Christmas
2025
Welcome
Space to thrive
Advent and Christmas itself provide some of the greatest joys of working alongside young people. The College has been imbued with a delightful energy and expectation this term as the excitement built for festivities to come and traditions duly followed. These have included nativity plays and the moving candle-lit Carol Service in our beautiful Chapel. The Christmas term 2025 started, of course, on such a high with record-breaking academic results achieved across GCSE and A-level and the opening of a new all-weather pitch on campus. The past 12 weeks have been filled with academic pursuit, including the recent Year 11 GCSE mock examinations. The Upper Sixth mocks will follow in January. As well as welcoming new babies (Mrs Barker and Miss Banks), we also welcomed new staff, who have settled in well into College life and with their students. Our 39th annual Rugby Festival was a huge success both on and off the pitch on campus as well as online. We now look forward to the 40th anniversary of this event, which takes place from Friday 16 to Sunday 19 October 2026. I would like to take this opportunity to thank governors, teaching and support staff for their endeavours this term and you as parents for your ongoing support of the College. I hope you enjoy perusing this term’s Newsletter and wish you and your family a joyful and peaceful Christmas. Mrs Danielle Clarke Principal
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Christmas 2025
As we come to the end of this busy term, I want to begin by thanking our wonderful staff, pupils and families for everything you have contributed to our Prep School community. It has been a term marked by hard work and togetherness, and I am immensely grateful for the dedication shown by everyone involved in supporting our children to flourish. This term has been filled with memorable moments that truly represent the spirit of our Prep School, moments that make our school unique and special. One of the most eagerly anticipated events of the term, our annual Pets Assembly once again stole the show; it is such a treasured occasion for the children as they proudly show off their much-loved pets. Our Family Bingo evening once again brought our community together in such a warm and relaxed way, and our Grandparents’ Morning was a particularly special highlight. In recent weeks, the excitement of Christmas has filled every corner of our Prep School. Our Infant Nativity was an absolute delight, full of charm and confidence; our Prep School Carol Service provided a beautiful and reflective end to the term; and Christmas lunch was enjoyed with great enthusiasm by all. The Christmas Fayre brought our whole community together once again, and our trips to watch pantomimes and Christmas shows added a touch of magic that the children will remember for a long time. The festive season is now upon us. I hope that you all enjoy a restful break and have the chance to spend precious time with your families. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Warm regards, Mrs Dianne Searle Head of Prep School stjos.co.uk
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39th Rugby Festival
Space to thrive 4
Always an extraordinary weekend, this may have been the best Festival yet Wellington College claimed their second St Joseph’s Festival after an intense two days of action in the U18 competition, finishing with an epic contest against Millfield in the final, wrote Angus Savage of NextGen. The Berkshire side had to show grit and determination right from the very start of this competition and they had to carry it through into a final against one of their great rivals, Millfield, a side that has won here eight times before and that had narrowly bettered them a fortnight ago. It looked like it might go that way again, Millfield leading 7-0 through most of the game, but this Wellington College side simply has not known the meaning of being beaten in this tournament, consistently finding a way through. stjos.co.uk
They showed it on day one, holding out Seaford College, then in their quarter final to edge out a brilliant Cheltenham College side in their quarter final, then a crucial intercept from Elijah Jeyes, a Player of the Tournament contender, helped them past the hosts, St Joseph’s College, who were sensational this weekend – putting in by far their best display since they won this title in 2013. It was a cauldron like atmosphere, a brilliant one, but pressurising – and at that point perhaps we should have known, Wellington College could handle the pressure.
Christmas 2025
So too though could Millfield. Like Wellington College they dug deep in day 1, particularly against Cheltenham College. Their quarter final against Whitchurch High School needed real grit, a 6-3 victory that said everything about this excellent Whitchurch side, but also of Millfield’s ability to tough it out. A tough conversion from Sam Watson-Knee saw them level it, and Watson-Knee was to prove the hero a couple of minutes later when, in the penultimate play, he landed the calmest of 40 metre penalties to seal an epic second title for Wellington College at the end of the most extraordinary weekend.
Elsewhere, the hosts finished in third, winning a tight play off against Kirkham Grammar School. Both could so easily have finished as champions, they were outstanding. Only the finest of margins denied them a place in the final, and it was fitting that each earned another award, St Joseph’s winning Try of the Tournament (Fin Westley), and Kirkham Grammar School’s Charlie Bray earning the Player of the Tournament award.
There was extraordinary rugby in the U15 tournament as well. St Michael’s College of Ireland won it in exceptional style in 2024, beating Northampton School for Boys in the final. This year the NSB side went one better. The U15 tournament has been a brilliant addition to the Festival, adding a further layer of quality and excitement, but also one of aspiration for those younger players, sharing the same turf as their U18 leaders. A fantastic competition.
Mr Fred Wenham, Director of Sport at St Jo’s agreed. ‘The 39th National Schools Rugby Festival provided what can only be described as the most remarkable stage for a simply colossal three days of outstanding rugby. The very best of school sport was celebrated in Suffolk, as we were joined by teams from around the country to battle it out in what was undoubtedly the highest level of competition yet. It is not often that players of this age have such opportunities as they did across the weekend, but we, as lovers of sport and community, were also treated to a simply unforgettable weekend.’ stjos.co.uk
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Space to thrive
Mr Ian Carbin, ex-WO Royal Marines and St Jo’s parent, speaks at our Remembrance Service.
Generous Guest Speakers Expand our Students’ Horizons The Army marches - and the Navy sails - on its stomach! Two chef specialists from the Senior Service gave a hands-on food workshop for students in Year 10 to Upper Sixth, demonstrating how to make fish cakes and a bread and butter pudding fit for the most discerning matelot. One of a number of Old Birkfeldians returning to St Jo’s this term was Desmond Brett OB, sculptor, Senior Lecturer in Fine Art (Sculpture) & subject leader MA Fine Art at Norwich University of the Arts. Back to the place his creative journey began, Desmond offered students an incredible opportunity to explore the world of relief and figurative sculpting. His expert guidance and passion truly inspired everyone in the room. Cian Rothwell OB, who left St Jo’s as recently as 2022, was a highly relatable speaker, talking to students now considering their own future plans. He discussed his apprenticeship route into insurance and how much he is enjoying the work. 6
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Future planning was also very much in the mind of Mike Nicholson of Cambridge University, giving the inside track on applications and personal statements. With previous positions at the University of Bath (Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Outreach), the University of Oxford and the University of Essex (Head of Undergraduate Admissions and Student Recruitment), he is indisputably the man in the know. Kelly Stroud, Senior Education and Engagement Outreach Officer - Eastern Region - UK Parliament, gave our students some insights into parliamentary democracy when she addressed assembly. Our Sixth Formers enjoyed a day of talks and workshops with Holly Jacobs, from Suffolk Driver Awareness. Holly pitched the sessions very
Christmas 2025
carefully, not putting off aspiring young motorists but also emphasising the possible perils of careless behaviour. Finally, a big thank you to two two St Joseph’s parents, Stuart Edwards, Chief Information Officer at London City Airport, and Oliver Crichton. Mr Edwards spoke about careers in technology, highlighting the wide range of roles the sector offers, requiring many differing skills. He left them with a key takeaway based on the ASK model - Attitude, Skills and Knowledge - emphasising that although their experience may be limited early in their career, their attitude can make a significant impact. Mr Crichton, a partner at the Ipswich branch of major law firm Birketts, spoke to Sixth Formers about legal careers. He was accompanied by two young representatives of the profession, one a graduate and the other an apprentice, who between them illustrated different paths into the law. stjos.co.uk
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Space to thrive
Oracy Matters: And so say all of us Earlier this month, the Education Secretary explained that oracy would have a much bigger presence in the revised curriculum because it is a ‘foundational skill — as important as reading, writing and maths — that helps pupils become confident, effective speakers and listeners, equipping them for learning, work and life.’ Here at St Joseph’s College, Oracy has been embedded within the Lower School curriculum for over four years now through lessons that explicitly teach speaking and listening skills, structured discussions, presentations and reflective dialogue, giving every pupil regular opportunities to build confidence, clarity and effective communication. The opportunity to study oracy is also available to all students through the extra-curricular provisions at the College. The option to study London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) , for example, allows our students to develop their confidence, refine their speaking and performance skills, and achieve recognition in local and regional competitions. Over the past seven years, St Joseph’s College has gone from strength to strength through our Debating Society. Dr Rice, our Stretch and Challenge and debate Coordinator, explains that ‘the beauty of the Debate Club is that it consists of students from Year 7 through to Upper Sixth. Regardless of age, students challenge each other, develop critical research skills, and learn to articulate their ideas clearly — skills that only a small percentage of students nationally have the opportunity to acquire. Our club has become so popular that we’ve had to move from a classroom into the bigger ARC - which is a nice problem to have!’ We are delighted that last year our debate teams won every competition available in the Rotary Debates, and this year we are once again proud to have been chosen both to host and successfully compete in the English Speaking Union, the oldest and most prestigious debating society in the UK. These achievements reflect the dedication, resilience and skill of our young debaters. We are particularly proud that the hard work of our Debate Society has allowed students to carve out a visible identity within the College. They are now just as well-known as the captain of the first teams in netball or rugby. This demonstrates even further why St Joseph’s feels justified in placing Oracy at the heart of the curriculum — giving students not only academic and social confidence but also a platform to shine and be recognised for their talents in communication and leadership.’ 8
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This term, students across the MFL Department have been taking part in an exciting new collaboration with our Peruvian partner school, Nuestra Señora del Pilar. Following Mrs Rowlands’ visit to the school in November to deepen the partnership and create new opportunities for our students, the project has truly come to life. Our Year 9 linguists created and shared an engaging school-introduction video, while some of our Year 8 students recorded short presentations introducing themselves and talking about their hobbies and interests in Spanish. The highlight for many has been our whole-school penpal exchange: students in Years 7–9 have each been paired with a partner in Peru, writing Christmas cards that include a personal letter about their hopes for the year ahead. This project has not only strengthened students’ confidence in using Spanish for real communication, but also opened the door to meaningful cross-cultural friendships that we hope will continue to grow long into the future.
Christmas 2025
Peruvian partnership bolsters students’ Spanish language skills
Oh yes she will! Talented Year 7 student Isla will be taking part in the production of Mother Goose at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester. Isla’s commitment, hard work and passion earned her the part in the festive spectacular and all at St Jo’s wish her the very best for the performances ahead.
Recognising the still valuable role of the human in technology A group of Year 10 students enjoyed an inspiring day at BT Adastral Park, taking part in an Insight Work Day focused on security. They toured the Network Operation Centre, explored a range of technology showcases and even took on a cyber-escape room challenge. They learned about the concept of the ‘human firewall’, deepening their understanding of cybersecurity and the digital skills shaping the future. A huge thank you to BT for the invitation and to the education team for such a warm welcome and valuable experience. stjos.co.uk
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Space to thrive
Mature and helpful reflections on men’s health Moustaches were worn by girls and boys alike for an assembly inspired by Movember that focused on the important issue of men’s health. Everyone was encouraged to speak up, check up, check in and support one another. We were proud of the mature way our Lower Sixth students spoke so courageously, sharing thoughtful reflections that truly inspired our community. Their honesty and strength reminded us all that it’s okay not to be ok and that talking can make all the difference
Shield bosses, one and all! Our Year 7 historians marched back in time into 1066 and reenacted the Battle of Hastings with Mr Cinnamond and Mr Sanders. After crafting their own shields and practising authentic shield-wall techniques, students experienced firsthand how strategy, discipline and teamwork shaped one of the most significant battles in English history. Here was proof positive that creativity, active learning and lots of enthusiasm can bring the past back to life.
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Sixth Form Diploma
Christmas 2025
Acquiring knowledge and skills beyond the curriculum: St Joseph’s College Sixth Form Diploma brings everyday life back into the equation Designed to enhance students’ experience through the attainment of key skills and knowledge, the bespoke St Joseph’s College Sixth Form Diploma prepares them fully for the world beyond the College. Whether their aspirations are focused on undergraduate study, a GAP year, degree apprenticeships or work, the diploma encompasses the broad life skills, extracurricular learning, personal development and community service vital to creating well-rounded young people. Achieved through a combination of core and elective modules, participants build credits, with 150 required to reach the Bronze standard. Silver and Gold levels are available to those students who achieve a greater number of credits. Core modules, completed by every student, are delivered via timetabled lessons with subject specialist teachers. Fields covered include study skills, financial literacy, interview skills and CV building, vehicle maintenance, food hygiene and cookery, and MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). stjos.co.uk
Leadership and Service courses see the students giving back to the community, both within the College and further afield. Areas covered include peer mentoring, prefecture, volunteering, youth mental health first aid, leadership roles in sports or clubs and societies, Prep ambassadors, tour guides and charity fund raising. Personal Electives allow students to develop their particular interests through participation in the arts, sport and outdoor pursuits. Advanced study and focus across key subject areas and broader academic disciplines will be completed within this Ultra Curricular category. Again, the range is huge, encompassing EPQ, Maths Studies, Global Perspectives, oracy, work experience, Birkfield Speakers, Model United Nations and competitions.
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Space to thrive 12
Football
Cricket
More girls are participating than ever, supported by strong pathways for those out of school. U12 girls competed proudly in the Portman Road Elf Cup, while the U14 girls advanced to the quarterfinal of the area cup. U12 boys also progressed to the quarterfinals of the area cup. U15 girls moved into round three of the ISFA, and the U13 boys earned their place in round three as well. Meanwhile, the senior girls remain undefeated, showcasing impressive consistency within their performances. These achievements highlight the growing strength, confidence, and commitment across all age groups, reflecting the development seen throughout the provision.
This Christmas term of cricket has been a highly productive one, with a strong emphasis on skill development and enjoyment. Regular indoor nets, focused fielding drills and a variety of game-based practices have helped pupils sharpen their core abilities in a supportive environment. Across all age groups, players have worked on both the technical and tactical elements of batting, bowling and fielding, with one-to-one sessions allowing for personalised guidance and growth. The first team have shown excellent commitment, engaging in small-group sessions where they have been able to adjust and refine their technique using video analysis software to deepen their understanding of performance. Participation has been particularly pleasing in the younger years, with high numbers among both boys and girls, offering real encouragement as the girls look ahead to the national indoor cricket competition next term. stjos.co.uk
Christmas 2025
Mr Jacob McCay Teacher of Mathematics and KS3 Spanish Having completed my undergraduate studies at Queen’s University Belfast, I graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Mathematics with Extended Studies in Europe. During my degree, I took part in the Erasmus Programme in Spain, where I worked as an English as a Second Language Assistant in Alicante. I then returned to Queen’s to complete my PGCE in Mathematics. Following my PGCE, I returned to Spain as a Mathematics teacher, most recently working at an international school in Valencia, where I taught Key Stage 3, IGCSE, and the International Baccalaureate. I joined the St Joseph’s community this September as a Maths teacher up to A-Level Further Maths with a sprinkle of Key Stage 3 Spanish as well. I like to have a dynamic and purposeful learning environment that inspires curiosity within a structured and supportive setting. Together we create a classroom culture where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and engage with new concepts without fear of judgement. Central to this is promoting a growth mindset, helping students view challenges as opportunities to develop resilience and confidence. I am committed to building strong, positive relationships so that every student feels respected, supported, and motivated to achieve their best.
Outside of the classroom, I am an avid sportsperson, with rugby and football some of my favourites. I play for Cambridge RUFC in the Champ, second division of English Rugby, which takes up a lot of my free time. My experience as a rugby player has helped shape many of the skills I bring to teaching. Rugby has taught me the value of teamwork, effective communication, and leading by example. Qualities I use to instil collaboration and mutual support in the classroom. It has also strengthened my resilience and adaptability, enabling me to respond flexibly to challenges and encourage students to approach difficulties with confidence. The strategic thinking and problemsolving required on any pitch are strong attributes that students can bring to mathematics, regardless of their level or ability, and are something that I can use to help create engaging and purposeful learning experiences for all students. stjos.co.uk
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Space to thrive
Strengthening bonds and building team spirit – Year 9 gets stuck in As the Christmas term turned frosty, our Year 9 students set off for their bonding adventure at Gilwell Park Scout Camp, and what a trip it was. Despite temperatures at times dropping below zero, the warmth of camaraderie, shared challenges and plenty of hot chocolate kept spirits high from beginning to end. One of the unforgettable highlights was the 3G Swing. Students worked together to winch each duo skywards, cheering one another on as they were hoisted to dizzying heights. With a deep breath, a steady hand and support echoing from the ground, they pulled the release cord and launched into a soaring arc across the skyline. Watching the blend of nerves, bravery and exhilaration was a reminder of just how capable our young people are when they lean on one another. The cold might have nipped at fingers and toes, but it didn’t dampen enthusiasm. Our campfire evening brought the whole year group together, glowing faces in the firelight, singing heartily into the crisp night air. Several students pushed themselves well beyond their comfort 14
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zones, standing up to sing solo or in small groups. The applause that followed each performance wasn’t just for the voices, it was for the courage, the kindness and the community spirit on display. Throughout the trip, students had the rare opportunity to enjoy unstructured, quality time together, strengthening friendships, making new connections and, in many cases, spending time with peers they wouldn’t normally mix with. Gilwell Park gave them the chance to see one another differently: a quiet student excelling on a climbing wall, a reserved one taking the lead in a team task, unexpected skills and strengths shining through in the most natural of ways.
Christmas 2025
These moments matter. They build confidence, deepen empathy and boost wellbeing. Trips like this remind us that personal growth happens not only in classrooms, but also outdoors, suspended in a harness, singing round a fire, laughing with new friends, or simply being seen and valued by others. Year 9 returned not just tired and muddy, but stronger, happier and more connected as a year group. There is also much that we as a wider school community, parents and staff alike, can learn from the way our young people approached this experience. Their willingness to connect with others, to welcome new friendships and to offer encouragement so freely is a reminder that wellbeing grows through relationships. Taking time to talk, laugh and simply be with others remains one of the strongest protective factors for mental health. Watching Year 9 rally around one another, whether at the top of the climbing wall or in team building tasks, showed us the powerful impact of feeling part of something bigger than ourselves. The trip also highlighted the benefits of stepping away from screens and embracing physical activity and time outdoors in nature. From climbing challenges to long stjos.co.uk
walks across the frosty grounds, the students saw movement not as a task but as a source of energy and joy. Their bravery in pushing themselves out of their comfort zones, whether climbing the wobbly pole or leaping around on the aeroball, demonstrated how confidence and resilience grow through gentle challenge. If we take one message from their example, it is that prioritising fresh air, hobbies we enjoy, and opportunities to stretch ourselves can strengthen us. And of course, none of this would have been possible without our brilliant staff team, always present with encouragement, humour (often vegan-themed, to Year 9’s delight), and their unwavering commitment to making the trip safe, joyful and memorable. Our Year 9 bonding trip has been a wonderful highlight of the term, embodying community, resilience and wellbeing, the perfect message to carry with us into the Christmas season.
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Prep News
Space to thrive
Having a (Blue) Whale of a Time
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Some of our smaller students met some of the world’s most enormous mammals when Year 3 visited the Natural History Museum. There was so much to see, including a fascinating exhibition on volcanoes and earthquakes, explaining how these powerful forces shape our planet. It was a fantastic hands-on learning adventure.
Year 5, Take a Bough Lying on a carpet of leaves, this trio of artists worked at capturing the magic of autumn as so many have done before them. Braving the cold and under the guidance of St Jo’s Head of Visual Arts, Mrs Steed, Year 5 took inspiration from David Hockney for their studies in landscape. Their expressive work celebrated the beautiful and interesting form of trees even after their leaves have dropped.
A warm reception at Ipswich County Library First trip out of the year for our Nursery and Reception children was a visit to Ipswich County Library. The journey by minibus was a hit in itself, with the passengers showing great enthusiasm for spotting points of interest on the journey. The librarian told the visitors all about the library, songs were sung and everyone enjoyed a Christmas book together. Our girls and boys explored the library resources, looking at books, sharing stories, colouring and making the most of all the library had to offer. They engaged their listening and communications skills with each other and the library staff and a wonderful morning was had by all.
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Coming Together to Support the Cause of Mental Health On World Mental Health Day our students added a dash of yellow to their uniforms to demonstrate their support for young people facing mental health challenges. The issue also informed a whole College assembly, when the Lower Sixth, directed by Miss Wong, delivered a powerful performance of Stormzy’s ‘Blinded by Your Grace’. The lyrics describe how he came to incorporate his faith into his music. The song has been described as a modern psalm for young people. St Joseph’s College proudly stands for increased awareness of mental health matters.
Christmas 2025
Outdoor Learning – Optimising Nature’s Bounty Our Prep children have embraced every opportunity to explore and create in the natural world this term, sculpting clay creatures inspired by the woodland and designing frames using leaves and twigs. They experimented with weaving too, using natural materials and yarn to produce wonderful textured pieces that were used as talking sticks or magic wands. They have also been developing practical skills through a series of fire safety sessions, learning how to build a safe fire circle, ignite fires and extinguish them responsibly. The highlight, of course, was toasting brioche and apples over the flames, a delicious reward for their teamwork and careful listening. Tool use has played a big part, with growing confidence in stick-whittling and using palm drills. Mini beasts were gently hunted beneath logs and leaves, while conkers, acorns and colourful foliage were collected to turn into leaf kebabs. The children also enjoyed making ‘god’s eye’ decorations from sticks and wool, and crafting Christmas decorations from natural materials.
St Francis of Assisi College? Fur didn’t fly, feathers weren’t ruffled. The snakes kept a civil tongue in their head and cats were cradled. As ever, so much went right with the annual Pets Assembly, an event which would have pleased the patron saint of animals himself! It’s a highlight of the Prep School year and everyone behaved beautifully as the children excitedly showed off their ‘fur siblings’. Thank you to all the families who helped make this happen.
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Prep Sport
Space to thrive
In the Prep School, sport has been brilliant throughout the term, with an impressive 54 fixtures taking place across all sports. Among the highlights, our Year 5/6 boys represented the school superbly at the 39th National Schools Rugby Festival, demonstrating fantastic teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. The Year 5/6 girls’ football team have also continued to shine in their lessons, training sessions and fixtures. Their performances against Old Buckenham Hall, Finborough and South Lee showcased both their developing skills and their hard work. Meanwhile, our Year 3/4 pupils have been enthusiastically involved in a wide range of netball and football fixtures, gaining valuable match experience and demonstrating great positivity — most notably playing exceptionally well at the Ipswich School Mixed Netball Festival. Well done to all pupils for their outstanding commitment throughout the term. During PE lessons - Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 have been focussing on physical literacy. Whilst Year 3 and 4 have been swimming and working on their athletic development. Finally, Year 5 and 6 have been learning about gymnastics and athletic development.
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Christmas 2025
Mrs Sophie Bero Marketing Manager
What is your favourite time of day?
Which brand inspires you the most?
The 10 minutes I take to myself in the garden at 6.00am every morning, noticing the pink skies in the morning, changes in seasonal transitions and watching our dogs have a sniff (or 20).
Ryanair! They’ve done market research, know their audience and lean into this without apology.
What do you consider to be your biggest strength? The left side of my brain, it is the foundation of me. Data and curiosity is what brought me to marketing from pharmaceutical science.
I wouldn’t play a position, I’d be on a stallion doing flying changes. And as a plot twist, I’ve also developed a soft spot for rugby, much to my icehockey-playing husband’s despair.
When are you most inspired?
If you didn’t live in Suffolk, where would you live?
When the data talks: these insights are not always positive but always uncover opportunities and insights to pivot against.
Canada, I love the dramatic nature, poutine and ice hockey!
What are three things you can not live without?
My passport, of course. And Fujifilm
Fire, whisky and dogs Your dream holiday would take you…? Across the Drake Passage to Antartica… it will happen before I am 32!
If marketing were a sport, what position would you play?
One thing you never travel without? What are you doing tomorrow? Putting up the Christmas decs with a bottle of Bordeaux, a roaring fire and Louis Armstrong. stjos.co.uk
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Space to thrive
Applied Arts
Students put their talents to practical use
Whatever the season, our students are ready to wield their artistic skills to make the world a more beautiful place. Back in November, Upper Sixth student Gordon added a stunning final touch to our College beacon as part of our Remembrance Day commemoration. Christmas has given a burst of artistic inspiration to just about everyone as we head towards the end of term. The various Christmas trees around the campus are proof of that - with the absolute whopper in the Chapel leading the race. We were mighty proud when Darcy (Y7), Luca (Y5), India (Y11) and Andy (U6) delighted the powersthat-be at Suffolk Food Hall, with their stunning Christmas card designs.The designs were professionally printed and have been sold in support of charity. Students, families and staff members were all enthused at our annual Christmas wreath workshop, this year organised by picnics-flowers. With so many dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, bows and baubles to decorate the foliage, the results were quite spectacular.
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Whether they’re your own or somebody else’s, grandparents and all those of mature years deserve respect and consideration. That message is well understood and put into action by all of our students, from the very youngest to the most senior.
Christmas 2025
Celebrating Common Ground Across the Decades
Many activities this term have highlighted the valuable connection our girls and boys feel with those one, two or three generations older: our Prep School Grandparents Breakfast and our Sixth Form volunteering programme with residents of a local care home, our singers bring joy to elderly folk and everyone participating with thoughtfulness and appreciation at our annual Remembrance Service. Our Sixth Formers have a regular pattern of visiting Henley House Care Home and have developed bright and sparkling relationships with many of the folk there. The relationship between College and Care Home expanded recently when GCSE Art students went along to create water colour Christmas cards with residents. One of our artists, Grace, brought an extra touch of magic with a special musical interlude. Thank you Henley House for welcoming us - the students are so looking forward to returning! No greater respect is due than to our servicemen and service women. Our annual Remembrance Service was a poignant occasion for the whole school. We were proud to see the veterans from within our community wearing their medals and to welcome as special speaker Mr Ian . For the first time this year the Service was livestreamed, allowing families and OBs an opportunity to share in this significant moment on the national calendar and our own.
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Boarding
Space to thrive
Fun, Adventure and Cultural Celebrations in Boarding This term has been packed with excitement and creativity for our boarding community. From festive traditions to thrilling challenges, our students have truly embraced every opportunity to bond and have fun.
Halloween Pumpkin Carving Our boarding houses were filled with spooky vibes as students showcased their artistic skills during the pumpkin carving event. The creativity was incredible—some designs were scary, others funny and all were impressive! Well done to Tijl for winning first prize.
Moon Festival We celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival with traditional treats and cultural activities. Students enjoyed learning about the significance of the festival while sharing mooncakes and stories, making it a warm and memorable evening.
Fear Pong Game Bringing a thrill to Boarding, our Fear Pong game generated laughter and suspense as students faced quirky dares and surprises. It was a fantastic way to bond and break the ice. 22
Origami Workshop Students learned the art of paper folding with an origami session. Cranes, flowers and other intricate designs were created, reflecting patience and skill. Everyone left with a beautiful handmade piece. These activities highlight the vibrant life in boarding—full of fun, adventure, and cultural appreciation. We look forward to more exciting events in the coming weeks’ stjos.co.uk
Christmas 2025
Message from Mr Sim, Head of Boarding Life in boarding is about more than just living together—it’s about creating a safe, supportive and enriching environment in which every student can thrive. Our boarding community offers a balance of care, fun and personal growth, ensuring that students feel valued and connected. Dedicated staff available around the clock support students’ wellbeing and deliver exceptional pastoral care. From academic guidance to emotional support, our priority is to make every boarder feel at home and confident in their journey. Boarding life is also full of exciting opportunities, fostering teamwork, cultural appreciation and resilience while creating lasting memories. It helps students develop independence and life skills in a safe setting. They learn to manage routines, build friendships and embrace diversity—all within a nurturing community that feels like family. At its heart, boarding is about belonging and we strive to ensure every student feels supported, engaged and inspired to make the most of their time here.
Indoor Climbing Adventure For those seeking a physical challenge, the Clip ‘n Climb trip was a hit! Students pushed their limits, built confidence and supported each other as they scaled the walls—an experience that combined fitness with teamwork.
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