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Let the show begin…

Whitgift’s U18 and U16 Hockey teams win the England Hockey National Indoor Championships Cinematic magic filled Big School with the Night at the Movies concert Jeriah B awarded Premier League Young Academy Writer of the Year competition A unique, semi-immersive production of It’s A Wonderful Life brought Bedford Falls to life Whitgift emerged victorious in the inaugural UK Padel Schools Championships and more inside...

Whitgift’s U18 and U16 Hockey teams have achieved a remarkable feat, winning the England Hockey National Indoor Championship titles for the 2024/25 season.

This marks the third consecutive year that Whitgift’s U18 and U16 teams have secured these titles – a testament to the hard work, dedication, and skill of each cohort and their coaches.

The U18s impressed throughout the tournament, going unbeaten and scoring an impressive 50 goals, while conceding only seven. They capped their performance with a 3:1 victory over St George’s in the final.

The U16s also delivered an exceptional performance, remaining unbeaten, scoring 28 goals and conceding just seven. Their resilience and teamwork shone in a tightly contested 2:1 win over Ipswich School in the final.

Dr Stagno said “I'm delighted to see the boys’ hard work and dedication has paid off! It’s been a pleasure to be part of both the U18’s and U16s teams this term. Their commitment and work ethic has certainly inspired me throughout the term.”

This incredible accomplishment underscores the strength of Whitgift’s hockey programme and is a proud moment for all involved. Congratulations to both teams on their remarkable success!

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS (AGAIN!)

This incredible accomplishment underscores the strength of Whitgift’s hockey programme

CHRISTMAS CONCERT CRACKER

On Monday 9 December 2024, Whitgift’s Music department hosted a festive Christmas Concert in the Concert Hall.

This new addition to the Arts calendar was wellreceived with students, parents, staff and visitors filling the venue. Upon arrival, attendees were welcomed with mulled wine and mince pies, setting a cosy, festive tone for the evening.

As they took their seats, audience members discovered a surprise waiting for them – a handmade Christmas cracker programme. Inside, they found a crayon and a paper hat, encouraging them to engage creatively by colouring in and marking off the songs performed throughout the night.

The repertoire included popular Christmas classics such as Jingle Bell Rock , Feliz Navidad , Last Christmas and Stop the Cavalry .

Thank you to all the performers and to the Music department for organising such a successful and enjoyable event.

FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS AT WHITGIFT

WSPA Winter Fair

On Sunday 24 November 2024, Whitgift hosted its first Winter Fair in over 20 years. Big School was filled with independent businesses offering everything from clothing and candles to cakes and artwork. With proceeds going to Whitgift For All , the event was a great success, drawing an excellent turnout in support of bursaries for future students.

Horticulture Club Wreath-Making

Whitgift’s Horticulture Club held their annual wreathmaking workshop, supported by the Gardening team and Mr Nicholls (Teacher of Biology). Using foliage sustainably gathered from the School grounds, students created beautiful festive wreaths to mark the season.

Carol Service

The annual Carol Service at Croydon Minster was held on Wednesday 11 December 2024. All Second Form students attended with many family members supporting, bringing the community together for a reflective and heartwarming end to the Michaelmas Term.

Carol Singing Traditions

On the final day of term, staff welcomed students outside the Concert Hall with cheerful carols. Earlier in the month, the Whitgift Choristers performed at The Goring Hotel’s Afternoon Tea on Friday 6 December 2024, spreading festive joy.

Christmas Feasts

The term concluded with Founder's House enjoying their annual Christmas dinner. Christmas lunch, for all students on the last day of term and a staff lunch the following day rounded off a busy term in a memorable way. A huge thanks to Whitgift's Catering team for their hard work.

Whitgift Choristers performed at The Goring Hotel’s Afternoon Tea

DRAMA IN THE HOUSE (AND A WIN FOR SMITH'S)

The annual House Drama competition took place on Thursday 10 October 2024 in the Performing Arts Centre with each House presenting a monologue or duologue and a group performance.

This year's competition was judged by Simon Gleaves (Associate Director of Flabbergast Theatre), whose background in physical theatre brought a fresh perspective.

All eight Houses participated with Smith's House claiming 1st place with their portrayals of A Christmas Carol and Dracula . Cross’s House took 2nd place with The Wind in the Willows and Nicholas S’s performance in Ivanov . Dodd’s and Brodie’s Houses demonstrated strong teamwork as they shared 3rd place.

Two new awards were introduced: Marcos B (Brodie’s) won Best Leadership and Direction, and Nicholas S (Cross’s) earned Best Solo Performance for Ivanov

Mr Hammond (Director of Drama) commented "House Drama was a closely fought competition with Smith's emerging victorious. Visiting judge Simon Gleaves praised the overall quality of the performances, particularly the maturity and sophistication of Otto M's performance for the winning House.”

Congratulations to all participants and well done to Smith’s for their win.

The students recreated the game tic-tac-toe using 3D printing

WHITGIFT WELCOMED…

Last term several successful individuals in various fields shared valuable knowledge with students. A selection of the speakers are listed below:

1. Dr Matthew Genge (Senior Lecturer in Earth and Planetary Science) visited as part of Academic Enrichment to discuss the nature of meteorites and planetary systems. (September)

2. To celebrate National Poetry Day, Matt Abbott (poet, educator and spoken word performer) led an inspiring assembly, creative writing workshops, and a book signing in the Junior Library. (October)

3. Dr Erica McAlister (Entomologist & Curator at the Natural History Museum) offered fascinating insights into the world of insects as part of Academic Enrichment (November)

4. Dr Kelly Accetta Crowe (Curator at the British Museum) shared insights into her work in the Egypt and Sudan department. (November)

5. Whitgift welcomed Greg Foot (science communicator and producer of BBC 4's Sliced Bread podcast) as part of the Academic Enrichment series with insights into the deep ocean and careers in STEM. (December)

MUSIC

A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES

On Wednesday 13 November 2024, the Music department brought cinematic magic to Big School with the Night at the Movies concert.

Mr Henderson (Director of Music) explained “We wanted the audience to feel the excitement associated with cinema: popcorn, sweets, fizzy drinks, dim lights in the auditorium, bright colourful lighting and smoke effects on stage.”

The programme featured Disney classics including The Bare Necessities performed by A Capella, and When She Loved Me and You’ve Got a Friend in Me , beautifully sung by the Lower First Form.

Other highlights included James Bond themes with Skyfall performed by The Blue Shirt Boys and No Time to Die by Big Band. Whitgift Brass added to the excitement with a medley from The Lion King

The concert concluded with a heartfelt performance of This Is Me from The Greatest Showman, featuring the Lower First Form, A Capella, and students from Old Palace of John Whitgift School.

Reflecting on the students’ dedication, Mr Henderson added “The boys worked hard to prepare and present a complex and challenging programme and the praise from a delighted audience suggests this hard work really paid off.”

A huge thank you to the Music and AV departments for making the evening a success.

The boys worked hard to prepare and present a complex and challenging programme

HUGE PREMIER LEAGUE WIN

Whitgift welcomed the Premier League on Wednesday 2 October 2024, accompanied by the iconic Premier League Trophy, to celebrate Jeriah B (First Form and U12 Academy player at Brighton & Hove Albion) who won the Premier League Young Academy Writer of the Year competition.

As part of his prize, the Premier League brought the prestigious trophy to Whitgift, offering a rare opportunity for students and staff to see it up close. Jeriah shared “I was really excited to win the award, especially since it’s the first time the trophy has come to Whitgift – and probably the last time too!”

The day began with an assembly for Lower First to Second Form students, where Jeriah was presented with his award and a printed copy of his winning entry. Jeriah continued his creative journey, expanding his winning entry into additional chapters, which have now been published as his own book Back in Time .

The assembly included a pre-recorded video of Jeriah reading his entry and an interactive quiz about the Premier League, with prizes for the winners.

First Form students participated in a workshop with renowned author Dan Freedman, who shared insights into football writing and careers. Each student received a signed copy of his book, 5 0 Ways Into Football . Staff and students also visited Big

ELLIOT DALY’S WINNING TRY SEALS VICTORY FOR ENGLAND

School to view and take photos with the Premier League Trophy.

Congratulations to Jeriah on his outstanding achievement, and many thanks to the Premier League for making this day so memorable!

Old Whitgiftian Elliot Daly (Attended Whitgift: 2006-2011) played a decisive role in England’s thrilling Six Nations clash on Saturday 8 February 2025, scoring the matchwinning try to secure victory.

Showcasing his trademark speed and precision, Elliot's late try proved the difference in a hard-fought contest. His journey from Whitgift to international rugby has been remarkable, playing the last decade for England, accumulating 70 caps and scoring 20 tries. Whitgift takes great pride in his achievements and looks forward to seeing him continue to shine on the world stage.

Elliot Daly (Whitgift 2006-2011)

CLUB CLASSICS

The Michaelmas Term was full of lots of co-curricular excitement and engaging experiences to build on students’ classroom learning. For more information about the 100+ clubs, societies and sports that are running, please visit: https:// www.whitgift.co.uk/co-curriculardirectory

FORUM

SPANISH GAMES · CLUB DE JUEGOS

ROBOTICS

SPORT ACTION AND REACTION

From national titles to individual achievements, it has been an action-filled few months for our students.

A standout highlight was Whitgift’s U18 and U16 Hockey teams securing their third consecutive National Indoor Hockey Championship, reinforcing the School’s dominance in the sport. In Football , the U13A team claimed a hard-fought 3-2 win over Kingsdale Foundation School to reach the Elite Schools National Cup Semi-Finals, while the U12A team progressed to the England Schools’ Football Association (ESFA) last 16. There

was further national success as Whitgift triumphed in the inaugural UK Padel Schools Championships, marking an exciting step forward as the sport continues to grow in popularity.

Whitgift’s Fencing teams shone at the Surrey Youth Championships, with multiple medals, including Ethan’s thrilling 7-6 win securing the U16 Foil Championship title.

The Winter Cricket Academy also remains in full swing, helping players develop their skills with fitness assessments and targeted training sessions.

Rugby remained a major focus, with the 1st XV facing Northampton School in a memorable #FridayNightLights clash on Big Side, while the U14 and U16 teams advanced to the National Cup Quarter-Finals. Meanwhile, our Senior Rugby squad launched the ‘Canada Challenge 25’, where each student will row 85km, collectively covering 4,381km, to raise funds for their upcoming tour. Any support to help the squad achieve this target would be greatly appreciated and contributions can be made at: https://www.gofundme. com/f/whitgift-rugby-2025senior-canada-tour

The 1st XV faced Northampton School in a memorable #FridayNightLights clash on Big Side

ACTION AND REACTION

In individual sports, First Former Jacob played a crucial role in his team’s victory at the British Cycling National U14 Cyclo-cross Team Championship in his first year of national eligibility. Justin K won the U13 Table Tennis Individual London South East Championship and will compete at the National Finals in Birmingham this April. Jeremiah continued his dominance in Swimming , winning multiple Junior and open men’s trophies and is now ranked #2 in the country for the 100m breaststroke!

Off the field, Whitgift celebrated 10 years of partnership with PlayerLayer, with students starring in a photoshoot featured on their magazine cover (pictured, right) .

Overall, it has been an exceptional term, with hundreds of students competing across numerous fixtures and tournaments. For more insights into Whitgift’s sporting culture, listen to the latest #WhitgiftConversations podcast, where Mr Litchfield (Director of Sport) and Mr Woodward (Assistant Director of Sport) discuss the School’s unique approach to sport: https:// www.whitgift. co.uk/whitgiftconversations

Looking ahead, don’t miss out on our upcoming sport camps—fantastic opportunities to develop skills! https://www.whitgift.co.uk/co-curricular/sport/sport-camps

IMPRESSIVE RESULTS AT THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS SKI CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Whitgift Ski Team delivered outstanding performances at the Independent Schools Ski Championships in Sestriere, Italy. Competing against schools from across the UK, the team excelled across three days of event.

In the Slalom, Theo secured 2nd and Oliver 3rd place in the U12 category, with Reubens claiming 3rd in the U16s. These strong results earned Whitgift Junior Overall 1st place and Senior Overall 3rd place.

The Giant Slalom, held on the prestigious Olympic Run (set to host the World Cup in February 2025), saw Oliver achieve 2nd place and Theo 3rd in the U12 standings, while Reubens repeated his 3rd place success in the U16s. The team maintained their impressive form, earning Junior Overall 2nd and Senior Overall 3rd.

The trip concluded with the thrilling Dual Slalom relay, where Whitgift’s Junior and Senior A teams both secured joint 3rd place in their competitions. All teams performed admirably in what was described as the most exciting event of the tournament.

Off the slopes, the students enjoyed Italian cuisine, including endless pizza and local delicacies, while staying in a hotel purposebuilt for the 2006 Winter Olympics. The trip was a success both on and off the slopes, with students demonstrating exceptional teamwork, positivity, and independence. Staff praised their efforts, calling the week a proud moment for Whitgift.

The trip was a success both on and off the slopes

WHITGI T

CREATIVE PLAYS

First Form students performed in a series of innovative plays. Four tutor groups delivered 30-minute plays during the Michaelmas Term, exploring various themes with creativity and enthusiasm.

The first performance, by 1MNH and 1JAB, focused on technology. The plays included Field Trip Gone Wrong , featuring robot teachers taking over a museum, Disconnect , about children battling their phones’ attempts to control them, and The New Kid , which told the story of the first AI pupil. Mr Hammond (Director of Drama) praised the casts, saying, “They managed to amuse and delight their audiences, and no doubt we

The term concluded with 1MHT and 1AMS exploring themes of community and growing up, with plays about a rugby team on tour, a tribute to a lost friend, and a school group uniting to stage their own performance. Mr Hammond remarked, “This term’s plays not only reflected creativity but also highlighted important themes about connection, self-discovery, and the role of community in our lives. It’s been a joy to watch these students grow in confidence and imagination throughout the rehearsal process.”

Congratulations to all the First Form students who participated in these memorable productions.

It’s been a joy to watch these students grow in confidence and imagination

A FOCUS ON DEVELOPMENT

On Thursday 10 October 2024, Humanutopia returned with its annual personal-development workshop for First Form students, coinciding with World Mental Health Day and reflecting its themes.

The workshop, titled 'Who am I?', featured three sessions designed to encourage deep self-reflection. The first session, known as the Comfort Zone, invited students to reflect on their past experiences and how these have contributed to shaping who they are today. The Stretch Zone enabled them to consider how making changes to their current behaviour could alter their present. Finally, the Panic

Zone session provided space to explore aspirations, dreams, and future selves.

Third Form prefects, having experienced the same workshop before, joined to offer valuable guidance and answer questions from the First Form students.

Zebulon D (First Form) commented “My favourite session of the day was part two because we were all in groups with Third Form prefects where we socialised and moved around through various activities as a group.”

Krish (Third Form Prefect) shared his thoughts, saying “You’re very lucky in the First Form as you don’t

Students reflected on their past experiences and how these have contributed to shaping who they are today

have a fifth period, so you have more time for activities at lunch –I would encourage you all to make the most of this!”

When asked about what they would take away from the day, Will C (First Form) said “How we should treat others with respect and kindness, as you don’t know what they may have gone through.”

The day was highly successful, with students actively participating in discussions about their current identities and future aspirations while building confidence and relationships with their peers.

DRAMA

From Wednesday 4 to Saturday 7 December 2024, the Drama department brought Bedford Falls to life in a unique, semi-immersive production of It’s A Wonderful Life in the Performing Arts Centre (PAC).

Adapted by Mary Elliott Nelson from the beloved film, this performance combined traditional theatre with real-time projections and live cinematography for a magical and memorable experience, ending with a snow flurry.

Audiences could choose between standard or immersive seating, placing them inside Martini’s Bar or Gower’s Drug Store, where drinks were served by cast members. The PAC’s transformation into snowcovered Bedford Falls, complete with iconic buildings, enhanced the atmosphere.

Felix W delivered a heartfelt performance as George B, while Danny M’s Clarence brought a mix of charm and humour. Nearly 50 students from Whitgift, Old Palace, and WAVPA contributing to the cast, showcasing collaboration and creativity.

Reflecting on the production, Mr Hammond (Director of Drama) commented "Last week, the Drama department staged an immersive, live-cinema production of It’s A Wonderful Life , blending traditional theatre with innovative real-time projections and cinematography... This ambitious and heartwarming production showcased the incredible talent and teamwork of all involved, capturing the timeless message that no one is a failure who has friends."

IT’S A WONDERFUL‘WONDERFUL

LIFE’

This ambitious and heartwarming production showcased the incredible talent and teamwork of all involved

FULLY BOOKED

On Friday 15 November 2024, Whitgift’s annual Junior Literary Festival welcomed a diverse group of authors and performers for a day of creativity and inspiration for Lower First and First Form student.

The day began with an assembly led by popular author Chris Bradford, renowned for his Young Samurai series. He captivated pupils with a live samurai sword demonstration. Students then took part in workshops with authors such as Nikki Sheehan, who shared her recently published book Who Framed Klaris Cliff? and Stephen Davies, who shared insights from his experiences in West Africa.

Highlights also included Robin Price’s engaging sessions on historical fiction and Karl Nova’s vibrant hip-hop poetry, which brought the day to an energetic close. Karl’s performance encouraged students to explore rhythm and rhyme as tools for self-expression.

At lunchtime, a book sale and signing session provided the chance for students to meet the authors and have books signed.

The day was a fantastic celebration of literature, sparking creativity and curiosity.

Many congratulations to the 11 Whitgiftians who have achieved Oxbridge offers and were supported in the process by the Higher Education Team!

We wish you and all of the Upper Sixth Formers who are applying for universities and placements the very best as you enter the final few months before you begin your journey beyond Whitgift

WINNERS OF THE INAUGURAL UK PADEL SCHOOLS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Whitgift emerged victorious in the UK Padel Schools Championships, the first nationwide schools' tournament for Padel. Held at Rocket Padel in St Anne’s, Bristol – the UK’s largest padel venue – the event saw over 21 teams competing in this fast-growing sport, which combines tennis and squash .

Whitgift Team One including David (Upper Sixth), Ehsan (Lower Sixth), Oscar (Fourth Form), and Jayden (Third Form) dominated throughout the tournament. They secured a 2-1 semi-final victory against Aylesbury High School in a thrilling 7-0 tiebreak shootout and triumphed in the final against Millfield with another tight 2-1 win, clinching the title with a 7-3 tiebreak.

Team Two also delivered a commendable performance with Reuben (Lower Sixth), Lucas (Lower Sixth), Joshua (Fifth Form), and Sabar (Fifth Form) earning victory in the plate competition, demonstrating skill and determination.

Mr Power (Head of Rackets) expressed his pride in the teams’ achievement “The boys adapted incredibly well to padel, applying their talents from tennis and squash. We’re delighted to have been involved in the first schools' championships, and winning it makes it even more special.”

Whitgift is proud of its students’ success in this competition and looks forward to further participation in Padel as it continues to grow in popularity.

Whitgift triumphed in the final against Millfield

CHARITY

RAISING THE ROOF

The annual Charity Concert returned to Big School, showcasing entertaining performances by Sixth Form students from Whitgift and Croydon High School. The evening featured a mix of musical talent and creative acts, beginning with an upbeat performance from Whitgift’s Corps of Drums.

Highlights included Oliver R's (Lower Sixth Form) rendition of Bestfriend by Rex Orange County, and Upper Sixth Form band Schizm’s Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, comprised of Patrick D, Torran H, Sam K and Enzo M. Schizm later joined Whitgift’s well-known Staff Band for Hotel California by the Eagles, with Mrs Bocarro-Ashford (Teacher of Mathematics), Dr Honeysett (Head of Physics), Mr Ma (Head of Chinese), Mr Michael (Director of Junior Years), and Mr Powell (Head of Lower First).

The evening concluded with a humorous finale from the School Captain and Prefect team with a mash-up of songs including Hit Me Baby One More Time by Britney Spears and Firework by Katy Perry.

Raising over £2,000 for Young Minds, the event celebrated student talent and charitable spirit. Special thanks to the AV team and everyone who helped make the evening a tremendous success.

The evening featured a mix of musical talent and creative acts

WHITGIFT REMEMBERS

On Monday 11 November 2024, the Whitgift community gathered at the War Memorial for the annual Remembrance Day service, led by The Right Reverend Peter Price to honour those who lost their lives in the First World War.

The congregation included Lower First and First Form students, Old Whitgiftians, care home residents, and staff, all sharing in this solemn occasion. The Corps of Drums and Combined Cadet Force (CCF) handled Flag Party duties with precision, and flags lowered to half-mast. Sam W (Fifth Form) played The Last Post , creating a moment of reflection.

Wreaths were laid by Old Whitgiftian Richard Blundell on behalf of the OW community, Miss Saer for staff, and Vatsa D (Upper School Captain) for students. After the two minute silence, the flags were raised, marking a poignant conclusion.

Sam H (Lower School Captain) and Vatsa D gave reflective readings, and all joined in hymns as the ceremony concluded with the Flag Party and Corps of Drums’ departure.

The Corps of Drums and Combined Cadet Force (CCF) handled Flag Party duties with precision

EMBRACING CULTURE AND HERITAGE

Whitgift recently hosted Culture Day, offering Lower First and First Form students an engaging exploration of global traditions and identities.

Organised by Vatsa Dubey (School Captain) and Eldon Tse (Deputy Vice School Captain), the day began with an introduction and talks on topics such as Middle Eastern identity, mixed-race experiences, and cultural shocks, each sparking thoughtful discussion.

Students then rotated through interactive themed rooms, exploring Egyptian and Turkish culture, Greek mythology, and activities like Mancala and Jazz’s role in South African heritage.

In the afternoon, sports staff led sessions on Kabaddi and Gaelic football, introducing rules, basic skills, and holding a series of friendly matches.

Reflecting on the day, Vatsa commented “Culture Day is an opportunity for the oldest students

to collaborate with the youngest students in the School to explore a variety of cultures. All students really engaged with questions around identity through the discussions and workshops in a meaningful and impactful way and had lots of fun in the cultural sports in the afternoon.”

Culture Day is an opportunity for the oldest students to collaborate with the youngest students in the School to explore a variety of cultures