News from the Hill Issue 06, Lent 2025
News from the Hill Issue 02, Michaelmas 2023
Billy Elliot The Musical Page 3
In this issue...
Founder’s Day 2025
Careers Fair
Rugby VIIs
Battlefields Tour
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Page 5
Page 7
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Word from the Head The season of Spring is always a time for reflection—a season of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings. As the world around us bursts into colour and life, Spring serves as a reminder that each new start is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and evolve. It is a time to look back on the experiences we’ve had, the lessons we’ve learned, and the challenges we’ve faced, all of which shape our growth. Our pupils had numerous opportunities for reflection during the Lent Term. Our Founder’s Day celebration in March (see below) prompted us to reflect on the legacy of Charles Edward Baring Young, our Founder, and consider how we can each follow his example in our own lives. Similarly, the theme of this year’s Science Week, “Adapt and Change” (see page 3), encouraged our pupils to think deeply about how our experiences can shape and improve our practices moving forward. We were also fortunate to welcome several former pupils back to the school this term to share their personal journeys, and talk about how Kingham Hill helped prepare them for their next steps. Our Careers Fair (see page 5) was a highlight, providing invaluable insight into the wide array of paths that lie ahead for our pupils. The success of our Upper Sixth pupils in their University applications, including offers from Oxford and Cambridge (see page 3), served as huge inspiration to those in lower year groups. Just as nature reawakens, we too can use the past as a foundation for building the future, applying the lessons we’ve learned to navigate the road ahead. With the arrival of Spring, we are reminded to reflect on our own journeys, embrace change, and open ourselves to new possibilities, knowing that the experiences of the past will guide us as we begin again.
Pete Last Headmaster
Founder’s Day 2025 Every March, the School comes together to celebrate Founder’s Day, a special occasion when we reflect on and express our gratitude to God for the life and legacy of our Founder, Charles Edward Baring Young. On a beautifully sunny morning, pupils and staff gathered to walk from the School to St Peter’s Church in Daylesford, where the Founder is laid to rest. We were deeply thankful to the Bamford family for allowing us to pass through their picturesque estate. Once in the churchyard, a service was held where we prayed and sang the Founder’s hymn. The Heads of School brought the act of remembrance to a close by laying a wreath at the Founder’s grave. In his address, Chaplain, Revd Hutchings, shared how the Founder was far more than just a patron or benefactor. He was a man fully dedicated to the School he founded. As one of his contemporaries described him, he was like a “tolerant, kind, and cheerful father” to the boys in his care. His motivation was not to be admired for his work, but to truly transform the lives of those boys, offering them the opportunity to build a purposeful future. Founder’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the core Christian values of community, integrity, and kindness that Charles Edward Baring Young instilled in our School. It is a time to celebrate our heritage and embrace the future, united by the same spirit of purpose and togetherness.
Scan to watch a montage of the day 2
Billy Elliot The Musical
Sixth Form Offer Success A source of celebration for the school this term was the news of pupils being offered places at top institutions, including Oxford and Cambridge. Jo, Joe, Juliette and Nathan have respectively been offered places to read Classical Archaeology and Ancient History at Oxford, Biochemistry at Oxford, Modern and Medieval Languages at Cambridge, and Engineering at Cambridge.
Scan to hear how the Sixth Form has been supported Studying Shakespeare From Thursday 27th to Saturday 29th March, Kingham Hill brought Billy Elliot The Musical, a show that captivated audiences for over a decade in the West End, to the Performing Arts Centre. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s miners’ strikes, the rise of anti-Thatcher sentiment, and the political battles of Arthur Scargill’s trade union, Billy Elliot The Musical tells the story of a young boy who discovers his passion for dance amidst deeply ingrained societal prejudices. “Bringing this musical to life is no small feat, particularly given its intricate choreography,” said Mr Jones, Second Deputy and Director of the production. “When I was working on Matilda a few years ago, I was struck by the performance of 1st Former Sam – the only male dancer in an otherwise all-female troupe. His talent and confidence planted the seed
of an idea, and that inspiration led us to this year’s production.” Now in the 3rd Form, Sam is one of the youngest pupils at Kingham Hill to take on a leading role in a recent school production. Starring alongside Sam, Emily (Lower Sixth), played the role of Mrs Wilkinson, Billy’s brassy dance teacher. “I’ve really enjoyed the combination of dancing, acting, and singing,” Emily said. “I have a Drama Scholarship so I’ve been part of Academy since 1st Form, and have been involved in pretty much every Academy production since then. I just love it! I couldn’t imagine spending my Monday evenings any other way.”
Billy Elliot The Musical has proven to be a memorable production for Kingham Hill, demonstrating the incredible talent of our pupils and the ongoing power of Lee Hall’s inspiring story.
As 2nd Form begin their English studies on Twelfth Night, they have been immersing themselves in all things Shakespeare particularly enjoying a trip to the Bard’s birth and burial place, Stratford-upon-Avon. Following a tour of significant locations in Shakespeare’s life, pupils enjoyed watching the current RSC production of the play.
4th Form Plague Remedies In History, 4th Form have been learning about medieval medicine. Without the knowledge we have today, at the time of the Black Death remedies ranged from carrying a pocketful of posies to prescribing concoctions such as apple cider vinegar mixed with garlic, ginger, peppercorns, sage, rosemary, oregano and thyme. In early February the pupils enjoyed a hands-on session making their own versions of the medicines!
Science Week: A Celebration of Adaptation and Change Kingham Hill Science Week is an annual celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths. This year, engaging activities, hands-on experiences and thought-provoking discussions, followed the theme of ‘Change and Adapt’.
visited Cotswold Wildlife Park to learn about habitats and conservation. They later participated in a Space Design Competition, tackling the challenge of creating spacecraft capable of withstanding re-entry, before watching Apollo 13.
The week in February kicked off with 2nd Form visiting Crocodiles of the World, where they learned about reptiles’ remarkable survival adaptations. Back on the Hill, pupils explored the wonders of space in an inflatable planetarium and discussed the intersection of science and faith, delving into topics such as evolution and time. Sixth Formers took on a Crime Scene Investigation challenge, using real forensic science techniques to solve a murder mystery. Meanwhile, 1st Form
4th Form pupils had the opportunity to attend Science Live in Oxford, where leading scientists shared insights into cuttingedge advances in biology, chemistry, and physics. 1st and 2nd Form also enjoyed a hands-on session with ZooLab, exploring how species adapt to their environments. The week was wrapped up with a video conference from Dr Gallacher, a Consultant Neonatologist, who spoke about his lifesaving work with premature babies. A group of pupils also took part in the RSPB’s Big
Garden Birdwatch, contributing to global citizen science efforts.Head of Science, Mr. Miller, reflected, “Science Week was a resounding success, inspiring pupils to think critically, explore new ideas, and appreciate the ever-evolving nature of science.”
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Oxford School of Drama
Kingham Book Day On Friday 21st March, Kingham Hill celebrated the magic of reading with its very own Book Day! As is tradition, pupils arrived at school dressed as characters from their favourite fiction and non-fiction reads. From group costumes inspired by fictional fairy series Rainbow Magic to beloved classics such as Winnie the Pooh, many pupils embraced the books that first ignited their passion for reading as children. It was delightful to see many creative, home-made outfits, including one costume featuring a cardboard axe adorned with a deck of cards to represent the executioner from Alice in Wonderland. Other pupils, such as Rob (1st Form), championed their sporting heroes and shared how their stories had inspired them.
In the afternoon, 1st and 2nd Form became immersed in other worlds with award-winning author Christopher Edge, as they solved riddles and collected clues to make it out of the Black Hole Cinema Club. Following their escape, Christopher kindly signed copies of his books and answered eager questions about his latest release Escape Room: Game Zero. “It was a fantastic time for us to celebrate what we love about reading and remember how beneficial it is for our mental health and brain development.” commented Librarian, Ms Saxby.
In February, GCSE Drama and BTEC Performing Arts pupils gained insight into the training required for a career in the arts with Head of Foundation Courses at the Oxford School of Drama, Seamus Allen. In a workshop packed with engaging exercises, pupils explored a range of techniques, skills, and confidence building.
A Level Geography Field Trip In preparation for their A Level Geography coursework, the Lower Sixth spent a day on the sand dunes of Porthcawl, South Wales in March. The Geographers learnt how to measure biotic and abiotic elements of a sand dune ecosystem. Using GIS software, the data was uploaded onto a digital map for further analysis.
At breaktime, in a turn from usual events, pupils relished the opportunity to get ‘Loud in the Library’, singing their favourite karaoke songs, and guessing the #shelfies—a series of photos featuring staff members’ bookshelves.
Cadets Take Flight On Wednesday 12th March, four intrepid 3rd Formers made their way to RAF Benson for their first dual flight experience as Kingham Hill Cadets. Upon arrival, the group was welcomed by engineers who provided a thorough safety briefing, before demonstrating how to enter and exit the plane with training equipment. With the opportunity to have a go themselves, the Cadets each role played how to abandon the aircraft and safely land with their parachute. The Cadets then received their individual briefings before waiting to be greeted by their pilot. First to fly, Molly appeared unphased as she approached the Grob G 115. She joked “I’ve only crashed once on the sim, so I’m fairly confident that I could land this plane!”
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On the Hill, the Cadets will continue to develop their theory knowledge on the school’s flight simulators. We now look forward to seeing how this year’s 3rd Form Cadets continue on their flying journeys; it was at this time that now Lower Sixth pupil, Conor, first discovered his love for flying. Just three years later, he has obtained his private pilot’s license! Major Terry reflected, “A pupil should become an RAF Cadet at Kingham Hill if they have any interest in flight or engineering. Through RAFAC (Royal Air Force Air Cadets) we are able to take advantage of all of what is on offer plus a huge range of other activities and experiences, most of which you simply cannot do outside of the Cadet Force.”
International Women’s Day In celebration of International Women’s Day in early March, Sixth Formers, Tomi and Mikayla, covered various department walls in posters of inspirational women related to their subject. Then, in a dedicated assembly, alongside Mrs Last, they spoke about two of their female role models; educator and political activist, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and actress and film producer, Viola Davis.
Scan to watch assembly highlights
Embracing A Gap Year As the Upper Sixth prepare for their “Plan ABC” meetings in the Trinity Term with Head of Destinations, Mrs Berkeley, Lottie Bond, who attended Kingham Hill from Year 7 to the Upper Sixth, returned to speak to the Sixth Form about the power of making informed choices. Her story about embracing a gap year served as a reminder that the journey beyond school is unique for everyone, and sometimes the most fulfilling paths come from unexpected turns.
An Inspector Calls In January, our BTEC Performing Arts pupils presented their adaptation of An Inspector Calls by J. B. Priestley. Set in 1912, the cast and crew aptly played out the timeless classic that takes place during an evening in the home of the wealthy Birling family. With its critique of class, social responsibility, and morality, the audience was left with much to consider.
Volunteering in Guatemala
KHS Careers Fair At the end of January, Kingham Hill held its first Careers Fair, hosting over 40 exhibitors representing a diverse range of careers and further education providers. Prior to the event pupils were provided with a booklet which included profiles of all the exhibitors so that they could plan out who they wanted to make sure they spoke to on the day. They also had class discussions about how to start conversations and what questions they may wish to ask in order to make sure they were well-prepared.
It was fantastic to see pupils from 1st Form all the way through to Upper Sixth actively engaging with visitors, asking questions, and having lots of interesting conversations. The positive feedback received following the event was overwhelming, and it is clear that the Fair made a significant impact. We were especially pleased to welcome two of our alumni, Hillians Mark Amis (Plymouth / Devon, 1969-74) and Paul Davies (Greenwich, 1987-92), who took part in the event and shared their valuable insights and experiences with pupils.
Chaplaincy Events Week From thought-provoking forums to community-building activities, Chaplaincy Events Week in February allowed us to come together and reflect. To begin the week, the Junior School enjoyed evening games of floorball and dodgeball, before boarders got settled down for a pyjama party and battle of the boys houses. Later, pupils gathered over lunch to explore ‘Gaming and God’, drawing comparisons between the teachings of the Bible with Pokémon, Sonic the Hedgehog and The Legend of Zelda. Staff and pupils then spoke about their favourite sporting memories and engaged in some friendly competition at the highly anticipated and fast-paced dodgeball tournament. Towards the end of the week, pupils had the opportunity to ask questions about faith in a dedicated Q&A. Topics from
‘Should we always turn the other cheek and forgive?’, to ‘If God already has our lives planned out, what effect does prayer have?’, and everything in between were considered. International pupils gathered in the Shep Bar one evening to enjoy a delicious curry together. They also had the opportunity to listen to a 5th Former talk about their relationship with God. Reflecting on the week, Headmaster, Mr Last, commented: “I am grateful to be leading a school where it is ‘cool’ to be a Christian and I pray that many pupils and members of staff will have been inspired and prompted to think about their faith.” As we finished a fantastic Chaplaincy Events Week and began Science Week, the question ‘Do Christians Ignore Science?’ was asked in an open forum, to which the resounding answer was ‘absolutely not!’
This term, the Upper Sixth have progressed and presented their Extended Project Qualifications. Head of Destinations, Mrs Berkeley, explained “From designing costumes, to fundraising events, to essays on biochemistry or engineering, pupils never fail to amaze us in the variety of topics they delve into.” Highlighting the flexibility of the qualification, this year, inspired pupil, Alex, used the EPQ as an opportunity to volunteer in Guatemala with the charity From Houses to Homes. After fundraising £2,000; enough money to build a house for the Chorque Tubac family. Alex has since presented his EPQ to the Sixth Form, focusing on his experiences in Guatemala as his primary research. Alex commented “We live in such a different world and should appreciate it more.”
Kingham’s Got Talent Never a dull evening, at this year’s Kingham’s Got Talent, we were treated to singing, dancing, and even a hover-board display. Compères, Joe and Corey (Upper Sixth), kept the crowd entertained, whilst the prefect team gently poked fun at staff! After a night of impressive performances, the 2025 winners were announced by the Heads of School as brother and sister duo, Sammy (Lower Sixth) and June (2nd Form), who blew us away with their rendition of Snowman by Sia.
Hosting Raitaku High School In late February, we had the pleasure of hosting Raitaku High School on their visit from Japan! Following a tour of the Hill, the students shared their favourite traditions, including Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day), Shogatsu (Japanese New Year), and White Day. 1st and 2nd Form were then treated to a performance of the folk tale Momotaro, an entertaining rendition of PPAP (Pen Pineapple Apple Pen) and the chance to play traditional Japanese games. 5
Meet the Team Name: Mrs Anna Fantham
What is your role within the School? I have two main roles at Kingham. I am the Houseparent of Severn House and Head of Academic Music. What did you do before working at KHS? A few different things! Mostly, a church administrator, and (separately) a Chaplaincy Assistant and Resident Tutor at a boarding school in Essex What is the most interesting part of your day-to-day work? Definitely getting to walk alongside the young people in my care - mostly the girls in Severn House, but also a few keen musicians who spend lots of time in the department. I love hearing what they’ve been up to during the day, and their unique insights into school life What activities do you enjoy in your spare time? Somewhat ironically for Kingham’s geographical position, my husband and I love any watercraft (in particular paddleboards and sailing boats). When not possible, we resort to as much outdoor cooking as is reasonable, from BBQ’d Christmas Turkey to pizza oven evenings with the girls Who, or what, would you say has most inspired you in life? At risk of a cliché, on top of the list has to be the person of Jesus. As a Christian I can look back to several times in my life where he has provided comfort, guidance, and ultimately, grace! Tell us one activity that is on your ‘Bucket List’ Eating at a restaurant with a Michelin Star (possibly having arrived by boat). Finally, the best thing about working at Kingham Hill is… The people - by far! The staff team is a fabulous collection of hard-working and kind individuals... And the pupils are pretty delightful too! 6
Octagon Dinner The Octagon Academic Society met once again with parents and staff for its Annual Dinner in March. Our Guest of Honour was Professor of Digital Health at the University of Oxford, John Powell. He encouraged pupils to find a path in adult life which will suit them best, explaining that the best-laid plans do not always turn out as we expect. The outgoing President of Octagon, Luke (Upper Sixth), gave an excellent Vote of
Thanks, in which he encouraged members to make the most of the opportunities offered by the Society. The evening also provided the opportunity to reflect on an excellent year in academic pursuits, including the performances of various quiz teams in Schools Challenge.
Scan to hear Luke and Emily’s Octagon experience
Beginning a Career in Conservation In March, Hillian Laura Chapel (pupil from 2014-21) returned to Kingham Hill to share her journey with the Sixth Form since graduating from the University of Exeter in Marine Biology.
importance of embracing opportunities and stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Her advice to pupils was “Take it one step at a time; saying yes to one thing leads to other things.”
From volunteering in Egypt to study turtles to working with Terns and microplastics in the Azores, Laura’s career so far has taken her across the globe, working in some of the world’s most biodiverse environments. Most recently, in Indonesia with the Indo Ocean Project, Laura was able to earn her dive certifications and educate local schools about marine life. As she soon heads to Mustique as a conservation intern, Laura emphasised the
Poetry Recital During the last week of term the English Department hosted their second event of the academic year, this time celebrating poetry in all its forms. Following a successful Public Speaking and Debating Competition in the Michaelmas Term, pupils from 1st through to 5th Form, took to the stage to share the verses they have been studying in the classroom. From the whimsical to the profound, the heartfelt to the humorous, the
evening’s performances were passionate and purposeful. Suitably impressed, the judging panel chose 10 pupils to recite a second poem before announcing the winning performances, marked on a range of criteria. Congratulations to Ethan (1st Form) who was awarded 3rd place, runner up Fifi (1st Form), and Daniel (4th Form) who placed 1st with his recitals of ‘Ozymandias’ by Percy Bysshe Shelley, and ‘Sonnet 116’ William Shakespeare.
Rugby VIIs Tournaments The 1st Rugby VII had two excellent tournaments this term: Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens and Kingham Hill Sevens. On Monday 24th March, the boys secured a convincing win against Middlesbrough College in the national tournament, before playing Millfield and Coleg Llandrillo. “While these were not as successful, the team played exceptionally well.” commented Herbie (Lower Sixth). Two days later, the same squad played alongside the 2nd VII as Kingham Hill hosted its annual Sevens Tournament in the glorious sunshine. Herbie reflected, “Both squads played excellently against strong
opposition in the form of Chipping Norton, Cokethorpe, Cotswold, King Edward’s Stratford and Warwick. Chipping Norton won overall with a very strong side, but the plucky men from Kingham played with brilliant heart and determination to push some very big rugby schools right to the wire. A great day overall, and a fantastic festival of rugby!” Supporting enthusiastically from the sidelinesalongside fellow Hillians, Photographer, Josh Le Feuvre (2016-23) captured the day fantastically!
Junior Swimming Gala
Equestrian Success
Netball VIIs ISA Tournament
Just before half-term, the Junior Houses made a splash at our first Swimming Gala of the year. Officiated by 4 Shires Swimming Club, 1st and 2nd Form competed in both individual and team events. For the girls, Team Philips was victorious, and for the boys, it was a joint first between The Seals and Dolphins. Honourable mentions also went to Natalie (2nd Form) and Max (1st Form) who placed first in all of their events!
Two of our pupils have seen Equestrian success this term. In January, Harry (3rd Form) qualified for the British Dressage National Championship after being the highest placed U21 novice at the Winter Area Festival. In February, Abi (4th Form) qualified for the British Dressage PetPlan Area Festival Championships after placing 2nd out of 44 riders, and 1st in the U21 Section. We look forward to watching their progress throughout the rest of the year.
In March, the 1st Netball VII represented Kingham Hill in their first ever ISA tournament, at the University of Nottingham. After the initial nerves had disappeared, the team fought hard to take away bronze medals in the plate section of the tournament. Coach, Mrs Juckes, said “This was a brilliant result for our first time attending a national tournament and competing against schools from all over the country, with the team playing some of the best netball they’ve played all season! Well done to all involved.”
Alpine Adventures In December, a group of adventurous pupils and staff set off for the annual Kingham Hill Ski Trip to Obertauern, Austria. ”We had a fantastic time and pupils got to experience a great ski resort while enjoying each of the evening activities on offer.” commented Maths Teacher, Mr Savage. In no short supply, après-ski included; the annual staff quiz, bowling, building snow sculpture extravaganzas (think Santa thrones, pumpkin farms and even an igloo), enjoying nonalcoholic Gluhwein, and a trip to a water park with heated outdoor pools.
Seasoned Skier, Millie in the Upper Sixth reflected, “We were lucky enough to have five full days of instructed skiing, in groups with abilities ranging from absolute beginner to advanced. I think a particular highlight for everyone was our evening spent night-skiing under the slope’s floodlights after dinner.”
Scan to watch highlights from the trip
A Strong Basketball Debut At the end of term our newly formed U18 Basketball Team played their first friendly against Warwick School! At full time the score was Kingham 35 - Warwick 42. Following the match Mr Foster said, “It was a pleasing result, given that it was our team’s first ever game. A big thank you to Coach, Pav, who has been wonderful!”
NATSKA Karting This term has seen the KHS Karting Team compete at the various rounds of NATSKA. In Round 5 which took place in mid-March at Glan Y Gors in North Wales, the team dominated Class 15 with Thomas (5th Form) placing first, Jamie (4th Form) securing second and Thomas (4th Form) coming in eighth. A special mention was also given at the trophy presentation to one of our pupils for his excellent display of sportsmanship after stopping when a driver rolled in front of him. 7
The Great War Battlefields Tour To begin March, the 3rd Form embarked on the school’s annual Great War Battlefields Tour to France and Flanders. While many schools visit the First World War battlefields, Kingham Hill takes a different approach, incorporating fieldwork into the History curriculum, alongside classroom lessons. “We find that when the pupils can see the places for themselves, putting themselves in the same positions as the soldiers who fought there, the subject comes alive and they experience a connection with their past that is priceless.” explained Head of Languages and seasoned Battlefields Tour Guide, Mr Williams.
“It is this particular aspect of the tour which makes what we do so special.” said Mr Williams. “They spend a week walking the fields and lanes of the Somme, Loos and the Ypres Salient, where they gain an insight into a conflict we think we know all about. When they leave the battlefields and return to our beloved Hill, they cannot help but consider that they are doing something which our fallen were never able to do.” We now look forward to seeing the 3rd Form present their Great War Research Projects in the Trinity Term.
On the five-day tour, pupils have the opportunity to contextualise the crosscurricular research that they have carried out in their Digital Literacy lessons. Led by Mr Williams and Digital Literacy Coordinator, Ms Saxby, pupils research one of the men named on the school’s war memorial in Chapel, using primary sources from The National Archives and Library Archives Canada. Armed with locations gleaned from service records, battalion war diaries and trench maps, pupils use their time on the battlefields to find the very places where their chosen soldier fought.
Kingham Hill School Kingham, Chipping Norton Oxfordshire OX7 6TH
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Tel: 01608 658999 Email: registrar@kinghamhill.org Visit: www.kinghamhill.org.uk
Scan to see trip photos
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