College Life AUTUMN / WINTER 2023
THE NEWSLETTER OF ST EDMUND’S COLLEGE
P7 co-curricular activities A look at some of the many co-curricular activities on offer. With over 150 clubs, students have ample options to find something they enjoy, spanning from animal care to robotics, traybaking to Lego mastery—truly catering to diverse interests.
St Edmund’s Sunday This commemoration, dedicated to our Patron Saint, was a beautiful tapestry woven with heartfelt reunions and spirited festivity.
Remembrance Sunday We marked this year's Remembrance Day with a series of events that brought the entire College and Prep community together
Iceland 2023
Requiem Concert The highly anticipated Autumn Concert, showcasing the immense talent at St Edmund’s.
We took 33 keen geographers to Iceland and packed in a tight itinerary with 3 waterfalls, geysers, volcanoes.
Reading challenge • CCF • Poland trip • DofE • Elements induction camp and much more...
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Avita Pro Fide Autumn/Winter 2019
A warm welcome to the latest edition of College Life. As the new year unfolds we think of nature's renewal and a season of new beginnings, growth, hope and transformation. In this spirit, I'm thrilled to introduce the latest edition of College Life, a window into the vibrant tapestry of life at St Edmund's College. This season unfolds with exciting prospects, reflecting the energy within our college community. The spotlight shines on our upcoming production of Made in Dagenham, a showcase of our students' talents and dedication. Our annual Careers Fair also promises to guide students toward ambitious futures.
Reading Challenge The Summer Reading Challenge was launched with the aim of promoting reading among students during the holiday. As part of the challenge, a week long Literary Festival took place during the Trinity Term, where High Performance Learning (HPL) Ambassadors discussed the science and benefits of reading. The festival emphasised the development of High Performance Learning characteristics through reading, including resilience, innovation, and engagement. The challenge encouraged students to read as much as possible during their summer break and complete book reviews on the books they read. The aim was to emphasise the importance of reading and personal growth and development. Equal first-place winners per House were recognised and received book tokens as rewards. All participants in the challenge were acknowledged for their dedication to the task. Participants received certificates, large cookies, and juice as rewards for their efforts. The students' enthusiasm and engagement demonstrated their understanding of the significance of reading. Over 80 students participated in the challenge, demonstrating the success of the initiative in promoting reading among students. While logistical challenges prevented some students from receiving certificates in person due to fixtures or other commitments, their efforts and achievements were still recognised and appreciated. The Summer Reading Challenge played an essential role in promoting and celebrating the power of reading among students. Continued engagement in reading is encouraged, and the challenge's success demonstrates the potential of promoting reading to further personal growth and development.
Within these pages, you'll discover features showing the diverse experiences of our students: from the joyful Elements Camp to enlightening journeys to Poland and Iceland; from Remembrance to Red Wednesday; from Rugby to Rutter’s Requiem, with everything in between. May the pages of College Life inspire, inform, and kindle curiosity. Together, let us embrace the spirit of spring, with its promise of growth and renewal, as we navigate the exciting term ahead.
Matthew Mostyn, Headmaster
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College Life Autumn / Winter 2023
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Tutors doors As the term came to an end, the tutor-led Christmas door competition unfolded, revealing everyone's incredible commitment adorning their doors with festive cheer. Talbot secured the top spot in Elements, Poynter emerged victorious in Rudiments, and Douglass excelled in Grammar. Talbot also claimed success in Syntax, while Douglass got the top spot in Poetry. Douglass celebrated another win in Rhetoric 1, and Talbot triumphed in Rhetoric 2! Each participant brought forth distinct and varied concepts, from Grinch-themed decorations to 'Home Alone' themes, innovative bauble designs using their faces, and even eco-friendly door displays. Congratulations to all participants for making the College festive in time for the Christmas break!
Festive evening of Christmas Carols Our Christmas Carols event on the last Wednesday of term was a wonderful gathering. Students, along with their parents, friends, and family, all came together to sing carols and watch the students perform. It was a festive evening filled with music and joyful performances that brought everyone together in the holiday spirit.
Boarders enjoy Christmas Dinner Boarders had a hot and cold savoury Christmas meal for the perfect end of term celebration. The meal was followed by students preforming a variety of party pieces as the entertainment, including an outstanding piece by one of our Spanish boarders. Throughout the evening, students mingled and enjoyed the festive spirit.
Headmaster’s book Huge congratulations go to all of the students listed below who were invited to sign the Headmaster’s Book as recognition for their outstanding work: Alex L Vuk S Matthew H Anastasiia B Alla C Felix H James C Fabio L James B Jay L Kaiden A Dejare B Kachi U Marco S Laurence d S David C Emilia-Jane N Hemjyot K Cornelia S Anastasiia B Milla B Amelia J Ellis H Ellena K Millie G Kamdilichukwu A Alannah C Andreas E Filip M William S Amelia J Thomas G Joseph B Patrick R Charlie B Megan C Florence B Lucas F Arthur S Renata S
Achieving C2 Level in Cambridge English Exam Achieving C1 Level in Cambridge English Exam Achieving B2 Level in Cambridge English Exam Achieving B1 Level in Cambridge English Exam Achieving C2 Level in Cambridge English Exam Achieving C1 Level in Cambridge English Exam Edmundian Spirit Achieving B2 Level in Cambridge English Exam French Achieving B1 Level in Cambridge English Exam Creating a rap about Edmundian Virtues Creating a rap about Edmundian Virtues Creating a rap about Edmundian Virtues Achieving C1 Level in Cambridge English Exam ICT and Summer Reading Challenge Summer Reading Challenge Creating a poster about St Margaret Ward Summer Reading Challenge English Summer Journal in English Summer Reading Challenge Summer Reading Challenge French French Summer Reading Challenge Being an RE Ambassador Standing up to online bullying Work for the Remembrance display Volunteering to serve at Mass in Iceland Volunteering to serve at Mass in Iceland Singing A Remembrance Day project English (writing a short book) and Science English (writing a short novel) ICT French A Remembrance Day project English (writing a short novel) Volunteering to serve at Mass in Iceland A History project on an Old Edmundian
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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Combined Cadet Force
Soaring high: RAF cadets spread their wings. In an action-packed day that began at 6am and concluded back at the College by 6pm, our team accompanied 9 RAF cadets on an incredible adventure to RAF Syerston. The highlight? Flying in a Viking Glider. For some of these cadets, it was their first-ever experience taking flight, while others seized the chance for a second go-around. Those veterans got to take charge of the glider, applying the theory they'd learned during their CCF sessions on flight principles.
Annual Remembrance dinner On 14th November, the CCF hosted its largest Annual Remembrance Dinner yet. Our senior cadets joined the Contingent Commander, Headmasters, Bursar, SSI and Officers for a formal Mess Dinner held in the Parlour. This annual event offers a fantastic opportunity to our cadets to experience the formalities and etiquette of a Mess Dinner, including the black-tie dress code, speeches, and formal toasts. For the first time this year, we were treated to a fantastic performance of a stick routine by our very own Corps of Drums, which was worthy of any military event. Thanks were given to Capt John Shaw and Lieutenant Nick Eliasson for their time and efforts with our growing Corps of Drums, which meets every Monday, Period 7 in the CCF Hut. The Headmaster and Contingent Commander, in their speeches, recognised the achievements of all of our cadets, in particular the members of the Cambrian Patrol team who won a Bronze medal last summer. Acknowledgements and thanks were offered to the CCF staff, for their continued selfless commitment, and our partnership with Goffs Academy - whose students form a growing part of our Contingent – was celebrated. Lieutenant Jilly Colbran was presented with the CCF Sword, to recognise her long service to the CCF as she sadly leaves the College at the end of December.
RAF Cranwell Nine of our RAF cadets were fortunate enough to spend a week at RAF Cranwell during the October half term. Whilst experiencing life on a working RAF station, (also home to Royal Air Force College, where all new officers and aircrew undertake their training), they took on many challenges, including high ropes, gliding, archery, sword drill and a range of sporting activities. The highlight of the week was competing in a drill competition on the parade square in front of College Hall Officers’ Mess, something that many will never experience in their cadet careers. The week provided an opportunity to meet cadets from other schools, and to experience a range of different careers within the air force, including taking part in the flight sim training alongside the officer cadets undertaking their challenging 24-week course, and quiz them about their experiences!
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Beyond the early morning start and the thrill of flying, this was a practical lesson come to life. The skies became a classroom where the cadets, especially those steering the glider, bridged the gap between theory and reality. They didn’t just ride along; they actively engaged, putting their knowledge into action as they maneuvered the glider through the skies. This trip was a hands-on education that turned textbook concepts into real skills. It offered a chance for the cadets to feel the winds, control the aircraft, and, in doing so, gain a deeper appreciation for the art of flying. It was a transformative experience, empowering the cadets with a practical understanding of aviation. The day expanded their horizons, and gave them confidence in their abilities.
Remembrance Sunday We marked this year's Remembrance Day with a series of events that brought the entire College and Prep community together. During the week members of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and College students took part in a symbolic act of remembrance. Poppies, a potent symbol of sacrifice, were carefully placed in front of the College and the Chapel, creating a visually striking display. The day itself began with a whole College Mass. Students and staff gathered for a collective moment of reflection. The Mass served as an opportunity to honour those from the College who gave their lives and the service of others, as well as pray for all those involved in conflict today.
The Prep Assembly was enriched by the poignant voices of Year 6 students who took centre stage to share poems they had written themselves. These young poets, wise beyond their years, articulated the significance of remembrance, weaving words that resonated with empathy and understanding. Throughout this assembly students engaged in a thought-provoking educational experience through specially curated videos that provided historical context and deepened their understanding of the sacrifices made. The school community then came together for a collective moment of silence, a powerful pause to reflect on the lives that were lost.
Senior citizen Christmas party! On Sunday 10th December we welcomed 150 guests to the College for our annual Christmas party. The guests were provided with a Christmas tea before being entertained by the students. We then all sang some Christmas carols and songs before Father Christmas visited. Thanks to the generosity of our parents each guest received a Christmas present.
RCS Annual Christmas Concert Liam S and Ben A performed with RCS at the annual Christmas concert in Royston Parish Church. Both were excellent and the packed church gave the most rapturous round of applause. Well done to both!
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Red Wednesday Students and staff proudly supported the charitable foundation, Aid to the Church in Need, in November, participating in a livestream event to mark Red Wednesday. Red Wednesday is an annual initiative to raise awareness of the ongoing religious discrimination and violence faced by countless individuals and communities worldwide. The day seeks to foster unity and solidarity among people of all faiths, reaffirming the importance of respecting and protecting religious rights.
Blessing of the Graves In November the catholic church especially remember those who have died. Today a group of staff and students gathered for our annual Blessing of the Graves Service.
Graffiti prayer wall Our students recently transformed the chaplaincy with a vibrant addition: the Graffiti Prayer Wall. This space brims with prayers, Bible verses, and stunning artwork, each stroke reflecting personal connections to faith and inspiration. From heartfelt prayers for peace to vivid biblical verses, thr wall captures a spectrum of beliefs and emotions. It's a colourful tapestry of our community's diverse spiritual fabric.
St Edmund’s College was one of only four secondary schools invited to participate in the one-hour livestream session, which was held in collaboration with the Mark 10 Mission and St Thomas Aquinas Catholic School & Sixth Form in Birmingham. Starting at 11am, the event included prayers, thoughtprovoking information, games, live interaction from participating schools and pre-recorded segments. Students also marked Red Wednesday in school by writing prayers and kind messages to those facing religious persecution onto footprints that adorned the college floors. These footprints led to the school’s chapel. Students were also asked to use one word to describe their thoughts on religious persecution. ‘Unthinkable’, ‘horrifying’, ‘unfair’, ‘unforgivable’ and ‘painful’ were just some of the words articulated. Additionally, four members of staff ran 41 laps of the college to raise funds for Aid to the Church in Need and to remember the 41 people who died when their church was attacked in Nigeria on Pentecost Sunday 2022.
This collaborative masterpiece isn't just art; it's a testament to our students' spirituality and their desire to create a sacred space that celebrates both reverence and creativity. This display of faith-infused artistry will adorn the chaplaincy, a visual testament to our students' unwavering commitment to spirituality. It beckons everyone to pause, reflect, and draw inspiration from the many beliefs that unite us. It encapsulates the depth of devotion and the myriad ways faith finds expression through our students' creative endeavours.
Matthew Mostyn, Headmaster, said: “We were truly honoured to be invited by Aid to the Church in Need to participate in its livestream event. Red Wednesday provides an invaluable opportunity for our students to learn about the struggles faced by individuals, who are mistreated or victimised for their faith. It is a special day for our college, which itself grew out of persecution. In the entrance leading to the school chapel, the stained glass windows depict some of the English Martyrs who were killed for their faith between 1535 and 1631. Today, by continuing to stand together against religious persecution, we hope to inspire positive change and promote respect and tolerance for people of all faiths.” Aid to the Church in Need is a pontifical foundation of the Catholic Church, supporting the Catholic faithful and other Christians where they are persecuted, oppressed or in pastoral need. It supports important projects which are undertaken by the local church – bishops, priests, sisters and lay people – in the 140 plus countries where it gives aid. To watch St Edmund’s College’s video for Red Wednesday, please scan the QR Code or click here.
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Elizabethan priest hides The Faith in Action group embarked on a journey through history at Harvington Hall, a site steeped in the intrigue of priest hides from Elizabethan times. During this era, practicing Catholicism was outlawed, compelling priests to seek refuge in hidden spaces to evade capture and death at the hands of soldiers. Our tour guide, transported the group back to an era fraught with danger for Catholic priests. The guide painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by these clergy members, evoking empathy and understanding for their plight. The group got to explore a concealed priest hide. Stepping into the hide revealed a stark reality, a cramped, dark space where priests would endure days in seclusion to avoid persecution. The trip left a lasting impression, offering a glimpse into the harsh conditions and sacrifices made by these individuals.
820kg collected for food bank
Throughout the month of October, the collective efforts of our dedicated students and supportive parents culminated in a remarkable initiative to gather food donations for the Hertford & District Food Bank. The outcome of this endeavour was nothing short of extraordinary, as we successfully accumulated an impressive 820 kilograms of food items. In 2022/23, food banks operating within their network provided 2,986,203 three-day emergency food supplies to individuals facing crises across the UK, including 1,139,553, children. The substantial contribution made by our community will undoubtedly have a profound impact in our local area. This accomplishment stands as a testament to the strength and compassion of our St Edmund's College community. We take pride in the incredible collective effort displayed by our students, parents, and all those involved. Together, we demonstrate the power of unity and the positive change we can bring to those in need within our community.
Annually, St Edmund's College actively engages in supporting the Harvest Appeal. During this initiative, students contribute by wearing their personal clothing for a donation and participating in a simple lunch that includes soup, bread, and a piece of fruit. The funds saved from these modest meals are generously forwarded to CAFOD, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development. CAFOD, is a prominent international development charity with a mission to extend assistance to individuals enduring poverty, regardless of their religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds. As the official aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales and a part of Caritas International, CAFOD plays a vital role in global outreach. Yet, our involvement in the Harvest Appeal goes beyond mere fundraising. It is an opportunity to educate ourselves and, in a small but meaningful way, embody the words of Gandhi: "Live simply so that others may simply live." Through this endeavour, we strive not only to make a financial contribution but also to foster awareness and promote the ethos of living a simpler life for the benefit of those less fortunate.
Students and staff wore red to show their support for ‘Wear Red Day’ - an initiative organised by anti-racism charity, ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ (SRtRC), which helps to educate young people and adults to challenge racism in society and celebrate diversity. Helping to spread the message that racism is not acceptable, students and staff members added red accessories to their uniform. Some donned red headbands, whilst others sported a red hat or red socks to show their support. A huge thank you to everyone who took part and showed their support for stamping out racism from our society. At St Edmund’s we have a zero tolerance approach to any discriminatory behaviour and a day like this helps to reinforce our stand on this.
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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Golfer impresses British Par 3 Championships
Lewis with esteemed Tony Jacklin CBE
Lewis A-K, a student from Syntax, has made a significant impact in the British Par 3 Championships at Nailcote Hall. Not only did he secure a place in the finals, which will be televised on Sky Sports, but he also left a lasting impression with his exceptional performance. During the junior qualifier for the British Par 3 Championships, Lewis stood out by achieving one of the lowest scores of the day. This outstanding performance led to a playoff, which he won, securing his place in the finals. Lewis's golfing journey didn't stop with the qualifier. He was featured on Sky Sports on multiple dates in September, providing viewers with a glimpse of his skills.
Poland trip Our experience in Poland was extraordinary. Being given the opportunity to visit AuschwitzBirkenau was incredible, it was a very emotional and moving experience but one that should never be missed. It was bizarre to think just a short bus journey away from the vibrant city of Krakow was this place of extreme brutality. Returning from Auschwitz-Birkenau, everyone was feeling a little somber and so we visited the family home of Pope John Paul II, this was very interesting and allowed us time to reflect on what we had just seen. Our visit to Auschwitz was indescribable, being able to go inside Gas Chamber 1 was haunting and the deserted atmosphere surrounding Birkenau was daunting. During this trip we also got to explore Krakow, finding small cafes with homemade national cakes and shopping at the Galeria krakowska. We visited Schindler’s Museum and the site of the Krakow Ghetto, which was home to around 15000 Polish Jews before it was liquidated in 1943. This was one of the best experiences and I am incredibly grateful to my teachers who organized this trip and gave us an opportunity to visit some of the most crucial destinations of the 20th century.
Foundation Day
In a momentous celebration of our College's rich history and enduring legacy, we marked Foundation Day on Friday 29 September 2023. Founded on Michaelmas Day, 1568, in Douai, northern France, our College has a profound connection with the challenges and resilience of the Catholic faith during penal times in England. The highlight of the day was the presence of Bishop John Sherrington, who joined us to celebrate Mass with the entire College community. This auspicious occasion was made even more special with the attendance of our governing body, led by Chair of Governors, Deacon Paul Raynes. We were honored to have Mr. Peter Sweeney, Director of Education for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster, in our midst as well. The servers demonstrated exceptional professionalism and grace as they carried out their sacred duties during Mass. The Schola Cantorum, under the
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remarkable direction of Andrew O'Brien, led us in our traditional Edmundian Hymns, filling the atmosphere with an air of reverence and gratitude. As Communion concluded, their performance of Hubert Parry's inspiring piece, "I Was Glad," resonated with every member of our community who was present. This Foundation Day was a powerful tribute to the origins of our College and the unwavering commitment of those who dedicated themselves to preserving and practising the Catholic faith during challenging times. It reminded us of the sacrifices made and the blessings bestowed upon our College community throughout the years. As we reflect on this significant milestone, we are reminded of the values that guide our College, excellence in education, resilience in the face of adversity, and a strong sense of faith and community. The celebrations served as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to carry these values forward, inspiring future generations to embrace knowledge, integrity, and compassion.
Flying high! During the summer holiday, after almost 45 consecutive days of hard, exhaustive training Darina I competed in the Kite Surf National Championships (Bulgaria). She demonstrated outstanding performance and talent in rough wind and sea conditions, with the wind gusting at 30 knots, and average wave height of 2.0 meters. Darina finished 1st in all 4 races for the Under 21 ranking, while finishing 1st, 2nd, 1st, 2nd in the overall ranking for Women. (Women and Girls U21 race together, ranking is separate). Darina is now the 2023 Under 21 Kite Surf National Champion (Bulgaria) for both disciplines - Course Race and Hang Time. In addition to that, and despite being the youngest competitor and racing against women with up to 15 years of experience, she came 1st in the overall ranking for women. Congratulations Darina what a fantastic achievement!
Hampton Court Palace Our Rudiments students went on a fantastic History trip to Hampton Court Palace before the October half-term. The trip’s focus was to improve their knowledge and understanding of the Tudor period by developing their sense of chronology and gaining a deeper appreciation of the religious and political complexities in 16th century England. The students took part in the following two workshops; Elizabeth I: Politics & Power Students took on the role of the Queen's counsellors and, through examination of the evidence and debating the major contenders for the throne, they made the ultimate decision on the future of England and learned about the consequences of this. The HPL focus areas were analysing information and finding links connected to big picture thinking, with plenty of scope for development in both areas. Henry VIII to Elizabeth I: The Religious Roller-Coaster. Students learnt about the English Reformation and Counter Reformation, the Elizabethan religious settlement and the impact religious changes would have had on ordinary people during the period, with a clear HPL focus on empathy and meta-thinking. Overall this was an enjoyable and very useful trip from an educational viewpoint.
ST EDMUND’S COLLEGE
CAREERS FAIR 2024 TUESDAY12TH MARCH
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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High Performance Learning... Parents discover HPL
Active revision workshop for Poetry
Recently parents engaged in an activity about How to become a High Performer. As our Grammar students work towards their GCSEs, we want them all to feel that they are familiar with the tools they need to adopt to become a high performance learner. We asked parents to scan a QR code. This took them to the 8 HPL coloured icons and they were asked to select one. Each icon presented them with 3 or 4 questions related to that particular skill or attribute; parents had to rate themselves according to where they were at now, be it work or home life. There was a real buzz in the room as parents discussed their different choices and how they felt they could rate themselves. The last question for everyone was “How well do you think you were explicitly taught these skills and attributes when you were at school?” Thank you to Ben and Claudio, two of our Syntax HPL Ambassadors for helping us explain what parents needed to do. They are students who have adopted these learning tools from their first days in the College and are really reaping the rewards of this now and heading for success in their GCSEs. If you would like to take part please scan the QR code.
Poetry students attended a workshop recently which got them engaging in 4 different forms of Active Revision, something they were introduced to when they were in Syntax. From their previous learning, they understand the importance of engaging actively in their revision, rather than just reading through and highlighting material. Their tools for High Performance Learning ensure they are engaging in Linking, Metathinking and strategy planning, as well as Analysing; they also used creative approaches to help push knowledge into the long term memory and gain a deeper level of understanding. Testing via flashcards, blurting or practice questions gets them to be really honest with themselves as to what they really know and understand, and what needs to go back on the ‘re-do’ pile. Students engaged with: • Flashcards (including the Leitner method) • Mind mapping (organising their learning and using Mind Mup Gold via Microsoft 365 for electronic mind mapping) • Blurting – Getting down everything you know onto a piece of paper or whiteboard and then writing in, in colour, the bits you didn’t know or missed. • The Cornell Method Students know they can also refer back to past paper questions and testing as an active form of learning. They also completed a Time Management survey encouraging them to reflect on their approaches to revision and in particular, how they were going to manage this over the Christmas Holidays; some of the questions got them to reflect on their wellbeing and family oriented activities which are so important and how they can work these into their planning. Students will be set all the resources, including the Time management survey link, as a task on the VLE for reference and use in their own time.
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#EveryoneCan member of staff facilitated this discussion before a shared plenary. Session 3: Justice, truth and beauty. This topic delved into what justice is and does it actually exist. It asked what the point of punishment is and what is it supposed to achieve. Session 4: The big debate: This house believes that freewill is an illusion. A vibrant session, which gave everyone the opportunity to get involved in a debate, which concluded with a vote.
Challenging ‘Thriving Minds’ conference Students from St Edmund’s College were joined by other like-minded learners from local schools in October, to participate in an inspirational and thought-provoking conference held at the school. The event entitled: ‘Intermediate Stretch and Challenge’, was designed to help students further improve their advanced thinking skills and boost their learning by developing questioning techniques that can help broaden student capabilities beyond the curriculum. The conference was organised by ‘Thriving Minds’, which runs the largest series of national conferences for academically gifted students in the UK and Australasia. Proving a big hit with attendees, the event ran from 9am to 3pm and
was delivered by Julie Arliss – a well-known international educator of gifted students. Julie is a Farmington Scholar at Harris Manchester College, Oxford. She is a highly accomplished teacher and author. She is also on the examining team for Cambridge International Examinations and is the founder of Academy Learning. The study day was spilt into four sessions, comprised of the following interactive topics: Session 1: An introduction to quantum mechanics. This session took students into the quantum world, looking at wave / particle duality, non-locality, superposition and much more. Session 2: Guided community of inquiry. Celery munchers vs steak stokers. Is diet a free choice? A
Mr W Rerutko at St Edmund’s College, said: "Aligned closely to our High Performance Learning (HPL) ethos, this conference allowed our students to truly stretch their capabilities beyond what is taught in the curriculum and challenge themselves to the next level of deeper thinking. It also provided an informative and inspiring opportunity for our students to meet other like-minded students from neighbouring schools. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Julie for her time, as well as Thriving Minds for organising this thought-provoking and stimulating event." Teaching at St Edmund’s is underpinned by the High Performance Learning (HPL) framework. Employed by many of the world’s leading independent schools, HPL mixes academic confidence and attainment with the development of robust personal values, attitudes, and attributes. The outcome is intelligent, ambitious yet caring global citizens, who are advanced performers and enterprising learners.
Language Leaders Award programme - Prep German Reid F (Grammar) has delivered his first German lesson to two groups of Form 4 at the Prep School today. He has been planning and preparing the lessons together with Matthew H. The students in both groups seemed to enjoy the lessons delivered by Reid very much, in particular the activity where they had to find an image of an animal hidden somewhere in the classroom after hearing this animal’s German name. The game ‘hangman’ was also very popular among the Prep School students. Reid delivered this lesson as part of the Language Leaders Award programme. This lesson will be followed by two more lessons taught by Reid and Matthew next term. Both students have been working very hard to create an eye-catching engaging PowerPoint presentation as well as devising some ideas for brilliant activities for our students. They have been given HPL awards for being very creative, hardworking, and empathetic.
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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Bronze DofE expedition
Unveiling justice
39 of our current Syntax group travelled down to the Chiltern Hilla in Berkshire for their Qualifying expedition of the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The assessment took place across the beautiful counties of Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire & Berkshire, in the region of Henley on Thames, Christmas Common, Watlington and the surrounding areas. The weather was picture perfect and they were all set for a challenging yet enjoyable adventure! The group arrived well prepared having recently completing their Bronze Practice; their packing and carrying of kit and equipment was very good. The two days consisted of scorching sun with 30 degree heat, dry and sunny weather conditions all weekend with a little sting in the tail….a tropical downpour in the final hour on day two! Day one started from Nettlebed heading north through Russell’s Water and through Christmas common. The terrain was a mix of open rolling countryside and woodland with footpaths, bridleways, and byways. The evening was hot and sticky and remained dry with no breeze/wind. Tents were put up quickly and the group set about preparing the evening meal – for some the highlight of the day. The range of food was quite spectacular and there are clearly a number of budding chefs quite happy cooking in the outdoor kitchen. Day two started from the campsite at Watlington farm, heading east to Ibstone Common to the finish at Cadmore End. There was a good mix of rolling, open countryside and woodland and the groups really did see the best of what the Chiltern Hills offers. The assessors were very impressed with the students, stating that they were “quiet, motivated, incredibly well behaved and respected each other and the countryside over both days of their assessment”. The students maintained an excellent level of motivation and seemed to enjoy all aspects of the countryside, including getting up close to a lone slow worm! The groups maintained a photo diary of their journeying through the countryside and were really able to capture the peace and tranquillity of the hills, a mere thirty minutes from central London.
We took Rhetoric I and II to visit the Supreme Court, the last court of appeal in the UK. During the visit, we discussed the purpose of the Supreme Court, the way it was set up and the sorts of cases it rules on. We then debated a case that the court had ruled on previously; ‘Lee vs Ashers Baking Company’, which involved a dispute between a bakery and a gay marriage supporter. In this case, the baking company refused to make a cake that said, ‘We support gay marriage’. This then gave Lee cause to sue as he argued the Baking Company discriminated against his sexuality (The UK had just recognised gay marriage in law). Lee won his initial suit and every appeal up until the supreme courts’ final ruling. Lee then took it to the European court of human rights in the hope of overturning The Supreme Court's ruling. Students were split into three groups. Some were asked to advocate for Lee, some for the bakery and a third group played the role of the justices. They finally voted on the case based, not on their views but, on the arguments put forward. They used High Performance Learning skills such as Analysing, Linking, Empathy and Creating to form, structure and argue their sides. We ended the tour with a visit to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC), which serves as a supreme court for nations who pay to use it. Apparently, it’s cheaper to use the JCPC than it is to have their own supreme court. It also benefits the UK diplomatically to act as the host. Seeing the JCPC in action enabled students to link together themes from global politics A Level like ‘soft Power’, Human rights’ and ‘sovereignty’ and see them applied to a real word example.
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Stunning new photographs of the College Check out the stunning new photos of the College that we recently commisioned. We are really pleased with them, especially the evening shots which make the college look particularly warm and inviting. There is a small selection here, but many more will be used on our website and on marketing activities so keep your eyes peeled for the rest.
St Edmund’s Sunday Every year the College commemorates St Edmund’s Day, a commemoration, dedicated to our Patron Saint. This year’s event took place on Sunday 19 November and was, as always, a great occasion for people to meet old friends and teachers. The day started with High Mass in the College Chapel, a moment to reflect and express gratitude for St Edmund’s enduring values. Following the Mass, the Ambulacrum then played host to a drinks reception at which Matthew Moyston, the Headmaster delivered a speech about the school’s contemporary successes. An excellent buffet lunch was served in the Myers and Bourne Rooms. It was decided this year to make lunch less formal than the sit-down Sunday roast of recent years. This enabled visitors to mix and socialise between courses. Coffee and tea were then served in the Ambulacrum and tours of the College were hosted by some of our Prefects. Generously subsidised by The Edmundian Association, the event epitomized the spirit of togetherness and kinship among attendees, emphasizing the importance of unity within the St Edmund’s family. Thank you to everyone who attended, we look forward to seeing you all again for this year’s event.
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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P7co-curricular activities During the Michaelmas term at P7, a vast array of activities was on offer. With over 150 clubs, students had ample options to find something they'd enjoy, spanning from animal care to robotics, traybaking to Lego mastery— truly catering to diverse interests.
Introducing Nick Lee, our Assistant Head Co-curricular Nick is a qualified Geography teacher and previous Head of Sixth Form with over 20 years' experience working in education spanning both the state and independent sector. His teaching experience covers the age and ability range, up to and including Alevel and he has been an A level examiner for over 15 years. His managerial experience includes leading an academic department, and most recently, strategically launching a new sixth form in central London in 2021 before taking up the role of Assistant Head Co-curricular here at the College. Nick has always been heavily involved with the co-curricular life of a school and has been involved with the CCF and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme throughout his career. He has also been privileged to lead trips and expeditions all over the world including Canada, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Borneo and Malaysia and Ecuador, and has coached several sports alongside his teaching, including junior (U12) rugby and golf. Outside the classroom he likes travelling and enjoys a wide variety of outdoor pursuits including trekking, rock climbing and mountaineering, scuba diving, kayaking, and skiing. Nick has been involved in expeditions to the Himalayas, and the Andes and Bolivia and is a regular climber to the mountains of North Wales and Scotland. He qualified as a Mountain Leader in 2005, is a keen cyclist, both on the road on mountain bike, and also enjoy the odd game of squash now and again!
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College Life Autumn / Winter 2023
An enormous thank you to staff for all their ideas and hard work at providing such as fantastic programme. Looking ahead to the new year we have some exciting new initiatives. This includes the newly launched Service and Leadership programme for Rhetoric students. All students are given the opportunity to help run a range of different activities for younger pupils within the College P7 programme or at the Prep. With SEP, we are launching the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) for Form 5 pupils being run by 16 of our Rhet 1 students. It’s like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for younger pupils. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme in the College continues to grow from strength to strength with record numbers of participants at all three award levels. We will be visiting the beautiful, yet rugged national parks in the Peak District and the Brecon Beacons for the expedition phases of the Award's. For 2025, we are hoping to diversify the Award at Gold by offering either an overseas expedition to Iceland or a kayaking expedition in central France.
Craft Club
Kite Club
Choir
Goalkeeping Club
Badminton
Animal Club
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Strength and conditioning
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Exploring resin and polymer clay in P7 During a recent session in P7, students embarked on an exciting exploration into the world of resin and polymer clay. It was a hands-on experience where imagination met craftsmanship, and the results were nothing short of impressive. The class buzzed with energy as students dived into working with polymer clay. They shaped it into intricate figures, designed eye-catching earrings, and crafted charming keyrings. Each piece showcased the students' unique styles and creativity, making for a diverse collection of handmade treasures. The excitement continued as the class ventured into resin art. Guided by their curiosity and the guidance of their instructors, students created stunning floral coasters and festive Christmas tree ornaments. The room was filled with laughter and a sense of accomplishment as each creation took form. At the end of the session, the tables were adorned with an array of handcrafted wonders, each piece represented the students' dedication and newfound skills. The resin and polymer clay class wasn’t just about mastering techniques; it was a reminder of the endless possibilities within art. It encouraged students to explore their creativity and push their boundaries, leaving them inspired to continue their artistic journeys.
P7 photography Last week, our P7 photography class embarked on an exhilarating journey into the world of photography, guided by the dynamic and lively subject, Ralph. Amidst the shutter clicks and camera adjustments, students delved into mastering the art of low-light and action shots, honing their skills behind the lens in an unforgettable session.
P7 Lego masters: where creativity knows no boundaries The P7 Lego Masters co-curricular session was a buzzing hub of creativity, bringing together students from various academic years to explore the endless possibilities of Lego building. Students dove into constructing an array of models, both following instructions and letting loose with their imagination. The students tackled tricky instructions, diligently assembling their models. From intricate houses to zooming vehicles and a menagerie of Lego animals, each group showcased their skills in bringing instructions to life. But the real magic unfolded when guidelines took a back seat. Here, creativity took flight. Students unleashed their imaginations, crafting original models that ranged from fantastical creatures to futuristic structures. The room became a canvas for innovation, each model a unique expression of its creator’s vision. This collaborative environment fostered a fantastic exchange of knowledge and skills across different age groups. Experienced builders shared insights with newcomers, while fresh perspectives inspired the more seasoned Lego enthusiasts, creating a dynamic learning atmosphere. As the session concluded, the room boasted an impressive array of Lego creations, a testament to teamwork, creativity, and the joy of building together. These models spoke volumes about the collaborative spirit and imaginative prowess of the P7 Lego Masters, showcasing how diverse talents and ages can come together to create a world of wonders, brick by brick.
Photographing animals can often pose a challenge, but Ralph, a charming four-legged friend, proved to be the perfect muse. With his playful energy and photogenic nature, he effortlessly captivated the attention of the aspiring photographers. The class buzzed with excitement as students navigated the intricacies of capturing moments in low-light conditions. Adjusting exposure settings and experimenting with different techniques, they endeavoured to encapsulate Ralph's spirited essence, even in dimly lit environments. However, the true test of their skills came when Ralph's boundless energy was unleashed. Action shots became the focus as students aimed to freeze moments of movement and vitality. From playful leaps to tail-wagging dashes, each click of the camera sought to seize the dynamism and liveliness of their furry model. Guided by their instructor, students explored various angles and compositions, seeking to portray Ralph's personality through their lenses. Patience and quick reflexes became their allies as they tried to capture the perfect shot amidst Ralph's playful antics.
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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Iceland trip 2023 At the end of the Michaelmas half term, we took 33 keen geographers to Iceland for three nights. We packed in a tight itinerary with 3 waterfalls, geysers, volcanoes and even earthquakes! On the Sunday evening, we attended Mass in the Catholic Church in Reykjavik, four of the boys were asked to be altar servers., and they represented the College beautifully. We even managed to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights (through our phones rather than eyes unfortunately!) The field trip ended with an amazing experience at the Blue Lagoon. Once we acclimatised to the smell of sulphur, we relaxed in the hot springs. The students yet again were their very best versions of themselves. We were very lucky as just 30 hours later the Icelandic Government ordered an evacuation of the nearby town and closed the Blue Lagoon due an increase in earthquake activity. We would be lying if we said that we weren't hoping for a small eruption (obviously just for the Geography aspect and not to delay our return to the College).
For World Inclusion Day, a group of our students taught sign language to their fellow students and staff, exemplifying our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and empathetic world. These remarkable young individuals stepped into the role of educators, sharing the profound language of sign with those eager to learn. World Inclusion Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to strive for a world where every person is welcomed and valued. It encourages us to break down barriers, foster understanding, and empower one another to build a more inclusive and compassionate society. At St Edmund's College, these principles hold significant importance, reflecting our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive community where each member is recognised, respected, and valued for their unique contributions.
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College Life Autumn / Winter 2023
Requiem Concert St Edmund's Day festivities concluded with the highly anticipated Autumn Concert, showcasing the immense talent within St Edmund’s. The orchestra, soloists and choirs really outdid themselves. The orchestra were on fine form under the guidance of Mrs Slade performing music by Dvorak. This was followed by Mozart's sublime Adagio for violin and orchestra (played by Alice K) and the contemplative concerto by Ronald Binge (played by Thomas H). The first half was brought to close with an outstanding performance by the Cantores (the senior chamber choir) of music by Howells and Chilcott. In the second half, the audience was treated to stunning performance of John Rutter's sublime requiem accompanied by the St Edmund's Sinfonia. The choir sang with great beauty and sensitivity throughout. This was an exemplary rendition of a radiant requiem which touched the hearts of all those came to watch. Special mention must be made of our soloist, Amelia J whose was surely star of the show. Congratulations to all the musicians for delivering an exceptional evening of music making at the highest level.
Disneyland Paris competition Year 10 student, Theodora D. recently showcased her exceptional dancing and acrobatic abilities at the prestigious ‘Gymnastique Magique’ competition, which is held annually at Disneyland Paris as part of its Performing Arts OnStage programme. Theodora entered four categories in the premier festival gymnastics competition, ultimately taking home three well-earned medals for her efforts. The Disney Performing Arts OnStage programme provides amateur dance groups with a unique opportunity to become a ‘Disney performer’ for the day. Now in its 10th year, Gymnastique Magique is a threeday event where talented gymnasts of all ages compete in a range of categories, performing group, duo, and solo routines. The challenging 12-hour competition is renowned for its high standards and fierce competition. Theodora, who is a member of Hertford Gymnastics Academy, delivered an outstanding solo performance that earned her a well-deserved silver place. Theodora was also rewarded with a bronze medal for a perfectly timed duet, alongside her regular dance partner. She also gained a very respectable silver medal in the whole group dance, performing a captivating routine with fellow members of the Hertford Gymnastics Academy Display Squad. The event ended on a high for Theodora when she participated in the Disneyland Parade, she was then able to enjoy a fun day at the park. Well done!
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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Elements induction camp 2023 On Thursday 21st and Friday 22nd September Elements headed to Phasels Wood Activity Centre for their induction camp. Over these two days students enjoyed a variety of fun activities including archery, abseiling, mobile caving, and games on giant inflatables. In the evening, everyone gathered around the campfire to sing some songs and eat marshmallows. A big thank you to Nela and Harvey, our Rhetoric students, who gave up their evening to lead the singing. To end the evening, we said prayers around the campfire. We thanked God for new friendships and wonderful opportunities and asked Him for help and guidance for the year ahead. It was a great camp which gave students the opportunity to get to know each other better and bond as a year group.
Friends of St Edmund's Fireworks night photography competition The Friends of St Edmund's hosted a captivating Fireworks Photography Competition, and the victors have been unveiled! The competition, challenging participants to capture the fleeting beauty of fireworks, received an array of outstanding entries. Choosing the winners was a tough call due to the exceptional standard of submissions. However, after much deliberation, the victors were selected: Prep School Winner: Sophie S who's captivating cross photograph (above) stood out for its unique perspective and portrayal of the fireworks' allure. College Winner: Emily B who's photograph (left), showcasing individuals enjoying the fireworks display, captured the essence of wonder and excitement. The winners will receive a special set of prizes including a photography book, a camera-shaped USB memory stick, and a framed copy of their winning photograph. The distribution of prizes to these talented individuals is forthcoming. The competition not only showcased individual talent but also encapsulated the enchanting moments of the fireworks display through the lens of these skilled photographers. Congratulations to Sophie S and Emily B for their remarkable captures!
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College Life Autumn / Winter 2023
St Edmund's Day St Edmund's Day this year focused on the life of St Edmund and celebrating College life, with a particular focus on raising the profile of House events and fostering House spirit. Following a wonderful Whole School Mass in the morning and an enhanced lunch, students took part in our first "Winter Sports Day". With the emphasis on participation, students were involved in a wide range of inter-house competitions from Rugby and Hockey to Dance, Chess and Esports. Despite the autumnal weather, it was wonderful to see students embracing the day and getting involved, with House spirit very much to the fore. The day finished back in Chapel with a hugely enjoyable evening concert performed by the College Orchestra and Choir, including an outstanding performance of John Rutter's Requiem.
Interhouse bake-off This year's Interhouse Bake-off at St Edmund's took place on a day dedicated to the patron saint of the school and centred around a mouthwatering theme: "Delicious Pasta." Students were tasked with creating a pasta dish along with a side, given just ninety minutes to demonstrate their culinary skills. From various year groups, students brought forth a wide array of pasta meals, impressing with their creativity and flavours. External judges were called upon to taste and rank the dishes, resulting in the following standings: 1st Place: Pole 2nd Place: Talbot 3rd Place: Challoner Joint 4th and 5th Place: Poynter and Douglass The event not only showcased culinary talent but also encouraged teamwork and camaraderie among the school's houses. It was a celebration of student skill and innovation, making it a memorable event in the school's history.
The Newsletter of St Edmund’s College
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Boys sport What a term of rugby! Over 240 student have represented the College which Nationally is an incredible number. Students have also been attendeding the lunch time clinics. Elements have made excellent progress with some great results. The Elements have played some wonderful rugby and recorded fine victories against opposition. Elements won fixtures against St Albans, UCS, Hockerill, Bancrofts and Hitchin Boys School. Further to this, they won the Cheshunt Rugby Festival and the Rugby trophy against Saint Jean School, Douai. The Rudiments have won every fixture this term and a festival at Cheshunt. A fantastic effort which saw the squad ranked second in the country behind Merchiston! Some incredible efforts by the whole squad and beat Haberdashers, UCS, Bancrofts, Hitchin and the Cheshunt Festival. Well done! Grammar had an excellent season with over 30 students representing the College. Several players are now in the Saracens DPP program with Oliver G., Elijah E-E., Tom R. and Bradley M. all being tracked. Syntax have played some outstanding rugby and developed well in the 15s
format. Excellent performances against Hitchin, Bancrofts, Hockerill and UCS. Many of the squad enjoyed the South Africa 2023 Tour. There has been outstanding progress throughout the squad with some tough fixtures and brilliant performances weekly. Zain K. Lucas H. and Claudio N. are on the Saracens DPP. The side continue to evolve well and have shown excellent commitment. Seniors have had over 30 students involved. A young side, with great potential, which is exciting for next year. The side have worked tirelessly and attended the lunchtime clinics. Some excellent performances this season against Bedford Modern School, UCS and Hitchin School. Next year, many of the students will experience Rosslyn Park National 7s Rugby, and the squad has great potential. Golf Incredible performances from the Golfers at the College and Prep School. Regional Finalists of ISGA (Independent Schools Golf) v Merchant Taylors having beaten Haileybury, Haberdashers, St Albans, St Columba's and Mill Hill. They have played some excellent golf in the ESGA also.
Girls sport Each term we always seem to squeeze more and more fixtures in for students, and this term was no exception, with 92 fixtures played across four sports. This was our first hockey term on the new astro and an exciting surface to be playing on for all. Alongside our fixture programme the girls’ have represented the College in six different cup competitions, which has been excellent to witness. These fixtures allow our teams to experience different opposition to our fixture programme thus developing the sporting experience of all involved.
Highlights from the season’s hockey fixtures include a 1-1 draw for the senior 1st XI against Brentwood School, with a goal from Torri H and
some excellent goalkeeping from Natasha S. Unfortunately, it was dying minutes of the game that saw the opposition equaliser. The U15s won 5 and drew 1 of their fixtures across the term. A dominant performance was seen against Dame Alice Owens with a 6-0 win, where transfer around the back led to two well worked goals for the team. The U14s have a squad of players for each game meaning they have kept their intensity, by having rotations, for the duration of each match. This has seen some great, fast paced fixtures, which was evident during the Saffron Walden fixture where they secured a 1-0 victory. It has been evident to see that the girls tactical knowledge has developed and they are now implementing this during competitive situations. The U13As had a thriller against Forest school, where an early goal put them in a good position. Forest tried to fight back but the team kept their composure and found another goal every time Forest came back at them to secure a 3-2 win. The U13Bs have had some close contests but came out on top against Dame Alice Owens with a 2-1 win. With some great drives down the pitch and crosses in the D if was one of their finest
College Life Autumn / Winter 2023
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In the County Cup Netball competition the U13s are through to the semi-finals against Queenswood after the Christmas break having beaten Herts and Essex and St Alban’s Girls School in impressive dominant performances. In the Independent Schools Netball Cup the team were defeated in the second round against St George’s Weybridge in a thrilling fixture. Having been 11 goals down in the third quarter the girls dug deep to go on a great unanswered scoring run the last quarter, to bring the deficit back to just four goals. Unfortunately, time got the better of the team, but it was a demonstration of the determination that the team has! In the County Plate Netball competition the senior team are also through to the semi-finals after the Christmas break, having beaten Abbotts Hill in the quarter-finals. We wish both teams the best of luck for their semi-finals.
performances. The U12As have worked well as a squad and with multiple players being able to play in a variety of positions, has allowed for lots of rotations. With a great game against Forest School, where Emilia-Jane scored two well struck goals, and excellent saves from Phoebe to keep a clean sheet. The U12Bs won 3-0 against Saffron Walden County High School, where all the repetitions of tactics in games lessons came to fruition, which was great to see. The development for our teams has been great to witness, and we are exciting as to the further of hockey at the College. In tennis we were unable to play our U15 County Tennis Final at the end of last term. After one cancelled attempt this term due to the weather, the girls faced Presdales mid-November. Unfortunately, we did not secure the victory but with many games having long rallies, it was great to witness. Thank you all for such a positive term and we look forward to seeing you all on the netball courts when we return in January.
Old Hall Green, Ware, Hertfordshire SG11 1DS Telephone 01920 821504 www.stedmundscollege.org
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