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MICHAELMAS TERM 2025

A ROUND UP OF ACADEMIC AND PASTORAL NEWS

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EDUCATION FOR A LIFETIME

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FROM THE HEADMASTER

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Dear Parents, As we come to the end of a busy and joyful Michaelmas term at St Edmund’s, the vibrant and spirited atmosphere that makes our school such a special place for pupils, staff, and families alike has never been more in evidence.

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Highlights for me have included the strengthening of our

We are all aware of the challenges posed by the wider

Bonfire Night and the Christmas Fair to the final week’s unforgettable ice-skating rink. It has been a magical way to conclude the year with pupils from our youngest in Nursery to those preparing for GCSE in Form 11, enjoying a special Christmas at St Ed’s, making memories, having fun, and embracing the festive spirit together.

to focus on providing a secure, nurturing, and exciting education and our investment into the highest quality of provision has not slowed. As ever, I remain deeply proud of our pupils and all they have achieved this term.

educational and political landscape. We are continuing partnershipPrep with St Hilary’s,and sharing wonderful events from Lower Prep Categories

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As I write this note, we are in the middle of that magical time of Carol Services, assemblies, Nativities, and end of term celebrations. The spirit and ethos at St Edmund’s remains at its best and I thank you for your ongoing support and involvement in our community. I wish you and your families a very happy and restful Christmas and New Year.

The end-of-term production of Elf was a tremendous in Divisional Winners announced success, setting the festive tone and showcasing the talent and dedication of ourat pupils and staff. This year, we have of the Lent meetings the start expanded our programme of drama productions, offering tailored opportunities across the school: West Side Story term With my warmest wishes, for Forms 9 to 11 next term, Elf this term for Forms 7 and 8, and two further productions for our younger pupils, Winnie the Pooh for Forms 3 and 4, and Annie for Forms 5 and 6. These performances demonstrate not only the th strength of our Drama and Music departments but also our commitment to offering every pupil as many creative opportunities as possible.

Email pictures to Mrs Drinkwater by Monday 5 January Headmaster

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NEWS FROM EYFS NURSERY AND RECEPTION EYFS TO FORM 2

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FOREST SCHOOL SESSIONS WITH HANNAH WILLS THIS TERM AUTUMNAL FUN IN OUR NURSERY THIS TERM

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SPORT Nursery have been really enjoying Gymnastics this term and take part in gymnastics and sport every week.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

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Nursery were the first out in the snow , and for a lot of them it was their first snow!

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HARVEST FESTIVAL

See more Photos in the gallery

MAGICAL NATIVITY BY NURSERY 2 AND RECEPTION Our Nursery 2 and Reception classes delighted families with a Nativity performance that was nothing short of enchanting. With enthusiasm, creativity, and growing confidence, the children brought the traditional Christmas story to life on stage. From their angelic singing to the thoughtfully crafted costumes, every moment was filled with charm and festive spirit. A huge well done to all the children for their brilliant performance, and heartfelt thanks to the staff whose hard work made the show so special.

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NEWS FROM THE LOWER PREP MR FLUFFLES! Every Friday, Mr Fluffles gets to decide who he wants to go home with! He spends the week watching and listening carefully to all the learning from Form 3M and then chooses a lucky child to take him home for the weekend. Along with his special diary, the child helps Mr Fluffles record his weekend adventures through pictures and diary entries. The children love sharing what they get up to together and Mr Fluffles loves it too!

LEGO STEM WORKSHOP Being introduced to algorithms and coding at a young age can seem daunting but when it’s combined with Lego, it becomes amazing fun! The Lower Prep had an entertaining series of workshops run by ‘Junior Stem’ which aims to teach coding by getting the pupils to build and control Lego models through coding. Form 1 & 2 had to build a ‘fairground ride’ for the minifigures, Max and Mia. They were encouraged to experiment with the programming as well as upgrading the ride to make it even more exciting. Max and Mia certainly had a wonderful time! Form 3’s task was to create a ‘roaring lion’. After familiarising with the Lego and programming software, they built the beast. Later they programmed their lion with movement, sound and backgrounds. Finally Form 4 had to make a simple Lego chassis with a WeDo motor which drove the rear wheels using a pulleys and a belt. The children then wrote algorithms to control their car before designing the body with their own creative Lego designs.

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FLAT ED SUMMER ADVENTURE PROJECT UPDATE RECEPTION TO FORM 4 Before the summer holidays, pupils received a Flat Ed template to take along on their summer adventures! Flat Ed visited some amazing places and had plenty of stories to share after the long summer holiday.

HASLEMERE MUSEUM This term Form 3 visited Haslemere Museum for a fascinating Ancient Egypt workshop. Pupils discovered the secrets of mummification, learning how the Ancient Egyptians prepared bodies for the afterlife – before putting their new skills into practice by mummifying one of their own toys! They even attached amulets for good luck, just as the Egyptians did thousands of years ago. It was a wonderfully engaging, hands-on way to bring history to life – and there were plenty of giggles along the way!

HARVEST FESTIVAL It was wonderful to see so many parents at our Harvest Festival this year from Reception to Form 2. Please see links below to the film and photos., We hope you enjoy them.

The Video is coming soon!

FORMS 1 & 2

NATIVITY

See more Photos in the gallery

Form 1 and 2 classes delighted families with a Nativity performance that was nothing short of enchanting. With enthusiasm, creativity, and growing confidence, the children brought the traditional Christmas story to life on stage. From their angelic singing to the thoughtfully crafted costumes, every moment was filled with charm and festive spirit. See more Photos in the gallery

The Video is coming soon!

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FORM 1 VISIT THE DEVIL’S PUNCHBOWL! Form 1 enjoyed a fantastic walk in the Devil’s Punchbowl! We saw lots of interesting fungi and insects, discovered that 2025 was a bumper year for acorns, learnt that berries only grow on female holly and found out that holly leaves only turn spiky after an animal has tried to eat the plant. We looked at some beautiful views and had fun trying to hear the traffic in the Hindhead Tunnel 65 metres beneath us!

BROOKLANDS MOTOR MUSEUM Form 1 had an action-packed day at Brooklands Motor Museum. The children took part in “Journeys by Land’’ and “Journeys by Air” tours and were especially excited by the Formula 1 racing cars and their walk through Concorde!

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Having been given a taste for speed they were keen to race the peg cars they had made, and had fun perfecting their Loopy Glider designs before setting each other distance and loop-the-loop challenges with their paper aircraft.

FORM 2 LOOK OUT DISCOVERY TRIP As part of our Science activities, Form 2 visited The Look Out Discovery Centre in Bracknell. This exciting, hands-on exhibition allowed the children to explore, experiment, and work cooperatively with their peers, making for a stimulating and enjoyable experience. They also took part in a workshop on animals and their habitats, where they enthusiastically investigated different aspects of animal life and the environments they depend on. To finish the day, the children put their maths skills to practical use while choosing a souvenir from the gift shop, an activity they thoroughly enjoyed. Overall, the trip was a great success, and the children returned to school buzzing with excitement and wonderful memories of a day filled with learning and fun.

FORM 4 Visited the Gilbert White Field Studies Centre this term, where they had the opportunity to investigate invertebrates, forage in the fields, observe wildlife in the woods, and examine a range of animal bones and specimens. Throughout this fascinating day, the children explored a variety of habitats to compare and contrast, deepening their understanding of variation, adaptation, classification, and food chains. They approached every task with enthusiasm and curiosity, making the most of each hands-on activity. It was a wonderful day of learning, discovery, and outdoor adventure — one that they will remember fondly.

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NEWS FROM THE PREP

DR ROBERTS DEPUTY HEAD, PREP ACADEMIC AND MR BOWEN- PERKINS, DEPUTY HEAD, PREP PASTORAL As the Michaelmas term draws to a close, it is impossible not to feel an enormous sense of pride in all that our Forms 5 to 8 pupils have achieved. It has been a term rich in opportunity, buzzing with energy, and full of moments that capture the very best of St Edmund’s. What follows is a look back at some of the key events that have shaped this enjoyable term.

DEBATING Pupils across all four year groups took part in the Forms 5 & 6 and Forms 7 & 8 Divisional Debating Competitions. They demonstrated growing confidence, impressive teamwork and an increasingly assured command of debating skills. The standard of argument, rebuttal and presentation continues to rise year on year, and all who participated should feel extremely proud of their contribution.

LOOKING AHEAD Taken as a whole, this term has demonstrated the strength and breadth of life in the Prep School. Pupils in Forms 5 to 8 have set a hugely positive tone—embracing opportunities with maturity, supporting one another, and representing the school with pride. As we move towards the end-of-term celebrations, we would like to thank pupils, staff and families for their support throughout the term. We look forward to an equally enjoyable and successful Lent term ahead. 10

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TRIPS AND EXPERIENCES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Our pupils have made excellent use of opportunities to extend their learning in new environments. Form 7 enjoyed an insightful visit to the Shah Jahan Mosque in Woking, where they were introduced to aspects of Muslim practice and the significance of the building itself. The trip gave pupils an understanding of how Muslims practice their religion. This visit supports the PSB syllabus and gives the pupils a grounding for GCSE. Form 8 headed to West Wittering, making full use of the coastline to carry out practical geographical observations. Working collaboratively, they gathered data, explored the landscape, and brought their classroom learning vividly to life through hands-on enquiry.

Alongside these trips, Saturday Activities once again provided Forms 5 to 8 with a broad range of weekend opportunities. Whether trying a new skill, mixing with different friends, or simply making the most of the Tuck Shop, pupils embraced these mornings with enthusiasm. Some of the most memorable moments this term came from the classic St Edmund’s events that pupils always look forward to––The Great Escape. Part adventure game and part social occasion, it delivered its usual mix of torches, strategy and high-energy teamwork as pupils navigated the grounds in pursuit of victory. As always, the evening rounded off with teams sharing a wellearned Chinese takeaway together.

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NATIONAL POETRY DAY This year’s theme of ‘Play’ inspired a wonderful range of interpretations from our English pupils, showcasing their creativity, individuality, and growing confidence as writers. Their poems celebrated imagination, language, and the joy of creative expression. National Poetry Day is the largest mass celebration of poetry in the UK, with around 1.5 million people typically taking part each year in schools, libraries, cultural centres, and media events. It offers a wonderful opportunity to weave poetry into everyday life and highlight how accessible and lively poetry can be. This helps prepare our pupils for participation in next term’s poetry recital competition. Here are some of our competition winners:

FORM 5 WINNER

SHOWS SHOWS by Charlotte G Les Mis is my favourite show I watched the one at school My Daddy did the lights It was very cool Grease is funnier than Les Mis No one died, what a relief Much less serious, with lots more smiles High School is fun but brief Matilda at the West End Is amazing She followed her own path And her path was blazing I loved the Addams Family The torturing was fun Wednesday fell in Love Then the play was done

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FORM 6 WINNER

SKIING SLOPES by Myla A I was playing in a meadow. When my dad pulled up in his yellow shiny jeep. The daffodils’ stained his tires. And his horn let out a BEEP. I hopped into the backseat. And wrapped myself in the seatbelt. When suddenly we passed. a fantastic looking round about. unfortunately, we couldn’t stop. because for dinner mum was serving slop. I agreed to eat the disgusting food. But mum said I gave off to much attitude. “Upstairs now” she gave a shout. So I grabbed my toys and shuffled out. But punished boys don’t sit and mope. So I turned the stairs into a skiing slope. A tray for a sled a scarf for some flair. I launched with a grin from the top of the stair. I zipped past the coats the dog gave a bark. I spun through the hallway and crashed in the dark. A scream from downstairs a loud “what was that” And there was mum looking less than a chat. No cheers no high fives no victory song. Just sent to bed with my socks still on.

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FORM 7 WINNER

LIFE IS A PLAY By Alejandro SR All the words a stage, And all the men and women merely players, They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages. At first the infant, Crying and hitting his head with protest and regret to the nurse’s mild Amusement, feeling small looking up at the vastness of god’s creation, Unaware of the difference he can make if only given a chance. Then the tired and stubborn schoolboy, dragging himself to school every day Feeling torture at every turn, at every question thrown at him, yet he does not Know how privileged he is currently living an unburdened life. And then the lover, oblivious to everything, in his own world, with only one Thing on his mind, his beloved leading him into a trance; spectators look on, Some with amusement, some with nostalgia all hoping it would last.

SHAKESPEARE IS BROUGHT TO LIFE AT ST. EDMUND’S! This term our Form 5 and 6 pupils were treated to a special visit from the Four Young Shakespeare Company, who brought the world of Shakespeare to life in an unforgettable way… The team of actors led our pupils through a thoughtprovoking, entertaining, and insightful exploration of Shakespeare in performance, they made even the most complex scenes come alive with energy and humour. Throughout the session, the emphasis was on choice and interpretation — highlighting that Shakespeare’s work is not set in stone, but open to creativity and imagination. Pupils left with a deeper understanding of how a play is brought from page to performance, as well as a renewed appreciation for the richness and flexibility of Shakespeare’s language. It was an inspiring visit that sparked curiosity, creativity, and confidence — proving once again that Shakespeare’s stories are as alive and relevant today as they were four hundred years ago.

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Then a soldier, full of bravado and with a very strange sense of needing to Prove something, staggering home from the pub after six beers, not knowing The pawn he is in the unfair game of life; the manipulators never touching The battlefield. And then the justice, with money and knowledge in their pockets, lathering Their young with wise information and commands meaningless to the next Generation hoping they wouldn’t feel as regretful as them. The sixth age shifts into the realisation that the end is near and gives them The sudden commitment to their loved ones, determined not to have servants, But to serve with their last ounces of their strength. Last scene of all, that ends this strange and eventful history, is man Clinging to the delicate thread of life, and then accepting the inevitable end, His legacy still to be defined.

‘’I thought it was fun whe n they star ted playin g ‘die with a smile’ the song. I th ought when Tybalt and Mercutio wer e fighting it was quite scar y.’ Hudso n A , Form 5V

t Romeo was ‘’Though I though ter he drank a bit dramatic af e part where the poison but th and friend Romeo’s cousin the nurse were flirting with then called and hugging and !’ her ancient Lady 5M rm Freya C , Fo

‘A scene that I enjoy ed was when Juliet was at the ball and Romeo came in dressed as Spiderman. (I do n’t think that is included in the original story!) Sophia M Form 5M

‘’I was amazed how they could change their costumes so quickly behind the stage performing area. They used loud voices so everyone could hear them! I LOVED the performance! My favourite character was Juliet because she performed really well and she always felt what Juliet would have felt and she was always in characters!!’’ Aimee W, Form 5M

‘’My favourite part of the play is when Friar Law rence comes up with this terrib le plan that en ds in disaster. My le ast favourite pa rt of the play was w hen Romeo kille d himself for Julie t when he has only just met her w hich was a real ly stupid thing to do in my opinio n.’’ Rosie O’H , Fo rm 5M

THE HARMONY PROJECT – END OF TERM UPDATE BY ADRIAN ADAMS, ASSISTANT HEAD CURRICULUM This term has seen significant and exciting progress in our rollout of the Harmony Project across the school. Following the successful introduction of Harmony Science in Forms 1, 2 and 3, we have now completed a thorough curriculum redesign for Form 1. This new programme will be launched after the Spring half-term and will give our youngest pupils even richer opportunities to learn through meaningful enquiry and connection with the natural world. The same careful development work is now underway in Forms 2, 3 and 4. Provisionally, we are aiming to introduce our new Humanities and Art/DT curriculum in Form 2 during the Summer term, with Form 4 scheduled for a launch of its redesigned Harmony curriculum in September. In Form 3, elements of English have already begun to be taught through a Harmony lens, and the children have responded enthusiastically to this more connected approach.

Looking ahead, from September 2026, Forms 2, 3 and 4 will see a significant expansion of their Harmony curriculum. English, Humanities, Art/DT and Science will all be taught through the Harmony principles, creating a cohesive and connected learning experience across these key areas. For Forms 3 and 4 specifically, this will also include the addition of Food Technology, giving pupils further opportunities to explore sustainability, nutrition and seasonal food within a practical, hands-on context. These phased developments ensure that each subject is introduced with thoughtful planning, continuity and a clear commitment to the Harmony ethos. We are also beginning early planning for Forms 5 and 6, with a view to launching their Harmony curriculum by September 2027 at the latest. This final phase will complete the rollout across the primary years and

ensure that pupils benefit from a consistent, meaningful and connected approach to learning throughout their time at St Edmund’s. Meanwhile, Harmony Science continues to flourish. Form 1 have been exploring the materials their toys are made from, why different materials are chosen, and which would be healthiest for nature if they were designing toys themselves. Form 2 have been investigating healthy choices, learning what our bodies need from food and why, and considering small changes they can make to support their wellbeing. Form 3 have been studying the skeleton, muscles, exercise and diet, linking scientific knowledge to everyday life and the choices we make.

Alongside this curriculum development, we are also making plans for a brand new outdoor learning classroom within our school grounds. This dedicated space will provide a beautiful, natural environment for enquiry-led learning, creativity and reflection. It will allow pupils to engage directly with the living world around them, in a way that perfectly complements and deepens the Harmony curriculum. We are incredibly excited about what this will offer our children and look forward to sharing more details in the coming months. - highlight!

Families may also be interested to know that Finding Harmony: A King’s Vision, a major new documentary about His Majesty King Charles III’s lifelong commitment to his Harmony philosophy, will be released on Amazon Prime Video in early 2026. The film explores how the principles of Harmony are shaping global approaches to sustainability and highlights inspiring examples of this work in action.

We are proud of the momentum the Harmony Project is building across St Edmund’s and look forward to sharing further developments with you next term as this transformative approach to learning continues to grow.

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NEWS FROM THE THE SENIOR SCHOOL

SENIOR ACADEMIC SIMON HYETT, DEPUTY HEAD One of the best things about the Michaelmas term is how much it is about the future. It feels like every day I am talking with Senior pupils about what they are looking forward to. It might be going to their sixth form or college of choice for those nearing the end of their time at St Ed’s, while those joining the Seniors in Form 9 find themselves look at the opportunities to come. For many it is simply Christmas and mountains of festive treats! With so many references and practice interviews it is wonderful to see the breadth of pupil choices and understand the life they want to build after St Ed’s. I have spoken to future lawyers, doctors, vets, army officers, bankers, coaches, marine biologists, psychologists, police officers and even one teacher! I am always pleased with the clarity and earnestness that our young men and women have about the future. This term I was able to see some OSE both at the Bonfire Night and at the East India Club who could tell me their journeys. While it may not have exactly matched the path they had predicted it was wonderful to see them still marching towards those goals. We have maintained the usual breakneck velocity through the term with many trips. F10 Classics students spent a day in the British Museum in October. Using a pre-prepared study booklet, pupils moved around the rooms in the Museum answering questions on artefacts that form the visual source material of their GCSE in Classics. Key exhibits were the Parthenon sculptures and the Bassae Frieze but also of importance and relevance were mythological stories on Greek

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pots, armour and weaponry of the Roman army and marble reliefs depicting the origins of Rome. A great day was had by all! GCSE Art pupils visited London and riding down the Thames in the Uber Boat to stand (slightly bewilderedly) in the Tate Modern is a memory I will hold on too. French GCSE pupils disappeared off to Paris for a week which I’m told was highly productive and not at all about shopping! At the time of writing Form 11 Drama students have just showed their devised pieces. Creating a piece of stagecraft in a team from a blank piece of paper is one of the toughest challenges we ask of students. That they choose frequently to explore tough, personal subject matter speaks volumes for their own maturity, aspirations and efforts, but also of the environment created by Mr Darrington. I have seen a decade worth of such performances at St Ed’s and these ranked among the very best. Art and Food Tech mocks mark the growing realisation for many that exams are coming up rapidly and I hope Forms 10 and 11 have a good Christmas filled with an equal mixture of turkey and revision. I wish all pupils a Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing them in the new year.

SENIOR PASTORAL JESS WEETMAN, DEPUTY HEAD

We pride ourselves that our Pastoral care at St. Edmund’s is exceptional where we put the pupil at the heart of every decision we take. We provide a safe and supportive environment allowing each child to thrive. We have small tutor group sessions each week where pupils can voice concerns, support one another and get to know their tutor well. Today it is @mentalhealthfoundation where we’re celebrating the importance of mental health and the steps we can all take to support our

well-being. Lunch with our Headmaster is becoming a special St Edmund’s tradition! Dr Walliker has been welcoming our newest Senior pupils by sharing a meal with them, giving him the chance to hear all about their first days at school. By the end of the first two weeks of school, every new member of our St. Ed’s community will have enjoyed pizza and salad lunch with Dr Walliker and Saffi!

We love bringing in Inspirational Speakers to chat to our Senior Pupils and we were lucky enough to have Anne Nikitin, acclaimed composer, chat to our Senior GCSE Music pupils and share some fascinating insights into the composition process. Anne is known for scoring productions such as Paranormal Witness, the TV series One Day and Locked Up Abroad. Anne spoke about her creative journey and the craft of writing music for film and television, offering pupils valuable advice and encouragement. The session concluded with a Q&A and individual feedback on pupils’ own compositions. An enriching experience that left everyone feeling motivated and inspired to compose! Shannon Reddin from Enrich PSHE led age-appropriate workshop sessions with our Senior pupils this term, designed to inform and support them in understanding key aspects of relationships, wellbeing, and sexual health. To accompany these workshops, parents were invited to join an online parent forum in November led by Shannon which provided an overview of the content being delivered to pupils and an opportunity for parents to ask questions and discuss the school’s approach to RSE. Forms 7 to 11 attended a Social Media awareness / toxic influencer workshop this term led by Rob Higgs. An important topic delivered in a serious but memorable way for our pupils. Twitter @Higgs_Rob and on LinkedIn at Rob Higgs, Speaker and Facebook at R Higgs Presents. THE ARROW

HEADS OF SCHOOL & HEADS OF PREP HEADS OF SENIOR SCHOOL INTERVIEW Bella C and Edward C Being appointed as a Head of School is both an honour and a responsibility. The role calls for leadership, maturity, and a commitment to representing the student body. This term, we caught up with our newly appointed Heads of School, Bella C and Edward C, to hear about their experiences so far and their hopes for the year ahead. HOW HAS YOUR FIRST TERM GONE AS HEAD OF SCHOOL? Edward: It’s been a really positive start to the academic year. Being selected as Head of School came as a huge surprise to both of us. We were definitely a bit overwhelmed at first, but mostly just excited to take on the challenge.

WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU THINK A HEAD OF SCHOOL SHOULD HAVE? Bella: I think it’s important to be approachable and confident when speaking to people. Being able to listen to others, hold conversations, and speak publicly are all key parts of the role. Edward: Confidence is important, but so are empathy and integrity. A Head of School should be someone others feel they can trust.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU EACH BRING TO THE ROLE? Edward: I try to bring confidence without ego. It’s about supporting others, not leading for the sake of attention. Bella: I hope I bring integrity, compassion, and the ability to understand others’ perspectives. I really enjoy helping translate pupils’ concerns into practical solutions. One

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highlight this term was taking part in the Great Escape and working with younger pupils, it was great teamwork. Even though my group didn’t win, we still had a fantastic time!

ARE THERE ANY CHANGES OR NEW IDEAS YOU’D LIKE TO INTRODUCE? Bella: I would love to see a Careers Fair introduced. I’m planning to suggest it to the School Council, perhaps Year 11 pupils could even help choose which companies or professions to invite. Edward: I’d like to help broaden the range of guest speakers we have, especially those we as students are genuinely interested in. For example, someone like Alastair Campbell, his podcast encourages thoughtful discussion on politics and world events. It would be great to have more speakers covering global news and a variety of topics. We also have plenty of ideas for the sports department, including pre-season rugby training and winter nets. We’ll be reminding Mr Beard!

HEADS OF PREP SCHOOL Olivia C and Archie D (Form 8)

Prep Divisional Leaders: Divisional Leaders are nominated in Form 8 to lead and guide their Divisions, as well as set an example to the younger children in their Divisions. Our newly nominated Divisional Leaders are as follows:

HEADS: OSCAR J AND FLORENCE H, DEPUTIES: ISLA D AND JACK W

HEADS: LYL A T AND AJVEER B, DEPUTIES: AMELIA H AND HARRY W

FORM 8 TIES (PREFECTS) Florence H Ar thur H Rory O’C Ophelia W

HEADS: MAGNUS LG AND LOT TIE L-F, DEPUTIES: OPHELIA W AND EUAN S

HEADS: KIT A AND KRISTEN M, DEPUTIES: SOPHIA H AND ARTHUR H

SENIOR DIVISIONAL LEADERS – FORM 11

SOPHIE C MAY T

MA X A ALICE N

PADDY B TILLY K

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ASSEMBLIES

CELEBRATION ASSEMBLY Mr B-P and our Heads of Prep, Archie D and Olivia C, handed out trophies and certificates to pupils in our Prep School in celebration of their achievements both in and out of school. These included awards such as ‘golden moments’ and ‘tutor commendations’ to children for showing kindness, positivity, helpfulness and team spirit!

3M Form 3M chose the subject of ‘kindness’ as the theme for their class assembly this term. They spoke about Danny Wallace’s mission for people to ‘undertake a random act of kindness for a stranger when you can’ and they ended the assembly with their own kindness pledges.

4M’S ASSEMBLY AESOPS FABLES 10V The theme of 10V’s assembly was Sporting Heroes. They explored how sport has the power to unite people and highlighted the different ways athletes can inspire us. The form shared examples of remarkable sports figures who have motivated them, including Mo Farah, Simone Biles, and Serena Williams.

When starting a new term or even coming to a new school, everyone wants to have a positive beginning and make a great impression. To help the Lower Prep children on this perilous mission, 4M’s assembly aimed to boost the audience’s wisdom by performing some selected tales from Aesop’s Fables. In the ‘Lion and the Mouse’ we discovered that small friends can be great friends. While the ‘Wind and the Sun’ taught us that gentle persuasion can be more effective that force. Finally, in the tale of ‘Belling the Cat’ the clear moral was that it’s easier to think of a plan than to enact it. It is tricky to know if the audience gained in wisdom but they certain had hysterics when Sam M’s mouse was eaten by Ryder C’s sleeping cat! 20

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JUST DANCE

5M delivered an excellent assembly yesterday about ‘Preparing for success’ and how to have a healthy body and healthy mind and the importance of a holistic approach with sleep, nutrition, exercise and friendships.

10E 10E delivered a Kahoot! Quiz on the origins of Halloween as their assembly with questions such as ‘Who Wrote Dracula?’, ‘Who has a famous birthday on Halloween?’ and ‘What is the day before Halloween called?’

5V 5V delivered a confident and informative assembly about languages which included facts on languages spoken by famous people as well as the children saying hello and goodbye in several languages.

6V 6V’s assembly reminded us of all the important days we celebrate nationally and globally in November to xxx.

6M 6M brought the story of the Gunpowder Plot to life in their assembly, reminding us why we commemorate Guy Fawkes and exploring the history behind the events. Their timing was perfect too, as it happened to coincide with the final of the TV programme The Traitors!

6E 6E delivered a fantastic assembly on the battle of hastings reinforcing topic they have been studying in class.

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NEW STAFF FOCUS INTERVIEW WITH NEW DEPUTY HEAD, CURRICULUM, MRS NICOLA BYRNE-CHINN CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHAT DREW YOU TO ST EDMUND’S? I’ve admired the success and growth of St Edmund’s for several years, so I was thrilled by the opportunity to join a school with such a strong sense of tradition and rich history, while also embracing the need to adapt and evolve in an ever-changing educational landscape. Before joining St Edmund’s, I served as Academic Deputy Head at an all-girls school for three years. Prior to that, I spent 16 years working within a large trust in Essex, starting my career as a teacher and progressing to Assistant Head and Trust Advisor for Maths. During that time, I worked across four different schools with a focus on teaching and learning and raising attainment for all pupils. WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT JOINING OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY? What excites me most about joining St Edmund’s is being part of such a vibrant community, both as a teacher and a parent. Over the past few months, I’ve been learning all the famous ‘St Edisms’ (and there are plenty!). My favourite so far has to be giving out the stodge on a Friday. It’s such a lovely tradition. I’ve also heard that Christmas here is truly magical, and I can’t wait to experience it! HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY? My educational philosophy is rooted in championing every child as an individual. I believe in creating a balanced and appropriately challenging curriculum that nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and allows each learner to thrive. Education should empower pupils to discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and develop the skills they need for life beyond the classroom. When pupils are happy, they thrive—and achieving this takes a collective approach, something I’ve already seen St Edmund’s do incredibly well.

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ARE THERE ANY NEW INITIATIVES OR CHANGES YOU’RE PARTICULARLY LOOKING FORWARD TO IMPLEMENTING IN THE CURRICULUM? I’m looking forward to introducing a careers programme that prepares our pupils for the future and reflects the changing opportunities available to them. Highlight! This includes responding to the growing trend among major companies— such as BAE Systems and Network Rail in engineering, or PwC and KPMG in finance— who are increasingly recruiting talented young people straight after A-Levels for higher and degree-level apprenticeships. These offer the chance to earn while learning, often leading to professional qualifications before even stepping onto a university campus. Helping pupils and parents understand these pathways and make informed decisions about careers and education, will be a key focus of the programme. HOW DO YOU HOPE TO INSPIRE BOTH STUDENTS AND TEACHERS IN THEIR LEARNING JOURNEYS? I hope to inspire both students and teachers by fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and confidence. For pupils, that means creating opportunities to explore ideas, take risks, and celebrate progress—not just outcomes. For teachers, it’s about supporting professional growth and encouraging innovation in the classroom, so they feel empowered to try new approaches and share best practice. When everyone feels valued and motivated, learning becomes a shared journey rather than a destination.

WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO BALANCING TRADITIONAL ACADEMIC SUBJECTS WITH CREATIVE AND EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES?

At St Edmund’s, I see technology as a way to support creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving, while helping pupils become critical thinkers who can navigate an increasingly digital world with confidence and discernment.”

I believe that academic excellence and creativity go hand in hand. My approach is to ensure that traditional subjects provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, while creative and extracurricular opportunities allow pupils to explore passions, develop confidence, and build essential life skills. A balanced curriculum should challenge pupils intellectually and inspire them personally, so they leave school not only well-educated but wellrounded, ready to make a positive impact on society.”

OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL, WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS OR HOBBIES? Outside of school, I love anything creative—baking and crafting are my favourite ways to relax, especially when my children join in (though they mostly just lick the bowl and leave me to it!). I also enjoy travelling with my family and sampling local cuisine wherever we go. Closer to home, nothing beats a long country walk finished with a hearty roast in a cosy pub—complete with an extra gravy boat for the northerner in me—and a roaring fire.

HOW DO YOU SEE TECHNOLOGY PLAYING A ROLE IN THE CLASSROOM HERE? Technology should enhance learning, not overwhelm it. My approach is to use digital tools purposefully and appropriately—always with clear educational intent.

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BOOK CLUB Our new whole school library in The George Bernard Shaw room has been a huge success, especially the open library sessions at morning break where pupils can choose and read a book in a quiet corner if they fancy a change from outside play. Here are some book reviews from pupils in Forms 3 to 8. Why not choose one of the books, have a read over the Christmas Holidays and see if you agree with their star ratings!?

My Name: Emily H My Class: 6V Title of the Book: Bad Panda:

Mites, Camera , Action!

Author: Swapna Haddow

book (a short summary of This is what happened in the ut a Panda who is trying to get the story): The book is abo home. She tries to do lots of out of the zoo so she can go Zoo will get fed up and send naught y things in the hope the naught y things don’t turn out her home. Unfortunately, the ends up being cute and funny. how she hoped and she just lly really funny Why I like this book: Its rea give this book? How many stars would you

My Name: Harry W My Class: 5V Title of the Book: Findin Author: Hannah Gold

g Bear

ry of the the book (a short summa This is what happened in and makes tic Arc a girl who goes to the story): The book is about t so she sho n bee she hears a bear has friends with a bear. Later and they her join Her Dad and friend returns to see if it is ‘bear’. it will as re mo for bear. I can’t say any get a guide to go looking spoil the story us book a really exciting adventuro Why I like this book: It is you give this book? How many stars would

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My Name: Henry W My Class: 6V Title of the Book: The Lion Above

the Door

Author: Onjali Q. Raúf

k (a shor t summar y of the stor y): This is what happened in the boo sees his own name high above the On a school trip to a cathedral Leo list of WW11 war heroes. Leo then doors of the hall in the middle of a eeta , to find out who this hero goes on a search, with his friend Sang e. was. It is a really exciting adventur e books and this is a great Why I like this book: I like adventur adventure, there is a lot happening. How many stars would you give

this book?

My Name: Mag gie T

My Name: Ot tilie B

My Class: 7J

My Class: 5V

Title of the Book: All My Secrets

Title of the Book: Hubble Bubble the Glorious Granny Bake Of f

Author: Sophie McKenzie Genre: Myster y This is what happened in the book (a short summary of the sto ry): Evie Brown is the main character, in the story she finds out her mum is not actually her real mum. Evie tracks down her real mum and find she has been left 10 million pounds by her. She tries to find out what is going on and goes to stay on an island call ed Lightsea , this is when the story gets ver y exciting… Why I like this book: It’s a really interesting and different sto ry. I love myster y books as you always have to figure out who the bad guy is. How many stars would you give this book?

Author: Tracey Corderoy in This is what happened ry of the story): ma sum rt sho the book (a is a witch and her In the book the granny Pandora granddaughter is called petition where they They enter a bake off com ey have little helpers, have to bake a cake. Th nny witch has a magic a frog and a cat . The gra thing happen. She wand and can make any bake the cake so that to uses the magic wand her dreams Pandora gets the cake of like how there is an Why I like this book: I ny things happen, adventure and lots of fun cake spills all over because at one point the ra granny witch and Pando you give this book? How many stars would

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INTERNAL CALENDAR EVENTS BONFIRE NIGHT St. Edmund’s hosted another incredible Bonfire Night in November. The atmosphere was magical – brilliant fireworks, glow goodies and delicious food brought the whole St. Edmund’s Trust community together. Thank you to the Grayshott Youth Football Club who sponsored the Raffle at the Charity stall at the bonfire night The Prep School Charity Committee raised an amazing £690.00 at the Bonfire Night for HART Wildlife Rescue! They worked so hard in the planning, preparation, and manning of the stall on the night.

PREP SCHOOL CHARITY COMMITTEE FORM 5 – Teddy W FORM 6 – Millie D, Hannah W, Esme R, Alex S, Charlie M, Daniel R, Rosie G FORM 7 – Hannah G, Annabel M FORM 8 – Leon G, Kit A

ODD SOCKS DAY On Monday 10th November, St. Ed’s joined schools across the country in celebrating Odd Socks Day to mark the start of Anti-Bullying Week. This year’s theme is ‘Power for Good’ – a reminder that each of us has the ability to make a positive difference through acts of kindness, respect and inclusion. Odd Socks Day is a fun and light-hearted opportunity to celebrate individuality and to remind everyone that it’s great to be different.

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ST. EDMUND’S DAY We celebrated the life and legacy of our patron saint St. Edmund on 20 November. We marked the day in assemblies, where pupils learned why St. Edmund is such an important figure in our school’s history. We also explored the origins of our Divisions — Arrow, Martyr, Crown, and Wolf each inspired by moments from St Edmund’s story. Our pupils impressed us with their Latin skills! At break time, everyone enjoyed a St. Edmund’s cupcake to celebrate. St. Edmund’s reminds us of the values we aim to live by every day: wisdom, integrity, compassion and service. His influence reached far across England nearly 800 years ago, and his example continues to inspire our school community today.

CHRISTMAS JUMPER SWAP The Prep School Charity Committee ran a drop in Christmas Jumper Swap/Sale on Friday 28 November in the Heritage Room to give parents and staff the opportunity to purchase or swap their Christmas jumpers! The Charity Committee sold tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and mince pies, raising £270 for St Luke’s Church Youth Outreach Programme.

SNOW

AT ST. ED’S Pupils had fun playing in an unexpected flurry of snow at St. Ed’s! THE ARROW

ELVES COME TO ST. EDMUND’S THIS CHISTMAS Twas a frosty November, the stars shining bright, When two little elves set off on their flight. Santa was worried—he needed a plan, To spread kindness and joy wherever he can. “I know just the place!” he said with a cheer, “St Edmund’s School, full of goodwill this year!” With a sprinkle of stardust and sleigh bells that ring, He sent two elves flying on shimmering wings. They soared over mountains, through clouds soft as lace, Till they landed at last in this magical place. But oh, what a muddle! Their names blew away, And their passports were lost in the snowy display! Now hiding in chapel, all snug and so small, They’re waiting for names that will bring joy to all. Write down your ideas, be clever and bright, And soon they’ll have names that feel merry and right! But remember the magic—don’t give them a touch, Or their sparkle will vanish, which matters so much! To make their magic grow stronger each day, Show kindness and joy in all that you say. Kindness is magic—it shines like a star, It makes you feel happy wherever you are. So share with your friends, lend a helping hand, And spread Christmas cheer all over the land! So keep your eyes open—they’ll move every night, Watching for goodness to make spirits bright. The more that they see you being helpful and true, The stronger their magic will sparkle for you!

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ICE SKATING In the last week of term, pupils enjoyed a wonderful seasonal treat as our astro was transformed into a magical ice-skating winter wonderland. From Nursery to Form 11, everyone had the chance to step onto the ice and create unforgettable festive memories. After their skating sessions, pupils warmed up with delicious waffles and hot chocolate, the perfect end to a magical experience. It’s sure to be something they’ll remember for years to come! It was wonderful to welcome our Friends from St. Hilary’s too. Thank you to See more Photos FOSE for their contribution in financing in the gallery the ice rink. THE ARROW

REMEMBRANCE DAY On Remembrance Day, we paused to remember and honour all those who gave their lives in the service of our country especially our OSEs (Old St Edmund’s). We commemorate their sacrifice each year by placing poppy wreaths in their memory. Forms 5 to 11 gathered for a special assembly to mark the day, while our younger pupils joined around the flagpole to observe the two-minute silence. We were privileged to welcome Captain Freddie Hobbs MVO (OSE), who spoke about patriotism and how his time at St Edmund’s helped shape his journey into leadership, as well as Sam Hillier (OSE) who shared exerts from his grandfather’s war diary written in the trenches in WW2. Our Chapel Choir and Vicars Choral Senior Choir sang beautifully, and our readers shared their own moving, original war poetry. In our Chapel at St Edmund’s, we remember 37 OSEs from the First World War, 42 from the Second World War, and one from the Iraq War, their service never forgotten.

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PREP GREAT ESCAPE This term we had our famous Great Escape return for Forms 3 to 8. With a chilly evening ahead, we were ready for our ‘escapees’ with pre-activity snacks and the St. Edmund’s tradition of post-activity Chinese take-away (thank you to the King of Jordan for starting this wonderful tradition!). Pupils split into three teams and raced around the school grounds armed with torches, maps and clues, all on a mission to capture the opposing teams. Laughter rang out across the grounds with Dr Walliker’s golf buggy zipping around, and the aroma of Chinese take-away filled the air. It was a fantastic night and congratulations to Team ‘Tom’, the winners, proudly pictured with the Great Escape trophy!

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MUSIC UPDATE A NIGHT AT THE OPERA CONCERT St Edmund’s School hosted a spectacular evening titled A Night at the Opera, featuring breathtaking performances from our singers, ballet dancers, actors and instrumentalists. This celebration of classical music brought together students from Forms 5 to 11, who showcased their talent through operatic arias, an elegant ballet sequence, and instrumental pieces. The event was a true testament to the dedication and creativity of our performing arts community, creating an unforgettable night for all in attendance.

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ORGAN OUTREACH PROGRAMME Our talented music and choral scholars had the privilege of participating in an inspiring Organ Outreach Programme hosted by Cranleigh School. This initiative provided a unique opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of the organ’s rich history and complex mechanics while engaging in practical sessions. The program fostered collaboration between schools and celebrated the artistry of organ music, leaving participants motivated and enriched by the experience.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC AT ST EDMUND’S:

INSPIRING CREATIVITY & CONFIDENCE At St Edmund’s, we are proud to offer a vibrant and diverse contemporary music program that nurtures creativity, confidence, and collaboration among our students. Alongside our strong classical tradition, we provide exciting opportunities for pupils to explore modern genres and develop practical skills that resonate with today’s musical landscape.

EVENSONG AT CHICHESTER CATHEDRAL Our Chapel Choir, joined by the esteemed Vicars Choral, had the honour of singing Evensong at the magnificent Chichester Cathedral. This service was a profound experience for our choristers, blending tradition, spirituality, and music in one of England’s most historic sacred spaces. The choir’s harmonious voices resonated beautifully within the cathedral, offering a moving and memorable act of worship for all who attended.

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LUNCHTIME ADVENT CONCERT

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

To mark the beginning of Advent, our pupils from Forms 3 to 9 delighted the school community with a charming lunchtime concert filled with festive cheer. The program featured beloved Christmas melodies that set the tone for the season of joy and reflection. This informal yet heartwarming performance created a wonderful atmosphere, allowing staff and pupils to pause and celebrate the spirit of Christmas together.

One of the most enchanting moments of our festive season was Carols by Candlelight, held in the Heritage Room and Chapel. This intimate and atmospheric event featured the Show Choir alongside soloists from the Chapel Choir, performing a selection of traditional carols and seasonal music.

Surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight, the audience experienced a truly magical evening that captured the spirit of Christmas and showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of our young musicians.

DRUM LESSONS WITH MR RANDON Rhythm is at the heart of contemporary music, and our drum tuition with Mr Randon equips students with the skills to master dynamic beats and grooves. Drumming enhances coordination, timing, and focus, while offering an exhilarating outlet for energy and creativity.

ROCK BAND AND MUSIC TECHNOLOGY Our Rock Band sessions give students the chance to perform as part of an ensemble, fostering teamwork and stage confidence. Meanwhile, Music Technology opens doors to composition, recording, and production, allowing pupils to experiment with sound and create their own tracks using industry-standard software.

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GUITAR TUITION WITH MR ROOD Students can learn acoustic, bass and electric guitar under the expert guidance of Mr Rood. Guitar lessons not only build technical ability and musicality but also encourage selfexpression and versatility across styles, from pop and rock to jazz and blues.

THE BENEFITS Contemporary music education goes beyond performance; it develops transferable skills such as discipline, collaboration, and problem-solving. It boosts self-esteem, encourages innovation, and provides a platform for students to express their individuality. Whether aspiring to a career in music or simply seeking a creative outlet, these opportunities enrich the educational experience and prepare pupils for a world where music and technology are deeply intertwined.

CAROL SERVICES

CAROL SERVICES The highlight of our festive season was the series of Carol Services, which brought together the entire school community in joyful celebration. Featuring outstanding soloists, vibrant ensembles, and performances by The Probationers, Show Choir, Chapel Choir, and Vicars Choral, these services captured the essence of Christmas through music and reflection. The combination of traditional carols and exceptional musicianship created an uplifting experience that will be cherished by all. See more Photos of the Forms 1 to 6 Carol Service

See more Photos of the Forms 7-8 Carol Service THE ARROW

DRAMA UPDATE Our Form 11 GCSE Drama pupils showcased their talent and creativity by performing original devised pieces, developed through collaboration with each other. This year the devised performances were inspired by the painting ‘Nighthawks’ and the musical ‘Sunset Boulevard’ and both explored powerful themes using voice, movement and stage space. It was a pleasure to see their hard work come to life on stage.

Our Senior School production of West Side Story is taking place on 16, 17, 18 and 19 March 2026 and tickets will be available to book next term.

Our new LAMDA teacher James Merry will be on our screens on Christmas Day. James, who many students will recognise from CBeebies Waffle The Wonder Dog, is in this years CBeebies Panto; Cinderella. He plays Ginger in the show which was filmed at The Alhambra Theatre, Bradford in October. You can catch the show on the BBC iPlayer, in cinemas nationwide and on BBC1 Christmas Day. If any of your children are showing a passion for performance and are interested in LAMDA at St Ed’s…you know where we are!

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What’s your favourite thing about playing Buddy the Elf? The energy Buddy brings to the show and his happiness that creates such a brilliant Christmas atmosphere wherever he goes. What was the most challenging part of learning this role? The speed of costume changes, it was very stressful in the wings getting Buddy’s new suit on ready for the office scene! What’s it like working with the rest of the cast? They were all so much fun! There was a super atmosphere of hard work, determination and Christmas joy! How do you handle nerves before going on stage? I tell myself it’s a rehearsal but with an audience. If you could play any role in any show next, what would it be? Marty McFly in Back to the Future. I saw the musical Back to the Future in London and thought it was superb. See more Photos in the gallery

What’s your favourite thing about playing Jovie in Elf? I really liked the opportunity it gave me to perform in front of a crowd. It made me feel great. What was the most challenging part of learning this role? Definitely roller skating! I fell over on a Saturday rehearsal and I certainly didn’t want to fall over again! What’s it like working with the rest of the cast? It was so nice and felt really inclusive. Everybody worked together really well which I think showed up well on stage. How do you handle nerves before going on stage? I used a calming technique and counted from 10 down to 1, firstly through my hands, then my feet and finally did a little shake. I was then show ready! If you could play any role in any show next, what would it be? Eliza in Hamilton -She’s such a strong and independent character. She’s Hamilton’s wife. She doesn’t have a lot of singing sections in the musical but her strength is her superpower!

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SPORT UPDATE

PETER BEARD:

DIRECTOR OF SPORT INTRODUCTION

We are delighted to welcome Peter Beard as the new Director of Sport at St. Edmund’s. Peter joined the school in September at the start of this academic year and will lead sport across the school. We caught up with Peter to find out a little more about him, his experience and how the sports team at St. Edmund’s will be structured moving forward. “The position of Director of Sport at St Edmund’s immediately appealed to me because I see tremendous potential in the school’s sporting programme. Sport has had a profoundly positive influence on my own life, shaping who I am and the values I hold. My passion lies in helping young people develop a lifelong, positive relationship with sport and physical activity. Seeing their progress - both as athletes and as individuals - is incredibly rewarding and continues to inspire everything I do.” Before becoming a teacher, I spent eleven years working in higher education sport and the wider sports development industry gaining experience in ‘sports for all’. I have a lifelong passion for sport in general but my main focus and goal is to develop young players in their chosen sports. I have been coaching hockey for over 25 years, with a strong focus on developing young players and supporting their progression through the talent pathway. When working at England Hockey, I specialised in young athlete development.

My passion lies in helping young athletes grow, both as players and as people. I have coached at every level of the hockey talent pathway - from grassroots hockey to national representation - so I know how to develop athletes at the top end of their sports. I currently coach for England Hockey in the Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme and last year coached an England team to the final of the School Games at Loughborough University where we sadly lost to the Irish in a shootout!” 40

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Previously, Peter spent six years as Director of Coaching at Havant Hockey Club, one of the largest clubs in the country. There, he expanded the coaching team from 8 to 30 and guided the Boys’ U18s to a national final. He now serves as Technical Director and Girls’ Head Coach at the South Coast Talent Academy, which supports the development of players aiming for England Age Group trials and beyond. Through his work, Peter has helped numerous young athletes progress into National League teams and England squads.

Before joining St Edmund’s, Peter was Head of Sport at The Royal School, and prior to that, Head of Hockey and Head of Swimming at Churcher’s College. Peter brings with him a wealth of experience, enthusiasm, and a clear commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes. We are excited to see how his leadership will further strengthen the sporting culture at St Edmund’s. Peter is already making significant strides in developing the Sport programme at St. Edmund’s. Sport is a central part of school life, inspiring all pupils and playing an integral role in their daily experience. Every pupil participates in sport at least three times a week, in addition to matches, from Form 3 to Form 11. We encourage pupils to explore a variety of sports until they find the ones that suit them best. They can participate for the sheer joy of playing or to compete at higher levels. As a through school for ages 2–16, we follow a cohesive, long-term sports development model that supports pupils at every stage of their journey.

Mr Beard’s top tips when using SOCS: When the fixture is listed as ‘Home’, please ensure you look closely at the location because a ‘home’ match could be at The Edge, Grayshott Football club or another local club. This is equally important when we are playing some teams ‘away’, for example, Edgeborough host some of their fixtures at Charterhouse. We are aiming to have all fixture detail, including team selection, live on the SOCS website by close of play on Friday before matches take place. Hard copies also go up outside the PE office in the Playroom for pupils to view.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW HEADS OF SPORT! If you have any issues or concerns, in the first instance, please do get in touch with the relevant newly appointed Heads of Sport. The Heads of Sport role is a significant step for sport at St Edmund’s. They will provide leadership, direction and expertise within the individual sport and are as follows for the Michaelmas and Lent terms:

Last-minute fixture changes do sometimes happen and in such cases, we email parents with updates. For now, this remains our method for communicating urgent changes. However, if you’re ever unsure about a fixture, please check the SOCS website first, as it is updated before anything else.

Head of Senior Football: Mr Evans – z.evans@saintedmunds.co.uk

TEAM SELECTION:

Head of Prep Football: Mr Tye – m.tye@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Netball: Mrs Roberts – j.roberts@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Rugby: Mr Woodger – s.woodger@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Hockey: Mr Beard – p.beard@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Basketball: Mr Beard – p.beard@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Swimming: Mr Tye – m.tye@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Athletics: Mrs Cowle – a.cowle@saintedmunds.co.uk Head of Cricket will be announced before the Summer term. I am delighted to have appointed Tracey Simons as Fixtures Administrator to support us in our colossal job of running close to 50 fixtures a week and whilst there will be the occasional mistake, I hope these will be dramatically reduced under my tenure. We have already made a host of efficiencies and have been building the backhouse operations and have made great strides already since Tracey joined us.

This can often be a sensitive topic, and because many of our sports are invasion games, such as rugby, team decisions can be subjective. Please be assured that the PE department is highly experienced and always acts in the pupils’ best interests and the way teams are chosen has already been refined.

KIT: Sports kit can be viewed in the parent area of the website or on the Stevensons website. All hockey players are expected to have a left-handed glove (it is irrelevant if they are right or left-handed). This will dramatically reduce the likelihood of injury. Old St Edmund’s branded sports attire can be worn during Games lessons because we are aware of the financial outlay involved with purchasing new attire. However, when representing the school on a fixture, only match tops are permitted, no divisional tops to be worn please.

DISCOUNTS: A reminder of the 5% discount I have managed to secure for the St Edmund’s family from cricket-hockey.com (which can be used repeatedly): PB25 I have also secured a 10% discount for Y1 products (hockey brand) from www.y1sport.com (which can also be used repeatedly): T1142526 THE ARROW

FOOTBALL: MR EVANS, HEAD OF FOOTBALL LOWER PREP This term Form 3 have embraced playing matches and St. Ed’s hosted a wonderful inter-school charity football tournament, welcoming five local schools for a friendly but competitive afternoon full of goals and great sportsmanship. The tournament was played in an amazing spirit by all teams and the girls final being decided on penalties showed how determined each team was. The children had an amazing time and there was some really talented footballers playing.

SENIOR

Our fantastic Sports Scholars from Form 9 were the Ref’s for the afternoon! The U9B team have lost only once this term, with highlights including a 4–2 win over Edgeborough and a 4–0 victory against Barrow Hills. The U9C team mirrored that success, also suffering only one defeat, and celebrated a standout 7–0 win over Barrow Hills.

PREP SCHOOLS’ LIONS FOOTBALL TRIAL

PREP

An A squad was selected but they also selected a Development Squad that several of our pupils were selected for: Congratulations to our pupils below who were selected:

Our U13A team progressed to the third round of the ESFA Cup after a bye in Round 1 and a strong win over Cobham Free School. They have enjoyed a successful season, performing well at the Highfield tournament and recording three wins, three draws and just one loss. The U13B team also had an outstanding season, going unbeaten and securing impressive victories over schools such as KES and Lambrook. The U11As played some excellent football, even if results didn’t always fall their way, and the rest of the Prep teams enjoyed full, positive seasons. 42

Our Senior 16B and 15A teams have produced strong performances, including high-scoring wins against Boundary Oak and KES. The 15As showed real resilience after an early National Schools Cup setback and have lost only twice all season. Due to increased demand, we introduced a 14C team and recently fielded four U14 sides in one afternoon a great sign of enthusiasm and development across the year group. The 16As have faced a challenging season but earned an excellent 3-2 win against a strong Duke of Kent team.

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Over 600 boys and girls in total attended the trial over the three age groups.

Oliver A............................ Development Squad Henry H........................... Development Squad Benedict H....................... Development Squad Reece K............................ Development Squad Penelope O’R (GK)....... Development Squad Benjamin A....................... Development Squad Oscar W........................... U13 A Squad Harry W........................... Development Squad

HOCKEY: MR BEARD, HEAD OF HOCKEY

The Senior girl’s hockey team has played some incredible hockey this term. At the halfway stage of the season the team has played 5, won 5, scored 27 goals and only conceding 6.

The U10A boys team have started their hockey matches this term unbeaten with wins against Highfield and Amesbury under 11 teams.

The team have shown determination and grit against some serious strong opponents. The season ended with them taking part in the Hampshire Schools Hockey League Tournament in November

The school welcomed Lucy Wood from Flame Hockey Academy during Half Term for an incredible session at St. Edmund’s, packed with energy, teamwork and most importantly lots of fun. Players aged 9-15 enjoyed a brilliant day of match play, challenges and new techniques under the guidance of Lucy, a former GB and England International and Commonwealth Games silver medallist and our new Director of Sport, Peter Beard.

The Prep girls teams have had a fantastic term of hockey, improving week on week and have enjoyed playing hockey matches and tournaments against local prep schools.

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SWIM SQUAD UPDATE: MR TYE, HEAD OF SWIMMING Swimming has been hugely popular this term, with strong attendance across all three after-school squad sessions - beginners, intermediate and advanced where pupils have been working hard to develop both their stroke technique and their times. This progress has already shown in competition: we have hosted two closely contested galas against Barrow Hills, featuring exciting races, several ties, and St Edmund’s finishing on top on both occasions. With another gala against Highfield still to come before Christmas, and further fixtures in the Lent term - including a Ditcham Park gala with a Form 9 team and our IAPS qualifier - the momentum in the squad is fantastic, and pupils should feel really proud of the effort and improvement they’ve shown so far.

DISTRICT CROSS COUNTRY AT CHARTERHOUSE: MRS COWLE, HEAD OF ATHLETICS 23 pupils travelled to Charterhouse in November on a beautiful autumn day - not the usual cross-country weather! The event served as a qualifier for Surrey Schools, with St Ed’s pupils competing across all age groups.

Ben G led the team home in 5th, followed by Jake B (10th), Alex V (12th) and Max F (14th) in a strong team effort.

The U13 girls opened the day, with Clemmie S and Ciara G (Form 7) running superbly to finish 4th and 5th on what proved to be a tough course.

Intermediate Boys – 1st place, beating many larger schools

The Junior Girls (Forms 8 & 9) followed, led by a strong 2ndplace finish from Lily S, with Isla D 10th and Immy HC 12th. In the U13 boys, Dylan O’F ran an excellent race to place 5th, followed by Alex B (17th), Robbie F (19th), Freddie D (20th), Thomas K (24th) and a determined run from Charles N (30th). The Junior Boys (Forms 8 & 9) faced a very competitive field, with Patrick T finishing in a brilliant 2nd place, Theo H 9th, Rory O’C 30th, Archie D 42nd, Will M 52nd and Clark W 58th. After a long wait, the Intermediate Girls and Boys (Forms 10 & 11) rounded off the day. Evangeline R finished a fantastic 2nd, with Issy G close behind in 5th. In the boys’ race,

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With four runners needed for a team score, St Eds achieved impressive results:

Junior Boys – 5th place It was a brilliant day of running, teamwork and resilience. Many pupils competed against runners a year older valuable experience that will benefit them next season. Huge congratulations to the following pupils who have since received confirmation that they have qualified for the Surrey Schools Cross Country Championships. They will now form part of the Waverley Squad. Form 7 – Ciara G, Clemmie S, Dylan O’F Form 8 – Isla D Form 9 – Lily S, Immy H-C, Patrick T, Theo H Form 10 – Issy G, Ben G, Alex V Form 11 – Jake B, Evangeline R

LOWER PREP NETBALL: MRS ROBERTS, HEAD OF NETBALL Form 3 played their first ever fixtures this term. They played lots of different schools and tried their hardest in every match. They all improved their skills and gained knowledge in game play.

SHRED Brendan Fairclough, British downhill and freeride LEGEND and pioneer of our own St. Ed’s Shred mountain biking course joined us in November to lead a session. Despite the cold, our Senior pupils absolutely loved it! Brendan and our Shred instructor Sam delivered an amazing session and our Senior pupils impressed him with their skills!

COUNTY & REGIONAL SUPERSTARS!!!! Congratulations to Esme A (Form 10) who has been selected for the South Coast Talent Academy, intended for the highest potential 14-18 year olds..

Congratulations to Dylan P (Form 9), Lily S (Form 9) and Erin B (Form 8) who have been selected to play for U14 & U13 Surrey Hockey and Rosie L (Form 9) selected to play for U14 Hampshire Hockey this year.

Kinvara B (Form 9) has been offered an U15 place with Hampshire Cricket and begins in December! Lauren F (Form 9), U14 Hampshire player, has been recently selected for the MCC Lords U14 team. She was among 65 girls from the Home Counties who trialled and Lauren was selected as part of the final 24 squad. Her sister Grace F (Form 7) was also selected to play for Hampshire U12 cricket. Both girls were selected to play for Canada twice over the summer in their U19 National Championships in Toronto in July and in the Women’s National Championships in Vancouver in August. Congratulations to Lilly-May J (Form 7) who competed in the Inter- Regional Polo Championships and was selected to play for the Southeast Region and won the bronze medal place. THE ARROW

ART UPDATE GCSE Art students and one of our Art Scholars visited London this term to carry out visual research at the Tate Britain, the Tate Modern and the South Bank. The pupils travelled between the two areas of London by the Uber river boat which added to the experience. Pupils created some fantastic observational drawings from the art work on display and took lots of photographs to document their day. Students also had the opportunity to draw the London architecture along the South Bank and created some amazing studies of the Millenium Bridge and St. Pauls Cathedral in particular. All had an amazing time and the sun shone too!

Form 4 have been developing self-portraits this term and have started to develop their work in the style of Picasso. Form 5: Tonal pencil bird drawings From feathers to beaks, our Form 5 pupils loved capturing the detail of these taxidermy birds, kindly loaned by Haslemere Museum.

Form 6: Day of the Dead heads. Next rotation, students will use coloured glazes to bring their creations to life!

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Form 7: Oil paintings of birds - working from the birds loaned by Haslemere museum

Form 7: Observational studies of sweets

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ART

Form 8: Under the Sea Form 9: Observational studies Everyday, cropped images

DESIGN A MINIATURE HOME IN A MATCHBOX COMPETITION Well done to our winners: Forms 1-2: Maisie D Forms 3-4: Cecily L Forms 5-6: Bethan B-P Forms 7- 8: Eva A Forms 9-11: Iris M

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Runners up: Forms 1-2: Jonty S and Thomas S (joint runners up) Forms 3-4: Florence C Forms 5-6: Clara T Forms 7-8: Beatrix W

DT UPDATE ing how to use the Form 3 have been learn their own marble mazes! hacksaws in DT to make

Form 4 have built their own spinning tops in DT and have been decoratin g them whilst they spin!

ills increasing their sk en be ve ha 7 rm o F DT. n photo frames in by making their ow

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FOOD TECH This term in Food and Nutrition... Form 3 have been working towards their Knife Licence, developing confidence and precision as they practised safe knife skills. They have prepared a colourful range of salads and pasta dishes, showcasing excellent technique and teamwork.

Form 4 have been exploring the theme of Party Food, learning how to create simple, bite-sized dishes perfect for celebrations and special occasions. Their creativity and presentation skills have really shone. Form 4 got creative this term making tasty Jack-O’Lantern chocolate orange cakes. Form 4 have also been feeling festive making mince pies.

Form 5 have been busy with their On-The-Go project, discovering how to make healthier versions of quick and convenient foods. They learned to interpret the food traffic light system to make informed choices, and even baked their own bread rolls to use in freshly prepared, nutritious sandwiches.

Form 6 have been developing their understanding of food labelling and learning how to interpret nutritional information to make informed choices. As part of their project on healthier alternatives to processed foods, they created nutritious versions of popular products - including a 5-a-day pizza and a fresh, healthy “pot noodle.” Linking with Design Technology, students also designed and made their own food packaging, taking their pizzas and noodle pots home in beautifully crafted, personalised boxes.

Form 7 are taking part in a cross-curricular language and food project, exploring global cuisines through practical cookery. So far, they have made focaccia, croque monsieur, Spanish paella and a traditional French apple tart - bringing language learning to life through food.

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Form 8 have been studying the 8 Tips for Healthy Eating and investigating macro- and micronutrients. They have made healthy overnight oats and taken on a technical challenge: preparing their own sushi, demonstrating growing confidence and precision.

Form 10 have mastered impressive new skills, including deboning a chicken, understanding the Maillard reaction, and applying different methods of heat transfer in cooking. They have produced a wide range of balanced dishes and are now focusing on high-level presentation techniques as they prepare for their coursework. Towards the end of term Form 10’s also made these incredible chocolate mousses with handmade chocolate decorations working on food presentation skills.

Form 9, who have now been introduced to GCSE content, completed a Superfood Salad Challenge linked to their learning on antioxidants. They have also explored food science through complex practical’s such as choux pastry and puff pastry, and learned how to adapt recipes for different dietary needs.

Form 11 have completed their mock practical exam and are progressing through their NEA. They are carrying out both primary and secondary research into the importance of a balanced diet, alongside ongoing revision for their upcoming written exams.

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MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES FRENCH TRIP Our Senior School French Language trip to Paris, France, took place in October. GCSE French pupils were able to fully immerse themselves in the French language and culture, relevant to their school studies and GCSE course. They were able to do this in a new environment, giving them the chance to create exciting memories, as well as building on their enthusiasm of the subject. Pupils visited key attractions such as Cité des Sciences et de L’industrie, Champs Elysées, Bateaux Parisiens, Île de la Cité, Château de Versailles and a local market.

“We loved experiencing the French culture and seeing the sights!” Daisy M and Charisa M (Form 9)

“It was the best school trip i have ever been on”

“I loved the trip to Paris- we saw such incredible things and got some great moments of culture. I especially enjoyed the visit to Notre Dame it was one of the best days and the food was brilliant!! It brought loads of us closer together and we’ve made some good friends and memories.”

Lily S (Form 9)

Louisa V (Form 9)

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Form 6 had fun playing Spanish games in some of their lessons this term. A fun (and quietly competitive) way to reinforce their Spanish vocabulary. ¡Bravo! THE ARROW

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The Burrow

WELLBEING The Burrow - a wellbeing space for every pupil at St. Edmund’s School At St. Edmund’s we understand that pupils thrive and are ready to learn when they feel safe, supported, and understood. That’s why we’ve created the Burrow, a dedicated wellbeing room available to all our Prep and Senior pupils from 8.15am - 4.30pm.

What is the Burrow?

For those who don’t wish to talk and simply want to take a moment to reflect, we can support that need too. Our wellbeing room is not about fixing everything, or avoiding lessons, it’s about creating space for every child to feel safe and supported while in school.

How does it help learning? When pupils are struggling emotionally, they may appear attentive in class but are unable to absorb what’s being taught.

The Burrow is not a ‘time out’ space, but a ‘time in’ space, designed to help pupils reset and regulate their emotions, rather than withdraw from school life.

By visiting the Burrow, they demonstrate resilience through recognising their emotions and seeking support rather than disengaging. This self-awareness and time to reflect empowers pupils, so that when ready, they return to class ready to learn.

When children feel seen, heard, and accepted, they are better able to cope with challenges and return to their learning with confidence.

Our commitment

Why does it matter? All emotions are valid, but sometimes it can be hard for a pupil to know what they’re feeling and why. This can result in non-verbal expressions, such as vague feelings of being ‘unwell’, tuning out of learning or making choices they wouldn’t ordinarily make. Having a space within school for quietness when pupils feel worried about little things, or when overwhelmed with big emotions, means that all pupils are nurtured.

In the Burrow, our team is consistent, present, and caring. We listen, notice, and respond with empathy. Behaviour is a form of communication, and we believe that when pupils feel seen and supported, they can navigate their emotions and strengthen their resilience. The result is a child who is enabled to learn with focus and determination.

The Burrow Team The Burrow is staffed by Mrs Jackson, Ms O’Shea, Mrs Taylor and Mrs Noble. A highly qualified and experienced team of wellbeing specialist Teaching Assistants, ELSA’s (Emotional Literacy Support Assistance) and Youth Mental Health First Aider’s.

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FOSE

What’s been happening? The FOSE funded table tennis and pool tables are in place and being enjoyed by the pupils! The Burrow is looking amazing with all the additional items from the £1,000 donated from FOSE. The outside football tables, as well as the bikes and activities ordered for the Lower Prep children for their break time have now arrived!

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OSE DRINKS AND CANAPES EVENT

TOBY WRIGHT (OSE LIAISON) Over 75 OSEs, representing seven decades of St Ed’s pupils, gathered at the East India Club in St James’s Square for a wonderful evening on Thursday 17th October. As the latest St. Edmund’s School film played in the background, the room hummed with stories of life at St Ed’s across the years, punctuated by lingo only an OSE would recognise such as squidge, stodge, Dilly Darlek, Stanbags, and the legendary iced buns once served on Wednesdays and Saturdays - whose more colourful nickname (used by staff and pupils alike!) is sadly unprintable here. As ever, a faithful group of long-standing regulars joined us, but we were equally delighted to welcome OSEs we haven’t seen for many years - some newly rediscovered and others returning for the first time in decades. There was also a lively contingent of younger alumni who left within the last five to ten years making their debut appearance. Personally, it was a particular pleasure to reconnect with some of my own contemporaries, and even more gratifying to renew friendships with former pupils who I now count as friends. I’m aware that some productive networking also took place, and I hope those conversations bear fruit. More recently, it was wonderful to see a strong OSE presence at the school bonfire and firework night, which was as spectacular as ever. The OSE Society is thriving, and I encourage all of you who are involved to spread the word and urge others to join us. We will be hosting an OSE lunch at the school next year, and we will share the date as soon as it is confirmed. In the meantime, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a successful, happy 2026.

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Congratulations to Poppy P (Form 6) who did brilliantly at a recent British Dressage High Profile competition at Aintree. It was a massive undertaking, and she came 4th and 6th in her tests. She did so well as it’s a ‘big stage’.

STAR PUPILS

Lilly-May J and Eva A (Form 7) were guard of honour for Hampshire vs Lancashire women’s cricket match at the Utilita Bowl, Southampton in September. Their cricket team (Grayshott) won the Brian King Cup and both girls were invited to have a lap of honour and be the guard of honour.

In July, Reece K (Form 7) was selected to join the Prep School Lion’s squad and competed in The Gothia Cup, the world’s largest international youth football tournament, held annually in Gothenburg, Sweden. Reece described the experience as, “so much more than just football, I loved being amongst all the different nationalities and appreciating the range of cultures, I would love to go again next year!”

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Rory O’C (Form 8) took part in the Midhurst Milers cross country race in October and came 4th in the Junior 5k (ages 11-15). What great result!

Bella C (Form 11) was selected to play the drums at the Haslemere Remembrance Day ceremony. She is part of the 1268 Haslemere Squadron RAFAC and trains with them twice a week and hopes to become an NCO this year and possibly join the RAF as an Engineer or Pilot.

Well done to Zachary T (Form 5) who achieved his RYA Sailing Level 2 qualification over the summer holidays.

A big WELL DONE to Charlie J (Form 9) who took part in a charity walk this term to raise money for the Ruth Strauss Foundation, a charity raising awareness and advocating increased research into nonsmoking lung cancer.

Maisie D (Form 1) competed in the IDTA Nationwide Medalist of the Year Qualifiers in October. Maisie was in the age 3–5-year-old category and she qualified and became the 1st place National Winner for Latin and Ballroom. In April she will go on to compete at the IDTA Nationwide Medalist of the Year Grand Finals in Blackpool. She danced the foxtrot, quickstep, rumba and paso doble. Well done Oliver A, Oscar W and Matty H (Form 8) who have been selected to represent the U13 Prep School Lions squad that will attend the youth football World cup in 2026 in Gothia, Sweden.

Arabella S (Form 7), Clemmie S (Form 7) and Lily S (Form 9) were selected by Guildford Hockey Club to compete in the Torneo Inmaculada, a

highly prestigious hockey tournament in Barcelona, with some of the best hockey clubs in Europe taking part. Lily’s U14 team won the U14 competition while Arabella and Clemmie’s U12 team came in 3rd place, winning on shuffles!

STAFF NEWS

Congratulations to Mr Woodger and his wife Tula who had a little boy ‘Rory Thomas Woodger’ born over the summer on 2nd July.

Congratulations to Mrs Tuhill, who has been awarded fellowship status at the Chartered College of Teaching, for her development and implementation of a brand new PGCE course at Roehampton University.

Mrs Bailey competed in the IDTA Latin and Ballroom qualifiers for the South-East region this term and has qualified to dance at Blackpool in both Latin and Ballroom!

Mrs Berry has been busy crocheting poppies to send to Southend Pier as part of the Poppies on the Pier installation www.southendpier.co.uk/poppies

Mrs Drummond has now achieved her Masters Degree (with Distinction) in Classics. We are all very proud of her!

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St Edmund’s School, Portsmouth Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6BH 01428 604 808 • schoolsecretary@saintedmunds.co.uk • saintedmunds.co.uk @stedmundshindhead @stedmundsschoolsurrey St. Edmund’s School