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This Week at St Faith’s

 

Enrichment Week 2026: A Celebration of Curiosity, Creativity, and Challenge

One of the highlights of the summer term is Enrichment Week (E-Week), when pupils step away from their normal timetables and enjoy a programme of activities designed especially for their year group. From outdoor learning and residential trips, to engineering, history, theatre, art and sport, the week provides opportunities to explore new interests, develop confidence, work alongside different classmates and build the curiosity and resilience that are so important beyond the classroom.

Learning Through Experience

Each year group’s programme is carefully planned to complement the curriculum, while offering something different from the normal school day. This year has once again provided a remarkable range of inspiring and enjoyable opportunities.

Year 3

Year 3 began their week with a trip to Flag Fen, stepping back in time to explore prehistoric life. Then at school, they celebrated a lively Roald Dahl Day, before turning their attention to environmental awareness during Sustainability Day. The week concluded with an area walk and mapping activities, helping pupils build confidence in their geography skills.

Year 4

Year 4 explored both science and history through a STEM Day and a trip to Mountfitchet Castle, where history was brought vividly to life. They also enjoyed a magical Harry Potter-themed day, before collaborating together on a creative art project, rounding off the week with swimming and games.

Year 5

Year 5 enjoyed a rich mix of outdoor learning and creative opportunities. A bushcraft day at Wandlebury encouraged teamwork and resilience, followed by a vibrant Cultural Dance Day. Pupils also enjoyed theatre skills workshops, before exploring Inuit art and finishing with energetic Powerhouse Games.

Years 6, 7 and 8

Many Year 6 pupils were on their residential trips to Kinver (please see Mrs North’s trip report below), Spain (Year 7) and Rome & Pompeii (Year 8), whilst the pupils from those year groups who remained in school took part in a fascinating forensic science programme (please see Mrs Pritchard’s article below), including a visit to the Whipple Museum. They also enjoyed drama and sports activities at The Leys, and later in the week a trip to the Lee Valley Hockey Centre (please see Mrs Thompson’s article below) and the Powerhouse Games.

Science Enrichment Day: CSI at St Faith’s

Mrs Pritchard writes,

“Monday saw an exciting and action-packed Science Enrichment Day, where our Year 6, 7 and 8 pupils became part of the St Faith’s CSI Forensics Team. Throughout the morning, pupils worked through a range of hands-on investigative activities, including hair analysis, DNA extraction, chromatography, flame testing and even deciphering a pigpen code. Their mission was to analyse the evidence carefully and determine which suspect had stolen the coveted Science Excellence Trophy.

Later in the morning, we were delighted to welcome pupils from a local primary school, who joined our students for a series of collaborative, problem-solving challenges. Working together, they designed and tested mechanical structures (many to destruction!), used microscopes to create detailed biological drawings and examined fingerprint patterns to discover whorls, loops and arches. All participants successfully earned their St Faith’s Science Passport, recognising their enthusiasm and hard work.

In the afternoon, our St Faith’s pupils visited the Whipple Museum, where they explored a fascinating collection of scientific curiosities. Working in teams, they completed a treasure hunt, applying their observational skills and scientific knowledge to answer a series of questions.

It was a wonderfully busy and engaging day, filled with curiosity, collaboration and discovery — thoroughly enjoyed by all involved.”

Lee Valley Hockey Trip

Mrs Thompson writes,

“Pupils from Year 6, 7 and 8 enjoyed a fantastic day at Lee Valley yon Wednesday, watching England Women take on Spain and England Men face Pakistan in the FIH Pro League. They were treated to brilliant goals, fast‑paced play and incredible skill from the best teams in world hockey. They loved getting their mini sticks and flags signed by players from all four nations, and even met Mr Thompson’s old rival from Pakistan, once regarded as the best player in the world.

A particular highlight was seeing Old Fidelians Katie Curtis and Tess Howard, along with Old Leysian James Albery, proudly representing their country on the international stage. An inspiring and proud moment for us all.

The pupils conducted themselves superbly throughout the day, managing the heat sensibly, enjoying ice creams, cheering loudly for England and being an absolute pleasure to take. To top it all off, they even appeared on the TV coverage, and one very lucky Fidelian had the honour of delivering the match ball onto the pitch for the men’s game. A memorable day all round.”

Whole School Community Day

The week concluded on Friday with a Whole School Community Day, bringing pupils in school across a range of year groups together for shared activities, including community projects and end‑of‑week celebrations. It was a fitting way to round off a week in which pupils had enjoyed learning together in so many different ways.

Year 6 Trip to Kinver

Mrs North writes,

“With temperatures due to break all June records in the East Midlands area, there was a question as whether the trip would be able to run. However, with the bonus of air conditioning on our coaches the 78-strong group, accompanied by 9 teachers, set off to Kinver in high spirits. Rugby services provided a comfort break and a chance to spend a little pocket money. The remainder of the journey passed quickly and before we knew it, we were unloading the coach and carrying everything to the campsite. The children met Len and his team from ‘Head For The Hill’. Their immediate job was to learn to erect their tents for the week. A quick lunch break of hot dogs restored our energy and by the first afternoon activity a village had been built.

Gutter ball, archery, shooting and den building were soon underway finished by an impromptu water game. Everyone changed their shirts for dinner and already had so much to say to each other about the fun they had enjoyed that day. Free play followed by a campfire rounded off the day and finally darkness fell and children climbed into their tents, ready to experience a night under canvas with their friends. Muntjacs barked and foxes cried, sheep baaa’d and children slept.

Inevitably the time between the last child falling asleep and the first child waking up was less than 3 hours! – there were a few bleary-eyed teachers on Tuesday. With temperatures due to get even higher, lots of provision was made to keep the children safe on camp. We were blessed with so much shade, a cool breeze and lots of mini water activities. The bonus for all the children was a chance for a cooling shower on Tuesday night in addition to their river day shower. Everyone was very happy! On Wednesday and Thursday the groups spent one day on the river and one day on the climbing tower. What a great experience! As I write this, we are about to celebrate House Spirit Night and the following night is a Jungle themed night with a pizza party. Our Friday morning hike and hot chocolate at the campfire will round off the week perfectly. Thanks must go to the incredible team of Miss Butler, Mrs Oxborough, Miss Coyle, Mrs Brocklehurst, Mrs Buchanan, Mr Hill, Mr North and Miss Sparsis, who have gone out of their way to make this experience extraordinary for a great group of pupils.”

We do hope you enjoy the photos taken throughout the week, and that your child enjoys sharing the exciting stories of their activities with you. Most importantly, we hope they’ve had a memorable and inspiring E-week.

Reception: Wild Place Open House

This week the Reception classes were delighted to welcome some of our grown-ups to join the children for a typical ‘Wild Place’ session. As part of their time in Reception, pupils regularly visit ‘The Wild Place’, where they enjoy Forest School activities led by Miss Harder.

Parents were invited to see first-hand the children’s engagement in these sessions and to share some of the activities that take place in the Wild Place, culminating in tea in Tom’s Garden. The glorious weather provided the perfect backdrop to time spent enjoying the school’s designated Wild Place.

‘Meet the Class’ Reception 2026

The new Reception children for September 2026 came into Southfield today to ‘Meet the Class’. Whilst the children were in the Reception classrooms with their new classmates, their parents enjoyed refreshments and had the opportunity to meet members of the catering and Health Centre teams, the SFPA and, of course, to chat to one another.

Although the children have already visited the Pre Prep on previous occasions, today was the first time that they had met everyone in their new class, as well as meeting their form teachers for September. We are looking forward to welcoming the next generation of St Faith’s pupils, who are already showing such enthusiasm for starting school.

It was a timely reminder that, whilst one group of pupils is only just beginning their journey at St Faith’s, another is preparing to take its next steps beyond the school. I refer here of course to our Year 8 pupils and their parents, who are preparing for their final week at St Faith’s. For some pupils and parents, their association with St Faith’s stretches back to the Reception classes nine years ago, and even earlier for those with older siblings. Over the coming days there will be many celebrations and special occasions to savour. The summer term will culminate in our Prizegiving next Friday, 3rd July.

Green Flag Award 2026 – Distinction for St Faith’s

We are delighted to share that St Faith’s School has been awarded the Green Flag Award 2026 with Distinction, recognising the outstanding commitment shown by pupils and staff to environmental sustainability over the past year.

At the heart of this success there has been our enthusiastic and dedicated Eco Committee. Pupils have shown outstanding leadership, giving up their own time to organise book sales and wellbeing events, lead meetings, and support younger children in the school gardens. Their passion for making a difference has been evident throughout the year.

Partnership work has also played an important role, particularly with Cultivating Change, helping pupils deepen their understanding of how time outdoors supports wellbeing and mental health. Highlights included the memorable “Green Up Your Act Day” for Year 5 and a range of hands-on initiatives, from growing vegetables for the kitchen to leading assemblies and awareness campaigns such as Plate Waste Day.

Across the school, environmental awareness has grown significantly. Litter-picking initiatives, recycling and upcycling projects, and regular communication through assemblies, newsletters and social media have helped involve the whole community. Pupils are now more informed and proactive, particularly in areas such as water conservation and sustainable travel.

Our Pre Prep pupils have also embraced eco learning with great enthusiasm, taking part in nature-based activities such as planting acorns, bug hunting and pond-dipping. They also supported the wider school efforts by helping the older children in the garden.

This award is a fitting recognition of the commitment shown by pupils, staff and the wider school community throughout the year.

Mrs Scott noted, “What has struck me about our delightful and diligent Eco Committee this year is their natural enthusiasm for all things Eco. They were committed from day one and attended many meetings throughout the year. At those meetings, they were invaluable when undertaking the environmental review process for the Green Flag Award. The pupils really had a voice and contributed. The knowledge they imparted was tremendous.”

Goblins Racing Team Shine at Ford Dunton!

Mrs Oxborough writes,

“Last Saturday, our Goblins racing team headed to the Ford Dunton Technical Centre in Essex for their second event of the season — and what a day it turned out to be!

After a lively team briefing, the action began with all pupils taking part in the slalom and drag races. Our Year 6 drivers then stepped up for the circuit race, delivering some thrilling wheel‑to‑wheel moments — with standout performances from two of our pupils. Although we narrowly missed a place in the circuit finals, spirits stayed high throughout.

The day concluded with a celebratory prize‑giving ceremony, where our team proudly collected 2nd place in the Slalom and were delighted to be named the Overall Winners of the Day.

Our pupils represented St Faith’s brilliantly — showing teamwork, determination, and great sportsmanship. A huge thank you to all the St Faith’s families who came along to cheer them on. Special appreciation goes to Mr Hutt for transporting the cars and Mr Hasell for his invaluable technical support.

A fantastic day of racing and achievement for everyone involved!”

A Musical Celebration to End the Year

Mr Gorick writes,

“As we reach the end of another busy and successful school year, we look forward to a real musical highlight: our Summer Concert on Monday 29th June at the University of Cambridge Concert Hall, West Road, beginning at 6.45pm.

The concert will celebrate the remarkable breadth of musical talent within the school, bringing together instrumentalists and singers from across Years 4-8 in an evening that showcases the hard work and achievements of our ensembles over the past year. The concert features over 120 pupils.

The programme spans an impressive range of styles, from Handel, Bach and Schubert to jazz, film music and contemporary classics. Highlights include The Great Escape from Junior Brass, Wipe Out from the Percussion Ensemble, Sing, Sing, Sing from the Jazz Ensemble, the iconic Kiss from a Rose by Seal performed by Chamber Choir, and City of Stars from Concert Band and Senior Voices. We are also delighted to feature Suite Antique by the distinguished Cambridge composer John Rutter, performed by the Purcell Ensemble.

With performances from Wind Band, String Orchestra, Brass Groups, Choirs, Jazz Ensembles, Flutissimo, the Fret Collective and many more, the evening promises something for everyone.

All are warmly welcome and no tickets are required. We hope pupils, parents, families and friends will join us for this fitting celebration of a wonderful year of music-making. We look forward to seeing you there.”

U11 Girls’ Cricket

Mr Thompson writes,

“Last Friday our U11A Girls’ cricket team set off to Bishop’s Stortford College for the East IAPS competition. The girls were going into the tournament having played 11 matches, and having won 10 of them. Despite this fantastic record they were still apprehensive about the day when boarding the minibus. Some great party tunes and excellent singing soon relaxed them, and they were fired up for the challenge ahead.

It was an incredibly hot day, starting at 10am and concluding at 4pm but despite the heat, there was some fantastic cricket played by all the schools attending. Our girls lost only one game all day – losing to Milton Keynes Prep who deservedly went on to win the cup. We did, however, win the shield competition which effectively meant we finished 5th in the tournament. An amazing day which fittingly finished an incredible season for this group of girls. It was a season of excellent results but, my overriding memory of this season will be the smiles and fun we had every session!”

St Faith’s Parents’ Association (SFPA) Summer Party

Last Saturday many members of our community came together for the annual SFPA Summer Party. It was a lovely seasonal opportunity to catch up with friends and enjoy one another’s company outside the school day.

Mrs Moses writes,

“Last Saturday the Gonville Hotel was the setting for this year’s SFPA Summer Party. We thank all our guests that came to our event and hope you all enjoyed the beautiful gardens for magic and mingling.

Many thanks to Paul and his creative team Lisa, Sophie, Nicky and resident DJ Dan. I hope that you enjoy this selection of photos from the event.”

And Finally…

It has been a week that has brought together many of the events and activities that make this time of year so special: new experiences, new beginnings and the excitement of looking ahead. As one group of children prepares to begin their St Faith’s journey and another prepares to take their next steps beyond the school, we are reminded that schools are always places of both beginnings and endings.

As this is the final newsletter of the academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our pupils, parents and staff for everything they have contributed to school life over the past year. The partnership between home and school is something we value enormously, and I am very grateful for the encouragement, support and goodwill that together make St Faith’s such a happy and purposeful community. I wish you all a happy, restful and enjoyable summer break. I look forward to welcoming pupils back to school on Thursday, 3rd September (Years 1–8), Friday, 4th September (Reception) and Monday, 7th September (Preschool).

Before then, I hope you enjoy the sunshine this weekend and look forward to seeing as many of you as possible during what promises to be a very special final week of term.

With all best wishes,

Crispin Hyde-Dunn