Habs Girls End of Term Newsletter - Autumn Term 2024

End of term

Settling into life at Habs

Upper Sixth students excel at Dulwich Schools Debating Competition

Success for HabsMUN delegates at prestigious MUNCH Conference

HabsMUN at Royal Russell

Leadership Day at Haberdashers’ Hall

Year 7’s exciting trip to Habs Hall

Sixth Formers host workshop at the ACEN Anti-Racism Conference

Dr Bridge wins prestigious Institute of Physics Award!

Noah Arram (OH 2023) talks about apprenticeships

Art and Drama 26

Joint Choral Day – Trinity College, Cambridge

Autumn Concert

Autumn Chamber Concert

Habs Young Musician Selection Concert

Concerto Concert

The Joint Festival Concert

Autumn Term Artists of the month

Habs Hall grand Art opening

Jeanette Barnes inspires creativity in Art workshops

Middle School Play Festival

Students shine at National Youth Theatre of Great Britain

The Video Store at the End of the World

Habs Navratri Garba 2024: a night of unity and celebration

Black History Month celebrations

Remembering together

Habs students reach for the stars with astronaut Tim Peake

Languages Week sparks conversation

The annual Extended Research Project presentation

Carol Service

Celebrating St Catherine’s Day

Year 10 get artistic in Cornwall

Lower Sixth enjoy a show-stopping performance

Year 8 visit the London Museum Docklands

Lacrosse team takes on Prague A week in Hamburg!

Habs staff lead by example and conquer Cadair Idris

St Catherine’s Parent Guild hosts outdoor cinema

Inspiring future swimmers with the AP Race

Student Council Directors 2024/25

Dr St John’s talk on Queen Victoria’s political journey

St Catherine’s Parent Guild firework display

Harvest festival

Fifty Years of Habs at Elstree: Head Girls’ Celebratory Lunch

Old Haberdashers lacrosse match

150 year anniversary Alumnae Carol Service

Summer telephone campaign raises vital support for bursary fund

Habs Partnerships: Building Courageous, Curious and Ambitious

Headmistress’ End of Term Message: December 2024

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we come to the end of the Autumn term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a busy, productive and rewarding time for our school community. Our students continue to live our school values in all they do demonstrating courage, curiosity, ambition and fostering a strong sense of community.

Our students have accomplished so much this term, both inside and outside the classroom. From exciting learning projects and sports competitions to captivating performances, they have embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and determination. It has been wonderful to watch them grow, not just academically, but also in their confidence, creativity and kindness towards one another.

We have enjoyed much fun this term as well, with St Catherine’s Day offering a chance for students to work together as Houses, student-led charity events and, just in the last week, both Christmas and Chanukah parties. Christmas Lunch and Christmas Jumper Day was great fun on Friday, and it is in these moments that we strengthen our community spirit.

I want to say a heartfelt thank you to our teaching and professional services staff for their hard work and dedication. Every lesson taught, every club run, and every extra effort made is deeply appreciated and I know it makes a lasting impact on our students.

To our parents and families, your support continues to be a cornerstone of all we do. Thank you for attending events, cheering from the sidelines, helping with homework and encouraging your children to be their best. Your partnership with the school is invaluable and I was pleased that this term we held out first Annual General Meeting, encouraging parents both to hear about what we as a school are doing and asking questions about our plans. This programme of parental engagement is set to expand still further next term, something that I hope will enable our parent voice to be heard more effectively.

On behalf of everyone at the school I wish you a peaceful and restful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. I look forward to welcoming all students back in January for what I know will be an exciting and inspiring Spring term.

With all good wishes,

Dr Hazel Bagworth-Mann Headmistress

Our students have accomplished so much this term, both inside and outside the classroom.

Success stories

Settling into life at Habs

The transition from primary 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.

Aiza (7 Aesc) shared how she found her first term in Year 7 here at Habs:

“The transition to Habs was a very fun but challenging experience because I came from a very small school and it is a little bit overwhelming when there are lots of people I don’t know. It took me around one and a half weeks to know my way around the school but I had a buddy so we could go to our lessons together. At the Induction Day and going around the school in general, if I got lost, I could ask anyone where to go and they would help me.

When I joined the school, there were a lot of clubs on offer for Year 7 and I have been able to get involved in any club when they are available. Currently, half of the clubs I take part in are sport and the other half are academic or for fun. I have also started playing lacrosse for the first time and am really enjoying it and wish to further develop my skills.

I have also joined the Muslim society which is extremely fun because the club is run by the Sixth Form and we play games and activities. There is also a multi-faith prayer room that we can pray in.

We went on a Year 7 trip to Whipsnade Zoo a few weeks into the term which was an amazing experience because I have never been to a zoo before. I got to see my favourite animal (red panda) and we walked around with our forms and teachers. The Habs fireworks event was a very impressive show which brought the Habs community together. Also, we had a team building day which was a great chance for me to get to know my form group better and build

connections. The homework at Habs is not too hard but not too easy because all of my teachers eased me in and gave us a fair amount of time to complete the work.

As much as being in a large environment was a little daunting, all the new friends I’ve made are from such diverse backgrounds and it is a lot of fun. I did have one friend that joined from my prep school which was nice to see a familiar face around. The teachers have made every subject fun and I have found a new interest in some that I didn’t know I liked before.

Overall, I was fortunate to have the choice to attend other schools, but I chose Habs over them and I couldn’t be happier here.”

We are delighted that Aiza is enjoying life at Habs and is taking her first term in her stride with such enthusiasm and positivity. Her story reflects the essence of what makes the transition to senior school so special — navigating challenges, embracing new opportunities, and building connections that enrich both learning and personal growth. Aiza’s experience serves as an inspiring reminder of the exciting adventures that await every new Year 7 student stepping into senior school life.

Students excel at Dulwich Schools

Debating Competition

Three strong debating teams from Habs Girls and Habs Boys travelled to Dulwich College to compete in their prestigious Dulwich Schools Debating Competition. Despite the Upper Sixth students being busy with UCAS applications, the teams, consisting predominantly of Lower Sixth and Year 11 students, brought enthusiasm and positive energy throughout the day.

It was also a pleasure to catch up with former Habs staff member, Emma, who now serves as Head of Debating at Dulwich College.

The debate topics were both challenging and thought-provoking, covering a range of issues from the decline of consensus media to whether first-generation immigrants should raise their children to disconnect from their country of origin.

After four intense qualification rounds, our teams narrowly missed out on reaching the final rounds. The competition was incredibly tough; however two of our teams managed to achieve eight points by the end of the day — a remarkable accomplishment that would have ordinarily secured a place in the finals.

Here are some impressive statistics from our first competition of the year:

• All three teams placed in the top 30 out of 80 competing teams.

• One team secured 16th place, while another placed 17th overall.

• All six speakers ranked within the top 30 out of 160 speakers.

Not only did they debate fantastically, but they also showed great sportsmanship, being courteous and encouraging to each other and their competitors — excellent ambassadors for our school.

Success for HabsMUN delegates at prestigious MUNCH Conference

Sixteen eager delegates from the HabsMUN Club, jointly run by Habs Boys and Habs Girls, set off for Cheadle Hulme School, south of Manchester, to take part in MUNCH, the largest Model United Nations (MUN) Conference in the North of England. The conference attracts top schools like Shrewsbury and Manchester Grammar and provides a platform for lively debates on both contemporary and historical issues.

The HabsMUN team excelled in various committee sessions, engaging in debates on modern concerns such as the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and the border dispute between Venezuela, while also addressing historical topics like the reunification of Germany and the Korean War.

One of the students won the Best Delegate award, whilst another earned the Best Young Delegate award representing Vietnam, and the teams representing Poland and St Vincent and the Grenadines received Special Mentions during the awards ceremony.

The delegates returned to Habs in high spirits, despite their exhaustion, with thanks to their accompanying advisors, Miss King and Mr Pedroz.

HabsMUN at Royal Russell

Habs made a strong return to the Royal Russell School International Model United Nations Conference, held over the first four days of half-term. This year, we participated as mixed delegations under Habs Elstree, representing the Joint Schools MUN Club. A total of 24 students represented Switzerland, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, accompanied by Miss King, Dr Nelson, Mr Watson and Mr Pedroz.

Three students - Tamara, Sebastian, and Alex in Lower Sixth - were selected to chair committees. Additionally, Hari in Year 11 was elected during the conference to chair the Crisis Committee, which tackled the creation of a Global Treaty Organisation aimed at challenging NATO and redrawing national boundaries. Ayaan in Lower Sixth participated in the UN Security Council, addressing the crises in Ukraine and the rebuilding of Gaza. Feeza Prajapati served as a judge on Mr Stern’s prestigious International Court of Justice, adjudicating a historical dispute between Nauru Island and Australia.

Feeza (L6 KP) served as a judge on Mr Stern’s prestigious International Court of Justice, adjudicating a historical dispute between Nauru Island and Australia.

Of the 213 resolutions submitted for approval, many drafted by our students were debated in committee. Two resolutions reached the General Assembly, including one by Reuben (Year 9), attending his first MUN conference. His resolution, which proposed a process to consider reparations for historical colonial acts, was passed. The General Assembly also agreed on targets for reducing global transport emissions, legal migration routes, goals for free and fair elections, and a disarmament process for Ukraine.

Awards were presented to Amogh (SFC1) and Reuben (9C2), both firsttime participants, as Distinguished Delegates. Anika (11 Aesc), Cormack (11J1), and Jamie in Lower Sixth also received recognition. Haiti’s delegation earned a Highly Commended Delegation award.

Royal Russell deserves praise for their superb organisation and excellent hospitality, including themed evening discos. They have set a high standard for our own HabsMUN 2025, scheduled for 14–16 March.

Leadership Day at Haberdashers’ Hall

The Leadership Day at Haberdashers’ Hall provided a unique opportunity for students from various Haberdashers’ schools to come together and develop their leadership skills through engaging, hands-on activities. Set in the beautiful and historic Haberdashers’ Hall, the event encouraged pupils to explore leadership through a series of creative exercises that stimulated all their senses, from navigating blindfolded tasks to baking bread. The day not only strengthened leadership qualities but also created connections among students from different schools, making it a memorable and enriching experience for everyone.

Tiah (6 CS) and Livi (6 CS) shared their thoughts on the trip. “At Habs Hall, we explored leadership through activities that engaged all our senses. We baked bread, using the calming power of its smell to help focus our minds. For sight, we navigated a blindfolded challenge, sharpening our awareness of our surroundings. In another activity, we created origami flowers while imagining the sweetness of honey to connect with the sense of taste. We also took on a drawing challenge to explore the sense of touch and wrapped up with a listening exercise that sharpened our listening skills. The trip was not only fun but also a fantastic opportunity to connect with students from other Habs schools and make new friendships.”

The trip was not only fun but also a fantastic opportunity to connect with students from other Habs schools and make new friendships.”

Year 7’s exciting trip to Habs Hall

Written by Shraeya (7 Alpha)

The Year 7 trip to Habs Hall was an exciting adventure into our school’s rich and unique history. It was a delightful experience to meet some of the staff who were part of the Haberdashers’ Company and to hear them explain how our school was founded. The building alone was stunning with historical displays hung everywhere. My personal favourite was the Habs’ Crest made entirely out of buttons.

We all participated in a number of activities, starting off with an interactive talk on the background of the company. The staff gave us insight into what it would be like to work in a Haberdashery, where you would sell buttons, ribbons, bows, hats, gloves and all sorts of sewing materials. The talk also included some roleplay where students represented companies competing against each other or traders in a marketplace trying to sell their goods.

In smaller groups, we were sent on a ‘scavenger hunt’ where we had to follow a list of clues to answer questions. This was a great teamwork activity and an opportunity to discover the different rooms of the Hall. Lots of girls, including myself, loved the distinctive artwork that symbolised our school while also connecting to our heritage. We joined in on acting out scenes as if we were in a painting of the Haberdashery, wearing hats to represent customers, servants and shop owners. An example of a goatskin glove was displayed for us to feel the soft material.

As part of our Haberdashery background, the staff demonstrated how to design our own crest and sew it using thread, felt and a button. We could customise the crest however we desired, adding designs like our initials or a personalised symbol. Towards the end of the trip, we were allowed to take these crests home as souvenirs. We were very proud of our creations which we pinned to our blazers.

At the end of the trip, there was a final competition where groups of five or more had to come up with a catchy slogan to sell an item. This was an extremely fun activity as everyone was able to get involved and contribute to the team. Four teams were chosen to enter the finals and the teachers and staff judged which slogan was the best. The winning team received a Haberdashers’ mug as a prize for their wonderful slogan.

Overall, the Habs trip was a fun day for everyone to bond, collaborate and learn about the foundation of our school. I would love to visit again!

Sixth Formers host workshop at the ACEN Anti-Racism Conference

We are thrilled that Fumbi (L6 HS), Tami (L6 HS) Mohammed (SFH2), Aqeel (SFR1) and Ore (SFJ1) represented our school and delivered a fantastic workshop for attendees at the ACEN Anti-Racism Conference.

The African Caribbean Education Network (ACEN) hosts several conferences for schools throughout the year, aiming to foster racial equity through systemic reform in top-tier educational settings where Black students are underrepresented.

This year’s conference focused on the various ways discrimination and social exclusion manifest in schools. It explored strategies to build student confidence in reporting these issues, examined gaps in current reporting mechanisms and suggested enhancements to systems already in place to better identify and address these challenges.

Our students contributed meaningfully to this critical dialogue, showcasing their leadership and commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments. Their workshop offered actionable insights that inspired attendees to think creatively about solutions for achieving racial equity.

We are immensely proud of their efforts and the positive impact they made at the conference. Their participation not only highlights the importance of student voices in driving change but also reinforces our school’s dedication to championing equity and inclusion within and beyond our community.

Dr Bridge wins prestigious Institute of Physics Award!

We are thrilled that this term Dr Kate Bridge has been recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) Teachers of Physics Award for her outstanding contributions to the field of education.

Dr Bridge was selected for this prestigious award due to her exceptional teaching expertise, passion for the subject and enthusiastic approach to engaging students. Her commitment to inclusive teaching ensures that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, can access and excel in the subject of Physics.

In addition to her classroom achievements, Dr Bridge has demonstrated outstanding leadership in professional development both within our school and across the local community. She has played a pivotal role in empowering other educators, sharing best practices and fostering a community of excellence in education.

Noah Arram (OH 2023) talks about apprenticeships

We had an excellent visit from Noah Arram (OH 2023) on Thursday 7 November. He spoke to around 20 Year 11 and Sixth Form students from both Habs Girls and Habs Boys about his PwC Flying Start apprenticeship in Technology, which he is completing at the University of Birmingham.

Mr Arram guided students through the unique apprenticeship programme that PwC offers, which combines university life with paid work placements. He shared valuable advice on fitting into the workplace, making the most of opportunities and navigating a competitive application process.

This talk provided students with an insight to the Degree Apprenticeship route and opened their horizons to other possibilities aside from the traditional university approach. We would like to thank Mr Arram for his visit and invaluable contributions - it was an extremely informative session.

Her outreach work with Physics Partners and her involvement in our Partnership Programme have further extended her influence, allowing her to inspire the next generation of physicists beyond our school. Through her efforts, Dr Bridge has supported and demonstrated several of Habs strategic aims and values, making a profound impact on students and teachers alike.

We are incredibly proud of Dr Bridge’s achievement and grateful for her ongoing dedication to both our students and the wider community.

Habs Navratri Garba 2024: a night of unity

and celebration

Events

We hosted our annual Garba Night to mark the vibrant Hindu festival of Navratri, and it was a wonderful evening filled with music, dancing and community spirit. The event began with an energetic prayer ceremony, setting a positive tone for the night. From traditional Garba dances like betaali, trantaali, dandiya and ramjanyu, to the powerful rhythms of our very own dhol ensemble, the atmosphere was amazing.

A highlight of the evening was the Aarthi ceremony performed midway through, providing a spiritual pause in the midst of the celebration. The delicious food added to the festive spirit, offering a chance for everyone to come together and share in the joy of the occasion.

This event has long been a staple in the Habs calendar, bringing together members of our community from various backgrounds. Regardless of ability, experience or faith, everyone got involved and made the night truly amazing. Once again, the Garba Night delivered on its promise to unite and celebrate the diverse spirit of our community!

Black History Month celebrations

At Habs Girls, Black History Month is not just an annual event but an integral part of our long-term strategy to build a strong, inclusive community. Through these celebrations, we are continually enhancing our curriculum to reflect the diverse world our students will navigate, ensuring they leave our school with both academic excellence and the empathy needed to contribute meaningfully to society. We hosted a range of activities, talks and workshops to celebrate Black History Month.

One of the key joint events was a talk by Genelle Aldred, hosted by the African and Caribbean Society. Genelle, an author and public speaker, addressed issues surrounding social cohesion. Her talk provided students with valuable insights into how diverse communities can come together in understanding and unity.

Additionally, internationally acclaimed storyteller Usifu Jalloh came and spoke to pupils in the Junior School. His performance was engaging, inspiring and informative. All the children and staff chanted and sang along as they learnt more about Sierra Leone and what it is like to live there. The event was enjoyed immensely by everyone who attended it.

The History Society also played a pivotal role in the celebrations, kicking off with an exploration of Kendrick Lamar, the Grammy Award-winning rapper and activist, whose music is known for its deep social and political messages. This session sparked discussions on how modern artists continue to shape narratives within Black culture.

Workshops throughout the month delved into various aspects of Black culture, from African drumming to storytelling, giving students hands-on experience of traditions that have been passed down through generations. Additionally, the African and Caribbean Society led an assembly on the theme of “Reclaiming Narratives”, empowering students to reflect on how Black voices and stories are told and understood.

One student shared a powerful personal account of what the Black community means to her, saying, “What is the Black community? To us, it’s everything we live every day. It’s in every part of our lives. It’s in our food. It’s in our sense of fashion. It’s in our businesses. It’s in our music.”

She emphasised the importance of music in the Black community, from Gospel to Hip Hop, Afrobeats and beyond. “Personally, I find it incredible because my grandparents were there at the scene when Afrobeats started in Lagos, Nigeria, in the 1970s. They have many stories of them going to see the King of Afrobeats, Fela Kuti. Today, Afrobeats is one of the most popular genres of music, not just in Black culture but across the global community.”

What is the Black community? To us, it’s everything we live every day. It’s in every part of our lives. It’s in our food. It’s in our sense of fashion. It’s in our businesses. It’s in our music.

In my community, love is jollof rice, plantain, moi moi, puff puff and so much more. It’s how we socialise and show love and respect.

The student also touched on how food is a vital form of expression within the community, explaining, “In my community, love is jollof rice, plantain, moi moi, puff puff and so much more. It’s how we socialise and show love and respect.”

Fashion and colour also hold significant meaning, as she recalled the vibrant African prints her grandmother used to gift her. “I loved the complex designs and the richness in colour. I now know that these were often worn for big communal occasions, such as weddings and christenings.”

Reflecting on Black history, she noted, “Black history is so deep and so rich that we couldn’t possibly cover every topic in a month. But I know from the stories from my own family that it’s about achievement, incredible people and overcoming adversity. It’s what ties us together. It’s what makes us a community.”

She concluded with a powerful reminder: “In the Black community, we live Black history 365 days of the year, not just once a month. Everyone’s got a story.”

We are deeply committed to fostering a sense of community and enriching our curriculum with diverse perspectives. This year’s Black History Month celebrations exemplified this commitment, as we engaged students, staff and guest speakers in a meaningful exploration of Black history and culture, broadening horizons while promoting inclusion and social awareness.

In the Black community, we live Black history 365 days of the year, not just once a month. Everyone’s got a story.

Remembering together

This November, Habs Girls and Habs Boys came together for Rememberance Day. This included parades and services, with junior pupils and senior students all gathering to mark the occasion.

On Friday 9 November, 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 solidarity and respect. 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 Last Post was played, followed by a salute and the Reveille, creating a poignant moment of reflection. The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths at the school’s Memorial by the Executive Principal and the President of the Old Haberdashers Association. It was a moving tribute honouring the service and sacrifice of those who have given their lives.

On Remembrance Sunday, students from the Junior and Prep Schools 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, both Habs Girls and Habs Boys joined in a collective moment of reflection and unity. The students’ 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, emphasising the importance of remembrance and community.

‘On Remembrance Day, special assemblies were held, led by the Headmistress, Dr Bagworth-Mann, with support from prefects who read a stirring poem followed by Mr Woodward playing the Last Post before the two minute silence held by the assembly. In the afternoon, the Junior and Prep pupils gathered once more on the Croquet Lawn for a series of readings, the Last Post and a two-minute silence, before laying a wreath to remember the lost.

Thanks to all those who attended our Remembrance events and to the students who represented Habs with such dignity and respect. These ceremonies are a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering those who have served.

Lest We Forget.

Habs students reach for the stars with astronaut Tim Peake

Students from Habs Girls, Habs Boys and five of our partnership schools recently experienced an out-of-thisworld opportunity as they participated in a live talk with British astronaut Tim Peake. The event, which brought together students eager to learn about space, was an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling stories, laughter and profound insights.

Tim Peake captivated his young audience with remarkable tales from his time aboard the International Space Station. From the excitement of rocket launches to the marvels of zero gravity, he gave students a glimpse into the life of an astronaut. His engaging storytelling sparked curiosity and led to a number of questions that only someone with his experience could answer.

The talk wasn’t just about the technical aspects of space travel; Tim emphasised the importance of teamwork and resilience, sharing how space missions depend on these qualities. He also encouraged students to dream big, work hard and, quite literally, reach for the stars. His words left a lasting impact on the students, igniting a newfound excitement for space exploration. The enthusiasm in the room was palpable, with many students expressing how inspired they felt. As Miranda (5 JM) shared, “The talk made me think more about the world above me rather than just the one around me. It inspired me to open my eyes and explore more about space through research.”

Sia (5 JM) also left the talk feeling motivated: “It was an inspirational talk because we learned all about his experiences and it has inspired me to become an astronaut engineer.” Aarya and Chloe (5 EL) added, “The Tim Peake talk was unforgettable, as he is such a great influence and has achieved so much.” And perhaps the simplest but most telling reaction came from Alayna (5 EL): “I really want to be an astronaut now!”

Who knows, Tim Peake’s visit may have sparked the aspirations of a future generation of astronauts. For all who attended, it was an extraordinary experience that will stay with them for years to come.

Languages Week sparks conversation

Written by Sofia (U6 BP)

This term, Habs Girls celebrated the diversity and beauty of languages with an exciting and enriching Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) Week. The festivities began on Monday with Year 7 students showcasing their creativity in a gingerbread biscuit decorating house competition, while Year 8 competed in an engaging MFL Spelling Bee alongside Habs Boys.

On Tuesday, Year 7 took part in a thrilling Languages Treasure Hunt, solving clues and expanding their vocabulary along the way. Midweek, on Wednesday, the whole school had the chance to learn new languages during interactive workshops run by students that introduced phrases and cultural insights from around the world.

Thursday brought a burst of talent and energy with a vibrant Talent Show that included performances from both Senior and Junior School pupils, while Year 9 immersed themselves in a dedicated Languages Day filled with unique activities.

The week concluded on Friday with a celebration of the linguistic diversity of our community, as students placed pins on a world map to represent the range of languages spoken at Habs.

To add to the excitement, a special prize was awarded to the teacher who best embraced and explored languages throughout the week, adding an extra layer of fun and engagement for staff as well as students.

Languages Week was a fantastic opportunity for the entire school to come together and celebrate the power of languages to connect, inspire and enrich our lives. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making the week such a memorable and meaningful experience.

The annual Extended Research Project presentation

On Wednesday 27 November 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 current 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 facultiesCreative, 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 Humanities and Social sciences speaker took us through a chronological journey of the rising of the conservative right as a political force in the USA. Gavriella (U6 MO) helped us explore the reasoning of Phyllis Schlafly’s campaign against the women’s liberation movement and how this created a driving force, a pinnacle moment in uniting a party position which had been disparate up to that point.

Our Creative speaker, Elijah (SFJ2) fused ideas from across the curriculum showing a true polythematic approach. Can string instruments be made more

sustainably with the development of new materials? He combined material science with the artistry of wood carving and reached the conclusion that whilst somethings can chance Rosin and its unique properties are something that are not replicated.

Our STEM speaker questioned whether silicon-based life would ever be possible. Dawei’s (SFC1) took a complex theory and broke it down in a way that the audience remained transfixed, leaving us with the love story of Silicon and Oxygen spoiling any chance of this element being a life form.

It was fabulous to come together as a community to celebrate the academic curiosity of our students. Every student in the audience of the ceremony has or will complete an Extended Research Project. Being able to celebrate their attitude to scholarship was a reminder to the Upper Sixth of how far they have come and sets the bar to the Lower Sixth for what they should reach for.

Carol Service

Written by Mr Scott, Deputy Head Operations

The carol-singing at the Haberdashers’ School, Acton is an annual function always enjoyed by the girls themselves, and their parents and friends.

This extract from an article in Middlesex County Times of 15 December 1915 demonstrates how important the Carol Service has always been to our school throughout our 150 year history.

Habs Girls held its first ever Carol Service at St Martin-in-the-Fields on 15 December 1969 and has returned every year since, except for 2015 when the service was held in Prevett Hall due to the increased terrorist threat in London in the aftermath of the Bataclan terrorist attack in Paris. In 2020, a choir of seven and congregation of four came to St Martin’s for the Carol Service at the height of the COVID pandemic.

On Wednesday 18 December we again relocated to this famous church for our annual Carol Service – it is an occasion of which we are very proud and we thank St Martinin-the-Fields for allowing us to continue this most special of school traditions.

The music at the service included traditional carols and choral items sung by St Catherine Singers, Senior Choir, Cantabile and Middle School Choir. Special items with a link to our history included Sir Richard Rodney Bennett’s Dormi Jesu, dedicated to Margaret Watts, who was Head of Music at Habs Girls from 1949 to 1969. Dormi Jesu was composed in 1963 and performed at the Carol Service in the same year. Liana Di Casale (OH 1965) remembered: When in the Lower Sixth, we sang a carol newly composed by Richard Rodney Bennett. He was introduced to us afterwards as Miss Watts’ godson; he congratulated us on our singing, which he said was ‘smashing’.

Thank you again to St Martin’s for hosting our service and we look forward to returning next year.

Celebrating St Catherine’s Day

The tradition of celebrating St Catherine’s Day was introduced in 1927 and has been done so ever since. Catherine is the Patron Saint of the Haberdashers’ Company and we were delighted to welcome the new Master, for whom the celebrations at Habs Girls were his first public engagement in the role. The day included both traditional and fun elements, with several House activities taking place including the House St Catherine’s Day Quiz, House Netball, House Singing and the House Egg Race, which this year ran its 33rd competition. We also held the final of the Edna Judd Poetry Recital Competition, a longstanding event in the school’s history for students in Year 7 and Year 8.

St Catherine’s Day is a day that binds together Habs Girls students of all generations and is a tradition of which we are very proud.

The day began with the St Catherine’s Day service at which readings from different faiths were shared, this year united by the theme of ‘Love for all’. Music was provided by St Catherine Singers who sang a piece by contemporary composers Gemma McGregor and Philip Moore. Tibi Gratias – I Thank You God was written by Philip Moore to celebrate 40 years of the school at Elstree in 2014 and was commissioned by the Old Girls’ Club. The text was selected both to reference the final line of the school Carmen (Mater tibi gratias) and the poem by E. E. Cummings was one of former Headmistress Mrs Penney’s favourites.

Meanwhile, in the Junior School, St Catherine’s Day was a joyful celebration filled with creativity, fun and community spirit! In Houses, pupils took part in a carousel of exciting activities, from taking part in an energetic drama session led by Razzamataz Theatre School, where they embraced their inner performers, to learning a dance to ‘Reach for the Stars’ organised by Showstoppers. The artistic talents of our Junior School pupils shone as they crafted vibrant works inspired by the bold, colourful art of Romero Brito, which has now been turned into an inspiring mural in the Key Stage 1 corridor. The day also included an act of service, where students made festive cards for the residents of a local care home, spreading cheer and kindness to those in the community. It was a day of learning, laughter and giving, truly marking the essence of our school’s values.

St Catherine’s Day is a day that binds together Habs Girls students of all generations and is a tradition of which we are very proud.

Music, Art and Drama

Joint Choral Day – Trinity College, Cambridge

On Sunday 15 September, over 100 students and members of staff began rehearsing as part of the first ever Joint Choral Day, preparing music for a service of Evensong. This intensive rehearsal period enabled students to learn a wide variety of music quickly before joining together as a full choir.

What followed was a visit to Trinity College in Cambridge, one of the largest and most prestigious colleges at the university, and home to one of the country’s best student choirs. Being allowed to visit and perform in Trinity’s famous chapel, which dates from the 16th century, was an enormous honour for the school and one that we are very grateful to the Master, Fellows, Dean and Chaplains for allowing. After a rehearsal in the Chapel, the choir sang a service of Evensong to a congregation consisting of

parents and members of the public. Students read the lessons and the music included Bruckner’s Locus Iste, Brahms’ Geistliches Lied and a setting of the evening canticles by Dyson. Psalm 150 was sung to a setting by Stanford, who was himself Director of Music at Trinity and Professor of Music at Cambridge. This was a musical occasion of high quality in a world-famous venue. Congratulations to all involved, especially Mr Scott (Habs Girls) and Mr Martin (Habs Boys) who directed the music at the service.

Autumn Concert

The Prevett Hall was filled with an enthusiastic audience of parents, friends and families for the Autumn Concert, bringing together nearly 200 students to perform in the first large-scale concert of the year.

With nine of the school’s ensembles and choirs taking part, this was a wonderful opportunity to see and hear the musical heartbeat of our community, with opportunities for students of all ages and abilities. There were instrumental highlights from Concert Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Sinfonia, Senior Trombone Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble, a spotlight moment for Anaya Jess as guest vocalist with the Jazz Ensemble, and beautiful, uplifting singing from Middle School Choir, Cantabile and Senior Choir.

Autumn

Chamber Concert

We were delighted to welcome in another busy and exciting year with the Autumn Chamber Concert in the Sime Hall, showcasing solo instrumentalists and singers from across the whole school along with performances from Senior Flute Ensemble and Saxes Aloud.

There was much to celebrate in the accomplished level of musicianship and technical ability of all who performed, in a highly enjoyable programme which included repertoire by Bach, Mozart and Elgar as well as favourite classics from the world of jazz and musical theatre.

Habs Young Musician Selection Concert

Written by Ms Jenkins, Director of Music

This was a wonderful opportunity to hear some of the school’s most experienced and advanced musicians, all of whom have already surpassed Grade 8 and Diploma level in their instrumental/vocal learning.

The annual Habs Young Musician Selection Concert took place at the end of November, with an evening of exceptional performances from Upper School students. and Wieniawski. Our thanks to all the students who took part in the concert, Raiya, violin (L6 CS), Maxine, trombone (11 Ansuz ), Larissa, piano (L6 HR), Millie, piano (10 Ansuz), Karis, voice (11 Alpha), Xiao, violin (10 Ansuz), Eliza, violin (10 Aleph), Gowri, violin (L6 HR) and Jayani, flute (L6 CS).

The evening’s programme of solo performances included works by Beethoven, Chaminade, Haydn, Sandstrom, Stravinsky, Walton

Congratulations to Eliza (10 Aleph), who was chosen as Habs Girls

Young Musician 2024 – 2025. She will now go on to represent the school at the prestigious Habs Young Musician Final in February at Haberdashers’ Hall in London, where she will compete alongside musicians from across tall the Haberdashers’ family of schools. We wish her all the very best!

Concerto Concert

Written by Mr Taylor, Director of Performance Music

One of our most virtuosic evenings of the year, this concert celebrates students who have made a phenomenal contribution to our music school and are their final year. This year our headline item was the Gershwin Piano Concerto, with two fabulous soloists sharing the movements, accompanied by the Habs Elstree Symphony Orchestra. The audience was in awe of the talent on display, we were also warmed by the show of support from our orchestra, who have worked so hard to do justice to their peers. Our music school is not about individuals, we are incredible proud of the depth and breadth of our offering – the evening was a celebration of that, and the incredible contributions our musicians make to life at our school. of our music school. That is why this is a house competition every year, not a solo one.

I was delighted to welcome Miho Despax to our music school, a celebrated pianist whose role as staff accompanist at the Yehudi Menuhin school perfectly placed her to judge our virtuosic young musicians.

To have reached this stage was a phenomenal achievement and if we ran this event 10 times in 10 days, I do believe we would have had 10 different winners. Our musical year has drawn to a close and all our musicians should feel proud of what they have achieved throughout the year – so many great evenings that will live long in our memory.

The Joint Festival Concert

Written by Mr Taylor, Director of Performance Music

Our first concert 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 our music school and a celebration of our community.

With superb performances from our Symphonic Wind Orchestra, String Orchestra, the Big Band and the Habs Elstree Symphony Orchestra, the young students in the audience were given a taste of what lies ahead for them in music.

The evening then culminated with two songs by Stevie Wonder, sang by the whole of year 7 and accompanied by our Habs Elstree Symphony Orchestra. A memorable night that should give inspiration to our future musicians.

Autumn Term Artists of the month

September 2024: Amber (11 Aesc)

Our inaugural Artist of the Month was Amber Rahman, recognised for her extraordinary response to the GCSE Art Trip to St Ives, Cornwall. Amber’s sketchbook captures the essence of her artistic journey, inspired by Cornish landscapes, a vibrant sunset and numerous galleries. Notably, Amber explored Nicola Bealing’s work and created a sculptural piece from everyday materials, showcasing her creativity and initiative over the summer break.

October 2024: Year 9 Photography Students

In October, the spotlight shined on all Year 9 Photography students in Miss Hewitt and Miss Crewe’s classes. Their interpretations of the exhibition Portraits to Dream In by Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron, have been outstanding. Through thoughtful photography and editing, students brought themes of fantasy to life with adjectives like whimsical, mystical and utopian defining their work.

November 2024: Exceptional Talent

• Helen (11 Aleph): For her courageous experimentation with media, resulting in significant progress in idea development.

• River (11 A): For their breathtaking application of paint, blending digital inspiration into traditional techniques.

• Imani (11 Aesc): For her ambitious use of scale and dedication to mastering her painting techniques.

December 2024: Mixed Media Innovators

• Amie (10 Ansuz): Celebrated for her dynamic use of mixed media, creating a textile hanging inspired by Cas Holmes, seen at the Knitting & Stitching Show.

• Selvi (10 A): Recognized for her insightful application of an artist’s style, following an inspiring interview at the same show.

• Trinity (10 A): Praised for her detailed sketchbook and innovative materials, excelling in a recent Life Drawing session.

These students’ efforts reflect their dedication, creativity and skill of various artistic techniques. Congratulations to all!

Habs Hall grand Art opening

Nominated and selected artists from the Haberdashers’ Schools were invited to a special day at Haberdashers’ Hall in November.

Students had the opportunity to meet and work with artists such as Ann Carrington in the creation of individual and group artworks using everything from buttons to toy cars!

Students also had the opportunity to learn about careers in the Arts and network with students from other schools. Yashika (L6 MS) and former art student Emily Hesse joined Mrs Hobbs on the day, along with nominated and selected artists from Habs Boys.

We were particularly proud of Mayuri (L6 KP), whose GCSE piece ‘Sanctuary’ was selected for display at the hall.

The event was a fantastic day of creativity and collaboration, inspiring students to explore their artistic potential, with great thanks to the Haberdashers’ Hall.

Jeanette Barnes inspires creativity in Art workshops

For two days in November, we had visiting artist, Jeanette Barnes, work with us in the Art Department. Jeanette studied Fine Art at the Royal Academy Schools and Printmaking at the Royal College of Art. For the past twenty-five years, she has worked on large energetic drawings of the urban landscape. She exhibits widely and recently won first prize in the Trinity Buoy Wharf Prize for her large-scale study of Battersea Tube Station.

Our Year 8’s were lucky enough to work with Jeanette in an ‘Openings and Entrances’ workshop, using fast-paced layered line drawing techniques. We had lunchtime talks, after school life drawing sessions and Sixth Form artist tutorials. It was a joy to have Jeanette with us and we all learnt a great deal from her high-energy teaching, expressive mark-making techniques and her creative wisdom!

Written by Diyanjali

(7 Ansuz)

The Habs Middle School play consisted of four plays; Family Vacation, Something’s Missing, Cat Hair and The Twelfth Night. Each one had a very unique plot and story line making it an amazing show to have watched.

Family Vacation is an amusing modern play, based on a family going on holiday. This family hadn’t gone on holiday in years. The parents are followed and

consistently asked to sign up for things, the daughter is dealing with a breakup and the son is trying to get over his fear of the ocean and sharks. The son and mum drink a disgustingly spicy smoothie from the annoyed waitress and get into a massive fight with seagulls! Each family member gets over their problems and for one final day have an amazing holiday together.

Something’s Missing is a very interesting play about a play within a play. It shows that even though half the cast weren’t there, the show still had to go on. The actresses were amazing, they portrayed emotion and feeling so well. The play was about a cast portraying the play with less cast members hence the sense of unfamiliarity. The story line of the story within the story was of a ruby that had been stolen, and the detective trying to find the culprit.

Cat Hair is a funny, energetic play all about two cats and how much hair they shed. No matter how much their owner grooms them, they still have an infinite amount of hair. Cat hair is performed by outstanding

actors. Some of the highlights of the play are the deaths -many people found it funny that the narrators chose when each character dies and in general how fun the play is to watch.

The Twelfth Night is an elegant classical play based on an intricate love story. The play is based off the Shakespeare story, The Twelfth Night, the play is portrayed so well by the actors. Even though the story is in early English.

Being backstage was an amazing opportunity. I got to see how all the plays came together in the last few rehearsals. Some of the teams backstage were hair & makeup, costumes, stage management and lights and sound. All the groups backstage worked so hard and enjoyed it. Each backstage member got a chance to pick which department they wanted to be in that made sure everyone had an opportunity to do something different.

It was a fantastic evening of outstanding performances. Well done to everyone involved!

Written by Saathana (11 A)

“On Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 November, the Middle School Play Festival took place! This year, the drama department decided to put on four separate productions each directed by a different teacher. These shows involved students from Year 7 to Year 9 and was a brilliant opportunity for the different year groups to bond and make new friendships, all while putting on a fabulous performance with unwavering passion. The festival celebrated four comedic, unique, one-act plays performed by four companies of enthusiastic, creative actors whose ambition and pride shone admirably over the two nights.

The Middle School Play Festival brought together a large community of actors as well as technicians. Whether they were a part of stage management, props, hair and makeup, costume, sound, publicity or lighting, the students ‘behind the scenes’ worked tirelessly to make the show as incredible as possible. Their contributions greatly impacted the productions that took place, and it could not have been such a seamless night without them, taking the show to the next level!

In between each production, there was a musical interlude, showcasing the incredible vocal talent here at Habs. From Grease to Mary Poppins to Wicked and many more, the students showed off their musical talent, taking the audience on a journey in between each show.

Miss Rockley directed the first play of the evening, ‘Twelfth Night’ by William Shakespeare. This play has been performed at Habs Girls three times in the past, most recently being performed in 1999. Therefore, the cast of Twelfth Night started the evening off in celebration of our school’s 150th birthday, performing their own version 25 years later. A particularly striking moment in the production was watching Olivia falling in love with Viola, pretending to be her brother, instead of the Duke Orsino, making the audience laugh constantly.

Mr Boyd directed ‘Something’s Missing!’, a play about a theatre cast who have actors that have gone missing and who have no understudies. Therefore, the lead of the show now doesn’t know any of her lines and must convince the audience otherwise whilst also only having half a cast. This play was hilarious, with laughter errupting by the minute. A highlight for me was watching Detective Harris start to really enjoy the play, making up bits as she went along before hastily being corrected by her fellow cast mates!

Mrs Murphy directed, ‘Family Vacation’, a story of a family

embarking on a life-changing trip, making endless memories along the way. From seagull fights, to time-share scammers, the family had an adventure waiting for them. From rehearsals to show night, Family Vacation came to life, displaying the cast’s unwavering commitment and pride in their show. A personal highlight of mine was blocking the big ‘fight scene’ at the end of the show. We worked on making it as chaotic as possible, ensuring every character was seamlessly part of the chaos whilst the seagulls swarmed around them as Stan and Bones fought to the sound of ‘The Final Countdown’.

Mr Janes directed ‘Cat Hair’, a hilarious production displaying how cat hair is infinite and how it is plotting the downfall of humanity. No matter how much hair you brush off a cat, there will ALWAYS be more! This comical performance had many iconic moments, my favourite was the narrators making the scene as dramatic as possible, claiming that every character had died even if they were inanimate!

The Middle School Play Festival was a roaring success, showcasing the creativity, passion and enthusiasm that these actors all possess. From the incredible stage design to the hand-crafted props and jawdropping costumes, the production element of the plays was impeccable! These shows are a testament to the actors, technicians and the Drama departments commitment and drive, and overall, their love for acting and the performing arts.”

Students shine at National Youth Theatre of Great Britain

We are thrilled to announce a remarkable achievement by several talented students who recently completed an intensive training course with the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain. Over the summer, these young performers demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication, culminating in their acceptance on to a prestigious program that attracts thousands of applicants each year.

Last year, the students auditioned against a pool of nearly 4,000 hopefuls from across the country. Their standout performances not only showcased their unique talents but also earned them a coveted place among the 31 students from Habs who have trained at the National Youth Theatre Company. This accomplishment is significant, as it allows them to continue auditioning and working with the company until the age of 26, providing invaluable opportunities for growth in the performing arts.

Congratulations to Maanya (11 Alpha), Yanxi (11 A), Tom (SFJ3), Daniel (11J1) and Obaf (11M2) for their hard work and dedication. Their success is testament to their talent and commitment to the craft of acting and we are excited to see how their journeys continue in the world of theatre.

Last year, the students auditioned against a pool of nearly 4,000 hopefuls from across the country.

The Video Store at the End of the World

Written by Mr Weinman, Director of Performance Drama

Creating new work means revealing the fragile process behind it — honesty, self-reflection, imagination, joy, fear, doubt and inevitable failures. How do we convey that this performance could have been completely different without this company’s unique voices, stories and dreams? Or that countless unseen ideas, characters and scenes shaped what was created? None of it happens without a culture of dedication, patience and bravery - young people and their creative team playing, struggling and trying.

At its core, this performance is about fear — standing on the edge of the unknown. For Alex, it’s saving one of the UK’s last video rental stores. For Laura, it’s deciding whether to have a child. For Joe, it’s facing an apocalypse. For 1985 video store employees, it’s forming an apocalypse film club — part preparation, part connection.

But it’s also about hope. How do we confront a crumbling world and keep living and dreaming? How do we resist letting fear define us?

This piece grew from many seeds: an article on the last Blockbuster, generational fears of being the last and questions about creativity’s place in a world shaped by streaming and AI. From these ideas, we created a hopeful play about the end of the world with music.

The young company’s openness to collaboration, courage in the mess and responsibility for their

stories shaped every moment. Their bravery makes work like this possible.

As a creative team, we’re deeply grateful. Reuniting with songwriters Sam Griffiths and Matthew Herd, writer James Fritz, theatre maker Matt Harrison and singing coach Immy Churchill has been a privilege. Their talent, combined with the students’ ideas, brought something truly unique to life.

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 lacrosse tournaments and netball victories to outstanding performances in cricket, swimming, fencing and squash 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.

Netball

• U12C and U19B teams won their fixtures against Parmiter’s, with commendable performances from U15 players stepping up to help the U19s.

• Year 8 Netball (A-D Teams) secured 3 wins out of 4 matches against Berkhamsted showing excellent teamwork and skill on a cold night.

Lacrosse

This term we have excelled in all areas of lacrosse. From skill improvement in lessons to ranking highly on a number of competitive tournaments.

• England Lacrosse Challenge Cup - The 1st Team competed among the top eight schools in the country and performed exceptionally well in tightly contested matches.

• Lacrosse Counties (U19 Teams)

- 1st Team secured a silver medal finish.

- 2nd Team finished 4th, narrowly losing in the playoffs.

- 3rd Team finished 5th with close games and positive plays.

- The tournament highlighted strength, perseverance and consistent improvement.

• The U19 and U15 teams had a successful trip on the Prague Tour, securing 4 wins against Czech Republic teams while enjoying cultural exchanges.

• Our youngest players in Year 7 participated in their first matches against St George’s, showing enthusiasm and great potential.

• Saturday matches - Teams have continued to play brilliantly week by week with some table-topping performances.

Not to forget we have had many exceptional achievements for individuals throughout the term such as Ellie (8 Aleph) being selected to represent Wales in the U15 National Squash Squad and Emma (7 Ansuz) who took the silver medal at the 2024 British Judo Championships. We are proud of all students who show commitment to sporting excellence both within and outside of the school.

Cricket

Lady Taverners Indoor Cricket Competition (U18 Team) achieved 2nd place at Lords, demonstrating outstanding skills and team spirit in a national-level competition.

This term has been an exceptional showcase of talent, teamwork and determination across various sports. We cannot wait to continue to build on this success in the new year!

Trips

Year 10 get artistic in Cornwall

Our Year 10 artists had four creative days in sunny St Ives in July to kick-start their coursework theme ‘People and Places’. St Ives itself has long been an artistic hub, attracting artists since the time of J.M.W. Turner (1775-1851). Artists have always been attracted to Cornwall due to the beauty of the landscape and the quality of natural light.

Some of the key highlights of the trip included meeting and working with several amazing artists. Greg Humphries (St Ives School of Painting) kicked off with a walking/ sketching tour of the harbour area and an introduction to Modernism and Abstraction in St Ives in the 1940s to 1960s.

Inspiration and knowledge were also gained from several powerful female artists on the trip. We were lucky enough to meet, listen to and question contemporary artist Nicola Bealing in a walkthrough of her exhibition ‘Dead Man’s Fingers’ at the Newlyn Gallery, which was a fascinating mix of figurative painting and immersive installation work. Students loved this experience, and it was exciting to then explore how it connected to the work of sculptor Barbara Hepworth, whose home and sculpture gardens were visited and admired. Students had the opportunity to work in the Porthmeor Print Studios with artist Annabel Wilkes for Printmaking workshops inspired by sketches and beach collections. Ms Wilkes

taught the group how to build collagraph plates and use the traditional press. Creations were brought home to fuel coursework projects. Next, the young artists caught the train to Penzance to view and learn about the work of the Newlyn School of Painters at the beautiful Penlee Gallery and had the chance to view the exhibition

‘The Exceptional Harold Harvey’.

A major highlight of the four days was the key visit to Tate St Ives, where they viewed works by artists such as Wilhelmena BarnesGraham, Naum Gabo and Alfred Wallis. The Tate was also displaying the incredible large-scale work

of contemporary artist Beatriz Milhazes, another inspirational female artist excited by the colour and vibrancy of the environment surrounding her. Living and working in the coastal city of Rio de Janeiro, she produces exuberant, densely layered works that we sketched from and learnt about.

The beach itself was a rich source of artistic joy for everyone throughout the time away. We painted, paddled and pondered the scenery, made sketches and reflected on the concepts presented to us by the artists we met and worked alongside.

Lower Sixth enjoy a show-stopping performance

Written by Sofia (L6 MO)

On Wednesday 11 September, Lower Sixth English students were treated to a performance of Tom Stoppard’s The Real Thing at the Old Vic.

Settled in front of the interesting, minimalist set, we watched as Stoppard’s characters drew us into their romantic affairs; witnessing transitions of lust and love, the breakdown of relationships and the formation of new ones. The quality of the acting had us immersed in the world of the characters, and, with a good soundtrack and a wonderfully thought-provoking script, the Lower Sixth were able to leave the theatre with much to discuss in our A level lessons the next day.

Year 8 visit the London Museum Docklands

On Thursday the 28 November, the Year 8 cohort went on a trip to the London Museum Docklands, organised by the History department.

Located just outside the Square Mile, the museum is located in a 200-year-old sugar warehouse which reveals the long history of the capital as a port through stories of trade, migration and commerce from Roman settlements to the more recent development of Canary Wharf.

The Year 8s enjoyed looking through the various galleries, all of which offered an interactive experience and the atmospheric recreation of 19th century London in Sailor Town was a particular highlight. The students also learnt about the City’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade at the London, Sugar and Slavery gallery, which is a vital component of the Year 8 History curriculum.

PHOTO OF LONDON MUSEUM DOCKLANDS, WWW.LONDONMUSEUM.ORG.UK, 2024

THE OLD VIC THEATRE, ADVERT, 2024

Lacrosse team takes on Prague

A group of Habs students recently embarked on a memorable lacrosse tour of Prague.

As part of the tour, Habs competed in a series of matches against some seriously strong opponents! The students were up against the Under-19 Czechia team, a further squad from Munich and two local club teams from Prague. On the final day of matches, our teams even tasted the excitement of lacrosse sixes, a new sporting addition to the Olympic Games. Away from the pitch, the students explored the city’s iconic landmarks, including Prague Castle, Charles Bridge as well as a Astronomical Clock, as well a fantastic adventure down the Tobogganing tracks which really got the competitive nature of the squad to kick in. They also enjoyed a boat cruise along the Vltava River along with many more activities to further encourage team-bonding. Overall, the students relished in the fast-paced, high-level competition, while the trip itself created unforgettable memories. Both teams are now eager for their next tour.

A week in Hamburg!

Written by Thea (11 A)

In October half term, we were lucky enough to travel to Hamburg. After landing, we went on a walking tour around the central parts of Hamburg with a local guide. We visited the Rathaus (town hall), saw two lakes and the surprisingly friendly swans who lived there and learnt about Stolpersteine (stumbling stones), which commemorate the victims of the Nazis.

The next morning, we had language lessons at the Inlingua Sprachschule. Following this, we went to Großneumarkt to experience authentic German street food. Then we went to Michaeliskirche and after struggling to the top of the 453 steps, we arrived at the top of the tower to stunning views of the city. After a quick dinner, we took a boat across the River Elbe to the theatre to watch the much-loved musical: ‘Der König der Löwen’. The costumes, music and staging created an amazing experience for everyone – this was one of the highlights of the trip!

On day three, we had more language lessons and then went on a boat trip around the harbour, taking in the stunning banks of the Elbe. Afterwards, we went to the Panoptikum – a wax figure museum. Here, there were models of not only international celebrities that we knew, but iconic German stars as well, giving us a further insight into German culture. Next, we went to the Miniatur Wunderland, where we saw model areas of Germany, Switzerland, France and even got to look at the new Arctic area they were constructing.

On our last full day in Hamburg, we go to experience of what it was like to be blind through the Dialoghaus Hamburg institution. We were submerged in complete darkness and had to follow our guide and each other through the rooms. The afternoon was filled with more visits, including the Elbphilharmonie Plaza and recently renovated St Pauli World War II Bunker, each providing great views of Hamburg in the sunshine!

Our last visit of the trip was to the Chocoversum – a chocolate museum. Here, we learnt not only about how chocolate was made,

but also considered the ethical issues around the chocolate. After some reflection, we had the opportunity to taste chocolate at each stage of its journey from bean to bar and were even able to decorate our own to take home (though I think most peoples had ‘disappeared’ before then).

Overall, we really enjoyed the trip and came back to London with a deepened appreciation of the German language and culture. We would like to thank both our teachers and guides in Hamburg for everything they did to help us have such an excellent time.

Junior news

It has been an action-packed Autumn Term in the Junior School, with highlights including a moving Remembrance Day service, heartwarming Nativity plays and captivating music concerts. We celebrated St Catherine’s Day with enthusiasm and marked Black History Month with meaningful activities and discussions. Our young athletes achieved amazing sporting successes, particularly in football and netball. The term was truly one to remember, filled with joy, learning and community spirit.

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

Habs community Habs staff lead by example and conquer Cadair Idris

On Friday, 29 enthusiastic staff members from Habs Elstree Professional Services and Habs Boys set off for King’s Youth Hostel near Dolgellau in Wales for the annual staff mountaineering trip. For 11 participants, it was their first time, but a spontaneous team-building activity before departure quickly made everyone feel part of the group. We set off full of energy and excitement for the adventure ahead.

Saturday morning revealed the lush woodland surrounding the hostel, with the stunning Welsh mountains as a backdrop. With the challenge ahead in mind, we boarded minibuses for a 20-minute

drive to the start of the Minffordd Path on the far side of the Cadair Idris mountain range. Our route would take us to the peak and back down to the hostel — a challenging 14km hike across steep and rugged terrain, with nearly 1000m of elevation gain and descent.

The path rose quickly through the woods, and the waterfalls in the nearby stream highlighted how much height we were gaining. The group naturally spread out as everyone found their pace, forming smaller groups, with plenty of encouragement shared along the way. We paused regularly to enjoy the scenery and catch our breath, regrouping periodically to check in with each other.

As we climbed higher, the views grew more impressive, though the hike became more tiring. Yet the team spirit remained strong, with everyone spurring each other on. After a final steep ascent over rocky ground, the whole team

reached the summit, celebrating the achievement together. Despite the sudden drop in visibility, spirits were high as we took shelter from the wind and mist at the top.

The descent was as tough as the climb, but the thought of a warm shower and a hot meal kept everyone motivated. By late afternoon, we had all safely made it back.

After a quick break to freshen up, the team gathered in the dining room for a well-earned meal. The room was buzzing with energy after the day’s efforts. The evening ended with everyone gathered around a campfire, enjoying the warmth.

On Sunday morning, it was time to head home, but not before a short, refreshing coastal walk to ease tired legs. A few hours later, 29 happy but tired mountaineers arrived back at the school, all hoping there would be enough coffee in the staff room on Monday.

St Catherine’s Parent Guild hosts outdoor cinema

Our St Catherine’s Guild organised a fantastic outdoor cinema event that brought the Habs community together. Guests had the chance to watch two popular family films, Elemental and Wonka, in the beautiful setting of the Habs grounds.

Families enjoyed delicious food and treats courtesy of their very own ‘Chocolate Factory’ offering the ultimate movie snacks, from popcorn, to waffles and crepes! Children got involved in face painting and games, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for all ages. Large bean bags also made a comfortable spot for everyone to settle in and enjoy the outdoor screenings.

The event was more than just entertainment — it served as a way for families within the community to connect whilst raising vital funds to support the bursary scheme It reflected the Guild’s ongoing commitment to fostering a strong and supportive environment for all.

The outdoor cinema was wellreceived, with many attendees appreciating the opportunity to come together and enjoy the

afternoon. It was a successful gathering that reinforced the importance of community engagement and many are already looking forward to future events! Thank you to the St Catherine’s Guild for their ongoing support.

Inspiring future swimmers with the AP Race

It was a fantastic honour for Habs to host the AP Race Clinics Summer Tour 2024, an event led by triple Olympic Champion Adam Peaty OBE. Founded by Peaty himself, AP Race is driven by a mission to help swimmers, coaches and parents to be “better than yesterday.”

Held at the Habs Boys swimming facilities, we welcomed swimmers aged 8 to 17 from across the county for a day of inspiration and development. The clinic provided a rare opportunity for young athletes to be coached directly by Adam Peaty, offering them a first-hand glimpse into the mindset and techniques of a world-class champion.

The event was brimming with engaging activities designed to teach participants the vital skills needed to excel in competitive swimming — not just to swim, but to

race. Alongside hands-on coaching, attendees enjoyed an inspirational talk where Adam shared his journey and industry insights. The interactive Q&A session gave swimmers, parents and coaches the opportunity to learn tips and tricks and receive top quality advice for reaching success in the pool!

The day was about more than just technical improvement; it was a celebration of dedication, perseverance and the need for the continual pursuit of excellence. By the end of the clinic, participants left not only with enhanced skills, but also with the confidence and determination to push their boundaries both in and out of the pool.

We are incredibly proud to have been part of this amazing programme and look forward to seeing future success from the Habs swimming community.

Student Council Directors 2024/25

In October, we were delighted to announce our new Student Voice Representatives for 2024/25. These leaders embody a commitment to amplifying the voices of our student body and enabling them to have their ideas and opinions heard. We look forward to another year of empowerment, innovation and profound impact.

Congratulations to the new Student Voice Representatives:

Dr St John’s talk on Queen Victoria’s political journey

Dr St John recently gave an engaging talk on “Queen Victoria and Politics” at the Bushey Metropolitan Centre, hosted by the University of the Third Age (u3a). The event attracted a large audience of 150 attendees, including several individuals connected to Habs, such as parents and grandparents of students.

In his lecture, Dr St John traced Queen Victoria’s political evolution, detailing her shift from Whig to Conservative perspectives under the contrasting influences of Prime Ministers William Ewart Gladstone and Benjamin Disraeli. The u3a community provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a lively discussion with many thoughtful questions.

At Habs, we hold community as one of our core values, so we are always thrilled to inspire others and to be inspired by them in return. We were delighted to support this excellent educational initiative within the local community, highlighting our commitment to lifelong learning and engagement.

Year 7 – Tali (7 Aesc)

Year 10 - Emily (10 A)

Year 7 - Talia (7 A)

Year 11 - Karis (11 Alpha)

Year 8 - Aashi (8 Aesc)

Lower Sixth – Tamara (L6 MO)

Year 9 – Eliana (9 Alpha)

St Catherine’s Parent Guild firework display

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.

The night was filled with excitement, featuring a variety of lively stalls, engaging games and a delicious array of food, including plenty of sweet treats! The stalls were a highlight as always, with visitors testing their skills in the paper aeroplane competition, face painting and much more.

Bursts of colour lit up the sky with the fireworks display, drawing gasps of wonder from the crowd and making for a perfect finale to a fantastic evening.

This year’s celebration was especially significant as the Guild paid tribute to two important milestones: the 50th anniversary of the school at the Elstree campus and the 150th year since the founding of Habs Girls. These anniversaries added an extra layer of meaning to the night, emphasising the strength of the Habs community and its commitment to tradition.

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.

Harvest festival

The Junior School began the Harvest Festival celebrations with a fantastic assembly, shining a light on the importance of the event. Pupils and staff delivered moving speeches that reinforced the significance of coming together as a community and the values that underpin this special occasion.

In support of Akshaya Patra and the Islington Centre for Migrants and Refugees, students donated essential items to help those in need. Marking the 150th Anniversary of Habs Girls, we aimed for at least 150 items from each House, a credit to the commitment and continuous understanding of our students and staff.

These celebrations showcased the shared efforts and values that make our school such a special place.

The Senior School assembly built on this foundation with a moving and thought-provoking tribute.

It highlighted how our values of ambition and community spirit come to life in meaningful ways, inspiring all of us to continue making a difference together and the importance of having a profound impact.

These celebrations showcased the shared efforts and values that make our school such a special place. Thank you to everyone who contributed and made this year’s Harvest Festival a memorable occasion.

Fifty Years of Habs at Elstree: Head Girls’ Celebratory Lunch

It was a pleasure to welcome an extraordinary group of people to a special lunch held at the school in celebration of 50 years of Habs Girls at Elstree. The event brought together several generations of Head Girls, Deputy Head Girls, former and current staff members, and, of course, the cherished Old Haberdashers — each with their own unique memories of their time at the school.

The atmosphere was warm and joyful, filled with lively conversation, laughter and much reminiscing. It was truly special to see how much the school and the friendships formed here have meant to so many.

As Old Haberdashers shared stories from their school days, there were countless moments of reflection on the strong bonds that had been built, not only between friends but with the dedicated teachers who shaped their academic journeys. These heartfelt conversations reinforced just how much Habs Girls at Elstree has impacted generations of young women.

As we look forward to the 150th anniversary of the school’s founding in June 2025, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation. The upcoming celebrations will include a variety of special events and projects, offering opportunities to reflect on the school’s rich

history while looking ahead to an even brighter future. The 50th anniversary of Habs Girls at Elstree marks just the beginning of these milestone celebrations, and we are thrilled to continue to honour the incredible legacy of this remarkable institution.

This special lunch was a poignant reminder of the close-knit community that has been cultivated at Habs Girls over the years. It is clear that the traditions, friendships and shared experiences of this wonderful school will continue to resonate for many generations to come.

Old Haberdashers lacrosse match

The annual OH vs School lacrosse match took place on Saturday 7 September on a lovely, warm afternoon at Habs Girls. The OH players ranged from members of the Class of 2016 to the Class of 2024.

There were several supporters who represented almost every category of the Habs community; the Headmistress Dr BagworthMann, former and current parents,

siblings and teachers. Amy Ansell (OH 2000) who has coached many of the players through her sports company New Stars was cheering on from the side lines, as were recent leavers Ashley and Lily (OH 2024).

There was a great atmosphere and everyone had a lot of fun. The school team took the win with a nail-biting final score of 11-8.

150 year anniversary

Alumnae Carol Service

Over 240 members of the Habs community including Old Haberdashers and their families, parents and former staff gathered at beautiful St Martin-in-the-Fields for the Habs Girls 150 year anniversary Alumnae Carol Service.

Thank you to the OH players that came to join us, they were:

Tiwa Adebayo OH 2016

Jaden Adu OH 2022

Toni Adesiyan OH 2020

Madison Bradley OH 2024

Alexia Brooks OH 2024

Eden Dell OH 2024

Ananya Dhadphale OH 2023

Sofia Peccei OH 2023

Arianna Sultan OH 2022

Madison Sinclair OH 2023

Mimi Subair OH 2024

Misi Subair OH 2022

The St Catherine singers performed with exceptional talent, directed by Mr Tim Scott. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and joy as congregants of all ages (the youngest being a baby in arms) came together to share in this special moment. The service ended with a rendition of Carmen which was particularly enjoyed by all the Old Haberdashers in the congregation.

Following the service, there was an opportunity to catch up with old friends and teachers in St Martin’s Hall and enjoy some mince pies and mulled wine.

Summer telephone campaign raises vital support for bursary fund

A team of 14 young alumni from Habs Girls and Habs Boys spent the end of their summer holiday raising vital support for the Bursary Fund.

For two weeks starting in late August, they called 664 Old Haberdashers, Habs parents and friends of the schools. During a total of 618 calling hours, they shared news, swapped anecdotes and raised £82,484 to support Habs students with financial need.

‘The 2024 Telephone Campaign began just after the Government announced the introduction of VAT on tuition fees beginning in January 2025,’ said Bill Friar, Director of Development for the Habs Elstree Schools. ‘This, of course, will put increased pressure on the finances of many Habs families, not just those on bursary support. So, it was incredibly heartening to see that, despite this, 197 members of the Habs community were willing to step up and help where they could.

That is actually more donors than we had in each of the last two summer telephone campaigns

‘That is actually more donors than we had in each of the last two summer telephone campaigns,’ he added. ‘Support from such generous members of the extended Habs family has never been more important. We are tremendously grateful to have such a caring community, and we don’t take it for granted.’

Partnerships at Habs

Habs Partnerships: Building Courageous, Curious and Ambitious Students

At Habs, our Partnership Programme is all about developing students who are courageous, curious ambitious and ready to make a real impact in their communities. These programmes are led by Habs students, creating numerous exciting learning opportunities every week for our partner schools and for our students.

The numbers behind the impact

52 371

hours of co-curricular and academic curriculum sessions every week

56

Habs staff members supporting every week

1400

Habs students involved weekly partner school students taking part every week

Why Partnerships matter?

The impact on both Habs students and their partner school peers is clear. From building confidence to developing essential life skills, the programme is making a real difference.

Developing Initiative and Adaptability

of students said partnerships helped them think on their feet and adapt to new challenges.

"I’m much better at finding ways to make activities work for different people’s needs, and that’s been such a useful skill to learn."

— Aaska (L6 HS), How Wood Swimming Partnerships

Positive Impact on Partner Schools

Every single Habs student who took part (100%) believed their sessions had a positive effect on partner school students.

“This has definitely helped me understand more about the world outside Habs. It’s been amazing meeting and getting to know people from different backgrounds.”

— Elin (L6 PW), Monksmead Science Partnerships

Partner school students are thriving too, becoming more engaged and confident in lessons.

"They’re so much more lively and willing to take part when we’re there. You can see how happy they are when we arrive!"

— Euan (SFM2), Cowley Hill French Partnerships

Building Confidence

of students said the sessions gave their confidence a big boost.

"It’s been such a rewarding experience and has really helped with my selfbelief!"

— Ishan (SFH3), How Wood Robotics Partnerships

Communication

of Habs students said partnerships helped improve their communication skills.

"I’ve learned to speak confidently but also to listen and take on board other people’s ideas. It’s made a big difference not just in the program but in how I relate to others."

— Aarav (SFH3), Monksmead Science Partnerships

Habs Partnerships is all about collaboration and growth. With hundreds of students and staff involved every week, it’s inspiring to see how much of a difference the programme makes – not just for the partner schools but for the Habs students too.

Appointments Staff news

Gillian Aldcroft Head of Upper School and Teacher of Sports

Harry Boyd Teacher of Drama

Susan Capelett Senior School Receptionist

Lydia Denny School Cover Teacher

Roslyn Hardaker PA to SLT

Stephen Lewis Lead Invigilator

Amanda Rolfe Learning Support Assistant

Leigh Allan Teaching AssistantPersonal Care

Keith Brown Head of Middle School and Teacher of Music

Anthea Chishanu School Attendance and Administration Officer

Sinead Fitzpatrick Class Teacher JS

Bhamini Jadeja Class Teacher JS

Sandra Potashnick Invigilator

Lorraine Winton Cover Teacher of English

Frederick Ayre Sports Administrator

Mark Cain Invigilator

Emma Cukier School Cover Teacher

Paul Griffin Deputy Head Academic

Tia Kerai Learning Support Assistant

Sally Raisinghani Second in Economics

David Woodward Head of Music and Performing Arts

Leavers

Joseph Asamoah Teacher of Design and Technology

Deborah Lansdown Deputy Head Academic Junior School

Simon Mackinder Cover Administrator

Matthew Nichols Assistant Head Teaching and Learning

Abeer Saya Learning Support Assistant

Emma Bridgeman-Williams Temp Teacher of Drama

Hannah Lester Cover and Invigilation Assistant

Johnston Moreland Teacher of Maths

Ambhika Rana Admissions Registrar