THE CHRONICLE 2025

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Chronicle 2025

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The CHRONICLE 2025

The Chronicle 2025

The Chronicle 2025 4

Head of Junior School

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Duke of Edinburgh Award

6

EYFS (Nursery and Reception)

44

Key Trips

8

Year 1

46

Middle School Symposium

9

Year 2

48

Graduation Day

10

Year 3

50

Head of School

11

Year 4

51

Middle School Symposium

12

Year 5

52

Albam Exorna Award

13

Year 6

53

The Futures Convention

14

Junior Prizewinners

54

Onward Destinations 2025

16

Junior Charities

55

University Destinations 2025

18

Junior Art & DT

56

Philanthropy Day

19

Junior Languages

57

Lectures & Conferences

20

Junior Music

58

Remembrance Day

21

Junior Drama

59

Co-Educational 30th Anniversary

22

Junior Sport

60

Commemoration Day

24

Head of Senior School

61

Beating of The Bounds

26

Senior Drama

62

St Dunstan’s Festival

28

Senior Art

64

Senior Prize Winners 2025

30

Senior Design Engineering

68

Charity, Community & Fundraising

32

Senior Music

72

Friends of St Dunstan’s

34

Senior Sport

74

The Dunstonian Office

36

CCF

80

Valete! 2025

38

Notes From The Houses

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Salvete! 2025 w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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The CHRONICLE 2025

Head of EYFS

Head of Junior School

talent, while academic studies tackled ethical questions with maturity. Sporting triumphs and a triathlon with Olympian Alex Yee marked a fitting end to an exceptional year.

As we look back on another vibrant academic year, it’s a joy to reflect on the energy, creativity, and community spirit that have defined the past twelve months at the Junior School.

From imaginative learning to courageous exploration, our pupils have grown in confidence, curiosity, and compassion.

There is never a dull day in the Junior School and the children have grabbed with both hands the exciting opportunities and experiences that enrich our community. Both inside and outside the classroom, the achievements are endless and are testament to the positive attitude, engagement and enthusiasm the children bring each and every day.

Our youngest learners in Nursery and Reception embraced a world of wonder from planting beans inspired by Jack and the Beanstalk to minibeast hunts and expressive dance. Memorable trips to Mudchute Farm and the Creekside Discovery Centre, along with joyful Sports Days, brought learning to life.

Year 1 journeyed through space and pirate adventures, blending creativity with academic rigour, with highlights including dancethemed maths and Murakami-inspired art.

Year 2’s focus on community and courage saw them exploring London’s transport system, participating in their first residential trip, and engaging in meaningful literary work based on Grandad’s Secret Giant, showcasing empathy and imagination.

Years 3 and 4 tackled challenges with enthusiasm. Year 3’s camping residential built resilience, while Year 4’s return to Hilltop in Norfolk deepened their love of learning through projects like the ‘Museum of Music’. National recognition in the IAPS Time to Write competition capped off a year of achievement.

Year 5 explored science and engineering through rocket launches and mouse trap buggies, while a visit from a Dunstonian doctor enriched their biology studies. Their Isle of Wight residential was a highlight of friendship and growth.

Year 6 concluded their Junior School journey with flair.

Their production of Keymaster celebrated teamwork and

Across the wider Junior School, there have also been huge successes. The MFL department offered a global lens, exploring Francophone cultures, composing poetry, and celebrating traditions through festivals and competitions.

Art flourished with 3D sculptures, textiles, and relief prints, culminating in the largest exhibition to date and IAPS Art Competition success.

Music thrived across all year groups, with performances ranging from rock bands to massed choirs. The Summer Concert and Big Summer Sing were standout moments, showcasing our magnificent choir and musicians. Sport remained a cornerstone of school life. Pupils competed with passion and sportsmanship, achieving national swimming finals and great success in both football and cricket competitions.

SEND provision saw significant progress, with the opening of the Rainbow Room, targeted dyslexia support, and enhanced staff training. New coffee mornings strengthened parent partnerships, and a child-centred Learning Support Plan will launch next year.

The Festival brought global exploration to life through workshops, performances, and outdoor adventures in the Woodland Classroom, celebrating experiential, crosscurricular learning.

Community support took centre stage this year, shifting from fundraising to direct giving. Families donated essential items to local organisations, and pupils participated in awareness initiatives like a 7-mile charity run for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. The Friends of St Dunstan’s raised over £40,000, supporting outdoor learning and library enhancements. We thank outgoing committee members and welcome new ones to continue this vital work. Sustainability and wellbeing were prioritised through ecological upgrades, wildflower planting, and facility improvements. Solar panel expansion and LED conversions reflect our commitment to a greener future.

This year has been defined by joy, growth, and collective achievement. We are grateful to the dedicated staff, supportive families, and above all, our remarkable pupils, whose spirit continues to inspire us all.

Laura Whitwood, Head of Junior School w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Nursery Highlights

EYFS (Nursery and Reception)

Our youngest pupils started their St Dunstan’s journey by becoming familiar with the beautiful outdoor spaces across the school and observing changes in their environment.

They avidly collected conkers and examined the different leaves littering the field. After collecting these treasures, they were used in the classroom for learning across all curriculum areas including literacy, maths and art.

The Michaelmas Term was capped off with a very successful Nativity season, the Nursery children performing the Nativity story to their families and the Reception children taking to the stage in the Great Hall as the stars that they are.

In the Lent Term the EYFS pupils took inspiration from picture books to express their creativity. After reading ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ by Maurice Sendak the Nursery children created their own wild landscape using paint and collage, then constructed their very own ‘Wild Thing’ sculptures. To celebrate their learning, they participated in a dance and drama workshop run by Champions Theatre Arts. The Reception pupils demonstrated the superhero learners that they are, sharing the story ‘Supertato’ by Sue Hendra. They designed and made their very own Supertatoes, writing what their Supertato would say to the evil pea, their learning culminated in an exciting drama workshop where they showed off their very own superpowers.

The Trinity term was filled with exciting trips and activities.

After exploring the story of the Three Billy Goats Gruff, Nursery took a trip to Mudchute Farm to meet some reallife billy goats. Reception travelled to Creekside Discovery Centre for a fun filled day of pond dipping and bug hunting. It was a jam-packed year of fun and learning!

Kirsty Leane (Head of EYFS)

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Reception to the Rescue!

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Reception Highlights w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Year 1 Highlights

Year 1

Starting Year 1 marks an exciting new chapter — one filled with adventure, creativity, and joyful learning.

After the more play-based environment of Reception, Year 1 blends structure with imagination, making it one of the most enjoyable and memorable parts of the school journey.

Classrooms are buzzing with colour and curiosity, as the children dive into new subjects. But it’s far from all textbooks and timetables. Lessons are brought to life through songs, games, art, and hands-on activities that keep the children engaged and excited.

In the Michaelmas term, Year 1 enjoyed learning all about jobs in past, present and future in our IPC topic, ‘A Day in the Life’. We were amazed by the jobs children did in the past including chimney sweep, working in factories with no breaks and working in mines! Thank goodness those jobs no longer exist! We explored how technology has changed jobs and created new ones.

We then discussed what we want to be when we grow up. The list was broad and included Formula 1 driver, Youtuber, actor and pet sitter! We ended the first term with the Nativity. There really is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit. The singing and dancing could have earned us a TONY award, and the children enjoyed all the clapping and cheering. Pure joy!

After the excitement of Christmas, the Lent term was jam-packed, and we continued to explore exciting texts in English. Reading is a big part of Year 1, and we have enjoyed diving into the lovely story books this year.

When bones were discovered on the field, we wrote descriptions which we sent to the biology department to help us name them. We eventually discovered that the bones came from a woolly mammoth, which led nicely into our class book, ‘The Curious Case of the Missing Mammoth.” We then journeyed to space in ‘Toys in Space’ and met an alien looking for its lost toy, Cuddles!

The highlight of the term was our pirate day to celebrate the end of our IPC topic, ‘Treasure Island’. We made a campfire in the Woodland Classroom, toasted marshmallows and sang sea shanties. We also enjoyed a fun pirate themed workshop with Champion Theatre Arts.

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As the summer term approached, we enjoyed being outdoors and planting vegetables and flowers. Time flies when you’re having fun and this year has been no exception!

Michael Clifford, Head of Key Stage 1

Year 2 Highlights

Year 2

What a brilliant year we have had in Year 2!

In the Michaelmas term, Year 2 enjoyed their first IPC topic, ‘Our World’. We developed our ecology and geography skills whilst on our trip to Ladywell Fields and were amazed by the wide variety of trees and minibeasts we could find. The pupils then delivered a magical performance of “The Twinkly Nativity” and showcased such a range of brilliant talents.

The pupils worked hard in rehearsals and the excitement was palpable on performance day with the pupils delivering a wonderful show!

During Lent term, the pupils embarked on a fascinating journey through history, learning about influential figures who have shaped our world. Our studies began with exploring the lives and achievements of significant historical figures such as Walter Tull, Amelia Earhart and Florence Nightingale. The pupils enjoyed visiting the Golden Hinde, learning about Sir Francis Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe.

The Trinity term began by investigating different types of transport, from ancient methods like horse-drawn carriages to modern vehicles such as cars, trains, and airplanes, for our next topic From A to B. We learned about the invention and development of these modes of transport and their impact on our daily lives and the world around us.

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We ended our year with our wonderful residential on the school field. Our activities included bushcraft, roasting marshmallows, firing arrows and building a fire. A flapjack and a mug of hot chocolate was a perfect way to say goodbye to a brilliant year!

Through hands-on activities and creative projects, the pupils designed maps, created timelines showing the progression of transportation technology and went on a trip all over London using different types of transport. These activities have not only deepened our understanding of the topic but also enhanced their problem-solving and teamwork skills.

We ended our year with our wonderful residential on the school field. Our activities included bushcraft, roasting marshmallows, firing arrows and building a fire. A flapjack and a mug of hot chocolate was the perfect way to say goodbye to a brilliant year!

Michael Clifford, Head of Key Stage 1

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Year 3 Highlights

Year 3

Year 3 and 4 seem to go from strength to strength this year and are now fully established as a three-form cohort, energised annually with the arrival of some friendly new faces in Year 3 as part of the 7+ intake.

From well-established educational trips to the Science Museum, the Horniman and the National History Museum, as well as drama workshops exploring Ancient Egypt and the Stone Age, pupils have explored a range of educational opportunities both in and outside of the classroom.

Year 3 also sees the start of fixtures and all pupils across the section experienced and enjoyed competitive sport against different schools in football, rugby, netball, hockey, cross-country running and swimming, taking home plenty of medals and awards, and importantly having a great time! In the Lent term, the highlight for both of Year 3 and 4 has to be their Showcases, where pupils shone on the stage with the now much-anticipated mix of interpretative dance, dazzling drama and the catchiest of songs!

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Year 4 Highlights

Year 4

Of course, the Trinity term was a whirl of activity but the inevitable highlight, as it is every year, were the Residentials!

Year 3 travelled in the steps of their Palaeolithic ancestors with a bushcraft-themed adventure in the stunning Kent countryside, with fire-making, whittling and all kinds of wilderness-related activities.

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Residentials were a reliable highlight for Years 3 & 4 this year.

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Year 4 had a similarly incredible experience with their Residential in Norfolk at Hilltop Outdoor Centre, where, having now visited four years in a row, siblings are increasingly hearing about the excitement that’s in store and cannot wait to pack their bags and set off for their own adventures! It did not disappoint, with all pupils pushing themselves out of their comfort zone, whether building their independence away from home, hurling themselves off 8-metre-high platforms, or catching crabs on the beautiful Norfolk Coastline. All pupils should be proud of their efforts over the past year, with some fantastic memories made. We already can’t wait for next year!

Ben Chambers, Head of Year 3 & 4 w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Year 5 Highlights

Year 5 What a brilliantly busy year it has been for Year 5! From the wonders of Ancient Greece to the marvels of modern-day aerospace, we’ve done it all!

Through English, we discovered a myriad of curious characters, each providing unique perspectives and experiences: Matthew Henson, a courageous African American explorer who had to fight to be recognised for his great achievements; Jub, a 6-fingered fairytale character like no other; Kai, a brave member of the Brownstone family determined to set forth on adventure despite her mother’s bookish ways; and Malala Yousafzai an unrelenting advocate and ambassador for girls’ education. Through the eyes of these protagonists, pupils embraced the opportunity to write in a range of genres and developed their skills of oracy and comprehension.

The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) continued to excite and challenge pupils this year. Through their study of the amphitheatres of Ancient Greece and their great tragedies, to the inner workings of the human body, with a bit of space exploration thrown in for good measure, Year 5 have acquired much new knowledge and mastered many important skills. There have been many wonderful excursions this year; each one enhancing our understanding of the world around us: the British Museum to catch a glimpse of life in ancient civilisations; the Science Museum where we enjoyed an epic IMAX film about life on the International Space Station; and a special visit from a Dunstonian doctor who answered many of our questions about the human body.

As expected, the trip to the Isle of Wight has been a highlight! As a team, we loved our adventure together, and the opportunity to develop resilience, demonstrate our compassion and support for each other, and the chance to deepen existing friendships while fostering new ones! It was an unforgettable experience; we will all remember the blustery ferry ride and thrilling Giant Swing with fondness.

Year 5 have accomplished so much this year, and we cannot wait to see what the next year has in store!

Ailsa Cameron. Head of Year 5 & 6

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Year 5 pupils’ attitude to learning has been so impressive! They should be so proud of their enthusiasm and determination to improve on their previous best!

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Year 6 Highlights

Year 6 This year, in Year 6, has not disappointed! It has been a whirlwind of a year packed with exciting learning experiences and opportunities to further embellish our St Dunstan’s shields.

English saw us delve into different worlds and times, uncovering the varied perspectives of the protagonists in our different texts: Helen and Lydia, two fictional young girls navigating life in France during WW2; Floella Benjamin sharing the challenges faced when arriving in a new country; The Selfish Giant, a transformed character due to realising the importance of connection with others; Charles Darwin and his remarkable voyage to the Galapagos Islands; and Jacques Cousteau the inventor of The Aqualung and impressive underwater pioneer.

Our IPC learning has filled us with curiosity and powered our inquisitive minds to ask questions, enjoy independent research and discover more about the world around us through our topics: World War II, Moving People, Sacred Spaces and Go with The Flow. Our visits to the Imperial War Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Central Mosque, BAPS Mandir and the Bromley Synagogue brought our learning to life and provided first-hand experience of sacred places in our community.

Maths has continued to challenge and inspire us; we have developed impressive resilience when solving problems and have relished the opportunity to apply all our newly learned mathematical skills to real-life scenarios. Algebra, pie-charts and missing angles were particularly satisfying to master!

A highlight, of course, was the much-anticipated residential trip to France. We loved putting our language skills to the test in French markets, cooking lessons and in games of Boules. A great time was had by all as we nurtured existing friendships, and, excitingly, forged new ones. The end of Year 6 wouldn’t be complete without the annual production.

This year’s performance of The Keymaster is set to be an extravaganza with the most extraordinary display of singing, dancing and acting. What a wonderful way to end the year and a brilliant Junior School journey.

Ailsa Cameron. Head of Year 5 & 6

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Year 6 have demonstrated the College Values in abundance this year - they should be so proud!

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Junior School Prize winners

Junior Prize winners 2025

YEAR GROUP PRIZES Nursery Ambassador Nursery Progress Reception Ambassador Reception Progress Year 1 Ambassador Year 1 Progress Year 2 Ambassador Year 2 Progress Year 3 Ambassador Year 3 Progress Year 3 Academic Year 4 Ambassador Year 4 Progress Year 4 Academic Year 5 Ambassador Year 5 Progress Year 5 Academic

Nathaniel Thorne Lottie Law Finlo Fisher Lara Kerkenezova Iris Ridley Daphne Turkmen Albert Georgiades Cora Cotoulas-Adams Ottilie Parsons Serena Harris Nathaniel Walker Sophie Bowen Nicholas Shelkovnikov Isla Ringer Cassius Lovett Harriet Illingworth Lucy Edmonds

YEAR 6 COLLEGE VALUES RECOGNITION AWARDS CONFIDENCE Ben Arnold Oliver Reader Ava Dickey Leo Forbes George Shelley Ethan Patel Amaya Makanjuola Harry Ewing Arabella Dormieux COURAGE Gabrielle Burrows Austin Smith Mimi Lawrence CREATIVITY Ellie Sjardin Emily Friswell Benjy Cleaton-Roberts Aoife Palmer COMPASSION Jedidiah Chika-Chuku Agnes Heaton Will Wood Mei Greensmith Ruben Thammanna Minna Mumford Johnny Ayling CURIOSITY Max Hine Will Fabbri-Halliday Max Yagnik Elliot Ward Davi Pucci Hahn Antoine Leveziel Linus Jones Aidan Chapman

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Junior School Prize Winners

SPORTS PRIZES Athletics Trophy Cross Country Trophy Cricket Trophy Football Trophy Hockey Trophy Netball Trophy Rugby Trophy Swimming Trophy Sportsperson Trophy Sportsperson Trophy

Aurelia Smith Oscar Elam Emerson Hunter Stuart Maceo McSteen Albert Santiago Bigden Zara Ewen Nico Hunter Stuart Thomas Atkinson Arthur Bomford Sienna Cox

ARTS PRIZES Chorister Trophy Performing Arts Trophy

Ariana McQuoid Jessica Davies

SUBJECT PRIZES Art Trophy Design Technology Trophy Drama Trophy English Trophy Humanities Trophy Computing Trophy Languages Trophy Mathematics Trophy Music Trophy Science Trophy

Maya Uchar Eliza Davidson Jenson King Nina Jones Jack Bowers Oliver Situ Zac Ryan Tom Donaldson Leo Norris Joseph Eytle

SPECIAL AWARDS Progress Award Junior School Head Pupil Award Junior School Head Pupil Award Albam Exorna Award Albam Exorna Award Head of Junior School Trophy

Emil Cardos Tobias Stiasny Alexa McLellan Catherine Money Bertie Murphy Tara Lee

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Junior School Charities

Junior School Charities

This year has been a big year in the Junior School for handing over donations to charitable causes.

We began at the Harvest Festival with the desperately needed food donations, and then continued at Christmas by sending newly wrapped Christmas presents to the Salvation Army, who disperse them to the less fortunate children of Lewisham. In January we continued by collecting confectionary tubs which we handed over to the Greene King pub initiative, who sell tubs to recycling companies to raise money for this year’s cause, Macmillan Cancer Support.

We then collected some beautiful pre-loved clothes which were gratefully received by MammaKind, a local charity which supports parents by giving them packages of the items that they need the most. We set up a partnership with the Lewisham Donation Hub and have been collecting used technical items, jars which will be filled with sugar, coffee and salt and some general household items. All these charities are overwhelmed by the support that the families of St Dunstan’s pupils are offering on an ongoing basis, so thank you to everyone.

We have continued to support the Motor Neurone Disease association through a fundraising run at the start of the year, where the children ran 7 miles in 7 days in memory of Rob Burrow who is our inspiration. Our teachers volunteered to help set up the MNDA stand at the London marathon for the second year running, and our Sixth formers collected money outside the stadium at a Millwall match. Needless to say, the South London Branch is incredibly appreciative of our support, and we look forward to working with them again in the future.

We have raised further funds for the Lewisham Foodbank, Children in Need, the Royal British Legion, Save the Children and Comic Relief. Once again we thank the parents for their generosity for these worthy causes, and the children for

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their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn about where the money and donations are headed. This year we were also delighted to celebrate in assembly the various fundraising projects that some of our children have thought of and carried out at home.

We look forward to helping our community again next year!

Helen Morris, Junior School Charity Coordinator

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Pupils from Years 2-6 raised over £1000 in the MND 7-in-7 challenge in memory of Rob Burrow

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Junior School Charities w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Junior School Art & DT

Junior Art & DT

ammonite fossils. In DT pupils designed and made their own large-scale 3D animal.

It has been another busy and exciting year in the Junior School art room with lots of wonderful outcomes from across the year groups.

Year 3 pupils hosted a stunning art exhibition in March which showcased rainforest themed work in the medium of collage, felt making and sewing as well as detailed and intricate clay

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The annual IAPS art competition, with the theme, ‘Reflection’, saw more entries than ever. Well done to Freddie Baxter, Charlie Barge and Milly Freke whose artworks were submitted to represent their respective age categories

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Another fabulous art exhibition in February, this time by Year 4 pupils, with striking portraits of Idia from the Benin Empire, colourful Ancient Egyptian inspired self-portraits and elaborate clay tablets. The Trinity Term allowed the pupils to show off their sewing and design skills during their pencil case making project.

Year 5 highlights have included making decorative cushions in DT and stunning Kehinde Wiley inspired portraits of black heroes during Black History Month which incorporated a range of mediums and techniques. Ancient Greek inspired pottery and large-scale abstract mixed-medium space pictures were also achieved.

Year 6 have again completed some impressive outcomes – collaborative photography work inspired by Henry Moore’s WW2 underground sketches and elaborate dragon eye clay sculptures to name but two. They also enjoyed a whole day of Design Technology where they made miniature campervans.

Alison Smith, Junior School Art and Design Technology Coordinator

Junior School Languages

Junior Languages

Last September, Languages Day was once again an opportunity to embrace and celebrate the many cultures and traditions present in the Junior School community thanks to our parents and Sixth formers who came and shared their first-hand knowledge with our pupils.

While some children enjoyed trying their hand at a variety of scripts and having a go at various languages in games and songs, others discovered origami or BSL. We were also

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Well done to the Junior School pupils for helping us achieve a Bronze Award celebrating our work to widen our pupils’ understanding of different cultures and languages both in our community and further afield.

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very lucky to try some recipes from our own Junior School multicultural cookbook thanks to our amazing Catering Team.

This year, the Junior School pupils were encouraged to create a piece of bunting representing themselves and their culture.

They were then put together by some of our newly minted Language Ambassadors to decorate our Junior School building and represent our fantastically varied school community.

In February, we celebrated our second International Mother Language Day, and it was great to see that even more children took part and shared their home language with their peers this year.

In Lent, the Association for Language Learning MFL Calligram Celebration took place, and some of our pupils were very excited to see their work published in the ensuing e-books!

At various points during the year, some of our Junior School pupils took part in after-school enrichment sessions and enjoyed learning about the language and culture of the various languages taught in the Senior School.

Julie Staes, Junior School MFL Coordinator w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Junior School Music

Junior Music Well done to all our Junior School Musicians for another fab year!

September saw our Year 4 pupils learning about the instruments of the orchestra and listening to our wonderful team of Visiting Music teachers, in an exciting instrumental demonstration. In October, we celebrated a beautiful Harvest service in our Great Hall, with songs from Years one to three and in December Pre Prep were back again in performance mode for their Nativities, which were, as always, special highlights in the college calendar.

The Prep department held a great instrumental concert in the first term. Soloists, Prep Strings and JS Wind Band enjoyed their first public performance of the year and Junior School Rock Band appealed to those of a certain age, through their ‘Oasis tribute’! Our Friday Forder Percussion club played in a mini steel band for Celebration Assembly, and their peers really enjoyed listening to them. At Christmas time, we were proud to take a group of singers to an Elderly Care Home, where the residents sang along with gusto to our carol singing! We were also pleased to perform in Carol Services in school and in the beautiful St Clement Danes Church in Central London.

Our Lent term hosted a successful Instrumental Music assembly. Our Year 3 and 4 pupils both performed a stunning showcase in our theatre and our 90+ strong Prep Choir performed in the Catford Broadway Theatre in the amazing College Easter Concert.

In the Trinity term, our Pre Prep Music assemblies were sweet and inspiring, with our youngest performers giving us a satisfying glimpse of their musical potential. During Festival fortnight, the Year 6 musical, Summer Concert and Big Summer Sing choir event delightfully showcased our talented pupils. Our Year 5 pupils finished off a great musical year by singing in the massed choir of our St Dunstan’s group at our impressive Festival Finale Concert.

Lara Marcinkiewicz, Head of Junior School Music

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“

Our Prep Choir were a massive 90+ pupils strong this year!

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Junior School Drama

Junior Drama Pre-Prep took to the stage with The Twinkly Nativity in December, and what a twinkly treat it was!

The children brought the Christmas story to life with twinkling confidence and heart-warming joy, lighting up the stage in true festive fashion. This was a performance that truly lived up to its name. A twinkly triumph from start to finish!

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The children demonstrated not only their understanding of the text but also their growing confidence as thoughtful speakers and listeners

Year 3 impressed with a dynamic and educational showcase exploring life during the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. Their curiosity and commitment shone through as they shared fascinating discoveries and brought history to life through their performances and displays.

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Year 4 brought energy and excitement to the stage with their showcase on Egyptian Gods. The children’s lively presentations and creative interpretations of ancient myths were a joy to watch, highlighting their growing confidence and love of learning.

Year 5 approached their learning with enthusiasm and imagination. In IPC, they explored the circulatory system through an imaginative roleplay to better understand how blood flows through the body. In English, the class took on the challenge of debating a moral dilemma from The Lost Happy Endings, arguing whether Jub or the witch was truly in the right. The children demonstrated not only their understanding of the text but also their growing confidence as thoughtful speakers and listeners.

Year 6 closed the year with a brilliant production of The Keymaster. Their time-travelling journey through British history was delivered with professionalism and passion.

Every student gave their all, producing a performance full of humour, heart, and historical insight.

Across the school, this year’s performances have been a wonderful celebration of our pupils’ creativity, collaboration, and growing confidence. From festive storytelling to powerful explorations of the past, each event reflected the children’s enthusiasm, dedication, and joy in learning through performance.

Lesley-Brian Gordinsky, Head of Junior School Drama w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Junior School Sport

Junior Sport

What a year for sport in our Junior School, full of enjoyment and success! Across this year we have run multiple different house events in sports such as cross country, football, rugby, netball, biathlon, swimming and water polo.

It is fantastic to see that our cross-country success has continued this year. Some standout moments this year have been winning the Colfe’s, Merton Court and Farrington’s competitions as well as getting multiple medals in the Rosemead cross country. In addition to cross country, we went to Merton Court for their Aquathlon where we came away as winners. Pupils have represented Lewisham in the London Youth Games as well as having 24 pupils represent the College at the London Mini Marathon where our very own Arthur Bomford won the race and Niamh Mitchell was close behind as the 1st placed girl to cross the finish line. We had seven representatives for the College who qualified for the GB Biathlon competition at Bath University with medals from Oliver Baxter, Jack Gibb, George Gibb and Sam Bomford. We are so proud of all of you!

Michaelmas saw an enjoyable term of netball and rugby across Years 3-6 with many matches taking place throughout the term for our mixed boys’ and girls’ teams. Many games were

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Junior School Sport

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successfully contested, and much progress has been made by the children in developing their skills and match play in these sports. Our House competitions for Years 5 and 6 were hugely competitive and it was fantastic to see the teams mixed between Year 5 and Year 6 pupils. Well done to our Year 5 ‘B’ team who won the Farrington’s netball tournament as well as to our Year 6 netball team who finished 2nd in the Lewisham School Games final.

Football was played by all in the Lent term, with Forder clubs, lessons, matches and tournaments. Our girls from Year 1 to Year 6 enjoyed a lunchtime of football in support of the #letgirlsplay initiative led by all three of the Senior School’s Football Coaches and a Chelsea Development coach. A massive shout out must go to our Year 5 team who managed to get through to the final of a 16 team West London tournament only losing out on penalties. Our Year 4 girls team managed to win the Alleyn’s football tournament winning every game with standout performances from Daisy Parnell and Seren King.

We have played over 120 fixtures this year!

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Hockey Forder clubs have been successful as always, with many children taking the opportunity to develop their hockey skills with Mr Corbin O’Grady and Mr Foulgar, our Senior School coaches. In the Lent term all Prep pupils took part in a whole year group hockey fixture against a local school which was fantastic to see. Our Year 5 hockey team managed to win the London Youth Games hockey beating strong opposition from across London independent schools which is a fantastic achievement.

Weekly swimming lessons have continued for children from Reception to Year 6, and our swim squad have represented the school in friendly home galas as well as some highly competitive away galas. There have been many successes, including winning the Year 5 and Year 6 Lewisham School’s Gala with Thomas Atkinson and Deji Dauda winning top boy awards in their respective age groups. Five pupils have been successful in qualifying for the Nationals IAP’s Finals and we wish them luck. Pupils in Year 5 and Year 6 loved competing in the annual House Biathlon competition. We look forward to a highly competitive Prep House Swimming gala!

The sporting calendar will end with the Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep Sports day, which always proves to be a fun celebration to finish off the year in style.

James Roddy, Head of Junior School Sport and PE w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Head Of Senior School

Head Of Senior School

As another remarkable year at St Dunstan’s draws to a close, we reflect on a period defined by determination, vision, and verve.

Our staff and students have given their all this academic year, starting in the late sunshine of the early Michaelmas term and culminating in our summer crescendo, the St Dunstan’s Festival, and its joyful celebration of all that makes our College unique. Across sport, the performing arts, academics, wellbeing, and service, our students have embraced every opportunity to excel, leaving us with much to celebrate.

Our students have continued to impress with their intellectual curiosity and determination. Year 11 and 13 approached their examinations with fortitude, and we celebrated record-breaking examination results once more.

This year saw record-breaking outcomes for our Futures programme, with 95% of our Year 13 students having the choice to attend a Russell Group university, and half of Year 12 joining our Aiming High programme, supported by staff, parents and alumni. Beyond the curriculum, students have shone in national essay competitions, Olympiads, and debating championships, demonstrating intellectual curiosity and resilience.

Sport at St Dunstan’s has flourished as football, in partnership with Chelsea FC, delivered 167 fixtures, with two girls’ teams reaching national finals, a historic achievement for the College, rewarding our decision to deliver gender-neutral sport. Hockey teams competed at Tier 1 and Tier 2 levels, while swimming and water polo enjoyed their most successful year yet, including top finishes at the ESSA National Team Relay Championships and medals at the World School Games. Netball continues to grow in strength, and cricket maintained its dynamic presence with over 80 fixtures. These successes reflect not only talent but also the devotion to performance and wellbeing that underpins our sporting ethos.

The performing arts have been nothing short of spectacular.

From the immersive outdoor staging of The Tempest to the student-led Women of Troy, and the dazzling opera The Marriage of Figaro, creativity has thrived. Beyond the Festival, highlights included the Carol Service at St Clement Danes, our inaugural Jazz Evening at The Pheasantry, and a moving rendition of The Cherry Orchard. The year’s crowning achievement was Les Misérables, earning multiple nominations at the National Schools Theatre Awards, a testament to the talent and commitment of our students.

This year has seen a deepening commitment to wellbeing,

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with initiatives that nurture both mind and body. Usherwood lessons introduced students to research on memory, growth mindset, and metacognition, while International Yoga Day brought the entire school together in celebration of movement and mindfulness. Staff development has mirrored this focus, with the launch of the AIR leadership programme and the ECT Symposium fostering professional growth.

These efforts reflect our belief that academic success and personal wellbeing are inseparable.

Our community has continued to thrive through collaboration and service. The Student Parliament championed initiatives from charity fundraising to cultural enrichment and wellbeing. Friends of St Dunstan’s raised over £40,000 this year alone, funding projects that benefit the entire College, while our House System has strengthened pastoral care and competitive spirit through a vibrant calendar of events. Beyond the gates, students volunteered in local schools and supported Lewisham Local, reinforcing our commitment to social responsibility.

As we look ahead, we do so with pride in what has been achieved and excitement for what is to come. This journal captures the highlights of a year that has been testament to the values and drive of our students, staff and families: a year in which every student has fulsomely adorned their shield at St Dunstan’s.

Jade McLellan, Head of Senior School

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Senior Drama The performing arts at St Dunstan’s have continued to flourish and grow with the Drama and Music Departments now producing seven productions a year.

Starting the year was House Performing Arts which saw each house interpret an aspect of the life of St Dunstan. The first main production was The Cherry Orchard, co-directed by student, Safia Rieb Smith and led by Katie Kenyon as Ranevskaya who took the audience on an emotion journey though her fractured family and the loss of their beloved family home. The National School Theatre awards described it as a “production … presented in a new and exciting way, breaking away from dusty drawing rooms and melodrama.

Instead, we were introduced to quirky characters and a juxtaposition between contemporary, energetic humour and raw, tragic storytelling.”

This was quickly followed by the successful dance production of Lumos, with a cast of over 50 students drawing the audience into the Wizarding world through narrative dance.

The Easter musical was the hit musical Les Misérables, a mammoth undertaking that delivered a showstopping result. With excellent performance from both principals and ensemble, audiences rose to their feet every night with rapturous applause.

Sam Mawrey-Yates led the company as the protagonist Jean Valjean, seeking redemption and justice, giving a gripping performance. Jamie Ozoemena as Javert held the audience captive with his rendition of Stars and Javert’s

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Suicide while Shani Smethurst and Lauren Suh broke hearts with their renditions of I Dreamed a Dream and On My Own respectively. This epic production was lauded by the NSTA as “powerfully and emotionally told by a hardworking, talented, and thoroughly well-prepared company.” The remainder of the year’s productions have been reflected on in the Festival section of The Chronicle, but in review it has been another amazing year for students to engage with the arts.

Richard Gregg, Director of Drama and Dance

Senior Drama

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Seven productions including two musicals, a play, an opera, a dance production and a student-led devised production

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Senior Art This year has been an extraordinary celebration of creativity and collaboration across all areas of Art & Design. Our students have demonstrated ambition, technical skill, and a willingness to push boundaries, resulting in a truly memorable year.

The highlight of the year was the annual Fashion Show, held in June during the Arts Festival. With the theme Art in Motion, every outfit was designed and created by our students, each piece inspired by a different art movement.

The show was a stunning display of innovation and craftsmanship, and a testament to the talent and dedication of our young designers. We look forward to repeating this innovation next year.

KS3 students have refined their clay skills through projects exploring abstracted forms, developing confidence in both technique and creative expression. Their work reflects a growing understanding of form and texture, and their enthusiasm has been inspiring.

Our end-of-year exhibition in the Pavilion at the Jubilee Ground was a major event, showcasing an impressive range of work including film and installation pieces by Year 13 students. This exhibition also featured the winners of our community art competitions, reinforcing the strong connection between our school and the wider community.

Year 12 and 13 students held interim exhibitions throughout the year, providing opportunities to share their progress and receive feedback. Their work continues to demonstrate depth and originality, with many pieces exploring complex themes through diverse media.

A particularly meaningful project this term was our collaboration with Rosemead and St Christopher Hall, creating ceramic poppies for Remembrance Day. These beautiful pieces will be displayed annually as a lasting tribute, highlighting the power of art to unite and commemorate.

Our Art Scholars exhibited their work at the end of the year following an inspiring visit to the National Gallery.

Their studies of historical and contemporary art informed ambitious and technically accomplished outcomes.

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Looking ahead, we are excited to participate in the Articulation Prize later this year and to continue exhibiting student work in new and engaging ways. The creativity and commitment shown by our students promise another exceptional year to come.

Charlotte Handley, Head of Art

Senior Art

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All A Level Art Students have received their top choice for Art Foundation next year!

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Senior Design Engineering It has been another productive and creative year in the Design Engineering Department. Students have been using the laser cutting during Forder sessions to design and create jewellery.

Year 12 and 13 students had a AI talk from Alex Davies, a machine learning specialist, while heading up Google’s DeepMind research centre in London.

Year 5 students used the Design Engineering workshops and developed some highly successful mouse trap powered cars.

Year 12 students have been looking at the topic of sustainability and designed and manufactured a postmodern inspired concrete table that was displayed around the college.

James Randall, Head of Design Engineering

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Year 5 students used the Design Engineering workshops and developed some highly successful mouse trap powered cars

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Senior Music The academic year 2024-25 was once again incredibly busy and exciting for the Music department. The Michaelmas Term saw a number of new and established events in the calendar.

In early October we hosted our first ever Orchestral Workshop, welcoming students aged 9–11 from local schools to rehearse and perform with the College Orchestra.

Around the same time our Michaelmas Chamber Concert took place in the Great Hall and featured music from film and television, with performances from Brass Ensemble, SDC Voices, Jazz Collective and many more.

Later in the term, the Michaelmas Concert was held at Sinfonia Smith Square and included performances from the College Orchestra, Concert Band, Big Band and Chapel Choir, with their performance of Mozart’s C Minor Mass. The term concluded with the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Clement Danes on the Strand, led by Chapel Choir, SDC Voices, and choirs from the Junior School and Rosemead.

A number of events and performances also took place during Lent Term. It all started with Chapel Choir singing Evensong

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at Southwark Cathedral in late January. The annual Battle of the Bands took place in February in the Theatre, with twelve student bands from across the Senior School taking part. In March, the annual Jazz Showcase was held at The Pheasantry, a Pizza Express Live venue on the King’s Road, with performances from jazz ensembles across the College.

In mid-March we also collaborated with Drama to stage this year’s musical production, Les Misérables. Finally, the Easter Concert was held right at the end of term at the Catford Broadway Theatre, with performances from all major ensembles and choirs.

The Trinity Term opened with the Commemoration Day Service, which included anthems sung by our Chapel Choir.

Then, as is tradition, the academic year concluded with the SDC Festival, where musical events included the Outdoor Concert (featuring many student-led bands), our Opera (which this year was The Marriage of Figaro), the Jazz Soiree, and the Festival Finale Concert.

Mark Dowd, Director of Music

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Senior Sport

Sporting Achievements 2024/25: Football • Last year was particularly successful for girls football on the national stage.

Our U13’s reached the ISFA Southern Area National Finals (the highest level of competition in that age group) and our U15’s reached the ISFA Shield National Final.

• The U12’s and U15’s Girls won the Inner London Cup – the regional competition that we enter.

• The U12’s and U13’s Girls won the District Cup. • The Senior Boys also won the District Cup.

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Sporting Achievements 2024/25: Hockey • The U15 girls came runners up at the T2 London Regional Hockey Finals • U12 Boys and Girls and U14 Boys & Girls both won the T2 London Regional Hockey Finals.

Senior Sport Highlights

Sporting Achievements 2024/25: Aquatics • The U16 Boys came second in the London League Waterpolo B Final (regional competition) • The U15 Boys Waterpolo came third in the English Schools National Plate Finals.

• In the last three years, we have had multiple medallists in the World School Games, and Top 5 finishes for the Boys & Girls at the Bath Cup – the most competitive national swimming competition for independent schools • This year our boys have made English Schools Swimming National Finals.

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Senior House Highlights

CCF The 2024–2025 year has been the busiest and most successful in the history of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at St Dunstan’s College. With record numbers of cadets participating in training, camps, and ceremonial duties, our contingent has continued to grow in strength, discipline and reputation.

A particular highlight of the year was our memorable overseas trip to Ypres, Belgium, where cadets performed at the Menin Gate as part of the daily Last Post ceremony.

Representing the College at such a prestigious and solemn occasion was a great honour and a profound learning experience for all involved.

This year also saw our Ministry of Defence Biennial Inspection, carried out by Brigadier A Lamb MBE DL. The Brigadier commended the contingent on its high standards of turnout, leadership and commitment, praising the cadets for their professionalism and enthusiasm. His visit reaffirmed the strength of our training programme and the leadership of our staff.

One of the most fiercely contested events was the annual Rifle Drill Competition, which saw the closest result ever between the Royal Navy and Army sections. After a tense and technically impressive display by both teams, the judges declared a narrow victory to the Army Section, a testament to the dedication and precision of our cadets across the board.

Finally, we are proud to report that Major Davies, our long-serving and highly respected Contingent Commander, has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership. His continued guidance and inspiration remain central to the contingent’s success.

We look forward to another exciting year ahead, building on the remarkable achievements of this record-breaking year. The CCF remains a cornerstone of character development at St Dunstan’s, offering cadets unparalleled opportunities for growth, challenge and service.

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CCF Highlights

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“The best CCF I have seen in a long time” Brigadier A Lamb MBE DL

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Notes From The Houses Canterbury House

It has been a remarkable year for Canterbury House, marked by strong achievements and significant improvement in the House Competitions.

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We proudly secured victories in several sporting and creative house competitions, showcasing our teamwork, determination, and Canterbury House spirit.

NCO

Overall, this year has been one of success and upward momentum. We’ve not only strengthened our position through competition wins but also built a solid foundation of togetherness and identity that will carry us forward into the next year.

Paul Palmer, Head of Canterbury House

CA CO

As a house we have made notable progress. We have received considerably more commendations this year, reflecting a greater commitment to excellence and consistent hard work across subjects and positive behavior around the school. At the same time, the number of demerits has greatly decreased, a clear sign of improved behavior, discipline, and a stronger sense of responsibility within our house.

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Year 7’s Kes Stevens won the School Christmas Card design competition. This meant that Canterbury’s Kes’s card was the official St Dunstan’s Christmas Card for 2025!

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Ghent House

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This year has been one of remarkable growth and innovation for Ghent House.

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We are proud to have led the way as the first house to launch its own podcast, the first to establish the Ghent House Callouts through our Sixth Form committee, and the first to create a dedicated house bulletin. These initiatives have not only showcased our creativity but also demonstrated the strong sense of ownership and responsibility among our students.

It has been a truly successful year, driven by student leadership and a willingness to try new things. While there is still a journey ahead in terms of sporting success, Ghent is certainly not short of leaders. In fact, we are proud to have a majority number of prefects among all the houses—a true testament to the character and drive of our students.

Worcester House

This year has been a standout one for Worcester House, with incredible achievements across a wide range of events.

We’ve proudly taken first place in House Public Speaking, House Music, and House Football, while also earning awards in both House Drama and House Art.

Sian Reece, Head of Worcester House

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Beyond competitions, our students have shown real heart through House Charity, raising money for Lewisham Food Bank—a cause close to many of us. With Sports Day just around the corner, spirits are high and our teams are ready to give it their all. Worcester remains firmly in the running for the House Cup—and we couldn’t be prouder.

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Did you know Worcestershire Sauce was made in Worcester?!

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We were also proud to celebrate our Student Champions 2025, who embody the values of Ghent and inspire their peers through their talents and dedication: Barney Rothwell (Virtus et Doctrina) – Top scorer in the Maths Challenge and crowned House Debating King.

Ollie Brogan (Victor Ladorum) – First XI striker and winner of the relay leg on Sports Day. Julia Sillanpaa (Ingenium et Ars) – Choreographed and delivered her own original production.

Rose Richardson (Audere Est Vincere) – A strong yet kind ambassador, always supporting others and representing Ghent with pride.

Together, their achievements highlight the diversity of strengths across our house—academic, sporting, creative, and personal.

Harrison Sanford, Head of Ghent House w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Mendip House

Mendip House has performed admirably this year, consistently securing second or third place in a range of competitions.

What truly stands out, however, is the unwavering enthusiasm and support shown by the pupils throughout these events. A particular highlight was the highly successful ‘Murder Mystery’ charity event involving both Year 7 and Year 9, where students participated with great energy and engagement. Additionally, the incredible efforts of all those who supported the House Bake Sale.

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Special thanks go to our outstanding House Captains, Betsy and Nancy, whose dedication and encouragement have made a real difference. They have been exceptional role models, consistently supporting younger students and fostering a strong sense of community within the house. Jonathan has stepped in to fill their shoes and has already shown great dedication to the house.

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Olivia McConnell-Wood, Head of Mendip

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We had some outstanding achievements (including record breaks!) during Sports Day!

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A highlight was this year’s House Music where Sixth Form leaders came together with the entirety of Year 7 to perform a beautiful arrangement of ‘Kiss from a Rose.’

Well done to Jamie in Year 13 in the solo category who came first in this category!

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It’s been another successful year for Glastonbury House.

With the new House system in its second year, I must firstly commend all of the students in Glastonbury House for establishing our reputation as a compassionate, hard working and enthusiastic House.

As was the case last year, a significant portion of our house points come from the amount of commendations earned

Stepney House

What a brilliant year it has been for Stepney House!

I’m thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of our students in Ghent House, whose spirit and dedication have One of our proudest moments was winning the House truly honoured the legacy of our school.

Performing Arts competition. Mathis in Year 12 wrote a powerful series of scenes depicting the life of St Dunstan Our Victor Ludorum set new standards in athletic excellence, during his time in Stepney, which brought real depth and showing us all the power of resilience and determination. creativity to our performance. Our renditions of Livin’ on a Our Quiz Master displayed sharp intellect and quick thinking, Prayer by Bon Jovi and We Built This City by Starship were full proving that Ghent’s commitment to knowledge is as strong of energy and showcased the incredible talent and teamwork as ever. in our House.

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I was incredibly proud to see Ghent House come together for We also came together for a fantastic cause in the “All Charity Week, pouring their energy into swimathons, bake Around the Houses” charity challenge. As a House we sales, cyclathons, and more. This wasn’t just about raising aimed to travel the 855 miles St Dunstan is said to have funds — it was a powerful display of our commitment to covered in his lifetime – the inspiration behind our House charity and community. Each event highlighted the heart and names. Stepney House completed an impressive 718 miles teamwork that define Ghent, as students of all ages united to through rowing, running, and cycling, raising over £1,000 make a difference. for the Rushey Green Time Bank. A huge well done to all the students who took part – your commitment and Harrison Sanford, Head of House Ghent determination made a real difference.

I want to thank James in Year 13, Stepney’s House Captain this last year. He has led the House with great leadership and has been involved in every aspect of Stepney and we wish him well in his next steps. He passes over to Mathis. Mathis, along with the support of our 3 other students in the Prefect team, will no doubt continue to strengthen our House spirit.

Well done to every member of Stepney House. Whether you were performing on stage, fundraising for charity, supporting your peers, or giving your all in everyday school life, you’ve helped make this a truly memorable year. It’s been a pleasure to see you all thrive.

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Stepney House raised over £1,000 for Rushey Green Time Bank by moving 718 miles!

Georgia Entwisle, Head of Stepney

” by student effort and achievement; this is an area where Glastonbury consistently excels and is just one example of the caliber of student engagement in Glastonbury House.

This enthusiastic and committed approach to House culture has been led by outgoing Year 13 student Izzy Calogeras, our House Captain for the past two years, and we now congratulate Lucy Nancarrow as our incoming House Captain!

With regards to competition, there have been many opportunities for students to showcase their wide variety of talents and abilities. Stand out moments of the year include House Performing Arts, where we won the Music category and scored highly otherwise, House Music where we tied for first place with Worcester House, and the House Quiz where we qualified as semi-finalists. We’ve continued our affiliation with local Lewisham charity Bank of Things, and a recent charity drive led by our student charity committee has been inspiring to see.

A huge thank you and well done to all students and staff in Glastonbury House – I look forward to what the next year brings!

Charlotte Westrip, Head of Glastonbury House w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Duke of Edinburgh Award Duke of Edinburgh Training Day at the Jubilee Ground: A Day of Learning and Adventure On a bright and unseasonably warm February day, the entire Year 9 cohort at St Dunstan’s College gathered at the Jubilee Ground for an exciting and action-packed Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) training and experience day. Designed to give students a strong foundation for their upcoming DofE expeditions, the event brought together practical learning, teamwork, and a touch of sunshine-fuelled enjoyment.

The day was structured as a round robin, with students rotating through a series of interactive workshops. Each station focused on a core skill essential for success in the DofE Bronze Award, and all were led by knowledgeable staff and experienced volunteers who ensured a balance of fun and challenge.

One of the first stops for many students was bag and kit packing, where they learned how to pack efficiently for multi-day hikes. With rucksacks open and gear laid out, students were taught the importance of balancing weight, waterproofing equipment, and making space for essentials without overloading.

Camp and personal hygiene introduced practical tips for staying clean and healthy during expeditions, including hand hygiene, preventing and managing blisters and eco-friendly waste disposal.

The incident management and first aid station taught basic response techniques for minor injuries and emergencies, with hands-on role-playing scenarios.

Navigation proved a particularly popular session, where students practiced using maps and compasses, learning how to orient themselves and plot simple routes.

Meal planning offered a different kind of challenge. Students worked in teams to plan nutritious, lightweight meals that could be cooked with limited equipment. Discussions around calories, cost, and cooking time highlighted the thoughtfulness needed when eating on the go.

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Perhaps the most hands-on session of all was tent pitching.

Teams were given tents to put up—and take down— efficiently. With clear blue skies above, it was the perfect opportunity to practice handling unfamiliar gear in good conditions.

After a packed day of rotating activities while basking in the rare February sunshine, spirits were high and chatter filled the air as the students reflected on the skills they had gained.

The DofE training day was not only a great success but also a testament to the enthusiasm and resilience of our Year 9 students. It was a day of laughter, learning, and laying the groundwork for future adventures. We look forward to seeing these young explorers take their first steps on their DofE journey with confidence and pride.

Sam Drawbridge, Head of Outdoor Education

Duke of Edinburgh Award

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After a packed day of rotating activities while basking in the rare February sunshine, spirits were high and chatter filled the air as the students reflected on the skills they had gained

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Key Trips

Y7 Soil Under Our Feet

Y11,12,13 Lyon

U13 &14 Barcelona Football and Hockey

Y9 Adventure week

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Y12 Adventure week

Key Trips

Scholars India

Y8 Back To The Future - The Musical

Y10 Adventure Week Paddle

U13 &14 Barcelona Football and Hockey

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‘What’s the distinction between a religion and a cult?’, ‘Does objectivity exist?’, ‘What are the barriers to progress in the modern arts?’, ‘To what extent does environment effect behaviour?’, ‘Is it moral to make decisions based on genetic value?’, ‘What is a lie?’.

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Middle School Symposium

Middle School Symposium In the first half of Trinity term, staff, pupils, and parents assembled in the STEM Atrium for this year’s ‘Aiming Higher’ Symposium. The event represented the culmination of the Year 10 ‘Aiming Higher’ programme, in which pupils drew upon the academic knowledge and independent research skills developed across the course to formulate, investigate, and present on a question arising from their own intellectual curiosity.

Prior to beginning their projects, pupils engaged in a series of enquiry-led carousel seminars across three disciplines: STEM with Dr Currie; Humanities, Arts and Languages with Miss Tournes; and Critical Thinking with Dr Austen. These sessions challenged pupils to grapple with stimulating questions such as: ‘How do we think critically in STEM?’, ‘Is the literary canon dead?’, and ‘Is objectivity ever possible in academic research?’. This foundation encouraged pupils to sharpen their analytical approaches and to situate their own interests within broader scholarly debates.

From this platform, over 40 individual research projects emerged, spanning a remarkable breadth of disciplines.

Presentation topics included: ‘What’s the distinction between a religion and a cult?’, ‘Does objectivity exist?’, ‘What are the barriers to progress in the modern arts?’, ‘To what extent does environment effect behaviour?’, ‘Is it moral to make decisions based on genetic value?’ to ‘What is a lie?’.

The symposium itself provided pupils with the opportunity to communicate their findings through academic displays, and to engage in searching dialogue with peers, teachers, and parents. Attendees consistently lauded pupils on the originality, intellectual ambition, and sophistication of the work, as well as on the clarity and confidence with which they articulated their research journeys.

The quality of scholarship on display made the judges’ task a particularly difficult one. After careful deliberation, Ms Riddle, Mrs Money, and Ms Tournes awarded the runnersup prizes to Aarush Patel (‘To what extent has social media influenced the outcome of political elections?’) and Ilana Posner (‘Why are men more successful in workplaces

than women?’). The overall winner was Melanie Eder Burgos, whose project, ‘What are the cognitive effects of bilingualism?’, was commended for its depth of research and insight.

The symposium was a fitting culmination of the pupils’ intellectual ambition, scholarly engagement, and capacity for independent enquiry, all cultivated through the ‘Aiming Higher’ programme. Looking ahead, next year’s scholars will extend this work by developing their own Scholarship Journal as part of the Middle School Scholarship Programme.

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Sixth Form

Graduation Day

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Sixth Form

Year 13 Graduation Day: A Celebration of Achievement and Inspiration On a bright and joyful afternoon, the Independent School community gathered to celebrate the graduation of our remarkable Year 13 students. Family, friends, and teachers came together to mark this significant milestone, filled with pride and anticipation for the futures that await each graduate.

We were honoured to welcome Babette Radclyffe-Thomas, alumna of the Class of 2007, as our distinguished guest speaker. Now a respected fashion academic, journalist, and consultant, Babette brought warmth, wit, and wisdom to the ceremony. Her speech of honour was a heartfelt and inspiring reflection on her own Albam Exorna journey, reminding students of the enduring value of curiosity, resilience, and staying true to oneself.

As she presented each Diploma Certificate, Babette’s genuine engagement with every student added a personal and memorable touch to the day. Her presence reminded us all of the incredible paths our graduates can forge—and the strength of the community that supports them.

Following the formal proceedings, the celebration continued with drinks and refreshments shared among students, parents, and teachers. Laughter and conversation filled the air, and the school grounds buzzed with the energy of success and camaraderie.

Graduation Day is always a bittersweet occasion—an ending, but also a beginning. As our Year 13 students prepare to take their next steps into the wider world, they do so with the confidence, compassion, and creativity nurtured here at school. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and excited to see the impact they will make in the world beyond.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

Alex Brewer, Head of Sixth Form

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Sixth Form

Head of School As I write this today, it’s hard to believe how quickly my time at St Dunstan’s has passed.

It feels like only yesterday that I had my first day of year 7— nervous, excited, and unsure of what awaited me.

Looking back now, I can say with confidence that these years have been truly transformative. This school has not only shaped my education, but also the person I have become.

One of the things that makes St Dunstan’s so special is the sheer breadth of opportunity it offers. From the very beginning, we are encouraged+ to explore new experiences and discover our passions — whether through art, sport, music, drama, or the Forder Programme. The school has always supported us in pursuing what we love, and for me, that has meant being able to follow my passion for art and languages.

I’m incredibly grateful for the support the school has given me, not only in helping me pursue an Art Foundation course in Paris, but also in securing my place at the University of Edinburgh to study French and Arabic next year. Another defining strength of St Dunstan’s is its teaching. Especially at Sixth Form, the quality of teaching is exceptional. Our teachers go above and beyond their roles. In my opinion, they don’t only to prepare us academically, but to understand us as individuals. They challenge us, support us, and help us to see potential we often didn’t know we had.

I want to extend my thanks to all the staff. To the teachers, thank you for your patience, your guidance, and your unwavering belief in us, even when we doubted ourselves.

To the cleaners, kitchen staff, and administration teams, thank you for everything you do, often behind the scenes, to keep our community running so smoothly. Finally, to the prefect team, thank you for all your hard work, dedication and encouragement. Particularly, thank you to Noah and Isobel, the two deputy heads, whose dedication, positivity and constant support made this year so much more enjoyable.

Being Head of School has been an immense privilege.

It has given me the chance to represent my school community and be a part of important changes in the school. It has taught me about leadership, but more importantly, about humility, teamwork, and gratitude.

As I close this chapter, I want to say one final thank you to St Dunstan’s College. Thank you for giving me an education that goes beyond what’s expected, one that has equipped me not just with knowledge, but with the skills and understanding needed for the future ahead.

Yasmin Bradshaw Head of School

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Sixth Form

Diploma Scholar Symposium A Celebration of Scholarship: The Scholars’ Symposium In November, our Year 13 Diploma Scholars brought their final projects to a brilliant culmination at the annual Scholars’ Symposium—a true showcase of intellectual curiosity, ambition, and creativity.

From a study of cutting-edge Alzheimer’s treatments to an exploration of veterinary paleopathology, from the ancient origins of Chinese music to a forensic investigation into responsibility for Bloody Sunday in Northern Ireland, the sheer breadth of topics on display was remarkable.

The evening offered a glimpse into the world through the eyes of our scholars—wide-ranging, deeply researched, and passionately presented. Younger students attended with great interest, inspired by what lies ahead in their own academic journeys. Proud parents also joined us, bearing witness to the culmination of years of hard work and scholarly growth.

We were delighted to welcome back alumna and former Head of School, Win Jin Lee (Class of 2017), as our guest judge. Now forging her own path in academia & business, Win Jin brought warmth and rigour to the role, offering thoughtful feedback and praise for each presentation. She ultimately awarded top honours to Thomas Starks, whose investigation into the performance of hard wing sails versus soft wing sails on sailing boats was both innovative and impressively executed, complete with a working model.

The evening was a fitting celebration of the talent, dedication, and intellectual depth of our scholars. Their work stood as a testament not only to their individual brilliance but also to the vibrant academic culture of the school. We extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to all who took part — true ambassadors of thoughtful inquiry and excellence.

Alex Brewer, Head of Sixth Form

“

A highlight was Martha Preece’s fascinating project as to whether paganism is on the rise in the UK

”

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Sixth Form

Albam Exorna Award Winning entry from Izzy Calogeras, Year 13

It’s funny the way time folds in on itself.

When I was younger, year 6 seemed like a lifetime. Year 11 like an eternity. And year 13, a path yet to be walked. But now, standing here on the trail, with the sun setting on this final chapter, I watch myself from a distance. I look back and see a girl consumed by youth and innocence, wide-eyed at the path before her and uncertain of the route she must take – and I question how I have been led here, the place I now stand and call ‘the end.’

And as I go to try and take this final step across the line, I feel myself being pulled back by something unfamiliar. I turn to find a string attached to me. Overcome with curiosity, I follow the string as it beckons my name. As I reach the end of the string, I realise I am standing in the centre circle of the courts, ball in hand, as I listen to the whistle blow. I now stand at the place where it all began – where my love for the sport first took root and grew into something bigger. It is a part of me as much as my name is, and I carry it with me forever.

Back on the path with just one step to go, I feel a familiar pull – a string that shines like gold. I follow it without a second thought, as I’m drawn to something that feels all too dear. As I stand here in the dark, quiet rooms, I realise I stand in the place where it all began – where I found my voice. Fragility turns to certainty, and as age grows, something inside of me did as well. Confidence. A quiet love for the stage that’s never truly left me. It is a part of me as much as my smile is, and I carry it with me forever.

One last try to cross the path. Again, I’m held back, but this time the string feels different. It feels like a place I’ve been but long forgotten. A memory that hasn’t yet been unlocked.

With every step I take following this string, a wave of nostalgia gets higher and higher, until suddenly, it can’t get any taller and must break. I now understand where I have been taken. I stand at the place where it all began – standing outside the gates, I realise I am standing at the place where every version of myself once stood as well.

Together we share the same feeling of apprehension towards change, excitement for what the future holds, and a tenderness for the place I am leaving behind. A place that I hold in my heart so dearly, knowing that my time has come. They are a part of me, like my soul is to my body, they

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influence every aspect of the life I live. They are constant and omnipresent. I carry them with me forever. And I realise that the path no longer holds me – and I know I can finally move on.

Each string tied to me tells a story — moments, memories, people, fears — threads woven quietly through the years.

Each one represents a step I’ve taken, a version of myself I’ve carried. And now, as I stand at the edge of something new, I feel some of those strings begin to loosen. Not with sorrow, but with grace. Because to grow is not to cut them away, but to free myself just enough to move forward — to make space for the next chapter, where new strings will find me, tie themselves gently to my being, and shape the next part of who I become.

Growing up was never a requirement — just a quiet privilege, an unfolding I’m thankful to witness within myself. And as I take my final step along my path, I am surrounded by an array of more paths for me to take. Which one I decide to take first is up to me, but they will all connect me back to where I started. No matter how far I go, I will always be connected to the youth and innocence that stood in the very spot I am standing in now and allow me to look over the small girl I once was as she takes her first steps with me.

I look back and see how far I’ve come and turn to face forwards and realise how much I’ve still got to learn.

St Dunstan’s has taught me many things in life. What it’s like to succeed and to fail, and provided me with the stepping stones to independence. A journey I do not believe I would’ve been able to make without your support. St Dunstan’s has also told me what it means to take that final step, that it isn’t to close the book completely, but to turn the page to the next chapter in our lives. The end is never really the end; they are blank pages waiting to be filled with stories yet to be made.

As I take my next path, the blank pages will be coloured by the memories I carry, a reminder of all that has shaped me.

I hope that for everyone in year 13, your pages will be filled with moments worth remembering.

Izzy Calogeras The Runners up were Lucas Bryan and Noah Oladele-Ajose

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Sixth Form

The Futures Convention

“

The support was brilliant. They were so accommodating with the fact that it was a very packed application, you are going to need to do a lot and it’s going to take up a lot of time, but they were just so lovely with it and they were always available to help, provide their opinion, help with interview practice and personal statement proofing.

Year 13 student

Each year, our Great Hall hosts the Futures Convention, with over 60 delegates: universities (Oxbridge, Russell Group, international), conservatoires, drama and art schools, and leading employers. The talks, panels, and exhibition stands give students and families direct access to world-class opportunities.

THE RESULT By the end of Sixth Form, every Dunstonian leaves with:

”

• • • •

Academic excellence in chosen A Levels A strong subject identity A portfolio of skills and experiences The confidence to succeed at the most competitive universities and professions worldwide

Ms Rebecca Redding Director of Futures

A Classics graduate from St John’s, Oxford, Ms Redding has wide experience supporting students through Oxbridge and Medicine applications. She leads the Futures Programme, ensuring every student receives expert, tailored guidance towards their chosen destination.

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Sixth Form

Onward Destinations 2025 Name

Destination

James Ahmad University of Sussex Harrison Bakowski University of Southampton Archie Barnes University of Exeter Yasmin Bradshaw Paris at Atelier de Sèvres

The University of Edinburgh Louis Brewin University of Manchester Georgina Brown-Williams Loughborough University Lucas Bryan Rose Bruford College Ralph Burgess Kingston University Izzy Calogeras University of Liverpool Oscar Chappell University of Southampton Kenji Colman University of Manchester Betsy Davies University of Bristol Isobel Edenborough University of Bristol Nerys Jones University of Leeds Chinemerem Ezihe University of Surrey Nancy Fischer University of Liverpool Zac Flint University of Leeds Josie Furner University of Essex Kate Gibson University of Glasgow Izzy Glossop Newcastle University Dario Gonzalez Antelo University of York Lola Hardie University of Leeds Chi Hemeson Sheffield Hallam University William Hibbert University of the Arts London Eric Ho UCL (University College London) Katie Kenyon University of Warwick Micah Khumba Loughborough University Vanya Kilgallen University of Warwick Martha Labi University of Leeds Femi Leron-Ajibola University of Leeds Lukas Lilley University of Manchester Matty Maddison University of Exeter Elena May University of Liverpool Oliver McHenry University of Exeter Annika McIntosh University of Surrey Freddie McKeogh University of Exeter Ollie Mirfield Newcastle University Poppy Mirza University of Leeds Danika Mleko University of Warwick Alex Mussett University of Surrey Ab Sa Nembhard Loughborough University Samuel Ness University of Bath

Nico Nunez Medina University of Exeter Joseph O'Connor-Coffey University of Warwick Noah Oladele-Ajose University of Bristol Marco Ong Mountview Freddie Ortiz Falmouth University Jamie Ozoemena University of Cambridge Luca Pajares University of York Samuel Pearce University of Leeds Eva Petrou University of Leeds Martha Edward Preece Kingston University

University of East Anglia Mei Lin Rawlings University of Manchester Alex Richardson University of Nottingham Safia Rieb-Smith University of Liverpool Carys Robbins The University of Edinburgh Faraz Shah Shah University of Birmingham George Simeonides University of Nottingham Jared Srinivsan Durham University

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Course Economics Aeronautics and Astronautics Economics and Politics with Industrial Experience Art Arabic and French Modern Language and Business & Management (French) Industrial Design (with placement year) Creative Lighting Control Art foundation Criminology Maritime Engineering with Industrial Placement Year Chemical Engineering Psychology and Neuroscience Classical Studies French Business Economics and Data Analytics Business Management Economics and History Mathematics Product Design Engineering English Literature Economics Theatre and Performance with Enterprise Digital Media Production Product and Industrial Design Psychology Theatre and Performance Studies Economics Physics Economics and Politics Modern Languages Chemical Engineering Business Economics with Industrial Experience Business Economics with a Year in Industry Medicine Veterinary Biosciences Psychology Biochemistry Art and Design Politics Economics Bioengineering (with placement year) Politics with Economics with professional placement or study abroad Finance: Investment Banking with Industrial Experience Politics Chemistry with Study Abroad in a Modern Language Drama Technical Production Professional Music (Performance) Music Economics Banking and Finance Product Design Art Foundation Course Creative Writing and English Literature Medicine Aerospace Engineering including an Industrial Year International Management Geography Accounting and Finance Finance, Accounting and Management Natural Sciences

Destination

Course

Thomas Starks James Sugrue Sasha Swann Gabriel Taylor Arnav Thakker Isabel Villalba Cardona Layla Watson Charlotte Windsor

University of Southampton University of Manchester University of Manchester The University of Edinburgh University of Surrey University of Nottingham University of Leeds University of Exeter

Maritime Engineering with Industrial Placement Year History Geography Mathematics Law Law English and Philosophy Biological Sciences

University Destinations 2024 & 2025

University of Glasgow

Product Design Engineering

Leeds Beckett University

University of Edinburgh

Business Management with Finance

Geography with International Study Economics English Mathematics Modern Languages and Arabic

University of Leeds

Modern Languages & Politics Biology Computer Science Politics Criminal Justice & Criminology Philosophy & Politics Accounting & Finance Art & Design Drama English & Philosophy Finance French Industrial Design Law

University of Manchester

Newcastle University Modern Languages Accounting & Finance Social Science Biochemistry English Literature

Durham University Geography Biology

Sheffield Hallam University Computing for Digital Media

Loughborough University University of Leicester Clinical Sciences

University of Oxford

Business Management

PPE History English Classics

Psychology Music

University of Essex Mathematics Computer Science

Cancer Biology & Immunology Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Film & French English Chemistry with Computing Classical Studies Psychology

University of Kent

Popular Music Performance

Forensic Science Electronic & Computing Engineering Business Management

Solent University Football Studies

University of Bath

Falmouth University

University of Warwick

University of Cambridge

GL

University of Bristol

Modern Languages Psychology Politics

Biomedical Engineering Economics Industrial Design

Classical Civilisation Law Politics, International Studies and German Philosophy, Literature & Classics University of East Anglia UEA Drama Religious Studies and English Literature Physics Social & Political Sciences Computing Science

Accounting & Finance

Cardiff University

Accounting & Finance Engineering Law Politics & Economics

Materials Science & Engineering

Oxford Brookes University

Music

University of Nottingham

University of Sheffield

Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Accounting & Finace

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama

Economics & Philosophy Electronic & Computer Engineering Economics

Medicine

University of Birmingham

Music

University of York

Hull York Medical School

Manchester Metropolitan University

Chemical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Geography Modern Languages & Economics Medicine Cognitive Neuroscience & Psychology Psychology University of Liverpool Social Anthropology Mathematics Film Studies & English Literature Accounting & Finance History Bioveterinary Science Mathematics & Statistics Business Management Criminology Economics & Finance International Management

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Sixth Form

Name

University of Sussex

University of Southampton University of Exeter Geography Medical Sciences Accounting & Finance Biological Sciences Economics & Finance Medicine Politics & Economics Psychology

Aerospace Engineering Maritime Engineering Mechanical Engineering

Physics & Astronomy Business & Management Studies Economics

University of Surrey Foundation Acting Bioveterinary Sciences Business Economics Economics Law

GL

GREATER LONDON UNIVERSITIES King’s College London Computer Science Economics English & Spanish Law

University College London Psychology

Royal Academy of Music

Goldsmiths University of London Computer Science

UCFB Wembley Football Business

Rose Bruford College

Kingston Art School Art Foundation

Mountview

FDA Technical Production

University of the Arts London

Production Technologies and Stage Management

Product & Industrial Design

Music

Updates from previous cohorts Issy Dixon – Royal Welsh College of Music Wren Clark – Royal Academy of Music Maia Foster – Art foundation

Abigail Sutherland – Make Up for Theatre Daisy Duggan – University of Surrey; Foundation Acting Shangeetha Shangar – University of Lincoln; Pharmacy

Jack Gibson – University of Manchester; Biomedical Sciences

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Special Events

Philanthropy Day

It’s a pleasure to be with you today to talk about Philanthropy – to return to the Great Hall and a school which gave me so much in terms of education, fun and friendship.

It is here that I took my GCSEs, A-levels, and on this stage that I performed in many school productions, and like you sat here for morning assemblies. So for me it’s a full circle moment, to be back here to share with you, essentially what my St Dunstan’s education gave me.

When I sat here as a teenager, I did not know what life would hold. I had dreams and ideas, but if I could talk to my teen self today, I would encourage her that all of the personality and passions and ideas and hopes she held then, are not that different to those she would have at university, and throughout adult life. The landscape changes, the culture shifts and contracts and reacts. But who you are now, your character, the things that bring you joy and motivate you to get up in the morning, they don’t really change.

Back then I was excited by and loved the arts – all things music, art and drama. I loved the community and fun and friendship those things brought, and I cared a lot about the people around me. And so my philanthropy journey began here, when I joined the school charity committee.

The word philanthropy is a broad term encapsulating the words charity, giving, kindness, helping people. It comes from two Greek words – ‘philos’ meaning love for something, and ‘anthrōpia’ meaning humankind. So philanthropy means ‘love of humanity – love for humankind’.

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It refers to acts and works for the good of others, expressing the compassion and motivation – the why – behind what we are doing. My first independent, active experience of this was as part of the St Dunstan’s charity committee when we organised the ‘Crisis at Christmas’ talent show for the charity Crisis – fundraising for people in London who had nowhere to live – especially over Christmas. As a school we raised over The CHRONICLE 2025

£1000 and felt proud that we had made a difference by using the talents and resources we had to hand to help others.

(And it was fun I always encourage fundraisers to remember what the first three letters of the word Fundraising are!).

Fast forward to today and I am proud to be Head of Community Engagement and Fundraising for the international children’s charity Street Child. Street Child was founded by friends of mine 16 years ago when we lived just down the road in Blackheath. We started by helping 100 children in Sierra Leone – the then the poorest country in the world.

Since then, the growth and impact of this charity has done more than I could have ever have imagined, and I feel proud to have witnessed its journey from an idea amongst friends around the kitchen table to being an organisation which has helped over 1.5 million children across more than 25 countries.

Anna Lloyd ('01)

Special Events

Lectures & Conferences Mansion House Conference St Dunstan’s College returned to Mansion House on Wednesday 25 June 2025 for a third ‘Let’s Talk About…’ conference ‘What it Means to be a Man’. In 2025, the question of masculinity has never felt more urgent.

From toxic influencers to online extremism, young men are growing up in a world that is often confusing—and sometimes dangerous. This year’s theme explored how schools, charities and pastoral leaders could better support boys and young people in today’s evolving landscape.

ECT Symposium ST DUNSTAN’S COLLEGE GREAT HALL

ECT SYMPOSIUM REFLECTIVE ENQUIRY 1200-1600

APRIL

WENESDAY 30

Calling all secondary ECTs, ECT Coordinators, and Mentors in state and independent schools! Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired.

This exciting afternoon will showcase the innovative and impactful findings from reflective enquiry projects undertaken by our Early Career Teachers. You will leave with fresh ideas, practical strategies, and valuable insights to apply in your own

Highlights include: Presentations from ECTs on a diverse range of topics, such as: • Enhancing sixth form lessons with flipped learning • Recall and interleaving practice • Encouraging boys’ respectful engagement • Maximising the impact of Learning Walks • Scaffolding in KS4 RE • Helping students organise their thoughts in humanities subjects Plus a session led by Amy Cooper, Director of Training at ISTIP, offering guidance for ECTs. Whether you are an ECT eager to gain new perspectives, a mentor looking to support your mentees more effectively, or a coordinator striving to foster excellence in your team, this event promises to inspire and equip you with tools for success.

JOIN US TO NETWORK, SHARE IDEAS, AND CELEBRATE THE POWER OF REFLECTIVE PRACTICE

Use the QR code above to reserve your free place at this event

Languages Evening

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Special Events

Remembrance Day The Dunstonian community gathered at the College on Monday 11 November for its annual Service of Remembrance.

We were honoured that our guests included Simon and Michael Stanford-Tuck, sons of distinguished Dunstonian Wing Commander Robert Stanford-Tuck, DSO, DFC & Two Bars, AFC, World War II fighter pilot, flying ace and test pilot. The guests gathered for coffee in the Johnson VC Room, before the service, where archivist Shea Hollis had prepared a wonderful exhibition of Stanford-Tuck’s life and achievements as well as other wartime memorabilia.

The Service of Remembrance followed in the Great Hall, led by the Reverend Colin Boswell, and included the poem “Anthem for Doomed Youth” read by Simon Stanford-Tuck, followed by the Chapel Choir singing “For the Fallen” by Douglas Guest and “Nunc Dimittis” by Charles Villiers Stanford.

The congregation then moved to the front drive where The Last Post and Two Minutes Silence was followed by the laying of wreaths from members of the College student body, staff, Governors and Dunstonian Association. The CCF displays were as impressive as ever and added to the gravitas of the occasion. Our thoughts included memories of Dunstonian Michael Randall (‘53), who had attended many such services over the years and who had sadly passed away very recently.

The morning concluded with a light sandwich lunch and tour of the College led by Shea and David Edwards, which included a rare visit to the CCF Office and Stores, while students continued the commemorations with bespoke Remembrance learning projects in their classes.

Isabelle Blake-James Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations

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Special Events

Co-Educational 30th Anniversary The 30th Anniversary of St Dunstan’s College turning CoEducational was a unique celebration of a significant event.

We celebrated with the College community thoughout the year - events were kicked off with our first female Head of School Nadia Zachary (nee Messina) ’03 returning to address our students in Assembly and the Pearl Anniversary Fundraising Ball was shared in the 23-24 Chronicle.

The pinnacle of the commemorations took place on Saturday 28 September 2024 when we welcomed over 200 Dunstonians and former members of staff and their families back to the College for a day of celebrations! The event took over 18 months to organise and special thanks must go to the College's Archivist and Dunstonian, Shea Hollis (nee Luke) who was one of the original girls joining the College in 1994. The Commemorative Book Shea put together over many months is also a fabulous keepsake of original marketing materials and interviews weaved into present day interviews by former members of staff.

Guest were treated to a guided tour by our Red Ties, Yasmin, Noah, Izzy and Martha for whom it was the first time they encountered so many Dunstonians at the same time. A complimentary scrumptious BBQ was laid on by the College's very own catering company which everybody enjoyed very much, before listening to speeches by the Head, Nick Hewlett, and the Head of Senior School, Jade McLellan.

Children had a blast on the obstacle course and on the space hoppers too!

Notable past teachers present were Mr Pratt, Ms Emes, Mr Blocksidge and Mrs Holmes as Head of Pre-Prep', as well as former Heads of the College, Mrs Jane Davies and Mr Ian Davies. The highlight of the day was to recreate various group photos on the steps of the College and everybody played their part in making sure a record of the day would outlive us all. It was by far the most successful Dunstonian event in recent years and we are grateful to all those who came along!

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Special Events

Commemoration Day

The annual Commemoration Day service took place at Southwark Cathedral on Friday 23 May 2025.

As is tradition, the entire Senior School travelled via a specially chartered train for the service, in which the College Comminiuty gives thanks for our benefactors.

The beautiful service was led by our one and only Revd Colin Boswell who delivered a poignant homily. Meanwhile the Junior School took part in special Commemoration activities at the College, including archive artefact handling, heritage tours, and uniform designing.

Around 100 Dunstonians and supporters also gathered for the service. Afterwards, they crossed London Bridge at pace in order to enjoy a Drinks Reception at Mansion House for the third consecutive year. Group CEO Nick Hewlett addressed all present and reinforced the importance of philanthropy at the College: it has raised £2M since 2020 for burarises as well as other bespoke projects, outreach in the community and the PAC to name but a few funds.

Isabelle Blake-James Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations

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Special Events

Beating of the Bounds

The ancient tradition of The Beating of The Bounds took place on Ascension Day in May around the parish where the College has its roots.

The Beating Party was made up of a group of specially selected Year 7 students, Clergy of the Parish of All Hallows by the Tower and Masters of Associated Livery Companies.

They were joined by a valiant handful of Dunstonians.

The tradition of Beating of the Bounds sees the group tracing the Boundary of the Parish of St Dunstan in the East, allowing the beaters to mark the boundary. The route passes through some spectacular scenery and includes a boat trip on the Thames!

Shea Hollis, Archivist

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Special Events

St Dunstan’s Festival Once again, the St Dunstan’s Festival was a highlight of the year, bringing together hundreds of pupils from across the St Dunstan’s Group in workshops, competitions and performances.

The finale concert was a standout moment as we gathered a 200+ strong choir from all the group schools together to sing a medley of Motown classics. Whilst the Jubilee Grounds may have been the central hub for performances, there were more than 100 workshops and activities running in various spaces across the group estate. Rosemead crafted a whole programme of exciting workshops for both pupils and parents; in St Dunstan’s Junior School parents were treated to an amazing exhibition of art and in the Senior School all of Keystage 3 rotated through a smorgasbord of workshops each afternoon.

This year the production highlights included open air versions of The Marriage of Figaro and The Tempest, the latter making use of wireless headphones to immerse the audience in the world of Prospero and Ariel. The year 6 production of The Keymaster took the audience on a journey through key moments in history but with a modern twist, creatively reinterpreting the past. Newsies, the five-day musical, was superbly produced in association with Champions Theatre Arts and saw students leaping and flipping across the Big Top stage as turn of the century news boys in New York.

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Greek tragedy was skilfully reimagined by a student team of directors in Women of Troy, demonstrating the creative and innovative strength of our students.

At the heart of the Festival, the central weekend was given over to the community through The Catford Weekender; from Friday evening to Sunday night nearly 300 local performers entertained nearly 4000 local residents, bringing together the community for a celebration of artistry and culture. The Festival is a mainstay of the group and continues to celebrate all that we are.

Richard Gregg, Director of The St Dunstan’s Festival

Special Events

“

From Friday evening to Sunday night nearly 300 local performers entertained nearly 4000 local residents, bringing together the community for a celebration of artistry and culture

”

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Special Events

Senior School Prize Winners 2025 USHERWOOD PRIZES Year 7 Values Prizes

Year 8 Values Prizes

Year 9 Values Prizes

Year 10 Values Prizes

Year 11 Values Prizes

Year 12 Values Prizes

Year 13 Values Prizes

Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity Courage Confidence Creativity Compassion Curiosity

William Obiorah Sophie Gibson Jessica Stephenson George Kerr Lucas Dyce Freya Kelly Casper Epps Dominic Martyr Zoe Mawrey-Yates Kelvina Aidooh Anya Whittaker-Axon Mia Mooge Maia Katbamna-Mackey Walter Burke Lorenzo Crippa-Bloor Cillian Bain Rafael Turnbull Cristina Gibson-Aguila Emilie Pietryk Ilana Posner Isaac Foster Benjamin Fender Emmanuelle Packer William Tong Emerson Ost Zoe-Zdravka Stoyanov Seth Gidley Sam Mawrey-Yates Lucia Hedges Emmanuel Ogunfuye Danika Mleko Lola Hardie Isabel Villalba Cardona Isobella Glossop Kenji Colman

COMMENDATION PRIZE Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12 Year 13

Jessica Stephenson Naryah Patterson Madeleine Hasler Mariella Plant Lauren Suh Mathis Jouy Isabella Calogeras

USHERWOOD AMBASSADOR Lower School Middle School Upper School

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Benjamin Barker Indiana Garton-Jones John Abbey

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HECKER PRIZES

Commitment to Stuart – Year 7 Edith Boyd-Fell Year 8 Alice Shepherd Year 9 Thomas Fitt

Progress

Commitment to Stuart – Skills for the Future and Careers Year 7 Cholanikaran Malarkannan Year 8 Poppy Cole Year 9 Rose Peto Commitment to Stuart – Critical Thinking, Rhetoric

and Public Speaking Year 7 Gregor Jackman Year 9 Tamara Vasey Excellence in Stuart Middle School Benjamin Kelly Sixth Form Joseph O’Connor-Coffey

Art & Design

Lower School

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Year 10

Year 11

Year 12

Year 13

Special Events

STUART PRIZES

Ayobami Akinyemi Laura Forbes Aliyah Hogan Huxley Snasdell Jessica Byram-Wigfield Tamara Vasey Ilana Posner Tyler Smith James Kenny Emmanuelle Packer Jiaqi Liu Julia Sillanpaa Eric Ho Faraz Shah

Joshua Nayagam

Middle School

Jamie Weston

Upper School Mrs Brenda Atkin Memorial Ralph Burgess

Upper School Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers Yasmin Bradshaw History of Art Charlotte Cleaton-Roberts Business Upper School

Freddie Ortiz Latin Lower School

Caitlin Ho Classics Middle School

Charlotte Cleaton-Roberts

Upper School Sir John Moore Memorial Isobel Edenborough Ancient Languages Reading Cup

Emeka Ozoemena Computing Lower School RM Presentation Elias Powell

Middle School

Sophia Tong

Upper School T’iama Rose-Krah Design Engineering Lower School

Edward Forbes

Middle School Sophie Whittaker-Axon

Upper School Georgina Brown-Williams Drama Lower School

Jennifer Appleby

Middle School Lauren Suh

Upper School Basil Harvey Memorial Coco Kitson Economics Upper School

English Lower School

Middle School

Upper School William Barrett Memorial Lecture Prize Lower School Charles Pearce Memorial Essay Prize French Lower School Middle School

Upper School Mrs Mirabelle Bennett Memorial Geography Lower School J M Williams Memorial

Middle School J M Williams Memorial

Upper School J M Williams Memorial Peter Davis Geography Prize German Lower School

Middle School

Upper School History Lower School

Middle School

Upper School Douglas Howard Memorial Mathematics Lower School

Middle School

Upper School Charles Mitchell Memorial Further Mathematics Middle School

Upper School

Noah Oladele-Ajose Fintan Katbamna-Mackey Cillian Bain Lola Hardie Jessica Stephenson Isobel Edenborough Maia Katbamna-Mackey Anna Trenton Yasmin Bradshaw Kelvina Aidooh Emmanuelle Packer Hamish McGregor Alicia David Madeleine Hasler Maya Holmes Emeka Ozoemena Maia Katbamna-Mackey Maya Holmes James Sugrue Edward Forbes Sophie Whittaker-Axon Jiaqi Liu Mathilde Parsons Gabriel Taylor w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Special Events

Mathematics Prize for Progress Robin Austin Memorial Music Lower School Mrs Florence Ruston Memorial

Middle School Mr E G Widdowson

Upper School Mr E G Widdowson

Politics Prize Upper School Psychology Upper School Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

Lower School

Middle School

Upper School

Science (Combined Award)

Middle School Mr Paul Baker Biology Lower School

Middle School

Upper School Chemistry Lower School

Middle School

Upper School Prof. Sir Henry Armstrong Memorial Physics Lower School

Middle School

Upper School G H Stevens Memorial

Spanish Lower School Middle School

Upper School Sports Science Middle School

Upper School

James Kenny Ida Benskin Isaac Foster Lisle Horner Danika Mleko Eric Ho Rose Peto Lauren Suh Elena May Indiana Garton-Jones Turner Ost Ariana Clarke Oliver McHenry Elliot Hill Frederick Davison Noah Oladele-Ajose Lucas Dyce Jesse Greene Gabriel Taylor Charles Robertson Chinasa Edozien Theo Langham Aidan McHenry Isabella Calogeras

FORDER PRIZES Spirit of St Dunstan’s Award - Best Overall Athlete Lower School Mr & Mrs P A Leigh Ayotunde Dauda Middle School Mr & Mrs B R Allen

R R D Bodenham Award - Best Overall Athlete Upper School

Cricket Most Promising Junior Mr J H A Eames

Player of the Year Middle School

Captain’s Cup M J W Cassy Cross Country Junior Training Cup

Senior Individual Championship Football Most Promising Junior

Player of the Year

Captain’s Cup Hockey Most Promising Junior

Player of the Year

Captain’s Cup Worshipful Company of Basketmakers Oliver Netball Netball Award (Junior)

Netball Award (Senior)

Captain’s Award for Netball Swimming Most Promising Junior Mr P J Milner

Swimmer of the Year Townsend-Gilmour Cup

Captain’s Cup (F H Carter) Drama Performance

Lower School

Middle School

Upper School Örs Prize Drama Technician Ben Chudleigh Award Debating Lower School

Upper School Spoken English Middle School Clemments Barnes Memorial Keyboard Playing Award Strings Player Award Mr K Ellis Brass Player Award Woodwind Player Award

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Zadie Kaleta Aidan McHenry Zemirah Ubazue James Sugrue Sasha Swann Alec Farrell Lyla Gibb Laila Humphreys Albert-James Rhodes Joseph O’Connor-Coffey Ayotunde Dauda Max Barrasa Gordon Alexander Hertlein & Amirah Somuyiwa Frederick Davison & Zemirah Ubazue Archie Barnes & Sasha Swann Zadie Kaleta & Finlay Woodcock Arabella Holmes Sonny Stephenson McHenry & Sasha Swann Zadie Kaleta Aiden McHenry Isabella Calogeras Ayotunde Dauda & Jessica Watt Toby Monteiro-Hourigan Noah Oladele Ajose Fintan Katbamna-Mackey Shani Smethurst Safia Rieb-Smith Marco Ong Alma Brown Liv Overett Somnier Maya Holmes Lukas Swift Amelia O’Keeffe Jasmine Morrison Matthew Liu

Special Events

Senior Singing Prize Upper School Mr Peter Snowdon Music Composition Award Commitment to Co-Curricular Music Lower School Middle School Upper School

Trinick Cup for Service to Music Upper School

Lisle Horner Emeka Ozoemena Tristan Hudelmayer Thomas Dixon Sam Mawrey-Yates Emeka Ozoemena

COMBINED CADET FORCE PRIZES R N Section Most Promising Recruit Elly Tchakarska The Junior Rate Award Presented by Commander E S Main RN Connor Woodcock The COLLINGWOOD Telescope Presented by Captain M G Rutherford RN Emeka Ozoemena Coxswain’s Sword Presented by the Worshipful Company of Marketors Oscar Chappell Army Section Most Promising Recruit Adrian Jones Memorial Florence Phillips Presented by 100 (Yeomanry) Field Regiment Royal Artillery (Volunteers) Sophie Whittaker-Axon The HUNDRED Trophy Pace Stick Presented by the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Dario Gonzalez Antelo Sword of Honour James Lyall Memorial Eva Petrou Commanding Officer’s Bugle Jasmine Morrison The Drum Major’s Award Presented by Major R W Davies Marco Ong Best Shot Cup Sir John Aird Memorial Robert McRae

Lower School Service Mr and Mrs Withy Poppy Cole Middle School Service ODA Centenary Prize Alberto Casaucao-Dowler Community Service Lloyds Bank Betsy Davies

Reverend Colin Cuttell Memorial Lucas Bryan Chloe and Brian Dance Prize James Sugrue Excellence Award Alexandra Mussett Bennett Memorial Award for House Service Charlotte Windsor Forder Ambassador Lower School Ayotunde Dauda

Middle School Jasmine Morrison

Upper School Marco Ong

ACHIEVEMENT The von Einsiedel Cup for Perseverance and Tenacity in Middle School Cillian Bain Presented by the family of Evelyn von Einsiedel Academic Achievement Lower School Ayotunde Dauda Best GCSE Student Mr David Moore Charlotte Cleaton-Roberts Zemirah Ubazue Braddon Cup for Excellence R H Braddon Gabriel Taylor John Iberson Award John Iberson Edward (Martha) Preece for Engagement Coling Cup Andrew Coling Memorial Emeka Ozoemena Albam Exorna Award

Isabella Calogeras Presented by the Old Dunstonian Association Runners-Up Lucas Bryan

Noah Oladele-Ajose Deputy Head of School Cups Presented by Sir Roger Cork Isobel Edenborough

Noah Oladele-Ajose The Jane Davies Award for Service Yasmin Bradshaw Presented by the Old Dunstonian Association

HOUSE TROPHIES To be announced in Cups & Colours Assembly:

Trophies awarded throughout the year:

House Athletics House Charity House Conduct Academic Achievement & Combined

Football Canterbury Hockey Worcester Performing Arts Stepney Art Canterbury CCF Challenge Stepney Adventure Challenge Stepney Maths Austin Cup Mendip House Quiz Canterbury w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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Charity, Community & Fundraising Our Community reach...

£234,000 Total investment from St Dunstan’s College

3,500

Total number of Lewisham residents at The Catford Weekender

250 Total number of hours given by our sport coaches

Total number of community events

42

23,909

Total number of children reached

1,418

Total number of hours in the community Total amount of funds raised for charitable causes

£11,916

The Alex Yee Schools' Triathlon Alex Yee won Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He grew up in Forest Hill and attended Stillness state primary school in Honor Oak. Alex has never forgotten where he grew up and he is a huge inspiration to all.

On Wednesday 2 July, St Dunstan’s hosted The Alex Yee Schools Triathlon which saw 1,000 local children from schools across the Lewisham Borough taking part in swimming, cycling and running on the college grounds. This is the first triathlon of this type in South London. This Triathlon will be the 12th delivered this year by the Brownlee Foundation in schools across the UK and approximately the 70th schools event in the foundations history.

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Special Events

St Dunstan’s partnership with Chelsea FC is going from strength to strength and is now in its second year: we have seen an increased numbers of hours dedicated to the coaching of local Lewisham pupils by Chelsea coaches as well as an increase number of events throughout the year. In particular:

St Dunstan’s Community Tournament for Girls This was supported by Chelsea FC and Winning Post Sports Services and saw pupils from Years 5&6 from many different local state primary schools take part:

Volunteering for MNDA Charity at Millwall FC Match – £2,100 raised In April, fourteen Year 12 students volunteered at Millwall FC’s stadium to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. MND is a devastating illness that affects thousands of individuals and families each year, claiming the lives of 5-6 people daily. The students engaged with Millwall fans, holding collection buckets and wearing t-shirts to educate them about MND while collecting donations.

The generosity and spirit of the community were evident as they came together for this important cause. Students also had the opportunity to stay and watch Millwall’s home game against Swansea FC.

LYLA Charity Swim Challenge

Kilmorie, Holbeach, Dalmain, Brindishe Lee, Holy Cross, Brindishe Green, Stillness, Sandhurst, St Marys, St Augustine’s, Marvels Lane, Rathfern, St Winifred’s, Brindishe Manor, Good Shepherds.

128 participants in total over the first two qualifiers and 32 girls returning for the finals.

Overall winners were St Augustine’s who received branded trophies and medals from St Dunstan’s supported with some prizes from Chelsea FC.

Care home attends Les Miserables

In June 2025, LYLA’s Charity Swim Challenge, wrapped up with an incredible total of 99.3 km swum - just shy of our 100 km bonus goal!

10 members of staff, 3 sixth formers, and 2 Alumni of the College contributed lengths and energy to the cause.

Over £1,500 raised for LYLA ‘More importantly, we brought the community together - students, staff, and alumni alike - in support of something meaningful. The sense of fun, togetherness, and purpose was truly inspiring.’

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Fundraising and our Donors’ Impact DONATIONS IN 2024/2025 All figures include gift aid and are for the period 1 September 2024 until 31 August 2025

HOW MUCH AND FOR WHAT?

Total raised: £456,904 TOTAL FOR BURSARIES: £379,673 TOTAL UNRESTRICTED: £4,600 TOTAL GIFT AID: £27,581 OTHER: £16,300 TOTAL OUTREACH: £28,750

Stained Glass window campaign After 18 months of planning and thanks to the generosity of Dunstonian John Nightingale (‘63) for funding £15,000 of repairs, the iconic stained glass original window depicting the Patron Saint of the College was re-instated in all its glory. Deep repair work around the broken panels of Chaucer and Raphael was caried out and the stained glass now looks absolutely magnificent.

We cannot thank John enough for his generous donation.

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WHO SUPPORTED US?

DUNSTONIANS: £385,584 CURRENT PARENTS: £15,619 FORMER PARENTS: £10,847 GRANTS: £34,298 OTHER: £10,556

Special Events

OUR BURSARY ENDOWMENT FUND An excellent education transforms lives...

Since the foundation of St Dunstan’s in 1888, the College has always facilitated access to its unique education for local children from less affluent background but with academic potential. There has been a resolute belief that assisted places serves as a key cornerstone for the school’s identity, for its charitable purpose and for improving social mobility.

Our aim is the raise £10 million by 2035, which will create a permanent endowment that can sponsor 20 children at the College at any one time.

The campaign has already gathered significant momentum, with our first million nearly reached. Do contact us if you can lend your support, connecting us to potential donors and getting behind the campaign as an active participant.

Our next telephone campaign is scheduled for the summer of 2026 and we have high hopes that this will lend further weight to the endowment campaign.

First Bursary Tea Party at the College in June 2025

Watch Natasha’s story here...

A BRIGHTER FUTURE THROUGH LEGACIES For many, the years spent at school are some of the most significant and life-changing of times. This is particularly true at St Dunstan’s College whose vibrant community of past students, parents and teachers remain connected to the school, and are passionate about its continued success.

By giving a legacy gift to St Dunstan’s in your Will, you help us to continue to give the best education to future students, and you will continue to be part of the St Dunstan’s story.

There are different types of gifts you can make in your Will, including giving a specified amount or the remaining part of your estate after providing for your family and other responsibilities. Gifts that are free from restrictions are particularly helpful, allowing the College to invest wherever our need is greatest. Or you may wish your gift to support our bursaries programme to give opportunities to those who would otherwise be unable to benefit from a St Dunstan’s education.

What a legacy could do for St Dunstan’s College... £10,000 could fund a bi-annual Battlefield Tour for the Corps of Drums

£1,000 could fund a tree in memory of a Dunstonian

£35,000 could help expand our outreach performing arts provisions

£10,000

£35,000

£100,000 could fund the naming of a substantial refurbished space at Park Langley

£250,000 could kick start the refurbishment of Park Langley’s Clubhouse

£100,000

£250,000

£1,000 £5,000 £5,000 could fund a memorial bench

£25,000

£50,000

£25,000 could fund the naming of a classroom £50,000 could fund one Sixth Form student on a full bursary for two years

£1,o00,000 £500,000

£1,000,000 could fund two bursaries for ever as part of our Endowment Fund

£500,000 could fund one bursary for ever as part of w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk our Endowment Fund

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Friends of St Dunstan’s

Friends of St Dunstan’s Since 2021, Friends have raised over £125,000, much of this has gone towards grants for leavers parties, support of local charities and into putting on events.

Over this academic year, Friends has worked very closely with the College to develop an annual bidding process for use of the remaining funds towards projects for the benefit of our community.

In January, the Friends Committee agreed to take a number of shortlisted projects this year forward; these included the purchase of equipment towards supporting play in the Junior School, Outdoor Education across the College, and enhancing the capability of the College Library to supplement and support learning for all pupils.

The Friends Committee also agreed to allocate funds towards building a new permanent enclosure outside the Headmaster’s House Gate to provide a shelter for parents and children from rain and snow, this will open over the summer. We’re extremely grateful to the immense efforts of Committee members, Year Reps and volunteers in running events and the College Shop, raising the necessary funds that will now support these and future projects as part of this annual process.

In terms of our events this year, the Cheese and Wine icebreaker for parents got us off to a fine start with the usual varied selection of wines, beer, cheeses and Indian street food, surrounded by wonderful art displays. This was quickly followed by the Christmas Fair which, for the first time in its

Friends of

history, was held partly outside, with many stalls, food and drink offerings and attractions in front of the College with lots of exciting activities for all the children. There were also fundraising activities for Lewisham Donation Hub and other local charities.

In March, the 2025 Quiz Night Champions Trophy and medals went to team “Nameless” in Year 3 beating “Les Quizerables” (Year 9) and last year’s winners “Pizza Dramas 25”. We were very happy to again host a team of Lewisham Foodbank volunteers and were able to make a donation to this much-needed local charity from this event.

At the AGM, the Committee and Mr Hewlett said a fond farewell and thank you to David Tong, Zena Beaumont, Zoe Baggi and Cyrillia Knight who are sadly leaving the Committee after serving up to 6 years each, we wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

The Summer Fete, held alongside the Catford Weekender event, was even bigger this year, open to both the College and local community, with more stalls, inflatables, activities including crazy golf, pedal go-karting, nerf shooting and orienteering, plus plenty of cake offerings and prizes at the fabulous Great St Dunstan’s Bake-off!

This year Friends raised over £40,000 from our four events and the College Shop. Grants and donations were given to Lewisham Foodbank and Y6, Y11 and Y13 Leavers parties.

Thank you to everyone for your support!

Friends of St Dunstan’s Committee

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The Dunstonian Office

A New Plaque At The College St Dunstan's College moved to its Catford premises in 1888 but originates in the City of London.

It is more precisely linked to the Parish of St Dunstan-in-the-East.

The church of St Dunstan-in-theEast itself was badly damaged during WWII but its connection to the College site in Lewisham was commemorated with a plaque inaugurated in its gardens on 12 May 1983 – which was also Ascension Day, when Beating of the Bounds takes place.

Anybody can enjoy a view of the plaque in the peaceful gardens at St Dunstan's Hill (far right). Indeed Dunstonian John Woolman ('76) has taken a group of Dunstonians to the gardens for the past couple of years whilst on a historical tour of the City.

To reinforce the special connection between the past and the present, we had the idea of commissioning a replica plaque for the College site.

The archives revealed the name of the original carver of the stone, Mr Richard Kindersley, together with his original signed drawing of the 1983 plaque.

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Mr Kindersley is a world renowned carver and has been involved as recently as a couple of years ago in the vast carving inscriptions at the D-Day Memorial near Arromanches in Normandy.

We made contact with him and he visited the College together with his apprentice, George Edwards, in October 2023 and decided to commission a new plaque for the College and launched an appeal in the Winter edition of The Notes in December 2023. A generous donor and alumnus came forward in early 2024: we are extremely grateful to Philip Greader ('76) who now lives in Sydney, Australia, for funding this exciting project.

George Edwards carved the writing updated for the occasion on a piece of slate originating from the same quarry in Wales as for the original 1983 plaque and the new plaque was installed at the College on 21 August 2024.

Philip visited the College in September to see the plaque in place. Thank you very much to you, Philip, from the whole Dunstonian community for such a special addition to the College.

The Dunstonian Office

The

Dunstonian Association

New York Reunion

The first official annual alumni reunion outside the UK Nick Hewlett, Head of St Dunstan's College, and Isabelle Blake-James, Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations flew out to New York in early October for the first official annual alumni reunion outside the UK. The trip was a huge success as nothing beats meeting Dunstonians in person: a Drinks Reception at the Lotos Club on the East side of Central Park saw a dozen Dunstonians gathered for the occasion. Some had flown a long way including Aimee Montague ('19) recent Head of School, who came all the way from Chicago and met fellow Head of School, Ted Last ('60), 59 years apart.

We had to immortalise the moment as Ted came wearing his school blazer which was remarkably in pitch perfect condition.

Other attendees included Anthony Smith ('57) who kindly organised a private tour of the Metropolitan Museum for Nick and Isabelle which was memorable as well as Rosie Peck ('09), Sam Cridlan ('86) who flew over from Washington, Mike Davies ('84), David Patterson ('91) and Sam Lewis ('76), part of the Development Board, who flew to New York for the occasion.

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The Dunstonian Office

The History Of St Dunstan Patron Of St Dunstan’s College An excerpt by Douglas Dales The College has St Dunstan as its patron because it was originally founded in the fifteenth century in the parish of St Dunstan-in-the-East, in the City of London. St Dunstan was a monk, scholar, musician, and craftsman. He was also a statesman and he served as Archbishop of Canterbury for 28 years. In the tenth century, the foundations of medieval England were laid, which would endure until the Reformation and beyond. The names given to the houses in the College are each associated with important places and aspects of Dunstan’s career and legacy, which continue to inspire the Christian values and education being offered at the College today. The following is an excerpt from a booklet produced by the College, written by Douglas Dales. The full text can be found by following the QR code at the end.

GLASTONBURY The earliest biography of Dunstan tells of his birth around the year 909 and of his education at Glastonbury early in the tenth century. His parents were farmers at Baltonsborough, a village nearby, and in those days, Glastonbury was largely surrounded by marshes and water, being virtually an island.

There was an ancient wooden church there which was incorporated into an early stone monastery where Dunstan was educated by Irish scholars who lived there. It was a holy place of pilgrimage and prayer. Dunstan’s own spiritual life was nurtured by a royal holy woman who lived in Glastonbury, and he designed works of art for some of the convents of nuns in Wessex.

In 943, Dunstan was appointed to be the Abbot of Glastonbury in order to establish regular monastic life there according to the Rule of St Benedict. Benedict lived in the sixth century in Italy, and during the ninth and tenth centuries his Rule was widely adopted across Europe as the norm of Benedictine monastic life. The royal family and the local aristocracy endowed this renewed monastery of Glastonbury with extensive lands, while Dunstan built a cloister and other buildings, some of the remains of which have been found by archaeology.

Manuscripts remain from that time which were at Glastonbury, some of which Dunstan corrected and added to: the most famous of these shows him kneeling at the feet of Christ; it is now in the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Dunstan was an educator and many monks went from Glastonbury later in the tenth century to create new monasteries and to serve as bishops and Archbishops of Canterbury.

He was also an artist and craftsman, making bells and

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other metal artefacts. He was remembered too for his musical gifts and there is plainchant music attributed to him.

MENDIP Dunstan was born in the southwestern part of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex, and he may well have been related to that part of the royal family associated with King Athelstan, at whose court he grew up. This was often based at Cheddar where the foundations of a large wooden hall have been found.

The Mendip hills were an important source of silver and lead at this time, which provided steady wealth for the royal family and the local aristocracy. Trade also flowed from Somerset across the Severn Sea to Wales, Ireland, and Brittanny. It was in the island of Athelney in the fens near Glastonbury that King Alfred the Great had held out during his resistance to the Viking invasion and prior to his decisive victory over them at the Battle of Edington in 878.

Dunstan’s uncle had been Bishop of Wells but Dunstan was not always popular at court because of his intellectual and musical interests. He was viewed with suspicion by some of his schoolfriends, who on one occasion threw him into a muddy pond!

Later, during the reign of the next king, Edmund, there was a determined attempt to drive him away, perhaps because of his commitment to monastic life and the desire of some of the bishops to recreate regular monasteries in Wessex.

It is said that it was only when the king had a narrow escape while hunting above Cheddar Gorge that he had a change of heart and appointed Dunstan to be the reforming Abbot of Glastonbury. Otherwise, Dunstan

The Dunstonian Office

might well have gone abroad to Germany and contributed to the revival of monastic life there.

THE MEMORY OF ST DUNSTAN St Dunstan was greatly loved and revered by many in his own lifetime and he lived to a great age by the standards of his day. His burial place in Canterbury Cathedral soon became a shrine where people were often healed, and the date of his death on 19 May in 988 became a national festival, and it remains commemorated in the calendars of the Anglican and Catholic churches today.

When the Normans took over the country in 1066 there was a real danger that the memory of Dunstan would be obscured or even suppressed, especially as the Anglo-Saxon cathedral at Canterbury was largely destroyed in a fire. But the second Norman archbishop of Canterbury, St Anselm, ensured that this did not happen, as he regarded Dunstan as a saint.

It was the murder of Thomas à Becket during the reign of Henry II that led to his tomb, rather than Dunstan’s, becoming the principal focus of pilgrimage and veneration at Canterbury Cathedral until Henry VIII destroyed it and suppressed all public commemoration of Becket during the Reformation. Monastic life in England was also destroyed by Henry VIII at that time in the sixteenth century and the great monasteries founded in the age of Dunstan fell into ruins after five hundred years of existence.

It was only towards the end of the nineteenth century that Bishop William Stubbs of Oxford published the Latin texts relating to Dunstan in The Memorials of St Dunstan in the Rolls series. This has been the foundation for a revival of Dunstan’s memory and an accurate appreciation of his legacy by modern historians in time for his millennium in 1988. The College is therefore heir to a rich and unique tradition, and it is fortunate to be under the patronage of so important and exemplary a founder of English church, education, culture, and society.

St Dunstan This icon of St Dunstan, found in the Archives of the College, was drawn by a monk at the Monastery of the Caves in Kiev in 1991 as a sign of reconciliation between East and West. It is the first such image of the saint in the place of his birth since before the Reformation and was a gift of the mother monastery of the Russian Christianity to the place of its counterpart in England. It is drawn in the Byzantine style of the 10th Century.

© Douglas Dales: 2024.

Read the full booklet here:

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Battlefield tour "Poignant, eye opening, very worthwhile, excellent company."

WW1 is one of the defining moments in world history – a period when global geo-political plates shifted, empires fell, new nations were born, technology and society evolved to meet imperatives of war - and also a time of intense personal suffering and tragedy for so many on the battlefield and for those waiting at home. Any visitor to the serried ranks of tombstones “known unto God” at Lijssenthoek or Tyne Cot cemeteries cannot help but be moved by the scale of sacrifice, but to visit the cemeteries and battlefields with an expert guide and in the company of fellow Dunstonians made for a far more informed, intensely powerful experience.

Our expert guide, Bob Shaw, produced an entire cabinet of maps to tutor us through both the causes and the course of the Great War, including detailed diagrams of individual engagements. He enlightened us about the role of women in nursing and on the home front. We heard inspirational stories of Edith Cavell and Nellie Spindler.

We climbed in trenches, learnt about the invention of the tank and developments in aerial warfare. We heard about military discipline and punishments, but also about welfare and entertainment. We experienced the peace and spiritual uplift of Tubby Clayton’s Toc H refuge for all ranks in Poperinge, a safe haven 10 miles beyond the front line in Ypres. We ourselves also enjoyed the odd convivial glass in good company.

We walked in the footsteps of Old Dunstonians, saw where they battled through the mud and laid wreathes on their graves. The emotional highlights of the trip were the Service of Remembrance in St George’s Memorial Church where we honoured 358 Old Dunstonians who fell in two world wars and the Menin Gate Ceremony. We felt so proud of all Dunstonian pupils past and present as our own Corps of Drums enjoyed the rare privilege of marching under the Menin Gate.

What a lot we managed to cram into just 3 days from leaving Catford early Friday to returning early evening on Sunday.

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"An unforgettable, life changing experience. Extremely moving, while also joyful making friends with fellow alumna"

The Dunstonian Office Oriental Club Reunion On Thursday 6 February, the Dunstonian Office held a drinks reception at The Oriental Club for the first time. The evening was a roaring success, and we had a wonderful turn out of Dunstonians across the decades coming from all over London (and beyond!). Attendees enjoyed wine, light bites and reminisced with old connections.

Year 1 visit the Archives Room In what is now becoming an annual tradition, the entire cohort of Year 1 pupils from the Junior School came to visit the Archives in October. 40 five and six year olds, and their teachers and support staff, squeezed into the Dunstonian Office and Archive room for their session with Archivist Shea Hollis ('01).

They were utterly enthralled by the artefacts and images from St Dunstan's’ College history; asking impressive questions about student life in the past and about the building from yesteryear. The young Dunstonians were especially excited to be able to try on some uniform from a hundred years ago, in some cases.

We were also very fortunate to listen to an engrossing presentation by the Chair of the Oriental Club, Laurence Singlehurst, who took us through an overview of the Club’s rich history and heritage. The Club was originally founded by returning officers and officials from India and the East.

It became a home-away-from-home for high-ranking Members of the East India Company, a place where they could meet, enjoy delicious curries and do business in welcoming surroundings. Since 1962, the Club’s home has been in Stratford House: an elegant venue in the heart of Marylebone.

A huge thank you to David Edwards ('83) for organising such a delightful evening - the best way to beat the February blues! If you are interested in Membership at an exceptional Clubhouse with an unrivalled location, a vibrant social programme of events and societies, as well as a special relationship with St Dunstan's, please contact The Dunstonian Office in the first instance at: dunstonians@stdunstans.org.uk

We finished their visit with a trip to see the new St Dunstanin-the-East plaque. It was so exciting to see interest in the college heritage, ignited in such young minds!

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Valete

Valete!

Our thanks and best wishes to the staff that left St Dunstan’s in the Summer of 2025.

Abigal Collard

Logan Blair Laura Brown Sue Connolly Isaac Duperreault Jamie Ellis

Katie Gent Lauren Gray Evie Harrison Sophie Jones Luke Golding Kukomina Mbasani Anna O’Connor-Coffey

Caroline O’Malley Lisa Presland Nicola Rich Yousaf Sharif Kathleen Waller

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Joined Director of the Stuart and Usherwood Additional Curricula and Head of Citizenship Teacher of Biology Teacher of Maths Head of Finance Learning Supervisor Junior School Music Graduate and Teaching Assistant HoD Physics Junior School Teaching Assistant Head of SES Head of Psychology Teacher of Maths Teacher of Computer Science & Mathematics College Wellness Centre Assistant and Attendance Officer Junior School Teaching Assistant Co-curricular Administrator Teacher of Business and Economics JS Teaching Assistant (SDC) Head of English

2021 2023 2023 1994 2024 2024 2024 2021 2023 2022 2022 2024 2018 2022 2017 2018 2024 2024

Salvete

Salvete!

Welcome to those who joined the staff at St Dunstan’s in the Summer of 2025.

Olivia Casey Rebekah Edwin Xiaoqian Huang Paul Readdy Jack Casey Thomas Rattle Lily Davis Rosalind Fuller Naomi Bickmore Mitchell Hoar Isabella Mayne Lucy Cheetham Charlotte Palmer Yasmin Disney-Cohen Annabel Halls Elodie Heavens Federico Luchetti Jamie Allison Mariet Serradilla Gemma Kenward Luca Elkouby Ellie Mooney Felix Barber Mary Evans

Teacher of Mathematics Teacher of Mathematics Teacher of Mathematics Teacher of Mathematics Teacher of Biology Assistant Head - Digital Learning and Innovation Junior School Form Teacher Junior School Form Teacher Junior School Form Teacher Junior School Form Teacher Junior School Music Teacher Teacher of English Teacher of English Teacher of English Assistant Head of English Head of Chemistry Teacher of Physics Teacher of Economics Teacher of Business SENDCO Teacher of History Head of Psychology Head of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics Teacher of Drama w w w. s t dun s t a ns.o rg .uk

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The inside cover of the first Chronicle, 1889

Contents page, Chronicle, Michaelmas Term, 1925

Editorial & Design Team: Shea Hollis Isabelle Blake-James Martin Langthorne Jo Langthorne Thank you to all the members of staff who have generously contributed to The Chronicle 2025, sharing the achievements and highlights of the 24-25 Academic Year, protecting the memories for years to come.

In the St Dunstan’s College Archive, we work to preserve and share the rich heritage of our College, including The Chronicle, which has been published continually since 1890, even through both World Wars.

If you have any questions or would like to view any previous copies, do contact: archive@stdunstans.org.uk The Chronicle is also available in searchable online format on our Digital Archive at dunstonians.org.uk

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St a n s te a d Ro a d , Lo n d o n S E 6 4 T Y A co -ed u c at ion a l , i n d e p e n d e nt Co l l e ge fo r a ge s 3 to 1 8 www. s t d u n s t a n s . o rg . u k 020 8516 7200

EDUCATION GROUP

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