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FROM THE HEADMASTER
What
a wonderful end to the academic year! The Summer Term has once again been full of energy, achievement and memorable moments across the
whole school, from our youngest children in Nursery and Reception through to our Form 11 leavers completing their GCSEs.
This edition of ‘The Arrow’ captures the remarkable breadth of St. Edmund’s life. In EYFS and Lower Prep, there have been Father’s Day breakfasts, farm visits, chicks hatching, fire engine excitement, Grandparents’ Tea, Sports Days, outdoor learning and a host of inspiring trips, from Painshill Park and Birdworld to Butser Ancient Farm and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Further up the school, our Prep pupils have enjoyed residential adventures, academic challenges, public speaking success, Shakespearean creativity, science experiments and the important milestone of Form 8 completing their Pre-Senior Baccalaureate before stepping up to Senior School, and the allimportant trip to Letton Hall! .
Our Senior School has had a particularly purposeful term, with Forms 9, 10 and 11 navigating examinations, enrichment and future preparation with maturity and ambition. In the recent Senior End of Term Assembly we took time to celebrate the many achievements of Form 9 & 10 pupils: academic, sporting, community, service, musical, artistic, and dramatic. It was a lovely atmosphere and, as so often, I was impressed by the positive attitudes and contributions of our future leaders and emerging adults. Form 11’s final day before study leave, their Leavers’ Dinner at Lythe Hill and the Leavers’ photograph all mark the end of a significant chapter. We are immensely proud of them and wish them every success as they move on to their next schools and colleges.
The performing arts have once again been a source of enormous pride. Our productions of Winnie the Pooh, Annie and West Side Story have showcased the talent, courage and teamwork of our pupils. Our musicians have excelled through Trinity examinations, the Chapel Choir recital at St Paul’s, the Pop and Rock Open Mic Night, the Summertime Concert and a spectacular Beatles concert. We are also delighted that several of the principals from our West Side Story received welldeserved nominations and attended the recent National School Theatre Awards in London.
Sport has continued to thrive, with success across athletics, swimming, hockey, cricket, tennis and golf. Particular congratulations go to our U13 Prep girls’ hockey team, crowned Sisters n’ Sport National Plate Champions, and to our swimmers who reached the IAPS National Finals. We have celebrated an astonishing 44 school swimming records broken or set this year. Our Sports Days this past week have been exceptional and I am grateful to the Sports Department for showcasing the elite skills of our top athletes whilst preserving the St Edmund’s inclusive culture whereby all children made a positive and meaningful contribution to their division’s results.
This term has reflected our commitment to beyond the classroom with the amazing new Harmony Hub. Our Duke of Edinburgh programme has seen record numbers of participants at Bronze level, the careers continues to strengthen through a whole-school programme and the use of Unifrog, and our pupils continue to develop confidence, leadership and curiosity through every aspect of school life.
As ever, The Arrow celebrates the people who make St. Edmund’s so special: our pupils, staff, parents, grandparents, OSE community and friends of the school. From charity fundraising and staff achievements to star pupils excelling in judo, karate, triathlon, water polo and swimming, there is so much here to enjoy and be proud of.
I wish you and your families a restful, joyful and well-earned summer break. Emma and I look forward to welcoming you back in September for the Michaelmas Term, when the adventure begins again – I can’t wait!
Adam Walliker Headmaster
NEWS FROM OUR EYFS FORMS
NURSERY AND RECEPTION
FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST
Once again, our Father’s Day Breakfast was a huge success, with an excellent turnout from families. The weather was beautiful, allowing our Nursery and Reception children to enjoy breakfast and outdoor activities. The children were delighted to share their learning, show off their play areas, and introduce their friends to their families.
NURSERY 2 GRADUATION
We celebrated our Nursery 2 graduates with a special farewell as they prepare for their next adventure. It was wonderful to welcome so many parents and families to share in this memorable occasion. We are incredibly proud of all our children and wish our new school starters every success as they begin this exciting new chapter. You are all amazing and we know you will shine!
EYFS SPORTS DAY
Click here to view more photos
RECEPTION –PAINSHILL PARK
Reception class really enjoyed a lovely school trip to Painshill Park this term. They had a wonderful time on the Fairytale story walk in the morning, which included making little houses in the woods, following Red riding hood, and ultimately meeting the ‘big bad wolf!’
After a yummy packed lunch the children were fully recharged and ready to explore the other lovely parts of the park. The grotto is a magical, sparkling place to see, the Turkish tent at the top of a steep climb and our favourite bridge to listen to the wildlife. What a fun filled day!
CHICKS HATCHING
Our Reception children were very excited to watch the chicks hatch from their eggs and everyone loved having the chance to hold the soft, fluffy chicks.
FIRE ENGINE VISIT FOR NURSERY, RECEPTION AND FORM 1
We had a wonderful visit from Haslemere Fire station this term! The Nursery, Reception and Form 1 children really enjoyed meeting the crew and learning all about the important job that they do. They also loved looking at all the different equipment- and of course climbing up into the Fire engine too!
MILL FARM VISIT
Mill Cottage Farm visited St. Ed’s this term. Children in our Nursery to Form 2 enjoyed meeting the farm animals particularly the donkeys, pigs and the very grand turkey!
NEWS FROM THE LOWER PREP FORMS 1 TO 4
RECEPTION TO F2 SHOWCASE
Click here to view more photos on the parent area of website.our
BIRDWORLD FORM 2
Form 2 had a fabulous day at Birdworld this term. We listened to a talk about penguins whilst being entertained by their antics and found out some amazing facts about parrots. We were lucky to see and hear some birds that are on the endangered list and completed a treasure hunt, matching birds to clues. Everyone marvelled at the variety of sizes, shapes, calls and colours of the birds on display from the tiny, colourful Lovebirds to the large, feathery Rea. We even found time for a play on the Treetop Adventure Playground!
BUTSER ANCIENT FARM - FORM 3
Form 3 enjoyed a fascinating trip to Butser Ancient Farm, where they stepped back in time to learn more about life in Iron Age Britain. The children explored traditional Celtic roundhouses and discovered how people lived, worked and built their homes during this period.
They took part in a range of hands-on activities, including weaving a wattle fence, making clunch, and becoming archaeologists as they searched carefully for hidden artefacts. It was a wonderfully practical and memorable day, bringing their history learning to life in a really exciting way.
GOODWOOD FARM - FORM 4
LEARNING
OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
BIRD HOUSES FORMS 3 & 4
PORTSMOUTH DOCKYARD TRIPFORM 1
This term’s trip to Portsmouth Historic Dockyards was an exciting adventure for our Form 1. They explored HMS Warrior, enjoying being aboard such a grand old ship and learning about its history. The children enjoyed hearing stories about life at sea from the friendly guides. Afterwards, the harbour tour provided stunning views and a chance to see modern naval ships up close. The day was a memorable educational experience for everyone.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE - FORM 5
FORM 6 TRIP TO LITTLE CANADA, ISLE OF WIGHT
Our Form 6 pupils had a fantastic time on the Isle of Wight with highlights including the giant swing, zip wire and laser tag. They were lucky enough to enjoy beautiful blue skies and sunshine and even celebrated some birthdays!
JUNIOR DUKE AWARDS
Pupils in Forms 5 and 6 have worked really hard this year to achieve their Junior Duke awards, a programme designed to encourage independence, resilience and the development of practical life skills through a variety of personal challenges and activities.
HARRY POTTER WORLD
Our Form 6 pupils had a fantastic school trip to Harry Potter Studio Tour at Warner Bros! The trip inspired storytelling, character creation and set design, while giving pupils a behind-the-scenes look at how J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world was brought to life on screen. From exploring real sets and props to riding broomsticks, braving Aragog, travelling on the Hogwarts Express and wandering through Diagon Alley. The pupils loved trying Butterbeer from the shop at the end of the day.
MACBETH IN ENGLISH
MACBETH shoebox theatres
Form 7 have been making Macbeth shoebox theatres in their English classes with Mrs VO “Macbeth shall never vanquished be until Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill
Shall come against him”
(Act 4 Scene 1)
“Out, damned spot! Out, I say!”
“What, will these hands ne’er be clean?”
“All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand”
(Act 5 Scene 1)
“The table’s full”
“Thou canst not say I did it; never shake thy gory locks at me!”
(Act 3 Scene 4)
“Is this a dagger which I see before me, The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch thee. I have thee not, and yet I see thee still.”
(Act 2 Scene 1)
NEWS FROM THE PREP FORMS 5 TO
8
DECLAMATION
Our annual Declamation competition is one part of the public speaking programme that we run at St. Ed’s, which also includes poetry recitation and debating.
During Declamation finalists from Forms 3 to 8 delivered a previously written speech from a book of their choice in order to convey its message with clarity, emotion, and persuasiveness. The goal is not to simply recite the text, but to engage the audience through delivery and interpretation.
2026 DECLAMATION
WINNERS FORMS 3 TO 6
Form 3: Oscar M
Form 4: James C
Form 5: Sophia M
Form 6: Eliza W
Overall Winner: Isla G (Form 4)
2026 DECLAMATION WINNERS FORMS 7 TO 8
Form 7: Harry O’H
Form 8: Isla D
Overall Winner: Bella C (Form 7)
MATHS CHALLENGE
Four Gold Certificates this year were awarded to:
Form 7: Evan B-P (Best in Year), Holly W
Form 8: Rory O’C and Leo D (Best in School).
These pupils will go on to participate in the UKMT Kangaroo.
In addition a special mention to Alex B-J who achieved Bronze, despite being in Form 6!
Gold Certificates are awarded to pupils who scored over 80 marks and represent the top 8% of those undertaking the test nationally.
Silver Certificates are awarded to pupils who scored over 59 marks and represent the top 25% of those undertaking the test nationally.
Bronze Certificates are awarded to pupils who scored over 47 marks and represent the top 50% of those undertaking the test nationally.
All of our pupils who participated did very well indeed!
LAB RATS
In our after-school club, Lab Rats, Form 7 and 8 pupils put science into action with two exciting experiments. Pupils explored physics through a candle seesaw experiment, investigating the transfer of mass, gravity and the law of levers.
They also carried out a water rising experiment, demonstrating the relationship between temperature, gas pressure and combustion.
NEWS FROM THE PREP FORMS 5 TO 8
FORM 8 MARKING THE END OF PREP
Form 8 pupils successfully completed their PSB (Pre-Senior Baccalaureate). They received their certificates and enjoyed a programme of off-curriculum activities in week 7, including digital device training, life-saving skills sessions, and a pupils-versus-parents rounders match to round off the week.
They then enjoyed a week at Letton Hall in Norfolk on a residential trip, celebrating the end of their Prep School journey and marking this important milestone before moving on to Senior School.
NEWS FROM THE SENIOR SCHOOL FORMS 9 TO 11
SENIOR ACADEMIC: SIMON HYETT Deputy Head (Senior Academic)
If school was a mathematical equation, the Summer term would be the = sign. It is the point at which everything that has come before leads to a result.
It has been an exceptionally busy term of examinations for Forms 9, 10 and 11, and my sincere thanks go to Mrs Smart, our Exams Officer, and her ever-growing team for ensuring that the examination period has run so smoothly. Remarkably, for the first time in my experience at St Ed’s, we have even managed to get through the exam season without any newly broken bones appearing along the way.
It has been a pleasure speaking with so many students who are pleased with the progress they are making. Equally encouraging has been seeing those whose results may not yet reflect their ambitions thinking positively about the next steps and developing clear plans for future success.
The Summer term is about much more than examinations, however, and there continue to be plenty of opportunities for students to challenge themselves and broaden their experiences. Our Silver Duke of Edinburgh participants have been heading out into the wilderness, our truly outstanding West Side Story cast attended the National School Theatre Awards, where they have deservedly received nominations for their performances and contribution. Alongside these highlights, the usual programme of concerts, workshops and enrichment activities continues to thrive, as it does every term.
It may be a short term, but we always endeavour to make the most of every opportunity and pack as much into it as possible.
Alongside Mrs Weetman I’ve been able to welcome Form 8 to the senior school in our Step-Up Day. The army were in helping to show the leadership and teamwork we want to see in our senior school. The pupils got to practice their walk to Grayshott Village to buy only the ‘healthiest’ of the snacks. We finished with a talk about what our expectations of them will be and what being in the senior school is all about.
‘Over the next few years you are going to gain an increasing amount of independence. This comes with more and more opportunities to make choices. Good ones and occasionally bad ones.
Your teachers are there to help you make those choices but not to make them for you. If you learn from mistakes, seek help when lost and are honest with us and yourself you will look back on these years with fondness.’
Have a good Summer!
ACADEMIC TRIPS
FORM 9 GCSE CLASSICS TRIP TO BRITISH MUSEUM
As part of their GCSE Classics studies, Form 9 enjoyed an exciting and enriching trip to the British Museum in London. The visit brought their learning to life as they explored a wide range of remarkable Greek and Roman artefacts. Highlights included the impressive Bassae Frieze and the world-famous Parthenon sculptures. Seeing these objects firsthand provided valuable insight into the ancient world and deepened students’ understanding of their syllabus. The trip was both educational and inspiring, leaving students with lasting memories of classical history.
FORM 10 GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP TO SLAPTON SANDS
Our Form 10 Geography students enjoyed a four-day field trip to Slapton Sands in South Devon this term, collecting and analysing data to support their GCSE Geography studies ahead of their Form 11 examinations.
Taking place during one of the hottest weeks on record, the trip was certainly challenging at times, but our pupils were outstanding throughout, embracing every activity with enthusiasm, resilience and determination.
Working along the stunning coastline, pupils investigated coastal processes through beach profiling, sediment analysis and the study of coastal management. They also explored human geography in Plymouth, assessing environmental quality, land use and population characteristics in different urban areas.
The trip concluded with pupils presenting their findings using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and drawing evidence-based conclusions from their fieldwork. Despite the demanding conditions, the glorious weather, beautiful surroundings and, of course, plenty of Devon ice cream made it a memorable and rewarding experience for everyone.
LEAVERS PHOTO
The Leavers’ photo class of 2026 is also available to download in the parent section of our website under 2026 photos.
Click here to view Leavers’ photo
SENIOR PASTORAL
SENIOR STEP-UP DAY
During our Form 8 to Form 9 Step-Up Day in June, our current Form 8 pupils were joined by our new pupils joining St. Edmund’s in Form 9 in September. Pupils attended a Senior School Orientation talk with the Deputy Head Pastoral (Mrs Weetman) and Deputy Head Academic (Mr Hyett) and visited Grayshott village in groups (one of the Senior School benefits are the village visits!)
Pupils also benefited from a visit by the Army, who led a range of team-building and leadership activities throughout the day.
The sessions provided an excellent opportunity for pupils to develop important life skills, including communication, problem-solving, resilience and teamwork. Through a variety of practical challenges, students were encouraged to work together, think creatively and take on leadership roles in a supportive environment. The activities were both enjoyable and rewarding, and it was pleasing to see so many students engaging enthusiastically and demonstrating such positive attitudes throughout the day.
PEER MENTORING
Stepping up to Senior School in Form 9 at St. Edmund’s is a significant milestone for both our current Form 8 pupils and our new starters. To support them, we’ve created a comprehensive transition programme designed to make the move as smooth and seamless as possible. Senior School brings exciting changes; from a new uniform and greater independence, to increased academic challenge and the start of the GCSE journey. Pupils also benefit from an enriched co-curricular offering, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a wider range of cultural and educational trips, and enhanced digital learning with personal devices integrated into most lessons.
FORM 11 LAST DAY BEFORE STUDY LEAVE
Form 11’s final day before study leave was filled with excitement and reflection. The morning began with a Celebration Assembly, featuring a surprise moment from the Form 11 girls with a flash mob performance of “I Will Survive”. They also took part in a fun and memorable football match, followed by shirt signing by their friends and teachers.
We wish all our Form 11 pupils the very best of luck in their exams.
LEAVERS DINNER AT LYTHE HILL
ASSEMBLIES
FORM 1
Form 1 presented an amazing assembly all about the world famous percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie who lost her hearing as a child and was told she would never be able to be a musician. But she persevered and got a place at the Royal College of Music and has played in over 40 countries and owns nearly 4,000 instruments. She is the first person in history to successfully make a full-time career as a solo percussionist. She is truly inspirational and proves that there are no barriers to succeeding if you really want something and you work hard. Well done Form 1 on a very informative assembly and playing those percussion instruments so well.
FORM 8S
Form 8S assembly was all about their celebrity ‘twin’s’ –talking about and dressing up as celebrities who have the same first name or surname as them! as Taylor Swift!
FORM 3M
Form 3M delivered a wonderful and informative assembly exploring the fascinating world of bees and the vital role they play in our environment. The pupils confidently shared their knowledge about how bees pollinate plants, support biodiversity, and contribute to the production of many of the foods we enjoy every day. The assembly also provided an opportunity for Form 3M to showcase their learning through our Harmony Project.
FORM 8M
Form 8M’s assembly was about ‘culture’ and how it shapes us as human beings. The pupils explained how culture influences the way we speak, what we eat and how we treat other people. They explained how ‘culture is something that unites people’.
PREP END OF TERM ASSEMBLIES
PREP BOOK REVIEWS
MY NAME: Eden C
MY CLASS: 6M
TITLE OF THE BOOK:
A Murder Most Unladylike
Mystery – Arsenic for Tea
AUTHOR: Robin Stevens
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BOOK
(A SHORT SUMMARY OF THE STORY):
The book is about a girl called Hazel who goes to Daisy’s (her friend) house for a tea party. During the party a mysterious guest arrives, no one seems to know who he is except Daisy’s Mother.
During the tea party lots of rats appear so Daisy’s Mother gets the rat poison. When someone puts rat poison in the mysterious man’s tea Hazel, Daisy and their friends start to investigate. You need to read this book to find out who did it.
WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK:
The book is gripping and I just wanted to keep on reading it, I have read it so many times because I love it so much. HOW MANY STARS WOULD YOU GIVE THIS BOOK:
MY NAME: Emily B
MY CLASS: 5V
TITLE OF THE BOOK: The Book That No One Wanted to Read
AUTHOR: Richard Ayoade
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BOOK (A SHORT SUMMARY OF THE STORY): The story is written from the point of view of a book. How it feels to be a book, how people who read you treat you and waiting to be picked from the library shelf. Then the book meets a reader and everything changes.
WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK:
I liked this book because if was really different and very funny.
HOW MANY STARS WOULD YOU GIVE THIS BOOK:
MY NAME: Lilly-May J
MY CLASS: 7J
TITLE OF THE BOOK: Girl on a Plane
AUTHOR: Miriam Moss
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BOOK (A SHORT SUMMARY OF THE STORY):
MY NAME: Evie W
MY CLASS: 5V
TITLE OF THE BOOK: Impossible CreaturesThe Poisoned King
A girl boards a plane that is hijacked. The description of what then happens is really good, she talks about her life. The book has a great ending.
I read this book for my English IRS task – reading a biography. I also used it for my declamation.
WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK:
The book is written with great description and you really connected with the character. It was a very thought- provoking book.
HOW MANY STARS WOULD YOU GIVE THIS BOOK:
AUTHOR: Katherine Rundell
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BOOK (A SHORT SUMMARY OF THE STORY):
This book is about a boy called Christopher who lives in the normal world but one day he wakes up and is told to go back to the Archipelago to save the dragons.
Anya lives in the Archipelago and her grandfather was poisoned, everyone thought it was Anya’s father, so he went to prison and Anya was going to be sent to another island.
Chrisopher and a sphinx go to rescue Anya, then together they save Anya’s father. It was then discovered that Claude (Anya’s Uncle) poisoned the king.
Anya and Christopher make an antidote for the poison and save Anya’s father.
WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK:
I like it because the subject is mystical. Catherine Rundell made up amazing creatures, she must have great imagination. I also read Impossible Creatures book 1.
The school library has just ordered book 3 for me.
HOW MANY STARS WOULD YOU GIVE THIS BOOK:
HEAD LIBRARIANS REFLECT ON THEIR ROLE
As they prepare to move into Form 9, our Head Librarians have been reflecting on what they have enjoyed most about their role this year.
The library is a calm and welcoming place at the heart of the school, providing pupils with a quiet space to read, study and discover new books. Behind the scenes, our Head Librarians play an important role in keeping everything running smoothly.
One of their responsibilities is preparing new books before they reach the shelves. This includes adding barcode labels, assigning the correct book band, fitting protective covers and entering each title into the library management system, Abraquest.
They also help to run the library during Reading Rest on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays for pupils in Forms 5 to 8. During these sessions they welcome pupils, process returned books, issue new loans using the library software and carefully re-shelve books so they are ready for the next reader.
Through their dedication, organisation and enthusiasm, our Head Librarians have helped create an inviting and well-organised library that is enjoyed by the whole school community.
A huge thank you to our Head Librarians this year – Kit, Briony and Jamie – for all their hard work and commitment. Their contribution has been invaluable, and we wish them every success as they move into Form 9.
CAREERS STRENGTHENING CAREERS EDUCATION AT ST. EDMUND’S
BY NICKY BYRNE-CHINN
From September, we will be enhancing our careers provision through the introduction of a whole school careers programme, supporting every pupil from Nursery through to Year 11 to help our pupils develop confident, informed aspirations for their futures.
Careers learning already takes place across the curriculum and through a range of school experiences and events. From September, this programme will make those links more explicit, encouraging pupils to actively reflect on what they are learning, how it develops their skills, and how it connects to future pathways. This approach supports pupils to think more deliberately about their interests, options, and next steps as they move through the school.
Careers activities will be delivered through Friday activities and tutor time, providing regular, age appropriate opportunities to explore skills, pathways, and the world of work. The programme follows a spiral approach, with key ideas revisited and developed in increasing depth as pupils progress.
To support this, we are introducing Unifrog an online careers platform that pupils and parents will be able to access. Unifrog enables pupils to:
• Explore a wide range of careers and pathways
• Learn about post16 and post18 options
• Reflect on their strengths and skills
• Record achievements that will support future applications
As pupils move through the school, their Unifrog profile develops with them, supporting key decisions such as GCSE options, Sixth Form pathways, apprenticeships, or university.
Throughout the year, we will also share links via the Friday Flyer to a range of online webinars and workshops. These will be open to both pupils and parents and will offer valuable insight into different industries, careers, and progression routes.
Staff will be supported with high quality resources and training, ensuring consistency and confidence in the delivery of careers learning across the school. The programme is aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks, www.gatsbybenchmarks.org.uk ensuring a structured and high quality careers offer that meets national expectations.
We would love to involve parents and the wider community in this work.
There will be opportunities to support the programme through career talks and a careers fair planned for 2027. If you would be interested in being involved, please contact me at n.byrnechinn@saintedmunds.co.uk
Safeguarding and data protection remain a priority. Unifrog is fully GDPR compliant, with secure access for pupils and staff, and parental access to support conversations at home.
We look forward to working closely with families as we continue to help our pupils build ambition, confidence, and a strong sense of possibility for their futures.
SUBJECT FOCUS: LATIN
Formal teaching of Latin commences in Form 7. Pupils study both Latin and Classics during the Michaelmas Term of Form 7, before being placed in either Latin or Classics sets for the remainder of Form 7 and Form 8. In the Summer Term of Form 8 pupils select their GCSE options subjects with Latin being one of them.
In an age of artificial intelligence, instant communication and rapidly evolving technology, some may wonder why schools continue to teach a language that is no longer spoken in everyday life. At St Edmund’s, we believe Latin remains one of the most valuable academic disciplines a young person can study.
Far more than a study of the ancient world, Latin develops the habits of mind that are increasingly important in modern life: critical thinking, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, resilience and problem-solving. It teaches pupils how language works, strengthens their understanding of English and modern foreign languages, and encourages them to think with precision and clarity.
Latin also connects pupils to the foundations of Western civilisation. Through its language, literature, history and mythology, students gain a deeper understanding of the ideas, stories and values that continue to influence our culture today. At a time when so much information is consumed quickly, Latin invites pupils to slow down, think carefully and engage deeply with complex ideas.
Q
& A WITH DR ROBERTS, LATIN TEACHER
Are there any particular topics from Roman history, mythology, or classical civilisation that students are especially enjoying this term?
At this stage of the course, our focus is very much on the Latin language itself. Pupils are building the grammatical foundations that will later allow them to access Roman history, mythology and classical civilisation in a much more meaningful way. Those wider cultural elements become a more explicit part of the course in Form 11, when pupils study topics such as Roman Britain and Myths and Beliefs. For now, the emphasis is on giving pupils the linguistic tools they need to read, translate and understand Latin with growing confidence.
What aspects of the Latin language and culture will students be exploring this term?
Our Prep School pupils have been working on some of the essential building blocks of Latin. These are hugely important because they introduce pupils to the idea that Latin works rather differently from English. Word endings matter, patterns matter, and close attention to detail is key. In Form 9, pupils are continuing to work steadily through the GCSE language course, developing their translation skills and broadening their grammatical knowledge. Our Form 10 pupils, meanwhile, are now translating and analysing their verse text piece from Virgil’s Aeneid Book II. This is the famous section in which the Greeks deceive the Trojans with the wooden horse, is one of the great moments in classical literature, and a wonderfully dramatic text for pupils to study as they refine both their translation and literary analysis skills.
How does the Latin programme help students develop skills such as critical thinking, problemsolving, and communication?
Latin is, in many ways, a subject built around problem-solving. Every sentence is a puzzle: pupils have to identify patterns, weigh up possibilities, test ideas and then justify their choices. It encourages precision and logical thinking, but also resilience, because the answer is not always immediately obvious! It also supports communication. Pupils become more aware of how language works, not only in Latin but in English and other modern languages too. They learn to think carefully about grammar, vocabulary, meaning and nuance. A good translation is not simply about replacing one word with another; it’s about understanding the sense of a sentence and expressing it clearly in good English.
How do you encourage students who may initially find Latin challenging to engage confidently and enjoy the subject?
Latin can feel intimidating at first, especially because it asks pupils to think in a very precise and structured way. I also try to make sure pupils understand that finding Latin challenging is part of the process. Often the pupils who succeed most are not those who find it easiest straight away, but those who are willing to keep going, ask questions and learn from mistakes. There is real satisfaction in cracking a sentence that seemed impossible five minutes earlier.
In what ways does Latin connect with other subjects or wider school themes this term?
Latin has strong links with a number of other subjects. It supports modern foreign language learning because pupils develop a much clearer understanding of grammar, word families and how languages are structured. It also strengthens English, particularly through vocabulary, sentence construction and precision of expression. There are also clear links with maths. Latin requires pupils to spot patterns, apply rules, work logically and solve problems step by step.
What has been a standout moment, achievement, or piece of work from a student that has particularly impressed you recently?
One of the most pleasing things this term has been seeing pupils begin to move from simply recognising individual words to understanding how a whole sentence works. That is a significant moment in Latin. When pupils start to see the structure behind the language, their confidence changes very quickly. I have also been impressed by the way pupils have supported one another. Latin often works best when pupils are willing to talk through their thinking, explain how they reached an answer and listen to another interpretation. Those moments of collaborative problem-solving have been a real highlight. How can parents support or extend their child’s interest in Latin and the classical world at home?
Parents do not need to know Latin themselves to support their child. One of the best things they can do is ask their child to explain what they have been learning. If a pupil can explain a grammar point clearly to someone else, that is a very good sign that they understand it. Reading around the classical world can also be very helpful. Myths, Roman history, archaeology, museum visits, documentaries and even conversations about English words with Latin roots can all help pupils see that Latin is not just a school subject, but a doorway into a much wider world. A little curiosity goes a long way.
What do you hope students will take away from their experience of studying Latin?
I hope pupils leave Latin with a stronger understanding of language, a sharper eye for detail and a greater confidence in their own ability to tackle difficult things. Latin is not always easy, and that is part of its value. It teaches pupils to think carefully, work methodically and persevere. I also hope they take away a sense of connection with the ancient world. Latin gives pupils access to stories, ideas and voices that have shaped literature, history, law, politics, religion and language for centuries. Even for those who do not continue with the subject long term, it offers a powerful reminder that the past is not as distant as it sometimes seems.
Watch this short film for a glimpse of what it is like to study Latin GCSE at St. Edmund’s:
MUSIC
MUSIC SCHOLARS TO ROYAL OPERA HOUSE
Our Music and Choral Scholars enjoyed an inspiring visit to the Royal Opera House, where they had the opportunity to experience a world-class performance rehearsal and gain insight into professional musical production. The trip proved both educational and motivating, giving students a deeper appreciation of the artistry and discipline required at the highest level of performance.
POP AND ROCK OPEN-MIC WITH BBQ
What a fantastic evening everyone had at our Pop & Rock Open Mic Night earlier this term! Families were treated to some brilliant performances and it was especially lovely to welcome back several OSE’s (Old St. Edmund’s) who took to the stage once again. With a BBQ, great music and plenty of dancing, there was a wonderful atmosphere throughout the evening.
A huge thank you to our Director of Music, Mr Fabian, and Mr Rood for leading the rock musicians so well and everyone who performed and supported the event - it really was an enjoyable night for the whole St. Ed’s community.
Click here to view more photos
CHAPEL CHOIR RECITAL, ST PAULS CHURCH
The Chapel Choir delivered a beautiful and varied programme at the Actors’ Church in Covent Garden. Their rich repertoire showcased the choir’s versatility and musical maturity, while our scholars added a special dimension through a selection of impressive solo performances. It was a memorable occasion that highlighted the depth of talent within our music community.
TRINITY MUSIC EXAMS
This year’s Trinity Music Exams were a tremendous success, with 26 students taking part across a wide range of disciplines. We are particularly proud to report a record number of distinctions, reflecting not only the talent of our students but also their dedication and hard work throughout the year. These outstanding results are a testament to the strength of our music programme and the commitment of both staff and pupils.
SUMMERTIME CONCERT
ORGANISED BY OUR MUSIC AND CHORAL SCHOLARS:
The Summertime Concert, organised by our music scholars, was a delightful celebration of musical talent held in the Chapel. Thoughtfully curated and confidently presented, the concert featured a variety of performances that reflected both creativity and collaboration. It was a wonderful showcase of student leadership and musical excellence.
THE BEATLES IN CONCERT
Our spectacular “Beatles in Concert” brought the school community together for an unforgettable evening of music. Featuring a live band, soloists from Forms 7 to 11, the school band, orchestra, Chapel Choir, Show Choir, and a professional band, the event captured the timeless appeal of The Beatles’ music. The energy and enthusiasm of all performers created a truly special concert experience, especially for Mr Fabian’s last concert.
FORM 10 GCSE DRAMA AND MUSIC TRIP
This term our Form 10 GCSE Drama and Music pupils went on an exciting trip to London. The day began with a hint of suspense, as a nationwide signal failure disrupted train services and briefly threatened to derail our plans! Fortunately, normal service was restored, allowing us to depart only slightly later than intended.
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Our first stop was the National Theatre, where pupils explored a variety of performance spaces, including the renowned Olivier Theatre, which was abuzz with rehearsals for ‘War Horse’. The backstage tour was particularly memorable, set construction and props workshops offered a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes, and pupils were captivated by an impressive eight-foot polystyrene horse’s head suspended dramatically from the ceiling.
After completing the tour, we crossed the Thames to grab some lunch before making our way to Shaftesbury Avenue and the Lyric Theatre. There, we attended a performance of Hadestown. The show proved immensely popular, with one pupil enthusiastically declaring it the best production they had ever seen. Inspired by the experience, we are looking forward to performing it ourselves next year and hope to capture some of its magic on our own stage.
DRAMA
NEW SENIOR PRODUCTION ANNOUNCEMENTS
We are delighted to announce our new Senior Productions for next academic year will be a play and a musical!
SENIOR PRODUCTIONS (FORMS 9-11)
This year’s play will be Private Peaceful, based on the acclaimed novel by Michael Morpurgo and adapted for the stage by Simon Reade. A powerful and moving story of brotherhood, courage, and sacrifice, the production promises to be a compelling theatrical experience.
Our Senior musical will be Hadestown, with music and lyrics by Anaïs Mitchell. This award-winning musical reimagines ancient mythology through a vibrant contemporary score and unforgettable storytelling.
FORMS 7 & 8 PRODUCTION
We are excited to announce that our Form 7 & 8 production next academic year will be Beauty and the Beast!
NATIONAL SCHOOL THEATRE AWARDS
This term a group from our West Side Story cast attended the National School Theatre Awards at the illustrious Gillian Lynne Theatre in London. Every child in attendance had received a nomination for an individual award, a testament to their remarkable talent and dedication. The excitement was palpable as cameras flashed, capturing the children elegantly dressed in their finest evening attire, enjoying their well-deserved moment in the spotlight.
Once inside, we eagerly picked up a programme and were thrilled to discover several photographs from our Les Misérables performance last year featured throughout. It was a proud reminder of the talent and dedication our students continually bring to the stage.
After a brief refreshment break, we made our way to our seats, which offered a fantastic view of the proceedings. The evening opened with a captivating dance performance by the HIPA Dance School, setting a high bar for the rest of the night’s entertainment.
While St. Edmund’s did not take home an award this time, spirits remained high. We were especially delighted to celebrate the success of one of our former students, Rohan Sabharwal, who won two awards for musical production at Arts Ed Drama School. We are immensely proud of Rohan’s achievements and confident that this is just the beginning of their journey.
Well done to each of our nominees, and we offer our congratulations to the entire cast and crew for their exceptional work in bringing West Side Story to the stage so brilliantly. Although we did not secure an award on this occasion, the dedication and talent shown by everyone involved have left us with unforgettable memories that will be cherished for years to come.
LAMDA POST EXAMS - JUNE 2026
This term we were delighted to welcome over 90 St Edmund’s pupils to Farley Hall to take their LAMDA examinations, which they have been preparing for throughout the academic year.
The exams covered a wide range of disciplines, including Speaking of Verse and Prose, Acting, Speaking in Public and Group Devising. Particularly special was seeing pupils in Form 2 taking their very first LAMDA exams,
alongside Form 11 pupils completing their LAMDA journey at school, many of whom have been attending lessons since their time in the Prep School.
We could not be prouder of the commitment, courage and hard work shown by all the pupils. We wish them the very best of luck as they await their results towards the end of July and congratulate them on everything they have achieved this year.
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SPORT ATHLETICS
Athletics has started in earnest this term! The glorious weather has certainly helped and all ages have made a start with sprinting and field events with some really good standards being achieved already.
The Seniors had three athletic meets in May; a friendly against Charterhouse and Gordons, the Waverley District trials and a friendly at Lord Wandsworth College. These have been excellent opportunities for our Senior pupils to get back to their best events after the winter and many of them are already gaining PBs. I am awaiting confirmation from Waverley to see if any of our athletes have qualified from the District trials for the County team - we are keeping our fingers crossed as the competition is very high.
MRS COWLE, HEAD OF ATHLETICS
There were also many different meets with the younger pupils. Friendlies at LWC and Down Grange took place, as well as a pentathlon.
QUAD KIDS
Our Form 4s had a very exciting afternoon of athletics when they attended a Quad Kids event last week. All pupils had to run a 400m, 50m sprint, throw a vortex and perform a standing long jump. Our team did brilliantly on a hot day. They worked hard and gave every event their absolute all! It was super competitive and they rose to the challenge in such a fantastic way. The boys had a tough section with some good athletes to compete against but the girls were more even. Consequently the girls team came 3rd in their section. However, overall the St. Ed’s team came 3rd, a great achievement for their first time and the sign of things to come in future years!! Well done all of you!
During Athletics lessons all pupils will be working their way through all the different events in preparation for their Sports Days. In these lessons pupils are taught the correct techniques and the rules in competition and they then receive a measured throw/distance or time which they can compare against the English Schools Athletic Award Scheme.
In this scheme pupils can achieve a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum award. A Bronze award is the standard which English Athletics believe most children can achieve. A Silver Award would be given for a slightly better athlete who may then be chosen to represent the school. Gold Awards are for more outstanding athletes and Platinum Awards are for the most talented athletes in that event. Pupils are told what Award they have achieved within their lessons which gives them an excellent target to work towards in trying to reach the next award. Their achievements are displayed outside the PE office so they can see how they are doing.
HOCKEY
MR BEARD, HEAD OF HOCKEY
We are so proud of our Prep U13 A -Team who were crowned Champions at the Sisters n’ Sport National Plate Finals in May! The girls produced outstanding hockey throughout the tournament and embraced every moment of the incredible opportunity to play at the Home of England Hockey, enjoying the full ‘BIG match’ experience. Each player demonstrated exceptional teamwork, tactical awareness and determination against some very competitive opposition. A fantastic achievement and a day to remember for all involved!
SWIMMING
MR TYE, HEAD OF SWIMMING
We have had another good term of swimming at St. Edmund’s. Despite it being scheduled for warmer weather, we have still been able to use the pool when needed and hosted several competitive divisional swimming events. All three of our afterschool Swim Squads have been well attended where pupils have been working hard on their stroke techniques, water confidence and other skills such as Water Polo and Lifesaving. This term, we also hosted galas against Aldro and Frensham Heights, featuring competitive racing and great spirit from all involved.
On Saturday 6 June, Lilly-May J (Form 7), Elsie H (Form 8) went up to the London Aquatics Centre in London to compete in the IAPS National Swimming Finals. Both girls represented the school superbly with their professionalism and their dedication to the sport. They both managed to get through their respective heats in Freestyle and Butterfly respectively. They both swam excellent times with Elsie improving her Butterfly PB by over 1 second! Overall, Lilly-May finished 9th in the U12 Girls 50m Freestyle Final whilst Elsie also finished 9th but in the U13 50m Butterfly Final. Well done both of you!
I have been incredibly impressed by all the pupils who have swum this year. Whether in Swim Squads, lessons, galas, or in our Boats competition, they have shown enthusiasm and gained valuable experiences in the water. Alongside our regular swimming programme, we introduced lifesaving and water polo sessions for some of our Senior pupils.
It has also been a highly successful competitive year, with strong performances in our galas and many closely contested races. A remarkable 44 school records were broken or set this year - an achievement that may well be a school record in itself! We also celebrated success at the IAPS Championships with Elsie and Lilly-May, while recognising the excellent efforts of the seven other pupils who represented the school in the qualifiers.
I am excited to see what the 2026–2027 season will bring.
GIRLS CRICKET
MRS
ROBERTS,
HEAD OF SENIOR GIRLS’ CRICKET AND MRS WHITWORTH
This summer brought every season of weather imaginable!
The U13 Girls’ teams have varied throughout the season due to trips and hardball vs softball matches. However, the girls have shown an improvement in skill, fielding strategies and positional awareness. They have worked really hard on their communication when batting and trying to take more risks to score runs rather than opting out and playing it safe. Their bowling has been good and their accuracy has improved. They just need to continue to develop some pace to challenge the opposing batters a little more. The girls are beginning to understand the role of the Captain and managing to lead by organising their field during play as well.
The Prep and Senior girls competed in a mix of hardball and softball matches, entering both the Sisters n’ Sport Competition and the Surrey Hardball Competition for the first time. We were delighted to reach Round 3 of the Sisters n’ Sport Softball Pairs competition.
All the girls made excellent progress in their batting, bowling and fielding. Highlights included Lauren F (Form 9) scoring an impressive 50 runs, Flo H (Form 8) taking multiple five-wicket hauls, and several girls achieving hat-tricks. The team approached every match with enthusiasm, teamwork and a competitive spirit.
Lower Prep Cricket by Mr Conway
The Form 3’s and 4’s have impressed their coaches this term with their bowling, batting and fielding. The pupils have taken to softball cricket very quickly and it has been great to watch each pupil development their skills in lessons and match afternoons. With smooth bowling actions, the pupils have been able to bowl with accuracy and control. This was evident in their fixtures with few ‘hot ball’ being called. With power hitting being our focus at this age group we witness many balls being hit to the boundary and hearing some start to use the correct terminology in their calling with their batting partners. It’s been great to see both boys and girls play a mixture of fixtures together and played in such good St. Edmund’s spirit. From great Sportsmanship and often spotted by other away team coaches to being coachable throughout the season with a positive mind set. We look forward to hearing how their cricket continues over the summer holidays and introducing many to hard ball cricket next year.
Many girls also embraced hardball cricket for the first time and surprised themselves with how quickly they adapted.
We competed in several tournaments with mixed results and look forward to improving on those performances next year. It has also been fantastic to see so many girls playing club cricket, particularly with Grayshott, Haslemere and Farncombe.
Congratulations to Lauren F, Flo H and Grace F on their Hampshire selections. Lauren represents Hampshire U14 and Lord’s Youth U15, while Grace plays for Hampshire U12. Lauren and Grace will also compete at the Canadian U19 Girls National Championships in Toronto this July and are both part of the Canadian national team pathway.
Well done to all the girls on an excellent season.
Boys U11 Cricket by Mr Tye
We have enjoyed a positive U11 cricket season. Despite weather disruptions, we played competitive fixtures against Edgeborough, Westbourne House, Highfield and Aldro.
I have been impressed by the boys’ commitment in Games lessons, both in the nets and in the field, and their willingness to embrace hardball cricket. Several players have worked their way up through the teams through their dedication and by demonstrating the St Ed’s values.
While results did not always go our way, the boys consistently gave their best, supported one another, and represented the school with great spirit and determination.
PREP & SENIOR BOYS CRIC K ET
BY MR BEARD, HEAD OF BOYS CRICKET
This has been my first cricket season at St. Ed’s and I have really enjoyed it. There is a real enthusiasm around cricket and plenty of potential. We are fortunate to have strong links with a number of really nice cricketing facilities, namely; Hindhead Cricket Club, Grayshott Cricket Club and, new this year, Fernhurst Cricket Club. Thank you to them all. As is the English summer, we have had a number of cancellations due to rain but also, at the time of writing, the latest cancellations due to extreme heat can you believe?!
The U16s enjoyed a couple of final afternoons playing together in excellent conditions at Broxhead Cricket Club. The U15 boys were regularly supported by U14s and U15 girls, all of whom performed superbly. With strong interest across the age groups, particularly from the girls, we secured a busy fixture list. The team recorded impressive wins over Ditcham and Boundary Oak before exiting the cup to a strong KESW side. Mikey O had two impressive half centuries, one of which was off just 14 deliveries!
TENNIS by Mr Evans
Senior tennis has enjoyed a fantastic year, with students making full use of the four astro courts at breaktimes and lunchtimes. The introduction of a racket and ball loan system has been a great success, ensuring everyone can play.
Participation has been strong across Forms 9 to11, with both experienced players and beginners embracing the sport. It has been particularly pleasing to see new players make significant progress and develop their skills throughout the year.
12 Senior players also enjoyed a competitive afternoon at King Edward’s, where mixed doubles pairings encouraged collaboration and teamwork. The event ended in an exciting 10–10 draw between St. Edmund’s and King Edward’s.
We are already looking forward to next year, with more fixtures planned and an exciting partnership with Grayshott Tennis Club to further develop tennis at St. Edmund’s.
The U14A boys started the season with consecutive victories over Frensham and Duke of Kent and lost just one match all season despite a frequently changing line-up. The U14Bs faced strong opposition, losing to Ditcham A and narrowly missing out against KESW U14Cs by just three runs.
The U13As faced a difficult cup draw away at Cranleigh, losing by six wickets, but demonstrated great resilience and discipline by batting out their full 20 overs. The U13Bs enjoyed an excellent season, winning three matches comfortably and losing only once. Several lower U13 teams played softball cricket to a very high standard, with a number earning promotion and opportunities to play hardball fixtures.
Across the season, boys’ teams competed in block fixtures against Aldro, Edgeborough, Seaford, Highfield, Westbourne House and Boundary Oak.
STAFF V. PARENTS RYDER CUP
The annual staff v. parents Alliss Cup was held at Hurtmore Golf Club this year. Previous years had not been so generous weather-wise but it was a perfect sunny day and parents and staff alike were in great spirits ahead of a day of golf. Numbers have improved each year and we welcomed nearly 30 parents and staff this year.
The parents were aiming to retain the Alliss Cup and, despite the staff winning the first two groups and briefly believing victory was within reach, the parents soon regained control and secured the trophy for the fifth consecutive year.
A fantastic atmosphere surrounded the clubhouse as scores were tallied and prizes awarded for longest drives and nearest-the-pin challenges. Overall, it was a highly successful day, and we are already looking forward to an even bigger and better event next year.
LOWER PREP
SPORTS DAY SENIOR
Click here to view the Prep Sports Day photos. Password: GOLD2026
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Click here to view the Lower Prep Sports Day photos. Password: CHAMPIONS2026
ART
F7 DOUGHNUTS
FORM 6 MARGARET
MORRISON PHOTOGRAPHY TOYS
GCSE ART EXHIBITION
Take a look at the Art GCSE page on our website to see a glimpse of work from our GCSE exhibition
Our GCSE Art exhibition, held on Wednesday 24 June, showcased the creativity and talent of our pupils, with a fantastic display of imaginative and inspiring artwork.
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
FORM 3
Form 3 have been learning how to use the hacksaws and how to use hammers and nails whilst building their robots in D&T
FORM 5
Form 5 have been working on a steady hand game, they have measured and built their box, started to drill sound holes and bend their wire!
FORM 7
Wind Chime made from reclaimed metals
FORM 8
Form 8 bookend project made from Metal and Wood.
FORM 6
Form 6 have been busy in DT making a Sellotape dispenser
INTERNAL CALENDAR EVENTS
IT’S A KNOCKOUT!
We headed into May half-term with a fantastic afternoon of ‘It’s a Knockout’-style activities. Giant inflatables transformed both Top and Lower Fields, providing plenty of excitement and laughter for all our pupils from Nursery to Form 11.
It was lovely to see so many of our Form 11 pupils taking a break from their revision and GCSE examinations to join in the fun and enjoy a well-deserved ice cream. It was the perfect way to round off a busy half term and a wonderful reminder of what makes St Edmund’s such a special place.
GREAT ESCAPE
We were joined by over 40 children from St. Hilary’s for this terms Great Escape! The children had so much fun running around the grounds and enjoying a Chinese take-away at the end.
GRANDPARENTS TEA (RECEPTION TO FORM 4)
Our Alliss Building Grandparents’ Tea was a highlight this term. It was wonderful to welcome so many grandparents into school and give them the chance to spend quality time with their grandchildren, and enjoy some tea and cake while watching them perform songs from Winnie the Pooh and Mary Poppins.
WHOLE SCHOOL PHOTO
Our Whole School photo took place in April.
MUFTI DAY
Held on Friday 26 June in aid of the Headley Down Food Bank who support local families and individuals by providing emergency food parcels, essential household items, and a welcoming place for community support and advice.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH
The Duke of Edinburgh Award at St. Ed’s has seen a fantastic response this year, with a just under 100 pupils in Form 9 signing up for their Bronze Award. This record level of participation highlights their enthusiasm for outdoor adventure and personal development.
The volunteering section of the award continues to inspire pupils to take on leadership roles, notably with the formation of the St. Ed’s Charity Committee. Several Bronze participants have been instrumental in establishing this group, dedicating their time to coordinating charitable efforts and demonstrating a real commitment to the school community.
For our Form 10 Silver participants, this year’s practice expedition saw them departing from Ewhurst and exploring the beautiful Surrey Hills. After a chillier than expected overnight camp at Etherley Farm, the group made their way to Faurefold Girlguiding Campsite for the second night. This provided a great setting for the teams to relax after a day of navigation, with everyone gathering around the campfire to swap ghost stories—a highlight that added a bit of extra magic to their expedition experience. To celebrate Ben T’s birthday, his mum and little brother surprised the group at the campsite with a delivery of cakes and doughnuts for everyone. It was a lovely gesture that brought the whole team together and provided a wellearned energy boost for the final day of walking.
From the new Bronze recruits starting their sections, to the Silver teams preparing for their upcoming qualifying expedition, it has been a busy and rewarding term for Duke of Edinburgh at St. Ed’s. Mr Sikipa and Ms Adkin look forward to seeing the pupils continue to progress with their awards in the coming months.
FOOD TECH
It has been another busy and exciting term in Food Technology, with pupils across all year groups developing their practical skills while exploring a range of food-related topics.
Form 3 have been learning about seasonality, preparing a delicious seasonal soup and seasonal salad using fresh ingredients. To extend their understanding of where food comes from, pupils have also planted their own tomato plants and are looking forward to watching them grow.
Form 4 have enjoyed a cross-curricular project linking Food Technology and History through Victorian cooking. Pupils have prepared a range of traditional recipes, including mini trifles, summer berry pudding, homemade jam, and a classic Victoria sponge cake made using their own homemade jam.
Form 5 have been exploring foods from around the world. Their culinary journey has included a Greek salad, fresh fruit tarts, crème pâtissière made from scratch, Mexican fajitas, and an Italian-inspired risotto. Through these practical lessons, pupils have developed both their cooking skills and their understanding of global food cultures.
Form 6 have been learning to prepare a range of simple suppers, creating mini Cornish pasties, fish cakes, and vegetable curry. These dishes have helped pupils develop confidence in preparing nutritious family meals.
Form 7 have been taking part in a cross-curricular project with Classics and Latin, exploring Roman food and cookery. Pupils recently recreated a Pompeii pizza inspired by the famous 2,000-year-old fresco discovered near Pompeii. They have also made libum (a Roman cheesecake traditionally used as a sacrificial offering), Roman honey biscuits, and moretum (a Roman herb and cheese spread). Alongside their practical work, pupils have been learning Latin food-related vocabulary such as garum, posca, prandium, and cena
Form 8 have been focusing on food presentation skills as part of their PSB project, creating vibrant and colourful superfood salads. They have also begun studying key theory topics, including nutrition and healthy eating.
Form 10 have had an exciting term linked to their GCSE studies. As part of their food production topic, pupils visited Duncton Mill to learn about sustainable fishing and even had the opportunity to try line fishing themselves. They have also begun their mock coursework, responding to a GCSE style brief focused on increasing fibre intake in a teenager’s diet. Over the summer, pupils will continue their research and recipe development before preparing and cooking two dishes in their mock practical examination in September.
Form 9 have completed a mock coursework project on street food. Pupils designed, planned, and prepared two street-food-inspired dishes of their own creation, which were assessed as part of their practical examination.
We are incredibly proud of all the creativity, enthusiasm, and practical skills our pupils have demonstrated this term and look forward to seeing what they achieve next year.
SENIOR SPEECH DAY
Click here to view the Speech Day photos.Password: ALUMNI2026
LIFE AFTER ST. ED’S
PATRICK CUSS (OSE), ASSOCIATE GENERAL COUNSEL AT ARSENAL FOOTBALL CLUB
Tell us a little bit about your time at St Ed’s and your memories?
My overriding memory of St Ed’s is one of immense fun.
helped build the confidence that hard work and determination could take you further than you might first expect.
I joined in 1989 and spent six years at the school before moving on at thirteen, as was the norm then. With only around 20 pupils in my year and 120 in the whole school, we formed close friendships that, for many of us, have lasted a lifetime.
The strong sense of community, helped by some exceptional teachers, fostered real team spirit. Although St Ed’s was one of the smaller prep schools in the area, it always felt as though we punched above our weight - on the sports field, in the choir, and on the stage.
While the occasional threat of the plimsoll kept us young boarders in line - a sign of a different era - it is the camaraderie and shared sense of fun that I remember most fondly.
Where did you go after St Ed’s and what did you do?
St Ed’s headmaster at the time, Mr Sangster, a former Eton teacher, suggested I might enjoy Eton. He was right, although the transition was initially daunting. No one else from St Ed’s was going there, and moving into a year group of 260 was a significant change, particularly when competing for places in the top sports teams.
It quickly became clear that there was always someone faster, smarter or more talented. Looking back, learning to accept that was an important lesson. Rather than being discouraging, it
After Eton, I studied Law at Durham University. I had been interested in Law from a relatively young age and chose my A-Levels with that path in mind. By then, I knew I was neither a scientist nor a linguist - my school reports probably confirmed as much - and was drawn instead to subjects that rewarded analytical thinking and persuasive writing
Please can you tell us a little bit about your career so far? What was your journey from St Ed’s into a role with Arsenal’s legal team?
During my A-Levels, I discovered just how many different career paths existed within Law. Sports Law particularly appealed, combining a passion of mine with a professional career. Keen to learn more, I secured work experience at IMG and later with a sports law team at a London firm. That was when I first saw how law and sport intersect behind the scenes.
After university and a further year of legal studies, I applied for training contracts at firms with sports and media practices, eventually joining Bird & Bird as a trainee solicitor. Alongside sports work, I gained valuable experience in areas such as technology, intellectual property and litigation.
In 2016, I joined Arsenal, allowing me to focus almost entirely on football-related legal work. As a lifelong football fan, it felt like the perfect fit.
Please can you tell us a little about your current role at Arsenal Football Club? - A lot of our pupils dream about working in football, whether that’s on the pitch or behind the scenes so would love to know more!
We have a small but extremely busy legal team at Arsenal, supporting all aspects of the Club both on and off the pitch.
A major part of my role is advising our men’s, women’s and academy teams, particularly on player contracts, transfers and loans. The summer transfer window is especially busy as players move between clubs.
We also help ensure compliance with the many regulations set by organisations such as the FA, the Premier League and UEFA. These rules govern everything from pitch standards to financial controls.
Beyond football, the Club’s commercial activities are extensive, and our team advises on areas including sponsorship agreements, stadium operations and merchandise. With such a wide range of work, no two days are ever the same
Was working in football always the goal for you?
Not always. My family have a long history making clocks and watches so that was perhaps a more obvious choice. But I’ve had an unhealthy obsession with football from a young age so the appeal was always there. Spending my day discussing football in the office probably also means that my wife doesn’t need to hear as much about it at home!
It must be very exciting working in such a fast paced industry - transfers, sponsorships, regulations, media issues. How do you balance the pressure of this and managing the legal risk for such a global club?
Football is an exciting industry, with plenty happening behind the scenes and the reward of seeing everyone’s efforts play out on the pitch. Last season, we were fortunate enough to win the Premier League, culminating in a trophy parade attended by more than a million fans.
Elite sport also brings high expectations and pressure. At Arsenal, everyone is striving to be the best, and we see those challenges as something to embrace rather than avoid.
As lawyers, part of our role is identifying risks and explaining complex rules that others may not have considered. While that
can sometimes be challenging, it helps the Club make informed decisions and achieve its goals in the right way.
What advice would you give to pupils who are interested in careers in sport but may not realise how many opportunities exist off the pitch?
The first thing I would say is that there is no single route into the sports profession. My colleagues at Arsenal, for example, have arrived at the Club from a variety of other industries and at different stages of their careers. So if your first job isn’t in sport, you certainly haven’t missed the boat! Like most industries, there are lots of different roles available, catering for a wide variety of skills and experiences – as well as the more obvious jobs on the pitch, sport calls for experts off the pitch in marketing, data analytics, finance, sales, PR and many more specialisms.
Most sports, and football particularly, have also continued to grow – meaning that career opportunities should remain in abundance. It might take some patience and perseverance but never lose the faith if landing one of those opportunities is your dream.
STAY CONNECTED
Remember to stay connected, sign up to our alumni website at: alumni.saintedmunds.co.uk connect with us on our new Linkedin page @St.Edmund’s School
STAR PUPILS
EDWARD D FORM 8
Well done to Edward D who represented St. Edmund’s at a Judo Development event organised by Core Judo and hosted at Pinewood Judo Club in Wokingham.
The event gave participants valuable competition experience through structured sessions, dynamic warm-ups, and well-matched bouts.
For many, it was their first judo competition, and the resilience, determination, and adaptability shown throughout the day were outstanding.
LILLY-MAY J FORM 7
SCHOOLS TRIATHLON
Congratulations to all our pupils who took part in the Schools Triathlon in May. They competed in relays of swimming, cycling and running whilst raising money for Restless Development
Lilly-May recently represented the U14 London Team at the Water Polo Talent Centre Games held at the Manchester Aquatic Centre.
Having joined the London Talent Centre last September, Lilly-May is one of the younger members of the squad. The programme supports talented U14 and U16 players from across England.
RORY O’C FORM 8
A huge congratulations to Rory O’C who achieved his black belt in karate this term! Just amazing. He is competing at the world cup in July.
This term, she played in all three matches, scoring several goals and helping London secure two wins from three games. Congratulations on this fantastic achievement!
Lilly-May has also enjoyed success in swimming this year. At the IAPS National Swimming Finals, which she attended alongside Mr Tye, she achieved an outstanding 9th place in the country in the 50m Freestyle for her age group.
Well done, Lilly-May, on these impressive achievements in both water polo and swimming.
BEA M-B FORM 9
Bea has qualified for the Irish National Championships in 50m, 100m and 200m butterfly. Bea will be doing the 200m in Limerick on 12 July – Good Luck Bea!
STAFF NEWS
MR TYE
We wish Mr Tye all the very best for his wedding this summer and we will include some wedding pictures in the next edition of the Arrow!
MRS BAILEY
Mrs Bailey made it through to the Finals in her age group at the ‘National IDTA Medallist of the Year’ Finals at Blackpool Winter Gardens in April!
MRS CHANDLER
A huge well done to Mrs Chandler from our Academic Support Department, who ran the London Marathon in support of The Charity Sense. Emma raised an incredible £2,560 to help support disabled people with complex needs; a fantastic achievement for such a worthwhile cause. Despite the warm conditions, Emma crossed the finish line in an impressive 4 hours 20 minutes. An amazing effort and a truly special achievement!
Everyone at St. Edmund’s is so proud of you, Emma. Well done!
Our holiday camp provider, Ultimate Activities, continues to offer a wide range of engaging activities, including archery, football, Kwik Cricket, and Zorbing. Bookings for the Summer Holiday Camps are now open via the school website:
