This Week at St Faith’s

Going the Extra Mile

This week in assembly, I was delighted to award eight more House Captain badges to our Year 8 pupils. As they stepped forward to receive their badges, the warm applause from the rest of the school was a testament to the strong sense of community here at St Faith’s.

The theme of our assembly was ‘going the extra mile,’ inspired by the school’s core values: kindness, community, and excellence. We reflected on the origins of this phrase in the Bible—“If someone forces you to walk one mile, go with him two miles” (Matthew 5:41). Though this sentiment is more than two thousand years old, the relevance of these words remains unchanged: small acts of generosity and effort, beyond what is expected or required, can have a profound impact. Whether through a kind word or a thoughtful action, going the extra mile inspires others through kindness. We considered examples of ways in which it can change outcomes in an unexpected and positive way.

On this topic, each week, I continue to be inspired by the kindness demonstrated by our pupils who earn Kindness Certificates in recognition of the many different ways in which they help and show consideration to those around them.

Academic Extension Day (AcE Day)

On Tuesday, pupils in Years 3-8 stepped away from their usual timetables to engage in Academic Extension (AcE) Day – a highlight of the term designed to enrich learning beyond the traditional curriculum.

The Pre Prep pupils have been reflecting on their work to date this year. Year 1 pupils took great pride in sharing their favourite pieces of creative writing with Mrs Wakefield. Their enthusiasm for storytelling was infectious, and it was a pleasure to hear about their imaginative worlds. Meanwhile, Year 3 pupils began their day by exploring a local church to deepen their understanding of Christian worship. They then brought their learning to life by designing ‘shoebox churches’ in class. The afternoon introduced them to new sports, with pupils enjoying the opportunity to try their hand at netball and touch rugby.

For Year 4, the focus was on Latino Day, where pupils expanded their Spanish vocabulary bringing the vibrant music, food, and culture of Spain to life. One of the highlights of the day was making (and eating) their own Arepas, and the children especially enjoyed learning and singing Spanish songs. Building on their Humanities lessons, Year 5 explored Middle Eastern culture, starting with a visit to Cambridge Central Mosque, which offered insight into Islamic traditions, art and architecture. Back at school, they experimented with intricate geometric designs, and took the opportunity to reflect on the relationship between faith and art across cultures.

Year 6 pupils took to the stage, refining their performances for Shrek Jr. Their dedication and energy promise an unmissable show! Meanwhile, Year 7 delved into Cambridge’s history, with expert-led sessions on the Fenlands and an interactive exploration of local artefacts. Year 8 pupils took their first steps in career exploration, listening to inspiring talks from parents in different professions and engaging in workshops on teamwork, problem-solving, and the evolving role of technology in the workplace. The afternoon saw them honing their debating and public speaking skills, developing confidence and critical thinking.

These experiences are central to our commitment to a broad and stimulating education, ensuring pupils are challenged, engaged, and inspired. As well as building experience in teamwork and leadership skills, AcE days also provide an exciting preview of our full Enrichment week (E-week) in the summer term.

Two young girls in green shirts are playing table tennis indoors. One girl raises her paddle triumphantly, while the other holds her paddle by her side. They stand next to a blue table in a sports hall with green curtains in the background.

A group of children in striped blazers and chef hats pose in a classroom. Some are standing, others are seated at desks. A whiteboard and a television are in the background with various papers and signs on the walls.

Two students in matching red and black striped blazers are presenting in a classroom. One holds a poster with drawings, while the other smiles and holds a piece of paper. Theres a visible digital timer on a screen in the background.

A group of children energetically performing on a wooden stage. Three children in the front wear different colored uniforms and strike playful, strong poses with clenched fists. Background features more children and a black curtain.

A group of children sit around a long wooden table in a library, surrounded by bookshelves. They are smiling and working on paper crafts, each with colorful paper and tools in front of them. Some are wearing red jackets.

A young girl in a red sports jacket examines a dark object while sitting in a classroom setting. She holds a notebook with sketches and notes. Other students in similar jackets are in the background, engaged in their own activities.

A group of children in black winter clothing and some red scarves pose for a photo outdoors. They stand on a gravel path with a grassy area and a large historic building with a tall tower in the background. Trees surround the scene.

Two children in school uniforms and hats are smiling while mixing ingredients in a bowl. They are wearing gloves and standing in a classroom with colorful decorations on the walls. A rolling pin and other utensils are on the table.

Four students in red and black striped blazers present diagrams drawn on large sheets of paper in a classroom. They stand around a wooden table with colored pens and notebooks. Shelves with blue bins are visible in the background.

A group of children performing on a stage, some wearing blue shirts, others in green, red, or black. They have their arms raised in unison against a backdrop of foliage. A child in a red shirt is elevated at the back, also with raised arms.

A group of five smiling children in red uniforms sit on chairs in a room. The central three hold a large, woven basket. The background features a white wall with a radiator below.

Four children in red jackets play outside on a wet pavement. Three jump or run into red hoops on the ground, while one leans down in a hoop. Bicycles are parked in the background near a transparent shelter.

Four children sitting on a bench, smiling, wearing jackets against a backdrop of greenery. Two hold packaged snacks, and one holds a lunch container. Theyre dressed in casual outdoor wear, enjoying a break together.

A child wearing a chefs hat and school uniform, including a tie, mixes ingredients in a bowl with blue gloves on. They are in a classroom with colorful skeletal posters and cabinets in the background.

Students in a classroom are wearing matching striped blazers. Some have white chef hats. They are standing and appear engaged, with one student raising their arms. The room has decorated walls and desks with papers and supplies.

A group of children in red jackets standing inside a building with a unique wooden ceiling design. Large windows in the background let in natural light. The children appear to be listening attentively.

Three children in red jackets are sitting at a yellow table, working on art projects with cut-out shapes and paper. They are focused on drawing and cutting, with various art supplies scattered around. Bright classroom environment in the background.

A man in a suit is speaking to a group of students seated in a classroom. The students are wearing black and red striped blazers. There is a large screen and a whiteboard with Hello written on it in the background.

A child wearing glasses and a red jacket sits at a desk in a classroom. They are working on a craft project with cardboard and paper. Shelves with colorful materials are visible in the background.

Five young boys in a gym are playing with large yellow and green balls. They are all wearing yellow polo shirts and dark pants. The floor has red and green lines, and there is a basketball hoop and a net in the background.

Two smiling children in school uniforms and aprons mix dough in a bowl. They have stickers on their cheeks. Behind them, other students work at a counter surrounded by educational posters and colorful cabinets.

Four young boys are sitting at a table in Michaelhouse Café, holding up small treats. Two are wearing red shirts, one in green, and one with a black jacket. Bottled drinks are on the table, which is covered with a paper cloth. A large café sign is behind them.

A group of children in colorful shirts, some wearing headphones, stand together singing in a music room. Music stands and classroom decor are visible in the background, with a bulletin board and various posters on the walls.

Children in red uniforms sit at tables engaged in an arts and crafts activity. They are focused on building and decorating cardboard boxes with various craft materials. The classroom setting includes additional colorful supplies and chairs.

A modern building with intricate wooden arches and Arabic script at the top. A group of people in red and black clothing stand near the glass entrance. In the foreground, a stone fountain and two wooden benches are visible.

Two children in school uniforms are smiling while mixing dough in a classroom. They are wearing gloves and surrounded by baking tools, including a rolling pin and cookie cutters. Other children are also engaged in similar activities in the background.

A young boy in a red jacket focuses on drawing with a pencil at a table covered in a yellow cloth. Other children in red outfits are also engaged in activities in a colorful classroom setting. Art supplies and decorations are visible in the background.

Five children in school uniforms sit in wooden pews inside a church. Behind them are stained glass windows and religious plaques. One child raises their hand enthusiastically. The setting appears calm and light-filled.

A person stands on a stage behind a podium decorated with faux stone and floral arrangements. They are raising one hand, as if delivering a speech or presentation, against a backdrop of black curtains. The room has a wooden panel design.

Three students in striped blazers present a project in a classroom. One holds up a poster while another holds notes. They stand around a wooden table with art supplies. Blue cubby shelves are visible in the background.

A group of students in sportswear are on stepped platforms, enthusiastically dancing and moving. They wear different colored outfits, including red, black, and blue, against a dark backdrop. One student in blue is wearing headphones.

An older man with gray hair and glasses shows an open book with illustrations to a young boy in a red jacket. They are surrounded by tall bookshelves filled with various books in a dimly lit library.

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Liverpool Music Trip

On Wednesday morning, 47 of our pupils set off on an exciting musical adventure to Liverpool. The itinerary was packed with enriching experiences, including a guided visit to The British Music Experience on Thursday, rehearsals at Liverpool Parish Church, and an evening concert in the same venue. Today, they will have the privilege of performing a special concert at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, bringing joy to patients and staff alike. The afternoon features a Lunchtime Concert at Liverpool Cathedral, where the pupils will head to Liverpool Cathedral Choral Scholars singing in the Lady Chapel. After more rehearsals, they will sing at the Evensong Service in the Cathedral. Saturday will see our group of musicians complete their trip with a ferry across the Mersey and a visit to the Museum of Liverpool before heading home just after lunch. We look forward to hearing all about their experiences next week.

A large group of people, mostly wearing red jackets, pose together in front of a brightly lit Ferris wheel. They are outdoors on a paved area with leafless trees and buildings in the background. Some members of the group are smiling and making playful gestures.

A person wearing headphones plays an electric guitar seated in front of a large poster featuring a musician with a double-neck guitar. An electronic device on a stand is positioned nearby, possibly displaying music or instructions.

Three children sit on the floor, smiling and playing a card game. Clad in casual clothes with red and black jackets, they seem engaged in this informal gathering. In the background, other kids and adults interact, embodying a tailored education approach that blends learning with play.

A person with a colorful spiky wig and glasses plays an electric guitar while wearing headphones. They are seated on a stool in a room decorated with wall art. Another person sits nearby, also wearing headphones.

A person sits on a stool wearing headphones in an exhibit titled Anatomy of a Popstar. They are immersed in a tailored education experience, gazing at a large screen displaying graphics. The scene is bathed in blue lighting, creating an atmosphere of focused learning.

A group of eight young people, casually dressed and smiling, stand in front of a white brick wall with colorful circular patterns and bold letters spelling THE WALL. The vibrant pinkish lighting captures the essence of their camaraderie, as if celebrating a tailored education experience.

In a dimly lit room with a blue hue, a group of young people dance energetically, wearing casual clothes and sneakers. Shadows of an audience paint the wall behind them, enhancing the lively atmosphere, much like the spirit fostered by a tailored education.

Seven girls, clad in casual sportswear, smile and pose indoors, exuding camaraderie. Seated closely, they embody the spirit of A Tailored Education. A window and educational materials accent the background, highlighting their shared journey.

Five children sit on a bench in a dimly lit museum exhibit with blue lighting, absorbing a tailored education. The walls feature photos of musicians while a large screen displays a performer. A sequined outfit is displayed in the background, sparking curiosity and inspiration.

Three people, one wearing headphones, are inside a recording booth reminiscent of a tailored education environment. The person with headphones holds a microphone while the others watch in the soundproof room, which features dark walls and a wooden panel on one side, fostering focused creativity.

A large gray tour bus is parked on the side of a narrow road next to a brick house. The sky is overcast, and leafless trees line the street. Yellow lines mark the road near bus number 66898, ready to transport students seeking a tailored education experience.

Amidst a brightly lit room, a person is playing guitar while wearing headphones, seated beside another person using a tablet. A large poster of a guitarist graces the background. Embracing the spirit of A Tailored Education, the musician gives a thumbs-up and smiles warmly.

A group of children wearing red jackets are smiling and waving inside a bus, on their way to enjoy a tailored education. They are seated in two rows, with belongings like coats and bags around them. The well-lit interior provides ample space for their joyful journey.

A person wearing headphones and a blue hoodie is deeply immersed in a tailored education experience, playing a synthesizer with glowing green lights while focused intently on a computer screen. A black-and-white mural of a drummer adds rhythm to the scene in the background.

A person wearing headphones is immersed in playing a keyboard synthesizer, surrounded by the green glow of the instrument. The screen above reads Learn Keyboard, offering notes for a tailored education in music. They sport a white sweater with red stripes, fully engaged in their creative journey.

A group of young musicians in striped blazers play brass and woodwind instruments in a shopping center. A conductor stands in front. Banners advertising the event are visible, and a small audience watches nearby.

A person immersed in a tailored education experience wears headphones while playing an electronic drum set. Focused and holding drumsticks, they are surrounded by images of acoustic drums. Dim lighting casts a bluish hue over the scene, creating an atmosphere perfect for learning.

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Eco-Themed Artwork – We Need Your Help!

Our Year 3 and 4 pupils have been busy collecting blue packaging, particularly plastic wrappers, to create a striking piece of eco-themed artwork, depicting an underwater scene. The Eco reps and willing volunteers have been thoroughly cleaning the rubbish if it is dirty and sorting the huge amounts into different shades of blue and other colours. We would love your help! If you have clean, nut-free plastic packaging, especially blue (for the sea), but also yellow (sand), green (seaweed), and pink/orange (coral), please drop it off at the collection point under the stairs by the Bursary in School House. Thank you for supporting this creative and environmentally conscious project!

Five children wearing striped school uniforms, smiling and holding up various snack packages, including crisps and cookies, while standing in a classroom with shelves of colorful books in the background.

Children in red and black striped uniforms sort blue plastic waste items on tables in a classroom with blue chairs. A bulletin board with paper shirt decorations is visible in the background.

A group of smiling children in red and black striped uniforms gather around a table filled with snacks and stationery. They are in a classroom with colorful wall decorations. Some children are holding items from the table.

Children in striped uniforms sort a large pile of empty snack packets on a table in a classroom. Some are examining the packets, while others are focused on the task. Shelves with books can be seen in the background.

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In Lessons This Week…

There has been plenty of new knowledge and skills being gained across all year groups this week. Year 4 and Year 5 pupils have been building their confidence with fractions in Maths, working through real-world applications of these key concepts. In Year 6 Art, pupils have been busy designing shields for Shrek Jr, bringing their creativity and imagination into the production. In Foundation Maths, children have been learning how to measure with a ruler, with our youngest learners developing key early numeracy skills. Meanwhile, our most senior pupils in Year 8 Science lessons have focused on the principles of pressure in Physics, with hands-on experiments helping to reinforce their understanding. In Year 4 English, pupils have been immersing themselves in the icy landscapes of Antarctica, using rich descriptive writing to bring these distant and striking environments to life.

Healthy Eating

A representative from our caterers Chartwells visited the Year 4 children on Thursday, talking to them about how the right nutrition can positively impact physical and mental health. They were reminded of the ‘Eatwell’ Guide which shows what proportion of what we eat should come from each food group to achieve a healthy, balanced diet. The pupils also learned how ‘Eating The Rainbow’ involves eating fruits and vegetables of different colours every day. They then made and ate wraps filled with a mixture of vegetables from the rainbow – with some children even trying beetroot for the first time!

Students in red and black striped uniforms sit at tables assembling wraps with various fillings. A girl in the foreground smiles, holding her wrap. Others are focused on adding ingredients. A bottle of sauce is visible on the table.

Children in red and black striped blazers are standing at a table, assembling pizzas on dough bases. They are focused on adding ingredients like cheese and vegetables. The room has educational posters on the walls and blue chairs.

Children in red and black striped uniforms are assembling wraps at a counter. Each child is placing vegetables on a tortilla. A tray with various ingredients is on the table. The setting appears to be a classroom or cooking area.

Children in red and black striped uniforms are making wraps at a table in a classroom. Ingredients like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and shredded lettuce are arranged on plates. A teacher stands nearby, overseeing the activity.

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Gymnastics

Mrs North writes,

“The last two weekends have been packed with excitement for our gymnasts.

On 2nd February, five teams represented St Faith’s at the East Regional Team Trios Finals, and four teams received medals. Three teams won their category and are advancing to the national finals in Stoke-on-Trent on 7th and 8th March.

Our U11 mixed team received a special mention for their sporting behaviour during the event. They watched every performer attentively and clapped for all participants, irrespective of the school they represented. The organisers were so impressed that they asked the team to stand up for a specific special mention and applause from the other gymnasts.

The following weekend, we travelled to Elstree with six teams. On Saturday, our boys competed in the Independent Schools National Finals. In the U9 boys’ category, despite having three members from Year 2 (Under 7 age group) in our team, we finished in 3rd place, receiving bronze medals. In the U11 age group, we finished 2nd, and Hugo was crowned U11 boys’ champion. In the U14 age group, we won the team competition, and one of our pupils was crowned individual champion. Special congratulations to two more of our boys, one for gaining a 6th place medal and one for collecting the silver medal.

Our U11 girls’ team had a really lovely experience in the Challenge Cup. There was a very creditable individual 8th place, and the team finished 6th overall. The girls celebrated by eating together afterwards.

On Sunday, the U13s participated in the U13 Premier Competition. They finished 10th overall and gained excellent marks for the group routine, taking 8th place honours. A special thanks goes to one of our pupils who stepped in on Friday to learn the sequence in 30 minutes. She really saved the day.

The Under 10 gymnasts were in great form in their competition. They took medals in group and overall team competitions. One of our gymnasts finished 10th, and another was crowned individual champion. It was an incredible day, and the Under 10 team was applauded for their most sporting, considerate, and polite behaviour throughout the competition.”

Gymnastics 1

Gymnastics 2

Four young girls in matching gymnastics outfits hold a trophy and shield, smiling proudly. They stand in front of a blue wall, each wearing a green medal.

Four boys wearing red jackets and medals stand in a gymnastics club holding a trophy. Behind them are gymnastic equipment and the wall reads Chelmsford Gymnastics Club.

Three young gymnasts in red and black outfits pose with medals in a gymnastics club. The center person holds a trophy. Gym equipment is visible in the background. The sign reads Chelmsford Gymnastics Club.

Four boys in matching gymnastics attire stand in a gym holding medals. They are in front of a Chelmsford Gymnastics Club sign, surrounded by gymnastics equipment. One boy holds a trophy, and they all smile for the camera.

Four smiling gymnasts in black and red uniforms stand arm in arm, each wearing a medal. They are in a gymnastics facility with Chelmsford Gymnastics Club on the wall in the background, along with equipment like bars and mats.

A group of gymnasts in matching uniforms pose for a group photo in a gym. They are surrounded by gymnastics equipment like a pommel horse and uneven bars. The gymnasts are smiling and sitting or standing together on mats.

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U13 Boys’ Hockey

Mr Johnson writes,

“The U13A boys travelled to Framlingham College for the IAPS regional rounds, with a top-two finish securing a place at the National Finals. A delayed start due to frost meant quick back-to-back matches, but some gritty performances and last-minute goals earned the team a spot in the quarterfinals. After a tense match that went to extra time and a golden goal, the boys showed great determination to claim a hard-fought victory and advance to the semifinals. Unfortunately, they lost to the eventual worthy winners, Framlingham, who played excellent team hockey.

The County Cup followed on Thursday. After a slow start, the boys progressed to the semifinals, where they faced King’s College School, Cambridge. Despite executing their tactics well and showing energy and desire, they couldn’t capitalize on their chances and lost 2-1. However, they won their 3rd/4th play-off against St John’s College School with a precisely executed penalty corner in the final moments of the game.

This group should be incredibly proud of their contribution to hockey at St Faith’s. Having been National champions in Year 7, this is undoubtedly one of their highlights.”

A group of young boys in matching red and black sports uniforms stand and lie on a blue field hockey pitch. Two boys wear protective goalkeeper gear. They are smiling and posing with arms around each other. Trees and buildings are visible in the background.

U11 IAPS Netball

Last Friday, the U11 girls’ netball team played in the IAPS regional tournament at St Joseph’s College, Ipswich. The girls were a credit to the school and played some great netball throughout the day, finishing second in their group and getting through to the Cup quarter finals where they were knocked out. The results are displayed in the sidebar of this newsletter.

Six girls in red sports uniforms stand together under a netball hoop indoors. Two hold a ball. Some wear red tops with letters GS and GD. Sports bags and water bottles are on the floor nearby. A brick wall is in the background.

Reception 2025 Breakfast

This morning, it was our pleasure to welcome some of the new St Faith’s families who will be joining the school for Reception 2025. A delicious breakfast was the perfect opportunity to sample St Faith’s catering and hospitality, as well as for parents to meet one another, and for members of the SFPA to introduce themselves. This is part of a series of ‘Friday Foundation Breakfasts’ taking place over the coming weeks: thank you for making the newest members of our community feel welcome.

And Finally…

As we head into the second half of February and our half-term break, the days are slowly getting longer, and the first signs of spring are beginning to emerge. The snowdrops are already in bloom, and soon the daffodils will follow, bringing with them a much-needed burst of colour and warmth.

Wishing you all a restful and refreshing half-term and I look forward to seeing everyone when term resumes on Monday 24th February.

With all best wishes,

Crispin Hyde-Dunn

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