HEADMASTERS’ INTRODUCTIONS
‘The trees are coming into leaf…’
It feels as if this winter has been a particularly long and gruelling one, and I’m sure I’m not alone in welcoming the first signs of spring.
The dark and the cold have been dispelled, however by the light and joy that St Benedict’s students demonstrate in their endeavours and achievements, provide some much needed ‘sunshine’ in those winter days. The sheer number and quality of those achievements are too great for me to list here, but I will mention a few.
The senior school production of Our House was a joyous, slick tour de force. The dance show (with the exception of the two headmasters’ cameos) was a wonderful celebration of physical accomplishment and diversity.
In the academic life and ‘super-curricular’ life of the school we have seen great successes in the UKMT Maths Challenge and, from our Computer Science students, in the Vex Robotics UK nationals: I was treated to a personal demonstration of their robot in my study!
Just last week, as I write, I was privileged to attend the inauguration of one of our CCF cadets, Hannah Dormann, as Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Greater London for next year – a wonderful honour for Hannah, her family, the CCF and the school.
A few weeks ago now, we were treated to an incredible standard of music making in the Music Festival, and more recently, in the Junior School spring concert: Sweet Caroline really got the crowd on its feet!
I thoroughly enjoyed the recent Science Fair and talking to students about their fascinating research into topics as diverse as the benefits of silk pillows and the effect of music on emotions.
There has been far too much sporting effort and achievement to list here, but we should note our success on a national stage with one of our students achieving a silver medal in a national athletics championship for long jump.
I hope you enjoy reading about all the wonderful achievements of our students – your children – and looking at the excellent photos in this fine publication.
I wish you and your families a happy and blessed Easter season.
Joe Smith Headmaster
Dear Parents,
I am sure that you and your children have enjoyed the warm weather of late, as we leave winter behind us and cherish the promise that the season of spring brings.
The final term of the academic year is within touching distance, and the children can look back with pride upon what has been achieved during the Lent term. The creative curriculum topics (Out of the Egg – Nursery and Pre-Prep 1; Fire, Fire! – Pre-Prep 1 and Pre-Prep 2; Hard Times (Lower Prep and Upper Prep); and Ice Worlds (Form 1 and Form 2) have once more been embraced with enthusiasm by the girls and boys, and the assorted trips to Gunnersbury Museum and London Zoo proved to be memorable and popular. Mathematics Week was a great success, with a real buzz around the Junior School and Nursery as the pupils participated in workshops and completed mathematics challenges, culminating in the themed mathematics assemblies just prior to half term. The children and adults will have fond memories of watching Mr Field (drums), Mr Laffey, and Mr Wright (vocals) performing a mathematics song that was reminiscent (without infringing copyright) of Queen’s ‘We Will Rock You’.
We enjoyed welcoming current parents and grandparents to the Work Sharing Afternoon. The children are always so excited about having the chance to show their family around the Junior School and Nursery. The children also rose to the occasion splendidly during the Dance Show, the Lenten Assemblies, the Lenten Reflection, the School Challenge Quest Final, and the Spring Music Concert. The talent on display has been impressive, and it is lovely to see the children engaging with such confidence and verve. Sports fixtures (fencing, football, rugby, and tennis) brought pleasure to many in Key Stage 2, with the children concerned giving a good account of themselves whilst representing the school.
Thank you for being so supportive of the annual St Benedict’s Charity Fundraising Day, which raised funds for i) CAFOD, ii) Epilepsy Society, and iii) Ealing Churches’ Winter Night Shelter.
I wish you a blessed and peaceful Easter.
Rob Simmons Junior School Headmaster
DEVELOPING THINKING SKILLS THROUGH HIGH PERFORMANCE LEARNING
In today’s fast-changing world, explicit development of thinking skills such as analysing, linking, creating along with personal qualities such as resilience and perseverance, is becoming just as important – if not more so – than subject knowledge itself.
At St Benedict’s, we are committed to fostering these essential skills in our students, ensuring they are equipped for lifelong learning and success.
Two of our teachers, Mr MacGinty (History) and Miss Bartholomew (Chemistry), have introduced an
innovative approach using HPL skill cards (High Performance Learning) to help students recognise and develop the crucial thinking skills needed by High Performing learners.
High Performance Learning in Action
In a L5 History class, Mr MacGinty used the HPL cards to guide students in evaluating historical sources. By matching the skills displayed on the cards to their analytical process, students became more aware of how they were thinking as historians – questioning reliability, making connections between sources, and forming well-supported arguments.
Meanwhile, in a Lower Sixth Chemistry lesson, Miss Bartholomew set up interactive stations, each with a set of HPL skill cards. Students worked in pairs to complete tasks and identify the thinking skills they were applying.
Why This Matters
This HPL card-based approach seamlessly integrates advanced thinking skills into everyday learning, making their development both
visible and intentional. By identifying and naming the skills they are honing in each subject, students take ownership of their learning, gaining a deeper understanding of why they are learning in a particular way. This reinforces the idea that thinking skills are not only transferable but also essential for success throughout their education and beyond.
As a result, students leave St Benedict’s equipped not only with strong subject knowledge but also with the critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities essential for success in higher education and their future careers.
ST BENEDICT’S DAY 2025
On Friday 21 March, the entire St Benedict’s community came together to celebrate St Benedict’s Day, a special occasion that highlights the strength of our Benedictine ethos and the spirit of togetherness across all year groups, from Pre-Prep to Sixth Form.
The day began with a whole-school Mass, celebrated by Bishop Michael Campbell, offering a moment of collective reflection and gratitude.
The afternoon was filled with students taking part in numerous fundraising events, from Sumo football, sponge the teacher, and karaoke to temporary tattoos, face painting, and feasting on an array of delicious sweet treats.
This year, our fundraising efforts supported three meaningful causes; CAFOD, The Parish Lenten Project – Ealing Churches Winter Night Shelter and The Epilepsy Society, in memory of Johanna Flade (OP 2016).
Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of our students and staff, the event was a tremendous success, raising an impressive £7,000 for these charities. St Benedict’s Day remains a cherished tradition, celebrating faith, community, and the power of giving back.
Lower Sixth Students Visit Parliament: A First-Hand Insight into Politics
At the beginning of February, our Lower Sixth Politics students had the incredible opportunity to visit Parliament, gaining a fascinating insight into the workings of government and democracy.
James S – L6 Politics student writes: “During the visit, we met with three prominent political figures: Gregory Stafford MP, Aphra Brandreth MP, and Lord Duncan of Springbank for a Q&A session. Each speaker offered valuable perspectives on key political issues, sharing their experiences and discussing the challenges of modern governance.
It was fascinating to hear how Aphra Brandreth’s experience as a business owner had influenced her
career as a politician, while Lord Duncan of Springbank, a member of the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee, provided a thought-provoking discussion on the UK’s energy strategy.
Gregory Stafford MP’s talk was particularly engaging, as he is a former student of our school. He shared his inspiring journey from education to politics, highlighting how his time at school helped shape his interests and ambitions. After a career in business and local government, he eventually entered Parliament, emphasising the importance of perseverance, public service, and staying connected to the community.
A highlight of the trip was watching Questions to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, from the House of Commons public gallery. This allowed us to witness the democratic process in action, as ministers were held accountable and key issues were openly debated by MPs. Adding to the excitement, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, was also present in the chamber, making the experience even more memorable.
Overall, the visit to Parliament provided an enriching and unique opportunity for us to deepen our understanding of the political system, engage with political figures and witness the democratic process in action.”
VEX UK Nationals 2025
Our team of Lower Sixth students took on the challenge of the VEX V5 Robotics Competition ‘High Stakes 2024–25’ and the UK Nationals in Telford – an incredible opportunity to develop STEM expertise, teamwork, and problemsolving skills.
Competing at the UK Nationals provides a national platform to showcase talent, connect with like-minded peers, and network with industry professionals – an experience that not only inspires but also enhances future academic and career prospects. Beyond the technical skills, our participants gain confidence, resilience, and the thrill of competing at the forefront of robotics innovation.
After months of meticulous designing, building, testing, and coding, our team proudly unveiled StB-Optimus, their competition-ready robot, to our Headmaster in an exclusive preview ahead of the competition.
Here is what the team said about competing:
Jake B: “Building a robot from scratch has been a challenging yet rewarding leap into the world of mechanical engineering and development testing. We were fortunate to meet with other competitors at the Nationals, with whom we were able to share information and learn from like-minded individuals.”
Alfie S: “Competing in the Vex V5 competition has opened my eyes to the endless horizon of computer science as hardware and software intertwined to create a formidable robot. Our mechanical machine has shown me the results of hard work, dedication and countless hours of work. I was ecstatic to find out that we had qualified for the Nationals involving the top 40 teams in the country. I am exhilarated to be competing next year with all my knowledge and want to aim even higher next year.”
Milo S: “Competing in High Stakes 2025 has been a fast-paced, exciting journey, allowing for us to engage in a hands-on exploration of technology and engineering. We faced many challenges, and it was great fun overcoming our failures, and ending up on a final solution we were proud of.”
Henry Y: “Participating in the VEX V5 Robotics competition was an incredible experience that challenged my problem-solving and teamwork skills. Working with a group of dedicated teammates, we spent countless hours designing, building, and programming our robot to compete against other amazing teams from across the country. The excitement of watching our robot performing (sometimes) as expected in the field and the thrill of seeing our hard work pay off was truly unforgettable!”
SCIENCE FAIR
“The senior school Science Fair was a fantastic success this year, showcasing, creativity, curiosity and dedication. Our L4 students worked hard refining their projects, ready to present to over 250 visitors including children from local primary schools and our own Form 2 pupils.
From materials and food science, to sports science, environmental studies, and engineering, each project reflected thoughtful research, careful planning, and a passion for discovery. With bright and engaging presentations, our students truly brought science to life!”
Ms Patriche Bartholomew – Teacher of Chemistry
“The science fair was a very interesting and creative experience, it challenged us in many different ways.”
McKayle A
“We enjoyed having the freedom to explore and research our chosen topic.” Carla C, Lily & Isobel C
“We enjoyed explaining our topic to the younger generation!” Asmitha V & Eva K
Winners
[A] Reyansh A, Dan R and Luis P: Parachute Drop Test
Highly commended
[B] Aayush B, Faizan E and Shaan D: How sounds affect focus
[C] Henry W, Tadhg F and Ronnie S: How do Customer Manners Affect the Amount of Food Given
[D] Lottie R, Elena F and Valentina S: Big Bears
Commended
[E] Harvey B and Mylo L: Matchbox Machines
CCF
With over 130 active Cadets this term, our CCF has been as busy as ever, marking important milestones and undertaking impressive challenges.
On 24 January, we celebrated the 95th anniversary of our foundation with our annual Foundation Dinner. Oliver Elliott (OP 2009), an Army Reservist and officer in our Contingent, delivered an inspiring talk on lessons in leadership.
February saw our 2024 Recruits take to the field for Exercise Recruit Thunder IV, where they braved the coldest night of the year so far. This was immediately followed by Exercise Winter’s Bite IX for our senior Cadets – a longer, more demanding challenge that few CCF units attempt.
The momentum continued the following weekend, with members of the Corps of Drums attending the London District Music Camp, earning advanced qualifications and high praise from organisers.
It has been a fantastic term of dedication, resilience, and achievement for our Cadets and we look forward to the challenges ahead!
St Benedict’s Student Appointed Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet 2024–2025
We are honoured that Sixth Form student, Hannah D (L6) a Sergeant in our CCF, was appointed Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet 2024–2025 for Greater London.
In addition to this prestigious role, Hannah has also been selected to represent the entire Combined Cadet Force on duty at this year’s King’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour) later this year in June.
Hannah received her award at the Lord-Lieutenant and Greater London RFCA Award Ceremony on 13 March. Cadets chosen for this honour are recognised for their exceptional leadership, dedication to duty, and service to both their unit and the wider community.
As the only CCF cadet from London appointed this year, Hannah will have the unique opportunity to attend several highprofile official events, representing both St Benedict’s and the CCF at a national level.
We congratulate Hannah on this incredible appointment and look forward to seeing her take on this prestigious role.
Speaking about Hannah’s remarkable achievement, Mr Hullis, Contingent Commander of St Benedict’s CCF said, “We are all extremely proud of Hannah. In her year group she stands head and shoulders above the rest, in her reliability and willingness to do more than is asked of her. Sgt Dormann is a shining example to the rest of our Contingent.”
“It was an honour to attend such an unforgettable evening filled with recognition, camaraderie, and celebration of service.”
Hannah D
95th anniversary Foundation Dinner
Exercise Winter’s Bite IX
UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge
This year’s UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge results were once again exceptional for St Benedict’s students, with 81 Bronze, Silver, and Gold certificates awarded across U4, L5, and U5 – the best set of IMC results achieved in recent years.
A remarkable ten students achieved Gold Certificates, with Shuhan H (L5) earning the Best in School award with an outstanding score of 129. Mehdi D (L5) also achieved an exceptional score of 112, while Samuel L (L5) recorded an impressive 103.
Both Shuhan and Mehdi have been automatically invited to participate in the prestigious Hamilton Olympiad, and five students progressed to the next round of the competition, which took place in late March – results are expected at the end of April.
The UKMT Challenges are renowned tests of mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, designed for the top third of students nationwide. With over 700,000 participants from 4,500 schools, only a small percentage advance to the Olympiad events, making these achievements even more impressive.
Congratulations to all our students on their outstanding mathematical success!
St Benedict’s Pupils Shine at the 10th Annual West London Model United Nations Conference
“On Saturday 1 February, a team of eight St Benedict’s students representing several countries took part in the 10th Annual West London Model United Nations (MUN) conference, held at the American School in London.
Following the opening address, the committees got underway, and St Benedict’s delegates made a strong impression across a variety of global issues. Sophie R delivered a compelling opening speech on behalf of Russia, addressing the ‘Education Crisis,’ while other students tackled pressing topics such as deforestation, child refugee protection, and water insecurity.
A special commendation goes to the following students for their outstanding contributions, earning well-deserved recognition:
• James M (U6) – ‘Honourable Mention’ for Russia in the UN International Children’s Emergency Fund Executive
• Krisha P (U5) – ‘Honourable Mention’ for Greece in the Crisis Committee on Water Insecurity
• Matthew C (U6) – ‘Most Diplomatic’ for Germany in the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation concerning the Education Crisis
All the students should be applauded for their dedication, diplomacy, and problem-solving skills. Their impressive performances exemplify the school’s commitment to fostering global awareness and leadership.”
Mr Michael Joyce, Head of History and Politics
During this year’s ‘Icons’ Dance Show, students of all ages came together to perform a dynamic showcase of dance styles demonstrating their creativity, passion and dedication.
Over a two night run, our talented dancers from PP1 to Sixth Form took to the stage to perform high-energy routines to songs by legendary artists, including Tina Turner, ABBA, Michael Jackson and The Beatles, where they wowed the audience with their energy, talent, and commitment.
“We were bursting with pride as our 160 dance students lit up the stage during the school dance production, Icons. Each performer dazzled, showcasing their talent, dedication, and passion. It was a truly unforgettable evening that brought both smiles and tears to the audience!”
Ms Ruth Kestenbaum, Head of Dance
“The dance show plays a significant role in giving me confidence and the ability to express myself in all areas of life. For me, the show has been integral part of school life experience and one that I will always remember.”
Krisha P (U5)
“The dance show this year was really fun, dancing with friends, mixing with other year groups and seeing all the amazing talent on stage. It was a very enjoyable experience and I loved seeing all the wonderful costumes, hair and makeup and everyone’s hard work come together.” Aimee P (L5)
“It was a stunning showcase of creativity and art. All the children worked so hard, delivering very slick performances with true flair. CONGRATS to all.... and well done to the school. My three daughters are thriving there.”
St Benedict’s parent
DANCE SHOW 2025
Junior School Spring Concert: Music for a Sporting Occasion
This year’s Junior School Spring Concert was a truly memorable celebration of music, as pupils delivered a fantastic performance of ‘Music for a Sporting Occasion’.
“The students’ hard work, energy, and enthusiasm filled the hall, creating an atmosphere that was felt by all,culminating in a well-deserved standing ovation from the audience! Every performer should feel incredibly proud of their achievement, whether they were singing as part of the whole school or performing in one of the many impressive ensembles. It was
inspiring to see so many talented young musicians sharing the stage.”
Mr Dominic Field, Head of Junior School Music
“This year’s Spring Concert was one of my favourites! My two top songs were “Eye of the Tiger” and “Seven Nation Army” because I listen to them a lot, and it was so exciting to perform them on stage.I also loved the theme, ‘Music for a Sporting Occasion’, because St Benedict’s is great at sports, and it all linked together very well. There were lots of fantastic ensembles, like the Brass Trio, Guitar Group, String and Trad Group, Percussion Ensemble, Samba Band, and the Junior School Orchestra. They played their own pieces, and they were so impressive! I really enjoyed being part of my final Junior School Spring Concert. At the end, all the parents’ jaws were practically on the ground from how hard we worked together in the concert and it is all thanks to our hardworking music teacher, Mr Field.”
Ruby H (Form 2)
“The Spring Concert was really well-planned, and all the classes did a great job learning the songs, especially the tricky ones like the “Olympic Hymn”! This is my last year in Junior School, I felt incredibly proud to serve as one of the music ambassadors.
We put in a lot of effort to make this concert a success, and it felt really special when the audience gave us a standing ovation at the end! I’m especially thankful to Mr Field for constantly encouraging us and bringing out the best in all of us.”
Vihaan M (Form 2)
MIDDLE SCHOOL ART SHOW
This year’s Middle School Art Show was a fantastic celebration of talent, collaboration, and creativity from our Form 3 and Lower and Upper Fourth students.
From striking paintings and intricate sketches to imaginative sculptures and mixed-media pieces, the exhibition displayed an impressive range of artistic styles and techniques admired by St Benedict’s parents and children from local primary schools.
The Art Show was a wonderful opportunity for our students to showcase their artistic talents and share their passion for creativity, inspiring young artists of the future.
OUR HOUSE
Over its three-night run, the St Benedict’s School adaptation of Tim Firth’s coming of age musical, Our House, saw outstanding high energy performances delivered by our talented senior school students.
It tells the story of Joe Casey (Zach P, L6) who, on the night of his sixteenth birthday, faces a lifechanging decision after committing a petty crime to impress his girlfriend, Sarah (Lucie R, L6).
The story splits in two as we follow the fortunes, and misfortunes, of ‘Good Joe’ and ‘Bad Joe’. Best friends Emmo (Stanley W, L5) and Lewis (Jay W, L5) support ‘Good Joe’ through his journey while Reecy (Rafa J, U6) does his best to lead ‘Bad Joe’ deeper into a life of crime.
Fleeing from the police, he leaves Sarah behind as she goes on to start a life at university away from Joe and finds a new boyfriend much to the relief of her disapproving best friends, Billie (Eva K, L6) and Angie (Aimee P, L5).
The production cleverly weaves the music of British band, Madness around a story of love, growing up,
family values and the consequences of making the right and wrong decisions in life.
The choreography paired with some of Madness’ most popular hits including, It Must Be Love, Baggy Trousers, Our House and Driving
In My Car, made for some showstopping sequences all performed by our talented band of musicians and dancers, in what was a truly nostalgic and heart-warming production.
Director of Drama, Mr Mark Randall commented, “Producing and directing a school production is always the favourite part of my job. It has been so lovely working with these amazing performers, who have shown a tremendous amount of commitment, dedication and perseverance. I was impressed at how hard my lead roles worked, learning all those lines, in particular, to Zach P who had an enormous amount to learn and an insane number of quick changes, in such a short amount of time. The ensemble showed an abundance of energy and enthusiasm with all their numbers and I am so proud of each and every one of them.”
“Playing the role of Sarah in Our House was an experience I’ll never forget. From the very first rehearsal, I fell in love with singing the amazing songs, stepping into character, and watching our whole cast grow together. The best part wasn’t just performing- it was the friendships we built along the way and the confidence we found in ourselves. A huge thank you to Mr Randall, who supported and encouraged us every step of the way. His energy and dedication were so inspiring. This journey has been truly special, and I’ll cherish it forever!” Lucie R (Sarah)
“Being part of Our House was an amazing opportunity. Playing Joe Casey alongside such a talented cast was incredible, and the energy on stage was electric. Mr Randall was a fantastic director, bringing out the best in all of us and making the whole process so enjoyable. Beyond the performances, the friendships I made during rehearsals and backstage were just as special. It was such a supportive and fun group, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it.” Zach P (Joe)
Junior School Work Sharing Afternoon
On Thursday 13 February, the Junior School welcomed parents, grandparents, and families for our much-anticipated annual Work Sharing Afternoon.
This special event provided students with the opportunity to proudly showcase their work, sharing their learning journeys with their loved ones. Classrooms were filled with excitement as children presented their projects, artwork, and written pieces, reflecting their hard work and dedication.
It was a fantastic afternoon of celebration, bringing together our school community to recognise and appreciate the students’ achievements throughout the term.
Budding Chefs Cook with The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts
Form 2 pupils were delighted to welcome Chef Ashley Marsh from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts for a series of sessions to inspire their taste buds and take them on a culinary journey of healthy eating and the joys of cooking.
“During our first week, we explored all the different tastes; (sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami).
Chef Ashley also asked us to identify the 5 senses (touch, taste, smell, sight and hearing). He told us to name the 5 food types (dairy, fats, carbohydrates, fruit & vegetables and protein). We left this session with our minds working and thinking about cooking.
We also learnt how to use a knife properly – the bridge and the claw techniques. For the bigger pieces you should use the bridge and for the smaller foods you should use the claw. We added all the foods and vegetables together and made a delicious salad.
On the last Friday, Chef Ashley taught us to make a tomato-ish soup with a puree of pesto on top! We really enjoyed this as our last lesson. As well as all the chopping, we also got to stir the soup in the pot above the hob. Despite the fact that some of us don’t even like soup, it was a very fun experience and it actually was delicious! We would love to do it again!
Cooking with Ashley was amazing and it was brilliant to work with a real chef. Not surprisingly, he was a very good cook!”
George K, Lucas N, Sophia N and Viren M – Form 2
Welcoming Our German Exchange Students
On 15 March, we were delighted to welcome our German exchange students to Ealing for a week of cultural immersion and shared experiences.
Now in its 19th year, St Benedict’s long-standing partnership with our fellow Benedictine school in Meschede, in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, continues to thrive.
The exchange remains a fantastic opportunity for students to build lasting friendships, experience new cultures, and enhance their language skills – a cherished tradition we are proud to continue.
“This year marked my second time participating in the German Exchange. It’s a wonderful programme that makes connections between students from our partner school in Germany and St Benedict’s. Visiting students stay with their exchange partner for a week, and experience school life and culture.
During my partner’s stay, we enjoyed trips to Nando’s, bowling, and an exciting visit to Central London, where we explored the stunning St Paul’s Cathedral before finishing off with a theatre performance of ‘Mamma Mia!’ –a definite highlight of the week!”
Carmen C-R (U4)
RICHARD BAKER SCIENCE LECTURE 2025
What if we began again? Rethinking Everything
Professor Lewis Dartnell
“If you just tell someone the most useful thing to do or to try, you don’t have to stumble across that invention again serendipitously like we did in our own history – you can leapfrog straight to it, cut out hundreds of years of fumbling around in the dark. And perhaps the best way of doing that would be to build these repositories of human knowledge.”
Lewis Dartnell
We were delighted to welcome Professor Lewis Dartnell to St Benedict’s for our annual Richard Baker Science Lecture Series on Tuesday 11 March.
An astrobiologist, professor of science communication and awardwinning author, Professor Dartnell captivated the audience with his fascinating insights into how we could rebuild civilisation postapocalypse and the fundamental scientific principles that have shaped our world.
He asked us to imagine the world as we know it, collapsed in an apocalyptic catastrophe. As survivors, how would we not only endure but rebuild civilisation –avoiding another Dark Ages and accelerating humanity’s recovery?
During his thought-provoking talk, Professor Dartnell explored innovations and the essential knowledge needed to restart after a disaster. His session offered a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how civilisation functions and how we can safeguard its future.
Based on his book, The Knowledge, a Sunday Times bestseller and Book of the Year, Lewis’ talk challenged us to reconnect with the core processes that sustain life and understand the science that underpins our modern existence.
The evening concluded with an engaging Q&A session, featuring compelling questions from both the audience and a panel of our A Level Science students, Hannah D (L6), Louis J (U6) and Orson P (U6).
“Professor Lewis Dartnell gave us a fascinating lecture which challenged our views on the world and what we take for granted. It highlighted the importance of taking our scientific understanding back to first principles as well as our duty to use natural resources responsibly.“
Mr Christopher Bowles, Director of Science
The annual St Benedict’s Music Festival culminated in a spectacular Finalists’ Concert on Friday 31 January, following a week of exceptional performances in the heats.
Beating last year’s record, this year saw in excess of 260 entries with performances from our talented students from Form 3 to Upper Sixth all showcasing their musical talents, competing for a coveted place in the grand Final.
The finalists delivered stunning vocal and instrumental performances, having triumphed in the Junior, Intermediate, and Senior heats throughout the week.
The final was adjudicated by Mr Philip Berg, a distinguished organist, pianist, and conductor, and Master of the Music at The King’s Chapel of the Savoy and the Chapel of the Royal Victorian Order. Mr Berg, who was previously Director of Music at St Paul’s Junior School for over
30 years, praised the exceptionally high standard of performances, making his task of selecting winners particularly challenging.
Well done to all the performers for an incredible week of music, and we look forward to another fantastic festival next year!
Director of Music, Mr Chris Eastwood spoke about this year’s festival, “With over 260 performances this year it has been a monumental week of music-making. Thank you to our adjudicators, accompanists and visiting instrumental teachers. The level of talent on display across the whole week and across the full age range was phenomenal. Well done to all who took part.”
Overall winner, Tom S (U6) spoke about his experience of the Music Festival, “Winning the Flohouse Cup is an incredible honour, especially in my final year at St Benedict’s. Singing
Mach dich mein Herze, rein by Bach was a deeply moving experience for me, and I’m so grateful that I was able to share this moment with everyone. Music has been such a huge part of my life here at St Benedict’s, and I would like to thank the Music Department for all their support. This festival is the perfect way to celebrate everything I’ve learned before stepping into the next chapter of my life.”
WINNERS:
Flohouse Cup
Tom S (U6) – Voice
Mach dich mein Herze, rein by J S Bach
Senior Section Cup
Artie H (U6) – Piano
Reverie by Claude Debussy
Intermediate Section Cup
Jessica W (L5) – Voice
Popular by Stephen Schwartz
Junior Section Cup
Elsa M-A (L4) – Piano
Home by Alan Menken
Tom S
Artie H
Jessica W
Elsa M-A
Maths Week at the Junior School = A Huge Success!
From exciting maths scavenger hunts to interactive times tables ICT quizzes, students from Lower Prep to Form 2 put their problem-solving skills to the test during Maths Week in February.
The week culminated in a grand finale, featuring electrifying Times Tables Rock Stars musical performances during assembly. Pupils and teachers took to the stage, performing their creative and catchy songs designed to help everyone master their times tables.
What a fantastic week of mathematical fun!
“Maths Week was so much fun! We took part in scavenger hunts, cracked secret codes, and solved the ‘Time Thief’ mystery. The special assembly was amazing – Mr Laffey, Mr Wright, Mr Field, and even our special guest, Mr. Simmons, performed ‘We Will Rock You’ with Times Tables Rock Stars.
One of the best activities was our song writing challenge, where we had to rewrite a song using our times tables knowledge. The winning teams got to perform in assembly, which was really exciting. On Friday, everyone dressed up as rock stars, just like Times Tables Rock Stars. There were even prizes for the best costumes, scavenger hunt winners, and the top song performances. It was a week full of maths and fun!”
Kara G (Form 2)
“As Maths Ambassadors, we got to come up with fun learning activities for the whole Junior School! Our first challenge was a times tables song writing competition for our homework. We could work in a band, duet, or solo to rewrite the lyrics of any song using our maths knowledge. The best two bands from each year got to perform in front of the whole school assembly!
Throughout the week, we also took part in maths workshops and scavenger hunts. In teams, we raced around the playground, solving questions to collect stamps. The first team to complete the hunt won a prize. It was a great way to test our problem-solving skills while having fun with our friends.”
Sofia D (Form 2)
“As a Maths Ambassador, I loved helping to organise Maths Week in the Junior School. One of the most exciting activities was the ‘Save the World’ challenge, where we had to solve maths equations to unlock a
secret code. Everyone in the school got involved.
Another fun event was the activity on the astro pitch. Different countries were placed around the pitch, and we had to solve maths equations to figure out where to go next. It was great to see everyone working together to complete the challenge.
The best part of the week was dressing up as rock stars on Friday. Mr Wright’s outfit was by far the best rock star look in the whole Junior School!”
Carlo M (Form 2)
ST BENEDICT’S
SPORT
NETBALL
The Lent term has seen tremendous growth and progress across all netball teams, with players demonstrating exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination. Strong performances have led to impressive results against tough opponents, reflecting the dedication and hard work of our players.
On March 27, an exciting milestone was reached by the U15A team, who made school history by winning the Sisters n Sport National Bowl in Loughborough as they reached the finals for the first time ever. They were victorious against Canford School, winning 13-11.
Congratulations to the whole team with special mention to Annie H (U4) on being named Player of the Match in the final.
Our U12 and U13 teams have had an exciting start to their 2025 netball journey, competing fiercely against strong opposition. Their performances have demonstrated great promise, and we look forward to seeing them continue to develop for the rest of the season.
U12s JCA Netball at Condover Hall
To round off the term, the U12s embarked on their netball residential at Condover Hall, where they took part in valuable match play, skill-building sessions, and team bonding activities.
A huge well done to our U12A team, who were crowned Plate Winners, and to the U12B team, who finished as Plate Runners-Up!
Beyond their own matches, the 1st and 2nd netball teams have made an impact off the court by supporting the Bee Stinger Netball Tournament, where they took on coaching and umpiring roles for local primary schools. Their involvement showcased their leadership skills and passion for the sport while inspiring the next generation of netball players.
It has been an outstanding term for netball at every level, and we look forward to even more achievements in the coming months.
U15A at Sisters n Sport
FOOTBALL
This term has seen outstanding football performances across all age groups.
The 1st XI boys have shown impressive progress this term, with a standout moment being their thrilling 5-4 comeback victory against Cardinal Vaughan. Having trailed 4-1 at halftime, the team displayed incredible resilience to turn the match around – especially significant given their earlier 5-1 defeat to the same opposition.
Most recently, they edged past a strong Drayton Manor side with a 3-2 victory, avenging an earlier loss in the season. They finished the term with a 0-0 draw against The Oratory, Reading, on 29 March.
Girls’ football continues to grow, with the U18s, U15s, and U13s all competing in fixtures this term. A standout performance came from the U18 girls’ team, who dominated their match against NHEHS with a remarkable 15-2 victory.
U12 Football Triumph at JCA Shropshire Tournament
It was a successful weekend at the end of March for our U12 footballers at the JCA Shropshire Tournament, with all three teams putting in fantastic performances.
The U12C team secured a win against Hereford Cathedral School and remained competitive throughout their matches. The U12B team had an impressive run, reaching the semi-finals before being narrowly defeated by our very own St Benedict’s U12A team.
Huge congratulations to the U12A team, who went on to win the tournament, claiming victory in the final against Harrogate Grammar School. Special mention to Henry S for his stand out performance scoring 15 goals and earning the title of Player of the Tournament for the U12As. A fantastic achievement for all involved!
“Since the start of the Lent term, football has been thriving across all age groups. students have showcased fantastic performances while demonstrating tremendous effort and commitment, and I look forward to seeing their continued success.”
Mr Daniel Matsuzaka, Head of Football
U12/13A girls
1st XI girls
1st XI boys
Headmaster, Joe Smith and 1st XI boys’ captain, Oscar R, at the victory against Cardinal Vaughan
RUGBY
The Lent term has been an exciting and successful period for rugby at St Benedict’s, with strong performances, achievements and memorable moments across all age groups.
The 1st VII had a standout term, starting with winning the Bowl Final at the South Coast U18 Sevens against Portsmouth Grammar School in February followed by the Shield at the annual Middlesex Rugby U18 Schools’ Sevens in early March, hosted at our own sports fields at Perivale.
The U16 VII put in a strong performance at the Gordon’s School U16 Sevens, battling hard to reach the Shield semi-final before a narrow loss to Shiplake College.
In March the 15A VII also impressed, finishing runners-up at both the Reed’s School Sevens and Egg Chaser U15 South East Schools’ Sevens. They showcased their determination claiming the Plate title at the John Fisher Sevens with a victory over Eton College.
The U12A VII delivered a dominant performance at the Shrewsbury House Prep U12 Sevens in March, securing the Cup title. Special mentions go to Freddie C (F3) and Axel W(F3) who were named ‘Players of the Tournament’ for their exceptional contributions.
Looking ahead, St Benedict’s teams will compete in the prestigious Howden National Schools Sevens at Rosslyn Park (24–28 March) – we wish them luck in the tournament.
Individual Successes
On the individual performance front, David S (U6) represented London and South East England U18.
Daniel L (L6) was selected as vicecaptain for Saracens U17 in their victory over Gloucester Rugby U17 and Exeter Chiefs U17. He was also selected for Saracen’s Academy U18 Premiership League match against Leicester Tigers.
Jared B (U6) shone for Ealing Trailfinders U18 Elite Pathway (ETEP), playing against Stade Français at the Stade de France.
Several other players, including Finlay B (U5), Harry H (U5), Tristan B (L5), and Johnny D (L5) and Harry T (L5), were involved in intra-Saracens Player Development Group (PDG) matches, while Hugo W (U5) was also involved in Harlequins’ PDG intra-matches.
Middlesex County U18 Sevens
12A VII Shrewsbury House Prep Sevens Cup winning team
Top (l to r): David S, Daniel L, Jared B; Bottom (l to r): Finlay B, Harry H, Johnny D
Middlesex County U18 Sevens Squad
CROSS COUNTRY
Middlesex Cross Country Trials
A record 22 St Benedict’s students were selected to represent Ealing, competing against top athletes from across the county.
Among standout performances, Fletcher W (U4) and Isobel M (L6) delivered exceptional races, shortlisting them for the prestigious English Schools Cross Country Final.
Ealing Schools Relays
For the first time, St Benedict’s competed in the Ealing Schools Cross Country Relays, entering four teams.
The boys’ teams put in impressive performances, securing 2nd and 3rd place, while the girls’ teams finished strong in 3rd and 5th place. This outstanding debut highlights St Benedict’s growing presence in future cross-country competitions.
CRICKET
Girls’ Cricket Shines at Lord’s
This term, our U11, U12, U13, and U15 girls had the incredible opportunity to compete in the prestigious MCC Indoor Cricket Lady Taverners Tournaments at Lord’s.
The girls showcased impressive skill and enthusiasm, making the most of this historic experience. Alongside the matches, they enjoyed an exclusive stadium tour.
A fantastic 28 players made their debuts for the school, reflecting our rapid growth of girls’ cricket.
There were standout performances throughout, including:
• Elena F (U13) – a dominant force with the bat, retired in all four matches, scoring a remarkable 86 runs
• Alessia M-V (U12) – showcased superb batting technique and temperament
• Lola P (U14) – amassed 43 runs across three matches
• Lottie R (U13), Aria G (U12), Clara S (U14), and Charlotte A (U14) all led the bowling attack with exceptional performances
ATHLETICS
With the athletics season getting into full swing, we look forward to seeing how the athletics teams perform in the months ahead.
Athletics Highlight
Congratulations to Daniel M-L (U4) for winning a silver medal in the long jump at the England Athletics U15 Open National Championships held in Sheffield, where he achieved an outstanding 5.95m jump, meeting the national standard.
He went on to claim the Middlesex Indoors U15 long jump title, further establishing himself as a top competitor.
The tournament was an invaluable experience for all involved, and we are incredibly proud of the girls’ passion, teamwork, and determination.
Cricketing Success
Faizan E
We are delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our cricketers this winter, with many earning places in elite Pathway winter squads:
• Christo W-K & Faizan E –Selected for the ACE Programme
• Aaryan D (U12) – Selected for the Middlesex Cricket U12 Winter Squad
• Faizan E (U13) – Also selected for the Surrey Cricket U13 Winter Squad
• Tom L (U11), Muhammad K (U12), Hugo K (U13), Christo W-K (U13), Aayush B (U13), Logan F (U14), Harry T (U15), and Oscar H (U15) all selected for the Middlesex Cricket, Ealing Borough Winter Squad.
Ealing Schools Relay team
FENCING
Fencing at St Benedict’s continues to thrive, with an outstanding term of competition and success. Nearly 160 senior school pupils represented the school in over 100 matches, culminating in remarkable performances at both the British School Team Championships and the Public School Championships.
After a year’s absence, St Benedict’s impressively qualified ten teams for the School Team Nationals, including, for the first time, a Girls’ Épée team. The weekend saw exceptional results, with half of our teams securing medals. The inaugural U13 Girls’ Épée team finished in third place, alongside the Senior Sabre and U15 Foil teams, overcoming strong opposition and even causing an upset for reigning champions Millfield. The Senior Foil team, led by captain Brandon A, narrowly missed out on gold after a hard-fought final against Eton College. Meanwhile, the U13 Boys’ Épée team, captained by Dan R, claimed silver after an impressive performance in the group stages.
HOCKEY
Hockey at St Benedict’s has seen outstanding performances and impressive results across both the junior and senior school this season.
The U13A team celebrated a fantastic victory against their biggest rivals, Godolphin & Latymer, in the Independent Schools Hockey Competition. After a tense 1-1 draw in normal time, the team held their nerve to win 3-1 on penalties, securing their place in the last 16 of the competition.
The U13A squad also dominated at the Tier 2 London Regional
At the Public School Fencing Championships, one of the largest fencing events in the country, St Benedict’s fielded an impressive 56 fencers against over 1,000 competitors from more than 100 schools. Notable achievements included top 16 finishes for Maverick T, Viliam G, Nathan Y, and Miles F, while senior captain Oubai C secured a remarkable 6th place.
Beyond school competitions, St Benedict’s fencers also excelled on the regional and national stage, with 19 pupils finishing in the top quarter of the London Youth Championships, qualifying for the British Youth Championships next term. These fencers are now training
British School Team Championships medal winners
Top left: Senior Foil team – silver
Bottom left: U13 Girls’ Épée team – bronze
Top right: Senior Sabre team – bronze
Bottom right: U15 Foil team – bronze
hard in preparation for the national finals, where they will compete against the some of the best club fencers in the country.
Tournament, winning all their group games before a convincing 5-1 semi-final win against Harrodian. In a thrilling final, they faced Surbiton High School and despite a slow start, they secured a 4-1 victory to claim the regional title.
Special mentions to Alessia M-V, Kaya S, and Ana N, whose contributions made a real impact on the team’s success. Amelia M was a standout player, scoring an incredible 13 goals over six games, while Elena F was named Player of the Tournament.
The 1st team concluded their season in remarkable fashion, winning 28 out of 34 matches and scoring a staggering 164 goals.
Special mentions go to Gabby G, who netted 44 goals, Captain Maria G, with 33 goals, and
Brianna J-E, who scored 25 goals.
Despite their phenomenal form, the team narrowly missed out on another shot at a national title, falling to Latymer Upper on penalties in the London Regional Final, after a goalless draw in normal time.
With such an impressive season behind them, St Benedict’s hockey continues to grow from strength to strength, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the future!
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT
The Lent Term has been an exciting time for junior netball, with pupils from Pre-Prep 3 to Form 2 actively participating in games and skill development. From Pre-Prep 3 to Upper Prep, students have enjoyed learning the core fundamentals of netball, focusing on ball control, footwork, and passing techniques to enhance their gameplay.
St Benedict’s Bee Netball Tournament
On 5 March, we proudly hosted our annual Year 5 Bee Netball Tournament, welcoming 12 primary schools with 21 teams for a fantastic day of competition. The event was a tremendous success, with outstanding matches, impressive teamwork, and a wonderful display of enthusiasm for the sport.
Special congratulations to Antonia R, Millie C, and Amelia T, who were named Players of the Tournament for their respective teams – an incredible achievement!
A huge thank you to our Senior 1st and 2nd team netball players, whose coaching and umpiring was instrumental in ensuring the tournament ran smoothly. Their leadership and support created a positive and well-organised experience for all participants.
The day was filled with skill, sportsmanship, and passion, making it a truly memorable event for everyone involved.
U10/U11 Success
The U10 and U11 teams kicked off their season with a block fixture
against Highgate, marking their first competitive match of the term. Additionally, the U11s had the opportunity to compete in the prestigious IAPS tournament, gaining valuable experience in a highly competitive environment and further developing their skills.
Form 2 pupils have shown fantastic progress this term, participating in five fixtures and two tournaments. A standout moment was securing 3rd place in our partner school St Bernard’s competition, where the team demonstrated great skill and determination.
With such an exciting term behind us, we look forward to even more success and development in junior netball in the months ahead!
Bee Netball Tournament
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT
FENCING
It has been another promising term for St Benedict’s fencers, with impressive victories against Brentwood, Highgate, and even local fencing clubs. The sport continues to grow, with several pupils now competing on the national circuit and attending extra training sessions on Wednesdays and Saturdays to refine their skills.
At the London Youth Championships, Zak V and Ernest O delivered outstanding performances against competitors up to a year older than them. Their hard work and determination paid off, securing their qualification for the National Championship Finals in May. Zak fought through tough opposition to finish as London’s U12 Boys’ runnerup, an incredible achievement!
We wish Ernest the best of luck at his first International tournament in Poland over the holidays.
FOOTBALL
This term has been an exciting one for junior football, with the U11 boys, U10 boys, U11 girls, and U10 girls all actively competing in fixtures, developing their skills, and growing their passion for the game.
Girls’ Football Tournament – Radlett Prep for International Women’s Day In celebration of International Women’s Day, the U11 girls took part in a fantastic football tournament at Radlett Prep, competing against eight other schools. The team showcased great teamwork and determination throughout the event. A highlight of the day was the presence of Anna Filbey (Wales international and Watford FC player), who attended as an ambassador for the sport. The girls had the opportunity to meet her, ask questions about her career, and take photos with her. A special moment came when our Player of the Match, goalkeeper Olivia, was presented with a medal by Anna Filbey.
This year marks the first-ever football season for Junior Boys at St Benedict’s, and it has been a fantastic start. Form 1 A&B and Form 2 A, B & C teams have taken on strong opposition from many schools with well-established football programmes. Despite this, our teams have made great progress and achieved impressive results throughout the season.
The U11A team had an excellent experience at the Belmont & Mill Hill U11 Football Tournament, where they competed against some of the strongest teams in the region. Solid performances saw them finish 6th overall. Afonso R-G, playing up an age group with Form 2, was named Player of the Day for his outstanding contributions.
Meanwhile, the U10A team competed in the Oratory Prep Football Competition at the end of March, finishing 3rd overall after an impressive series of matches. The Performance of the Day went to Edward G for his outstanding defensive display in the final match, helping the team hold on for the win.
With such a promising start to junior football at St Benedict’s, we look forward to seeing continued growth, development, and success in the seasons to come!
U10 at Oratory Prep
Zak V
DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
NEWS
Dear Parents,
I am very grateful to our entire community for the tremendous support during our Giving Week in March. Your generosity has made a significant impact on our Bursary Fund and the wider School projects for both the Junior and Senior School.
I also want to express my gratitude to our students who played a vital role in this year’s campaign, generously giving up their time for photographs and filming.
Finally, I would also like to take this moment to wish all our families a peaceful Easter break.
Best wishes,
Tara George Director of Communications
International Women’s Day – Honouring Our Inspirational OPs
St Benedict’s takes great pride in its remarkable Old Priorian community, whose strength, ambition, and leadership continue to inspire us all. On International Women’s Day, we shared the stories of some of our OPs making a difference in their respective fields:
• Jessica Taylor-Beirne (OP 2009) champions equality as a Child Protection Advisor, encouraging us to embrace diverse paths of womanhood.
• Deborah Bell (OP 1984) highlighted the importance of resilience and quiet confidence in forging a successful future.
• Francesca O’Neill (OP 2017) emphasised mentorship and open dialogue as key drivers for inclusivity.
• Greta Azzopardi (OP 2019) envisions a world of equal opportunities and safe, supportive environments.
• Monica Clifford (OP 2016) underscores the benefits of co-education in building confidence and resilience.
Celebrating Our School Patron –Chris Patten
(OP 1962)
We are delighted to share some significant news regarding our esteemed School Patron and Old Priorian, Chris Patten (OP 1962).
On 30 January, Ambassador Hiroshi Suzuki awarded Lord Christopher Francis Patten with The Grand Cordon of The Order of the Rising Sun in a ceremony held at the Ambassador’s residence. Lord Patten played a pivotal role in fostering strong relations between Japan and both Hong Kong and the UK during his tenure as Governor-General of Hong Kong (1992–1997). His contributions extended further as European Commissioner (1999–2004) and as Chancellor of the University of Oxford (2003–2024), particularly in promoting cultural and academic exchanges with Japan.
Ambassador Suzuki expressed his gratitude for Lord Patten’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties, while Lord Patten himself reflected on the continued friendship between Japan and the UK acknowledging those who have supported him throughout his distinguished career.
Forthcoming Event
Annual St Benedict’s Golf Day: Friday, June 13, 2025 – We invite Parents, Old Priorians and friends of St Benedict’s to join us.
L to R: Jessica Taylor-Beirne, Deborah Bell, Francesca O’Neill, Greta Azzopardi, Monica Clifford
ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL
