MICHAELMAS TERM 2025
HEADMASTERS’ INTRODUCTIONS
As I write this foreword to the Michaelmas term 2025 St Benedict’s News, the sun is shining on this Advent Sunday, as we approach the end of term and the Christmas holidays. The sunshine is, I think, a fitting metaphor for a very happy and successful term in the school, full of achievement and progress.
We were delighted to share our new strategic plan with the community at half-term, rooted in our Benedictine ethos. While our vision of the development of young people emphasises humility, we are unapologetically ambitious for them and with them: whatever we do at school, we aim to do as well as possible, and encourage our students, each of whom has unique gifts and talents, to aim high and strive to become the very best versions of themselves. Whether it be their excellent GCSE and A level results, the competitive university pathways our leavers accessed, or the co-curricular excellence we have witnessed – on the sports field, on the stage, or in the concert hall – St Benedict’s students do great things. There have been too many sporting successes to name each of them; our younger students in the senior school put on a genuinely superb production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the St Cecilia concert was a triumph of outstanding music-making.
And yet, for all this achievement and ambition, our students understand that striving for individual and team excellence does not preclude the need to think of others. For many, the highlight of the term was the charitable venture organised by three Sixth Formers, wherein a team of runners completed the Ealing ‘Half’, in the process raising over £38,000 for the school’s bursary fund.
All in all, it’s been a wonderful term, as I say. I hope you enjoy reading about it, and looking at the superb images of our young Priorians achieving great things and enjoying their schooldays.
With my best wishes for a joyous and blessed Christmas season.
Joe Smith Headmaster
As we come to the end of another lively and inspiring Michaelmas term, I find myself reflecting on the sheer breadth of activity and the spirit of generosity that have once again defined life at St Benedict’s Junior School. The children have approached their learning and cocurricular pursuits with enthusiasm and kindness, and it has been heartening to see our community come together in support of one another and of those beyond our school community. Thank you for your generous contributions to our fundraising efforts for the Bursary Appeal, The Royal British Legion, Mary’s Meals, and The Red Cross – Jamaica Disaster Appeal. Your support and that of the children has made a real difference and speaks volumes about the values we hold dear.
There has been much to celebrate in school, from the House Languages Quiz, House Skipping competition, and the House Swimming Gala, to the ever-popular Book Week, which welcomed visiting authors Laura Mucha, Helen Peters, Piers Torday, and Lucy Walters. The children have shared their musical talents in the KS1 and KS2 Soloists’ Music Concerts and have taken part in a wide range of sports, including athletics, fencing, football, hockey, and rugby. We have also marked important moments together, such as ‘Hello Yellow’ World Mental Health Day, Kindness Week, the Remembrance Assembly, the Faith, Culture and Diversity Day, and our traditional Nativity Plays and Carol Service. These occasions have given us the chance to reflect, to celebrate, and to look outward with compassion and understanding.
The creative curriculum has continued to offer rich and varied topics for each year group: Deliciously Different (Nursery and PP1), London Calling (PP2 and PP3), Swords and Sandals – The Romans (Lower Prep and Upper Prep), and Travel and Treason – The Tudors (Form 1 and Form 2). These themes have encouraged curiosity and imagination, and it has been a pleasure to see the children’s ideas brought to life in their work and play.
Thank you, as always, for your support and encouragement throughout the term. I hope that you and your families enjoy a peaceful and restorative Christmas and New Year, and I look forward to welcoming your children back to St Benedict’s in early January.
Rob Simmons Junior School Headmaster
Run with Isabel, Oscar & Freddie
The St Benedict’s community came together on Sunday 28 September 2025 at the Ealing Half Marathon to run, cheer, and give back, all inspired by Upper Sixth student Isabel M. Isabel, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer, has shown remarkable strength, humour, and determination. Despite the challenges she faces, she chose to lead a campaign alongside classmates Freddie C and Oscar R aiming to give back to a cause that has been life-changing for her. Thanks to her efforts, and the support of fellow students, staff, and friends, Isabel successfully completed the 13.1-mile course and helped raise over £38,000 for the bursary fund, a cause close to her heart.
The bursary fund has played a pivotal role in Isabel’s own journey, allowing her to remain at St Benedict’s during a time of deep uncertainty for her family. Inspired by this support, she wanted to ensure that other students facing illness, bereavement, or challenging circumstances could benefit from the same opportunities. Speaking about the campaign, Isabel said:
“The idea for this campaign came from my own experience. When my family and I were going through such a difficult time, the bursary fund meant I could stay at St Benedict’s and have the support of my friends, teachers, and this amazing community around me. I’ll always
be so grateful for that. I chose the bursary fund because I want other families who face similar challenges to be supported in the same way. It feels amazing to be able to give something back.”
The journey was not without its hurdles. When Isabel’s sports wheelchair provider fell through just before the race, a public appeal was launched. After hearing her story on LBC, a listener connected with a wheelchair supplier who generously donated a sports wheelchair, ensuring Isabel could complete the race comfortably and safely.
Spearheading the campaign, Isabel was joined by Freddie, Oscar, and over 30 members of the St Benedict’s community, who supported and ran alongside her throughout the course.
Reflecting on the experience, Isabel said:”I have been blown away by the support from the local community and beyond. Thank you to everyone for their encouragement and donations. None of this would have been possible without you.”
Headmaster Joe Smith added:”Isabel is an inspiration to us all. Her courage and commitment remind us what true resilience looks like, and her determination to give back, even in the face of personal challenges, speaks volumes about the strength of character we celebrate at St Benedict’s.”
The campaign was a powerful demonstration of solidarity, gratitude, and hope, highlighting the incredible spirit and generosity of the St Benedict’s community.
Oscar, Isabel, Freddie
EXAM RESULTS 2025
We are celebrating another year of outstanding A level and GCSE results at St Benedict’s, continuing a strong tradition of sustained academic excellence.
Our students once again have demonstrated the high standards, ambition, and resilience that are all hallmarks of a St Benedict’s education.
A LEVEL
At A level, over half of all A level grades (52%) were A or A*, with an impressive 83% at A*, A or B, reflecting the hard work and high aspirations of the students.
This year, ten students achieved straight A grades and above, one of whom will study Classics at the University of Oxford along with the incredible accolade of being awarded an organ scholarship.
With the vast majority of our students achieving their firstchoice university offers, the academic diversity and ambition of this year’s leavers are reflected in the broad range of university courses they will go on to study.
“I am incredibly proud of our 2025 leavers for achieving such outstanding A level results this year. These results reflect not only the hard work and resilience shown by our leavers, but also the generosity, integrity, and spirit they have brought to every aspect of school life.”
Joe Smith, Headmaster
GCSE
This year, we celebrated our strongest set of GCSE results in recent history since prepandemic grading standards have been applied, with Year 11 pupils achieving recordbreaking outcomes in 2025.
46% of all exams taken were graded were 9 or 8, and 71% were graded 9–7 which highlights the school’s continuing academic success and the exceptional efforts of both pupils and staff.
“I am immensely proud of our Year 11 students’ achievements this year. These GCSE results are the strongest we have recorded under normal grading, and such outcomes reflect not only the hard work and aspiration of our young people, but also strength in our teaching.”
Joe Smith, Headmaster
UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS AND SUBJECTS 2025
Pupils have gained a place at university 100%
93%+ Attending a Russell Group/ Top 10 university
90%
Achieved preferred choice*
17 students heading to prestigious universities – UCL, Imperial, King’s College
3
LSE, Durham, St Andrews, Oxford
on to study Medicine
3 studying at overseas universities
1 student attending University of Oxford with a scholarship
Sally Hopgood, Head of Futures, and Alex Heald, Director of Sixth Form commented,
The breadth of courses secured by our students continues to reflect the rich diversity of our community and the wide array of opportunities we are privileged to support. Above all, we are immensely proud of the class of 2025 for their dedication, ambition, and resilience throughout the sixth form and through their application process. Their hard work and determination have been truly inspiring. We look forward with great excitement to seeing the next steps they will take on their journeys.
REMEMBERS ST BENEDICT’S
On Tuesday 12 November 2025, we gathered at Ealing Abbey for the annual Remembrance Service. Senior School students and staff came together in a moving act of reflection, honouring all those who gave their lives in the First and Second World Wars.
The service provided an important moment of unity and gratitude, reminding us of the bravery and sacrifice made by generations past.
Leading with Pride: CCF at the Heart of
Ealing’s
Remembrance Parade
St Benedict’s CCF cadets, Corps of Drums and volunteers once again took a leading role in the annual Ealing Borough Remembrance Parade and Service on Sunday 9 November. In a proud continuation of tradition, they guided the
procession, coordinated the wreath-laying, provided the music and set the marching tempo for the entire parade Their presence and leadership brought a powerful sense of respect and unity to the occasion, as the community came together to honour those who lost their lives in conflict.
Reflecting on the experience, Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major Hannah D (U6) shared:
“I had the honour of leading our CCF contingent through Ealing to the War Memorial while our Corps of Drums marched ahead. Laying a wreath during the service was an immense honour and a moment of deep reflection on the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of those who came before us. Taking part in such a significant and moving occasion was a true privilege and a powerful reminder of the values we uphold as cadets and as members of our community.”
RED
WEDNESDAY
On Wednesday 19 November, students were invited to come to school wearing something red in solidarity with the hundreds of thousands of Christians around the world who face persecution because of their faith. Donations collected on the day will support the work of Aid to the Church in Need.
The day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and awareness with our students showing the characteristic thoughtfulness and sense of responsibility that lie at the heart of our school community.
FAITH, CULTURE AND DIVERSITY DAY
On Friday 21 November, the whole school came together to celebrate ‘Faith, Culture and Diversity Day’. The school was transformed with colour and energy as pupils arrived in vibrant traditional dress from around the world, proudly representing the many cultures and backgrounds that enrich our St Benedict’s community.
It was a wonderful celebration of identity and inclusion and thanks to the generosity of our families, the day also helped to raise funds for the charity, Mary’s Meals, supporting children in need around the globe.
Mary’s Meals’ vision is that every child receives one daily meal in their place of education and that all those who have more than they need, share with those who lack even the most basic things. Working together with people who share our ideals, we believe that this vision can be achieved in this world where there is enough food for everyone.
Welcoming Form 3: A Day of Teamwork and New Beginnings at St Benedict’s
This year, our new Form 3 students began their Senior School journey at St Benedict’s with an exciting, actionpacked team-building induction day designed to help everyone settle in, make friends and feel part of the St Benedict’s community.
The day began with a walk to our Sports Fields, giving students the chance to talk, connect and get to know classmates they may not have met before. On arrival, they joined together for a beautiful outdoor Mass – setting the tone for the year ahead, reminding students of the values that shape life at St Benedict’s.
Following the Mass, the pupils took part in with a series of team-building challenges and group activities designed to help everyone get to know each other and start working together. Laughter, teamwork and plenty of enthusiasm filled the day, creating a brilliant atmosphere for our newest year group.
The combination of prayer, reflection and teamwork made the induction day both meaningful and memorable. By the end of the afternoon, Form 3 had already taken their first big steps into Senior School life, feeling supported, connected and ready for the exciting year ahead.
“I liked how we worked as a team for some of the challenges and talked to some other people we usually do not talk to” Form 3 student
“I liked that the walk gave me some fresh air and we got a chance to make friends with the people who we didn’t know that well” Form 3 student
“I enjoyed the way it brought out the teamwork in us and some of the games were very competitive.” Form 3 student
THE BIG DRAW
This year marks the 25th anniversary of The Big Draw, and the milestone theme, ‘Drawn Together’, invites us to explore how creativity connects us. It celebrates collaboration, relationships and the shared experiences at the heart of making art.
Our Form 3 students were challenged to create an abstract portrait to represent their family and friends, focusing on the connections and relationships that shape their lives. Inspired by the vibrant work of Australian artist Yaritji Young, pupils experimented with colour, pattern and composition to capture the spirit of their communities in expressive, imaginative ways.
The final pieces were brought together in a striking display around the Cloisters, an uplifting celebration of identity, connection and the power of art.
GERMAN EXCHANGE 2025
The annual German exchange took place in September for our students studying German. They spent a week in Meschede with host families from our long-standing partnership with a German Benedictine school.
Max M (L5) shares his experience of the trip:
Day 1: We had a very early start and arrived in Meschede a little later than planned, but from that moment on the whole trip was just awesome. Everyone was excited, and we settled in quickly.
Day 2: My first full day began with a visit to the German Football Museum in Dortmund, perfect for me as a huge football fan. The museum was brilliant, and I learned loads about Germany’s rich football history. Later, I spent time with my exchange partner, Marlon getting to know him better and settling in. We got on straight away because we like all the same things; football, Formula One and video games.
Day 3: This day was all about experiencing German school life. We had to catch the 6.20am bus, which was tough, but finishing at 1pm definitely made up for it! The classes were much bigger than ours, and the whole school day felt quite different. After school, Marlon had a dance lesson, and then we headed home, played video games and had a really good dinner with his family.
Day 4: We had more lessons in the morning, followed by a football match in the afternoon. The pitch was bigger than I expected and close to the school, which was great and a good
opportunity to bond with the others. I played for the exchange team with Marlon and the other exchange partners. The home team led 5 -2 at half-time, but, with the exchange team making it more exciting, thanks to a couple of substitutions, the final score was 6 -3 to the home team, but it was still a brilliant game and a great way to bond.*
Day 5: This was one of the best days; we went go-karting and then tried outdoor tobogganing. Gokarting was fast and competitive, and the tobogganing was hilarious, especially for those who found it slightly terrifying! Both activities were adrenaline and laughter, making them highlights of the trip.
Day 6: We walked to the beautiful Hennesee lake and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings, Later, Marlon’s parents surprised us with a trip to an F1 simulator. It was amazing; really realistic and very competitive.
Days 7 & 8: On the final school day we sat through lessons one last time but got to leave early, giving us some extra time to relax. In the evening there was a nice Mass and barbecue for the exchange families which was a lovely end to the week.
Overall, the exchange was a fantastic experience. I learned so much about German school life and culture and received incredible kindness from Marlon and his family. They really made the week unforgettable. My German improved loads too. I’d definitely recommend this trip to anyone in the younger years, it was totally worth it. It was an incredible week and honestly even better than I expected!
* Dicky Thomas, Senior Master adds: “Max modestly omits to mention that he scored both of his team’s first-half goals!”
Our Form 1 and Form 2 Junior School students enjoyed a fantastic team-building day earlier this term, led by the energetic and engaging team from Wise-Up Events.
Throughout the day, pupils worked together to tackle a wide variety
Teamwork in Action:
A Brilliant Day with Wise-Up Events
of puzzles, physical challenges and problem-solving activities set up around the playground. Each task encouraged them to communicate clearly, think creatively and support one another to find solutions.
It was wonderful to see the children collaborating so enthusiastically,
listening to each other’s ideas, taking turns to lead, and celebrating their successes as a team. Beyond the fun and excitement, the day helped them develop valuable skills such as resilience, cooperation and strategic thinking, all of which play an important role in their learning.
Our annual St Cecilia Concert took place on Friday 21 November, celebrating the remarkable musical talent of pupils from Form 3 through to the Sixth Form. The programme showcased the full breadth of musical life at St Benedict’s, highlighting both the skill and enthusiasm of our young musicians.
“This year’s St Cecilia Concert was a wonderful showcase of the talent and hard work of our pupils. The evening brought together an impressively wide range of musical styles; from Baroque and classical to jazz, folk, and contemporary pop, all performed with real commitment and musicality. It was a pleasure to see so many young musicians supporting one another and bringing such variety and creativity to the stage. The atmosphere in the hall reflected the warmth, energy, and community spirit that make music at St Benedict’s so special.”
Chris Eastwood, Director of Music
“It was fantastic to experience my first concert at St Benedict’s. I really enjoyed performing in a number of ensembles and as a soloist and a big thank you to all the music department teachers that were involved.” Zephany C (L6)
ST CECILIA CONCERT 2025
JUNIOR SCHOOL SOLOISTS’ CONCERTS
“I have been extremely impressed with how well all of our soloists have performed in the KS1 and KS2 Concerts. Their growth in confidence and musicianship has been amazing to see and bodes well for the rest of this academic year and beyond.” Dominic Field, Head of Junior School Music
KS1
Soloists’ Concert
The Junior School was buzzing with excitement on 5 November as our youngest musicians took to the stage for the KS1 Soloists’ Concert. This term’s event was a wonderful success, with record numbers of pupils performing, far exceeding previous years.
The audience was treated to a delightful and diverse programme, featuring a wide range of instruments. Our talented pianists and violinists particularly stood out, impressing everyone with their skill and confidence. For many of the performers, this was their very first public recital, a brave and memorable milestone that they handled with remarkable poise.
Throughout the concert, pupils displayed enthusiasm, commitment, and emerging musical talent, captivating parents, staff, and friends alike. The quality and number of performances this year reflect the thriving musical culture within the Junior School and provide an exciting glimpse of the future of our performing arts programme.
KS2 Soloists’ Concert
On 6 November, the KS2 Soloists’ Concert showcased an exceptional level of talent from our Junior School musicians from Lower Prep to Form 2. The hall was packed with proud parents, all eager to enjoy a programme that reflected the pupils’ enthusiasm and dedication to music.
The concert featured a vibrant tapestry of musical genres and instruments, creating a truly memorable experience. From accomplished pianists and guitarists to skilled violinists, cellists, clarinettists and singers, every pupil performed with confidence and commitment. Their energy and passion were evident in every piece, captivating the audience from start to finish.
This high-calibre performance confirmed the remarkable depth of talent among our pupils at this joyous celebration of music and inspiring display of skill, dedication and creativity.
Congratulations to all our young performers on these truly outstanding and inspiring concerts!
KS2 KS1
BOOK WEEK
Book Week 2025 was a wonderful celebration of reading across the Junior School. Throughout the week, pupils from Nursery to Form 2 enjoyed visits from four inspiring authors.
Helen Peters introduced pupils to her writing journey and the real-life inspirations behind books such as Anna at War and A Kitty Called Holly
Laura Mucha, award-winning poet and author, led energetic workshops where pupils played with language, co-wrote poems, and performed with confidence.
Lucy Walters, storyteller and presenter, captivated our youngest learners with lively, interactive tales featuring dragons, chocolate adventures and imaginative characters.
Pupils in Years 3–6 were thrilled to meet Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild trilogy, who spoke about his reading and writing journey, environmental themes and the power of imagination.
Midweek, the whole school paused for the much-loved School Read-In, as staff and pupils spread out across corridors, classrooms and cosy corners for thirty peaceful minutes of shared reading.
The week concluded with our vibrant Book Week Parade, where pupils showcased colourful costumes and favourite literary characters to delighted parents – a joyful finale to a week celebrating stories, creativity and imagination.
Helen Peters
Laura Mucha
Lucy Walters
Piers Torday
KINDNESS WEEK
Throughout Kindness Week, 11–15 November, our students took part in a series of uplifting activities designed to celebrate positivity, compassion and how the power of small acts to make a big difference.
To mark individuality, Junior School pupils began the week by wearing odd socks, a cheerful reminder that our differences make us unique. They also participated in anti-bullying ‘Upstander’ drama workshops and contributed to our school ‘Kindness Chain’: a paper-chain in which each link carried a kindness act or message. As the chain grew, it became a powerful symbol of how individual acts of kindness connect us and strengthen our school community.
One of the week’s standout moments was the ‘Power For Good’ Hats Parade. Pupils designed creative hats inspired by Nobel Prize winners and other inspirational figures who have used their influence to help others and make a positive impact on the world.
To finish the week, students were encouraged to share random acts of kindness, from simple everyday gestures to thoughtful kindness notes that brightened someone’s day.
Kindness Week was a wonderful reminder that even the smallest actions can create a ripple of positivity, which all serve to make our community brighter, braver and kinder.
The Senior Rugby Tour to South Africa delivered an unforgettable blend of top-level rugby, cultural discovery and team development across a busy two-week itinerary in July and August.
The 38-strong touring party arrived in Cape Town and quickly settled in, visiting the V&A Waterfront before preparing for their opening fixtures. The Development XV showed real attacking ambition against SACS High School, with Victor C-P named Man of the Match, while the 1st XV demonstrated impressive phases of play in a 54-21 defeat, with tries from Tom K (2) and Tommaso P, alongside six points from Daniel L, highlighting the team’s attacking potential.
After a restorative visit to Table Mountain and Camps Bay, the squad travelled to Paarl Boys’ High School, one of South Africa’s most prestigious rugby institutions. The Development XV produced an
excellent 44-12 free-scoring win. The 1st XV battled hard, improving strongly after the break, but losing 43-7 against elite opposition.
Off the pitch, the group enjoyed unforgettable experiences at Seal Island, Boulders Beach, Cape Point and a thrilling Currie Cup clash. A visit to Kayamandi Township proved a moving and humbling cultural highlight of the tour.
Training continued in Stellenbosch and along the Garden Route, where the squad explored Wilderness, Knysna, the Cango Caves and the Safari Ostrich Farm. Both teams won against Bridgton Sekondêre Skool: the Development XV secured a 24-7 victory; the 1st XV staged a superb comeback to win 41-35 with Freddie L’s kicking and Thomas K’s attacking play earning them respective Man of the Match honours.
A two-day safari at Botlierskop Game Reserve offered a welcome
chance to recharge. Back in Cape Town, the squad prepared for their final fixtures against Westcliff School. The Development XV were outstanding in a 61-3 win, including a Johnny D hat-trick, and the 1st XV closed the tour in style with a 28-17 victory featuring tries from Felix B (2), Joe C and Thomas K, with four conversions from Lake.
The tour concluded with a visit to the iconic Paarl Inter-Schools Derby, widely regarded as the biggest schoolboy rugby fixture in the world followed by a celebratory dinner, where awards were presented to: Players of the Tour: Tom K (1st XV) and Victor C-P (Development XV) Top Tourists: Will C & Jay W Most Improved: Tommaso P & Seb C
Across eight fixtures, the teams secured five wins, forged lasting memories and strengthened the culture that underpins Bennies Rugby.
“This was an exceptional tour – competitive, cultural and deeply rewarding. Our pupils represented the school with distinction, building friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime.”
James Coles, Director of Rugby
“An
unforgettable experience
on and off the pitch, from the rugby to the incredible sights and safari.”
Harry
H (U6)
Honouring Achievement: Lord Patten Welcomes the 2025 St Benedict’s Academic Scholars
It was wonderful to welcome Lord Patten of Barnes, alumnus and Patron of the School, to once again present this year’s Patten Scholarship Awards at our annual Academic Scholars’ Evening on Tuesday 18 November.
The evening opened with a drinks reception and an exhibition of impressive academic research posters created by our scholars from across the school.
Headmaster, Joe Smith, formally opened the event with a warm welcome, before introducing three Upper Sixth scholars, Lydia R, Maria S and Freddie R, who each gave thoughtful and inspiring speeches, speaking with honesty and pride about their experiences as scholars at St Benedict’s, the opportunities the programme has opened for them and their aspirations as they prepare for life beyond school.
On the evening, 26 Form 3 scholars and 15 Lower Sixth scholars were introduced individually to Lord Patten where he congratulated each student and presented them with their scholars’ badges; a lasting symbol of their hard work, intellectual promise, and commitment to learning.
In his address, Lord Patten reflected on his own time at St Benedict’s and the enduring impact of its Benedictine values. He spoke about the gratitude he feels for the education he received and expressed his hope that this new generation of scholars will carry the same values with them.
“I hope you make the best of your lives; enjoy it,” he told them. “You have a responsibility to do more to help others and make the world a better place… however gloomy and grim it is, we can make it better if we believe it is possible.” He reminded scholars that privilege brings responsibility, encouraging them to give more than they were given and to remember that “life is more than wealth and riches.”
“It is an honour to receive this scholarship and I am very grateful to Mrs O’Connor and all my teachers for their support.”
Lydia R (U6)
The evening concluded with the presentation of the Patten Scholar Award for the best academic performance in the Sixth Form, awarded this year to Lydia R in recognition of her exceptional achievement. Our Headmaster brought the evening to a close by thanking Lord Patten, our scholars and their families for a night that truly celebrated “scholarship, and the joy of learning” at St Benedict’s.
Lydia Maria Freddie
THE ANNUAL ROBIN NONHEBEL HISTORY LECTURE
ANNA REID, ‘A NASTY LITTLE WAR: THE WEST’S FIGHT TO REVERSE THE RUSSIAN REVOLUTION’
On Thursday 20 November we were delighted to welcome acclaimed historian and author Anna Reid for this year’s annual Robin Nonhebel Lecture.
Drawing on her renowned works, Borderland: A Journey through the History of Ukraine and Leningrad: Tragedy of a City under Siege, Anna captivated a packed audience with a powerful, insightful and timely talk.
She spoke about what first drew her to these subjects, noting that many aspects of 20th-century Eastern European history have not been widely explored in mainstream writing.
She shared what first inspired her interest in Eastern Europe, highlighting how many aspects of 20th-century history in the region remain underexplored in mainstream writing. Anna also examined the complex, centurylong relationship between Russia and the West, giving students valuable insight into how historical forces continue to shape global events today.
It was a fascinating and inspiring evening, deepening our appreciation for the importance of historical storytelling and its continued relevance in the modern world.
St Benedict’s CyberEPQ Students Recognised Among the UK’s Best
Amelie B and Laxmi A, both Upper Sixth CyberEPQ students, achieved outstanding national recognition at CIISec Live 2025 (Chartered Institute of Information Security) after by being named two of only five students across the UK shortlisted for the prestigious
CyberEPQ Student of the Year Award. Their exceptional technical skill, innovation, and commitment to cyber security placed them firmly among the country’s top young talent.
At the Fred Piper Awards ceremony, held during CIISec Live at the Hilton London Heathrow, Amelie’s achievement went even further. The judging panel was unanimous in selecting her as the 2025 CyberEPQ Student of the Year, recognising the exceptional standard of her independent project work and her potential as a future leader in the field.
“This is a fantastic achievement for both students and highlights their
dedication, talent and the growing impact of young people in cyber security.” Richard Curtis, Head of Computer Science and Vex Robotics & cyberEPQ Leads
“I am very proud to receive the CIIsec CyberEPQ Student of the Year Award. My project examined the challenges women face in entering and progressing in cybersecurity, and proposed ways to inspire young talent, retain women in the industry, and support their leadership journeys. The CyberEPQ has been a valuable way to build skills and gain insight into this field.” Amelie B (U6)
Outstanding Success in the UKMT Senior Maths Challenge
Eighty-four St Benedict’s Sixth Form mathematicians took part in the 2025 UKMT Senior Maths Challenge this October. The UKMT Challenges test mathematical reasoning, problem-solving and mental agility, and are aimed at the top third of students nationwide. Each year over 700,000 students from more than 4,500 schools participate, with only a small proportion achieving Gold or Silver awards.
This year’s results were exceptional, with St Benedict’s celebrating the highest number of Gold and Silver certificates awarded to our Sixth Form students in recent years.
Five students achieved Gold Certificates, with four qualifying for the next round.
Special congratulations go to Mehdi D and Shuhan H, both in Upper Fifth, who entered the Senior Challenge – normally
taken by Sixth Formers – and achieved a remarkable joint top score of 113, the highest in the school.
We also congratulate our Gold Certificate winners: Alfie S, Lewis H, Henry Y, Shuhan H, and Mehdi D.
These results reflect not only the students’ hard work and dedication but also the outstanding support of our Mathematics Department.
High Performance Learning at St Benedict’s: Building Confident, Independent Learners
This term, St Benedict’s has continued to strengthen its High Performance Learning (HPL) approach, focusing on two key learner attributes: Metathinking and Hardworking. These skills lie at the heart of helping students become reflective, resilient and aspirational learners, both in and beyond the classroom.
Meta-thinking:
Learning to Think About Learning
In the first half of term, students explored Meta-thinking – the ability to plan, monitor and evaluate their own thinking. Through assemblies, tutor activities and subject lessons, pupils used visual prompts and the Metacognition Cycle to break learning into clear stages: assessing the task, planning an approach, applying strategies, and reflecting on what worked.
By making their thinking visible, students develop greater independence, confidence and adaptability; all skillls proven to support high achievement throughout education and into adult life.
Hardworking: Building Resilience and Perseverance
In the second half of term, the focus moved to the HPL Value, Attitude and Attribute (VAA) of Hardworking. Students explored what it means to show resilience, perseverance and a commitment to improvement. Using the Hardworking SMART Target Worksheet, they set personalised, achievable goals – from improving prep routines to contributing more in lessons or redrafting work after feedback.
Each two-week cycle concluded with students reviewing their progress, identifying evidence of their effort and reflecting on steps they could take next.
HPL Around the School
Across the school’s communal areas and classrooms, Heads of Department have created new HPL Subject Learner Profiles. These showcase key public figures from each discipline – historians, scientists, writers, mathematicians, artists –
highlighting the VAAs and ACPs that underpin expertise in their field.
These profiles help students understand how experts think and work, and how they can develop similar habits in their own subject learning and demonstrate an important part of embedding the HPL framework throughout the school.
Our HPL journey is central to our broader Benedictine aim of developing the whole person. By nurturing habits of thoughtful reflection and purposeful hard work, we are equipping every student to thrive – now and in the future.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
At the end of November, we were transported to an enchanted forest filled with hilarious misunderstandings, magical transformations and unforgettable moments during the Middle School production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Over two wonderful evenings, the talented cast brought Shakespeare’s comedy to life with confidence, energy and charm, captivating the audience in a world of love, chaos and fairy mischief.
“The play A Midsummer Night’s Dream was so much fun to be part of, especially because I got to play a main (and quite funny!) character. My favourite moment was definitely the play-within-the-play at the end, it was so silly, and acting badly on purpose was honestly one of the most fun things I’ve ever done on stage!” Reuben L (U4) – Bottom
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream was my favourite play that I’ve performing in at St Benedict’s so far. Mr Randall is really inspiring showing us how to express our roles and bring the characters to life, and I’m already really looking forward to taking part in next year’s play.”
Simone R (L4) – Titania
Top: Nursery
Top row: PP1
Middle row: PP2
Bottom row: PP3
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
A Remarkable Michaelmas Term
The Senior School rugby programme has enjoyed an outstanding Michaelmas term, building on momentum from a successful pre-season tour to South Africa. The tour combined intensive training with challenging fixtures, providing a platform for skill development, team cohesion, and experience against high-quality opposition, alongside cultural and sporting experiences
U12 & U13 Success
Our youngest senior school teams, the U12 and U13 squads, have shown impressive progress.
• The U12A team were crowned Middlesex Plate winners.
• The U12B and U12C sides also performed brilliantly, winning around 75% and two-thirds of their matches respectively.
• The U13 teams continued this strong trajectory, with the U13A finishing runners-up at the Middlesex Festival. The U13B and U13C have enjoyed excellent seasons too, winning 65% and 75% of their fixtures.
These results reflect not only skill and determination, but a growing confidence across both year groups.
U14, U15 and U16 Highlights
In the middle school, the commitment and quality of rugby have been equally impressive.
• The U14A team narrowly exited the National Cup only on the “away team rule” after an 8-8 draw with Hampton, a match they dominated for long periods
• The U15A squad delivered a series of strong displays, including a standout 24 -10 win over Hampton
• The U15B team remain undefeated so far this season
• The U16A side produced two excellent victories over Hampton, including a dramatic Cup win secured with the final kick of the game with a final score of 27-7. Their only narrow one point loss came against John Fisher
• The U16B team have also enjoyed a strong term, winning two-thirds of their fixtures
1st XV team celebrate scoring a try against Hampton
U12 Middlesex Plate winners
A Remarkable Season for the 1st XV
RFU Continental Tyres’ National Schools Plate
The 1st XV has produced one of the most exciting seasons in recent years. Their RFU National Schools Plate campaign included superb wins over London Oratory, RGS Colchester and Hampton, earning them a place in the Quarter Final against Taunton School.
The dramatic and nail-biting victory over local rivals, Hampton, St Benedict’s first since 2011, was particularly memorable, with a second-half comeback sealed by a last-minute penalty.
Daily Mail Trophy
In the Daily Mail Trophy, the team continued their outstanding form, securing wins over Worth School, St George’s College, St Albans, Magdalen College School, Windsor Boys’, Shiplake, John Fisher and Tiffin. With only two tight losses all term, the 1st XV finished with an impressive 85% win rate.
“Across all age groups, St Benedict’s rugby has flourished, with commitment, skill, and competitive spirit evident at every level. With Academy selections and the Lent term Sevens season ahead, the foundations laid this term promise continued success and exciting rugby in 2026.”
Zoran Higgins, Director of Sport
Daily Mail Trophy
Celebrating RFU National Schools Plate victory over Hampton
HOCKEY
The 1st XI has enjoyed a strong season so far, securing eight wins from twelve matches. A standout highlight was their impressive ISHC Round 2 victory away at Marlborough College, and the team now look forward to meeting Bedford Girls’ School in Round 3. They also came heartbreakingly close to another national title opportunity, missing out on goal difference to Streatham & Clapham, despite recording two wins and a draw in the group stage.
Our U13A team have also made an excellent start to the season, recording convincing wins over Godolphin & Latymer, Notting Hill and St Augustine’s. In their most recent fixture, they delivered a thrilling performance to draw 4-4 against a strong St George’s, Weybridge side, with Alessia MV scoring all four goals.
The U12A team continue to build momentum too, winning three of their four matches so far, including solid victories over local rivals St Augustine’s and Godolphin & Latymer.
Hockey Success
We are also delighted to congratulate 1st XI Captain Gabby G, who made her debut for Hampstead & Westminster Hockey Club in the England Hockey Premier Division at the end of November, a fantastic achievement and a testament to her hard work and talent.
1st XI
U13A team
FOOTBALL
Football Continues to Flourish at St Benedict’s Now in its second year, football at St Benedict’s continues to go from strength to strength, with impressive progress and enthusiasm across all age groups. Our Senior squad has enjoyed notable wins this term, including strong performances against Gordon’s and Cardinal Vaughan.
ISFA Competitions
For the first time, our U18, U15 and U13 girls’ and boys’ teams entered the prestigious ISFA National Cups. The U15 and U13 boys’ teams have reached the quarter-finals of their respective ISFA Bowl competitions, an excellent achievement that reflects their growing skill and confidence.
On the girls’ side, the U15 and U13 teams delivered determined performances against tough opposition in their opening fixtures, while the U18 girls have secured a place in the quarter-finals; an exciting milestone and a testament to their hard work this term.
Individual Success
We also celebrate outstanding individual achievements: Fletcher W (L5) has signed for Charlton Athletic this term, and last term Junior School pupil Afonso G (Form 2) signed for Chelsea, remarkable accomplishments that highlight the strength of St Benedict’s burgeoning football pathway.
“Football at St Benedict’s is evolving rapidly, and the dedication shown by all teams this year has been exceptional. We look forward to seeing this upward trajectory continue in the months ahead.”
Daniel Matsuzaka, Head of Football
ISFA – Girls’ 1st XI team
Fletcher W
NETBALL
This term has been a hugely successful one for netball at St Benedict’s, with players across all age groups showing impressive commitment, teamwork, and steady development in both training and competitive fixtures.
1st VII
The 1st VII began their season in superb style, winning the Bowl at the Gordon’s Invitational Tournament. They maintained this strong momentum throughout the term, producing consistently high-quality performances.
At both the County Schools and National Schools qualifying rounds, the team played exceptionally well, finishing a very respectable 4th and narrowly missing out on a place at the finals. Their Independent Schools National Cup campaign also got off to an excellent start, with a commanding 63-30 victory over Forest School in the opening round.
In the Sisters n Sport Competition, the team’s impressive form has continued, earning them a well-deserved spot in the third round.
U15A
The U15A squad, featuring a talented mix of Year 9 and 10 players, have enjoyed an extremely strong and active season. Taking part in a range of competitions, including the School Sports Magazine Cup and the Sisters n Sport Competition (where they have now reached the National Bowl quarter-finals), they have delivered outstanding performances throughout.
FENCING
The fencing season launched with real momentum this year, beginning with an intensive week-long training camp at St Benedict’s led by the national South Korean fencing coaches and Team Park International.
The team secured several notable wins against tough opposition. A highlight was successfully retaining the Francis Holland School, Sloane Square Tournament title for the second consecutive year. They followed this triumph with an unbeaten run at the Harrodian Tournament, sealing victory in a dramatic final with a golden goal against Harrodian School.
Netball Performance Pathway
We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our players across the Netball Performance Pathway, spanning PDP Performance Squads, Futures programmes, and international representation.
• Carmela R (U5): London Mavericks U17 PDP West & U17 Ireland
• Arabella W, Ivy M, Dana N: London Mavericks U18 Futures Academy
• Saoirse R (L5): Berkshire County
Following a further week of preseason training, our top fencers travelled to the Shropshire Open and then Nottingham University to take part in the U17 and U20 British National Championships.
Oscar C-R continued his impressive form, earning further selection to represent Great Britain at U17 Internationals. Brothers Ernest and Phillip O have also made a remarkable impact on the national circuit, securing five medals between them in just three months.
Fencing participation across the school has been equally impressive. This term, more than 160 pupils have taken part in almost 150 team matches against other schools and clubs. With one more term of fencing ahead, and the major tournaments still to come, every St Benedict’s fencer has already represented the school in a fixture this year. This is an extraordinary milestone for our fencing programme, particularly as we now field teams in every year group and every weapon.
Medal winning teams at the block sabre fixture vs Paul Davis Fencing Academy where all 11 sabre teams represented the school. L-R: Benjamin M, Oscar G, Harvey B, Yiming Z, Davi R-H, Dylan J
L to R: Carmela, Arabella, Saoirse, Ivy and Dana
CROSS COUNTRY
It has been an excellent term for cross country at St Benedict’s, with students competing in a number of major events and delivering outstanding results throughout.
At the Ealing Schools Cross Country Championships, our athletes shone. The boys’ team claimed a brilliant first-place finish, while the girls produced an equally impressive performance to finish as runners-up. Together, these results crowned St Benedict’s as overall champions – a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the dedication and determination shown by both squads.
The momentum continued at the South East Schools competition, where the team represented the school superbly. A particular highlight came from Fletcher W, who delivered a superb run to finish 5th in his category against some of the strongest runners in the region.
In October, an impressive 48 students competed in the National Cross Country Cup, with exceptional results across all year groups.
• The Junior Girls placed 10th overall
• The Junior Boys finished 7th
• The Intermediate Girls came 8th
• The Intermediate Boys secured 10th place
There were standout individual performances from Isobel M and Axel W, who both placed 14th in the Senior Girls and Junior Boys categories respectively.
To round off a hugely successful season, 13 St Benedict’s athletes have been selected to represent the Borough of Ealing at the county trials in March, a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the growing strength and depth of our crosscountry programme.
Congratulations to all our runners on an inspiring term of commitment, teamwork and excellent results.
HOCKEY
This term, our Junior School girls have brought great enthusiasm to hockey across all year groups.
Form 1 have enjoyed their first year of competitive fixtures, playing against Orley Farm, York House, Mill Hill, Belmont and Claire’s Court. They have impressed staff with their ability to transfer previously learned skills onto the pitch, and they are developing a strong understanding of the game.
Form 2 have also taken part in a busy programme of matches, versus York House, Mill Hill, Belmont, Orley Farm, Highgate and St Augustine’s.
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT
CROSS COUNTRY
Strong Performances at Ealing Schools Cross Country Form 1 and Form 2 students represented St Benedict’s with great energy and determination at the Ealing Schools Cross Country on 2 October, delivering strong performances throughout.
Highlights included impressive 3rd and 4th place finishes from Imogen T and Eska H. In the Form 2 boys’ race, Marlow M led the team with an excellent 8th place, while Isabella Nelson achieved a top ten finish in the Form 2 girls’ race. All our runners demonstrated real resilience, supporting one another and tackling a challenging course with spirit.
In the team standings, St Benedict’s placed 4th in the girls’ competition and 14th in the boys’, resulting in a joint 6th place overall finish for the Junior School.
London Youth Games Cross Country Championships Eska and Imogen (F1) were selected to represent Ealing at the London Youth Games Cross Country Championships in November.
In the U11 race, Eska finished 44th and Imogen 121st out of 217 runners – a fantastic achievement, especially as the girls are only in Form 1.
FENCING
Form 1 and Form 2 fencers have continued to develop their core skills across a range of weapons and are now preparing for upcoming tournaments. A number of pupils have already represented the school in early competitions.
Special mention goes to Fintan A and Julian S for their excellent progress.
We are very proud that every girl in both Form 1 and Form 2 has had the opportunity to represent St Benedict’s this term. Their progress and commitment have been excellent, and we look forward to seeing their skills continue to flourish.
U11 Hockey Tournament
A particular highlight of the term was hosting our annual St Benedict’s Junior School Tournament. Our U11A team delivered an outstanding performance, going unbeaten with three wins and a draw, and remarkably they did not concede a single goal. Their well-earned title as tournament champions was a wonderful way to round off a successful term of hockey.
FOOTBALL
Form 2 boys have enjoyed a busy term, balancing their Rugby fixtures with a Football tournament. The U11A team performed exceptionally well, finishing 5th at the Durston House Tournament – an impressive result given that many competing schools focus primarily on football this term.
A special mention goes to Afonso G and Marlow M for their outstanding play.
RUGBY
This year marks the Form 1 boys’ first full season of fixtures, and they have embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. They have faced UCS, St Paul’s, Belmont Prep and Haberdashers, working hard with their coaches throughout. A special mention goes to Ben K for his excellent commitment and progress.
Form 2 Rugby has also enjoyed a strong start, with competitive matches against UCS, Haberdashers, St Paul’s and Belmont Prep. The team has benefited from several new pupils joining the year group, adding depth and strengthening performances across the squad.
NEWS DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
Dear Families,
It was a delight to begin the new school year with a wonderful show of community support at the Ealing Half Marathon. Families, pupils, staff, and friends joined together for our “Run with Isabel, Oscar and Freddie” campaign, helping to raise just over £38,000, including Gift Aid.
The support we received provided a huge boost to our Bursary Fund – a clear reflection of the commitment and generosity within our school community.
Our thanks to Isabel, Oscar and Freddie, (Upper Sixth), for their leadership and dedication with this fundraising endeavour.
Further thanks are also needed for our Society of Parents & Friends who have also generously contributed £5,000 to the Bursary Fund.
This invaluable support will help broaden access, enabling more young people to benefit from a St Benedict’s education.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Best wishes,
Tara George Director of Communications
Fireworks Evening
Thank you to all our families who attended our Annual Firework party at Perivale. As always, the evening was a “sell out” and a highlight of our Michaelmas term. All funds raised on the evening will go directly to support our Bursary fund.
Save the Dates!
• Oxbridge & Cambridge Reunion Dinner – 16 January 2026
A chance for our former pupils who attended Oxford or Cambridge university to reconnect with old friends, exchange memories and hear about the latest developments at St Benedict’s. Our Guest Speaker this year will be Mark Sandys (OP 1992) Chief Innovation Officer, Diageo.
• OPA Rugby Festival –13 March 2026
An opportunity to enjoy an evening of top-class rugby and friendly community atmosphere hosted by the Old Priorian Rugby Football Club (OPRFC).
• OPA Golf Day – 12 June 2026 Old Priorians, parents and friends are invited to join us and enjoy a day of golf followed by an evening BBQ.
ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL
