Work Hard, Play Hard, Be Kind
'This year has been the most successful in the school’s history on the sporting front. We’ve seen all sorts of records smashed, witnessed countless unbeaten seasons, won tournaments, and qualified for National Competitions.'
THIS TIME last year, three boys unearthed a Second World War grenade on the school grounds. It’s fair to say that last year ended with a controlled bang. This year, we had to make the difficult decision to cancel Sports Day for the first time in over ten years, and it’s fair to say that we finished the year with more of a damp squib. Sports Day is one of my personal highlights of the term, and we would have liked nothing more than to have been bathed in glorious sunshine – very sadly, it was not to be. However, the pupils and staff have certainly bathed themselves in plenty of glory and metaphorical sunshine throughout another incredibly successful year.
This year has been the most successful in the school’s history on the sporting front. We’ve seen all sorts of records smashed, witnessed countless unbeaten seasons, won tournaments, and qualified for National Competitions. One pupil, Joe S, came third in the entire country at the IAPS National Swimming Competition held at the Olympic Aquatics Centre. The bar has been set very high for future years! But it’s definitely not all about sport – the pupils have excelled in the classroom, on the stage, and in the Art and DT departments. Our Head Girl, Pippa, decided that if Joe could place in a National competition, then she would just go ahead and win one too! Winning the iArt National Art Prize once is pretty special, but to have
We wear many hats as a school, but ultimately one of our main roles is to prepare our pupils for entry into their chosen Senior Schools. This year, our Leavers are successfully going on to a wide and impressive array of Senior Schools:
Bede’s Bryanston Eastbourne College
Harrow Hurst
Lancing College
Malvern College
Mayfield
Oundle
Oxford International College, Brighton Sherborne Girls
St. Mary’s Ascot Tonbridge Uppingham Winchester College Worth
Our Leavers are not just moving on to these schools, they are flying into them! This year’s Year 8 pupils have been incredibly successful, achieving a total of 20 scholarships:
2 Academic
1 All Rounder
8 Art
3 Drama 2 Music 4 Sport
That takes our tally to 98 scholarships won in the last five years. The Common Entrance results were also very strong this year, with 35% of all grades awarded at A* or A.
Every term serves up its occasional curveballs, and one such curveball was a call from the Independent Schools Inspectorate giving us 24 hours’ notice of a full inspection on the penultimate week of the year. One of the crucial parts of the inspection is the feedback gathered from parents, pupils, and staff. The results on all three fronts were extraordinarily positive and supportive. I want to express my thanks from the whole team at Brambletye for your support. I am not permitted to give any further details until the report is published, but I can tell you that we are very pleased with the overall findings.
All of the triumphs of this term and indeed throughout the year need your children’s input, their passion, their skill, and their contribution, but absolutely none of them would be possible without the amazing staff team at
Brambletye. As always, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the whole staff body for their unstinting support this year. We have an extraordinary team, and that team continues to be refreshed with some hugely exciting additions.
A huge thank you to the whole school community for your ongoing support for our charity this year. We are very proud to be supporting Family2Family, and I’m delighted to let you know that we have raised almost £30,000. Many thanks to all the contributors to this magazine which is a wonderful record of all that has taken place this year, with particular thanks to our new Editor, Rachel Morcos.
Lastly, thank you to the children of Year 8. I have had the pleasure of knowing some of these children for the last nine years, and it has been a great privilege to watch them all grow and mature into fine young adults. They are definitely ready for the next adventure.
If I may, I’ll just finish with a few words from my reflections during our Leavers’ Chapel:
“Year 8s, as you embark on a new and exciting adventure, be yourselves. Don’t follow the crowd or change to try and fit in. Don’t change so people will like you; be yourself and the right people will love you. Remember this: ‘those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind!’ So, be you. Don’t be afraid to let the real you shine. Be open, be weird, be different, and make sure you swim against the tide if you disagree with the direction of travel. Be the one that stands out in the crowd instead of the one that is a copied and pasted version of everyone else. Stand up for who you are and who you were created to be. No one can replace you, so don’t try to replace yourself.
“Continue to fly the Brambletye flag wherever you go. We know you all have the confidence, the tools, and the wherewithal to flourish in your next adventures. On behalf of us all at Brambletye, we wish you all the very best of luck, and may God be with you till we meet again.”
William Brooks
'I have had the pleasure of knowing some of these children for the last nine years, and it has been a great privilege to watch them all grow and mature into fine young adults.'
Nick Perry, M.A. – Chairman
Lorne Armstrong, m a
Christopher Beazley, B.sC
Sarah Curra, B.a
Ben Dunhill, B.a., q t s
Heather Kelso, B.a
Simon Leefe, B.a., a.C.a
Richard Maloney, PHd., m a., P.g.C.e., m tHeol
Robert Mason, B.a
Rudy Porter
Sarah Segrave, m a. (ed.)
Lucy Watts, mont. diP
William Brooks, B.a., P.g.C.e., m.B.a.(ed) Headmaster
Amelia Brooks, B.a Marketing & Communications Manager
Tom Elphinstone, m a , q.t.s. Deputy Headmaster, Head of P.S.H.E.E.
Kate Fleming, m a , B.a., q.t.s., advdiP Head of the Pre-Prep (Nursery and EYFS)
Nick Hollamby, B.a., f.C.C.a Bursar and Clerk to the Governers
Freddie Piper, B.a., i.P.g.C.e Asst. Head (Academic), Head of History
Arabella Young, B.sC., P.g.C.e., q t s Asst. Head (Digital & Data), Year 3 Teacher
Nick Mason, m a., B.sC., P.g.C.e Asst. Head (Co-Curricular), Head of Geography
David Brundish, m a., B.sC., P.g.C.e Head of Lower School, Year 4 Teacher
David Finch, B sC., P.g.C.e Asst. Head (Pastoral), Head of Science
Claire Clabby, B.a., P.g.C.e Deputy Head of Pre-Prep, Key Stage 1 Teacher
Rachel Duthie, B.a Head of Admin, Head’s PA
Michelle Clark, m sC., P.g.C.e Year 4 Teacher
Will Denny, B.a., P.g.C.e Mathematics
Erika Eastcott, B.a., C.a.C.H.e. 3 Teaching Assistant (Lower School)
Josh Franco, B.a., P.g.C.e French, Spanish
Liam Gallagher, B.a., q t s., P.g.C.e Head of English, Head of Theatre Tech
Justin Gomm, B.sC., P.g.C.e Master of Scholars, Mathematics
Catie Johnson, B.a., P.g.C.e English, Head of Drama
Myrto Loulaki, m a., B.mus Music
David Holden, B.a., P.g.C.e Head of Art
Lucas Ingen-Housz, m a., B.a. P.g.C.e Head of TPR
Lara Kennedy, B.a., m sC., P.g.C.e Head of Classics
Lauren Levy, B.a., q t s Art
Jonathan Lush, B.ed. English
Naomie McKie, B.ed. Head of Modern Languages
Katie Miller-Gras, B.ed. Year 4 Teacher
Gary Mitten, B.a., m a.(ed) Year 3 Teacher
Kaylan Price, B.ed. Science
Rachel Selleck, B.a., P.g.C.e., Cert.g s m d Director of Music
Rhys Skinner Sports Coach, Cover Assistant
Sam Walker, B.ed. Director of Sport
Robbie Williams, B.a., iPgCe Head of Mathematics
Autumn Term Spring and Summer Terms
Zoe Clark Digby Blacker
Kit Clarke Joe Bull
Izzy Den-McKay Izzy Den-McKay
Tom Marr Sophie Pancino
Harry White Scarlett Tucker
Housemaster/mistress House Tutors
DRAKE Catie Johnson Gary Mitten & Arabella Young
MARLBOROUGH Josh Franco Liam Gallagher & Naomie McKie
NELSON Michelle Clark Lucas Ingen-Housz & Sam Walker
WELLINGTON Will Denny Kaylan Price & Rachel Selleck
THE PRE-PREP DEPARTMENT
Elizabeth Atkinson, C.a.C.H.e. 3 Stay & Play Manager
Sally Celani, B.a., q t s Nursery Practitioner
Gemma Coldwell, B.a., P.g.C.e Key Stage 1 Teacher
Gemma Cosens, B.sC., P.g.C.e., q t s Key Stage 1 Teacher
Sophie Deane, B.a., q t s Reception Teacher
Karen Ellis, B.a., P.l a diP., Cert.ed. Nursery Practitioner
Ben Fulton, B.a., P.g.C.e Key Stage 1 Teacher
Emma Foster, BteC, nvq level 4 Nursery Middle Room Leader
Hannah Grantham Nursery Practitioner
Sarah Langridge, C.a.C.H.e. 2 Year 2 Teaching Assistant
Lucilla Lunn, B.a., P.g.C.e Reception Teacher
Lynda Milham, P.l a diP Nursery Room One Leader
Angela Morton-Smith C.a.C.H.e. 3 Nursery Room One Leader
Keira O’Gara, B.a q t s Nursery Room Two Leader
Helene Signora, B.a., mont. diP Key Stage 1 Teaching Assistant
Donna Simpson, C.a.C.H.e. 2 Reception Teaching Assistant
Melissa Thorne, B.a., PgCert., q t s Key Stage 1 Teaching Assistant
ADDITIONAL PUPIL SUPPORT
Nicola Robinson, B.a., P.g.C.e., m f a Head of Additional Pupil Support
Ross Basham, B.sC., q t s., t e f l EAL Teacher
Bridget Cope, B.a., diP t e f l EAL Teacher
Michele Keville, Cert. sP l d Additional Pupil Support
Zena Sargent, B.a., P.g.C.e., Cert. sPld Additional Pupil Support
BOARDING, MATRONAL AND MEDICAL STAFF
Hannah M. Basham, B.a., q t s Head of Boarding
Brendan Fitzpatrick B.a., PgCert., q t s Head of Boarding (Maternity Cover)
Ross Basham, B.sC., q t s., t e f l Boarding Travel Administrator
Julie Corbin, B.sC., r g n., n d n School Sister
Claudia Kingsley
Senior Matron
Jessica Stamp Residential Matron
Paula Talman, m sC., a.P.n.P., r g n, r.C.n diP School Sister
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Kate Barratt, m a Admissions Registrar
Amelia Brooks, B.a Marketing & Communications Manager
Rachel Duthie, B.a Head’s PA, Head of Admin
Karen Garner Bursary Assistant
Rachel Hollamby, B.a Uniform Shop Manager
Julie Leman Deputy Bursar
Amie Monroe Prep School Secretary
Rachel Morcos, B.a Digital Marketing Officer
Claire Stacey, B.a., m sC Pre-Prep Secretary
Heather White, m sC HR Manager
Annabelle Price-Ingham Catering Manager
Colin Chard
Head Chef
Alex Thomas Chef
Judy Nappo
Marianna Carturo
Attilla Csordas
Lynn Frisby
Brandon Gibbons
Patsy Young
Giovanni Inserra
Charlie Tyler
Dining Room Supervisor
Catering Assistant
Catering Assistant
Catering Assistant
Catering Assistant
Catering Assistant
Kitchen Porter
Kitchen Porter
Lee Simpson, diP neBosH,teCH iosH Head of Estates, Health & Safety Advisor
Alex Blackmore Deputy Head of Estates
Spencer Dewing Estates Team Member
Andrew Hill Estates Team Member
Andrew Phillips Estates Team Member, School Bus Driver
Lorraine Gardiner Lead Gardener
Trevor Baker Gardener
Ian Bishun Site Team Member
Dawn Green School Bus Driver
Emily Hanan
Gary Jell
School Bus Driver
School Bus Driver
Andrew Thomson School Bus Driver
Kevin Weaver School Bus Driver, Medical Chaperone
Sue Gallagher School Seamstress
Edina Potor Cleaning Manager
Hannah Wells Evening Cleaning Supervisor
Mirella Bartfai Cleaner
Melanie Chard Cleaner
Trevor Draper Cleaner
Teresa Edwards Cleaner
David Kingman Cleaner
Robert Lesslie Cleaner
Jessica Lynn Cleaner
Kelly Maguire Cleaner
Joanna Townsend Cleaner
Julie Tyler Cleaner
Meryl Alexander
Pre-Prep Swimming
Lee Basset Prep Swimming
Paul Beasley Fencing Coach
Ben Brooke Football Coach
Jon Clifford Carpentry
Caroline Crichton
Pre-Prep Mini Notes
Collette Cubberley Netball
Alison Dawson, B.a., l r a m., C.ed. Speech and Drama
James Fleming Fencing Coach
Sarah Gott, BWy qualified Pre-Prep Yoga Loves
Callie Green, af idta Dance, Gymspire Academy, Gymnastics
Ben Knight, Pga advanCed, Professional, uKCC level 3 Pre-Prep TriGolf, Prep Golf
Ashley Morgan, sta level 2 Swimming
Ian Purcell Sailing
George Ross Tennis
Amy Ryan Pre-Prep Mini Notes
David Simpkins Pre-Prep Chess
Donna Simpson, a i s t d Ballet, Dance
Jonathan Tuck Chess
Eva Zielke Speech and Drama Assistant
Charlotte Burke, BsC diP Drums
Adrian Goss g r s m., l r a m., l t.C.l., B.mus., a r.C.o., CHm., f t.C.l., l g s m., mtC Organ
Karen Hoy, PgdiP., B.a., aBrsm Violin
Victoria Isfryn, Pg.di.P B.mus Trumpet
Sophie Nash, m mus., B.mus Cello
Amanda Pomorski, graddiP., PgdiP., l r s m Singing
Helen Pye, B.a., m mus. l r a m Oboe
Ceri Stenner, a n.C.m., a.(mus.)n.C.m Guitar, Piano, Ukulele
Tatyana Stratford, Bmus., sP Cons Piano
Claire Taylor, g t.C.l, l t.C.l Singing
Jane Tuff, a l.C.m., l l.C.m Woodwind
Tim Wade, l g s m., P.diP.(Jazz) Trombone
Bridget Wilcox, l t.C.l Piano
SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS
School Captains
School Prefects
House Commanders
Drake
Ewan M, Pippa V
Ida A, Florence B, Bibi C, Rose G, Emilia J, Belle L, Ewan M, Tabby M, Milly R, Oliver T, Otterly W
Ida A, Sergio W R
Marlborough Milly R, Harry S
Nelson
Wellington
House Officers
Drake
Marlborough
Nelson
Wellington
Captains of Boarding
Head Choristers
Leader of the Orchestra
Leader of Big Band
Captains of Sport
Athletics
Cricket (boys)
Cricket (girls)
Cross country
Football
Golf
Hockey
Junior chess
Netball
Rugby
Sailing
Senior chess
Tennis
Scarlet D, Florence B
Bibi C, Emilia J
Henry B, Katherine P, Joe S
Freddie M, Taisiia R, Abi S
Samuel H, Anna I, Tabby M
Harry F Ewan M, Otterly W
Abi S and Oliver T
Florence B, Anna I
Tina D
Henry B
Oliver T
Willem O
Bibi C, Milly R
Henry C
Ethan L
Benjamin B
Rose G
Josiah M
Milly R
Ewan M
Rose G
Sergio R W
Tabby M
ACADEMIA
Star Prizes - Golds
3M Miri G
3Y Jimmy N
4MG Talia M
4C Rosie M
4B Ottilie F
5IH Anisia R
5D Milly-Ellen B
6J Ava P
6M Bumble C
7E Marcel F B Cástor O
7N Lorcan J
7W Andrey B
8E Katherine P
8N Taisiia R Tabby M
Star Prizes - Pinks
(Awards for helpfulness, kindness and good citizenship)
Year 3 Lily M
Year 4 Eliza F K
Year 5 Hugo F
Year 6 Clara C D, Mila N, Emily N J
Year 7 Olga C, Tina D
Year 8 Benjamin B
The Callender Cup for Pinks
(The top individual ‘Pinks’ winner)
Lily M
Send Up Prizes
Talia M, Milly-Ellen B, Ben B, Bumble C, Emily N J, Charlie R, Benji S
Accelerated Reader Winners
Most points achieved
3M Taozi T
3Y Jimmy N
4MG Talia M
4B Sofia C
4C Matilda N J
Yr 5 Molly M
Y6 Edward O
Y7 George S
Y8 Pippa V
Most improved reader
3M Lily M
3Y Charlie R
4MG Archie C
4B Camilla N J
4C Tara M
Yr 5 Molly M
Y6 Aimee B
Y7 Ralph W
Y8 Ying C
The Horner Reading Prize
(For the most words read this term):
Junior: Talia M (678,000 words)
Middle: Aimee B (436,000 words)
Senior: Ying C (1.4 million words)
The Chess Ladder Champion: Josiah M
Drama – Verse Speaking Competition
Year 5 Ben B (Little Red Riding Hood)
Year 6 Marina D (Like a Girl)
Year 7 Tina D (Television)
Year 8 Emilia J (An extract from Dr Faustus)
Sladen Cup (For Senior Verse Speaking): Emilia J
Music Cup: Mariella W
Doubleday Choral Cup: Milo C
Senior Progress in Music Cup: Ellie T
Ballroom Dancing Cup: Scarlet D and Sam H
foot B all
House Football Cup: Drake
1st XI Player of the Season:
Ewan M & Alvaro L
Most Improved Player of the Season:
Joe S & Oliver T
Golden Boot: Luis E
Unsung Hero Award: Ethan L
Outstanding Attitude Award: Bertie D H o CK ey
House Hockey Cup: Wellington
1st Team Hockey Player of the Season: Rose G
1st Team Most Improved Player: Abi S
Year 8 Most Improved Player: Katherine P
Year 7 Most Improved Player: India H
Middle Girls’ Player of the Season: Ava P
Middle Girls’ Most Improved Player: Clara C D
Junior Girls’ Hockey Best Player: Ottilie F
Most Improved Junior Hockey Player: Megan W
INTER HOUSE CUPS
Inter House Good Conduct Cup: (This cup is awarded to the House with the lowest Minus score. This result does not count towards the House Shield.)
1st: Nelson
2nd: Wellington
3rd: Marlborough
4th: Drake
Inter House Pinks Cup: 1st: Wellington
2nd: Marlborough
3rd: Nelson 4th: Drake
Inter House Golds Cup: 1st: Wellington
2nd: Marlborough
3rd: Drake
4th: Nelson
Inter House Stars and Minuses Cup: 1st: Wellington 2nd: Marlborough
3rd: Drake 4th: Nelson
Inter House Sports Cup: 1st: Wellington
2nd: Marlborough
3rd: Drake 4th: Nelson
House Shield:
1st: Wellington
2nd: Marlborough & Drake 4th: Nelson
DORMITORY PRIZES
Cup for the Tidiest Dormitory: Boys: Cedar Girls: Maple
Christmas Decoration Prize: Boys: Alder Girls: Ash
Star Prizes - Golds
3M Miri G
3Y Jimmy N
4MG Talia M
4B Flora S
4C Amy M
5D Melissa
5IH Ben J
6J Olivia L
6M Faramade O
7E Milo C
7N Ellie T
7W Roy C Margot E L
8E Katherine P William X
8N Anna I
8W Tabby M
Star Prizes - Pinks
(Awards for helpfulness, kindness and good citizenship)
Year 3 Poppy B
Year 4 Tallulah M
Year 5 Myla V
Year 6 Bumble C William W
Year 7 Archie D C
Year 8 Henry B
The Callender Cup for Pinks
(The top individual ‘Pinks’ winner) Poppy B
Send Up Prizes
Kamila A
Bumble C
Emily N J Jayden O Faramade O
New Word Millionaires
Emilia W, Camilla N J, George S, Benji S, Ava P, Sofia C, Ying, Ralph W, Zac V B, Archie C, Henry C, Pippa V, Eva W, Tina D and Talia M
The Horner Good Reading Award:
Year 7/8 Jack M
Year 5/6 Emily N J
Year 3/4 Talia M
art and design te CH nology
Progress in Art (Senior): Tabby M
Progress in Art (Middle): Faramade O
Progress in Art (Junior):
Myla V
Progress in DT (Senior):
William and Oliver H
Progress in DT (Middle): Ben B and Ottie B
The Chess Ladder Champion: Alfonso M S
Progress in Music (Senior Yrs 7 & 8):
Tresaanth R
Progress in Music (Middle Yrs 5 & 6): Leo L
Progress in Music (Junior Yrs 3 & 4): Sofia Z
Most Promising Newcomer: Shun N
rug B y:
Cox Cup for Year 6 Player of the Season: Monty H
Butler Cup (outstanding player of the season): Ewan M
Ripley Rugby Tankard (most improved): Alfonso M S
net B all :
House Netball Cup: Wellington
Most Improved Middle Netball Player: Laura I
Middle Netball Best Player: Ava P
Most Improved Senior Netball Player:
Sonya L
Netball Shield (best senior player): Rose G
H o CK ey :
House Hockey Cup: Wellington
Cup for the Tidiest Dormitory: Boys: Cedar Girls: Maple
HOUSE CUPS
Inter House Good Conduct Cup: (This cup is awarded to the House with the lowest Minus score. This result does not count towards the House Shield.)
1st: Wellington
2nd: Drake
3rd: Nelson 4th: Marlborough
Inter Duties Cup: 1st: Marlborough 2nd: Wellington 3rd: Drake 4th: Nelson
Inter House Pinks Cup: 1st: Wellington 2nd: Nelson 3rd: Marlborough 4th: Drake
Inter House Golds Cup: 1st: Wellington 2nd: Marlborough 3rd: Drake 4th: Nelson
Inter House Stars and Minuses Cup: 1st: Wellington 2nd: Marlborough
3rd: Drake 4th: Nelson
Inter House Sports Cup: 1st: Wellington
2nd: Marlborough & Nelson 4th: Drake
House Shield: 1st: Wellington 2nd: Marlborough 3rd: Nelson 4th: Drake
ACADEMIA
Star Prizes - Golds
3M Miri G
3Y Isaac A
4MG Talia M
4B Sofia C
4C Matilda N J
5D Ilaria N
5IH Josiah M
6J Ben G
6M Aimee B Faramade O
7E Eva W
7N Olga C
7W Sterling W
8E Tresaanth R
8N Oliver T
8W Scarlet D
Star Prizes - Pinks
end of term prize-giving in the theAtre, thursdAy 4th July
Year 6 Venice Drawing Competition: Ava P & Aimee B
Year 7 Portrait Competition: Nyamekye A
Upcoming Young Artists and Design/Technologists awards: Ziran W Greta G, Arthur L, Edward B, Emilia W, Archie D C, Margot E L
Most Improved Year 7 Artist: Emilia W
The Renshaw Cup for Junior Drama: Bumble C & George J
Junior Verse Speaking Competition:
Year 3 Isaac A
Year 4 Flora S
Lighting Team: Carter W & Tresaanth R
Junior Music Prize: Issa H
(Awards for helpfulness, kindness and good citizenship)
Year 3 Amelia F L Theo L
Year 4 Tennyson W
Year 5 Ben B
Year 6 Joshua H Orlando M
Year 7 Harry F Sterling W
Year 8 Freddie M
Junior Progress Prize: Sienna J
Pinfold Good Spirit Cup: Poppy B
Times Tables Progress Prizes
Year 3 Amelia F L
Year 4 Emma Y
Year 5 Peter S
reading
The Horner Good Reading Awards
Year 7/8 this term Andrey B (2,476,833 words)
Year 5/6 Faramade O (1,341,935 words)
Year 3/4 Hugo W (921,223 words)
fren CH vo C a B ulary
Year 5
Gold: Benjamin Jones
Silver: Willow B
Bronze: Freddie W
Year 6
Gold: Aimee Bruce
Silver: Bumble C
Bronze: Clara C D
Year 7
Gold: Rosie Warde
Silver: Olga C
Bronze: Mariella W
ART
Harris Art Prize: Isabella X
Most Improved Year 3 Artist: Darcy G
The Weston Cup for Junior Art: Ella V and Myla V
Middle Music Prize: Emily N J
Senior Music Prize: Bruno W
Cobbe Junior Progress in Music Cup: Matilda N J
C ri CK et
Boys’ U9 Player of the Season: Archie C
Girls’ U9 Player of the Season: Rosie M
Boys’ U9 Most Improved Cricketer of the Season Award: Alfie S T
Girls’ U9 Most Improved Cricketer of the Season Award: Serena L
The Hering Colts’ Cricket Cup (Boys): Josh H
The Medhurst Colts’ Cricket Cup (Girls): Ava P
Colts’ Fielding Cup (Boys): Orlando M
Colts’ Fielding Cup (Girls): Bay K
Pink Ball: Ben J
The Nicol 1st XI Fielding Cricket Cup (Boys): Bertie D
The Leefe 1st XI Fielding Cricket Cup (Girls): Abi S
The Coleman 1st XI Cricket Batting Cup (Boys): Rory C
The Bonnar 1st XI Cricket Batting Cup (Girls): Bibi C
Pink Ball: Bibi C
The Young 1st XI Cricket Bowling Cup (Boys):
Bruno W
The Brealey 1st XI Bowling Cup (Girls): Milly R
tennis
Chambers Tennis Cup for Improvement: Harriet M
Senior Tennis Cup: The Chambers Lodge
Tennis Cup: Luis E
Middle Tennis Cup: The Bland Tennis Trophy for Racket Sports: Charlie R
at H leti C s
Edu Athletics Cup: Ewan M
sailing
The Sailing Cup: Rose G
riding
The Wrigglesworth Riding Cup: Flora S
Awards (Year 8)
Silver
Tabby M
Pippa V
Diploma (Year 6)
Silver
Marina D
Clemence L
Ava P
Edward O
Bronze
Florence B
Taisiia R
Bronze
Joshua H
James M
Bea M
Samuel O A
Benji S
Bumble C
Imogen F
Sam M
Mila N
Emily N J
Inter House Good Conduct Cup:
(This cup is awarded to the House with the lowest Minus score. This result does not count towards the House Shield.)
1st Nelson 2nd Drake 3rd Wellington 4th Marlborough
The Davidson Duty Cup: 1st Wellington 2nd Nelson 3rd Drake 4th Marlborough
Inter House Pinks Cup: 1st Marlborough 2nd Wellington 3rd Nelson 4th Drake
Inter House Golds Cup: 1st Marlborough 2nd Wellington 3rd Drake 4th Nelson
Inter House Stars and Minuses Cup: 1st Wellington 2nd Marlborough 3rd Drake 4th Nelson
Inter House Sports Cup: 1st: Wellington 2nd: Marlborough & Nelson 4th: Drake
House Shield: 1st: Wellington
2nd: Marlborough
3rd: Nelson 4th: Drake
Boys: Cypress Girls: Cherry
Senior Captains’ Prizes
Football: Ethan L
Rugby: Ewan M
Netball: Milly R
Hockey: Rose G
Girls’ Cricket: Bibi C & Milly R
Boys’ Cricket: Willem O
Sailing: Rose G
Athletics: Oliver T
Tennis: Tabby M
Chess: Sergio R W
Golf: Ben B
The Lake Cup: Ewan M & Rose G
Head Choristers: Florence B & Anna I
Jackling Dramatic Prize: Emilia J
Music Cup: William X
Dunn Art Prize: Belle L & Joe S
Yorke Prize: Anna I
Prize for Most Improved Artist: Elizabeth R,
Archie J & Ethan L
‘H’ Prize: Scarlet D
Yr 8 Sketch Book of the Year Award: William H&
Oliver H
Yr 8 Self Portrait of the Year Prize: Tabby M
IAPS iArt Competition
Congratulations to Pippa V, whose piece
‘What Colour Are You?’ won 1st Prize in the Years 7-8 age group of the iArt 2024 competition.
Earthshot 2024
Many congratulations to the following pupils for their outstanding solution to ‘Fixing our Climate’:
Sergio R W
Anna I
Tom M
Katherine P
Luis E
Panichewa Cup (CE results):
Sergio R W
Shankland Prize for Creative Writing: Otterly W
Thompson Modern Language Prizes: Jack M
Bullock Science Prize: Jack M
Chow Latin Prize: Katherine P
Marstrand Prize for Mathematics: Tresaanth R
Babtie History Prize: Milly R
Yarrow Geography Prize: Tabby M
Parke Prize for Religious Studies: Oliver T
King Prize for Design: Jack M
The Horner Reading Prize
(for the most words read by a Year 8)
Ying C - 4,432,746 words this year
The Ridgeway Cup
(Awarded to a pupil who shows great perseverance and determination to succeed on the leavers’ residential trip.)
Ying C
Chapel Wardens: Freddie M, Elizabeth R, Harry S, Sergio R W, Otterly W
Lighting Team: Scarlet D, Freddie M, and Harry S
Heads of Boarding: Abi S (Girls), Oliver T(Boys), Scarlet D (Deputy)
The Lloyd Prize for Endeavour
(Awarded to a pupil who has risen to the challenge and shown great perseverance and determination. They will leave Brambletye having made a considerable success of their time with us.)
Oliver T
The Robin Lewis Award
(This award is given to a pupil who, over the years, has through their enthusiasm and commitment, made the most of their talents to make a significant contribution to the Brambletye teams.)
Bibi C
The Spencer Jones Bowl
(This award is given in recognition of a pupil who has demonstrated qualities of loyalty, honesty, and reliability, proving themselves to be a thoroughly decent citizen of the School.)
Pippa V
Richard Maloney
Melissa Thorne
Melanie Chard
Jessica Lynn
Joe Bull
Gemma Cossens
Spencer Dewing
Hannah Grantham
Andrew Hill
Sophie Pancino
Scarlett Tucker
Rachel Morcos
Sally Celani
Joanna Townsend
Brendan Fitzpatrick
Joseph A 3Y
Mateo A 7W
Jacobo Arroyo A 6J
Frida B NSRY1
Willoughby B 5D
Xenovia B NSRY1
Noel NSRY2
Jesse C E NSRY1
Nylah C NSRY2
Olga C
Ziyan C 7N
Eyva C NSRY1
Samson C 5IH
Arabella C RL
Bowen C 2F Marlow C NSRY1 Remy C RL Ying C 8N
Alexander D 1F
Tobias D 5D
Maya D N 7W Noam D N 3M
Jack D NSRY1 Lily D NSRY3 Otto E NSRY2 Luis E 8W
Harry F 8E
Imogen F 6M
Ottilie F 4B
Baron-Otto G D NSRY1 Ian G NSRY1
Montague H 6M
Harry H NSRY2 Issa H 3Y
Neriah I NSRY1
Laura I 6J
Eileen J 6J
Hank J 2C
Luna J NSRY3 Bay K 5IH Mara K 2C
Jonah K NSRY1
Cristina K 8N
Sarah K NSRY2
Alfonso L U 7W
Valentina L S 6M
Theo L 3M
Sofia L 7N
Zac L 8W
Alvaro L E 8W
Kite L NSRY2
Orlando M 6J
Olivia M 8N
Timothy M NSRY1
Harriet M 7N
Alisa M 1C
Alfonso M S 8N
Rose M 2F
Beatriz M 8N
Jimena M 7N
Gonzalo M G 7N
Amaya M NSRY1
Shun N 4B
Alexander O RD
Samuel O A 6J
Harry O NSRY2
Jose I P D L F 7W
Melissa P 5D
Blanca P R 8N
Emilia R M 8W
Thomas R D NSRY3
Blanca R G V 7W
Anisia R 5IH
Alistair R NSRY1
Ottilie R NSRY3
Juan S 6M
Oliver S 1C
Sophie S 5IH
Sophia T NSRY3
Beatrix T G NSRY2
Cara V Z 4C
Zoey V Z 2C
Andy W 5D
Freddie W 5D
Sterling W 7W
Tennyson W 4MG
Emma Y 4MG
WHEN DAWN first came to Brambletye over 15 years ago, her spirit and enthusiasm for teaching shone through. As one of her first initiatives, she commissioned the fabulous jungle mural in the entrance, and we were all very inspired! She turned blank and boring spaces into fun and thriving areas, making the Pre-Prep a child-friendly, inviting place. She was full of ideas, from reinvigorating Sports Day, parent assemblies, cocoa evening, and Summer Fun Day.
The Pre-Prep had never seen so much action and involvement from the parents, which, of course, they loved! She has been instrumental in so many changes in the Pre-Prep and Nursery, including the expansion of the outside areas for the Early Years and developing the woodland for Bramble Babies.
Never one to shy away from ‘dress up day,’ she even interviewed an overseas family while dressed as a clown. In her role as Head of Pre-Prep, she had to be a teacher, manager, counsellor, finance director, mother figure, and general adviser to parents, and sometimes staff too! She was very dedicated and loyal to the school, and she deserves a well-earned rest. She will be missed by the staff but especially by the parents and children with whom she has formed such a bond. We wish her all the best for a wonderful retirement full of rest and adventures.
Claire Clabby
MICHELLE JOINED Brambletye a term after me and received her Brambletye bracelet in 2022 for ten years of teaching at the school.
During her time here, Michelle has been an outstanding tutor to over 160 pupils and has taught many more. Any pupil who had the privilege of being taught by her has cherished fond memories of her. After being asked to write part of her Valete, I thought it would be lovely to have her current and former pupils describe her in a word.
Unsurprisingly, they all had something wonderful to say about her: “positive,” “really nice,” “organised,” “heart of gold,” “comforting,” “helpful,” and “warmhearted” were only some of the many kind words shared. Some pupils who knew her a little better described her as “fun-loving” and “chatty.” How perceptive! Whatever words they chose to describe her, it was clear they only had great memories of her.
One thing is for sure: we will all miss this big and fun personality that lights up a room every time she steps in.
Naomie McKie
Never one to back down from a challenge, Clarky (as she will affectionately be known forevermore!) always had a gung-ho attitude and could always be relied upon to do her utmost for the children. From countless ski trips to hiking up mountains with the Year 8 Leavers, to even strapping herself to the front of a plane in the name of charity, she never backed down and would always do so with a smile on her face!
As Head of Nelson, she rallied her troops with affection and never-ending laughter, and although victory was not always hers for the taking, you could always count on Nelson to be as relaxed and cheery as their valiant leader. However, there was nothing quite like watching her teach in a classroom. With the children fixated on her, eating the apple right out of her hand, Clarky was always full of fun and energy, and her little Year 4s would do anything to make her smile.
A gifted mathematician, she also spent countless hours helping children outside of the classroom to build their confidence and succeed not only in Maths, but with the skills they needed to be happy, positive and resilient.
However, the moments I will cherish the most are as our famous duo of ‘Clarky and Ferris’. The years we spent together as the ‘devilish double act’ will be some of my most treasured memories of teaching for years to come. Thank you for making my starting years here at Brambletye some of the best of my career and thank you for everything you have done for the children. You have been a legend, and you will be sorely missed.
Catie Johnson
KATHARINE JOINED the School Office in 2016 before taking up the reins as Development and Alumni Assistant to support the Centenary Fundraising Campaign.
She played a vital role in supporting the new Development team with her excellent administrative skills, working closely with Mr and Mrs Brooks, Mr Hollamby, and our fundraising consultant, James Underhill.
She particularly enjoyed building a rapport with our alumni and loved to listen to and document Brambletye stories of yesteryear. Perhaps one of Katharine’s greatest achievements was her work with the Centenary Ball Committee to host a very memorable and glamorous event on the Top Field in May 2019. When the Centenary Campaign came to a close, Katharine joined the marketing team and played a key role in the development of Brambletye’s social media strategy while continuing to look after alumni communications.
We thank Katharine for her flair, hard work, and dedication to Brambletye and wish her all the best in her new role at Lancing College.
Amelia Brooks
LYNDA JOINED Brambletye in 2010. It was only meant to be short-term, but fourteen years later… I began working with her in 2018; Lynda worked in Nursery 1 and I in Nursery 2. She was integral in developing Nursery 1 after the school began taking 2-year-olds, creating a vibrant, engaging nursery room and space for naps and nappies.
Lynda was fundamental in the smooth running of the nursery, and she had a big input in our glorious outside space. She even ran Bramble Babies for a while and enjoyed meeting and playing with the babies and toddlers soon to be in the Nursery. Lynda also created ‘Babes in the Woods’, planning and organising fun and enchanting activities for parents and their young children to enjoy in our wonderful woods.
Her enthusiasm and expertise with young children have been greatly admired by all the staff, and I know she has given us all lots of advice over the years. I have always been grateful for her patience, understanding, and fierce professionalism. Lynda has so much knowledge about the Early Years, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked alongside her.
It is this love and understanding of small children that has led her to want to run her own nursery - how lucky they are - and we wish her all the best in her new endeavour. She will be sorely missed by the staff and children. We thank her for her dedication, friendship, and professionalism.
Keira O'Gara
JESS STARTED at Brambletye as a gap student, fresh from boarding at Uppingham. She hit the ground running, and it immediately became clear that she was more than simply a ‘gappie’. Her can-do attitude was apparent from the outset, and she drew attention to herself for all the right reasons.
She brought with her great insight from her own experience in boarding school. She knew that making sure each child felt cared for and listened to was a vital part of her role. When asked, she advised the Year 8s on the best way to approach their first year in Senior School.
We were delighted when Jess applied for the matron role, and she was able to bring even more enthusiasm and a sense of responsibility to her work. She stepped up even further when Mrs Kingsley needed time off, and Jess became senior matron in all but name.
Jess will be remembered for being a trusted and valued team player who showed up every day with energy and good humour. We know she will go on to great things and wish her all the best for her future.
Julie Corbin
AFTER FOUR years as a Year 3 teacher, we bid farewell to Arabella Young as she moves to Wengen in Switzerland. Arabella first crossed the threshold at Brambletye in November 2019 as a trainee teacher looking for a placement as part of her teacher training.
She began that placement in the Spring Term of 2020 and quickly made a positive impression; her lessons were innovative, well-planned, and considered, her classroom management strong, and the pupils took to her quickly. My lesson observation feedback at the time clearly reflects this: “Arabella went to great lengths to integrate her observation lesson into the planning of the class. I have not seen a candidate go to such lengths to achieve this before, and it was of great
benefit to the pupils’ learning and my sequence of teaching. Top job.”
With a position for a Year 3 teacher available for September 2020, Arabella was invited to apply for the post and was the successful candidate. And what a year that turned out to be – a COVID lockdown and online learning, followed by a return to school dominated by ‘bubbles’ and ‘pods’, which was anything but normal. Throughout this year, Arabella was undertaking her Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) year as well as getting to grips with teaching via a digital platform created by the school and overcoming all the challenges faced by online learning. This was challenging enough for colleagues with teaching years under their belts, but to be asked to contend with such a thing in your first year of full-time teaching was a tall task. She performed brilliantly and, after a return to normal school life, ended the year on a high by achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Over the next few years, Arabella’s digital skills came to the fore, and in April 2022 she was made Head of Data and Digital at Brambletye. During her time in this role, the school has made great strides with its use of digital technologies thanks to her hard work and dedication; pupil tracking of assessment data, restructuring and management of the school’s Google platform and users, and the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are just a few of the noteworthy achievements she has made. Her efforts in this role led to her being promoted to a member of the Senior Management Team as Assistant Head of Data and Digital in January 2023. Alongside this, Arabella was a founding member of an AI working group for leading UK public schools, which continues to meet and discuss how this technology can be best implemented in school use for both staff and students, whilst maintaining educational ethics. She has also upskilled Brambletye staff through regular professional development sessions during in-service training. It has been a meteoric rise to leadership, largely due to her proactive attitude, organisation and strong work ethic.
Arabella married Andreas in the summer of 2023, and it is with him that she is moving to Wengen this year as he takes on a leading role in a Swiss ski school. We wish them both well for the move and their future. David Brundish
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 1st Team Cricket, 1st/2nd Team Netball, 3rd Team Hockey
Creative Arts: I played Eliza in My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: School Prefect, House Commander, and my Art Scholarship
Future School: Eastbourne College Best Brambletye Memory: Going to Netball IAPS with my friends.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 1st Team Hockey, 1st Team Netball, 1st Team Cricket (Captain), Athletics Team, Cross Country Team
Creative Arts: In My Fair Lady I played a maid and a cockney, and in Around the World in Eighty Days I played Passepartout
Best Achievements: The most Pink Stars in the school, Best Bowler of the Year, Most Improved Hockey Player, and a Drama Cup
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: When our hockey team went to nationals and our Leavers’ trip to Scotland.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 3rd Team Football, 3rd Team Rugby, 4th Team Hockey, 4th Team Cricket
Creative Arts: Senior Music Colours,
Senior Art Colours, I performed in the Around the World in Eighty Days play
Best Achievements: Art Scholarship Prize, Gold Certificate in Junior Maths Challenge, Captain of Golf
Future School: I’m going to the USA
Best Brambletye Memory: My favourite memory is when I spent my birthday at Brambletye.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 1st Team Rugby, 1st Team Hockey, 1st Team Cricket, and 2nd Team Football
Creative Arts: Small parts in school plays
Best Achievements: Senior Art, DT and Music Colours. Best Fielder Cup in Year 4.
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: Playing with my friends.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 1st Team Cricket, 2nd Team Netball, 2nd Team Hockey
Creative Arts: I played a maid and a cockney person in My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: A Drama and Music Scholarship to Mayfield Future School: Mayfield
Best Brambletye Memory: In Year 4, Belle Lee and I used to play power games by two trees and pretend it was a magic portal.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 1st XI Football, 1st XI Rugby, and 1st XI Cricket
Best Achievements: Representing the first team for all sports Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: Getting my first 50 for Brambletye.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 3rd Team Cricket, 3rd Team Football, 5th Team Hockey
Future School: Worth
Best Brambletye Memory: Chanting and singing with my friends in the school buses on trips.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 1st Team Hockey, 3rd Team Football, 3rd Team Rugby, 3rd Team Cricket
Creative Arts: I played Jamie the Waiter in ‘My Fair Lady’
Best Achievements: I was awarded an Academic and All Rounder Scholarship
Future School: Lancing College
Best Brambletye Memory: The Leavers’ trip
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 5th Team Hockey, 5th Team Netball, 1st Team Football, 4th Team Cricket
Creative Arts: I was a bandit, an engineer, and an aristocratic lady
Best Achievements: A book token for reading and a certificate and chocolate for the 2nd best French spelling test scores
Future School: Worth School
Best Brambletye Memory: Performing ‘The Forgetful Chef’ at the LAMDA presentation to parents and the Oscars evening.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 1st Teams for everything
Creative Arts: Freddie Eynsford-Hill in My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: Colours for every sport
Future School: Eastbourne College
Best Brambletye Memory: Playing Thursday football Spain v England.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 2nd Team Rugby, 3rd Team Cricket, 4th Team Football, 5th Team Hockey
Best Achievements: My greatest achievement is being put forward for an Art scholarship. Although I did not get it, it is still an honour.
Future School: Bede’s Best Brambletye Memory: Messing around with my friends at break and playing in the Dump and all around the school.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: Football, Rugby, Hockey, Cricket, and Athletics
Future School: Worth
Best Brambletye Memory: Getting
3 A* and 6 As.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 1st Team Football, 3rd Team Hockey, 3rd Team Cricket, 4th Team Netball
Creative Arts: I was in the Tech crew
Best Achievements: Best Ballroom
Dancer
Future School: Mayfield
Best Brambletye Memory: The Interhouse Knockout.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: Captain of 1st Team
Hockey (Colours), Captain of Sailing (Colours), Captain of Girls’ Football (Colours), 1st Team Netball (Colours), 1st Team Cricket
Creative Arts: Ensemble in My Fair Lady, Colonel Stamp Proctor in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Player of the Season for Hockey, House Officer, 3rd place in IAPS (16th in the Nationals)
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: In year 3 when I joined my brother’s base in the Dump with Bibi and we swung for ages on the branch that everyone used as a swing. We also dug up an old roller skate which we thought was so cool.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 1st Team Football, 1st Team Rugby, 2nd Team Hockey, 2nd Team Cricket, and the Tennis Team
Best Achievements: Golden Boot in Football and Football Colours
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: Thursday football Spain vs England with the lads.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 2nd Team Cricket, 2nd Team Hockey, U13b Rugby
Best Achievements: Progress in DT and getting third prize in the Year 3 IAPS Art competition.
Future School: Bede's Best Brambletye Memory: Playing ManHunt with the whole school and Jail Break at Games.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 2nd Teams for Football, Hockey, and Cricket; 1st and 2nd Teams for Rugby
Best Achievements: My Art and DT Colours
Future School: Bede's Best Brambletye Memory: Unbeaten season in Football for the 2nd Team.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 3rd Team Football
Creative Arts: I was in the Tech crew
Best Achievements: Getting my Art Scholarship to Ardingly, which I worked very hard to get.
Future School: Ardingly
Best Brambletye Memory: Finding a WW2 hand grenade in the school grounds.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 3rd Teams
Creative Arts: I was a street sweep in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Best Dancer
Future School: Oxford International College Brighton
Best Brambletye Memory: When I found a WW2 hand grenade in the school grounds.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 1st Team Football, 2nd Team Netball, 3rd Team Hockey (Unbeaten), 2nd Team Cricket (Captain)
Creative Arts: I was a lady in My Fair Lady and Mrs Auoda (one of the main characters) in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Drama Colours, Music Colours, Head Chorister, House Officer of Nelson, and Librarian. Future School: Worth
Best Brambletye Memory: It’s a Knockout, Sports Day, school trips, inter-house competitions.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 1st Football (Captain), 1st Hockey (Captain), 1st Rugby, Tennis Team, Swimming Team, Athletics Team
Best Achievements: Captain of Football and Hockey Teams, Football, Rugby, and Hockey Colours
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: Playing in matches, getting multiple unbeaten seasons, and Thursday night El Clasico with the lads.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 3rds Rugby, 3rds Hockey, 3rds Cricket, and 4th Team Football
Creative Arts: Percy in Bramblewick Murder
Best Achievements: Best Artist
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: Playing with friends.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: Football, Hockey, Rugby, and Cricket
Best Achievements: Getting accepted to Worth, getting a lot better at art and other subjects. At first I didn’t enjoy art, but now I have found out how much I enjoy it.
Future School: Worth
Best Brambletye Memory: Leavers’ trip and finding my long lost pencil after 2 terms.
House: Wellington Sports Teams: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Teams
Creative Arts: Inspector Fix in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: My Drama Scholarship
Future School: Eastbourne College
Best Brambletye Memory: When I got my scholarship, joining the Prep School, and hanging out with friends.
House: Wellington Sports Teams: 2nd Team Netball, 3rd Team Hockey, 2nd Team Football, 3rd Team Cricket
Creative Arts: In Around the World in Eighty Days I was a club man Best Achievements: I got an Art Scholarship to Eastbourne, and in Prize-Giving I was awarded the Up and Coming Artist Prize
Future School: Eastbourne College Best Brambletye Memory: In Year 4, Flo Bland and I used to play power games by two trees and pretend it was a magic portal.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 2nd Team Football, 3rd Team Cricket, 3rd Team Hockey, 4th Team Netball
Creative Arts: I played an ensemble multi-character role in the senior production Around the World in Eighty Days. Grade 4 LAMDA
Best Achievements: I won a Senior Maths Colours, a Gold Certificate for the Junior Maths Challenge, and I’m a Library Assistant
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: My favourite moment at Brambletye was the Oscars night.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 1st Team Football, 1st Team Rugby, 1st Team Hockey, and 3rd Team Cricket
Best Achievements: Best Player of the Season, 2 Man of the Match awards (football), Colours (football), 2 Man of the Match awards (rugby), Cross Country (Bronze)
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: Thursday football activity Spain v England with the lads.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 2nd Team Football, 5th Team Hockey, 5th Team Netball
Creative Arts: Ensemble part in the Senior Play
Best Achievements: Send Up
Future School: St. Mary’s, Ascot
Best Brambletye Memory: My favourite memory is when we sang in the dark in the History classroom.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 4th Teams
Creative Arts: I was in the Tech Crew for Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: King Prize for Design, Science Prize, and Languages Prize
Future School: I am going to Tonbridge
Best Brambletye Memory: Being selected for a DT Scholarship.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 1st Football, Rugby, Hockey, Cricket; also Tennis and Athletics
Best Achievements: My Sports Scholarship and being Captain of Rugby
Future School: Worth School
Best Brambletye Memory: Playing in goal for the England vs Spain Thursday night football.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 3rd Team Football, 1st Team Rugby, 3rd Team Hockey, 4th Team Cricket, Tennis Team, Chess Team
Best Achievements: Most Improved Player in Rugby, Man of the Match in the Rugby 1st Team, Winner of the Chess Ladder, 4th in the Butley Cup in Chess
Future School: I am returning to Spain (Estudio)
Best Brambletye Memory: The Thursday football matches between England and Spain.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 3rd and 4th Teams
Creative Arts: Frank (Bartender) in My Fair Lady and Phileas Fogg 3 in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Sweets
Future School: Bede's Best Brambletye Memory: The Oscars Night.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 4th Team Hockey, 2nd Team Football, 3rd Team Netball, 3rd Team Cricket (Unbeaten Season)
Creative Arts: In the play Around the World in Eighty Days I was a multicharacter person in the background
Best Achievements: Silver Certificate in the Mathematical Challenge, Dorm of the Week (Dorm Captain), Librarian
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: The Oscars Night.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 1st Team Hockey (Colours), 1st Team Netball, 1st Team Cricket, 1st Team Football, Athletics Team, Sailing Team; Tennis Team
Captain
Creative Arts: I played a house maid and a cockney in My Fair Lady and Passepartout in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: The Most Improved Art Prize, the Gold Star Prize, Most Improved in Netball, the Kindness Prize. I was also a Prefect, a House Officer for Nelson, and I came 3rd in the IAPS Hockey National Finals (16th in the country)
Future School: Sherborne Girls
Best Brambletye Memory: Scoring the goal to go to the Nationals.
House: Wellington Sports Teams: Played for the Firsts and Seconds depending on the sport
Creative Arts: Professor Zoltan Karparthy in My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: Earthshot Prize and an Art Scholarship
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: Winning my Art Scholarship and coming 1st in the 200m.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 1st Team Everything from Year 7, Tennis Team, Captain of Cricket and Golf Teams
Best Achievements: Best Bowler and Most Wickets, Most Improved Rugby Player, Hockey Colours, Football Colours, Cricket Colours
Future School: Bryanston
Best Brambletye Memory: Going to Nationals in Hockey and being Captain of Cricket.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 2nd Team Hockey, 3rd Team Netball, 2nd Team Football, 3rd Team Cricket
Creative Arts: I was in the Ensemble in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Send Ups and being a House Officer
Future School: Bede's Best Brambletye Memory: Dancing in the music room with Belle and Livie.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 1st Football, 3rd Team Hockey (Unbeaten), 3rd Team Netball, 3rd Team Cricket Captain (Unbeaten)
Creative Arts: In My Fair Lady I played a Cockney and in Around the World in Eighty Days, I played Passepartout
Best Achievements: Academic and Drama Scholarships
Future School: Mayfield
Best Brambletye Memory: It’s a Knockout, Sports Day (especially the whole school relay), Year 8 Leavers’ Scotland Trip, and the Belgium Trip.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 1st Team Hockey, 3rd Team Cricket, 4th Team Netball
Creative Arts: Cockney in My Fair Lady and Miss Singh in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Art Colours, DT Colours, House Officer, Most Improved Hockey Player
Future School: Malvern College
Best Brambletye Memory: Going to the Nationals with all my friends.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 4th Team Hockey, 1st/2nd Team Netball, 3rd Team Cricket, 1st Team Football
Creative Arts: Played multiple roles in the senior play Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Silver Certificate in Junior Maths Challenge Colours, Library Assistant
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: The Oscars and Netball IAPS.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 3rd Team Cricket, 2nd Team Rugby
Creative Arts: I played Mongolia Purser in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: House Commander
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: Spain v England matches with the boys.
House: Nelson
Sports Teams: 3rd Team Hockey, 3rd Team Netball, 2nd Team Football, 3rd Team Cricket
Creative Arts: I played multiple characters in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Senior Art Colours
Future School: I’m going back to Spain
Best Brambletye Memory: The Oscars.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 1st Team Cricket, 1st Team Netball, 1st Team Hockey, Sailing Team, Tennis Team
Creative Arts: I was a flower girl in Around The World in Eighty Days and a maid in My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: My Cricket and Hockey Colours
Future School: Uppingham
Best Brambletye Memory: Going to Nationals or getting appointed Netball and Cricket Captain or Prefect.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: U13s Rugby, 4th Team Hockey, 4th Team Cricket, 5th Team
Football
Creative Arts: Lighting Crew in Around the World in Eighty Days, Leading Sound Person for My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: Junior Musician of the Year (Year 4), Leader of the Orchestra (2022-2023)
Future School: Winchester College
Best Brambletye Memory: Making new, memorable friends during my time here.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 1st Football, 1st Rugby, 1st Hockey
Creative Arts: Played a Judge in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: 4 Gold Medals in Athletics, Most Improved Player in Football
Future School: Eastbourne College
Best Brambletye Memory: The support from everyone when I was crying in a Spanish lesson after my Grandad died.
House: Drake
Sports Teams: 1st Football, 1st Rugby, 1st Hockey, 1st Cricket, Swimming
Captain
Creative Arts: Puss in Boots (the Postman)
Best Achievements: 3rd in IAPS
Swimming National Finals, 2nd in IAPS Hockey National Qualifiers, Qualified for IAPS Hockey National Finals, Art Scholarship to Oundle, Colours for Football, Rugby, Hockey, Maths, Art, DT Future School: Oundle
Best Brambletye Memory: Scoring 5 tries against Penthorpe.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 1st Team Hockey, 1st Team Netball, 1st Team Football, 1st/2nd Cricket
Creative Arts: Played Mrs Aouda in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Art Scholarship to Worth, 1st Place in IAPS Art Competition, Hockey Colours, Junior and Senior Art Colours, Senior Drama and Music Colours
Future School: Worth
Best Brambletye Memory: The Scotland trip.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 1st Team Hockey (Colours), 1st Team Netball, 1st Team Football, 1st Team Cricket, Cross Country Team, Athletics Team, Tennis Team
Creative Arts: Played Mongolia Purser in Around the World in Eighty Days and a Grand Lady in My Fair Lady
Best Achievements: Senior Art Colours, House Officer, Head of Girls’ Boarding, Most Improved 1st Team Hockey Player Prize, 3rd in the Hockey IAPS (Nationals Qualifiers), 16th in the Country, Silver Award in Intermediate and Junior Maths Challenges, Library Assistant
Future School: I’m going back to Spain Best Brambletye Memory: Getting ready for the Oscars and dancing on stage was really fun!
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: Hockey: 1st, Netball: 2nd, Cricket: 2nd/1st
Creative Arts: Captain Speedy in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: Most Gold and Pink Stars in the Year
Future School: Worth
Best Brambletye Memory: Going to Nationals with my friends.
House: Marlborough
Sports Teams: 3rd Teams
Creative Arts: Background Character in Around the World in Eighty Days
Best Achievements: House Officer
Future School: Hurst
Best Brambletye Memory: The Autumn Ball.
House: Wellington
Sports Teams: 2nd Team Football,
Under 13 A Rugby, 3rd Team Hockey, 4th Team Cricket
Creative Arts: My Fair Lady: Gentleman (Supporting Character), Around the World in Eighty Days: Police Officer/ Worker (Supporting Character)
Best Achievements: Music Cup,
Best Senior Musician
Future School: Winchester College
Best Brambletye Memory: I was quite lonely at the start of Year 7, but after a few days, I met Benjamin, Fred, Joe, and some other friends. The best friend I met was Tresaanth. He made me start enjoying school, and I enjoyed being surrounded by friends.
MANY CONGRATULATIONS to our 17 scholars, who collectively achieved 20 awards across various disciplines. This brings the total number of scholarship awards won by Brambletye pupils to 141 in the last 7 years.
Ida A Art Scholarship Eastbourne College
Benjamin B Art Scholarship Lancing College
Florence B Drama Scholarship Music Scholarship Mayfield
Henry B Academic Scholarship All Rounder Scholarship Lancing College
Bibi C Art Scholarship Hurst
Max E Art Scholarship Ardingly
Emilia J Drama Scholarship Eastbourne College
Belle L Art Scholarship Eastbourne College
Ewan M Sport Scholarship Worth
Tom M Art Scholarship Hurst
Willem O Sports Exhibition Bryanston
Katherine P Academic Scholarship Drama Scholarship Mayfield
Milly R Sport Scholarship Uppingham
Joe S Art Scholarship Oundle
Oliver T Sport Scholarship Eastbourne College
Pippa V Art Scholarship Worth
William X Music Exhibition Winchester College
This brings the total number of scholarship awards won by Brambletye pupils to 141 in the last 7 years.
OUR LEAVERS move on to an impressive selection of 15 senior schools. We do not exclusively prepare pupils for one or two schools, allowing us to customise our approach to meet the specific needs and preferences of each family. This ensures that our pupils transition to schools that best suit them.
This year, our Leavers are moving on to the following Senior Schools:
Bede’s Senior School, Bryanston School, Eastbourne College, Hurstpierpoint College, Lancing College, Malvern College, Mayfield School, Oundle School, Oxford International College Brighton, Sherborne Girls, St. Mary’s Ascot, Tonbridge School, Uppingham School, Winchester College, Worth School
AS THE ACADEMIC year draws to a close, this is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the incredible achievements and the many memorable moments shared in the Pre-Prep this year. My period of ‘hand over’ with Mrs Atkinson was invaluable; teaching in the department as Year 1 teacher and getting to know the ‘Brambletye Way’ was a golden opportunity for taking up the reins in January.
And what a joy it has been! I quickly learned why the majority of teaching staff have been in the Pre-Prep for so long; Brambletye Pre-Prep is a special place to be and is ever-evolving and changing, reflecting the needs of the children and new innovations in the world of education.
The building has changed over the year (and continues to do so!), giving us three wonderful spacious Nursery classrooms. Not only have we gained space, but the change has allowed us to focus more specifically on each age group’s needs, while still providing the opportunity to meet outside in our wonderful Nursery garden. We have enjoyed being more connected to children’s home life in Nursery through the use of Tapestry. We know our families often wish to be a ‘fly on the wall’, and Tapestry has given an instant glimpse into the children’s world at school.
‘I quickly learned why the majority of teaching staff have been in the Pre-Prep for so long; Brambletye Pre-Prep is a special place to be and is ever-evolving and changing’
The school rules of ‘Work Hard, Play Hard, Be Kind’ have formed the basis for our recent assemblies, particularly focusing on ‘Be Kind’. Our tree bearing ‘Pink leaves for kindness’ was covered in leaves by the end of term! The children have been thoughtful and empathetic, considering how we can be kind to each other as well as kind to the planet. We were thrilled that this sparked the idea for a Pre-Prep Pupil Council, giving all the children a voice and seeing their ideas and suggestions valued.
Launched in January, the elected councillors for each class felt very important attending their meetings in Walnut, fully equipped with suggestions from their peers on kindness rules and playground development. Valuable lessons are being learned about listening to others, sharing ideas, making democratic choices, and
understanding that some projects can happen instantly while others might take a little more time.
We have been building on our community engagement this year through our collaboration with ‘The Kindness Cooperation’, launching ‘Project JOY’ (Joining Old and Young). Pre-Prep children have made regular visits to Truscott Manor Care Home, sharing old toys, singing songs, performing poetry, and playing games with the residents. The benefits of intergenerational connection have been felt by all!
Pre-Prep is always buzzing with the latest event to welcome families or to enhance the children’s learning experiences, and the next few pages will give you a flavour of these. I am incredibly proud of the department, our children, and staff for their dedication and hard work, and we look forward to the opportunities that await us in 2024/25!
Kate Fleming
‘I am incredibly proud of the department, our children, and staff for their dedication and hard work’
'From dressing up toy dinosaurs to playing in the mud, Bramble Babies has been a lot of fun this year.'
AT BRAMBLE BABIES , we offer engaging experiences for children aged 0-3, encouraging curiosity and joy through imaginative play and exploration. Our weekly sessions in the magical on-site woods and vibrant hall are filled with activities designed to engage young minds and create lasting memories. From dressing up toy dinosaurs to playing in the mud, Bramble Babies has been a lot of fun this year.
The Mud Kitchen is the highlight of my Wednesday mornings. Watching the children dig, squish, and splatter mud with unrestrained glee is a reminder of the simple pleasures of childhood. One memorable adventure was our outing to Blackberry Farm, where the children enjoyed feeding the animals, riding the tractor, and bouncing on the giant inflatable pillow. The farm’s lively atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for a day of discovery, adventure, and family fun.
A key aspect of Bramble Babies is our strong sense of community. Parents and children form lasting friendships, often continuing through to Year 8 and beyond. At Bramble Babies, every session celebrates childhood wonder, where children and parents share stories, laughter, and the joy of exploring the world together.
Elizabeth Atkinson
OUR SMALLEST children in Nursery 1 amaze us on a daily basis with their have-a-go attitude and determination to achieve everything they put their minds to! Their natural instincts to explore and use their imagination are satisfied with weekly visits to our ‘School in the Woods’, walks to the tree house in the Prep School grounds for a story, and a love for learning in our free-flow classrooms and all-weather garden areas. Minibeasts and Farms have been favourite topics this year, with an outing to Blackberry Farm a highlight for us all.
WE LOVE TO explore the children’s interests and use this to further their learning and development both through play and adult led activities. They are always very keen to find out about their environment both in the classroom and outdoors. We use our outdoor area to its full potential through free-flow, having picnic snacks and going on lovely walks around our beautiful school grounds and spotting points of interest. We love to support the children’s independence and do so through positive encouragement when they are dressing and undressing for outdoor play, whether that be a sunhat or full muddy puddles!
NURSERY 3 is where we ignite curiosity and exploration. We create an environment which allows the children to fully immerse their imagination and their senses. Through play, the children are given the opportunity to gain and embed new skills, develop their understanding and demonstrate their capabilities, thus supporting children to build their confidence and independence. This year, we have encountered changes; we’ve moved to a wonderful new classroom AND been given a new class name. With the seamless transition activities which the children engage in, they are ready to spread their wings and fly.
WE HAVE thoroughly enjoyed learning outdoors – whether it be planting seeds, finding pirate treasure in the woods, looking after our adorable baby turtles, letting the sun work its magic with cyanotype photography, or exploring the Brambletye grounds. The children are expert gardeners and did an excellent job of growing beans, peas, and sunflowers from Wakehurst Place. They also found frogs in the woods! Additionally, they learnt life-saving skills in the swimming pool and revelled in sunshine, wind, and rain!
Lucilla Lunn
WHAT A wonderful year we have had filled with excitement and amazing growth! We have learnt how to be confident readers and writers, mastered conceptual subitising, honed our observational drawing skills, shared and used our fantastic imagination. Additionally, we have become experts in identifying and helping ocean animals, discovering many interesting facts along the way. Everyone has worked incredibly hard, and we are so proud of you all. We look forward to seeing you continue to flourish as you enter the exciting world of Year 1.
Sophie Deane
IT HAS BEEN another hugely eventful year for the children of Year 1! Animals and nature have played an enormous part in our learning and the children have loved finding out about a range of habitats and wildlife from around the globe. A definite highlight was the surprise arrival of two lost little friends in the form of Anna the chimpanzee and Gary the gibbon (as named by the children!). They looked after them beautifully until it was time for them to return to the wild.
Other highlights have included our trips to the British Wildlife Centre, Wilderness Wood and Hever Castle. We were also very proud to be the pioneering year group for Project JOY (Joining Old and Young) with our regular visits to Truscott Manor care home. What a busy year it has been.
Gemma Coldwell
THERE’S HARD work and fun
And so much to be done
From school trips and dress up days
Castles and knights and camping role plays
We learned about Victorian School and how Joseph’s brothers were oh so cruel
We’ve made houses on Pudding Lane in 1666
Learned our times tables, column sums and made 3D shapes with sticks
We’ve sewn coats of many colours for Joseph teddies and other toys
Debated the Gunpowder Plot with every girl and boy.
We’ve made clay faces, strong bridges, houses and boats
Tested strength, elasticity and guessed things that sink or float
We’ve learnt about Queen Victoria and Mary Anning and her fossils
Alexander Graham Bell showed how the telephone became possible
So as the end comes to this year
We give Year 2s a great big cheer
For their hard work, spirit and all they have done and wish them good luck as they move on.
OUR HARVEST FESTIVAL assembly was led by Rev. Higgs and we gathered food for the local food bank. Year 2 children also visited the food bank to find out about the work they do and why it is needed.
CAROLS AROUND the tree was a very special occasion and was also the moment to say our goodbye and thank you to Mrs Atkinson. All of the classes performed brilliantly, with a special mention going to Miss Deane’s ‘British Sign Language’ club who took part in their first (and now much requested) performance, singing and signing their way through ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’.
WHAT A wonderful week we had celebrating books and stories in Pre-Prep!
We had a lively performance of ‘Red Riding Hood and Friends’ by the Booster Cushion Theatre, which required extensive audience participation and was greatly enjoyed by all! Cocoa Evening was a great opportunity for parents to share stories in school while the children (and teachers!) enjoyed being cosy in their pyjamas. Thank you to our mystery reader of the evening, Mr Brundish, for sharing his stories with the Pre-Prep. Everyone loved dressing up as book characters and work was done in the classrooms focussing on different authors and books. Nursery enjoyed going on a ‘Bear Hunt’ and even found a bear on their travels!
We held our poetry week separately, culminating in a verse speaking competition. Our judges were thrilled with the performance skills of the children; their pace, delivery and expression were most impressive!
‘THE SMALLEST ANGEL’ was a fitting last Christmas Play for Mrs Atkinson, as it was also the first one she directed at Brambletye! Our intrepid ‘Smallest Angel’ flew around the world seeing different national celebrations until she landed in the stable in Bethlehem. Performing in the theatre was a special moment for all and with Scottish sword dancing, Spanish flamenco and Chinese fan dancing to name but a few dances, the children performed with enthusiasm and joy. It was the perfect way to start our Christmas celebrations!
OUR EASTER ASSEMBLY was the perfect opportunity to say our fond farewell to Mrs Milham, who has been an integral part of the Nursery at Brambletye for so long. A packed hall of parents were treated to poems by each class, before a wonderful parade of the Easter Bonnets! In the afternoon, all of the children enjoyed Easter egg hunts in our own beautiful woodland.
WE HELD TWO very special Grandparent afternoons and it was a joy to welcome so many to these. The children enjoyed showing their Grandparents their classrooms and working on creative projects together, before the Grandparents were treated to a wonderful afternoon tea in the hall. The children performed some poetry and then sang a rousing rendition of ‘When I’m Sixty-Four’ which had everyone’s toes tapping!
SUMMER FUN DAY, a BIG event in the School Calendar for Pre-Prep!
This year we combined the old favourite traditions with some new additions. Privileges were won; pizza with Mr Brooks anyone? Or perhaps bring your pet to school? Wellies were wanged, faces painted and bouncy castles fully enjoyed! Pony rides were a special treat (thank you Lola the pony!) and who can forget the stocks… gamely manned by Mr Brundish, Mr Finch, Mr Brooks and Mrs Simpson! Miss Fleming was persuaded in there for the ‘auctioning’ of the last custard pies. We were delighted that the day raised over £1000 for our charity, Family2Family.
RAIN STOPPED PLAY for our Nursery Sports Day but we were able to hold it on the same day as Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, meaning that many families stayed all day for the fun. From Nursery 1 children running their first ever races, to the Year 2 children doing ‘The Long Run’, the children took great delight in showing their families just what they could do!
Skill demonstrations took place, with climbing, balancing, aiming and team work all demonstrated in houses. A ‘Gladiators’ warm up dance (thank you Mrs Simpson) kicked off the afternoon in style, culminating in the ever competitive parents race. Annabel in Year 2 won the privilege of starting the race and declared this year’s winner to be… the Mummies!
O UR SUMMER Concert was a wonderful showcase of talent from the Pre-Prep. The concert was opened by Iris who wowed the audience with her piano solo! With every child taking part from Nursery upwards, there were songs, dances and dramatic performances.
The concert had something for everyone: a dancing octopus, retellings of favourite stories and stories told through song. Thank you to Mrs Loulaki and Mr Fulton for their musical arrangements.
We were so proud of our children who took their LAMDA examinations in Summer term, they ALL achieved a Distinction! What an incredible result!
PARENT CAFES were held for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, with Reception parents venturing down to School in the Woods for theirs! Parents joined in with activities in the classrooms related to the children’s current topics, with one parent commenting that it was her favourite event at school!
IT WAS A QUICK start to the school year in September 2023 for Year 4 pupils, and they had to hit the ground running as the first stage show of the year had to be cast, learned, and performed within the first nine weeks alongside all the other activities that make up daily Brambletye life. And what a show it was! Cinderella & Rockafella wowed the audience with confident performers, catchy tunes, some truly terrible ugly sisters, and a stunning chorus of singers in the form of Year 3.
The Autumn Term also saw many pupils (and parents) take up the opportunity of the Year 3 and Year 4 & 5 sleepover, and those who stayed in school overnight enjoyed a Chinese takeawaystyle dinner, fun on giant inflatables, and baking, amongst other activities. As is now tradition, the first term was brought to a close with the Lower School Christmas Fair, which this year raised a record-breaking £1,474.50.
The Spring Term passed in a flash, but highlights included a House Festival and House Shout Competition, both of which involved every member of the school. We also celebrated World Book Day and the Lower School Viking Day, where pupils dressed up and acted out some famous stories from this period of England’s history.
Before we knew it, it was the Summer Term, although apparently the weather didn’t get the memo. Never deterred, both Years 3 and 4 undertook trips to the British Museum with Mr Ingen-Housz to look at artefacts linked to their learning in his lessons. Year 3 also had a trip to Coolings Nursery as part of their ‘Plants & Growing’ topic in Science, whilst Year 4 spent a glorious day at Arundel Wetland Centre learning about vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as conservation in action in a local environment.
As we neared the end of the term, Year 3 played host to Year 2 and showed them the ropes of life in the Lower School ahead of their move down the hill next year. Year 4 also ended the year on a high by running their Entrepreneur Market, which raised just over £550 for the school’s charity, Family2Family, bringing our total fundraising efforts for the year to over £2,000 – quite an amazing achievement.
The end of the year is always a bittersweet moment in the Lower School as we look forward to the next term with excitement and all that a new year brings whilst bidding farewell to the pupils in Year 4 who move up the school into Year 5. We also bid farewell to Miss Young and Mrs Clark this year and wish them all the very best for the future.
David Brundish
AS THE SUMMER term draws to a close and we end what has been another very busy year, I have both the pleasure and the challenge of summing up all that has been achieved this year. At Brambletye, we put the pursuit of academic excellence at the heart of all that we do and we are fortunate that the children here are guided by a team of inspirational and enthusiastic teachers.
Overall, the children have made excellent progress in the classroom and this has been reflected in many of the assessments and examination results that have been achieved over the course of the year. A special mention has to go to the children in Year 8 who have produced some outstanding Scholarship and Common Entrance results and all of whom saw their efforts rewarded with places at the Senior School of their first choice. As reported in this year’s School Magazine, Brambletye children recorded 20 Scholarship and Exhibition awards across a variety of disciplines. This takes the tally of Scholarship awards won by pupils at Brambletye to 141 in the last 7 years. The scholarship journey is an extremely testing one and all those who undertook the process deserve to be enormously proud of their efforts and their dedication. We congratulate them on all they have achieved.
Under Mr Mason’s guidance, the Brambletye award has continued to flourish and the children have been recognised for their various achievements outside of the classroom. It has also been wonderful for us to be able to celebrate the plethora of talent, enthusiasm and determination within the community. The resilience of the children and their willingness to get involved and to ‘have a go’ in activities outside the classroom and in many cases outside the school, has been tremendous.
At Brambletye, we appreciate the importance of providing the children with memorable
‘At Brambletye, we put the pursuit of academic excellence at the heart of all that we do and we are fortunate that the children here are guided by a team of inspirational and enthusiastic teachers.’
experiences outside the classroom to help support their learning in class. For that reason, there have been trips on offer for all year groups. Unfortunately, too many to mention them all in this report but I hope you will forgive me if I identify just two trips which went abroad this year. Firstly, the Year 7 trip to the Eurospace Centre in Belgium was a fantastic educational experience, as was the Year 8 Leavers’ Trip to Loch Eil in Scotland which gave them a fantastic final send off before they move on to pastures new.
Meanwhile, in a world that is seemingly becoming dominated by Artificial Intelligence, I mentioned last year that we have created a working group to identify ways in which we feel ‘AI’ can help improve the education of the children at Brambletye. However, it remains the case that we are doing so whilst always keeping one particular question in mind: ‘Is this going to improve the children’s learning experience?’ The temptation
is to fast track technology into the classroom, but it must be done so for the right reasons and not simply because it is ‘new’. As with all technology, ‘AI’ needs to enhance our children’s learning and development and not dominate it. ‘AI’ is obviously here to stay and it will undoubtedly be a valuable tool in the classroom, but what must lie at the heart of the academic process here at Brambletye is the need to ensure we continue to offer academic excellence in our teaching.
On that note, I am occasionally asked why we have not followed in the footsteps of many other schools in offering 1:1 devices for the pupils. My answer to this is we have considered it at length and concluded that it is important for the children to develop a high level of digital literacy before they move on to their Senior Schools but that it is equally important that they have a childhood without the temptation to hide behind a screen.
‘The temptation is to fast track technology into the classroom, but it must be done so for the right reasons and not simply because it is ‘new’.’
For that reason, we will be ordering more banks of devices which can be used in class and the children will be given regular opportunities to use them in lessons. We feel this is the best way of ensuring they have a relevant and rounded educational experience.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the immense support and encouragement provided by the parents and the wider school community. We are hugely grateful for your support and partnership throughout what has been another successful year.
Freddie Piper
WE ARE ALWAYS developing as an Art department that is focused on rewarding the New and Interesting rather than the Right or Wrong, which helps develop the skills needed for a creative economy and workplace. As Head of Art at this exceptional school for 27 years, my priority is the happiness of the children, forged through an engaging and stimulating learning environment in the H block. My aim is to transfer my creative skills to others, and watching the spark in their eyes gives me an abundant amount of joy and satisfaction.
Exceptional talent, aptitude, and enthusiasm have been displayed in the Art Department gallery and in sketchbook format throughout the academic year. I have been particularly impressed
by the pupils’ positive attitude and ability to develop their work into a series of exciting visual outcomes in drawing, painting, and mixed media. They implement a range of creative processes, skills, and techniques with a sense of purpose, which will give them the confidence to excel further in the years to come.
Pupils from Year 3 to 8 are encouraged to experiment with a broad range of creative media. They are given permission to make mistakes without fear of criticism because without practical courage, they will remain static and fearful of learning from their errors. There is an artist in every child; the challenge is to stay an artist as you grow up. The Art department encourages all pupils to nurture their creativity
'I have been particularly impressed by the pupils’ positive attitude and ability to develop their work into a series of exciting visual
outcomes in drawing, painting, and mixed media.'
by learning from their mistakes. This philosophy has worked wonders for many past pupils who have gone on to become architects, photographers, videographers, filmmakers, football coaches, deputy headmasters, tattoo artists, senior
designers for Richard Branson’s Galactic Aerospace project, and practitioners at the Royal Academy and Royal College of Art, which are the highest levels of Art achievement.
Trips to art galleries and practical workshops are vital to the education of young artists. This academic year, our Year 8 pupils enjoyed educational visits to The WhiteCube Gallery where they researched the work of Julie Mehretu, and to Bede’s where they explored ceramics, textiles, and photography. Our Year 7 potential Art Scholars were invited to Mayfield School for a masterclass in ceramics under the tutelage of Head of Ceramics, Tim Reese-Moorlah. They created clay relief sculptures based on their
annual theme, Anatomy. Year 6 students have been busy with themes of Portraits and Venice, inspired by the styles of Mario Henrique and Monet. Years 3 and 4 have explored African Art and Geometric Animals, while Year 5 has produced beautiful responses in the style of Eric Lacombe.
Our Art Scholarship total this academic year was 9, including an All-Rounder, bringing our grand total to 250 in 27 years. Belle L and Ida A went to Eastbourne College, Benjamin B to Lancing College, Max E to Ardingly College, Pippa V to Worth, Joe S to Oundle, Bibi C and Tom M to Hurstpierpoint College, and Henry B received the Ken Shearwood All-Rounder Award
'There is an artist in every child; the challenge is to stay an artist as you grow up.'
to Lancing College. Full credit goes to all those pupils who sat Art and DT Scholarships. To be put forward for a scholarship is an achievement in itself.
Design and Technology remains an increasingly popular subject for self-discovery through the investigation of materials such as wood, clay, acrylic, perspex, and MDF. Year 8 students focused on skateboards and sports shields, Year 7 created iPhone stands and two-piece chairs as maquettes, and Years 5 and 6 explored symmetrical clocks, key fobs, word plaques, and typography assignments designed to stretch their practical skills and imagination.
The kind of designer I aim to develop through Design and Technology in the studio is one who is innate rather than spoon-fed. It is those pupils who have an overwhelming curiosity to experiment and discover how things work, starting with simple design methods that they can develop further independently at home –this is where it all begins.
David Holden
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
The nearly £30,000 raised has made a profound impact on the charity’s ability to support local families. The funds have been allocated to various essential services, including:
Emergency Assistance: Providing immediate support for families facing sudden financial crises.
THE BRAMBLETYE Community has been characteristically generous in our support of Family2Family. Through an incredible collective effort, we managed to raise almost £30,000 for this local charity dedicated to supporting families in need, with a special focus on helping children.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS GALORE
A few highlights of events from the year:
Burns Night: This was just one of the many parent events which was not only huge fun but also saw a tremendous amount of money raised through events that ranged from an auction to whisky tasting.
Summer Concert: Our annual summer concert turned into a fundraising extravaganza this year. With every pupil performing on stage, we saw the vast array of talent throughout the prep school. The event was a resounding success, not only entertaining but also contributing significantly to our charity fund.
Art Auction: The highlight of our fundraising efforts was the Art auction. Donations poured in from current and past pupils, our own excellent Art teachers and even some professional pieces. The bidding was fierce, and the generosity of our community shone brightly.
A WHOLE SCHOOL EFFORT
It wasn’t just the big events that made a difference. Every single member of our school contributed in their own way. Parents and staff were equally instrumental, volunteering their time, resources, and expertise to make each event successful.
Educational Programmes: Offering after-school tutoring and summer enrichment programmes for children.
Nutritional Support: Ensuring that children have access to healthy meals, both in and out of school.
Counselling Services: Offering mental health support for children and parents dealing with stress and trauma.
Our collective efforts have not only provided much-needed financial support but have also raised awareness about the challenges faced by families in our community. We have shown that when we come together, we can make a real difference.
Freddie Piper
OUR CHARITY ART auction this year was in aid of the School Charity ‘Family2Family’, and donations came in from artists in Italy, Scotland, Africa, and East Grinstead. The broad range of work on display demonstrated the wide disciplines covered by the Art department, including drawings, paintings, mixedmedia, photography, and Design/Technology masterpieces, which enthusiastic bidders battled over. The highest bid of £700 was placed on Scarlet D’s painting ‘St. Paul’s’. I pay tribute to our Year 8 artists who generously donated their precious works of art. I extend my gratitude to our loyal parental artists, past and present, as well as to the professional artists who never cease to amaze me with their contributions year after year. They are all an amazing group of friends. The total sum raised this year was an incredible £10,590.00, which will go towards helping families in need in West Sussex. In the Headmaster’s words, “Another phenomenal year!”
David Holden
The total sum raised this year was an incredible £10,590“Another phenomenal year!”
Archie wins ‘fundrAiser of the yeAr’ At the child of sussex AwArds
CONGRATULATIONS to Archie for winning the ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ award at the Child of Sussex Awards on the 28th June.
Archie embarked on a remarkable journey of giving back during the Lockdown period when he was 8 years old. Motivated by a desire to make a difference, he set out to run 100 kilometres to support the NHS, initially aiming to raise £100. Astonishingly, his efforts garnered closer to £2000, demonstrating his determination and generosity.
Not content with this achievement, Archie continued his charitable endeavours by raising nearly £600 for the Huracan Foundation, a charity dedicated to using football to inspire learning. He also raised over £1000 for Hope and Homes for Children, an organisation supporting orphans in Ukraine.
His most recent act of kindness was to donate his hair to The Little Princess Trust, which provides wigs to children undergoing cancer treatment.
Everyone at Brambletye is incredibly proud of Archie for his extraordinary achievements. Well done, Archie – you are an inspiration to us all.
Rachel Morcos
YEAR 5 had an exciting year filled with enriching educational trips. Two highlights were the Science trip to the British Wildlife Centre with Miss Price, and the History trip to Battle with Mrs Johnson.
They began by visiting the British Wildlife Centre, where they were immersed in the world of native wildlife. Led by knowledgeable guides, they encountered a diverse array of animals, including foxes, owls, Scottish wildcats, badgers, hedgehogs, and the elusive polecat. Each encounter provided fascinating insights and stories about these creatures, enhancing the students’ scientific knowledge in an engaging way.
CONTINUING their journey through history, Year 5 explored the historic Battle Abbey, site of the pivotal Battle of Hastings in 1066. Their day commenced with an interactive workshop, where they dressed in Norman and Saxon armour, handled replica weapons, and recreated the dramatic battle on Senlac Hill. They then explored the battlefield, visiting the spot where Harold Godwinson reputedly met his end. The adventure concluded with a tour of the Abbey ruins and an exhilarating climb to the roof for panoramic views.
Kaylan Price & Catie Johnson
‘Year 5 explored the historic Battle Abbey, site of the pivotal Battle of Hastings in 1066.’
IT’S BEEN a noisy term in the Music Department. ‘Musical Mondays’ always start the week with the Brambletye Symphony Orchestra (BSO), Senior Choir, and Beginner Band all rehearsing at different points throughout the day. The rest of the week sees Bramble Bows, Middle Choir, Big Band, Junior Choir, and numerous other ad-hoc rehearsals taking place. The Autumn Concert showcased these ensembles, with over one hundred pupils performing on stage. Every piece of music performed at the concert had been learnt by children in their break times or through choosing to be part of the Senior Choir during co-curricular activities.
Earlier in the term, a dozen of our pupils performed solos in an Informal Concert for the senior citizens of Ashurst Wood, and a group of fifteen string players spent a wonderful day at Ardingly College with the Benedetti Foundation. We were also lucky enough to be invited to take a group of Year 6 pupils to the Eastbourne College SING! day in September, which culminated in a fantastic concert for parents. Remembrance was a poignant occasion, marked by the Last Post on trumpet and the Senior Choir performing an anthem in Hebrew as part of our Chapel service. Nearly twenty children took and passed ABRSM exams, from Prep Test to Grade 5, with the vast majority gaining Merits or Distinctions.
Music has been abundant at other times too, including the brilliant singing at the Year 4 play, Cinderella Rockerfella (with Year 3 Chorus), the fabulous Pre-Prep Nativity and Harvest Festival, and in-house events such as Christmas Lunch and our traditional ‘Carols around the Tree’ for boarders on the final night of term, to name but a few. The Senior Choir has worked particularly hard in preparation for the Brambletye Carol Service, learning a number of complex carols and, of course, descants galore!
Rachel Selleck
OUR YEAR 6 pupils had a wonderful day learning five songs from scratch and performing them in a splendid concert at the end of the day, complete with piano, drums, bass guitar, trumpets, and the Eastbourne College Choir.
The pupils rehearsed throughout the day and even managed to find time to fit in some Drama, Science, Sport, and Team Building exercises before a delicious lunch! The music included a 15th Century round about a lame, tame crane, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, Shadowland from The Lion King, The World in Union, and Frankie Valli’s Can’t Take My Eyes Off You
Even the audience was encouraged to join in, and the catchy tunes were stuck in everyone’s heads for the rest of the day!
THE EASTBOURNE College choral day was really fun. We got on the bus at around 8:20 and spent an hour on the bus. When we got there, we were led up to the incredible music department. We then heard the rugby national anthem (The World in Union) while the eight other schools arrived.
When the rest of the schools turned up, we all sang: My Dame Hath a Lame Tame Crane, Hallelujah, A World in Union, Shadowland , and the finale, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You. My favourite song was Shadowland. This day was really incredible, and I loved everything about it.
Emily Norris-Jones
WE WERE LUCKY enough to be chosen as some of the few pupils invited to Eastbourne College for a spectacular singing event. The overall event lasted nine and a half hours, and every part was amazing! The day started with a one-hour bus journey accompanied by the wonderful Mrs. Selleck. Once we arrived at Eastbourne College, we were greeted by the courteous staff who work at the college.
We received customised name tags which we wore for the entirety of the day. Once we set foot into the outstanding auditorium (which had foldable seats), we were given a songbook that listed the songs we would be singing throughout the day. These included: My Dame Hath a Lame Tame Crane, A World in Union, Hallelujah (from the exceptional motion picture Shrek by DreamWorks), Shadowland (from the Broadway musical The Lion King), and finally, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You
Overall, we had a lovely day and we recommend this school for curious, adventurous pupils.
Faramade Oshinowo & Aimee Bruce
T
HE FIVE YOUNG musicians got so much out of it, from sight-reading to ensemble experience, to overcoming their initial fears that they couldn’t play the music, not to mention an overwhelming sense of achievement when it all came together at the end!
The concert sounded amazing, and all our parents loved it too. Lunch and snacks, of course, were also highlights, and the debating workshop after lunch was both highly entertaining and educational! Who would have thought the pupils would come back armed with the skill of how to sell a hairbrush to someone with no hair from a jazz day?! As always, the day was beautifully organised, and it was such a joy to attend.
WE HAD a super time at the Christ’s Hospital Music Masterclass on Friday, 7th June. Pupils formed an orchestra, learning and performing the theme from Star Wars and then (after some excellent snacks in the magnificent Hogwarts-esque dining room) took part in a Music Technology workshop, manipulating sound effects to create their own advert. The highlight of the day was the Parade – we watched the school’s marching band perform while the whole school marched into lunch. It was absolutely amazing!
Y ET AGAIN, our Parent Choir has excelled, performing Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus at our Christmas Carol Service, a Les Misérables medley at our House Shout (which comes with a highly sought-after ticket to watch this exclusive event!), plus Adiemus and a Jan Garbarek number at our Summer Concert. ALL are welcome to join—no audition is required, and there’s a lovely atmosphere as we munch on bacon rolls and coffee on Match Saturdays. Do come and join us!
FIFTEEN LUCKY Brambletye pupils were invited to bring their violins and cellos and spend the day with the Benedetti Foundation at Ardingly on 15th September. Our advanced musicians worked on Peter Warlock’s twentieth-century Capriol Suite and Mascagni’s hauntingly beautiful Cavalleria Rusticana, while our beginners learnt Thorntree Thunder by Joelle Broad and did some rather brilliant improvisations involving journeys into space!
The day concluded with a magnificent concert in the chapel, for which a number of our parents joined us. The icing on the cake was when an Ardingly member of staff remarked that the Brambletye children were the most “polite, wellbehaved, and lovely” group of children he had worked with!
OUR SERIES of informal concerts has continued throughout this year. It provides a crucial opportunity for our developing musicians to perform in front of a small audience, and there is always such an encouraging atmosphere. Grandparents' Day is always such a lovely event, and we were delighted to have such a range of performers on display.
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A NEW INITIATIVE we have enjoyed this year has been our Music Carousel. Pupils were given the opportunity to try a selection of woodwind, brass, and string instruments, with particular emphasis on some of the less commonly played ones!
It was wonderful to see and hear these mini-lessons taking place and the delight on so many faces as they produced a sound!
ONE OF THE highlights of the academic year at Brambletye is the Summer Concert, and, as usual, it did not disappoint. The concert opened with a bang, literally, as the Year 8 Leavers performed their very loud and rhythmic Samba Batucada with great gusto. Then the Brambletye Symphony Orchestra performed Jurassic Park and the crowd-pleaser Land of Hope and Glory
The parent choir joined the orchestra and three year groups on stage for a huge performance of Karl Jenkins’ Adiemus, followed by the Big Band and Beginner Band putting smiles on faces with their renditions of Little Brown Jug, Moving On, and Oompa Loompa
Mrs Loulaki managed to coordinate the entirety of Years 3 and 4 in a bread-making song sung in Spanish while ‘turning dough’ all in time—quite a feat to behold! The Brambletye Girls’ Choir sang a Wonka Medley with some very brave high solos, followed by the Junior Choir making everyone laugh with their exuberant acting while singing Lost in Space and This Ol’ Man. We were treated to a confident rendition of Tears in Heaven by the Boys’ Choir, and then the parents joined a semi-chorus of children to sing Parce Mihi Domine as a backing choir for Roy’s excellent saxophone improvisation. The Senior Choir sang Bring Me Little Water, Silvy and a moving rendition of Hallelujah with multiple harmonies.
After the interval, we were treated to performances of the House Shout, and then the whole theatre joined together for the infamous Pop Mash-Up, closing off another excellent Summer Concert where everyone was involved and left on a high. Thank you, Mrs Selleck, for such a treat, and well done also to Mrs Loulaki and the supporting music staff for yet another musical triumph.
Nicola Stenhouse
‘Mrs Loulaki managed to coordinate the entirety of Years 3 and 4 in a breadmaking song sung in Spanish while ‘turning dough’ all in time—quite a feat to behold!’
brAmbletyeAn dinner 2024 - sundAy 30th June
WE WERE DELIGHTED this year to welcome back Old Brambletyeans who had left in 2019 and had just completed their A Levels. The evening began with drinks in the Front Hall, and it was truly wonderful to see over half of the Class of 2019 join us for the evening. The traditional dinner was held in Walnut, and a delicious meal was prepared by Annabelle and her team.
During the meal itself, the boys and girls had enormous fun catching up and reminiscing about the past. Meanwhile, Mr Lush had prepared a huge slideshow of photos from their time at Brambletye, which not only caused much hilarity during the meal but also provided a fabulous trip down memory lane. After dinner, the boys and girls wandered around different parts of the school, reliving further memories of their time at Brambletye. It was a glorious evening, and we now wish them all the very best of luck as they begin the next exciting chapter in their lives.
Jonathan Lush
AS WITH MANY parts of the world on Friday 10th May, the Roman goddess, Aurora, also visited Brambletye. Here is a photograph of Aurora Borealis, the Dawn of the North, as snapped from Top Field. Her majesty and beauty was something special to behold and will be remembered always by those who sighted her rare appearance in the UK.
L ara Kennedy
O N 6TH JUNE , the 80th anniversary of D-Day, we were absolutely delighted to host over 100 current and past parents, governors, and OBs for drinks and delicious canapés in the Jubilee Garden. The guests, all of whom had donated to the Centenary Campaign, were invited to return to Brambletye to visit the projects their donations had enabled: the Bacon Resource Centre and Library, the H Art Studio, and the Centenary All-Weather Pitch. Their generosity has been recognised on a new acknowledgements board which hangs by the entrance to the library.
It was a very happy, chatty, and poignant evening. The Headmaster spoke about the school’s evacuation to Lee Abbey in Devon during WW2 and the Canadian Army’s subsequent billeting to Brambletye. He recalled that during lockdown, the pupils invited him to deliver an online assembly from the Brambletye tower; in doing so, he and Mr Holloway discovered some of the Canadian soldiers’ signatures inscribed in the stone. It turned out that a number of these young men, as well as a number of Brambletye old boys, were involved in the D-Day landings, and so it felt fitting to remember them. So many memories and friendships are made at Brambletye by children and parents alike, and the evening was filled with reminiscing and happy recollections of the years spent here. As the thank-yous poured in following the evening, it became clear just how dear the Brambletye era is to so many families and how this is a place where the seeds of friendship are sown and flourish.
Amelia Brooks
IN THE FINAL week of term, the Year 6s were surprised with a special Celebration Morning to let their hair down and celebrate each other’s achievements throughout the year. Led by their tutors, Mrs Johnson and Mr Mason, the Year 6s embarked on different activities to work together and celebrate reaching the end of Year 6.
The morning started with the Year 6s separating into small groups to go on a school-wide orienteering competition. Having spent the morning on his bike setting up the different orienteering markers, Mr Mason set the Year 6s loose to retrieve special stampers and race against the clock to clear the course in record time! One of the greatest moments, though, had to be when Edward sprinted down the Nevill Bank to collect the final stamp for his team, but only with one minute left. With no hope of retrieving it and returning in time, the whole of Year 6 joined together to create a human chain to help Edward get it back before time ran out! A true sign of both friendship and Brambletye spirit. After that, the Year 6s joined in a friendly, but exceedingly competitive, game of 6J vs 6M rounders. Sliding across the grass, everyone joined in, and laughs and smiles were shared by all. Finally, Mrs Johnson led the whole year group in an award ceremony, celebrating everyone’s talents by getting Year 6 to vote for their own peers. With awards such as ‘Work Hard’, ‘Play Hard’, ‘Be Kind’ and ‘Tutee of the Year’ in the mix, the children were brilliant in cheering each other on and recognising just how far they had come this year.
An excellent morning spent by all, the Year 6s had the send-off they deserved before entering the senior side of the school. Mrs Johnson and Mr Mason wish them all the best of luck!
Johnson
AS THE CRICKET season draws to a close, it’s a pleasure to reflect on the accomplishments and memorable moments our young players have achieved. Despite enduring one of the wettest seasons in recent memory, our players have exemplified Brambletye’s values of ‘Work Hard, Play Hard, and Be Kind’, echoing Mr. Brooks’ sentiments in recent assemblies.
Our cricket groups have had incredibly positive seasons filled with learning and competitive fixtures, and across all the teams, we have seen some of the strongest performances since I joined Brambletye. It’s rare to hear of so many unbeaten seasons and positive feedback from coaches. Special mention should go to the Girls’ Senior 3rd XI, who had an exceptional season under the guidance of Mr. Holden, winning all their matches and achieving an unbeaten record. The team’s spirit was evident in every training session, with players making significant progress, including those who were new to the game.
The Brambletye teams demonstrated enormous teamwork and a fantastic attitude towards their cricket this season. What stood out was their collective effort and commitment, where team performance took precedence over individual achievements. Unlike many opponents who focused only on their best players, our teams remained competitive while supporting each other wholeheartedly. We celebrated both victories and losses as opportunities for growth, prioritising happiness and teamwork.
Each team saw notable individual achievements, whether in batting, bowling, or fielding. A special mention goes to Josh H for his remarkable century against Cumnor, a rare feat at the Prep school level.
'Cricket at Brambletye has flourished in recent years, with players being introduced to all aspects of the game from an early age.'
Cricket at Brambletye has flourished in recent years, with players being introduced to all aspects of the game from an early age. This foundation has paid off, evident in the strength and depth across each year group. The successes at county and national levels inspire our pupils, many of whom are pursuing their age group pathways. However, the ultimate goal remains enjoyment, and it was heartening to hear pupils speak highly of their experiences this term. Credit and thanks go to our dedicated team of coaches and match day leaders, who ensure that each session blends skill development with fun.
A final acknowledgement goes to the Boys’ and Girls’ 1st XIs, whose excellent performances have been a highlight of the season. As our Leavers move on, they leave a benchmark for Years 6 and 7 to maintain and build upon. Thank you
to Willem O, Bibi C, and Milly R for their leadership this season, and we eagerly anticipate hearing more about their cricket journeys.
In conclusion, this cricket season has been marked by remarkable achievements and personal growth for our players. We are immensely proud of their efforts and look forward to their continued success in cricket. Finally, to our families, thank you for your steadfast support of our cricket programme and teams. Your support is deeply valued by the players and staff alike.
Here’s to the 2025 season... and hopefully some sunshine!
David Finch
'This cricket season has been marked by remarkable achievements and personal growth for our players.'
AS DIRECTOR of football at Brambletye, my priority as a youth coach is to develop young talent through dynamic and stimulating coaching drills, and I encourage all football coaches to focus on developing youngsters’ ability with emphasis on hard work and enjoyment. Results and winning is the last thing on my mind and should not be our priority.
This season has seen many outstanding performances and the 1st Xl led by example by playing some exciting football with every player showing the confidence to want the ball and play with courage by passing out from the back. All our senior teams from the 1st Xl, 2nd Xl, and 3rd Xl, are unbeaten, as a result of being given permission to make mistakes, from which they can learn and develop as young footballers.
Our boys are encouraged to play for each other which is the key to any unbeaten season, topped by the 1st Xl who won 7 from 7 games. Our Juniors and Colts teams all had impressive seasons with over 75% of matches won as a result of hard work and their natural ability and desire to compete and play the game the Brambletye way. I congratulate every squad and pay tribute to their hard working internal and external coaches for their commitment and leadership in training sessions. The attitude of our boys has been exemplary, and as director of football I am excited for the future of the game here at Brambletye.
1st Xl Player of the season – Ewan M and Alvaro L E
Best attitude – Bertie D
Unsung Hero award and Captain of Football – Ethan L
David Holden
ALL FOUR Senior girls’ teams played some exciting football, winning 80% of their games this season. The superb attitude of the squad is always positive, and key to enjoying the game, which saw all of our players make outstanding progress over the course of their short season. Happiness is at the heart of everything we coach in football, and I witnessed our girls cry after giving their all in a match they lost, others getting injured while physically and mentally ‘getting stuck in’, and smiles of jubilation after winning some high-profile matches against top teams. To say the girls are keen to play a longer season is an understatement, and our aim is to introduce more time for girls’ football next year.
Captain of Football – Rose G
David Holden
'The superb attitude of the squad is always positive, and key to enjoying the game.'
THE NETBALL season was wonderfully inclusive and successful this year. We consistently fielded 5 senior teams weekly, with the 3rds, 4ths, and 5ths impressing with multiple wins. Many players, new to netball, quickly grasped the game’s rules and skills. Sonya L stood out in the 3rds as the most improved Senior player, while Cristina K, Emilia RMunoz, Ying C, and Taisiia R showcased exceptional performances, notably in a match at St Andrews.
In the Handcross Park BE TREWE tournament, our 4/5ths squad achieved a remarkable feat by winning all their matches, despite being new to netball. The 3rds had a highly successful season, often dominating their matches, with standout performances from Katherine P, Elizabeth R, Sonya L, Anna I, and Cecilia O, who were frequently named Players of the Match (POM). Mimi T’s versatility across 3rds, 4ths, and 5ths squads was also commendable.
The 2nds displayed excellent results, particularly Belle L and Ellie T’s consistent shooting prowess. Newcomer Blanca P R made an
immediate impact in both defence and attack, while Rosie W excelled in centre court, notably during the U12’s v CDP match. Romilly S's adaptability between 1sts and 2nds was notable, as was Saoirse L’s steady improvement in the 2nds. Flo B and Otterly W formed a formidable defensive duo with dynamic interceptions.
The 1sts faced tough competition throughout the season, showing resilience and determination.
Led by Milly R as captain, the team demonstrated outstanding performance, with notable contributions from Emilia W and Eva W from Year 7. Rose G’s exceptional centre court play earned her the most outstanding player accolade for Senior girls.
The U11/10s fielded 4 teams, adapting well to changes in match formats and squad rotations due to illness. Valentina L S and Laura I consistently impressed, with Laura awarded most improved Middles player. The U11As showcased great teamwork atthe IAPS tournament, despite challenges, with Ava P receiving recognition as the most outstanding Middles player.
Moving to our juniors, Year 3s adapted quickly to netball, with Scarlett Y W standing out for her intercepting skills. Our U9s were unbeatable at the Cumnor tournament, showcasing Ottie F’s versatility and Annabel O, Rosie M, Clemmie M, Sophia Z, Serena L, and Eliza F K’s outstanding play.
The U8/U9s played mini matches throughout the season, with notable improvement from players like Flora S and Amy M. Talia M, Cara V Z, Masha B, and Sofia C consistently impressed, while Emma Y, Camilla and Matilda N J, Megan W, and Tara M showed dedication and improvement.
Lastly, Lyra N T’s impressive progress from a nervous player to a confident catcher exemplifies the overall improvement and enthusiasm seen across all age groups this season. It was a fantastic season with great attitude on and off the court, showcasing the remarkable progress of every player.
Collette Cubberley
WITH THE announcement of the upcoming tennis season, the tennis courts suddenly became bustling with children eager to practise. This year, there was a noticeable excitement surrounding tennis, and many students expressed a strong interest in participating. The introduction of inter-house tennis further fuelled this enthusiasm, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere on the courts.
Tabby M’s leadership as the supportive Captain of Tennis contributed significantly to the team’s success and overall enjoyment of the season.
Our primary goal for the season was to provide as many children as possible with the opportunity to play in semi-competitive matches against other schools.
We successfully achieved this by involving 22 children from Years 5 to 8. We were fortunate to engage in fixtures against Great Walstead, Copthorne, Cottesmore, and Cumnor House at both the Under 11 and Under 13 levels.
Our secondary aim was to ensure that the children had fun while maintaining a competitive spirit. Once again, we met this goal, as all participants left the matches with smiles on their faces, clearly enjoying the experience. Notably, Brambletye managed to win all the matches they played, although some victories were closely contested. Overall, the tennis season proved to be an engaging, enjoyable, and successful experience for all involved.
Gary Mitten
THE RUGBY season is always a highlight for both the boys and the coaching staff alike, and it’s a personal highlight for me. The children showed brilliant application and attitude in training sessions, which is sometimes all you can ask for. This season, like others in recent years, saw outstanding performances by individuals and teams alike, with much positivity and enjoyment.
For the lower school pupils, our Year 3 had their first taste of rugby playing tag and showed good progress throughout the season, mastering dodging, weaving, tackling, and scoring some excellent tries. Year 4 had their first season of contact and showed huge promise. The Year 5 boys were introduced to the ruck and maul and thoroughly enjoyed these new aspects, winning around 50% of their matches.
The Year 6 boys continued their impressive run, remaining unbeaten throughout the season as they did the previous year. The Year 7 boys also performed well, and Mr. Denny spoke highly of their exemplary attitude and application in training sessions. The Year 8 boys had several different teams, including touch rugby for the less confident, a B team, and the Under 13 A team. It was encouraging to see all boys working hard to improve, regardless of the level they played at.
The Under 13 A team had a vintage season, winning every game and securing top spot unbeaten through two 7s tournaments at the end of the season. They played outstanding rugby, and their team spirit was a joy, supporting each other brilliantly throughout a highly successful campaign.
I look forward to the 2024/25 season with optimism and am confident of further future successes.
Sam Walker
'This season, like others in recent years, saw outstanding performances by individuals and teams alike, with much positivity and enjoyment.'
AS SUMMER DRAWS to a close, we reflect on a fantastic year of hockey at Brambletye. Our Junior, Middle, and Senior teams have achieved remarkable success, a testament to their dedication, hard work, and sportsmanship. Through rigorous game sessions, fitness commitments, and weekend training, our pupils have achieved new heights in our hockey programme. The standout moments of the season include all three teams qualifying for the National Finals, a historic achievement for our school.
Juniors: Our Junior teams have shown tremendous enthusiasm and skill development. From day one, both girls and boys embraced challenges, demonstrating resilience and a strong desire to learn. While they are refining their teamwork and possession skills, their tackling, individual abilities, and shooting are already impressive. Keep an eye on our Year 4 girls, a promising cohort with a bright future ahead, provided they continue to work hard.
Middles: The Colts teams have progressed significantly, with Year 5s adapting well to the higher demands of junior hockey. The Colts A girls’ team, led by Ava P and Bea M, showcased
excellent teamwork. The Colts B girls’ team, under Mr Elphinstone’s guidance, excelled in defensive pressing, setting a benchmark for B teams. Meanwhile, our Colts A boys had an outstanding season, going undefeated and qualifying for the IAPS National Finals, ranking among the top 10 in the country. Their ambition promises exciting prospects for the seasons ahead.
Seniors: Our Senior teams have once again demonstrated their talent and strategic acumen on the field. Senior players, both boys and girls, showed remarkable dedication with rigorous training regimes, including lunchtime fitness sessions and weekend drills. This commitment translated into outstanding performances, with both our 3rd teams boasting unbeaten seasons.
Special mention goes to Mr Walker’s leadership, guiding our teams to success. The girls’ 2nd Team had an exceptional record, with just one loss all season. Mr Skinner’s coaching played a crucial role in their performance, integrating high-level tactics into their play. Both our 1st Teams made history by reaching the IAPS National Finals, a milestone that inspired the entire school community and set a new standard of excellence.
Overall, while celebrating the achievements of our top teams, we recognise that fostering enjoyment, participation, and life skills development for all players is equally significant. The 2023-24 hockey season at Brambletye has been outstanding, and we look forward to building on this success with our enthusiastic younger age groups in the coming years.
Will Denny
'Both our 1st Teams made history by reaching the IAPS National Finals, a milestone that inspired the entire school community and set a new standard of excellence.'
UNFORTUNATELY, adverse weather conditions marred this Athletics season at Brambletye, resulting in early cancellations, compromised coaching sessions, and the unprecedented cancellation of the 2024 Sports Day – the first in my 11 years here.
Despite these challenges, the children persevered and had opportunities to compete and progress throughout the term. The season began with the PB Athletics Meet at the K2 stadium in Crawley, where experienced athletes set personal bests, inspiring goals for the rest of the season. Despite a barely usable track, commendable performances and victories marked the day.
Throughout the term, children continued training in PE and game sessions, refining techniques and earning points for the House athletics competition. Despite other event cancellations, preparations continued for the county championships in June.
At Hurstpierpoint Senior School, Year 4 and 5 children excelled in the first county athletics meeting. Highlights included Tennyson W setting a new county record in discus and securing silver in shot put. Ella V became county champion in the 200 metres and earned silver in long jump. Sibby T broke the school high jump record and equalled the county record, while Ottie F equaled the school record and won high jump.
Later, Year 6 to 8 athletes returned to K2 for the Senior County Championships, aiming for national qualifications. Notable performances included Joe S and Ewan M’s top three finishes, Henry C’s second place in 800 metres, George F’s third in 75m hurdles, Ella V’s second in long jump, and Frederick M’s double victory in 200m and 800m, all earning national qualifications.
At Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, Sussex’s team, including four Brambletye athletes, competed well at the national finals. Though medals eluded them this time, Henry and Frederick placed seventh in 800m, Ewan reached the 100m final, and Ella, competing out of age, finished fourth in long jump, just one centimetre off a medal.
This season concluded on a prestigious stage, highlighting the dedication and achievements of our athletes. I’m immensely proud of our national-level competitors and all participants in the 2024 Athletics season.
Sam Walker
THIS YEAR , 24 Brambletye sailors gathered at Weir Wood reservoir each Monday afternoon, divided into three groups: novices, intermediates, and the “Squad.” The Squad, which included both experienced sailors from sailing families and those trained solely at Weir Wood, prepared for the IAPS regatta in late May.
Novices sailed various craft, starting with three-person Quests using only the jib in windy conditions to build helming skills, then progressing to paired Picos, and finally soloing in Toppers. Most intermediates were in their second or third year of sailing at Brambletye, making great progress, especially in mastering the challenging upwind sailing. The Squad, consisting of two junior (U11) and two senior (U13) boats, trained with Andy, our senior instructor, who praised their perseverance and progress.
At the regatta, the junior team excelled despite tricky conditions and limited sea sailing experience. They faced setbacks, like Ben G’s mainsheet breaking, but showed resilience and implemented tips from our support boat. Ben and Hugo F finished 16th, and Ava P and Bea M 17th out of 28 boats.
The senior team also performed well, making their parents and me proud. Katherine P and Archie D C had their best races of the term, despite a mishap in the final race when a stopper knot came undone, causing Katherine to fall into the water. Fortunately, they could discard their worst result, finishing 13th out of 36 boats. Rose G and Milly R overcame early equipment issues and ended on a high note with a 10th place finish in their final race, securing 16th overall.
After the regatta and half-term break, the weather at Weir Wood improved, offering ideal sunny and windy conditions. In the final session, the sailors enjoyed team races and fun activities, followed by a delightful picnic prepared by the parents.
Well done to all our sailors for their enthusiasm and cooperation, making Monday afternoons a pleasure.
Ian Purcell
'This
year, the children participated in 12 swimming galas, primarily against local schools.'
THE SWIM SQUAD at Brambletye has been diligently training with three sessions weekly led by our head coach, Lee, focusing on preparing students for competitive swimming galas and enhancing their technique.
This year, the children participated in 12 swimming galas, primarily against local schools, providing invaluable opportunities to refine tactics, technique in individual events, team relays, and to build confidence transitioning through the school and beyond.
Our Year 8 swimmers, led by Captain Joe S, demonstrated strong performances despite being a smaller squad. Years 5, 6, and 7 also had standout performances, with several individuals achieving notable success in the first two terms. Junior swimmers, particularly the Year 4 girls, are showing promising development for the future.
During the spring term, our elite swimmers competed at Bede's for the IAPS swimming regional qualifier, a highly successful event where all but one of our swimmers finished first or second in their individual events and relays.
Following this, despite a strong showing, only one swimmer, Joe, qualified for the national finals. Held at the National Aquatics Centre,
the venue of the 2012 Olympic Games, Joe swam a personal best in both heats and finals, securing a well-deserved bronze medal in a fiercely competitive race.
Looking ahead to the 2024/25 school year, I anticipate further development of swimming at Brambletye. Our expanded swimming program will be delivered across all age groups by external specialists starting from September.
Sam Walker
'Joe swam a personal best in both heats and finals, securing a well-deserved bronze medal in a fiercely competitive race.'
AFTER MORE than doubling its membership earlier this year, the Brambletye Equestrian Team is now able to compete both as a team and individually to represent Brambletye at local NSEA events. Jumping up to 60cm, the team members have exhibited great courage and perseverance this year, with one riding in her first ever event and others showing great resilience with challenging ponies.
Please do get in touch if you have access to a pony and would like to join us. All levels of experience are welcome!
Nicola Stenhouse
THE 2023/24 school year has seen a great deal to be proud of on the sports front, with national finalists, national medallists, IAPS national finalists — the list goes on.
All of the success has not just been for the elite few teams but rather across the board, with an extraordinary number of unbeaten teams throughout the season. These successes have been spread across a range of sports throughout all three terms and are a testament to the hard work of the children and the quality and depth of the coaching team that prepare them. In the Autumn term, the first, second, and third XI football teams all had unblemished seasons, finishing unbeaten. This was also true of the second and third girls’ hockey teams. The Spring term saw the turn of our rugby teams to show their skills, with the under-13 A and under-11 A rugby teams also going unbeaten and indeed winning all of their matches. We finally moved to the Summer term, which saw our third girls cricket team crowned as the last unbeaten side of the school year, with victory in their final match of the school year.
A total of eight teams remaining unbeaten in a very competitive prep school sporting circuit is no mean feat and one that the children should be extremely proud of.
Sam Walker
G RANDPARENTS' DAY is always a popular event, but this year the number of guests soared to 146, and our seating arrangements for lunch and tea were expanded to include Walnut as well as the Dining Room. The wet weather didn’t dampen the grandparents’ spirits, and it was wonderful to receive many thank-you letters praising the school and the pupils.
One grandparent wrote, “We were so impressed to be shown around your beautiful school. How lucky your pupils are – they all look so happy. I am sure they will always have wonderful memories of their school days.”
Amelia Brooks
THIS YEAR , our co-curricular activities on Mondays have been exceptionally varied, with staff delivering activities in Artificial Intelligence, Podcasting, Theatre Production, Strategy Games, Climbing, Current Affairs, and the Eco-Schools Initiative. Pupils have also represented the school in fantastic drama productions such as Around the World in Eighty Days, in the Brambletye Symphony Orchestra, and in Sailing. The co-curricular programme offers character-building opportunities and a chance for pupils to gain experience and understanding in activities that develop character in our young people.
In December, we welcomed Anne Usher, a former Paralympian canoeist who won gold in Rio 2016, to speak about her drive to overcome obstacles and achieve great success despite the odds being
AN EVER-INCREASING number of Brambletye students take part in Maths Challenge competitions throughout the year. Years 3 and 4 have their first taste with the ‘First Maths Challenge’, Years 5 and 6 attempt the ‘Primary Maths Challenge’, and many students in Years 7 and 8 are put forward for the Junior and Intermediate Maths Challenges run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust.
These competitions provide an excellent opportunity for any student wishing to flex their mathematical muscles. The multiple-choice format makes them more accessible, but the questions are nonetheless very challenging, as the name suggests. One of the overarching goals of our department is to develop our pupils’ ability to apply mathematical thinking in unfamiliar and non-routine contexts where the solution is not immediately obvious. These competitions are a fantastic way for both us and them to assess their progress in this area, with certificates awarded to those who excel and follow-up rounds for top performers. This year, several students progressed to the Kangaroo rounds, with one pupil making it through to the Junior Mathematical Olympiad.
Additionally, this year saw us take some students to compete in team mathematical events at Mayfield (Year 5) and Worth (Year 6). Both year groups performed admirably, with one of our Year 6 teams clinching the top spot amongst a strong field of other prep schools. The brilliance of these events lies in their capacity to allow students not only to test their mettle against others but, perhaps more importantly, to exercise their teamwork and communication skills within their teams—both vital for success in these competitions.
Robbie Williams
stacked against her. This truly inspirational talk embodied the “Work Hard, Play Hard” element of the Brambletye ethos.
As a result of their varied experiences in school and the opportunity to develop these further at home, a number of pupils’ efforts and achievements were recognised through their receipt of the Brambletye Award, which acknowledges their achievements across a number of categories. The results of the successful recipients are identified below:
Award: (Year 8)
Silver
Tabby M
Pippa V
Bronze
Florence B
Taisiia R
Diploma: (Year 6)
Silver
Marina D
Clemence L
Edward O
Ava P
Nick Mason
Bronze
Bumble C
Imogen F
Joshua H
James M
Bea M
Sam M
Mila N
Emily N J
Samuel O A
Benji S
THE BRAMBLETYE Senior Verse Speaking
Final treated parents, teachers, and boarders to captivating poetry performances. The audience enjoyed humour, vivid storytelling, powerful characterisations, and thoughtful interpretations of significant issues. We were fortunate to have Matt Songer, Head of GCSE English at Hurstpierpoint College, as the judge for the high-quality performances.
Willow B opened the evening with an entertaining rendition of Seal by William J. Smith, vividly bringing the poem to life. Ben B followed with Roald Dahl’s Little Red Riding Hood , using comic timing and lively actions to animate the characters. Jacob C W continued with a comedic performance ofDahl’s The Tummy Beast. Ben was named the Year 5 winner.
Bumble C opened for Year 6 with a sincere performance of Laurence Binyon’s For the Fallen, encapsulating the poignancy of war. Josh H followed with a melancholic rendition of Cape Horn by Giles Dixey, and Marina D delivered a strong performance of Becky Hemsley’s Like a Girl. Wilfred Cconcluded with a vivid rendition of Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky. Marina was crowned the winner for Year 6.
Year 7 showcased excellent performances, starting with Greta G’s dramatic narration of Macavity by T.S. Eliot. Archie D C delivered a thoughtful performance of Dumb by Jacob Sam-La Rose, followed by Tina D’s humorous rendition of Roald Dahl’s Television. Milo C closed with another performance of The Tummy Beast Tina D was declared the winner for Year 7.
Emilia J opened for Year 8 with a powerful soliloquy from Christopher Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus. Ida A then narrated Matilda Who Told Lies and Was Burned to Death by Hilaire Belloc, and Florence B performed The Dreadful Story of Harriet and the Matches. Katherine P ended the evening with Letter to Someone Living Fifty Years from Now by Matthew Olzmann. Emilia J was named the Year 8 winner.
Mr Brooks thanked Mr Songer for his thoughtful judging and comments, the technical crew, and the English department for organising the event.
'The audience enjoyed humour, vivid storytelling, powerful characterisations, and thoughtful interpretations...'
Every pupil from Years 5 to 8 worked hard to learn their poems, contributing to a wonderful evening of poetry.
Zena Sargent
Directed by Mr Brundish, Mrs Clark and Mrs Miller-Gras
ON THURSDAY 9th November 2023 the Brambletye Theatre rocked to the beat of Cinderella and Rockerfella , the fabulous Year 3 and 4 musical. The packed theatre thoroughly enjoyed what was a modern twist on the story of Cinderella, complete with a catchy backingtrack, colourful projections and wonderful acting and singing from the cast.
At the start of the performance the ‘warm-up’ members of the cast set the mood for what was to follow with lines spoken in rhyme, classic jokes and ‘Boo’ and ‘Hiss’ cards held up in order for plenty of audience participation.
The chief protagonists in the story were soon introduced to the audience. We all felt for the downtrodden Cinderella, played superbly by Talia M, and we booed and hissed at the devilish Nasty Boots, played by Rosie M. The ugly sisters, Matilda O and Flora S, were true pantomime villains and they looked amazing in their gaudy outfits!
Meanwhile, news that leather-clad Rocky played by Archie C, was to be at the ball, sent the town’s
folk into a spin as they tried to get tickets to attend the ball. However, the Ugly Sisters and Fairy Nasty Boots were determined to make sure Cinderella could not go! Nevertheless, Buttons, played confidently by Freddie M, and the comic fairy troop made up of Matilda N J, Eliza F K, Tallulah M and Annabel O, complete with leggings, wellies, tutus and magic wands, came to Cinderella’s rescue and made sure that she could indeed go to the ball. They were led by the gentle and clearly spoken Fairy Godmother, played by Sofia C.
There were also some marvellous cameo-roles in the production. These included Teaser, Cinderella’s faithful dog, played by Eddie F, the resplendent Town Crier, played by Sienna J, and the amusing bureaucratic Stage Inspector, played by Camilla N J.
Along with Year 3 who were magnificent as pantomime animals, party guests and even chefs, the whole cast deserve to be enormously proud of their performance. The audience thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the production. Huge congratulations and thanks go to the
directors, Mr Brundish, Mrs Clark and Mrs Miller-Gras for staging such an enjoyable show in such a desperately short amount of rehearsal time. Meanwhile, enormous thanks must also go to Mrs Loulaki for coaching the children to sign the songs and keep time with the backing track and Mr Gallagher and his lighting and sound team for all their technical wizardry.
Jonathan Lush
‘The packed theatre thoroughly enjoyed what was a modern twist on the story of Cinderella, complete with a catchy backing-track, colourful projections and wonderful acting and singing from the cast.’
‘Rocky, played by Archie C, was to be at the ball and sent the town’s folk into a spin...’
Written and Directed by Catie Johnson
ON MAY 17th, after weeks of rain and cloudy skies, the top terrace was briefly bathed in sunlight for the Year 5 production of Alice in Wonderland. The audience took their seats at the tea party table, and we were all welcomed to Wonderland by the Mad Hatter and the March Hare, portrayed with clarity and confidence by George J and Jasper W. They invited us into a thoroughly entertaining and engaging world of comedy, madness, and fantasy, where all the traditional characters came to life.
Alice, played by Milly-Ellen B, Elise D, and Melissa P, shared the role, and thanks to clever stage direction, their role changes were imperceptible to the audience; the trio brilliantly embodied Alice’s curious yet at times feisty nature. Ben B was superb as the White Rabbit, hurrying around with his floppy ears flapping as he checked and re-checked his pocket watch; yes, he was late! Down the rabbit hole we all went, only to lose the rabbit and meet up with quarrelsome but beautiful flowers; royal, rose-
painting guards; a wide-eyed, cute but sleepy dormouse (Ilaria N); and a masterful dodo (Willow B) who suggested a caucus race, and round and round all the characters furiously dashed. Tweedle-dee and Tweedle-dum (Jacob C W and Seb A) delivered their lines with great comedic timing, making their performance highly entertaining and truly a delight to watch. Otto M played the majestic Caterpillar, wise and regal even, as he told Alice, ‘at only 3 inches high!’
The list of great performances continues with another shared role, this time for the Cheshire Cat. Anisia R and Ella and Myla V played an acrobatic cat, confounding and confusing Alice with their ‘riddles of the right questions’. Ben B deserves another mention here, as he heralded the arrival of the royal party, playing the trumpet, delivering his lines, hurrying, and scurrying about. What a multi-talented rabbit! The Queen
‘Alice, played by Milly-Ellen B, Elise D, and Melissa P, shared the role, and thanks to clever stage direction, their role changes were imperceptible to the audience.’
of Hearts (Bay K) was domineering and sneering. ‘Off with her head!’ she cried, as the King (Josh G) and the Prince (Hugo F) followed nervously in her wake.
Meanwhile, Freddy D, a Royal knight, showed off his sword skills with his vorpal sword in a dramatic fight scene. It was clear to see that the whole cast had worked hard to create what was a fantastic version of this classic tale. The ensemble scenes were slick, well-choreographed, and showcased some very strong performances.
Credit must also be given to Mrs. Johnson for her brilliant stage direction and clever scriptwriting. The cast performed to all sides of their ‘open-air theatre’, and when off-stage but in full view, they went unnoticed – quite a feat with a large cast and no ‘wings’! Phrases from the Jabberwocky poem had been woven throughout the play, culminating in a show-stopping final scene where the entire
cast recited the full poem with dramatic flair, ending with merely a whisper yet heard by every member of the audience who had been transfixed and entertained throughout. So, bravo Year 5! Callooh, callay, a truly frabjous play!
Erika Eastcott
‘The ensemble scenes were slick, well-choreographed, and showcased some very strong performances.’
Adapted by Laura Eason. Original author: Jules Verne. Directed by Liam Gallagher, with much help from Catie Johnson and Jonathan Lush.
Y EARS 6 , 7, and 8 whisked us away on an exhilarating journey around the globe –all within the span of just an hour and a half. Over one hundred students took part in this ambitious production, each playing pivotal roles that brought the story to life with exceptional dedication and flair.
The production of Around the World in Eighty Days was the culmination of months of rigorous rehearsals and meticulous preparation. The stage lit up with memorable scenes that captivated the audience from start to finish.
Key highlights included the grand opening scene featuring Fogg’s departure from London, setting the adventurous tone of the show. The dance sequence aboard the Mongolia, with its lively choreography and vibrant costumes, transported viewers to the heart of the bustling ship. The elephant chase and subsequent trial added suspense and drama. The vividly staged Hong Kong gardens and opium den scenes offered a glimpse into the exotic and mysterious Far East. The thrilling bandit attack injected adrenaline
into the narrative and the sledge ride scene brought the audience on a thrilling ride through snowy terrains. Finally, the heart-warming wedding scene provided a fitting conclusion, celebrating the triumph of love and friendship amidst the whirlwind adventure.
The production was a testament to the talent, dedication, and collaborative spirit of the pupils and staff. It not only entertained but also inspired, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who enjoyed the show.
Liam Gallagher
‘The production of Around the World in Eighty Days was the culmination of months of rigorous rehearsals and meticulous preparation. The stage lit up with memorable scenes that captivated the audience from start to finish.'
Abi S Mongolia Purser
Andrey B Clerk
Anna I Miss Auoda (b)
Archie D C Mr Ralph
Beatriz M Passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
Belle L Club Man
Benjamin B Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
Bertie D Captain von Darius
Bibi C Passepartout 2
Blanca P R Movement Lead (Group 1)
Bobbie F K Miss Aouda guards, Calcutta Policemen
Bruno W Gentleman
Cástor O Beggar
Cecilia O Beggar
Cris K Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Elizabeth R Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
Ellie T,
Romilly S Suez Consul/HK Consul
Emilia J Inspector Fix (b)
Emilia R M Passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
Emilia W Peninsula Conductor
Ethen F Mr Mudge
Eva W Train Porter
Evie V B Movement Lead (Group 2)
Flo B Liverpool Policeman
Freddie M Phileas Fogg 3
Georgie C Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Gonzalo M G Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
Greta G Mr Stuart, Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Harry S Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Henry B Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Henry C James, Fogg’s valet
Ida A Batulcar, passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
India H Rangoon purser,
Isabella X Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Jasper L Mr Stuart, Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Katherine P Judge Obadiah
Mariella W Carnatic Purser
Margot E L Passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
Max C Passepartout 1
Milly R Flower Seller
Milo C Phileas Fogg 1
Mimi T Reform club, London street, enraged crowd, Red Sea dance, Bombay market, movement ensemble
Nyamekye A Inspector Fix (a)
Olga C
Passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
Oliver T Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
Olivia M Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
Otterly W Captain Speedy
Pippa V Miss Aouda (a)
Ralph W Gentleman
Rex L Miss Aouda guards, Calcutta Policemen
Romilly S Carnatic Pursers
Rory C Passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
Rose G Colonel Stamp Proctor
Rosie W Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
Roy C Miss Aouda guards, Calcutta Policemen
Sam H Street-sweep
Saoirse L Movement lead (Group 3)
Scarlet D Sailor
Sergio R W Mongolia Purser
Tabby M Passepartout 2
Taisiia R Miss Singh
Tom M Phileas Fogg 2
Willem O Elephant chase, forest fight, train station, movement ensemble
William X Miss Aouda guards, Calcutta Policemen
Ying C Passengers on deck, train across the plains, bandits attack, sledge journey, New York dock, movement ensemble
Zac L Mr Naidu
‘Over one hundred students took part in this ambitious production, each playing pivotal roles that brought the story to life with exceptional dedication and flair.’
THIS WAS THE second year of heading to Belgium with the Year 7s, and it was just as successful as the first. A slight change to the itinerary meant no (queasy) ferry crossing, but instead an easy Eurotunnel crossing. Despite it being exceptionally warm on the coach, a few snacks solved that issue! The first stop was a Dunkirk memorial cemetery. This is always a poignant part of the trip. Mr Piper shared wonderful insights into the events and tragedies that led to the need for these cemeteries. The children then had the opportunity to walk through the cemetery and were awed by the ages of those who were buried there. The ensuing silence spoke volumes. It was very evident this year that the impact was felt and that the children wanted to show their respect to the highest degree.
Following this, we headed to PJ’s chocolate factory for a sweet surprise. The children were warmly welcomed into the factory, equipped with hairnets and aprons, and were put to work
becoming chocolate experts. They were given an insightful talk about chocolate and the chocolatemaking process and were even required to take a quiz to test their knowledge! As you can imagine, the results were high, and they were all rewarded with making their own chocolate! Rich Belgian chocolate was distributed to each child, and then they were given the opportunity to design and decorate their own chocolate bar. You can only imagine the smiles on their faces as they were surrounded by nothing but chocolatey goodness!
But wait… we couldn’t leave the superb factory without a trip to the shop. The wide-eyed wonder of a Belgian chocolate shop is indescribable. The children were given their pocket money and set off to fill their boots with the endless options. Lots of samples were tested along the way, and
The coach ride to the Euro Space Centre was a rather bubbly trip, but nothing could prepare them for what awaited them at the next stop. We arrived at the Euro Space Centre in the early evening, and silence fell upon the group. Inside the centre, they were greeted with the most wonderful sights, which filled them with an eagerness to get started. We settled into the rooms and attended our first briefing. The much-anticipated moment of discovering which groups they would be in, receiving their official ESC t-shirts, and getting acquainted with all the wonderful instructors at the centre finally
'The wide-eyed wonder of a Belgian chocolate shop is indescribable. The children were given their pocket money and set off to fill their boots with the endless options.'
arrived. A lovely dinner, a freshen up, and an early bedtime were needed before the journey of becoming an astronaut began.
We spent two action-packed days at the ESC becoming the most well-trained junior astronauts we could be. Each group took part in a space shuttle mission. This activity takes approximately two hours and requires extended concentration to ensure that nothing goes wrong and that everything functions at precisely the perfect moment. Exceptional success from all the groups!
Being at the ESC highlights the importance of scientific knowledge to all the children. This is extended through a workshop that looks at creating a vacuum and how this applies to the astronauts in space. Some marshmallows may have been harmed during these workshops, but the concepts will be remembered. A strong stomach is needed for some of the activities. The multi-axis chair and the rotor are always the highlights, but be warned, you may feel
queasy afterwards. The adrenaline pumping through your veins will leave you feeling electric!
Last but not least, the Rocket Challenge needs a winner… Throughout the two days, the groups had a chance to build their own rockets, which were launched in a competition as our final hoorah! This is always a much-anticipated event and the atmosphere is rich with competition, including from the teachers! This year saw all rockets being launched successfully.
We departed the ESC and set our sights on Brussels. After enjoying a buffet breakfast, we walked to the Comic Museum. Divided into two groups, the children were guided around the museum, being exposed to how comics are made, the creative process, and the history of many well-known characters.
Following this, there was no better way to end our time in Brussels than with a waffle and some last-minute chocolate shopping. We then
loaded up the coach and made our way home. A wonderful experience for all and memories to last a lifetime!
Kaylan Price
AT BRAMBLETYE , we have a rich tapestry of cultures and languages that create a vibrant community and make our school a truly special place. To celebrate this diversity, the languages department created a new video featuring seven pupils and four members of staff. The video highlights the diverse linguistic talents within our school, encompassing English, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Mandarin, Russian, Aussie (slang!), Latin, South Korean, Chinese, and French.
Participants were filmed saying summer-related words like “beach” and “ice cream” in their native languages, revealing similarities between many of them. Miss Kennedy had to sit out for a few words that, unsurprisingly, don’t exist in Latin!
If you haven’t had the chance to watch the video and would like to see it, visit our Instagram page @brambletyeschool.
Rachel Morcos
EARLIER THIS YEAR, the MFL department organised a spectacular Eurovision competition featuring acts from Ukraine, Sweden, Scotland, Spain, England, and France. Each group performed lip-synced songs from their respective countries, showcasing a blend of music and culture that delighted everyone.
The event kicked off with France (Arthur S, Bobbie F K, George F, Marcel F B), performing Magic in the Air which was France’s theme song during the 2018 World Cup. Despite the English title, the lyrics are almost entirely in French. Ukraine (Andrey B) followed with a captivating interpretation of Stefania, with the rap segment energising the audience.
Next, Scotland (Bibi C, Otterly W, Pippa V, Romilly S) entertained everyone with a lively rendition of 500 Miles, complete with traditional Scottish attire and a spirited stage presence. England (Bertie D) then delivered a still but patriotic performance of Skyfall, capturing the essence of British pride. Spain (Castor, Cecilia and Matilda O) impressed with a well-rehearsed and choreographed performance of Nochentera
Sweden (Florence B, Milly R, Rose G, Tabby M) closed the performances with Dancing Queen by ABBA, getting everyone in the audience singing along to the classic hit.
While all performances were excellent, it was Spain who ultimately took the crown, winning Brambletye’s Eurovision Song Contest 2023 with their outstanding act.
This assembly was filled with fun and aimed to spark an interest in pupils for different cultures and songs from around the world. It was a memorable event that highlighted the joy of music and the beauty of linguistic diversity.
Naomie McKie
AT BRAMBLETYE , we’re proud to maintain our commitment to promoting a balanced diet and encouraging cultural exploration through our initiative known as the Taste Tourists. This programme has been a resounding success, aimed at broadening the children’s culinary horizons and introducing them to the rich diversity of global cuisines.
Every fortnight, the children voted on dishes from two different countries, with the winning cuisine featured in a special meal for the whole school. Recent matchups have included Mexico vs. New Zealand, Cuba vs. South Korea, Sweden vs. South Africa, Morocco vs. Germany, and Mongolia vs. Spain.
The menus have been nothing short of delicious, featuring sticky Korean chicken marinated in
soy, garlic, and honey, hobak buchim (zucchini pancakes), bunny chow, grilled bratwurst with Jäger sauce, chicken fajitas, vegetable enchiladas, Spanish paella with chicken and chorizo, Spanish tortilla, and Colin’s homemade sundried tomato and olive bread –all of which received rave reviews.
Every other week, the dining room was transformed, adorned with flags and decorations to complement each country’s theme. We would like to thank Annabelle, Colin, and the Kitchen staff for all their efforts in coordinating the Taste Tourists and treating the school to such tasty and educational culinary experiences!
Rachel Morcos
W HAT A YEAR it has been for Brambletye Boarding! From laughter-filled sleepovers to creative weekend adventures, our boarding family has shared countless moments that have made this year truly special. Reflecting on it all, it’s clear that our boarders have embraced every experience with open hearts and boundless energy, turning each day into a new memory.
Sleepovers at Brambletye are always something to look forward to, especially for our younger students. This year, our Year 3s had their very first sleepover, and it was nothing short of magical. The evening began with a delicious supper and a lively game of dodgeball before the children headed to the dorms for creative activities like LEGO building and doll fashion designing. The night was capped off with a cosy bedtime story from Mr and Mrs Brooks, setting the perfect tone for a peaceful sleep.
The following morning was just as exciting, with dorm games, smoothie-making powered by bicycle, and the thrill of bungee basketball.
For our Year 4 and 5 students, the annual ‘Giant Sleepover’ was a blast. After their Saturday matches, the children dived into inflatable fun, competing against the staff in games like ‘Hungry Hippos’ and taking on the obstacle course. The evening ended with a disco and more dorm fun, and by Sunday, it was clear that many of them didn’t want the weekend to end. These sleepovers are such a great way for students to experience the joy of boarding, and we love seeing how much they enjoy it.
Our day boarders are an essential part of the Brambletye boarding family, and we’ve made sure they feel just as at home as our full-time boarders. Throughout the winter, the matrons have been amazing at creating warm, cosy evenings packed with activities that everyone loves. Whether it’s a disco, crafting session, spa night, or football tournament, there’s always something happening to keep the energy high. And of course, our famous Kingsley Talks and quizzes are always a hit, bringing everyone together for some friendly competition and fun.
As the weather warms up and the evenings grow longer, we encourage the boarders to head outside and enjoy our beautiful school grounds. Whether they’re climbing trees, playing sports, or simply exploring, there’s no shortage of outdoor fun. One of the best things about Brambletye is how much we value our boarders’ ideas. If a student comes up with a new activity suggestion, the matrons and gap team are all in to make it happen. This year, we introduced a weekly spa night in both the boys’ and girls’ boarding houses, and it’s quickly become a favourite. The boarders absolutely love these evenings of relaxation and self-care, offering a perfect way to unwind after a busy week.
Our weekends are all about balance—mixing high-energy activities with creative, calming pursuits. One sunny weekend, the boarders took on the Brambletye Challenge, which included a photography scavenger hunt, sporty challenges, and even a music video competition. Another weekend saw them baking Easter treats, showing off their culinary skills in the kitchen. The Year 8 boys, after a tough week of exams, got to unwind with a special spa evening—a treat they’d been eagerly anticipating after seeing the girls enjoy a similar night.
We’ve also ventured beyond the school grounds this year, with a trip to the East Sussex School of Circus Arts. The children had a blast learning new acrobatic skills inside the Big Top tent, mastering the aerial hoop, silks, and ropes. They returned with plenty of stories and new skills, eager to share their experiences with everyone.
The festive season at Brambletye is always a highlight. From Christmas crafting and gingerbread house competitions to exploring local Christmas markets and ice skating in Brighton, our boarders fully embraced the holiday spirit. The atmosphere was filled with joy as they sang along to Christmas karaoke and created sweet masterpieces. These activities bring out the creativity in our students and make the festive period truly special.
The fun didn’t stop there – Halloween weekend was equally exciting, with pumpkin picking, carving, and a spooky disco that had everyone in high spirits. We even managed a trip to Knockhatch Adventure Park, where the boarders enjoyed slides, rides, and virtual reality, rounding off a spectacular weekend.
At the heart of Brambletye Boarding is a strong sense of community. It’s not just about the activities; it’s about the connections and friendships that form along the way. Whether it’s a quiet moment during a nature walk, a shared laugh over baking cookies, or simply unwinding together in the dorms, these are the moments that truly define our boarding experience.
As we look back on the year, we can’t help but feel proud of our boarders. They’ve made every day an adventure, and every evening a cherished memory. Here’s to another year of fun, laughter, and unforgettable experiences at Brambletye Boarding—we can’t wait to see what’s in store!
Hannah Basham
WITH THE END of Common Entrance, we welcomed the Leavers’ Programme for 2024. This year, we introduced some new additions aimed at providing Year 8s with opportunities to continue learning and enjoy their time together before transitioning to Senior Schools.
The Leavers’ residential challenged the group both mentally and physically with a variety of activities that helped them bond as a team. While such adventures can sometimes divide opinions among pupils of this age, Mr Mason was thoroughly impressed with every single one of them. The company that organised the programme commended the Brambletye Leavers for their conduct. They took in wonderful sights and I know they will cherish many fond memories from this experience.
My sincere thanks go to Mr Walker, Miss Price, Miss Young, Mr Bull, and Miss Tucker for their enthusiasm and unwavering support. However, the biggest thank you must go to the group leader, Mr Mason. The preparation and planning for a trip like this is extensive, and it was certainly worth it.
During the programme, the Leavers learned about the importance of First Aid and were instructed on different methods of administering it should the need ever arise. Teaching pupils these skills is crucial for their personal development, and we hope they will continue to build on them in the future.
We aimed to diversify the activities to encompass the Brambletye experience. The group participated in career-focused workshops to understand their
relevance to future lives, tackled maths-based puzzle challenges, attended alumni talks, and heard from guest speaker Patrick Foster about the risks associated with gambling. Additionally, external trips provided cultural experiences for the pupils. This year, we were fortunate to visit the theatre to see Les Miserables and engage in a workshop about the show beforehand, which I’m sure was a valuable experience for the pupils. Many thanks to Mr Gallagher and his team for organising and managing this event.
In addition, we launched the EarthShot conference this year, centred around five Earthshots – simple yet ambitious and universal goals for 2030 developed with leading environmental experts. These goals include Protect and Restore Nature, Clean our Air, Revive our Oceans, Build a Waste-Free World,
and Fix our Climate. A special thanks to Mr Elphinstone for his hard work in organising this initiative, and congratulations to all the Year 8s who researched and designed solutions to help tackle climate change, presenting them to an audience.
One of the most anticipated events in the programme is the One Day Film School followed by the formal Oscars Evening. This year, the group fully embraced the event and produced some outstanding short films within a very short timeframe. They looked every bit the part at the evening event, which concluded with a disco after-party reminiscent of any LA award ceremony.
Beyond these events, a highlight for the pupils is the Leavers’ entertainment section, which also manages to make staff quite nervous. The evening was brilliant, showcasing the group’s humour and underscoring what a fantastic year group they have been.
I extend my thanks to all academic staff, the grounds team, and the catering team for contributing to the programme’s success. I would also like to express gratitude to the parents and Year 8 pupils who made the last four weeks so enjoyable, and I hope they will cherish these memories as they move on to their Senior Schools.
Good luck, Class of 2024! David Finch
WE DEPARTED Brambletye bright and very early in order to begin the longdistance journey to the Outward Bound Trust’s Loch Eil site near the stunning setting of Fort William, Scotland. On arrival, pupils were challenged by the course director to make the most of their opportunities during their stay. Being pushed mentally as well as physically throughout the week by the hugely professional instructors, it was pleasing that so many retained this idea and sought to find other ways of challenging themselves in the wilds of the Highlands.
All pupils embarked on an overnight camp, carrying their tents and sleeping equipment as well as their food to cook. The setting of the west coast of Scotland, with the sound of streams, the waves of the sea, and the noises of the abundant wildlife, provided the perfect backdrop for many of our pupils to fall asleep to.
Pupils also took part in zip-wiring, rock climbing and abseiling, gorge walking, and a variety of leadership tasks to test their communication and teamwork skills. They left Scotland exhausted, having secured their friendships even further and with the knowledge and confidence that they had achieved far more than they believed they were capable of.
My enormous thanks to the Brambletye staff who supported the expedition and week away with great humour and dedication to the pupils’ safety and enjoyment. Thank you: Miss Price, Mr Walker, Miss Young, Miss Tucker, and Mr Bull.
Nick Mason
'On arrival, pupils were challenged by the course director to make the most of their opportunities during their stay.'
'They left Scotland exhausted, having secured their friendships even further and with the knowledge and confidence that they had achieved far more than they believed they were capable of.'
