The Shebbearian 2024-2025

Welcome to The Shebbearian Magazine!

We hope you enjoy the new format of the Shebbearian magazine this year, looking back on the 2024 - 25 academic year here at Shebbear College and all the exciting things that have happened.

For any feedback or questions about this magazine, please contact the editor Joanna Conway on jconway@shebbearcollege.co.uk

If you would like to find out more about joining Shebbear College, please contact our Admissions Department on admissions@shebbearcollege.co.uk.

You can keep up with all the latest news from the school via our social media channels: @shebbearcollege

For alumni enquiries or to share news and achievements with us, please contact Amy Bernstone, College and OSA Secretary: abernstone@shebbearcollege.co.uk.

Shebbear College is part of the ILG family of schools.

Shebbear College Limited - Company Registration Number: 15558451

Registered Address: Georgian House, Park Lane, Stanmore, HA7 3HD, UK

Correspondence Address: Shebbear College, Shebbear, EX21 5HJ, UK

REFLECTIONS FROM THE HEAD

Mr Jenkins’ Speech Day 2025 Speech sums up the highlights from the 2024-25 academic year.

“Special guests, parents, grandparents, friends and family - welcome to Speech Day 2025. We gather again to celebrate the successes of our pupils during this academic year and once again, it has been a brilliantly busy one for all involved across academic work, performing arts, sport and the broader co-curricular life of Shebbear which is always so rich. There is a lot to share with you and my biggest challenge in putting together what I am saying today, is that given lunch is at midday, I cannot cover every achievement, but please enjoy the edited highlights.

Early November saw the arrival of Independent Schools Inspectorate team (ISI as we know them). We had (rather like a Bond villain) been expecting them since September, but the 9.30 Monday morning call announcing they would be with us at 8.30 the next day and requesting a substantial list of documents and information prior to that, inevitably generates a little anxiety! My philosophy is to try and enjoy the challenge that these things create and the inspectors certainly seemed to enjoy their time with us. It’s an intense three days when they are in school and I get a final round up from the lead inspector on Thursday evening. Looking back at the notes I made at the time, I was reminded that he spoke of a “culture of care” within Shebbear which he felt was palpable, he was impressed by the destinations of our U6 leavers and the progress our pupils make whilst they are with us as well as the depth and breadth of everything we offer outside of the classroom. In essence, many of the things I will speak about today.

Academically we have had another strong year with the U6th leading the charge. We had two interviewees at Cambridge, two medics and a veterinary application from this year’s cohort, and they have been a superb year group as they have moved through and led the college in their final year. Our Scholars Masterclasses continue to offer enrichment to our most able pupils and the development of our teaching and learning team (a group of staff with a focus on the quality of teaching and learning) has seen the use of data to identify the direction of travel and where attention needs to be focused in order to best support our pupils.

Performing Arts continue to dazzle us. The strength and depth of performances of Westside Story in March were truly impressive and certainly matched by the fun and energy of Mary Poppins this term. The lessons learned by pupils who take part in a school production, particularly if it takes you somewhat outside of your comfort zone, cannot be underestimated. The organisation, the teamwork, the need to learn lines and connect with the audience all allow for our college values to shine through. Gig Night this year was a real success with 13 bands performing – these are put together with minimal input from our teaching team and the pupils work to develop each performance themselves. We have had eight of our U6 pupils gain Grade 8 distinctions in singing this year, and our LAMDA results continue to produce nearly all distinctions with just a sprinkling of merits awarded. The informal concerts allow for those new to performing to spread their wings and fly for the first time with a very supportive audience and this positive environment is what makes the Performing Arts so strong at Shebbear. Thank you to the team – you get amazing things from our pupils!

Turning to sport, this year, we have competed in more than 30 fixtures per term which equates to nearly four fixtures per week on average. This is quite spectacular for a school of under 300 pupils and poses its own logistical challenges around transport, catering and staffing but the energy of our sports staff team continues to engage and enthuse our pupils and the progress made, alongside development plans in place mean I am hugely confident about the future of sport at Shebbear. We took two teams to Roslyn Park rugby 7s tournament this year and plan to develop our sevens teams further over the coming years. Girls’ sport, particularly hockey and netball, is getting stronger each season. We have had real success with our equestrian teams on the national stage with a number of prestigious events leading to three teams being entered into the Independent schools association eventing championships in May, with teams in the 70, 90 and 100 classes, out 90 team claimed silver whilst our 70 and 100 teams became ISA champions – with six riders competing in the British eventing youth team programme. Together, let us take a moment to congratulate our extraordinary ISA team champions: Zola, Annabelle, Anaya, Isabelle, Tichy, Chloe, and Neve. Your hard work, dedication, and passion have brought us all pride, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds!

I would also like to thank Marie Webber for all she puts into the Shebbear equestrian team – she is incredibly hardworking, modest and always focused on the opportunities available for our young riders.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award continues to grow, and I know a number of Form 3 pupils will be nursing some blisters this morning having undertaken their assessed expedition this week. There are 717, 252 18-year-olds in the UK today. Of these, approximately 3% started their gold DofE award and one of these special people is here today – a special mention must go to Harriet (Deputy Head of School) who completed her gold award this year. It is an internationally recognised qualification and by achieving it, you really are making yourself stand out from the crowd. It takes commitment, consistency and determination to achieve this. Thank you to Robin Giles for all he has given to deliver the DofE programme to our pupils this year. It is a unique programme and one which is key to building character here at Shebbear.

We once again had four teams taking part in the Ten Tors competition in May. This is the maximum number allowed for a school and is quite exceptional for one of our size. 25% of Shebbearians eligible to take part choose to do so and, having done some very basic maths, this gives us the highest participation rate of any school in the competition. I know Chris Deakes is optimistic for a 55 mile team next year and it certainly feels as though the momentum is there to achieve this.

It is our second year of running the 360@Sheb activities programme and our offering continues to evolve to ensure the best possible use of our geographical location to access the opportunities around us. I don’t believe there are any other schools in the UK that can boast surfing, horseriding, rock climbing, golf and gig rowing as being integrated within their timetables. This is a unique offering to our Shebbear pupils and I am very proud of what they learn by taking part in such rich and varied programme.

Our staff team is quite exceptional at Shebbear. Teachers go above and beyond in order to provide the best possible experience for our pupils. Whether it is late night marking and report writing, the sheer volume of hours and commitment that goes into our co-curricular offering or the patience and kindness needed to support a child in the moment. I am very proud of the team and all they do. And the teaching team of course could not do this without a huge level of support from behind the scenes from housekeeping, health and well-being, maintenance and grounds, catering, admissions, finance and administration. Keeping the show on the road requires dedication, hardwork, humour and teamwork – all of this we have in spades from the staff team here.

Sadly, we always have to say goodbye to some as they move to pastures new.

Louise Shepherd joined us this year as one of our graduate assistants working primarily in the sports department and boarding but also getting very involved within the Prep School. Louise has been a superb support with our hockey programme in particular and we wish her well as she takes up her PGCE in London from September.

Emma Legrew has brought a huge amount of energy and (appropriately) colour, to the art department this year as the maternity cover for Ms Kaur. She has also been a fantastically supportive tutor in Ruddle house and has overseen some excellent artwork from our pupils.

Fin Mackinnon leaves us after two years teaching science and psychology and living and working within boarding. Fin is a really caring teacher who works exceptionally hard to give the best possible experience to those in his charge and has always been willing to go the extra mile with boarding duties, surfing and more recently climbing. We wish him all the best as he goes travelling over the next twelve months.

Shouna Sibcy has been an utterly unflappable examinations officer for the past three years. Her background in naval logistics (and her passion for organisation) has meant that the exams officer role (which carries with it significant responsibility) has at times appeared to be a genuine pleasure rather than a job! We will miss her swan-like appearance during exam season and wish her all the best.

Christine Fanet returned to Shebbear as our librarian in 2021 having previously served as our head of MFL for years that hit double figures. Her personal kindness, warmth and vision for the library at Shebbear has led to the creation of a calm and welcoming space for all our pupils. Christine leaves to enjoy being a grandparent and also to support her own parents more.

Charlie Woods joined Shebbear at the same time as me during the depths of the COVID pandemic in 2020. She has worked as our Senior Matron within boarding and also heading up the Health & Wellbeing Centre. We will miss her humour and straight talking as she leaves us to, as she said in her letter of resignation, “return to the sea”. I thought for a moment she was perhaps a mermaid, before realising that she was moving to Eastbourne College and would therefore, actually be on the coast.

Jeanette Curno has served our housekeeping team for more years than she would probably care to remember. She is truly one our unsung heros, clocking on just as most of the college community clocks off and working hard to ensure our classrooms are in a fit state to be taught in the next day. Jeanette retires this summer and we wish her all the best as she is able to spend more time with her horses.

We are here to celebrate the achievements of our pupils over the course of this year, and the future for Shebbear looks stable, secure and bright. Joining the Inspired Learning Group in May 2024 has given us the backing of an expanding and entrepreneurial group during times that are challenging for many independent schools. Many of you will have seen my communication yesterday announcing our change of chair of governors. The role of the chair as an ILG school, is primarily to be a critical friend to me as Head, to ask me questions around decisions I make and bring perspective and experience to that process. I have no doubt that Ronell Selzer will be a huge asset to me and the college in this role – she is an experienced educator with a real interest in people and how to get the best from young people in particular. I hope to give the opportunity for this who would wish to, to meet with Ronell in the autumn and further details will follow.

As I have said, these are challenging times for independent schools on a number of fronts. The introduction of VAT on fees is not generating the income the government had hoped and five times the predicted number of pupils have moved from independent schools to state schools since January, which itself puts pressure upon that system. We are set to have our biggest Form 1 in September that we have had for a number of years and Shebbear will continue to be a beacon of everything education should be – the ability to stretch and support every pupil regardless of ability, both inside and outside the classroom and ultimately, to play a significant part in producing good people who will go out into the world and do good themselves. It is what Shebbear has done so well throughout its history and will continue to do for many years to come.”

CHARLIE JENKINS

Head

REFLECTIONS FROM THE HEADS OF SCHOOL

“It only feels like yesterday I was sat in the front row of chapel, listening to the school song for the first time, wondering what the Latin words actually translate to and if I will ever be able to recite it without the words in front of me.

I can vividly remember learning the song in one of our first music lessons with Mrs Parker, and I can gladly say that after singing it every week for seven years, it comes naturally to me now. At that time, I could barely imagine the adventures being a Shebbearian would lead me to. However now as I look back, I can gratefully reflect on the wide range of experiences I have had.

The first time I realised the extent of what I was getting myself into, was my first Saturday Hockey fixture. This being the second time I had ever picked up a hockey stick. Although I was completely thrown in the deep end and initially wasn't the best, I quickly got the hang of the rules and developed a bit of skill. This moment shaped how I accepted the opportunities presented to me through my time at Shebbear. Whether that be learning the importance of trying new things or how to be committed to the things I sign myself up to.

Two events that put these skills into practice are The Duke of Edinburgh and The Ten Tors Challenge. Much like my first hockey fixture, I remember learning how to tie a pair of walking boots the morning of my first DofE training walk. As you can tell, I took being told to take every opportunity very seriously! It was only a few training walks in when I fell in love with hiking and put the Ten Tors challenge at the top of my bucket list! These experiences are strengthening not only physically, but mentally. After completing my 45 miles in 2024, I had learnt so much about being a leader and how to look after a team! I learnt that being a good leader is finding a balance of humility and being prepared to look after yourself. If you are struggling yourself, your team probably are too! I can confidently say that these experiences will impact what I go on to do, whether that's staying connected with nature or being determined and adaptable.

Shebbear has always been an adaptable place of change. Being a part of school council has given me a first hand experience on how proactively we get listened to. One change is the house system. Believe it or not in Form 1 I was put in Way House. It was only until the introduction of Pollard Day House during Lockdown when Mrs Lovett emailed me and asked if we could move. Although the move was a bit daunting at first, I quickly became all for Pollard (Sorry Mrs Cardoo!) This also meant I was one of the first ever girls to be in the house of Gold! This change was a prominent move forward in tutor sessions and house spirit. Suddenly we were part of a tighter family in the middle of our wider Shebbear community!

Despite these changes, of course there are things that have never changed! I like to call them the 'symbols of Shebbear'. These are things that would only make sense to a Shebbearian. The things that make Shebbear such a special and unique place. For example the minibus. Every Shebbearian has a story about a minibus not starting or getting the bus covered in sand after going to the beach. I will never forget the overwhelming feeling of relief and comfort after seeing the bus over the hill after a rainy training walk. The vision of the bus on the horizon was always a vision of hope. Another 'symbol' are the pews in chapel. This is where the history of Shebbear can be seen right in front of you! After remembrance day, a Form 1 told me that she had found one of the names who lost their life in WW1. I think this shows the beauty of how Shebbear brings all of its generations together! Something I will miss a lot is the little orange Tractor driving around site! I have always found so much joy in seeing the Maintenance team zoom around the campus, fixing and moving things! If the grass isn't cut or being cut, something's gone wrong! This symbol reminds me that it takes a whole team to make our School the place it is! Everyone plays their part!

I will always be so grateful for the 7 years I spent as a student at Shebbear, and the best part is that it doesn't end here! Being a Shebbearian is something that stays with you for life! So keep laughing, get involved and use the people that are there to help you! It's not everyday you get blessed with a community as supportive and vibrant as Shebbear!”

LILY DOWN

Head of School 2024-25

"After calling this place home for 15 years - for as long as I can remember - it is a strange and unnerving feeling to know that this is the end of my time here at Shebbear College.

It is impossible to explain how many funny memories, and life-long connections, I have made here. The support of Shebbear has allowed me to successfully achieve all of my academic goals, of which I am very proud, and cultivated my love for the piano and music. Not only that, it has played a pivotal role in making me the person who I am today, and in preparing me for the real world. Next year I am planning to study Computer Science at St Andrews, but despite moving on, this place will always hold a very special place in my heart.

I would like to thank every teacher at the school, both past and present - you truly are the backbone of the school. The impact you have all had on me is inexplicable, even if you may not realise it. Mrs Aliberti, on the Poland trip - fun times we shared (including me playing on Chopin’s piano!) and the more sombre ones made for an experience which I will truly never forget. Mrs Cardoo - you have inspired me to love maths, put in so much time helping me over the years and given me advice and laughs which I will never forget. I could mention something individually about all of you - you all have such a friendly and respectful nature and truly want the best for us. Surprisingly, you managed to put up with our year group and whilst you may have sometimes lost your voices, you somehow didn’t lose your sanity!

If there is one piece of advice I would give to any student here, it is to make the most of all the opportunities thrown at you. Time is a strange thing, and it seems to pass by only faster as you get older. To make the time you spend here as enjoyable and unforgettable as possible, the secret is to live in the moment and try new things outside your comfort zone! You never know where a simple “yes” may lead, whether it be joining a new club, volunteering at an event or simply when helping out. Be proactive, immerse yourself in everything around you and most importantly, enjoy it!

Finally, I wish the new Sanctuary team all the best in their new roles. It has been amazing getting to know you better over the last year, and I am sure that you will all do an excellent job over the coming year."

SEBASTIAN CROOKES

Head of School 2024-25

360@Sheb Returns - September 2024

A-level and GCSE Results - August 2024

Hockey & Rugby Season Begins - September 2024

'We The Curious' Trip - September 2024

Back to School - September 2024

AUGUST TO OCTOBER 2024

D of E Silver ExpeditionOctober 2024

Prep School

Prefect Team

Announced - September 2024

Art Meets NatureOctober 2024

Iceland Trip - October 2024

MICHAELMAS TERM 1

Showjumping - October 2024

Julia Donaldson Day - October 2024

A LEVEL RESULTS 2024

Our Class of 2024 celebrated high achievements across the board in their A-Level and BTEC results on results day, with a 100% pass rate. Once again, the vast majority gained a place at their first-choice university destination with a number going onto Russell Group universities.

The Upper Sixth have gone on to study an impressive range of degree subjects – from Mechanical Engineering and Astrophysics to Criminology, Liberal Arts, Landscape Architecture and Actor-Musician - at prestigious universities including the University of Birmingham, the University of Leeds and Guildford School of Acting (GSA). Meanwhile, others have chosen to take a different path, with plans for exciting opportunities including joining the RAF and travelling in South East Asia.

Head of School, George, found out that he had achieved AAB in Physics, Economics and Maths and gained a place at his first choice of university; he is now studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of Birmingham.

Meanwhile, Isobel was also very happy to have got into her first choice and is at the University of Birmingham studying Liberal Arts, whilst her brother Cameron is studying Astrophysics at the University of Leeds. A talented pianist, Isobel juggled her A-level studies with her music during her time in the Sixth Form.

Performing Arts Scholar, Toby, gained CCC and an A* in his EPQ and has set out on an exciting career path, having gained a place on the ActorMusician BA at the Guildford School of Acting, one of the most highly regarded theatre schools in the UK. Toby had a busy Upper Sixth, having played the lead role of Jean Val Jean in the school production of Les Misérables in March 2024 as well as travelling to London every Saturday to attend the Royal College of Music Junior Department (RCMJD) where he gained a place to study Orchestral Percussion during his time in the Sixth Form.

"...this year group really embodies the Shebbearian spirit!"

“Congratulations to our Upper Sixth who have all worked so hard to achieve these results. With courses ranging from Astrophysics to Acting and Liberal Arts to Landscape Architecture, this year group really embodies the Shebbearian spirit! They have a diverse range of interests and talents, and it is fantastic to see that they will be fulfilling their ambitions, whether that be at university, a gap year or a career.

Thank you also to the teachers who have supported our pupils with such care and expertise over their Sixth Form years. As a small school, we get to know each individual incredibly well and it is so rewarding to see them going off to the next stage of their educational journey.”

MR JENKINS

GCSE RESULTS 2024

There was a mixture of relief and excitement at Shebbear College, as Form 5 (Year 11) pupils nervously opened their envelopes at school to reveal their GCSE grades.

Form 5 pupils gathered in the Library on GCSE results day 2024 to nervously open their envelopes. They have been working hard this year, with some taking as many as eleven GCSEs, as well as juggling other interests including music and sport. Their hard work paid off with many achieving highly across all subjects and exceeding expectations, demonstrating Shebbear’s strong value-added output, which measures how much progress a child has made since their starting point.

Joe celebrated an impressive five Grade 9s, four Grade 8s and two Grade 7s as well as having recently gained a Grade 7 in the Trumpet and Grade 6 in the Piano, whilst fellow musician, Zeb, who has juggled his GCSE studies with his talent in drumming as well as being a part of the College’s successful U16 Rugby team, gained three Grade 9s, one Grade 8, four Grade 7s and three Grade 6s.

Isabel gained one Grade 9, three Grade 8s, four Grade 7s and two Grade 6s in her GCSES, whilst classmate Robyn also achieved highly with five Grade 7s, four Grade 6s and a Grade 5 and will be taking History, Geography and Music at A-level.

"...it was fantastic to see so many happy faces this morning, with many exceeding their target grades!"

Two students, Henry and Leo, recently returned to Devon having spent the summer in Cambodia on an expedition with Camps International, an initiative offered to students in Year 11 and the Sixth Form each year.

“I’m really proud of all our students and it was fantastic to see so many happy faces this morning, with many exceeding their target grades! This year group have worked really hard across all subjects and it’s great to see so many of them achieving their personal best. Their GCSE results today have opened some exciting opportunities, and I know they will go on to achieve great things. A huge thank you to our brilliant team of teachers, who have been a big part of this success, and well done everyone!”

MR JENKINS

WELCOME BACK TO SHEBBEAR

The 2024–25 academic year began with a buzz of excitement as we welcomed our new Form 1 (Year 7) pupils for their special induction day.

Arriving a day ahead of the rest of the College, they had the opportunity to explore their new surroundings, meet their classmates, and get to know the staff who will be supporting them throughout their first year.

The day was packed with fun and engaging activities designed to help them settle in, build confidence, and feel part of the Shebbear community from the very beginning.

It was a fantastic start to what promises to be a memorable and successful year!

The following day, the rest of the school returned - bringing energy and smiles from every corner of the campus. From our youngest children in Reception, who began their school journey in a brand-new classroom and outdoor learning area, to our new Sixth Form cohort, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of their final years, the whole college was alive with anticipation for the term ahead.

Here’s to a year full of learning, growth, and unforgettable moments!

FINALISTS FOR THE SMALL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OF THE YEAR AWARD

In September, we found out that, after being shortlisted in the Independent School of The Year Awards in the summer, we had been selected as a finalist in the ‘Small Independent School of the Year’ category, the only school in the local area to appear on the finalists list and one of the final six schools in the category.

These awards, run in association with ‘Independent School Parent’ magazine, celebrate all that students, staff and wider school communities have achieved during the last academic year and this year they received record entries!

BOARDERS DIVE INTO A NEW TERM OF WEEKEND

ADVENTURES!

Our boarders’ weekend activities programme launched in style with an action-packed trip to North Devon Wake Park!

Spirits were high as students took to the water, many trying wakeboarding for the very first time. With plenty of splashes, laughter, and encouragement, it was a brilliant way to kick off the term’s adventures.

The Wake Park offered something for everyone - from adrenaline-fuelled wakeboarding to relaxing time on the water and cheering on friends. It was a fantastic opportunity for boarders to bond, try something new, and make lasting memories.

Our boarders enjoy a busy and varied weekend schedule that offers something for every interest. Alongside regular sports fixtures, students enjoy a wide range of activities including music, drama, art, and cookery, gym sessions and sports, horse riding and surfing at the beach, Theme Park days and climbing trips, Go-karting, paintballing, and ice skating and cinema, bowling, shopping, and theatre outings!

360@SHEB RETURNS

WITH A BUZZ OF ACTIVITY

The 360@Sheb Co-Curricular programme returned for its second year in September, bringing energy, creativity, and adventure to Friday afternoons.

Launched last year, the initiative has quickly become a highlight of the school week, offering pupils a rich variety of activities both on and off campus.

Every Friday, pupils dive into a dedicated two-hour 360 session, where they can explore new interests, develop skills, and enjoy time with peers outside the classroom. The programme includes focused sessions in team sports, creative arts, and performing arts as well as off-site activities including surfing, golf, horse riding and fitness training, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The 360@Sheb programme continues to grow in popularity, offering students a well-rounded experience that supports both personal growth and community spirit.

GAME ON: HOCKEY AND RUGBY SEASON BEGINS!

A new school year means the return of competitive fixtures for the hockey and rugby teams, as students took to the pitch with enthusiasm, determination, and plenty of Sheb spirit.

Our teams embraced the challenge of the new season, representing Shebbear with pride both at home and away. From fast-paced hockey matches to hard-fought rugby games, the opening fixtures provided a fantastic opportunity for students to build their skills and teamwork, with some of our new pupils stepping into competitive sport for the first time!

In Rugby this term, we found out that both our U14 and U16 squads had been selected to compete in the prestigious Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens - the world’s largest school rugby tournament taking place in March. We also hosted the U14 ISA South West 7s Rugby Tournament, welcoming teams from the region to compete with our U14s, whilst our U9 team took part in their very first tournament at the ISA Schools Tag Rugby competition held at Staverton Park.

Alongside the core sports, our basketball teams have been making great strides, taking part in a number of competitive fixtures and showcasing real progress on the court, whilst our swimmers headed to Millfield School to compete in the ISA Schools Swimming Gala, with Jack in L6 making it through to the national finals, held at the iconic London Aquatics Centre!

We also hosted the BREMCO Cross Country event just after half term, welcoming pupils from across the region for a fantastic morning, with some fantastic achievements from Shebbear pupils, and the golf and equestrian teams took part in their first competitions of the year, with some great achievements ahead of them!

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

At the start of the Michaelmas term, we were delighted to welcome four guest students from Canberra Grammar School in Australia.

Zara, Addie, Eve, and Oskar joined us as part of our Australian Exchange programme, quickly becoming part of the Shebbear community.

During their time here, they immersed themselves in school life, made new friendships, and experienced everything from lessons to co-curricular activities. Their visit added a wonderful international dimension to the term, and we hope they returned to Australia with plenty of exciting stories and lasting memories.

CEILIDH - A NIGHT TO REMEMBER!

Fifth and Sixth Form students gathered for the annual Ceilidh in September - and by all accounts, it was the best night of the year!

With live music, traditional group dances, and a fantastic atmosphere, the evening was a celebration of fun, friendship, and community. Students threw themselves into the spirit of the event, dancing with enthusiasm and enjoying every moment.

The Ceilidh has become a cherished tradition at Shebbear, and this year’s celebration was no exception. A huge thank you to everyone who helped organise the event and to all who attended - it was a brilliant way to bring the school community together.

LASER TAG FUN

Forms 3 and 4 enjoyed an action-packed evening of Laser Tag this term, provided by Survival Combat Games.

The event was filled with excitement and plenty of friendly competition as students navigated the campus, working together and testing their skills.

The Laser Tag evening was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to bond, work as a team, and enjoy some high-energy fun outside the classroom. Events like this are a great example of Shebbear’s commitment to offering engaging and memorable experiences that support personal development and community spirit.

SHEBBEAR GOLFERS TEE OFF AT THE ISGA FINALS

Golf has continued to thrive at Shebbear this year, thanks to its inclusion in our 360@Sheb activities.

The sessions have given students the chance to develop their skills, enjoy time outdoors, and take part in competitive play.

Throughout the year, our golfers have shown great commitment and progress, with several students representing the school in external competitions. In September, the team started their run of success by competing in the prestigious ISGA National Junior Finals at Drayton Park Golf Club, finishing in the top ten - a brilliant achievement!

FORM 3 EXPLORE AT ‘WE THE CURIOUS'

Form 3 enjoyed an inspiring and interactive day at the We The Curious science museum in Bristol, bringing science to life in a real-world context.

The visit offered a wide range of engaging experiences, with highlights including a fascinating Planetarium show on aviation and a hands-on DNA Detectives workshop, where the pupils learned about the science behind genetics and forensic investigation. They also had the chance to explore two floors of interactive exhibits, sparking curiosity and encouraging them to think like scientists.

INNOVATION IN ACTION

As part of our 360@Sheb offering, we launched new STEM and Robotics clubs this term, led by Head of School, Sebastian.

Meeting on Monday lunchtimes, the clubs have offered pupils hands-on opportunities to explore practical computing, engineering challenges, and real-world problem solving.

Seb has also been working on a high-performance PC of his own design, setting the tone for the club, focused on creativity, technical skill, and collaborative learning.

These new clubs reflect Shebbear’s commitment to expanding both co-curricular opportunities and our STEM offering, preparing students for the future, with growing interest in computing and robotics.

PREP SCHOOL PREFECT TEAM

Following on from the Senior School’s Sanctuary Team appointments in the Trinity Term, Shebbear Prep School proudly announced its Prefect Team for 2024–25 in September, with a group of dedicated pupils stepping into leadership roles during their final year.

Lewis and Bella were appointed as Head Boy and Head Girl, leading the team with enthusiasm and setting a strong example for their peers. Supporting them were the House Captains:

•Oliver and Austin for Ruddle House

•Zola and Ella for Way House

•Marley and Molly for Thorne House

•Tom and Alfie for Pollard House

In addition, Will and Josh took on the roles of Prefects, helping to support day-to-day school life and represent the student voice.

Throughout the year, the team demonstrated responsibility, teamwork, and a commitment to the school community. Their contributions helped shape a positive and inclusive environment, and they should be proud of all they achieved.

DUKE OF EDINBURGH – SILVER EXPEDITION

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme got off to a strong start, with pupils embarking on their Silver Award expedition on Dartmoor.

The launch of this year’s DofE activities marked an exciting opportunity for Shebbear pupils to challenge themselves, build resilience, and develop key life skills through teamwork, navigation, and outdoor adventure. The Silver group tackled Dartmoor’s demanding landscape with determination, navigating their route, carrying full expedition packs, and camping overnight as part of their assessed journey.

The DofE Award continues to be a valued part of Shebbear’s co-curricular offering, encouraging independence, leadership, and a spirit of exploration.

ROBOTICS SPARKS INNOVATION

This year, we continued to dive into the exciting world of robotics and STEM learning, thanks to our collaboration with Bude-based experts, Cognition Learning.

Through engaging, hands-on sessions, all Prep School pupils and Senior pupils in Forms 1-3 have enjoyed regular robotics sessions, developing a wide range of technical and cognitive skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

The robotics sessions have introduced students to key areas such as engineering, design, computing, and coding, while also encouraging the development of essential problem-solving abilities like critical thinking, analysis, and decomposition. Whether building robots, programming systems, or tackling real-world challenges, students have embraced the opportunity to learn through creativity and experimentation.

SHEBBEAR RIDERS

OFF TO A FLYING START

The new National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) season got off to a fantastic start for Shebbear’s equestrian team, as riders travelled to Bicton Arena to compete in the first Show Jumping event of the year.

The day began with the 70cm team event, where Zola, Billie, and Annabelle delivered three strong rounds to take 1st place - a brilliant achievement and a great way to kick off the season. The momentum continued in the 80cm class, with Annabelle, Billie, and Anaya riding confidently to secure a 4th place finish.

With her teammates away on a Duke of Edinburgh expedition, Anaya took on the 90cm and 100cm classes solo and rose to the challenge in style. She rode a clear round in the 90cm with the fastest time of the day, earning an individual win. An incredible accomplishment, especially for a 12-year-old rider.

The team’s performance at Bicton reflects the dedication, skill, and passion of Shebbear’s young equestrians. Read on for more equestrian success stories throughout the year!

SHEBBEAR RUGBY HEADS TO ROSSLYN PARK

Exciting news for Shebbear College rugby as in October we found out that both our U14 and U16 squads had been selected to compete in the prestigious Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens - the world’s largest school rugby tournament.

Held annually, the tournament brings together over 15,000 players from across the UK and beyond, offering an incredible opportunity for young athletes to test their skills on a national stage. Our teams proudly represented Shebbear in this high-profile event, gaining valuable experience and showcasing their teamwork, resilience, and passion for the game.

The selection alone was a fantastic achievement, and the tournament proved to be a memorable highlight of the rugby calendar. Read on to find out how it went!

ART MEETS NATURE

GCSE and A Level Art students had the opportunity to explore creativity in a truly unique setting during a visit to the Eden Project in Cornwall.

The visit allowed pupils to take photographs, sketch, and gather visual research away from the classroom. From the vibrant plant life to the striking architecture of the biomes, the Eden Project offered a rich source of material for future coursework and creative development.

It was a fantastic day of exploration, and the pupils returned full of ideas and inspiration for their upcoming projects.

...the pupils returned full of ideas and inspiration for their upcoming projects.

U11 RUGBY FESTIVAL

After a hugely successful event last year, our U11 Rugby Festival returned in October, welcoming club teams from Bude, Bideford, Okehampton (including Will, Oliver and Tom in Prep 6), Exeter Athletic, Ilfracombe and Torrington to take part in a round robin tournament.

It was a pleasure to host this exciting event, with the emphasis of the day being enjoyment, sportsmanship and development. Our Sports Scholars and coaches were looking out for players displaying our school values of Courage, Confidence, Courtesy, Compassion, Creativity and Curiosity throughout the day – congratulations to those who won these medals at the end and well done to all – some great games and fantastic play on display!

We received some fantastic feedback from the clubs following the event, including the Ilfracombe U11s Coach who said “What can I say, your college went above and beyond with the tournament you held today. All my players and their parents left today knowing that it’ll be hard pressed to top it this season. We cannot thank you enough.”

We hope to see all the clubs, and maybe more, next year!

“What can I say, your college went above and beyond with the tournament you held today. All my players and their parents left today knowing that it’ll be hard pressed to top it this season. We cannot thank you enough.”

JULIA DONALDSON DAY IN THE PRE-PREP!

The Pre-Prep was bursting with colour and creativity as pupils celebrated Julia Donaldson Day, dressing up as their favourite characters from the beloved author’s books.

From The Gruffalo to Zog, the classrooms were filled with familiar faces and imaginative costumes.

Throughout the day, children took part in a range of fun, literacy-rich activities designed to spark creativity, build early storytelling skills, and nurture a lifelong love of reading. It was a joyful celebration of books, imagination, and the magic of stories!

STEM WEEK SPARKS CREATIVITY

AND COMPETITION

In October we had an exciting week of innovation and hands-on learning at Shebbear College, as pupils immersed themselves in a series of STEM, robotics, and computing activities designed to challenge and inspire.

Prep School pupils got to work on their FIRST Lego League projects, with the aim of competing in the competition in March.

Form 2 pupils took part in two standout events: the IET Faraday Challenge, a national competition that encourages teamwork and problem-solving through real-world engineering tasks, and a TECgirls workshop, which introduced pupils to creative tech skills in a fun and engaging way.

Meanwhile, Form 3 pupils got competitive in their Sumo Battle Bot workshop, where they built and programmed robots equipped with sensors to stay within a ring and push their opponents out - combining coding, strategy, and a lot of laughter!

FORM 1 & 2 DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!

The annual Form 1 and 2 Disco was once again a highlight of the term, bringing pupils together for an evening of music, dancing and fun!

With the dance floor buzzing from start to finish, everyone got involvedshowing off their best moves and celebrating with friends.

It was a fantastic way to round off the half term. Here's to many more memorable discos to come!

ICELAND: A GEOGRAPHY ADVENTURE LIKE NO OTHER!

Over October half term, our GCSE and A-Level Geography students set off on an unforgettable five-day journey to the land of fire and ice - Iceland!

From steaming hot springs to icy glaciers, the trip was packed with jaw-dropping landscapes, hands-on learning, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 1

kicked off with a relaxing dip in the Secret Lagoon, one of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools. From there, students witnessed the explosive power of Geysir, the hot spring that gave its name to all geysers, followed by the thunderous beauty of Gullfoss waterfall and the historic majesty of Thingvellir National Park, home to the world’s oldest parliament.

Day 2

was a waterfall wonderland, featuring the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Students explored the mighty Sólheimajökull glacier, marveled at the dramatic Dyrhólaey rock arch, and walked along the black sands of Reynisfjara beach, where volcanic forces meet the sea.

MICHAELMAS TERM

Day 3

brought even more adventure with a visit to the vibrant volcanic crater lake, Kerið, and a scenic hot spring walk in Hveragerði. The group then descended into the incredible Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel, soared through Iceland’s landscapes in the immersive ‘FlyOver Iceland’ experience, and ended the day with a swim in the Laugardalslaug open-air pool. As if that wasn’t enough, the Northern Lights made a magical appearance that evening - an unforgettable highlight!

Day 4

was spent exploring Reykjavík before heading home, tired but thrilled by the experience.

Huge thanks to Miss Taylor for organising such an incredible trip, and to Mr Grey and Mr MacKinnon for making it all possible. This was more than just a school tripit was a real-world geography lesson and the adventure of a lifetime!

Morwellham Quay - November 2024

Odd Socks Day - November 2024 Snow! - November 2024

NOVEMBER TO DECEMBER 2024

Informal Performing Arts Concert - November 2024

Equestrian Excellence - November 2024

Bodmin Jail - December 2024

Hockey Festival - December 2024

Carol Concerts - December 2024

Ski Trip - December 2024

MICHAELMAS TERM 2

Lights, Camel, Action! - December 2024

Christmas Roundup - December 2024

SHEBBEAR HOSTS BREMCO

CROSS COUNTRY

We were delighted to host the BREMCO Cross Country event just after half term, welcoming pupils from across the region for a fantastic morning of sport and stamina.

The course challenged runners with a mix of terrain and conditions, but all participants rose to the occasion with determination and enthusiasm. It was a brilliant showcase of effort and resilience from every runner who took part.

A special congratulations goes to Aston in Form 2, who put in an outstanding performance to finish 6th in the U13 boys’ race - a fantastic achievement in a competitive field.

Well done to all the pupils who represented Shebbear College!

A-LEVEL STUDENTS EXPERIENCE SHAKESPEARE AT THE RSC

A-Level English and Drama students enjoyed an inspiring trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, where they attended a performance of Othello at the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC).

The visit offered a valuable opportunity to see one of their set texts brought to life on stage, deepening their understanding of Shakespeare’s language, themes, and dramatic techniques. Experiencing the play in its original theatrical setting added a powerful dimension to their studies and sparked plenty of discussion on the journey home!

PREP 5 & 6 STEP BACK IN TIME AT MORWELLHAM QUAY

Prep 5 and 6 pupils enjoyed a brilliant day of immersive learning at Morwellham Quay, exploring life in a bustling Victorian mining and port village.

The trip was packed with hands-on experiences, including a ride on the mine train into the historic George and Charlotte Copper Mine, where pupils discovered the challenges of working underground. They also dressed in authentic Victorian costume, took part in a traditional Victorian school lesson, and toured the cottages and workshops to learn how people lived and worked during the 19th century.

SWIMMERS SHINE AT

ISA GALA AT MILLFIELD

In November our swimmers headed to Millfield School to compete in the ISA Schools Swimming Gala.

The team put in some fantastic performances across the events, demonstrating skill, determination, and team spirit in a competitive field. It was a great opportunity for our pupils to test themselves against swimmers from other schools and gain valuable experience in a high-level setting.

Well done to all our swimmers for representing Shebbear College so brilliantly!

PREP SCHOOL RUNNERS COMPETE AT OCRA CROSS COUNTRY

Two teams of Prep School cross-country runners represented Shebbear College with pride and determination at the OCRA Cross Country Competition, held at the stunning Castle Drogo estate.

The 1.5-mile course took runners across a challenging all-terrain route, testing both stamina and spirit. Everyone gave their all, showing fantastic resilience and teamwork throughout the event.

A special congratulations goes to the girls’ team, who were rewarded for their efforts with a silver medal - a brilliant achievement and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

A special congratulations goes to the girls’ team, who were rewarded for their efforts with a silver medal...

BOARDERS ENJOY ACTION-PACKED WEEKENDS

Life is never dull for our boarders, who enjoy an exciting programme of weekend activities each half termdesigned to offer fun, adventure, and a chance to unwind after a busy week of school life.

This half term started with a climbing session and also included cinema trips ice skating, go-karting, and shopping excursions, and of course, when Mrs Webber was on duty they headed out to Dartmoor with Cholwell Riding Stables for a go at horse riding on the moor. For many of our boarders, it was their first time in the saddle, but they embraced the experience with enthusiasm and courage.

These weekend adventures are a key part of the boarding experience at Shebbear College, helping to build confidence, friendships, and unforgettable memories.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

The Shebbear College community came together in solemn reflection to mark Remembrance Day, honouring those who gave their lives in service for our freedom.

Pupils and staff gathered to pay tribute to the fallen, remembering the sacrifices made by so many for the lives we are able to live today. It was a poignant moment of unity and respect, reminding us all of the importance of remembrance and gratitude.

SHEBBEAR HOSTS U14 ISA SW 7S RUGBY TOURNAMENT

Shebbear College was proud to host the U14 ISA South West 7s Rugby Tournament, welcoming teams from Stover, Leweston, and St Joseph’s for an exciting morning of competitive rugby.

Our own U14 team took to the field with determination and team spirit, playing some excellent rugby against strong opposition. The tournament showcased great sportsmanship, skill, and a shared passion for the game across all schools.

Congratulations to Stover School, who emerged as the overall winners and progressed to the next round of the competition. Well done to all the players who took part and made it a fantastic event!

ODD SOCKS DAY

We marked Odd Socks Day with pupils and staff proudly wearing mismatched socks to show their support for Anti-Bullying Week, celebrating the importance of individuality and kindness.

The initiative is a fun and accessible way to raise awareness of bullying and promote a culture of respect and inclusion. By wearing odd socks, the school community sent a clear message: it’s okay to be different, and everyone should feel safe and valued for who they are.

The day sparked thoughtful conversations across year groups and reinforced Shebbear’s commitment to creating a supportive and respectful environment for all.

PREP SCHOOL PUPILS DIVE INTO REVAMPED ACTIVITIES PROGRAMME

This half term, Prep School pupils enjoyed a revamped and exciting activities programme, packed with new opportunities to explore, create, and get active.

The refreshed line-up included a fantastic variety of clubs such as Science Club, Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Cookery, Cheerleading, and Trampolining - all designed to inspire curiosity and develop new skills beyond the classroom.

Each club was led by a specialist coach or teacher, ensuring highquality, engaging sessions. Science Club was run by Senior School science teacher Mr Mackinnon, while Jules from Okehampton Flyers led Gymnastics. Miss Amy from Magical Cheerleading brought energy and flair to Cheerleading, and Senior PE teacher Ms Vetch guided pupils through Trampolining.

The response from pupils has been fantastic, with children enthusiastically getting stuck in and making the most of these new opportunities. Whether flipping on the trampoline, experimenting in the lab, or learning new moves in Taekwondo, it’s been wonderful to see their confidence and enjoyment grow.

PREP SCHOOL INFORMAL PERFORMING ARTS CONCERT

Our Prep School pupils took to the stage for their Informal Performing Arts Concert, showcasing a wonderful variety of musical and speech & drama performances from children in Prep 1 to Prep 6.

These informal concerts are a cherished part of school life, offering pupils the chance to build confidence and gain valuable experience performing in front of an audience in a relaxed and supportive setting. From solo instrumental pieces to expressive dramatic recitations, each performance reflected the enthusiasm and talent of our young performers.

A huge thank you to all the families who came along to support, and well done to every pupil who took part - your courage and creativity lit up the stage!

ENGLISH SCHOOLS FA CUP

Our U13 girls and U12 boys football teams both delivered outstanding performances to secure their places in the next round of the English Schools FA Cup.

Both teams faced Millbay Academy in what proved to be exciting and competitive matches. With excellent teamwork, determination, and skill on display, our players rose to the occasion and earned well-deserved victories.

CHILDREN IN NEED

Pupils came together in a fantastic show of initiative and community spirit to raise money for Children in Need.

The Quad was transformed into a lively hub of activity, with pupils organising a variety of games and stalls to entertain and engage their peers - all in support of a great cause. From sweet treats to fun challenges, the event was a brilliant example of teamwork, creativity, and compassion in action.

Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of everyone involved, the event raised over £450 for Children in Need. A huge well done to all the pupils who helped organise the day and to everyone who supported it!

SHEBBEAR DELEGATES REPRESENT PAKISTAN AT MUN CONFERENCE

In November, a group of Shebbear College students travelled to Queen’s College, Taunton to take part in a Model United Nations (MUN) conference - a dynamic simulation of the real United Nations, where students take on the roles of diplomats to debate pressing global issues.

The event was entirely student-led, with participants organising, chairing, and running the various committees. Each delegation represented a different country, researching its policies and perspectives in preparation for the debates.

Shebbear’s team represented Pakistan, engaging in complex negotiations surrounding a fictional crisis involving a bomb dropped on Malaysia, with no nation claiming responsibility. Our students demonstrated excellent diplomacy, critical thinking, and public speaking skills as they navigated the challenges of international relations.

GOLF TEAM GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Our golfers travelled to Minehead to take part in the Swift Junior Foursomes Competition, facing off against Taunton School in a closely contested match.

The team showed great composure and skill throughout the day, representing the College with pride and sportsmanship. Their performance was a strong start to the tournament season.

ASSESSMENT WEEK!

With November comes Assessment Week – with revision sessions taking place across the Senior School and whiteboards transformed into a vibrant display of live mind maps, revision notes, and colourful diagrams!

TEN TORS TRAINING BEGINS

It’s that time of year again when our eager students brave the elements on Dartmoor and start their training for Ten Tors!

November saw a successful training walk, with some great teamwork and dedication shown at all distances and healthy competition for spots on the teams.

We had 30 pupils taking part in the training this year, hoping for a space on one of our four teams. Read on for more Ten Tors news!

SCHOLARS’ MASTERCLASSES

This term saw the exciting return of our Scholars’ Masterclasses, offering enrichment opportunities for pupils to explore their talents beyond the classroom.

Our Art Scholars took part in a creative and thought-provoking workshop with local artist Katie Godden Green, titled “Stitching a Narrative into Fabrics.” Pupils explored the process of storytelling through textiles, beginning with planning and sketching before developing their ideas into expressive final pieces.

Meanwhile, our Sports Scholars embraced a different kind of challenge with a high-energy Hyrox masterclass, led by Chantal Law Fitness and Pilates in Bideford. The session tested pupils’ strength, endurance, and determination through a series of functional fitness challenges. The scholars gave it their all, showing great resilience and teamwork throughout.

Our Drama and Performing Arts Scholars took part in a practical acting workshop with professional actor Sara Pruce from The Plough Theatre in Torrington. The session included a Monologue Lab, where pupils worked on contemporary pieces and audition techniques, and a Building a Character workshop, exploring methods and tricks from casting to performance. It was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to refine their craft and gain insight into the world of professional theatre.

We welcomed pianist Duncan Honeybourne to Shebbear for a recital and interactive workshop for our Music Scholars, whilst Academic Scholars took part in sessions on 'The Neuroscience behind Inequality' and 'A Logistical challenge using the London Tube Map'.

These masterclasses are a key part of our Scholars’ Programme and take place each term, designed to stretch, inspire, and support pupils in developing their passions and potential.

SNOWFALL TRANSFORMS SHEBBEAR INTO A WINTER WONDERLAND

In November, we woke up to a magical blanket of snow, transforming the campus into a picturesque winter scene.

With the buses unable to run, most pupils stayed at home and enjoyed a snow day, but our boarders and those that made it in were greeted by frosted trees, crisp white fields, and a peaceful hush across the grounds.

When everyone returned the next day, there was plenty of excitement as pupils enjoyed the novelty of the first snowfall of the season. From snowball fun at breaktime to simply admiring the beautiful views, the day brought a touch of seasonal joy to the school community.

EQUESTRIAN TEAM QUALIFIES FOR NATIONALS

Shebbear College’s NSEA equestrian teams continued the season in style, competing in their first two events at Pontispool and Bicton with some impressive results.

It’s been fantastic to see new riders and horses joining the team, all performing brilliantly and contributing to a strong team spirit. At Bicton, our 70cm team - Isobel, Annabelle, and Zola - secured a superb 2nd place, while the 90cm team - Isobel, Anaya, and Neve - claimed 1st place, qualifying both teams for the NSEA Championships at Hickstead next year.

SHOOTERS COMPETE IN BRITISH SHOOTING SW SCHOOLS COMPETITION

Our talented Junior and Intermediate pistol shooters travelled to Leweston School to take part in the British Shooting South West Schools Competition, representing the college with focus and determination.

The event brought together young athletes from across the region to compete in a challenging and highly skilled discipline.

Our pupils embraced the experience, demonstrating excellent technique, concentration, and sportsmanship throughout the day.

SPARKLE AND SHINE AT THE PREP SCHOOL DISCO!

The Prep School children lit up the evening in a dazzling display of sequins, sparkle, and party spirit at the very first Prep School Disco - a brand-new addition to the school calendar.

With nearly every pupil in attendance, the dance floor came alive with energetic routines and enthusiastic singalongs, as children showcased their best moves and favourite tunes.

Special prizes were awarded to the most spirited dancers and singers, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already unforgettable night.

The disco was such a resounding success that it’s already been earmarked as a future favourite, set to become a much-loved annual tradition in the Prep School calendar.

CELEBRATING SUCCESS – WITH HOT CHOCOLATE AND COOKIES!

Every half term, we take time to recognise and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our pupils.

One of the most anticipated traditions is the Hot Chocolate and Cookies with the Head event - a cosy and cheerful gathering for pupils in Forms 1 to 4 who have achieved excellent grades.

This term’s celebration was made even more festive with the sounds of Christmas music filling the air, as Mr Jenkins and Mrs Lovett welcomed pupils to enjoy a well-earned treat. It’s a warm and joyful way to acknowledge our pupils’ academic achievement and effort.

These moments of recognition are a highlight for many, and a reminder that hard work truly does pay off!

JACK MAKES A SPLASH AT NATIONAL SWIMMING FINALS

Jack in Lower Sixth represented the school with pride at the ISA National Swimming Finals, held at the iconic London Aquatics Centre.

Competing in the butterfly event, Jack delivered an outstanding performance, finishing in 4th place with a personal best time of 29.1 seconds. His dedication, determination, and sportsmanship were on full display, making this a truly brilliant achievement.

Well done, Jack!

A FESTIVE DAY OUT AT RHS ROSEMOOR

The entire Prep School enjoyed a magical day out at RHS Garden Rosemoor, embracing the festive spirit with a hands-on natural Christmas decoration workshop and a scenic walk through the beautiful winter gardens.

Pupils had the chance to get creative using natural materials to craft their own seasonal decorations, guided by expert staff in a wonderfully wintry setting.

It was a fantastic day filled with creativity, discovery, and Christmas cheer, an experience that brought learning to life - we are very lucky to have an RHS Garden on our doorstep!

HOCKEY FESTIVAL WELCOMES LOCAL SCHOOLS TO THE ASTRO

In December, we were delighted to host our annual U11 Hockey Festival, welcoming nearly 100 pupils from local primary schools - alongside our own Prep 6 children - for a fantastic day of sport and skill-building on our astro turf.

Throughout the day, the young players had the opportunity to work closely with our Sports Scholars and members of the 1st XI Hockey team, who led sessions focused on developing key hockey skills such as stick control, dribbling, passing, and shooting.

A huge thank you to all the schools who joined us - we hope they had as much fun as we did, and we look forward to welcoming them back next year!

A DICKENSIAN DAY AT BODMIN

JAIL

Forms 3 and 4 stepped back in time with a visit to Bodmin Jail, where they experienced an immersive performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol - one of their GCSE set texts.

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of the historic jail, the performance brought the classic tale vividly to life, offering pupils a powerful and memorable way to deepen their understanding of the novel.

SUPPORTING JAYS AIM

It was great to welcome Jay’s Aim to school at the end of term for a special pupil training session, highlighting the importance of emergency response and life-saving skills.

Throughout the year, our school community has worked together to raise £1,694 for this vital charity - successfully reaching our fundraising target. Thanks to these efforts, we were able to purchase two defibrillators, which have been installed on the school grounds and made accessible to the public.

This not only supports a meaningful cause but also strengthens the safety and wellbeing of our wider community. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed and helped make this possible!

A FULL HOUSE FOR OUR MICHAELMAS PERFORMING ARTS SHOWCASE

On Tuesday evening, the Assembly Hall was filled to capacity for our much-anticipated Michaelmas Performing Arts Showcase - an evening that truly celebrated the incredible talent within our school community.

Audiences were treated to a rich and varied programme featuring outstanding performances from our choirs, musical ensembles, and soloists. From powerful vocals to moving instrumental pieces, the evening was packed with memorable ‘wow moments’ that left the audience inspired and uplifted.

The concert also raised an impressive £221.75 for North Devon Hospice. A huge well done to all the performers, and thank you to everyone who supported this special evening!

LIGHTS, CAMEL, ACTION!

This year’s Nativity performance was anything but traditional, as children from Reception to Prep 4 took to the stage for Lights, Camel, Action!

- a dazzling production that blended the classic Christmas story with the sparkle and flair of a ‘Strictly’-style show.

With fabulous dancing, singing, and acting, the young performers brought energy, humour, and heart to every scene, delighting the audience with their confidence and creativity. From glittering costumes to toe-tapping tunes, the show was a joyful celebration of the festive season and the children’s hard work.

A huge well done to all involved - it was brilliantly entertaining and truly unforgettable!

“A huge well done to all involved - it was brilliantly entertaining and truly unforgettable!"

NATIVITY

GOES WRONG – BUT SO RIGHT!

This year’s Sixth Form Christmas Show was a runaway success, with a packed Assembly Hall enjoying an evening of festive fun and laughter.

The brilliantly chaotic production, Nativity Goes Wrong, was written by Beth in Upper Sixth and performed by the talented Sixth Form cast - with a few surprise guest appearances thrown in for good measure!

The show had the audience crying with laughter, thanks to its clever script, comic timing, and spirited performances. A particularly memorable moment came when a red weather alert interrupted the show just as King Herod entered the stage - prompting some quick-thinking ad-libbing that only added to the hilarity.

A huge well done to everyone and a special shoutout to playwright Beth!

MICHAELMAS

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT: A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Lake Chapel was once again filled with the warm glow of candlelight and the beautiful sounds of our school choirs for the Prep School and Senior School Carol Services.

Both services were truly special, featuring excellent readings by pupils and outstanding musical performances.

Highlights included moving renditions of Gaudete and The Lord Bless You and Keep You, performed by our 80-strong massed choir, which brought together voices from Prep 5 through to Upper Sixth in a powerful display of unity and talent.

The evening service remains one of the musical highlights of the year, made all the more magical by the candlelit setting. After the service, the congregation gathered in the dining hall to enjoy festive refreshments, accompanied by the delicate sounds of our flute choir.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part and supported these beautiful events.

CHRISTMAS AT SHEB!

As soon as the Christmas tree went up, it was officially the start of the festive season at Shebbear College!

A huge thank you goes to our brilliant Maintenance Team, who once again worked their magic to put up and light the tree, bringing a warm and festive glow to the heart of the school.

The final weeks of term were packed with seasonal celebrations and joyful events, including:

• The Pre-Prep Nativity, full of charm and Christmas cheer

• The hilarious Sixth Form Christmas Show, Nativity Goes Wrong

• The beautiful Prep School Carol Service

• Festive Christmas meals for the Sixth Form and the Boarders

• The magical Senior School Carol Service, held by candlelight in the Lake Chapel

• The Prep School’s trip to the Panto, filled with laughter and excitement

•The House Song competition!

And of course, Christmas Jumper Day, Christmas Lunch, and the joyful end-ofterm celebrations! It was a wonderful way to round off the term!

BORMIO SKI TRIP 2024

During the first week of the Christmas holidays, over 40 students set off on an unforgettable adventure to the stunning slopes of Bormio, Italy, for our biannual ski trip.

With a fantastic mix of first-time skiers and seasoned pros, the group embraced every moment - from mastering the basics to tackling more challenging runs. There were plenty of impressive descents, a few inevitable wipe-outs, and countless memories made on and off the slopes. For many, it was their very first time on skis, and it was inspiring to see how quickly they progressed - some confidently carving down the mountains after just a couple of days!

A heartfelt thank you goes to all the students and staff whose energy and enthusiasm made the trip such a success. And a special mention must go to Mrs. Cardoo, whose organisation and dedication turned this into a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone involved.

JANUARY TO FEBRUARY 2025

Rounsefell Dinner - January 2025

ISI Inspection - January 2025

Learning to Save Lives - January 2025

Art Trip to London - January 2025

Kicking off Football and Netball - January 2025

LENT TERM 1

Girls' Rugby Development Day - February 2025

A-Level Drama - February 2025

Gig Night - February 2025

Equine Success - February 2025

LEARNING TO SAVE LIVES

The entire Prep School - from Reception to Year 6 - took part in a full day of First Aid training with Joe Rice First Aid, who also provides our staff training.

Pupils learned a range of essential life-saving skills, from how to respond in an emergency to basic first aid techniques. The sessions were hands-on, age-appropriate, and empowering - giving every child the confidence to help others in a real-life situation.

A huge thank you to Joe for delivering such an important experience for our pupils!

“A huge thank you to Joe for delivering such an important experience for our pupils!"

OUTSTANDING MUSICAL ACHIEVEMENT

A huge congratulations to Cherrie in Form 2 (Year 8), who achieved Piano Grade 7 with Distinction in January - an extraordinary accomplishment for a twelve-year-old.

Cherrie joined Shebbear College from Hong Kong in Year 5 as one of our international students. Since then, she has made remarkable progress both in and out of the classroom. In just a few short years, she has worked her way through Grades 5, 6, and now 7 in piano, all while excelling academically, contributing on the sports field, and becoming fluent in English after arriving with very little.

Cherrie’s dedication, talent, and determination are truly inspiring, and we look forward to following her continued success in the years to come.

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE RETURNS!

This term saw the return of University Challenge, with Forms 1 and 2 kicking things off in a lively inter-house competition.

The event sparked plenty of enthusiasm and friendly rivalry as students put their general knowledge to the test.

Other year groups took part in the following weeks, building anticipation for the grand finale - the highly anticipated staff challenge, which, as always, was highly entertaining and fiercely competitive!

A WEEK OF SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY

This term started off with a sciencefocused week packed with enriching experiences for our students.

Our A-Level scientists visited the Electron Microscopy Centre at Plymouth University, gaining hands-on insight into cuttingedge research and technology.

Meanwhile, GCSE and A-Level students attended NHS Radiography talks, offering a fascinating look into careers in medical imaging and the science behind it. These sessions provided valuable real-world context to classroom learning and inspired many to consider future paths in STEM.

THE LENT TERM

IN RUDDLE!

This term, we welcomed all our boarders back into Ruddle House.

The addition of a junior common room has been a great success, offering space for study, reading, and screen-free social time - board games and table tennis became firm favourites over the term!

Despite some wet weather, our boarders enjoyed a variety of trips, including shopping, bowling, and escape rooms (still undefeated!). A highlight was the art appreciation trip to St Ives, with a visit to the Tate gallery... though a few snacks were lost to the local seagulls!

Onsite activities took a creative turn with cookery, silk screen printing, and jewellery making, especially popular ahead of Valentine’s Day.

JANUARY TO FEBRUARY 2025

KICKING OFF THE TERM WITH

FOOTBALL

AND NETBALL!

The term began with football and netball taking centre stage on our sports fields, setting the tone for a season full of energy, teamwork, and achievement.

Netball saw strong performances across all age groups, with some standout results. The U13 girls qualified for the ISA National Finals in Warwick for the second consecutive year - a fantastic accomplishment. Meanwhile, the U12 girls impressed with a third-place finish in the North Devon tournament, showing great promise for the future.

In football, the U12 boys made a memorable run to the English Schools FA Cup quarter-final, facing Millfield in a hard-fought match. Although the result didn’t go their way, reaching this stage was a tremendous achievement and a testament to their determination and team spirit. Across the board, our football teams demonstrated excellent progress throughout their fixtures, with players growing in confidence and skill as the term unfolded.

This term certainly highlighted the strength of our sporting programme and the enthusiasm of our students - well done to all involved!

“This term certainly highlighted the strength of our sporting programme and the enthusiasm of our students..."

DEVELOPING SKILLS ON THE RUGBY FIELD

Our U12 girls’ rugby team took part in a fantastic Year 7 Rugby Development Day at Bideford RFC this term.

It was a valuable opportunity for players to build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy the game in a supportive and engaging environment. JANUARY TO FEBRUARY 2025

A NEW TERM OF SCHOLARS’ MASTERCLASSES

This term, our Scholars' Masterclasses kicked off with a Music Scholars’ composition workshop with film composer Oliver Spencer-Wortley, exploring the world of soundtrack creation through both discussion and practical tasks.

Meanwhile, Drama and Performing Arts Scholars enjoyed an action-packed stage fighting workshop with Squire Stage Combat, developing dynamic techniques in preparation for our upcoming production of West Side Story

These masterclasses continue to provide exciting opportunities for our Scholars to deepen their talents and explore new creative avenues.

EXCELLENT ISI INSPECTION REPORT

In January we were delighted to receive an excellent outcome in our most recent ISI Inspection, which took place in November 2024.

Under the new framework introduced in September 2023, schools are no longer given overall grades. Instead, they are assessed across five key areas, with each standard marked as either met or not met.

We are proud to report that Shebbear College met all standards, the best possible outcome, reaffirming our reputation for excellence in all areas.

Quotes from the report included:

• “Teachers’ subject knowledge is secure, and they deliver engaging activities, which contribute to pupils’ high levels of focus in lessons.”

• “Pupils demonstrate kindness and consideration towards others.”

• “Relationships between staff and pupils are open, relaxed and respectful.”

• “Safeguarding is well embedded across the school community.”

• “Pupils respect differences and develop a clear sense of social awareness and responsibility.”

This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils, and the strength of our school community.

HOUSE DINNER SEASON BEGINS IN STYLE

House Dinner Season kicked off in spectacular fashion with both Pollard and Ruddle hosting memorable evenings of fun and festivities in the first half of term, with Way and Thorne following in March.

Students and tutors dressed to impress, enjoying a delicious three-course meal and lively games!

House Dinners are always a highlight in the calendar, filled with laughter, great conversation, and a wonderful sense of community.

A WILD ADVENTURE AT EXMOOR ZOO

What an unforgettable, wild adventure the Prep School had at Exmoor Zoo!

The pupils were absolutely thrilled as they got up close and personal with all sorts of creatures. From the sleek and powerful panthers, wolves and cheetahs to the fascinating snakes, spiders and praying mantises, every moment was packed with awe and excitement.

DISCOVER SHEB!

We kicked off our very first Discover Sheb event at the end of January, and what a fantastic morning it was!

The event had a winter theme, and the weather was on message with a heavy frost and minus temperatures first thing! We welcomed over 70 children, including some of our own Prep School pupils, for an actionpacked morning filled with winter-themed activities!

The children took part in two activity sessions during the morning, choosing from a range of options all led by our brilliant teachers! From lively sport, dance and cheerleading sessions to making bird feeders in science, crafting stunning masterpieces in art, whipping up delicious treats in cookery, exploring different instruments in music and becoming Nature Detectives, the morning was filled with energy and enthusiasm. Each session was designed to inspire and engage, making for an exciting, jam-packed day of learning and laughter.

It was great to see how many of our Senior School pupils were there to help, and we received a great deal of feedback on how engaged and supportive they were, not just with our young guests, but also in helping their own teachers to deliver some brilliant activities.

We hope all our guests had as much fun as we did - it was a fantastic start to what we hope will be many more memorable Discover Sheb events!

GEOGRAPHERS

BRAVE THE ELEMENTS IN BRISTOL

Our GCSE and A-Level Geography students headed to Bristol for a fieldwork trip, forming a key part of their coursework and exam preparation and giving them the chance to apply classroom theory to realworld environments.

Armed with waterproofs, clipboards, and plenty of enthusiasm, they explored various urban and environmental sites across the city, collecting data and observing geographical processes in action.

CELEBRATING EFFORT IN THE PREP SCHOOL

It was the turn of our Prep School pupils to be rewarded for their exceptional commitment and hard work with a special invitation to Mr Jenkins’ Study.

The occasion? Achieving six or more outstanding effort grades on their Michaelmas report - a fantastic accomplishment!

To celebrate, the pupils enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies, recognising not just academic success, but the positive attitude and determination they’ve shown throughout the term. It was a lovely opportunity to acknowledge their efforts in a relaxed and encouraging setting, and to inspire others to aim high in the terms ahead.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ON THE NORTH DEVON

COAST

Form 2 ventured out to the North Devon Coast for an engaging and hands-on Environmental Education field trip.

Despite the wet weather, spirits remained high as students explored key environmental issues through practical activities and real-world observation.

Pupils have been learning about plastics and the effects on the environment in their lessons and spent time collecting sand samples to analyse back in the lab. They also took part in a beach clean and visited a local landfill site.

ART STUDENTS GAIN INSPIRATION FROM THE LONDON GALLERIES

Our Form 5 and U6 GCSE and A-Level Art & Design students enjoyed a cultural trip to London to kick start their exam projects.

The group explored a range of iconic locations, including Borough Market, The Design Museum, Tate Modern, and The National Portrait Gallery. Each venue offered a unique perspective on art, design, and visual storytelling, helping students to broaden their understanding and refine their artistic vision.

Throughout the day, students engaged in practical tasks such as drawing in situ and capturing high-quality photographs. They experimented with techniques including macro photography, unusual viewpoints (like bird’s-eye and ant perspectives), depth of field, and composition - skills that will directly inform their upcoming coursework.

A fantastic experience and a trip that will definitely be repeated!

JANUARY TO FEBRUARY 2025

ROUNSEFELL DINNER

Our Sixth Formers gathered at the stunning Buckland House in Buckland Filleigh for the much-anticipated annual Rounsefell Dinner.

A true highlight of the year, they indulged in a fantastic three-course meal courtesy of The Black River Inn, before dancing the night away to the tunes of local band, The Waves Collective. The students were joined by the Sixth Form tutor team and Mr Jenkins, as well as guest speaker and president of the Old Shebbearians’ Association, Jamie Sanders, who spoke to them about his own memories of the college and becoming an Old Shebbearian. Heads of School, Lily and Seb, also gave a speech at the meal.

The Rounsefell Dinner is a tradition that dates back many years and is one of the many social events that our Sixth Formers enjoy during the year – a fabulous evening!

OLD SHEBBEARIANS ASSOCIATION REUNION DINNER

In a wonderful celebration of lifelong connections, over 100 Old Shebbearians from across the generations gathered for the Annual OSA Reunion Dinner at the prestigious RAF Club in Mayfair.

The evening was filled with warmth, laughter, and shared memories, as alumni travelled from far and wide to reconnect with old friends and celebrate their time at Shebbear College.

Guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal, followed by entertaining speeches that reflected the strength of the Shebbear spirit and the enduring bonds formed within our school community. As always, the event was a true testament to the lasting impact of a Shebbear education.

For more photos and reflections, head to the Old Shebbearians section of the magazine!

GIRLS' RUGBY FESTIVAL

BUILDS SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE

Girls from Forms 1 to 3 had the fantastic opportunity to attend the Girls' Rugby Festival at Budehaven School, joining pupils from other local schools for a day of sport, teamwork, and fun.

The festival focused on developing core rugby skills through a series of engaging activities and friendly matches. It was a brilliant chance for our pupils to increase their exposure to the game, build confidence on the pitch, and connect with other young players in a supportive environment.

All of the girls approached the day with enthusiasm and a great attitude, embracing every challenge and making the most of the experience.

Well done to everyone who took part - you represented Shebbear College brilliantly!

GIG NIGHT ROCKS THE STAGE

On Tuesday 11th February, we hosted our biggest and boldest Gig Night yet, showcasing an incredible range of musical talent from across the school.

From rock and metal to pop, indie, and jazz, our student performersand the brilliant tech team - left the audience thoroughly entertained and in high spirits.

The evening featured outstanding vocal, drum, guitar, and piano covers of artists including Laufey, Linkin Park, Arctic Monkeys, Amy Winehouse, and Metallica, among many others. This year saw a record number of bands performing without backing tracks, highlighting the raw musical talent and confidence of our students.

There were many standout moments, including Lucia and Cesca’s emotional solo performances, and Jon-Christopher’s epic nine-minute drum solo, which brought the house down. Our comperes, Lily and William, kept the energy high throughout the evening, while Albert and Dylan expertly managed the sound and lighting, ensuring every performance shone.

Gig Night was a true celebration of creativity, collaboration, and courage, and we’re incredibly proud of everyone who took part. A huge thank you to all who came to support - it was a night to remember!

Gig Night was a true celebration of creativity, collaboration, and courage,

A-LEVEL DRAMA STUDENTS

EXPLORE THE POWER OF AN IMAGE

This term, our A-Level Drama students were hard at work preparing for their devised exam performance, creating an original piece inspired by the techniques of Bertolt Brecht.

The performance explored the power of an image and the complex history of photography and the camera - highlighting both its creative potential and its darker implications.

TOP 10 A-LEVEL PROGRESS RANKING

In February we were extremely proud to achieve a Top 10 ranking in the Department for Education’s A-Level progress results for schools and colleges across Devon.

This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our students and staff, and highlights the strength of our academic support and personalised approach to learning. It’s a fantastic achievement that reinforces our commitment to helping every student reach their full potential.

PREP SCHOOL VISIT THE SPACE LAB!

The lead-up to half term was packed with excitement and enrichment for our Prep School children, with one of the standout moments being an incredible visit from Spacelab, who transformed the Assembly Hall into an immersive planetarium experience.

Pupils were transported across the solar system, exploring planets, stars, and galaxies in a captivating and interactive session that brought their science learning to life.

The children were full of questions and wonder as they lay back and gazed up at the dome, learning about space in a way that was both educational and magical. It was a truly memorable experience that left everyone inspired.

EQUESTRIAN SUCCESS

It was an exciting half term for our Equestrian Team, with some outstanding achievements both individually and as a team.

The team travelled to Somerset to compete in the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Arena Eventing, where they delivered a fantastic performance. Isobel (Form 3) secured an individual qualification, and our 90cm and 100cm teams came out on top, an incredible achievement!

Adding to the excitement, Tichy (Form 4) and Anaya (Form 2) received the brilliant news that they have qualified for the prestigious Badminton Grassroots competition. Tichy and her horse Velvet in the 100cm class, while Anaya and her horse Duncan in the 90cm class.

These accomplishments reflect the dedication, skill, and passion of our riders, and we’re incredibly proud of their success.

PREP SCHOOL MUSICIANS SHINE IN INFORMAL CONCERT

Our Prep School musicians took to the stage for a delightful informal concert, showcasing their growing confidence and musical talents in a relaxed and supportive setting.

These concerts are designed to give pupils the chance to perform in front of an audience without the pressure of a formal recital, helping to build selfassurance and stage presence.

World Book Day - March 2025

British Science Week - March 2025

House Dinners - March 2025

West Side Story - March 2025

Pre-Prep

Coastal Habitats - March 2025

MARCH TO APRIL 2025

Springtime Discoveries - April 2025

Laser Tag Fun - April 2025

Art Exhibition

Winners - April 2025

Girls Rugby Tournament - April 2025

LENT TERM 2

National Netball Finals - April 2025

Equestrian Success - April 2025

A FLIPPING BRILLIANT PANCAKE

RACE!

The much-anticipated House Pancake Race returned for Pancake Day on March 4th this year.

With frying pans in hand and competitive spirits high, representatives from each house dashed, flipped, and cheered their way through the race, which, this year, was held on the Head’s Lawn.

Well done to Pollard House who emerged victorious after some impressive pancake flipping! Ruddle House followed closely behind, securing a well-earned second place.

FORM 2 EXPLORE THE EDEN PROJECT

Form 2 enjoyed a fantastic science trip to the Eden Project in Cornwall, spending the day exploring the biomes and range of habitats, taking photos and collecting information to support a science project back at school.

The pupils also attended a fascinating workshop titled “Going to the Extremes”, where they learned about how plants and animals adapt to survive in some of the planet’s harshest environments. A brilliant opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences - and a great day out for all involved!

A LEVEL & GCSE RECITAL EVENING

Our talented GCSE and A-Level musicians took to the stage for a beautiful recital evening, with families, friends, and staff enjoying a night of stunning performances.

From solo pieces to ensemble work, each student brought their own flair and musicality to the stage. It was a wonderful celebration of musical achievement and a testament to the commitment of our young performers.

WORLD BOOK DAY

On World Book Day, the college was transformed into a vibrant celebration of literature, with pupils in Reception to Upper Sixth sporting a range of fantastic costumes inspired by beloved characters from books.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in a variety of book-themed activities, including storytelling sessions, quizzes, and creative writing challenges. The library was a hive of activity, with special displays and reading corners inviting everyone to dive into a good book.

ROBOTICS TEAMS SHINE AT FIRST LEGO LEAGUE

Our Prep and Senior School Robotics teams proudly represented Shebbear College at the FIRST Lego League Regional Competition in March. The event was hosted by Cognition Learning in collaboration with the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Both teams had been preparing diligently in their Robotics lessons, tackling STEM challenges and refining their designs and strategies. Their efforts paid off in spectacular fashion at the competition.

The Senior team was awarded the Core Values Award, recognising their teamwork, innovation, and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, the Prep team impressed the judges with their technical skills, earning the Robot Mission Award for their outstanding performance in the challenge arena.

Well done, everyone!

NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Arthur (Form 1) and Aston (Form 2), both competed at the Independent Schools Association National Cross Country Championships, running for the ISA South West team with some outstanding results.

Arthur finished an impressive 17th out of 56 and came in 2nd place for the South West team, while Aston was the only Year 8 in the South West team and ran a great race, a year young, in the Year 8 & 9 category.

Well done!

PRE-PREP EXPLORE COASTAL HABITATS

Our Pre-Prep children enjoyed glorious weather for a brilliant day of outdoor learning.

They visited the RNLI Water Safety Centre in Appledore to learn about sea safety, followed by a rock pool ramble at Westward Ho! beach.

As part of their science topic on habitats, the children discovered a variety of marine life and gathered information to support their classroom work. It was a fun and educational day by the sea!

BRITISH SCIENCE WEEK

British Science Week was an exciting celebration of discovery at Shebbear College, packed with hands-on workshops, fascinating experiments, and even a few fluffy surprises!

One of the highlights was watching our chicks hatch in the incubator - an unforgettable moment for pupils – and teachers, especially the proud parents, Mr Mackinnon and Miss Messenger - who enjoyed some cuddles before the chicks headed off to new homes.

The week featured a range of engaging activities:

• Chemistry Chaos wowed pupils with explosive experiments, including the screaming jelly baby, colourful flame tests, and the dramatic iodine clock.

• Form 1 (Year 7) got stuck into a slime investigation, making and testing their own gooey creations.

• Form 3 (Year 9) took part in an Engineering Workshop with The Smallpeice Trust, designing renewable energy systems and pitching their ideas in a fast-paced challenge.

• Form 2 (Year 8) designed and launched rocket cars across the netball courts - some impressive engineering on display!

• Our academic scholars took part in a dissection masterclass, diving deep into biology with expert guidance.

WAY & THORNE CELEBRATE IN STYLE WITH HOUSE DINNERS

This half term saw the final two House Dinners of the year, with Way and Thorne Houses enjoying evenings full of fun, laughter, and delicious food.

Both events featured a delicious three-course meal, expertly prepared by our fantastic catering team, and plenty of house spirit! Thorne’s dinner included an entertaining “Which Thorneite Am I?” quiz, revealing some surprising facts - did you know someone in Thorne has stayed awake for 56 hours, another has won gold three times in a Japanese bowling competition, and someone has even had afternoon tea with the King of Thailand!

GIRLS’ FOOTBALL SUCCESS AT OKEHAMPTON TOURNAMENT

Our U13 and U15 girls enjoyed a fantastic day of football at a tournament hosted by Okehampton College.

All teams played multiple matches, showing great progress and teamwork throughout the day.

The U12s stepped up to compete in the U13 category with confidence, while the U15s secured several impressive wins in a highly competitive round robin. The highlight of the day came as our U13s triumphed in a tense final, winning the tournament on penalties against a strong Okehampton side.

It was a brilliant day of sport, with superb performances and support across all teams - well done, girls!

TEN TORS TEAMS GEAR UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

Our Ten Tors teams completed their first overnight camp, taking on the challenge with determination and teamwork.

The camp was a great opportunity for pupils to test their endurance, navigation skills, and resilience in real conditions. Spirits were high as they prepared for the main event in May, where we proudly fielded two 35-mile teams and two 45-mile teams – more on that later!

SHEBBEAR WOWS THE CROWDS AGAIN WITH WEST SIDE STORY!

Our talented actors once again wowed the audience with the 2025 Senior School production of West Side Story, securing our place as one of the top schools in the area for the Performing Arts.

The sell-out show, which follows the overwhelming success of last year’s Les Misérables, took place from March 12th – 15th, the first four-night run for a Shebbear production, with a real buzz from cast, crew and audience, who knew they were in for a treat! With a cast of over 70 children ranging from Year 7 through to Sixth Form, as well as a student crew taking on the technical roles of light and sound management, this year’s production was colourful, energetic and fast moving, and the amazing performances by the lead roles totally captivated the audience.

Mrs Sadler-Smith commented, "This year it just had to be West Side Story! The talents and skills of this cohort suited this production down to the ground and we wanted to do something that contrasted with Les Mis last year. The quality of singers in the cast was phenomenal and the fact that over 70 pupils wanted to be a part of the production just shows how much we love the Performing Arts at Shebbear!”

West Side Story also introduced a thrilling new element – dance – making it one of the college’s most ambitious productions yet with some brilliantly choreographed numbers. The cast embraced the challenge with passion and dedication, delivering some great routines, from the vibrant, high-energy “America” number to the rhythmic beats of “Cool.”

“It was delightfully vibrant and the producer really made use of the available space to include the audience in the atmosphere of the show!”

“I had real tears in my eyes at the final scene”

“Definitely one of the highlights of the year!”

One member of the cast who really took the choreography in her stride was Music Scholar Lucia, who exuded stage presence in her portrayal of the feisty Anita, blowing away the audience with her powerful voice and colourful performance. Emily in Form 5 played the role of Maria, capturing the audience’s hearts with her emotive performance, while her love interest and former leader of the American ‘Jets’ gang, Tony, was played by Lower Sixth student Albert. Fellow Sixth Former Jon-Christopher, who also starred as Javert in Les Misérables last year, played Tony’s best friend and leader of the Jets gang, Riff, a character who is in constant conflict with his nemesis Bernardo, the leader of the Puerto Rican ‘Sharks’ played by Form 5 student Bodie.

The talented cast were nurtured and developed by the Performing Arts team at Shebbear College, and their performances were highlighted by a wonderful set, created by the school’s maintenance team and beautifully atmospheric lighting and sound by Illuminate Design, which was fully operated by Shebbear College students as the tech team.

The show received a full standing ovation on the closing night and rapturous applause from the audience. Congratulations to each and every member of the Shebbear College West Side Story Company!

“Another fabulous Sheb Production!”

PREP SCHOOL HOUSE CROSS COUNTRY

Our Prep School pupils took to the fields for the annual House Cross Country - and what a race it was! With a tough course to tackle, every runner showed fantastic determination and team spirit.

There were some brilliant performances across the board, and a huge well done to everyone who took part. Special congratulations to our winners, who powered through to claim victory for their houses!

LASER TAG FUN FOR FORM 5 AND SIXTH FORM

At Shebbear we offer a wide range of fun and social activities for pupils, and among the many highlights this term was the Form 5 and the Sixth Form Laser Tag.

The teams darted through obstacles, working together to outsmart their opponents and rack up points - a brilliant way to build camaraderie, relieve stress, and enjoy time together outside the classroom. Events like these are a great example of how we encourage balance between academic focus and social wellbeing.

SPRINGTIME DISCOVERIES FOR RECEPTION

Spring finally arrived at Sheb, and our Reception children embraced the beautiful sunshine, heading outdoors to explore the first signs of spring around the grounds.

With magnifying glasses in hand, they spotted budding flowers, buzzing insects, and even a few birds busy building nests, connecting their classroom work on seasons and habitats with real-world discoveries.

OUTSTANDING LAMDA RESULTS

The Performing Arts continue to thrive at Shebbear College, with pupils showcasing their talent, confidence, and dedication across the board.

This term brought fantastic news as our latest LAMDA exam results were released - an incredible achievement of 13 distinctions and 3 merits!

These results reflect the hard work and passion of our students, who have developed their performance skills through drama, public speaking, and acting. Very welldeserved results!

U13S COMPETE AT NATIONAL NETBALL FINALS

Our U13 netball team travelled to Warwick to take part in the prestigious ISA National Netball Finals - an incredible opportunity to compete against top teams from across the country.

Throughout the day, the team demonstrated excellent passages of play, putting into action the skills and strategies they’ve been developing in training. Their resilience and teamwork shone through, with every match showing clear progress and determination.

A special congratulations to Maeva, who was voted Players’ Player, and to Flora, named Most Improved Player, and well done to the whole team!

FORM 1 EXPLORE AT PAIGNTON ZOO

Form 1 had a fantastic science trip to Paignton Zoo, as part of their studies on the structure, functions, and behaviour of animals and plants, as well as their habitats.

They had the chance to observe a wide variety of species up close while learning how each creature is uniquely adapted to its environment, coming home with plenty of inspiration for future science lessons.

STAFF VS STUDENTS HOCKEY MATCH

Friday afternoon saw a brilliant blend of fun and competition as staff and students faced off in a lively Hockey match for Comic Relief.

With plenty of energy and good humour on display, both sides gave it their all, in front of a very noisy crowd! Despite strong efforts from the student team, the staff held their ground and clinched a narrow 1–0 victory!

EASTER FUN AT THE PREP EASTER DISCO

The Prep School Disco returned this term with an Easter theme.

The hall was buzzing with energy as children showed off their best moves, played games, and celebrated the end of term in style!

SHEBBEAR RUGBY TEAMS TAKE ON ROSSLYN PARK NATIONAL SEVENS

We are incredibly proud of our U14 and U16 rugby squads, who competed in the prestigious Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens Tournament - the largest and most challenging schools sports tournament in the world.

Although we were one of the smallest schools in attendance, Shebbear College made a big impact by fielding two teams, a remarkable achievement in itself. Both squads showed outstanding determination, skill, and sportsmanship as they faced off against some of the country’s top rugby schools.

The U14s had a particularly memorable moment, playing on the main pitch with live commentary and streaming to a wide audience - an incredible experience for the players and a proud moment for the school.

While we didn’t attend with the expectation of winning, our teams proved once again that Shebbear punches well above its weight. Competing at this level offered not only valuable rugby experience but also personal growth, resilience, and unforgettable memories.

EQUESTRIAN TEAM GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

The Equestrian team had a great day at Pontispool, competing in the NSEA Show Jumping competition.

Ella (Prep 6) and Nancy (Form 1) represented the college for the first time, both picking up individual places in their first outing. With a lot of our riders out on Dartmoor for Ten Tors training, we just had one team competing in the 70cm, who finished 4th overall.

Anaya (Form 2) was flying solo over the larger fences, while Annabelle (also Form 2) competed in the Arena Eventing earlier this month and picked up 2 individual places, including an impressive 2nd in the 80 class.

Finally, Zola (Prep 6) and Harley (Prep 2), competed in the NSEA Show Jumping at Bicton during the Easter Holidays - Harley's first time competing as part of the school equestrian team and our youngest rider! They both did an amazing job in the rain with Harley winning his 40cm class and Zola picking up 4th and 5th in the 70-75cm classes.

SPORTS SCHOLARS MASTERCLASS AT EXETER UNIVERSITY

Our Sports Scholars enjoyed an inspiring and educational day at the University of Exeter, taking part in their latest masterclass focused on nutrition and fitness testing.

The visit offered a unique opportunity for our young athletes to deepen their understanding of sports science and experience professional-level training techniques.

One of the highlights of the day was the chance to observe and take part in a VO₂ max test, a key measure of aerobic fitness used by elite athletes. Scholars also explored the impact of nutrition on performance, learning how diet can influence energy levels, recovery, and overall wellbeing.

GIRLS’ RUGBY TEAMS IMPRESS AT OKEHAMPTON TOURNAMENT

Our U13 and U15 girls’ rugby teams headed to Okehampton for an exciting tournament against other local schools - and what a day it was!

With many of the girls playing in their first ever competitive fixtures, the event was a brilliant opportunity to build confidence, develop skills, and experience the thrill of match play.

Both teams showed fantastic progress throughout the day, with performances growing stronger with each game. The U15s finished on a high with a well-deserved nine-try win, showcasing excellent teamwork and determination. Meanwhile, the U13s continued their impressive sporting streak, winning every single game in their category - an outstanding achievement!

Well done to all the players for their effort, enthusiasm, and brilliant sportsmanship!

THE BURTON ANNUAL SCHOOLS’ ART

EXHIBITION

WINNERS

We are delighted to have been awarded a school prize for excellence at The Burton Art Gallery’s Annual Schools' Art Exhibition, as well as three individual prizes - congratulations to Honey (Form 5), Isobel (L6) and Eleanor (Prep 3)!

The exhibition, which was visited by the whole of the Prep School at the end of term, features a fantastic collection of work from pupils at local schools and is judged by The Arts Society.

ROBO SPORTS DAY

Form 2 (Year 8) took part in an exciting and inventive Robo Sports Day in April!

Working in teams, pupils took on two creative engineering challenges that combined science, design, and a healthy dose of competition.

The first event, the ‘Shotput Throw’, tasked teams with designing and building a device capable of launching a beanbag as far as possible. Next came the ‘Egg & Spoon’ challenge, where teams constructed robots and spoons to carefully transport an egg across the finish line!

Athletics

Success - May 2025

Little Explorers Opens - April 2025

MAY TO JULY 2025

Ten Tors - May 2025

Gig Rowing - May 2025

Equestrian National Champions - May 2025

Sports Days - June 2025

TRINITY TERM

House Day - July 2025

Mary Poppins - June 2025

LITTLE EXPLORERS

NURSERY OFFICIALLY OPENS

The start of the Trinity Term marked an exciting milestone at Shebbear College with the official opening of Little Explorers Nursery!

This wonderful new addition to the College provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2 to 4 years, where they can learn, play, and grow through carefully designed activities and experiences.

Our youngest Shebbearians have settled into nursery life really well, and enjoy visiting different parts of the college for specialist lessons in Robotics, Dance, Gymnastics, Art, Music, Sport, Cookery and in the Library! They eat lunch at their own little table in the Dining Hall, as well as spending lots of time outdoors in the sunshine, and – of course – learning and playing in our lovely nursery setting, making for a really varied day!

We believe every child’s first steps in education should be filled with excitement, confidence & happiness – and at Little Explorers Nursery, they are!

CRICKET AND ATHLETICS SEASON OFF TO A FLYING START

The Trinity Term saw a fantastic start to the cricket and athletics season at Shebbear College, with pupils showing great teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship across a wide range of competitions.

The athletics season began with the North Devon Schools competition, where our athletes delivered some outstanding performances. We’re especially proud of those who stepped up to compete in unfamiliar events, showing resilience and team spirit. We were thrilled to have 10 athletes selected to represent North Devon at the Devon County Championships in Exeter, including Dolly and SeanLee, who qualified in two events each.

Our athletes also made the long journey to Millfield for the ISA South West Athletics competition, where they competed brilliantly across all age groups. With multiple winners and consistently strong performances, it was the attitude and sportsmanship of our pupils that truly stood out.

The season reached a national stage with Shebbear athletes competing at the ISA National Athletics Championships at Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. It was an unforgettable experience, with Dolly finishing 4th in the shot put and James earning a silver medal in the discus - incredible achievements from all involved!

Cricket has also been thriving, with both girls’ and boys’ teams competing in fixtures against West Buckland, Mount Kelly, Plymouth College, St Joseph’s, and the Devon Dumplings. The matches have been played in great spirit, with pupils showing excellent progress and enthusiasm.

A standout moment came when our U12s took on NDCC in the Graham Harris Cup, in a match that was streamed live on YouTube. The game was a brilliant showcase of sportsmanship and skill in a stunning setting.

From the track to the pitch, Shebbear pupils continue to impress with their commitment, teamwork, and passion for sport. Well done to all our athletes and cricketers - you’ve made the College proud!

GCSE ARTWORK

During exam season, the school proudly displayed a stunning collection of GCSE and A-Level artwork.

The exhibition celebrated the creativity and dedication of our students, with each piece reflecting their unique artistic voice. Featured here is a selection of GCSE work that highlights the remarkable talent of our young artists.

GIG ROWING: A NEW 360@SHEB ADVENTURE

This term, pupils embraced Gig Rowing as one of the exciting new additions to our 360@Sheb programme.

Under the guidance of experienced coxswain (and retired teacher) Tomo from Appledore Pilot Gig Club, rowers developed their technique, built physical strength and learnt the value of teamwork as part of a crew. The sessions also provided a fantastic opportunity to challenge themselves and connect with the rich maritime heritage of our region. The Hocking's Ice Cream van parked permanently on the top of the slipway is always a good way to round off a session!

GOLF TEAM SUCCESSES

Our golf team demonstrated skill and determination across two major competitions this term.

First, they took on challenging conditions at the Devon Schools Golf Championship held at Boringdon Park Golf Club. Despite the tough weather, the team gave a strong performance.

Next, the team faced Taunton School in the Independent Schools Golf Association (ISGA) finals in Crediton. Although the match ended in a narrow loss (84 points to 93), our players showed great composure and competitive spirit, with several close individual scores.

Well done to all our golfers for their commitment and sportsmanship!

EXPLORING THE OUTDOORS – FIELD TRIPS

The Trinity term saw pupils across the school heading out into the sunshine for a series of enriching field trips, combining hands-on learning with the beauty of our local environment.

Lower 6 Geography and Biology students kicked off their fieldwork at Braunton Burrows, enjoying a perfect day of sun, sand, and science as they explored coastal ecosystems and geographical features.

Meanwhile, Form 4 pupils took part in their GCSE Biology core practical at Roadford Lake, investigating species abundance and how distribution changes across habitats.

Form 1 made the most of the warm weather with an Environmental Education trip to the coast, where they began their study of coastal environments - an experience that will tie in with upcoming science lessons on ecosystems and food webs. Form 2 also ventured out to Black Rock Beach, Widemouth, on a sunny day, discovering crabs, shrimp, and anemones along the shoreline in a morning full of curiosity and fresh sea air.

To round off the term’s outdoor learning, Form 4 and Lower 6 Geographers enjoyed a productive day of fieldwork in Bude, applying classroom knowledge to real-world coastal studies.

A MASTERCLASS WITH LESLEY BRYANT

In May we were delighted to welcome former GB discus thrower Lesley Bryant back to Shebbear for a masterclass with our athletics squad.

As part of our preparations for the upcoming athletics season, Lesley led dynamic sessions for pupils in Forms 1–4 during their Games lessons, sharing expert techniques and motivation.

In addition to group coaching, Lesley provided one-to-one training for our ISA National Champions, offering tailored guidance to help them refine their skills and build confidence ahead of competition. It was an inspiring and energising visit, and we’re incredibly grateful to Lesley for her continued support of our young athletes.

BADMINTON GRASSROOTS

We are so proud of young equestrians Tichy (Form 4) and Anaya (Form 2) who saddled up and headed to compete at the prestigious Badminton Grassroots 2025 Championships – an event which takes place each year at Badminton House ahead of the main five-star Badminton Horse Trials.

The girls secured their places at Badminton last year, an amazing achievement for both riders – and quite a feat at just 15 and 13 years old!

Tichy returned to the iconic event for a second year, tackling the 100cm class, while Anaya made her Badminton debut in the 90cm section. Both girls finished in the top third of competitors in their respective classes, with both getting clears inside the time in the Cross Country – fantastic achievements!

The girls are both members of the Shebbear College NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association) team, who have gone from strength to strength this year. NSEA team manager Mrs Webber, along with other members of the equestrian team, spent their free time clicking ‘update’ on the live scoring system and cheering the girls on!

Congratulations to both riders and we look forward to seeing what the future holds.

CAREERS FAIR INSPIRES FUTURE PATHWAYS

Pupils from Form 3 (Year 9) to Upper Sixth took part in our annual Careers Fair in May, exploring a wide range of future possibilities.

The event brought together representatives from local businesses, universities, the Armed Forces, and Emergency Services, offering students valuable insights into a variety of career paths.

Alongside the exhibition stands, pupils also participated in group sessions focused on building essential skills for the future - helping them to think ahead and prepare for life beyond school.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed their time and expertise, especially our amazing Old Shebbearians, whose stories and advice made the event truly memorable.

ANCIENT ADVENTURES AT THE MUSEUM

Prep 3 and Prep 4 pupils enjoyed a fascinating visit to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter.

Their trip focused on discovering more about Ancient Egypt and the Romans, bringing classroom learning to life through engaging exhibits and hands-on exploration. It was a brilliant opportunity for pupils to deepen their understanding of these historical periods in a fun and interactive setting.

NEVE’S OUTSTANDING EQUESTRIAN TRIUMPHS

Form 4 Sports Scholar Neve has had an exceptional season in the world of tetrathlon and equestrian sport, representing the South West at two major national events.

At the prestigious Royal Windsor Horse Show, Neve was selected as one of only three young athletes from the region to compete in the Tetrathlon. Facing top talent from across the UK, the South West team delivered a phenomenal performance, winning the competition with a total of 13,199 points - an impressive 230 points ahead of second place. Neve and her teammates achieved personal bests in both swimming and running, and delivered outstanding riding rounds to secure their victory.

Neve’s success continued at the Junior International Tetrathlon Nationals at Warwickshire College, where she joined teammates Annabelle, Anaya, and Chloe to represent the South West once again. Competing against strong teams from across the UK and Ireland, the girls gave it their all in shooting, swimming, running, and riding, with Neve topping the leaderboard and being crowned Junior International Tetrathlon Champion. An incredible achievement!

TEN TORS 2025

Huge congratulations to our four Ten Tors teams who completed the Ten Tors Challenge 2025!

This year we had four teams taking part, two 35 milers and two 45 milers, with some pupils completing the challenge for the second year in a row!

The teams took part in six months of training, including weekend sessions, overnight camps and many hours of route planning, kit packing and emergency training. They have all shown tremendous progress during the training and we are really proud of them all.

The teams covered their respective routes in some excellent times, including Team 45B who crossed the line on Sunday morning in record time!

We look forward to seeing some of them continue into the 45 mile and maybe even 55 mile challenges next year!

They have all shown tremendous progress during the training and we are really proud of them all.

A LETTER FROM SIR DAVID ATTENBOROUGH

- YES, REALLY!

Prep 6 were over the moon to receive a handwritten thank-you from the legendary Sir David Attenborough himself, thanking them for a letter they wrote to him in support of his work, along with a picture of their amazing collaborative portrait made in Art earlier this year.

What a huge honour!

U10 CRICKET FESTIVAL WELCOMES LOCAL SCHOOLS

In May, we hosted nearly 150 Year 5 pupils from local primary schools, who joined our own Prep 5 children for an exciting U10 Cricket Festival.

The afternoon focused on developing key cricket skills - batting, bowling, and fielding - with an emphasis on enjoyment, teamwork, and active participation.

The event was supported by our dedicated Sports Scholars and Sixth Formers, who helped run the sessions and ensured a fun, inclusive atmosphere for all.

INTRODUCING OUR SANCTUARY TEAM FOR 2025–26

In May, our new Sanctuary Team for the 2025–26 academic year were appointed!

We’re proud to welcome:

•Albert & Lucia – Heads of School

•Daisy – Head of Way House

•Jack – Head of Pollard House

•Rowan – Head of Thorne House

•Robyn – Head of Ruddle House

A big well done to everyone - we’re excited to see the leadership, energy, and ideas they’ll bring to the year ahead.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the outgoing team for their dedication and the positive impact they’ve made throughout the past year. They’ve been brilliant ambassadors for the school!

GIRLS’ FOOTBALL SHINES AT EXETER TOURNAMENT

Our U12 and U13 girls’ football teams had a fantastic day at the Catherine Fraser Memorial Tournament in Exeter.

Organised by Exeter City Football Club, the event brought together over 150 female footballers from local schools, celebrating skill, teamwork, and the growing strength of girls’ football in the region.

The U13s impressed by topping their group and advancing to the Cup competition. Despite a narrow loss in the knockout round, they played with incredible determination and team spirit throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the U12s battled their way to the Plate final, finishing as runners-up after a dramatic penalty shootout victory en route. Their resilience and enthusiasm were clear to see in every match.

Well done to all the players for their brilliant performances and outstanding sportsmanship!

SHEBBEAR EQUESTRIAN

- BEST IN THE UK

Shebbear College’s Equestrian Teams achieved outstanding success at the ISA National Schools’ Two-Day Event, held at Princethorpe College in Rugby - bringing home some incredible results and confirming their place among the best in the country!

A convoy of 12 horses, 7 riders, and a dedicated support team travelled to the prestigious event, now in its 24th year and hosted at Princethorpe for the past decade. Although the team had also qualified for the NSEA finals at Hickstead, they chose to compete in the ISA event this year - and it certainly paid off.

Day One: Dressage & Show Jumping

Saturday began with the dressage phase, where every rider performed strong, well-executed tests. Special congratulations to Anaya and Isobel, who delivered standout performances in their classes. The team then moved on to Show Jumping, producing an impressive nine faultless clear rounds, positioning them strongly going into day two.

Day Two: Endurance Challenge & Cross Country

After an evening of course-walking and minute-marker preparation, on the Sunday the horses and riders had to complete a course of road and tracks (a test of endurance) and a steeplechase phase (a test of speed) before heading into a 10 minute holding box where horses were checked for fitness before tackling the final Cross Country course. Of the 11 horses that started, 9 completed the course without jumping penalties - four of them perfectly timed with zero penalties overall. A phenomenal achievement!

We entered 3 teams into the 70, 90 and 100 sections. 70 is aimed at those beginning their eventing journey and our team included Zola (Our youngest rider) and Lennie (Our youngest horse ridden by Chloe). The 100 track is for more experienced riders, and our team of horses and riders were able to confidently take on the challenge.

RESULTS!

70cm Team – 1st Place!

(Zola on Biscuit, Annabelle on Flynn, Anaya on Blue, Chloe on Lennie)

Anaya – 1st Individual

Annabelle – 3rd Individual

90cm Team – 2nd Place

(Annabelle on Kirby, Isobel on Cassie, Tichy on Tibby, Neve on Flo)

Isobel – 3rd Individual

100cm Team – 1st Place

(Anaya on Dunkie, Chloe on Samsara, Neve on Buzz, Tichy on Mo)

Neve – 1st Individual

Anaya – 2nd Individual

These exceptional results reflect not only the riders’ skill and commitment but also their camaraderie and teamwork. To have such talented riders within our small school community makes us very much unique, with 6 of the 7 riders (the 7th not old enough yet) competing in the British Eventing Youth Team Programme, working incredibly hard all year-round to get to this level. We couldn’t be prouder of our incredible group of young eventers, who demonstrated professionalism, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. Their achievements are richly deserved and a shining example of the excellence within our school community.

Congratulations, Team Shebbear!

PREP 5 & 6 BRISTOL RESIDENTIAL

Prep 5 and 6 pupils enjoyed an unforgettable residential trip to Bristol, packed with learning, laughter, and adventure.

The week began with an inspiring visit to Brunel’s SS Great Britain, followed by a delicious dinner at Zaza Bazaar and a magical evening at the Bristol Hippodrome, where pupils were captivated by the performance of War Horse.

Day two brought hands-on exploration at We The Curious Science Museum, a tasty meal at Pizza Express, and a lively quiz night that had everyone smiling. On the final day, the group visited M Shed Bristol, where they took part in a fascinating Britain in the Blitz workshop, before heading to Adventure Bristol for an afternoon of zip lining, high ropes, and archery.

Throughout the trip, pupils demonstrated outstanding behaviour, with Mrs Dennis and Mr Willetts receiving numerous compliments from members of the public. It was a week full of memorable experiences, and we’re incredibly proud of how the children represented Shebbear College.

PREP SCHOOL

DIVE INTO MARINE DISCOVERY

While many of our Prep 5 and 6 children were on their residential, the rest of the Prep School had an amazing time exploring the wonders of the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth.

From vibrant coral reefs to fascinating sea creatures, the visit offered a hands-on learning experience that brought marine science to life.

MOON ROCKS LAND AT SHEBBEAR!

In June, pupils had the rare opportunity to examine real moon rock samples, sparking lots of curiosity across the school!

Prep 5 took their lunar learning even further by joining pupils from Shebbear Primary School for a special moon-themed workshop. Together, they explored the rock samples up close and got creative by making their own ‘meteorite’ rocky road treats!

A fantastic way to inspire young minds about space and exploration.

FORM 5 ARRIVE IN STYLE - AND GO VIRAL!

As GCSE exams came to a close, Form 5 made a truly unforgettable entrance - arriving at school on tractors and quads in a brilliant display of countryside flair and celebration.

The moment was captured in a short reel and shared on Shebbear College’s TikTok and Instagram accounts, where it quickly went viral - garnering thousands of views and plenty of positive comments. It was a fantastic way to mark the end of exam season and showcase the unique spirit of our students.

Well done to all of Form 5 for their hard work, humour, and style!

PREP 6 DIVE INTO ADVENTURE AT WAKE PARK

Prep 6 certainly made the most of their final days in the Prep School with an exciting line-up of adventures, including a trip to North Devon Wake Park, where they took on the Aquapark and Ringo Ride with huge enthusiasm and plenty of laughter.

An amazing way to celebrate the end of their Prep School journey!

LOWER SIXTH WRAP UP THE YEAR IN BEAUTIFUL BUDE

Meanwhile, our Lower Sixth students rounded off the school year with a fantastic day out in Bude.

The trip included a lively bowling session and a relaxed lunch with stunning sea views. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of term and enjoy some quality time together before the summer break.

MIDDLE SCHOOL PRODUCTIONMARY POPPINS JR

Shebbear College’s middle school pupils wowed us all with a heartwarming and high-energy performance of Mary Poppins Jr in June – leaving the audience enchanted!

Following the resounding success of The Lion King last year, expectations were high - and the talented cast rose to the occasion with charm, confidence, and a clear love for performing.

Taking centre stage as the practically perfect nanny herself, Annabelle brought poise, wit, and a touch of magic to the role of Mary Poppins. Alongside her, Barney shone as Bert, captivating the audience with his charisma and strong stage presence. Molly and Oliver gave delightful performances as Jane and Michael Banks, capturing the mischievous energy of the siblings whilst Beau portrayed the transformation of George Banks brilliantly and Jasmine gave a composed performance as Winifred Banks.

Adding to the show’s humour and sparkle were scenestealing cameos from Bella as the eccentric Mrs Corry, Tabby as the wonderfully flustered Mrs Brill, and Harry, who brought the stern Chairman of the Bank to life with perfect comedic timing, whilst Hattie played a terrifying Miss Andrew, bringing the stage to life with her wonderful solo of ‘Brimstone and Treacle’ and Cherrie as Bird Woman gave a stirring performance of ‘Feed the Birds’.

A special mention must go to the fabulous chorus, made up of enthusiastic performers from Prep 3, 4 and 5, whose energy and vocal strength added depth and joy to the musical numbers.

With colourful costumes, polished choreography, and a score full of favourites like Step In Time, Let’s Go Fly a Kite and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, the production was a joyful celebration of teamwork, creativity, and young talent.

Huge congratulations to the entire cast and the dedicated team behind the scenes who brought this magical show to life – including the fabulous tech team of Albert, Dylan, Ethan and Louis. Shebbear College Productions continue to set the bar high - and we can’t wait to see what’s next!

SUNNY SPORTS DAYS!

Both our Prep and Senior School Sports Days were resounding successes, blessed with glorious weather and an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and school spirit.

The Senior School event was particularly memorable, with six school athletic records broken - a testament to the talent and determination of our pupils.

Meanwhile, the Prep School Sports Day was a joyful celebration of effort and encouragement, with children from Nursery through to Prep 6 giving their all and cheering everyone on. A day full of energy and fun.

Congratulations to Way House, who emerged victorious in both events! What a fantastic way to round off a brilliant athletics season. Well done to all our athletes for their hard work, team spirit, and unforgettable performances!

U13 300m – Jack M – 51.51s

U13 Discus – James W – 27.61m

U13 1500m – Annabelle G – 5:56.83

U13 Javelin – Cherrie T – 21.25m

U15 1500m – Neve W – 5:38.41

U15 Discus – Tichy S – 18.50m

OPEN-AIR THEATRE:

THE CURIOUS CASE OF THE TARTAN PYTHON

Our annual Open-Air Theatre performance returned this year with The Curious Case of the Tartan Python - a Cluedo-inspired whodunnit written by our very own Head of Drama, Mr Pomroy.

Performed by a talented cast spanning Form 3 to Upper Sixth, the play delivered a perfect blend of mystery, wit, and comedy, enjoyed under the Shebbear skies with a beautiful backdrop!

GOODBYE, UPPER SIXTH!

As a final send-off, we held a Garden Party for our Upper Sixth leavers and their families - lawn games, afternoon tea, celebratory drinks, and a presentation of their yearbooks and OSA ties and badges. We wish you all the best for the future Upper Sixth!

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: SCHOLARS’ DINNER 2025

At the end of term, we gathered in the Dining Hall for a special evening dedicated to celebrating the outstanding achievements of our Scholars.

This formal occasion brought together pupils and staff to recognise the hard work, dedication, and excellence shown throughout the year.

The Scholars arrived looking smart and polished and the evening began with a delicious three-course meal, beautifully prepared by our catering team, followed by speeches that reflected on the year’s successes and looked ahead to the future.

It was a wonderful opportunity to honour the commitment and curiosity that define our Scholars, and to round off a brilliant year with pride and celebration.

PREP SCHOOL ADVENTURES KICK OFF THE END-OF-TERM FUN

Our Prep School pupils launched into the final stretch of term with a series of exciting adventures!

Nursery enjoyed a magical visit to Scribbleton, sparking imaginations and creativity through play and storytelling.

Reception to Prep 4 headed to The Milky Way Adventure Park, where they had a blast exploring rides, attractions, and interactive exhibits - plenty of smiles and laughter all round! Meanwhile, Prep 5 and 6 made fantastic memories at Crealy, enjoying thrilling rides, outdoor fun, and quality time with friends.

They also took part in a series of workshops, from Circus Skills and outdoor adventures, to drama sessions. Prep House Day was a highlight, featuring cookery, house matches, and a sunny school picnic, whilst Prep 6 enjoyed a joyful leavers’ celebration with their families.

Lots of memories made - and yes, they had an absolute blast!

PROM 2025

What a magical evening it was for our Form 5 students as they celebrated the end of their GCSEs in style at The Falcon Hotel in Bude. With the sun setting over the Cornish coast, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night of celebration, laughter, and elegance.

Dressed to impress, the students arrived in some creative and glamorous methods of transport, ready to mark the end of a significant chapter and the beginning of an exciting summer ahead. The evening was filled with joyful moments - from heartfelt speeches to delicious food and plenty of photo opportunities. A wonderful way to honour all the hard work and resilience shown throughout exam season.

HOUSE DAY 2025: A NEW SHEBBEAR TRADITION IS BORN!

There’s no school quite like Shebbear College - and when it comes to end-of-term celebrations, we believe in going all out!

This term, we proudly launched House Day, a brand-new event on the school calendar, replacing our traditional House Walks. Organised by our incredible Heads of House (HsMs), the day brought together the entire Shebbear community, from Nursery to Sixth Form, for a spectacular celebration of teamwork, spirit, and fun.

The festivities began with an unforgettable fun run, packed with challenges and laughter at every turn. Pupils tackled a vibrant colour run, a thrilling slip & slide, hay

bale hurdles, a muddy bog run, a water zone, dodgeball, a cargo net crawl, a group sack race, a tyre run, and of course - plenty of water pistols!

After drying off and refuelling with a delicious BBQ in the sunshine, the afternoon continued with a series of House Challenges, testing creativity, collaboration, and competitive spirit.

To top it all off, we wrapped up the day with our very own ShebStock Festival, a mini music fest featuring a live DJ set by student Joe, made possible by the support of Old Shebbearian legend, Cameron Mills.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our amazing Shebbear community - parents, friends, and Old Shebbearians - who generously provided equipment (tyres, bales, nets and more) and helped bring this incredible day to life.

House Day is here to stay: a new tradition that celebrates everything that makes Shebbear College so special.

ACTIVITIES WEEK

Activities Week at Shebbear College was packed with excitement, challenge, and fun for pupils across the senior school.

Forms 1 & 2 embraced the spirit of adventure at PGL Barton Hall, where they enjoyed a wide range of outdoor activities including canoeing, climbing, zip wiring, archery, and more. The week was filled with laughter, courage, and new friendships. To round off their experience, they visited Crealy Theme Park for a final day of fun!

Form 3 headed to the stunning North Cornwall coast for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition. Over the course of the week, they navigated scenic routes, camped under the stars, and learned vital survival skills - from fire lighting to camouflage and concealment. It was a brilliant opportunity to build resilience, teamwork, and independence.

Form 4 took a different route, focusing on future skills and personal development. They participated in a driving experience, gaining confidence behind the wheel, and attended careers workshops designed to help them explore future pathways and build essential life skills. To round off the week they had a brilliant day at Thorpe Park!

From outdoor challenges to personal growth, Activities Week was a celebration of learning beyond the classroom.

A BRILLIANT YEAR COMES TO AN END

We brought the academic year 2024–2025 to a joyful close with our Prep School Celebration Afternoon and Senior School Speech Day, two wonderful events that celebrated the achievements, talents, and spirit of our Shebbear College community.

The Prep School event was filled with pride and excitement as pupils, staff, and families came together to reflect on a year of growth, learning, and adventure, whilst the next day, Speech Day provided a formal yet uplifting occasion to honour academic excellence, musical talent, and leadership across the school.

We were privileged to welcome guest speakers Bridget Down and Briony Cole to these events, whose moving and authentic words inspired everyone in attendance.

Congratulations to all our Prize Winners, and a special shout-out to our talented musicians and singers, whose performances added a vibrant energy to the events. The Senior School Band’s rendition of Twist & Shout nearly had the whole sports hall dancing!

Finally, we bid a fond farewell to our amazing Upper Sixth, who leave us with memories, achievements, and friendships that will last a lifetime. It’s been a packed year full of fun, challenge, fantastic experiences and amazing achievements. Here’s to another fantastic year ahead!

SHORTLISTED AGAIN FOR THE ISOTY AWARDS 2025

At the end of term we found out that Shebbear College had once again been shortlisted for the Independent Schools of the Year 2025 awards, in the category of Small Independent School of the Year.

This marks the third consecutive year the school has received this prestigious recognition, having been named a finalist in 2024.

The awards, run by Independent School Parent magazine, celebrate excellence across the UK’s independent education sector. Shebbear College’s continued recognition reflects its unwavering commitment to personalised learning, exceptional pastoral care, and a vibrant, inclusive community.

OLD SHEBBEARIANS’ ASSOCIATION

WELCOME TO THE OSA SECTION OF THE SHEBBEARIAN!

A WORD FROM THE DEVELOPMENT AND ALUMNI COORDINATOR

As I reflect on this past year, the spirit and strength of the Old Shebbearians Association continues to grow.

The fabulous OSA Committee remains an invaluable support to me. Always there, sometimes front and centre at events, but also quietly behind the scenes with their dedication to keeping the school and the OSA thriving.

Amongst many other events, this year has brought another very well attended London Dinner (100+ again!). At this event, an idea was brought to me about trying a ‘City Drinks’ event to meet up with other OS who can't make the dinner. So, on Thursday 17th April at 6pm I, somewhat apprehensively, arrived at the Oyster Shed in London - armed with the Head’s credit card and the hope that I might get a handful of attendees. In the end more than 20 Old Shebbearians dropped

in. My small, reserved section of the bar was soon abandoned for bigger outside space. The credit card took a bit of a hit, but I came away amazed and incredibly grateful that I get to be a part of this amazing Shebbearian community.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage all our alumni – past, recent and those who haven’t reconnected with Shebbear for a while to get involved. Whether that be attending your first reunion, sharing an update or an idea for an event or just dropping me your contact details. Your voice and presence matter and are hugely appreciated.

Amy Bernstone College and OSA Secretary

NEWS ROUND UP...

AIR AMBULANCE OPEN GOLF

On a sunny 4th July the Air Ambulance Open took place at the Royal North Devon Golf Club. A contest between local school alumni or ‘North Devon Former Pupils’ in aid of the Devon Air Ambulance.

Old Shebbearians Dave Allin and Tim Priest took the win for the NDFP Aggregate Cup, for the highest number of points scored by all teams from the same school. This cup will be competed for next year, hopefully the start of a long-standing tradition. A big thank you to Dave and Tim for representing Shebbear – and more Shebbearian teams are planned for next year to help defend our title!

HALEFORCE!

This picture was taken at Speech Day 2025, which three generations of the Hale family attended!

• Two current Shebbearians

• Two Old Shebbearians

• One Honorary Shebbearian

And a new Hale is also starting in Form 1!

If anyone would like to find out more about the work of the OSA or to get involved with anything that has been mentioned, please do so by contacting abernstone@shebbearcollege.co.uk or by following links on social media.

OLD SHEBBEARIANS’ ASSOCIATION

A WORD FROM THE OSA PRESIDENT

Jamie Sanders

It’s a pleasure to write my second report as President of the Old Shebbearian Association. My tenure as President began in January 2024, and I am now pleased to report that we have now managed to secure a Vice President Chris (Kit) Hale.

I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to the dedicated OSA committee, whose tireless efforts have helped keep our community engaged and connected. I would also like to thank Kit, whose renewed support for the College and the OSA has been most welcome and I look forward to supporting him next year. Over the past year, The OSA has continued our support for the College and its students, reinforcing the strong bonds that unite us as Old Shebbearians.

At the OSA Reunion in January, over one hundred Old Shebbearians enjoyed each other’s company and rekindled old friendships. The attendees celebrated the centenary of the War Memorial Fund. This fund, which has supported countless students over the past 100 years, continues to be a

lifeline for individuals within the College. Alongside it, other generous donations have enabled progress across various aspects of the school’s development plan. The commitment of our alumni, whether through financial contributions, mentoring, or volunteering, has had a tangible impact on current pupils.

At the dinner we welcomed Amit Mehta, the founder of Shebbear’s new owners, Inspired Learning Group. It was a pleasure to speak to Amit about his background and exciting plans for the College. There is no doubt he was impressed by the warmth of the Shebbearian community, and understands how Shebbear holds such a strong place in so many people’s hearts, even long after they leave. The College’s acquisition by the Inspired Learning Group (ILG) marks an exciting new chapter. With it comes fresh opportunities and a renewed commitment to excellence. The OSA looks forward to supporting this partnership and the future development of the school.

As well as various school dinners, I attended the school production of West Side Story and a number of school sporting fixtures. Shebbear continues to bat well above its average across the board, and I continue to be impressed by the commitment of staff and the passion from students to

ensure the opportunities provided enrich a Shebbearians’ school days and allow the college to turn out excellent performances in a wide variety of activities.

Attending the Sixth Form Rounsefell Dinner is always a privilege, and this year’s event was a wonderful reminder of how Shebbear College continues to shape confident, capable young people. We wish the Class of 2025 every success and look forward to welcoming them into the OSA - perhaps wearing their new ties or bow ties at next year’s London dinner? I am also delighted to report that the OSA beat the College in the annual OSA cricket match. Youth was the real winner on the day, with the college fielding a young side showing promise for the future, and the OSA fielding its youngest ever player, who even took a wicket and bowled two maidens in his six overs.

Finally, it is heartening to see that OSA membership continues to grow. More and more Old Shebbearians are choosing to stay connected - a reflection of the enduring value of our shared experiences. Whether through attending events, mentoring students, contributing to initiatives, or simply staying in touch, your involvement makes a difference.

Thank you for being part of this vibrant and evolving journey. Your continued support ensures that the spirit of Shebbear lives on - in the College, in its students, and in every one of us.

Warm regards,

Jamie Sanders President, Old Shebbearians’ Association

YOUNG LIVES V CANCER SPONSORED WALK 2025

On May 18th, 1969, masters, boys, matrons, governors, housekeepers and friends all took part in the Sir Malcolm Sargent Cancer Fund for Children sponsored walk across Dartmoor. This was a resounding success, raising £2,040.00, the equivalent of £42,000 today. On a memorable weekend in 2024 a select group of Old Shebbearians assembled in the Half Moon Inn at Sheepwash after a guided tour of the College.

Personally, this was my first return since leaving Shebbear in 1973. Maybe it was the general bonhomie of reconnecting with people one hadn't seen for more than 50 years, or simply the “refreshment” consumed, but it was suggested by Nick Smale and Geoff Holder that it would be a grand idea to repeat the walk while we could still do it. Equally important, to raise money for the same charity now called Young Lives V Cancer, particularly because Toby, Geoff’s Grandson, had cancer at the age of two. His whole family was helped by Young Lives vs Cancer; he is in remission at nine years old.

An agreement was made and those assembled waited for the confirmation email from Nick. Sheb’s Miles More for Kids was born and those of us without valid excuses or ‘sick notes’ assembled at the White Hart in Okehampton on 17th May. It is an extraordinary experience entering a once familiar bar and seeing people that are vaguely familiar after such a long time. Conversations rekindled, friendships reignited. and years become irrelevant. Memories, laughter and a few tears are shared. After sensible “hydration” we readied ourselves for the event. Nick, Sallie, Geoff and Sy had already prepared the route, laying down markers for us to follow.

As good Shebbearians, Toby, friends and families too, we strode onwards the next day with new YLvsC T-shirts, water and sweets Katherine dished out, and with Amy’s fond farewells ringing in our ears, 56 years to the day after the original walk we set off. Following our O.S. maps from Okehampton to Fingle Bridge, we had been split into waves. I was in the first group, clearly seen as the “ancients”. We were blessed to have the remarkable Hugh Milner with us; he was truly inspirational and walked with a swagger that belied his 80 years.

The sun shone from a cloudless sky and the ascent across the Moor was much higher than I remembered. It felt like being on top of the world. The descent was definitely harder and there was a collective grinding of knees and hips. Conversation and laughter, memories of stone picking, runs, house matches and dormitories kept us going until the next hydration point at Wonson. Fortified, we made our way through familiar territory beyond Chagford.

The last few miles were painful, the path was broken up by uneven steps which rose vertically from the riverbank, there were fallen trees and walking became more difficult. The more observant amongst us noted a much easier route on the other bank of the river, level ground, shaded in dappled light…h owever, Ad Gloriam Per Spinas. We felt every thorn over those last few miles and we savoured the glory once we reached Fingle Bridge. The sense of achievement was palpable. We have raised and had pledges for over £30,000 so far but dearly hope to match the original fundraise.

Thank you to Nick, Sallie and Geoff for your organisational skills and pathfinding. Thank you Sy for crossing the world to join us, and of course Hugh for inspiring us, and for Toby (a typical bouncy, irritating, opinionated ten-year-old, but then so is his grandad) reminding us why we did this the first time and again a second time. I must also thank the coach company, Taw and Torridge, for moving all the lost sheep!

Perhaps we could do it again, next year!

Alan Rushmoor (1966-73)

In

attendance:

Adam Holder

Alan Rushmore

David Richards

Emily Horwell

Geoff Holder

Hugh Milner

Ian Bowes

Dave Allin

Sue Allin

Paul Sanders

Nick Smale

Peter Danby

Robbie Milner

Sallie Smale

Sy Wakatama

Tony Jones

Natalie Holder

Anne Horwell

Rosie Lane

Sy Wakatama

Toby Holder

Janet Kitchen

Ruth Down

2025 OSA REUNION DINNER

More than 100 Old Shebbearians and guests enjoyed an evening at the RAF Club in London on Saturday, at the 116th Annual Dinner.

Guests for the evening, along with the head, Charlie Jenkins, were Amit Mehta, CEO of the Inspired Learning Group, Stuart Clewley, long serving member of staff and head of boarding, as well as heads of school, Lily and Sebastian, and President, Jamie Sanders.

The meal was followed by a number of speeches, all of which emphasised the sense of community which Shebbear College seems to nurture in its students, both past and present.

The final speeches included an invitation to support a proposed sponsored walk to be held in May, proceeds from which would go to CLIC Sargent. Last but not least, treasurer, Chris Blencowe and a former President, Lester Bird appealed for support to create a 100 club of contributors to the Scholarship Fund which is its 100th year and helps students to either continue into or to join the College 6th Form.

OLD SHEBBEARIANS' ASSOCIATION

2025 REUNION DINNER ATTENDEES

Mike Johns 1950-1956

Hugh Milner 1955-1961

Peter Wilkins 1955-1961

Christopher Head 1958-1965

Simon Birks 1966-1973

Michael Down 1967-1973

Chris Blencowe 1961-1968

James Hancock 1962-1967

Michael Tucker 1959-1967

Dick Corbett Winder 1964-1968

Philip Daniel 1958-1968

Peter Thornton-Dewhirst 1963-1968

Henry Holroyd 1962-1969

Paul Sanders 1964-1970

Ian Bowes 1967-1973

Peter Danby 1967-1974

Nick Smale 1967-1974

Mark Cleverdon 1967-1974

Geoff Holder 1968-1974

Tim Cleverdon 1972-1979

Lester Bird 1975-1980

Alimany Sesay 1988-1989

Edward Lott 1987-1994

Adam Moore 1994-2002

Chris Hale 1994-2002

Dexter Barnes 1995-2002

Dale Snowdon 1995-2002

Kieron Bryan 1995-2002

Oilver Sinden 1995-2002

Benjamin Welby 1995-2002

Simeon Welby 1997-2004

Fred Selwyn 1998-2002

Michael Footitt 2003-2008

Tom Brewer 2000-2002

Bob Barnes (Headmaster) 2003-2013

Bailey Miles 2006-2014

Sebastian Sanders 2007-2014

Charlie Kerslake 2009-2014

Julian Blaskiewicz 2008-2015

Sam Westlake 2009-2015

Abby Selwyn 2000-2016

William Murch 2011-2016

Pip Mahoney 2008-2016

Max Warren 2009-2016

Harry Scambler 2007-2017

Niamh Martin 2007-2017

Lucy Taylor 2008-2017

Harry Dymond 2010-2017

Ellie Bird 2010-2017

Patrick Marks 2010-2017

Will Cox 2010-2017

Lois Barker 2010-2017

Ru Mills 2012-2017

Eloise Maxa 2013-2017

Eddie Jones 2008-2019

James Law 2012-2019

Alex Watling 2012-2019

Tobias Trott 2015-2019

Joseph Faulkner 2006-2020

Niamh Short 2010-2020

Isabella Carey 2013-2020

Poppy Blee 2015-2020

Guests

Stuart Clewley

Amit Mehta

Charlie Jenkins - Head

Lily Down - Head Girl

Sebastian Crookes - Head Boy

Sophie Temple 2015-2020

Oliver Temple 2015-2020

Timon Chapman 2017-2020

Archie Boycott 2009-2021

Lola Frisby Williams 2012-2021

Fin Irish 2014-2021

Samuel Odlin 2014-2021

Tom Nethacott 2013-2022

Harrison Mitchell 2013-2022

Michael Ritzen 2015-2022

Lauren Nancekivell 2015-2022

Blythe Hill 2015-2022

Sara Chan 2016-2022

Bella Richards 2017-2022

Ben Carter 2017-2022

Sam Conway 2017-2022

Michaela Buckley 2019-2022

Kamilla Mohammed 2020-2022

Niamh Shaw 2015-2023

Alexandria Roadnight 2016-2023

Charlotte Odlin 2016-2023

Mitzi Irish 2016-2023

Jolyon Malin 2017-2023

Erin Grey 2021-2023

John Heaton 2022-2024

George Heard 2013-2024

Isobel Watt 2014-2024

Cameron Watt 2014-2024

Toby Shephard Blandy 2016-2024

Charlie Davis 2017-2024

Matt Freeman 2022-2024

President Jamie Sanders

Secretaries

Andy Bryan

Amy Bernstone

CRICKET O.S.A. V COLLEGE 1ST XI

29TH JUNE 2025

It was a very young College XI that took on the OSA in a 30 overs-a-side match on a pleasant Sunday afternoon in Shebbear.

Batting first, last year’s man of the match Edd Jones scored a quickfire 50, after being dropped early in his innings, and then the late middle order of Reece Stanbury (33), Jamie Sanders (26) and Harry Dymond (37*) set a formidable target of 226.

There were some promising performances in the field for the 1st XI, with bowlers George taking 1-30 in his 6 overs and Will M 2-43 in his spell, as well as two fine catches by Will H.

Batting proved to be more of a challenge for the College team and unfortunately, they subsided to an all out score of just 38. Credit however should be given to the spirit which they showed as a team throughout the contest and the young players in the side will surely benefit from the experience as they go forward in their College careers.

When Harry Dymond (37* and 2-4) was presented with the new man of the match trophy (kindly donated by Edd Jones), Andy Bryan pointed out that the OSA team had fielded its youngest ever Old Shebbearian, Billy Sanders, who played alongside his father, Jamie and returned the impressive bowling figures of 4 overs 0-7.

Andy Bryan OSA Secretary

OBITUARIES OBITUARIES

Remembering

John (Bill) Oke

(1952 – 1959)

Bill passed away peacefully on 25th February at 84 years old.

He greatly enjoyed his time at Shebbear College. Bill excelled at cross country and he was captain of the rugby 2nd IX. He took an active role in the debating society and he greatly enjoyed training local YFC members in the art of public speaking. Bill was treasurer of the Sabine Bearing Gould society. SBG’s grandson, Mr Bickford Dickenson, was Bill’s history teacher and had stimulated Bill’s interest in SBG.

Following his A-levels, Bill joined the family business, Thomas Oke and Sons in Holsworthy. He was a loyal member of the Old Shebbearians’ Association, regularly attending the annual dinner at the RAF Club in Mayfair. In 2001 he was very proud to be appointed President.

Bill was well known in Holsworthy, taking an active role in the local community, including being appointed to the role of Portreeve. Retirement took Bill to Wells, where he continued to meet up with his old school pals.

Bill remained involved in the local community, organising walks on the Mendips for charity and taking on the roles of guide at Wookey Hole Caves and the Bishop’s Palace.

Bill will be much missed by his wife, daughters and grandchildren.