The magazine of Bredon School, Issue no 6 Welcome 3 A year of achievement End of Year 2017/2018 4 It has been a remarkable year at News round up 14 Bredon and I congratulate the pupils and dedicated staff team for Awards & accolades 16 their amazing achievements, both in and outside the classroom. Creative curriculum 17 A highlight of the year is Bredon’s Enrichment activities 20 top ranking for ‘value added’ Trips, adventures and discoveries 28 progress at Post-16, providing further evidence of the world- Sports 36 class schooling that characterises Special events and community involvement 46 this incredible community. To be the top school out of 4434 The Arts 55 in England and Wales is a tremendous achievement. Spotlight on 63 Bredon’s specialist provision Interviews with Head Students 67 is enhanced by the truly ‘Learning outside the classroom’ lies at the heart of Bredon and I am School photo 70 phenomenal breadth of activities always delighted by the range of activities and adventures that our available to pupils, showcased pupils take part in. In your words 71 in the following pages of The Bredonian magazine. As Roald Dahl once said: “The more risks you allow children to take, the better they learn to take care of themselves.” Here at Bredon, we As we say goodbye to Mr Claeys, believe that outdoor learning and discovery help our pupils develop who moves to another Cavendish important life skills, confidence and resilience. Education school in London, I would like to pay tribute to In true Bredon style, this academic year started with a vigorous 18km him and the fantastic contribution whole-school walk – which is always a wonderful occasion to spend he has made during his time time with new classmates and tutors. Throughout the year, there has as Headteacher. been a constant flow of pupils embarking on all manner of activities, far and wide. These range from overnight adventures, activity camps We are delighted to welcome and outdoor trips for our Lower School classes, to Duke of Edinburgh Mr Oldham who I know will focus Award training expeditions, camps and CCF trips for our older pupils. on providing an enriched and The pinnacle moment of these activities is seeing our Year 13 students distinct Bredon education for being awarded their Gold DofE badge at Buckingham Palace. pupils. I look forward to another successful year for Bredon. The Bredonian magazine has been produced to give you a flavour of all the varied and exciting things that happen at Bredon, many of which happen outside the classroom. We hope you enjoy reading it.

It has been another incredible year at Bredon and it has been a huge honour to work with such amazing staff and pupils. Very best wishes, Aatif Hassan, Chairman of Governors and Founder of Cavendish Education Mr Koen Claeys, Headteacher Sports DAY Our annual Sports Day fell on a particularly hot and sunny day in early July. With FAB (Friends at Bredon) on hand to provide refreshing cold drinks and cakes throughout the afternoon, the heat did not deter our athletes and there were some excellent results and performances across all year groups. Our photographer for the day, Mrs Haines, captured some great shots of our young sports people. get set...go!

Junior Fun Sports Day On your marks, get set, go! Our Junior School pupils displayed huge effort and determination throughout our Junior Fun Sports Day. Flat, beanbag, backwards and hoop-skip races proved great fun for all and it was wonderful to have so many supporters on the side lines to cheer on all the keen participants.

4 End of Year 2017/2018 End of Year 2017/2018 5 The Royal Three Counties Show category in the One to Watch in June is always a highlight for 2018 section. everyone involved in our 35- acre working farm and is a great Our pupils proudly showed our opportunity to showcase our livestock and took part in the pedigree livestock animals, all various parades, including the of which are fed and cared for Grand Parade, carrying the name by our pupil helpers. This year boards for different breeds. we took a selection of Scottish As well as setting up the stalls Blackface ewes, Badgerface for the livestock and looking Welsh Mountain sheep and Large after them for three days, pupils White gilt; we were delighted also enjoyed camping on the that our Large White gilt won first show ground and taking turns place in the National Rare and to prepare food for everyone Minority Breeds Show and was on the BBQ. also winner of the Modern Breed

Activity Week in June The Juniors enjoyed a great Year 8 visited Stratford-on- is an eagerly-awaited day of discovery at the West Avon, taking a boat trip Midlands Safari and Leisure Park, on the River Avon and event at Bredon which as well as taking part in cycling spending time at a butterfly sees pupils taking part and climbing activities around sanctuary. in numerous exciting school. activities. There Year 11 practised their Years 7, 8 and 9 enjoyed culinary skills, creating some were many trips and Residential Summer Camps at delicious Spanish food. adventures far and wide; Biblins Campsite on the banks here is a glimpse of some of the River Wye in The , experiencing activities of them. like kayaking, caving, bushcraft, paddle boarding and abseiling at Symonds Yat…to name a few.

Year 7 created beautiful silk banners at Art Studios which are now CISCO Academy students on permanent display in the organised their own LAN party. Dining Room. The Sixth Form enjoyed dry slope skiing and tubing in , crazy golf, Go Ape in The Forest of Dean, and the Cotswold Water Park and more Congratulations to Eloise B who besides. The week was rounded took fourth place in the Junior off with a pool party in the Pig Handler (age 13-16) class. glorious sunshine back at Bredon!

6 End of Year 2017/2018 End of Year 2017/2018 7 The Ballroom in The Manor by There was live entertainment the Lake in was throughout the evening, including the stunning venue for the a magician, casino, music and Masquerade Ball-themed dancing. School Prom. The Prom was a brilliant success On this glorious Summer’s and thanks must go to FAB who evening in June, pupils from helped fund the event and also Years 11, 12 and 13 enjoyed drinks to the Sixth Form students and and canapes on the terrace, staff who helped to organise the following by a delicious meal unforgettable evening. in The Ballroom.

8 End of Year 2017/2018 End of Year 2017/2018 9 2018 Awards list

Founder’s Years 3-6 Years 7-9 .

Ruby Clutterbuck Jamie Elvin Isobel Watkins Day Junior School Prize English Spanish English Computing Year 7 Most Progress Georgie Watkins Tomi Osunsami Mathematics Alysia King Spanish Religious Education It was a very memorable and inspiring Founder’s Day service which Joe Carter (Year 5) Amelia Collinge reflected on another successful year at Bredon and showcased many Geography Science Ivan Barritt of the highlights and achievements of our pupils and dedicated staff. All Round Behaviour Climber of the Year Music

The Chairman of Cavendish Education, Mr Aatif Hassan, started Samuel Carter Max Reen Harrison Morton Deaville proceedings with a warm welcome to everyone. He highlighted the Computing Computing Year 8 Student of the Year The Webb Happy Cup distinct education that Bredon provides and spoke with passion about Jack Chase Angus Mills Erin Murray the difference that specialist teaching can make to the lives of our W John Trophy for Diligence Computing Year 8 Most Progress Young Farmer of the Year young people. Millward Cup for Cross Country Freddie Soosalu George Smith Reading In the Headteacher’s Report, Mr Koen Claeys reflected on the creativity Technology Metalwork Oscar Priestley and talents which are evident throughout the school across art, Joseph Woodworth Rugby Player of the Year photography, woodwork and gardening through to literature, poetry and Maths Meg Coleman Technology Food Isabella Turner music. In the spirit of creativity, there were poetry recitals from Izzy W, Aoife Laxton Sportswoman of the Year Billy T and Meg C, followed by solo singing performances from Harrison Chairman, Aatif Hassan Science Noah Wildenstein M-D and Ivan B. Guests also enjoyed a performance from Sky R, the Westlake Cup for Endeavour Technology Textile Edward Wong winner of the 2018 ‘Bredon’s Got Talent’. We were even treated to Computing Year 9 Student of the Year Computing Year 7 Student of the Year Felix Gilks a magic performance by one of our Year 13 leavers, Conner O’N. Most Enthusiastic Outdoor Education History Abdul Rashid The Lupton Trophy for All Round Behaviour Toby Williams Wring Our outgoing Head Boy Callum M and Head Girl Claudia H both gave Barnaby Morera Computing Year 9 Most Progress Physical Education moving speeches about their time at Bredon, reflecting on their fondest Cecelia J John Cup All Round Initiative memories and recollections of the school. Joe Carter (Year 6) Mitchell Brooker Smith Bruce Peel Doherty Religious Education Art Athlete of the Year We welcomed our wonderful guest speaker Mr Adam Hutchinson, Junior Community Services to Boarding managing director of Gaudio Awards, who gave an incredible speech Tom Forbes William Smith on his journey to success. He reflected on the difficulties he experienced Coby Baker History Laporte Clay Pigeon Trophy – at school due to dyslexia and he shared his experiences of achieving Art and Crafts Most Improved Shot success through determination and hard work. It was an inspiring James Checkley Jack Hill Geography message for everyone. Music Religious Education Sportsman of the Year Following the prize giving, the winner of Bredon’s new award ‘The Trophy Jack Gott Gardener of the Year for Excellence’ was presented to Lauren H in recognition of her effort Outgoing Head Girl, Claudia H and dedication to her studies throughout her time at Bredon. Rose Gott Lauren H with ‘The Trophy of Excellence’ and Mr Claeys (left) and guest speaker Mr Hutchinson (right) Lucy Bliss Trophy for Perseverance

Jessica Creed The Happy Cup

Rebeccah Wall Junior Farm Club

Harvey Tennant Junior Sportsman of the Year

Peter Mannion Forest School Junior Award

Dexter Martin Junior Swimming Champion

Harry Taylor Junior Athlete of the Year

Hugo Cheney Junior Cross Country Champion

Charley Allen Junior Sportswoman of the Year

Matthew Mannion Junior Sporting Achievement outside school

10 End of Year 2017/2018 End of Year 2017/2018 11 Awards list EXAM RESULTS

Years 10-13 . .

Harry Orme Jack Ratcliffe Maddie Bue English Elizabeth Brown Prize for Sports Woman of the Year Young Farmer’s Cup Most Improved Artist Archie York Charlie Dickie Harrison Morton Deaville Abbot Trophy – Science BTEC Level 2/GCSE Music Performance All Round Contribution to Sport The Houldsworth Cup – David Hird George Waterfield Sportsman of the Year Geography Engineering Our students were congratulated once Mr Claeys commented: James Redstone again for their performance in the Summer Mark Blenkensop Freddie Harper The Fielding Cup for Cricket 2018 A level and Level 3 results. “Bredon’s impressive examination Mathematics OCR Level 2 Business Most Improved Rugby Player David Hird results are a credit to our hard- Callum Sturge The Moprac Cup – Senior Cross Country Technology - Wood Callum Gray Sporting Achievement Outside of School BTEC students achieved a 100% working pupils and our dedicated The Betty Thomas Cup for teaching staff. These results show Harry Plant Public Speaking Jacob Kelly pass rate, and at A level, 100% of Technology – Engineering Clay Pigeon Shooting – Best Gun Samuel Morton the progress and commitment Community Service to Tyndale House pupils achieved grades A*-C. 63% The Matthew Cup for Initiative Olivia Lowe each of our students has made Most Improved Shooter of the Year of pupils achieved A*-B grades, Ben Bailey Flo Ellis in their learning journey whilst Technology - Food Community Services to Millicent House Harry Plant which is an increase of nearly Most Improved Climber of the Year 20% compared to last year. at Bredon.” Tom Hobbs Conner O’Neil Elizabeth Jay Prize for English Endeavour Community Service to Stable House Miguel Juliano Sola Rugby Player of the Year Elizabeth Rowe George Stead There were some outstanding individual One week later, the school celebrated Spanish 6th Form All Round Effort Charlie Wilkins performances: another set of superb GCSE and BTEC Year 11 Photography Climber of the Year results in both the old style and the new, Henry Howard Ziggy Ward The Talbot Trophy for Endeavour Federico De Rosa Tom F achieved A* in Photography A Level more challenging GCSE qualifications. History Football 1st XI Player of the Year and A* in Art & Design A Level, together Across BTEC Level 2 subjects, a 100% pass Fallon Barlow with a BTEC in Business. rate has been achieved and 62% of GCSE Samuel Thomas Work Experience Callum Morris Science Level 3 Kayaker of the Year results were at grade 9 - 4 (A* - C). Harrison Morton Deaville The Harris Twig – Swimmer of the Year Charlotte F was awarded a Distinction in Millie Simpkins The Webb Happy Cup Chariots of Fire her BTEC for Sport. She also achieved a B Spanish and Religious Education Asdan COPE in Photography A Level as well as gaining performed particularly well, with 100% Cache Childcare Eddie Eggington Samuel Thomas Stockman of the Year David Allen Cup Overall Achievement a Business BTEC. of pupils achieving grades 9 - 4 (A* - Rachel Higgins C). 92% of Photography students were Joshua Robson Mathematics A Level Bruce Y achieved an A in Maths A Level and also awarded grades 9 - 4 (A* - C), with CISCO Academy GCSE Student of the Year was awarded Merit in both his BTECs for (IT Essentials) The Houseman Cup for Greatest Geography achieving 83%. All pupils who Tim Metcalf Business and Applied Science. studied for their BTEC Level 2 Certificate The Gomery Trophy – Lauren Murray Contribution to House OCR Level 3 Business in Agriculture all passed with Merits. There CISCO Academy GCSE Student of the Year Rachel Higgins Our CISCO Academy also saw some (Cabling Course) were some impressive individual successes: Jack McCune Sharp excellent results with a number of students The Odyomo Cup for Effort securing further education and useful work Richard Goodard Samuel Morton Lauren H achieved seven GCSEs ranging CISCO Academy GCSE Award for Best Thomas placements. from 8-5 (A* - C) and also two BTECs Alan Cyusa Overall Progress Year 10 Artist qualifications. Jason Au Callum Morris Jarrett Harrison Warner CISCO Academy 6th Form Level 3 Student David H achieved eight GCSEs at grade Year 10 Photography of the Year Sam Bethel A* - C, including an A* for English Literature Kayaker of the Year Dowdeswell Samuel Bethell and a Merit for his BTEC in Engineering. Year 11 Artist Max Von Hagen CISCO Academy 6th Form Level 3 Award Edward C achieved nine GCSEs at grade Elizabeth Rowe for Best Overall Progress Duke of Edinburgh 8 - 4 (A* - C), including an A* in Religious Spanish Education. Year 11 Photography Joshua Petersen Jack McCune CISCO Academy 6th Form Level 2 Student The John Brown Cup for Jack Ratcliffe of the Year Duke of Edinburgh Achievement 6th Form Photography Jake Wright Callum Grey Tom Finn CCF Uniformed Public Service D of E – Gold 6th Form Artist The Bateman Cup for Services to Rugby Photographer of the Year Charlie Dickie Charles Yolland D of E – Silver Lauren Hayward Physical Education Artist of the Year Olivia Lowe Agriculture Btec Charlotte Fry D of E - Bronze OCR Sport Level 3 Senior Hockey Player of the Year

12 End of Year 2017/2018 End of Year 2017/2018 13 Ranked Number 1 Ranked in Top 20 for ‘Value Added’ Independent Schools In January we were ranked (with small Sixth Forms) number one out of 4,434 schools According to The Daily and colleges in England for ‘value Telegraph’s league table of added’ for students aged 16 to independent schools with small 18 years. Our top ranking is based sixth forms (under 25 students) on Department for Education for 2018 A Level results, we figures which show how much ranked 19th in the UK compared progress A Level students at to other schools with similarly Bredon made between the end sized sixth forms. Mr Claeys of key stage 4 and the end of comments: “As a small, specialist their A Level studies, compared to In our recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report we were school our tailored approach similar students across England. awarded the highest possible grades in all categories. We were judged enables all our students to make as ‘Excellent’ in both the quality of Pupil Achievement and Pupil This is a remarkable achievement progress in a way best suited Personal Development following the inspection that took place on and recognises the high quality to their individual learning style.” 25 to 27 September. Inspectors found that “the quality of the pupils’ of our specialist teaching and academic and other achievements is excellent” and that “pupils are learning approach. Just as performing above, or well above, expectations for their abilities”. importantly, it also pays tribute to all our hard working and Mr Claeys was delighted with the inspectors’ findings and commented: tenacious students who show “The report captures very well our distinct approach to huge determination to succeed. teaching and our wonderful supportive atmosphere. Our top position provides an The inspectors found that ‘pupils’ progress and excellent endorsement for the Top for Dyslexia Students distinct and tailored education attainment are excellent in relation to their start points’ we offer our students. Following our wonderful set of A Level results which is exactly our mission at Bredon.” last Summer, we were delighted to appear as the highest-ranking specialist dyslexia school in The inspectors also paid tribute to our committed staff, extensive the UK in a league table published by The Times curriculum, wide-ranging extra-curricular programme and wonderful newspaper on 27 August 2018. pastoral care. We were especially pleased that the strength of our community has been recognised, with the inspectors noting that The Times compiled its table based on A Level, IB and Pre-U “pupils accept their own and each other’s strengths and weaknesses… results supplied by the Independent Schools Council. Bredon creating a strong, caring community” and ”pupils’ respect for and School was ranked 126th out of all independent co-educational acceptance of diversity are hallmarks of the school”. This report schools across the UK, appearing as the top-ranking specialist confirms that what we offer here, both in and outside of the classroom, dyslexia school. is very special and of the highest standard.

14 News round up News round up 15 BREDON SCHOOL PHOTO CREATIVE CURRICULUM ISA Award 2018 for Excellence in the Fine Arts In November we were thrilled to win the prestigious Independent Schools Association (ISA) Award for Excellence and Innovation in the Fine Arts 2018 in recognition of our innovative teaching techniques and opportunities to enhance pupils’ learning in the Arts.

One of the renowned strengths of our Fine Arts learning environment is our investment in the latest technology to Lemon batteries Celebrating the periodic table enhance learning. Steered Year 8 scientists created lemon To mark the 150th anniversary of the periodic by our Head of Photography batteries, managing to produce table by Russian scientist Mendeleev, Mrs and Art, Mrs Haines, we have 1.75 volts by joining their lemon Weston and Year 10 chemists celebrated replaced traditional sketch batteries together. with periodic table bingo, quizzes and an books with an on-line blogging aptly-decorated birthday cake! platform as the main learning resource for our photography students. This is extremely beneficial for those students with dyslexia and other specific Ecosystem in a shoebox learning profiles as it can work We have some keen in tangent with software and environmentalists among us assistive learning technology. as demonstrated by our Year 7 You can see examples of geographers when they created our pupils’ wonderful art and their own ‘Ecosystem in photography on pages 55-60 a shoebox’. of this magazine.

BSA’s Wellbeing Award Worcestershire Education Hat business proposals Awards 2019 2019 Year 10 marketing and enterprise In recognition of our focus In May we heard we were students really entered into on wellbeing and building one of three schools to be the spirit of things with their resilience among our pupils, shortlisted for the Independent coursework to put together a we scooped the coveted School of the Year in the business proposal for a hat! Boarding Schools’ Association Worcestershire Education (BSA) Wellbeing Award 2019. Awards, run in conjunction with Motte and Bailey castles This Award, which singles out the University of Worcester. schools that enhance self- These awards recognise and Learning about the Norman Conquest in History inspired our Year 7 historians to design and create their own motte and bailey esteem and promote healthy celebrate the achievements, Finalist in SoGlos Awards choices for physical activity passions and dedication that castles, using all type of materials including grass and plasticine. and diet, highlighted our new exists in educational settings. We were thrilled to be a finalist ‘Move it Monday’ programme. At the time of The Bredonian in the ‘Independent School This sees every pupil enjoying going to press, we had not of the Year’ category in the a range of beneficial activities heard if we’d won…but we had SoGlos Gloucestershire Lifestyle to kick start the week and everything crossed! Awards 2019. These awards promote wellbeing including seek to recognise the best of mindfulness, yoga, gardening, the best across Gloucestershire, walking and dance sessions. and we were delighted to be one of only seven schools to Mr Claeys was delighted to make it as a finalist in a very receive the Award trophy at strong field. the BSA Conference for Heads Dinner in London in May.

16 Awards & accolades Creative curriculum 17 WORLD BOOK DAY BREDON POET LAUREATE

Congratulations to Tim M who won the school competition to become Bredon’s Poet Laureate. Tim’s beautiful poem was based on the theme of peace, tolerance and friendship, linking to the commemoration of the end of the Great War in November. In keeping with a Poet Laureate’s duties, Tim has written other poems throughout the school year to celebrate main events.

Peace, Tolerance, Friendship

With tolerance comes peace The Juniors got into the literary spirit and dressed as their favourite book characters to mark World With peace comes friendship Book Day in March. Gangsta Granny, Fantastic Mr Fox, the Cat And friendship kills war in the Hat and Podkin One-Ear were particularly popular!

So the question is: Why don’t we show these more? But the reality is, we don’t show them enough

We are supposed to show friendship to our neighbours

Yet we just hope they don’t ask us for favours

Therefore we need to remind each regularly of these values

And ourselves even more

With tolerance comes peace With peace comes friendship

And friendship kills war

18 Creative curriculum Creative curriculum 19 This year we have welcomed Away from the Farm, many pupils several new arrivals to the School volunteer to help out at different Farm including our new South agricultural shows with Jenny, Devon Bull, Brookin Celtic Prince 3 our Farm Manager and Mr James, (known as Prince), a large litter of Head of Land Based Studies. piglets, and lots of newborn lambs In addition to the Three Counties which really drew the crowds Show, where we showed our at school and at CountryTastic! Badgerface ewe and yearlings and Large White gilt, we also attended the Moreton-in-March Show with some of our pedigree sheep. Well done to Tom F who competed in the Young Handlers class and received a special rosette.

We enjoyed a successful North Somerset Show in May where three of our Badgerface ewes came 2nd, 3rd and 4th in their class. Well done to Erin M who came 4th in the Young Handlers 12-16 age group.

The Farm is a thriving workplace but it is also a relaxing place for pupils to unwind, away from the pressures of the classroom. All pupils up to Year 9 spend at least one hour each week on the Farm, gaining practical knowledge of animal and plant husbandry and countryside skills. Older pupils can then opt to study BTECS and subjects in Agriculture, Countryside and Environment, Land-based Studies and Care of Farm Animals.

20 Enrichment activities Enrichment activities 21 Our Year 7s had a great Overnight Adventure at the Cranham Scout Centre in March and April, taking part in orienteering to improve their map skills, den building, bushcraft, team challenges, hiking, night walks on Cranham Common Learning outside and camp fires. Perhaps the most fun team challenge involved the classroom getting ‘Nick the Stick’ safely along is a hallmark of the course of the stream! Bredon and our pupils gain a sense of achievement through adventure, both off site and in the school grounds. The Wilderness Centre in The Forest of Dean made a great venue for the Overnight There are just too many Adventure in the Autumn term wonderful Outdoor for our Year 8s. They enjoyed Education experiences crate stacking, working as a team to mention, but here is to build as high as they could. just a flavour of the fun Pupils also enjoyed an action and learning that our packed stay at Viney Hill in The pupils had this year. Forest of Dean, having fun with orienteering, low ropes, tunnels and mini zip, as well as a camp fire and night walk.

Our Year 9 students enjoyed a great overnight adventure at Aztec Upton Warren in September, taking part in a range of teamwork activities including climbing up wooden poles (known as Jacob’s Ladder) and the Ship’s Mast.

In timetabled Outdoor Education lessons, pupils up to Year 9 enjoyed kayaking, archery, climbing, cycling, orienteering and more besides.

22 Enrichment activities Enrichment activities 23 Our Forest School is the ideal place for our Juniors to gain hands-on learning in the woodland and natural environment and they spend two hours a week learning many new practical skills.

Under supervision they have Another highlight was making been learning how to light fires bows and arrows from hazel and make campfires, as well wood, putting them to the test as basic cooking skills, such as by firing the arrows at a target on making delicious hot chocolate the tree. Pupils even prepared and pancakes on Pancake Day! for Christmas in Forest School, They also picked blackberries making wonderful festive and apples from the grounds decorations out of mistletoe, SCHOOL to make delicious fruit tea, and yew branches, pine cones and made edible sparklers for bonfire feathers found in the forest. night, dipping breadsticks into melted chocolate and then covering them with sprinkles.

Making dens out of hazel and wood results in hours of fun games and free play in the Forest School. It’s a great place to relax and play imaginatively with friends or just spend some precious moments unwinding and becoming absorbed in your own thoughts.

24 Enrichment activities Enrichment activities 25 From Year 10 upwards, pupils have the opportunity to be part of our Each year, an increasing number thriving Combined Cadet Force (CCF) which has grown to over 30 of pupils sign up for the Duke of in number. As well as weekly training sessions, the CCF performed Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) duties at the school’s special service to mark the centenary at Bronze, Silver and Gold level. of the end of WW1 and also took part in the local Tewkesbury It has been wonderful to see Remembrance Parade. seven Bredon pupils complete their Gold award this year and Back in November some of the Cadets relished the opportunity attend award ceremonies at royal to take part in a mountaineering adventure training weekend in palaces in London. Snowdonia, and earlier this year Mr Lister took some intrepid Cadets to Scotland on a winter mountaineering trip. They were based in Glenmore in the Cairngorms and learnt useful winter skills and had the chance to climb ridges and gullies in the Northern Corries.

Seven of our Gold group took part in a three-day practice expedition in the Brecon Beacons, trekking a total of 54kms, before successfully completing their final 80km expedition at Hadrian’s Wall in September. What a feat!

Our Silver DofE pupils completed a two-night practice Pictured here expedition in the Forest of Dean, is Sam M, successfully navigating their way our Head Boy, on a 25 mile trek and camping who went to and cooking in advance of Buckingham successfully completing their Palace in May final expedition in March. Year 9 Bronze training took place in the Forest of Dean where the group walked from Canop Ponds to The Wilderness Centre, working on navigation skills in preparation for the final assessment in June.

26 Enrichment activities Enrichment activities 27 A group of 21 students ventured City, the palatial heart of China, of the journey: The Yangtze River to China during October half term and the Summer Palace in Cruise. Spectacular scenery along on a fantastic trip organised by northwest Beijing also proved the Yangtze and its tributary Mrs Haines. Starting their tour amazing. The group marvelled was enjoyed by all, and the in Beijing, the group visited the at the Great Wall of China and evening entertainment on the Olympic Stadium, the beautiful enjoyed incredible views before river cruise was great fun. The Beihei Park and then spent the travelling by overnight sleeper group then took a Bullet train evening in the culturally-rich to Xian. The Terracotta Army, (which has a top speed of 217 Hutong area, enjoying traditional considered one of the greatest mph!) to Shanghai, and before Chinese shops and vibrant street archaeological sites of the world, flying home, enjoyed visiting the life, and eating a meal cooked by was next on the itinery followed Yuyuan Gardens, Jade Buddha a local family in their home. by a Xian city night tour and then Temple and the Science and a bike ride on Xian City Wall. Technology Museum. Thank Other highlights included After a short internal flight the you to Mrs Haines for organising Tienanmen Square where the pupils arrived at Chongqing, a such a fantastic, educational group was bombarded with major inland port in southwest opportunity for the pupils. What requests to pose for photos by China, to embark on the last leg a trip! Chinese tourists! The Forbidden Bredon’s wonderful tour guide, Lucia, was a huge help on the trip

CHINA TRIP OCTOBER 2018 21 STUDENTS

28 Trips, adventures and discoveries Trips, adventures and discoveries 29 TRIP TO LE CORBIER Our skiers had a wonderful week of skiing in Le Corbier, enjoying spectacular alpine scenery and good skiing conditions with sunny, clear skies. The days were spent very energetically on the slopes and in Ski School. After skiing the group enjoyed the open air heated swimming pool, sledging or just relaxing by the fire back at the hotel. Everyone had a fantastic week and luckily there were no injuries! SIXTH FORM

To kick off the new academic year, the Sixth Formers travelled to The Wildness Centre in The Forest of Dean for a three-day residential stay. Designed to help the students gel and get to know one another better, the action-packed programme pushed everyone out of their comfort zone. The group was challenged with problem solving tasks and team building exercises, all designed to test their leadership skills. Everyone participated with great enthusiasm and the new students got involved from the very outset. Highlights included abseiling and designing the ultimate egg ‘capsule’ for dropping safely from the roof!

30 Trips, adventures and discoveries Trips, adventures and discoveries 31 GEOGRAPHY HISTORY TRIP AUSCHWITZ - BIRKENAU

Slapton Sands in Devon North Wales River Churn

Our Year 13 and 11 geographers North Wales was the destination In January our Year 9 pupils enjoyed a four-day field trip to the for our Year 8 and 9 geographers enjoyed mild and rain-free days Field Studies Centre near Slapton who enjoyed a three-day measuring the River Churn as Sands in Devon. As part of an expedition to explore glacial part of their Drainage Basin investigation and project for A landforms, hydro power topic. From the source at Seven level and IGCSE, pupils collected generation and ‘Bounce Below’ Springs, the group successfully data from the shingle beach, and (an underground trampoline park measured three sites and also learnt about erosion, geology located in a slate mine). Pupils collected data for river gradient, and sea defences along the South experienced a walk up the Aber cross-section, velocity and load Devon coast. Valley to Aber Falls and a visit to analysis. Our pupils developed the Slate Museum in Llanberis. their practical skills and clearly relished joining in and getting their hands and feet wet!

As part of the Lessons from The project aims to promote Auschwitz project by the knowledge and awareness of Holocaust Educational Trust, the Holocaust and as part of the Joe B and Ziggy W, two of our visit, they took part in a moving A level historians, together with memorial service held by a rabbi. Mr Allison and Mr Chance, visited With an early start and late Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former return, it was a long and, at times, Nazi death camp in Poland. challenging day, but a rewarding one that the students will always remember.

32 Trips, adventures and discoveries Trips, adventures and discoveries 33 MINDFULNESS In May Mr Wood and Ms Swait took ten students from different year STUDENTS RETREAT groups to the Gower in South Wales to experience a Mindfulness Retreat LEARNT A RANGE OF During the two days, pupils All the practices were designed MINDFULNESS learnt a range of mindfulness to give pupils some useful PRACTICES practices for sleep, anxiety, mindfulness techniques to relationships and many more allow them to be more aware applications, enabling them to of how their minds manage and bring mindfulness into everyday process everyday activities and life. In a variety of outdoor experiences throughout the day. settings, including the beach, coastal paths and woods, pupils spent valuable time focusing on physical and mental exercises and were able to walk, watch, listen and surf in conjunction with mindfulness.

“Our intention is to make our pupils aware that society today pushes them constantly into thinking mode and it is this that can cause the sleep and anxiety type issues. By experiencing periods of time where we push them into sensing mode, pupils can see that their minds stop racing and life becomes easier and far more enjoyable.”

Mr Wood Bredon’s Wellbeing and Mindfulness Officer

34 Trips, adventures and discoveries Trips, adventures and discoveries 35 1ST XV U16

There was superb team work The team won against Bowbrook displayed at the 1st XV match with a score of 42-12. Jake W against Kingham School with scored 4 tries and won Man of Bredon winning 55-19. Ben R won the Match. It was a fantastic Man of the Match, scoring a hat display of teamwork and trick of tries. individual skill that gained the NETBALL convincing win; Jake was cutting Our Senior team also won against through the defence at will with Sibford School with a score of his speed and agility. Senior Netball 24-10. All the players performed The Senior Girls Netball played brilliantly. Sam C was Man of Kingham A and lost 5-4, then the Match; his support play was U14 played Kingham B and lost 8-1. outstanding with great tackling. All players showed grit and The first match was played determination but were unable against Bowbrook when Bredon to convert the effort into enough lost 35-5. It was a very well goals. The Player of the Match played match and Will S won was Isabella T. Man of the Match, also scoring In their match against John his first try for the school and Kyrle High School, the Senior hard work rate.

RUGBY KINGHAM SCHOOL V SENIOR NETBALL Girls Netball team won 8-2. The Players of the Match were Isabella T and Grace C.

U14 Netball The U14 team lost their first match of the season against Bowbrook. The Player of the Match was Ellie H and the Most Improved Player was Ruby C. They played further matches against John Masefield, John Kyrle and Bowbrook again. As the season progressed, so did the scores.

FOOTBALL

Senior Football rate across the team and good The Senior Football team played strong passing and creativity. Bowbrook and drew 0-0. Well The defence was very strong and done to Dylan K who was resolute throughout the game. Player of the Match. Bredon was the more dominant team and U16 Football Tournament unlucky not to get the win. The The U16 Football team (photoed) went to Nottingham University Sevens team had higher amounts of possession and more shots on for an ISA Football 6-a-side The U16 Rugby 7s team played tournament. They played 5 group in an ISA tournament in March. goal. This was a great start to the season. matches and won 2, drew 2 and The team played in a three team lost 1. The team then qualified for league and qualified for the bowl U14 Football the trophy semi-final which they league. Bredon won three out of The team played Arnold Lodge lost 1-0. However, they won their four games and became bowl U14 and came away with a 5-2 3rd/4th playoff game to finish champions. It was a fantastic win. Matthew C scored another 3rd in the trophy section. It was a tournament and the boys fully hat trick, making that 10 goals in 3 fantastic day for the boys in their deserved the bowl title. Jake W games. This was the best display brand new kit. scored 5 tries and Ben R and of the season, with high work Charles Y both scored 2. Well played team.

36 Sports Sports 37 Senior Girls Hockey The team drew 2-2 in a well played match against John Kyrle ATHLETICS High School in October. The There has been lots of success Jake W match displayed one of the best at the athletics stadiums this 1st in javelin with a pb of 42.35m hockey performances from a Summer. A small team of HOCKEY Bredon team in recent years with pupils headed to Cheltenham’s Eddie E accurate and well timed passes. Prince of Wales Stadium in 1st in shot put and 2nd in discus Emily K was Player of the Match. May to compete in the South Worcestershire District Trials. Emily K 1st in shot put There were five athletes who U16 Girls Hockey secured first or second place Tyrone M The girls had a great match performances, giving themselves 2nd in javelin against Bowbrook, demonstrating the opportunity to be selected excellent teamwork and winning for the District Team to compete Alan C 2-1. Congratulations to Olivia L who at the Hereford and Worcester 1st in javelin was voted Player of the Match. County Championships:

U14 Girls Hockey The first match of the season for the U14s resulted in a 2-2 draw An away match at John Kyrle against Bowbrook. Paige J was SNR | U16 | U14 ended as a 3-2 loss after Player of the Match. dominating the possession and scoring in the first half. As the The team played two matches opposition changed their tactics against Kingham Hill School, and playing positions, we were losing against their A team by too slow to react and allowed 2-0. The Player of the Match was them back into the game. It Sara W. They drew against the B was a 2-2 draw until the final team 0-0 and Aoife W was Player two minutes where some quick of the Match. The development thinking and a bit of luck allowed in both skills and confidence John Kyrle to find the back of our on an astroturf playing surface net. A great game and Player of were fantastic. The resilience the Match was Grace C. to continue, despite injuries, showed great determination.

CROSS COUNTRY

A group of runners competed in Great team spirit was on display At the County trials there was the ISA South West Cross Country at our annual Interhouse Cross further success for Jake W who Trials in January. There were Country event in March with will now hopefully be selected some notable performances and teams (comprised of staff and to represent the County at the congratulations to the following pupils) from different houses Regional Trials in Birmingham. pupils who qualified for the competing against each other. National Finals by placing in the The winner of the race was Sharp A coach full of pupils headed top ten for their event: Freddie S, house with a sprint finish from to Exeter in June for the ISA Matthew M, Hugo C, Maddox C Mr Edwards. However, Thomas South West Regional Athletics and Erin M. house won overall for teamwork. Trials. After a long journey they were ready to compete and At the ISA National Cross Country again came back with a clutch of event in Warwickshire, Erin M successes. Jake W (javelin), Eddie came 48/66, Maddox C came E (shot put), Georgia W (1500m), 31/70, Matthew M came 25/67 Ruby C (discus) and Matthew and Hugo C came 52/67. Well M (600m) were all selected to done for completing their races represent the South West and on a hot day, in very fast times. compete in the ISA National Athletics finals in Birmingham in June. MULTIPLE SUCCESSES MULTIPLE Maddox C at the ISA National Cross Country

38 Sports Sports 39 With our own 9 metre climbing wall, it’s no surprise that climbing has become hugely popular at Bredon. Regular lessons and practice sessions as part of Outdoor Education classes, Climbing Club, and Sports sessions at Redpoint Climbing Centre, provide a range of opportunity for everyone.

CLIMBING RESULTS ACHIEVING

Twelve schools across six counties With our own shooting ground, took part in Bredon’s first Inter- clay pigeon shooting is a school Climbing Challenge in timetabled option. Pupils have October at Redpoint Climbing achieved excellent results in The Centre in Worcester. In the first Schools Challenge (TSC) and climbing competition of its kind other national competitions. in the region, over 60 enthusiastic Highlights include: climbers aged from 15 to 18 took part in competitive bouldering, speed and top rope climbing competitions. With climbing being a new sport at the Tokyo 2020 CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING Olympics, this event was designed to be similar to what we expect The Senior Team came first in Georgie W is a County shooter to see on the TV next summer. the TSC Oxford at The Oxford and was runner up in the National

INTER-SCHOOL CLIMBING INTER-SCHOOL CHALLENGE Gun Company in March, scoring Inter County English Skeet Following the success of the 211/250; Ben R finished Senior Championships in October. event, Bredon will be hosting Gun High. Congratulations to its next inter-school Climbing Olivia L, Sam M, Ben R, Jason A Competition in November 2019, and David E supported for the first time by the Independent Schools Association The team came second in the (ISA). TSC University Challenge. Olivia L finished Senior Ladies High Gun Olivia L came first in the Senior Ladies in A climbing team also took part in the William Powell Clay Pigeon Shooting with a score of 95/100. Competition in May an independent schools climbing competition at Rockstar Climbing At the William Powell Clay Pigeon Centre in Swindon where the team Shooting in May, the Senior Team competed against 153 students came first. Olivia L won Senior from 18 schools. This was the Girls High Gun and Overall High Eloise B won the TSC April Clay team’s first external competition, Gun with an excellent 55/60. The Shooting series at the Oxford Gun and they did really well, coming Junior Team came a very credible Company with 47/50. 12th out of 31 teams. fourth in their first competition.

International achievements Mitchell B-S represents England on the English National Olympic Skeet Shooting Senior team. He competed in his first international competition, the Malaga Grand Prix Olympic Skeet in January. Mitchell also came third in the English Open and second in the English Grand Prix. He will be Thanks to The Oxford Gun shooting for Great Britain in the Company and Browning for Junior Olympic Skeet World Cup sponsoring equipment for in Suhl, Germany in July. our pupils.

40 Sports Sports 41 SCHOOL SPORT TEAMS 2018-19

First XV Rugby Team U14 Rugby Team

U13 Football Team Senior Netball Team

Senior Rounders Team U14 Rounders Team

First XI Football Team U14 Football Team

42 Sports Sports 43 SCHOOL SPORT TEAMS 2018-19

U14 Netball Team First XI Hockey Team

Bredon hosted its for Stourport Hockey annual Colours Club and enjoyed Dinner in June to many successes. celebrate team and In addition to individual successes his coaching in sport. It was a commitments, fantastic evening of Mark has recently celebration; pupils gone back to U14 Hockey Team Senior Shooting Team collected colours playing the game and trophies; and represented captains made England in the their speeches; and Over 35s World the coaching staff Cup in 2018. wished the pupils continued success Pupils asked Mark with their sporting whether playing activities and or coaching was passions. better. Mark responded that playing sport is better due to the friends you make playing in a team and Many pupils were recognised for their successes the sense of commitment you have to your team Order a team photo and contribution to sport and were awarded full – you don’t want to let them down. However, Mark or half colours and sports trophies. Jake W was admitted that coaching has made him a better These photographs have been reproduced with awarded Bredon’s coveted ‘Abbott Trophy for player because he has a much better understanding the kind permission of Academy Portraits and Outstanding Contribution to School Sport’. of the game. Mark’s take home message for the can be ordered by visiting: pupils was that no matter what you do, be a part This year the guest speaker was Mark Moss, the of sport and enjoy it. www.academy.gotphoto.co.uk/login current England Men’s Over 35s Hockey coach, Use login code BREDONTEAMS19 who has also coached the Welsh Ladies team at the Commonwealth Games. Before finding his passion Junior Shooting Team for coaching Mark played National League Hockey

44 Sports Sports 45 Malvern Autumn Show

Our pupil helpers, Eddie E, Record crowds and sunshine Peter M and Matthew M did a contributed to a really great wonderful job of talking to visitors Malvern Autumn Show in about the farm and proudly September. showed off some of our sheep and lambs. Bredon was the sponsor of the World of Animals area, where We had visits from BBC presenter Jenny, our Farm Manager, helped Adam Henson as well as Kate Clark by Eddie E, showed some of our from BBC Radio Gloucestershire farm animals. Our stand in the who interviewed Peter for a feature Family Green also attracted many that was aired on Easter Day. We visitors who wanted to hear more ran a popular pony colouring about life at Bredon, taste our competition and quiz to link in with apple juice and take part in our CountryTastic’s theme this year of apple colouring competition. ‘Horses and Ponies’. We had some fabulous entries! We enjoyed a visit from the President of the Three Counties Showground, Lt Col. Patrick Holcroft, Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire.

We took a stand at this year’s CountryTastic at the Three Counties Showground during the Easter holidays and show visitors were very interested to learn about our School Farm and how it forms part of our pupils’ weekly curriculum.

46 Special events and community involvement Special events and community involvement 47 Pupils began planting seeds for Their creative design included The garden was built using a lot their garden earlier in the year ‘guests’ (scarecrows based on of recycled/upcycled materials, and were also busy in Design and Disney characters) and a central including pallets to form sub Technology lessons creating and water feature around which was structure and planters, a large building the outline of the garden. some planting to represent the barrel for the water tank, old roof buffet table at the party, together slates for part of the water feature. with lots of colourful bedding The ‘buffet’ also included some The theme for the plants, many of which were grown fruit and vegetables (the idea 2019 School Garden from seed by pupils. being that hopefully children would be inspired by how easy competition was ‘A it is to create a small colourful Moment in Time’ and garden and grow their own food). our pupils decided to Some of our pupils, together with base their garden on a Mrs Larner, were interviewed by snapshot of a Disney BBC Radio Gloucestershire who themed fancy dress wanted to find out more about our entry. Well done to the Junior School child’s birthday party! whose ‘My Moment in Time’ garden ‘COMMENDED’ at design was awarded a ‘Commended’ in The Schools Challenge garden RHS Spring Festival competition at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival at the Three Counties Showground in May. This was a fantastic achievement and a culmination of months of preparation and hard work by the pupils, Jenny, our Farm Manager and Mrs Larner.

The centenary of the end of Tewkesbury and also carried Centenary of the WW1 was an important and out duties at our special poignant event for the school, commemoration service here End of World not least because 149 men from at Bredon to mark the centenary. our neighbouring lost their lives Our service included very War One during this war. poignant readings and poems from the pupils. Mrs Boakes Pupils, parents and staff created arranged a commemorative some beautiful hand made display in the Hall at Pull poppies for our striking display Court with poppies from the in front of Pull Court – just one National Arboretum at Alrewas of the ways we commemorated in Staffordshire, and a Roll of the centenary across school. Honour of men from the local area who lost their livers or who Our Combined Cadet Force led were affected by the war. the Remembrance Parade in

48 Special events and community involvement Special events and community involvement 49 The build up to Christmas was wonderful at Bredon and commenced with the decorating of the stunning 14ft Christmas tree in Pull Court. We also had a more unusual Christmas tree in the Library – complete with a star - made out of old books by some of our pupils.

Pull Court was transformed selling sweets and gifts, Santa’s with some wonderful festive Grotto and lots of activities for decorations when the Christmas students to take part in, including party season was officially a rodeo Christmas pudding! kicked off with the Sixth Form’s Christmas Social. Pupils and staff Our annual Christmas Carol enjoyed a wonderful Christmas Service at Tewkesbury Abbey is meal combined with festive always so memorable and the quizzes and games. perfect way to complete our Christmas festivities at school. On our Christmas Jumper Day, all We enjoyed some lovely readings students and staff were treated to from students from all year Christmas lunch by our wonderful groups and our Choir, made up of Catering Team. There was lots of staff and students and conducted merry making and cracker pulling by Harrison M-D, gave some FIREWORKS in the Dining Room! Lunch was beautiful performances. The followed by our annual Christmas service was followed by mince NIGHT Fair, organised by FAB (Friends at pies and mulled wine in the Bredon). There were stalls galore grounds of the Abbey.

It was wonderful to be joined by so many pupils, parents, families and staff for our annual Bonfire Night in November when we were treated to another spectacular firework display.

Mrs Haines, our Head of Photography and Art, and our photography students captured Students in Miss Lea’s tutor group the display with some stunning enjoyed having their ‘Elf on the photos. Shelf’ this year who got up to all sorts of antics around school!

50 Special events and community involvement Special events and community involvement 51 An enterprising group of Sixth Some Bredon School pupils Formers organised Bredon’s also used the event to promote inaugural business networking their fledgling businesses: Alan event in January which was C promoted his brand design, attended by over 70 people, and Jack R had a stand to including 40 from the local promote his photography service. business community, and helped raise money for some local One of the event organisers Sam charities, Caring for Communities M, commented on behalf of the and People (CCP) and CLIC student team: “Organising this Sargent (Sam’s House). event has really helped to bring business theory to life. It’s been Companies displayed trade a really great learning experience stands and banners promoting and we’ll be able to use lots of their products and services, and the skills and things we have were able to network with other learnt in our future careers.” guests whilst enjoying music, entertainment and refreshments. The event included talks from Tewkesbury Rotary Club, CCP and professional magician and Old Bredonian, Angus Baskerville.

THE WAINWRIGHT LECTURES

Forming an integral part of the enrichment programme for our Sixth Form students, we have welcomed many insightful and inspiring external speakers as part of our Wainwright Lecture series:

Nick Gazzard talked about the Hollie Gazzard Trust (HGT), a charity set up in his daughter Hollie’s memory to highlight the issue of domestic abuse and to educate the students about the dangers of unhealthy relationships.

A trainer from the ‘Hand on Heart’ charity spoke about the use of defibrillators and informed our students about life support skills in the event of a cardiac “This was the first event of its kind arrest (we have a defibrillator in school and students are taught how to use one, should the need arise). held at Bredon and the students worked incredibly hard to make An interactive talk was given by a member of the RAF who explained about the different career paths on offer, as well as the varied leisure opportunities it a success. Many of the guests available in the RAF, such as skiing, parachuting and clay pigeon shooting. commented on how well organised We also heard from Lieutenant Commander Tim Ciaravella who gave a and professional the event was. fascinating talk about his career as a marine engineer in the Royal Navy. The students can be extremely Dr Paul Whittaker, despite being profoundly deaf, defied all around him by proud of what they have achieved.” pursuing his lifelong ambition of studying music at Wadham College, Oxford. The subject of his talk was ‘Breaking down barriers through music’ and Paul Mrs Thomas succeeded in encouraging even the most self-conscious student to join in with Business Studies teacher his unique approach to communication through music and signing.

52 Special events and community involvement Special events and community involvement 53 Charities ART As voted for by the pupils, our School Charities for this year were The John Brown Memorial Fund, CCP, and the Cheltenham Animal Shelter. Many thanks to our Student Council, pupils and staff for organising numerous charity events or fundraisers for many good causes, including:

Our annual whole school charity walk along the River Severn took place on a beautiful warm day during the first week of the Autumn term. Spirits were high as students and teachers completed an incredible 18km walk, setting off from Ashleworth and stopping for a well-deserved lunch break at Avon Sailing Club. A total of £1,265 was raised through sponsorship and was donated to Young Minds and Marina Court Care Home’s sensory garden in Tewkesbury.

Our Juniors donated lots of gift- filled shoeboxes in the run up to Christmas for Operation Christmas Pupils helped raise money for Red Mr Lister arranged for our old Child. Nose Day with a variety of games climbing ropes to be donated and activities, including a very to the Wales Ape and Monkey popular cake sale, tin can alley Sanctuary in the Brecon Beacons and dice games. There was also which homes chimps, baboons a mini ‘Bredon’s Got Talent’ where and other primates. It is lovely pupils showcased a range of to know that our ropes will be talents from singing, poem recitals enjoyed by some new energetic to rapping and drums..and more! climbers! Thank you to the Student Council and Mrs Egginton for organising the events.

Congratulations to Mr Starr for successfully running the London Marathon, raising over £2,500 for FAB organised a wonderful the British Dyslexia Association. Macmillan Big Breakfast and Coffee Morning which raised £450. Our cycling group recycled their used inner tubes by sending them We raised over £500 for Children to the charity Cycle of Good which In Need through activities trains tailors in Malawi to produce including face painting, pizza goods from locally-printed cloth sale and ‘beat the goalie’. and recycled materials. With ‘Buddy Workouts’ the Juniors raised an incredible £515 for the NSPCC.

Alan C GCSE

54 Special events and community involvement The Arts 55 3 pieces by Alan C Top and bottom right by Will S GCSE AS/ A Level

Alan C GCSE

56 The Arts The Arts 57 PHOTOGRAPHY

Harrison W Charlie W GCSE GCSE

Harry O AS/ A Level Richard G AS/ A Level

James L AS/ A Level

Fallan B AS/ A Level

Jack R AS/ A Level

58 The Arts The Arts 59 1

3

Seven of our singers enjoyed an exciting trip to London in September to record a Cavendish Education song ‘I Believe in Me’ along with over 40 students from across the Cavendish Group. Composed and directed by Matthew Potger, Deputy Head of The Moat School, this inclusive project was designed to support and encourage pupils’ self- esteem and communication skills through shared performance, as well as build a strong and positive connection between the participating schools. It was 2 a fantastic opportunity for our talented singers and with Cavendish Education well done to Billy T, Georgia M, Lauren C, Isobel W, James H, Sky R and Harrison M-D for taking part. 1, 2 and 3 by Jack R James L AS/ A Level AS/ A Level

60 The Arts The Arts 61 Spotlight on

Whole class band Year 9 pupils created a class band and rehearsed and performed a chosen song. Each pupil Our on-site CISCO Academy, backed by the global technology giant, is chose their own role in the band and learnt the one of Bredon’s most unique assets. It is where our pupils are prepared melody, tempo and dynamics on their respective for technical jobs as well as further education in engineering, computer instruments. This culminated in a class performance, science and related fields. There have been a number of successes at where every band member lent their musical the Academy this year, opening up career opportunities for our CISCO accompaniment to the overall success of the song. pupils. Congratulations go to:

Josh P, Alex J, Sam T, Tim M and Tom B who worked hard to complete a new course ‘Introduction to Microsoft Windows Server 2016’ delivered by Bredon’s Network Manager Mr Clarke. Designed as a practical and bespoke computing course, it has equipped them with additional industry-relevant skills for the real world as IT apprentices.

Josh P, Tom B, Alex J and Tim M also passed the first step in the CISCO Apprenticeship Application (Degree level) and were then invited to the CISCO Apprenticeship evening at the CISCO HQ in Feltham. Harrison M-D composed his own chorale as part of his composition assignment Sam T passed his CompTIA Security+ Certificate exam with 90% and in GCSE Music. It was a Bach chorale that is on his way to gaining the full CCNA Certification. required harmonising three melodies around the main melody.

Junior Christmas productions The Junior School held its annual Christmas production for an audience of family, friends and staff. This year’s production was ‘Children of the World’ which saw angels visiting six countries (America, Australia, China, Ireland, Malawi and Poland) to learn about their Christmas traditions.

It was a great performance and there was lots of support and applause for all our budding actors.

62 The Arts Spotlight on 63 Spotlight on boarding

With our extensive 84-acre school At weekends, there is always In the Autumn we were grounds to enjoy (once the day an outing for boarders to delighted to become the very pupils have left for the day!) and enjoy, including dirt scooting first school in the UK to have with so many after school clubs, and mountain boarding at all our full-time boarding staff weekend trips and activities, there Bugsboarding, shopping, cinema accredited by the Accredited is never a dull moment in boarding. trips, paintballing, laser tagging, Boarding Practitioner (ABP) indoor climbing and caving, go- programme run by the Not surprisingly, Mr Starr’s carting and visits to Cadbury’s Boarding Schools’ Association decision to run the 2019 London World. (BSA). This is a new scheme Marathon inspired many of our set up by the BSA to recognise boarders to join the Fitness and boarding staff who are Running Clubs after school. personally and professionally The girls have enjoyed chilling out in Bredon’s new Running Club, committed to best boarding their revamped common room, which formed by Mr Starr and Mr practice. was part of the redecoration of the girls Edwards, took students on routes boarding accommodation during the of varying lengths that got longer Our Head of Boarding Kelvin Easter holidays. and tougher as the London Summers comments: Marathon approached! “The BSA’s Our newly refurbished gym (complete with visual charts Accredited Boarding and QR codes) has really come Programme offers into its own this year and has formal recognition also served as the venue for for the high level of yoga lessons. Boarders have also enjoyed Golf, Swimming, professionalism that Film and Music Club, Computer our boarding team Club, Warhammer, Dungeons show each day.” and Dragons Club and Cisco Electronics Club.

64 Spotlight on Spotlight on 65 DIGITAL LEADERS

Bredon is part of the Childnet Digital Leaders Programme, a peer-led online safety programme for schools. This year our own Digital Leader pupils have been busy, and very useful, in addressing digital citizenship and digital creativity across the whole school community. Interviews with...

Safer Internet Day 2019 in February was marked with a series of online safety activities across the school. Lauren M, our Head Girl and Digital Leader, delivered an informative and interactive safety lesson to the Juniors. Pupils across the school took part in quizzes, activities and a cyber- bullying poster competition. Congratulations to Erin M Congratulations to Junior School who is one of the first Digital pupil Amelie N who won the Champions, a new initiative by poster competition - you may Childnet International. As one have seen her poster displayed of only 15 Digital Champions in around the school. the UK, Erin represents the entire HEAD BOY Digital Leader community from across the UK and advises the UK Government on how to keep children safe online. In her new role, Erin visited Facebook’s HQ in London to learn about the vision and future plans for Digital Champions. What you have learnt as Head Who has been an inspiration Boy? to you here? As part of the school’s The importance of listening I would like to thank my friends commitment to online safety, to other people’s views, as well who have inspired me and also pupils in Year 9 and above as taking on responsibilities and put up with me along the way! enjoyed an inspiring workshop getting things done. And all the staff and boarding by singer and mental health staff who have done the same. campaigner Sody (who’s toured What’s been the best thing I must also mention John Brown with Little Mix and has also about being Head Boy? who I looked up to so much; performed at Glastonbury). She Having the opportunity for I learnt so much from him and sang and gave a talk on online leadership experience and public miss him. safety, cyber bullying and the speaking. I have also enjoyed importance of speaking up about working alongside Lauren What’s next, after Bredon? mental health. She was a real and Sam. This summer I am moving to inspiration. Vancouver where I plan to live What is it that makes Bredon for a year and I will be helping so special? my Godfather. My dream is Having staff who always believe to run my own business one day. in you even when you don’t always believe in yourself. Being taught in small classes with lots of learning support is also really beneficial.

Sum up your time at Bredon in three words Outstanding. Privileged. Thankful.

66 Spotlight on Interviews 67 What has being Head Girl Sum up your experience What have you enjoyed most taught you? at Bredon in three words about your time here? It’s taught me to be far more Unique. Opportunity. Stability. My entire time at Bredon has organised; I have to remember been extremely enjoyable but quite a few dates for meetings Who has been an inspiration one of best moments was the and events. to you here? Sixth Form leadership camp. The I am inspired by many teachers camp allowed me to make new What’s been your greatest and friends but I must also friendships and also spend three personal achievement to date? mention Biscuit (the Admissions days in the company of already At one of the Open Mornings and Marketing office dog, pictured close friends. I forgot to bring a copy of my here) as he has made me realise speech so I had to speak without that I would like to own a dog like What have been your greatest any notes. Afterwards, I felt that him one day! I need to work hard, personal achievements here it was one of my best speeches do well at school and get a good at Bredon? so far and this gave me a lot of job so that I can have a dog. Achieving my role of Chair of confidence. Student Council as well as passing my ICND-1 Cisco exam in Year 12. What advice do you have for younger students here? What new skills have you learnt My advice is to take every from your year as Senior Prefect? opportunity - even if it scares you. It is difficult for me to pinpoint Later you might regret not doing just a couple, but I have learnt something. It’s always good to the importance of humour when step out of your comfort zone. dealing with people, and also the importance of negotiation and how sometimes compromise is necessary.

Do you have any words of advice for our younger students? One of the most important skills for anyone is self-motivation as this gives you the ability to grasp opportunities and focus when times are hard. Do whatever you can to get motivated about something; don’t do anything that demotivates you.

What’s next, after Bredon? I am planning on studying Computer Networking with an element of Cyber Security at Bournemouth University in September next year.

HEAD GIRL

SENIOR PREFECT

68 Interviews Interviews 69 In your words...

“Bredon is the school that lets the children be what they want to be.”

“An amazing school that has a depth to its learning and caring.”

“I wanted to thank you and your staff for the support you have given my son during his first couple of weeks at Bredon. The kindness shown has enabled him to settle in quickly and he is enjoying his new school enormously. The small class sizes enable him to feel

included in every lesson. More than anything, he has been immensely touched by the thoughtfulness of the staff and their treatment of him as an individual.”

“I feel like a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders and I cannot explain the joy at seeing my son feel like he is achieving and fitting in at school. What a difference a school can make!”

BREDON19 “My son started in September and the positive change is phenomenal. We couldn’t be happier.” Code: Code: Whole school photograph Whole Portraits. Academy the kind permission of with has been reproduced This photograph at copy your Order www.academy.gotphoto.co.uk/login

“Since joining Bredon this year, my son is a happier chap and the look on his face when he told me he was good at maths was priceless.”

4 School photo Bredon School Pull Court, Bushley Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 6AH

T: 01684 293156 E: [email protected] www.bredonschool.org

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