HEADMASTERS’ INTRODUCTIONS
Dear Parents,
As I write, on a blustery late November Sunday, the balmy days of early September, when we returned to school for the new academic year, are something of a distant memory. We returned for the Michaelmas term in very good spirits, as we celebrated with our leavers their excellent A level results – over half of which were at grade A* or A – and wished them well as they went off to their universities and some of the most competitive institutions and courses in the world.
This term has seen us begin to implement the exciting new High Performance Learning (HPL) programme in the senior school. The underlying philosophy of this radical approach to learning is that every young person can achieve highly, given the right circumstances, support and approach to learning from him or herself.
Academic excellence was also celebrated recently when we welcomed our Patron, Lord Patten (OP 1962), back to school. Those of us who heard him speak so powerfully and inspiringly to the young people about their moral obligation to make use of their privileges for the benefit of society will not forget it in a hurry.
Beyond the classroom too, much has happened this term. I was lucky enough to pay a very brief visit to our students on their exchange visit to Germany. You will read of other trips too, including the exciting Sixth Form visit to the USA.
The cultural and sporting life of the school continues to shine. I thoroughly enjoyed the recent Middle School production of The Red Shoes, followed in the same week by the wonderful St Cecilia concert, showcasing our students’ impressive range of musical talent and commitment. It’s been great as well to see so many successes on the sports field; one of my highlights was watching the U12D rugby team playing a competitive and enjoyable game of touch against another equally competitive school.
A new parent mentioned to me a few weeks ago that her son had reported, ‘Mum, this is the kindest school I’ve been to.’ Our Kindness Week demonstrated the strength of this commitment to kindness at St Benedict’s: I even received a Kindness Postcard to thank me for my hymn choices in Assembly!
I hope you enjoy reading all about this term’s endeavours, and I wish you and your families a happy and restful Christmas.
With best wishes
Joe Smith Headmaster
Dear Parents,
It is hard to believe that the calendar year is at an end. We will soon bid a fond farewell to 2024 and extend a warm welcome to 2025.
The children and staff have been involved in a broad range of academic and co-curricular activities, including trips to The Lincolnsfields Children’s Centre (We’ll Meet Again – World War II), and Kew Gardens (Into the Woods). Book Week, Faith and Heritage Week, and Kindness Week were a tremendous success and hugely enjoyed by children and adults alike. The Remembrance Assembly gave us the opportunity to reflect upon war and peace in our world. The musical life and spiritual life of the School has also expressed itself through popular events such as the Soloists’ Concerts, the Nativity Plays, and the annual Carol Service. Sport continues to flourish throughout the Junior School, with the girls and boys giving their all whilst competing in athletics (cross country), fencing, football, hockey, rugby, and swimming.
Thank you for being so supportive of the fundraising initiatives that have taken place since September. Your support of the Macmillan Coffee Morning, Red Wednesday (Aid to the Church in Need), and the Faith and Heritage Fundraising Day (Felix Project) raised much needed funds for very worthy charitable causes. As always, your ongoing generosity is hugely appreciated and makes a considerable difference to the world around us.
Do enjoy the latest edition of St Benedict’s News, and I hope that you and your family thoroughly enjoy the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Take good care.
Rob Simmons Junior School Headmaster
St Benedict’s Joins the Prestigious High Performance Learning Programme
HPL focuses on two key areas:
• Advanced Cognitive Performance Characteristics (ACPs): These thinking skills help students become more effective, independent learners.
• Values, Attitudes, and Attributes (VAAs): These are the mindsets and behaviours that promote resilience, collaboration, and personal growth.
Our aim is to embed the HPL philosophy into our school culture by refining and optimising teaching and learning practices across all departments. To support this, we have introduced HPL posters in all 70 classrooms across the school, providing a daily reference for students and staff during lessons.
Headmaster Joe Smith, shared his enthusiasm for this exciting step forward:
THE HPL FRAMEWORK
We are thrilled to announce that St Benedict’s has joined the renowned High Performance Learning (HPL) World Class School Award Programme, a recognition reserved for top schools globally that lead in innovative educational practices. This milestone reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and our ambition to deliver unparalleled learning outcomes for our students.
What Is High Performance Learning?
High Performance Learning is a researchdriven, pedagogy-led approach built on the belief that everyone can achieve highly with the right mindset and support. It provides a comprehensive framework that develops the cognitive skills, values, attitudes, and attributes students need for lifelong success.
(VAAs)
“Our goal as a school is to offer an exceptional level of education. By joining the HPL World Class School Award Programme, we are setting progressive goals that will reimagine education at St Benedict’s. This framework will guide us in building a strategic direction for teaching and learning, while enhancing leadership and management to align with the HPL philosophy.”
Deputy Head of Academic, Ms Fiona Allen, addressed students in assembly to explain how HPL will shape their educational journey:
“HPL is not something done to you; it’s something you actively participate in. It’s your ticket to an exciting future –not just preparing you for exams, but for life.
“HPL is about becoming the best version of yourself; building confidence and ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.”
EXCELLENT A LEVEL AND GSCE RESULTS AT ST BENEDICT’S FOR 2024
We continue the strong upward trend in public exam results seen at St Benedict’s over recent years.
In yet another outstanding set of results from this year’s A Level and GCSE students, we are incredibly proud of all our students for their hard work, determination, and resilience over this past academic year.
I am absolutely delighted for our young people who have achieved these superb A Level grades, the best in the school’s history under normal assessment circumstances. Our 2024 leavers have worked extremely hard and deserve all their success. For over half the grades to be at A*or A, and 84% at A*, A or B, is the mark of an academically very serious school indeed.
Joe Smith, Headmaster
GSCE
At GCSE, 43% of all exams taken were graded 9 or 8 (A*), and 65% were graded 9 – 7 (A*or A), which maintains the very strong academic results in recent years.
St Benedict’s continues to add significant value, when we take into account the starting points of our young people in year 7, and their GCSE outcomes at the end of year 11.
A Level
At A Level, 51% of all papers were graded A*– A and 84% were graded A*– B.
The vast majority of our students are heading to their preferred choice university destinations, including over 90% to top 10 institutions and those which form part of the Russell Group.
University Destinations
This year over 95% of St Benedict’s students taking up places at university did so at Russell Group/Top 10 universities, with the vast majority achieving places at their first choice university.
Eight pupils are taking up places at University College London, with another eight taking up places at King’s College London, meaning the University of London was our most popular destination this year.
Two pupils have taken up places to read Medicine, and they are joined by one of our successful 2023 BioMed candidates, who has now also transferred to Medicine in 2024. Another of the Class of 2024 is now at The University of California, San Diego, planning to major in Economics, while two others are completing Foundation courses in Art, and another has secured a Degree Apprenticeship at Atkins Engineering, in partnership with the prestigious Warwick University.
UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS AND SUBJECTS 2024
University of Glasgow The University of Edinburgh
University of California, San Diego,
University Newcastle University
University of Leeds
University of York
The University of Liverpool
University
Lancaster University Leicester University
Manchester/Manchester Met University
of
University of Nottingham
University of Loughborough
University of Warwick
University of Exeter University of Bristol Cardiff University
University of Bath
of Reading
University of Sussex University of Bournemouth
Pupils have gained a place at university 100%
95%+ Attending a Russell Group/ Top 10 university
90% Achieved preferred choice* 17 pupils heading to prestigious London universities
•UCL, Imperial, King’s College London
3 following Alternative Pathways** 2 going on to study Medicine
Sally Hopgood, Head of Futures, and Alex Heald, Director of Sixth Form commented,
The range of courses and destinations reflects the diversity of our student profile and the range of opportunities against which we can offer support. More importantly, we’re so very proud of everyone in the class of 2024, for the very hard work they have put in and the ambition and resilience they have shown in their applications. We’re excited to see their next steps!
GERMAN EXCHANGE 2024
The much-anticipated annual German exchange took place in September once again. Our students studying German spent a week in Meschede in the west German state of North Rhine-Westphalia with host families from our wellestablished partnership with a German Benedictine school.
Leo M (U4) reports:
We set off early on Saturday 14 September from St Pancras station. After a long nine hour journey of multiple trains and a bus, we arrived in Meschede station at 6.15pm. After we got off the final train, we walked down the platform to where the exchange partners and their families were waiting. I greeted my exchange partner and his father, and after a quick overview of the week and some goodbyes until Monday, we went our separate ways. The next day, we drove to a massive ski jump
and slope in Willingen and walked up its 750 steps. It was extremely steep and apparently used in World Cups. In the afternoon, we went to a theme park called Fort Fun where we met up with my exchange partner’s best friend and his family (whose older brother coincidentally also was part of the exchange). The theme park was beyond expectation, and we went on pretty much every ride worth going on. We also stumbled across my other friends from school who happened to have come with their exchange partners as well.
Monday was our first day of school and we got driven there at 6.30am which was super early! After meeting up with the other exchange students we were given a tour of the school, then we went to class. The upside for starting early, though, is that you finish at 1pm!
Tuesday was another day spent at school in the morning after which we were given a tour of the Monastery and taken to the Abbey Church. After that, our partners came to meet us and we walked to a massive football pitch to play a match. The game was quite competitive but, in the end, it was a comfortable 11-6 win to the exchange team (with two hat-tricks from German partners)!
On Wednesday, we went to school again in the early morning and were delighted to have received a surprise visit from our Headmaster, Mr Smith, who had flown in the night before. We went to ‘Himmelstreppe’ (stairway to heaven) and walked through Meschede until we arrived at its 300 steps. We climbed up its steps and were greeted with an incredible view.
On Thursday we were rewarded with a lie-in and took a bus to a disused mine in Ramsbeck, which was quite interesting after we took a train ride down, we also hiked around the hills near to the mine before heading home.
Friday was our last day at school in Germany doing lessons. After school we all had a barbeque and played football together.
It was time to say our goodbyes on Saturday before hopping on the train for another long journey back. Overall, the entire exchange experience was incredible, and I hope to do it all again next year.
PARLIAMENT RETURNS TO ST BENEDICT’S
On 20 November, the Senior School Library was transformed into a lively House of Commons for a dynamic ‘Prime Ministers Questions’ debate to mark Parliament Week 2024.
Once the ceremonial laying of the mace had been completed by our very own Serjeant at Arms, Vikram E, Mr Thomas called the enthusiastic House to order, setting the tone for the proceedings.
The debate was opened by our School Council’s co-presidents, Raania A and Georgie T, who
delivered a thoughtful statement on the Council’s recent work. They then fielded questions on a range of school-related topics, from catering improvements to the ever-popular subject of mufti days.
Next came the much-anticipated questions to the Prime Minister, represented by James M. and Conleth O’H. In what was brilliant showcase of political insight and public speaking skill, James and Conleth confidently tackled a barrage of questions from the Leaders of the Opposition,
Edmund H and Krisha P, as well as a host of spirited debates with backbencher representatives from every form group in the school. The event which was live-streamed to all Senior School form rooms during PSHE lessons, was an important opportunity for the school community to learn more about the importance of our parliamentary democracy.
Parliament is set to return to St Benedict’s in 2025!
THE ST BENEDICT’S
BIG DRAW
Timed to coincide with World Mental Health Day, this year’s St Benedict’s Big Draw provided a meaningful opportunity for our Form 3 students to explore how art can be used as a tool for communication and emotional wellbeing.
The theme for this year focused on drawing as a way to express emotions. Throughout the day, students worked in pairs, channelling their creativity to design imaginative ‘creatures’ that symbolised emotions such as fear, anxiety, and depression.
Displayed in The Cloisters, the results were extraordinary, with the students’ creations offering a glimpse into their unique perspective on the emotional challenges we all face.
Form 3 Team Building Induction Day
This year, our Form 3 students started their journey at St Benedict’s with an exciting and fun-filled team-building induction day.
The day was packed with challenges and activities designed to foster teamwork, build friendships, and help our newest Senior School pupils start their St Benedict’s adventure on a high note.
“At our team building day, we played activities like tag rugby and , netball, among other exercises that allowed us to work together as a team and enjoy a full day outside of the classroom. One of the best parts of the day was the lunch... It was amazing!” Joaquin R (F3)
Form 3 Transition to Senior School
Transitioning from primary school to secondary school marks a significant milestone for many children.
At St Benedict’s, we place great value on student voice as part of our ethos, so we turned to our newest members of the Senior School, our Form 3 students, to hear first hand about their experiences starting at St Benedict’s...
“I have made so many new friends and know that my teachers are always there if I ever need to speak to them about anything.”
Artina H-N (F3H)
“The extracurricular activities have helped me transition and meet new people and experience new clubs such as the animation club and sports facilities to help develop my confidence.” Anaya D (F3R)
“During the team-building activities, I learned lots of vital skills such as boosting each other’s morale and how to work together to achieve a common goal. It was fun and exciting and I learnt valuable skills for the future.”
Jamie L (F3)
“We did lots of activities, but my favourite one was’’capture the flag‘ because we got to compete with other forms, and my form won! After lunch we had lots of time to chat and find out about people we hadn’t had the chance to meet yet. The day was really fun and it helped me get to know some great new people!”
Uma S (F3)
“My class is so kind and I love that we have one on one meetings with our form tutors once a week as it is nice to have a check in to see how we are doing.“
Lisa K (F3R)
UKMT SENIOR MATHS CHALLENGE & MATHEMATICAL OLYMPIAD FOR GIRLS
Congratulations to the Sixth Form maths students who gained awards at two prestigious and challenging maths events this year.
UKMT Senior Maths Challenge
This year around ninety, St Benedict’s Sixth Form maths students took part in the 2024 UKMT Senior Maths Challenge on 1 October.
UKMT Challenges are tests of mathematical reasoning and mental agility aimed at the top third of students in the country. The stimulating challenge problems posed are designed to make students think. It attracts over 700,000 participants from more than 4,500 schools with only a small
Mathematical Olympiad for Girls
percentage of top scores achieving a gold or silver award.
This year’s results were extremely good once again, with forty bronze, silver and gold certificates awarded to our Sixth Form students.
Special mention to our four gold certificate winners, Lydia R, Luca C, Jake B, who also achieved best in school and Helena R, who achieved best in year.
This year, three St Benedict’s Further Maths students took part in the 2024 UK Mathematical Olympiad for Girls on 25 November.
This is held annually to encourage more girls to tackle advanced mathematical problems and take part in mathematical Olympiads. It is also used to identify students ready to engage in training for the highly prestigious European Girl’s Mathematical Olympiad.
Our participating Sixth Form students achieved 1 Merit and 1 Distinction which was an outstanding result. Congratulations to Mia V who achieved a Distinction and Evie S a Merit.
L to R: Miss Shi, (Teacher of Mathematics), Lydia R, Evie S, Mia V, Dr Robb (Head of Mathematics)
LORD PATTEN MEETS ST BENEDICT’S ACADEMIC SCHOLARS
Once again, we were delighted to welcome Lord Patten of Barnes, alumnus and Patron of St Benedict’s, to present this year’s Patten Scholarship awards on Monday 11 November.
Lord Patten, a long-standing supporter of the school, addressed academic scholars from Form 3 to Upper Sixth, along with their parents, as part of this annual celebration of academic excellence. The evening commenced with the introduction of our new Form 3 scholars to Lord Patten, followed by the welcoming of new Lower Sixth scholars.
In his speech, Lord Patten reflected on his time at St Benedict’s, acknowledging the exceptional teaching he received and its role in shaping his journey. He encouraged
students to embrace their privileges with responsibility, stating:
“With privilege comes responsibility. If you have advantages in life, you must try and put back what you gained.”
He inspired students to recognise their potential to effect meaningful change, adding:
“Don’t let anybody ever tell you you can’t make a difference. You can and you must. You owe it to those that have made sacrifices to get you here.”
The evening also featured inspiring speeches from three Upper Sixth scholars: Helena R, Louis J, and Alice M, who shared how their Patten scholarships had enabled them to explore their academic and personal interests. Alice M, who received
a special scholar award, offered heartfelt advice to younger scholars:
“Never stop asking questions, and try to find the confidence to do this. Being a scholar isn’t about knowing everything already or being perfect; it’s about a thirst for knowledge, curiosity, and an eagerness to learn from those around you. Grab every opportunity that comes your way. Many young people don’t have the privilege of such an excellent education and opportunities, so don’t lose sight of this and make the most of it.”
The evening was a testament to the academic ethos of St Benedict’s, celebrating the achievements of our scholars and inspiring all to aim high and make a positive impact on the world.
THE RED SHOES
We were truly swept off our feet on 19 and 20 November, when our Middle School students transported audiences into the hauntingly beautiful world of The Red Shoes
This dark adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale explored the gripping question: What happens when she can’t stop dancing? Set in a world both strange and familiar, the protagonist’s journey, danced past love, life, and even death before seeking a drastic end to her plight to rid her of her heart-stoppingly beautiful red shoes, mesmerising everyone who watched the performances.
We can’t wait to see what the next production has in store!
Speaking about the production, Director of Drama, Mr Randall said, “Both performances were captivating and engaging throughout, with standout performances from Sam S (L4), Elsa M-A (L4), Lottie R (L4), Reuben L (L4) and Giacomo C (L4). All the students worked incredibly hard, showing an enormous amount of commitment, dedication and professionalism throughout. I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of them and look forward to the next production.”
ST BENEDICT’S LECTURE SERIES
Mungo Dunnett: ‘Employability, Success and Happiness: Producing Young Adults Who Thrive’
We were thrilled to host leading consultant and speaker, Mungo Dunnett to St Benedict’s where he shared valuable insights on what it takes to stand out in today’s job market with our Sixth Form students.
His evening session continued where he enlightened parents on how to support their children in building successful careers.
The Peter Ackroyd Literary Society Lecture: Vanessa Beaumont presents her novel ‘The Other Side of Paradise’
At our inaugural Ackroyd Literary Society Talk on Thursday 28 November, we welcomed author Vanessa Beaumont to St Benedict’s where she was interviewed by two Upper Sixth Form students, Blu S and Effie W, about her debut novel ‘The Other Side of Paradise’
Vanessa’s warmth and enthusiasm made the evening a joyful experience. She discussed her journey into writing from studying Classics at Oxford followed by a career in publishing before she committed to a literary career.
She described her love of F Scott Fitzgerald and modernist texts such as ‘Mrs Dalloway’ and ‘Passage to India’ which informed her novel.
Head of Futures at St Benedict’s, Mrs Hopgood shares some of the key findings that are also reflected within the school:
One of the things we most frequently tell pupils in the Futures Department at St Benedict’s is that academic results are not the only predictor of a successful and happy career.
So, it was wonderful to hear some of these thoughts echoed in Mungo’s talk. Cognitive and people skills –so often misnamed soft skills and known in the St Benedict’s Futures Department as power skills – were identified as two of the three core competencies required for success. The third, ‘hard’ skills, are learned on the job or in a school, are represented by academic qualifications.
Blu and Effie asked a range of perceptive questions which encouraged Vanessa to explore how her novel draws upon themes such as freedom from social restrictions, the impact of war on society and the universal values inherent in motherhood.
Vanessa was an inspiring speaker and we all felt very privileged to have listened to her during the course of the evening.
St Benedict’s CCF leads the Ealing Remembrance Day Parade
This year, the St Benedict’s CCF, Corps of Drums, and dedicated volunteers were honoured once again to command the Ealing Borough Remembrance Parade and Service, marking the second consecutive year they have taken on this important role.
On Sunday 10 November, after weeks of meticulous practice and preparation, our CCF and Corps of Drums proudly led the proceedings. Their participation was a fitting tribute to the sacrifices made by generations past.
In a moment of solemn reflection, Headmaster Joe Smith, laid a wreath at the War Memorial, which poignantly bears the names of the many St Benedict’s alumni who served and sacrificed their lives.
It was a privilege for St Benedict’s to play a leading role in such an important community event, honouring the memory of those who gave so much.
Speaking about leading this year’s Parade, Mr Hullis, Major & Contingent Commander of St Benedict’s CCF said, “The Ealing Borough War Memorial contains the names of dozens of Old Priorians. I try to take pupils every year to sit in front of our beautiful memorial board and I tell them stories of those who went before us, and every year those stories tear at my heart. The best thing about being at the front of the Ealing parade is that no one can see when I cry.”
“I felt very privileged to be a part of the parade. The parade has always been very close to me, as my brother is also a part of it and our family watch it every year, so now being part myself makes me feel really proud.”
Rct Rocco R (L4) – Corps of Drums
As part of the Corps of Drums, and having recently attended the National Army Cadet music camp, I was very proud to lead the parade through Ealing displaying the hard work both we have put into practising our instruments and drill, especially on such an important and impactful day.”
LSgt Hannah D (Lower Sixth) –Corps of Drums
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
On Monday 11 November, we gathered for our annual Remembrance Service at Ealing Abbey to honour all who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars. Our Headmaster, Head Boy and Head Girl, along with members of our CCF laid wreaths at the altar paying tribute to those who died in conflict.
SUCCESS
Representing Great Britain, Dimitri Coutya, who attended St Benedict’s School from 2009 to 2016, became one of this year’s Paris Paralympic GB’s most successful athletes, clinching four medals from his five events.
He won individual gold medals in both the Épée and the Foil, and joined forces with teammates to claim team Épée bronze and team Foil silver.
Never having fenced before, Dimitri took up the sport when he first joined St Benedict’s at the age of 11. Here, the fencing programme enabled him to truly develop his natural skill and passion for the sport.
Speaking about his Olympic Gold win, Dimitri said, “It has been something I have dedicated my life to, especially in the last few years. There has been a lot of emotional turmoil that went into it, so for it to come to fruition, it’s not really sunk in yet.”
Headmaster, Joe Smith, commented, “What an incredible achievement! We are all so proud of our former student, Dimitri. Hopefully, his success will inspire many able-bodied and less able-bodied individuals to take up the fantastic sport of fencing, which is such a popular and thriving sport at St Benedict’s.”
US OPEN SUCCESS
We are so incredibly proud of former St Benedict’s pupil, Mika Stojsavljevic, for being crowned US Open Junior Girls’ Champion 2024.
Mika began playing tennis at the age of five at Ealing Lawn Tennis Club and now as a fifteen year old has also proceeded to make history by becoming the first British tennis player to win the US Open junior title in 15 years.
Once again, we were thrilled to welcome over fifty Year 6 students from various local primary schools to our annual Sports Activity Day in September.
The event took place at our playing fields, where students participated in a wide range of activities, including football, rugby, netball, cricket, hockey, and even fencing. Organised by our St Benedict’s sports department, this annual event provides an excellent opportunity for children who love sport to come together and develop their skills, while also giving them the chance to try new activities, have fun and meet children from other schools.
St Benedict’s Sports Activity Day for Local Primary Schools
Faith & Heritage Day
On 7 November, Junior School held a ‘Faith & Heritage Day’ – a fantastic new initiative inspired by Florence B in Lower Prep aimed at celebrating cultural differences.
The school came alive with colour as our pupils dazzled us with vibrant costumes from around the globe, embracing the multitude of backgrounds and cultures that make up our wonderful school community while at the same time raising money for the Felix Project charity.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful parents and staff who made Friday 27 September such a special day by organising, donating, and joining us for our Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning.
The event was a resounding success, raising vital funds for this incredible charity while everyone enjoyed delicious treats and warm conversation.
Macmillan Coffee Morning
REDWEDNESDAY
On Wednesday, 20 November the school came together in solidarity by wearing red for Red Wednesday. This meaningful gesture supported the Aid to the Church in Need campaign, raising funds to help young people affected by persecution and violence.
It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, with our pupils demonstrating the values of empathy and action that lie at the heart of our school.
CO-CURRICULAR SPORT
BADMINTON
For the first time ever,we have taken part in competitive badminton fixtures against other schools. Our mixed teams have competed against Godolphin & Latymer School, as well as multiple fixtures with Notting Hill & Ealing.
Students from Form 3 to Upper Fifth have enthusiastically embraced the challenge, enjoying the chance to test their skills in a competitive setting. One of the highlights has been mixing pupils from both schools into pairs, allowing them to play alongside new teammates and against their friends.
With more fixtures scheduled for next term, we look forward to seeing our players continue to grow and thrive in this exciting sport.
VOLLEYBALL
Volleyball has cemented itself as one of the most popular co-curricular sports at St Benedict’s, with an incredible forty pupils attending training after school on Fridays. Under the expert guidance of Mr Mushiso and Miss Zuhlke, students have worked hard to develop their skills and match readiness.
This term featured a thrilling fixture against the American School in London, culminating in a nail-biting deciding set;a testament to the passion and effort of both teams.
We can’t wait for the Spring term, when we look forward to more exciting matches and continued progress from our players!
NEW RUGBY PARTNERSHIP WITH EALING TRAILFINDERS
We are thrilled to announce the new rugby partnership between St Benedict’s School and Ealing Trailfinders Professional Rugby Management Ltd (ETPRM) which began in October.
Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club has launched a U16 and U18 rugby academy, the Ealing Trailfinders Elite Pathway (ETEP), and St Benedict’s is now proud to be one of their partner schools.
This partnership will greatly enhance rugby at St Benedict’s by providing access to Academy coaches and senior players throughout the season, offering our students invaluable insights and experiences.
A Pathway to Excellence
St Benedict’s ETEP students will also have the opportunity to progress beyond Sixth Form through the Trailfinders Rugby Academy pathway, which offers scholarships at affiliated universities. For our most talented players, this could pave the way to joining the professional ranks at Ealing Trailfinders.
The school is already home to four U18 ETEP Academy players: Freddy R, Tommaso P, Oliver B, and Jared B. We are also proud to highlight the achievements of Old Priorian and Ealing first-team second row, Ehize Ehizode, as a fantastic example of what’s possible through this pathway.
Under this agreement, ETPRM will promote St Benedict’s as a key route for U16 and Sixth Form players, who will be monitored for potential scholarship opportunities with the Trailfinders Academy at Brunel University.
This partnership isn’t just about players. It also provides professional development opportunities for staff, curtainraiser matches before Ealing’s men’s Championship and women’s Premiership fixtures, and plenty of chances for the school to further cement its rugby excellence in West London.
Alex Shaw, Director of Player Personnel at Ealing Trailfinders, shared his excitement:
“We are really excited to partner with St Benedict’s and champion school, academy, and professional rugby in West London. We look forward to working with talented players at the school for years to come.”
Zoran Higgins, Director of Sport at St Benedict’s, commented:
“The partnership with Ealing ETPRM is an incredibly exciting opportunity for rugby at the school. I hope this will build on the hard work of the last eight years to reinvigorate our rugby programme and ensure many more years of success.”
We look forward to watching this partnership flourish and seeing our rugby players thrive.
Ms J Duckworth, Deputy Head of History writes:
During the October half term, Sixth Form students embarked on an unforgettable trip to New York and Washington DC with the Politics department.
What followed was a week brimming with political insight, historical discovery, and plenty of walking! Thankfully, this was balanced in true American-style with plenty of food!
The trip began with 48 hours in the vibrant heart of New York City. Highlights included dazzling night time views from the Empire State Building and a poignant morning of reflection at the 9/11 Museum and Memorial. The group strolled along the High Line and enjoyed a sunny boat ride to Ellis Island, soaking up the symbolism of the American Dream.
Our final morning in New York was spent at the United Nations, where students toured this iconic institution. They even had the rare opportunity to briefly sit in on a meeting of the Economic and Social Council. When asked how they found the UN, the student’s enthusiastic verdict? “That was sick!” (Translation: insightful and invaluable, of course!)
POLITICS TRIP TO NEW YORK & WASHINGTON DC
“The St Benedict’s Politics trip was a great experience! We looked out over New York from the Empire State building, toured the United Nations headquarters (even seeing a committee in session!), and debated foreign policy in the state department. I would recommend it to anyone lucky enough to have the opportunity to go.”
Edmund H (U6)
NYC&
Following a five-hour coach ride to Washington DC – a much-needed chance to sleep and rest their weary legs – we kicked off our time in the capital with a pizza party and quiz night.
The following days were packed full of political and cultural exploration. Students toured the Capitol, visited the US Supreme Court, visited the African-American museum and walked among the iconic memorials that pepper the city.
A particularly fascinating moment was the Q&A session with diplomats at the US Department of State. Hearing directly from professionals in international relations gave our students a unique perspective on global politics.
Of course, the trip wasn’t all about politics. We enjoyed some downtime with a taste of classic American
activity embracing the thrill at an ice hockey game, where the Washington Capitals faced off against the Philadelphia Flyers. The energy and excitement of the game made it an unforgettable experience.
To round off the trip, we took a peaceful boat ride from Georgetown to Old Alexandria. Students explored this charming historic district, with its boutique shops and inviting restaurants, offering a relaxing end to an action-packed week.
Our students were exceptional ambassadors for the school, demonstrating curiosity, enthusiasm, and impeccable behaviour (even if the walking occasionally elicited a few grumbles). It was an opportunity to witness democracy in action, experience the culture and history of two incredible cities, and forge memories that will last a lifetime. This truly was an incredible American Adventure!
“Going to the US State Department and meeting US diplomats was an enriching experience. Listening to them speak about the importance and challenges of their jobs was truly fascinating.”
Conleth O’H (U6)
NYC DC&
“The Politics trip to New York and Washington was truly inspiring. As a politics student, I loved having the chance to go beyond the curriculum while still having a great time with my friends.”
Raania A (U6)
National Youth Choir
Ealing Abbey Choir Performs at Westminster Cathedral
On Saturday 12 October, the Ealing Abbey Choir, made up of talented pupils from St Benedict’s School, had the honour of singing the Saturday Vigil Mass at Westminster Cathedral.
This special occasion was made even more meaningful as our Director of Music, Mr Eastwood, a former pupil of Westminster Cathedral Choir School returned to this magnificent and familiar setting to perform once again alongside the choir.
Huge congratulations to all the pupils involved for their wonderful performance in this prestigious venue!
Over the summer, Sixth Form music students Tom S and Arthur H were invited to participate in the prestigious National Youth Choir residential course in Ascot, designed for exceptional young singers.
Throughout the course, these talented vocalists received expert guidance from National Youth Choir vocal specialists, aimed at enhancing their singing and performance abilities. This support helped them build confidence and inspired further growth in their musical aspirations.
“Singing on the NYCGB summer course in Ascot was an intense yet extremely rewarding experience. I relished the opportunity to learn from some of the best singers in the country, developing my solo
and choral singing ability, whilst being immersed in such a diverse and enthralling programme of repertoire.”
Arthur H (U6)
“The course at St Mary’s School, Ascot and was a full week of singing. It was very full on but extremely rewarding. We sang a wide range of repertoire, from Baroque polyphony to Eric Whitacre, and I enjoyed every piece that we sang. The week culminated in a scintillating final performance at Oxford Town Hall, which, if you ask anyone who was there, was an absolute triumph!”
Tom S (U6)
Ealing Abbey Choir Hits USA
During the October half term, the Ealing Abbey Choir embarked on a memorable ten-day singing tour across North America, visiting Boston, New York, and Washington DC. As well as performing at iconic venues such as St Patrick’s Cathedral, NY, the choir also sang at St Matthew’s Cathedral DC, Holy Cross Cathedral in Boston and in St Paul’s Church, Harvard Square for the Sunday Mass in partnership with the resident choir.
The Ealing Abbey Choir, a harmonious blend of six lay clerks and twenty students ranging from Form 1 in the Junior School to Lower Fourth in the Senior School, was supported by a dedicated team. The group included organist Mr Leach, chaplain Fr. Alexander, and was expertly led by Director of Music, Mr Eastwood, with Mrs McKenna and Mrs Jones accompanying the trip.
Freddie C (F3) and Millie C (F1) reported:
We left Heathrow on Friday afternoon and landed in Boston in the evening before setting off by coach to our hotel. The following day we loaded on to our yellow American school bus and went on a tour of Boston with the highlight being a visit to the Aquarium.
Sunday was a busy a busy day. We sang joint Mass with the Choir of St Paul’s, Harvard. After the Mass, the parents of the St Paul’s Choir hosted
us for lunch after which we set off for our second venue of the day, the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, where we sang a evening concert.
On Monday we set off for New Jersey where we were staying for a couple of days. During our stay, we visited the Rockefeller Centre and sang a lunchtime recital at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue. After our performance, Mr Eastwood treated us with a trip to the world-famous Toy
Shop at FAO Schwartz, where we got to play on the giant Floor piano!
The following day we took a ferry trip to the Statue of Liberty, visited Ground Zero and took a train to Times Square. That evening, we sang a concert in the Church of Our Saviour which was a fantastic venue with great acoustics for the choir.
Next, we drove to our hotel in Washington DC and had a break from singing for a couple of days –this meant that we got to see some amazing places like the Capitol Building and the Smithsonian institutions, the National Zoo and Museum of Natural History.
We had our final performance on Saturday, singing at the Cathedral of St Matthew the Apostle, where JFK’s funeral was held.
On the last day, we visited the National Space Museum before making our way to the airport and catching a flight home.
A big thank you to Ms Jones, Mrs McKenna, Fr Alexander, Mr Leach and especially Mr Eastwood for looking after us and organising this once in a lifetime experience.
Freddie’s Highlights
Singing: Church of Our Saviour –the acoustics
Sight-seeing: Ground Zero, it was very moving
Millie’s Highlights
Singing: St Patrick’s Cathedral
Sight-seeing: FAO Schwartz
On Friday 22 November, the school community came together to enjoy the annual St Cecilia Concert, a celebration of musical talent featuring captivating performances by pupils from across the school.
The evening offered a diverse programme, starting with lively choir renditions of September by Earth, Wind and Fire, What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish, and two beautifully arranged Shakespeare Songs by jazz musician George Shearing.
The PAFTIES, led by Mr Thomas, delighted the audience with their heartfelt performance of Why Do I Love You?, a piece arranged by Peter Tranchell, a former choirmaster of Mr Thomas himself.
Our Jazz ensembles, under the expert guidance of Mr Michael, were on fine form, delivering energetic performances of Valerie, I Wish, and Brother Mister
The evening’s larger ensembles continued to dazzle. The Orchestra performed a majestic rendition of the Sleeping Beauty Waltz, while the Wind Band thrilled the audience with their take on The Incredibles The Big Band added their signature flair with Seven Nation Army, and the String Group delivered a graceful performance of Khachaturian’s Waltz
We were also treated to two outstanding solo performances; Amelia D impressed us with her mature and expressive interpretation of Mvt3 from Rachmaninoff’s G Minor Sonata, while Alice M charmed the audience with her rendition of Hopelessly Devoted to You from Grease, channelling Olivia NewtonJohn’s timeless classic.
The evening was a true celebration of musical talent, showcasing the dedication, skill, and passion of our pupils and their teachers who all contributed to making this a memorable night of entertainment!
ST CECILIA CONCERT 2024
At St Benedict’s, kindness isn’t just for Kindness Week –it’s something we strive to practise every single day. It’s part of who we are, and we love seeing it shine through our amazing school.
Throughout Kindness Week, our students engaged with a range of inspiring activities, spreading positivity and kindness both in school and beyond.
To celebrate individuality, students donned odd socks, a fun reminder of the beauty in our differences. They participated in anti-bullying drama workshops, wrote thoughtful kindness notes to uplift others, and reflected deeply on the theme of respect for those around them.
The week ended on a high note with our Junior School pupils putting on a lively and joyful Flash Mob dance on the school grounds, grooving to the iconic song R.E.S.P.E.C.T.. It was a vibrant celebration of the themes explored during the week and a fantastic reminder of the power of kindness.
From small gestures to grand displays, Kindness Week proved once again that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a truly meaningful impact.
Soloists Concert
Music filled the air as our talented Pre-Prep 1 and Pre-Prep 2 students delighted everyone with their solo performances, showcasing their growing confidence and musical skills in October.
It was a truly proud moment for parents, friends and staff, as these young performers brought their talents to life on stage for the very first time. Their enthusiasm and hard work were evident in every note, marking a truly memorable celebration of their achievements.
Congratulations to all our budding musicians! We can’t wait to see how their talents continue to grow.
House Poetry Competition
As part of our Poetry Focus Week in October, which coincided with National Poetry Day, the Junior School pupils took part in a wonderfully inspiring House Poetry Performance Competition.
Over two exciting days, every child in the Junior School prepared a poem to perform, with representatives from each house selected to present in front of our esteemed judges Mr Simmons, Mrs Scott, Mrs Sweetman and Mr Jenner.
The competition showcased remarkable talent, as the children impressed the judges with their natural oration skills, delivering their chosen poems with confidence, charm, and an undeniable passion for performance.
A special congratulations goes to Bede House, whose outstanding performances earned them victory in both age categories!
Wise-Up Team Building
In September, Form 1 and Form 2 enjoyed an exciting team-building day filled with intriguing puzzles and challenges led by Wise-Up Events. The playground was transformed into a hub of problem-solving activity, as the children tackled a variety of tasks designed to test their collaboration and creativity.
Through persistence and teamwork, they discovered how to work together effectively, prioritising listening over loud voices and ensuring everyone’s ideas were heard.
It was a day full of learning, laughter, and camaraderie, setting a solid foundation for teamwork skills they will carry forward in the classroom and beyond.
We’ll Meet Again –1940s Experience
Earlier this term Forms 1 and 2 were transported back in time to the 1940s as part of their new topic, “We’ll Meet Again”, focusing on World War II.
During their visit to the Lincolnsfields Centre, pupils were fully immersed in the realities of wartime Britain. They explored a carefully recreated 1940s house and school, gaining a glimpse into daily life during that challenging era.
The visit brought history to life in vivid detail. Pupils learned about the Blitz, experienced the cramped and claustrophobic atmosphere of a real Anderson shelter.The day was both eye-opening and inspiring, leaving pupils eager to delve deeper into their studies of WWII.
Peter Bentley
Louie Stowell
Inspiration to read, to write and to think imaginatively, entertainment, dancing the Samba, singing the St Benedict’s anthem and fun were all rolled into one glorious Book Week just before half term.
Participation was the name of the game! The school was buzzing. Children from all Form groups met and interacted with authors, shared stories, entered competitions, bought books, and joined in a school wide Read In. On Friday, school uniforms were ditched, and pupils and staff alike were replaced by book characters parading around the playground in front of admiring parents before joining in a final assembly.
Outside the classroom, there were authors to engage with for every age group. “I loved the authors that came to the school, it was magical.“ said Lawrence (F2).
Children from Nursery to Pre-Prep 3 meet their authors. Chloe Inkpen bewitched the children with tales of Mrs Blackhat and Hole in the Zoo, enchanting all with her lively storytelling, drawing and calls for audience participation.
On Wednesday Peter Bently beguiled the children with his funny, imaginative, rhyming tales. Pre-Prep 2 loved making and playing a dog game which accompanied the telling
of the wacky “The Great Dog Bottom Swap” and Pre-Prep 3 quickly got the hang of writing a picture book story with Peter’s Picture Book Plan.
Wednesday’s School Read In ensured an unusual peace and quiet for half an hour in the classrooms and corridors. Later that afternoon, many children enjoyed choosing and buying books at the Travelling Books Book Fair with over £900 worth of books bought!
Tuesday and Thursday fielded authors for Lower Preps upwards to enjoy. “Super funny” Ben Lyttleton wowed all with his energy, “interactivity,” positivity, and encyclopedic knowledge of football and his use of these to entertain and get children dancing, acting, and thinking about how the world works.
Thursday was devoted to the world of Norse mythology and comic illustration with the lively visit of the vibrant Louie Stowell, author of the Loki series.
Inside the classroom more activities were taking place throughout the week. Teachers, including both Heads of the Junior and of the Senior School, shared favourite reads, discussed books, or acted out stories with classes. Children in all the older classes visited and read special stories to the younger ones, always a popular activity. “I really enjoyed reading to the PP3s. It was an amazing experience” said Sofia (2S).
Finally on Friday, school was emptied of staff and pupils to be replaced by colourful book characters including Professor Dumbledore, a T-rex, the BFG, Percy Jackson, Elmer, Wally, Gretel, Pippi Longstocking, Princesses, the Tiger who Came to Tea et al.
The parade around the playground before admiring parents “was really fun!” said Aariyan (UPM) .“It was fun to work out who everybody was“ said William (UPP).
Having been stimulated to read more widely, the children summed up a momentous week:
“Basically, I loved everything.”–Isabella (UPP).
“It inspired me to read more. Over half-term I finished two Sherlock Holmes (very big books)!” –Freya (UPP).
“I really liked Book Week and can’t wait for Book Week 2025!” – Riaan (UPP).
A win on all counts. Thank you to all who made this Book Week hum!
Mrs Sweetman – Junior School Librarian
Senior School Book Week
Senior School enjoyed an incredible Book Week, filled with activities designed to celebrate and nurture a love of reading.
The week featured everything from exciting competitions to inspiring talks by author Steve Cole and illustrator Elena Vitagliano, whose insights into storytelling and creativity captivated our students.
Senior School pupils also visited the Junior School to share stories about friendship, creating a heart-warming connection across the school community.
Elena Vitagliano
Chloe
Inkpen
Ben Lyttleton
During the first week of December, we were treated to enactments of The Nativity over four consecutive days. Our Junior School pupils from Nursery through to PP3 delighted us with their heart-warming performances, showcasing their wonderful singing and acting skills in front of audiences filled with family and loved ones.
Well done to everyone who took part!
NATIVITIES
ST BENEDICT’S
SPORT
RUGBY
Rugby at St Benedict’s has returned this year with boundless energy and enthusiasm, kicking off an exciting season of teamwork, competition, and skill development.
Our newest pupils in Form 3 have embraced their rugby journey at St Benedict’s with determination, laying a strong foundation for future success. Their enthusiasm and dedication have been truly inspiring.
U13: Middlesex Schools Rugby Cup Champions!
The U13 team has enjoyed a phenomenal season, culminating in victory at the Middlesex Schools Rugby Cup. They triumphed in the First Phase Group with wins over Latymer Upper School, Fulham Boys School, and Isleworth & Syon. Building on this success, they remained unbeaten in the Cup Final Group, defeating Halliford School (25-10), London Oratory School (20-15), and Hampton School (20-0). Their exceptional teamwork and skill have been a credit to the school.
The 1st XV team has also delivered a remarkable season so far. Since half-term, they have maintained an unbeaten run, securing victories over Shiplake College, St John’s Leatherhead, John Fisher School, and Tiffin. These matches have highlighted the team’s determination and flair, making for some thrilling rugby.
While rugby at St Benedict’s is steeped in tradition, we continue to evolve alongside the game itself. Our new partnership with Ealing
Trailfinders (ETPRM) is a particularly exciting development, offering pupils access to coaching from Academy coaches and professional players during games lessons. This complements our ongoing work with Premiership Academies such as Harlequins and Saracens RFC.
Rugby continues to thrive at St Benedict’s, providing pupils with the chance to grow as athletes, teammates, and individuals. Here’s to many more successes on and off the field!
U13A – Middlesex Schools Rugby Cup winners
HOCKEY
It’s been a great season so far for our 1st XI Hockey Team, who have notched up an impressive 17 wins from 18 matches, scoring a staggering 107 goals along the way. A special mention goes to Gabby G, who has scored an amazing 24 goals, closely followed by Brianna J-E with 19, and our exceptional captain Maria G, who has contributed 16 goals to the tally.
The team narrowly missed out on another shot at a national title, losing to Latymer Upper in a tense penalty shootout after the final of the London Regional round ended 0-0. Undeterred, they have used this experience as motivation and have progressed to the 3rd round of the ISHC Plate with impressive wins against strong opposition.
CROSS COUNTRY
This September, the St Benedict’s cross-country team achieved an exciting milestone by competing in the prestigious English Schools Cross Country Cup for the very first time.
Our U13A team has also had a strong start to the season. They secured a dramatic win against long-standing rivals Godolphin & Latymer in the Independent Schools Hockey Competition. After a 1-1 draw, the game went to penalties, where the girls triumphed 3-1 in a nail-biting shootout. They are now through to the last 16 and will embark on their London County round in the final weeks of term.
The Junior boys’ team delivered an outstanding performance, securing 5th place in a highly competitive field against some of the strongest teams in the region. This fantastic result underscores the team’s dedication and marks a significant step forward for the school’s athletics program. Their success has also inspired younger students, sparking growing enthusiasm for cross-country across the school.
In October, 34 St Benedict’s athletes participated in the South East Schools Cross Country Competition at Harrow School, producing some exceptional individual performances.
• Fletcher W (U4) secured an impressive 7th place in the junior boys’ race.
• Susannah O’S (U5) achieved 11th place in the intermediate girls’ category.
The U12A team continues to shine as well, finishing as runners-up in their London County round and earning a spot in the regionals, which will take place in March 2025. In their final county game against Belmont, the team held their nerve to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory, ensuring their progression. Bring on the next rounds!
• Maggie W (U4) put in a strong showing, finishing 27th in the junior girls’ race.
The junior girls’ team collectively earned a commendable 6th place out of 20 schools.
At the Ealing Schools Cross Country Competition, the boys’ team celebrated a dominant victory, with three students qualifying to represent St Benedict’s at the London Youth Games.
Looking ahead, the squad is preparing for the Middlesex selection trials in January and the cross-country relays in March. These achievements reflect the athletes’ hard work and the expert guidance of their coaches, as crosscountry continues to thrive and grow at St Benedict’s.
FENCING
Fencing at St Benedict’s has been thriving this term, with over 200 pupils taking part on a weekly basis, including nearly 40 newcomers eager to learn their new sport.
The enthusiasm for fencing continues to grow, with St Benedict’s fielding 34 teams competing in over 70 matches against nearly 20 different schools where our pupils have triumphed in numerous matches, including victories over schools such as Westminster, Eton, Whitgift, Brentwood, St Paul’s, and Harrow. This active participation is a testament to the talent and dedication of our fencers, who have represented the school with pride and professionalism.
The U13 Epée A team, captained by Dan R, has been particularly successful having kept a clean sheet all term. Fencing captain, Oubai C, has notably helped increase attendance at training helped by the respective Epée and Foil captains Matthew C and Brandon A.
St Benedict’s fencers have continued to enjoy impressive success in competitions, with many pupils competing at regional, national, and even international levels with several having earned national ranking across various age
categories, highlighting the depth of talent within our teams.
The ongoing success of our fencing programme reflects the hard work and commitment of our fencers, coaches, and support staff, and we look forward to even greater achievements in the term ahead.
We also take this opportunity to wish two of our most successful A team fencers William P and Yuta F the best of luck as they move to Australia and Japan respectively. Both William and Yuta have captained countless teams to victory at fixtures and even national championships and we hope to visit them on tour in the years to come!
NETBALL
Netball at St Benedict’s has enjoyed an action-packed and exciting term, with both our 1st VII team and U15A team delivering impressive performances and showing incredible progress on and off the court.
The 1st VII team showcased their determination at the prestigious Middlesex Tournament, where they narrowly missed out on a top spot. Despite finishing 2nd on points and 4th on goal difference, their performance marked a significant improvement from their earlier outing at the Gordons Tournament. While the final result
NETBALL SUCCESSES
Pulse and Maverick successes this term
This term, three of our gifted netball players had the exciting opportunity to attend trials for the Pulse and Maverick development pathways. These prestigious programmes are designed to nurture exceptional young athletes, offering them the chance to further develop their skills and gain invaluable experience at a higher level of competition.
We are immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing their netball journeys flourish in the coming seasons!
was disappointing, their growth, teamwork, and competitive spirit throughout the season were a testament to their hard work.
We congratulate the 2nd VII team who showcased their exceptional skill and teamwork by claiming victory at the Fulham Tournament. This achievement highlights the incredible depth of talent within St Benedict’s and the commitment of our players to excellence on the court.
“Performing well in a trial situation is always challenging. This year, I was successful in getting into the London Mavericks U19 Player Development Pathway 2024. This has been a new experience for me, but I’ve loved the opportunity to push myself and develop my gameplay. The training is really intense and performance-driven while also focusing on uplifting your teammates. I look forward to seeing how being in the Pathway will progress throughout the year.”
Connie (1st VII)
The U15A team also had a stellar term, finishing joint 1st VII at Middlesex after an unbeaten run; a remarkable achievement! Though their final placing came down to goal difference, narrowly missing out on a finals spot, the team’s cohesion and skill were evident in every match.
In other competitions, both teams continued their success. The 1st VII team progressed to the third round of the Sisters in Sport Plate, while the U15A team reached the second round of the Bowl, providing further opportunities to build on their achievements this term.
This has been a term of tremendous progress for our netball teams, filled with both individual and team achievements. We can’t wait to see how the rest of the season unfolds.
“Getting into Pulse was great news for me. The sessions have been great, they have helped massively with improving my individual weakness in netball and I am excited for the season ahead.” Marti (2nd VII)
“My trial for Pulse U17 was quite nervewracking, especially when I saw the number of people. I played about six matches, and overall, I think I played well. I was hoping to get into the PDP, but I’m happy with what I got which was the “Power Up Programme,” held twice a month until December.
Arabella (U15)
FOOTBALL
Football has made an exciting debut at St Benedict’s this year, marking a significant milestone in the school’s sporting history.
The introduction of football has already generated a tremendous buzz, with pupils across various year groups embracing the opportunity to participate and compete.
Sixth Form students in the 1st XI and 2nd XI have been at the forefront of the sport, competing in over 13 fixtures against other schools. Their enthusiasm and commitment have set a strong foundation for the future of football at St Benedict’s ending this term on a high, with an amazing first ever victory for a St Benedict’s U18 team against Winchester College.
Continuing their winning streak, the U18 1st XI secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Shiplake at the end of November. Gabriel D delivered an outstanding performance, scoring twice, with George C adding the third goal to seal the win. Player of the match, Gabriel S exemplified the team’s fantastic effort and determination throughout the game.
Meanwhile, the girls in Years 7 to 13 have begun honing their football skills during morning and lunchtime sessions at Football Club. The turnout has been exceptional, with students eagerly embracing the opportunity to develop their abilities and enjoy the game in a supportive and energetic environment.
The Girls U13 football team had an impressive 4-2 victory against St Augustine’s in their first competitive match at the end of November, while our U12 Girls battled fiercely against St Augustines, showcasing resilience and determination in a close 4-3 loss.
We are extremely proud of both teams for their dedication and sportsmanship in their first competitive matches!
For the Year 7 and 8 boys, pre-season training has already begun. The commitment and talent on display is already promising, with these young players showing tremendous potential as they begin their football journeys at St Benedict’s.
Head of Football, Mr Matsuzaka writes, “The introduction of football aligns with St Benedict’s mission to provide inclusive opportunities for all pupils to explore their interests and excel in their chosen activities. As the programme continues to grow, we look forward to seeing how our pupils develop their skills and passion for the sport.”
JUNIOR SCHOOL FOOTBALL
A Historic Start for U11 Football at St Benedict’s
This term marked an exciting milestone as our U11 girls’ team played their first-ever football match for St Benedict’s. In a thrilling away game against Durston House, the girls showed great skill and determination, drawing 7-7 in an action-packed match. We’re excited to see how their football journey develops throughout the year.
Meanwhile, the U11 boys’ team made a fantastic debut in their first Football Tournament, also hosted by Durston House. Competing against eight other schools, the boys showcased incredible teamwork and effort to secure an impressive second place in the tournament.
Both teams have made a brilliant start, and we’re looking forward to seeing their continued progress and success in the coming months!
Oscar R, 1st XI Captain writes: The First XI team have played several action-packed games with narrow scorelines throughout.
Early on in the season, we played against Drayton Manor, Cardinal Vaughan and Hampton, where we performed some of our better football going 2-1 up by the end of the first half.
Whilst the final score was a narrow 4-2 loss, we were all happy with the new style of football we were playing and were starting to work well as a newly formed team playing against some really well-established teams who had been playing together for several years.
We had a rocky first half against Salesian College, but in the second half, we formed a strong sense of resilience as the team brought the game back to 6-5. Player of the Match went to Marco M with notable performances from Luca C and Sebastian D, who were both on the score sheet.
The 2nd XI team also had some very good games, they played a great match against Hampton, despite the score, but a fantastic and very competitive game against Salesian College, bringing the first points to Senior football with a draw of 2-2.
However, the highlight of the season came on 16 November, with the 1st XI team making history with a the first ever Senior victory in a tight, action-packed U18 game against Winchester College. We played some very good defensive football after leading 1-0 up in the first half thanks to Gabriel S, and a great winning goal from George C at the end to clinch a 2-1 victory.
A new formation playing a defensive game, led to a well-deserved Player of the Match performance from James S.
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT
FENCING
This term, Junior School fencing has truly hit the ground running! We were thrilled to welcome six new Form 1 fencers, all of whom have embraced the sport with tremendous enthusiasm.
Our seasoned fencers have also enjoyed great success, securing victories in block fixtures against Highgate and Brentwood schools. Special recognition goes to Ernest O and Zak V, whose outstanding performances on the national circuit have earned them spots at both regional and national levels.
With such a strong start, we’re excited to see what the Lent term holds, with plenty of fixtures and tournaments on the horizon.
HOCKEY
On Friday, 15 November, we hosted our annual Junior School U11 Hockey Tournament.
Our U11 team played some excellent hockey throughout the tournament but narrowly missed out on victory, with Orley Farm taking the top spot this year.
Meanwhile, our U10 pupils have had a remarkable term. They have worked hard to master core skills such as push passing, trapping, and ball carrying, and have progressed to more advanced techniques like reverse stick stopping and passing.
This term, they have enjoyed competitive fixtures against Orley Farm, Manor Lodge, Claire’s Court, and Notting Hill & Ealing schools. Their dedication and improvement have been incredible to witness, and they are becoming a team to watch in the future!
We’re immensely proud of all our players for their hard work and commitment this term.
RUGBY
The Junior School boys have enjoyed an exciting Rugby season so far, with Form 1 and Form 2 competing in numerous matches against strong teams, including St Paul’s, UCS, St John’s Northwood, St John’s Beaumont, Haberdashers’, and Belmont Prep.
Form 1 Highlights
For the Form 1 boys, the introduction of rucking has added an exciting new dimension to their gameplay, and the team has risen to the challenge with enthusiasm and determination.
Standout performances this season include Leo R, Arlo F, and Afonso R-G, who have demonstrated skill and commitment on the field. Head of Junior Boys’ PE and Games, Mr Jukes, also highlighted the exceptional efforts of Shay P and Rufus W in a thrilling match against St Paul’s. Meanwhile, Mr Coles praised John K for his consistent hard work throughout the season.
Form 2 Highlights
The Form 2 boys have embraced the new skill of kicking, taking to it with great enthusiasm. Known for their love of running and offloading Rugby – a hallmark of St Benedict’s style – they have continued to develop their skills and enjoy their matches.
Special mentions go to Leo J, Sammy G and Aran V for their outstanding efforts and contributions to the team this year.
Well done to all the players for a fantastic season!
CROSS COUNTRY
On 3 October, our F1 and F2 pupils enthusiastically took part in the Ealing Junior School Cross Country event held at Berkley Playing Fields. Competing against more than 500 young runners, a strong squad of 32 pupils proudly represented St Benedict’s, demonstrating determination and teamwork throughout the races.
The school achieved an impressive third place overall, with standout performances from Arlo and Afonso (F1) and Leo (F2), all finishing in the top 20, and Rayan (F2), who secured a fantastic spot in the top 10. In the girls’ races, Evie, Philippa, Kara, and Sienna (all F2) delivered excellent runs, each finishing within the top 30.
Congratulations to all our runners for their effort and enthusiasm!
DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
NEWS
Dear Families,
Thank you to everyone who supported and attended our annual Fireworks Party before half term. We are delighted to share that the event raised an impressive £4,500 towards our annual Bursary Appeal. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening for our entire school community and a fantastic way to launch the Annual Fund 2024/25.
Celebrating Old Priorian Paralympic Success
We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of Old Priorian Dimitri Coutya (OP 2016), who won two Gold medals, one Silver, and one Bronze medal at the Paralympic Games in Paris this summer.
Congratulations to Dimitri on his extraordinary accomplishments!
Visit and Lecture by Chris Pullen (OP 2017)
We extend our thanks to Old Priorian Chris Pullen, who delivered an engaging careers talk to our students this term in the Helikon Centre. After leaving St Benedict’s, Chris pursued a degree in mechanical engineering at City University and now works at the National Physical Laboratory. His inspiring talk offered valuable insights into his career journey and the exciting work he does.
CCF Foundation Dinner – Save the Date!
St Benedict’s will host the CCF Foundation Dinner on 24th January 2025, marking 95 years of our Combined Cadet Force. We warmly invite you to join us for this special occasion. To book your place or for more information, please contact Shaun Hullis at shullis@stbenedicts.org.uk
As we approach the festive season, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Best wishes,
Mrs Tara George Director of Communications
Thank you to all our Old Priorians who came to visit us or retuned to offer careers advice and insights this term.
2025 Dates for Diary: Old Priorian Oxford & Cambridge Reunion Dinner: Friday 17 January
Annual CCF Dinner: Friday 25 January
Annual OPA Sports Festival: Friday 28 March
Annual OPA Golf Day: Friday 13 June
Antonia Sewell Chris King (OP 2020) (OP 1960)
Anthony Polydorou (OP 1993)
ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL
