This Week at St Faith’s

Academic Extension (AcE) Day

On Thursday, pupils in Years 3 to 8 enjoyed being ‘off-timetable’ for our first Academic Extension (AcE) Day of the year. AcE Days are a key feature of our ambitious and rounded education, forming part of a wider enrichment programme that culminates in E-week during the summer term — a week of exploration and challenge. This includes, for Years 7 and 8, the opportunity for overseas trips. The aims of the programme are to extend and deepen pupils’ understanding both within and beyond the curriculum, while nurturing skills in communication, teamwork, leadership and creative thinking.

Year 3 pupils brought ancient history to life, donning Egyptian costumes and immersing themselves in activities such as writing hieroglyphics, drawing cartouches, sculpting scarab beetles from clay and learning traditional Egyptian dance. The scarab beetle, a symbol of renewal and rebirth, provided a particularly rich link to their studies.

In Year 4, pupils used their AcE time to focus on rehearsals for their pantomimes — short, lively performances they have been developing in Drama lessons and will present to parents on Thursday 4^th December. The children were involved in dance and singing rehearsals, as well as trying on their costumes and making tickets for family members inviting them to the shows.

Year 5 became Eco Detectives for the day, taking part in four themed workshops — Recycling, Marine Litter, Sustainable Eating and Habitats — led by visiting environmentalist Philip Hunton from Green Up Your Act. In each session, pupils investigated real-world environmental issues and created responses drawing on their studies in Science, Maths, Engineering and Art. The day concluded with a reflective plenary session in which pupils discussed what they had learned and how they might make a difference.

Meanwhile, Year 6 were extending their Geography curriculum on Rivers. Due to the weather on the day, the outdoor part of the Rivers Study had to be cancelled, but the children were still able to complete a variety of analytical and evaluative activities related to their rivers project. These included designing their own River Board Game, answering River Quest questions, as well as creating and annotating a sketch map of Hobson’s Brook and carrying out pollution experiments on samples of river water.

For Year 7, the focus was firmly on engineering and wellbeing. Pupils developed their understanding of rocket design, using compressed air as the propellant. Each group built a rocket with an airtight body, applying Newton’s third law to ensure a successful launch. They also explored the importance of stability and aerodynamics in achieving a safe and efficient flight — with test launches to take place in future Engineering lessons. Alongside this, pupils took part in a series of wellbeing activities designed to support reflection and balance.

Year 8’s AcE Day was both reflective and practical. In the morning, pupils took a happy trip down memory lane as they selected the photographs for their Yearbooks — a keepsake to celebrate their time at St Faith’s. The afternoon brought hands-on learning with First Aid training and an introduction to Sports Psychology, both encouraging self-awareness, resilience and teamwork.

Two children wearing ancient Egyptian costumes sit at desks in a classroom, shaping clay with their hands. The boy is focused on his work, while the girl smiles and looks to the side. Red paper and pencils are on the desks.

Two children in a classroom wear ancient Egyptian costumes. One is dressed as a pharaoh, painting at a desk, and the other wears an Anubis mask and poses with hands raised, mimicking an animal. Books and chairs are visible in the background.

Two children in a classroom show their ancient Egyptian-themed crafts: a girl holds a cartouche with hieroglyphs, while a boy displays a sheet covered in various hieroglyphic symbols. Classroom supplies are visible in the background.

Two children in ancient Egyptian costumes sit at desks in a classroom, smiling and working on crafts. One girl colors, while a boy shows a paper with Egyptian symbols. Other children and craft supplies are visible in the background.

Two young children participate in a classroom activity—one in a white dress with a necklace, raising her hand, and the other in an Egyptian-inspired costume, also with a raised hand, surrounded by other children.

Children dressed in ancient Egyptian-style costumes sit and participate in a classroom activity. Some are clapping, while one child poses with an arm outstretched. Classroom chairs and colorful decor are visible in the background.

Three children sit on the floor in a classroom, smiling and wearing shiny, gold and blue costumes inspired by Ancient Egypt. Green chairs and computers are visible in the background.

Four children sit on the floor in front of green chairs and computers, wearing ancient Egyptian costumes. One child in a white outfit and headscarf gestures excitedly, while the others smile and watch.

Two children in ancient Egyptian costumes sit on the floor, smiling and looking up. One wears a decorative blue collar and headpiece, while the other wears a black outfit with gold accents. They appear happy and engaged.

Two children in red jackets act out a scene indoors; one boy smiles while wearing a gold hook on his hand, and the girl facing him wears a green hat. Folded chairs are in the background.

A group of children sit in a circle on a gym floor, listening to two adults. The children wear red or light blue sports uniforms. Rows of empty chairs fill the background.

Children in sportswear sit and talk in a brightly lit classroom with blue carpet, decorated walls, and colorful banners. Some children are grouped in pairs while others watch or rest on the floor.

A smiling child in a yellow shirt is being fitted for a black and gold costume jacket by an adult, who is adjusting the front buttons. The scene appears to be backstage at a theater or performance.

Two children in a classroom: on the left, a girl in a yellow shirt holds a square craft; on the right, a boy in a red jacket holds a colorful project, with other kids working in the background.

A teacher demonstrates an activity to a group of attentive students gathered around tables with blue trays in a colorful classroom decorated with artwork and posters.

A teacher stands by a large screen showing an outdoor scene, giving a presentation to a group of children in matching red and black uniforms seated on the floor in a classroom.

A smiling child with dark hair and glasses sits at a table covered with art supplies, holding a rectangular craft project. Colorful art materials and drawings are visible in the background.

A collage of four images shows colorful fish crafts made from cork and foam shapes, each decorated with layered scales in various colors and buttons for eyes.

A group of smiling school children in matching black uniforms sit around desks in a classroom, working on papers and art supplies, with more students and colorful posters in the background.

A student leans over a desk, drawing with a pencil on a colorful paper covered in sticky notes, markers, and other school supplies.

Three boys in school uniforms stand in a classroom, smiling. Two hold colored paper strips, and the third holds a handmade board game titled To The Sea. Other students work in the background.

A handmade board game called Mysterious River is on a wooden table. The game board is decorated with a winding river, numbered spaces, and handwritten labels. A person’s hand holds blue cards next to the board.

Two young boys sit at a classroom desk playing a board game with dice and game pieces. One boy, wearing glasses and a red jacket, looks down at the board while the other boy, in a black jacket, watches intently.

Four young students stand indoors, smiling at the camera. Three wear black jackets and one wears a blue polo shirt. Three of them hold green, arrow-shaped objects. Safety glasses are worn by all. Classroom equipment is visible in the background.

Students work on hands-on science projects in a classroom. One student holds a model rocket, while another paints a craft with a pink tip and string. Supplies and tools are visible on the tables.

A student wearing safety glasses leans over a table, drawing lines on a piece of material. Nearby, model rockets made from light green tubes with red tips are visible. The setting appears to be a classroom or workshop.

Several children wearing safety goggles work on hands-on science or engineering projects at a table, using tools and materials, in a classroom or workshop setting.

A teacher sits at a table demonstrating something with his hands to a group of attentive students, most wearing jackets, including one labeled St Faith’s. The group is indoors, in front of a brick wall.

A group of students gather around a teacher at a table in a classroom, engaging in a hands-on science activity with colorful materials while a slideshow is displayed on a screen in the background.

A woman kneels on a gym floor demonstrating CPR on a mannequin to a group of seated children, who are watching attentively. Blue mats are placed on the floor.

A woman in a red shirt guides a boy in a yellow shirt, holding his shoulder, while another boy in black sits on a gym mat in a sports hall with a brick wall and blue padding in the background.

Two women stand and speak to a group of seated children in a gymnasium. One woman wears a red shirt and the other a black jacket. A basketball hoop is visible on the left wall. The children sit on mats, facing the speakers.

1 / 1

House Assembly: Consideration for Others

In Tuesday’s Latham House Assembly, pupils explored what it truly means to show consideration — not only towards friends, but also towards those we may not know well. Through stories and discussion, pupils explored practical ways to demonstrate kindness and empathy, from holding a door open to offering choices, and from patience and tolerance to apologising when we are wrong. These values and gestures help to shape the warm, respectful and inclusive community, that defines life at St Faith’s.

Buddy Sessions

Buddy sessions provide a valuable opportunity for older pupils to encourage and support younger pupils. As well as developing leadership and teamwork skills, the ‘Buddy’ scheme promotes social integration between year groups. The latest round of Buddy sessions took place on Tuesday. You can read more about the role of Buddies – and other positions of responsibility that our Year 8 pupils undertake – on our school website page, under the heading Prefects, Buddies & House Captains.

Three schoolgirls stand in a classroom. One girl, wearing a striped blazer, holds up a sign that says LIKE and smiles. The other two girls, in red and black uniforms, face her and appear to be engaged in conversation.

A teenage boy in a red-and-black striped blazer and red tie stands in a classroom, talking to two girls. Books and colorful decorations are visible in the background.

A young boy in a blue polo shirt kneels on the floor, holding a shaker, while other children sit around him in a circle. The focus is on the boy, with another child visible from behind in the foreground.

Two young girls sit cross-legged on a carpeted floor in a classroom, smiling and interacting with each other. They wear matching black pants and colorful jackets, and other children are partially visible nearby.

A boy in a red and black striped blazer and red tie holds a microphone and smiles while standing in a classroom. A woman in a green sweater sits nearby, watching him.

Two students wearing striped school blazers lean over a table, focusing on an activity. Other children in school uniforms watch in the background inside a classroom.

A young girl in a red jacket sits cross-legged on the floor, holding a large microphone, while other children sit in a circle around her, listening attentively.

1 / 1

Singing Tea-time Recital

Mr Symons and Ms Quinn write,

“On Monday Years 7 and 8 singing pupils gave a captivating Tea-time Recital, performing an impressive mix of repertoire that ranged from Schubert’s Der Lindenbaum to Bruno Mars’ Talking to the Moon. The Britten Room was filled with expressive solos and beautifully blended duets, each performance showing growing confidence, musicianship, and joy in sharing music with others.

For several pupils, this recital also formed part of their preparation for upcoming music scholarship auditions, and it was wonderful to see such maturity and focus in their performances. For other pupils, this was their first opportunity to perform in a recital, helping to develop the poise and confidence which will serve them not only in future musical pursuits, but in all aspects of leadership and collaborative teamwork. Most of all, it was a reminder of the courage it takes to stand up and sing, and of how rewarding that can be.”

A student in a red and black striped blazer stands and speaks at a music stand in a classroom, facing an audience. Behind him is a blank interactive whiteboard and a bulletin board labeled “Steel Pans.”.

A student in a black and red striped blazer speaks at a podium in a classroom, facing an audience of seated adults and children. A bulletin board and large screen are visible on the wall behind her.

Two boys in red and black striped jackets perform at music stands in front of an audience in a classroom. A woman plays piano nearby. Colorful bulletin boards and a large monitor are visible on the walls.

Students in red and black striped uniforms perform music in front of an audience in a classroom. One student plays the piano, while two others stand at music stands. People are seated and watching attentively.

A young student in a red polo shirt speaks at a podium in front of a blank smartboard, with a few people seated and listening in a classroom setting.

A group of people seated in a classroom watch a woman singing beside a pianist at a black grand piano. Bulletin boards decorated with music-themed displays are visible on the back wall.

A student in a red and black striped blazer sings beside a piano, played by an adult. Audience members watch and record with phones. Behind them is a noticeboard with photos, text, and HIP HOP AND R visible.

1 / 1

Year 6 Science

Mrs Pritchard writes,

“Our Year 6 students have embraced the challenge of designing, piloting, and conducting their own independent scientific investigations. Their focus: exploring how the angle of a torch affects the length of a shadow. Working in small groups, pupils developed their own methods for measuring shadow length at different torch angles. This wasn’t just about results—it was about the scientific process. Students were encouraged to reflect critically on their approach, identifying why their initial methods might not have produced reliable data, encountering real-world challenges that scientists face every day. What followed was a brilliant display of resilience and scientific thinking. Pupils adapted their setups, refined their measurements, and worked collaboratively to ensure their data were both valid and robust. Their ability to evaluate and improve their methods demonstrated a mature understanding of the scientific process and a genuine curiosity about the world around them.”

1 / 1

Year 7 Poetry Recital

Ms Morris writes,

“Last week, more than 30 of our talented Year 7 pupils took to the stage for the annual Poetry Recital — a celebration of rhythm, language, and expression. From the timeless verses of Wordsworth and Shakespeare to the playful humour of Rosen and Dahl, pupils showcased an impressive range of poetry. Many even performed pieces they had written themselves, bringing their own creativity and voice to the spotlight. The performances were full of energy, fun, and confidence, making for a wonderfully engaging event that left the audience inspired and thoroughly entertained.”

English Schools’ Year 8 Cross Country Cup (Cambridgeshire Round)

Mr Mageean writes,

“Last Friday saw our Years 7 & 8 Boys and Girls Cross Country teams running in the first round of the English Schools’ Cross Country Cup. There was a fantastic turn out of many independent and state schools, with our pupils competing in races comprising more than 50 athletes.

First up were our Girls Team running 2100m. Such great runs from all of our pupils, saw them being rewarded with qualification for the Regional Round of the competition. The girls were only 8 points away from being placed as 1^st team and only 1 point behind Perse Upper. They are already excited about the next round where they are aiming to improve further, and they firmly have the two other Cambridgeshire teams in their sights. We wish the girls all the best when they compete in the Regional Round in Oxfordshire in November.

Our Boys Team were also keen to start well, with one of our pupils establishing his place in the top 5 athletes after the first 600m of the 2700m race. He then enjoyed a fantastic race, running alongside an Old Fidelian in the battle for 4^th place. The other St Faith’s vests were all very well packed together; a special congratulations to one of the boys who stepped in to the team at late notice. I expect that there were some tired legs the next morning! Well done to all our athletes, and a huge thank you to all the parents that came to encourage all our pupils and cheer our teams on.”

1 / 1

House Hockey & Football

This week there have been boys’ house football matches taking place for Years 3, 4 and 6 and girls’ house hockey matches for Years 6, 7 and 8. Playing for their respective Houses brings a great sense of pride and enjoyment to the children; our St Faith’s Learning Habits of Collaboration and Resilience are always at the fore during these occasions. Thank you to all parents who came to support the children and as usual, results are posted on to the SOCS portal.

Prep Open Morning Tuesday 21 October

On Tuesday morning, we were delighted to welcome a large number of prospective families to our Prep Open Morning. During the presentations to families, three of our Year 8 pupils spoke most eloquently about their time at St Faith’s. As a new initiative this year, we offered some activities for the younger visitors, where they were also joined and supported by some of our Year 5 pupils. Following the talks, Year 8 tour guides led families around the school, receiving many compliments for their warmth, confidence and communication skills. I am very grateful to them for being their ‘best selves’ and being such excellent ambassadors for St Faith’s.

A man in a suit speaks to an audience seated in a hall. Behind him is a large screen displaying a presentation slide titled At St Faith’s we value: listing Kindness, Community, and Excellence.

A woman stands and speaks in front of an audience in a lecture hall. She gestures with her hands. Several people sit behind her, and listeners face her from rows of chairs. A wooden podium and a computer are nearby.

A registration table with two signs and a red tablecloth sits in a large hall. Rows of chairs face a projector screen displaying an image, with some tables and chairs along the sides of the room.

A short piece of orange pool noodle with a carved smiley face sits on a pink mat, surrounded by crafting supplies on a table in a classroom or workshop setting.

A tabletop with art supplies, wooden rectangles, paintbrushes, and a painted tile featuring a black and red dragon holding a yellow and red shield. The background shows more supplies slightly out of focus.

A coloring sheet with a dragon outline and the text Bring your Wyvern to life with colour sits on a table, with colored pencils and more sheets in the background.

1 / 1

Pop-in & Play and Preschool Settling-In Sessions

On Monday, we held the second Settling-In session for new Preschool pupils joining us after half term. It was wonderful to observe their enthusiasm and growing confidence as they explored their new surroundings. It was clear to see valuable early connections being built with staff and classmates ahead of their official start on 4^th November.

Wednesday’s Pop-in & Play session once again filled our Early Years playground and classrooms with laughter and excitement. These informal playtimes have become so popular that each event now reaches capacity very quickly. Details of upcoming sessions will be shared on our website and social media channels (Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook).

And Finally…

There is growing excitement amongst our Year 5 pupils as they prepare for tonight’s highly anticipated “Sleepover’ event”. The evening is a great way to round off the half term, with a treasure hunt in the school grounds, laboratory experiments, trampolining in the sports hall and then a pizza supper. After a hearty breakfast on Friday morning, the children will round off the sleepover event with visits from circus jugglers who share their skills, and the hugely popular ‘Reptile Experience’ – giving the pupils a chance to learn about and see some remarkable creatures.

After the first half of term filled with treasure hunts, rockets, poetry recitals, pantomime rehearsals, and even a few visiting reptiles, I imagine everyone will be more than ready for a well-earned rest. We return to school on Tuesday 4^th November, and on Friday 7^th November, we look forward to the annual SFPA Fireworks – always a spectacular highlight of the calendar. Before then, whether you are travelling, working or staying close to home, I hope the week brings you and your families an opportunity to rest, recharge and enjoy some time together.

With all best wishes,

Crispin Hyde-Dunn

Useful Links

Academic

The Arts

Pastoral

Pre Prep

Sport

Other