role for a reason, so remember to always believe in your ability and give everything your greatest effort.’ Nancy Christensen Head of School (Upper Sixth, Swift)
Despite some inevitably trying times over the last few months for both myself and fellow Upper Sixths, change is ongoing, both good and bad. The looming reality of the ‘big wide world’ is ever approaching but there is something scarily exciting about that, and the new challenges that comes with. Over the last year, being Deputy Head of School has allowed me to view this in a different light, looking at the broader outcomes of these opportunities rather than a personal view, and the possibilities that arise alongside. I can undoubtedly say that the change that occurred when I became Deputy Head of School has been one of the most substantial of my time at Cokethorpe and has influenced the person I will hopefully become in the coming years.
'When asked to look back at the past year, two years and seven years, the recurring theme seems to be change. Over my time at Cokethorpe, I have watched things grow; friends, subjects, sport and teachers, and I can only say I am grateful for this. There is an underrated feeling surrounding change, and the promising new chances and opportunities that it can bring. At Cokethorpe, this change has forever been supported, nurtured and fed to allow growth into all sorts of things, ultimately leading to an extraordinarily varied way of life here.
My advice for not just the next Deputy Heads of School, but also every other student reading this, is to take advantage of every opportunity that comes in your direction. Talk to that person that you sit next to in History, go on that sports trip to South Africa, and apply for those roles that you do not think you will get. It is far better to fail trying than to never have tried at all. Good luck!’ Poppy Symonds Deputy Head of School (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
Fletch Jewell (Deputy Head of School), Nancy Christensen (Head of School) and Poppy Symonds (Deputy Head of School)
'I joined Cokethorpe in the Sixth Form but quickly felt very much a part of the School. What I will miss most is the strong sense of community that exists here and the spirit and friendships at Cokethorpe - whether that is cheering on your House during competitions or supporting each other on the sports field. Sport has been a major part of my time here, and I have really appreciated the opportunities to represent the School in rugby, cricket, and beyond. These experiences have helped build friendships, confidence, and a real sense of pride in being part of a team. This final year has been a busy one with mock exams, university applications, revision and A Levels, but, despite the pressures, it has remained an enjoyable and fulfilling one. Being a Deputy Head of School has been a particular highlight. It has been a privilege to work in the Prefect Team with such an amazing group of students. From helping manage the lunch queue to setting an example for younger pupils and, of course, enjoying the doughnuts with Mr Stevens. It has been a special experience and I feel very lucky to have been able to share it with this group. Having had the chance to give back to the School is something that has made this last year even more memorable. My one piece of advice to the next group of Prefects is to make the most of the opportunity. If you have an idea, do not shy away from voicing your opinions. If there is something you want to improve, take the initiative. Whilst your last year will have its ups and downs, make sure to make the most of every moment and have fun, because it will fly by!
Finally, I want to say thank you to everyone at Cokethorpe who have made my time here so enjoyable. It has been a pleasure to be part of this community; it is a journey I will always remember.’ Fletch Jewell Deputy Head of School (Upper Sixth, Feilden)
‘On Thursday 1 May, the Upper Sixth Prefects came together in the Dining Hall for a special occasion that marked both a celebration and a farewell as they approach the end of their time at Cokethorpe. The evening began with a drinks reception, where students mingled and enjoyed the chance to unwind together. Dressed elegantly for the occasion, there was a sense of pride in the air, as well as the shared understanding that their time at Cokethorpe was drawing to a close. Conversations buzzed with memories, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia as teachers and students alike toasted to the accomplishments of the year. Guests then enjoyed a delicious three-course meal, after which Sixth Formers gathered into Houses to take on the annual Prefects’ Dinner quiz – a tradition that blends friendly competition with plenty of humour. The Prefects’ Dinner was a lovely evening, filled with good food, laughter, and shared memories – a fitting tribute to their role in the life of the School.' Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift)
PREFECTS 2024-2025
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Head of School Nancy Christensen (Swift) Deputy Heads of School Fletch Jewell (Feilden) Poppy Symonds (Vanbrugh) Feilden Jack Berry - Head of Feilden Calla Whitby - Head of Lower House Findlay Knox Gascoigne Zack Galliford - Head of Gascoigne Philip Croker Freddie Leefield Harcourt Edward Morgan - Head of Harcourt Isabella Davies - Sixth Form Prefect Dan Westmoreland Queen Anne Ben Charlesworth - Head of Queen Anne Finley Gregory-Newman Simran Panesar Swift Dan Pickford - Head of Swift Sam Farr Mae Serjeant Grace Soden Vanbrugh Edward Harris - Head of Vanbrugh George Keates - Prep School Prefect Finn Van Landeghem Oscar Luckett Caellum Sharp
Prefects 2024- 2025
Prep School Prize Giving Held on another bright summer morning, Prep School Prize Giving event brought together pupils, parents, staff, and governors to reflect on a year of hard work and growth. The ceremony opened with a warm welcome from Mrs Black, who spoke on the theme of 'change' and praised the resilience and enthusiasm shown by pupils across all year groups. Awards were presented for academic excellence, outstanding effort, and contributions to School life. We were also delighted to welcome pupils from across the Corinthian Partnership to collect their Corinthian Spirit awards. Each prize winner was met with enthusiastic applause, and it was heartening to see the pride on their faces as they stepped forward. George Keates (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), outgoing Prep School Prefect, offered words of encouragement, reminding everyone of the value of perseverance and curiosity. The Headmaster spoke warmly, addressing parents about the challenges of raising children today, the importance of risk taking, and the role of the School in supporting them. The morning concluded with picnics on the lawn and a chance for families and staff to mingle and celebrate together. Prize Giving remains a highlight of the School calendar—a moment to honour success, reflect on progress, and look ahead to the exciting opportunities yet to come. Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 In recognition of their exceptional hard work in Reception Class, Year 1 and Year 2 this year, each of the children received a book which was carefully selected by their class teachers.
Academic Prize Winners Jack Bishop (Baker) Arthur Abraham (Gwyn) Martha Bishop (Lockwood) Eloise Young-Gale (Symonds) Islay Jameson (Lockwood) Julia Pisanello (Baker) Johnny Palethorpe (Symonds) - Clarke Scholarship Pupil of the Year Romilly Bishop (Lockwood) Shaikhah Alhudaibi (Lockwood) James Clayton (Baker) Catriona Rounce (Lockwood) Freddie Abraham (Lockwood) Lisa Huang (Lockwood) End of Year Awards for Effort Emmy Theyer (Symonds) Martha Florey (Baker) Starla Firth (Lockwood) George Theyer (Symonds) Josh Price (Lockwood) William Richards (Baker) Corinthian Spirit Award Cokethorpe School James Miller (Symonds) Aston and Cote Primary School Lauren Abbott Combe Primary School Théo Combe Ducklington Primary School Felix Cross Cup Winners Julie Stormont Art Cup Roemer Tweehuijsen (Lockwood) Claire Hooper Drama Cup Shannon Edwards (Symonds)
Louise Bridge French Cup Chloé Langridge (Baker) Improvement and Progress Shield Ella Townsend (Gwyn) Music Cup Ruby Adams (Baker) Sports Cups Tia Read (Gwyn) Will Rainey (Baker) Maureen Marchbank Shield for Services to the Community Hugo Lindsay (Gwyn) Prep School Cup Julia Pisanello (Baker)
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Year 6 Leavers Freddie Abraham (Gwyn) Ruby Adams (Baker) Leo Barton (Gwyn) Alexander Burrow (Gwyn) Jasper Collins (Symonds) Shannon Edwards (Symonds) Lisa Huang (Lockwood) Sally Huang (Lockwood) Samuel Idiahi (Baker) Islay Jameson (Lockwood) Anna Kroener (Gwyn) Chloé Langridge (Baker) Honor Ledger (Symonds) Hugo Lindsay (Gwyn) James Miller (Symonds) Scarlet Milles (Symonds) Acacia Orewa (Symonds) Johnny Palethorpe (Symonds) Julia Pisanello (Baker) Josh Price (Lockwood) Will Rainey (Baker) Tia Read (Gwyn) William Richards (Baker) Cali Stratton-Woods (Lockwood) Quentin Temim (Lockwood) Ella Townsend (Gwyn) Roemer Tweehuijsen (Lockwood)
Year 6 Leavers 2025
STEM Prize First Form Sophia Burton (Gascoigne) Second Form George Bains (Feilden) Third Form Charlie Parks (Queen Anne)
Senior School Prize Giving 'Prize Giving is ever the illustrious occasion – the culmination of the academic year, the School gathers to recognise the achievements of pupils, whilst pausing to acknowledge and honour those who will be departing Cokethorpe as the Summer Term draws to a close.
Our Chair of Governors, Mr Bennett, thanked staff and parents for their support, efforts and commitment over the course of the year, and proffered a vote of thanks on Mr Ettinger for his service to the School.
Alongside our Upper Sixth, this year was also marked with the departure of Headmaster, Mr Ettinger, who concluded his tenure of 23 years in much the same way as he has always led Cokethorpe, with a focus on the pupils, their futures and that of the School’s. His closing address was, unsurprisingly, selfdeprecating, glossing over a near quarter century of development and progress. His advice for the departing Upper Sixth was equally uncompromising, challenging them to live the life in front of them and not in the palm of their hand and, staying true to themselves, to always embrace the unknown, rising up to meet its trials. The Headmaster was preceded by a trilogy of speeches.
Outgoing Head of School, Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift) spoke of the importance of people and of community to success and the enjoyment of life. This year’s guest speaker was none other than Mr Ettinger’s daughter, Grace, whose own Cokethorpe journey began a few months after her father’s. Grace very much echoed the theme of the day, championing the importance of belonging, whilst reassuring pupils that they do not need to know every turn of the road before them, being well equipped, as they are, for whatever may wait around the bend, before treating the audience to a few anecdotes about the man behind the title!
Creative Arts Prize First Form Jolyon Uglow (Gascoigne) Second Form Belle Larsson (Queen Anne) Third Form Elissa Boyle (Harcourt) Humanities Prize First Form Lucy Smith (Swift) Second Form Grace Bassey (Vanbrugh) Third Form Freya Vincent (Queen Anne)
As we bid farewell to our Upper Sixth, departing staff, and to Mr Ettinger, it is perhaps fitting to echo the words of the closing prayer from Prize Giving as they look to their futures: May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Named Awards Allen Scholarship for Outstanding Academic Ability Grace Bassey (Second Form, Vanbrugh)
Congratulations to all our Prize winners, and heartfelt thanks to you, parents, for your generosity of spirit in celebrating the pupils’ successes so fully and for your unwavering support.' Mr Griffiths Head of Marketing
Trevis Scholarship for Excellence in Modern Foreign Languages Alex Regardsoe (Second Form, Swift)
Award Winners Performing Arts Prize First Form Esmae Lakey-Dodson (Swift) Second Form Joseph Palmer (Feilden) Third Form Lottie Graves (Gascoigne)
Crawford Award for Sport Scarlett Gould (Second Form, Harcourt)
Languages Prize First Form Sophia Burton (Gascoigne) Second Form Grace Bassey (Vanbrugh) Third Form Freya Richards (Feilden)
Cantwell Award for Music Alex Regardsoe (Second Form, Swift)
Goldsmith Award for Art Lucy Picking (Second Form, Vanbrugh)
Fourth Form Prizes for Academic Excellence Art Nina Larsson (Queen Anne) Biology Megan Bell (Feilden) Business Studies George Berlanger (Feilden) Chemistry Megan Bell (Feilden) Design Technology George Berlanger (Feilden) Drama Xander Luckett (Vanbrugh) English Language Xander Luckett (Vanbrugh) English Literature Katy Stiger (Swift)
Geography Greek History Latin Mathematics MFL (French) MFL (Spanish) Music Philosophy Physical Education Physics Psychology Textiles
Megan Bell (Feilden) Bing Brown (Queen Anne) Merryn Tattersall (Vanbrugh) Bing Brown (Queen Anne) Eylül Kaban (Swift) Katy Stiger (Swift) Heather Homewood (Vanbrugh) Eva Graves (Gascoigne) Henry Nixey (Gascoigne) Eva Graves (Gascoigne) Eva Graves (Gascoigne) Giles Campbell (Gascoigne) Lizzy Mata (Queen Anne)
Open Awards Lower Sixth Prizes for Academic Excellence Art Pippa Allen (Harcourt) Biology Aoife McMahon (Harcourt) BTEC Sophia Francis (Feilden) Business Studies James Hyne (Harcourt) Chemistry Curtis Woo (Vanbrugh) Design Technology Emma Campbell (Vanbrugh) Drama Kacy Nguyen (Vanbrugh) Economics Josh Drake (Swift) English Lang & Lit Amelie Baux (Vanbrugh) English Literature Bryony Wyatt (Swift) Further Mathematics Josh Drake (Swift) Geography Emma Campbell (Vanbrugh) History William Hansen (Queen Anne) Latin Beth Gouveia (Swift) Mathematics Emma Campbell (Vanbrugh) MFL (French) Luke Glazer (Gascoigne) MFL (Spanish) Joe Norman (Feilden) Physical Education Pippa Allen (Harcourt) Physics Josh Drake (Swift) Politics Nathan Hunt (Feilden) Psychology Alice Lines (Swift) Sociology Mida Loci (Feilden)
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The Lancia Fulvia Prize Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) The Stephen Cookson Memorial Prize Xander Luckett (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) The Grove Prize Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) The Sonia Tollady Memorial Prize Giovanni Virk (Fifth Form, Swift) The Kate Perritt Prize Calla Whitby (Upper Sixth, Feilden) The Martin Browne Memorial Prize Edward Chorley (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) The Gordon Dennis Memorial Prize Finn Van Landeghem (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) The Daniel Sumpter Sportsman of the Year Philip Croker (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)
GCSE Prizes Art Biology Business Studies Chemistry Design Technology Drama English Language English Literature Geography Greek History Latin Mathematics MFL (French) MFL (Spanish) Music Philosophy Physical Education Physics Psychology Textiles
The Cranham Prize George Keates (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
Amelie Boyle (Harcourt) Sukhmani Panesar (Queen Anne) Georgia Pownall (Queen Anne) Cory Zheng (Feilden) Alex May (Vanbrugh) Emmeline Black (Feilden) Amelie Boyle (Harcourt) Evie Walker (Swift) Sukhmani Panesar (Queen Anne) Emmeline Black (Feilden) Sam Weldon (Harcourt) Evie Walker (Swift) Cory Zheng (Feilden) Amelie Boyle (Harcourt) Antonio Virk (Queen Anne) Sophie Sharp (Vanbrugh) Sam Weldon (Harcourt) Megan Batchelor (Harcourt) Cory Zheng (Feilden) Sukhmani Panesar (Queen Anne) Audrey McCormick (Vanbrugh)
The Boggis Rosebowl Sportswoman of the Year Mae Sergeant (Upper Sixth, Swift) The Richard Reah Award Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden) Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) The Peter Small Theatre Production Award Henry Nixey (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) Upper Sixth A Level Prizes Art Mae Serjeant (Swift) Biology Simran Panesar (Queen Anne) BTEC Double Ben Charlesworth (Queen Anne) BTEC Extended Amelia Wiley (Feilden) Business Studies Nathan Robertson (Feilden) Chemistry Nicolas Woods-Cano (Swift) Design Technology Fletch Jewell (Feilden) Drama Henry Cook (Harcourt) Economics Fletch Jewell (Feilden) English Literature Sam Farr (Swift) EPQ Oscar Luckett (Vanbrugh) Further Mathematics Patrick West (Feilden) Geography Edward Harris (Vanbrugh) History Dan Pickford (Swift) Latin Finn Van Landeghem (Vanbrugh) Mathematics Fletch Jewell (Feilden) MFL (French) Louis Stanfield (Swift) Music Caellum Sharp (Vanbrugh) Philosophy Oscar Luckett (Vanbrugh) Physical Education Zack Galliford (Gascoigne) Physics Patrick West (Feilden) Politics Edward Harris (Vanbrugh) Psychology Nathan Robertson (Feilden) Sociology Tilly Payne (Vanbrugh) Textiles Nancy Christensen (Swift)
The Headmaster’s Prize Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift)
Recommendations Cup Michaelmas Term Feilden Lent Term Feilden Summer Term Feilden
GCSE Results Many congratulations from all at Cokethorpe to our Fifth Form pupils for their GCSE results today. With half of all grades awarded at 9-7 and three quarters at 9-6, pupils should be rightly proud of their accomplishments. There were particular successes in the Sciences, History, Drama and Modern Foreign Languages, where a high proportion of the grades awarded were within the 9-8 bracket. There were five pupils this year who achieved straight 9-8 grades, and many more for whom today’s results validate the hard work and progress made over their time at the School. Dr Squire, Head, said: ‘I was delighted to join the Cokethorpe community to celebrate the achievements of our GCSE pupils, and I look forward to welcoming them into the Sixth Form and building on their success. I am confident they will continue to be inspired and motivated to embrace all the opportunities afforded to them as we move into a new and exciting chapter together.’
Results Day The Cokethorpe Community was delighted to be celebrate with its Upper Sixth students as they received their hard-earned results. With 69% of the grades awarded at A*-B, and the most common grade being an A, students can be justifiably proud of their achievements. Particular highlights include Physics, Art, Politics and Maths A Levels, where over two thirds of the cohort gained A* or A grades. Students on the BTEC Extended Diploma programme also excelled, with 90% gaining either starred distinctions or distinctions. These outstanding results reflect the dedication, hard work and ambition of our students, ably supported by our committed and expert staff. Dr Squire, Head, said: 'In getting to know Cokethorpe over recent months, I have witnessed the character, curiosity and ambition that is so abundant in our students. These results are an important part of a much bigger picture, and we celebrate confident, accomplished young people heading off to exciting futures, from medicine to professional football.' We are incredibly proud of what our students have accomplished and over their time at Cokethorpe School. As a group, their energy, engagement and enthusiasm has had a hugely positive impact within the school community and beyond.
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my thanks go to Mr Elkin-Jones for inviting Professor Stride in. We look forward to following her research in the coming years and inviting her to return to tell us how her first-stage trials in human patients proceed.’ Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
Enlightenment Lectures Theme – The Change-Makers 'In an era of increasing climate, social and geopolitical challenge, the theme for the 2024-25 Enlightenment Lectures was ‘The Change Makers.’ The title simultaneously references Christ’s Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:9 ‘Blessed are the peacemakers…’ and Ghandi’s maxim 'Be the change you want to see in the world’ by both investing hope and value in those who can bring improvement locally, nationally and internationally, to our world. The theme brought together six speakers from disciplines as wide as science, policy, material engineering, mountain guiding, geometry, carpentry and Shakespeare Studies. In a new initiative, each lecture was chaired by a Sixth Form Scholar, who also made a short video in advance to promote the event internally. Each talk was attended by a range of Lower School Scholars to enhance their scholarly opportunities. For Scholars and Sixth Formers alike, the programme has been a carnival of insights into how change - small and great - can occur in the most unlikely of manners for the benefit of many.' Mr I Elkin-Jones (Joint Head of Scholars)
Professor Magda Osman – Small nudge, big change: can a little policy make big problems better? ‘The Enlightenment Lecture programme kicked off the academic year in fine form, beginning with a fantastic and informative talk by Professor Magda Osman, presented by our Head of School, Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift). Professor Osman’s lecture explored the concept of the ‘nudge’; an aspect of behavioural change that alters people’s behaviour in a predictable way, and how this idea is an ineffective and unethical way to create large scale behavioural change in society. The interactive lecture was both challenging and engaging for our Sixth Form students, offering the opportunity for them to ask questions throughout.
opportunity. In any way that I can help anybody that's interested in pursuing a career in anything I talked about having, I am happy to help.’ Professor Magda Osman
Professor Eleanor Stride OBE – Bubbles: changing how we kill cancer? ‘I had the pleasure of chairing a deeply thought-provoking Sixth Form Enlightenment Lecture from Professor Eleanor Stride of the Biomaterials Department in the Engineering Department at the University of Oxford. We were joined by our Fourth and Fifth Form Scholars who were there are part of their Scholars’ programme. Professor Stride previously studied at University College, London, where she specialised in the fabrication of nano and microscale devices for drug delivery, now works for the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences at the University of Oxford, embedded within the John Radcliffe group of hospitals in Headington. The talk itself was about cancer and the use of new techniques to treat it without harming the healthy cells in the body. In her presentation, entitled ‘Engineering Bubbles’, she explained how she and her team are using bubbles as a method for delivering chemotherapy directly into cancer tumours, whilst minimising the amount of healthy cells being affected by drugs, which is what makes patients so sick during treatment.
Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift) ‘I had the pleasure of coming to Cokethorpe School to give a presentation on the topic of ‘Nudge’ and its role particularly in public policy. It was an interactive presentation; many of the questions I got, which were fantastic, were in fact better than any of the questions many of my academic colleagues ask. Nancy was a brilliant and perfect host, and I am grateful to Mr ElkinJones for making the very smooth arrangements. I would love to come back again if I had the
Her inspiring and interactive lecture sparked a number of fascinating questions from the audience, both staff and students alike. Professor Stride left no stone unturned when answering them, leaving her audience in awe of her imagination, dedication and resilience. On behalf of all the students and Scholars present,
‘Thank you so much for the invitation to be here, it has been lovely. I think your facilities are absolutely amazing, I am very jealous working as I do at the University of Oxford in a mediaeval basement; it is a very different contrast. Lovely to meet all your fantastic students; brilliant questions, and it is so nice having a room full of people who are actually asking questions as well. It has been a great day, and I would love to come back to tell you – fingers crossed – if our trial goes ahead. Thanks very much indeed.’ Professor Eleanor Stride
Stuart McAleese – The Art of Suffering: who changes sooner, changes best
‘On Thursday 19 November, the Sixth Form students and Third Form Scholars were treated to an awe-inspiring Enlightenment Lecture by expert climber and explorer, Stuart McAleese. For 45 minutes, the students were transported away from the lightly snow-dusted grounds of Cokethorpe School, to the heavily snow-laden heights of Scotland, The Alps, Patagonia, and even New York. Jaws dropped as McAleese regaled his audience with death-defying tales, and incredible feats of bravery, tales accompanied by impressive images taken from the conquered summits. It was clear from the intelligent questioning by all those in attendance that the speaker successfully engaged with his audience and perhaps inspired some of them to take a step out of their own comfort zones.’ Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) ‘Thank you very much for the opportunity to speak in your third Enlightenment Lecture on the theme of ‘The Change Makers’. I feel really lucky to have been invited down here. The students were amazing and presented some superb questions. I talked about climbing in Scotland, climbing in the Alps, as well as further afield places like Alaska, Patagonia and Baffin Island. So, thanks very much
for a great time… And it snowed as well, just like in the mountains!’ Stuart McAleese
Professor Sarah Hart - Florence Nightingale and the Mathematics of illness ‘An engaging and fascinating Enlightenment Lecture was delivered by Gresham College’s Professor of Geometry, Sarah Hart. She detailed the story of Florence Nightingale and illustrated how her use of statistics revolutionised the treatment of British soldiers in The Crimean War. Pupils learnt how a simple pie chart could save thousands of lives, and equally how it can cost many if the statistics are misunderstood. Hart wittily joked about many powerful figures that have misread statistics and how often this can lead to false information being spread. Hart’s lecture was enthralling, educational and humorous, with everyone leaving with an understanding of the connection between mathematics and medical hygiene and treatment.’
‘Thank you so much for inviting me to Cokethorpe School. It was pleasure to meet the students. I talked today about Florence Nightingale and her mathematical life; how she made the case for change in nursing by brilliant use of data statistics and fabulous visualisations. Thank you very much for having me here to speak.’ Professor Sarah Hart
Rick Mower – For the better, for all: engineering change at the local level ‘We had the privilege of welcoming Rick Mower, Managing Director of RAW Workshop, to speak to the Sixth Form as part of the Enlightenment Lecture series. Based in North Oxford, RAW is a social enterprise that provides training, employment, and support to people facing significant barriers, including those with histories of addiction, homelessness, and criminal convictions.
their really intelligent questions and their enthusiasm. It has been a really, really great morning: it has really opened my eyes to what Cokethorpe brings young people.’
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Rick Mower
Dr Chris Laoutaris – Nearly never published: how Shakespeare nearly didn’t get known ‘Dr Laoutaris, associate professor at the Shakespeare Institute, delivered two Enlightenment Lectures for the Sixth Form. The first one educated us on the idea of ‘how Shakespeare nearly did not get known’, providing us with detailed information on the troubling process of publishing his First Folio, where Dr Laoutaris spoke enthusiastically, reminding us of the wonders of William Shakespeare. The second lecture was given to A Level, English Literature students.
Henry Cook (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) 'On Tuesday 4 February, Sixth Formers and selected Third to Fourth Form Scholars had the pleasure of listening to a lecture about the ‘Mathematics of illness’ presented by Professor Sarah Hart. Within her fascinating talk, she demonstrated how Robert Snow proved that the cholera epidemic in London was caused though unhealthy water from street pumps by using statistics to locate the source of origin. But the main focus of Professor Hart’s talk was about Florence Nightingale, and how she used data and understandable graphs to effectively collate information gathered from the Crimean war. One of the best examples, was how Nightingale used a polar-area graph to show the death rate of communicable diseases, injuries and other mortalities. It showed that lots more people were dying in the hospital from communicable diseases than injuries on the battlefields of Crimea. This resulted in an improvement of hygiene at the hospital, significantly reducing the death rate of communicable diseases. These are just a few examples of data analysis and as Professor Hart commented, ‘don’t take data in isolation.’ George Berlanger (Fourth Form, Feilden)
Rick’s talk was both powerful and inspiring. He spoke passionately about how RAW is not only a workshop for reclaimed furniture, but a place of renewed purpose. He shared how ex-offenders, often overlooked in society, have proven to be some of the most committed, talented, and resilient people he has ever worked with. His message was clear: everyone deserves a second chance. Rick’s talk gave valuable insight into how RAW operates and the importance of offering support to people looking to turn their lives around. The talk was captivating and definitely a memorable one which left a strong impression on everyone listening.’ Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden) ‘I am Rick Mower from RAW: I had the great pleasure of being invited to talk about how business can create social change. I had an absolutely brilliant experience with the Sixth Form and Scholars. It was a great pleasure to tell them about the work RAW does and how business can be a force for change by employing people from different backgrounds and can be an amazing force for positive social change. I was really struck by how curious the students were, and
This lecture looked at one of Shakespeare’s popular plays; Othello – studied by both Upper and Lower Sixth Form Students. Dr Laoutaris approached the lecture, focusing on the presentation of race in Othello, providing the students with detailed racial context of the era in which the play was written, a topic that was of much interest.’ Bryony Wyatt (Lower Sixth, Swift) ‘Thank you so much for inviting me. I had a fabulous time at Cokethorpe School. I came to talk about Shakespeare's First Folio and the people who created it, and the obstacles and challenges they faced in order to bring this incredible remarkable book to the world. Later, in my seminar entitled 'Reading Race,' I thoroughly enjoyed talking about Othello with the Sixth Form A Level Literature students. We had an enlightening conversation where the students were incredibly insightful. It was a fabulous day all round. I thank you so much for inviting me; I thoroughly enjoyed it.’ Dr Chris Laoutaris
Extended Project Qualification The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an optional programme requiring students to investigate a topic of their 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, 22 Upper Sixth students completed the programme, submitting eighteen essays and artefacts for assessment. Over 20 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 22 Upper Sixth students completed their EPQ in 2025: Harry Adams (Harcourt) Felix Batchelor (Harcourt) Edward Cale (Gascoigne) Ben Charlesworth (Queen Anne) Henry Cook (Harcourt) Oliver Davies (Gascoigne) Sam Farr (Swift) Fletch Jewell (Feilden) George Keates (Vanbrugh) Freddie Leefield (Gascoigne) Toby Lu (Feilden) Oscar Luckett (Vanbrugh) Sebastian Lyle (Harcourt) Edward Morgan (Harcourt) Simran Panesar (Queen Anne) Tilly Payne (Vanbrugh) Dan Pickford (Swift) Grace Soden (Swift) Poppy Symonds (Vanbrugh) Seb Tattersall (Vanbrugh) Henry Topley (Harcourt) Dan Westmoreland (Harcourt) Upper Sixth Music, in its very diverse forms, was the inspiration for several projects this year. Oliver Davies investigated the techniques of the Romantic composers like Chopin, Schumann and Beethoven, and composed an original piece of piano music incorporating his findings.
In a similar vein, Oscar Luckett researched film composers like Hans Zimmer and Alexandre Desplat, and composed a score for several scenes in Fritz Lang’s expressionist masterpiece 'M.'
These were two of the four artefacts presented this year as an alternative to the more traditional essay. In addition, Henry Cook wrote a well-researched essay on the history of rap music as a form of political protest, and Ben Charlesworth wrote hair-raisingly about what can go seriously wrong at music festivals. A number of students chose to investigate historical questions this year. Sam Farr set his mind to identify the most important factor contributing to the success of Martin Luther’s Reformation, plausibly concluding that effects of the printing press were perhaps the most significant element. Tilly Payne’s investigation of the discovery and punishment of witchcraft in seventeenth-century Britain was a striking analysis of the reasons for such institutional barbarity. On a more positive note, Seb Tattersall explored and evaluated the factors that led to the success of the D-Day landings, and identified the remarkable Allied preparations as the most significant cause.
Excerpt from Seb Tattersall (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) What were the most significant factors that led to the success of the D-Day landings? On the 6th June 1944, the world’s largest ever amphibious invasion was successfully executed by the Allies on the Normandy beaches. This monumental achievement
has sparked significant interest to historians around the globe like Ronald Drez and Stephen Ambrose who have brought up very plausible interpretations on what they believed the most significant factors were for the Allies that brought them victory. The four most significant factors that led to the success of the D-Day landings were the events on June 6th 1944, the foundations created after the initial invasion for a wider invasion, German mistakes and misjudgements and most importantly, the thorough allied preparations which I would argue were the main cause for D-Day’s success... After the initial offensive launched on the 6th June, the Allies planned effectively for the next stage of D-Day, this being the retrieval of land back from France and an invasion into Germany itself, and the foundations created, ensured any attack into France was sustainable and possible. This is due to effective infrastructure constructed by the Allies, like the mulberry harbours which were around ten kilometres in length and after being constructed 12 days after D-Day, transferred 2.5 million troops across its usage. However, these would never have been possible to construct if it were not for the countless German mistakes on the days following, allowing the allies to build these. The German mistakes provide a very credible argument for the success of D-Day, due to the sheer numbers of them. Mistakes were made around the weather events on the day such as the poor judgement of the break in the storm which gave a window for the Allies to attack; and mistakes were also made in preparations like falling for the Allies’ ‘dummy armies’ which made them believe an offensive would take place through the more direct route of Calais, rather than the more westerly Normandy. These deceptions and traps were frequently used before the start of D-Day and were planned since 1942 when both sides accepted an invasion was inevitable, and were extraordinarily successful and therefore it is the case that allied preparations were the most significant factor that led to the success of the D-Day landings. Great thinkers and army generals like Dwight D. Eisenhower and George Patton orchestrated these with such precision that despite Germany knowing an invasion was inevitable, the questions of where, when, and how were still left completely open, therefore the German forces were left stunned when the eventual invasion was launched and were highly unprepared. Contemporary political questions were also under examination in Fletch Jewell’s analysis
of the dynamics of social mobility, which emphasised the importance of education and the obvious failures of our current system. Excerpt from Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden) A critical study and analysis of the dynamics relating to social mobility It is clear there are many aspects to social mobility. As explored in this essay, these aspects affect social mobility in different ways, and they are always interlinked. However, it is undeniable the weight that education carries to enable an individual to move through the ranks of society. Without a good level of education, an individual lacks the cultural capital and social capital needed to achieve high economic capital later in life. Although good education is potentially the most influential factor in improving social mobility, many other elements need to be in place for an individual to successfully access education, meaning they are equally as important as education itself. As I have explored throughout this essay, if you live in an area of underfunded schools, poor healthcare, or without parents who have had a high level of education themselves, this end result just isn’t possible. Unfortunately, the people at the top control our government, education systems, healthcare and so forth. They are the ones who need to fall for the people at the bottom to rise up. Having written this essay, I am interested in seeing the impact a new more left-wing government has on the issues surrounding social mobility that I have discussed. A previous Labour government created things like Sure Start Centres which aim to support family health, parenting, and employment all in one. These policies directly try to overcome the social mobility barriers in society, and I am keen to see what other policies the new government introduces to help improve upward social mobility. I wanted to finish with a something from the book: A Theory of Justice by the philosopher John Rawls (1971). In this book he talks about a ‘veil of ignorance’ of our position in society. Imagine you knew nothing about your position in society - your race, sex, ability, wealth, nationality. It would seem obvious that you would not design an unbalanced society where you don’t know where we end up. We would design it in a way so those who are disadvantaged would be supported to be socially mobile in case we found ourselves in that precise position. So why do we live in a society where “a minority win big and everyone else gets nothing.”?
George Keates looked into the effects of state limits on agricultural diversification in the UK, and the challenges faced by farmers under current legislation. A number of essays dealt with psychological questions. Poppy Symonds explored the historical treatment of Bipolar Affective Disorder and reflected on how much - or how little - it has evolved. Excerpt from Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
vary and with the lack of knowledge on the human body, assumptions were made, leading to very scary results. Over hundreds of years, treatments have developed, coinciding with ever-increasing knowledge of the body. Methods have been evaluated, reinvented, established and adapted, fusing theories and proficiencies together, leading to reformed techniques. Harry Adams took narcissism as his topic, and wondered about the role that it played in various forms of public success.
To what extent have historical treatments of bipolar evolved? Bipolar Affective Disorder (BAD) was first acknowledged in around 300-500CE. People displaying symptoms were seen as witches and supernatural beings. Attitudes towards anything abnormal were violent, and individuals were tortured and killed in order to banish their irregularities. Punishments included chaining up, bloodletting, electric eels to the skull and being forced to drink potions. In this period, attitudes towards mental health in general were extreme, however as time goes on, societies are adopting a more accepting attitude to mental health. Circa 19th century, a French psychiatrist, Jean-Pierre Falret, published an article outlining a mood discovery where people switched drastically between manic excitement and severe depression. He called it ‘la folie circulaire’ translating to ‘circular insanity’: this is the first known diagnosis on bipolar disorder. However, earlier than this in 1621, English scholar Robert Burton published “a review of 2,000 years of philosophical ‘wisdom’” titled The Anatomy of Melancholia. The piece defined depressive disorder as a lone mental illness. This continued in 1668 when a Swiss physician know as Theophile Bonet linked the two states of mania and melancholia together and named it ‘manicomelancolicus’. Treatments for BAD have varied greatly over the last few thousand years, with countless aids emerging over time. Mental health has plagued the world for thousands of years, every culture perceiving and treating it differently. There are places where the solution appeared to be drilling holes into victims’ skulls to drain the sin and others where the term ‘ignorance is bliss’ became true, forcing the sufferers into isolation in an attempt to use confinement as a fix. China has a historical reputation for herbal remedies such as oxidised iron filings to ease symptoms of bipolar, whilst America used lobotomies to reverse a patient’s mind. Across the world, treatments drastically
Lower Sixth As usual, the Lower Sixth spent their first term learning advanced study skills in preparation for their EPQ projects. These timetabled lessons covered project management, research, writing and presentation skills. Then, in January, 32 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 taxation, GM crops, freedom of speech, criminal punishment, the German occupation of France and the history of football boots. We also look forward to artefacts including an architectural model and textiles as an example of feminist protest.
Summary It has been another excellent year for the EPQ at Cokethorpe, with a large number of students choosing to pursue and complete their projects, and 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. Mr Waldron (Head of EPQ)
Scholars Round Up Sixth Form Scholars’ Formal 'On Friday 24 January, the Sixth Form Scholars gathered for their annual formal dinner, and what a night it was! This year’s theme, ‘scholarly endeavour,’ was the perfect excuse for everyone to dress up and engage in scholarly conversations with their invited teacher. As they arrived, the students were greeted with prosecco and the chance to pose for photographs on the ‘red carpet’. Then it was into the Dining Hall, where the table was decorated to perfection. Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) sang the Latin grace before the first of four mouth-watering courses arrived, each one just as delicious as the last. Throughout the evening, the Scholars took part in a series of Mensa-style challenges, solving riddles, piecing together puzzles, and even assembling some mysterious objects. The evening was full of laughter, friendly competition, and lots of delicious food.
A huge thank you to Heads of Scholars, Mr Elkin-Jones and Miss Hutchinson, for organising such a memorable evening and to the wonderful Catering Department who kept everyone well-fed and happy. It was a night the Scholars will not forget.'
The morning session centred on portraits by the German émigré Walter Sickert. Ms Hallmark taught Scholars how to use their newly acquired skills to suggest why the artist decided to paint the picture. In the afternoon, Scholars used these skills to critique landscapes by Turner and Constable. To conclude the day, Scholars chose their own paintings to critique, discussing their findings with each other.
Scholars’ Dinner ‘The Scholars’ Dinner was a wonderful event, graced by nearly one hundred guests comprising teachers, parents, Scholars, the Headmaster and our distinguished guest speaker - Professor Michael Scott; Professor in Classics and Ancient History at the University of Warwick, acclaimed author and broadcaster. This year's Scholars' Dinner marked the culmination of the Scholars' intellectual efforts following the publication of this year’s Scholars’ Journal. Throughout the year, supervised by their fellow Scholars in the Fifth Form and Upper Sixth, nineteen Scholars channelled their intellectual curiosities into written form, contributing to the Journal’s rich and diverse content.
Through an experiential approach, Ms Hallmark guided the Scholars in learning how to read and interpret 19th-century paintings, drawing on artists’ biographies and the broader social context to enhance their readings.
As our Guest of Honour, we were delighted to welcome Professor Michael Scott, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for International affairs and a Professor in Classics and Ancient History at the University of Warwick. Professor Scott has kindly shared his own reflections on the evening: ‘Chicken Korma. Yes. The first Cokethorpe Scholar I met told me this was the reason he was convinced Cokethorpe was the place for him. And so began my experience as guest of honour at the Cokethorpe Scholars’ Dinner.
Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift)
Scholars' Trip to the Ashmolean Museum Friday 25 April saw the First and Second Form Scholars take part in a promenade seminar on Art History and Criticism at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford. They were led by Ms Emmeline Hallmark of TreeArtGallery, who studied at the Courtauld Institute, specialising in British landscape art of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. She worked for over twenty years as the Head of the British Paintings and Drawings Department at Sotheby’s and later worked in the international art world as an art curator, advisor and consultant.
The evening concluded with a keynote address from Professor Scott, introduced by Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh). In an inspiring speech, he spoke poignantly on the importance of scholarship in the nation's young generation. Drawing from his passion for Classics, Professor Scott encouraged the Scholars to enjoy the journey of their life, before ending his speech with some advice: to be curious, resilient and passionate, ever on guard against the consequences of closed-mindedness. This was a most timely reminder on the day the nation commemorated VE day against a backdrop of war in Europe.’ Finn Van Landeghem (Upper Sixth, Swift)
After canapés and champagne in the quad, proceedings were formally opened by Head of School and Master of Ceremonies for the evening, Nancy Christensen. She introduced the opening amuse bouche, a performance on the violin by Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), who performed The Bee from Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's opera The Tale of Tsar Saltan. Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) then delivered a resonantly-sung Latin grace before guests were seated for a delicious two-course meal provided by the Catering Department, nourishing both themselves and fruitful conversation.
Sadly, there was no chicken korma - but the chicken that was served underlined Cokethorpe's strong reputation for excellent food! That sense of excellence was in turn reinforced by the variety of skills on display from the students: from 'Flight of the Bumblebee' on the violin, a sung Latin grace, to a carefully composed, clearly delivered introduction and thank you speeches, as well as a host of perceptive questions and queries that came to me after my talk. The time of year - May - is fraught with exams and high tension for many. The evening - and my talk - was thus hopefully a quiet and enjoyable interlude, providing a space for reflection and reminding ourselves of the bigger picture. And what impressed me most, perhaps, was the congenial cross-generational atmosphere
as pupils from twelve to eighteen (and parents and teachers from only a little older to a little bit older than that!) interacted and engaged with one another. Long may it continue!’ Professor Michael Scott
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 ethics, politics, authenticity and gender. The Philosophical Investigations course has helped all the scholars to discharge their obligation to think clearly, deeply and responsibly about the world around them.’ Mr Waldron (Head of Philosophy)
Scholars’ Trip to Chalke Valley History Festival 'On Tuesday 24 June, we travelled down to Chalke Valley for a History Festival, focusing on medieval medicine and warfare from across the ages, all being re-enacted by an 'army' of volunteers. We began by scouting out the site before throwing ourselves into the various activitiesand the rest is history! There were endless workshops and activities on offer, from being able to handle real swords and discovering what a good soldier needed to make the ‘cut', to the medieval apothecary where we were 'treated' to a masterclass about the herbs used to treat wounds and the potters that supplied vessels for them to be stored. The variety of lectures also provided plenty of insight into topics such as the British Empire from a colonial perspective to the history of World War Two leaders and the personal context that influenced their tactical decisions. The 'cherry on top' was the ice cream stand, and barbecue food trucks which we were all pleased to 'meat'. It is safe to say it was a great trip and the Scholars would highly recommend it to everyone.' Freya Vincent (Third Form, Queen Anne)
Scholars List First Form Imogen Jones (Queen Anne) Jolyon Uglow (Gascoigne) Molly Sheer (Clarke) (Vanbrugh) Second Form Will Chandler (Clarke) (Gascoigne) Ollie Black (Feilden) George Bains (Feilden) Florence Nixey (Gascoigne) Third Form Lottie Graves (Gascoigne) Freya Vincent (Allen) (Queen Anne) Kassia Walwyn (Trevis) (Vanbrugh) Fourth Form Eva Graves (Allen) (Gascoigne) Katy Stiger (Trevis) (Swift) Xander Luckett (Vanbrugh) Bing Brown (Queen Anne) Immy Harris (Gascoigne) Henry Nixey (Gascoigne) George Berlanger (Feilden) Fifth Form Alex May (Vanbrugh) Emmeline Black (Clarke) (Feilden) Evie Walker (Swift) Ella Hogeboom (Allen) (Swift) Amelie Boyle (Trevis) (Harcourt) Sam Weldon (Harcourt) Alex Hancox (Harcourt) Ellie Lunn (Swift)
67th anniversary of the Grammy awards. From the groundbreaking jazz of the 1920s to Rock Around The Clock (1955) as the first rock and roll song to top the charts right on through to the first video to appear on MTV in 1981 (Rahsheeda, 2013) music continues to evolve and change.
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In modern-day, music has seemed to attract the influential and ‘trending’ side of the internet. Whilst those songs tend to grab the headlines, this article will look at less well-known musical developments in this period. Whilst no less important, these developments also give a hint at the ongoing and evolving importance of music. Music to stir a nation On 28 July 1914, First World War broke out. Lasting a remarkable four years, three months and two weeks it fundamentally changed the course of music in the 20th century. Three eras of music had ended: Romanticism, Symbolism and Expressionism - The First World War had marked the end of what has been referred to as the ‘long nineteenth century’ in music history. Songs such as the upbeat It’s a Long Way to Tipperary saw soldiers marching off to war. Vera Lynn’s We’ll Meet Again, released in 1939 at the start of Second World War, saw a very different change in mood. Music and war have always been intrinsically linked, from bugle calls to soldiers’ songs.
Lower Sixth Joe Norman (Feilden) Henry O'Brien (Harcourt) Mida Loci (Feilden) William Hansen (Strickland) (Queen Anne) Upper Sixth George Keates (Vanbrugh) Caellum Sharp (Vanbrugh) Oscar Luckett (Vanbrugh) Simran Panesar (Queen Anne) Nancy Christensen (Swift) Finn Van Landeghem (Vanbrugh) Sam Farr (Swift) Harry Adams (Harcourt)
Scholars' Journal Excerpts To what extent has the role and nature of music changed in both the twentieth and twenty-first centuries? Music has changed dramatically in the last 125 years – from Edward Elgar’s rousing Land of Hope and Glory (1901), an expression of Britain’s greatness, through to Charlie XCX’s Apples (2024) which created a highly trending following as well as popular choreography throughout 2024 and gained Best Pop Solo Performance and an award at the
Cultural Influences in modern day music Music has always had the power to embody diverse cultures. With over 3814 distinct cultures recorded by anthropologists (although this is thought to be a major underestimate), music has the potential to represent people in a way like no other. Cultures can be represented by their own specific type of music, art forms, languages, and literature, but increasingly in the Twentieth Century we have seen an increase in the fusion of styles. For example in Argentina, where music can be of sub-Saharan African origin. Styles such as Flamenco and Contradanza are the product and in 2004, the dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing brought this music to a modern-day audience. In addition, in America where a considerable number of different styles of music originated - Pop, Country, Jazz, Blues, Rock and Roll, Soul – it also continues to celebrate the
fusing of styles: for example, Beyonce’s Texas Hold ‘em incorporates country. It also continues to welcome outsiders, such as the The Rolling Stones, who have been active for more than sixty years and who initially found inspiration from American Blues. Music vs Life: A reversable concept? People have immensely varied lives, and subsequently choose a specific genre or style of music to listen to. This can be influenced by a number of things, chiefly driven like personality traits, with peoples typically gravitating towards music that is compatible with their culture, personalities, age and mood. In addition, sometimes we want music that transcribes our emotions or current state.
For example, significant life events, such as weddings or funerals, offer opportunities to express emotions where otherwise individuals may struggle to articulate how they feel, whether showcasing their endearment to another person, or humming a tune of a treasured song, treasured by someone who is no longer present. In the early 20th century, brides traditionally walked down the aisle to Wagner’s Bridal Chorus (composed in the late 19th century). A recent study analysing 2,000 wedding-themed playlists on Spotify (totalling 49,091 songs) discovered I Wanna Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston as the most popular wedding song of the twenty-first century. Where once funerals were traditionally sombre affairs, families now take solace in music which represents their thoughts and feelings more closely. Abide with Me by Henry Francis Lyte (written in 1847) can often be heard alongside music by Adele, Oasis, Eric Clapton to name a few. The healing properties of music Music can be an effective cure for stress and anxiety issues – both of which are discussed far more openly in the twenty-first century than ever they were before. However, stress and anxiety are not the only things that music can help with. Research suggests that cases of autism and neurodiversity have almost doubled in the past ten years, and thankfully music has a role to play here too.
Music has been scientifically proven to help people’s mental health. It can improve cognitive performance, reduce stress, eat less and helps your memory. The number of young people who have lost social health is increasing fast. There is a sudden surge in young people having online addictions and hiding themselves away from the real world which can result in overstimulation, depression and can even slowly draw them away from close bonds.
suggest the possibilities of an accent stretching so far it ‘deforms’ and never returns to its original shape, or perhaps even snapping in the way an elastic band may do so. Through comparing circumstances in which an accent change may occur, and considering multiple aspects that may cause an occurrence, we hope to uncover the forces that mould our accents to be more like those of the people around us. Can our accents really be as active as an elastic band?
Music is something that can help get away from screens. Playing an instrument, listening to someone else play, or even just putting on the radio makes for a mentally healthier lifestyle. Music is something that influences one’s personal concentration: what you listen to can potentially shape your day-to-day lifestyle and vice versa. Some research shows that the popular Ariana Grande song, Breathin can help with anxiety attacks, telling you to just breathe. She is joined by many other artists such as, the Beatles, Florence + the Machine, Rhianna, Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, Ed Sheeran, Anne- Marie, Avril Lavigne, Coldplay whose music help with the management and challenges of living with anxiety and associated disorders.
How is an accent first formed? In order to understand how an accent may change, it is important to know how this accent came about in the first place. The process of an accent developing initially starts almost as soon as a child leaves the womb. We are immediately exposed to the speech of many different people, each with a slightly different accent and, as we learn to speak, an accent will develop as well. Babies are soon able to differentiate between various inflections and intonations in their parents’ or caretakers’ voices. For example, they may laugh when their father says something that they think sounds funny or cry when their mother raises her voice because, in order to comprehend what is going on around them, they are focused in on every little thing, from the shape of your mouth when you speak to the rising and falling of your voice (The Speech and Language Department in collaboration with the Child and Family Information Group, 2016). As an expert in early childhood learning, Patricia Kuhl (2015) stated that an infant can perceive the full set of 800 or so sounds at birth. These sounds, or phenomes, can come together to make any word from any language. The brain of a young child is constantly working on articulating and distinguishing all these different sounds at first, but as they become accustomed to the specific phonetic habits of their native language, their brains start to favour those sounds. This means that, over time, they will lose the ease with which they translate sounds that are not part of the linguistic environment they are exposed to. For instance, a child growing up learning to speak English in the UK will become more familiar and comfortable with the specific cadences of that dialect and modulate an accent accordingly. As a result, this child might not be able to pronounce a harsher ‘ar’ sound in the same way a child living in the USA would, simply because their brain has decided that information is not necessary for communication. Consequently, they will not acquire the specific set of motor patterns for that accent. This often makes it difficult to transfer to a new accent, although linguistics and phonetics specialist Dr Nicole Whitworth (2021) makes it clear that it is not impossible.
Where next? The developments of the last 125 years have made music far more accessible to ordinary people. Incorporating many different styles, music can reach every different class and grouping of people. This trend is only likely to continue in the years ahead. The biggest change, at least in the short-term, is likely to focus on the world of Artificial Intelligence as a way of creating music. We have already seen rapid progress in this area. As far back as 2016, researchers at Sony were working on AI-generated music and made the first-ever AI-created pop song called Daddy’s Car. Where this will lead us only time will tell. Molly Sheer (First Form, Vanbrugh)
To what extent is a person's accent elastic according to their environment? Imagine walking into a room full of strangers and seamlessly blending in, not just in appearance, but with your voice, your accent, the very essence of your speech, as it subtly shifts to mirror those around you. There are people who can do so, or at least films and books would have us believe so. This proposes questions around what factors would play into this change. These may include aspects such as the sole linguistics (the way the words are leaving your mouth) right down to the psychological elements of social dynamics that are the result of transitioning between communities. Is there a pattern to this transformation or is it unique to each individual? Consider your accent as an elastic band – as your environment changes, this band stretches and changes too. This also
Once infants reach around 6 months old, the sounds they make are much more purposeful and controlled. They might even begin saying things that we think we recognise, or sound similar to the words that are being said to them or around them, such as ‘ma’ or ‘ba’. If the child likes how
this sounds, they will repeat it. This stage is often referred to as ‘babbling’ or what you may know as ‘babytalk’ and is part of the process called language acquisition (Crystal, D 2010). Despite it starting at such a young age, children do not complete the language acquisition stage until they are around 6 years old (Cambell, R and Wales, R 2010). During this period, the immediate social environment the child is living in is of even more importance. The more the infant is exposed to a certain type of speech, the more they will imitate it. This is also why, even within small geographical areas, accents can be very different with local communities developing their own distinctive linguistic features and speaking habits. What factors cause an accent to change? Nature versus Nurture When considering how an accent might adapt according to the person’s environment, it is important to regard the influences of both nature and nurture during this transformation. Essentially, nature refers to the inherited and hereditry influences on an accent's adaptation, whereas nurture is encompassing the idea of environmental and social causations: our upbringing, surrounding culture or relationships (Cherry, K 2022). Nature The influence of genetic predispositions on the reformation of an accent generally comes from the individual’s anatomy. Certain phonetic capabilities are inborn, determined by physiological attributes such as the shape and size of the vocal cords, mouth, and nasal passages (Dengler, R 2019). In this biological predisposition lies the very foundation of how a sound is articulated and perceived. For example, some may find that imitating different accents comes more naturally due to their heightened auditory discrimination ability, the majority of which is determined by genetics. Furthermore, up to 60% of personality traits, such as an openness to new experiences or social adaptability, are inherited genetically and may lead to an accent change (National Library of Medicine, 2022). Individuals with such traits can easily turn to a new accent or change their way of pronouncing in order to correspond to the standards of speech in the new society that they are living in. This can be illustrated by the fact that children from multilingual families can often easily change their accent depending on the social situation they find themselves in throughout their lives. Throughout their earlier years, children are more likely to pick up new accents if they are exposed to them frequently, partly because they are still in their language acquisition stage and thus have a more malleable accent. With continued exposure to other speech patterns, the pronunciations children use may still be shaped and reshaped as they grow. Nevertheless, the degree of elasticity to which an accent is able to change ultimately diminishes with age. Though it can be debated
whether this falls under the nurture aspect of this argument as it is predominantly due to the stage of talking they are in, it is probably more accurate to categorise it as nature. Nurture On the other hand, the evolution of an accent is greatly influenced by environmental causes and social interactions. To begin with, there are many psychological factors that affect a person’s attitude and willingness towards changing their accent. Primarily, this would be a desire to belong or impress someone in the new community, especially if they have received unwanted comments regarding their previous accent or it is associated with a negative stereotype. To be excluded from a society, or feel as if that is the case due to your accent is difficult, and the likelihood of a teenager to adapt their accent for this reason is even more probable with 50% of adolescents experiencing ‘Fear of Missing Out’ (more commonly referred to as ‘FOMO’) at some point during their pubescent years (Uniyal, P 2023). Conversely, a person may have a strong desire to maintain their accent despite living in a new area. There are a variety of reasons for this to be the case, such as having patriotism towards their original country or feeling as if that accent or nationality was an integral part of their identity. It can also serve as a reminder of their past culture, therefore, it is something they did not have a desire to lose. It also could be due to a dislike of the new community’s accent. Likewise, and with reference to a preceding reason for a person to change their accent, someone may not want to drop it in order to impress or influence a person or a group of people. A real-life example of more than one of these reasonings is my great-grandfather, who maintained his regional accent for many years, despite moving to a new and different part of the country. He was not fond of the regional accent in that area, believing the grammar and vocabulary used often portrayed the local people to sound uneducated. Subconsciously, his main concern was that his daughters might acquire these speaking habits and slip into the stereotype. Despite having lived in the new area for many years with an untouched accent, as soon as his daughters moved out and left for university, he did not have as strong a desire to not speak like others in order to influence his daughters. An amusing postscript is that despite his best attempt, at least one of his daughters ended up moving away with the regional accent he had so strongly disliked. However, her own desire to fit in led to it disappearing quite quickly, and when hearing her speak today, one would not realise that she had ever spoken anything other than the ‘Kings English’. So… How can your accent change? Ultimately, the elasticity of a person's accent is a constant interplay of nature and nurture.
While biological factors determine the very foundation of the capabilities of producing sounds, it is the environmental and social influences that shape and adjust these tendencies throughout one's life. The ratio of nature elements to nurture is subjective to each individual. The phonetic environment the individual is exposed to at birth also starts moulding his or her accent and this is deeply rooted in both our biological makeup and the social dynamics we go through in life. While genetic predispositions provide the foundation for how we articulate and perceive sounds, it is the social interactions and environmental factors that shape and reshape our accents over time.
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The elasticity of an accent is especially prominent in childhood when the brain is at its most malleable and receptive to new sounds. As one grows older, the ability to adapt the accent diminishes but is never fully eradicated. And it is through social factors - to fit in or avoid possibly negative stereotypes, for example – that cause the reasons behind why and how our accents change really become more apparent. This, therefore, places the elasticity of any particular person's accent in his or her hands as a product of compendium variables from nature to nurture. That intricate yet delicious recipe of nature, nurture and all the other complexities that make us who we are today, ensures our accents will forever offer up the beauty, richness, and diversity within human communications. Lottie Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne)
Prep Academic Work Reception Class visit to The Story Museum My favourite part was: Making new friends (Florence Ogg-Rogers, Symonds) Wearing a princess hat (Vivi Hughes, Lockwood) Being a postman (Bertie Franklin, Baker) Dressing up as Elmer (Colby La Réservée, Symonds) Playing in the cave (Arléo Gindre, Lockwood) Being a bear with Florence (Laurie Garitey Bartels, Gwyn) Playing with the tiger (Milly Senior, Baker) Picking Peter Rabbit’s carrots (Mayokun Akinrolabu, Gwyn) Penguins The penguin is as… Soft as a rabbit Slippery as a fish Curious as an owl Cold as a polar bear White as snow Fluffy as a chick Playful as a seal Strong as a rhino Tilly Lang (Year 1, Gwyn)
Year 2 French – Aux Magasins Year 2 pupils enthusiastically acted roles of customer and stall holder ‘au marché’ in their French classes. The ‘customers’ learnt how to ask for fruit and vegetables from a shopping list and we found out how much each item cost. They paid in Euros, whilst using counting and mathematic skills practising their French. The ‘stall holders’ politely welcomed their customers and told them how much they should pay and counted in their profits! Much fun was had with this hands-on learning activity.
Island Wildlife Acrostic Poem I love wildlife so much Silent rabbit jumping like a kangaroo Listen to the birds singing And oh the foxes of the woods? Now you need to know the Robot Roz Determined to look after all the animals Weather changes suddenly Icy lakes sparkle in the sun Listen, hear the tiny mouse crawl Deer galloping in the snow Let them run In the lush woods Forest fringed mountains stand tall Everyone is happy in nature Ruby Jennings (Year 2, Symonds)
Year 3 End of Day Blessing Dear Lord God, Thank you for such a nice day. Keep us ALL safe when we go home. Thank you for the good food, water and the roof covering us. Thank you that you keep us safe in Your hands. Help us remember those who are not with us. Thank you for family and friends. Thank you for being with us and showing us your love. Bless us with joy and happiness. Bless us ALL. In your name we pray. Amen. Written as a class
My Recount of Finding Treasure Today, whilst running along the beach, it was boiling and the sand felt cool. Whilst I was running, I tripped over something and I walked back in and I said to myself, “Why did I trip there?” When I got closer, I saw it was a clear glass bottle, inside there was a note and the note said, “This is the treasure of Black Beard!” And it had map on the back. Later that day when I had supper, I went back to the beach I had the map in my pocket and I followed it and when I was at the X, I didn’t see it and once I thought about it I thought if I couldn’t see it must be underground. I went back to the house quietly and I got my shovel then went back to the seaside. I went back to the spot and I dug. When I dug into the ground, I still couldn’t see it, so I dug deeper, and deeper until I saw it but dug too deep and the chest fell on me, I wasn’t expecting it to fall on
me. I climbed up until I saw the ground. I threw the chest up and it landed, the lid flew off and I saw gold. I was so happy, but I left it where it was so somebody else could get it. Jack Bishop (Year 3, Baker)
English – From Pictures to Words Today, Max was bursting with energy. He donned his chalky white wolf costume, snatched a fork and startled his poor dog Bertie. “Get here right now you little toad!” he squeaked with delight. “MAX!” yelled his father. “What are you doing? Go to your room!” The smug look on Max’s face disappeared. Depressed, he stormed to his plain room and pondered what to do. He looked out of his window, it looked like dinner time. He wasn’t going to have any dinner? “NOOOOO!” he screamed. Suddenly, pistachio green trees spurted out of the ground. Was he dreaming? Knock, knock “Is everything ok in there Max?” It was his Mum. “Err, yes Mother” he replied, although it really wasn’t. After a couple of minutes, his whole bedroom had turned into a mystical wood! He felt like a real wolf now, he wanted to catch some prey, his prey was an adventure. His first idea was to sail and find new land, so that is exactly what he did. But then, a monster appeared from the shallows, Max had to face it. He found a stick and chucked it, the monster went to fetch it. Now was his chance to escape! When Max found land, he also found more monsters! But he soon found out they were friendly. They became allies, eventually they made him King. After a busy day, Max decided to go home, he leaped onto his rose red boat and sailed far away into the distance. On his journey back, he felt much braver and stronger than he did before. When he found the place where he started, he saw his bedroom reappearing and heard from his door. “Max, you’ve had enough time up there now, come and have your dinner.” Arthur Abraham (Year 4, Gwyn)
The Great Exhibition When did they start and end the Crystal Palace? Queen Victoria opened it on the 1st of May 1851. It took 9 months to build the Crystal Palace they started in August 1850. Sadly, it was destroyed by the fire on 30th November 1936.
What could you see there? At the Crystal Palace, you could buy/ see art, musical instruments, precious jewels and inventions from all over the world. There were over 8 miles of displays. What were the prices? The weekday prices are one shilling (although the price was two shillings ad six pence on Fridays) and still five shillings on Saturdays. Altogether, the money made from it was £186,000 - in today’s money that would be £20 million. How did the Crystal Palace burn down? No lives were lost and how it began was never established. Rival theories attributed it to a cigarette left burning.
Year 5 Town Planning Project Year 5 put their heads together to use their analytical and linguistic skills to plan a French town. The pupils put a lot of imagination into the design of their urban spaces and attentively included all the key shops and buildings that a French town might have. The project concluded the theme of French lessons in the Summer Term, when pupils learnt how to talk and write about where they live and describe the area. They also discovered the difference between British and French towns and how this reflects the culture of each country.
Why was the Great Exhibition so successful? The Great Exhibition was destined to present a very positive image of empire to the masses. By attaching millions of visitors, the event played a key role in spreading awareness of and support for, the country’s imperial ambitions among the public. How many people visited there? The Great Exhibition of 1851 was very successful with 6 million visitors. It made a profit and inspired many similar exhibitions thereafter. Why did the Crystal Palace change colour? In 1973, the club manager Allison felt that the entire image needed a fresh look so he changed the colour from claret and sky blue to red and blue.
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The Resolute Honourable Neville Chamberlain Prime Minister of the United Kingdom 10 Downing Street London
Dear Prime Minister I am writing to you about your decisions about appeasement with Hitler. There is no doubt that these are difficult times, especially for Great Britain. I know that you are doing your best to protect our country. Firstly, I want to thank you for your great acts for Britain. Your people believe your decision of making an alliance of appeasement is indeed resolute and thoughtful. Your alternatives with Germany like the one in Sudetenland, have given hope that we can avoid war.
What was the Great Exhibition? It was aimed to celebrate modern design and promote Britain as an industrial and imperial power. It was quite the spectacle: over 100,000 products from all four corners of the world were housed in a giant glass building. People who came Some people came, some very important people like Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, Michael Faraday, Samuel Colt, members of the Royal Family and writers Charlotte Bronte, Charles Dickens, Lewis Carroll, George Eliot, Alfred Tennyson and more.
Year 6 History Work Letter to the Prime Minister
Ella Moffatt (Year 5, Gwyn)
However, I am also worried that appeasement will make us vulnerable and open. We don’t know that Hitler might be sending nuclear armaments or be starting a war with England, right now, this second. Hitler will break promises and has already. The notions about fleeing war would make us weak as a country and an army. What message are we sending to the world? Honourable Chamberlain how do we protect other countries? We can stop this dictatorship and tyranny and help countries like Czechoslovakia.
Harry Hope (Year 5, Gwyn)
Year 6 Science An image of the clock tower taken using a class-made Camera Obscura.
In my opinion, tranquillity and peace is key but it has to be true and lasting. I hope you continue to bring peace to our country but be ready if Hitler does not keep his word. Thank you for reading my letter and for everything you are doing for our country. I may not agree with every decision, but I respect your role and the responsibility you carry. If you don’t agree with me, I know you know what you’re doing. Yours sincerely,
Was the Crystal Palace the biggest building in the world? The Crystal Palace was the largest building in the world, but because of what it was made out of it only took seven weeks to construct. What was the purpose of the Great Exhibition? The Victorians wanted to celebrate their industrial successes – and to promote them, so a Great Exhibition was proposed that would showcase the wonders of new technology. Marnie Perkins (Year 5, Gwyn)
Darren Watkins. Samuel Idiahi (Year 6, Baker)
Prep Portfolio The current Year 6 cohort marks the second group to participate in our Prep Portfolio initiative. This programme is designed to prepare pupils for the transition to Senior School and beyond by fostering a greater sense of independence, responsibility, and personal growth.
of financial literacy. It is reassuring to see our pupils demonstrating such a mature approach to responsible spending.
Pupils engage in six key units: • Multi-Generational • Financial Literacy • Out of Your Comfort Zone • Entrepreneurial • Eco-Sustainability • Community Outreach Throughout the course of the year, pupils compile a physical portfolio of evidence to document their work in each area. Based on the quality and depth of their contributions, pupils are awarded a Bronze, Silver, or Gold certificate. While the School ensures that all pupils have the opportunity to achieve the Bronze Award, it is up to the individual to demonstrate the initiative and commitment required to attain Silver or Gold. Multi-Generational This unit recognises pupils who have shown a commitment to supporting individuals from different generations. Examples include; volunteering at local care homes or mentoring younger pupils. Year 6 have already demonstrated great enthusiasm by launching a variety of lunchtime clubs for younger pupils, including; cricket, drama, football, and the creatively named ‘Splatter Club,’ all promoted through pupil-designed posters.
Out of Your Comfort Zone This certificate celebrates pupils who have embraced new experiences and challenged themselves beyond their usual boundaries. Whether through activities on residential trips, trying a new sport, visiting unfamiliar places, or meeting new people, pupils are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and grow in confidence and resilience.
Entrepreneurship In a remarkable display of entrepreneurial flair, Year 6 pupils organised a highly successful 'Summer Stall' afternoon. This event, part of the Entrepreneurship unit, was carefully planned and executed by the pupils, who
Financial Literacy As part of their financial education, Year 6 pupils have developed a strong understanding of key banking concepts such as interest, loans, mortgages, taxation, and insurance. They have also explored the pros and cons of debit and credit cards. Working in teams, pupils tackled real-life, age-appropriate financial scenarios with enthusiasm. Special thanks to Mrs Richards for delivering an engaging and informative session on the importance
were each given a £5.00 budget to create a profitable stall. From games to merchandise, the creativity on display was outstanding. Impressively, every group turned a profit and made thoughtful decisions about whether to reinvest their earnings or donate them to a chosen charity. Eco-Sustainability – Ringwood Farm Visit As part of their exploration of sustainable living, Year 6 visited Ringwood Farm to learn about environmentally conscious food production. Pupils gained valuable insights into how delicious, nutritious food can be grown in harmony with nature. We extend our sincere thanks to Mr and Mrs Abraham for hosting such an informative afternoon, and to Freddie Abraham (Year 6, Lockwood) for leading a fantastic quiz during the farm walk. We were also fortunate to hear an inspiring presentation from Prep Prefect George Keates (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), who shared his experiences working on a farm and his involvement with Young Farmers.
Community Outreach The Community Outreach certificate acknowledges pupils who have made meaningful contributions to their local community. This year, pupils have supported a wide range of initiatives, from assisting in local churches and community clubs to organising charitable events. Their efforts have made a tangible difference and reflect the values of empathy, service, and civic responsibility.
Sixth Form Work Dissertation sur No et moi de Delphine de Vigan (Analyse de ce roman en tant qu’oeuvre profondément pessimiste)
Senior Academic Work Second Form English The lights flickered. They wondered how long the generator would last this time. In the distance a beat could be heard. Relentless: never closer, never further away - just an endless thud that could not be escaped. Maybe it was time to leave …
Il ne fait aucun doute que dans le roman contemporain No et Moi de Delphine de Vigan, l'éducation joue un rôle central en influençant le développement des personnages et leurs rapports à la société. Dans cette dissertation, je mettrai en avant l'impact de l'éducation sur l'isolement social, ensuite, nous analyserons comment l'éducation reflète les inégalités sociales, et enfin, je soulignerai la façon dont l'éducation peut être un moyen de transformation personnelle.
A sharp pain of fear struck my body, adrenaline flying through my veins. I was lost. The feeling of vulnerability slowly haunting me how do I get out? The floor - wet and cold - with flicks of blood coating the never ending damp walls. The sound got closer, the lights got dimmer, my breathing got heavier. The constant thought of not knowing if I will make it out alive slowly crushing me. I run… I take a left, a right followed by another right, it all was the same not even a window in sight, it could be day it could be night there was no way of telling. Then I feel a draft of slow wind, I follow it, then I see it… I see a hole the size of my head in the wall. I walk closer to it, the wind gets heavier and so does my curiosity, I squeeze my head through the rough and damp brick wall then the feeling of pure horror struck me right through the chest. I stare down, what looks like one hundred thousand feet. It was pitch black in the middle of a forest… William Crossley (Second Form, Vanbrugh) The sun rose like a pot of gold, the aqua blue water climbing up the sand and then slipping back down. A few boats glided across the water like a graceful swan. Sea shells were dotted around. Children ran like Olympic sprinters into the sea. It felt like a completely different world. The sky was as blue as a sapphire, the clouds sailed across the sky like little white sailing boats. Kites in the sky flew like a flock of colourful birds The cloud’s drifted lazily while shapeshifting from castles to dragons. The beach soon transformed into a children’s construction site with their colourful buckets, small spades and lots of imagination. As the waves crept closer, some got taken away but they all stayed as memories. Children’s laughter rippled through the air, the waves moving forwards and backwards sounded like a soothing lullaby with the occasional crash which was like a symbol. Seagulls swooping through the air - crying to each other – this is the sound of the seaside every single person recognises. Florence Tate (Second Form, Swift)
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Third Form Landform Project - Isla Colling (Swift)
Fourth Form Business Studies Fourth Form Business Studies pupils were set the task of coming up with a new ‘soft drink can’ to sell to a target market of their choice. They had to consider each of the elements of the marketing mix in their decision and present their ideas to the class where they were questioned on their decision making.
En premier lieu, penchons-nous sur le fait que l'éducation dans le roman accentue l'isolement social, notamment pour Lou. Cela est parfaitement illustré dans la description de Lou comme une "enfant intellectuellement précoce". Cette différence intellectuelle la sépare de ses camarades, ce qui crée un fossé entre elle et le monde qui l'entoure. Ce terme renforce l'idée que l'intelligence académique peut devenir un fardeau social, isolant ceux qui ne se conforment pas aux normes de l'âge. Ainsi, l'intention de Delphine de Vigan était de montrer comment un système éducatif rigide peut marginaliser ceux qui sortent de l'ordinaire. Il est donc juste de déclarer que l'éducation, au lieu d'être un moyen d'inclusion, peut parfois accentuer l'isolement. En second lieu, il est primordial que je fasse le point sur la façon dont l'éducation reflète et renforce les inégalités sociales. Ce fait est une évidence dans le contraste frappant entre Lou et No. Alors que Lou bénéficie d'une éducation structurée et d'un soutien familial, No, en revanche, a quitté l'école tôt et se retrouve sans les ressources nécessaires pour réussir. Par exemple, No exprime son sentiment d'être laissée-pour-compte, illustrant ainsi comment le manque d'accès à l'éducation perpétue la précarité. Par conséquent, en tant que lecteur, on ressent un fort contraste entre les opportunités offertes à ceux qui sont privilégiés et la lutte quotidienne de ceux qui en sont privés. Cela renforce l'idée que l'éducation est à la fois un privilège et un facteur d'exclusion pour les plus vulnérables. En dernier lieu, il est essentiel que nous avancions la notion que l'éducation peut aussi être un moteur de transformation personnelle. Ceci est flagrant dans l'évolution de Lou tout au long du roman. Grâce à ses recherches pour son exposé sur les sans-abri, elle développe une plus grande empathie et mûrit sur le plan émotionnel. La scène où Lou présente son exposé illustre comment l'éducation peut être un déclencheur de changement personnel et de prise de conscience sociale. Dès lors, le message intentionnel de l'auteure était de montrer que l'éducation ne se limite pas à l'apprentissage
académique mais qu'elle peut transformer la manière dont on comprend et agit dans le monde. Cela démontre indéniablement que l'éducation est un outil puissant de croissance personnelle.
privileged and the daily struggle of those who are deprived. This reinforces the idea that education is both a privilege and a factor of exclusion for the most vulnerable.
His speech does not merely serve as a legal defence but constructs a dramatic and entertaining narrative that draws on familiar comedic tropes. By hyperbolising the characters of Clodia and Caelius, invoking elements of Roman comedy, and deploying humour to undermine the prosecution, Cicero reframes the trial in a manner that aligns with the prejudices and expectations of his audience. However, while comic morality provides a powerful rhetorical framework, Cicero ensures that his case retains credibility utilising structured argumentation.
En guise de conclusion, l'éducation dans No et Moi est loin d'être une simple institution neutre, elle reflète les inégalités sociales, accentue l'isolement, mais offre également un potentiel de transformation personnelle. Dans cette analyse, nous avons mis en lumière trois aspects clés, l'isolement causé par l'éducation, la reproduction des inégalités sociales et le pouvoir transformateur de l'éducation. Ce qui clôt ce débat ou invite à une nouvelle question - dans quelle mesure l'éducation peut-elle être réellement un vecteur d'égalité sociale ?
Finally, it is essential that we bring forward the notion that education can also be a driver of personal transformation. This is evident in Lou’s evolution throughout the novel. Through her research for her presentation on homelessness, she develops greater empathy and matures emotionally. The scene where Lou presents her research illustrates how education can be a trigger for personal change and social awareness. Therefore, the author’s intentional message was to show that education is not limited to academic learning but can transform the way we understand and act in the world. This undeniably demonstrates that education is a powerful tool for personal growth.
Dissertation on No et Moi by Delphine de Vigan (Analysis of this novel as a deeply pessimistic work). There is no doubt that in the contemporary novel No et Moi by Delphine de Vigan, education plays a central role in influencing the development of the characters and their relationships with society. In this dissertation, I will highlight the impact of education on social isolation, then, we will analyse how education reflects social inequalities, and finally, I will highlight how education can be a pathway to personal transformation.
As a conclusion, education in No et Moi is far from being a simple neutral institution, it reflects social inequalities, accentuates isolation, but also offers the potential for personal transformation. In this analysis, we have highlighted three key aspects, the isolation caused by education, the emphasis on social inequalities and the transformative power of education. Which either closes this debate or opens on a new question - to what extent can education really be a vector of social equality? Louis Stanfield (Upper Sixth, Swift)
This comic framework is prevalent in Cicero’s portrayal of Clodia. He presents her as a meretrix, the stock courtesan figure from Roman comedy. She is presented as manipulative, extravagant, and governed by unrestrained passion. He attributes her accusations against Caelius to wounded pride, presenting her as a woman scorned after he rejected her advances despite her previous generosity. This depiction is reinforced through Cicero’s use of prosopopoeia, whereby he assumes the voice of her ancestor, Appius Claudius Caecus, reprimanding her in the severe tones of an austere Roman statesman. This technique not only ridicules Clodia but also invokes the jury’s traditional values, juxtaposing her supposed immorality against the virtues of Rome’s past and current elite. Moreover, Cicero’s comparison of her residence to that of Lucceius, a respected scholar, frames her as a figure of decadent excess and a destabilising force in Roman society.
Classics 'Cicero's use of comic morality gave him a framework for presenting the case to the jury as he wished them to perceive it.' To what extent do you agree with this reading of the 'Pro Caelio'? Cicero’s Pro Caelio makes use of comic morality to shape how the jury perceives the case.
At the same time, Cicero employs comic tropes to recast Caelius as a relatable and sympathetic young man rather than a dangerous criminal. In opposition to Clodia’s meretrix persona, Caelius is depicted as the archetypal adulescens amator of comedy—impulsive but ultimately redeemable. While Cicero concedes that Caelius may have engaged in youthful indiscretions,
First, let us look at the fact that education in the novel accentuates social isolation, especially for Lou. This is perfectly illustrated in the description of Lou as an "intellectually precocious child". This intellectual difference separates her from her peers, which creates a gap between her and the world around her. This term reinforces the idea that academic intelligence can become a social burden, isolating those who do not conform to age norms. Thus, Delphine de Vigan’s intention was to show how a rigid education system can marginalise those who have uncommon social traits. It is therefore fair to state that education, instead of being a pathway to inclusion, can sometimes accentuate isolation. Secondly, it is essential that I delve deeper into the aspect of education, reflecting and reinforcing social inequalities. This fact is evident in the sharp contrast between Lou and No. While Lou benefits from a structured education and family support, No, on the other hand, left school early and finds herself without the resources necessary to succeed. For example, No expresses her feelings of being left behind, thus illustrating how the lack of access to education perpetuates precarity. Consequently, as a reader, one feels a strong contrast between the opportunities offered to those who are
Sense of Place Project - Rosie Pickering (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)
he downplays their significance, portraying them as an expected stage in a young man’s development. More crucially, he positions Caelius not as an autonomous moral agent but as a victim of Clodia’s corrupting influence, a framing that aligns with the Roman tendency to excuse the moral lapses of young men while condemning women who transgress social norms. By structuring Caelius’ character in this way, Cicero diverts attention from the legal charges themselves, shifting the jury’s focus onto a recognisable and engaging comic dynamic.
Fourth Form Maths
Beyond characterisation, Cicero’s use of comic techniques extends to his treatment of the central accusation: the alleged poisoning attempt. He undermines the prosecution’s narrative by emphasising its inconsistencies and exaggerating its absurdity. At one point, he mocks the supposed sequence of events, likening it to an implausible farcical plot. By framing the prosecution’s argument as convoluted and inherently unbelievable, he encourages the jury to dismiss it, not on strict legal grounds, but because of its sheer comedic implausibility. His use of irony and sarcasm serves a dual function, simultaneously entertaining the jury and eroding the credibility of the charges against Caelius. Nevertheless, while comic morality is central to Pro Caelio, Cicero does not rely on it exclusively. Alongside humour and character manipulation, he employs forensic rhetoric to systematically dismantle the case against Caelius. His confirmatio adheres to a clear logical structure, interrogating the reliability of witnesses, the absence of concrete evidence, and the inherent improbability of the poisoning plot. This strategic integration of rational argumentation ensures that his speech is not dismissed as mere theatricality but retains the appearance of legal seriousness. The interplay between comic morality and structured reasoning ultimately strengthens Cicero’s rhetorical position, allowing him to entertain his audience while simultaneously providing a persuasive justification for acquittal.
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Sine- Abi Hick (Fourth Form, Feilden)
Fifth Form Chemistry
Thus, Cicero’s use of comic morality provides a sophisticated means of shaping the jury’s perception of the case. By drawing on comedic tropes, exaggerating character traits, and ridiculing the prosecution’s claims, he reframes the trial as a performance tailored to the biases and expectations of his audience. However, his success does not rest solely on humour; he tempers entertainment with rigorous legal argumentation, ensuring that his speech retains both persuasive force and credibility. Comic morality, then, is not an end in itself but one facet of Cicero’s carefully calibrated rhetorical strategy. Finn Van Landeghem (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
Organic synthesis mind map - Aneliese Sagar (Fifth Form, Swift)
Second Form Independent Research Projects
Fossils - William Woodwards (Second Form, Swift)
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Microplastics - Ben Ferguson (Second Form, Queen Anne)
Lower Sixth Further Maths Presentations William Hansen (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) gave an excellent account of Spherical Geometry, and in particular how it arose within History, and how Euclid's postulates of geometry form the basis of our normal (Euclidian) geometry, and by changing these (such as the parallel postulate), we can end up with a new situation, such as Spherical Geometry. He went on to explain the links between some famous mathematical facts (such as 180 degrees in a triangle) and how these change in Spherical Geometry, so that angles in a triangle ≥ 180 on the surface of a sphere, demonstrating this with a 3D model. He drew great links between the world we live in on a Spherical Planet, and the adaptation of Geometry to this situation - particularly the flight paths of planes, and optimal paths for satellites in orbits. William then linked the Complex Plane (Argand Diagram) to Spheres, using the projection of a Riemann Sphere.
As an antithesis to Spherical Geometry, William then introduced Hyperbolic Geometry (based on a saddle shape rather than a Sphere) where the angles in a triangle ≤ 180. He showed how M C Escher used the Hyperbolic Plane as a basis for a lot of his art. Finally, William dropped into the realm of spaghettification in Physics, where gravity is not constant over a given area of Space. Next up, Josh Drake (Lower Sixth, Swift), took us on a trip through Complex Numbers. He started with Euler's famous theorem involving the greatest numbers in Maths, e, i, π, 0 and 1- e^(iπ)+1=0. Josh went on to demonstrate how this allows us to express all complex numbers as rotations (with an enlargement). This then opened the door to Quaternions, discovered by Hamilton who trying
to work out a way of multiplying three-dimensional numbers, he eventually realised that he could not do this, but could do it in four-dimensions. These quaternions introduced two more square roots of -1, j and k (to join i). This then also drew a lovely link to threedimensional space (when the Real part of a quaternion is zero). Things then got even more tricky as Josh talked us through four-dimensional rotations (isoclinic rotations). Josh then spoke through how four-dimensional quaternions can be simplified (somewhat) to allow for three-dimensional rotations. Josh demonstrated this by showing a coded 4D cube being rotated.
Beth Morris (Lower Sixth, Feilden) then ended with a further presentation on Spherical Geometry, starting with some of the practical application in astronomy due to the Spherical nature of the planet. She went into details about how lines in normal 2D space, turn into ‘Great Circles’ on Spheres. Beth also talked us through Euclid's postulates, highlighting clearly which are appropriate to Spherical Geometry and what they mean in Euclidean (normal space), particularly showing the link between the angles in a triangle being 180 degrees and how parallel lines don't meet. Beth introduced the ideal of a Riemann Sphere, and how -∞ and ∞ are the same. Beth showed a lovely visualisation of Hyperbolic Geometry in terms of crochet patterns, and then went on to a discussion about how known formulas (like the area of a circle) are adjusted in the different spaces (Euclidean, Spherical, Hyperbolic). Beth finished with an excellent proof of the area of a triangle on a sphere.
Maths Challenge Results
Lower School Results Gold - Best in School, Best in Second Form, Qualifies for Junior Kangaroo Will Chandler (Second Form, Gascoigne) Gold - Best in Third Form, Qualifies for Grey Kangaroo Freya Richards (Third Form, Feilden) Ningxuan Zhu (Third Form, Gascoigne) Gold George Bains (Second Form, Feilden) Belle Larsson (Second Form, Queen Anne) Sam Young-Gale (Second Form, Queen Anne) Silver - Best in First Form Sophia Burton (First Form, Gascoigne) William Wallasch (First Form, Harcourt) Silver Joshua Bell (Second Form, Feilden) Tony Garner (Second Form, Gascoigne) Rory McLachlan (First Form, Harcourt) Alex Regardsoe (Second Form, Swift) Florence Nixey (Second Form, Gascoinge) Reuben Uglow (Third Form, Gascoigne) Freya Vincent (Third Form, Queen Anne) Diwen Zhu (Third Form, Swift) Bronze Alzain Alhudaibi (Second Form, Gascoigne) Ella Allsop-Davis (Third Form, Vanbrugh) Grace Bassey (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Tibby Bignone (Third Form, Feilden) Samuel Byrne (Third Form, Gascoigne) Oliver Black (Second Form, Feilden) Nicholas Burrow (Second Form, Feilden) Freddie Cartwright (Third Form, Swift) Callum Church (Third Form, Feilden) Ellis Cullum (First Form, Feilden) Sebastian De Lloyd (Third Form, Swift) Johannes Dirksen (Third Form, Feilden) Berry Drake (First Form, Vanbrugh) Sammi Eagle (Second Form, Queen Anne) Bella Furguson (First Form Queen Anne) Ben Ferguson (Second Form, Queen Anne) Louis Francis (Second Form, Feilden) Cory Gardiner (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Stephanie Glover (First Form, Swift) Kayden Gounongbe (Second Form, Queen Anne) Maxwell Imbusi (First Form, Queen Anne) Jemima Jewson (Third Form, Swift) Maia Johnson (First Form, Vanbrugh) Imogen Jones (First Form, Queen Anne) Jessica Lewis (Third Form, Swift) Jonty Masters (Third Form, Harcourt) Felix McGill (Third Form, Gascoigne) Oliver Mettrick (First Form, Swift) Molly Sheer (First Form, Vanbrugh) Harry Skeen (First Form, Gascoigne) Molly Smith (Third Form, Harcourt) Maya Timlin-Jeffery (First Form, Queen Anne)
Henry Willcock (First Form, Gascoigne) Max Wolton (First Form, Queen Anne) Eddy Woodley-Green (First Form, Swift) Seb Uglow (Second Form, Queen Anne)
Upper School Results Gold - Best in School, Best in Lower Sixth, Qualifies for Senior Kangaroo Josh Drake (Lower Sixth, Swift) Gold - Best in School, Best in Fifth Form Cory Zheng (Fifth Form, Feilden) Gold Emmeline Black (Fifth Form, Feilden) Silver - Best in Upper Sixth Christian Lim (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) Silver - Best in Fourth Form Eylül Kaban (Fourth Form, Swift) Silver Megan Bell (Fourth Form, Feilden) Eva Graves (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) Alex May (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) Liam Rowe (Fifth Form, Harcourt) Aneliese Sagar (Fifth Form, Swift) Niall Whelan (Fifth Form, Feilden) Nicolas Woods-Cano (Upper Sixth, Swift) Bronze George Berlanger (Fourth Form, Feilden) Amelie Boyle (Fifth Form, Harcourt) Grace Chapple (Fifth Form, Harcourt) Daisy Chugg (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) Oliver Davies (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) William Hansen (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) Abi Hick (Fourth Form, Feilden) Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden) Akil Jomy (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) Maya Kelly (Fifth Form, Harcourt) Freddie Leefield (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) Xander Luckett (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) Beth Morris (Lower Sixth, Feilden) Leo Sturm (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) Luke Taylor (Lower Sixth, Swift) Emily Von Braunschweig (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) Evie Walker (Fifth Form, Swift) Patrick West (Upper Sixth, Feilden)
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NEWS Prep News Prep Careers Day The Prep School embarked on an inspiring exploration into the world of work during their inaugural Prep Careers Morning. Prep School parents, who are professionals from a variety of exciting industries, were kind enough to share their time and insights into their careers with our eager pupils. Throughout the morning, pupils from across the Prep School were fortunate to attend seven talks from experts in a diverse range of professions, including: • The Music Industry • The Fashion Industry • The Royal Air Force (RAF) • Nursing • Legal Aid • Formula 1 • Physiotherapy This event provided our pupils with an invaluable opportunity to explore the wide range of careers available to them, giving them a glimpse into some of the exciting paths they might one day pursue and encouraging our youngest cohort to dream big and shape their futures.
Year 4 Trip to the Living Rainforest Our Year 4 pupils had an unforgettable adventure at the Living Rainforest in Newbury. The excitement was palpable as they stepped into the lush, vibrant environment, feeling as if they had been transported to a real rainforest. The pupils were thrilled to see a variety of fascinating animals up close, including snakes, tarantulas, and even a sloth. The pupils were captivated by the diverse plant life and the unique ecosystem. They eagerly participated in a guided tour, learning about the importance of rainforests and the need for conservation. The trip complemented not only their work on rainforests in Geography lessons but also connects to their class text – The Explorer.
Year 5 Science Oxford Trip Year 5 went on an exciting trip to Science Oxford, filled with hands-on learning and discovery. They started with pond dipping, collecting samples and classifying organisms into vertebrates and invertebrates. The Exploration Zone was a highlight, where they experimented and learned through play. During the woodland walk, pupils searched for minibeasts, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting. Throughout the trip, pupils were outstanding, displaying excellent behaviour and enthusiasm. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to immerse themselves in the world of science. They returned with a deeper understanding of biological classification and a renewed enthusiasm for scientific discovery. They even had the opportunity to meet Professor Dame Angela Mclean, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser and Sharon Leverment, the CEO of the Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) who were touring the centre and observing part of the sessions.
Year 6 Trip to Hampton Court Palace Year 6 embarked on an unforgettable trip to Hampton Court Palace, delving into the fascinating world of the Tudors. From re-enactments to workshops and exploring the palace grounds, the day was packed with exciting activities that brought the history Year 6 have been studying in the classroom to life. The visit began with a reenactment of a royal court, where pupils stepped back in time as they witnessed Queen Elizabeth I and her courtiers in action, discussing matters of state and courtly etiquette, giving a real sense of the grandeur and traditions of Tudor England. One of the highlights of the day was a workshop led by Lady Alice, learning about the daily lives of Tudor servants. They discovered the many jobs they had to do, including the rather disgusting task of cleaning out the Great House of Easement (the Palace toilets). During the workshop, pupils played Tudor games, learned traditional Tudor songs, and explored Henry VIII’s private quarters. The trip was rounded off with a visit to the famous hedge maze where pupils had great fun navigating the winding paths.
Maths Lessons Following the success of last year’s event, we were delighted to once again welcome parents to Prep School for a ‘Learn Together’ Maths session. Parents were invited to join their children, from Reception Class through to Year 6, for a Maths lesson with their child’s Maths teacher. Pupils were learning about a wide variety of mathematical topics, from finding fact families in Year 2, to using bar models for addition and
subtraction in Year 3. Parents visiting Years 4 and 5 were able to explore fractions using Cuisenaire Rods, whilst children in Year 6 were introduced to visual algebra. The sessions were engaging and dynamic, with parents and children working together to solve problems. In some classes, there was standing room only! Parents were very complimentary, commenting how lovely it was to see their children in a classroom environment, interacting with the teacher and their peers. A few parents planned to do some follow-up activities that very evening at home, having collected some ideas for activities from the lesson. It was a very productive and enjoyable morning, benefitting parents and pupils alike.
Year 1 Badges Woodwork Badge Year 1 have been learning about the history of the Scouts. Pupils have been working on achieving their own 'Cokethorpe Woodwork Award' by making wooden bird boxes. They have been busy working on their bird boxes in the DT Workshop. They then visited St Deny's Church in Northmoor to put up their hand-crafted birdboxes. Our School scout leader joined them and presented the children with their own 'Cokethorpe Woodcraft Award'. The children have worked towards achieving this award by building a bird box out of wood, working together as a team and helping the local environment.
Event Planning Badge The third badge they have been working towards is their Event Planning Badge. To achieve this award they have planned an afternoon tea for their parents. They designed invitations and place name labels, baked a selection of cakes and biscuits, made decorations for the table and served their guests drinks and cake.
Reception Class Chinese New Year It was wonderful to welcome Dr Feng, mother to Vivi Hughes (Reception Class, Lockwood), to the Reception Class for a very special celebration of Chinese New Year. The children had an absolutely fabulous morning as they learned all about the Chinese traditions celebrated during Chinese New Year. The children worked diligently on creating their very own dragon puppets. Once the puppets were complete, they had a fantastic time performing a Chinese dragon dance, bringing their puppets to life. As a wonderful gesture, Dr Feng kindly gave
Textiles Badge Year 1 have also been working towards their 'Cokethorpe Textiles Award'. To earn this they have been determined, resilient and supportive of one another. They have been working on sewing their own bags out of hessian fabric, colourful handles and a beautifully painted design. They definitely earnt their Cokethorpe Textiles Award with their hard work and focus.
pupils learned on their visit was that 'Corinium Dobunnorum' was the name for the town in Roman times. The Museum is packed full of artefacts and displays for pupils to explore and offers an invaluable opportunity to see what they have been learning about in the classroom up close.
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Whilst at the Museum, Year 3 took part in a brilliant, informative workshop, which gave them an insight into how Romans lived whilst occupying Britain between AD43 and AD410. The highlight for many of the pupils was trying on Roman-style clothing.
Year 5 Ancient Feast Year 5 have been travelling back in time as they explored the fascinating world of Ancient Greece in preparation for a Greek banquet. Central to their studies was Dionysus, the lively god of wine, theatre, and celebration, undoubtedly history’s first party planner! They explored how the Greeks used banquets not only to eat, but to celebrate victories, honour gods, share ideas, and even debate great philosophical questions, right in the middle of their meals. The menu for the banquet was a lesson in itself: they examined the traditional foods of the time which included salty olives, cheeses, juicy figs, flatbreads, fresh seafood, and (purely in theory, of course) a splash of wine. While most of the offerings were met with enthusiasm, the idea of dining on octopus sparked some animated reactions!
each child a traditional Chinese costume to wear and take home with them. A huge thank you to Dr Feng for providing such an enriching and memorable experience for the children.
Year 3 Trip to Corinium Museum As part of their Roman topic in History lessons, Year 3 visited the Corinium Museum in Cirencester and were able to see some of the incredible finds from the Roman town of Corinium - now Cirencester. One of the first interesting facts
Year 2 visit to STEAM Museum Year 2 took a trip back in time at STEAM – The Museum of the Great Western Railway in Swindon. The day kicked off with a Discovery Session where children dressed up and stepped into the shoes of GWR workers and
their families. They explored life in the ‘Works’ and ‘Railway Village’, played with old-fashioned toys, and learned all about the legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Excitement peaked as they came face-to-face with mighty steam locomotives, especially the impressive Caerphilly Castle which you can even walk underneath. They tried out signal boxes, explored a royal carriage, built bridges, and even imagined their first seaside adventure, complete with a go on vintage arcade games.
Year 6 WW2 Workshop Year 6 recently immersed themselves in a brilliant and highly engaging World War Two workshop. Dressed in a fantastic array of costumes, ranging from evacuees and land girls to nurses and soldiers, pupils wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of the day, bringing history to life in a truly memorable way. We were fortunate to be joined by Carl, a former soldier and passionate war historian, who captivated pupils with fascinating insights into how the war began. He explained the key players, pivotal moments, and the complex events that led to the outbreak of WWII, helping pupils connect the dots between historical facts and real-life impact. Throughout the day, pupils had the opportunity to try their hand at bomb disposal, tackled wartime codebreaking, like Alan Turing and his team at Bletchley Park, and explored the equipment soldiers carried into battle. Trying on authentic helmets and handling replicas of front-line gear gave them a real sense of the challenges faced by those who served.
World Book Day World Book Day is always one of the most exciting events in the Prep School calendar, and this year was no exception. With the theme of ‘sharing books together’, the day was packed with creative fun and learning. Pupils (and teachers alike) got into the spirit, dressing up as their favourite book characters - from classic favourites like The Railway Children to modern heroes like Dog Man. Throughout the day, classes teamed up to read stories to pupils of all ages, fostering a love of reading across the School.
Pupils also unleashed their creativity, writing their own stories inspired by their favourite characters. In Maths lessons, they explored the fascinating world of time through the book Just a Second by Steve Jenkins, an eye-opening non-fiction book filled with mind-blowing facts about how time works. It was the perfect reminder that non-fiction books are just as much fun as stories!
smaller animals. Cuddling the baby chicks was definitely a highlight – everyone was incredibly gentle and took great care whilst stroking them. Chip the rabbit also enjoyed plenty of attention! After the animal adventures, lots of fun was had playing on the bouncing pillows under the sunny skies. Before heading back to School, the visit was topped off with a relaxing tractor ride around the farm – a perfect end to a brilliant day.
Year 1 Geography Field Trip Year 1 have been exploring the world of maps, discovering their symbols, purpose, and how they help us navigate. As part of this exciting learning journey, they took their exploration one step further by venturing to The Leys in Witney to create their own simple maps of the area. The children learned how to read and navigate a map, recording the land use and landmarks of the area and marking buildings and key features with accurate symbols. To make the experience even more special, they brought Einstein the Penguin, the character from their class book, along for the adventure. As they explored the area, the children worked together to read the map and even took turns using a digital camera to capture pictures of each other in front of the landmarks. It was a fun, interactive way to learn in the outdoors while developing their mapmaking skills, full of landmark moments.
Year 6 Disco Year 6 pupils celebrated a well-earned break after completing their First Form entrance examinations with a fabulous disco. After all their hard work, it was time to let loose and have some fun with their friends. The evening kicked off with a delicious treat of pizza, chips, and ice cream, fuelling everyone for an action-packed night. Once they were all refuelled, they hit the dance floor in their best disco outfits, ready to show off their moves. From the energetic Cha Cha Slide to the classic Macarena and even a lively Conga. Party games like Limbo and a very competitive round of Musical Chairs kept the energy high and the laughter flowing.
Reception Class Visit to Cotswold Farm Park Reception Class had a fantastic day at Cotswold Farm Park. The day began by feeding the goats and sheep, showing lots of bravery as they let them eat straight from their hands, followed by bottle-feeding some very hungry lambs and kids. Once the larger animals were well-fed, the children made their way to the barn to meet the
A huge thank you goes out to our amazing Sixth Form students, who helped make the night a success. They prepared an awesome playlist, transformed The Shed into a glowing disco wonderland, ran all the games and even hit the dance floor with the Year 6 pupils.
Year 4 Literary Tour On Thursday 23 January, Year 4 embarked on an exciting and enriching adventure to Oxford on a Literature Walk, a journey through the heart of one of the world’s most iconic literary cities. Pupils had boundless energy and enthusiasm throughout the day, embracing the experience with curiosity and an open mind.
As they walked through the historic streets of Oxford, they were introduced to a treasure trove of famous writers who had called the city home and discovered the inspirations behind some of the beloved stories we know today. Not only was the tour educational, but it also ignited the pupils’ own imaginations, sparking conversations about their favourite books and characters and leaving them inspired to get back to School to write their own stories.
Volcanoes Reception Class Reception Class children have been asking some big questions such as 'What happened to the dinosaurs?', 'Why did they die out? They talked about the asteroid that hit the earth that led to the demise of the dinosaurs and their ultimate extinction and went on to talk about how the land was very volcanic during the Mesozoic Era. The children excitedly built their own volcano using jars by moulding a mountain of sand around them and added the ingredients for the experiment. They particularly enjoyed the part when the water was added with red food colouring which caused a chemical reaction. The children sat back and watched as their volcanoes erupted.
challenge with impressive strength, teamwork, and House pride. In the end, it was Gascoigne who pulled their way to victory, cheered on by the rest of the year group.
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their knowledge into practice through a creative and engaging experiment. Using materials such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, pupils constructed and tested their very own model volcanoes. These chemical reactions provided a safe, yet vivid, demonstration of volcanic eruptions, bringing to life the dynamic processes they had studied in class.
Moving Up Day Year 6 pupils had an unforgettable introduction to Senior School life with a day packed full of new experiences at the Moving Up Day, which began with lively icebreaker activities. Pupils had the opportunity to participate in a series of engaging sessions designed to ignite curiosity and creativity. From Costume Design to Immersive Nature, each workshop offered a glimpse into the opportunities that await them in the years ahead. A highlight for many was the Corinthian Concert, where pupils were treated to a stunning showcase of musical talent, an inspiring reminder of the creative spirit that thrives at the School. Of course, no induction day would be complete without the much-loved House Tug-of-War, where the competitive spirit truly came alive. Pupils threw themselves into the
Year 3 Year 3 pupils enjoyed an exciting and educational hands-on science activity as part of their Geography unit on volcanoes. After spending time learning about the different parts of a volcano—including magma chambers, eruptions, and the dramatic effects of pyroclastic flows—pupils were eager to put
Year 5 Living Museum Year 5 had an incredible journey back in time during their visit to The Living Museum. Pupils delved into the Victorian era, experiencing first-hand what life was like in a village school of that time. They dressed in period costumes, practiced writing on chalk slates, and even participated in traditional Victorian classroom activities. They focused on the ‘three Rs’ (reading, writing, and arithmetic), used an abacus for calculations, and learned about the importance of staying in school, even reciting a prayer to Queen Victoria herself.
Additionally, they discovered why some people chose to stay and work for Taskers and Sons, an iron works company that built small communities to encourage people to remain in the countryside. As an added treat, pupils used old pennies to explore the pier, where the first penny amusements were invented. This immersive experience gave them a unique and engaging perspective on history, making it a memorable and educational day for everyone involved.
Year 6 Enterprise Day Our Year 6 pupils put their entrepreneurial skills to the test with their exciting Summer Stalls.
Reception Class make Porridge Goldilocks and The Three Bears invited the Reception Class children to join them for some porridge. The children looked at a recipe and read the instructions then helped to organise the recipe cards so they all knew what to do. The children took turns to add the ingredients to the pan and mix them together. While Mrs Slader cooked the porridge on the stove, they took Goldilocks and The Three Bears for a walk. When they returned, the porridge was just right, so they ate it all up!
Armed with just a £5.00 budget, they were challenged to turn a profit - and they rose to the occasion brilliantly. From ‘Guess the Teacher’ to a classic Teddy Bear Tombola, the creativity and initiative on display were truly impressive. Every group made a profit, gaining not only money but also valuable life skills in teamwork, budgeting, and innovation. Watch out, Dragon’s Den—there may be some future business stars heading your way!
La Fete Des Rois The Lent Term began with a firm favourite in the Prep School calendar, the annual gathering in the Dining Hall to celebrate ‘La Fête des Rois’, a French celebration of Epiphany. It was an event that brings French culture to life at Cokethorpe, as the pupils take part in the tradition associated with the delicious puff pastry ‘galettes’ to discover a special charm inside. The tradition is that bakers hide a small ceramic figure in each galette and whoever finds the ‘fève’ will be king or queen for the day and wear a crown with pride. The youngest person at each table calls out who is going to have which piece of cake, leaving no room for cheating!
Once crowned, this year’s Kings and Queens enjoyed a special march around the Dining Hall to the song, La Marche des Rois.
Year 1 Trip to Churchills Farm Year 1 visited Churchills Farm to explore Owl nesting areas and learn more about their habitats. First, they spotted nesting areas and later built their wooden nesting Owl box to put out in the Orchard. They then dissected Owl pellets which was fascinating, and showed the children exactly what the Owl would have eaten. Finally, the children used their senses to write a descriptive poem thinking about what an Owl would see, hear, smell, taste and feel, all in the truly outdoor classroom made of a field and straw bales.
Prep Pantomime On Wednesday 11 November, all the pupils in the Prep School enjoyed the trip to the Chipping Norton Theatre to see Jack and the Beanstalk - Oh, yes they did! There was much laughter, silliness and fun in this Viking adventure version of the traditional tale. A highlight for the children was when Miss James was chosen to go up on the stage and be the target for Pip Squeak's axe throwing. Luckily, she survived the experience to bring all the pupils safely back to School!
Year 1 Beach Day As part of their learning of coastlines and seaside holidays Year 1 brought the beach to Cokethorpe. They had a inflatable pirate ship slide, and enjoyed digging in the sand pit and making beach snacks in the mud kitchen. Year 1 then made real lemonade, squeezing out all of the juice, dissolving sugar and mixing it together. The children loved it and enjoyed the slightly sour taste that was so different to fizzy lemonade.
Senior News Bletchley Park Trip First Form pupils got their first experience of a Senior School trip on the annual Maths and Computer Science Trip to Bletchley Park. Pupils participated in a variety of exciting activities, from having a tour of the Bletchley site, visiting a D-Day video explaining the impact Bletchley Park had on the Normandy landings, to exploring 'The Intelligence Factory' where pupils saw the impact that codebreaking had on naval activity. Codebreaking skills were put to the test as pupils were tasked with coding and decoding messages. The First Form had basic training on how to be a morse code operator, although their training was slightly short of the three months required for a full wartime job at Bletchley!
The pièce de résistance, however, was the opportunity to see an enigma machine and have its use explained, and even touch one of the enigma machines that had been used in World War II. Pupils came away with a real understanding of the role that mathematicians and the early computer scientists played in turning the tide of the Nazi invasion of Europe, and how these roles have developed into the modern day.
Second Form Trip to the Globe The Second Form were lucky enough to visit the Globe Theatre in London to watch a performance of The Taming of the Shrew.
The play itself was a novel, if surreal, production, using the conceit of a ‘play within a play’ and a travelling troop of actors. Loaded with novel ideas, puppetry and abstract imagery this was a visually stimulating interpretation of the text and gave pupils much to ponder over. It was a pleasure to be in the beautiful and glorious wooden ‘O’ of the Globe, and a valuable experience for our young dramatists.
English Theatre Trip to see Othello ‘On Monday 14 October, six Fifth Form and twelve Sixth Form English Literature pupils went to see the first night of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Othello. Led by the stately John Douglas Thompson (as Othello) and supported by Will Keen (Iago), who recently appeared in the BBC's His Dark Materials, students were drawn into this tale of jealousy and betrayal, which climaxes in several deaths – as is to be expected from a tragedy. For the Sixth Formers currently studying A Level English Literature, it was a perfect opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of their text. For Fifth Formers, it was an even better opportunity to draw parallels between their current text Macbeth and develop a deeper understanding Shakespeare’s vision of human nature. I particularly liked the way the director used the contrast of light and dark to emphasise the breakdown of sense during the fight scenes. Will Keen’s wrenching manipulation of the verse emphasised how Iago has to think on his feet as he manipulates the other characters, even if it is not obvious at first to them. Overall, the evening was very successful and thoroughly enjoyed by all.’ Evie Walker (Fifth Form, Swift)
Write your Own Historical Fiction Competition We are thrilled to share with you that Third Form pupil, Freya Vincent (Queen Anne) has won ‘best story’ in a prestigious national ‘Write your own Historical Fiction’ competition run by the Historical Association. Freya wrote a piece entitled ‘The Disaster’. Judge Tony Bradman had this to say about her work: ‘An excellent, very well researched story - a real thriller that had me gripped from start to finish.’
Prior to the performance, they all took part in exciting workshops in the Globe’s rehearsal rooms, exploring Shakespearean verse and how to express key elements of a scene.
This is a national competition which attracts a large number of entries and invites pupils from Year 5 to Third Form to demonstrate their historical and English fiction writing skills, Freya's entry was submitted by the History Department. Congratulations to Freya, this is a truly incredible achievement.
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Visit of the Busan National University of Education in Korea As a Microsoft Showcase School, Cokethorpe was contacted by students from the Busan National University of Education in South Korea. The teacher training university was keen to explore education in the UK, particularly at a school that embraces digital innovation. The students arranged a visit to Cokethorpe, where they observed lessons across various subjects, with a particular focus on primary education, digital learning, and music. They also had the opportunity to meet with senior staff members to discuss the School’s policies and the implementation of digital strategies. The visitors were deeply inspired by the dedication of our teachers and the ambition of our pupils. They expressed sincere gratitude for the chance to see our School in action. After two busy but rewarding days, they took time to explore some of London’s landmarks before returning to South Korea to continue their studies and eventually begin their own teaching careers.
Parent Workshops Over 80 parents joined us for our workshop entitled ‘How to help your child navigate the exam years’ in the Sixth Form Centre. The evening comprised of three presentations. Director of Studies, Mr Uglow, focused on how parents can support their children in ensuring they have the right conditions to support effective revision. Simple interventions, such as ensuring a secure, quiet space is available, were identified, and parents were encouraged to work with their children to set up a timetable. Ms Dodson, Head of Learning and Teaching, focused on effective revision – encouraging parents to support their children in moving away from passive approaches. She illustrated how listening to music (especially with lyrics) affects the ability of the brain to concentrate, and identified ways in which testing can be helpful in exposing gaps in knowledge. Children sit exams at a difficult time developmentally, so Tanya Smith’s talk on ‘understanding the teenage brain’ was especially helpful in exploring why children behave the way they do – and identifying how parents can respond in ways that are constructive. The event was very well received, and we look forward to running similar workshops in the future.
This was a theme that Ms Dodson took on as she explored how our knowledge of the learning process can be harnessed by parents to support pupil progress. As a School, we appreciate these opportunities to meet with parents; it is an important part of our relationship as we work together to get the best from children. A group of parents attended the second workshop in a series focusing on smartphone use. Following a recent two week detox from their phones, two Sixth Formers discussed their experience and shared some insights with parents. Mrs Thorpe then spoke about the most recent ‘Why do we take your phones off you?’ WIT sessions the pupils have received.
Stade Toulouse Cokethorpe had the honour of hosting the prestigious Stade Toulousain Academy as part of their exciting ideas exchange trip. Following visits to top-tier clubs like Northampton Saints and Saracens, the academy brought their expertise to our School, leading an inspiring coach and player development session that was centred around the renowned Toulouse rugby philosophy.
Sixth Form Taster Day On Tuesday 15 October, all pupils in the Fifth Form were given the opportunity to sample the Sixth Form experience. The students 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 (for example, Psychology and Philosophy). In addition, the students enjoyed various enrichment elements: a wonderful lecture given by Alex Hibbert, Polar Explorer, about an unexpected winter in Greenland; a ‘thinking about your future’ workshop (led by Mr Gale, Mrs Orton and Mr Tolputt); and a carousel of skills workshops, including ‘How to Cook’ with William Stone (Head Chef), ‘How to Think Like an Economist’ with Mr Jones, and ‘How to Speak in Public’ with Mr Walwyn. An enjoyable, challenging and illuminating day was had by all.
We were delighted to welcome over a hundred parents to our second workshop. Mrs Prior (Head of Lower House) presented on research-informed approaches to support and enhance wellbeing, drawing on the '5 Ways to Wellbeing' programme advocated by the NHS alongside approaches to develop resilience and self-efficacy in age-appropriate ways. Mrs Thorpe, who coordinates the School’s WIT (Wellbeing and Integrity Toolkit) programme, illustrated how integrated wellbeing is into the approach taken by the school through lessons that provide space for discussion alongside teacher input. Mr Uglow then delivered a brief introduction to how learning happens, recognising the reality that pupils who feel safe and well are more able to engage positively with the learning process. There was also a focus on the iterative nature of learning – drawing on the work of Ebbinghaus and others who have documented just how adept the brain is at forgetting things unless material is retrieved and used at intervals.
First Form Disco Having had a successful transition to the Senior School this half term, First Form celebrated with a disco. Our fantastic Sixth Form students ensured there was dancing, a limbo competition and even a dance battle. The pupils had a fantastic evening - as did the staff; although dance moves need a little more polish - and the pastoral progress they have made was a joy to see as they danced the night away with friends both old and new.
The session offered our players a rare opportunity to receive coaching from some of the finest in the sport, including All Blacks double World Cup winner, Jerome Kaino, whose experience and knowledge were invaluable. Jerome’s insights, combined with the expertise of the entire coaching team, provided an enriching experience for all involved, challenging our players to expand their skills and understanding of the game. The day was a fantastic celebration of rugby’s global community, with pupils, coaches, and staff all benefitting from the wealth of knowledge and experience that the Stade Toulousain Academy brought.
Film in a Day The Third Form pupils came together for an exciting experience in film production. The day was designed to teach them how to plan, edit, and produce a short film within a single day.
books firsthand, eagerly flipping through the pages before making their choice of the one they wanted to take home and treasure. Then the moment they had all been waiting for finally arrived. With their chosen titles in hand, pupils have been diving into their new stories during Library lessons, ready to embark on their next literary adventure!
The pupils were divided into teams, each tasked with creating a short film. They were provided with specific content material that had to be included in their films, ensuring a creative yet structured approach to their projects. This collaborative effort not only fostered teamwork but also allowed pupils to explore various roles within the film production process. The highlight of the day was the guidance provided by professional actors who have worked with renowned stars such as Tom Cruise and Eddie Redmayne. These experts shared valuable insights and tricks of the trade, covering aspects from acting techniques to behind-the-scenes production secrets. Their involvement added a layer of authenticity and excitement to the learning experience. The Third Form Film Production Day was a resounding success, providing pupils with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of filmmaking. The skills and knowledge they acquired will undoubtedly benefit them in future creative endeavours. The event not only highlighted the importance of teamwork and creativity but also inspired many to consider careers in the film industry in the future.
Bookbuzz At the heart of our School’s dedication to nurturing a love for reading, First Form pupils have once again embraced the excitement of the Book Trust’s national Bookbuzz scheme - an initiative designed to ignite a passion for books in young readers. Before the half term break, our pupils had the thrilling opportunity to hear from the authors behind this year's collection of thirteen captivating titles. They explored these
Visit from Chinese Pupils We were delighted to welcome eleven pupils from Hangzhou Foreign Language School, located in Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang in China, for a week-long cultural visit to Cokethorpe School.
Six visiting pupils settled into the Prep School with our own pupils keen to 'buddy-up' and introduce them to life as a Cokethorpe Prep School pupil. Five further pupils were welcomed into Lower House, joining our First Form as they navigated their own formative weeks in the Senior School. A carousel of lessons including sport, drama, music, and art were sampled by our visitors, all the while enhancing their English vocabulary. Lunch proved to be a hit with dining options from all over the world available to enjoy during their stay. At the end of a busy week, our host pupils bid their new friends a fond farewell, with thoughtful gifts exchanged, and new memories made.
Ancient School Room Experience On Friday 22 November in The Shed, Second Form pupils had an absorbing experience of what it was like to go to school in the ancient world. The session was led by an expert team from the Reading University Classics Department. Pupils were 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 real Egyptian papyrus and 'tabulae' (counting boards) with Roman numerals.
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The assignments were completed by the pupils sitting on the floor before handing them to their teachers for checking. The afternoon concluded with the Second Form performing dialogues in Latin to their teachers. This immersive experience really brought alive the world of the ancient school: technology-free yet thoroughly absorbing.
Discovery Lectures Each Monday, the First and Second Form meet for 20 minutes to listen to a Discovery Lecture. Those delivering the lectures are given a simple brief; to inspire curiosity and engagement in a topic that is not delivered through the normal curriculum. This term, pupils have enjoyed an informative presentation from the Head of History and Politics, Mr Tyer, and Ethan Smith (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), about the American Presidential Election. Mr Howells has spoken to them about ‘the Hero’s journey’, exploring the techniques that authors use to develop heroic characters. Miss Webb delivered a fascinating talk on ground-breaking approaches to river management (pertinently, on the day of the recent floods!), and Mr Waldron took pupils back to the first music video played on MTV – The Buggles’ Video killed the Radio Star. Pupils have heard about the way in which the British Government sought to commemorate the war dead following the armistice in 1918 and found out about some very strange (but important) scientific discoveries.
Oxfordshire Youth Chemistry Conference Five pupils from the Fourth Form once more attended the annual Oxfordshire Youth Chemistry Conference, focusing on the theme ‘Nanochemistry’. The conference aims to inspire and showcase excellence in science across the county. Talks, papers, and posters were submitted by pupils across
the Oxfordshire region. An impassioned presentation was given by Josiah Smith (Fourth Form, Swift), who spoke from personal experience about how Nanochemistry could be used to improve fertilisers and their role in the community and beyond. Eylül Kaban (Fourth Form, Swift) and Sofia Bell (Third Form, Feilden) spoke eloquently about the role of Nanochemistry in the development of improved vaccines, highly topical in the current climate. Henry Nixey (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) and George Berlanger (Fourth Form, Feilden) chose a completely different application, giving a detailed talk on the role of Nanochemistry in anti-radar coatings. All pupils were highly impressive in their delivery, speaking clearly to the audience and showing great enthusiasm for this pioneering area of chemistry research. The Chemistry department is very proud of all they have achieved.
Onatti Theatre Second and Third Form pupils were transported into the world of French theatre as they enjoyed a lively and laugh-out-loud performance by the Onatti Theatre Company. The play, Prendre Sa Revanche, was a comedic caper that followed two cunning antique dealers with a knack for deception - until, of course, their tricks come back to bite them! Revenge comes when they try to con someone whose quick thinking turns the tables on these two unscrupulous dealers.
Performed entirely in French, the play offered a fantastic opportunity for our young linguists to put their listening skills to the test and they rose to the challenge brilliantly. Despite the rapid pace and authentically complex dialogue, pupils were praised by the actors for being fully engaged, picking up on key phrases, and joining in when prompted. We were also delighted to welcome Onatti back to School to perform a play in French for our Year 6 and First Form, supporting their learning of a modern foreign language. The play, Ticket pour l'espace, took the audience on a thrilling journey through space, all with a fun, French twist. Our talented pupils Scout Andreasen (First Form, Harcourt) and Quentin Temim (Year 6, Lockwood) stepped up to assist with a truly out-of-this-world experience.
Quentin delivered an exceptional performance as a translator during the play, ensuring that the audience followed the action with ease and clarity. With Scout and Quentin’s help, the performance was a hit, and the audience was taken on an unforgettable cosmic adventure!
Fifth Form Social To celebrate the end of the mock examinations, the Fifth Form pupils had an unforgettable night out in Oxford that was packed with excitement, delicious food, and some friendly rivalry. It was the perfect way to unwind and reward themselves after their academic efforts. The evening kicked off with a mouth-watering, all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet at one of Oxford’s favourite spots. Pupils dug into a feast of both classic and daring dishes, from spicy kung pao shrimp to a tempting selection of steamed dumplings like siu mai and har gow. They also savoured BBQ pork buns and ended their meal with an array of sweet treats, including rich mango pudding and delectable Chinese cakes.
Next up, the group headed to a nearby bowling alley for an action-packed round of ten-pin bowling. The competition was fierce as teams formed, and the pupils went head-to-head in a series of thrilling games. Cheers erupted for strikes and spares, and the energy was contagious, with plenty of laughs filling the air. The evening was a brilliant mix of relaxation, fun, and friendly competition - a well-deserved celebration after the hard work of mock exams.
Poetry by Heart Earlier this term, the First Form were set that challenging task of finding a poem they enjoyed and learning it by heart. The best performances from each English class were put forward to perform at the final showcase during House assembly. Mr Walwyn, Mr Howells and pupil judge Evie Walker (Fifth Form, Swift) then had the unenviable task of deciding which three would be entered into the national Poetry by Heart competition. The competition is open to all schools and colleges in England and invites children to choose a poem, learn it by heart and perform it out loud. The pupils selected to enter the
national competition submit entries via video upload with the finalists chosen from this invited to perform live at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in the Grand Finale. Huge congratulations to the winners: Noah Vincent (First Form, Queen Anne), Jolyon Uglow (First Form, Gascoigne) and Lucy Smith (First Form, Swift). Noah gave a defiant performance of Invictus by William Ernest Henley, Jolyon’s performance was a rousing rendition of The Soldier by Rupert Brooke and Lucy’s confident execution of the poem Thumbprint by Eve Merriam was impressive.
Battlefields Trip The first stop on the Third Form Battlefields trip was in Poperinge, where pupils visited Talbot House – a ‘home from home’ for servicemen – and the Death Cell, where we learnt about the chilling consequences for soldiers who were court-martialled. Pupils then visited Ypres, and joined the long-standing ceremony of commemoration at the Menin Gate – a daily ritual broken only by the Second World War since the opening of the Gate in 1927. The group then headed south down the western front to Vimy Ridge and on to the Somme. Visits to Lochnagar, Thiepval and Newfoundland Park brought home the scale of the conflict in this area, with the macabre narrative of the battle juxtaposing the beautiful peace and tranquillity that is such a feature of the memorials. On the final day, after a visit to Essex Farm and the Passchendaele Museum in Zonnebeke, the trip ended at Tyne Cot where Josh Crisp (Third Form, Feilden) played the Last Post, Freya Vincent (Third Form, Queen Anne) read Binyon’s For the Fallen, and Johannes Dirksen (Third Form, Feilden) laid a wreath on behalf of the School.
Civil War Reenactment The grounds beside the Chapel were transformed into a scene from the 17th century as the English Civil War Society set up an authentic period camp. First Form History pupils stepped back in time, wandering through tents and talking with reenactors in full costume, who brought the era to life with fascinating demonstrations. Pupils examined the weighty armour and weaponry of the day, learned about the military structures, discovered the games played by off-duty soldiers, and heard about the gruesome role of the barber surgeon.
Second Form History Trip to the Black Country Museum At the end of April, the entire Second Form stepped back in time on the History Department’s much-anticipated annual pilgrimage to the Black Country Living Museum. Immersed in the sights, sounds, and even smells of 19th-century industrial Britain, pupils explored what life was really like for those living and working in the coal mining areas of the Midlands.
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Adding to the immersive experience, the Catering Department prepared traditional Civil War fare, including a hearty beef stew and a rustic peas pottage, giving pupils a literal taste of history. The morning culminated with an explosive highlight — a live demonstration of an artillery gun being fired, which really blew the First Form away! The day began with a descent into the tunnels of a mine, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by Victorian miners. Above ground, sparks quite literally flew as blacksmiths fired up the forge, demonstrating how glowing metal was hammered into heavy-duty chains. Pupils also wandered through authentic period houses and shops, stepping into the shoes of those who once called these streets home. Of course, no visit would be complete without a traditionally cooked lunch of fish and chips - a firm favourite that might just explain why the History Department is always eager to return!
Summer Festival On Thursday 26 June, Senior School pupils were able to display the full range of their talents and the true meaning of our breadth of education. After a fiercely competitive Senior School Sports Day the baton was passed to the Arts and academia for a memorable evening that showcased much of the year’s hard work. Parents and guests were able to peruse and discuss the exhibits on display across the Art and Scholars Exhibitions in the Art Studios and Mansion House. Throughout the evening, a magnificent musical programme was performed by the Music Award Holders and the School's top musicians at their concert in the Corinthian Room.
Fifth Form Dinner The Fifth Form Dinner was a truly memorable evening, marking the end of GCSE examinations and celebrating the hard work, resilience, and achievements of the pupils. Dressed in their finest, the pupils arrived in style, greeted by the warm summer evening and the welcoming smiles of staff and peers. The evening began with a photo session, capturing the joy and elegance of the occasion. As the Headmaster personally handed out canapés, there was a wonderful sense of community as pupils, parents, and staff mingled and reflected on the journey so far. It was a moment for the whole School family to come together and take pride in all that had been accomplished.
As the sun began to set, it was time for dinner. Parents took their leave, and the Fifth Form were ushered into a beautifully decorated hall where a luxurious Greek banquet awaited. The menu was a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavours, thoughtfully curated to reflect both tradition and indulgence. The banquet was not just a meal, but an experience - bringing everyone together around the table to share in the joy of achievement and the anticipation of what lies ahead. The evening continued with heartfelt speeches, offering reflections on the shared experiences of Fifth Form life - its challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments. Laughter and a few tears accompanied the stories, as pupils looked back with pride and forward with excitement. It was a night to remember - elegant, joyful, and full of promise. As the evening drew to a close, the excitement for the next chapter was palpable. The Fifth Form now look ahead to Sixth Form with confidence, ready to embrace new opportunities and continue their journey.
First Form Camp Our marvellous new First Form pupils arrived at the annual First Form Camp with both apprehension and excitement. They soon relaxed as they regrouped with the peers they had met on Moving Up Day and there was a buzz of chatter in the Corinthian Room before the fun began. Pupils enjoyed a diverse range of activities including: Raft Building, Climbing, Bush Craft, Laser Tag, Team Building and Kayaking. Staff were really impressed by their resilience and willingness to push themselves out of their comfort zone. After an action-packed day, pupils then retired to their beds for the night, in the bell tents pitched in the School grounds. It was a pleasure to see friendships flourish and their confidence grow over the two days which will certainly have helped to settle any nerves on their first day of Senior School.
Careers Fair Pupils from Third to Fifth Form gathered for an exciting and informative Careers Fair held here at Cokethorpe. The event brought together an impressive seventeen companies, showcasing a variety of industries and offering valuable insights into their fields. From Law to Marketing, Veterinary care to the Military, and even the creative realms of Authoring and Journalism, there was something for everyone. Pupils also had the chance to learn about cutting-edge careers in Sustainable Development, Interior Design, Environmental Geophysics, and more. A standout moment was the hands-on demonstration by Sussex Biologicals, where pupils could get involved in mock blood transfusion exercises and cross-matching blood – definitely a highlight for those interested in the medical sciences! The evening was filled with thought-provoking talks, including contributions from local industry professionals and a panel of Old Cokethorpeans. These former students shared their personal career journeys and gave invaluable advice on life after Cokethorpe.
understand more about the variety of futures available to us, within the creative industries. There were universities with courses on architecture, drama and everything in between. Among the stalls, there was a busking stand where many incredibly talented students from the universities showcased their skills. The atmosphere that filled the hall truly reflected the bright personality of the event.
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Her thoughtful reflections and the powerful testimony we witnessed left a lasting impact, reminding us of the importance of remembering and sharing stories from the Holocaust to ensure we never forget.
Sixth Form News Upper Sixth Geography Trip to the Olympic Park As part of their A Level studies on urban regeneration, Upper Sixth Geography students enjoyed a fascinating trip to the Olympic Park in East London to learn about its sustainability and legacy plan. During the trip, the tour guides explained how the most polluted location in Europe had been turned into the amazing Queen Elizabeth Park which hosted the 2012 London Olympics. Students were told how the athlete's village now houses thousands of local people, and how the structure of the stadium was made of recycled North Sea gas piping.
Overall, the Careers Fair was an inspiring and engaging event, helping pupils get a clearer picture of the wide array of career options awaiting them.
Holocaust Memorial Day To mark Holocaust Memorial Day, the History Department partnered with the charity Generation2Generation, which works to facilitate the sharing of Holocaust survivors' family stories and preserve their legacies for future generations. We were honoured to welcome Susanna as our speaker, who shared a deeply moving account of her father and uncle’s experiences as hidden children in France during the Nazi occupation. Using filmed testimonies, Susanna was able to bring her family’s story to life. With their father arrested and murdered at Auschwitz, and later their mother also being taken and killed, the two boys faced tremendous hardship. They survived the war living in a small woodsman's cottage on the edge of a forest, located about four hours from Paris. It was a privilege to hear Susanna speak about her family’s harrowing experiences.
The group then travelled to Canary Wharf, where they were able to visualise the contrast in the landscape, comparing how it looked now, to how it would have looked prior to the London Dockland Development Plan of the late 1980s. Finally, on to Newham in East London, one of the boroughs in the UK with the highest levels of multiple deprivation to assess the success of regeneration plans in that location.
Create Your Future Exhibition ‘Despite our unfortunate delays with the trains, we eventually managed to arrive at the ExCel Centre for the Create your Future exhibition. Being there gave us the opportunity to walk around all the different universities' stands and
I thoroughly enjoyed speaking to ambassadors from around the country - it truly opened my eyes to the amount of experiences available, encouraging my choice to explore all further education options rather than just immediately assuming no universities were suited to me. By the time we had left, we were full of inspiration and surrounded by complimentary tote bags.’ Coco Pierce Williams (Lower Sixth, Harcourt)
Lower Sixth Trip to Cardiff University ‘On Tuesday morning we headed straight off to Cardiff University on the bus. It was a long journey but once we got there, we headed into the Chemistry building to go to a lecture theatre where we had a talk about ‘Going to Higher Education’. In the talk he discussed what we should consider when looking at universities and offered more generalised advice around what we should look to be doing over the next two years to help up with our decision and applications. We then split off into smaller groups of seven or so to be taken on a guided tour. The guides were all current students at the university; my group's guide was a second-year law student. They took us around the university whilst answering any questions we had as we went. During this, we also had the opportunity to get food from the available cafes. We then gathered back at the main building where we had a Q&A with all the guides about student life, what to think about when making decisions about university and preparations we can make over the next two years. Adam Asplundh (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne)
Sixth Form Debating Competition Over the course of three fiercely contested heats, teams of three pupils from each of the six Houses showcased their impressive public speaking abilities, critical thinking, and intellectual depth in our annual inter-House debating competition. With topics ranging from the physical and ethical risks of contact sports, to the influence of cancel culture on freedom of speech, and the role of corporate sponsorship in the world of art, each debate provided a lively and thought-provoking platform for students to express and defend their views.
After much deliberation and spirited discourse, the final two Houses - Queen Anne and Harcourt - emerged as the top contenders, going head-to-head in a tense and engaging final round on the contentious issue of mass tourism. Both teams argued their positions with clarity and conviction, but it was Queen Anne, led with remarkable poise and strategic finesse by William Hansen (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne), who ultimately secured a hard-earned victory. Special mentions to the best speakers Sam Farr (Upper Sixth, Swift) and Henry Cook (Upper Sixth, Harcourt), whose eloquence, confidence, and persuasive reasoning left a lasting impression on the judging panel and audience alike.
Calla’s essay on sustainability was both compelling and thought-provoking. In it, she writes: 'Climate action at this time is one of the broadest and most ever-changing aspects of sustainability, with many other issues directly linked to its outcome. Inequality, for instance, is shaped by climate change, especially in terms of gender and poverty. Yet, with climate action being so vast, the question becomes: where do we start? The answer is endless - simply put, we must begin.' This national competition is highly competitive, and Calla's achievement is a testament to her dedication and intellectual depth. We could not be more proud of her success.
Upper Sixth Social ‘The Upper Sixth Leavers barbecue was an opportunity to say goodbye to a fantastic year group before they embarked on the challenge of A Level examinations and to enjoy each other’s company one more time without the threat of revision hanging over their heads. The Catering Department should be congratulated for the delicious array of food provided – many of the boys particularly enjoyed the ribs and sausages. It was wonderful to be joined by members of the Senior Management Team in the early evening sunshine and to share stories of fond memories and funny anecdotes of the students’ time at Cokethorpe. A game of cricket-rounders followed dinner, and it was lovely to hear the laughter and to see the cohesion amongst the students once again come to the fore. A good time was had by all and I for one will miss this group of special, talented, thoughtful and engaging young people. We all wish them the very best of luck for the summer examinations.’ Mr Gale (Deputy Head of Sixth Form)
Calla Commended on a National Stage Biology Field Trip Report – Dale Fort, Pembroke Coast, 2025 The Biology field trip to Dale Fort Field Studies Centre, on the stunning Pembroke coast, offered Lower Sixth students the valuable opportunity to explore local ecology, particularly rocky shore and salt marsh habitats. Upon arrival, students were introduced to essential research techniques and statistical tests. The aim of this session was to prepare Lower Sixth for accurate field studies. Students studied rocky shore ecosystems,
We are thrilled to announce that Calla Whitby (Upper Sixth, Feilden) has been awarded the 'Highly Commended' prize in the prestigious Royal Geographical Society essay writing competition for 2024. She was presented with the award in person, an exciting recognition of her hard work and insight.
comparing periwinkle populations and identifying various crab species, including the edible crab, using techniques like transects and tidal measurements for data collection. In the sulphurous salt marsh, the focus was on succession and the effects of abiotic factors on species composition. Despite the challenging terrain, there was only one casualty (Mrs Mason) who fell into the infamous 'Pit of Doom’ but was promptly rescued without further incident! The final day was spent analysing research findings and using thin-layer chromatography to study seaweed pigments. The trip provided a hands-on learning experience, deepening understanding of coastal ecology and fieldwork methods, and will inspire future ecological investigations.
Chemistry Olympiad Earlier this year, our Sixth Form Chemistry students stepped up to tackle the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry’s Olympiad - a notoriously demanding and intellectually stimulating competition. Designed to stretch even the most capable minds, the Olympiad offers a rare opportunity for students to go beyond the curriculum and test their problem-solving skills on a national stage.
This year’s paper featured a fascinating array of topics, from the chemistry behind fast-burning powders used in Olympic clay pigeon shooting, to the complex aromatic compounds that give Agarwood - known as the ‘Wood of the Gods’ - its distinctive scent. Students also tackled advanced concepts such as the iodination of ketones, blending real-world applications with classic chemical principles. Taking on a challenge of this calibre is no small feat, and the Chemistry Department is incredibly proud of all those who took part. The students showed impressive perseverance, creativity, and depth of understanding across a wide range of questions. Their willingness to engage with such a tough paper speaks volumes about their passion for the subject and their readiness to push the boundaries of their knowledge. Classical Association Greek Conference The Classics Department was delighted to host the annual Oxford and Bucks Classical Association Greek Conference. More than eighty
pupils and teachers from a range of schools enjoyed three lectures from The University of Oxford academics on the theme of ‘Odysseus, hero of Homer's great epic poem The Odyssey'. Professor Bruno Currie of Oriel College opened the conference by speaking compellingly about the arrival of Odysseus in his homeland of Ithaca after his long journey back from the Trojan War. Dr Emma Greensmith of St John's College addressed the topic of Odysseus's longing for home, stressing the struggles he has to endure to achieve his goal. The final talk, by Dr Adrian Kelly of Balliol College, picked up this theme of Odysseus as an epic hero, emphasising his reputation as trickster, traveller and talker. The lively discussions these talks prompted were testament to their relevance to the work our pupils are doing in both Greek and Classical Civilisation. We are grateful to the Oxford Classical Association for taking up our offer to host this year's conference and for providing such a range of stimulating speakers.
Sixth Form Christmas Dinner The Sixth Form annual Christmas Dinner was a night packed full of Christmas camaraderie. This year, the theme was ‘Hollywood’ and students arrived in the customary fancy dress inspired by iconic films. From the hilarious duo of Dumb and Dumber to the action-packed worlds of Jurassic Park, Batman, Wolverine, and Deadpool, the evening was a red carpet of creativity. There were also some fun family-friendly costumes from Minions, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Finding Nemo, and Kung Fu Panda. The Christmas feast did not disappoint, with a traditional spread that made everyone feel extra festive. The evening also featured a quiz, masterminded by Isabella Davies (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) that had everyone putting their knowledge to the test. The charity for the evening was the South Africa Dogs Trust, nominated by the Sixth Form students themselves.
Lower Sixth Geography Trip to Wales The Lower Sixth Geographers recently returned from a week staying at ‘Naturesbase’, an environmental education and field study centre set in the stunning landscapes of West Wales, where they carried out essential fieldwork for their Non-Examined Assessments (NEAs) — a key part of their A Level studies. With a focus on regeneration and development in rural and coastal communities, the students had the opportunity to study the natural, built and coastal environment. The group spent three intensive days gathering primary data in Aberystwyth, Lampeter and Aberaeron. Throughout the trip, the students worked with maturity, curiosity, and teamwork - proving themselves not only diligent
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It was a night filled with laughter, lights, and love for a great cause, making it a Christmas celebration to remember! researchers but fantastic ambassadors for Cokethorpe. The week ended on a well-earned high note with a visit to New Quay, a picturesque seaside village renowned for its marine wildlife where students watched the sunset and the amazing harbour dolphins.
History Trip to China ‘Over the half term break, Fifth and Sixth Form students got the chance to travel to China, with a focus on the historical landscape of the country. Over the course of the eight days, we got to see many world-renowned sights which spanned both China’s modern and ancient history. In Beijing, we were able to visit significant sites such as Tiananmen Square and Bird’s Nest Stadium. We were also captivated by China’s ancient attractions, including Forbidden City, the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven. Although one of the standout highlights was going to Beijing Zoo to see the Pandas. We concluded our time in Beijing with a visit to one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China, one of the new seven wonders of the World, which was a truly surreal experience for everyone. We then travelled on the bullet train to the ancient walled city of Pingyao, dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. After exploring some of the various temples, banks and the wall surrounding the city, we were given some time off from sightseeing to roam around the city, engaging in bartering with local vendors. The last stage of our trip was to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. Here we got to see the famous Terracotta Army, which was originally a tomb with an army of soldiers made from terracotta constructed to protect first emperor of China in the afterlife. A massive thanks must go to Mr Tyer and Miss Hutchinson for organising the trip, as without them, many of us would never have had the opportunity to visit this fascinating nation.’ Edward Harris (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
Senior School Ski Trip The first week of the Christmas holidays saw 48 excited pupils and six dedicated staff members, led by Mrs Hammond, set off in the early hours from School for the long-awaited ski trip to the stunning Italian resort of Sestriere. With a mix of seasoned skiers - some on their third School ski trip - and enthusiastic beginners, the group arrived to find the slopes perfectly blanketed in snow. Spirits were high as everyone settled into Hotel Olimpica, conveniently located just a short walk from the nursery slopes.
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Bright and early the next morning, the group met their instructors and were split into ability groups for their first day on the snow. Though the day was exhausting, pupils quickly found their rhythm and embraced the challenge with determination and laughter. Evenings were just as lively, thanks to a fantastic resort rep who kept everyone entertained with quizzes, movie nights, and outings to a local crêperie and ice cream parlour. One highlight was a performance by a juggling magician, who left everyone amazed. A special mention must go to Mrs Hammond, who, just twelve weeks post-knee replacement, skied every single day - an inspiring feat that set the tone for a week of resilience and fun. Pupils arrived back to School just before Christmas ready to spend time with their families, relax and share their stories.
Classics Trip to Rome and Pompeii A group of Senior School Classicists embarked on an Italian adventure during the half term, which began with a guided tour of Naples. Pupils had the opportunity to explore the incredible treasures at the Naples Archaeological Museum, including stunning mosaics from Pompeii and the famous Farnese collection of sculptures. The group then settled into their hotel in Vico Equense, using it as a base for exploring Pompeii, Herculaneum, and the jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast. Wandering through the ancient towns buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, pupils marvelled at the ruins of forums, houses, baths, and temples, feeling like they had stepped into a world 2,000 years old. We then travelled to Rome, where we were guided through the winding streets of the eternal city to the Spanish Steps and an ice cream at the Trevi Fountain. Then, as darkness fell, we came in sight of the iconic dome of the Pantheon, the perfectly preserved temple to all the gods that is now a Catholic church. Visits to the Roman Forum and the unique collections of the Capitoline Museum followed, as well as a trip to Ostia, the ancient port of Rome, with its beautiful mosaics and theatre. A final highlight was taking the lift to the top of the Vittorio Emanuele monument to see a panoramic view of the Roman cityscape.
In addition to the tour’s cultural highlights, we also enjoyed some outstanding food, including the celebrated Naples pizzas. Mr Oliver, Mr Mackey and Miss Parris, who accompanied the trip, would like to thank all our pupils for the wonderful way they engaged with the sites we visited and for their exemplary behaviour throughout. It was a trip none of us will ever forget.
Art Trip to Barcelona Fifth Form and Upper Sixth Art and Textiles pupils were lucky enough to go on an exciting cultural journey to the beating heart of Spanish surrealism and artistic expression, in beautiful Barcelona. We first visited the Museum D'Art Contemporani with its large sculptures and immersive rooms. Here we witnessed the evolving ecosystem of hybrid aquatic, terrestrial, and aerial forms, compelling us to consider art as a boundless, surreal space. We also visited the famous Fundació Joan Miró, home to the minimalist and highly political artistic statements of the rebellious Miró. We were fortunate enough to have a tour of the extraordinary Sagrada Familia. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, containing eighteen towers, and filled with mesmerising spectrums of stainedglass light, this masterpiece has taken decades to develop, and is still not finished to this day! Gazing at the details and symbolism woven into this magnificent structure, this awe-inspiring cathedral left everyone speechless.
Cokethorpe Camps 2025 'This year, Cokethorpe Camps once again proved to be a highlight of the school holidays, offering children aged five to thirteen the chance to immerse themselves in a fun, inclusive, and wide-ranging programme of activities. With an emphasis on supportive pastoral care alongside adventure and creativity, the camps give both Cokethorpe pupils and local families a taste of the school’s incredible extracurricular offering in a relaxed holiday setting. Following the success of the newly introduced two-week Easter Camps, the Summer programme extended over six weeks, with children able to join for full days and tailor their experiences to their own interests. From bushcraft and woodland games – including the ever-popular fire lighting and marshmallow toasting – to team sports, art, drama performances, music, and even a murder mystery, there was truly something for everyone. In addition, the specialist Water Sports camp was a particular highlight, with children kayaking, canoeing, and braving the giant Mega SUP on the river. Across the summer alone, over 100 different activities were offered, ensuring that every child found new challenges, fun, and friendships.
We followed this with a visit to the large Parc Güell, sketching the flowing organic shapes of this landscape, and capturing the park's vibrant beauty in the Barcelona sunshine. Along with exciting trips to the vibrant Food Market, shopping at the bustling Vintage Market and sketching the cool calm medieval alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, this trip was a perfect blend of art, history, and culture, leaving us all inspired for our future artistic creations, and with memories that will live forever. Ms Willliams (Head of Art and Textiles)
Led by a dedicated team, many of whom are closely connected with the School, Cokethorpe Camps continue to stand out for the breadth, flexibility, and welcoming atmosphere. Open to all local children, families can book single days or longer stays, making the Camps a flexible and enriching holiday option. With overwhelmingly positive feedback from both parents and participants, it is no surprise that so many children return year after year, eager to experience the variety, community, and fun that have become the hallmark of Cokethorpe Camps. We look forward to welcoming children back once again when Cokethorpe Camps return at Easter 2026.' Mr Slader Head of Outdoor Education
Morocco World Challenge ‘At the end of the school year, eight pupils from Third Form and three from Fourth Form set off on an exciting trip to Morocco. Over the course of two weeks, they immersed themselves in the country’s culture, food, and communities. Our first day began in the hustle and bustle of Marrakech souks — the labyrinthine markets where almost anything can be found. From there, we travelled to our first major task: a community project for a school. Set against the backdrop of the Sahara Desert dunes, we were warmly welcomed to the town of Tifrit by our host, Brahim. His family prepared a feast for us, accompanied by a seemingly never-ending flow of mint tea, which fuelled the pupils for the work ahead. Their project involved laying foundation supports for the village’s primary school and painting the neighbouring nursery. This was urgent work, as a nearby school had collapsed during flash flooding, with tragic consequences. Despite the difficulty of the tasks, our pupils met the challenge with determination, dividing into groups to tackle different jobs. Each day, a different pupil took on the role of Team Leader, and every one of them showed impressive leadership and organisation. In their free time, pupils explored the village, learnt about daily life in rural Morocco, and enjoyed plenty of football with the local children. After saying goodbye to our hosts in Tifrit, we travelled west to the Atlas Mountains for four days of trekking and camping. With the help of our local guide — and a mule to carry supplies — pupils trekked a total of 50 km, reaching an altitude of nearly 3,000 m. The route was demanding, but once again they demonstrated courage and resilience, rewarded at every peak with breathtaking views. This section of the trip gave them a chance to experience a very different side of Morocco from the desert landscapes they had first encountered. Following ten days of exertion and adventure, pupils enjoyed some well-earned rest in the coastal city of Essaouira. Nicknamed ‘the Fridge of Morocco’ by locals, the city’s cooler winds and sandy beaches provided a welcome change. Pupils explored the medina, browsing its souks for local goods, and also took part in a cookery class, where they learnt to prepare dishes using traditional tagines. This trip to Morocco was a memorable adventure. The pupils not only discovered a rich and fascinating culture, but also demonstrated diligence, determination, teamwork, and a wonderful sense of fun throughout.’ Mr Mackey Teacher of Classics
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ARTS Prep Art The Prep Art Room has truly been a hive of creativity and exploration this year! From our youngest artists in Reception Class to our imaginative Year 6 pupils, every pupil has embraced the joy of making, experimenting, and learning through Art. Reception Class began their artistic journey with a delightful animal theme. Their clay Hungry Caterpillars, pastel fish, and bold painted tigers brought colour and character to their classroom walls. Year 1 continued the animal inspiration, crafting charming clay penguins, vibrant paper plate flamingos, and beach scenes filled with carefully observed crabs and shells. Their own footprints were added to complete their impressive masterpieces. In Year 2, robots took centre stage during the Lent Term. The children sculpted Roz the Robot from clay, painted large robot portraits, and constructed towering junk-model robots. Their creativity did not stop there—they also designed fully functioning piggy banks inspired by Charlotte’s Web, combining storytelling with practical design. Year 3 explored the world of colour, creating complementary-coloured parrots and expressive oil pastel dragons. Their understanding of colour theory blossomed beautifully through these vibrant pieces. Year 4 combined observational drawing with colour blending and embellishment to produce striking lion heads. But the standout moment of their year was crafting their own clay canopic jars, inspired by ancient Egyptian art - an impressive blend of history and creativity. Year 5 drew inspiration from their English lessons, particularly the book October October. They began with intricate woodland scenes using a masking-out technique,then explored printmaking with natural leaf patterns. Their year culminated in a study of Greek red and black figure ware, where they used homemade scraper boards to reveal stunning urn designs adorned with traditional patterns and symbols. And finally, Year 6 enjoyed weekly sessions of both Art and DT. Under Mrs Hammond’s guidance, they mastered the art of proportioned self-portraits - each one a testament to their skill and focus. In DT, they delved into the fascinating history and design of teapots, eventually crafting their own functional clay vessels with care and precision. This year has been a celebration of imagination, skill, and artistic growth. Every pupil has contributed something unique, and the walls of the Prep School have been transformed into a gallery of wonder. We could not be prouder of our young artists. Mrs Hammond Teacher of Art
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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 pupils whose own response to the theme of ‘structure and nature’ produced an array of outcomes.
Many of the pupils 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
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Oliver! Jnr 'Pupils in Years 3, 4, and 5 put on a performance of Oliver Twist that left the audience utterly spellbound. These young actors brought Charles Dickens’ classic tale to life in a way that was nothing short of extraordinary. Each character was crafted with such depth and feeling that it was easy to forget they were children - whether it was Oliver’s sweet innocence or Fagin’s sly charm, the acting was truly spectacular. Despite the complexity of the music, the pupils handled the musical numbers with style and confidence. Songs like 'Consider Yourself' and 'Food Glorious Food' were delivered with energy and precision. The harmonies were excellent and the solo performances unforgettable. Mrs Wilkinson worked her magic once again, perfectly capturing the gritty essence of Victorian London with each costume, which was carefully created to reflect the character’s personality and social status, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the whole performance. The set, though simple, did a fantastic job of immersing the audience in the bleak, bustling streets and workhouses of Dickensian England, with clever props and backdrops bringing the world to life. Beyond the entertainment, the performance offered valuable life lessons. Themes of resilience, kindness, and the importance of standing up for what is right, were woven throughout the narrative. It was certainly a night to remember, filled with laughter, tears, and a renewed appreciation for the timeless story of Oliver Twist.' Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher
Macbeth 'If you doubt that a group of ten- and eleven-year-olds could deliver a breathtaking portrayal of Macbeth, prepare to be amazed! The Year 6 pupils did just that, with an electrifying performance that left the audience absolutely spellbound. With nothing more than minimal props and a simple set, their raw talent and powerful performances brought the dark, twisted world of Macbeth to life. Every pupil performed with such intensity and conviction that you would never believe they were speaking in full Shakespearean verse. The performance flowed effortlessly, showcasing their dedication and passion. The unique staging, with the pupils performing in a circle, created a dynamic and immersive experience. As each actor stepped into the circle, they immediately became part of the action, maintaining the energy and creating an intimate connection with the audience. The costumes, as always, were nothing short of spectacular. They flawlessly transported us into the bleak, dystopian world of Macbeth, with every detail enhancing the atmosphere and deepening the impact of the story. Macbeth is a tale of ambition, betrayal, and moral dilemmas, and this production delivered those powerful lessons with stunning clarity. The themes of integrity and the dangers of deception are timeless messages that the pupils can carry with them, not just in their studies but as life lessons that will stay with them forever. In every way, the Year 6 pupils’ production of Macbeth was a triumph. It was a performance brimming with creativity, heart, and talent.' Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher
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Harvest Play - The Little Red Hen The Pre-Prep brought joy to the Chapel during their annual Harvest Festival celebration. Parents were warmly welcomed with a delightful medley of harvest-themed songs, including 'Harvest Moon' and the ever-popular 'Big Red Combine Harvester,' before happily joining in a spirited rendition of 'Cauliflowers Fluffy.' Reception Class charmed the audience with their lively retelling of 'The Little Red Hen,'
Beauty and the Beast On Thursday 3 July, our Prep School pupils brought Beauty and the Beast to life. From the moment the opening notes of Belle filled the marquee, it was clear that this production was going to be a enchanting experience, showcasing the passion, talent, and dedication of every pupil involved. The entire cast delivered outstanding performances, working in perfect harmony to tell this timeless tale. Each pupil embraced their role with remarkable confidence and flair, a true reflection of their commitment during rehearsals and beyond. The energy and enthusiasm radiating from the stage created a captivating atmosphere that drew the audience into the heart of the story. The production struck a beautiful balance between humour and heartfelt emotion. The comedic timing of characters like Lumière and Cogsworth had the audience laughing out loud, while the more touching moments, such as the elegant ballroom dance between Belle and the Beast, and Belle’s moving change of heart, were portrayed with grace and sincerity. These scenes captured the emotional depth of the story and left a lasting impression on all who watched. The ever-talented Mrs Wilkinson once again excelled with the costumes, dressing the cast in dazzling attire that perfectly captured the essence of each character, from Belle’s iconic golden gown to the whimsical teacups and feather dusters of the enchanted castle. Live music from our wonderful band added an extra layer of magic. The pupils delivered powerful renditions of beloved songs such as Gaston, Be Our Guest, and Beauty and the Beast. Harmonies were beautifully executed in ensemble numbers, and special recognition must go to the soloists, whose voices soared and left the audience mesmerised. The production concluded with a joyful and heartfelt reprise of Beauty and the Beast, leaving the audience with a sense of wonder, love, and transformation. At its heart, this production reminded us all of the timeless message that true beauty lies within. Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher
complete with expressive narration and confident storytelling. Year 1 impressed everyone with their knowledge of apple juice production, explaining the steps they had followed earlier in the week — and proudly sharing that they had even tasted the fruits of their labour! Year 2 rounded off the celebration with a beautifully recited poem all about the life cycle of a sunflower, from seed to towering bloom, capturing the magic of growing and harvesting. Miss Wilcox Prep School Drama Teacher
The Big Little Nativity
LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Acting Grade 3 – Solo (First Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 3 – Solo (First Form, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 3 - Solo (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Acting Grade 3 – Solo (Year 5, Baker) Acting Grade 1 – Solo (Year 6, Baker) Acting Grade 3 – Solo (First Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 3 – Solo
Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Distinction Distinction
LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance Mia Beechey (Second Form, Swift) Acting Grade 4 – Solo Tibby Bignone (Third Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 5 – Solo Evie-Rose Burdick (Fifth Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 5 – Solo Joanna Cioffi (Second Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 4 – Solo Emilia Cook (First Form, Gascoigne) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Joshua Crumlish (Second Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Stephanie Glover (First Form, Swift) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Jessica Lewis (Third Form, Swift) Acting Grade 5 – Duo Sam Rainey (Second Form, Swift) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Matilda Richards (Third Form, Swift) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Georgia Standbridge (Third Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 4 – Duo Olivia Wood (Third Form, Harcourt) Acting Grade 5 – Duo
Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Merit Merit Distinction Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction
Annie Clifton Bella Ferguson Hughie Fraser Cory Gardiner Sofia Gimson Samuel Idiahi Maya Timlin-Jeffery
LAMDA
On Friday 6 December, the Corinthian Room was magically transformed into a stage of wonder and joy as the Pre-Prep children took the spotlight for the much-anticipated annual Nativity performance, 'The Big Little Nativity.' With a sparkling mix of songs, acting, and beautifully-designed costumes, our young stars stole the show, captivating the audience with their talent, charm, and enthusiasm. The timeless story came to life as camels, wise men, and angels told the tale of hope and wonder, all with a sprinkle of creativity and fun. A special acknowledgment goes to Mrs Wilkinson, whose tireless work behind the scenes brought the Nativity to life through stunning costumes. From regal wise men robes to shimmering angel wings, her meticulous attention to detail ensured that every child looked and felt their very best, truly embodying their roles. The Nativity was a heart-warming celebration of the spirit of togetherness that makes this season so special. Parents, grandparents, and friends in the audience were filled with festive cheer, many moved by the children's joyful singing and delightful storytelling.
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Emmeline Black Zoe Cameron Henry Cook Iona Mettrick Freya Richards
LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Fifth Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 6 - Solo - Bronze Medal (Fifth Form, Queen Anne) Acting Grade 6 - Solo - Bronze Medal (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) Acting Grade 8 - Solo - Gold Medal (Third Form, Swift) Acting Grade 6 - Duo - Bronze Medal (Third Form, Feilden) Acting Grade 6 - Duo - Bronze Medal
LAMDA Group Graded Examination Tunmise Akinrolabu (Year 3, Gwyn) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Shannon Edwards (Year 6, Symonds) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Lisa Huang (Year 6, Lockwood) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Beau Jameson (Year 4, Lockwood) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Islay Jameson (Year 6, Lockwood) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Etta Jennings (Year 4, Baker) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Chloé Langridge (Year 6, Baker) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Ted Metcalf (Year 4, Baker) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Scarlet Milles (Year 6, Gwyn) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Julia Pisanello (Year 6, Baker) Group Devising Drama Grade 2 Cali Stratton-Woods (Year 6, Lockwood) Group Devising Drama Grade 2
Merit Merit Distinction Merit Merit
Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction
The Box of Delights 'This term saw a new and exciting artistic direction for Cokethorpe Drama, marked by the blazing production values and mesmerising performance skills on display in The Box of Delights. Based on John Masefield’s 1935 novel, this adaptation’s story centres around two orphans who are given a box with supernatural powers by a mystical lady and ordered to save Christmas and to be on their guard, as ‘the wolves are running’. Along with their two best friends, the four children find themselves in the midst of a centuries-old battle between two powerful sorcerers for the lives of their friends, and even the fate of Christmas itself. This enthralling production was rich in visuals and sound, as we were transported from magical forests to underground caverns. Many cast members played the vital role of puppeteers as bewitching new worlds unfolded before our eyes. With rabbits, butterflies, birds, ancient gods, as well as the tiny versions of the protagonists themselves, the physical puppeteering was expertly crafted and brought to life. There were also spellbinding sequences of shadow-puppetry, cleverly and deftly enacted by the cast to expound the backstory. There were far too many superb performances to mention, but particular mention should be given to the villains Pouncer and Charles, played with relish by Coco Pierce Williams (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) and Henry Cook (Upper Sixth, Harcourt), working under the malevolent power of Abner, a marvellously terrifying performance by Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh). These dark forces were pitted against the noble heroes of Kay and George, who were played with such emotional believability, charming sincerity and professionalism by Isy Noon (Second Form, Gascoigne) and Jessica Lewis (Third Form, Swift), that we were swept up in their journey and genuine sense of peril. They were accompanied by the loyal and hilarious Maria and Peter, both of whom were created with exuberant energy by Emmy Perry (Second Form, Swift) and the hysterical dry wit of Finlay Welpton (Fourth Form, Gascoigne). Special mention must also be made of Kacy Nguyen (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) who was compelling as the mysterious, but kind, sorceress Cole, and excellent comedic support provided by Adam Rees (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) as the Bishop and Sofia Bell (Fourth Form, Feilden) as the maternal Caroline Louisa. There were outstanding sequences of choreography, especially from the hauntingly powerful’ Nyads’, enslaved by the evil Abner, but eventual architects of his demise. These were played with hypnotic brilliance by Drama Award Holders Ruby Daly (Third Form,
Gascoigne), Tibby Bignone (Third Form, Feilden), Emily De Mestre (Second Form, Queen Anne), Lottie Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne), Grace Bassey (Second Form, Vanbrugh) with Iona Mettrick (Third Form, Swift). This was a stunning ensemble production, with jaw-droppingly beautiful scenes; a moving story of hope and friendship, played with commitment and professionalism by this huge and talented cast and crew.' Mr Walwyn Teacher of Drama
War Horse Theatre Trip
House Drama
In the last week of the Michaelmas Term, GCSE and A Level Drama students attended the National Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of War Horse at the New Theatre Oxford. From the very first scene, the pupils were captivated by the innovative use of set, puppetry, physical theatre, and the stunning sound and lighting design.
This year’s inter-House Drama competition was hotly contested, and once again provided a series of high-quality performances. The theme for this year’s Ensemble category was ‘Public Information Films’ and every House had to devise, write and perform a short play warning the public of contemporary dangers. There was also the separate category of a Monologue or Duologue from a published text. This House competition is a particularly special event, as it requires large scale involvement, collaboration, and creativity across a range of ages and disciplines.
Based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel, War Horse follows the emotional journey of a young boy, Albert, and his beloved horse, Joey, set against the backdrop of World War I. The extraordinary life-sized puppets created a breathtaking illusion of real horses on stage. War Horse is a perfect example of how technical elements and performance techniques can work together to tell a deeply human story. This unforgettable theatrical experience provided pupils with rich material to analyse and evaluate in their written Drama exam.
First Form Workshop with Chipping Norton Theatre Theatrical specialists from Chipping Norton Theatre came to deliver a series of workshops for the First Form to learn from and enjoy. This lucky year group got to experience practical seminars on how to expand characterisation skills, how to develop vocal techniques, as well as an exciting workshop in ‘silent clowning’.
This was a highly enjoyable afternoon, with pupils learning a broad range of exercises and techniques, resulting in enthusiastic participation and courageous physicality across the year. This was an invaluable experience for the First Form, as they start to prepare for their end of year scripted performance in The Shed. We are grateful to the members of Chipping Norton Theatre for the innovative and engaging tuition and look forward to the next time that we will welcome them to participate in the Cokethorpe Drama course as part of our developing relationship.
This year’s entries did not disappoint, with many humorous and well-produced pieces. Those groups successful enough to get through to the final round, performed live, had the honour having their pieces scrutinised by the renowned actor and soprano Miranda Colchester, fresh from her performance in the RSC’s Hamlet, opposite Jared Harris and Anton Lesser. In the Mono/Duologue category, Vanbrugh performers Kacy Nguyen (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Thea Walwyn (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) delivered an hilarious character piece from Lucy Kirkwood’s Mosquitoes. This excellent performance, full of sharp observations and excellent comic timing about two disparate sisters was beautifully delivered. Queen Anne’s contributor Evie-Rose Burdick (Fifth Form)
performed as Eliza from George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion, creating a character bristling with anger and indignation who built to an emotional and cutting climax. She was awarded the ‘Best Individual Contribution’ Cup for her efforts.
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It was very difficult to select finalists from the range of Ensembles, but the two to go through were Gascoigne and Vanbrugh. Gascoigne’s piece about the dangers of going out was both witty and alarming, with standout performances from Immy Harris (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) as a reporter and Finlay Welpton (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) and a pensioner in particular. Vanbrugh’s piece was co-written by brothers Oscar (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Xander Luckett (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), and performed by a large cast whose synchronised movement and comic timing was excellent. Dryly narrated with deadpan delivery by Xander Luckett, this darkly humorous take on a post-apocalyptic fascist society traced its comedic roots to a particularly British absurdity, reminiscent of Monty Python. The judge Miranda Colchester was full of praise for all the finalists and the effort that they had gone to in preparing these short plays. When the final scores for both the Ensemble and Mono/Duologue categories were combined, the overall winner for 2025 was a thoroughly deserving Vanbrugh House.
A Level Devised Drama 'Me, Myself and Others' was an outstanding devised performance by Lower Sixth A Level Drama students, skilfully supported by Xander Luckett (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), which explored the complexities of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). The wide range of roles portrayed by Coco Pierce Williams (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) and Kacy Nguyen (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) showcased their exceptional versatility, offering a nuanced and empathetic insight into the complex condition. Their sophisticated movement work, inspired by renowned theatre practitioners DV8, was both intricate and mesmerising, enhancing the audience’s understanding of what it is like to live with DID. The performance was constructed using verbatim material from a range of sources, including individuals currently under section in mental health facilities. This added a deep layer of authenticity and emotional resonance, highlighting the importance of empathy and awareness in conversations surrounding mental health.
A Level Devised Performance On Thursday 10 October, our Upper Sixth A Level Drama candidates showcased their devised work in The Shed to a live audience. Drawing inspiration from Harold Pinter’s iconic play The Birthday Party and employing the methodologies of theatre practitioner Steven Berkoff, the audience was transported into a dystopian future ruled by ‘Centurian’, a faceless, dictatorial artificial intelligence that dominated society. In this totalitarian state, political opposition is outlawed, and anyone exhibiting the ‘divergent trait’ - daring to think or feel differently from the regime - must undergo correction. In Centurian’s brutal correctional facilities, individuals are subjected to physical and psychological torture until they comply. This outstanding piece of work underscored the importance of free will and the imperative human need to resist oppression. Ably supported by Kacy Nguyen (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), this exceptional performance highlighted the extraordinary ambition and talents of Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Henry Cook (Upper Sixth, Harcourt).
A Level Text in Performance Presentation Upper Sixth A Level Drama students put on a blistering show showcasing their exceptional talent. The evening began with a monologue from Henry Cook (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) as Freddie from Mark Schultz’s A Brief History of Helen of Troy. Henry brought the excruciating awkwardness of a teenager trying to seduce Charlotte to life, in what is her imagined romantic fantasy, making the audience laugh and cringe in equal measure. Oscar Luckett’s (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) performance of the entitled Alistair from Posh by Laura Wade was captivating. His simmering resentment of ‘poor people’ was expertly delivered with controlled menace and disdain as he railed against those he viewed as inferior to his own privileged class. The group piece was the darkly comic The Pillowman by Martin McDonagh. The macabre humour was expertly delivered and the characterisations from the whole cast were outstanding. Ably assisted by Xander Luckett as the writer Katurian, the audience were witness to his unsettling interrogation at the hands of Detectives Tupolski (Henry Cook) and Ariel (Oscar Luckett). Katurian was beautifully portrayed with a subtle balance of defiance and vulnerability. Tupolski’s detached, playful heartlessness was an excellent contrast to Ariel’s disturbing volatility, whose aggression and unpredictable emotional outbursts hinted at a deep-seated personal pain. The performers delivered a spectacular, dynamic piece of theatre with layer after layer of humour and tension, keeping the audience gripped from start to finish.
Review of the Buddha of Suburbia – A Level Drama Trip to the Barbican
A Level Drama students travelled to the Barbican Theatre, London on Thursday 7 November to see Emma Rice’s vivacious interpretation of The Buddha of Suburbia. Adapted from Hanif Kureishi’s novel, the play follows the formative years of Karim, a bi-sexual, mixed heritage teenager from South London. It balanced the serious topics of racism, class, identity and immigration with a fast-paced, highly energetic delivery from the cast, supported by a fantastic 1970’s soundtrack. The production was a playful, often hilarious, display of joyful theatricality, which the students thoroughly enjoyed. It also served as a reminder that many of the issues Kureishi brought to light in his novel remain all too pertinent today.
GCSE Devised Performances Our talented GCSE dramatists took to the stage to present their devised work to live audiences. Our Fifth Form GCSE Drama candidates who created their own, original pieces of theatre using a variety of drama techniques and theatre practitioner methodologies. The pupils researched significant socio-historical events drawing on the Nazareth House Orphanage scandal and the treatment of women in mental health facilities from the 1920s to the 1960s. Both pieces of work were highly engaging and informative.
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First Form Production First Form pupils took to the stage with their lively production, 'Kings, Queens and Troubled Teens,' which offered an imaginative and spirited reinterpretation of four of Shakespeare’s most renowned tragedies, performed to a full house in The Shed. Each group delivered a fast-paced, light-hearted take on Shakespearean classics including King Lear, Romeo and Juliet, Richard III, and Hamlet. Taking on some of the greatest tragedies ever written and turning them into comic gold is no mean feat, but these young performers tackled it with infectious energy and playful irreverence. The performances featured some standout portrayals from several pupils, who delivered excellent performance skills and characterisations. The ensemble work was a standout strength. Everyone had a moment to shine, and it was clear the year group had worked hard to support each other on stage. The entire year group demonstrated impressive teamwork and commitment—particularly admirable given the sweltering conditions. It is clear that there is a wealth of theatrical talent in the First Form and we look forward to seeing these young performers in future productions as they continue their Cokethorpe journey.
Second Form Production Second Form’s Physical Theatre performance of Journeys on Thursday 27 March in The Shed was ambitious, imaginative, and poignant. Each group blended movement, storytelling, and surrealism showcasing their unique creativity. The evening began with 2D’s 'Cheesy Dreams' which explored the curious question: what really happens when you eat cheese before bed? This piece was as hilarious as it was haunting, drawing the audience into a dreamscape filled with contorted nightmares. The physical commitment of the performers was outstanding, and the comedic timing of the synchronised swimmers struck a perfect balance with the eerie undertones of the imagined interrogation scenes. 2C took us on an awe-inspiring voyage into the heart of a quark with 'Inner Space.' This outstanding piece pushed the limits of imagination and movement, portraying the birth and evolution of a tiny universe. Through precise choreography the group evoked the vastness of time tracing the origins of life from single-celled organisms to dinosaurs, ultimately highlighting the devastating impact of human activity on the natural world.
2A’s 'Time' was a whirlwind tour through moments that shaped civilisation. The performance was clever, dynamic, and peppered with surprises. The use of repetition and transitions between eras were smooth and inventive, as a group of children travel through a time portal to influence key moments in history. This was an inspired, often humorous, reimaging of world defining moments. Closing the evening was the emotionally resonant 'Life' by 2B - a heartfelt piece exploring the trials and triumphs of the human journey. From birth to death, love to loss, the pupils handled weighty themes with maturity and great creativity. The use of movement, music and limited dialogue helped to convey a depth of feeling that left a lasting impression.
Into the Woods Into The Woods JR is a play of magic and adventure and adventurous magic is certainly what the Cokethorpe audience was treated to. A spectacle that provided laughs and gasps as well as some breathtaking singing performances, all the more special with the accompaniment of the live band. The immense quality and finesse of the performance from every member of cast, crew and creative saw the production ready to hit The West End rather than The Shed. The fact that this talented group were able to put it all together in just six weeks of grit and determination was almost unbelievable. The plot follows the intertwining narrative of a selection of Brothers Grimm fairy tales and allows for a challenging range of songs and some delightful moments of expert silliness. The central story of the Baker (Xander Luckett - Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) and his wife (Immy Harris - Fourth Form, Gascoigne) and their wish to have a child causes them to chop their way into the tale of Red Riding Hood (Isy Noon - Second Form, Gascoigne), barter their way into the plot of Jack (William Woodwards - Second Form, Swift) and the beanstalk, climb their way into the yarn of Rapunzel (Nancy Christensen - Upper Sixth, Swift) and wish their way into the story of Cinderella (Serafina Conlon-Sangster - Fifth Form, Queen Anne). All thanks to the machinations of the wonderfully evil and somewhat Jim Careyesque Wicked Witch (Oscar Luckett - Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh).
This was not however, a play that simply revolved around the wonderful colliding of well know tales. This was a demanding musical! I chanced a glance at one of the screens directed at the performers during the performance and was greeted by a close up of Mr Wilson (Director of Music) being live streamed to the cast in order to conduct both band and singing talent. This professional element to the production allowed for a pristine finish and quality to all the musical numbers. Humour was ever present in the show from the throwing down of Rapunzel’s hair stage left for it to appear stage right, to the two foppish prince charming characters (Joseph Palmer - Second Form, Feilden and Nicolas Burrow - Second Form, Feilden) who would have fit right in with the New Romantic movement. This was all epitomised by the hilariously muted performance of Milky the Cow by Florence Nixey (Second Form, Gascoigne), who in her enjoyment of constantly chewing her cud in superb gormlessness provided many a moment of comedy. A glorious showcase of the talent Cokethorpe has to offer. A special mention has to be made of Mr Wilson and his vision and meticulous detail in directing this demanding production and all of the help that the glorious Drama Department made to the success and professionalism of this project. Mr Everling Teacher of English
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Prep House Singing
Little Red Riding Hood
Carol Services
On Friday 23 May, the Prep School took part in their annual House Singing Competition. With the theme 'Glastonbury Headliners', each House worked extremely hard in rehearsals to create a memorable rendition of their chosen song, and that is exactly what happened; each House's performance was unique and captivating, making it very difficult for the judges to decide a winner. In the end, it was Baker's rendition of Coldplay's 'Something Just Like This' that got the judges' vote. Well done to all in Baker House! In addition, the whole School gave a powerful performance of 'Blinded by Your Grace' by Stormzy - with thanks to Mrs Du Feu for leading this.
The Mansion House was filled with music, laughter, and proud smiles as the Pre-Prep Choir treated families to a delightful informal concert.
St Mary’s Church was awash with angelic and beautiful music as Cokethorpe celebrated its two Christmas Carol Services. The Senior and Prep Chamber Choirs were on stunning form, with both congregations being treated to glorious and moving singing. Intonation, musicality and unwavering commitment and dedication, were all in abundance from every single singer, right from the first solo to 'Once in Royal David's City.'
The children spent months joyfully preparing a collection of catchy songs that brought the classic tale of Little Red Riding Hood to life. Year 2 confidently took the spotlight with solo performances as the main characters, while Year 1 provided strong vocal support. Reception Class added a magical touch as whimsical fairies, winning hearts with their charm.
Special thanks to the Sixth form judges, Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift), Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), and Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), whose comments and feedback were excellent. Thanks to Mr Watson, Mr Hughes and Mr Rigal for playing in the band.
From creative costumes to imaginative scenery, complete with drums and dress-up props, the children’s enthusiasm shone through every detail. The performance ended on a high note with a spirited rendition of 'The Big Bad Wolf Has Gone,' as the choir clapped, danced, and beamed with energy. A well-earned bow wrapped up a truly heart-warming celebration of music, creativity, and teamwork.
Christingle Service The Prep School’s Christingle Service was an absolute joy. The Service, which centres around the Christingle - meaning ‘Christ Candle’ in Germanic traditions - celebrated Jesus Christ as the ‘Light of the World’ in the most heart-warming way. The pupils sang classic Christmas carols like 'In the Bleak Mid-Winter,' 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing,' and a truly magical, candle-lit version of 'Silent Night' that lit up the room. Thanks go to the wonderful Year 6 readers for bringing the Nativity story to life, to the Chamber Choir and soloists for their beautiful performances, and, of course, to those angelically holding the Christingles, adding a soft glow of warmth to the evening. It was an enchanting service that reminded us of the love and light that Christmas brings.
The occasion was additionally enhanced by brass accompaniment for the congregational carols – what a joyful noise and festive spirit there was! Thanks and congratulations to everyone involved.
Trip to Birmingham Symphony Hall
Corinthian Concert and Cake
The Music Department took a group of First and Second Form pupils to a fantastic concert given by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall. An eclectic programme, including something for everyone, combined with the world-class acoustics provided a captivating evening of musical memories.
‘There are few more uplifting moments than sitting in the Corinthian Room on a Friday lunchtime, with a slice of delicious cake (thank you, Catering Department!), listening to our pupils perform a veritable smorgasbord of musical delights. From Rachmaninoff to ‘French Horn for beginners’, from Year 2 to Upper Sixth – the joy of the Corinthian Concert and Cake programme is that it provides a platform for all pupils (and staff) to practise that all important art of performance – to go a bit wrong, and have the nerve to put it right or to nail a challenging piece for the first time, and milk the applause of an appreciative and supportive audience. It is a wonderful tonic at the end of a tiring week, and I hope that all those (over 200!) performers over the course of the year recognise just how powerful their music making can be.’
Pupil favourites included Vaughan-Williams’ 'The Lark Ascending' and Tchaikovsky’s thrilling suite of pieces from 'Swan Lake,' and they were particularly taken ‘with the variety of melodies and orchestral effects’ on show. A highlight for the staff was hearing Bizet’s 'Carmen Suite No.1, ' an arrangement of which was performed by the School Orchestra.
Mr Uglow Director of Studies
Music Award Holders’ Concert The annual Music Award Holders’ Concert was a vibrant celebration of musical talent, featuring pupils from Second Form through to Upper Sixth. A rich variety of instruments took to the stage, including cello, voice, trumpet, clarinet, violin, classical guitar, oboe, and piano. The performers presented an impressive range of musical styles, demonstrating both technical skill and artistic sensitivity. From classical masterpieces to more contemporary pieces, the evening highlighted the depth and versatility of the School’s musicians. Among many strong performances, particular praise must go to Eva Graves (Fourth Form, Gasc0igne), Katy Stiger (Fourth Form, Swift), William Woodwards (Second Form, Swift), and the Sharp Trio comprising Caellum (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), Ella (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) and Sophie (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) all of whom delivered stand-out moments that captivated the audience. This concert was a testament to the dedication of the School’s Music Award Holders and their incredible commitment to their craft.
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House Singing Competition Senior School pupils came together for the annual House Singing competition and wow, what an incredible occasion it was. Each House took to the stage with confidence, gusto and musical fireworks. The energy was electric, the singing was passionate (and often in a number of parts) and the commitment from every single singer was profound. 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 such a unique competition amongst House events: it brings together all pupils from all year groups, who do the same thing at the same time, all sharing responsibility and having an equal part to play and contribution to make.
Every House song was accompanied brilliantly by a live band, formed, this year: Mr Lewis on drums, Mr Rigal on bass guitar, Mr Granados and Mr Pisanello on guitar and Mr Watson on piano. My thanks go to all of them for their sterling playing, as they transitioned effortlessly from one song to the next. What a pleasure it is for each House to be accompanied by a live band! It was a pleasure to welcome Mr Tom Bennett (Director of Music at Cothill House) to adjudicate this year’s competition. Mr Bennett was extremely impressed by every House’s performance and offered some really excellent feedback, but he had a gruelling and unenviable task to choose the winner. The results were as follows: Joint third place: Queen Anne and Vanbrugh Second place: Gascoigne First place: Swift
I would like to congratulate each House for the way in which they performed not only on the day but in rehearsals leading up to the competition. I would especially like to thank the House leaders, tutor team and Housemasters and Housemistresses for all they did in rehearsals and on the day.’ Mr Wilson Director of Music
Music Exam Results Senior School Scout Andreasen (First Form, Harcourt) Grade 1 Clarinet Distinction Mia Beechey (Second Form, Swift) Grade 2 Singing for Musical Theatre Distinction Freya Belson (First Form, Swift) Grade 3 Trumpet Merit Nicholas Burrow (Second Form, Feilden) Grade 2 Singing Distinction Johannes Dirksen (Third Form, Feilden) Grade 2 Violin Merit Grade 2 Singing Distinction Grade 3 Singing Distinction Grade 3 Violin Distinction Naemi Dirksen (First Form, Feilden) Grade 3 Flute Merit Grade 2 Singing Distinction Tony Garner (Second Form, Gascoigne) Grade 1 Euphonium Merit Lottie Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) Grade 3 Singing Distinction Avalon Harris (First Form, Feilden) Grade 1 Piano Merit Imogen Jones (First Form, Queen Anne) Grade 2 Piano Distinction Ben Picking (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) Grade 5 Piano Pass Joseph Palmer (Second Form, Feilden) Grade 2 Clarinet Distinction Alex Regardsoe (Second Form, Swift) Grade 1 Piano Distinction Grade 2 Piano Distinction Grade 5 Oboe Distinction William Woodwards (Second Form, Swift) Grade 3 Singing Distinction Diwen Zhu (Third Form, Swift) Grade 4 Cello Merit Grade 5 Guitar Pass Prep School Lisa Huang (Year 6, Lockwood) Grade 5 Piano Pass Grade 1 Flute Distinction Johnny Palethorpe (Year 6, Symonds) Grade 1 Guitar Merit Julia Pisanello (Year 6, Baker) Grade 1 Clarinet Distinction Will Rainey (Year 6, Baker) Grade 1 Singing Distinction Catriona Rounce (Year 5, Lockwood) Grade 1 Piano Merit
Spring Concert The Spring Concert was a delightful and memorable event, marking several firsts for the Cokethorpe community. For the first time, the Concert was held on a Sunday, allowing more families and friends to join rehearsals, participate and enjoy the performances. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement as the audience gathered to witness the debut of beginner musicians playing as an orchestra and the harmonious voices of our Community Choir. The Concert opened with the Senior Orchestra and everyone enjoyed their rendition of excerpts from 'Carmen'. The Orchestra delivered a commendable performance, showcasing their dedication and hard work. Our Prep School Orchestra, playing together for the first time, also demonstrated great confidence at the beginnings of the music learning process and the fun they have making music together. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the performance of Vivaldi's 'Gloria' by our Community Choir, which included parents, pupils, and members of the Lower Windrush Choral Society. The Choir's rendition of this classical masterpiece was nothing short of spectacular. The blend of voices, ranging from the exuberance of the youngest pupils to the
seasoned tones of the staff and parents, created a rich sound that filled the dining hall. Throughout every performance our soloists and ensembles, bands and choirs all performed with poise and confidence, but importantly showed that they had worked hard, put in long hours of practice, turned up to rehearsals, and took great pride in their performances. The Concert was a resounding success, not only as a musical event but also as a celebration of community spirit and collaboration. It was heartwarming to see the support and encouragement from the audience, which included proud parents, teachers, and friends. This Spring Concert will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone event, setting a high standard for future performances and inspiring the young musicians and singers to continue their musical journeys.
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MADD Evening
St Cecilia Concert
'On Wednesday 30 April, pupils from every year group came together for the very first MADD Evening - a celebration of Music, Art, Dance, and Drama, an event which is entirely student-led. With minimal teacher involvement (though special thanks go to Mr Wilson and Mr Watson for their support), the event showcased the incredible talent and initiative of its young organisers and performers. The evening ran seamlessly, with the audience praising its slick production and high standard of performance. Dance took centre stage, earning particular acclaim as it made one of its first major appearances at Cokethorpe.
What does Bach (the GOAT - says our Director of Music, and he ought to know!) have in common with jazz legend Sonny Rollins? Or Tchaikovsky (he of the awesome arabesques) with ‘60s Geordie rockers The Animals?
The audience was treated to an eclectic programme of acts: pop music, slow jazz from the Jazz Band and a highly entertaining group performance from Xander Luckett (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Finlay Welpton (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) entitled 'Devil Wears Zara.' The event also showcased the newest additions to drama - sonologues, where performers would act out the words to songs such as 'Love Story' or 'Popular' (the Donald Trump version). All in all, the inaugural MADD Evening was a resounding success, one that promises to become a regular feature of the Cokethorpe calendar for years to come.' Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
May Day Madrigals On Thursday 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: 'Now is the month of Maying' by Thomas Morley, 'Never Weather-Beaten Sail' by Thomas Campion and 'Din Din Rin,' Anonymous. It was a lovely morning and a wonderful opportunity to capture the joy and spirit of May Day.
On paper, perhaps, nothing much, but in the wonderful world of Music at Cokethorpe they were all featured in the fabulous evening of music-making that was the St Cecilia Concert 2024. Nearly 100 musicians, from eight to eighteen (and just a little beyond that if we include the staff!) took part in an all-encompassing tour through musical history that delighted and astonished the audience in equal measure. There were far too many highlights to be sure of mentioning them all, but the Orchestra delivered a brilliantly controlled and expressive performance of Hans Zimmer’s music from Gladiator, the Senior Choir a spellbinding rendition of the spiritual Steal Away, and the Prep School Choir a joyous medley of songs from their upcoming production of Oliver!
First and Second Form Singing Competition On Friday, 23 May, Cokethorpe hosted its inaugural First and Second Form Singing Competition. Both year groups came together in The Shed to compete in one of the most hotly-contested competitions of the School calendar. After a rousingly huge joint performance of 'I Just Wanna Sing' by Suzie Vango, the two year groups took turns in singing a verse of 'How Shall I Sing that Majesty.' After, each Music class – four per year group – sang their song choice, on which they had been working over the first half of term. Our adjudicator, Mr Stevens, was thoroughly impressed with the confidence, ethos and spirit exemplified by every class. Mr Stevens said: ‘not only was the singing full of energy and enthusiasm, but every single pupil taking part truly committed to their class’s performance – they all absolutely went for it and what an enjoyable afternoon was had by all!’. The winning class was 2B and the winning year group for the hymn performance was First Form.
Start of Year Concert It took no small amount of courage for pupils to perform in the Start of Year Concert on Thursday 12 September, as most had not had a lesson for over two months. However, the parents, pupils and staff that gathered in the Corinthian Room that evening were treated to some wonderful performances by this year’s talented Music Award Holders. Josh Crisp (Third Form, Feilden) gave a fabulous performance of John Stanley’s 'Trumpet Voluntary,' whilst Florence Nixey (Second Form, Gascoigne) played 'Morning has Broken' beautifully on violin. Emily De Mestre (Second Form, Queen Anne) sang a captivating rendition of 'Birdy’s Wings,' and the concert was drawn to a close with an impressive performance of Rachmaninoff’s 'Vocalise' from Sophie Sharp (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh) on violin. It was an exceptional start to what promises to be a very exciting year’s worth of musicmaking at the School. Mr Wilson Director of Music
Musician of the Year The Musician of the Year competition is one of the many highlights of the musical calendar here at Cokethorpe. This year, we were honoured to welcome Mr Doug McIlwraith, Director of Music at Bedales School, to adjudicate our exceptional musicians who participated in the Musician of the Year finals. The audience was left in awe by the incredible variety of music performed in both the Lower Grade and Higher Grade finals, showcasing an impressive range of genres and instruments. Tasked with the difficult decision of selecting the winners, Mr McIlwraith faced a tough challenge but, ultimately, congratulations are in order for Lottie Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne), winner of the Lower Grade Final, and Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), winner of the Higher Grade Final, for their outstanding performances. However, credit is due to every performer, with almost 50 entries for this year’s competition, it was an incredible achievement for all those that made it to the final. Each musician demonstrated not just extraordinary talent but also a deep commitment and passion for music.
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SPORTS Prep School Sports Report The Prep Sports Programme is delighted to reflect on a vibrant and successful academic year, marked by the enthusiasm, commitment, and sporting excellence of our pupils. Our approach to sport is rooted in the belief that physical activity plays a vital role in the holistic development of every child. Through a broad and inclusive programme, we aim to instil a lifelong love of sport, while nurturing key values such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Our pupils have benefitted from expert coaching, regular training sessions, and a wide range of competitive opportunities across multiple disciplines. We are immensely grateful to our dedicated staff and coaches, as well as to our parent community, whose support and encouragement have been instrumental in creating such a positive sporting environment.
Fixtures against Chandlings Prep and Christ Church Cathedral School were especially competitive, with the boys rising to the challenge with impressive teamwork and tactical awareness. Notable performances came from Will Rainey (Year 6, Baker), Josh Price (Year 6, Lockwood), Quentin Temim (Year 6, Lockwood), Oliver Noon (Year 5, Symonds), George Theyer (Year 5, Symonds), and Lucas Manson (Year 5, Gwyn), all of whom contributed significantly to the team’s success.
compete for a place in the In2Hockey regional finals. Marnie Perkins (Year 5, Gwyn), Islay Jameson (Year 6, Lockwood), Honor Ledger (Year 6, Symonds), and Eloise Young-Gale (Year 5, Symonds) were standout players, showing consistency, composure, and a strong sense of team spirit.
Football Football has been a highlight of the year, with pupils across all year groups displaying passion, creativity, and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Hockey The girls’ Hockey programme has gone from strength to strength, with pupils in Years 3 to 6 showing remarkable progress in both individual skills and team play.
Rugby Rugby has continued to thrive across the Prep School, offering pupils in Years 3 to 6 the chance to develop their skills and character through regular fixtures and training. Pupils participated in fast-paced tag rugby matches, where they learned the importance of spatial awareness, communication, and quick decision-making. Matches against Hatherop Castle and Kitebrook were particular highlights, with Charlie Laight (Year 3, Lockwood) and Woody Heaton (Year 4, Gwyn) demonstrating excellent tackling technique and accurate passing under pressure. The U10/11 pupils embraced the physical and strategic demands of contact rugby, showing great determination and sportsmanship throughout the season.
These pupils focused on mastering the fundamentals - stick control, passing accuracy, and positional awareness. Their efforts were evident in a series of competitive matches and triangular tournaments. Debbie Donald (Year 3, Baker), Phoebe Mardle (Year 3, Symonds), and Emmy Theyer (Year 3, Symonds) consistently impressed with their energy and determination, while Katie Down (Year 4, Gwyn) and Etta Jennings (Year 4, Baker) provided strong leadership on the pitch. Building on their previous experience, the U10/11 girls demonstrated a high level of technical skill and tactical understanding. The U11 Peacocks performed admirably throughout the season and were proud to
The U8/9 teams enjoyed a number of exciting matches, including memorable wins against Carrdus and The Manor Prep. The attacking trio of Lorenzo Dodd (Year 4, Baker), Blue Milles (Year 3, Symonds), and Alexander Heywood (Year 4, Lockwood) combined brilliantly to create numerous scoring opportunities. Copter Komhom (Year 4, Symonds) was a commanding presence in goal, making a series of outstanding saves. Jack Bishop (Year 3, Baker) also deserves recognition for his tireless work rate and positive attitude in the U8/9 Feathers team.
The U10/11 boys demonstrated a mature approach to the game, focusing on structured build-up play and maintaining possession under pressure. They faced strong opposition from schools such as Ashley Manor, Abingdon Prep, and Hatherop Castle, often emerging victorious through teamwork and tactical discipline. The U11 Peacocks enjoyed an unbeaten season, with Raff Cable-Alexander (Year 5, Symonds) making crucial saves, and Will Rainey (Year 6, Baker) and Tia Read (Year 6, Gwyn) scoring some spectacular solo goals.
With a busy fixture list and the transition to seven-a-side play, the U10/11 girls developed a deeper understanding of attacking and defensive strategies. Chloé Langridge (Year 6, Baker), Martha Bishop (Year 5, Lockwood), Marnie Perkins (Year 5, Gwyn), and Eloise Young-Gale (Year 5, Symonds) consistently delivered high-quality performances, impressing both coaches and visiting teams with their composure and skill.
Cricket Cricket has been a source of great enjoyment and achievement this year, with pupils embracing both the technical and tactical aspects of the game.
Netball Netball has provided an excellent platform for pupils to develop agility, coordination, and strategic thinking, with all year groups showing great enthusiasm and progress. These pupils embraced the fundamentals of the game, including footwork, passing, and shooting. Their energy and determination were evident in every fixture. Romilly Bishop (Year 3, Lockwood), Shaikhah Alhudaibi (Year 4, Lockwood), Tunmise Akinrolabu (Year 3, Gwyn), and Ava Townsend (Year 4, Symonds) stood out for their movement, vision, and teamwork.
Pupils focused on developing their bowling action, batting technique, and fielding awareness. Austin Harding (Year 4, Symonds) and Martha Florey (Year 4, Baker) showed particular dedication, making excellent progress throughout the season. The U11 Hardball team enjoyed a strong season, culminating in a thrilling victory against Hatherop Castle. Josh Price (Year 6, Gwyn), Tia Read (Year 6, Gwyn), and Leo Barton (Year 6,
Gwyn) led the way with powerful batting and accurate bowling. Raff Cable-Alexander (Year 5, Symonds) and George Theyer (Year 5, Symonds) stepped up admirably to support the team. Jasper Collins (Year 6, Symonds) and Scarlet Milles (Year 6, Symonds) also made significant contributions, demonstrating excellent technique and game awareness.
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Cross-Country Event at Manor Prep Cokethorpe Prep showcased exceptional running skills in the Cross-Country event at The Manor Prep. Our Year 3 to 6 pupils displayed remarkable resilience and sportsmanship in some impressive long-distance races. The event was a true testament to the dedication and hard work of our young athletes. Each pupil gave their best effort, pushing through challenging courses with determination and enthusiasm.
We are incredibly proud of all our runners for their outstanding performances and the positive spirit they brought to the competition. Their perseverance and teamwork are a shining example of the values we uphold at Cokethorpe Prep.
Swimming Swimming has continued to flourish, with pupils participating in a range of galas and demonstrating strong technique, stamina, and competitive spirit. The swim squad competed against schools including Oxford High, The Dragon, and Cothill, with many pupils achieving personal bests and contributing to team success. Josh Price (Year 6, Lockwood) and Honor Ledger (Year 6, Symonds) excelled across all four strokes, consistently performing at a high level. Other notable swimmers included Hugo Lindsay (Year 6, Gwyn), Jasper Collins (Year 6, Symonds), Chloé Langridge (Year 6, Baker), Martha Bishop (Year 5, Lockwood), Molly McCahill (Year 5, Symonds), and Ellen van Maasakkers (Year 5, Gwyn), all of whom demonstrated commitment and resilience throughout the season.
Prep School Sports Day 'Excitement filled the air for the Prep School’s much-anticipated Sports Day. The four Houses Baker, Gwyn, Lockwood, and Symonds - battled it out for the honour of being crowned the 2025 Sports Day Champions. The day began with the Pre-Prep races, where young stars like Oliver Beechey (Year 2, Symonds), Louis Langridge (Year 1, Symonds), Oscar Smith (Year 1, Symonds), Arléo Gindre (Reception Class, Lockwood), Seren Florey (Year 2, Baker), Ruby Jennings (Year 2, Symonds), and Naomi Heywood (Year 1, Lockwood) impressed everyone with their enthusiasm, determination, and sportsmanship. The energy carried through to the Year 3 to 6 events, which featured a thrilling mix of track and field competitions. From lightning-fast 60-metre sprints to the stamina-testing 800-metre runs, every race was a showcase of effort and athleticism. Year 6 pupils also introduced the long jump, carefully pacing their run-ups before soaring into the sandpit. The grand finale was the House relay, a gripping race that had everyone on the edge of their seats. In a stunning display of teamwork and speed, Gwyn House clinched the victory and proudly took home the title of 2025 Prep Sports Day Champions. Throughout the day, pupils embodied the Cokethorpe spirit and the character of the ‘Go for it Gorilla’, showing resilience, camaraderie, and a love for sport. It was a day to remember - full of cheers, challenges, and celebration.' Mr Baker Head of Prep Sport
Year 3 to 6 Special Mentions Year 3 Blue Milles (Symonds) and Charlie Laight (Lockwood) - 60m dash Jack Bishop (Baker) - Overall attitude and perseverance in all events Tunmise Akinrolabu (Gwyn) and Phoebe Mardle (Symonds) - Speed bounce and standing long jump Year 4 Woody Heaton (Gwyn) - 60m dash Alexander Heywood (Lockwood) - 400m Ava Townsend (Symonds) - 60m dash and long jump Year 5 Marnie Perkins (Gwyn) - 60m and 75m Hurdles Eloise Young-Gale (Symonds) - 400m Sophie Campbell (Baker) - Vortex throw Raff Cable-Alexander (Symonds) and James Clayton (Baker) - 400m Year 6 Will Rainey (Baker) - 60m dash and 75m hurdles Josh Price (Lockwood) - 800m Tia Read (Gywn) - 60m dash and 800m Anna Kroener (Gwyn) - 200m Burfitt Award Tia Read (Year 6, Gywn)
Senior School Sports Day ‘It is hard to remember a more competitive Sports Day in the last eight years. A few points separated the top three Houses as the four x 100m relays began, to end a wonderful afternoon of sport. The Tug of War always draws the biggest crowds and once again it did not disappoint. Harcourt and Feilden were contesting two of the three finals, so it was theirs to lose, but it was the Gascoigne Senior team that looked the most impressive. They decimated all in front of them on their way to a Senior event win, whilst Feilden impressively won the cup. On the track, there was power, pace and drama in abundance. Lissy Mercer (Second Form, Queen Anne), and Eddy Woodley-Green (First Form, Swift), broke records in the First and Second Form 300m, whilst Joshua Spolander (Third Form, Queen Anne), and Jemima Jewson (Third Form, Swift) were in imperious form, setting records in the Third Form equivalent. In the Senior 300m races, the ever-athletic presence of Immy Harris (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) set her own record with debutant Sophia Francis (Lower Sixth, Feilden) also securing a record and storming to victory in the 1,500m. This was followed by the race of the day where Freddie Morlock (Lower Sixth, Feilden) held off Joseph Westmoreland (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) in the 1,500m to win by a cat’s whisker. Freddie and Joseph have competed in School Cross Country events for over five years and the race was befitting of their dominance and athleticism. Special mentions must go to Luke Taylor (Lower Sixth, Swift) and Olivia Wood (Third Form, Harcourt) who might not have broken records, but had dominant victories across the afternoon. In the field events, it is hard to look past the athletic prowess of Grace Bassey (Second Form, Vanbrugh) who oozed class, beating every boy and girl in the javelin, and followed that up with victory in the long jump. Murray Gray (Lower Sixth, Feilden) threw 30m in the javelin for an event win, whilst Ralph Hyne (Third Form, Harcourt), dominated the Third Form throwing events, and Eva Graves (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) was an everpresent force for Fourth Form Gascoigne across the afternoon. And back to the four x 100m relays where more records were broken, as Feilden Senior boys stormed to victory with a time of 52.45 whilst Feilden Senior girls also won with a record of 1.01.49. That just left the announcement of our winners. Feilden were awarded the Maskery Cup for winning the Tug of War. Lola Fitzgerald (Fourth Form, Feilden) was awarded the Burfitt Cup for outstanding athlete, for the second year in a row following her dominance on the track with wins in the 100m, 200m, 300m and relay. And it was a clean sweep as newly appointed Head of School, Mida Loci (Lower Sixth, Feilden), awarded the Sports Day Cup to Feilden’s new Head of House, Joe Norman (Lower Sixth, Feilden).’ Mr Robinson Director of Sport
Rugby First XV The Senior Rugby season concluded in traditional fashion at the prestigious Sedbergh National Rugby Tens Competition in March. Last year’s event had seen Cokethorpe record their first ever victory – a pulsating 19-14 win over King Edward’s School, Bath. Single score losses to Felsted (0-5) and King’s Macclesfield (19-14) demonstrated the growing maturity of our rugby. However, it was a comprehensive and stunning 21-0 victory against Dulwich College that will live long in the memory. NextGenXV covered the tournament on YouTube and in print and described the victory as ‘a wonderful moment that really set the competition alight.’ The tournament at Sedbergh ended a season that had begun seven months earlier on the Rugby and Hockey Tour to South Africa. A 57-22 win against Pate’s Grammar School and a score of 69-5 against Crypt Grammar School demonstrated our attacking prowess. The season also included a competition winning performance at the Mount Kelly Tens Tournament, the runners-up spot in the Society of Heads Tens Competition and Plate winners at the Kingham Hill Sevens Competition.
Likewise, Ernie Morgan-Sanders (Fifth Form, Swift) who scored 52 points in ten matches was electric in attack, regularly terrorising the oppositions’ defences. Both boys earned well deserved call ups to the First team at different points in the season. The Rugby term is a tough and physically demanding season, so a special mention has to go to the three boys who turned up, played and contributed to every match of the season: Ollie Herbert (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), Callum Costley (Fifth Form, Feilden) and Sam Weldon (Fifth Form, Harcourt). A real season to build on for the boys, many of these chaps will certainly go on to earn many First team appearances. U15 This season was extremely positive for the U15 rugby team. Led brilliantly by Captain Will Stevenson (Fourth Form, Queen Anne) and Vice-Captain Aled Ogden (Fourth Form, Swift), the team showed remarkable dedication, skill, and teamwork throughout the term. A pre-season tour to play Kirkham Grammar School not only helped to build team spirit but also showed them exactly what it was going to take to compete at the very highest level. They started the season with excellent victories against Burford School in the Cup, and away at Cotswold School. The standout performance of the season was undoubtedly their fixture against St Birinus. The team played exceptionally well, showcasing their skills and running in tries from all over the pitch. The team's Cup run was impressive, with strong performances leading them to the regional semi-final. Unfortunately, the run ended when they came up short against St Clement Danes. Despite the loss, the team showed great resilience and determination. Throughout the season, the team worked hard and showed continuous improvement. U14
Whilst it is always difficult to highlight individuals within such a wonderful team, it would be amiss not to mention the leadership group that consisted of Captain Findlay Knox (Upper Sixth, Feilden) who has been the epitome of Cokethorpe Rugby during his seven years of service in the Senior School. Player of the year, Philip Croker (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne), is perhaps the best schoolboy sportsman Cokethorpe has ever seen, and his performances were the stuff of legend. And in the engine room, Club Captain, Finn Prendergast (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne), and Vice-Captain Finley Gregory-Newman (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) whose combative and high energy performances set the tone every week. Second XV The Second XV had the ultimate season of small margins. Seven of the eleven fixtures were decided by less than five points. This was epitomised by the final game of the season where Cokethorpe came away 15-14 victors against The Crypt School. The fighting spirit of the team was best exemplified by Player of the Season Rhys Darrock (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne), a hard-hitting ball carrier and dominant tackler who scored fifteen points in nine matches.
Despite only securing two wins, there is much to be positive about with the rugby played by this group of boys. As the season evolved so did their understanding of how to hold a defensive structure, as well as aspects of attacking play around the contact area. During the season, 23 boys played for the A team at one stage or another and it was lovely to see them all coming on in their physicality and confidence. Our Captain and Number 8, Fraser O’Driscoll (Third Form, Gascoigne) led the team with real passion and determination and was voted as the Players' Player of the Year. Joshua Spolander (Third Form, Queen Anne) had an excellent season in
the centre, showcasing some very hard running and an improved and improving defensive skill set: he scored twelve tries in total. Daniel Luis Medel (Third Form, Queen Anne), in only his second season of playing rugby, gained promotion from the B team to A and was deservedly recognised by his teammates as the Most Improved Player. U13 The U13 rugby boys enjoyed a progressive season, winning five of their ten matches. Their most notable wins came against St Hugh's and Hatherop Castle. What was pleasing throughout the season, was the togetherness of the team and willingness to improve. Whilst players stood out with their try scoring, tackling or leadership, everyone in the squad stood up to be counted and showed strength in all quarters. Will Chandler (Second Form, Gascoigne) was a constant threat with ball in hand, powering over the gain line at will, whilst Tony Garner’s (Second Form, Gascoigne) sniping runs from scrum half kept defences on their toes, whilst in the wide channels, Sam Rainey (Second Form, Swift) was never too far from the try line.
U12A and B This season the focus for the U12 coaches was to ensure that every single player had the opportunity to develop a passion for rugby. Their enthusiasm and ambition meant that we were able to field two full contact squads throughout the season and the A team slots were always in contention as players improved throughout the term. The B team played a mixture of contact games against a variety of U12 and U13B teams. Their highlight was the stunning victory they achieved against Winchester House School away from home. The A team showcased some outstanding examples of free-flowing rugby with a notable example being the superb seven try second half against a very strong Shiplake team. For them, the season ended with a nail-biting and intense match against local rivals Abingdon Prep where dogged determination from the Cokethorpe squad allowed them to clinch victory in the dying minutes of the game in front of a jubilant home crowd. The future is bright with this age group with Oscar Rivers (First Form, Feilden), Eddie Woodley-Green (First Form, Swift) and Sawyer Morris (First Form, Gascoigne) all being players to watch out for in the coming years.
Hockey First XI Girls The Senior Hockey team started the season energised with many having just returned from a hockey tour to South Africa. The exceptional and progressive hockey leadership team of Captain, Mae Serjeant (Upper Sixth, Swift), Vice-Captain, Calla Whitby (Upper Sixth, Feilden) and Head of Hockey, Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift) has allowed for Girls’ sport and hockey to be fully championed this season, with our Senior pupils truly inspiring our younger pupils. Three Fifth Form players within the First XI, Aneliese Sagar (Fifth Form, Swift), Hattie Hunt (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) and Freya Chandler (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) represented the Oxfordshire U16 County team this season where they won the league. Hattie Hunt was selected to represent Witney Ladies First XI and Libby Lawman (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) who also played U17 Oxfordshire County this season, played for Oxford Hawks First XI, with both teams competing in the National League. The First XI Hockey team progressed through to the Regional Round of the England Schools Hockey Championships having progressed through from the Oxfordshire County Round where they played competitively against the best teams from the South of England. Players Player went to Mae Serjeant and Coaches Player of the Season went to Nancy Christensen and Libby Lawman.
Second XI The Second XI Hockey team also rose to the challenge this season, with many U16 players making their debut within this team. Solid goalkeeping from Zoe Cameron (Fifth Form, Queen Anne) and captaincy from Holly Meredith (Fifth Form, Feilden) allowed for a competitive season. Players’ Player went to Izzy Treadwell (Fifth Form, Swift) and Coaches’ Player to Georgia Pownall (Fifth Form, Queen Anne). First XI Boys The Boys First XI enjoyed a Lent Term of hockey fixtures against schools across the County and beyond. Edward Cale (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and Archie Griffiths (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) demonstrated versatility and a steadfast, determined approach both on and off the pitch. With quick movements on and off the ball and courageous attack in the D, the boys had an exciting season. Barnaby Cale (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) rifled in a strike from the top of the D, beating an international
goalkeeper in the process in one fixture against d'Overbroeck's. U16 The U16s participated in the U16 Indoor County tournament, pupils demonstrated exceptional tactical awareness and speed when transferring their game into a fast-paced indoor environment and were successful in winning games against Independent Schools in the County. This placed them a highly commendable third place overall.
U15 The U15 Hockey team were undefeated nearly all season, up until their very last fixture. An exceptional team who made a huge amount of progress this year. It started with a tour to Sheffield at the end of the summer which included a day at the Wolf Academy hockey training camp. The girls were put through their paces and strong team morale was evident early on as they played the first fixture of the season against Hill House. Martha Pumfrey (Fourth Form, Harcourt) displayed intricate stick control and quick decision making throughout the season earning her Coaches’ Player. Merryn Tattersall (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) was fierce on the ball and exerted her relentless energy to ensure that tackles were won, earning her Players’ Player. Lola Fitzgerald (Fourth Form, Feilden), Evie Greatrex (Fourth Form, Harcourt) and Bella Smith (Fourth Form, Harcourt) who also plays for Oxfordshire, were linchpins of the team this season. U14A and B A hugely talented squad and an aspirational group of athletes in the U14 team led to a competitive and closely contested season. As the U14s stretched their game to eleven a-side, they made notable progress. Lily Cryan (Third Form, Feilden) joined the U14A team with her awe-inspiring approach to goalkeeping, we wish her all the best as she progresses through to the next stage of the England Hockey National Talent Pathway. Winning the plate competition at the Oxfordshire County Tournament was a highlight, which came down to a win secured by penalty shuffles. Bobbie Hunt (Third Form, Gascoigne) honed her skill as a right midfielder. Arabella Armytage (Third Form, Queen Anne) secured Players’ Player and Coaches’ Player went to Georgia Standbridge (Third Form, Queen Anne) who effectively controlled the pitch and captained with confidence from centre midfield. With concerted dedication at training and a desire to develop, the U14Bs made strides
this season. Tibby Bignone (Third Form, Feilden), Elissa Boyle (Third Form, Harcourt) and Lily Griffiths (Third Form, Gascoigne) all made exceptional progress. Players’ Player went to Elissa Boyle and Coaches’ Player to Lily Griffiths.
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U14 Boys The U14 Boys’ Hockey team were relentless this season, they committed themselves fully to training and demonstrated exceptional progress throughout the season. Reuben Uglow (Third Form, Gascoigne) was successful in gaining a place in the U14 Oxfordshire County Hockey team and it was inspiring for the First and Second Form pupils to see his excellent technical and tactical knowledge in action on the pitch. Huge congratulations to Benjamin Gimson (First Form, Feilden) for making his debut this season, showing lots of promise and to William McHale (Third Form, Feilden) for his strategic response when goalkeeping. Lewis Campbell (Third Form, Vanbrugh) and Sam Young-Gale (Second Form, Queen Anne) should also be commended for their strength in attack. U13A, B and C The U13s physical strength, confidence and versatility were evident throughout the season. The County Tournament was an excellent example of the U13As displaying true Cokethorpe spirit and sporting prowess, they focused on honing their skill and tactics each game against tough competition. Steadfast goalkeeping and tactical strategy were delivered by Sammi Eagle (Second Form, Queen Anne) and excellent leadership evident from Nell Greatrex (Second Form, Harcourt) who has also been playing for the U13 Oxfordshire County this season. All three teams played with grit and determination. U13A Players’ Player went to Tamsin Pratt (Second Form, Feilden) and Coaches’ Player to Scarlett Gould (Second Form, Harcourt) whose athleticism and strength on the ball was formidable. The U13B Players’ Player went to Grace Bassey (Second Form, Vanbrugh) and Coaches’ Player Mia Beechey (Second Form, Swift) and U13C Coaches’ Player to Alila Tribble (Second Form, Swift) and Players’ Player to Joanna Cioffi (Second Form, Harcourt). U12s The U12s are a squad of aspiring pupils who displayed a huge amount of potential this season. Technical skills were enhanced each week, and they were able to apply those skills with increasing confidence during their fixtures. The U12A team came in third place at the Oxfordshire County tournament, an incredible achievement for this vibrant team. Players’ Player for the U12As went to Megan Bartlett (First Form, Vanburgh) and Coaches’ Player to Rosie Trietline (First Form, Harcourt). Coaches’ Player for the U12Bs went to Darcey Smith (First Form, Vanbrugh) and Players’ Player to Sophia Burton (First Form, Gascoigne) and the U12Cs Players’ Player went to Evelyn Crawford (First Form, Queen Anne) and Coaches’ Player Emilia Cook (First Form, Gascoigne). Huge commendation goes to our U12 goalkeepers who were valiant throughout the season.
Football First XI The First XI enjoyed yet another excellent season but unfortunately could not quite retain the Society of Heads Cup, losing a tight final 3-1 to Denstone College. As the season progressed the team won game after game, powered by the prolific goal scoring of Zack Galliford (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne). Notable wins came against Reading Blue Coats, where our Captain, and now Crewe Alexandria professional, Philip Croker (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) scored from the halfway line. Soon came Cup semi-finals, where a last-minute injury time goal from William Hansen (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) took the match to penalties against Milton Abbey. Joseph Westmoreland (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) saved two penalties, and that left Charlie Sydenham (Upper Sixth, Swift) to calmly slide home the winning penalty. The next day, the First team played the County semi-final against Lord Williams’s School, and despite being the better side for much of the match Cokethorpe lost 1-0, exhausted from their exploits the day before.
in midfield, providing stability and control in the centre of the pitch. Hugo Du Plessis (Fourth Form, Harcourt), who delivered excellent performances and contributed significantly to the team's strengths in defence, as well as Toby Wyatt (Fourth Form, Swift) who was a constant threat up front, delivering some wonderful finishes and ability to beat a player with his pace. The team worked hard all season, and their efforts have laid a strong foundation for future success. With the promising talent and dedication displayed by the players, the future looks very bright for this group of boys moving forward. U14 The U14 football team have been through an incredible journey during the Lent Term and developed leadership skills that will stay with them for years to come. They showed impressive resilience in the first few weeks of the term to overcome defeats against Burford School and Chipping Campden School where they were very competitive, but lapses in concentration proved costly. They took responsibility for learning from their mistakes and followed this up with some impressive victories against Hatherop Castle and Shiplake, with a hardfought draw against Marlborough School. And then came the ambition of the Cup run. With victory in the quarter-final penalty shootout against the Swan School, Faringdon Community College awaited in the semi-final, however the opposition proved too strong.
Although the season ended trophyless - this can go down as a great season for the team, with ten wins and only three losses. Next season, we will be looking to the younger players to step up and fill the shoes of our Upper Sixth footballing legends who move on to pastures new. U15 The U15s had a very encouraging season. Led by Captain and centre back Archie Ricks (Fourth Form, Harcourt), the team demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the term. The team started the season with impressive victories against Stowe School and Bartholomew School, setting a positive tone for the term. Their best performance came away against a skilful Burford side, where the team displayed exceptional teamwork and strategic play. Unfortunately, the team's run in the County Cup was ended in close fashion away at Lord Williams’s School. Despite the loss, the team showed great determination and fought hard until the final whistle. Throughout the season, several players stood out for their exceptional contributions including Joel Davies (Fourth Form, Harcourt), who worked tirelessly
Captain Georgia Standbridge (Third Form, Queen Anne) was Player of the Season for her unrelenting commitment and physicality, as well as her ability to drag her team through tough games. Joshua Spolander (Third Form, Queen Anne) was at times, unplayable, and was a constant threat with the ball at his feet. Lily Cryan (Third Form, Feilden) and Sam Bartlett (Third Form, Vanbrugh) offered moments of brilliance throughout the season whilst Jonty Masters (Third Form, Harcourt) and Freddie Cartwright (Third Form, Swift) were the defensive unit that kept scores far more competitive. U13 The U13s embarked on a season of transformation as they made the leap from nine-a-side to the full eleven-a-side format. With a squad of talented individuals still learning to play as a cohesive unit, the
early stages of the season were marked by growing pains and tough lessons. Initial results reflected the adjustment period, including a 0-4 defeat to Burford School and a narrow 2-3 loss to Bartholomew School. But these setbacks only ignited the team’s determination to improve and grow together. As the season progressed, the U13s began to find their rhythm. A standout moment came in a thrilling 6-3 comeback victory over Abingdon Prep, where the boys displayed remarkable resilience and unity. Another highlight was a hard-fought 3-2 win against Shiplake College, a match that tested their resolve and showcased their growing chemistry. In the Cup competition, the team delivered one of their most spirited performances. Trailing in the dying minutes against Woodgreen School, they clawed their way back to force extra time. Though they ultimately fell short in a tense penalty shootout, the match was a testament to their never-say-die attitude and fighting spirit. The season concluded on a high with a confident 3-1 win over Chipping Campden School and a well-earned 2-2 draw against Marlborough School, results that reflected a team that had matured significantly in both skill and spirit. U12 The U12s demonstrated remarkable spirit and resilience throughout a challenging season. Despite facing strong opposition from predominantly comprehensive schools, the team maintained a positive attitude and showed great determination in every match. The players must be commended for their team spirit. They developed a strong sense of togetherness, supporting each other both in training and matches. Their resilience in the face of negative results was remarkable, and everyone took pride in being part of the team. Some of the notable individual performances of the season came from Xavier Dodd (First Form, Feilden), for his quick reactions and determination in goal that often were crucial in keeping the scores low. Oscar Rivers (First Form, Feilden), Harry Skeen (First Form, Gascoigne), Harry Convery (First Form, Feilden), and Henry Willcock (First Form, Gascoigne). These players exhibited exceptional leadership on and off the pitch, always encouraging their teammates and fostering a positive environment. The season concluded with a highlight victory against Christ Church Cathedral School. Overall, the team should be proud of their efforts and achievements this season. Their dedication, teamwork, and positive attitude are qualities that will serve them well in their future fixtures.
Netball The 2025 netball season was a celebration of resilience, growth, and unity across all levels of play. From the Senior squads to the youngest teams, every player contributed to a year defined by determination, camaraderie, and a shared passion for the game. The season was filled with thrilling victories, close contests, and countless moments of individual and team brilliance. First VII At the top of the programme, the First VII delivered a standout season, marked by exceptional tenacity and cohesion. Their campaign was highlighted by a tactically astute performance against MCS, a gritty win over Burford and a memorable triumph over St Edward’s, Cheltenham. The team’s ability to adapt and execute under pressure was a testament to their preparation and unity. Nancy Christensen’s (Upper Sixth, Swift) leadership as captain was pivotal - her influence on and off the court earned her both the Players’ Player and Coaches’ Player awards. Second VII The Second VII also enjoyed a successful season, demonstrating flexibility and resilience.
With players frequently stepping up to support other teams and even represent other schools, their commitment to the wider netball community was commendable. Their consistency and willingness to adapt were key to their strong performances throughout the term. U15 Across the younger squads, the energy and enthusiasm were equally impressive. The U15s played with relentless pace and precision. Standout performances in the centre court from Martha Pumphrey (Fourth Form, Harcourt) and Lily Treadaway (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), along with sharp shooting from Bella Smith (Fourth Form, Harcourt), Lola Fitzgerald (Fourth Form, Feilden), and Emily Von Braunswieg (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), set the tone for a dynamic season. Newcomer Megan Bell (Fourth Form, Felilden) made an immediate impact, while Connie Hill (Fourth Form, Gascoigne), Nina Larsson (Fourth Form, Queen Anne), and Lucy Charlesworth (Fourth Form, Queen Anne) showed remarkable development. U14 The U14 teams brought both flair and determination to the court. The A team faced tough opposition but rose to the challenge with resilience and skill. Flora Chugg’s (Third Form, Vanbrugh) consistent excellence earned her the
Players’ Player award, while Freya Vincent’s (Third Form, Queen Anne) leadership as captain was recognised with the Coaches’ Player accolade. Meanwhile, the C team impressed with their positivity and commitment to improvement. Elissa Boyle’s (Third Form, Harcourt) leadership, Julia Sturm’s (Third Form, Gascoigne) rapid development, and Hikmat Adedokun’s (Third Form, Queen Anne)defensive prowess were highlights of a season full of growth.
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U12/13 Among the youngest players, the U12/13C team made an inspiring debut. Their communication and teamwork improved dramatically over the season, leading to a string of strong performances. Aria Taylor-Edwards (First Form, Harcourt) stood out for her defensive acumen, while Sophia Burton’s (First Form, Gascoigne)consistency in the centre earned her multiple Player of the Match awards. Their humility, resilience, and eagerness to learn were a joy to witness. This year’s netball journey was not just about results - it was about the spirit of the game. The players’ dedication, the coaches’ guidance, and the support from the wider school community all contributed to a season to remember. Congratulations to everyone involved for making 2025 a truly outstanding year for netball.
Tennis ‘It has been an outstanding term for our growing Tennis programme. Seventy selected players showed commitment and a strong will to improve their game, and the injection of a further specialist coach on Mondays increased the effectiveness of the sessions.
The three teams competed in a record-setting number of fixtures and won 70% of them. The season was peppered with exceptional results, such as the first place in the U15 tournament at St Helen & St Katharine, where our team triumphed over eight other teams from the host school, Oxford High, Headington and Bloxham. It is also notable that our U12/13 and our U14/15A teams won all their fixtures bar one.
competition for independent schools. This year's results put Cokethorpe firmly in the tennis radar and give us momentum to continue to develop our programme.’
The finishing touch to a remarkable term came at the Independent Schools Tennis Association Championships, where Chloe Webber (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) and Olivia Wood (Third Form, Harcourt) achieved our best result since 2018 and the second best overall. Following a brilliant round robin stage and winning their first round of the main draw, they fought hard before conceding the match against the pair that went on to win the tournament. Their effort placed our U15 team in the top sixteen out of 74 teams in the most important national
Athletics and Cross-Country The Athletics season this year has been filled with a mixture of physical prowess and self-determination from our athletes to secure personal bests alongside the joy of working together in a multi-year group, where pupils have developed teamwork and leadership along the way. Pupils worked hard on their chosen disciplines throughout the season where pupils have strived to run faster, jump higher and throw further. Athletics meets took place with fierce determination and focus at the forefront of every event. Notable events included a win against Kitebrook early in the season and excellent success secured particularly in the field events this season. William Clarke (Third Form, Vanbrugh), Lola Fitzgerald (Fourth Form, Feilden) and Ella Hayward O’Neill (First Form, Gascoigne) attended the County Athletics Championships at Tilsley Park. William Clarke, Joshua Spolander (Third Form, Queen Anne), Prince Cutcher (Fourth Form, Queen Anne), Lola Fitzgerald, Jessica Lewis (Third Form, Swift), Bobbie Hunt (Third Form,
Gascoigne), Eva Graves (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) and Ella Hayward O‘Neill demonstrated excellent potential in sprint events. Esmae Lakey-Dodson (First Form, Swift) and Riley McGovern (First Form, Vanbrugh) threw with commitment and ambition. Micah Hogeboom (First Form, Swift) and George Berlanger (Fourth Form, Feilden) demonstrated exceptional endurance and willingness to strive in terms of athletic potential. Grace Bassey (Second Form, Vanbrugh) and Prince Cutcher dominated in the javelin, whilst Scout Andreason (First Form, Harcourt), Eva Graves and Brooke Woodley-Green (Third Form, Swift) demonstrated both power and reach in the long jump and triple jump. It was great to see the Athletics programme growing and flourishing this season. We look forward to growing the programme further next season with more training opportunities at Tilsley based on this year’s success.
Cross-Country The Cross-Country season began with the annual Corinthian Run, a whole-School House competition that celebrates endurance, determination, and community spirit. Every pupil took part, representing their House with pride. Congratulations to: Ella Hayward O’Neill and Sam Rainey (Second Form, Swift) who won the Junior Individual race, Olivia Wood (Third Form, Harcourt) and Joshua Spolander who won the Intermediate category and Mae Serjeant (Upper Sixth, Swift) and Freddie Morlock (Lower Sixth, Feilden) who won the Seniors.
In October, the School competed at the Oxfordshire County Round of the ESAA Championships, with impressive performances across all age groups. The Junior Boys finished 5th overall, led by Sam Rainey, who placed 11th in the county. The Junior girls finished 3rd, and the Seniors finished 2nd, which qualified both teams for the regional round. They both delivering outstanding performances, and although they narrowly missed out on qualifying for nationals, their effort and resilience were exceptional and a credit to the School. In January, for the first time, the School hosted the Oxfordshire Schools Cross Country Championships, marking a significant milestone in its sporting calendar. Top performers were: Joshua Spolander who finished 4th and qualified for the Oxfordshire national team, Ella Hayward O'Neill who positioned 8th, and Freya Hadfield (First Form, Harcourt) who came in 10th place. All three athletes went on to compete at the national level, with each finishing just outside the top 100 in the country – a remarkable achievement.
Cricket First XI Boys
Under the inspiring leadership of captain Louis Stanfield (Upper Sixth, Swift), the First XI enjoyed a winning season filled with memorable performances and historic milestones. The team celebrated a landmark victory against the MCC, marking a high point in a season of strong results. Batting contributions came from across the year groups, with Fourth Form pupils, Hugo du Plessis (Harcourt) and Archie Ricks (Harcourt) showing maturity beyond their years, while Upper Sixth leavers Dan Westmoreland (Harcourt) and Edward Harris (Vanbrugh) signed off in style with consistent and powerful displays. With the ball, Felix Batchelor (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) and Luke Glazer (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) led the attack with skill and precision, ably supported by Dan Pickford’s (Upper Sixth, Swift) reliable spells. Joseph Westmoreland (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) was outstanding behind the stumps, whilst Luke Taylor (Lower Sixth, Swift), Fletch Jewell (Upper Sixth, Feilden), Edward Morgan (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) and Murray Gray (Lower Sixth, Feilden) also made valuable contributions with the bat. With a wealth of emerging talent, the future looks bright for the First XI, and there is every confidence they will continue to go from strength to strength over the coming years. First XI Girls This term has been one of firsts, milestones, and memories as Cokethorpe proudly fielded its inaugural Girls’ First XI cricket team. To step out as pioneers of the programme was no small task, and every player should be commended for the way they embraced the challenge of competing at the highest level. From the opening fixture to the closing over of the season, this group demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and a determination to keep raising the bar – constantly breaking records as the very first to wear the First XI badge. With the bat, Daisy Chugg (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) emerged as the standout performer, gaining recognition as the side’s leading run-scorer. Her ability to anchor innings,
provided a platform for the team time and again. Daisy’s contributions gave the batting order stability, marking her as a player to watch in the seasons ahead. With the ball in hand, Captain Georgia Pownall (Fifth Form, Queen Anne) established herself as the team’s top bowler. Her accuracy, variation, and competitive spirit made her a constant threat to opposition line-ups, and her breakthroughs often came at pivotal moments in matches. Georgia’s consistency with the ball was central to the side’s progress and her performances set the standard for others to follow. Equally vital to the team’s success were those who showed reliability and commitment in every fixture. Martha Pumfrey (Fourth Form, Harcourt) deserves recognition for her unwavering consistency across the season, stepping up whenever required and ensuring the team had a strong presence in the middle. Alongside her, Immy Armstrong (Fourth Form, Queen Anne) and Bella Smith (Fourth Form, Harcourt) made significant contributions, both with their skill and their determination, demonstrating the depth and promise within the squad.
Beyond the statistics, what has truly defined this term is the spirit of togetherness and the trailblazing role this group has played. Every match represented a new step into history for Cokethorpe cricket, and this First XI has set the foundation for future squads to build upon. The players can look back on their first season with enormous pride: they have not only competed but also carved their place in the School’s sporting story. 2nd XI Boys The 2nd XI had a great win over Bloxham early in the season with particularly strong performances from James Keeling (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) and Jack Potter (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne). Stanley Harris (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) has always been another individual to rely on both bowling and with the bat. There was a great victory against Kingham Hill chasing them down in only ten overs. There were standout performances with bat and ball from Rowan Powell (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), Finn Winfield (Fourth Form, Feilden), Ollie Pickford (Fifth Form, Swift) and Arthur Butler (Fifth Form, Swift).
U14 Girls The U14 Girls’ team had a wonderful and sun filled season this year, ending with two wins in our five games. The highlight was undoubtedly a win by five wickets at Didcot Cricket club against Didcot Girls' School where Lily Cryan (Third Form, Feilden) batted the overs and won on the last ball. Other highlights of the season were Darcy Atkinson’s (Third Form, Feilden) 30 runs at Cotswold School and Flora Chugg (Third Form, Vanbrugh) bowling well in final two games of the year to finish the season as top wicket taker. Finally, it was great to see Arabella Armytage (Third Form, Queen Anne) and Eva Pownall (Third Form, Queen Anne) step up and play some First XI Girls’ cricket, showing how much promise there is in this cricket side.
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U14 Boys The talented U14A Boys’ team had a very successful season with some notable individual and team performances. The standout results were the wins against very strong Abingdon and Stowe teams, the latter being particularly impressive as the opposition put the team under real pressure towards the end, but they held their nerve to win by fourteen runs. Theo Antoniou (Third Form, Gascoigne) led the team with aplomb, making excellent field placings in many tricky situations, and he set a great example with the bat, including an undefeated 91 against Burford. Our bowling was generally tight, never more so than in the fixture against Stowe where both Freddie McGibbon (Third Form, Harcourt) and Josh Antoniou (Third Form, Vanbrugh) both took three wickets. U13 Girls A successful season for this enthusiastic squad. With wins against Hatherop Castle and Wood Green the team demonstrated improvement over the season in all aspects of batting, bowling and fielding. Everyone was willing to try both batting and bowling, with much promise for next year. Special mentions go to Scarlett Gould (Second Form, Harcourt) and Bella Ferguson (First Form, Queen Anne) for their batting and to Kacy Scott (Second Form, Vanbrugh) for her bowling, with a particular mention for her hattrick in June. U13 Boys The U13 cricket team are a talented bunch of boys. They have real strength in depth and were well led by Nicholas Burrow (Second Form, Feilden). They played seven matches with four wins, two losses and one abandoned game. Batting was the real strength of this team and there were some great knocks from Tristan Amy (Second Form, Vanbrugh) and Tony Garner (Second Form, Gascoigne). The leading bowler was George Clarke (Second Form, Vanbrugh) who was on fire at the end of the season. Going forward there is some great potential with this group.
Equestrian ‘Some changes have been taking place behind the scenes with the Cokethorpe Equestrian team and after several years acting as Team Manager, Ali Butler, has stepped down from her role. We would like to thank her for all her efforts in supporting the team and organising training sessions and competitions. It has been another successful year for the Cokethorpe Equestrian Team. Izzy Simpson (Second Form, Feilden) started the season off well qualifying for the SEG Eventing Championships with an excellent third placing in the 80cm class at Swalcliffe in September.
O’Neill (First Form, Gascoigne) all of whom performed brilliantly. Not only did Jemima take the individual win, but the team also won to qualify for the National Schools Show Jumping Championships in October both individually for Jemima and as a team. The same team with the addition of Alice also competed in the 80/85cm class to again take the win - earning a double qualification for the championships in October. This is a huge result competing in big classes against many of the other more recognised equestrian teams from other schools.
If anyone is keen to join the team or take part in NSEA/SEG Competitions then do please contact the new Team Manager, Michelle Hayward, or Assistant Manager, Lucy De Quincy Adams.’
At the beginning of June, the Equestrian team had a superb day at Rectory Farm in the NSEA National Qualifiers. Competing in the 70/75cm class were Jemima Jewson (Third Form, Swift), Izzy Simpson and Ella Hayward
skills on a range. There are still plans to develop this sport towards the increasingly popular ‘Target Sprint’ discipline, which requires strong cardiovascular fitness, alongside a cool head and rapid-fire consistency.
Shooting
Towards the end of the Summer Term, we held a new internal competition called the ‘Sporty 40’ to see who could connect with clays from a wide range of different targets. Every Wednesday across three weeks, our pupils faced a gruelling combination of 40 clays in a variety of ‘simultaneous’ and ‘on report’ pairs. From a grand total of 120 clays, it was
The top ten placed teams were then selected to go forward and jump again in the prestigious main arena, home of the famous Hickstead Derby bank. It was a huge honour for all the girls to qualify and have the opportunity to ride on such hallowed ground. A fantastic effort from all girls and their ponies resulted in an overall ninth place with some wonderful memories to last a lifetime. Special mention to Alice, who competed on a friend’s pony when her beloved TJ succumbed to a last-minute lameness, which is no mean feat on an unfamiliar pony.
In May, Alice de Quincey Adams (Third Form, Vanbrugh) came third in the 80cm class at the BS Schools Competition at Cricklands qualifying for the championships in August.
This year has seen a changing of the guard in Clay Pigeon Shooting. We have welcomed into the squad many fresh new faces from the younger years, who have all demonstrated great promise. We congratulate our newly appointed captain Curtis Woo (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), whose dedication to technique and hard work has been exemplary for the young guns to follow. We have also benefitted enormously from the addition of Mr Philips as Coach to the squad. With a lifetime of shooting under his belt, as well as military service and a previous position as Head Coach of Shooting at Kingham, Mr Philips has lent us his considerable knowledge and skill. The young squad cut their teeth in March in the Oxford Gun Company’s School’s Challenge and, although we did not place, this was a vital experience for our new recruits to prove themselves in the highest standards of competition.
A team of four, Jemima Jewson, Alice De Quincy Adams, Izzy Simpson and Nell Greatrex (Second Form, Harcourt) made the journey to West Sussex to complete a preliminary round against 21 other teams in the Hurst College National Schools Jumping Championships at Hickstead.
With our young clay squad, our eager Riflers, and the expansion of shooting opportunities, we are laying the foundations of Shooting success and the future of Cokethorpe Shooting looks very promising indeed.
refreshing to see so many make exceptional gains, having only taken up the sport as recently as April. The highest scoring three were Curtis Woo on 85, Barnaby Cale (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) with 87, and a superb 99 clays hit by Jack Cox (Fourth Form, Swift). He wins the ‘Top Gun’ trophy of 2025 and with it a voucher for lessons or clays from our professional partners at the Oxfordshire Shooting School. Rifles, one of the most popular AOBs, continues to go from strength to strength. With a range of new targets, but more importantly two new Weirauch rifles to assist development, our pupils have been honing their accuracy and consistency throughout the year. This activity is seen as the platform for graduating to senior clays, once pupils have demonstrated their professionalism and safety
If any pupil would like to be a part of the first ever Cokethorpe Target Sprint team, then please could they get in contact with Mr Walwyn directly on tjw@cokethorpe.org. This is a sport which we hope will grow quickly over the coming year and urge any interested pupils to sign up.
Sports Representations (County, Regional* or National Representatives**) Badminton Jasper Weir Basketball Asa Coughlan**
Cross Country Freya Hadfield** Ella Hayward O’Neill** Joshua Spolander**
Equestrian Arthur Butler** Alice de Quincey Adams** Nell Greatrex* Ella Hayward O’Neill** Jemima Jewson** Zara Nicholls** Izzy Simpson**
Football Philip Croker** Sam Rainey Archie Ricks Georgia Standbridge**
Rugby Immy Armstrong Rhys Darrock Murray Gray Austin Hunt Findlay Knox Freddie Leefield Edward Morgan** Ernie Morgan-Sanders* Jack Potter Luke Taylor* Dan Westmoreland Joseph Westmoreland
Tennis Chloe Webber** Olivia Wood**
Golf Jack Harris James Harris**
Climbing Patrick West**
Hockey Freya Chandler Lily Cryan** Evie Greatrex Nell Greatrex Hattie Hunt Libby Lawman Martha Pumfrey Aneliese Sagar Mae Serjeant Bella Smith Reuben Uglow
Netball Aurora Smith Freya Vincent
Cricket Tristan Amy Josh Antoniou Theo Antoniou* Nicholas Burrow Wilf Cable-Alexander Hugo Du Plessis Tony Garner Toby Keates Archie Ricks
Weightlifting Adam Asplundh**
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Sports Colours for Upper Sixth Michaelmas Term
Lent Term
Full Colours Felix Batchelor Ben Charlesworth Nancy Christensen Philip Croker Zack Galliford Finley Gregory-Newman Fletch Jewell Findlay Knox Freddie Leefield Edward Morgan Finnbar Murray Finn Prendergast Mae Serjeant Dan Westmoreland Calla Whitby
Rugby Rugby Hockey Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby Hockey Rugby Hockey
Half Colours Francesca Evans Sam Farr Fred Penny Dan Pickford Nathan Robertson
Hockey Rugby Rugby Rugby Rugby
Summer Term
Full Colours Edward Cale Nancy Christensen Philip Croker Zack Galliford Mae Serjeant Ethan Smith Louis Stanfield Charlie Sydenham Poppy Symonds
Hockey Netball Football Football Netball Football Football Football Netball
Half Colours Edward Harris Lottie Lifely Edward Morgan
Football Netball Football
Full Colours Felix Batchelor Edward Harris Dan Pickford Louis Stanfield Dan Westmoreland
Cricket Cricket Cricket Cricket Cricket
Half Colours Fletch Jewell Edward Morgan
Cricket Cricket
OUTDOOR EDUCATION Racing Kayaking What an incredible year it has been for our Racing Kayaking team. Building on the momentum of last year, we have developed a cohesive and determined squad spanning from Fourth Form to Sixth Form. This diverse and inclusive team has achieved remarkable success, including becoming National Schools Novice Female Champions, National Schools Novice Group Female Champions, and completing the prestigious Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race. Unlike traditional sports, Racing Kayaking brings together pupils across year groups and genders, fostering a unique team dynamic. The discipline has a steep learning curve - first-time paddlers often spend more time in the water than in their boats! This early challenge builds resilience and makes the progression all the more rewarding. Our training model differs from conventional fixtures. Instead of weekly matches, our athletes work towards medium- and long-term goals. Games sessions are dedicated to self-improvement, with pupils often training against their own limits rather than an opponent.
The Lent Term marks a significant ramp-up in intensity as we prepare for the Waterside Series. This year, one of our youngest paddlers impressively completed Waterside A in a single kayak.
Training focuses on endurance, technique, and developing independence and safety awareness - essential qualities for any paddler. Extended sessions, lunchtime fitness, and a structured programme outside of School all contribute to building the physical and mental resilience needed for long-distance racing. While the River Thames remains our primary training ground, we have also made excellent use of the canal and Farmoor Reservoir to broaden our paddlers’ experience. The Summer Term shifts focus to developing the next generation. Our experienced crews take on mentoring roles, passing on their knowledge and supporting new recruits. This peer-led approach strengthens the team and ensures continuity. A highlight of the year was the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race over Easter. Despite a new finish line and challenging
conditions, the race remains one of the most demanding events our pupils can undertake. Huge congratulations to Alice Lines (Lower Sixth, Swift) and Emma Campbell (Lower Sixth Vanbrugh), who became only the third all-female Cokethorpe crew to complete the race - and the first to finish the full four-day course since 2019. Battling fierce headwinds and long days on the water, their success was also a testament to their dedicated support crew, who provided vital assistance, encouragement, and morale boosts throughout the journey. As the academic year drew to a close, our crews took a well-earned rest before training resumes in September. We look forward to seeing our youngest paddlers rise to the challenge of Devizes to Westminster 2026.
Climbing With the Greaves Outdoor Centre Climbing Tower now a well-established feature at Cokethorpe, climbing has truly taken off across the School. Access to the sport has expanded significantly, with three AOBs and multiple Games sessions offering pupils the opportunity to engage with this exciting and challenging activity. The Tower has become not only a visually iconic landmark as you exit the School grounds, but also a core part of our Outdoor Education programme. Our junior climbers in the AOB programme have focused on sharpening their skills, awareness, and technique to become safe and competent climbers. Emphasis has been placed on rope work, knot tying, belaying, and foundational climbing techniques - skills that form the bedrock of safe climbing practice. Within the Games programme, pupils have made excellent progress, working towards their NICAS awards and pushing their limits by learning to lead climb. The Lent Term brought a shift in focus towards competitive climbing, culminating in participation at the National Schools Climbing Competition in London - a major event featuring over a hundred competitors from a wide range of schools. A special congratulations goes to Patrick West (Upper Sixth, Feilden), a homegrown success who secured first place in his category. His performance across bouldering, roped, and lead climbing events demonstrated exceptional strength, determination, and resilience. Patrick now climbs regularly outside of School, a testament to the strong foundation and passion for the sport developed during his time at Cokethorpe. Climbing continues to be a powerful way for pupils to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones, and develop a lifelong skill. Looking ahead, we are excited to expand the programme further, with more trips and increased opportunities for younger pupils to make use of our fantastic facilities. Many of our climbers continue to pursue the sport after their time at Cokethorpe, finding great enjoyment and fulfilment in this dynamic outdoor activity.
Sailing It has been an exciting and transformative year for Sailing at Cokethorpe, with access to the sport expanding to more pupils than ever before. Following the success of introducing sailing to Third Form pupils during the Summer Term, we have now established a year-round programme that includes our younger years. This inclusive approach has proven highly productive, allowing less experienced sailors to train alongside our seasoned team members and benefit from their guidance. Sailing has become a popular choice across both Games and AOB sessions, with pupils engaging in a wide variety of boats - from nimble Firefly dinghies to larger SB20 keelboats. For the first time, we also introduced Saturday training sessions, specifically aimed at developing a keelboat racing team in preparation for the two-day SB20 Championships. The commitment shown by our young sailors has been outstanding, with some pupils sailing up to four times a week across different types of craft. Their time management, enthusiasm, and dedication have been truly commendable. As the Summer Term progressed, our focus shifted to the annual Itchenor event, where pupils competed in Fireflies. This year marks a milestone, as Cokethorpe entered our largest team to date, with participants ranging from Third Form to Upper Sixth, and boats crewed by both boys and girls. The event highlighted the inclusive and diverse nature of sailing at Cokethorpe. In addition to competitive success, many pupils have achieved RYA Stage certificates, a nationally recognised qualification that reflects their technical understanding and competence on the water. These achievements underscore the depth of learning and skill development taking place within the programme. Looking ahead, the future of sailing at Cokethorpe is bright. Plans are already underway to introduce more adventurous trips and expeditions, complementing our strong competitive offerings and ensuring that sailing continues to be a dynamic and enriching part of School life.
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BEYOND Prep School Outdoor Activities
Outdoor Education at the Prep School has had an exciting and enriching year, extending well beyond the popular residential trips. A key development has been the introduction of new lunchtime clubs, which have enabled pupils from multiple year groups to come together and explore a variety of adventurous activities in a fun and supportive environment.
THE CLASSROOM
challenge - from traditional target shooting to creative games like brick-knocking and the ever-popular assault course archery using foam-tipped arrows. These sessions have been both engaging and skill-building, encouraging precision, patience, and friendly competition.
Together, these clubs have helped foster a culture of curiosity, confidence, and outdoor enjoyment among our Prep pupils, laying strong foundations for a lifelong appreciation of adventure and the outdoors.
Pre-Prep Forest School This academic year, the Pre-Prep children have thoroughly enjoyed a wide range of outdoor adventures in Forest School. They have embraced the natural environment through imaginative play and hands-on activities, including den building, tree climbing, and creating a rope swing. The ever-popular mud kitchen has sparked creativity and collaboration. Focused sessions have introduced the children to cooking on an open fire, with Year 2 especially enjoying making fairy fires using cotton wool and fire steels. All pupils have learned how to safely use tools such as palm drills and bow saws, proudly crafting tree cookies and taking part in various Forest-themed crafts. A particular highlight for many was toasting marshmallows and making delicious s’mores around the fire. These experiences have helped the children develop confidence, resilience, and a strong connection with the outdoors while having great fun throughout the year.
Slacklining Club One standout addition has been Slacklining Club, which quickly became a pupil favourite. What began with lots of wobbles and falls soon turned into confident, steady steps as pupils developed the balance and focus needed to walk across the slackline unaided. The rapid progression was a joy to witness and highlighted the values of confidence, resilience, independence, and goal-setting in action.
Adventure Club Adventure Club has made full use of the School’s woodland setting. Blending elements of Forest School, bushcraft, and survival skills, this child-led club has offered pupils the freedom to immerse themselves in the outdoors.
Archery Club Archery Club has continued to thrive throughout the year, running year-round during lunchtimes. Pupils have gained impressive competency in loading and shooting a bow and arrow, with each session offering a new
hide-and-seek using radios. Adventure Club has provided a platform for exploration, creativity, and challenge - nurturing a deep love for the natural world.
Activities have included competitive den building, fire lighting, woodland games, whittling, and even complex games of
Years 3 and 4 Residential What a fantastic few days of fun, challenge, and adventure our Year 3 and 4 pupils enjoyed on their residential last week! From the moment they arrived, it was non-stop excitement, with team-building and outdoor exploration setting the tone. Pupils navigated sensory trails and tackled orienteering challenges, tested their aim in archery, and conquered climbing walls and thrilling zip wires. They laughed their way through balloon splash games, gathered around cosy campfires in the evenings, and soared on giant swings or zoomed around on micro scooters. Nature came alive during eco explorer sessions in the great outdoors, and for the bravest among them, the mega zip line and canoeing practise provided unforgettable moments. Whether they were navigating obstacle courses, building skills together, or simply toasting marshmallows under the stars, the pupils demonstrated exceptional teamwork, resilience, and courage every step of the way. A huge well done to all the pupils for their energy and enthusiasm - and a heartfelt thank you to the staff who made this experience so memorable and enriching.
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Year 5 Residential We are delighted to share the fantastic experiences Year 5 had on their residential trip to the Woodlands Education Centre in Wales. This centre is renowned for providing high-quality educational adventure residential trips, and their visit was no exception. The intrepid group enjoyed a high-quality adventure experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The trip was designed with a holistic approach to developing independence, encouraging pupils to step outside their comfort zones and rise to challenges through kindness and helpfulness. The activities included canoeing, high ropes, zip lining, climbing wall, caving, nature walks, hiking up Hay Bluff, and orienteering. Each day was crammed full of adventures, allowing the pupils to grow whilst learning about sustainability and the world around them. Throughout the trip, they demonstrated incredible teamwork, independence and leadership skills, organising their own equipment and serving each other during mealtimes. They behaved impeccably, encouraged and supported each other, and embraced every challenge with courage and enthusiasm. Thanks go to everyone whose support made this trip so successful. The future is bright for this lovely group, who have lots more exciting adventures to come.
Year 6 Residential Our Year 6 pupils enthusiastically threw themselves into the first day of their residential, diving headfirst into a week packed with adventure and unforgettable memories. From the hands-on excitement of Buggy Building to the blindfolded trust and laughter of the Nightline, our young adventurers rose to every challenge. Laughter, learning and leadership were the order of the day - and that was only day one! On day two pupils tackled the dramatic coastline during a Coasteering session, clambering over rocks and splashing through sea spray. Hidden talents emerged as they tried their hands (and feet) at surfing – all met with big smiles and even bigger determination. Day three took Year 6 from towering heights to tranquil waters. In the morning, pupils faced the climbing wall and high ropes, pushing themselves out of their comfort zones. The afternoon was all about balance and fun, with paddle boarding and kayaking offering a well-earned splash of relaxation. Day four delivered even more adrenaline. Mountain Boarding saw our thrill-seekers test their skills on wheels, while Archery brought bullseyes galore! The Ultimate Activity Assault Course – a test of stamina and Cokethorpe spirit - was smashed with style. Throughout the week, our Year 6 pupils have shown exceptional courage, resilience, and camaraderie. What an incredible adventure!
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Prep Activities Costume Design Every Friday afternoon, the Prep School's Costume Design Club becomes a vibrant hub of creativity and joy. This club is a cherished space where pupils immerse themselves in the world of musicals, exploring a new show each week. From the spooky charm of The Addams Family to the whimsical world of Seussical, the pupils are constantly inspired by a diverse range of theatrical productions.
Pre-Prep Bead Craft Bead craft in the Pre-Prep is an opportunity for pupils to mix across year groups and showcase their individual creativity. We use a range of large easy thread beads, small intricate beads and hamma beads. Throughout the term, pupils have made unique hamma bead designs, bracelets, keyrings and even dream catchers.
the 60-strong choral ensemble performing Vivaldi’s Gloria. Two members of the Choir, Will Rainey (Year 6, Baker) and Julia Pisanello (Year 6, Baker), shared the singing of one of the solo movements, being accompanied by live orchestra. The year culminated with the Choir’s singing as part of the Prep Prize Giving.
Prep Homework Club
The excitement begins as the pupils gather to discuss the musical of the week. They delve into the characters, settings, and themes, sparking their imaginations and setting the stage for their creative process. Each pupil then sets out to design a unique costume, bringing their vision of the characters to life.
‘I like to put the beads on carefully and use rainbow colours.’ Vivi Hughes (Reception Class, Lockwood) ‘I went to bead craft because it was something new to try and I liked making things out of different types of beads.’ Louis Langridge (Year 1, Symonds)
Girls’ Football Our Prep Girls' Football Club has gone from strength to strength this year, with a fantastic group of enthusiastic players embracing every opportunity to shine. Each session has focused on developing key skills including passing, shooting, tackling and goalkeeping, all while building confidence and teamwork. The Summer Term saw brilliant attendance and energy, with the girls taking part in friendly yet competitive matches that showcased their progress. With such great momentum, we hope to run Girls' Football again in 2025–2026.
‘Bead craft is a club where I can calm down and relax after my day at school.’ Oliver Beechey (Year 2, Symonds)
Prep Homework Club offers pupils a valuable opportunity to review learning done in the classroom. It provides a focused and quiet environment, allowing pupils to concentrate on both new and old material. This dedicated time helps in consolidating their understanding and reinforcing key concepts. By regular attendance, pupils can enhance their academic performance, develop better study habits, and gain confidence in their abilities. The Club also fosters a sense of discipline and responsibility, as pupils learn to manage their time effectively and prioritise their educational goals. Overall, it is an excellent resource for academic growth and success.
Prep Chamber Choir
Prep Chamber Choir has had a busy year performing at all of Cokethorpe’s flagship musical events, including, in the Michaelmas Term, the St Cecilia Concert as well as the Christmas Carol Services (during which a number of singers performed solos). The Lent Term’s focus was the Spring Concert, in which the Choir sang as part of
Prep Pottery Club Pottery Club provides an exciting opportunity for pupils from Years 3 to 6 to explore the creative and tactile world of clay. Throughout the sessions, pupils experiment with various techniques, such as making pinch pots, crafting mugs, and shaping plates.
They also learn about the entire pottery process, starting from the initial creation of their pieces to the critical steps of firing in the kiln, glazing their work, and firing it again to achieve the final, polished result. With so much to explore and create, Pottery Club is an exciting and busy activity for our Prep School pupils, offering a perfect balance of learning and fun for young artists.
Running Club During the Summer Term, 28 enthusiastic pupils from Years 3 to 6 took part in the Running Club. Each week, they have taken on a different and exciting running session, designed not only to build stamina but to keep things fresh and fun. Activities have ranged from fastpaced games like Capture the Flag and Trivial Pursuit Relay, to more structured challenges such as Sprints, The Cooper Challenge, and the ever-popular Bleep Test. One highlight for many was completing a full five-kilometre track run — no easy feat, but a rewarding one!
Throughout the term, pupils have shown fantastic dedication and a great team spirit. They have enjoyed pushing themselves, discovering new strengths, and watching their fitness improve week by week. Whether they were racing their friends or simply aiming to beat their own personal bests, every pupil gave it their all and had a brilliant time doing it.
rhythms of nature - identifying birdsong, spotting rabbits and hares, and even trying barefoot walking, and all whilst exploring Cokethorpe’s beautiful grounds; the weather has been exceptionally kind too. Steps have been counted and stories shared along the way, a lovely end to another busy week in Prep School. These small moments show that looking after our wellbeing does not have to be complicated - it can come from quiet walks and time spent in nature with others.
Scriptwriting Club Script Writing Club for Years 3 to 6 has been a vibrant hub of imagination and storytelling this term. Our young writers have astounded us with their creativity, crafting original scripts filled with humour, drama, and heart. From fantastical adventures to horror, their ideas have come to life with flair and confidence. The collaboration, enthusiasm, and talent on display have been truly inspiring. Each session buzzed with energy as pupils developed characters, dialogue, and scenes with impressive skill. We are incredibly proud of their achievements. Future playwrights in the making!
Bead and Wire Club During the Michaelmas Term, pupils in Years 5 and 6 have loved acquiring the necessary skills to create beautiful works of art, using silver and copper wire and an array of glass beads.
Walking for Wellbeing Prep’s ‘Walking for Wellbeing’ Club has been a huge success. We have tuned in to the gentle
create an array of beautiful, eye-catching pieces, showcasing their creativity. Pupils first learned the basic techniques: cutting and shaping copper or silver wire, using wire cutters; bending and shaping, using roundnosed pliers; and hammering the wire (using a special jewellery hammer and iron block) to produce a dappled effect, which is more able to catch the light. The most exciting stage was to choose from a vast range of glass, faceted beads, in myriad colours and sizes. The finished pieces were stunning: professional and eyecatching.
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Woodland Wellbeing Woodland Wellbeing combines outdoor fun with mindful moments, giving children the chance to explore nature while learning how to manage their emotions and support each other.
In the winter months, pupils gathered by torchlight to share stories, sang uplifting songs, and practised calming breaths as our hot chocolate cooled. Learning how to use head torches added a real sense of adventure. As the seasons changed, so did the activities. Spring and summer brought forest bathing, team challenges, and creative ways to explore emotions through colour and wool winding. We made viewfinders to capture our favourite woodland scenes and ventured further to the Secret Woods, where the children were greeted by a carpet of bluebells. These sessions have been enriched by the support of our fantastic Senior School helpers, working towards their Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Woodland Wellbeing offers a unique blend of play, connection, and calm - a chance to slow down and simply enjoy being in the woods, together.
Friday afternoon’s popular ‘Bead and Wire Club’ was a hive of activity, as pupils worked hard to
Senior AOBs Michaelmas Term AOBs Air Rifles
Air Rifles has been an exciting addition to this year’s AOB offering. Pupils have learnt to manage the rifles safely and apply marksmanship principles to achieve success across a range of disciplines. Sessions have focused upon consistency and precision using a range of different sights and calibres. The highlight has been the introduction to the Olympic ‘Target Sprint’ discipline where competitors race against each other using speed and accuracy to achieve the best result. Ancient Greek Art (Portraiture) Art and Mindfulness Art Award Holders Art Club Art: Landscape Drawing Badminton Board Game Club Boys' Football Boys' Hockey Cake Decoration: Making Sugar Flowers Card Games Carving and Campfires Ceramics Chess Climbing
entered several competitions, including the Young Writers Competition and the prestigious Orwell Youth Prize, showcasing their talent and passion for writing. Additionally, the library has become a vibrant hub for literary discussions in these sessions, where pupils regularly gather to discuss their favourite books and share what they are currently reading. Cricket Nets Dance Darts Debating, Model United Nations and Public Speaking Design in Minecraft Dissection Club Drama Award Holders Drama Production DT Award Holders DT Workshop
Graphic Novels and Comic Book Club Great Sporting Moments Grow It, Eat It Guerrilla Geography History Movie Club Homework Club Jazz Band Jigsaw Club Logic Puzzles Magic: The Gathering and D&D Mindfulness
DT: CAD/CAM DT: Electronics DT: Woodwork Skills EAP (Elite Athlete Programme) Environmental Creative Writing Experimental Drawing Fifth Form Study Skills First Aid GCSE Ancient Greek Girls' Football Girls' Touch Rugby Golf
Creative Writing and Reading for Pleasure
This year, pupils have truly made the most of the opportunity to spend more time in the library during Creative Writing and Reading for Pleasure AOB, immersing themselves in a world of books and creativity. They eagerly
hopefully inspire those just starting their golfing journey to continue to enjoy the game for many years to come. We have also been incredibly fortunate to have access to Frilford Heath Golf Club, where pupils competed in both the annual House Golf Competition and the ever-popular staff vs students match. Playing on such a prestigious course has undoubtedly elevated the standard of play and inspired our golfers to push themselves further. With participation continuing to grow, I’m excited to see the golf programme go from strength to strength next year.
It has been fantastic to see over 50 pupils from First Form to Fifth Form take part in our weekly Golf AOB sessions this year. From enthusiastic beginners to some of our more experienced low-handicap players, the commitment and progress shown by all has been truly impressive. Watching our golfers develop their skills and confidence has been a real highlight which will
The .b mindfulness for adolescents’ course, delivered as an AOB throughout the year, offers pupils essential tools to support their mental wellbeing during a time of significant personal development. The course explores the scientific basis for how the adolescent brain functions, helping pupils understand the biological changes they are experiencing and why emotions can sometimes feel overwhelming. This knowledge empowers pupils to make sense of their reactions and behaviours. Alongside this, .b introduces practical mindfulness strategies to cope with stress, build resilience, and remain present in the moment. Pupils learn techniques to manage anxiety, regulate emotions, and adopt healthier perspectives. The course also encourages gratitude and reflection, helping young people recognise the positives in their lives, however small. By equipping pupils with both the science and the skills, .b fosters a greater sense of self-awareness, supporting adolescents through this transformative period with compassion, curiosity, and calm. Mindfulness Colouring Music Theory Musical Rehearsals
Musical Theatre Choir Netball Outreach Paddlesports Philosophical Investigations Rock Band Rugby 7s Rugby: Goal Kicking Sailing Sci-Fi Symposium Shakespeare: Debating, Public Speaking and Performing Sixth Form Skills Programme Sixth Form UCAS etc So You Think You Can Maths Sport Award Holders Sport Focused Running and Exercise STEM Ninjas STEM Project Skills (Bronze DofE) Strength and Conditioning String Quartet Student Investor Table Tennis Taskmaster: The TV Show Tennis Textiles Textiles: Cross-Stitch
Textiles: Knitting and Crocheting The Practical Biology Club The Scholars Club Top Up Your Maths Touch Typing Vets and Medics Watercolour Painting Why are there astronauts stranded in Space?.. and other Physics dramas
Lent Term AOBs Air Rifles Ancient Greek Art (Portraiture) Art Award Holders Art Club Board Game Club Boys' Football Boys' Hockey Build-a-Bike Cake Decoration: Making Sugar Flowers Calculus Club Card Games Carnegie Shadowing Book Club Carving and Campfires
Ceramics
This year, the Senior School’s Ceramic AOB has been a wonderful space for self-expression, skill-building, and artistic exploration. With pupils choosing to take part in this Club, the Art Room quickly became a hub of enthusiasm and creativity. Throughout the year, pupils have developed a wide range of pottery techniques, including thumb pots, slab building, coil construction, and general clay work. These skills were put to excellent use as pupils crafted a variety of imaginative and functional pieces - from personalised name plaques and charming salt cellars to beautifully designed lidded cylindrical pots with decorated tops. These were then decorated carefully with bright and colourful glazes. Each session was filled with focus, laughter, and a genuine love for the process of making. The Club has not only nurtured artistic talent but also fostered a strong sense of community among pupils from different year groups. We are incredibly proud of the stunning work produced and look forward to seeing how these young potters continue to shape their creative journeys in the years to come. Chess Climbing Coding Club Creative Writing and Reading for Pleasure Cricket Nets Cryptic Crosswords and other puzzles Dance Debating and Public Speaking
Mace, Adam Asplundh (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne), Evie Walker (Fifth Form, Swift), and Eylül Kaban (Fourth Form, Swift) opposed the motion ‘This House would ban the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces.’ Competing in their first formal debate, they delivered a confident and articulate performance against experienced teams, including the reigning national champions. Although they did not progress, their preparation, teamwork, and delivery were impressive. In the Public Speaking Competition, Evie Walker, Eylül Kaban, and Lottie Graves (Third Form, Gascoigne) reached the second round. Evie gave a compelling speech on ‘Superheroes are real and all around us,’ challenging stereotypes and celebrating everyday heroes. Eylül chaired with clarity and composure, ensuring smooth transitions and timekeeping, while Lottie led a thoughtful discussion that deepened the audience’s engagement with the topic. Across both competitions, the teams demonstrated outstanding commitment, collaboration, and oracy and we look forward to seeing what next year brings.
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Design in Minecraft Dissection Club DofE: Prep School Volunteering Drama Award Holders DT Award Holders DT: Decorative Crafts DT: Make Your Own Stationary Box EAP (Elite Athlete Programme) Environmental Creative Writing Expedition and Leadership Skills Experimental Drawing Fifth Form Study Skills First Aid French Film Club GCSE Ancient Greek Golf Graphic Novels and Comic Book Club Great Sporting Moments Grow It, Eat It Guerrilla Geography History Movie Club Homework Club Jazz Band
The Debating and Public Speaking AOB have had a successful and engaging year, with highlights including participation in the English-Speaking Union’s Schools’ Mace and Public Speaking Competition. In the Schools’
This year, our Jazz Band, featuring Ralph Hyne (Third Form, Harcourt) on Alto Saxophone,
Leo Middleton (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) on Piano, Mr Watson on Trombone, and Mr Hughes on Drums, delivered three outstanding performances. At the St Cecilia Concert, the band captivated the audience with smooth melodies and intricate harmonies. Ralph's saxophone solos were a highlight, setting a high standard for the evening. During the Music, Art, Drama, and Dance (MADD) evening, the band's versatility shone through. Leo's dynamic piano skills and Mr Watson's warm trombone tones added depth to the performance. The Spring Concert was a powerful finale. Mr Hughes' drumming provided a solid foundation, driving the rhythm and keeping the audience engaged. The Band's synergy and energy were evident throughout. The Jazz Band has inspired and entertained with their passion and commitment to excellence. Each member's unique contribution created a harmonious blend that resonated with audiences. We eagerly anticipate what the next year holds for this talented group. Jigsaw Club Madame Garitey's French Club Mindfulness Colouring Mindfulness Course Music Theory Musical Rehearsals Orchestra Outreach Performing Shakespeare and Poetry by Heart Philosophical Investigations Rock Band Rugby 7s Rugby: Goal Kicking Sailing Sci-Fi Symposium Sixth Form Skills Programme Sixth Form UCAS etc So You Think You Can Maths Sport Award Holders Sport Focused Running and Exercise STEM Ninjas STEM Project Skills (Bronze DofE) Strength and Conditioning String Quartet Student Investor Table Tennis Taskmaster: The TV Show Tennis Textiles Textiles: Cross-Stitch Textiles: Knitting and Crocheting
The Practical Biology Club The Scholars Club (Individual Supervisions) The Scholars Club Top Up Your Maths Touch Rugby
A fun, fast mixed team sport with pupils from various year groups, Touch Rugby is a new addition to this year’s AOB programme. With minimal contact, lots of agility and speed our First, Second and Third Form pupils have been learning the skills and nuances of the game. It has been a great way to introduce a form of rugby for those who have never touched a rugby ball before, and equally an interesting challenge to adapt to new rules and situations for those who are well accustomed to rugby. We also took our first ever team to the School’s Touch Championships, and as one pupil said, ‘It was the best Friday of my life!’ Touch Typing Vets and Medics Warhammer Watercolour Painting
Summer Term AOBs Air Rifles Ancient Greek Art Award Holders Art Club Board Game Club Build-a-Bike Calculus Club Card Games Carving and Campfires Ceramics Chess
At Easter, a group of ambitious animators began their journey towards producing a children’s book. Since then, our numbers have swelled and excitement has grown. We began by exploring classics such as The Hungry Caterpillar and the canonical works of Julia Donaldson. Eric Carle’s artwork has proved particularly influential in our process. We segued into the ‘Oi Frog’ milieu and spent a little too long rhyming animals with objects (satsumas and pumas, anyone?) Working with a partner, our budding artists are now harmonising their carefully crafted stories with the visual images so beloved by their target audiences. It will still be some months until we have finished products ready for publication so watch this space. Climbing Coding Club Creative Writing and Reading for Pleasure Cricket Nets Croquet
This term, with the British weather having seemingly forgotten its customary vagaries, the Croquet AOB had a successful and sustained summer season. Perhaps, as you approached the Mansion House in the Summer Term, you were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Croquet Club in action. Game by game, cautious alliances formed, devious roqueting was revelled in, and fortunes dashed on the smallest grass divot. In this second season of the Club, mallets were poised, shots were honed, skill swiftly overtook fluke and camaraderie reigned. Each round concluded with deadly precision, where balls travelled faultlessly towards the winning post, striking with a decisive thunk.
Children's Books: Illustration and Rhyme Cryptic Crosswords and other puzzles Dance Design in Minecraft Dissection Club DofE: Prep School Volunteering Drama Award Holders DT Award Holders DT: Decorative Crafts DT: Make Your Own Stationery Box EAP (Elite Athlete Programme) Environmental Creative Writing Experimental Drawing
Fifth Form Study Skills First Aid GCSE Ancient Greek Girls' Football Golf Graphic Novels and Comic Book Club Great Sporting Moments Guerrilla Geography Handball Homework Club Jazz Band Jigsaw Club Lawn Games Madame Garitey's French Club Maths Support (Fourth Form) Mindfulness Colouring Mindfulness Course Music Theory Musical Theatre Choir Natural History Orchestra Outdoor Cricket Nets Outreach Paddlesports Philosophical Investigations Podcasting
This term, the AOB Podcast Club has been a brilliant way for pupils to dive into podcasting. Loads of pupils got their first taste of recording in our podcast studio, and it has been amazing watching complete beginners get comfortable with the microphone and really find their groove. What has been particularly special is seeing how much pupils have enjoyed the creative side of things. They have come up with some fantastic ideas for episodes and really got into the storytelling aspect of podcasting. It is not just about the tech – they have learned how to turn their thoughts into engaging content. One of the best parts has been having teachers join us as guests. Pupils have loved getting the chance to interview staff and discover all sorts of interesting stories about them outside of lessons. It has been a real eye-opener for everyone involved and has given pupils some brilliant interviewing experience. We are hoping to share clips of the best moments from our recordings, the creativity and talent our podcasters have shown has been impressive. The AOB club has given pupils a proper platform to express themselves, tell their
stories, and maybe even discover a new passion for audio and media work. Pre-Season Mixed Hockey Reading the Classics Rock Band Rugby 7s Sailing Sci-Fi Symposium Sixth Form Skills Programme Sixth Form UCAS etc So You Think You Can Maths Spain: Music, Cinema and Art Sport Award Holders Sport Focused Running and Exercise String Quartet Tennis Textiles Textiles: Cross-Stitch Textiles: Knitting and Crocheting The Practical Biology Club The Scholars Club The Scholars Club (Individual Supervisions) Top Up Your Maths Top Up Your Maths (First and Second Forms) Touch Rugby (Boys) Touch Rugby (Girls) Touch Typing Vets and Medics Volleyball Warhammer Watercolour Painting Make your Own Stationery Box Pupils created their own pine stationery boxes, combining design skills with hands on craftsmanship. They began by designing personalised artwork for their lids, using 2D design software, which were then engraved onto the lid using the laser cutter. Throughout the project, pupils learned to make accurate mitre and housing joints and used a variety of tools, including mitre saws, pillar drills, electric fret saws, band sanders, and hand tools. A magnet was added to keep the lid securely shut, and the boxes were finished with teak oil. Accuracy in measuring, cutting, and sanding was essential, and pupils took pride in producing high quality work. A big thank you to A Level student Emma Campbell (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) for her valuable assistance during the project.
The Decorative Crafts Club Over the past year, the Decorative Crafts Club has been a hub of imagination and fun. Each week, the group eagerly gathered to explore projects, with highlights including making decoupage mirror frames and painting decorative bug houses. The decoupage mirror frames allowed pupils to design and make individual frames, using colourful paper and glue to create unique designs. The bug houses project was equally engaging, as the pupils painted and decorated small wooden boxes, transforming them into charming habitats for insects and reflecting their personalities in their designs. The pupils shared ideas, helped each other, and celebrated their creative achievements together.
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Build-a-Bike AOB This year, the Build-a-Bike AOB has embarked on the ambitious project of restoring a 1953 James Comet 98cc motorcycle. This project is not just about bringing a piece of British motorcycling history back to life but also a journey of learning, teamwork, and a shared passion for everyone involved. After months of working in the background, the Build-a-Bike team, led by Mr Sheer, Mr Johnson and Mr Granados, was able to procure the James Comet motorcycle, kindly donated by former staff member, Simon Carter. The project kicked off in January with the first phase focused on labelling, cataloguing and cleaning the different parts of the bike that arrived stored in several card boxes. During this phase, pupils worked with a variety of tools to remove rust and prepare the pieces for priming and painting. Using manuals and available literature online, the pupils categorised several pieces and identified missing components. This research was essential in ensuring we had a clear roadmap for the restoration. At the same time, pupils and staff proceeded to its dry assembly. By assembling the parts temporarily, we aimed to ensure that everything fits together correctly and is properly aligned. This helped identify any issues with parts that might need further adjustment or replacement. This phase was crucial in enhancing pupils’ understanding of how a motorcycle works. The work carried out so far, has allowed for the priming and painting of pieces to start by Mr Johnson in the DT Department. He has also been working hard to source missing parts online. This stage is filled with excitement as we can see the motorcycle slowly coming back to life. This project continues to teach pupils valuable skills in mechanics, teamwork, and perseverance. It also hopes to spark a passion for restoration and engineering in many of them, some of whom might decide to pursue careers in these fields. While there is still much work to do, pupils are excited about their involvement in the project next year. The James Comet 98cc motorcycle is gradually transforming from a rusted relic to a gleaming testament to their hard work and dedication.
Duke of Edinburgh's Award The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award continues to be a cornerstone of life at Cokethorpe, offering pupils a rich and varied experience that fosters independence, resilience, and a sense of community. It is particularly significant for our Third Form pupils, who begin their journey with the Bronze Award - often their first opportunity to take full ownership of a long-term commitment outside the classroom. At Bronze level, pupils learn to manage their time, communicate with adults, and take responsibility for logging their progress. Training has been newly integrated into the School day this year, allowing for more consistent contact time and ensuring pupils are well-prepared in navigation, campcraft, and emergency procedures ahead of their remotely supervised expedition during Curriculum Enrichment Week. The programme teaches vital life skills and encourages pupils to step up with confidence and independence.
Silver groups returned to the Wye Valley, but took on a blended expedition, combining a canoeing journey with a demanding walking section—an innovative format that proved both exciting and rewarding.
At Gold level, pupils travelled to the Peak District, where their qualifying expedition involved navigating to and exploring historic plane crash sites across the moors. This journey was both physically and mentally demanding, offering a powerful sense of achievement. Supporting these experiences is a dedicated team of staff and instructors, whose expertise ensures the safe and smooth running of all expeditions. A newly established Duke of Edinburgh equipment store has become a vital hub for training, preparation, and logistics. Looking ahead, we are excited to build on this year’s success with new and ambitious plans for the coming year. In particular, our Gold Award programme will see greater pupil input and independence, with participants taking more ownership over the planning and execution of their expeditions. These developments promise to further enrich the experience and continue to challenge our pupils in meaningful and lasting ways.
The range of activities undertaken across all levels has been inspiring. Pupils have built community bike tracks, supported elderly neighbours, and even sold knitted donkeys for charity. Hundreds of hours have been dedicated to volunteering, making a meaningful impact on local initiatives and reinforcing the value of service. Expeditions remain a highlight of the Award and this year has seen exciting developments across all three levels. Bronze participants explored the Thames Valley on a more challenging route designed to deepen their understanding of the local landscape.
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took on fun challenges that had us laughing and occasionally plunging into the sea. One of the most talked-about adventures was coasteering, scrambling along rocky cliffs, leaping into the waves, and swimming through coastal inlets. What made it especially memorable was being surrounded by hundreds of moon jellyfish. For some, it was a bit nerve-wracking; for others, it was simply magical, like floating through an underwater galaxy. We also set off on a scenic coastal hike, taking in dramatic cliffs and sweeping sea views.
Curriculum Enrichment Week First Form Trip to Paris 'Under the golden summer sun, First Form pupils set off on an unforgettable adventure to Paris, filled with iconic landmarks, cultural discoveries, and a few chocolate crêpes along the way. The journey began with excitement and anticipation as the group travelled to France. After a smooth ferry crossing and a scenic drive, the first taste of French cuisine came at Flunch in Dainville, where many pupils delighted in their first chocolate crêpes of the trip. By evening, they arrived at FIAP Jean Monnet in Paris, their home for the next few days, offering stunning views over the city skyline. The night ended with quiet unpacking and the thrill of being in the heart of France.
Despite soaring temperatures reaching 40°C, pupils showed remarkable resilience and enthusiasm as they embraced a packed day of exploration. The group then embarked on Bateaux Parisiens for a breezy river cruise, gliding past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the ornate Pont Alexandre III, and the majestic Louvre. Cameras clicked and eyes widened as the beauty of Paris unfolded from the water. Lunch and shopping followed on the charming Place du Tertre in Montmartre, near the Sacré Coeur, where pupils purchased their souvenirs. The afternoon brought a fragrant journey through the Fragonard Perfume Museum, where they uncovered the secrets of le nez - the master perfumers behind France’s most iconic scents. As the sun began to set, the group circled the Arc de Triomphe on La Place de l’Étoile, serenaded by Joe Dassin’s classic tune Aux Champs-Élysées.
Wednesday began in the peaceful Luxembourg Gardens, where our intrepid explorers discovered the quaint Fontaine Médicis and even encountered les gendarmes - the French military police - who explained their presence due to a nearby visit from President Emmanuel Macron at the Sénat. The afternoon was dedicated to the Louvre Museum, where pupils stood face-toface with La Joconde (Mona Lisa) and explored centuries of artistic treasures. The day concluded with a dinner on the Champs-Élysées, followed by a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower glittering in the night for our students in Lower Sixth. From chocolate crêpes to cultural icons, from perfume secrets to presidential encounters, the CEW trip to Paris was a whirlwind of learning, laughter, and lasting memories. Despite the heat, pupils embraced every moment with curiosity and courage, making this journey one for the history books.' Madame Garitey Teacher of MFL
Second Form Trip to Devon ‘The Second Form embarked on a truly unforgettable adventure to the stunning South Coast of Devon as part of CEW Week, and from the moment we arrived, it was clear this trip would be one to remember. We set up camp in traditional bell tents, which quickly became our cosy home away from home. Without wasting a moment, we dove straight into an exciting programme of outdoor activities designed to challenge, inspire, and bring us all closer together. We tried our hand at archery, learning to steady our aim and focus under pressure, a few of us even hit the bullseye! In bushcraft, we immersed ourselves in wilderness survival skills, from building shelters to foraging. A special highlight was toasting marshmallows over an open fire and making gooey, golden s’mores. Our water-based challenges included sea kayaking along the glittering coastline, where we paddled in pairs and spotted marine wildlife in the shallows. On the giant stand-up paddleboard (SUP), teamwork was everything. Balancing as a group, we played games and
During the evenings at camp, we played Twister as the sky turned shades of pink and orange, with the sun setting over the sea. There were impromptu games of rugby, football, and cricket, or quiet moments playing cards and chatting with friends by torchlight. From thrilling jumps into the sea to peaceful fireside chats, the Devon trip gave us stories we will be telling for years. It was a week of laughter, courage, and countless unforgettable memories.’ Mr Gallagher Head of Physical Education
Third Form Paintball
The Third Form CEW trip to Combat Splat for a paintball session was packed with excitement, teamwork, and plenty of friendly competition. Pupils were buzzing with anticipation as they geared up for their first paintball adventure. The Combat Splat team delivered a thorough safety briefing and made sure everyone felt confident with the equipment before the games began. The highlight of the day was the final capture-the-flag game, where teamwork and
strategy were key. Pupils left with big smiles, colourful gear and plenty of stories to share.
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Third Form pupils also had the opportunity to complete their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award qualifying expedition along the Thames Valley. Over two days, pupils navigated a demanding route through local countryside, adapting impressively to high temperatures and a last-minute itinerary change. Their resilience and teamwork were evident throughout.
The route made full use of our School boathouse and the surrounding River Thames, offering opportunities to explore local nature reserves and enjoy the stunning scenery. It was a demanding but deeply rewarding experience one that challenged pupils and brought out the very best in them.
Fourth Form: Geography Trip This year, the Fourth Form Geographers have spent four days in the local area collecting data for their GCSE examination. On Monday, pupils spent a preparation day at School and in Witney. This was followed by a sweltering day in Bourton on the Water and a long coastal walk at Hengetsbury Head, studying coastal management strategies.
Paintball Fourth Form pupils had a thrilling paintball session at Combat Splat, where teamwork and strategy were key. Having some prior experience of paintballing, they were ready to take on more challenging scenarios than our Third Form.
boundaries, and working as a team. Throughout the day, the pupils faced various challenges, from mastering the wind and water conditions to coordinating with their teammates. These challenges were met with enthusiasm and determination, and it was evident that each pupil was growing in confidence and skill. They learned to trust their abilities, make quick decisions, and support each other.
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Climbing At Rockstar Climbing, pupils tackled lead climbs, bouldering, and the Clip and Climb challenge with enthusiasm, pushing themselves physically while encouraging one another throughout the day.
The variety of game modes kept everyone engaged, and the larger playing fields allowed for more strategic play. Pupils particularly enjoyed the ‘Fortress Defence’ game, which tested their ability to work together under pressure. The day ended with a thrilling free-for-all match that kept everyone on their toes.
Sailing Trip to Farmoor In another CEW adventure, pupils took to the water on a sailing trip to Farmoor Reservoir. This was not just about sailing; it was an opportunity for the pupils to learn, challenge themselves, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. The day began with a comprehensive briefing on boat care and safety. The pupils were taught essential skills such as how to look after the boat, including checking the sails, understanding the rigging, and ensuring all equipment was in good condition.
Uffington White Horse Walk Our Fourth Form showed remarkable resilience and positivity during their recent walk along part of the historic Ridgeway. Spirits remained high throughout the journey, and their determination was well rewarded with sweeping views of this ancient and beautiful landscape. The walk was carefully timed to finish before the day’s peak heat, and pupils were able to enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch in the cool shade of a woodland area within the grounds of Ashdown House. This magnificent 17th-century Dutch-style mansion, managed by the National Trust, offered a stunning and serene setting for a well-earned break. It was a memorable day of fresh air, friendship, and appreciation of the natural world — a perfect way to mark the end of a busy, productive, and successful School year.
Lastly came a refreshing day, measuring the river in Coleshill at the National Trust location. The field work will stand them in great stead for the examinations next year.
This hands-on experience was invaluable, as it provided them with the knowledge and confidence needed to handle the boats independently. Once the basics were covered, the pupils were divided into teams for a series of friendly races. The competitive spirit was high as each team strategised and worked together to navigate their boats through the course. The races were not just about winning; they were about applying what they had learned, pushing their
HOUSES Prep School Council First Half of the Year Year 2 Oliver Beechey (Symonds) Year 3 Blue Milles (Symonds) Year 4 Ted Metcalf (Baker) Year 5 Eloise Young-Gale (Symonds) Sophie Campbell (Baker) Year 6 Samuel Idiahi (Baker) Scarlet Milles (Gwyn)
Harvest Festival Thanks to the generosity of Prep School children and parents, at Harvest time the Prep House Captains and Vice Captains were able to take in a wonderful amount of food donations to the Witney Foodbank.
Inter-House Singing The Prep School came together for the much-anticipated annual inter-House Singing Competition. This year’s theme, Glastonbury Headliners, inspired each House to deliver standout performances, and they certainly rose to the occasion.
Inter-House Just Dance Pupils from Years 3 to 6 took to the stage in the highly anticipated inter-House Just Dance competition, bringing energy and excitement. With vibrant choreography inspired by the popular Just Dance routines, each pupil brought their own unique style to the performance, showcasing an impressive array of moves that had the audience cheering along.
After weeks of dedicated rehearsals, every House took to the stage with energy and flair, each putting their own unique spin on their chosen song. The creativity and enthusiasm on display made the judges’ decision incredibly tough. In the end, it was Baker House that claimed victory with a captivating rendition of Coldplay’s 'Something Just Like This.' Congratulations to everyone in Baker House for an outstanding performance.
Second Half of the Year Year 2 Seren Florey (Baker) Year 3 Romilly Bishop (Lockwood) Year 4 Beau Jameson (Lockwood) Year 5 Starla Firth (Lockwood) Ellen Van Maasakkers (Gwyn) Year 6 Chloé Langridge (Baker) William Richards (Baker)
Year 6 House Captains Baker Julia Pisanello Will Rainey Gwyn Scarlet Milles Hugo Lindsay Lockwood Roemer Tweehuijsen Islay Jameson Symonds James Miller Shannon Edwards
Prep School Prefect The past year in the Prep School has been a hive of activity. Whether in the classroom, maths lessons and reading sessions, extracurricular activities such as the exciting Prep School Corinthian Partnership Art workshop, or out on the sports fields with high intensity and fun fuelled fixtures. Life in the Prep School is always busy. As the Prefect for the Prep School, I have been fortunate enough to witness and take part in some of these events. By doing this I was able to remind myself of what it was like to be in the Prep School and reconnect with a huge part of my time at the School, but also see the joy, excitement, and curiosity that the pupils exemplified. The Prep School never fails to deliver and therefore I wish all pupils and staff the best in the future and thank you for making my time as the Prep School Prefect so enjoyable. George Keates (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
The event also featured a powerful whole School performance of 'Blinded by Your Grace' by Stormzy, beautifully led by Mrs Du Feu. A special thank you to our Sixth Form judges: Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth, Swift), Poppy Symonds (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), and Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) for their thoughtful feedback, and to Mr Watson, Mr Hughes, and Mr Rigal for bringing the music to life as part of the band.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, encouragement, and the unmistakable buzz of friendly House rivalry. It was a fantastic opportunity to express themselves through dance, build confidence, and strengthen the spirit of teamwork. The enthusiasm and wholehearted participation from everyone involved made the event a truly memorable celebration of creativity and school spirit.
Lower House ‘This year has been a fantastic and formative one for Lower House, full of new experiences, learning opportunities, and personal growth. As they made the transition into Senior School life, the First Form embraced every opportunity to get involved, quickly becoming valued and enthusiastic members of the School community. One of the most striking elements this year has been the First Form’s wholehearted involvement in House events. From inter-House sports competitions to drama performances and quizzes, they have shown real team spirit, camaraderie, and healthy competition. Whether it was cheering on peers during sports or collaborating on creative entries for House Drama and music events, the First Form's energy and willingness to participate were clear to see. These activities not only provided great fun, but also helped build a strong sense of belonging and identity within their Houses. Music has played a big role in their year as well. Thursday singing quickly became a highlight of the weekly routine, giving the First Form a chance to come together and enjoy the communal joy that singing can bring. Many also contributed to the Corinthian Concerts, where they showcased their growing confidence and talent, whether performing solos, in ensembles, or simply supporting their peers from the audience. These concerts gave pupils a platform to express themselves creatively and appreciate the talents of others, fostering both courage and mutual respect. Socially, this year has been full of new beginnings. For many, joining the First Form meant stepping into an entirely new social environment. It has been heartening to see the way pupils have supported each other, building new friendships and strengthening existing ones. At times this has been challenging for pupils, but with these challenges comes an opportunity for personal development progress. Pupils are beginning to demonstrate social maturity which is contributing to ensuring they feel connected and secure. Alongside their academic subjects, the First Form have also explored Mindfulness as part of their pastoral programme. In today’s fast-paced world, developing skills in self-awareness and emotional regulation is more important than ever. Through Mindfulness, they have learned how to pause, breathe, and observe their thoughts - vital tools for navigating the ups and downs of adolescence. Learning how their adolescent brain works, through WIT lessons and Mindfulness, the First Form began to understand the science behind their emotions, decision-making, and changing relationships. This knowledge has empowered them to better
manage stress, make more informed choices, and understand themselves and others with greater empathy. Overall, it has been a rich, rewarding, and at times challenging year for the First Form - but one in which they have grown immensely. Their enthusiasm, openness, and willingness to engage in all aspects of school life have laid a strong foundation for the years ahead.’ Mrs Prior ‘As Head of Lower House this year, I have had the privilege of working closely with an incredible group of pupils as they began their journey through school life. Welcoming the newest members of our community and supporting them as they found their footing has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time here. From the very first day, I have witnessed remarkable growth in confidence and independence among the First Form pupils. It has been a joy to see them settle into routines, explore new opportunities, and develop friendships that I know will last far beyond this year. Amongst many wonderful experiences, my favourite by far was seeing the pupil voice grow and make a difference. Thank you to the brilliant tutors for all their support. And most of all, thank you to the First Form - your energy, enthusiasm, and resilience have made this year truly special. It has been an honour to represent you.’ Calla Whitby (Upper Sixth)
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Feilden ‘As we wrapped up another Curriculum Enrichment Week, Feilden House gathered once more to reflect on a year that began modestly but ended on an undeniable high. The excitement for Prize Giving and the summer break was matched by a deep sense of pride in all that we have achieved together. The year began with a strong showing in the Corinthian Challenge, where we secured a commendable third place. From there, our momentum only grew. Feilden House proudly claimed the Recommendations Cup in all three terms, a testament to the consistency, dedication, and hard work of our pupils. Our sporting achievements this year were particularly impressive. We emerged victorious in House Golf, House Cricket, Tug-of-War, and Sports Day - a clean sweep that speaks volumes about the talent and teamwork within the House. A special mention must go to Lola Fitzgerald (Fourth Form), who was awarded Best Individual Competitor at Sports Day, a remarkable achievement that reflects her commitment and competitive spirit. What stood out most this year was the way the House came together. The camaraderie, encouragement, and collective determination were on full display, especially during Sports Day, where every single point was fought for with heart and pride. It was truly inspiring to see so many pupils get involved and give their all. As we look ahead, we do so with great optimism. My heartfelt thanks to our Head of House, Jack Berry (Upper Sixth) and team of Upper Sixth Prefects, Fletch Jewell, Findlay Knox and Calla Whitby for all their work in helping to guide the House. Their dedication and example have set a high bar for the year to come as we look to our new leaders: Head of School, Mida Loci (Lower Sixth), Head of House, Joe Norman (Lower Sixth), and Lower Sixth Prefects Amelie McGrath, Austin Hunt, and Murray Gray. I am sure they will lead us to another successful and spirited year. Feilden House finishes the year stronger than ever - united, proud, and ready for the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.’ Mr Hughes
‘My time as Head of House for Feilden has been an absolute pleasure and has been an incredibly rewarding chapter. One of the standout moments for me was proudly collecting the Recommendations Cup in Assembly not just once, but twice, a true testament to the spirit of Feilden. Above all, it has been the people who have made this experience so special, a huge thank you to Mr Hughes and all the tutors, as well as the Prefects for leading the House this year to such success. I wish Feilden the best of luck in the years to come.’ Jack Berry (Upper Sixth)
Gascoigne ‘This year, we have spoken, as a House community, a great deal about developing our culture of kindness and ambition: these themes will continue to be worked on as we move forward, but we have already seen ambition in abundance and many acts of kindness and support of one another. This includes in House events, but also across lessons, AOBs, Games and all other aspects of School life, where Gascoigne members have been so positively involved. From a House perspective, our Senior Boys set the tone early on in the Michaelmas Term, winning their category of the Corinthian Challenge, and there was also great success across other age groups, including Ella Hayward O’Neill (First Form) winning her race and Charlie Barton (Second Form), Immy Harris (Fourth Form), Fraser O’Driscoll (Third Form), Philip Croker (Upper Sixth) and Rory Shaw (Fifth Form) all finishing in the top five in their races. Also early in the first term was House Singing, where we were beautifully led by Grace Ponsford (Upper Sixth), and a core group of singers who volunteered to be in our ensemble, as our rendition of Jess Glynne’s 'No Place I’d Rather Be' was great fun to be part of and so impressed the adjudicator we were placed second: a real springboard for next year. Third place in the Crawford Relay was a lovely way to end a term in which we had also seen great success from Gascoigne members across so many aspects of School life, including; House Debating with Freddie Leefield (Upper Sixth), Oliver Davies (Upper Sixth) and Adam Asplundh (Lower Sixth). The Lent Term saw our House Countdown team perform fantastically to dominate their heat and make it through comfortably to the final. Led by Oliver Davies (Upper Sixth), the team of Jacob Liu (Fifth Form), Eva Graves (Fourth Form), Lottie Graves (Third Form), Will Chandler (Second Form) and Emilia Cook (First Form) were performing brilliantly through the final and were nine points clear going into the final ten-point conundrum, only to be beaten to the buzzer. Perhaps the peak of the Lent Term was the House Drama competition, and the performance of our ensemble in this event. In a public information film about what to do if being stalked, the imaginative and humorous script written by Lottie Graves really allowed our actors to bring life to the piece. The incredible hard work of Lottie and Eva Graves, Finlay Welpton, Barnaby Cale, Jack Bayliss, Imogen Harris, Henry Nixey (Fourth Form), Ruby Daly (Third Form), Florence Nixey and Isy Noon (Second Form) culminated in a great many laughs, some lovely bonding across year groups and a well-deserved place in the top two.
There were various sports competitions in the midst of the academic endeavour of the Summer Term, with strong performances from Gascoigne in several of these, including golf, cricket, tennis, sports day and Tug-of-War. From these events the highlights were Edward Cale, Matilda Talbott (Upper Sixth), Reuben Davies (Fifth Form) and Chloe Webber (Fourth Form) absolutely dominating the Senior tennis event and not dropping a single game in winning it. The Senior boys were also perilously close to winning the cricket competition and were unlucky to only finish in second place. There were some seriously impressive performances from Gascoigne pupils on Sports Day with several winning multiple events. That attitude of putting your best foot forward for the House meant we finished fourth overall, but if we can harness that further next year then more success will be forthcoming. So, in summary, a year of fantastic endeavour, achievement and House spirit, but there is more to come, and I am hopeful that as we continue to work on and evolve our House culture of kindness and ambition, we will see even more examples of these traits coming to the fore, leading to individual, team and House success. At this juncture, a word to our Senior Tug-of-War team: they utterly dominated the final and set a great example of what we can do when we work together. I thank our Head of House, Zack Galliford (Upper Sixth), for all his support and involvement over the year, and I look forward to working with Archie Griffiths (Lower Sixth) as he takes on this role next year. I wish the very best of luck to our wonderful Upper Sixth leavers and hope all their goals and ambitions for next year and beyond come to fruition. Mr Richards
‘As Head of Gascoigne, I have had the privilege of guiding and supporting a diverse group of pupils through their academic and personal growth. Our House’s commitment to inclusivity and sporting excellence has fostered a vibrant community where pupils feel empowered to thrive in all areas of school life. In my role, I have led House competitions from House Countdown to House Football, supported pupils’ pastoral care, and helped build a strong sense of pride and belonging. Whether celebrating achievements or offering guidance during challenges, my focus is on nurturing confidence, teamwork, and resilience. The opportunity to see pupils develop as individuals and leaders within their House has been incredibly rewarding. Collaboration with staff, tutors, and parents ensures we create a positive, supportive environment for every pupil, and I am proud to be part of their growth.’ Zack Galliford (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)
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House Tug-of-War
House Countdown
Crawford Relay
House Music
Sixth Form Debating Competition
Harcourt ‘As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the incredible achievements and memorable moments that have defined our journey. This year has been a testament to our House spirit, resilience, and camaraderie. One of the highlights of the year was our spirited performance of 'Don't Stop Believin’ by Journey during the annual House Music competition. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by our House members were truly infectious and it was a moment that encapsulated the essence of our House – never giving up and always believing in ourselves and each other, even though unable to secure a hat trick of wins over the past three years. In the realm of sports, we made significant strides and showcased our competitive spirit. Our performance in the Crawford Relay was particularly noteworthy. Despite fierce competition, we finished in a commendable second place. The dedication and teamwork demonstrated by our relay team were exemplary. Significant performances from Tommy Hewlett (Fourth Form), Joseph Westmoreland (Lower Sixth), Nell Greatrex (Second Form), Evie Greatrex (Fourth Form) and Freya Hadfield (First Form) should be mentioned. We also held strong in the House Football, Rugby, Netball and Cross Country. Throughout the year, we have also excelled in various academic and extracurricular activities. Our Sixth Form team were outstanding in the House Debating competition, presenting a thorough and well-structured argument to a variety of topics which secured second place. Our House members have consistently demonstrated excellence in their studies, participated actively in clubs and AOBs, and contributed to the School community in meaningful ways which was displayed at Prize Giving when so many pupils and students were celebrated for their academic excellence. 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. Special mention in particular to the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth teams who dominated on the track.
The Tug-of-War competition also added extra excitement to the week, with the First Form and Second Form pulling out all the stops to take second place the Third Form dominated with no defeats in their competition while the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth found their competition extremely rough finishing fifth, meaning that Harcourt House placed second overall. As we look forward to the next year, we are excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. I am confident that with the same spirit of determination and unity, we will continue to achieve great things. Thank you to all the House members, teachers, and supporters who have made this year so special. Let us keep believing in ourselves and each other and continue to strive for excellence in everything we do.’ Miss Woodcock
‘Being Head of House for Harcourt was honestly one of the best parts of my time at School. I loved being able to bring people together and build a real sense of team spirit. It felt great to encourage others, organise fun events, and watch everyone support each other. I learned a lot about leadership and how to communicate better, but more than that, I enjoyed seeing the House come alive with energy and pride. It wasn’t just about winning — it was about belonging and making memories with people I cared about. I would also like to thank Miss Woodcock for making Harcourt such an enjoyable House to e a part of.’ Edward Morgan (Upper Sixth, Harcourt)
Queen Anne ‘This year has been nothing short of exceptional for Queen Anne House, marked by determination, teamwork, and a string of impressive victories across a wide range of House events. We began the year with a strong showing in the Corinthian Championship, where our unwavering enthusiasm and team spirit earned us a proud second place in Cross-Country Spirit. It was a fantastic start that set the tone for the months ahead. In House Singing, our rendition of 'Valerie' was a true highlight of the year. The performance was elevated by the beautifully blended harmonies carried by the talented Third Form girls, whose voices brought warmth and depth to the arrangement. The visual impact was equally impressive, thanks to the choreographic flair of Fred Penny (Upper Sixth) and Finley GregoryNewman (Upper Sixth), whose creative direction brought energy, polish, and cohesion to the stage. Their efforts helped secure us a well-earned third place and left a lasting impression on all who watched. Our athletic prowess shone through in the Crawford Relay, where we claimed first place thanks to standout performances from Joshua Spolander (Third Form) and Georgia Pownall (Fifth Form), supported by a phenomenal team effort from all involved. On the pitch, we dominated in House Hockey, led by the dynamic duo Phoebe and Chloe Dunne (Lower Sixth). Their leadership and skill were instrumental in our win, and we are thrilled to announce that both will serve as Queen Anne Prefects next year.
from Pygmalion, earning a well-deserved award for her captivating performance. In the Summer Term, we continued to impress with a second-place finish in House Cricket - a fantastic achievement that showcased our depth of talent and sportsmanship. As we look ahead, we bid a heartfelt thank you to Ben Charlesworth (Upper Sixth) for his dedication and leadership as Head of House. We wish him all the best in his next chapter. Stepping into his shoes is the ever-capable William Hansen, whose contributions this year have already made a lasting impact. Here’s to another year of excellence, camaraderie, and Queen Anne spirit.’
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House Tug-of-War
Mrs Bowden ‘Being Head of House this year, has been an absolute delight - an experience full of, laughter, team spirit and winning. I have truly appreciated the trust placed in me to lead such an incredible group, and I know I will miss it dearly as I move forwards in my studies. Watching us win over and over has been the cherry on top - maybe next year we should start giving the other Houses a head start? It would not have been possible without such an amazing Housemistress, so thank you Mrs Bowden, for your constant support and encouragement. Your leadership has been the heartbeat of our House, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to work alongside you this year. Lastly, good luck to everyone continuing with their academic pursuits in the years to come.’ Ben Charlesworth (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne)
Our success extended to House Football, where we triumphed despite the challenge of missing key players due to other fixtures. The resilience and adaptability of the team were truly commendable. The momentum continued in House Debating, where our team - led by the articulate William Hansen (Lower Sixth), alongside Toby Nicol (Lower Sixth), Adam Rees (Upper Sixth), and Simran Panesar (Upper Sixth) - delivered compelling arguments and clinched another victory for Queen Anne. Georgia Standbridge (Third Form) ISFA u14 Squad
House Music
Crawford Relay Winners
House Countdown
One of the most thrilling moments of the year came during the House Countdown competition in Lent Term. With just seconds left on the clock and nine points behind, William Hansen once again rose to the occasion, solving the final conundrum and securing yet another Queen Anne victory. We also celebrated creativity and performance in House Drama, led with passion and flair by Adam Rees. A special mention goes to Evie-Rose Burdick (Fifth Form, Queen Anne), who delivered an outstanding monologue as Eliza Doolittle
Joshua Spolander (Second Form) Cross-Country
Sports Day
Swift ‘As the end of another academic year rolls around, it is yet again with great pride that I am able to reflect upon our achievements both individual and collective 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 (Upper Sixth) led the House brilliantly in the House Music competition, ably supported by this year’s Head of House, Dan Pickford (Upper Sixth) and the rest of the Upper Sixth tutor group. The polished rendition of 'We are Young by Fun,' saw Swift clinch first place ahead of Gascoigne. It was a real pleasure to watch the interactions of pupils across the year groups, who worked tirelessly over the course of several weeks rehearsing and supporting each other. The outcome was just reward for all their hard work. Earlier in the year saw successes in the House Rugby and Netball competitions, as well as
strong showings in the Football and Hockey, winning of the House Cross Country, and second place finishes in both the Crawford Relay and Sports Day. In addition to this, we managed to come runner-up to Feilden in the House Recommendations across all three 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. 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 our leavers in Swift who are moving on, and, in particular, our outgoing Head of House, Dan Pickford. 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
‘Being Head of Swift House this year has truly been an honour. When I joined Cokethorpe in the Third Form, I was immediately struck by the sense of pride and belonging that defines this House. From day one, I was met with warmth, kindness, and an unmistakable spirit of community - from both pupils and staff. At the heart of that spirit is Mr Joiner. He is more than just our Housemaster; he is the heartbeat of Swift. Our (undeniably HUGE) successes this year are a direct reflection of his integrity, empathy, and, of course, his legendary banter. There is simply no one else I - or any member of Swift - would rather have leading us. As my time as Head of House comes to an end, I want to wish my successor the very best. You have got the full force of Swift behind you. Once Blue, always Blue.’ Dan Pickford (Upper Sixth, Swift)
House Football
Nancy Christensen (Upper Sixth) in Into the Woods
House Music
Crawford Relay
Sports Day
House Rugby
Vanbrugh ‘As we approach the end of another busy, challenging and (hopefully) fun-filled year it is important to take the time to pause and reflect on the many achievements made by Vanburians individually and together throughout the year. Some may have worried about the messaging of ABBA’s ‘SOS’ as our House song this year but that only reflected the joy of some perfect pop stylings from the 1970’s and not our state of mind at all (well, maybe it was Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth) - who orchestrated and led our whole performances - state of mind!) It can be so easy, particularly for those who have only recently surfaced from exams and the nerve-wracking wait for results, to think only of the academic side of their School life. But many have represented the House with so much more than their voices. The Summer Term began with inter-House tennis, Vanbrugh made the final in both the Senior and the Junior competition, with our Junior team of Maia Johnson (First Form), Cory Gardiner (Second Form), Kacy Scott (Second Form) and Jonny Hook (Third Form) winning the event. There has also been cricket and golf in the summer along with netball, hockey, football and rugby tournaments earlier in the year. As ever Vanbrugh has met with much ongoing success in Sailing – which has long been a sport of depth and strength amongst the pupils of our House with Seb Tattersall (Upper Sixth) being a stand-out sailor. Towards the end of the year Andrew Homewood (Fifth Form) and Heather Homewood (Fourth Form) along with Izzy Corkish (Fifth Form) and Caellum Sharp (Upper Sixth) competed in the Fleet Sailing event held at Itchenor. Special mention should also be made of Emma Campbell (Lower Sixth) our incoming Head of House who completed the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race in April - all 125 miles of it! You will also be aware that Vanbrugh has long been the House to beat in the House Drama competition and this year was no different. We won both the monologue/duologue category and the Ensemble. Particular praise should go to the excellent leadership of the Ensemble by Kacy Nguyen (Lower Sixth) and Thea Walwyn (Lower Sixth), two of our newest Prefects, who were supportive and encouraging whilst setting a very high standard. I trust all those involved had a fantastic time and enjoyed the experimentation involved in producing the piece, brilliantly written by Oscar Luckett (Upper Sixth). For all our competitive successes outlined here, I do hope that with renewed rigour and practice we will fare better in the annual House Countdown competition next year.
It is always important to take a moment to reflect on those pupils who are leaving us to start out on the greater adventures of adult life. Whilst some will be heading to prestigious universities to study the likes of Philosophy, Medicine, History and Politics, at least one is heading to New Zealand to shear sheep. Our Upper Sixth have been a truly spectacular group of people. From their early days of competitively aspiring to be word millionaires to playing the violin in assemblies as well as captaining football teams and running charity events, they have given their all and made the most of being a part of our community. My thanks to our outgoing Head of House, Edward Harris (Upper Sixth), who struck the right balance of competitive spirit and a laid-back attitude which encouraged each member of the House to have fun whilst trying their very best. I trust you will join me in wishing all of them well for the future.’ Ms Mountain
‘A key part of my role was fostering a strong, inclusive House identity. I made a concerted effort to build relationships with younger pupils, acting as a mentor and being an approachable point of contact. I provided guidance, support, and encouragement to help them integrate into the School community and take pride in representing Vanbrugh.
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Through this position, I developed organisational, communication, and leadership skills, while gaining first-hand experience in managing responsibilities, resolving conflicts, and motivating others.’ Edward Harris (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh)
COMMUNITY Parents' and Friends' Association Murder Mystery Evening On Saturday 12 October, The Shed at Cokethorpe School was transformed into a galaxy far, far funnier as the CPFA hosted its much-anticipated annual Murder Mystery evening. This year's production, 'Close Encounters of the Third Rate,' did not disappoint — delivering an unforgettable night of laughter, drama, and detective work.
n o C iF i Sc Saturday 12 October 2024 Criterion Conference Centre
Set against the backdrop of a fictional Sci-Fi Comicon at the Criterion ngsConference Centre, gni the Pdysfunctional the story reunion of Sifollowed hot the cast from the cult-classic TV o show OBlaze psand Squad: Defenders of the Galaxy.
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th What startedt as an enthusiastic (if slightly e shambolic) rehearsal quickly descended into Me liveM emsecrets chaos, as egos clashed, were revealed, ora bili and — of course — a murder was committed. a The audience, seated cabaret-style and well-fed with a delicious curry feast and a generous spread of cheese and biscuits, became active participants in the drama. Throughout the evening, the guests played detective — sifting through clues, motives, and red herrings to uncover the identity of the killer. The cast of Cokethorpe teachers, past and present, embraced their roles with comic flair and boundless enthusiasm. Their commitment to character and the witty, self-aware script had the audience in stitches from start to finish. Once again, the CPFA and the Cokethorpe Players delivered a fantastically entertaining evening that had everyone talking long after the culprit was revealed. A true highlight of the School calendar.
Fireworks Extravaganza The CPFA Fireworks Extravaganza certainly lived up to its name, as over 1,200 visitors descended on the Cokethorpe site to enjoy a night of explosive fun. Friends and families huddled together warming themselves with mulled wine and hot chocolate,
with the smell of hotdogs and chilli wafting through the air, provided by our amazing Catering Department. The 'oohs' and 'aahs' did not stop at the fireworks, with children and adults alike captivated by the fantastic array of stalls and fairground rides, not least the blazing bonfire roaring in the background. The grand finale did not disappoint, as the dazzling firework display lit up the sky around the Mansion House in a kaleidoscope of colour, all impeccably timed to the musical soundtrack.
CPFA Quiz Night Taking place on Friday, 7 March, the CPFA quiz night was a resounding success. Circa 90 people, including the Headmaster and School's Senior Management Team, enjoyed a super evening which also included a Fish and Chip dinner provided by our talented Catering Department. The questions for the quiz's ten challenging rounds were written by Mr Brownless and delivered on the night by Mr Walwyn who was a fabulous quiz master. It was a close result for the finish, with just a few points difference between first and third place, but huge congratulations to 'The Pheasant Pluckers' with 88.5 points. A huge thank you to the CPFA for organising and running the event.
Many thanks to our CPFA for organising such a spectacular event.
Christmas Fair The CPFA Christmas Fair was a merry sight to behold! The Catering Department had all the winter treats covered, offering delicious food options and warming winter drinks to keep everyone cosy while they shopped.
CPFA Easter Tea Party The Prep School's Easter Tea Party was a delightful event filled with joy and community spirit, with the atmosphere buzzing with excitement due to the array of brilliant crafts and delicious cakes on display. As part of their ‘Community Outreach’ unit in their Prep Portfolio, Year 6 pupils set up various stalls featuring handmade crafts and baked goods, showcasing both their creativity and entrepreneurial skills.
The Hall was buzzing with nearly 30 stalls, each brimming with beautiful crafts, unique gifts, and plenty of holiday cheer. While visitors enjoyed browsing, the talented Prep Choir filled the air with Christmas carols, adding to the ambience. Prep School pupils had the chance to watch a Christmas movie and meet Father Christmas in the Mansion House - giving parents some well-deserved shopping time without interruption. Many thanks to Mrs Beechey and the whole of the CPFA for putting together another fantastic event, packed with festive joy.
One of the highlights was the Easter Bonnet Parade, where Hugo Skromans (Year 1, Lockwood), Huxley Rastall McCormick (Year 2, Gwyn) and Bertie Franklin (Reception Class, Baker) emerged as the winners for their exceptional bonnet designs. The event was lots of fun leaving everyone with smiles on their faces after a truly wonderful Easter celebration.
Peacock Ball ‘In my view, the highlight of the two-year Sixth Form journey is undoubtedly the Peacock Ball – an evening of fine food, great company, and heartfelt celebration. It is a chance to recognise individual achievements and to express gratitude to the parents, teachers, Housemasters, and friends who have supported the students along the way. On a warm July evening, the Upper Sixth and their parents gathered in their finest tuxedos and elegant dresses to eat, dance, and laugh the night away. The evening was filled with memorable moments – from Mrs Bignell’s amazement at Paul the Magician’s tricks, to the Leavers’ video (a rather convincing homage to Carpool Karaoke, if I may say so myself!). The Upper Sixth brought the house down with their renditions of 'Uptown Funk' and 'Sweet Caroline' and even convinced me to lead a conga line to 'Wonderwall' – perhaps the first, and quite possibly the only, conga line ever to that iconic Oasis ballad. The night was a resounding success, leaving everyone smiling and full of joy – a truly wonderful way to end the year. We will dearly miss our Upper Sixth leavers and wish them all the very best for their futures.’ Mr Gale (Deputy Head of Sixth Form)
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Fundraising and Charity ‘I am pleased to share the outcomes of our charitable fundraising efforts this academic year, which have demonstrated remarkable pupil initiative and community spirit. The year began with our Raising and Giving week, organised by the Sixth Form with an entertaining display of fayre activities including soak the student, quiz corner, and penalty shootout. This raised £256 for The Pebbles Project in South Africa, which enables children from farming communities to access quality education programmes and essential health and nutrition services.
Thank you to every pupil, member of staff and parent who supported and donated to all these causes so generously over the year - we could not have done so without your support.’ Mr T Kelmour Teacher of Science
Prep Sponsored Walk The Prep School enjoyed a truly wonderful day as they took part in the annual sponsored walk in support of Tiggywinkles, a local wildlife hospital dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of injured animals. The event was filled with smiles and a sense of community spirit as pupils from every year group walked and ran side-by-side, encouraging one another and sharing in the excitement of spotting the wildlife marking the checkpoints along the way. Thanks to their enthusiasm and generosity - as well as the support of families and friends the Prep School managed to raise over £2,000 for Tiggywinkles.
Our first non-uniform day raised £1,490 for Oxford Children's Hospital, funding vital support roles including a youth worker providing emotional assistance to teenagers and a health play specialist helping young patients undergo 'awake scans' without general anaesthetic. The proceeds also improved waiting areas with child and parent-friendly facilities. In the new year, two of our Lower Sixth Form students (Amelie McGrath - Feilden and Mida Loci - Feilden) organised a bake sale raising £107 for Save the Oceans, a charity close to their hearts that combines cutting-edge science and education to empower coastal communities in marine conservation, including establishing Marine Protected Areas and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Our final non-uniform day raised £865 for Edge Housing, which provides accommodation and support to over 30 residents at any one time, helping build self-esteem and resilience through one-to-one work and group activities, ultimately supporting residents toward recovery, employment, and independent living. It has been a busy and rewarding year as Charities Coordinator, observing how involved and aware pupils and staff have become in their charitable giving. The charities we have supported work both overseas and locally, all directly involved in supporting wellbeing and health. In total we have raised £2,718 this year for a selection of four different charitable causes.
This remarkable achievement not only highlights the kindness of our pupils and the whole School community but also shows their growing awareness of the importance of protecting and caring for our local wildlife.
RAG Week From Netball to Nerf Guns, Target Football to Twister, and Sponge the Teacher to Splat the Rat, the whole School RAG Week was packed full of fun and philanthropy. The RAG (Raising and Giving) week was organised by our five Sixth Form Leadership Grant Holders - appointed from among 20 applicants in February - who were tasked with organising an event to serve the whole School community. A range of weird and wonderful stalls were planned for both the Prep and Senior Schools to enjoy throughout the week, raising money for Pebble Project. The week of activities culminated in an assault course challenge and home clothes day on Friday.
The event was a huge success, with over £2,000 raised for Pebble Project so far, and still counting! Pebble Project works with children from farming communities to access education programmes and health, nutrition and social work services in areas across the country. During their hockey and rugby tours to South Africa over the summer of 2024, students were lucky enough to visit some of the children helped by the charity and saw first-hand the amazing work being done there. The incredible amount of money raised and the smiles on the faces of all the pupils who participated with such enthusiasm and generosity, are testament to the success of their endeavours, and demonstrate why they were selected to represent our School and how they embody our leadership programme.
Lower Sixth BTEC Students Host Charity Bake Off As part of their BTEC assignment, our Lower Sixth students were challenged to plan and deliver an event with a charitable aim and zero budget. Rising to the task, they organised a fantastic Teacher Bake Off and Bake Sale in support of the British Heart Foundation.
From delicious cookies to showstopper cakes, staff brought their best bakes, and the students sold them to raise funds – generating an incredible £200, with £170 profit going to the charity.
The week culminated with 'open classrooms', parents were invited into School to spend time with their children and share all their wonderful work they have done throughout the year. It was a lovely morning for parents and children to discuss what they have learnt and see how much they have progressed and grown since September. All pupils have loved taking part in the activities this week, thinking about how we can give back to our community and support one another.’ Miss Freeman Pre-Prep Lead
Uniform Donation ‘On behalf of Nyanga North Secondary School staff, students and community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of school uniforms. Your contribution is nothing short of a game-changer for one of the most underprivileged rural schools in Zimbabwe formed by Henry Chitsenga, a Maths teacher at St Edward's, Oxford.
A big well done to our winning bakers: Cakes – Ms Garitey Brownies – Ms Logan Cookies – Mrs Martin
‘It has been another productive and rewarding year for Cokethorpe’s Outreach Programme, as we continued to engage with local schools and the wider community through a variety of meaningful initiatives. Primary School Partnerships Students in the Lower Sixth visited Ducklington CE Primary School every Thursday lunchtime to run football coaching sessions for pupils in Years 3 to 6. This initiative proved to be a resounding success, with the younger pupils showing notable improvement in their skills, while our Sixth Form students developed their leadership, decision-making, communication, and empathy. At the same time, other members of the Lower Sixth visited Aston CE Primary School. During the winter months, they supported a lunchtime club designed to boost pupils’ social and cognitive development through educational games such as Boggle and Junior Scrabble. As the weather improved, the focus shifted to sports coaching, with Sixth Form students leading sessions in archery, football, basketball, lacrosse, and tennis. As part of their Activity Week, Year 5 pupils from Ducklington visited Cokethorpe and tackled our Climbing Tower with great enthusiasm. For many, it was their first climbing experience, and they impressed all with their bravery, guided expertly by Mr Slader.
An excellent display of teamwork, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit – and all for a good cause!
Prep Giving Week ‘The Prep School held their inaugural 'giving week'. It started with sharing the enjoyment of reading, getting together in Houses and spending time with one another to explore new books. We had our first clothes swap - pupils loved seeing their old clothes being shared and loved by someone else in School, learning valuable lessons of recycling and reusing. The next day each class thoughtfully decorated a plant pot, planted a flower and gifted this to an adult in School, thanking them for their hard work, later in the week was a book and board game swap which offered another great opportunity to learn about recycling and the excitement of choosing a new book or game to take home.
Wider Community
These uniforms are more than just clothing – they symbolise hope, equality, and the promise of a brighter future. For the students who receive them, this act of kindness has levelled the playing field, allowing them to feel confident and proud of who they are, regardless of their background. The boost in their self-esteem will undoubtedly translate into improved academic performance, as no student will feel left behind or underprivileged. Your generosity is not only making a difference today but will have a lasting impact on these young lives. Thank you for believing in them and for making such a profound difference in our community. We are forever grateful.’ Henry Chitsenga (On behalf of Nyanga North Secondary School)
Science and the Arts During National Science Week, Dr Flaherty captivated pupils from Combe CE Primary School and Windrush CE Primary School with exciting and engaging ‘Science Shows’ that sparked curiosity and joy. Our relationship with the community extended beyond schools. Rosebank Care Home in Bampton was visited early in the year, where residents enjoyed a musical performance from our accomplished future musicians. Later, during Curriculum Enrichment Week, three talented Sixth Form artists - under the direction of Ms Williams - created a beautiful mural of a tree in the care home, helping to ‘bring the outside in’ and brighten the space for residents.’ Dr Flaherty Assistant Director of Studies (Outreach)
Fire and Ice Show - Windrush CofE Primary School
During March, to inspire future scientists during National Science Week, the ‘Fire and Ice Show’ was performed by Dr Flaherty and Mrs Mason to delighted pupils from the Windrush CofE Primary School. Pupils were first taught the importance of fire safety. Then introduced to the fire triangle which consists of fuel, heat and oxygen and shown how if any of these three components are removed the fire will be extinguished. The pupils loved seeing the bright crimson red and green fire that was created using metal oxides. Dry ice was a favourite especially when used to produce a fountain of bright green foam to ooze out of large measuring cylinders. At the end, pupils asked great questions about the science. When the pupils were asked if they wanted to work in science in the future, we were rewarded with a resounding ‘Yes’.
Mulberry Bush Mural Our Art Award Holders were given a brief by Jess Hooper, Head Teacher at the Mulberry Bush School, to create an interesting, calm mural in their School’s education area on the
theme of local rivers. Pupils researched local flora and fauna, then prepared for the creation of the mural by making stencils, with the help of talented local artist, Emma Williams, from Natural Learning Oxford. On the day of the painting, pupils worked with Emma and their teachers exploring how to create a composition in the space that would be both interesting and peaceful. They then used a variety of paint techniques to build the mural to create a sense of depth, limiting the colour pallet to calm tones and leaving some plain fish stencils for the children of the school to add detail if they would like. The Mulberry Bush School commented: 'How can we thank you enough. The walls are completely transformed – they look amazing. You put so much thought and hard work into making the project a success and we all appreciate it very much.’ This was a wonderful collaboration between the two schools which resulted in a mural that will be admired for years to come.
Rosebank Care Home As part of a relationship we have forged with the Rosebank Care Home in Bampton, our Reception Class have been making regular visits to interact with the residents. During their visits, the children sit at tables chatting, as well as engaging in a number of activities, including cake decorating, painting and s’mores making. Visiting Rosebank fosters empathy, social skills, and a deeper sense of community. These intergenerational interactions help the children develop respect for older adults, learn about history and life experiences firsthand, and practice meaningful communication outside their usual peer group. In turn, these visits bring joy and companionship to the residents. Such experiences help bridge the generational gap and instil lifelong values of kindness, compassion, and social responsibility. The Rosebank Care Home residents have also been visited from one our talented violinists,
Ella Sharp (Fifth Form, Vanbrugh). The visit came in response to a request by the caregivers of one resident with dementia, who ‘comes alive’ to the sound of the violin. This was indeed the case, and it was wonderful to see her and many other residents enjoyed the pieces played beautifully by Ella, who was accompanied by Mr Wilson on the piano.
Colet Mentoring 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.
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Our incredible Catering Department
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Development SOCIETY Development
Thanks to the generosity of a dedicated donor, we are in the early stages of exploring the Cokethorpe Aviation Programme - an innovative initiative that would include a state-of-the-art flight simulation centre alongside a dedicated learning and lecture space. This programme will not only provide invaluable hands-on experience for our students, enhancing STEM learning and real-world aviation skills, but will also offer wider public benefits, inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aviation professionals. Additionally, this initiative presents a unique opportunity for businesses. As part of our corporate partnership packages, companies will have access to the facility for team-building experiences, leadership training, and tailored aviation workshops, making this an exciting and immersive addition to our offering.
Soaring Dreams: A Flying Start for Izzy Corkish, Thanks to Old Cokethorpean Shaun McHugh (1976, Swift) This summer, one of our pupils had the chance to take to the skies—literally—thanks to the incredible generosity of Old Cokethorpean Shaun McHugh. Shaun, a passionate aviator and long-time supporter of Cokethorpe, funded a week-long gliding course for Fifth Form pupil, Izzy Corkish (Vanbrugh) at Lasham Gliding School in June 2025. Shaun is a firm believer in the life skills that flying can offer young people—confidence, calm thinking, responsibility, and the joy of learning something completely new amid many other skills including the art of engineering. He is keen to see more Cokethorpe pupils benefit from the same experience and hopes Izzy’s journey will be the first of many. For Izzy, the opportunity could not have come at a better time. With dreams of one day becoming a flying doctor, she jumped at the chance to explore the aviation world. ‘I’ve never done anything like this before,’ Izzy admitted. ‘My grandad worked on Concorde as a steward, and he’s always told me stories about his time flying - it has always fascinated me. And I’ve wanted to go into medicine since I was little. I used to watch medical shows and was just hooked on how the body works.’ Arriving at Lasham with no prior flying experience, Izzy was not quite sure what to
expect—but quickly found herself in safe hands. ‘Everyone at Lasham was so kind and welcoming. From the minute I walked into the clubhouse, I felt like I belonged. They always reminded me that no question is a silly question, which made it so much easier to learn and enjoy every moment.’ Over the week, Izzy was introduced to a whole new world: soaring through the air at 60mph just seconds after take-off, watching the ground fall away beneath her, and learning to fly the glider with guidance from her instructor. ‘It was absolutely thrilling. I never thought I would be the one actually in control of a glider, flying 1,600 feet above the ground. I learned how to turn, how to recover from a stall, and how to keep the glider level—and even helped out on the ground with the other gliders. By the end of the course, I just did not want it to end!’ The experience has left a lasting impression and has only made Izzy more determined to pursue her goal of working as a doctor in the air. ‘Now that I have flown in a smaller aircraft - the kind I might one day use in my job - it is made everything feel more real. The idea of getting to patients quickly, while seeing the world from above, is just incredible. It has made me want to work even harder to reach that goal.’ Shaun McHugh, who made the course possible, shared why this initiative means so much to him: ‘Flying teaches so much more than just how to be in the air. It gives young people focus, confidence, and a sense of achievement that stays with them. I am delighted Izzy had such a brilliant experience, and I hope others at Cokethorpe get the same chance in the future.’ We are deeply grateful to Shaun for his support and for opening up such an exciting pathway for our pupils. For Izzy, the sky is not the limit - it is just the beginning.
The Business Breakfast Forum: Connecting Community, Inspiring Futures In the academic year 2024–2025, Cokethorpe School's Development Department launched a powerful new initiative: the Business
Breakfast Forum. This inspiring series of events quickly established itself as a cornerstone of professional connection and thought leadership within the Cokethorpe community, regularly drawing up to 200 business leaders, alumni, parents and partners to our stunning Dining Hall. Each forum begins with a sumptuous buffet breakfast, courtesy of our exceptionally talented Catering Department. Guests enjoy an enticing array of hot and cold offerings - crafted to suit every palate - while mingling in a warm, welcoming environment designed for networking, collaboration, and conversation. Running from 8.00am to 10.00am, each event centres around a dedicated theme, brought to life through compelling ‘in-conversation’ segments with keynote speakers of national and international acclaim. The sessions are skilfully hosted by Taryn Logan, our own Digital Marketing Officer, whose natural charisma and professionalism set the tone for every dialogue. These forums are more than a morning gathering—they serve as vital platforms for building relationships, fostering apprenticeship and career opportunities, and providing unique insight into the evolving landscapes of business, education, and global leadership. Highlights from the 2024–2025 Forum Series: Friday 20 September 2024: Celebrating the Power of Partnerships We welcomed Jeremy Blain, globally renowned leadership expert and author of The Inner CEO, alongside Andy Coecup, founding member of Groove Armada and co-founder
joined forces with Liberty Foreman, pioneering MedTech founder, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and education. Their conversation delivered tangible insights on adaptation, innovation, and the need for agility in a world of accelerating change. The discussion not only captivated but also challenged every guest to rethink the future of work and learning. With Thanks to Our Partners of Wildfarmed - a revolutionary movement blending sustainable farming with global food innovation. Their conversation was nothing short of transformative. Exploring the essential role of ethical partnerships in safeguarding our planet’s future, they left the audience with both inspiration and practical calls to action. Friday 7 March 2025: Successful Entrepreneurship and Leaving a Living Legacy
We are deeply grateful to our event sponsors — Philip Dennis Foodservice, Penny & Sinclair, and Clifton Bookkeeping - whose support helped bring this ambitious vision to life. Special thanks also to JJ Hunt Photography for capturing the events so beautifully, and to Oxford House for professionally filming the keynote conversations, enabling us to share these powerful moments with a wider audience.
This event brought the electric charisma of Levi Roots - musician, chef, and creator of the iconic Reggae Reggae Sauce - together with Rachel Hicks, co-founder of the award-winning Sky Wave Gin Distillery. With Levi strumming his guitar between anecdotes, the two shared raw, authentic insights into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Their powerful discussion offered an unforgettable glimpse into building brands, overcoming adversity, and the profound importance of giving back. Friday 6 June 2025: AI in Business and Education – The Future is Now To close the year, we delved into one of the most pressing topics of our time. Wale Adepoju, visionary investor and entrepreneur,
A Forum with Purpose The Business Breakfast Forum is supported by generous donations. After covering event costs, all remaining proceeds support our Bursary Programme, helping to ensure that a Cokethorpe education remains accessible to as many talented young people as possible. As we look ahead to next year’s programme, we remain committed to inspiring dialogue, empowering future leaders, and strengthening the ties that make the Cokethorpe community so unique.
A Celebration of Creativity: Cokethorpe’s Inaugural Silent Art Auction and Pop-Up Exhibition In the Summer Term of 2025, the halls of Cokethorpe were filled not only with the usual rhythm of academic life, but with the vibrant pulse of creativity and community spirit, as the School hosted its first-ever Online Silent Art Auction and Pop-Up Exhibition. This landmark event, led by the Development Department, was the result of a whole-School collaboration, with pupils, staff, alumni,
and families uniting in an extraordinary celebration of artistic expression. From the initial call for submissions to the final glass of fizz raised at the Pop-Up Exhibition on Monday 14 June, every corner of the Cokethorpe community supported this initiative with enthusiasm, generosity, and pride.
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Held within the beautiful surroundings of the Mansion House, the exhibition was the physical culmination of a three-week online auction that featured over 45 original artworks, generously contributed by professional and amateur artists, including talented pupils from across the School - all of whom are holders of Art Awards and scholarships. The collection was wonderfully diverse, ranging from painting and sculpture to contemporary jewellery, offering a rich tapestry of creativity that truly reflected the spirit of the School. Among the featured artists were works such as Sunlight Over Oxfordshire by Daisy Clayton, Magnolias by Silvi Schaumloeffel, Two Hole Form by David Williams, and Through the Grasses by Geoff Lawson. A special highlight was The Little Cokethorpe Tree by Christopher Townsend, which poignantly captured the School’s deep connection to place and heritage. The event was proudly sponsored by Cokethorpe’s CPFA and Well Hung Framing, whose support ensured the artwork was beautifully presented and professionally showcased. Guests attending the exhibition were treated to a complimentary glass of fizz, lively conversation, and the opportunity to meet several of the contributing artists, in a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere.
At the heart of the auction was Lead Artist Ambassador Gabriella Anouk (OC 2013, Swift) , acclaimed digital artist and Old Cokethorpean, who returned to support the School with her stunning showcase piece Pomegranate Amour. Speaking about her involvement, Gabriella shared: 'It is an honour, especially as an alumna and former art scholarship student. This School nurtured my creativity and passion for the arts, and it is a privilege to give back and help inspire the next generation of artists.' The Power and Importance of the Arts The resounding success of this inaugural event is a powerful reminder of the vital role the arts play—not just in education, but in society at large. At a time when the pace of modern
life can feel overwhelming, the arts offer space for reflection, imagination, and emotional connection. They help young people develop empathy, resilience, and the confidence to express themselves in a rapidly changing world. Cokethorpe’s Arts Department deserves particular recognition for its outstanding work in preparing pupils not only to produce technically impressive pieces, but to explore bold ideas and creative courage. The Department’s dedication has cultivated an environment where pupils are encouraged to look beyond the surface - to observe, question, and respond. The School’s growing arts provision ensures that creativity is not an afterthought, but a core pillar of the educational experience. A Lasting Impact Funds raised from the auction will directly support the continued development of the arts at Cokethorpe, as well as promote creative initiatives within the wider Oxfordshire community. In this way, the auction has already begun to extend its reach far beyond campus - helping to inspire the artists of today and tomorrow. As we look to the future, the success of this inaugural event has laid strong foundations for what we hope will become a tradition: one that celebrates the power of creativity, strengthens community ties, and continues to showcase the remarkable talent nurtured within Cokethorpe’s walls.
Shaun McHugh’s Transformational Support for Music at Cokethorpe Few gifts resonate quite like music. At Cokethorpe, it is a living part of our daily life - heard in rehearsals drifting from the Music School, experienced during assemblies and weekly performances, and cherished by the many pupils who find their confidence, voice, and passion through it. In December 2024, we were deeply honoured and humbled by the extraordinary generosity of Shaun McHugh, whose philanthropic support will open the doors of music to every pupil at Cokethorpe, ensuring that no child is held back from learning an instrument because of financial limitations. Through a substantial annual donation, Mr McHugh has pledged to support the direct purchase of musical instruments, allowing the School to significantly expand its instrument bank. This remarkable act of generosity ensures that all pupils - regardless of background or experience - will have the opportunity to explore, learn, and play a musical instrument as part of their Cokethorpe journey.
The impact of this support is already tangible. From violins and clarinets to brass and percussion, the Music Department now has the means to broaden its offering and remove barriers to participation. Whether a pupil wishes to pursue formal lessons or simply experience the joy of playing, the instruments are there waiting to be discovered. But Mr McHugh’s vision does not stop there. In addition to his annual commitment,
he has also provided a donation for the purchase of a Grand Piano - a long-held aspiration of the Music Department. The arrival of this piano has been a milestone moment for the School, enhancing both our teaching provision and the quality of public performances. It stands not only as a centrepiece in the Music School but as a lasting symbol of what is possible when passion meets philanthropy.
Society Death Announcement: David Davies 22/2/1942 - 21/2/2025
The School was sad to receive the news of the passing of Mr David Davies on 21 February, just a day before his 83rd birthday. David was a popular teacher and Housemaster from 1964 to 1970. Death Announcement: Philip John Fuller (OC 1967) 28/07/1951 – 10/03/2025 We were sad to learn of the passing of Phil from his daughter Lucy. Lucy told us that Phil still often spoke fondly of his time here at Cokethorpe, and his passion for rowing whilst he attended the School. Our thoughts are with both David and Phil’s families and friends.
Below, she gave us an insight into why, and what inspired her, to support the School with this event.
Rory Bourke (OC 1978, Swift) - Memories of Cokethorpe:
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You kindly donated a beautiful piece of art to the Silent Art Auction, what made you want to support the School in this way? Cokethorpe gave me many happy memories, so it was an honour to be able to support the School with the donation of one of my paintings, particularly as I loved my art lessons as a pupil there. Do you have any teachers or fellow students that you feel impacted your decision to become a professional artist? My art teacher from First Form to Third Form was Mr Lawson who was such an amazing teacher, and I loved art lessons with him. He definitely contributed towards my passion for painting. What would you tell our current students who are interested in taking the artist’s career path? Create what you love and follow your gut with what genuinely inspires you. Once you find your creative strengths and the styles that come most naturally to you, practice these skills repeatedly to build a portfolio. Do not be afraid of going wrong or failing. Every piece of art you ever create will be teaching you something and leading you to become the best
‘I am writing as an Old Boy of Cokethorpe, having studied there between 1974 and 1978. My time at the School remains profoundly dear to me. It was a place that not only educated me but shaped my character - and much of that was down to the calibre of the men who taught me. One such man, who left an indelible impression, was my former history teacher, Peter Cranham. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing some years ago. All those who taught me at Cokethorpe were, without exception, remarkable men - men of quiet dignity, fierce intellect, and a commitment to their calling that is rarely seen today. They embodied that ancient Roman ideal of Virtus - a fusion of honour, courage, self-sacrifice, and duty. Among these noble figures, I remember: Ronny Lyle, my French teacher, who taught with clarity and kindness. A man of impeccable courtesy he once apologised to me at a Cokethorpe School dance when, aged seventeen as I was, his daughter Felicity had (understandably) declined my invitation to dance with me!
Interview with Daisy Clayton, nee Chilton -Murphy (OC 2007, Gascoigne)
Paul Ellis, our great English teacher, who suffered from polio yet brought Shakespeare to life with passion and power. Mr Hudson, the gentle and patient maths Master, who smiled tolerantly at my bewilderment over even the simplest of problems.
We were delighted to welcome Old Cokethorpean, Daisy, back to School, where she and husband Jordan chose to celebrate a special occasion—their son, Rafferty’s Christening. We welcomed them, along with family and friends, to the Cokethorpe Chapel on Sunday 11 May 2025 to celebrate in a place with lasting meaning to Daisy. Daisy also kindly showed her support for the School by donating a beautiful piece of her own artwork to our recent Art Auction.
artist you can be. It was a real pleasure to see Daisy return and share such a special family occasion. We are grateful for her continued involvement and support. Daisy’s painting was one of the most popular pieces in the auction: To see her work, visit: www.daisyclayton.com.
Mr Clayton, our science, and biology teacher - whom we affectionately called ‘Pop’ or ‘Tubby’ Clayton (though he was thin, dry, and cadaverous, more Brigadier than bumbler). He did not believe in God, or so he said, but he embodied more moral virtue than almost any man I have ever known. I remember once, when I swore in class, he looked up and said simply: ‘Do not swear, Bourke. It does not become you.’ I never forgot it. And of course, Peter Allen, our Headmaster. A living saint in my eyes. A converted Anglican clergyman who taught me Latin with a quiet joy.
We read Virgil and Caesar together, and I still remember the row of P G Wodehouse novels stacked on his study desk. He was one of the finest human beings I have ever met. Peter Cranham came later. He was my History teacher in the Sixth Form. But what an impression he made. Peter was, quite simply, unforgettable. His dry wit, sharp intellect, and theatrical storytelling made his lessons not only educational but electrifying. He had that rare gift of making history live and breathe, turning past centuries into vivid theatre - punctuated always by his sharp humour and a glint in the eye. I would like to share one of his anecdotes, told during a lesson, which has stayed with me for over forty years. He was describing a trip he had taken to Venice. While visiting the Basilica of San Marco, he stood before a vast, dramatic painting - one of those gloriously over-the-top depictions of a great Venetian naval triumph. His tour guide was a rather seedy-looking Italian gentleman who, as Peter put it, bore a striking resemblance to the dishevelled detective Columbo. As the guide launched into an impassioned account of the battle, an American tourist - festooned with cameras, a guidebook clutched in one hand, and rollers still in her hair - suddenly called out from the back of the group: ‘Who won?’ A pause followed. Long and theatrical. Peter described how the crowd seemed to part, as if by divine will - the tourist on one side, the tour guide on the other. The guide turned, stooped slightly, and with a glint of sardonic amusement replied: ‘Lady… you think the Venetians would paint a picture like this of a battle they lost?’ Peter relished this story - and told it with such flair and timing that it brought the classroom down every time. It was a small moment, but one that captures the essence of the man: his gift for language, his love of history, his wry humour, and above all, his ability to make young minds light up with laughter and learning. He did not just teach history. He inhabited it. And in doing so, he taught us to do the same. Peter Green, our teacher of European History. Another great man of the highest order. His favourite historical figure was Napoleon, and we once had a fascinating conversation about him many years later during an Old Boys’ reunion—the last time I visited Cokethorpe. Peter Green was a humble, rather amusing man, possessed of a gentle kindness and a quietly dry sense of humour. He loved nothing more than to play cricket, and when the weather turned cold, he would don a great bearskin hat—prompting a friend of mine to quip that it looked like ‘the retreat from Moscow.’ That image alone still brings a smile to my face. He, too, was one of those rare teachers who left a deep impression, simply by being entirely himself.
Class of 2015 Barbecue
On Saturday 21 June, we were delighted to welcome back the Class of 2015 for their ten-year reunion - an enjoyable and memorable afternoon spent reconnecting with familiar faces and marking a decade since leaving Cokethorpe. Old Cokethorpeans and current staff gathered at the School to catch up, share memories, and reflect on their time here. It was heartwarming to see old School friends’ reactions as they saw each other walk into the Lower Quad and instantly recognise the faces from their old classrooms. Laughter echoed around the grounds as stories - many heart-warming, but mostly mischievous - were fondly recalled.
Guests were taken on tours of the School, offering the chance to see what has changed over the years, as well as what has remained reassuringly familiar. The afternoon concluded with a delicious barbecue, prepared by the Catering Department, which provided the perfect opportunity for relaxed conversation and drinks in the sunshine.
Our sincere thanks to all who attended and helped make the event so special. It was a pleasure to see each one of them, and we hope they took away a refreshed fondness of the School. We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2016 for their reunion in the summer of 2026.
Visiting OCs We are always happy to welcome OCs to the School in many capacities. Our most recent visits included Adam White (OC 1968, Harcourt) and Justin Etkin (OC 1991, Queen Anne). Adam visited the School in May, with his wife Sue whilst he was visiting the local area, all the way from his home in Scotland. Adam had not been back to the School since the day he left, and we had a wonderful time revisiting the Mansion House which had once been his home. Adam has since shared, and donated to our archives, a copy of the programme from the 1965 performance of 'The Happiest Days of your Life.'
DofE Expedition Review 'Our Gold DofE expedition in Dartmoor was an unforgettable experience that tested our resilience, teamwork, and navigation skills. Over four days, we trekked across the moorland, enduring unpredictable weather
and challenging terrain. Dartmoor truly kept us on our toes. During our practice expedition, we faced scorching heat that required many breaks, and on the real expedition, we experienced rain for days and high winds, which led us to camp in a barn for safety during one of the nights. These conditions were not ideal, but they created many memories, including an incident in a bog! I finished the expedition feeling more confident in my abilities and more appreciative of the support a team can offer. Overall, the Dartmoor expedition was tough but deeply rewarding and left us with lifelong memories. It was all worth it for the amazing trip to Buckingham Palace, where we listened to exciting speeches from Prince Edward and a Gold Award holder with an inspiring journey. The Gold DofE Award is not easy; it demands commitment, patience, and grit. It teaches you how to navigate the real world with independence, compassion, and determination. Gold DofE is a big challenge, but worth every step.' Anna Pratley (OC 2024, Feilden)
From Quiet Pupil to Creative Entrepreneur: Freddie Jewson’s Journey
When Freddie Jewson (OC 2014, Swift) joined Cokethorpe in 2007, he considered himself the ‘quiet kid – the general child you could forget about.’ Shy and reserved, he listened more than he spoke, often observing rather than joining in. Looking back, he credits those years with shaping his self-awareness and ability to reflect. ‘I was from a large extended family and used to sit and listen to adult conversations,’ he recalls. ‘I learnt when to listen, when to talk, and how to take constructive criticism. At Cokethorpe, I had the space and ability to think and to work out who I was. Perhaps in a bigger school, I would not have had that freedom.’ By Sixth Form, Freddie began to come out of his shell and explore his creative strengths, studying A Levels in Photography, Business, DT, and Geography. Business Studies, taught by Mrs Silversides, left a lasting impression, he recalls.
‘She said, ‘When you set up a business, after the first year, if you are making a loss but are still there, you are a success. By the second year, if you are still making a loss but still there, you are a success. By the third year, if you are only just about to breakeven, you are a success. By the fourth year, now you may start to make money.’ It was a lesson of patience and persistence.’ After leaving School in 2014, Freddie chose not to go to university. Instead, a summer job at a video production agency turned into part-time work, and then a full-time role. Surrounded by colleagues older and more experienced, he gained industry knowledge quickly. Two years later, inspired by entrepreneurial family members, he took the leap to go freelance.
fear. And with his eyes set on telling timeless stories through film, his journey is only just beginning.
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*Freddie now sponsors the Business Networking Breakfasts held here at the School. By filming the events, we are able to share the content with those, who not only attended on the day to allow them to reflect on the discussions, but those who were unable to attend.
Douglas Cook Celebrates 90th Birthday and Reflects on Early Days at Cokethorpe
It was not easy. ‘I was a 20-year-old young man, attending lots of networking events in Oxford with people twice my age. I needed to get my face out there. It was scary, but if I wanted to grow, I had to put myself in awkward positions. Eventually networking became fun, and now it is one of my favourite things. I can go into a room and talk to anyone.’* From those beginnings, his business grew into Oxford House Video Agency, a creative hub designed to champion local businesses and support Oxfordshire’s creatives. ‘The aim is to produce the best and most authentic content we can, tailored to the client’s needs. To be honest, fair, transparent, helpful – and enjoy it.’ His work has taken him across a wide range of industries, particularly as Oxfordshire’s science and technology sector has expanded. ‘One day I can be filming in a field, the next I am filming by a nuclear reactor. Corporate STEM is the area I am keen to focus on – there are so many opportunities.’ Alongside commercial projects, Freddie is passionate about the power of storytelling. ‘The whole world is videos now – shorts, Instagram, TikTok – but the theory behind the video makes all the difference. I want to tell stories that teach lessons, like Aesop’s 'The Tortoise and The Hare' does about patience. More recently short videos and film have lost that ability to teach. Stories and role models have disappeared, but they are more important than ever.’ Looking back, Freddie reflects positively on his school years. ‘Cokethorpe allowed me to work out who I was. The lessons and classes were not stressful. The freedom to choose what was right for me is still one of my fondest memories.’ From the quiet child in First Form to the Director of a thriving creative agency, Freddie Jewson’s journey shows the value of patience, persistence, and the confidence to overcome
We were delighted to hear from Douglas Cook following the celebration of his 90th birthday. A founding member of Cokethorpe School in 1957, Douglas looks back fondly on his time here and remains a cherished part of our history. Douglas continues to enjoy friendships with Old Cokethorpeans, including Michael ‘Lucy’ Lousada, and is always pleased to reconnect with those who remember him, sharing memories of the School’s formative years. He recalls organising School concerts alongside Mr Bolt and later Mr Lyle, including productions of Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and a Christmas Nativity in Ducklington. After leaving Cokethorpe, Douglas went on to teach music and immerse himself in the musical life of north-west Kent, the Lake District, and later settling in Cumbria. His compositions - mostly choral works - are now published by Canasg Music. ‘It was amusing and rewarding (in every sense) to get my first royalties early in 2024,’ he shared. ‘I am now busy getting my archive transferred.’ Douglas would be delighted to hear from any Old Cokethorpeans who remember him. If you would like to get in touch, please contact Anna Hodgkins, Alumni Relations Manager, who will be happy to connect you: ah@cokethorpe.org.
STAFF Achievements Congratulations to Mrs M Cooper who gained a distinction in her MSc from Oxford in Teaching and Learning. Congratulations to Mr T Kelly who completed his NPQ LT (National Professional Qualification for Leading Teaching). List of Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts Mr T Bendall Mr E Bosse Miss R Dodson Mr D Ettinger Mr J Everling Dr C Flaherty Miss C Garitey Mr T Kelmour Mr A Ladell Stuart Mr C Tyer
Staff News Starters and Leavers Welcomes Welcome to Mrs N Cammack who joined us as Governor this year.
Summer Term Mr D Ettinger - Headmaster Mrs S Du Feu - Head of Prep Music Mr Jorge Granados Trujillo - Teacher of MFL Mrs J Neame - Learning Support Teacher Mrs G Nunn - Cleaner Mrs J Southwood - Cleaner Mrs D Smith - Coffee Shop Supervisor Mr A Waldron - Teacher of Philosophy and EPQ Coordinator Mrs R Moore - Teacher of MFL Mr G Lewis - Prep School Teacher
Staff News Thank you to Mrs Marchbank Mrs Marchbank was honoured with a very special award from the retiring Headmaster at the Prep School Prize Giving 2025. She was presented with a silver peacock feather brooch for raising over £50,000 for charity during her time at the School. Mrs Marchbank commented: ‘It was the children who did all the work. I only had to ensure that their ideas could be put into action. It has been a privilege and a joy to help them.’ Mrs Marchbank cited this as one of her proudest achievements during her 27 years as a teacher at the School.
Michaelmas Term Miss H Bullock - Teacher of DT Mr B Watson - Assistant Director of Music Mr T Phillips - Teacher of Mathematics Mr D Hayden - Teacher of Business Studies Mrs E Riman - Learning Support Teacher Ms D Galea - LAMDA Teacher Mrs S Lacorie - French Language Assistant Lent Term Mr T Bendall - Teacher of Mathematics Mr T Peace - Prep School Teacher (Year 6)
Farewells Michaelmas Term Ms J James - Deputy Head of Prep School Mr E Bosse -Teacher of Mathematics Mr W Horton - Teacher of Science Mrs M Marchbank - Learning Support Teacher Mrs V Mersh - Learning Support Teacher Mr B Gaertner - Sports Assistant and Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator Ms M Taylor - Prep School Art Teacher Mrs Z Lamb - Teacher of PE Mrs J Miller - EAL Tutor
Congratulations to Cleaner, Mrs E Woodcock, and her husband Jake on the birth of their son, Otis Samuel, born on Friday 4 October, weighing 6lb 15oz.
Congratulations to Chef, Miss Gutteridge, and her partner Lisa Freeman, on the birth of their daughter, Ava Skye, born on Friday 28 February weighing 7lbs 7oz.
Congratulations to Music and Development Officer, Mrs S Brownless and Creative Officer, Mr N Brownless on the birth of their son, Jasper Patrick Trevor, born on Thursday 24 July, weighing 8lb 1oz. Congratulations to Head of Marketing, Mr W Griffiths and his wife Louise, on the birth of their son Sebastian Alexander Henry, born on Tuesday 1 October, weighing 6lb 10oz.
Congratulations to Head of IT Services, Mr Goodwin, for completing the gruelling Bath Ultra Marathon running a distance of 50km. After sixteen weeks of training and a trail run with 1,735 metres of elevation, Mr Goodwin completed the course in five hours and fiftyfive minutes, coming 56th out of 1001 starters. He raised an incredible £1,191.00 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Farewells
Looking back, I could honestly write a book about the highlights (and perhaps one day I will) but what I will remember most are the magical Prep productions in The Shed, the joyful chaos of Prize Giving performances in the marquee, and the sheer pride of watching children discover what they could do through Music and Drama. Those moments will stay with me forever. I have been lucky to work with so many incredible colleagues over the years whom I count as lifelong friends. What a privilege it has been to be part of this School, especially working with such inspiring staff in the beautiful Mansion. Even now, after all these years, the drive from Oxford and that final turn down the sweeping drive, still takes my breath away. I will miss walking down to the Chapel through the changing of the seasons, and, of course, the sound of children singing. I am looking forward to the next chapter: teaching Piano and Singing, exploring creative projects, and hopefully returning now and then, perhaps even to sit in the audience at next year’s Prize Giving. Thank you, Cokethorpe, for the music, the memories, and the years.’ Mrs Du Feu Head of Prep Music)
However, it will be lovely to visit my family who live abroad without having to plan trips round school holidays – very liberating!’ Mrs Neame (Teacher of Learning Development)
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Farewell from Mr Lewis
‘Having first been a Sixth Former here between 2007 and 2009, it felt like a full-circle moment to return in January 2015 as a Teaching Assistant in the Prep School. Within a few months, I was offered a teacher training role, and since then, I have had the privilege of teaching Year 3 or 4, as well as Science across Years 3 to 6 and Games.
Farewell from Mrs Neame
Farewell from Mrs Du Feu ‘As I write this, I still cannot quite believe it. Am I really leaving? After 27 years at Cokethorpe, it feels as though time has fast-forwarded. I was first offered the job as part of a Year 6 job share, just after having my daughters, Elise and Grace. At the time, the Junior School, as it was then called, had only three classes. How the School has grown since then! I could never have imagined just how much a part of my life Cokethorpe and its community would become. It was not long before I became a full-time Year 6 teacher and Music teacher alongside Mr Rotherham, Director of Music. A few years later, I was teaching Music, Drama, and RE full-time. Over nearly three decades, thinking back to my very first day, I will always be grateful to Mr Cantwell and Mrs Foster, who offered me my first job. Mr Ettinger’s calm, consistent leadership has been a quiet anchor throughout so much of my time here, and the fact that we are both retiring this year makes the moment feel especially significant.
I have especially cherished taking part in staff football in my early days, staff cricket, and the Prep School productions, supporting the live music; these have been standout moments I will truly miss. Leading Prep Science, organising STEM competitions, and running the Prep School band were incredibly rewarding. School trips, from regular outings to the Corinium Museum to unforgettable residentials like PGL and Bushcraft, have given me memories I will carry for life. Perhaps my proudest achievement was creating, organising and hosting the Prep School’s interHouse Singing Competition – I hope it continues for many years to come. ‘I originally came to Cokethorpe to do some one-to-one teaching practise to acquire a qualification to teach Specific Learning Difficulties and was welcomed by both the Junior and Senior SENCOs who were here at the time. Once I acquired the qualification, I joined the Senior Learning Support Department as the only Maths specialist and had pupils from the First Form up to Sixth Form. I especially enjoyed teaching the latter, although recently my skills have not been needed here. After 20 years the time has come to move on to the next phase of my life although I shall miss my colleagues, the pupils and the marvellous Catering Department! Cokethorpe is a truly friendly environment and so it has always been enjoyable coming to work. I have also enjoyed joining the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award days during CEW week and remember with fondness a memorable trip to Spain with Spanish GCSE pupils.
Over the years, I have had the honour of working alongside some remarkable people. Colin Maskery, Maureen Marchbank, and Lou Oliff among them, whose dedication and passion have deeply inspired me. Though I will miss my colleagues greatly, I take comfort in knowing that staying connected in today’s world is easier than ever. Cokethorpe School was not just another job for me. I came to Sixth Form here, and in the ten years I have been here as a staff member, I met my wife, Kate, I bought my first house, I got married at Cokethorpe, I moved house, and I had two children, all whilst working here. Cokethorpe School will always be extremely special to me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked here.’ Mr Lewis (Year 3 Teacher)
An Interview with Gladys and June: 46 Years at Cokethorpe After nearly five decades of dedicated service, Gladys Nunn and June Southwood - two of the most familiar faces at Cokethorpe - bid us farewell. Their story is one of friendship, family, and deep connection to the School, its people, and its ever-evolving landscape. We sat down with them to look back on their time here, and reflect on what Cokethorpe has meant to them. So, what do you do here at Cokethorpe? Gladys: We clean the Mansion House now, but we have done all sorts of jobs over the years. June: We have been everywhere, really. We started out in different places, but somehow always ended up back together! When did you start working at Cokethorpe? Gladys: I started in 1979, working in the kitchen at first, then moved on to the cleaning side - the Quad, or what we used to call the ‘New Block.’ It was the first block that was built. June: I also started in 1979, on the cleaning team. My first job was in the sanatorium, back when it was still a boarding school. Then I moved over to the Mansion House. We even worked in the laundry at one point! Gladys: We actually knew each other before we even worked here - from our school days. June: We come as a pair now! What are some of the highlights from your time here? June: When it was a boarding school, we got to know all the boys and the teachers. We were like mums to the boarders. Gladys: I even cut their hair! If they had problems, they would come to us.
June: We have seen so many changes - from a full boarding school to a day school. We used to clean the dorms; now it is the classrooms. We have seen new buildings go up and old ones transformed. Gladys: The art block used to be the kitchen and dining room. June: There was no central heating back then, either. The boys slept on iron beds with grey blankets. They did not even have any duvets back then! Any favourite memories you would like to share? Gladys: Oh, so many! We have had so many laughs - we should have kept a diary. Once, when it was snowing, we were picked up in the Land Rover! June: In the early days, before the fire escape stairs were installed, we would watch the boys climb out the windows and file down in a line during fire drills. Gladys: We even gave some of the older ones lifts into Witney! June: The youngest boys were just 10 or 11. We were in our late 20s when we started. It's amazing to look back now. Gladys: We have known some well-known families too - Casper Jones was a boarder. His brother is the actor, Toby Jones, and we were friendly with their mum and dad, the late Freddie Jones. We even went to Freddie’s 60th and saw the Two Ronnies there! June: We have seen so many faces come and go. Gladys: We are still in touch with staff and OCs. Peter Green still sends us messages. Here is a bit from one of his recent ones — it meant a lot to us: ‘You both deserve recognition for long and loyal service to Cokethorpe after such a long time. I found you two wonderful supporters when you came to clean up my various classrooms and invaluable when you were looking after Swift. As Housemaster, you both alerted me to boys who were unhappy, and I found that enormously helpful. I hope you both realise how important that was to the smooth running of the House. Many boys had their problems resolved thanks to you, and you made my job much easier. Thank you for all you have done for Cokethorpe over the years.’
What will you miss most? June: Cokethorpe has been a huge part of our lives. It is not just a job for us; it is a home from home. Gladys: We will miss the beautiful grounds, we love seeing all the seasons here. We will also miss the atmosphere. It is so lovely here. We always look forward to coming back after the holidays. It is just a very friendly place. June: We are part of the furniture now! It is hard to imagine not being here. We have never not got on with anyone here. And because we have worked in every part of the School, we know it inside out. We have watched every building go up. Gladys: My mum and dad - Margaret and Bob Bowsher - worked here too. My brother Keith still works here. June’s mum worked here when it first opened in the late '50s, and her daughter works here now too. June: All our kids have helped out here at some point too. It is a real family affair for us. What are you most looking forward to next? Gladys: Shopping and going out for lunch! June: We used to work mornings and evenings now it is just mornings - so our days won’t change too much. But we are looking forward to some proper rest. What farewell celebrations have you had? Gladys: We had a lovely afternoon tea in the Headmaster’s office and joined the Prep School for a touching farewell in their assembly where we were presented with huge bouquets of flowers. June: We had the farewell barbecue, and have an afternoon tea planned with Jenny Dow and Maureen Marchbank. Gladys: It has been lovely - we have been really touched by everyone’s kindness. June: We will really miss Cokethorpe after all these years. But we will always keep in touch.
Peter Green Gladys and June, thank you for everything. You have left an incredible legacy and touched the lives of generations of staff and pupils. Cokethorpe will not be the same without you.
Farewell Mr Ettinger After 23 years of dedicated service, Mr Damian Ettinger retires as Headmaster of Cokethorpe School, leaving behind a legacy marked by growth, transformation, and unwavering commitment to the school community. Over that time Cokethorpe has flourished - not only in numbers, but in spirit and ambition. Mr Ettinger oversaw significant developments in both academic and pastoral provision, championing a culture where pupils are encouraged to thrive as individuals. His tenure saw the expansion of facilities, the strengthening of co-curricular programmes, and a deepening of the School’s values, all of which have helped shape Cokethorpe into the vibrant, forward-looking institution it is today. Mr Ettinger’s impact reaches far beyond bricks and mortar. His vision and integrity have inspired generations of pupils and staff alike, fostering a sense of belonging and pride that defines the Cokethorpe experience. As he steps down, he does so with the heartfelt gratitude of the entire school community. In his own words, ‘Cokethorpe is a part of our family,’ and it is clear that his legacy will remain woven into the fabric of the School for years to come. We wish Mr Ettinger a joyful and fulfilling retirement, and warmly welcome Dr Sarah Squire as she begins her own chapter as Head, building on the strong foundations laid by her predecessor. Mr Stevens Deputy Headmaster
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Cokethorpe School Witney, Oxon OX29 7PU Tel: 01993 703921 Email: admin@cokethorpe.org The Review | Issue 5 | 2025 Edited and produced by the Communications Office. Published by Cokethorpe School.