CROSS WIRE
dEaR hOLY CROSS StUdENtS ...
I can’t believe another year has passed so quickly! Thank you for everything you have done to make Holy Cross such a fantastic school. You make our community so special and unique.
When we consider our Mission Statement and our mantra (Learn Joyfully Live Fully), we are reminded of one of the most famous passages in The Gospel according to St John, John:10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”.
“We are the Children of God, and in the spirit of St Francis and Mother Bernarda, we aim to create a happy family environment in which all may grow: In faith, hope and love for God, in love and respect for one another and the world around us, in learning and wisdom, so that we may live life to the full and joyfully share this life with others, especially those who are in any way disadvantaged.”
This is exactly what you have been doing this year. You have been living our Romero Award in your daily life. You have championed our Catholic Social Teachings, and focused on the Preferential Option for the Poor and Solidarity through your fundraising activities for a wide number of charities. In fact, you have raised an incredible amount of money for charity which is amazing! Y8 did a brilliant job raising charity awareness through their First Give programme, showing how much they valued The Common Good. You highlighted Human Dignity through your fantastic work on diversity and antiracism ensuring that our school is one team and all of us are made in the image of God. Through the Eco Reps and Gardening Club you have shown us the importance of Care for Creation, having an ecological approach to protect our local and global environment. In a world where we are witnessing conflict and war, you have promoted Peace through our prayer vigils, our meditations and awareness campaigns.
We are a school, and working hard to achieve your best grades is super important, however I truly believe that school is not just about exams and grades. It’s also about memories, building relationships, and having new experiences. I bet your parents can still remember their favourite school trip, or summer fair! Your teachers and staff have given up their time to ensure you live life to the fullest - this year we have had nine residential trips (Iceland, Italy, Paris, Berlin, Surf, Y7, Y10, Duke of Edinburgh, Kenya) and a staggering 95 day visits!!! Not to mention all the extra workshops, external speakers and theatre trips that have taken place.
I cannot tell you what a joy it was when we had the Y5 Taster Days and the Y6 Induction day - you were so welcoming to our primary school students. They all left buzzing after their time here at Holy Cross and now they can’t wait to join us in Y7. Thank you for looking after them so well and making them so welcome.
I wish you a happy and restful summer holiday. If you are lucky enough to be going away, I hope you find sunshine! Use your time wisely, spend time with those who perhaps don’t see you as much as they would like, and keep yourselves safe. I am looking forward to seeing you again in September, bright eyed and ready for the next adventure!
Mrs McConn-Finch
HELPING Hands in KENYA
Our amazing Sixth Form students spent an incredible 10 days supporting school children in Kenya.
In partnership with the African Adventures charity foundation, 33 students travelled to the city of Nakuru to volunteer in schools in underprivileged areas.
Our students assisted in teaching and supporting children aged four to 16. They played games, danced and engaged in sporting and craft-making activities.
Working Monday to Friday, they have also participated in building projects and outreach programmes.
Supported by Ms Henderson, Ms Santoo, Mrs Walsh, and Mrs Vakulya, our students fully grasped this amazing opportunity. They made a meaningful impact, learnt about different cultures, and contributed to a brighter future for the young learners they were lucky enough to spend time with.
Additionally, their hard work on a vital water harvesting project will make a lasting impact for the community of Nakuru.
The children of the schools have made their appreciation well known, showing much gratitude to their visitors and even serenading them with some choral singing!
African Adventures partners with schools in Africa that are either under construction or in need of support. As part of the package, students and staff were treated to a safari tour to embellish their African experience.
However, the purpose of the trip was to give something to the children of Kenya, and our Year 12 students have made an incredible contribution to the lives of those they have met, and in turn have made unforgettable memories.
For more information, visit africanadventures.com.
OUTSTANDING
The Holy Cross has been judged ʻOutstandingʼ by the Catholic Schools Inspectorate.
Inspectors found the school to be outstanding in all nine areas of judgement within three key categories: Catholic life and mission; Religious education; and Collective worship.
These judgements secured the schoolʼs ʻOutstandingʼ rating for Overall Effectiveness, with inspectors commenting that the school, “lives out its mission statement in everything that it does.”
A team of three inspectors completed their observations across two days. They highly praised the schoolʼs inclusive, vibrant community, and its ʻexceptionalʼ Religious Education department. Catholic schools are subject to inspection every three to five years, on behalf of their diocesan bishop. Inspections are completed to help schools live up to the mission of leading all pupils to love
God with all their mind (religious education), with all their heart, soul and strength (collective worship) and to love their neighbour as themselves (Catholic life and mission).
“Community cohesion is very strong and celebrated by students.”
The inspection report commented: “The seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching permeate through every aspect of life at the school. Students enjoy their religious education lessons and outcomes are outstanding.
“Staff provide the highest levels of pastoral care. They are supportive and actively encourage every pupil to be the best that they can be.”
A full copy of the report can be found online at http://tinyurl.com/hxcsi24.
SIXTH FORMERS INSPIRED BY CAMBRIDGE VISIT
A group of Year 12 students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Homerton College, Cambridge, in June as part of the universityʼs Schools Outreach programme.
The girls explored the beautiful campus, engaged with current undergraduates, and delved into stimulating academic taster sessions in Social Anthropology or BioChemistry led by PhD students. As a highlight, they had the privilege of meeting Simon Woolley, Baron Woolley of Woodford, a renowned advocate
for equality and social justice. His inspirational journey and encouraging words resonated deeply: “Believe in yourself, no
matter what.”
The visit was just one of a range of university opportunities that our Year 12s have taken advantage of this year.
In May, 14 students graduated from the ʻBrilliant Club Scholarʼs Programmeʼ.
They worked with Queen Mary PhD student Conor Bollins to write a paper on, “The Foundations of Political Thought: Where in History do our ideas about politics come from, and why does it matter?”
Graduates then had the amazing opportunity to visit New College, Oxford, to present their papers.
HX MARKS THE SPOT AS STUDENTS TAKE TO THE BALLOT BOX
Students from five year groups took part in their own Holy Cross School General Election on July 4th.
Form Tutors talked their groups through the democratic process in the days leading up to the vote, which allowed students to understand how elections work in the UK.
This included an explanation of manifestos, confidentiality, the constituency and First Past the Post systems, and the importance of respecting other peopleʼs right to choose.
Candidates from the five biggest political parties in the constituency of Kingston & Surbiton were on the ballot. Students were encouraged to think about a combination of local and national issues before casting their vote; ballots were then counted by form captains and submitted to the returning officer - a role expertly shared by Mrs Baird, Mrs Brown, and Ms Kay.
The results were then announced the following day, revealing that the students of Holy Cross had mirrored the residents of Kingston & Surbiton in electing Sir Edward Davey of the Liberal Democrats as their Member of Parliament. The exercise was a valuable experience in learning the importance of the democratic process, and how politics affects us all.
WRITING AWARD FOR AN ENGLISH ROSE
Congratulations to A Level English Literature student Rose Dempsey, who has won first prize in the Wimbledon Bookfest writing competition for her age group!
Roseʼs fantastic short story, ʻThe Discoveryʼ, is a carefully crafted and mesmerising tale of emotion, exploration, and intriguing reflection.
Judges identified Roseʼs story as the outstanding entry from a plethora of work from schools across Kingston, Merton, Sutton, and Wandsworth.
Entrants had to write prose based on the theme of ʻThe Gameʼ.
Roseʼs work will be published in the Wimbledon Bookfest anthology, and she will collect her award at a ceremony at the New Wimbledon Theatre in the autumn term.
I find myself staring up at the moon longingly, although I know itʼs not really there. The half-shattered, star-filled screen above me flickers rhythmically, sparks spitting at me viciously, angered that I have discovered their well-kept secret of the simulation theyʼve been keeping me in, whoever they are. An extract from The Discovery.
All the staff at the school are very proud of Roseʼs fantastic achievement, and thereʼs no doubt that hers is a name to remember for future literary success!
FUNDRAISER GATHERS MOMENTUM
Staff and students raised an incredible £1,104.49 for childrenʼs charity Momentum as part of a non-uniform day.
The fundraising initiative was led by Year 12 students Elana Shaw, house captain for Hope, with assistance from Mrs J Smith.
Momentum provide a vital support system for families facing the daunting challenge of caring for a child with cancer or a life-challenging condition. Their services, including therapy, respite breaks, financial aid, and support through NHS hospitals across London, Surrey and Sussex, provide essential assistance.
The charity drive was an outstanding success and everyone at the school is delighted to be able to assist such a fantastic cause.
PAUSE FOR THOUGHT ON BERLIN TRIP
A Level History students embarked on an eye-opening journey to Berlin during the Easter break.
They delved deep into history with a Reichstag walking tour, explored the intriguing Spy Museum, strolled through the historic Wannsee Villa, paid respects at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, absorbed poignant stories at the Topography of Terror, and visited the iconic Checkpoint Charlie.
Their journey also included a visit to the Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum, where they learned about the lives and tragedies of those who were imprisoned there. This was followed by explorations of Kurfürstendamm, including points of interest such as the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche, Bikini Einkaufszentrum, and KaDeWe. They further immersed themselves in history with a guided visit to the Jewish Museum.
Their trip was a blend of history, reflection, and learning beyond classrooms. Weʼre immensely proud of their curiosity, respect, and engagement with the past.
CAREER INSIGHTS GET STUDENTS THINKING AHEAD
Students in Key Stages 4 and 5 have been given an insight into a range of potential careers this term thanks to the work of some esteemed visitors to the school.
In May, Year 11 and 12 students attended a talk from staff at Microsoft, who shared their journeys into data, Artificial Intelligence, sales, and programming roles.
Phillippe, Alex, and Roland offered top tips for securing positions in the tech industry, including valuable advice on interview skills and personal branding!
ln June, the police brought an armed response vehicle into school for inspection! Students had the chance to see the vehicle up close, ask questions, and learn about the important work that the armed response team does to keep our community safe.
This followed a careers talk in March that explained the various roles and opportunities available in the force.
Maybe...
I’LL JUST STAY
A short story by Sedina Ayidah (8Hope)
Level 13. Finally.
I barely have a second to catch my breath, blow out the last candle, Oh no.
Itʼs this again: Iʼm back. Itʼs exhausting, but losing isnʼt an option. Everything comes down to this.
Monday, go. Roll the dice, ugh, move back three spaces. Another point to them.
Okay, Tuesday, itʼs a new day, just start again, itʼs fine, itʼs fine, just go as fast as possible and try and get it into the goal, you got this ...
And there they go again. 2 nil. To them.
Wednesday. Right todayʼs going to be differe- oh, Iʼve already won, didnʼt even have to lift a finger. Well, I guess I got lucky, one point to me.
Oh yeah, if you were wondering, itʼs like this every week. Youʼre in a game and you win or lose. Some are brutal, others you barely have to blink. I just walk into school hoping for another win. Itʼs simple: when you win, you get points, the more points you have, the higher you rank. Some people say the top is prettiest; others say most popular. I donʼt know what I think, I just know that I have to win.
We havenʼt always played this, well, consciously
anyway, I donʼt even know when it all started, all I remember is weʼre suddenly sucked into a new world where everyone has to compete to ... to ... I donʼt know. Prove themselves? Be accepted?
Some people just donʼt play. They donʼt even watch. They just go about their own, happy lives, they look so free. I just wish I could do the same but ... Oh ...
Iʼm not sure why I canʼt ... Maybe theyʼll judge me, but that power-up only exists in the game.
So if I donʼt play ... I canʼt be judged.
But what If they think Iʼm ugly? But that card only exists in the game. So if I donʼt play ... I canʼt be ugly.
But I canʼt just quit, itʼs level 13: itʼs a milestone level! I canʼt just lose my streak, Iʼve spent ages on my avatar! What are people going to think? Oh yeah, thatʼs the point of the game- caring about what people think. I donʼt get it, you donʼt even win by being ʻbetterʼ or whatever, itʼs just plain luck, why are so many people putting themselves through such a silly thing when itʼs optional, itʼs not like anything happens when you lose. There has to be a catch.
Iʼll log out and see.
Wait. I canʼt. Iʼll just ask for help. “Umm, hey, any chance you know how to log off?”
“Oh ye canʼt jusʼ leave, fey say ye have tʼ um, ah dunno, like find yer own way ouʼ, summinʼ about beinʼ yerself ʻn awfentic I fink fey said,”
So Iʼm stuck. And I have to- what? Be ʻmyselfʼ and, and ... ʻauthenticʼ!? I donʼt even know how to be myOh I get it now. Quitting this game might be harder than I thought.
Maybe Iʼll just stay.
SUMMER READING CHALLENGE
READ ONE OF EACH:
FICTION or NON-FICTION book
1 2 3 GRAPHIC or VERSE novel
A book published THIS YEAR
You can borrow books from the Reading Room in Room 22. Keep a record of what you have read. In September, tell your English teacher you have completed the challenge!
OUR FAVOURITE READS ...
Nine members of the English department selected a favourite novel of theirs. Can you work out which teacher chose which book? Two teachers chose 1984. Answers on page 2!
1984 (George Orwell)
A terrifying vision of the future in which everyone is a slave to an oppressive government and its omnipresent symbol, Big Brother.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (JK Rowling) The third instalment of the Harry Potter saga, as Sirius Black escapes jail and hides from the Dementors.
The Remains of the Day (Kazuo Ishiguro) A tale of loyalty, sacrifice, and lost opportunity as ageing butler Stevens reflects on his past whilst on holiday.
Sweet Sorrow (David Nicholls)
The coming-of-age tale of Charlie Fisher, and the impact of first love on an ordinary life - with a little help from Shakespeare.
One Hundred Years of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez) The story of seven generations of the Buendía family and of Macondo, Colombia - the town they built.
Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen) One of the most powerful love stories of all time: the courtship of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy.
House (Charles Dickens) A satire on the British judiciary system, following the Jarndyce family as they wait in vain to inherit some money.
Wise Children (Angela Carter) Richly comic tale of twin sisters, Nora and Dora Chance, and their theatrical family. A tale of family, love, loss, failure, and success.
Bleak
GUESS the
teacher
Can you work out the identity of these three teachers?
Favourite ...
TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy
Musician: Lizzo
Book: No One’s Home by DM Pulley
Sport: I’m not sporty ...
Restaurant: Ocean Basket
Dream Holiday: Greece
If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be ... something in IT
Favourite ...
Film: Tess of the D’Urbevilles
TV Show: Line of Duty
Sport: Tennis
Musician: David Bowie
Dream Holiday: Somewhere with mountains and seas
If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be ... a lighting engineer
Favourite ...
Film: Schindler’s List
TV Show: Star Trek
Book: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Sport: Football
Dream Holiday: Norway
If I wasn’t a teacher, I would ... run a dog shelter
1
WHAT CONNECTS THESE FOUR HOLY CROSS TEACHERS?
2
RIDDLE WHAT HAS FOUR LETTERS, SOMETIMES HAS NINE LETTERS, BUT NEVER HAS FIVE LETTERS ...
3
All answers on page 2!
Rearrange the letters to find these English key terms ...
MR DRAPER
MS PEIRCE
MRS KELLY
MRS VICKERS
IT IS TIME TO SAY FAREWELL TO THE MEMBERS OF STAFF LEAVING HOLY CROSS AT THE END OF THIS TERM. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU HAVE DONE, AND all the best for YOUR next steps ...
MRS MIDDLECOAT
Though a late entrant to the profession, Mrs Middlecoat is a natural born teacher and educator. Her love and passion for her subject is infectious.
Mrs Middlecoat joined the school in September 2000 as a teacher of English, Drama and Media Studies. She quickly became a popular member of teaching staff, who was always keen to be involved in the wider aspects of school life.
Over nearly a quarter of a century at the school, Mrs Middlecoat participated in numerous trips to the theatre and generously gave of her time to be involved in many residential trips both at home and abroad.
Mrs Middlecoat is at home teaching girls of all abilities, but she is particularly skilled at engaging and motivating girls whom, at first, do not see the merits of our great works of literature! In 2012, Mrs Middlecoat was appointed as Head of English and also took on the role of Literacy lead across the curriculum. Through her collaborative and inspiring leadership style, the English department thrived, achieving some of the highest progress measures in London. Indeed she inspired many girls to continue studying English Language and English Literature to A Level and beyond.
Mrs Middlecoat also joined the Leadership team of the school in 2012 as assistant headteacher, sharing her curriculum expertise and insightful understanding of effective teaching and learning across the whole school community.
Mrs Middlecoat always showed a great interest in the wider world of education. This knowledge of the classroom and the context in which schoolsʼ operate within was highly appreciated by the governing body during her time serving as a teacher governor.
During her time at Holy Cross both of her children, Laura and Tom, have also for periods of time been part of our school community.
Since 2018 Mrs Middlecoat has reduced her working days at the school to combine her role as a teacher with that of grandmother, beekeeper, and ardent Fulham FC supporter!
She has been an excellent teacher at Holy Cross, supporting hundreds of children to gain a love of language and literature. She has also been a wonderful colleague, always looking to support others, and finding creative ways to move challenging situations forward.
We hope that Mrs Middlecoat will look back on her time at Holy Cross with great fondness and that she will continue to come back and visit us regularly - perhaps bringing with her a jar of honey along the way?
Mr Gibson (Holy Cross Headteacher 2001 - 2021)
Mrs Middlecoat is our longest serving member of the English department and expert in all things Hamlet. She is loved and adored by all of her students who will miss her fun and creative lessons. Mrs Middlecoat always put her relationships with her students first and many of them will have happy memories of her as their teacher. She will be sorely missed but we would like to wish her a happy retirement!
Ms Rowe
MS HENDERSON
Ms Henderson will be leaving Holy Cross after six incredible years ̶ the same number of years as Henry VIII had wives! She has accepted an exciting opportunity to help people travel the world! Ms Henderson has been an exceptional educator, inspiring students with her profound knowledge. She has participated in numerous exciting activities and trips. We will always be grateful for the positive impact she has made on our students, the History Department, the Y12 team, and the entire school community. We will miss her dearly and wish her nothing but the best in this new chapter of her career.
Ms Kay
MS KING
After seven years, Ms King is leaving Holy Cross to pursue new opportunities. As a passionate and committed Computer Science teacher and Head of Department, she has dedicated herself to supporting all students. Ms King tirelessly promoted a love for technology, running the Computing Club and integrating cross-curricular opportunities. She organised the whole school assembly annually, encouraging young digital leaders to present, and connected Safer Internet Day with Catholic Social Teaching, impressing the Romero Award judges. Ms King will be greatly missed, and we wish her every happiness in her future endeavours.
Ms Peirce
MISS O’SULLIVAN
After six years, Miss OʼSullivan is leaving Holy Cross to pursue new opportunities.
Miss OʼSullivan, who was also a student at Holy Cross, returned to the Holy Cross family after completing her degree to work as a Learning Support Assistant. She has been a committed Learning Support Assistant, and her impact on our school community has been invaluable. Beyond her role as a Learning Support Assistant, Miss OʼSullivan has shared her love for Irish dancing, enriching the lives of students with her expert teaching.
As an ELSA specialist and Social Thinking lead, she has supported the emotional and social development of our students, always with compassion and care. Miss OʼSullivanʼs contributions have been felt far and wide, from leading dance performances to providing individual support that has helped countless students thrive. She is loved by all for her dedication and the personal touch she brings to her work. We wish Miss OʼSullivan every possible happiness and success in her future endeavours. Holy Cross is grateful for her years of service and the lasting impact she has made on our school community. Mrs Cappalonga
MS SIMEONOVA
Ms Simeonova has been the most amazing English teacher over the past 18 months at Holy Cross! Her students quickly adored her, especially her Y11 form group for whom she made individual leaving presents. Her kindness and generosity were also enjoyed by the staff who got to sample the delicious feasts she would provide for us in the staffroom. We will miss your style and grace, wishing you all the best!
MR KENT
Mr Kent has been an outstanding art teacher for the past two terms. During this time he has inspired and motivated all his students with exciting, creative and interactive artwork. He has been a great team player within the art department and he will be greatly missed by the staff and his students. His new school are lucky to have him in September: our loss is certainly their gain!
Mr
WE ARE SO proud of our amazing WIMBLEDON ball girls this year! Your hard work and dedication shine on the court. YOU ARE A CREDIT TO YOURSELVES AND THE SCHOOL!
Taylor
Ms Rowe
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF THE HOLY CROSS HOUSE COMPETITION 2024: HOPE!
DESPITE A LATE SURGE FROM FAITH, INCLUDING AN OUTSTANDING ATHLETICS DAY RESULT, HOPE JUST HELD ON TO CLAIM VICTORY! THEY WERE REWARDED WITH A HOUSE PARTY ON THE LAST FRIDAY OF THE YEAR. UNLUCKY FAITH: RUNNERSUP FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW!!
Dear God,
As we come to the end of the academic year, we thank you for giving us the opportunity to be able to come to school, and learn in a safe environment.
We thank you for lending your Holy Spirit to guide us from any of the difficult times we faced, and helping us to overcome it.
We pray that when we come back in the next academic year, we are refreshed and ready to learn so that we may make a positive impact for ourselves and others.
by Year 12 Theology, Philosophy and Ethics students