An excellent week of hard work in the classroom and on the games field.
A huge well done to Zoe G who was awarded a hockey stick for being named ‘Player of the Tournament’ on Wednesday.
And our swimmers performed magnificently at the away gala against Sutton High Girls School – well done, girls.
A huge thank you to FOST for the coffee and cakes and raising of funds for Macmillan – but a huge thank you to all of you who supported and donated, I truly hope you had a lovely morning together.
Next week sees our girls experiencing the poems of Kimba for a National Poetry Day celebration, our Feast of St. Therese on Wednesday, Year 6 parents and pupils tour of Senior School on Thursday morning and the long awaited and ever so special celebration of St. Francis with our Pet Blessing on Friday with Deacon Ian.
Have a magnificent weekend to see out September 2025!
Best wishes,
Gareth Tindall
Changes to Bus Schedules or End of Day Plans
To make things smoother and safer, we've introduced theVectare Travel App. If you haven't registered yet, please sign up at this link: Vectare Travel using your email address from iSAMS. You can make all the necessary changes on the website.
If you need further help, please reach out to the transport team at effinghamschoolstrust@vectare.co.uk or transport@effinghamschools.org / 01372 750255.
Any end of day changes, please email your class teacher and copy in the school office prepinfo@st-teresas.com
Absence Notification & Evidence Form
A reminder to complete this form if your child will be absent from Prep due to illness or other valid reasons. To ensure accurate attendance records, please upload evidence (e.g. appointment text, letter, or email) if the absence is due to a medical appointment. Wherever possible, appointments should be made outside school hours.
Pastoral Pause
As we come to the end of Self-Care September, I challenge us all to do Monday’s activity of writing three things we appreciate about ourselves!
Then launch yourself into Optimistic October and find all the joy you can in seeking out the good in every person, conversation, action, moment and quiet space.
And this weekend, enjoy some quiescent time.
God Bless your weekend and week ahead,
Gareth Tindall
Autumn Term, Key Diary Dates 2025-26:
Mon 29th Sept National Poetry Day: Poet visit, Kimba, Mairlot Hall
11:15 - 12:15
Wed 1st Oct Mass of the Feast of St Teresa, Mairlot Hall 14:30
Thurs 2nd Oct Yr. 6 Parent talk and tour of Senior School 09:00
Fri 3rd Oct St Francis’ Pet Blessing, Mairlot Lawn 08:30
Tue 7th Oct Yr. 6 Mock Entrance Examinations 09:00
Thurs 9th Oct Prep School Individual & Sibling Photos 09:00 - 12:15
Fri 10th Oct Harvest Celebration, Chapel 08:30 - 09:15
Mon 13th Oct Year 5 Shang Dynasty Workshop, Mairlot Hall 09:00 - 12:15
Wed 15th Oct Prep School Council Meeting 12:15 Parents Evening (Online) 17:00 - 20:00
Thurs 16th Oct Parents Evening (In Person) 16:30 - 19:00
Fri 17th Oct Half Term begins 18:00
Mon 3rd Nov Term Resumes
Tue 11th Nov 11+ Prep Entrance Exams 08:30
This week you have received the following communications on SchoolPost: Year 6: Year 6 Pond visit, 02/10/25 Year 5: Year 5 Residential Trip to PGL 5th - 8th May 2026 Whole School: New Procedures for Reporting Absences and Medical Appointments
Please remember to check your inbox, including your junk/spam, as the email may go to your junk box the first time it is sent. If you have any questions please email prepinfo@st-teresas.com
Golden Book
Well done to all of the girls in our Golden Books this week:
5AB Florence D for her effort and attention to detail in Maths. Ivy H for working hard to include interesting language in her character description.
5HT Scarlett S for effort and attention to detail in Maths this week. Kitty N for efforts with her descriptive vocabulary and use of figurative language.
6MK Sofia A, Esther H and Ania S polar regions.
6RG Liberty C for her fantastic effort to improve her writing when using descriptive language when describing a setting. She wrote: 'As she went further in, she turned around and saw porcelain white snow falling softly and trees with a pinch of glittered frost.
Amelia H for her fantastic use of figurative language in her setting description. she wrote: "...She could see the tiger orange and canary yellow flame dancing a jig inside its cage."
Drama Stars
Year 5: Sara W for excellent focus and thoughtful contribution to group tasks.
Year 6: Daisy B for excellent contribution to discussion and impressive confidence when trying new skills.
Parents’ Evenings — 15th and 16th October 2025
Formal parents’ meetings for the Prep School will take place on to following days:
Wednesday 15th October: Online 17.00 to 20.00
Thursday 16th October: In Person 16:30 to 19.00
Please book your appointments from the 30th September here: https://est.schoolcloud.co.uk
FOST 2nd HAND UNIFORM SHOP
Submission forms are under FOST 2nd hand uniform on the St Ts website: Second-hand Uniform Shop
REMINDER: CASH or CHEQUE only please for the foreseeable future.
Open Fridays 8.30am-9am and First Saturday of every month 10:30am 11.00am by appointment only:
Please contact Wendy or Camilla: Fostuniform@gmail.com
Prep
News
Special GuestVisit – Rap Poet Kimba
We are thrilled to announce that Kimba, the acclaimed rap poet behind Write the Wrongs, will be visiting St Teresa’s on Monday 29 September to present to pupils in Years 5, 6, 7 and 8. His engaging and thought-provoking performances blend poetry and rap to explore themes of identity, creativity, and social awareness.
Want a preview? Watch Kimba in action
We’re really looking forward to welcoming Kimba – we think he’s going to be a hit!
How Tall IsYour Sunflower?
We’ve had two lovely entries so far in our sunflower competition!
Molly’s sunflower reached an impressive 1.14m, while Maddie’s measured a fantastic 71 inches. Well done to both girls!
If there are any more entries, please send them to Mrs Johnson by Wednesday 2nd October. We can’t wait to see more towering blooms!
Year 6 Science
As part of our current topic, Habitats, we would like to take the girls to have a look at the School Biodiversity area, including the pond next week.
Please may all girls in Year 6 make sure that they have their wellies in school for their Science lesson next week on Thursday 2nd October?
They will also need to have with them their school tracksuit bottoms and a long sleeved top.
Year 5 Science
Last Friday, Year 5 carried out an investigation into how the size of a parachute affects air resistance. The girls had great fun dropping their parachutes off the 6th Form Centre balcony!
Prep News
Congratulations to Miss Lane!
We’re delighted to share the wonderful news that Miss Lane, our fantastic MFL teacher, got married last weekend! Wishing her and her partner a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness together.
Preloved Book Sale
A huge thank you to everyone who supported the Preloved Book Sale in the Library on Thursday, run by our brilliant Eco Council. The girls really enjoyed browsing and choosing their books, with most Prep titles going for just 3 for £1. All proceeds are going towards the Prep Legacy Project, and we’re so grateful for your support!
Prep News
Safer Internet Week
This week in Computing lessons, we have been reminding ourselves of how to keep safe online. The girls had many ideas and showed great understanding and awareness of the potential risks. To follow on from this we have launched a competition to design a mascot to accompany any internet safety information in school. Details are bellow.
• Design an Internet Safety Mascot for the Prep School.
• On A4 paper
• Must be your own work
• Give your mascot a name
• Think about using computers, mobiles, gaming devices as a basis.
• Handed in on Monday 6th October
• Prizes!
International day of Languages Lunch
To mark the International Day of Languages, our fantastic caterers, Harrison Catering, treated pupils to a mouth-watering selection of international sweet treats. Highlights included delicate éclairs, beautifully decorated cupcakes, and a tempting variety of biscuits inspired by global traditions. A huge thank you to Harrison Catering for their creativity and generosity.
Prep Events
Prep Events
Music News
Orchestra
With forgotten instruments, lost music and several musicians at Forest School, our rehearsal on Monday took a little while to get going. However, once we were up and running there was plenty of focussed work on remembering the rhythms and observing the key signature. There was even an opportunity for some of the students to have a go at conducting the ensemble. Good work, girls.
Chamber Choir
Wonderful listening and focussing in our rehearsal last Friday as we learned the two part harmonies for our forthcoming Harvest Assembly performance. I'm so sorry to miss the rehearsal this week, but I am looking forward to polishing our performance next week.
Musician of the Week
Year 5 Lulu D Well done for taking the lead in your vocal group and presenting clear, rhythmic, accurate lyrics
Year 6 Sienna D Thank you for being brave and being the first volunteer to try improvising in our keyboard class. Great job!
Year 5
Year 5 developed their song lyrics, considering which words should be emphasised on the strong beats of the bar. They also started to craft the various elements of their performance and suggested additional features that could be added next week. Sorry - no ukulele classes this week as Mrs G is poorly.
Year 6
Year 6 continued to build their World Unite performance by adding a vocal ostinatos, relating body movements to pitch patterns. Working in small groups, they also created and performed their own scat riffs. Sorry - no keyboard classes this week as Mrs G is poorly.
Sport News
WELCOME BACK!
The PE department is looking forward to an exciting year of sport ahead. At the prep school, we are proud of our “sport for all” ethos and aim to involve every pupil in our activities. We encourage as many girls as possible to take advantage of the wide range of extra-curricular clubs and sporting opportunities available, please do support and encourage your daughters to get involved.
Match Reports
In a challenging set of Hockey fixtures against Downsend School, all four teams put in determined performances despite narrow defeats. The A team fought hard in a closely contested game but were edged out 1-0, with Zoe G putting in a standout performance to earn Player of the Match. The B team faced a tough opposition and, despite their best efforts, lost 3-0, with Olivia L showing great resilience throughout. The C team also suffered a narrow 1 feat, with Anna R impressing with her work rate and commitment. The D team gave their all in a 2 out with her consistent effort and positive attitude.
Our first swimming gala of the year took place away against Sutton High, and it was a fantastic start to the season. The girls arrived with a mixture of nerves and excitement, ready to test themselves after weeks of training. This year we have decided to host and compete in as many A – C galas as possible, thanks to the wonderfully high number of enthusiastic swimmers in our squad. It was a delight to see so many girls given the opportunity to represent the school. For the Year 5s, butterfly was on the schedule for the first time. Charlotte E and Eloise K rose brilliantly to the challenge, they secured a 1–2 victory. Kimberley C, a new addition to the team this year, swam superbly to claim her first win of the season in front crawl, before playing a key role in helping the Year 6s secure a double victory in the relays. Scarlett demonstrated tremendous courage after a goggle mishap, refusing to give up and finishing her race with determination. Kitty continued her impressive winning streak in the breaststroke, confirming her reputation as a force to be reckoned with in this discipline. Throughout the gala, the girls were a credit to the school, displaying maturity, teamwork, and resilience. Their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved victory in their opening gala of the year.
Fixtures (week commencing 29th September)
Tuesday U10 ABCD Hockey vs Felonfleet (H) 2:30pm and U11A&B Netball v Claremont (H) 3pm start
U11C&D Netball v Claremont (A) 2.30pm
Friday U10A &B net v Cobham free (H) 4.30pm
Sports Clubs this week:
Tuesday 7.50am-8.20am U10-U11 Netball Club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Tuesday 12.45pm 1.15pm U10-U11 Netball Shooting Club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Wednesday 7:45– 8:30am U10-U11 Swim squad invitation only
Wednesday 4:15-5:30pm U10-U11 Hockey Club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Thursday 7.50am-8.20am U9-U11 Hockey Club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Thursday 12.15pm-12.45pm U10 & U11 Running Club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Thursday 12:45-1:15pm U10-U11 Football Club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Thursday 3.45pm 4.45pm Swim Squad Invitation only
Friday 4.15pm 5.30pm U10 U11 Netball club EVERYBODY WELCOME!
Message from Mrs Fogwill
Development Squad, please note that if there is a Gala running, no training will take place that evening.
NSEA NEWS
National Championship Qualifiers
The St Teresa’s NSEA team were busy competing last weekend with some more fantastic results.
Moreton Equestrian Centre, 20 September Showjumping
Harriet L and her pony Trevor came second in the 80cm class and won the 90cm class. Harriet is now qualified individually for the National Championships in October. She also came 6th in the 90 cm class on her second pony Tommy which qualifies them for the Plate Championships.
Felbridge Equestrian Centre, 21 September
Combined Training*
Claudia B, Rosie C, Lilly S and Olivia S won their Combined Training class, qualifying them for the National Championships.
*Grassroots Showjumping classes are for those starting out in their competitive career. The courses are a little simpler and there are strict eligibility rules to keep the competition fun.
*Combined Training is where each team member has to ride a dressage test and then jump a round of show jumps. The results from both of these are then combined to produce the final score.
Grassroots Show Jumping*
Poppy E competed for the school for the first time on her pony Betty, she did a fantastic clear round in the 60cm class and had just 4 faults in the 70cm class.
Dressage
The Dressage team consisting of Claudia B, Rosie C and Olivia S rode some beautiful tests to come third which meant they narrowly missed qualifying for the Championships (top 2 teams qualify) but still did amazingly well!
OCTOBER HALF TERM ACTIVITIES
Early Bird Discount expires on 30th September book now to enjoy 10% discount
Stretch yourself with Progress Clinics or have some seasonal fun with our Pumpkin Pony mornings/ afternoons. Scan the QR code for more details and to book.
This Week
Bible Reading
A reading from the Book of Genesis
A reading from the Book of Genesis Then God said: “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.” God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.” God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good.
Reflection
This week we reflect on the theme of Creation. What a beautiful world we live in. A world of variety, connectivity and colour. Pope Francis wrote about how Creation was an action of Hope. God has hope in the world and He has hope in us. Let us be people of Hope and seek to become good stewards over all that has been entrusted to us.
Protecting creation, Pope Francis explains, "is not only an ethical issue, but one that is eminently theological, for it is the point where the mystery of man and the mystery of God intersect."
Prayer
All powerful God, you are present in the universe and in the smallest of your creatures. You embrace with your tenderness all that exists. Pour out upon us the power of your love, that we may protect life and beauty. Fill us with your peace, that we may live as brothers and sisters, harming no one. Amen.
Let us protect Christ in our lives, so that we can protect others, so that we can protect creation!
Pope Francis
Christmas Shoebox Appeal 2025
Donate a shoebox gift for marginalised and needy families in Romania. Refer to leaflet section titled “How to pack your Christmas Gift SHOEBOX”
Drop-off in the chapel, from Monday 6th October to Friday 17th October.
Prep Clubs Autumn Term 2025
MORNING
MON
TUE Years 5 & 6, Netball Club (7.50 - 8.20, Sp. H)
(12.45—13.15)
Years 5, Forest School
Years 6, Forest School
Orchestra, by invitation Grade 1+ standard)
Years 5 & 6, Prep GK Club (Astro)
Chaplaincy Team meeting
Years 5 & 6, Lego Club
Years 5 & 6, Netball Shooting Club
Years 5 & 6, Swim Squad (7:45 - 8.30)
WED
Years 5 & 6, Prayer Group (10.55 – 11.15)
Wind Group (10.5511:15)
THU Years 5 & 6, Hockey Club (7.50 - 8.20, Sp. H)
Years 5 & 6, Chess Club
Years 5 & 6, Recreational Netball
Schola Cantorum (by invitation)
Years 5 & 6, Football Club
String Group
Years 5 & 6, Running Club (Astro)
(16.15 – 17.00)
Equestrian Riding (16.00 –17.00)
Year 6, ESTA Tennis Coaching (16.15 - 17.15)
Young Voices Choir (16.15 - 17.00, until January)
Years 5 & 6, Art Club (16.15 - 17.00)
Years 5 & 6, LAMDA Lessons (30-minute lesson between 16.15 - 16.45)
Equestrian Riding (16.00 –17.00)
Pony Stars (16.30 – 17.30)
Years 5 & 6, Drama Club (16.15 - 17.00)
Years 5 & 6, Hockey Club (16.15 - 17.30)
Equestrian Riding (16.00 –17.00)
Years 5 & 6, Ballet Dance (16.15 - 17.15)
Year 5, ESTA Tennis Coaching (16.15 - 17.15)
Years 5 & 6, Art Club (16.15 - 17.00)
Year 5, Swim Squad (15.45 - 16.45)
Year 6, Swim Squad (16.45 - 17.30)
Equestrian Riding (16.00 –17.00)
Years 5 & 6 Frisbee Club (16.15 - 17.00)
Chamber Choir
FRI
(17.00-18.00)
Year 5 & 6, LAMDA Lessons (30 -minute lesson between 16.45 - 17.45)
Years 5 & 6, Street Dance (17.15 - 18.15)
Touch Typing
Years 5 & 6, Netball Club (16.15 - 17.30)
Equestrian Riding (16.00 –17.00)
Pony Stars (16.00 – 17.00)
Schola Cantorum (16:30 –17:30, by invitation)
Menu—w/c Monday 29th September 2025
Hot lunches include a selection of family favourites and suitable alternatives for children with allergies and intolerances.
Week 2 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Soup Soup of the day
Soup of the day Soup of the day
Main Ham & Sweetcorn or Pepperoni Pizza Hunters Chicken
Vegetarian Margherita Pizza
Pasta Bar
Sides
Additional
Pasta with Tomato & Basil Sauce
Texan Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Pasta with Tomato & Basil or Bacon Carbonara Sauce
Potato Wedges Sweetcorn
Cesar Salad
Jacket Potato & Baked Beans
Freshly
Baked Bread Salad bar
Herby New Potatoes Broccoli
Jacket Potato & Baked Beans Freshly
Baked Bread
Salad bar
Soup of the day Soup of the day
Roast of the week with Yorkshire Pudding, Stuffing & Gravy Beef Massman
Curry
Autumn Vegetable
Bake with a Cheddar and Herb Crumb Creamy
Pasta with Tomato & Basil or Bolognaise Sauce
Quorn and Vegetable Panang Curry
Pasta with Tomato & Basil or Spicy Salmon and Prawn Sauce
Skin on Roast Potatoes Steamed Carrots Prawn Crackers
Jacket Potato & Baked Beans Freshly
Baked Bread Salad bar
Steamed Rice Green Beans
Jacket Potato & Baked Beans Freshly
Baked Bread
Salad bar
Freshly
Battered Fish or Fish Cake with Ketchup and Tartare Sauce
Cheese and Onion Frittata
Pasta with Tomato & Basil Sauce
Skinny Chips Garden Peas
Jacket Potato & Baked
Beans Freshly
Baked Bread Salad bar
Dessert
Shortbread Finger
Cherry and Coconut
Sponge with Custard
Fresh Fruit Platter
Rocky Road
StickyToffee
Pudding and Custard
Items in Italic - Sourced from F Conisbee’s, our local butcher
