Skylight
Habs wins Independent School of the Year
A fantastic start to the debating season
Habs receives fantastic ratings from The Telegraph and The Good Schools Guide
Settling into life at Habs
St Martin’s, Northwood becomes the second school to join the Haberdashers’ Elstree family
Habs students shine at Model United Nations Conference in Cheadle Hulme
Inspiring action - Ravjoth tackles gender-based violence
VEX Robotics Success
Jarrett signed by F4 team
HABS PowerStrike club take part in international competition
Music, Art and Drama 23
A fantastic evening of music
Habs Ensemble performs at Royal Albert Hall
A night to remember: the Habs Gala dinner brings the community together
Blown away – brilliant performances at our Wind, Brass and Percussion Competition
National Concert Band Festival
Celebrating 50 years of Seldon Hall
Joint Festival Concert
Photography competition
2025 Carol Service
Celebrating music across the arts with a Night at the Movies
concert
Our first ever joint Senior Co-curricular Fair
Black History Month at Habs: a month of reflection, learning and celebration
Modern Foreign Languages
Spelling Bee
Connecting the generations -our first Time and Space event
Afrobeats Night
Chanukah
Remembrance Day
An excellent start to the first Field Day of the year
Year 8 joint trip –three canoe trail locations
Year 9 joint trip – start of the Bronze DofE journey
Year 10 to 13 CCF - various locations
Fieldwork in focus as Lower Sixth investigate rivers and flooding
History and music intertwined with a trip to see Hamilton
Discovering Graeco-Roman history at the Ashmolean Museum
Exploring Theology and Philosophy through theatre
A fantastic cultural visit to Japan
Year 9 Latin students explore the British Museum
Year 7 see a familiar face at the theatre
Habs community shines together at Christmas tree lighting celebration
Festival 2025
Council Directors 2025/26
Old Haberdashers show their football skills
night
Headmaster’s End of Term Message: Autumn Term
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As the Autumn Term draws to a close, it feels like an appropriate moment to pause and reflect on what has been a remarkably full and rewarding term at Habs.
From the energy of September through to the quiet moments of reflection over recent weeks, school life has moved at pace, and yet throughout there has been a deep sense of purpose, belonging and momentum. As always - there is much here to be proud of.
“There have been many successes this term, some deservedly high profile, others quieter but no less important.”
This term has seen our community come together time and again - in classrooms, on stages, on sports fields and at events that remind us of the breadth of opportunity our students enjoy. Academic ambition has gone hand in hand with creativity, service and joy. Whether debating current global issues, immersing themselves in cultural experiences at home and abroad, or performing to the highest standard both in and outside of the classroom, our students have embraced the challenge of doing difficult things well.
Music, Drama and the Arts have flourished this term, with performances that were not only technically impressive but also deeply expressive. From concerts and competitions to the celebration of 50 years of the Seldon Hall, and performances on iconic stages, these moments have reminded us how powerful shared artistic experiences can be. The arts are not an ‘extra’ at Habs - they are integral to who we are.
Equally, this term has been one of connection and reflection. We marked Remembrance Day with dignity.
We celebrated diverse cultural and religious festivals with warmth and curiosity. Events such as Time and Space, Languages Week and Afrobeats created moments for conversation, understanding and growth - moments that remain long after the events themselves have passed.
There have been many successes this term, some deservedly high profile, others quieter but no less important. Collectively, they reflect
a school that continues to grow while staying true to its values. And amid all the activity, there have been those fleeting but meaningful moments that define a school year - laughter, quiet concentration, conversations that linger and shared experiences. In the rush of the term, it would be easy to miss them, but they matter deeply.
This term, we announced that St Martin’s, Northwood will be welcomed into the Haberdashers’ Elstree family of schools in April 2026. This merger brings together schools distinguished by proud traditions and a longstanding record of academic excellence. St Martin’s, Northwood will become the second school to join the Haberdashers’ Elstree family, following the addition of Lochinver House School in September 2025. We look forward to working together with St Martin’s, Northwood to uphold our commitment in delivering academic excellence.
This newsletter offers just a snapshot of the richness of the term just gone. I hope it gives you a sense of the energy, creativity and commitment that our students and staff bring to school life each day.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership. I wish you and your families a restorative and peaceful Christmas break and look forward to welcoming everyone back in the New Year for what promises to be another exciting chapter at Habs.
With best wishes,
Mr Robert Sykes Headmaster
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Success stories
Habs wins Independent School of the Year
Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools has won awards for Outstanding Educational Partnerships AND the overall top accolade of Independent School of the Year 2025, recognising its long-term commitment to social impact through deep, sustained collaborations with state sector partners.
“This year’s Independent School of the Year has demonstrated its resilience in staying true to its vision, rather than swerving the challenges of the moment,” said the judging panel.
“It represents the very best qualities of the independent sector — a voice that helps the wider world to understand the powerful and positive impact of this sector.”
In a landmark evening for the school, Habs was also awarded the overall
top award title of Independent School of the Year 2025.
The annual awards celebrate excellence across the UK’s independent education sector, and this year, Habs stood out from a strong field of national winners to take the overall top honour — awarded to the school that most clearly embodies the best of independent education today.
A vision for impact
Habs traces its heritage back many centuries, within the context of the Haberdashers’ Livery Company, to a philanthropic vision intended to provide education and opportunity to the least privileged in society.
At the heart of Habs Elstree’s success is a clearly defined purpose: to empower young people to have a profound impact in the world.
The Habs Partnerships Programme is formed of strong and mutually beneficial partnerships between the Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools
and six local state partner schools (Cowley Hill Primary School, Borehamwood; Fair Field Junior School, Radlett; Hertswood Academy, Borehamwood; Meryfield Primary School, Borehamwood; Monksmead Primary School, Borehamwood, and London Academy School, Edgware) aimed to build educational opportunities for our local community centred around the WD6 postcode.
The partner schools all serve communities with average or aboveaverage levels of disadvantage, and face persistent challenges in educational attainment, access to specialist subjects, and extracurricular enrichment opportunities.
Through its pioneering partnerships programme, Habs delivers over 52 hours of curriculum support and enrichment every week, with almost 2000 students benefitting from an average of 12 hours of sessions each. This involves over 500 Habs students in Years 10 to
13 who are specially trained to lead and support sessions, fostering leadership, communication and adaptability and 56 Habs staff members contribute weekly, supporting curriculum alignment and ensuring quality provision.
Demonstrable impact
The work in partnership has raised average school attendance among disadvantaged pupils – i.e. not just attendance by Partnerships sessions, but at school overall – by 10.1%, equivalent to a full extra day of school every two weeks. Raising attendance is one of the key challenges for state schools; it is now clear that a regular programme of partnerships work is a powerful tool for tackling this challenge, given that attendance is the most powerful predictor of school outcomes for young people.
“In a highly competitive field, the judges were impressed by our brilliant programme in which our students and staff work together for mutual enrichment with partner schools, making a tangible impact, including helping to improve student attendance in our partner schools. I cannot put into words how proud I am of our schools, staff, students and community. Everyone at Habs works incredibly hard, and at a tough time for the sector and our schools, but your commitment to one another, to our schools, and to the idea that our work can genuinely change lives and will help our brilliant pupils to make a meaningful difference to the world, is inspiring. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all that you do for our students, our colleagues and our community.” said Gus Lock, Executive Principal of Habs Elstree Schools.
Joshua Plotkin, Director of Partnerships at Habs, added:
“As part of a programme which trains, guides and supports them, we put our students into the wider world and enable them to have a profound impact.”
Recognition of purpose
These awards are not just a celebration of academic excellence — they recognise a school actively using its resources, people and purpose to drive social mobility and create a positive legacy beyond its campus.
The double win signals national recognition for Habs’ distinctive approach to education: one that fuses ambition with action, excellence with empathy and leadership with service.
A fantastic start to the debating season
Kicking off with the first debating event of the year, 10 students from our Sixth Form attended the Dulwich Schools Debating Competition:
Aarav (L6H3), Daniel (L6S3), David (L6H3), Lucas (L6C3), Madhav (U6C1), Nazim (L6S3), Richard (L6R3), Samit (L6R2), Shakir (L6J2) and Feeza (13 EXJ/PJW).
The students were paired up into teams of two, totalling five teams, with Mrs Sailee Khurjekar, Head of Debating, escorting our young debaters.
Our Sixth Formers debated on prioritising money over happiness, online hate speech and approaches to sexism, to name a few topics.
Lucas and Richard broke to the Silver Finals, debating on the selling of visual and emotional experiences which allow you to tap into the memories of other people. Although they narrowly missed out on a chance to win, they started off our season on a high and should be incredibly proud.
Congratulations also go to David, who was the 8th Best Novice Speaker of the day.
All five teams were in the top 30 teams of the day (out of 85 teams and 170 speakers). Congratulations to everyone involved and thank you to Mrs Khurjekar for your support, advice and encouragement.
Habs receives fantastic ratings from The Telegraph and The Good Schools Guide
We are proud to share that both Habs Boys and Habs Girls have been rated ‘very good’ by The Telegraph in their latest review of best value private schools in the UK.
The Telegraph’s value for money score is, effectively a fee:grade ratio, calculated by looking at A Level and GCSE grades alongside the annual fees paid, with a number of adjustments being made for comparability.
As two high-performing, academically ambitious schools, we strive for the highest outcomes for our students, which is evidenced by our yearly GCSE and A Level results. Habs Boys has been described as an “academic powerhouse with a heart” by The Good Schools Guide 2024/5.
Additionally, this year's value-formoney score makes some minor adjustments for facilities. The Telegraph conducted its own research to certify whether each school has any of 11 key amenities, eight of which the Habs Elstree site has.
We are pleased that The Telegraph recognises the importance of school facilities - at Habs, we believe excellence goes far beyond exam results - the depth and breadth of our co-curricular programme is testament to this, enabling our students to excel academically while also pursuing their personal interests and talents.
In the recent Habs Boys Independent Schools Inspectorate report, we received a significant strength for our offering:
“The co-curricular programme provides significant variety, and many activities are initiated or organised by pupils. In a school in which pupils have high academic ambition, the programme provides balance to pupils’ examination studies, and although voluntary, all pupils take part. As such it promotes pupils’ wellbeing and is one of the school’s significant strengths.”
The Telegraph’s recognition reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding education with lasting impact, preparing our students not just for exams, but for life beyond Habs.
Settling into life at Habs
The transition from Prep to Senior School is a milestone every student remembers — filled with excitement, nerves and a whole new world of possibilities. For Year 7 students, the first term in Senior School is a time of big changes – new subjects, new friends, larger campuses and the challenge of finding their way in a more grown-up environment.
Zekey (7C) shares how he found his first term in Year 7
“I have found the transition to Senior School exhilarating and fulfilling. As a former Prep School boy, I was already familiar with Habs’ complex logistical arrangements, so I did not jump out of my skin when the Speaking Clock announced imminent coach departures and stuck steadfastly to the path around the Quad, rather than striding out across the grass (heaven forbid!). My back, however, has found the transition somewhat challenging as, on the advice of older and supposedly wiser Habs Boys, I eschewed a sturdy and dependable pull-along suitcase bag in favour of a “cooler” rucksack, not realizing that our devices and textbooks have the combined weight of an ox! I have been most looking forward to accessing the Senior School Library and its several thousand books.
I am blown away by the dazzling selection of non-fiction and fiction books, especially the non-English language books, and the range of magazines and periodicals on offer. However, on starting Senior School, I was most surprised by the sudden and unnerving disappearance of Aldenham House under a cloud of sheets and scaffolding!
I have been well and truly getting stuck into the many enticing clubs and societies on offer.
My favourites include:
Middle School Strings: The next step in my (optimistic) journey to becoming the next Itzhak Perlman, Middle School Strings, is a riot. Bowed string players from both sides of the Black Gates come together to play different genres of music with the support of our extremely talented VMTs.
Code Breaking: My team and I have joined the National Cipher Challenge, backed by GCHQ and Northrop Grumman, to hone our code-breaking skills. We have to work together to decode various challenges to win exciting prizes.
Junior Science: Run by a different teacher each week, we have been exposed to extreme poisonous chemicals (they taste awful!) and tried to burn a paper box full of water. Danger and science labs are a winning combination!
HES Maths: We solve fun maths puzzles, learn maths tricks and escape from maths dungeons, all with the support of Sixth Form Mentors.
In terms of my favourite subjects, it is great that science is now split into Chemistry, Biology and Physics as we dive into science in more depth than was possible in Prep School. I am getting to grips with Latin and Caecilius and Metella’s daily routines. I also appreciate the chance to be creative and more hands-on in DT, Art, Computing and Music.
I have been well and truly getting stuck into the many enticing clubs and societies on offer.
My most memorable moment of Senior School so far was observing the dissection of a sheep’s heart in Junior Science. I was even allowed to poke a sinewy ventricle!
I would describe my first term in the Senior School in the following three words: Crossman for Calverts!”
St Martin’s, Northwood becomes the second school to join the Haberdashers’ Elstree family
From April 2026, St Martin’s School will be joining the Haberdashers’ Elstree family of schools (Habs Girls, Habs Boys and Lochinver House School).
When Lochinver House School joined our family in September 2025, we highlighted that operating at a larger scale enhances financial resilience, ensures the long-term success of all our schools, and upholds our enduring commitment to educational excellence. The integration of St Martin’s School represents a logical and strategic progression in this vision.
When Lochinver House School joined our family in September 2025, we highlighted that operating at a larger scale enhances financial resilience, ensures the long-term success of all our schools, and upholds our enduring commitment to educational excellence. The integration of St Martin’s School represents a logical and strategic progression in this vision.
Both St Martin’s and Habs Elstree Schools are in a strong position. This merger unites schools with proud traditions, a record of academic excellence, and a shared commitment to nurturing the holistic development of young people.
Our schools already have a close relationship – many St Martin’s boys have progressed to Habs Boys over the years and thrived both academically and personally. By joining forces, we can offer even more to our pupils and families:
• Continuing to provide an exceptional educational experience for all our pupils
• More opportunities for all the family of schools through shared resources and expertise
• Greater financial stability for the future and ensures the long-term success of all our institutions
• A stronger community built on trust and collaboration
Both schools share an aligned educational philosophy – that places the individual learner at the centre of all we do. This shared approach will foster meaningful collaboration, allowing us to learn from each other and keep improving what we offer. The merger represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen all the schools’ educational delivery while preserving the distinct identity and values of St Martin’s. It is about securing the future so generations of boys can continue to enjoy the traditions and high standards that make St Martin’s special.
This is a significant and welcome development, bringing together two outstanding schools with a shared commitment to excellence. As Headmaster, my guiding purpose has always been to secure the very best outcomes for every boy at St Martin’s. Joining the Haberdashers’ family of schools presents an exciting opportunity to build on our strengths, enhance our provision, and continue offering exceptional opportunities within the supportive context of a larger educational family.
Mr Simon Dunn, Headmaster, St. Martin’s School
The five key benefits of the merger are:
• Shared core ethos: Remaining a highly selective academically ambitious school is a priority; identifying schools with a shared commitment to academic excellence, is key to supporting this mission and the future pipeline for Habs. Both schools already have a close relationship – many St Martin’s boys have progressed to Habs Boys over the years and thrived both academically and personally. By joining together we are creating a future rooted in educational excellence, as well as protecting our ethos and culture.
• Enhanced educational opportunities: It will allow Habs to share resources more efficiently in order to manage cost rises to parents and strengthen our ability to invest in the best teaching and learning experiences to support each pupil. It will provide St Martin’s with access to a broader range of resources, facilities and expertise across the Haberdashers’ network.
• Long-term sustainability: It will strengthen the future of Habs, St Martin’s and Lochinver through the strategic collaboration and shared infrastructure, create exciting opportunities for the professional growth of all staff, with enhanced access to shared knowledge and expertise, training and career development and opportunities. This will in turn benefit Habs students.
• Community confidence: Reinforcing trust among parents and stakeholders with the combination and strength of Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools, St Martin’s and Lochinver House School.
• Legacy protection: Ensuring that the traditions and identity of Habs continues to thrive.
The Governors of St Martin’s and Habs were unanimous in their decision to move ahead with this opportunity and are delighted to be working together to provide the very best educational provision, now and into the future.
We are truly delighted to announce the joining of these two outstanding schools who share a common ethos and commitment to excellence, whether it be in academic studies or in pastoral care. I am enormously excited by the prospect of strengthening our relationship with St Martin’s in the coming months and years.
Mr Gus Lock, Executive Principal, Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools
Habs students shine at Model United Nations Conference in Cheadle Hulme
In early October, 18 students from Habs Boys and Habs Girls travelled to Cheadle Hulme School in Greater Manchester for a Model United Nations conference. Despite the challenges posed by Storm Amy, the event ran seamlessly, and our students – from Year 9 to Lower Sixth – rose to the occasion with enthusiasm and professionalism.
In the weeks leading up to the conference, students worked hard to research their assigned countries and draft resolutions in preparation for debate. Their efforts paid off as they engaged confidently in a range of complex global discussions across multiple committees. Topics ranged from the security crisis in Haiti (Security Council) to the rights
of incarcerated people (Human Rights Council) to the legal status of climate refugees (Law Committee).
Throughout the weekend, our delegates demonstrated exceptional diplomacy and public speaking skills, articulating their arguments clearly while remaining in character as their chosen nations.
Saturday evening brought a wellearned break as students enjoyed a lively quiz night hosted by Cheadle Hulme School - made even better with a generous supply of pizza!
Spirits remained high into Sunday as debates continued, and the long coach journey home turned into an animated debrief, with students reflecting on their achievements and favourite moments from the conference.
For many of our Year 9 students, this was their very first MUN conference experience, and judging by their excitement, it certainly will not be their last. With HabsMUN on the
horizon, we are confident this trip has sparked a long-lasting passion for global affairs and debate.
Thank you to Miss Sarah King and Mr Kevin Watson for accompanying our eager delegates and well done to our students who showed great curiosity and ambition throughout this event.
Inspiring actionRavjoth tackles gender-based violence
Supporting the wider community is at the heart of life at Habs, and we are incredibly proud of Ravjoth (L6M3) for living this value so fully through his work with Action Breaks Silence, a charity committed to ending violence against women and girls.
As an Advisory Board Member, Ravjoth has played a meaningful role in developing new safeguarding and equality modules, which are now being piloted in primary schools across the UK.
Over half-term, Ravjoth also spoke on a youth panel at the End Violence Against Women coalition conference, offering thoughtful insights on how schools and society can work together to tackle gender-based
violence. His passion, leadership and willingness to speak up make him a truly inspiring example to others.
Well done Ravjoth for your inspiring work and for showcasing the Habs values of community and courage so brilliantly.
VEX Robotics Success
We are delighted to share the success of our VEX teams at their first competition of the season.
Our Year 9 team, Habs Hornets, returned for a new season alongside our two new Year 8 teams, Habs Cybershot and Habs Q-Tek, at City of London School for Girls. For many students, this was their first experience of a VEX competition, and they demonstrated fantastic
The calibre of talent was extremely high, and two of our three teams progressed to the final rounds!
In Finals Match 1, our Year 9 team Habs Hornets competed alongside a John Lyon team for the title of Teamwork Champions.
With a clear and effective game strategy, Habs Hornets delivered an outstanding performance, finishing the match with an impressive winning score of 99 points. This achievement has secured them a place at the UK Nationals!
In addition to the Teamwork Champion Award, Habs Hornets also received two further awards at City of London School for Girls. They won the Robot Skills Award, achieving the highest combined driving and autonomous skills score of the competition with an impressive total of 116 points.
They were also presented with the Excellence Award, which recognises teams that impress judges through their interview and engineering notebook, while also placing in the top 40% of all competition categories. Achieving all three awards earned the team the coveted triple crown at this event. We look forward to future competitions and hope to see our other teams progress to nationals.
A huge thank you goes to Miss Lauren Fagan, our Year 11 mentors for their continued support of our IQ teams, and to Mr Levon Hutchinson for accompanying the students on the trip.
Jarrett signed by F4 team
Congratulations to Jarrett (10J) who has been signed by the F4 team Virtuosi Racing, and will compete in the FIA British F4 Championship in 2026.
This news follows his recent motorsport success, where he achieved double podium finishes in the final round of the 2025 Ginetta Junior Championship with a total of four 2nd place trophies in total! Ginetta Junior is the UK's most prestigious motor racing championship for 14–17-year-olds, attracting drivers from all over the world.
Jarrett shares his journey into motorsport and his ambitions:
“The start of my motorsport career was when I started karting at my local track, Rye House at eight years old. Shortly after, I joined a national team called Ambition Motorsport and competed at club rounds all over the UK. Then, in 2021, I competed in the first rounds of the British Kart Championship, finishing in the top 10 multiple times in a strong field of the best eight- to 12-year-olds in the UK (I was 10 at the time). At the end of 2021, I competed in my first international karting race, the Mini Rok World Finals.
2022 was my breakout year, signing with Synergy Motorsport and finishing on the podium in almost every race I did. My three biggest achievements were becoming the Rotax Festival Champion, 3rd in the British Kart Championship, and 3rd in the Kartmasters British Grand Prix. Due to this really good year, I got the chance to compete at the Mini Rok World Finals again, which after qualifying and many heats, I managed to start 11th for the final out of 100+ drivers.
After this success, I took the step up to Junior Karting where I competed at the highest level of karting in the world for two years, the FIA Karting European and World Championships with SODI Kart and Forza Racing. I made it to back-to-back finals in the World Championship against the best in the world. Qualifying 3rd at the World Championship in 2024 was definitely a highlight. These two years rounded up my karting career as I took the step up to car racing.
This year, I competed in the Ginetta Junior Championship and the Ginetta Junior Winter Series with R Racing, the highest level of Junior Car Racing in the world. I finished 8th in the main series as a rookie and 4th in the Winter Series, after some bad luck in the final race, which stopped me from taking the title. But now, at the end of 2025 I have just signed with Virtuosi Racing to compete in the FIA F4 Middle Eastern Championship and the FIA F4 British Championship, which will be the start of my single seater career!”
The start of my motorsport career was when I started karting at my local track, Rye House at eight years old.
Congratulations to Jarrett on all his success, a true embodiment of the Habs value of ambition. Good luck in the next step of your motorsport journey!
HABS PowerStrike club take part in international competition
Our brilliant HABS PowerStrike club proudly took part in the Greenpower international finals! The Greenpower Education Trust runs challenges in which students design, build and race electric cars, giving them the chance to put their theoretical knowledge into real-world practice.
The trust hosts over 30 regional events each year, culminating in an international final that showcases some of the brightest young engineering talent. This year’s final took place at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex.
Kayan (10H1) shares his experience of the day:
“HABS PowerStrike successfully participated in the international finals for Greenpower competition. It was an exciting event in which over 80 teams from across the world were competing against each other following a number of qualifying races. In the 10 days before hand, we worked incredibly hard as a team to modify the car and make some fundamental changes in a very short space of time to improve the speed of the car, and this culminated in us ranking 30th in the world.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable day, and we had the opportunity to learn from other teams but also to bond as a team ourselves under the strong guidance of Mr Roncarati. This is a valiant effort and the result of one year of hard work including designing and making the car, fundraising and creating marketing materials including the notebook which we won a prize for last time.
I would like to thank Mr Roncarati for all his support. A special thank you is also extended to our brilliant Upper Sixth mentors Devashu (U6H2), Isaac (U6S1) and Noah (U6J3). We are also looking forward to continuing to build on this success but further improving the car and ensuring we are better placed for future competitions later this year.
To this end, as you know, we have now have a dedicated room for Greenpower and lots of new ideas that we are all excited about, we just need more sponsorship!”
Congratulations to our students for making the prestigious international finals and for your performance! You can find out more about the team here. It was an exciting event in which over 80 teams from across the world were competing against each other following a number of qualifying races.
Events
Our first ever joint Senior Co-curricular Fair
On Tuesday 9 September, our annual Co-curricular Fair brought the Croquet Lawn to life as we showcased the wide range of opportunities available through our sports teams, music ensembles, clubs and societies. The fair gives students the chance to explore their interests beyond the classroom. With over 60 clubs on display, the fair featured enthusiastic staff and student representatives from across our co-curricular programme. From drama and debating to football, robotics and orchestra, there was something for everyone to discover. Students were able to ask questions, learn more about each activity and sign up to show their interest for the coming term.
The atmosphere was truly buzzing, with curiosity and inspiration filling the air. It was wonderful to see so many students eager to get involved, try something new and make the most of the rich variety of opportunities our school offers. The fair was not only a celebration of talent and teamwork, but also a reminder that co-curricular activities play a vital role in shaping a vibrant and well-rounded school community.
The atmosphere was truly buzzing, with curiosity and inspiration filling the air.
Black History Month at Habs: a month of reflection, learning and celebration
We were delighted to celebrate Black History Month with a vibrant and varied programme of events that encouraged our community to reflect, learn and celebrate together. This initiative inspired students across all year groups to discover new perspectives and deepen their understanding through literature. Staff took part in a ‘It’s Not Micro: Microaggressions’ workshop. The session provided an opportunity for open discussion and reflection on how subtle forms of bias can impact others, reinforcing our shared commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion at Habs.
Later in the month, members of the Habs community attended the African Caribbean Education Network (ACEN) Conference, where students and staff engaged in thoughtful conversations around equity, identity and representation. The discussions inspired participants to think deeply about the importance of diversity and inclusion in education and beyond. The month concluded with a writing competition that encouraged students to reflect on the themes of Black history, resilience and community. Entries included poetry, essays and stories that captured both personal insight and collective pride, showcasing the thoughtfulness and creativity of our students.
Black History Month at Habs was a powerful celebration of culture and community, reminding us all of the importance of learning from the past whilst continuing to build an inclusive and equitable future together.
Modern Foreign Languages Spelling Bee
Year 8 students took part in the joint Modern Foreign Languages Spelling Bee, competing in Spanish, German and French. Students demonstrated outstanding skill and were supported by an enthusiastic audience. The event provided an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their linguistic accuracy and their memory!
Congratulations to our winners:
• Spanish: Thrish (8C), Abubaker (8S), Noah (8J) and Anaiya (8 Sprules)
• German: Sammy (8S)
• French: Lavisha (8 Gillett) and Tabitha (8 Powell)
Thank you to Madame Carol Janin for organising the event, to the Habs Girls MFL Committee for their support, and to Mrs Sophie Bromley, Mrs Franziska Ahmet and Mr Sergio Cuartero Simarro for assisting throughout.
Languages are a core part of our curriculum, which is why we are proud to now serves as the North London School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) hub for Modern Foreign Languages. This
is in addition to our offering as a SCITT hub for Mathematics. These events demonstrate the energy, commitment and excellence of language learning across the school.
Connecting the generations at our Time and Space event
We hosted our annual Time and Space event for our Year 7 and Year 8 students, along with their parents and guardians, for an evening of open, honest conversation. The aim of the event is to encourage dialogue between students and adults, to allow for a shared understanding and greater connection.
According to Time and Space founder, Mr Bill Jennings, meaningful and continued dialogue between parents and their adolescent children can make a big difference in many ways. Mr Jennings led the sessions, providing a unique platform for both parties to share their thoughts, experiences and ideas.
The evening was an opportunity to bridge the communication gap that can sometimes exist between generations. Many parents noted how the event was “time well spent” and allowed them to see their children in a new light.
One parent shared, “Amazing to have time and prompts to have such meaningful conversation and incredibly mature reflections. Such a fun and meaningful evening. Lovely to feel part of the wider community.” Another reflected, “Really good to have a serious and proper open honest conversation with us both fully present and not distracted. It was interesting to hear about common challenges being faced by children and parents especially around freedoms and boundaries.”
share their thoughts. I came away with some helpful tips.”
For many students, the evening was an opportunity to learn about their parents’ perspectives and share their own in a safe environment. One Year 8 student shared that “It had helped me understand my Dad’s background and the struggles he had to and has to face to this day. This was a great experience to help me understand how and why my Dad feels for me.”
Really good to have a serious and proper open honest conversation with us both fully present and not distracted.
Students also found the activities engaging and insightful. One Year 7 student remarked, “I found it to be a great sentimental family experience, and a great opportunity to remind myself about how much my mum and aunt do for me.”
The structured activities and small group discussions allowed parents and students to connect on a deeper level. One parent noted, “Amazing how the Year 7s were so expressive and found it easy to
The Time and Space event reminded everyone of the power of intentional, honest conversation. While life can often feel hectic, taking time to truly connect has the potential to strengthen family bonds and build understanding.
Parents and students left the evening with renewed perspectives and valuable memories. We are proud to host initiatives like Time and Space that nurture communication, foster connections and strengthen our community.
Afrobeats Night
Afrobeats Night made a vibrant return to the school calendar this term, with all members of the school community joining in on the fun.
Students enjoyed incredible food, brilliant music, lively dancing and plenty of fun and laughter throughout the evening. Congratulations and thank you to our African and Caribbean Society for hosting such a joyful event.
Chanukah
Chanukah has been honoured and celebrated throughout the school, with pupils across different year groups engaging in meaningful activities that deepened their understanding of the festival and its traditions.
Year 2 learnt about Chanukah by making Hannukiahs, dreidels and beautiful Hanukkah cards and even enjoyed tasting some delicious Cholla bread.
Year 4 even came along to help with the crafts! They also listened to traditional Chanukah songs.
Year 4 pupils delivered a fantastic assembly about Chanukah. The boys retold the story of Chanukah, why it is celebrated and shared some special traditions. The audience even got to see photos of their friends celebrating Chanukah at home.
Through storytelling, shared experiences and collaborative learning, the celebrations highlighted the importance of community, culture and joyful participation.
Remembrance Day
In honour of Remembrance Day, the annual CCF Remembrance Parade took place, bringing together Cadets from the Navy, Army and RAF sections. They paraded in unison on the Croquet Lawn, a symbol of
The ceremony began with a prayer for the fallen, followed by a solemn reading of the names of Old Haberdashers who lost their lives in service during both World Wars. The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths at the School’s Memorial. It was a moving tribute honouring the service and sacrifice of those who have given their lives.
On Remembrance Sunday, Year 6 pupils from Habs Boys and Habs Girls participated in a community parade in Radlett to pay their respects to those who served in the armed forces. Marching alongside veterans, families and local organisations, our pupils joined in a collective moment of reflection and unity. The students’
The ceremony began with a prayer for the fallen, followed by a solemn reading of the names of Old Haberdashers who lost their lives in service during both World Wars.
participation was a touching tribute, underscoring the younger generation’s respect and gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The ceremony included a moment of silence and a wreathlaying, underscoring the importance of remembrance and community.
On Remembrance Day itself, special assemblies were held. In the afternoon, the Prep and Junior pupils gathered once more on the Croquet Lawn for a series of readings, the Last Post and a twominute silence, before laying a wreath to remember the lost.
These ceremonies are a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering those who have served.
Lest We Forget.
Music, Art and Drama
A fantastic evening of music
We were treated to an exceptional evening of music at the final of the Habs Elstree String Competition.
Eleven talented students, selected from a pool of outstanding entries, took to the stage in the Sime Hall to perform for our special guest adjudicator, Nathaniel AndersonFrank, leader of the BBC Concert Orchestra.
Each performance showcased remarkable skill, passion and dedication, making for a truly memorable event.
Congratulations to our winner, Eliza (11 Aleph), and runner-up, Raiya (13 ADD/CAP), for their outstanding performances!
Habs Ensemble performs at Royal Albert Hall
Forty brass and wind players from Years 4 to 6 across both Habs Boys and Girls took to the stage of the iconic Royal Albert Hall to perform as part of Music for Youth’s Creative Project, alongside almost one thousand young musicians from across the country. The event formed part of the Music for Youth Schools Proms, the culmination of their national festival series, which celebrates and showcases the very best of youth music in the UK. Our pupils joined the massed ensemble to perform three works - Mambo from West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein, No Place Like by Kerry Andrew and the world premiere of Causeway by Scottish composer Aileen Sweeney. It was particularly special for our young musicians to see the Haberdashers’ Indian Music
Ensemble also performing at the Proms under the direction of their inspirational leader, Mr Alok Verma, a Visiting Music Teacher at Habs. Their appearance on the same stage provided a powerful source of motivation and pride for our young performers.
The day was a huge success and an unforgettable experience for all involved - a celebration of collaboration, creativity and musical excellence at the very highest level.
A night to remember: the Habs Gala dinner brings the community together
The Habs community came together in grand style for a truly memorable evening - the Habs Gala Dinner at Haberdashers’ Hall, London. The event was a wonderful celebration of shared heritage, uniting Old Haberdashers (OHs), former and current staff and current students.
This year’s Gala held special significance as it marked the first time that Habs Girls alumnae and staff joined the event. Seeing members of both schools together under one roof - reconnecting, reminiscing and forging new friendships, perfectly captured the spirit of the Habs community. Guests were welcomed with a drinks reception, followed by a three-course dinner with wine, and finished with coffee and petit fours. The atmosphere was one of celebration and camaraderie, with laughter and conversation flowing late into the evening.
A highlight of the night was the engaging address from guest speaker John Vincent (OH 1990), co-founder of the Leon restaurant chain, who attended with his wife, Katie Derham, TV and radio broadcaster.
We extend heartfelt thanks to the CCF and current staff who joined us and helped make the evening such a success. Events like these remind us of what makes the Habs community so special - a shared history, enduring friendships, and a commitment to staying connected across generations.
Blown away – brilliant performances at our Wind, Brass and Percussion Competition
Sime Hall came alive with vibrant sounds as 15 talented students competed in the Habs Elstree Wind, Brass and Percussion Competition Final.
Each performer delivered an exceptional display of precision, creativity and musical expression, presenting a diverse programme that ranged from the cinematic magic of John Williams to the elegance of Mozart and the swing of Glenn Miller.
The competition was intense, with all of our students executing their musical pieces brilliantly. In the end, the first prize went to Arkansh (11J1), second place to Mahi (10 Alpha) and third place to Samih (10H2). Congratulations to the trio on their outstanding achievements!
The competition was intense, with all of our students executing their musical pieces brilliantly.
National Concert Band Festival
This term brought an exciting milestone as two of our ensembles headed to Croydon to take part in the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF).
As the UK’s biggest celebration of wind and big bands, the NCBF, gives young musicians a chance to perform in a welcoming, noncompetitive setting.
Bands play at regional festivals, receive professional feedback, and earn Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze awards based on set criteria, with top groups invited to the National Festival.
The atmosphere on the day was fantastic, with performances from groups across the Southeast of England. Our musicians rose to the occasion brilliantly - the Symphonic Wind Orchestra delivered a performance that earned them a Gold Award, and both the Wind
Orchestra and the Habs Elstree Big Band earned a phenomenal Platinum Award! This means that the groups have officially qualified for the National Finals in Manchester in April 2026. A massive congratulations to all our students!
A huge thank you to all staff involved in these ensembles, whether through coaching, teaching, or working behind the scenes to make the trip possible. We are excited to take our musicians to the national stage – a great opportunity to perform alongside some of the strongest school music in the country.
The atmosphere on the day was fantastic, with performances from groups across the Southeast of England.
Celebrating 50 years of Seldon Hall
A special anniversary concert was held to celebrate 50 years since the opening of the music school and Seldon Hall, marking five decades of exceptional musical education and performance. The event brought together members of the school’s extended community to celebrate the music school’s impact and history.
The concert featured a distinguished line-up of performers, including Old Haberdashers Roderick Williams OBE and Paul Harris, staff, recent alumni and current students. Together, they delivered a memorable programme that showcased the breadth of musical talent nurtured within the school. The event was a wonderful occasion for all in attendance, offering an opportunity to reconnect, celebrate shared experiences and honour the rich musical heritage that has developed over the past 50 years.
Seldon Hall itself has a fascinating history. Its construction was made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor, found by former Headmaster Dr Thomas W. Taylor, who led the school from 1946 to 1973 (no relation to our current Director of Performance Music, Mr Thomas Taylor!)
The donor, later revealed to be Mr Ronald William (R.W) Diggens OBE, made significant contributions to the school but wished to remain modest - he did not want Seldon Hall to be named after him, but instead, after his agent. Mr R.W. Diggens attended Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School from 1923 to 1929 on a bursary. He served with
distinction in the Royal Engineers during the Second World War, before going on to achieve notable success as a businessman. Mr R.W. Diggens’ generosity reflects the values that we hold dear at Habs today.
Dr Taylor’s passion for music transformed Habs into the music hub that we know it today. Upon joining Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School, the music department consisted of one music teacher and a newly forming choir. At the time of his retirement, there were three full-time music teachers and twelve visiting music teachers, with nearly 500 students making up two orchestras, two brass ensembles, a woodwind ensemble and a chamber group. There were also over 250 students taking part in various choirs.
Together, the concert and the stories behind Seldon Hall served as a fitting tribute to 50 years of creativity, generosity and community spirit.
A special thank you to our School Archivist, Mr Ian Douglas, for contributing to this article.
Original floor plan of the Seldon
The Seldon when it opened
Dr Taylor's retirement
An image of Dr Taylor
The Seldon today
One of our first concerts of the year is also one of our biggest, featuring all our Senior ensembles as well as the whole of Year 7 singing. It is an introduction for our new students and parents to the school and a celebration of our community.
Our Year 7 choir, made up of students from both Habs Boys and Habs Girls, gave a fantastic performance, singing “Go the Distance” from Hercules and Pharrell Williams’ “Happy.” Their energy and enthusiasm lit up the stage, and the blend of voices
Joint Festival Concert Photography competition
from both schools created a joyful, uplifting sound that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening. It was wonderful to see the students performing together for the first time, a true celebration of musical collaboration.
With superb performances from our various ensembles and orchestras, the young students in the audience were given a taste of what lies ahead for them in music.
In honour of the festivity throughout the Autumn term, members of the Senior School participated in this term’s photography competition, centered around the theme ‘Celebration.'.
First place
Niyam (10S2)
For this stunningly atmospheric Diwali celebration, capturing sumptuous colours and light.
Second place
Rishi (9C1)
For this ‘powerful symbol of celebration because its warmth, light and movement naturally create a sense of excitement and togetherness. Whether through candles, sparklers, or fireworks, fire adds a dynamic visual element that enhances festive moments and highlights the energy and joy of the occasion’.
Third place
Kayan (7H)
For this photo from the 150th Alexandra Palace celebration mosaic, a collection of thousands of individual celebration photographs.
2025 Carol Service
Written by Mr Thomas Taylor, Director of Performance Music
The carol service is one of our most treasured traditions, taking students to the stunning St Albans Abbey for a day of music and spirituality.
Our choirs from both the Prep and Senior Schools sang beautifully, guiding us through a service of nine lessons and carols led by Mr Peter Martin-Brown and Ms Roxana Gozzard. It is wonderful to see a large number of students singing, connected with a choral tradition that has a proud history at our school.
This is a special day for our community, and the perfect way to get into the festive spirit.
Celebrating music across the arts with a Night at the Movies
Our Night at the Movies concert was a spectacular celebration of film scores and live performance that delighted all who attended. Guests were welcomed by jazz musicians performing in the foyer, creating a lively atmosphere before the main event in Bourne Hall. The concert featured themes from The Godfather, Jurassic Park, Disney and other well-loved films. Each piece was performed with great commitment and artistry,
with students playing brilliantly throughout the evening – it was a fantastic showcase of musical talent at Habs.
The evening brought together our Symphony Orchestra, String Orchestra and Symphonic Wind Orchestra and also marked the welcome return of the Habs Studio Orchestra. Their combined efforts created a memorable and uplifting experience for all who attended. It was a celebration of creativity and collaboration, and a reminder of the joy that live music brings to our community.
Their combined efforts created a memorable and uplifting experience for all who attended.
Spotlight concert
The Spotlight Series gives stage to our students from Years 7 to 10 a performance opportunity for all our entry level and intermediate ensembles.
Over 350 students from both Habs Boys and Habs Girls performed in this concert. We heard from all of our Middle School and intermediate ensembles including the Middle School Wind Band, Middle School String Ensemble, Wind Sinfonia and Philharmonia. The night was also full of phenomenal performances from our choirs, jazz ensembles, guitar ensemble and much more. The diverse representation of genres speaks to the philosophy of our department - the opportunity is offered to all who seek it.
The event was a celebration of the incredible number of musicians we have involved in ensembles at Habs, and it is an exciting signpost for what the future holds in Habs Music.
This term, the Senior School play takes place in a bustling community centre, home to a boxing ring, a creative writing group, first aid classes, and Sunday bingo.
When tragedy shakes the community, the story explores how small, unexpected connections can emerge, gradually softening life’s rough edges and helping the people find a way forward together.
Our thespians worked with Sam Griffiths (of band The Howl and The Hum) and Matthew Herd (of band Seafarers) and theatre maker Matt Harrison, whilst collaborating for the first time with writer Natasha Collie (Royal Court Theatre/National Youth Theatre). Our drama students also collaborated with John Ryder, boxing consultant, to ensure accuracy within the script. The performances were fantastic, with the audience captivated by this moving tale that explores reputation, acceptance and forgiveness.
Congratulations to our students on this beautiful production and to Mr Richard Weinman for his leadership and direction.
Sport
As the term ends, it is time to reflect on the incredible sporting achievements of our students over the past few months.
From thrilling rugby tournaments and football victories to outstanding performances in cross-country, swimming, squash and badminton to name a few. This term has been a testament to the talent, hard work, and dedication of our teams and individuals. Whether competing locally, nationally, or even internationally, our students have consistently displayed exceptional skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Trips
An excellent start to the first Field Day of the year
Every term, we hold a Field Day, where students from both senior schools are offered a wide array of hands-on learning and adventure opportunities tailored to each year group. These Field Day trips enrich students’ leadership and practical skills, promote teamwork and provide real-world learning in dynamic yet enriching environments.
This year was the first year that we had joint trips from Year 8 and above. Here is a look at this year’s Field Day:
Year 7 – Paccar Scout campsite
This year marked the fifth Year 7 Field Day trip to Paccar Scout campsite. Every year the trip has been a success, and this term was no different!
The key aim of the day was for the students to spend time in their Houses and to get to know each other better. At the campsite, everyone got stuck into activities like leap of faith, archery, laser tag, pedal karts, climbing walls and tomahawks.
With a top level of involvement in the activities, the students have all bonded more and gained a fantastic, shared experience. They also made a very good name for themselves, and the staff at Paccar commented on how polite and well behaved they were - well done for representing the school in such a brilliant manner.
A huge thank you to the staff who accompanied the trip. They all brought a great sense of fun and enthusiasm and made the day special for Year 7.
Year 8 joint trip
– three canoe trail locations
Our Year 8 students had an incredible experience at their Field Day! Today was packed with adventure, challenge and teambonding.
For the first time ever, Habs Boys and Habs Girls School students collaborated for an excellent canoe trail Field Day experience. During the Survival Skills sessions, pupils learned how to build shelters, light fires using natural materials, purify water to make it safe to drink and even master a range of practical knots. These hands-on experiences encouraged teamwork, problemsolving and resilience.
The river trip was another highlight, as students took to the water in canoes, kayaks and on stand-up paddleboards. Under the expert guidance of some of the UK’s best water sports instructors, they developed river safety and rescue skills while enjoying the beauty of
Year 9 joint trip – start of the Bronze DofE journey
Field Day marked the beginning of an exciting new adventure for our Year 9 students as they embarked on their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award (DofE)
The students spent the day learning key navigation and expedition skills - from reading maps and using a compass to planning routes and working together as a team. It was fantastic to see their enthusiasm, determination and growing independence as they began this important milestone in their DofE journey. A brilliant start to what promises to be a rewarding experience!
one of our closest major rivers. The day brought incredible challenges, with one student saying, "rowing as a team and getting to know my year was really fun."
Our Year 8s returned with new friendships and memories made, a fantastic adventure that truly captured the Habs spirit!
Year 10 to 13 CCF - various locations
Our Habs cadets hit an exciting milestone as they took part in the first Field Day of the year. Across the Navy, RAF and Army sections, Field Day was a resounding success, full of learning, laughter and leadership. Each group developed new skills, strengthened bonds, and embraced being a member of the Habs CCF programme. Our cadets returned to school with new experiences to share and friendships developed within their teams. A fantastic start to the CCF year!
• Royal Navy section: our Navy cadets headed to Queen Mary’s Sailing Centre and Willen Lake, where they spent the day out on the water under the expert guidance of the centre’s professional RYA instructors.
Cadets refined their sailing techniques, learned to adapt to changing wind conditions, and gained greater confidence handling their boats.
• Royal Air Force section: The RAF cadets enjoyed a thrilling day at Banbury Gliding Club, where they took to the skies once again. Each cadet had the opportunity to experience flight in a glider, reinforcing their understanding of powerless flight and the principles of aviation.
• Army section: meanwhile, our Army cadets ventured to the Wormsley Estate in High Wycombe for a day of hands-on adventure and teamwork. Guided by expert survival instructors, they learned essential outdoor skills, from shelter building and fire lighting to navigation and fieldcraft techniques.
Fieldwork in focus as Lower Sixth investigate rivers and flooding
Our Lower Sixth Geography students travelled to the Carding Mill Valley in Shropshire to put their classroom learning into action.
Equipped with a wide range of fieldwork instruments, students measured key river characteristics and investigated infiltration and interception rates across varying slopes. Back in the classroom, they analysed their findings in detail, evaluating whether their original hypotheses held true.
Even in the wet weather, the group enjoyed the valley’s landscapes, observing V-shaped valleys and waterfalls. Using storm simulators, they explored the factors influencing water
inputs and outputs, gaining valuable insight into hydrological processes. The students continued their investigations in a sunnier Shrewsbury, focusing on flooding and management strategies.
By bringing classroom concepts to life through practical experiences, our students not only deepened their understanding but also developed a valuable set of skills that will serve them well beyond their studies.
History and music intertwined with a trip to see Hamilton
Our Year 9 students went to the West End to see the award-winning production Hamilton, as part of their study of musical theatre.
Having learned and performed songs from the show this term, students were able to see their classroom work in a professional context and experience first-hand the blend of acting, singing and movement that defines the modern musical.
Discovering Graeco-Roman history at the Ashmolean Museum
Our Lower Sixth Classic students spent the day stepping back a couple of thousand years during their visit to the Ashmolean Museum at the University of Oxford.
In the Graeco-Roman galleries, they wandered among towering statues, attempted their best “ancient hero” poses and put their Greek and Latin knowledge to work by deciphering the inscriptions on display.
Our Classicists also took part in an object-handling session, where students were able to hold history, quite literally, in their hands. From coins and arrow tips to pottery
Exploring Theology and Philosophy through theatre
Our Sixth Form philosophers-andtheologians-in-training went to see the latest production of Othello at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. The mesmerising production starred an array of fantastic acting talent, including David Harewood, Toby Jones, Caitlin FitzGerald, Vinette Robinson and Luke Treadaway.
Lucas (L6C3) shares his thoughts about the production:
On Monday 17 November 2025, Theology and Philosophy students in the Sixth Form, across both schools, enjoyed a production of ‘Othello’.
The play explores the fundamental question of human nature, and the live performance really heightened the experience of Othello’s psychological deterioration throughout the play.
Furthermore, our sense of morality was also challenged, especially in regard to free will. Although the murder of Desdemona is clearly wrong, we are left asking whether moral accountability should be placed not only with Othello but at the feet of Iago, whose manipulation drives the tragedy. If we are not really in control of our actions, should we still be held accountable for them?
fragments and even the remains of a dining couch, the assortment of artefacts offered a rare chance to get up close to the ancient world.
The day finished with a guided wander around Oxford’s city centre and a few of its colleges, led by OH Ruhi Visaria (2025), who shared insights and stories along the way. A brilliant trip all round!
These themes relate to the morality and ethics components of our
A Level courses, aside from being hugely interesting to grapple with, especially through the perspective of literature. Overall, everyone really enjoyed the production, and we have taken lots away from it.
Thank you to Mrs Khurjekar for organising the trip and accompanying us, alongside Mr Jordan and other teachers who kindly supervised us.”
Trips like these provide a rounded approach to academia, taking learning and exploration outside of the classroom – an embodiment of the Habs approach.
A fantastic cultural visit to Japan
The journey to Japan began with arrival in Tokyo, where our Year 10 to Upper Sixth students familiarised themselves with the city’s public transport system.
Highlights of the first day included a visit to the Meiji Jingu Shrine and the Harajuku district, renowned for its vibrant youth culture and fashion. The day concluded with a group dinner featuring traditional sushi.
The students then navigated the bustling Shibuya crossing before enjoying another meal at a traditional Japanese izakaya.
The following day took the group to Hakone. Despite rainy weather, students enjoyed a boat trip on Lake Ashinoko and a cable car ride up Mount Komagatake. While views of Mount Fuji were obscured by clouds, the journey introduced Japan’s scenic landscapes, with anticipation of clearer views from the Shinkansen en route to Kyoto.
In Kyoto, the students experienced Japan’s cultural heritage first hand. After observing stunning views of Mount Fuji from the bullet train, they engaged in a calligraphy lesson, producing their own interpretations of the kanji for shiawase (happiness).
The day also included a visit to the historic Gion district, followed by a traditional Japanese dinner.
The second day in Kyoto featured visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, the Arashiyama bamboo forest, and Kiyomizu Temple. The group
The journey continued to Hiroshima, where participants visited the sacred island of Miyajima, another UNESCO World Heritage site, noted for its freely roaming deer. The afternoon was spent at the Peace Park, reflecting on the city’s history, followed by a traditional Hiroshima okonomiyaki meal. The following day, the group returned to Tokyo
Year 9 Latin students explore the British Museum
Our Year 9 Latin students enjoyed a trip to the British Museum this term, organised by the Classics Department.
The visit was a great success, with students fully engaged in a range of activities, carefully planned by Mr Edoardo Chiattelli. Working in teams, students explored the museum’s Classics-related galleries to locate hidden artefacts, photograph them and gather information about historical periods and significant objects. The challenge was approached with great enthusiasm, competitiveness and a genuine passion for ancient civilisations.
It was a pleasure to see students so curious and motivated as they navigated the galleries - particular interest was shown during a discussion on the history and significance of the Parthenon Marbles, with students listening attentively and asking thoughtful questions.
Students were given time to explore the museum independently and write a report on an artefact of their choice. They were encouraged to look beyond Classical collections, and the results were impressive, with reports covering artefacts from Japan, India, Egypt and China.
Thank you to Mr Chiattelli, as well as Mr Christopher Joyce and Ms Melanie Pfeffer, for their support on the trip.
Year 7 see a familiar face at the theatre
Year 7 students enjoyed a theatre experience this term with a trip to London’s West End to see Matilda
The Musical - and it was no ordinary visit.
The audience were thrilled to spot one of their own on stage, as classmate Adam (7C) performed in the role of the much-loved Bruce Bogtrotter. Adam starred in the production at the Cambridge Theatre, playing Bruce from September 2024 to September 2025. Seeing a fellow student perform at a professional level was both inspiring and exciting for the year group, adding a special sense of pride to the occasion.
A memorable evening for all involved!
Seeing a fellow student perform at a professional level was both inspiring and exciting for the year group
Prep news
It has been an action-packed Autumn Term in the Prep School, with highlights including a moving Remembrance Day service, heartwarming plays and captivating music concerts. We celebrated festivals and marked Black History Month with meaningful activities and discussions. We also saw our young athletes achieving amazing sporting successes. The term was truly one to remember, filled with joy, learning and community spirit.
Check the Habs App to view everything the Junior School got up to this term!
Habs community Harvest Festival 2025
Our Prep community came together for a truly special Harvest Festival Concert, which was a joyful celebration of gratitude, generosity and community. Through beautiful performances of Carry the Corn, The Rose and Something Inside So Strong, alongside poetry readings and prayers, our pupils reminded us of the importance of giving thanks and sharing with others.
We were delighted to welcome Mr Julian Milner (OH 1978) from the Trussell Trust Borehamwood Foodbank, who spoke powerfully about the real difference our contributions can make to local families in need.
A huge thank you to Ms Roxana Gozzard for her inspiring leadership of Prep music, Mr Thomas Taylor, Mr Peter Martin-Brown, Mr David Woodward and Ms Isabel Mair for their expert accompaniment, and to all our staff, parents and students – including remove friends from Habs Girls – for making this such a memorable occasion. Harvest reminds us that gratitude and generosity go hand in hand – and our pupils embodied both in abundance.
Student Council Directors 2025/26
We are thrilled to announce the newly appointed Student Council Directors for the 2025/26 academic year! These outstanding students have ambitious plans to enhance our school community. This year, we had an exceptionally strong pool of applicants, making the selection process highly competitive. We are confident that our new directors will bring their creativity and enthusiasm to their roles, contributing positively to our school environment.
Their leadership will undoubtedly make a significant impact this year.
Congratulations to the new directors:
Luca (L6H1)
Chair
Ravjoth (L6M3)
Vice-Chair and Director of Communications and Digital
Hari (L6C3)
Director of Operations
Josh (L6C2)
Director of Mental Health
Pavi (L6H1) Director of EDI
Shay (L6C3) Upper School Representative
Ajai (L6S3) Middle School Representative
Adam (L6C2) Sixth Form and Prep School Representative
Old Haberdashers show their football skills
The annual Habs Boys vs Old Haberdashers Football Club (OHFC) fixture took place in September, delivering a lively and competitive highlight of the alumni sporting calendar.
We were delighted to welcome back seven members of the Class of 2025, who represented OHFC for the first time as alumni.
Support came from across the Habs community, with former and current parents, siblings and teachers all in attendance, creating a fantastic atmosphere as both teams were
enthusiastically cheered on. On the pitch, the Habs Boys 1st XI claimed a hard-fought 2–1 victory, while the OHFC 2nd XI responded with a convincing 3–1 win over their school
counterparts, leaving the overall series honours even.
Our thanks go to the Foundation Team for their excellent organisation of the event.
Fireworks night
In keeping with tradition, the St Catherine’s Parents’ Guild once again hosted its fantastic annual fireworks display, bringing together students, parents and staff from across the Habs community for an unforgettable evening.
Over 1,500 students, parents and staff from across the Habs Schools community joined the extravaganza, with the event offering something for everyone: the much-loved indoor stalls and games, impressive student band performances on stage and a lively Taylor Swift tribute act in the sports hall. Outside, a line-up of food and dessert trucks created a fantastic atmosphere as guests enjoyed the treats in the lead-up to a spectacular fireworks and laser show. It was a brilliant evening that brought our community together.
A huge thank you goes out to everyone who attended and participated in making the evening such a success - students, parents, staff, and of course, the St Catherine’s Parents’ Guild.
Habs community shines together at Christmas tree lighting celebration
We were delighted to receive a magnificent 23-foot Christmas tree at Habs this year, generously donated by Old Haberdasher and current parent Oliver Buhus.
and mince pies generously donated by a Year 2 Prep family.
The event was a truly lovely reminder of the strength and spirit of the Habs community, bringing people together to celebrate tradition, generosity and the magic of the festive season.
Staff news
Appointments
Karen Gaskell
Reprographics Officer
Saskia Horley
Sports Administrator
Internal movers
Debbie Bardou
Teacher of History and Theology and Philosophy to Acting Head of Individual Needs
Danielle Kingsley
Classroom Teacher to Acting Phase Leader (Years 3 and 4)
James Teague
Deputy Head of Middle School to Head of House (Calverts)
Clare Zinkin
Librarian (Prep School) to Head of Prep Reading
Nina Harte
Teacher of Mathematics to Deputy Head of Middle School
Hannah Taylor
University Applications and Careers Coordinator
Puja Patel
Head of Fees and Bursary Fianance to Director of Finance
Nav Vig
PA to Head of Prep to HR Advisor
Shelley Kahn Specialist Support Teacher to Acting Head of Academic Support
Angharad Newton-Brill
Music Administrator to Music School Manager (Elstree)
Monia Zahid
Head of EDI (Habs Boys) to Director of EDI (Elstree)
Leavers
Catherine Lyons
Senior Advisor to SLT
Mrs Catherine Lyons, Advisor to the SLT, leaves Habs after 31 years of outstanding and dedicated service. Catherine joined Habs Boys in 1994 as a part-time English teacher and has since pioneered Special Educational Needs Provision, led Staff Professional Development, served as Deputy Head Staff and, most recently, as Senior Advisor to the Senior Leadership Team.
Through her commitment to SEND provision and professional development, Catherine’s work has left a mark on literally thousands of pupils and staff, and left an enduring legacy of professionalism and care at Habs. She has brought insight and balance to complex challenges and her calm assurance, wisdom and humanity have made her an invaluable ‘go to’ for successive Heads in need of wise counsel in any number of difficult situations.
We would like to thank Catherine for all she has done for both our schools over three decades of distinguished service and wish her all the very best in her retirement.
Hillary Pullen
Classroom Teacher
Hilary Pullen, Pre-Prep Teacher, leaves Habs at the end of this term after 30 years as a valued and much-respected member of staff. Throughout her time at the school, she has worked with characteristic warmth and commitment, relishing the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring colleagues and to teach boys whose spark, energy and curiosity were evident both in the classroom and across the wider life of the school. Her educational philosophy has always been closely aligned with Habs’ ambition to nurture inquisitive, questioning minds, to build courage and to foster an inclusive and supportive environment in which pupils can flourish.
Hilary has been particularly appreciative of the wider curriculum, school trips and the camaraderie of staff, all of which have created lasting memories for both colleagues and pupils alike. She has also greatly valued the partnership with parents and the opportunity to learn from many inspiring individuals within the community. As she leaves to pursue her love of the outdoors, focus on fitness and return to her homeland in the Highlands, Hilary is keen to acknowledge the support and belief shown in her by many colleagues across the campus.
Hilary departs with her fondest memories of Habs and with warm wishes for the school’s continued success as it moves confidently into the future.