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FROM THE HEADMASTER

As another academic year draws to a close, this edition of Assembly provides a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the remarkable breadth of life at Arnold House and to celebrate all that our boys have achieved over the course of an exceptionally busy Summer Term.

Reading through these pages, what strikes me most is not simply the number of activities that have taken place, but the spirit in which our boys have embraced them. Whether performing on stage, competing on the sports field, exploring the battlefields of Belgium and France, camping under canvas, learning in the classroom or taking on new challenges beyond it, they have demonstrated the qualities that lie at the heart of an Arnold House education: curiosity, resilience, kindness and a willingness to give their very best.

This term has offered countless opportunities for boys of every age to grow in confidence. Our youngest pupils have taken important first steps on their educational journey, discovering new interests while preparing excitedly for the next stage of school life. Across the Prep School, boys have continued to challenge themselves academically, artistically and physically, developing not only new skills but also the independence and character that will serve them so well in the years ahead.

The residential visits featured in this edition perfectly illustrate the value of learning beyond the classroom. From Year 4’s camping adventure and the annual Devon residential to the deeply moving Year 8 Battlefields Tour, these experiences encourage boys to step outside their comfort zones, support one another and develop a greater understanding of both themselves and the wider world. Such opportunities often leave a lasting impression, creating memories and friendships that endure long after the journeys themselves have ended. Equally impressive has been the richness of our co-curricular programme. Music, drama, art and sport continue to flourish at Arnold House, thanks to the enthusiasm of our pupils and the dedication of our outstanding staff. The performances, exhibitions, concerts and sporting fixtures showcased throughout this publication are the result of many hours of commitment, perseverance and teamwork. They remind us that success is measured not only by trophies or accolades, but by the effort, enjoyment and personal growth experienced along the way.

As ever, none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our parents and the extraordinary commitment of our staff, who work tirelessly to provide such a varied and enriching education. Together, they create the strong sense of community that makes Arnold House such a special place.

Finally, I would like to congratulate every boy on the contribution he has made to the life of the school this year. To those leaving Arnold House, particularly our Year 8 pupils, thank you for the example you have set and for the legacy you leave behind. We wish you every success as you move on to the next stage of your education. To the rest of the school community, I wish you all a restful, happy and well-deserved summer break.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back in September for another successful year at Arnold House.

Giles Tollit Headmaster

As the Summer Term draws to a close, the Pre-Prep has been filled with energy, excitement, and a palpable sense of growth. This has been a particularly significant term of transition, with boys embracing new challenges and preparing thoughtfully for the next stage of their Arnold House journey. Through a range of transition activities, boys and staff have spent time in their new learning environments, building familiarity, confidence, and a sense of anticipation for the year ahead. It has been a time not only of practical preparation, but also of emotional development, as the boys reflect on how far they have come and look forward to what lies ahead.

We were also delighted to welcome our new pupils and their families to the Pre-Prep through our New Boys’ Tea Parties. These relaxed and joyful afternoons in the playground provided a wonderful first introduction to the Arnold House community. It is exciting to know that we will be welcoming full and vibrant classes in September, and we very much look forward to seeing these new boys flourish as they begin their journey with us.

The term has been enriched by a series of memorable events that have brought the whole community together. Sports Day was a highlight, showcasing not only the boys’ enthusiasm and teamwork but also their growing resilience and sportsmanship. The Year 1 play was a joy to watch, with every boy performing with confidence and pride, while our End-of-Year Celebrations provided a fitting opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the many

achievements of the year, as well as to mark Year 1 as they prepare to move to the Prep School in September.

As we look ahead to the next academic year, we do so with great pride in all that the boys have achieved and with excitement for the opportunities to come.

Thank you to all our families for their continued support and partnership, and to our dedicated staff who provide such thoughtful care and attention to the boys—nurturing not only their academic development but also their wellbeing.

Wishing everyone a restful and happy summer break.

Ms Mckenzie Head of Pre-Prep

Pre-Reception

Pre-Reception enjoyed a truly wonderful and actionpacked term, filled with exciting learning experiences, memorable moments, and plenty of fun along the way. It has been fantastic to see how much the boys have grown in confidence, independence, and curiosity, embracing each new challenge with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.

Our topics this term included People Who Help Us, where the children learned about the important roles individuals play within our community. We explored the work of firefighters, police officers, paramedics, teachers, and school staff, helping the boys develop a strong appreciation for those who care for us every day. We were also delighted to welcome the Headmaster into our classroom; the children thoroughly enjoyed asking thoughtful questions and learning more about his role.

A highlight of the term was our visit to Paddington Fire Station. The firefighters gave us a warm welcome and led an engaging and informative tour. The boys learned about fire safety, explored fire engines, and discovered what life is like as a firefighter. This experience truly brought our learning to life and left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Literacy and communication remained a key focus throughout the term. The boys were introduced to new phonics sounds each week and applied their learning through stories, discussions, art activities, and Show and Tell. Wordless books proved especially effective in developing storytelling skills, encouraging the children to create their own narratives using illustrations. It has been wonderful to see their confidence in speaking and expressing ideas continue to grow.

In Mathematics, the boys developed their understanding through a range of practical and engaging activities. They explored number recognition and formation, using number rhymes and matching numerals to Numicon pieces. They also investigated both 2D and 3D shapes, learning how shapes can transform—for example, squares into cubes, triangles into pyramids, and circles into spheres. Work on sequencing helped the children understand daily routines, and they particularly enjoyed creating their own wristwatches to support this learning.

Our curriculum was enriched by a number of exciting visitors and workshops. We extend our sincere thanks

to the parents who generously shared their time and expertise. From learning about India to exploring Canada, these sessions provided valuable opportunities for the boys to broaden their understanding of different countries, cultures, and the wider world.

Nature and the environment also played a central role in our learning. The boys were fascinated by the life cycle of a butterfly, eagerly observing our caterpillars as they transformed into cocoons. This real-life experience sparked curiosity and thoughtful discussions about growth and change.

Another memorable experience was our trip to Battersea Park Zoo. The children loved seeing a variety of animals up close and learning about their habitats, diets, and behaviours. The visit supported our work on animal care and conservation, and the boys returned full of excitement and eager to share their favourite moments.

Creativity flourished throughout the term, with the children producing a wide range of artwork linked to their learning. From caterpillars and ladybirds to umbrellas and hippopotamuses, their imaginative creations reflected both their phonics work and weekly themes. Towards the end of term, the boys collaborated to design and build a giant jumping robot using recycled materials—an activity that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.

Music continued to play an important role in our classroom. The boys explored different musical genres, including pop, classical, and reggae, learning to listen carefully and respond to rhythm and style.

As we approach the end of the academic year, we have focused on supporting the children with their transition to Reception. Through discussions, activities, and visits to Reception classrooms, the boys have been exploring their feelings about moving on, building emotional awareness and confidence at this important stage. We are immensely proud of all that the boys have achieved this term. It has been a joy to watch them grow socially, emotionally, and academically. We are grateful for the continued support of our families and look forward to celebrating the children’s many successes as they prepare for their next exciting adventure in Reception.

Ms Geffriaud & Mrs Taylor Pre-Reception

Reception

This term has been a busy and exciting one in Reception, with the boy’s demonstrating enthusiasm, independence and a growing confidence in their learning.

In Literacy, we explored non-fiction texts and learned about their key features. The boys particularly enjoyed becoming authors themselves, choosing a topic of interest and creating their own non-fiction books. Later in the term, we focused on recount writing, learning how to retell events in chronological order. The boys wrote thoughtful reflections on a range of memorable experiences, including Sports Day, educational visits, and special school events.

In Mathematics, we developed our understanding of numbers through learning number bonds to 5 and 10, helping to build strong foundations in mental calculation. We also explored money and time, learned to recognise coins and notes, understand their value, and began telling the time using everyday contexts.

Beyond the classroom, the boys enjoyed a variety of enriching experiences. We took part in a mindfulness workshop, had our form and whole-school photographs taken, and enjoyed an exciting trip to Gunnersbury Park and a fantastic Teach Rex workshiop where the boys met Jam the dinosaur for the firts time! The boys also enthusiastically participated in our World Cup Charity Day, demonstrating excellent teamwork and sportsmanship.

A major focus this term has been preparing for the transition to Year 1. The boys have spent time in the Year 1 classrooms, worked in their new class groups, met their new teachers, and become familiar with the routines and expectations of the next stage of their school journey. They have approached these experiences with maturity and excitement, and we are incredibly proud of how well they have embraced this important change.

It has been wonderful to see the progress each boy has made throughout the year. We wish them all a happy summer and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in Year 1.

Mr Ragias & Miss Rafferty Reception

Year 1

What a fantastic year it has been! The boys have worked incredibly hard, grown in confidence and independence, and embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm. As we come to the end of a busy and exciting Year 1, we are proud to reflect on all that has been achieved this summer term.

In English, our learning was inspired by the wonderful texts The Lonely Beast and The Big Book of Bugs. The boys enjoyed creating missing posters, diary entries, and newspaper reports, while also developing their understanding of the differences between fiction and nonfiction texts. Their curiosity about the natural world shone through as they created bug fact files and bug family trees, showcasing both their creativity and research skills.

In Mathematics, we focused on key concepts including time and money, multiplication, and division. The boys developed their understanding through practical activities involving arrays, grouping and sharing, and building strong foundations for future learning.

Our Understanding the World topics sparked lots of curiosity and discussion. We explored famous explorers and adventurers, different environments, the five senses, shadows and light reflections, minibeasts, and plants, gardening and farming past and present. The boys were fascinated by learning about global insect habitats and the ways insects adapt to survive around the world.

In Art and Design, the boys enjoyed creating shadow puppets and learning about the lives and works of artists Linda Bell and Henry Moore. They developed their observational drawing skills through detailed studies of minibeasts and produced some beautiful under-the-sea artwork.

Our enquiry and project work focused on Adventures Far and Wide! and Minibeasts, allowing the boys to deepen their knowledge through hands-on learning, investigation and collaboration.

The term was enriched by several memorable experiences. We enjoyed educational visits to Kew Gardens and the Natural History Museum, while the exciting Teach Rex dinosaur workshop brought prehistoric creatures to life in a truly unforgettable way.

There were many highlights throughout the year, but Sports Day and our bug hunt at Violet Hill Park were particular favourites. The boys demonstrated excellent teamwork, determination, and enthusiasm, creating wonderful memories together.

It has been a joy to watch the boys grow throughout the year. They have shown resilience, curiosity, and kindness in all that they do, and they should be immensely proud of their achievements. We are confident that they are more than ready for the exciting challenges and opportunities that await them in Year 2.

We wish all our families a wonderful summer break and look forward to hearing about the boys’ continued successes next year.

Ms Legan and Miss Hennessy Year 1

Forest School

This term, boys in Pre Reception, Reception and Year 1 have taken part in a range of Forest School experiences designed to build curiosity, confidence and a connection with the natural world.

Environmental awareness has been a central theme. During Earth Day, Pre Reception and Reception boys explored littering, recycling and how plants, animals and people are part of interconnected ecosystems. Reception boys developed this understanding further through discussion and practical activities.

Year 1 marked World Ocean Day with an experiment comparing clean and polluted water using celery. This led to thoughtful discussions about pollution, ecosystems, and how small actions can make a difference. Their learning continued through bug hunts and visits to the local park, where they observed minibeasts and identified

trees and leaves.

Across all year groups, Forest School has supported the development of practical skills and resilience. Woodwork sessions introduced the safe use of tools, encouraging focus, fine motor skills, and appropriate risk-taking. Older children increasingly showed independence and perseverance in completing tasks.

Wellbeing has remained a key focus. Mindfulness activities such as yoga, drawing and storytelling helped the boys to slow down and enjoy the calm of the outdoor environment. Opportunities for self-directed play further supported independence and creativity.

The boys also engaged in a variety of seasonal and sensory experiences. Pre Reception explored water play, natural materials, and creative activities, while Reception boys took part in group games, painted wooden flowers, and built confidence through supervised tree climbing. Year 1 developed observational skills through sensory exploration of different fruits and vegetables.

Forest School continues to provide valuable opportunities for hands-on learning, encouraging exploration, independence, and respect for the natural world.

Mrs Wootten Forest School

World Languages - French

Pre-Reception have made a wonderful start to their French learning this term. They were introduced to simple greetings and learned how to say, “Bonjour les amis, comment ça va ?”, which we now use at the beginning of each lesson. They also explored French culture such as learning about traditions in France. They learnt many songs, including ‘Mon Petit Lapin a bien du chagrin’, helping them become familiar with the sounds and rhythm of the French language. We also learnt ‘Le Chapeau’, a song written by Mrs. Tomsett-Rowe, which we will be singing during our End of Year Celebrations. Throughout the term, the boys have built their confidence through games, songs, and interactive activities. They particularly enjoyed a colour-matching game, which helped them learn and recognise French colour vocabulary while developing their speaking and listening skills.

In Reception, the boys have enjoyed revisiting and consolidating their previous learning through a variety of engaging songs, games, stories, and speaking activities. One of their favourite activities was ‘Monsieur l’Ours’,

where a sleeping bear had to find hidden honey by listening carefully to clues and using French vocabulary. The boys also enjoyed listening to French stories and singing familiar songs, helping to develop their listening skills, pronunciation, and confidence in using French in a fun and interactive way. We focused on simple conversational French, particularly introductions. With the help of François la Grenouille, the boys practised asking and answering the question, “Bonjour, comment t’appelles-tu ?” and responding with “Je m’appelle…”. They also worked hard on learning and counting numbers from 1–20, preparing them well for Year 1 French. Alongside this, the boys explored common French expressions and enjoyed songs such as « Sur le Pont d’Avignon », developing their speaking, listening, and pronunciation skills throughout the term.

Bravo les garçons!

Ms Geffriaud

Early Years French

This term, Year 1 boys have been learning the days of the week, food items, clothing and colours in French. They practised answering Qu’est-ce que tu aimes ? and talking about what they like and do not like eating using j’aime and je n’aime pas. Through the stories Lapin is Hungry and Petit Ours Brun veut s’habiller tout seul, the boys are becoming more confident speaking French and are beginning to put words together to create their own answers.

Mademoiselle Aury-Lemieux

Year 1 French

World Languages - Mandarin

This term, Year 1 boys have continued to develop their Mandarin skills through a range of engaging and interactive activities. They have learned the names of different parts of the human body in Mandarin, including tóu (head), ynjing (eyes), bízi (nose) and rduo (ears), and have practised using this vocabulary through games, songs and classroom activities, building both their confidence and pronunciation. The boys have also explored traditional Chinese myths and legends, learning about their characters, settings and magical elements. Inspired by these stories, they planned and wrote their own myths, carefully creating imaginative settings, characters and special powers. The term culminated in the boys presenting their myths to their peers, demonstrating

creativity, confidence and enthusiasm while developing their communication skills. Overall, it has been an enjoyable and successful term, with the boys showing great engagement as they expanded their Mandarin vocabulary and explored Chinese culture through storytelling.

Mrs Lam Mandarin

It was incredible to see all the boys competing so brilliantly and working hard at Sports Day this year. The boys showed off their amazing ability in the range of sports/events that we did. A massive thank you to all the parents for their incredible support. There were some very fast runners in both parents’ races; I can see where the boys get it from!

This term we have been working towards sports day and the different events that were on. The boys have been perfecting their running technique making sure that they are looking forward, pumping their arms and running in a straight line. We have also continued to work on our fundamental movements such as jumping, balancing, hopping and skipping which we incorporated into the day.

Beyond the excitement of Sports Day, we’ve dedicated significant time to honing our throwing and catching skills. These fundamental movements are crucial for success in a variety of summer sports like cricket and tennis. Developing strong hand-eye coordination is paramount, benefiting not only these sports but many others too. We’ve also incorporated striking skills with cricket bats and tennis rackets, further enhancing their coordination. The boys have begun to learn key terminology and rules associated with both tennis and cricket, building a solid foundation for understanding these sports. We also revisited football, continuing to improve their ball control and passing accuracy. It has been an absolute pleasure teaching the boys this year. Their enthusiasm and dedication has been fantastic, and they’ve all made significant progress!

Mr Lutyens

Music

Year 1 have been working hard this term on their play ‘The Three Little Pigs’ learning songs, dance moves, lines and teamwork! Reception and Pre-Reception have continued to explore contrasts and notation whilst also preparing songs for the End of Year Celebrations. Reception and Year 1 boys performed in their first ever Breakfast Concert, and our new Pre-Prep Cello Ensemble was formed!

Mrs

Tomsett-Rowe

Director of Music

Drama

Pre-Reception boys have enjoyed an exciting introduction to Drama, exploring emotions through creative movement and imaginative play. They have developed confidence in recognising and expressing different emotions using facial expressions, body language and movement, while learning to work together in a fun and supportive environment. The boys have shown growing confidence, enthusiasm and a willingness to participate, laying strong foundations for future performance work.

Reception boys have had a fantastic term in Drama, enthusiastically exploring emotions, storytelling, role-play and imaginative play. They have developed confidence in using facial expressions, body language and movement to communicate ideas and emotions. One highlight has been their rabid enthusiasm for the focus game “Bibbity Bobbity Boo”, in which they demonstrate impressive concentration, quick thinking and listening skills, surprising the teachers and TAs with their ability to master such a challenging activity! Their excitement and eagerness for Drama each week is wonderful to see.

Year 1 dedicated the term to rehearsing and performing The Three Little Pigs. Building on the film making skills developed last term, the boys focused on character development, voice projection, movement, teamwork and stage presence as they prepared for their performance. They embraced rehearsals with enthusiasm and worked collaboratively to produce a spectacular and entertaining production, which they performed brilliantly. It was a real highlight of the term, and the positive response from families reflected the boys’ hard work, creativity, and growing confidence as performers.

Mr Hale

Assistant Drama Teacher

YEAR 4 CAMPING

Our Year 4 boys recently embarked on an unforgettable camping trip packed with adventure, laughter, and incredible camaraderie.

The action began at the Edge Outdoor Activity Centre, where the boys challenged themselves with laser tag, archery, air rifling, and zorbing—which was the highlight for the spectating teachers! The day culminated in a gruelling Warrior Assault Course. Showing immense determination, every single boy completed the course, lifted by the deafening cheers and non-stop support of their peers.

Next, it was on to Canons Park to pitch tents and face a rigorous, tent inspection. Come rain or shine, the boys tackled every challenge head-on. Their teamwork, resilience, and genuine care for one another shone through during the entire trip.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only poor preparation and we are incredibly proud of Year 4’s spirit and grit throughout the trip!

Miss Mackley Year 4 Form Teacher

YEARS 5&6 TRIP TO DEVON

Each May, one of the highlights of the school year returns as our Year 5 and Year 6 boys head to Devon for a week packed with adventure, challenge, and personal growth. Far more than simply a residential trip, this time provides an invaluable opportunity for boys to step beyond the classroom, develop independence, strengthen friendships, and create memories that will stay with them long after they leave Arnold House.

Once again, the Manor House Hotel proved to be the perfect home away from home. Its extensive facilities and welcoming atmosphere allowed the boys to enjoy a wide variety of activities whilst sharing the venue respectfully with other guests. Throughout the week, staff received numerous compliments regarding the boys’ excellent manners, kindness, and willingness to engage positively with those around them. Whether holding doors open, helping younger boys, or chatting confidently with guests at mealtimes, they represented the school superbly and were a credit to themselves and their school.

Year 5: Discovering New Possibilities

For many of our Year 5 boys, this was their first extended stay away from home. Whilst a few nerves were understandable on departure day, these were quickly replaced by excitement as the week unfolded.

The boys embraced an action-packed programme that included surfing, canoeing, cycling along the Granite Way, gorge scrambling, climbing, football, adventure golf, and creative t-shirt design. Every day presented a fresh challenge and an opportunity to step outside comfort zones.

Yet the most significant achievements often came in the quieter moments. A hesitant boy climbing higher than he ever thought possible. A friend offering encouragement when someone felt uncertain. The resilience shown by those missing home but determined to make the most of every experience. Throughout the week, confidence grew visibly, friendships strengthened, and countless personal victories were celebrated.

The boys returned home tired yet full of stories, having discovered that they were capable of far more than they perhaps realised when they first boarded the train!

Year 6: Challenge, Leadership and Lasting Memories

For our Year 6 boys, Devon has become something of a tradition. Returning with greater confidence and maturity, they approached the week with enthusiasm, determination, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity on offer.

Their programme was designed to challenge and inspire. Highlights included stand-up paddleboarding, kneeboarding, and tackling the giant aqua adventure course with Mr Cox at North Devon Wake Park. The boys also tested their accuracy in archery, navigated the treetop challenges at Haldon Forest, enjoyed swimming and tennis sessions, and, of course, made time for some well-earned ice cream following an afternoon surfing on the Cornish coast.

However, the true value of the week extends far beyond the activities themselves. Devon provides an opportunity for boys to demonstrate leadership, support their peers, and develop the resilience needed to tackle unfamiliar situations. Watching boys encourage one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and persevere through challenges was a reminder of how much they continue to grow as young people.

For parents, it is reassuring to know that their sons are developing independence and confidence whilst being supported by friends and staff who know them well. For the boys, it is a week of friendship, adventure, and personal achievement that marks another important step in their journey through the school.

Thank You

A residential trip of this scale requires significant planning and commitment. My sincere thanks go to Mr Kerr and Mr Ingram for their excellent organisation and preparation, and to Miss Hall, Mrs Miller, Miss Devaney, Mr Lutyens, Mr Wocial, Mr Cox, Miss Osborne and Mr Hale for their enthusiasm, energy, and care throughout the week.

Most importantly, thank you to the boys themselves. Their positivity, courage, humour, and willingness to embrace every opportunity made the week such a success. They were outstanding ambassadors for Arnold House and should be immensely proud of everything they achieved.

Mr Matthews

Head of Years 5&6