The week commenced with a delightful performance by members of the string section of the Senior Orchestra during Monday’s Prep Assembly. Their exceptional musicianship captivated the children, and Mr Harris expressed his hope that some may even be inspired to take up the double bass in the future.
On Wednesday, our Senior musicians joined us once again for the Carol Service. The Lower Prep Chamber Choir demonstrated admirable composure before a large audience, delivering a heartfelt rendition of Away in a Manger. The staff choir also gave a remarkable performance, though the children undoubtedly remained the stars of the occasion. My sincere thanks go to all who contributed to the success of this memorable event.
Thursday morning saw Lower Prep gather for the presentation of various Cups and Awards, reinforcing the important message of celebrating the achievements of others. This theme continued in Friday’s Prep Assembly, where we announced the House Cup winners for the term and presented the Headmaster’s Commendations.
For many pupils, the highlight of the week was our Christmas-themed celebrations, culminating in Christmas Jumper Day and a festive lunch. The array of colourful jumpers added to the joyful atmosphere. During our final assembly, excitement reached its peak as the results of the CPA Raffle were announced. We extend our gratitude to the CPA for organising this much-anticipated annual event.
Finally, we are pleased to share that the gifts from our Shoebox Appeal are now en route to Romania, where they will bring joy to children who might otherwise receive no gifts this Christmas.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and look forward to welcoming you back in 2026.
Mr Heaver
Carol Service
On Wednesday, our annual Carol Service took place. It is always a highlight of our school calendar, and this year was no exception. Our students delighted parents, staff, and governors with superb readings, singing, and musical performances. Our thanks go to our pupils; Mr Harris, Ms Evans, Mrs Green, Mr Smith; the staff choir; the staff musicians; the facilities team; the school office; and Mrs Sanders.
Christmas Jumper Day
On Friday, pupils and staff donned their Christmas jumpers in support of Save the Children and enjoyed a
Primary Maths Challenge
The first round of the Primary Maths Challenge took place during the week commencing 10th November 2025, and we are delighted to share how brilliantly our pupils rose to the occasion.
This year, every pupil in Years 5 and 6 took part in the challenge, competing against thousands of students from schools across the UK. The paper was slightly easier than last year’s, but it still required plenty of problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
We are proud to announce that Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates were awarded by the Mathematical Association based on scores out of 25. A huge congratulations to all our pupils for their hard work and determination!
Those who achieved the highest marks will be invited to take part in the Bonus Round in February 2026 an exciting opportunity to showcase their mathematical talent even further.
As one pupil put it, they “enjoyed the opportunity to stretch their brain and think in different ways.”
The Maths Department would like to thank and congratulate every pupil who participated. Well done, everyone. You have made us proud!
Ms Fagan
Lower Prep Visit to the Panto
All of the Lower Prep children visited the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre on Friday to enjoy the pantomime Beauty and the Beast. Great fun was had by children and teachers alike! It was a fantastic opportunity for the pupils to experience a professional performance following their own wonderful Nativity.
From singing “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to booing the baddie, the children were fully immersed in the magic of panto. A special well done to Moses and Jack, who bravely took to the stage during the audience participation what stars!
Mrs Green
(Permission given from Yvonne Arnaud Theatre to use this photo)
Lower Prep Cups and Awards
The Lower Prep School gathered together on Thursday for our termly Cups and Awards Assembly.
We were very proud of all the children who have worked so hard this term, and enjoyed celebrating their achievements together.
Music Exam Results
Congratulations to the following pupils on their music exam results this term!
Mr Harris, Director of Music
Initial Grade
Boris B
Henry H
Grade 1
Titus G
Teddy G
Piano Pass
Piano Pass
Piano
Clarinet
Merit
Distinction
Lower Prep Chamber Choir News
The Lower Prep Chamber Choir sang at All Saints Church, Ockham, on Sunday. They gave a beautiful performance of Away in a Manger and Can You Hear the Angels Singing. The children thoroughly enjoyed being part of the family Christmas service, which was a truly lovely occasion. A big thank you to the Lower Prep Chamber Choir for making it so special.
Mrs Green
Year 2 News
Year 2 had a fantastic time at Forest School this week! They cooked snowflake tortillas over an open fire and enjoyed an exciting Christmas-themed treasure hunt.
Mrs Green
Reception News
Reception had lots of fun making their own 'Stickman' models at Forest School on Monday. They loved playing with them in the Forest School site and enjoyed listening to the Stickman story with a delicious hot chocolate to end the session.
Mrs Prothero
A Message from our Chaplaincy Team
This Week
A reading from the Book of Isaiah
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Reflection
The Incarnation is the ongoing narrative of a God who actively seeks us out, bringing us into communion and meeting us precisely within our brokenness and pain. God's love, in profound humility, reaches down to mend our wounds and reveal our true calling. The Word taking on flesh transforms all things. As Advent begins, create room for Jesus, whose love alone can fill the void in our hearts.
Prayer
God of hope, be with us as we wait in anticipation of your coming. God of peace, still our hearts and minds that we may hear your word.
God of joy, Saviour, Son of God, Word made flesh, Emmanuel, God here with us, come among us now and make your home in us. Amen.
"Sanctify yourself and you will sanctify society." St Francis of Assisi
Week 1
Soup
Main Sweet & Sour
Chicken Hong Kong Style
Vegetarian
Sticky Teriyaki Quorn & Aubergine
Slow Cooked Beef Lasagne
Sides
Additional
Egg Fried Rice Broccoli
Roasted Vegetable Lasagne
Garlic Bread
Roquette& Balsamic Tomato Salad
Pasta with Tomato & Basil Sauce
Freshly Baked Bread Salad bar
Jacket Potato & Baked Beans
Freshly Baked Bread Salad bar
Roast Pork with Yorkshire Pudding, Apple Sauce & Gravy
Braised Lentil Cottage Pie with a Sweet Potato Top
Loaded Mexican Chicken Nachos with Sour Cream, Salsa & Cheese
