Habs Girls Greenhouse Spring Term 2026

Greenhouse SPRING 2026

Contents Success stories

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Year 5 explore sustainable solutions through IPQ programme Year 11 student performs live on BBC Radio 3 from Wigmore Hall

Making the right move at National Girls Schools Chess Championship Celebrating a historic qualification for the VEX Robotics World Championships Year 6 pupil wins Young Geographer of the Year Strong performances in second Intraschool Debating Tournament First-ever junior win for Habs at LSE Debating Competition

Record Habs Girls participation makes 2026 Integration Bee the most exciting yet Celebrating neurodiversity across our school community Honouring Ramadan through community and connection Reflecting on Holocaust Memorial Day Dragons’ Den heats showcase outstanding student innovation A Decade of innovation: Habs students impress at Dragons’ Den Grand Final

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Trips

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Skiing down the slopes in Norway

A Remarkable Habs Giving Day filled with energy and community pride

Music, Art and Drama

A trip to see New York’s art history Exploring Vienna: From imperial palaces to Christmas markets

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From Durdle Door to Corfe Castle: Year 13 gain real‑world geography insights

Piano Day

CCF Cadets test their skills in a full section outdoor expedition

Habs in conversation – Creative industries

Hands-on history: Year 7 explore life in Roman Britain at Verulamium

Chamber Music Concert

Les Deux Alpes: A snowy adventure to remember

A stellar debut for the joint Senior House Drama event

Fantastic representation at MUN

Upper Sixth celebrate completion of ERP at presentation event

Jewish society marks Purim with all female Megillah reading

A vibrant celebration of music at the Spring Concert

Habs awarded gold mark for AI quality

Sports

HabsMUN 2026 – Bridging Divides

Joutes Oratoires 2026: regional French debating competition

Strong performances from Habs teams at EYPUK London regional

Events

Moments that matter: TEDxHabs Elstree youth delivers its most ambitious event to date

Spotlight on our stage: The latest drama showreel Jazz Concert Guitar Festival Concert Choral Concert Art scholar impresses at National Articulation Prize regional heat Habs Company Music Festival unites over 300 students in joyful celebration

Junior news

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Habs Community

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Old Haberdashers start the New Year right Who won the annual Mencap charity netball match for 2026?

Mencap’s Got Talent

Habs Choristers perform Evensong at Barnet Church

Staff v Parents 11-a-side charity football match: a fantastic community event

Junior instrumentalists shine at the breakfast concert

Staff Appointments

The Freeman Ensemble at Our Lady of the Assumption, Warwick Street Orchestral Concert Sixth Form art trip showcases the best of Yorkshire’s cultural scene

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Joiners Leavers

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INTRODUCTION

Headmistress’ Greenhouse message: Spring term I am delighted to welcome you to the Spring edition of Greenhouse Magazine.

Following the success of our inaugural termly magazine, this issue continues to capture the vibrant energy and remarkable breadth of achievement that defines the experience at Habs Girls.

This term, our students have demonstrated a commitment to stretching their intellectual curiosity from the rigorous demands of competitions such as the Olympiads in each of the science subjects and linguistics to chess competitions and robotics. I was delighted that a mixed robotics team has qualified for a place at the Vex Robotics World Championships in St Louis next month – the first time that students from Habs Girls have secured a place. Our debaters and diplomats have been particularly active, representing the school with distinction at the Hague International Model United Nations, the European Youth Parliament and the Hertfordshire French Debating Competition.

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Music has continued to flourish as a joint enterprise between the schools with a packed schedule of concerts, featuring everything from the intimacy of the Spotlight Chamber Concert and Piano Day to the grand scale of the Orchestral and Choral Concerts. The Habs Company Music Festival and the Jazz Concert provided wonderful platforms for contemporary music, while our singing tradition was upheld beautifully during the Choral Concert and Habs Choristers’ most recent Evensong at St John the Baptist Church, Barnet.

Our students have travelled far and wide, from the slopes of the Norway and Italy Ski Trips to the galleries of the New York Art Trip, and from the Valencia Football Tour to the Geopolitics Geography Conference.

These educational visits foster the global perspective we value so highly; whether it was the Year 12 Spanish trip to Granada or the VEX Robotics Nationals, our students have returned with broadened horizons and strengthened friendships.

At the heart of our school is a deep respect for our diverse community. We have marked significant moments of reflection and celebration together, including Holocaust Memorial Day, Lunar New Year, Purim and an Iftar event.

These occasions reinforce our commitment to a culture where everyone is seen and valued.

Our wider Habs family has also remained closely connected. It was a pleasure to host the First 10 at the Fable reception for our recent alumnae, and the Charity Football match between Staff and Dads alongside our Giving Day efforts reminded us of the impact we can make when we work together for the benefit of others.

As we look forward to the warmer months, I hope you enjoy reading about these many successes. I wish you and your families a wonderful Easter break.

Dr Hazel Bagworth-Mann Headmistress

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Success stories Year 5 explore sustainable solutions through IPQ programme

For the first time in Habs history, our Year 5 pupils from Habs Boys and Habs Girls embarked on their Independent Project Qualification (IPQ) programme, an initiative designed to immerse pupils in real-world challenges through project-based learning.

We are excited to share that we have been recognised as an Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB) iPQ Gold School for 2025–26.

We have introduced the programme in our curriculum to encourage creativity, critical thinking and collaboration, giving pupils the tools to become futureready learners.

This year, the focus of the IPQ is fast fashion, a pressing global issue linked to sustainability and landfill waste. Pupils were divided into

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groups and tasked with identifying specific problems within the topic, then research innovative solutions Over several weeks, the pupils conducted in-depth research and developed proposals, which they presented in Dragons' Den style pitches to volunteer parents and teachers acting as the Dragons.

The presentations sparked insightful questions, feedback and discussions, helping pupils to reflect on the feasibility and impact of their ideas.

Some of the imaginative solutions included: • Pyjama sets with detachable arms and legs, designed to be worn all year round and reduce the need for seasonal sleepwear • Detachable shirt and skirt combinations, enabling mixand-match outfits and reducing the need for multiple items of clothing • Repurposing unused horse gear into wearable clothing, giving old materials a new life

Following the Dragons' Den presentations, pupils reflected on the feedback they received and planned next steps - creating prototypes and preparing their products for an upcoming expo, where they will showcase their sustainable fashion solutions to the wider school community.

The IPQ programme not only challenges pupils to tackle realworld problems but also nurtures confidence, leadership and reflective thinking. As these Year 5 pupils continue to develop their projects, they are gaining invaluable skills that will empower them to shape a more sustainable future.

Year 11 student performs live on BBC Radio 3 from Wigmore Hall Bella (11 A) recently achieved a remarkable musical milestone, taking to the stage at the worldrenowned Wigmore Hall to perform a piano duet with her father, Mr Yevgeny Sudbin. Performing at such a prestigious venue is an extraordinary accomplishment for any musician, and even more so at such a young age.

To make the occasion even more special, the concert was broadcast live on BBC Radio 3, allowing audiences across the country to share in this memorable performance.

Bella performed movements from Cinderella by Sergei Prokofiev, arranged for piano for four hands.

The performance showcased not only her technical skill, but also her musical maturity and expressive playing.

We are incredibly proud of Bella and all that she continues to achieve in her musical journey. We look forward to celebrating many more successes in the future.

Strong performances from Habs teams at EYPUK London regional We were delighted to see 15 of our Lower Sixth students from Habs Girls and Habs Boys represent the school with such energy and enthusiasm at the London Regional Forum of the European Youth Parliament UK 2026, held at St Paul’s School.

Debating complex and timely issues - from artificial intelligence and tourism to European energy policy and current security challenges -

our students proved themselves to be thoughtful, articulate and highly engaged ambassadors for our community. We are incredibly proud that our two teams placed

2nd and 3rd out of nine teams, and we warmly congratulate Team SEDE on securing an invitation to the national EYPUK session in Newcastle later this year.

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SUCCESS STORIES

Making the right move at National Girls Schools Chess Championship

Nine talented girls represented Habs Girls at the National Girls Schools Chess Championships, competing against some of the strongest young players in the country.

The prestigious event brought together more than 330 girls from schools across the UK, with teams competing in the Primary Under 11 and Secondary Under 19 age groups. The atmosphere was both exciting and intense, as players faced challenging opponents and demonstrated impressive focus and determination throughout the day.

The standard of play was exceptionally high, but our teams rose to the occasion. The Habs A team delivered a fantastic performance, scoring 9.5 out of 15 points and finishing an 8

impressive 10th out of 56 teams.

In an incredibly close competition, they missed out on a top eight place - and qualification for the national finals - by just half a point!

It was a remarkable achievement and testament to their skill and resilience.

Our B team also performed strongly, scoring a solid 6.5 out of 15.

Meanwhile, the C team produced a standout performance, achieving an excellent 9 out of 15 points and demonstrating great teamwork and determination.

A special mention must go to Riva (2 Buttons), winning all five of her games. Her flawless score was a brilliant accomplishment and a highlight of the tournament.

All nine players represented the school with pride, sportsmanship and enthusiasm. Competing at national level is no small achievement, and every

member of the team should feel extremely proud of their efforts.

Congratulations to all involved on a memorable and successful day for Habs Girls' chess!

Celebrating a historic qualification for the VEX Robotics World Championships

We are incredibly proud to announce a landmark achievement in the school’s robotics programme: our Year 10 mixed Robotics team has qualified for the VEX Robotics World Championships in St Louis later this year.

This marks a significant moment in Habs Girls history, as it is the first time a mixed team - and the firsttime students from Habs Girls - have secured a place at this prestigious global event.

This milestone highlights the continued growth and ambition of robotics at Habs, as well as the expanding opportunities for students across both schools to excel in STEM.

The team has demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout the season, dedicating countless hours to designing, building, coding and refining their robot. Their collaboration across both Habs Girls and Habs Boys has been a standout strength, showcasing the power of shared expertise, creativity and determination. This qualification is the result of sustained effort, problem-solving and teamwork of the highest level.

Representing Habs and the UK - on the international stage is an outstanding accomplishment and a source of pride for our whole school community.

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SUCCESS STORIES

Year 6 pupil wins Young Geographer of the Year Taneya (6RB) has been awarded Highly Commended in the Key Stage 2 category of the Young Geographer of the Year competition organised by the Royal Geographical Society. With over 400 schools participating and 1,200 entries submitted, this is an outstanding achievement.

Open to pupils from primary level to A Level, the annual competition encourages young people to engage with real-world issues, apply geographical skills such as research and data interpretation, and communicate their findings clearly and creatively.

This year’s theme, Understanding Islands, invited students to explore geographical issues affecting island environments. Taneya’s project focused on the impact of climate change on the Maldives, examining the environmental vulnerabilities of low-lying island nations. Her work demonstrated strong subject knowledge, thorough research and thoughtful analysis of a pressing global challenge.

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Taneya travelled to London to receive her award at the Society’s headquarters in Kensington. During her visit, she attended a lecture

by Dr Liam Saddington from the University of Cambridge on climate change and islands, and explored the Society’s historic reading room, viewing maps, books and archival materials from around the world.

We are incredibly proud of Taneya’s achievement and the commitment she has shown to her geographical studies.

Taneya’s project focused on the impact of climate change on the Maldives, examining the environmental vulnerabilities of low-lying island nations.

Strong performances in second Intraschool Debating Tournament We were delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Tamara (11 Ansuz) and Aanya (11A), who broke to the Open Grand Final of our second Intraschool Debating Competition.

After three highly competitive rounds, they earned their place as the fourth-ranked breaking team, competing under the name Goodbye Mellow Brick Road.

Their sharp analysis, confident delivery and exceptional teamwork shone throughout the tournament, marking them as one of the standout Senior partnerships of the season.

The competition as a whole brought together a vibrant mix of debaters, swing speakers and judges, who contributed to a dynamic and enjoyable event. We were immensely proud to see Tamara and Aanya advance to this stage, demonstrating their ability to think critically under pressure and build compelling, well structured arguments. Their achievement reflects the strength and enthusiasm of our growing debating community.

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SUCCESS STORIES

First-ever junior win for Habs at LSE Debating Competition

We were delighted to take 10 pairs of talented debaters to the LSE Juniors and Seniors Debating Competition, where students from Years 7–13 debated a wide range of contemporary motions.

These included topics such as the value of different computer programming languages, the influence of social media trends like “girl math”, the effectiveness of carbon offsetting versus decarbonisation and whether AI systems should process asylum claims. Our students rose to the challenge with confidence, skill and enthusiasm.

We are proud to announce that four Habs teams progressed to the finals.

In the Senior competition, Lucas (12C3) Richard (12R3) reached the Gold Final, while Tamara (11 Ansuz) Aanya (11A) broke to the Silver Final. In the Junior division, two teams reached the Silver Final: Cyrus (8R) & Samuel (8M) and Noah (8J) and Samuel (8J).

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All students demonstrated excellent teamwork, thoughtful argumentation and a real sense of enjoyment throughout the day.

We are thrilled to celebrate our firstever Junior win at this competition, with Cyrus and Samuel emerging victorious as Opening Government on the motion: “This House believes that influencers whose content is normally non-political should post about their political views in the lead-up to national elections.” Their achievement marks a significant milestone for our Junior debating programme.

We also congratulate our students on a series of impressive individual speaker awards: Bing Yao (8H) was named Best Junior Novice Speaker, Aanya earned Best Senior Novice Speaker, and Lucas placed 5th overall in the Senior Open category.

All students demonstrated excellent teamwork, thoughtful argumentation and a real sense of enjoyment throughout the day.

Habs awarded gold mark for AI quality We are delighted to have been awarded the AI Quality Gold Mark by the Good Future Foundation.

This national accreditation recognises excellence in thoughtful, responsible and impactful use of AI in schools and we are extremely proud to be among its recipients.

During the assessment process, the Foundation commended Habs for our clear strategy for integrating AI across both Habs Girls and Habs Boys and for our deep and

thoughtful implementation, which they found to be sophisticated and sector-leading. They highlighted our commitment not only to teaching students how to use AI tools, but to developing their ethical, philosophical and pedagogical understanding, promoting critical adaptability and shared ownership thinking and positive engagement as this fast-moving field evolves. across the community.

During the assessment process, the Foundation commended Habs for our clear strategy for integrating AI

The assessors noted the strength of our leadership and vision, including exemplary policies and guidance that set clear expectations for all stakeholders. They also praised the “ongoing conversation” around AI, supported by assemblies, seminars, parents events and studentled initiatives, which ensures

Across teaching and learning, the report recognised a number of sophisticated classroom uses of AI, alongside excellent provision to help students understand ethics, bias and the wider implications of AI for the future. Achieving the Gold AI Quality Mark is a significant milestone for the school and we

look forward to sharing our learning and best practice as we continue to refine and develop our approach.

A special thank you to Ms Jarmy, Mrs Ryan, Mr Hagon and Mr Gauntlett for their leadership and continuous work in ensuring that Habs remains not only in step with the times, but a pioneer shaping the future of AI in education.

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SUCCESS STORIES

Fantastic representation at MUN

In January, students from Habs Girls and Habs Boys travelled to The Hague to take part in The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN).

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THIMUN is one of the largest and most established international Model United Nations conferences in the world, welcoming over 3,000 delegates from more than 200 schools and approximately 100 countries. Many schools attend with delegations of 20 to 30 students or more. Across the week-long conference, only 96 resolutions were passed, and most schools saw one or none of their resolutions succeed.

Against this highly competitive backdrop, our delegation of ten students performed exceptionally well. Two of their resolutions were successfully passed in committee, placing the school among a small number of delegations to achieve multiple successful outcomes. In addition, four students passed amendments, while others played an active role in drafting, submitting and debating resolutions and amendments throughout the week.

Three of our delegates were selected to deliver opening speeches on the first day of debate - an indication of the strength of their preparation and confidence.

One student, Danny (12J2), was chosen to participate in the highly competitive Comité Français, where he debated and successfully passed an amendment entirely in French.

Beyond their academic achievements, the students conducted themselves with maturity and professionalism throughout

the trip. They managed travel and logistics responsibly, supported one another consistently, and engaged thoughtfully with the history and institutions of The Hague. Their conduct and conversation were even praised by hotel staff.

Congratulations to all our delegates for representing the school with great distinction and to Miss King and Mr Watson for accompanying and supporting our young delegates.

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Events Upper Sixth celebrate completion of ERP at presentation event We hosted our annual presentation event for the Extended Research Project strand of our university accredited Habs Diploma.

The event celebrated the efforts of our Upper Sixth students for their submissions completed at the end of the last academic year.

This year we had 23 Prize winners from across our three faculties Creative, STEM, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

At the ceremony we heard from our 1st prize winners of each category.

To transform a 4000-word project into a 10-minute speech to share with an audience of peers, teachers and governors is no ordinary feat, but our three prize winners had the audience mesmerised.

Our Creative speaker, Saul (13M1), explored the struggle with faith in the poetry of Phillip Larkin and John Betjeman, chosen due to his love for Larkin and interest in the philosophy of religion.

Our STEM speaker, Shravan (13M1), and his interest in cardiovascular science, genetics and regenerative medicine, chose to look at the effectiveness of CRISPR and stem cell-based therapy for treating cardiovascular diseases.

Our Humanities and Social sciences speaker, Tamara (13 IBW/ CAJ), focused on how women's contributions in parliamentary units, factories, nursing/hospitals

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and agriculture impacted the outcome of WW1, a subject chosen due to her interest in history and economics.

It was fabulous to come together as a community to celebrate the academic curiosity of our students. Being able to celebrate their attitude to scholarship was a reminder to the Upper Sixth of how far they have come.

Record Habs Girls participation makes 2026 Integration Bee the most exciting yet The 2026 Integration Bee reached an electrifying conclusion after six weeks of intense and inspiring mathematical competition.

Now in its third year, the event has grown dramatically: what began with just 16 Habs Boys students in its inaugural year expanded to 64 competitors last year, including 6 participants from Habs Girls and this year proudly welcomed a recordbreaking 13 entrants from Habs Girls. Their enthusiasm, confidence, and determination were a standout feature of the competition, with several Year 12 students already eager to return next year to push their skills even further.

This year’s cohort of Habs Girls competitors - Arina (13 RDD/CAP), Saumya (12JZC/JVM), Selina (13 RL/ ALM), Jinying (13 JJM/SN), Janvi (13 EXJ/PJW), Tamara (13 IBW/CAJ), Anvita (13 MJ/JHB), Enora (13 IC/ RY), Orla (12 RL/ALM), Isabel (12 RL/ALM), Anika (13 IBW/CAJ), Diya

(13 IBW/CAJ), and Lara (13 DHH/ CR) - brought remarkable energy to the Bee. Across their matches, they demonstrated problem solving resilience, creative thinking and unwavering composure, contributing significantly to the high standard and inclusive spirit of the competition.

For the Grand Final, Bourne Hall opened its doors to a packed and buzzing audience from across all year groups. The excitement was palpable as spectators watched the Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Final unfold in rapid succession.

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, former OH Integration Bee participants returned to offer support and encouragement, reinforcing the strong sense of tradition that now surrounds the event.

As the rounds progressed, the competition grew fiercer, and the Habs Girls students continued to make their mark. Several delivered impressive performances under pressure, tackling integrals

of increasing complexity and showcasing just how far the competition has come in fostering mathematical excellence across both schools.

In the end, one competitor ultimately claimed the title of Integration Bee Champion 2026, bringing this year’s thrilling contest to a memorable close. Their victory capped off a competition defined not only by advanced mathematical skill but also by school spirit, collaboration, and the growing confidence of a new generation of participants from both Habs Girls and Habs Boys.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the Maths Department and all staff whose dedication and planning made this year’s Bee such a success.

With participation rising and enthusiasm stronger than ever especially from Habs Girls - the 2026 Integration Bee will be remembered as one of the most exciting to date. We look forward with great anticipation to seeing who will rise to the challenge next year.

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EVENTS

Celebrating neurodiversity across our school community We recently took part in Neurodiversity Celebration Week, engaging students in activities that highlighted the many ways people think, learn and experience the world.

Students explored a selection of recommended videos - A Trip to the Supermarket, Through My Eyes, and The First Autistic Barbie Doll - which led to thoughtful class discussions about sensory experiences, representation and celebrating differences.

Across the schools, departments contributed in creative ways.

Students borrowed books from the library and shared favourite quotes, enjoyed mindful colouring and brought philosophical questions.

They also learned how Drama can support our community through conversations and discovered useful movement break tips.

The week concluded with reflections on learning from assemblies and practical ideas such as creating sensory travel kits. Overall, the celebrations encouraged understanding, curiosity and appreciation for the unique strengths found across our school community.

Honouring Ramadan through community and connection We recently held our third annual Iftar event, bringing our school community together to celebrate Ramadan in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

As the sun set and the fast was broken, a shared sense of gratitude and reflection filled the room. Thoughtfully planned and beautifully presented, the evening featured delicious food, vibrant decorations, student stalls and a spirit of inclusivity that ensured everyone, regardless of background, felt part of the celebration.

What made the occasion truly special was the strong sense of community it fostered. Students and staff came together to share in 18

the experience, with many joining their fasting friends to take part in the meaningful moment of breaking the fast. It became much more than a meal – it was an opportunity to deepen understanding, strengthen friendships and celebrate the diversity that enriches our school.

The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all and we look forward to hosting it again next year.

Reflecting on Holocaust Memorial Day Written by Mr Scott, Deputy Head (Operations) We held a deeply moving assembly for Holocaust Memorial Day, reflecting on this year’s theme, Bridging Generations.

Students shared powerful reflections on the importance of connecting with the past to build a kinder, more inclusive future and we heard moving personal accounts from several students about their family and their experiences.

The assembly also highlighted a recent trip that Sixth Formers

undertook to Poland, witnessing the thousands of shoes left behind, each representing an individual life and a story that must not be forgotten.

The students also looked beyond the Holocaust to more recent acts of targeted persecution, such as the Rwandan genocide, learning about the vital power of reconciliation and education. The assembly concluded with a minute’s silence.

By sharing these stories, we hope to ensure that history does not just fade away but guides the choices we make today and how this generation must now be the voices for those who can no longer speak.

Dragons’ Den heats showcase outstanding student innovation

Fifteen talented teams from Years 10 and 11 took part in our Dragons’ Den heats, confidently pitching their innovative business ideas to a panel of external judges.

These teams were shortlisted from more than 50 initial entries - each one demonstrating remarkable creativity, ambition and entrepreneurial flair.

To support their preparation, students participated in pitching workshops led by Emma Harvey, founder of Seven Consultancy, and

Laura Rudoe (née Howard).

The sessions helped students develop clarity and confidence in their presentations, understand how to structure compelling pitches and practise handling challenging questions.

The business proposals covered an exciting range of sectors, including construction, education, technology, wellness, finance and more - highlighting the diversity and forward thinking mindset of our young entrepreneurs.

Throughout the heats, students received constructive, real-world

feedback from the judges, who encouraged them to think critically about key business principles such as scalability, differentiation and commercial viability. Their insights helped students refine their ideas and consider the next steps in developing their ventures.

A huge thank you goes to our Sixth Form Dragons’ Den Committee, who hosted each heat with professionalism and enthusiasm. Having all been finalists in the previous competition, it was inspiring to see them now supporting and guiding the next cohort of participants.

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EVENTS

A Decade of innovation: Habs students impress at Dragons’ Den Grand Final

Students from Habs Girls and Habs Boys competed in an exciting 10-year anniversary of the Dragons’ Den Grand Final, where both schools came together for a memorable showcase of entrepreneurial talent.

The event was attended by a glittering array of special guests.

TV and radio presenter Sonali Shah acted as host, while the distinguished panel of Dragons featured Lord Alan Sugar’s adviser Tim Campbell MBE, tech entrepreneur Alex Depledge MBE, comedian Michael McIntyre and Khilan Dodhia from competition sponsors Encore Capital.

In a thrilling finale, four student teams took turns to present their business ideas. After a hotly contested round of pitches, it was Habs Boys Team Ecobuild comprising Onkaar (10R1) who 20

came out on top, with both Tim and Alex investing.

The other finalist teams included joint Team Arova, comprising Ayaan (11J2), Joseph (11R1), Oscar (11J2), Jura (11 Aleph), who received investment from Michael. They were joined by Habs Girls Team Somnia - Amelia (11 Aesc), Viha (11 Aesc),

Kaya (Aesc) and Ella (11 Aleph) - who impressed the Dragons with their innovative concept. Rounding out the finalists was joint Team Ishani (11 Ansuz), Arianna (11 Ansuz), Shailen (10S2) and Krishan (10J2), whose presentation secured investment from Tim and Michael.

Before the Grand Final could take place, an impressive field of 50 teams had to be carefully narrowed down, making competition in the semifinals every bit as fierce as the final itself. Students delivered outstanding pitches, responding confidently and thoughtfully to challenging questions from the judging panel. With detailed inquiries into each team’s business plan and a significant number of students pitching over a two week period, simply reaching the final was an achievement in itself.

Even prior to the semifinals, earlier heats saw students across both schools investing considerable effort into preparing their pitches.

After taking part in pitching preparation workshops led by experienced entrepreneurs earlier in the term, the teams delivered highly polished three minute presentations to a panel of external judges. They received valuable feedback on all aspects of their business ideas, enabling them to refine and strengthen their proposals ahead of the later rounds.

With three heats taking place during February, it is clear why the finalists presented with such confidence and handled the scrutiny of the visiting Dragons so effectively.

The schools expressed their appreciation to Khilan Dodhia, Rajesh Shah, Gemma Lyons,

Andrew Bloch, Emma Harvey, Laura Rudoe, Rishi Hindocha, Kerry Nash and Mr Silverman for their time, support and invaluable feedback during the contest.

The event concluded with thanks to all the Dragons, judges, staff and students whose enthusiasm and hard work made the competition such an inspiring showcase of creativity, teamwork and innovation.

The contest highlighted the remarkable entrepreneurial talent within both schools and left the audience eager to see what future ventures these students might pursue.

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EVENTS

Moments that matter: TEDxHabs Elstree Youth delivers its most ambitious event to date

Written by Ishan (13H3), 2026 TEDx Lead Organiser Our fifth annual TEDx event this year marked the biggest TEDxHabs Elstree Youth event to date, with our largest-ever audience.

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For the first time, we also welcomed the Prep School alongside students from the Middle School. This was a major milestone for our event, bringing our 'Moments that Matter' theme to life as a truly whole-school experience and our most ambitious TEDx yet.

Our speaker line-up reflected the breadth of the theme. A former Cabinet minister delivered a particularly perceptive talk on democracy, linking modern civic responsibility to lessons from German history. We also enjoyed an

unforgettable visual extravaganza from a professional photographer, using striking images to reveal the funny side of nature and encourage us to see the world differently. For the Sixth Form, one of the most impactful sessions explored ego, depression, and how we respond to challenge. This was a truly honest and valuable conversation that resonated strongly with students.

The programme ranged widely across ideas and disciplines, with talks exploring technology, AI and the future, career opportunities,

poetry, and even hands – showing how meaningful 'Moments that Matter' can emerge from any field when approached with curiosity and purpose. The day ended with a super engaging, concert-like final talk that brought the audience together while exploring the key skills that contribute to a good life, leaving students with practical takeaways as well as inspiration.

A major achievement this year was that we doubled the number of student talks delivered at TEDxHabs Elstree Youth. Student speakers

stepped up with confidence and originality, including outstanding talks on the illusion of time and the impact of colonialism, demonstrating the depth of thought and courage that TEDx helps to bring out in young people.

It has been a privilege for the organising team to lead what has been an incredible TEDx event this year, having seen the event continue to grow in size and aspiration, and we are excited to see what next year’s committee will deliver.

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EVENTS

HabsMUN 2026 – Bridging Divides Written by Aarav (12H3) In March, students from around the world came together for Habs’ 18th Model United Nations conference.

This year’s theme, 'Bridging Divides', sparked engaging and insightful debates across various committees.

For instance, committees such as CEP (Committee on Environmental Policy) head chair Izzy (13 MJ/ JHB) looked at The Question of Accommodating Climate Change Refugees, resulting in solutions being discussed that brought together delegations to solve a common goal. Meanwhile, others such as ECOFIN (Economic and Financial Affairs Council) focused on International Collaboration to Aid Countries Dealing with Hyperinflation.

One particular highlight of the conference was the Crisis Committee led by Charlie (13J1), announced at the end of Saturday, where all delegates were summoned into the Bourne for an announcement on a hypothetical scenario based around a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. On Sunday, delegates were intrigued by the level of depth in the scenario and exemplified their depth of student engagement and diplomacy through a final solution that saw the delegations of USA, Russia and China work together to de-escalate the crisis. This ran alongside our two General Assemblies organised

by Rian (13M1) President of GA (General Assembly) which brought together resolutions that were debated in committee.

Beyond debate, HabsMUN 2026 also fostered a sense of community, collaboration and friendship. We were fortunate to have Mr Lock (Executive Principal), Gabrielle Gower (OBE), and Sir David Lidington (KCB, CBE and OH) 24

The event ran smoothly thanks to the efforts of the HabsMUN Organising Committee as guest speakers. They each provided their own views on the importance of bridging divides on how diplomacy and the United Nations can help us resolve issues around the world. The opening ceremony on Friday featured flag parades, a pre-recorded video from one Secretary-General and a confetti shower! Saturday ended with a memorable inter-committee karaoke competition that featured performances from teachers, chairs and the organising committee, and Sunday brought together all aspects of the conference with our closing ceremony ending the weekend.

The event ran smoothly thanks to the efforts of the HabsMUN Organising Committee from both schools who worked closely with Mr Watson and Miss King to manage logistics, from catering to the opening ceremony.

The organising committee was led by our Secretaries-General: Seb (13S2), Alex (13J3), and Tamara (13 IBW/CAJ). Technology and reprographics were coordinated

by Amar (13R3) and Ishan (13H3), whilst media and communications teams were run by Aarav (12H3) and Sophie (13 JJM/SN), and the efforts of the secretariats who helped ensure the conference ran seamlessly was coordinated by Rhys (13H2). This year also saw the introduction of an advisor portal, run by Krish (13S3), that allowed delegates to seek expert advice on their resolutions from teachers.

The success of the conference depended on dedicated support from teachers, IT, catering, marketing, finance, reprographics, the school nurses and estates. This gave us the chance to bring over 600 people together to engage in youth diplomacy and fruitful debate.

Jewish society marks Purim with all female Megillah reading Our Jewish Society recently marked Purim with a joyful and inspiring all-female reading of the Megillah.

The event brought together students from across the school to celebrate a festival rooted in courage, resilience and community spirit.

Participants led the reading with confidence and pride, creating a meaningful moment of connection and celebration for everyone who attended.

The evening also highlighted the strength and vibrancy of our student groups, and the way our school community comes together to honour one another’s traditions.

There was a warm sense of togetherness in the room - students supporting friends, sharing in the festival’s joyful atmosphere and creating a space where identity and tradition could be expressed with confidence. The event stood as a beautiful example of how our students shape a community where every voice is encouraged, every story valued, and every celebration recognised.

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EVENTS

Joutes Oratoires 2026: regional French debating competition Habs Elstree was this year's proud host of the renowned Regional French debating competition, the Joutes Oratoires 2026.

More than 55 Sixth Form students and their teachers attended, travelling from schools across North London, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

The event, organised by the French department, brought together students to debate a range of contemporary issues entirely in French. The competition aims to develop students’ fluency, critical thinking and confidence in public speaking.

Students progressed through several rounds, each focused on a different motion: • Round 1: Junk food advertising should be banned • Round 2: Artificial intelligence threatens more jobs than it creates • Round 3: Universities should be free for everyone • Quarter-Final: The four-day week should become the norm in schools • Semi-Final: Fast fashion should be banned • Grand Final: Social media harms democracy Participants were required to present arguments, respond to counter arguments and answer questions from judges.

The standard of debate was consistently high, with students demonstrating strong linguistic accuracy and well-structured reasoning.

Although our teams did not progress to the National Final this year, they represented the school with confidence and professionalism.

Congratulations to Alex (13M3), Anahad (13M3), Neel (13S3), Tasir (13C2), Maryam (13 JYB/SGK) and Zahra (13 MJ/JHB) for their skill, effort and enthusiasm portrayed in this tough competition.

The French department thanks all visiting schools for their participation and positive feedback. The event was a valuable opportunity for students to practise advanced language skills in a competitive setting and to engage thoughtfully with current global issues.

Vive le débat!

The event was a valuable opportunity for students to practise advanced language skills in a competitive setting 26

A Remarkable Habs Giving Day filled with energy and community pride The fifth annual Habs Giving Day was a wonderful reminder that the Schools’ founding spirit of community and philanthropy remains as strong as ever.

As of now, we have reached £294,677 from 407 donors, and we are deeply grateful for every contribution. We were delighted to receive gifts from more than 310 members of the Habs community -

many giving for the first time - and your support means so much.

This year, a Habs family made an extraordinarily generous pledge to match every gift pound for pound, doubling the impact of each donation; such remarkable support is truly unprecedented and especially meaningful in today’s challenging financial climate.

Giving Day is about far more than fundraising. It was fantastic to see over 1,400 students, parents, and staff come together in support, with many taking part in the MiniDash

and GivingDash - many dressed in green to celebrate this year’s St Patrick’s Day theme.

One of the most special aspects of Giving Day is the way it brings the entire Habs community together to do something positive for the Schools while having fun, and it was a joy to see our students embracing the day with such enthusiasm and spirit.

You can watch highlights of all the Giving Day activities, including the Habs Girls vs Habs Boys Lacrosse match, here. Habs Giving Day 2026

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Music, Art and Drama Piano Day Piano Day returned in January with a series of events celebrating our fantastic pianists across the campus. Throughout the day, we enjoyed informal lunchtime performances in vibrant, busy spaces around the school, showcasing the breadth of talent within our community.

In the evening, we held the inaugural Habs Elstree Piano Competition. Students entered by submitting audition recordings, from which the most successful were invited to perform in the final.

The standard was exceptionally high, with every finalist demonstrating remarkable skill, musicianship and artistry.

Our guest judge for the competition was Miho Kawashima, staff pianist at the Yehudi Menuhin School, who praised the students’ excellent communication skills, their storytelling and their musical ambition.

Piano Day is an event that brings together performers of all levels of experience, while also providing a platform to celebrate the outstanding excellence found across our schools. The competition series will continue next term, with upcoming editions for Voice and Indian Music.

It was a wonderful celebration of music from start to finish.

Congratulations to our prize winners – in 1st place was Larissa (13 DHH/ CR), in 2nd place, Tamara (10 Ansuz), and in 3rd place, Richard (12R3).

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Piano Day is an event that brings together performers of all levels of experience, while also providing a platform to celebrate the outstanding excellence found across our schools

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

Habs in conversation – Creative industries

Nica Burns CBE (OH 1973), Laura Aikman (OH 2004) and Georgie Black (Habs Parent) were the special guests for our Creative Industries Habs in Conversation event at Soho Place Theatre.

Nica Burns is a multi award-winning theatre producer of over a hundred productions and is consistently ranked as one of the UK’s most influential figures in theatre. She is the owner of Soho Place Theatre, which she graciously hosted us in for the occasion, and is co-owner and Chief Executive of Nimax Theatres (comprising six renowned West End theatres: the Palace, Lyric, Apollo, Garrick, Vaudeville and Duchess). She is also Director of the 30

UK’s biggest awards for live comedy, the annual Edinburgh Comedy Awards.

Laura Aikman is an award-winning performer, with over a hundred credits to her name across film, TV and animation. Recent roles include Rachel Duffy in ‘This City is Ours’, Sonia in ‘Gavin and Stacey’, Dyan Cannon in ‘Archie’, Val in ‘Joan’ and Francesca in ITV drama ‘The Lady’.

Georgie Black is a Sydney-born, London-based barrister, theatre impresario, executive producer, and dedicated patron of the arts.

She is the founder of House of Oz – an award-winning philanthropic powerhouse – that is devoted to launching Australian creative talent onto international stages.

The on-stage discussion hosted by Mr Weinman, Habs Boys Director of Performance Drama, explored a

wide range of topics, including what it takes to build a successful career in the arts, how Habs shaped their journeys, the experience of being a woman in the creative industries, why the future of the arts matters and much more.

It was a real privilege to hear from these inspirational members of the Habs community as they shared their stories with such warmth, humour and honesty. Alongside offering powerful insights into the world of the creative arts, they shared a wealth of practical advice — from taking those first steps to building and sustaining a career in the industry. This advice was especially appreciated by A level drama students who attended, alongside the captive audience of alumni and parents who work and are interested in creative industries.

Chamber Music Concert Chamber Music is the term musicians use to describe smaller ensembles—such as string quartets, piano trios and wind groups.

In these ensembles, students often perform without a conductor, relying instead on exceptional listening, communication and teamwork. This is an extremely challenging discipline, but also a deeply rewarding one.

Our Chamber Music Concert in February was a wonderful celebration of the dedication and achievement that this art form demands. The concert featured a wide range of repertoire and performances from students in Years 7–13.

Performing without the support of a conductor requires tremendous confidence, and it was inspiring to see Habs students embracing the challenge so wholeheartedly. Their performances demonstrated not only technical skill, but also the joy of collaborative music-making at its finest.

Their performances demonstrated not only technical skill, but also the joy of collaborative music making at its finest.

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

A vibrant celebration of music at the Spring Concert

The Spring Concert in the Bourne Hall was a remarkable celebration of music, creativity and collaboration.

The programme traced an imaginative line from Beethoven to Beyoncé, exploring how musical ideas evolve across time – shaped, transformed and reinterpreted from

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classical traditions to modern global styles. Each piece was thoughtfully selected to highlight the connections between contrasting genres, allowing the audience to hear how influences from Classical and Romantic music continue to resonate in popular, contemporary and musical theatre works. The performances flowed seamlessly, creating a rich musical tapestry from start to finish.

We are incredibly proud of all the children from Years 3–6 who took part. Their singing, playing and enthusiastic performances demonstrated developing musical skill as well as confidence, teamwork and joy in making music together.

It was an uplifting occasion and a wonderful celebration of the creativity flourishing across the Junior School.

Their singing, playing and enthusiastic performances demonstrated developing musical skill as well as confidence, teamwork and joy in making music together

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

A stellar debut for the joint Senior House Drama event We were thrilled to host the first ever joint Senior House Drama event, which proved to be an outstanding celebration of student-led creativity and collaboration.

For the first time, students from both schools came together to take full artistic responsibility for their work – selecting, shaping, and performing pieces that showcased not only their talent, but also their imagination, discipline and flair for theatre making.

Each House presented a unique and thoughtful performance, and the atmosphere was electric as students stepped confidently into the spotlight. Our guest judges, all industry professionals, were hugely impressed by the ambition and originality on display, praising the performers’ commitment and the supportive spirit within the room.

Our guest judges, all industry professionals, were hugely impressed by the ambition and originality on display The event was a brilliant success and a fantastic testament to what our young people can achieve when given the opportunity to lead creatively. We look forward to seeing this new tradition grow, with even more exciting and innovative performances in the future.

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

Spotlight on our stage: The latest drama showreel We are excited to share a showreel featuring highlights from several of our recent productions.

These original works were created in collaboration with some of the country’s leading writers, directors, and musicians, who worked closely with our young performers to devise entirely new pieces complete with original songs and music crafted by the companies themselves. It is a wonderful celebration of imagination, teamwork and the vibrant creative talent within our school community.

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Jazz Concert

Our annual jazz evening is a favourite in the calendar, bringing together all our young improvisers and culminating with a performance from our award-winning Big Band.

In the first half of the concert we heard from our smaller jazz ensembles, performing music written by American jazz pianist Chick Corea. We saw students reacting in the moment, taking risks and expressing themselves in one of the most direct forms of self expression there is.

In the second half, our Big Band treated us to a programme of music by visionary composer Maria Schneider, taking on some of the most challenging yet beautiful repertoire written for big band and making it all seem effortless.

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

Guitar Festival Concert Our guitar ensembles at Habs are truly special.

Ms Castle creates space for every student who wishes to be involved, often writing bespoke parts so that musicians of all ages and levels of experience can perform together.

This inclusive approach is a joy to hear, and the sense of fun throughout the concert was evident to everyone in attendance.

The programme featured classical music, pop arrangements, and film music – a dynamic and diverse mix that reflected our strong value of community.

We also took a moment to say farewell to several Year 13 students who have been a fundamental part of guitar playing at Habs.

They leave behind a legacy of enthusiastic young musicians who will continue to build on their example.

Choral Concert The Choral Concert was a wonderful new addition to our calendar, bringing together all of our choirs for the first time in one evening of music.

More than 200 students took part, performing a wide range of repertoire including traditional songs, classical works, musical theatre and pop.

It was a delight to see the distinct personality of each choir shine through. Together, they created a programme that beautifully reflected the diverse musical passions of our students and staff, with each ensemble complementing the others perfectly.

The evening culminated in a rousing performance of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, featuring every singer on stage and accompanied by the 38

Habs Baroque Orchestra. It was a thrilling finale and a powerful moment of collective music-making.

This concert truly felt like the beginning of something special, and we look forward to many more evenings of shared singing in the future.

It was a delight to see the distinct personality of each choir shine through

Art scholar impresses at National Articulation Prize regional heat Written by Ms Hobbs, Head of Art The Art department is extremely proud of Yanxi (12 JYB/SGK), who took part in the regional heat of the national Articulation Prize at Christie’s Auction House this term. She delivered an impressive 10-minute presentation on Edwin Long’s painting The Babylonian Marriage Market (1875).

She was up against eight other students and was judged by Dr Francesco Ventrella, Associate Professor in Art History at the University of Sussex. He commented that Yanxi delivered ‘a very powerful presentation’ and praised her for encouraging the audience to consider The Babylonian Marriage Market in relation to feminist theories of the traffic of women during the Victorian era, and for presenting this discussion through a contemporary lens.

Yanxi narrowly missed out on reaching the Grand Final, finishing in second place overall. She gained a great deal from the experience of public speaking and meeting like-minded students with a passion for Art History. She is now part of the Articulation alumni network and aims to build on her experience by promoting the Articulation Prize to future year groups. Well done, Yanxi!

With the competition held at Christie’s for the first time, we also took Georgie (12 AE/NM) (our internal heat runner-up) and our Year 10 Art Scholars; Clara (10 Alpha), Safiya (10 Aleph) and Ela (10 A). What a fascinating afternoon at the auction house; as audience members we supported Yanxi and listened to a rich array of presentations. We were able to view the beautiful Shelter exhibition on display, and also Jeff Beck: The Guitar Collection. What a treat to view Kurt Cobain’s guitar up close!

Our Year 10 Art Scholars took great inspiration from the competition itself and recently entered their first year of the Discover Articulation Challenge, aimed at Key Stage 4 students.

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

Habs Company Music Festival unites over 300 students in joyful celebration The Haberdashers’ Company Music Festival returned for its fourth year, once again at the magnificent Milton Court Concert Hall at the Barbican. This much-loved event is a highlight of our calendar, uniting young musicians from all nine senior schools within the Habs Company family.

Led by Habs Elstree, students came together to form a Wind Orchestra, Jazz Band, Choir and Orchestra, rehearsing and performing side by side in a project that places collaboration, creativity, and community at its heart. It was wonderful to see our Elstree students forging new friendships and experiencing firsthand the extraordinary ability of music to bring people together.

The evening culminated in a joyful massed performance of Happy

by Pharrell Williams, featuring the newly formed Habs Company Orchestra, with over 300 students on their feet, singing and dancing.

A memorable occasion, the Festival once again showcased the strength and spirit of our extended Habs community.

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Habs Choristers perform Evensong at Barnet Church The Habs Choristers gave a beautiful performance of Evensong at Barnet Church. The group, made up of 21 pupils from Year 4-7, rehearses twice a week before school and continues to grow in confidence and musicianship.

The service featured music by John Rutter and the 16th‑century composer Thomas Tallis. The choir also sang a Magnificat and Nunc dimittis by Charles Wood, whose centenary is being marked this year. The pupils sang with real focus and commitment, producing a thoughtful and moving service.

Well done to all who took part and worked so hard in rehearsal. The Choristers are already preparing for their next engagement, when they will sing at Southwark Cathedral.

The pupils sang with real focus and commitment, producing a thoughtful and moving service

Junior instrumentalists shine at the breakfast concert We are incredibly proud of our Junior School instrumentalists for their outstanding performances at the recent breakfast concert.

These special mornings offered students a supportive platform to develop key musical and performance skills – whether that meant building confidence on stage,

refining tone and technique or sharing their musical progress with an appreciative audience of family and friends. Their hard work and commitment were evident in every piece played.

We look forward to seeing their talents continue to flourish in future concerts.

It was a joy to witness how much each performer has grown through practice and dedication. Events like this not only celebrate pupils’ achievements but also help nurture a lasting enjoyment of music and performance.

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MUSIC, ART AND DRAMA

The Freeman Ensemble at Our Lady of the Assumption, Warwick Street The students involved in this ensemble have achieved something very special. This group has been set up and run entirely by them, led by Nathan in Year 13.

In their first full-length concert they delivered a magical recital, featuring music ranging from Bernstein and Mozart to Wicked. It was inspiring to see a group of students taking such ownership and pride in their musicmaking, while also celebrating each other’s talents and personalities so warmly.

We often speak about music as one of the best areas of school life for forging friendships across year groups. This concert was a perfect example: a Year 8 student performed a key solo, supported throughout by older peers who showed encouragement, kindness and genuine camaraderie.

For us, it was perhaps the proudest moment of the term watching students create music independently and share it so generously. It was an evening that will live long in the memory.

Orchestral Concert Our final concert of the term was the Orchestral Concert, which took our students to the stunning Royal College of Music and its Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall.

On stage, we heard performances from the Symphonic Wind Orchestra, the String Orchestra and our Symphony Orchestra.

The programme explored themes of identity and journey. It wove together direct musical portrayals of specific cultures, such as Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence and Chabrier’s España, with more introspective reflections on identity in Roma and self discovery in Sibelius’ En Saga.

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As ever, these ensembles delivered an awe-inspiring performance an impressive testament to the strength of our Music School and to the talent, commitment and hard work of our brilliant students.

Sixth Form art trip showcases the best of Yorkshire’s cultural scene Our Lower and Upper Sixth artists from both schools enjoyed an inspiring and creatively charged weekend in Yorkshire this February, with Leeds as our base and a visit to the prestigious Turner Prize exhibition in Bradford as our main highlight.

The trip began at Leeds City Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute, where students explored the evocative landscapes of Atkinson Grimshaw and Neil McWhistler in Don’t Let’s Ask for the Moon, as well as a specially arranged viewing of Portrayals of Women, which has already influenced work back in the studio.

At The Hepworth Wakefield, students immersed themselves in the legacy of Barbara Hepworth and were guided through dynamic drawing activities by contemporary artist Vincent James - using wire, drawing at speed, and even sketching with eyes closed to encourage new forms of expression.

They also viewed striking contemporary ceramics by Axel Salto and powerful sculptural works

by Kira Freije, before rounding off the evening with an energetic life‑drawing session with the brilliant Craig Dyson.

By the end of the weekend, the importance of Yorkshire as a cultural landmark was clear On the final day, students experienced the Turner Prize in bright February sunshine over Bradford - particularly special as it was the first time the prize had ever been hosted in the city. They were captivated by installations from Zadie Xa and Nnena Kalu, moved

by Mohammed Sami’s paintings exploring memory and conflict, and inspired by the themes of belonging in the work of Rene Matić.

By the end of the weekend, the importance of Yorkshire as a cultural landmark was clear, with Leeds Art

Gallery, The Hepworth Wakefield and Henry Moore Institute reinforcing the region’s reputation as the UK’s hub for sculpture.

Alongside the exceptional art, students also enjoyed the vintage shops of the Leeds Corn Exchange, evenings of games and live music, and pizzas of unforgettable proportions. It was a thoroughly enriching trip, full of creativity, collaboration and inspiration that will continue to energise their project work throughout the term.

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Sports This term has been a truly outstanding one for sport at Habs Girls, with our teams delivering exceptional performances across a remarkable range of disciplines.

Highlights include the U16A Badminton team winning the regional round of the National Schools Championships and earning their place at the National Finals, the U15A Netball team securing the County Cup Plate, and the U14A Lacrosse team triumphing in the Division 1 National Plate. Our U15 Trampolining team also shone on the national stage, finishing an impressive 4th at the BSGA National Finals.

Our younger athletes matched this success with equal distinction. The U11 Dance Squad danced their way to 3rd place at The Great Big Dance Off, qualifying for the National Finals, while our Gymnastics teams delivered a clean sweep at the Regional Floor and Vault Competition— with the U11, U13 and U19 squads all claiming 1st place and advancing to nationals. These achievements reflect the talent, determination and team spirit that define sport at Habs Girls, and we could not be prouder of every student who has represented the school this term.

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Follow the link to read more about our Sporting Successes this term

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Trips Skiing down the slopes in Norway In early January, Year 10 and Lower Sixth students took a trip to Norway to try their hand at the Nordic slopes.

The trip began with a smooth journey to Bergen, where the students explored Norway’s second largest city. Travelling up the Fløibanen Funicular, Year 10 and Lower Sixth enjoyed panoramic city views from the top of Mount Fløyen.

On the second day, the students headed to the slopes in Myrkdalen.

From first time skiers to confident performers, each group worked with its own instructor to improve their skiing skills. In the evening, students played bowling, darts and table football before dinner and a well-earned rest.

Day three brought blue skies and excellent skiing conditions, although temperatures dropped to minus 20 at the top of the mountain!

Students spent the full day skiing with lessons in both the morning and afternoon. After skiing, Year 10 took part in a snow hike using snowshoes, finishing with hot drinks and a campfire in a teepee, while Lower Sixth enjoyed an energetic tobogganing session.

The following days delivered more bluebird conditions and near perfect skiing. The students continued to build confidence, from beginners skiing the main run to advanced skiers learning to ski backwards and try monoskiing!

Evening activities included Year 10 and Lower Sixth swapping tobogganing and snow hiking, as well as storytelling and warm drinks in the forest, a games night, pizza dinner and a memorable session of night skiing with music and lights.

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Instructors presented certificates to their groups to celebrate the progress made throughout the week.

The trip finished with a final day of skiing before flying home. Thank you to Mrs Findley, Miss Hewitt and Mr Scott for accompanying and their excellent organisation.

A trip to see New York’s art history Written by Chloe (9 Ansuz) Year 9 had a fantastic trip over the winter break to explore New York’s art scene.

I had the most amazing time in New York because every day was packed with exciting experiences and famous landmarks I have always wanted to see. From the moment we landed at JFK and arrived in Times Square, I felt the buzz and energy of the city. I really enjoyed going to the Statue of Liberty and learning the history behind the iconic statue. I also loved all the art museums we visited, my favourite being the Museum of Natural History as I was fascinated by the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life.

Another highlight was the meals; not only was the food delicious, but it was so nice reflecting on our day and sketching with my friends.

Overall, I had the best time and made memories that will last a lifetime.

I had the most amazing time in New York because every day was packed with exciting experiences

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TRIPS

Exploring Vienna: From imperial palaces to Christmas markets Our Vienna trip offered students a rich blend of history, culture and festive charm.

After an early arrival, students explored the city’s remarkable past on a guided tour, including a memorable visit to the Spanish Riding School stables and time to enjoy the Christmas markets.

Highlights continued with an engaging visit to the Medical Museum, where students learned about the evolution of medical modelling and the changing ethics of clinical trials, as well as having their first introduction to the story of Empress Sissi. The group also toured the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, gaining insight into the Habsburg dynasty while wandering through grand rooms and gardens famously used as film locations.

Students were then given the chance to discover Vienna independently - shopping for gifts, sampling local delicacies and soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Each evening offered time to unwind together back at the hotel, with spirited games of UNO and plenty of laughter. It was a wonderful trip filled with learning, culture and connection - Vienna truly left its mark on us all.

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From Durdle Door to Corfe Castle: Year 13 gain real‑world geography insights Year 13 Geography students took part in a three day residential field trip to Dorset. During the visit, they explored a range of coastal locations including Corfe Castle, Swanage beach, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.

Across the trip, students developed their understanding of coastal processes by annotating diagrams of erosional landforms and learning about high energy coastlines.

They also examined different coastal management techniques, looking at both hard and soft engineering in real-world settings. A walk across the sand dunes provided an opportunity to see how dune systems form and change over time, as well as how they are managed to protect the environment. In addition to the physical geography elements, the students also carried out human geography investigations

at Corfe Castle, focusing on local demographics and service provision. It was an enjoyable trip, with great weather and plenty of opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in the field!

CCF Cadets test their skills in a full section outdoor expedition Groups of cadets from Years 10-13 were dropped off in the Bedfordshire countryside and challenged to navigate their way to the campsite.

The groups were led by the Year 13 senior cadets, who had previously recced the routes. This part of the event brings together cadets from both schools and all four year groups, testing teamwork, navigation skills and resilience. As each group reached the checkpoint, there were big smiles all round and a fantastic sense of achievement.

Once at the campsite, the cadets set up, cooked and enjoyed the evening together as a whole Section – an impressive 76 cadets and nine staff. Highlights included the banquet meal prepared by the Year 13 cadets and an imaginative rap

battle between the Year 10 and 11 groups. This event only takes place once every two years, making it even more special.

Thank you to all staff and cadets for embracing the spirit of the event so wholeheartedly

The next stage saw the Year 10 and 12 cadets continue with a programme of activities and leadership tasks, planned and delivered by the Year 12 team. A huge amount of skill-building, problem-solving and leadership development took place, along with plenty of laughs and memorable moments. It was a brilliant example of what co-curricular life and the CCF experience are all about.

A special mention goes to the outstanding staff team who made the event possible: Lt Cdr Hardman, SLt Willows, SLt Harrison, SLt Makepeace Welsh, SLt Maister, Mr Fowles, Mr Teague and Ms Leveson.

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TRIPS

Hands-on history: Year 7 explore life in Roman Britain at Verulamium Year 7 enjoyed a fascinating visit to the Roman site of Verulamium, where they had the chance to step directly into Britain’s ancient past.

The trip began with a walk through the Verulamium Museum, giving students the opportunity to explore original mosaics, artefacts and displays that helped bring Roman life vividly to life.

The highlight for many was the hands on session, where students were able to handle real Roman artefacts and investigate what these objects can tell us about daily life nearly 2,000 years ago.

The group also visited a live archaeological excavation site nearby, offering a rare insight into how experts uncover and interpret the past. It was an exciting, educational day that enriched the students’ understanding of Roman Britain and complemented their classroom learning brilliantly.

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Les Deux Alpes: A snowy adventure to remember Our recent trip to Les Deux Alpes proved to be an unforgettable experience for students and staff alike.

Despite the heavy snowfall, the group embraced every moment on the mountain, enjoying afternoons skiing through fresh powder and making the most of the superb conditions. The energy throughout the week was fantastic, with students showing resilience, enthusiasm and plenty of progress on the slopes.

When they were not skiing, the group packed in a brilliant range of activities, from mini bowling and curling to a lively karaoke evening that quickly became a trip highlight.

A Pancake Day visit to town for crêpes added a delicious treat mid week, and an impromptu snowman building session sparked plenty of creativity and friendly competition.

The trip was filled with laughter, teamwork and new experiences memories that will certainly last well beyond the ski lifts closing.

The energy throughout the week was fantastic, with students showing resilience, enthusiasm and plenty of progress on the slopes 51

Junior news

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Check the Habs App to view everything the Junior School got up to this term!

Habs community Old Haberdashers start the New Year right We welcomed 80 Old Haberdashers (OHs) back for a fantastic evening of drinks, conversation and reconnection, kicking off the New Year in style.

The event was open to Habs Girls and Habs Boys OHs who graduated within the last 10 years (classes of 2016 to 2025). The atmosphere was warm and lively throughout the evening, with a real buzz as former classmates and teachers caught up, shared stories and enjoyed being back in familiar company. With a complimentary first drink and a photographer on hand offering free headshots, the evening was a memorable celebration of the strength of the Habs alumni network and set a positive tone for the year ahead.

A huge thank you to the Foundation Team and staff who joined us on the night and helped make the event such a success. Their presence and support were greatly appreciated and added to the strong sense of community that made the evening so enjoyable.

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HABS COMMUNIT Y

Who won the annual Mencap charity netball match for 2026?

Written by Rahul (12J1) Organised by the Joint Mencap Committee, this highly entertaining fundraiser saw Habs Boys Football First XI take on Habs Girls Netball First XI in an epic match.

The Boys were confident in their belief that this year they would finally defeat the brilliant Girls team.

The stage was set for a fiercely competitive encounter.

Hundreds turn out The match was held on the netball courts at Habs Girls, drawing a huge crowd. Over 200 students gathered courtside accompanied by teachers.

The atmosphere was electric from the outset, with chants, cheers and constant encouragement for both sides.

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Preparation and perseverance In preparation for this fixture, the Boys First XI football players had put in months of netball training, adapting to the sport’s positional discipline and fast-paced passing.

Facing an experienced and welldrilled Girls’ First XI was always going to be a challenge, but the Boys approached it with confidence and intent.

From the first whistle, the Girls team demonstrated sharp movement, accurate shooting and excellent teamwork. However, unlike in previous years, the Boys team were not overwhelmed. They persevered throughout the game, defending with intensity, communicating well and growing in confidence as the match progressed.

Habs Girls triumph again The Habs Boys team produced a spirited and resilient performance, but it was the Girls who ultimately

secured victory, with the match finishing 11-7. Their composure and consistency proved decisive once again.

Whether watching courtside or enjoying the doughnuts on sale, the school community came together for this amazing event in support of Mencap, with the money raised going towards the annual Mencap Funday which sees SEND children from the local community coming to Habs to enjoy a brilliant day of activities.

Well done to both teams for representing the school with pride and thank you to everyone who supported another fantastic Mencap Netball fundraiser!

Mencap’s Got Talent Written by Aerin (11 Ansuz) Every year, our school proudly hosts a highly anticipated charity event called Mencap’s Got Talent, a lively and inspiring talent show.

Five carefully selected acts took to the stage: a Year 10 band of Habs Girls and Habs Boys who sang Valerie, a Year 11 Habs Girls’ duet of Die on this Hill, a Year 12 girls’ group of Bollywood dancers, a Year 7 Habs Boys’ trio who sang Beautiful Things and a Year 12 Habs Boys 12 band who sang Billie Jean. What made the event even more exciting was the presence our hosts Devi (12 SP/ KAS) and Kai (12M1) and the staff judges, Mr Ormston, Mrs Opie, Mr Metcalfe and Mr Morris who offered encouragement, feedback, and ultimately decided on the winning act. Congratulations go to this year's winners who were the incredible

Year 12 band, The Jackson 5, made up of Jacob (12C1), Ravi (12R3), Arjun (12C1), Oliver (12S3), Daniel (12M2) and Arie (12H1), who were a crowd favourite, especially Arie’s Michael Jackson showmanship!

The main aim of the event was to raise money to fund the Mencap Funday in June. Through ticket sales, doughnut sales and donations, we are able to hold a fantastic and memorable Funday for up to 90 children with learning disabilities.

A big thank you to all the judges and staff who supervised behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly, and to the audience who played a crucial role through their support and donations. The atmosphere was electric, with over 500 tickets sold, excitement and energy were buzzing through the crowd from start to finish. Overall, Mencap’s Got Talent 2026 was a fantastic blend of entertainment and important fundraising, to support a valuable cause.

Excitement and energy were buzzing through the crowd from start to finish

Staff v Parents 11-a-side charity football match: a fantastic community event We were delighted to host a brilliant Staff vs Parents 11 a side charity football match, bringing together energy, enthusiasm and plenty of competitive spirit across the campus.

More than 60 staff and parent players took part in our annual competition, with each match filled with great teamwork, determination, and - most importantly - a huge sense of fun.

After a closely fought series of games, the Staff team narrowly clinched the win on goal difference. Well played

to every participant for making each match exciting to watch.

What truly made the event special was the incredible support from our whole community. It was wonderful to see so many students, colleagues, families, and friends cheering from the sidelines. The atmosphere reflected the very best of what makes our school exceptional - a strong, connected community coming together.

A huge well done and thank you to all players, supporters, and organisers for helping create such a memorable charity event. We’re already looking forward to the next match!

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Staff Appointments Joiners Dinis Gomes

Magdelana Kopitz

Danielle Armitage

AV and IT Support Officer

German Oral Assistant

Lacrosse Coach

Frank Collins Electrician and General Maintenance

Naomi Davis

Claire Beetlestone

Trainee Teacher of Geography

Compliance Manager

Qadeer Zaman

Rebecca Van Der Westhuizen

Gary Hanscomb

Compliance Assistant

Director of Development

Director of Estate Management

Isabella Earle

Jemma Donoghue

Tony Turnbull

Sports and Facilities Assistant

Netball Coach

Invigilator

Devorah Albert

Jacqueline Deadman

Invigilator

Deputy Head Pastoral

56

Leavers Karen Williams

Annelies Vettori

Sharon Shine

Invigilator

German Oral Assistant

Estates Administrator

Waqar Chaudhry

Amina Choudhury

Bill Friar

Electrician

Compliance Manager

Director of Development

Jamie Ypey

Lee Mason

Ellis Fletcher

Maintenance Manager

Site Manager (Habs Girls)

Groundsman

Helen McKay

Morris Castro

Annelies Vettori

PA to CFOO & Executive Team

IT and AV Support

German Oral Assistant

57

58

59

LOREM IPSUM