This Week at St Faith’s

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At St Faith’s “our aim is for everyone to feel that they are treated equitably and supported to reach their full potential”. This week, our whole school assemblies explored the themes of equality and neurodiversity, fostering meaningful discussions among pupils.

March 8th was International Women’s Day and the assembly for Years 5-8 focused on gender equality. Despite much progress over the last century, there is still much inequality around the world. For example, according to a UN report, only 66% of countries today provide equal educational opportunities for boys and girls. Even in the UK, despite the Equal Pay Act of 1970, disparities in salaries between men and women persist in some sectors.

We also learned that the negative effects of climate change disproportionately affect women and girls in poorer countries. True to our school values of kindness and community, we can support women and girls around the world by making our own sustainable choices to help reduce carbon emissions.

In the assembly for Years 1-4, we were delighted to welcome four Year 11 pupils from The Leys, including two Old Fidelians, to help us celebrate Neurodiversity Week. Their inspiring message emphasised the importance of embracing differences and recognising the strengths that neurodiversity brings to society. The Year 11 pupils explained how no two brains work in exactly the same way, meaning that in any community, including our own school community, some of us will find some things easy that others find difficult, and vice versa. The pupils listened attentively and considered the ways in which a diverse community benefits from different thinking styles, for example in contributions to creativity and innovation. The Leys pupils, supported by their staff, introduced conditions like autism, dyslexia and ADHD. The session concluded with a reminder of the importance of mutual respect and understanding, and the opportunity for the pupils to ask questions, with the assembly leaving a lasting impression on our young learners.

A person in a suit speaks to a large audience of seated individuals in striped uniforms. Behind them is a stage with medieval-themed decorations and a projector screen displaying a gender symbols icon.

A presentation slide reads, What are the reasons for inequality? with an icon of a person surrounded by green arrows pointing outward. The slide is projected on a screen in a dimly lit room, with plants and decorations nearby.

A presentation slide lists reasons for inequality, including gender, religion, skin color, age, ability, sexual orientation and gender identity, where you live, level of education, language, and ethnicity. A decorative arch is on the right.

A woman stands in front of a projector screen displaying a question about leadership in top companies. The possible answers shown are: 52, 110, and 24. The setting suggests an indoor presentation or lecture.

A person stands in front of a slideshow presentation titled Neurodiversity - Celebrating our Differences. The slide features colorful human head silhouettes with various brain illustrations.

Four young men in dark blazers with a crest stand side by side in a room with wooden flooring and a blue curtain. They are smiling as they pose for the photo, and each wears a shirt and tie under their blazers.

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Foundation’s Steel Pan Workshop

This week the Foundation classes have been reading a story about a boy who travels to Jamaica for the first time to meet his cousins, uncles and aunties. To help us get a taste of the Caribbean culture, we gave the children the opportunity to try some exotic fruit such as mango and the chance to play the steel pans. Miss Kennerley, who leads the school and community steel bands, was more than willing to help and show Foundation the ropes. The foundation pupils listened to the demonstration and followed Miss Kennerley’s expert teaching. Everyone enjoyed being part of the ‘Foundation Steel Band’. The teachers were especially impressed with the pupil’s knowledge of letter names, which helped us play the correct notes. At the end of the session, we finished by dancing and playing along to some lively Caribbean music. Thank you, Miss Kennerley, please come again!

A woman demonstrates a steel pan drum to a group of young children seated on the floor. The children wear red and white uniforms, attentively watching. Additional steel drums and folded tables are in the background.

A group of young children in school uniforms joyfully play musical instruments in a classroom. A teacher plays the steel drums, and another plays guitar. A display shows a close-up of guitar strings. The room is decorated with educational posters.

Four young children in red sweaters play steel drums in a music classroom. They stand in front of blue drums, focused and engaged. Behind them, additional drums and a bulletin board are visible, creating a vibrant, educational setting.

Four young children play blue steel pans in a classroom with music posters on the wall. The children wear school uniforms, and there are more steel pans and various equipment in the background.

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1CSH Assembly

Ms Hendry writes, ‘Last Friday 1CSH’s assembly was all about performance. The children enjoyed reciting poetry, dancing and acting where they retold two Julia Donalson stories – Superworm and The Go-away Bird. We were so proud of how many lines they remembered and how clearly and loudly they spoke. Well done 1CSH.’

Children wearing red outfits and paper animal hats stand on stage holding hands. They appear to be performing in a school play. The background is a black stage curtain.

Children in red uniforms perform on stage. They stand and gesture energetically, with a green set design in the background. One child is in mid-jump, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere.

A young child in a red sweater and plaid skirt stands on a stage decorated with green foliage, performing in front of a seated audience of children wearing matching red outfits. A woman sits on the floor, facing the performer.

Children perform on a small stage decorated with green plants, while a teacher sits facing them, guiding the performance. The audience, all wearing red uniforms, sit on the gym floor watching the scene.

A group of children in red shirts and plaid skirts or shorts perform on a stage with a dragon-themed backdrop. They are standing in front of fake green grass, with expressions of excitement and joy.

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ABRSM Exams

This past week, musicians of St Faith’s tested their musical talents in the ABRSM exams, achieving numerous, passes, merits and distinctions from Initial grades to Grade 6. The examiner, an award-winning composer, was highly impressed by the quality of musicianship and playing he observed.

His compliments reflect the dedication and hard work of both the pupils and their teachers. The achievements in these exams are a testament to the vibrant Music Department at St Faith’s. Congratulations to all involved!

Keep up the fantastic work, and here’s to more musical successes in the future!

Junior Wind Band

Mr Gorick writes, ‘Last Friday at lunchtime, pupils in Years 3 and 4 were treated to a delightful performance by the Junior Wind Band during the Junior Assembly. A highlight of the assembly was a fabulous solo on the clarinet. Mr Dolby showcased the pieces the band has been working on this term and explained the benefits of learning wind and brass instruments. He emphasised the excitement of seeing what pupils can achieve when they work together in an ensemble. Additionally, Mr Dolby demonstrated the bassoon and the oboe, adding to the variety of instruments on display.

The band featured a diverse range of instruments, including saxophones, flutes, cornet, trombone, tuba, and clarinets. The performance was hugely encouraging, showcasing the talent and dedication of our young musicians. Members of the Junior Band will eventually move into the Concert Band, and we are already very excited about the potential of the Concert Band for the future.’

Watch the video

A school band performs onstage, with young musicians playing wind instruments like saxophones and trumpets. They are wearing matching red and black striped uniforms. A teacher stands nearby, and students in similar attire watch from the audience.

A school band of young students in red and black striped uniforms performs on a stage. They are playing various instruments, including saxophones and a tuba. In front, a seated audience watches in a gymnasium setting with stage decorations.

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Lord of the Flies

Mrs Hudson writes, ‘Year 8 have been studying the novel ‘Lord of the Flies‘ this term. Having written a brace of impressive essays looking at the change in behaviour caused by a lack of authority figures, the pupils moved on to creating board games inspired by the novel. From ‘Monopoly – Lord of the Flies Edition’ to completely unique island-based strategy games, the variety and quality of the games has been very impressive. The pupils had a wonderful time creating their projects and then enjoyed swapping games and testing out one another’s creations!’

Four students in matching red and black striped blazers sit at a classroom table engaged in a group project. They are working on a colorful poster with various drawings. Bulletin boards with notes and a map are visible in the background.

Students in black and red striped uniforms sit at desks in a classroom, engaged in a project involving cardboard and various materials. One student focuses on writing, while others work with colorful papers and small items.

Four boys in red and black striped blazers are sitting at a table in a classroom. They are engaged in playing a board game together. Shelves with books and various supplies are in the background.

A student in a striped blazer is seated at a desk, writing on a colorful paper with charts. There are various materials on the table, including cards, a box, and a tablet. Other students are visible at surrounding desks.

Two students sitting at a classroom table working on a colorful project. They are surrounded by papers, markers, and calculators. Other students in striped blazers are visible in the background. The environment appears to be a busy, creative classroom.

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UKMT Team Challenge

Mrs Rainsford writes, ‘On Wednesday, four Year 8 pupils took part in the UKMT (UK Mathematics Trust) Team Challenge. There were 18 schools competing, and our pupils showed tremendous resilience and determination as they approached the different tasks. After some thought-provoking starter questions, they faced four rounds: group, shuttle, relay, and cross number. They started with a round comprising 10 challenging questions which they were required to work on as a group. In the second round, they faced the shuttle round; one pair had questions 1 and 3, and the other pair had questions 2 and 4. Pairs passed the answers on as they completed them; the answer for question 1 was needed to answer question 2, and so on. There were 4 rounds within the shuttle and bonus marks were awarded for each one for finishing within the 6-minute timer. The group were split into pairs again for the cross-number round; one pair finding the ‘across’ clues and the other, the ‘down’ clues. To end the day, the relay round challenged the pupils to answer questions to earn the next question for their pair; this was an exciting round with pupils moving around the room to the markers at the front. It was a super day, and the St Faith’s pupils were fantastic ambassadors for the school.’

Four boys in red and black striped blazers stand outside a brick building with solar panels on the roof. They are smiling and wearing school uniforms, including ties and gray pants. A large stone sculpture is on the left.

Four students in matching red and black striped blazers are seated at a table, focused on a chessboard and papers. They appear engaged in a collaborative activity, possibly strategizing or solving a puzzle.

A group of students in red and black striped blazers sit around desks collaborating on a task. Papers, cups, and other materials are on the desk. Some students are focused on writing, while others are conversing. There are people in the background.

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School Council

Mrs Hudson writes, ‘The School Council met on Monday to continue their work in collecting our ‘pupil voice’ regarding St Faith’s exciting after school activities programme. This has been a two-year long project, with the School Council providing termly feedback on the spread and variety of activities on offer. The pupils gave very thoughtful and representative feedback for the Summer Term programme.’

Art Club Creations

Mrs Scott writes, ‘Over the past five weeks, the Art Fun Club have been working really hard on some beautiful snowdrop paintings, demonstrating both creativity and patience in their work.’

A group of children in school uniforms proudly hold up their green artwork in a classroom filled with colorful decorations and art supplies. They are gathered around a large table covered with a yellow cloth.

Six watercolor paintings of white flowers with green leaves, arranged in two rows on a gray surface. Each painting features a variation of the floral theme, with loose and expressive brushstrokes.

A child, wearing a red and blue jacket, holds a painting of snowdrop flowers. Behind them is a screen displaying a photo of real snowdrops and various colorful artwork on the walls.

A young child in a school uniform holds up a painting of white flowers with green stems on a grassy background. They stand in front of a classroom display board with various pictures and textures.

A young girl in a school uniform holds a watercolor painting of snowdrops. She stands in front of a screen displaying a photo of real snowdrops. The background shows colorful artwork on the walls.

A young person in a red jacket holds a painting of plants and flowers. Behind them is a digital display showing an image of flowers, and below are various art pieces and magazines pinned to the wall.

A child in a school uniform holds up a painting of white flowers on a green background, covering their face. Behind them are colorful classroom storage units and a paper press machine.

Five watercolor paintings of white flowers with green stems are displayed on a light gray floor. The paintings vary slightly in composition and detail, showcasing green backgrounds with flowers in bloom. Chair legs are partially visible at the top.

A child in a school uniform holds up a watercolor painting of green plants with white buds. Behind them is a digital display showing a photograph of similar plants with white flowers.

A child wearing a school uniform holds a painting of white flowers with green stems. Behind them, a digital screen displays an image of similar white flowers. They smile proudly in a classroom setting.

A young girl with glasses and a red shirt smiles while holding a watercolor painting of white flowers. Behind her, a digital screen displays a close-up of a similar flower. Art supplies and drawings are visible in the background.

A child in a red jacket holds up a painting of snowdrops in front of a screen displaying a photo of the same flowers. They are smiling, and there are various artworks and photos on the wall behind them.

A young girl with light hair and a school uniform holds up a painting of white flowers with green stems, standing in front of a screen displaying a similar image. The background includes various small artworks.

A child smiles while holding a painting of flowers. Behind her, a classroom monitor displays a close-up photo of a flower. The walls are decorated with colorful artwork, including animal and abstract designs.

A child in a red jacket holds up a painting depicting multiple birds in green grass. The background shows a screen and colorful artwork on the wall.

A young girl in a school uniform smiles while holding up her painting of snowdrops. Behind her, a screen displays a similar image of snowdrops. The setting appears to be a classroom with various art and posters on the walls.

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Speech and Drama Tea-time Recital

Miss Tucker writes, ‘Last Friday parents were treated to a Tea-time recital from Speech and Drama pupils who shared some of the work they have been doing over the last three months. Pupils showcased a tremendous diversity of performances: poems about magic cats and sharks, alongside a Shakespeare speech taken from A Midsummer Night’s Dream and acting scenes from Fantastic Mr Fox, taking a ballet exam and a scene from Hansel and Gretel to name but a few.

We look forward to seeing their skills develop even further next term before many of our pupils will take their exams in the summer. Thank you to all of the families who came to support the children.’

A person wearing a red shirt balances on a table, reaching upward with both hands. Onlookers sit in front, watching the performance. The room is decorated with bunting and contains a flip chart and various objects on tables.

Young girl stands in front of a table holding a puppet, speaking to an audience. Colorful bags hang on the left; a flip chart is on the right. Audience members in striped clothing are partially visible in the foreground.

Two children sit on chairs on a stage wearing matching black outfits. They are engaged in conversation, each holding papers. Behind them is a table with colorful items and a flip chart. An audience, partially visible, watches them.

Young girl in red sportswear stands confidently in front of a group, speaking or presenting. Behind her is a table, a whiteboard with writing, and a variety of colorful items. The audience is seated, watching attentively.

A young boy wearing a red and black striped blazer and tie stands in a room with a blue carpet. Behind him are hung bags and folded tables. He is facing forward, and several black chairs are visible in the foreground.

A student in a striped blazer stands in front of an audience, speaking with confidence. Behind them are colorful bags, a flip chart, and a black curtain. The setting appears to be a school stage or classroom.

A young girl in a red and black striped blazer stands on a chair in a classroom, speaking energetically. Behind her are a flipchart, colorful decorations, and a table. A few people are seated, watching her.

A young girl in a red and black striped blazer stands speaking in front of an audience. Behind her are tables with assorted colorful bags and items. The room has a clock and triangular bunting along the wall.

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The Netball Caven Cup

Mrs Shaw writes, ‘Over the last 8 weeks, the Year 5 girls have competed in our internal Caven Cup Competition during their Netball games lessons on Fridays. The report and final results can be found in the sidebar of this newsletter.’

Years 5-8 House Cross Country Competition

Mr Mageean writes, ‘Following on from the Years 3 and 4 House Cross Country last week, it was the turn of the older pupils this week. Year 5 enjoyed their run on School House Field after being led through a groovy disco warm-up by Mrs North; whilst the Years 6, 7 & 8 pupils enjoyed the very spacious surroundings of the Latham Road playing fields, allowing them to compete over slightly longer distances.

In the sidebar are the results of the House competitions; the success of the top three individuals in each event will be celebrated at the end of term when they are presented with their medals.’

U11 & U14 Boys’ British Schools (BSGA) Floor and Vault Qualifying Championships

Miss Butler writes, ‘Last Sunday two of our boys’ gymnastics teams took part in qualifying championships for Floor and Vault. Both groups finished in 1st place and have qualified for the National Finals in Stoke on the May bank holiday weekend.’ What a wonderful achievement and we congratulate all the children for progressing to the National Finals.

A group of nine boys in red and black sportswear pose on a gym podium. Some hold medals and trophies, while others mimic biting the medals. They are in a gymnasium with exercise mats in the background.

A group of young boys in red and black sportswear pose indoors with trophies and medals. They are sitting and standing on gym equipment in front of a wall with gymnastic equipment visible in the background.

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In the Classrooms This Week

In Science, Year 8 pupils have been learning more about compounds, and have undertaken an experiment to produce the compound copper sulphate. Meanwhile our Year 6 Engineering pupils have been studying structure and flight, helping them to design and construct kites. Year 4 Humanities classes have been exploring the world’s oceans, whilst our budding Geographers in Year 3 have plotted the international date line and meridian line maps. In the creative arts, our Year 5 Art pupils have been taking inspiration from Wassily Kandinsky and the phenomenon of synesthesia—hearing music and seeing colours—creating some striking artwork inspired by The Lark Ascending by Ralph Vaughan Williams.

And Finally…

Excitement is building as Year 6 prepares for their highly-anticipated performance of Shrek Jr. – the Musical next week. With dazzling costumes, wonderful songs, and a talented cast ready to bring the story to life, it promises to be a show to remember.

Wishing you a peaceful and happy weekend,

With all best wishes,

Crispin Hyde-Dunn

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