Community day in Claremont Park
Robbie Lyle / DR Sports Visit
Cultural Exchange Programme
Letter from the Headteacher
As we come to the end of a truly fantastic year at Clarion, I want to take a moment to reflect and celebrate everything we’ve achieved together.
It has been a year filled with energy, purpose and pride, and I feel incredibly fortunate to serve as Headteacher of this wonderful community. This marks the end of my third year in the role, and I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed every step of the journey. The support from parents, staff, students and governors continues to be both inspiring and humbling. It’s this strong sense of shared purpose that drives the progress we’re making every day.
Our focus on raising standards and expectations has been matched by the enthusiasm and commitment of our students. Their attitude to learning has gone from strength to strength, and we’re seeing the benefits in every corner of the school, from a calmer, more focused atmosphere in lessons, to more peer mentoring, stronger friendships, and students feeling proud of their school community.
Our use of Yondr pouches and Disruption-Free Learning has helped create a space where learning really can come first, and it’s being noticed. I’d like to share a message from a parent who spends time at Clarion regularly:
“The difference between Whitefield and my son’s previous school is really extraordinary. The atmosphere is so welcoming, I’ve watched ex-students come back to share their results and it’s clear how proud staff and students are of one another. The calmness and kindness here feel deliberate, it starts right at reception. The way your team speaks to students, the small gestures like offering coffee to waiting parents, or helping students off the bus, it’s all noticed. Whitefield doesn’t feel like an exam factory. It feels like a place that shapes brilliant, thoughtful young people who will make a real difference in the world.”
Messages like this remind us why we do what we do.
We’ve also loved opening our doors to the community throughout the year, whether through performances like the Barnet Youth Theatre Festival, parent tours, information mornings, or your input on our rebranding journey to Clarion.
Looking ahead, we’re planning even more. Next year will see an expanded Enrichment programme, more trips, and a renewed push to ensure every student is reading at or above their age level. Literacy is power, and we’re determined to make sure all our students have it.
On a personal note, I was incredibly proud to be shortlisted for TES Headteacher of the Year—the equivalent of the teaching Oscars! As I told ITV News (you can watch the clip here), this is not about me. It’s about all of us, students, staff, and families working together to create something really special.
The future is bright for Whitefield, soon to become Clarion, and I can’t wait to see where our journey takes us next. For now, I hope you enjoy a restful and happy summer holiday.
We look forward to seeing everyone back in September, ready for another year of opportunity, growth, and joy.
Mr Hunt Headteacher
Images: John Sturrock
Whitefield 70th & Clarion Launch Celebration
Last Friday, Claremont Park became the backdrop to something unforgettable, the official launch of Clarion. It wasn’t just a celebration of a new name. It was a statement of who we are, what we stand for, and where we’re heading.
The Clarion Launch Festival brought together students, staff, families, and members of our wider community in a day filled with energy, unity, and pride. From student performances to community stalls, every part of the park echoed with the values that define us: Ambition, Respect, and Effort.
We were proud to welcome Robbie Lyle as our guest speaker, a figure who embodies the power of voice, courage, and self-belief. His message on resilience and authenticity deeply resonated with our students, many of whom are already carving out their own bold paths.
Throughout the day, Ambition was on full display, in the confidence and talent in our performances, and the aspirations shared by staff and guests. Respect was felt in every corner, in the way students carried themselves, supported one another, and welcomed our - cont.
Images: John Sturrock
- community into this milestone. Effort was the quiet thread running through it all, from the months of planning to the dedication shown by every student, staff member, and volunteer who brought the vision to life.
The turnout was phenomenal. Our local community showed up and stood with us. Former students returned to be part of history. Families celebrated side-by-side with staff. Our students rose to the occasion in a way that left no doubt: this is their school. This is their time.
As we wind down for summer, we carry this moment with us, not just as a memory, but as momentum. Because in September, we return not just with a new name, but with a renewed mission.
We are Clarion now. A school of high standards and a rebellious spirit. A school where Ambition is nurtured, Respect is lived, and Effort is never optional.
And this… is just the beginning!
Robbie Lyle and DR Sports visit
Clarion for a workshop and film
We are very grateful for Robbie from AFTV and DR Sports for taking time to speak with some of our Year 7 and 8 students this term. As part of their visit we also hosted a football match with Robbie and AGT as guest coaches alongside FBB Lead Pedro.
Robbie had some insightful conversations with Headteacher Mr Hunt as well as giving a phenomenal talk on his journal and the lessons he has learned as an entrepreneur. Clarion extends our gratitude to Robbie and the whole DR Sports team for their time and for joining us at our launch party at Claremont Park.
Check out the video here.
Leading a bright future: Introducing our new video school video
Something special is here.. Our new Clarion video is now live!
On Friday 11th July we launched our new school video, this also marked the 70th birthday of the school and the Clarion launch celebrations we hosted at Claremont Park.
The creative agency 1314familystyle worked with us to create a brand new promotional video that students have been excited to see all term. This was truly a collaborative effort between all staff involved and our students, who massively impressed us filming on set for the first time.
We wanted a video that would embody our values, Ambition, Respect and Effort and to reflect the bright vision for our future as Clarion. This project put students at the heart of everything as they flourished in showing us their skills and character in every scene. The entire crew and students involved had a phenomenal experience working together to create something we are all proud to be a part of.
You can watch our video now on our website or on our social media channels.
Sports Day 2025!
This year’s Sports Day house winner is…
Rowan! Well done to everyone who took part and thank you to all students and staff who contributed to an amazing atmosphere at the Stone X Stadium this year.
We had some amazing student athletes this year competing and a few school records broken
Thank you to the amazing staff at the Stone X Stadium for having us!
Hadley Wood Inclusive Tennis Festival 2025
On 2nd July 2025, ten students from Whitefield School had the exciting opportunity to take part in the Hadley Wood Inclusive Tennis Festival. The event brought together pupils from various schools for a fun-filled day of inclusive and engaging tennis activities.
Our students were enthusiastic and fully immersed themselves in the experience, showing great energy, teamwork, and positivity throughout the day. The atmosphere was fantastic, and it was clear how much they enjoyed being part of the festival. A huge thank you to the Hadley Wood staff for organising such a well-run and welcoming event—it was a memorable day for all involved.
Mr Altieri Learning Coach
12 Images: John Kolikis / Narrō Studio ©
Barnet Youth Theatre Festival 2025
The first Barnet Youth Theatre Festival was hosted at Clarion and we’re so grateful for all those who joined us for the showcase.
It was a pleasure to welcome Éanna Hardwicke, Nasia Papadopoulou and Andreas Skourtis as our guest panelists. All talented and experienced voices in the performing arts, on the night they shared their insights with students and took on the difficult task of awarding a stand out performance. This year’s winners were Arni, Hla, Hollie and Kail, for more on their experience read our student interview.
Congratulations to the performers from Finchley Catholic High School, Mill Hill High School and Claremont Primary School who took part and created a special atmosphere. A special thanks goes to Clarion students Iliana and Skyjae who have been working on drama workshops through the year with Claremont Primary School students, building their confidence and acting skills.
We look forward to more performances in the new term in our newly redeveloped Clarion hall.
Barnet Youth TheatreStudent Interviews
After their standout performances at BYTF 2025, we met with Hla, Hollie and Kail to ask them about their experience being involved in the show.
Hollie
What was your favourite part of the experience showcase? Performing alongside others and the collaborative mindset, and being able to act in front of a supportive audience.
What did you learn from the experience? If you make any mistakes you make on stage, improvise!
What does the performing arts mean to you? It’s always been my dream to act and to sing, a passion that everything in my life revolves around.
What did you learn from the workshops / previous trips?
Visiting Royal Central (School of Speech and Drama), we learnt about set design, character design and creating character profiles, motivations etc.
Images: John Kolikis / Narrō Studio ©
Hla
What was your favourite part of the experience showcase?
Seeing so many other people on the night and seeing other performances.
What did you learn from the experience? Just be confident, keep going (through the performance).
What does the performing arts mean to you? It’s really fun to be able to show something to others and express and experiment.
What did you learn from the workshops / previous trips? You don’t necessarily have to follow an academic route for the arts, you can be overqualified for the arts
Kail
What was your favourite part of the experience showcase? Interacting with other performers, it’s interesting to hear how they developed their performances.
What did you learn from the experience? Don’t overthink about what you’re performing, trust in the work you put in before.
What does the performing arts mean to you? It allows me to tell stories that I wouldn’t otherwise.
What did you learn from the workshops / previous trips? Any idea can be a good idea if developed enough. I took this from an activity during the Kiln Theatre visit.
Images: John Kolikis / Narrō Studio ©
Fish Heroes at Clarion
Fish Heroes (Fish in school heroes) has been running for six years, each year there are up to 1500 places for teachers to take part in the scheme run by the Food Teachers Centre which has a membership of 9800 food teachers. All fish and seafood is provided free of charge to schools and is fully funded by The Fishmongers Company to bring fish into schools for the students to use - some experience fish & seafood for the first time.
We have been a part of the programme from the very beginning starting with sides of sockeye and smoked Alaskan salmon, progressing to live mussels, scallops, tinned pink salmon and frozen salmon filets. Mussels are a particular favourite with some of our students.
The very first Fish Heroes awards were held, where 24 food teachers were given an award in recognition for their work for being a fish hero & giving students the opportunity and the skills in preparing & cooking fish & seafood.
Below are a selection of the dishes our students plated this past term utilising the fish provided, showcasing their culinary skills and creativity. This includes, salmon pithivier, Thai fish cakes, scallops and mussels.
Mrs James Director of Learning for Catering and Technology
At Clarion we would also like to make a special mention to Mrs James and congratulate her on the award she received from the Fish Heroes programme.
She was recently recognised at the Fish Hero Teacher Awards and Conference for her efforts in provding students with the platform to develop their culinary skills cooking with seafood.
Clarion Choir and solo Barnet performances
This term saw student singers take to the stage at a number of events, showcasing their musical and stage skills. On Monday 16th June, Hollie (Year 10) performed at the Barnet Schools Music Festival, hosted at Artsdepot. Her performance was so impressive she was invited back to sing on Wednesday 25th June for a second performance. Her song was “Journey To The Past” from Anastasia The Musical by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens.
Elsewhere on Thursday 26th June, the student choir performed at St Jude’s for the Schools’ Proms, at St Jude-on-the-Hill. Each Prom consists of songs and readings specially commissioned by the DaCapo Music Foundation (music education partner of Proms at St Jude’s) for primary and secondary school groupings.
We look forward the the next performances of our student musicians and singers.
Mrs Harris Director of Learning for Music
International Cultural Exchange Programme
This year Clarion once again opened our doors to our friends from East Asia, as we welcomed various schools from China as part of our International Cultural Exchange Programme.
Over two weeks in July we hosted over one hundred students to take part in lessons, extra-curricular clubs and to practise english with their Clarion student buddies.
To learn more about the exchange programme we have on offer, head to our website to read more.
Race to the Line returns to Clarion
At the end of July, a group of our talented Year 7 students took part in the Race to the Line North London finals, competing against teams from seven other schools. This exciting STEM competition challenged students to design, build, and race model cars made entirely from recyclable materials.
Working in teams, our students used their creativity, problem-solving skills, and understanding of aerodynamics to create lightweight, high-speed vehicles. Each group developed unique and innovative designs, showcasing both artistic flair and scientific thinking. After a day of designing, testing, and refining, the event ended with an exciting head-to-head race to determine which car was the fastest.
We are thrilled to announce that our Year 7 girls’ team won the award for Most Creative Design, and our Year 7 boys’ team earned 2nd Place for Fastest Car. A huge congratulations to all of our finalists for their hard work, dedication, and team spirit.
We’re incredibly proud of everyone who took part and look forward to returning next year to win even more awards!
Mr Grigoroudis STEM Lead
UKMT Maths competition awards
A big thank for all fourteen of our students who participated in the UKMT Junior Mathematical Challenge which took place on Thursday 1st May 2025. Over 100 schools from across the country enter this competition every year. We are proud of our excellent results showing that we can compete this level receiving gold, silver and bronze certificates.
A massive special shout out for Arman and Diyar who were invited to the follow up Kangaroo Challenge on Tuesday 10th June 2025, they received a silver and bronze certificate respectively for their achievement at the next round.
Participants: Aiden 7J, Alice 7R, Ayman 7H, Rama 7J, Hanan 7H, Muhammed 7R, Eduan 7R, Nilsa 8R, Yzabelle 8H, Arman 8R, Legend 8J, Diyar 8J, Ibrahim 7H, Ali Khaled 7R.
Let’s look forward to next year’s challenge under our new name Clarion!
Mr Beckles Maths Teacher
Year 7 Updates
Well, we’ve made it! The Year 7s have nearly completed their first year of secondary school and this past half term in particular has been very busy!
We’ve had Science Drop Down Days, Sports Days, House Competitions, a careers event, a trip to the zoo, as well as loads of international students to occupy everyone’s time. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those Year 7 students who have been so helpful with our international visitors from China. The Year 7s buddies have shown themselves to be enthusiastic, kind and helpful to all our visitors and I am very proud of how they have represented themselves. I am also very thankful to those students who volunteered to help out with the Year 6 Transition Day; it is always good to pay back the kindness that was shown to them last year by our current Year 8s.
I would like to congratulate 7H in particular for winning our last year group behaviour competition. As a form, they collected over 350 positive behaviour points in six weeks and have enjoyed pizza and ice cream as a reward for all their efforts! Next year will be a busy one yet again, with students beginning to think about their option choices later in Year 8.
As we close this last year of the old “Whitefield School” and start afresh with Clarion, I would like to wish the Year 7s a wonderful and safe summer holiday. Please be safe and we will see you for our staggered start on Thursday 4th September at 10am!
Enjoy the summer break Year 7
Year 8 Updates
Ms Ott Year 7 Team Leader
Year 8 Summer Term successes! I am so proud of the achievements, dedication, personal growth and positive energy within the year group as a result of our helpful, prepared, accountable vision. The year group has consistently been in the best position for Home Learning across the school. Additionally, Student Helpers have made an incredible impact in supporting staff to make the school run more smoothly and brought a positive impact to departments across the school.
The transition to Year 9 is destined to be successful. I look forward to students settling into their position as Student Ambassadors, embracing mastery within subject learning and wider school development. Well done to the Year 8/9 Basketball Team that achieved silver in the Barnet League this year, making the borough finals is a massive achievement which we hope to build on.
Ms Ahmed will be taking over the year group from September and is ready to galvanise student potential towards academic success.
I wish families the best as we start this new journey as Clarion.
Mr Croucher
Year 8 Team Leader
Year 9 Updates
October 2024
As we draw the academic year to a close, I am incredibly proud to reflect on the journey Year 9 has taken together. This year, we introduced our year group vision:
“All students in Year 9 to make the right choices.”
This simple but powerful message has guided everything we’ve done — aligning perfectly with our whole-school ethos of developing well-rounded pupils who achieve great grades and build strong character. Students have consistently shown that the right choices lead to success — from maintaining excellent attendance to showing focus, effort, and ambition in lessons. We’ve seen a clear connection between good attendance, positive behaviour, and academic progress. Many pupils have demonstrated resilience, curiosity, and pride in their learning — qualities that will serve them well both now and in the future.
This year, we’ve also placed a strong emphasis on broadening horizons and building cultural capital, ensuring students have access to experiences that enrich their worldview. Year 9 pupils have visited universities, attended theatre performances, and taken on meaningful leadership roles — including as subject ambassadors and peer mentors. These experiences help students develop confidence, ambition, and a sense of purpose beyond the classroom, laying foundations for future success.
As we end the year, our focus is on celebrating the brilliant efforts and achievements across our year group.
We are recognising: - Excellent attendance and punctuality, - Consistently high positive behaviour points - Standout subject nominations for excellence, effort, and contribution
Most Positives
Yousef
Gabriel A
Danwer
Lana
Form Tutor Nominations
Kuan and Cherish (9A)
Davit and Aizada (9H)
Noor and Kawthar (9J)
Niko and Abdallah (9R)
Subject Nominations
Mo K (PE)
Kuan (Music)
Ore (Geography and IT)
Hariny (Geography)
Travel (Rebecca)
Noah FP (Spanish)
Gabriel A (English)
Ike (Science)
Zinat (Maths)
Paythan (RE)
Sabrina (Sociology)
Whether in lessons, on trips, or through student leadership, Year 9 have demonstrated maturity, dedication, and character. I couldn’t be prouder of the progress they’ve made and the choices they’ve committed to.
Thank you to all families for your support throughout the year. As we look ahead to Year 10 and the start of GCSEs, the message remains the same: Make the right choices.
Mr Tan Year 9 Team Leader
LOCAL EVENTS
Year 10 Updates
Growth, Challenges and Achievements
As the school year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to look back on what has been a transformative and unforgettable year for Year 10. From the first day in September to the final bell of July, we’ve come a long way—not just in our subjects, but in our confidence, friendships, and aspirations.
Year 10 marked the beginning of GCSE studies for many of us. We tackled new subjects, met new teachers, and learned how to manage the increasing expectations of Key Stage 4. Whether it was solving complex equations in Maths, exploring Shakespeare in English, or conducting experiments in Science, we faced each challenge head-on.
The year wasn’t without pressure, but it helped shape our study habits and show us what we’re truly capable of. With mocks on the horizon and real exams next year, we’re better prepared than ever.
It hasn’t been all about textbooks and tests. Year 10 was full of opportunities beyond the classroom. From sports competitions and school trips to drama productions and charity events, we’ve shown spirit, talent, and teamwork.
Many of us stepped up as mentors, team captains, or school representatives—developing leadership and confidence along the way. These experiences remind us that school is not just about grades, but about growing into responsible, capable young adults.
As we head into the summer break, it’s a time to recharge—but also to reflect. Year 11 is around the corner, bringing new challenges and opportunities. The decisions we make next year will shape our futures: college, apprenticeships, careers, and more. But for now, take pride in how far we’ve come. Year 10 wasn’t easy—but it was a year of real growth.
Let’s celebrate our hard work, thank our teachers and families, and come back in September ready to finish what we started and make both Whitefield and Clarion proud.
Mr Opoku Year 10 Team Leader
Counselling Support
We are proud to have an experienced counsellor, Jon Thompson, who runs one-to-one support sessions for students identified as needing extra support. Jon works for FYP (Forever Young People) and helps students understand the difficulties they are facing, work through a booklet to help set targets, and learn strategies to cope with problems that may arise in their future. If you would like more information about this, please contact Mrs Hammond or Ms Thomas.
Forever Young People uses thought, emotional intelligence and ethical practices to create an inclusive and meaningful future through our teenage mentoring programs and coaching which engages young people through conversational-based learning. We aim to provide young people, children, and community groups with coaching/ mentoring that will support them with their low emotional well-being.
To learn more visit: www.foreveryoungpeople.com
Sixth Form Updates
The Sixth Form has had an incredibly busy term with many fantastic opportunities and events.
Year 13 have been working hard on revising for their exams. Many attended Easter intervention sessions and we are proud of the commitment they are showing to their studies.
We wish you good luck with all your exam results this summer. In addition, many students have received many university exciting offers from universities across the UK. See you soon for Results Day in August.
Well done to our Year 12 students who have completed coursework submissions and end of year exams. Year 12 have also successfully taken part in a range of placements for work experience including the NHS, law firms, architecture companies and even the House of Commons! Students were a massive credit to the school and represented us well.
We look forward to welcoming you back in the new term for Year 13.
Ms Hodgson Sixth Form Director (Maternity Cover)
Dates for your diary
JULY
July 21st - Aug 29th - Summer Holiday
AUGUST
August 14th - Year 13 Results Day - 8:30-11:00AM
August 21st - GCSE Results Day - 8:30-11:00AM
SEPTEMBER
September 1st - INSET
September 2nd - INSET
September 3rd - Year 7 and Year 12 only
September 4th - Staggered return for Year 8, 9, 10, 11, 13
September 4th - Full day for Year 7 and Year 12 (induction).
September 5th - Normal school day
