This year we say goodbye to the following members of the Senior Common Room:
Lauren Angeli who has joined Tormead School
Phil Comerford who has joined Charterhouse
Megan Denton who carries on with her studies
Kitty Tittle who has moved to Brunei
John Weiner who joins Dunottar
Katy James
Dan Quinton
Simon Taylor who has taken a post at Brighton College, Vietnam
Cain Jones who has gone travelling
Welcome to the following new teachers who join the Common Room in September 2023:
Owen Ace who joins us as a teacher of Physics
Jaysal Bhardwa who joins us Head of Business Studies & Economics
Dr Anthony Bromley who joins us as a teacher of English
Amanda Clark who joins us as a teacher of Physics
Katherine Essex who joins us as a teacher of Chemistry
Danu Fenton who joins us as a teacher of History
Alexander Gillespie who joins us as a teacher of Geography
Benedict Reekes who joins us as a teacher of English
Dr Iona Ross who joins us as a teacher of Chemistry
COMMON ROOM NEWS farewell welcome
Lee Searle who joins us as a teacher of Mathematics
Anna Simonova who joins us as a teacher of Psychology
Claire Wilkinson who joins us as Head of Design, Technology and Engineering
CATERHAM SCHOOL wins Independent Senior School of the Year 2023
Caterham School wins Independent Senior School of the Year at the 2023 ‘Oscars of Education’
It was a night to celebrate for teachers and schools across the UK as the winners of the Tes Schools Awards – one of the most prestigious events in the UK education calendar – were announced. Dubbed the ‘Oscars of Education’, the Tes Schools Awards is now in its landmark 15th year and celebrates the extraordinary commitment, quality and innovation shown by teachers and support staff across the UK. The awards ceremony took place on Friday 23 June at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.
The 2023 Tes Schools Awards brought together the best teachers and schools from UK state and independent settings, including early years, primary schools and secondary schools.
The panel of award judges included school leaders, experts and education researchers. The objectivity, professionalism and high standards of the Tes Schools Awards judges and the judging process has helped establish the awards as a well-respected achievement for any school chosen as a finalist or winner.
Caterham School was announced as the Independent Senior School of the Year with actor James Nesbitt presenting the award.
Tes editor and chief judge of the Tes Schools Awards, Jon Severs, said:
With these awards we honour the education community, who we have served for nearly 113 years. This year has seen some incredibly high-quality entries.
These awards showcase just how vital our education professionals are to every facet of this country. Teachers, leaders and support staff all play such an important role in schools: this is our chance to say thank you for all that they do.
Sp ch Day
TIt has been a remarkable year and I hope you all feel that you can share in the warm glow of a school that is incredibly successful.
oday we are here to celebrate the achievements of our incredible pupils and review the success of an incredible year and also to celebrate the strength of our school community. I am delighted to welcome not only pupils and parents along with our Guest Speaker, Penny Mallory, today, but also members of our Alumni Association, the Old Caterhamians, the Parents’ Association, the President of the School and Members of the Foundation, Trustees, neighbours, friends and colleagues from the East Surrey Learning Partnership.
It has been a remarkable year and I hope you all feel that you can share in the warm glow of a school that is incredibly successful. It is thrilling that we have been recognised as the TES ‘Independent Senior School of the Year’, In addition, we have been recognised for the ‘Best Use of Technology’, by Muddy Stilettos
as well as making their shortlist in the ‘Best for Wellbeing’ Category It is also just worth mentioning that we were re-awarded the Wellbeing Award for Schools, by the National Children’s Bureau – an affirmation of the way that wellbeing is embedded into every aspect of school life here at Caterham. So a year of great organisational achievement and recognition. More importantly, this has been a year of incredible achievement by our pupils.
Our Ethics Cup Team finished in the top four schools in the country when they competed in the National Finals at St Andrew’s University, Alex Mylet is the first ever Caterham pupil to be selected for the GB Physics Olympiad team competing in Japan this summer. Logan Clark will be on your screens in Eastenders imminently. Our U14 girls lacrosse team are National Champions, our U14 mixed touch rugby team
are also national champions, we are the Surrey U19 and U16 table tennis champions, our Senior Netballers finished as runners-up in the national schools plate final and our U18 girls hockey made it through to the national finals for the first time. Our U16 boys hockey team finished runners up in both the indoor and outdoor national schools plate final. We have pupils playing international lacrosse and hockey at the school, and many others on talent pathways that will see them soon gaining regional and national recognition. The school has never before performed so strongly in national and regional competitions (and not just in sport).
You will note in your programmes a whole host of other achievements by our pupils which we do not have time to go through this morning, but which give you a sense of the breadth of talent, ambition and ability among our pupil body.
But it is not simply the achievements of these teams and these pupils that we are here to celebrate this morning. There is also a huge amount of activity that takes place without which there would be no base from which to build the elite performances that we have already mentioned – and it is important that we also celebrate this.
The fact that virtually 100% of our First to Third Years Years represent the school in sport is a remarkable achievement, as is the busyness of our Performing Arts department. The stunning senior production of Iphegenia at Aulis before Christmas, followed by the junior production of Bugsy Malone (with the Orchard Festival at the end of last week and a whole host of other productions across the year) demonstrates the strength of our drama (whether that be on stage or as part of a really talented technical and stage crew) and the numbers of pupils participating in it, MAD Live and the Talent Show are both indicative of the strength and popularity of dance at the school and our music simply goes from strength to strength – a stunning Christmas concert, the Spring Concert, Twilight concerts, chamber choirs - the list goes on and on. It is exciting to see and hear the range of musical talent at the school – some of which you have already heard this morning.
For me, the success of any organisation or team cannot simply be measured by the awards that it wins. it is the culture upon which that success is built that matters most. It is a bit of a cliché but nonetheless true that it is the process and culture that matters as much as the outcome – and that if you set out with clear purpose and integrity sustained success will follow.
Caterham encourages a culture which is high achieving and highly ambitious and a culture where you are encouraged to get stuck in, to take calculated risks, to embrace the moment when things go wrong and to avoid perfectionism, to see success as a joint venture, and to understand that your impact on those around you matters and to believe that anything is possible and no one should put limits on your ambition. That is a culture that breeds success and achievement and is the foundation of all the awards and competitions we may win.
Culture setting is not just about words on a page. Crucially it is about the behaviours and actions of individuals within organisations. I am incredibly fortunate to work with a team of incredibly talented and motivated people across all areas of school life who enable all the activities of your children –my teaching colleagues, grounds staff, caterers, boarding teams, health centre teams, housekeeping, domestic services, marketing and development, administrative staff and drivers – all of whom play a crucial role in building the culture within which your children can thrive and succeed. I would ask that you join me in thanking all of these colleagues for the outstanding contribution they have all made to the success of the school and your children this year.
It is also the point in the year when we say goodbye to colleagues who are moving on from Caterham. Miss Halliday, Miss Compton, Miss Walters and Mr Martinez have been with us for a short time but have had a big impact. Miss Tittle and Mr Taylor are (independently of each other) moving abroad for a new adventure teaching in international schools;
Miss Sheridan is moving on to a fulltime position in another school, Mr Cain Jones is moving on to explore new challenges, Miss Angeli is taking on the role of HOD in another school. Miss James is taking a career break and Mr Weiner is moving on to become a Deputy Head. Can I ask you to join me in thanking them all for their service to Caterham School.
There are two further colleagues stepping back this year that I would like to pay a particular tribute to. Dan and Clare Quinton have been centrally involved in the success of so many pupils over their 20 years plus of service to the school – Dan as Head of Biology and Head of Science and Clare as a music teacher and Head of Beech Hanger House. I have known Dan since he first arrived at Caterham in 2000 when I was working here as Head of History, and I overlapped briefly with Clare when she arrived in Beech Hanger in 2003. Both of them have been inspirational figures – passionate about education, passionate about young people and passionate about science and music. Dan is retiring from teaching (but will remain involved in supporting medics next year) and Clare is stepping down as Housemistress of Beech Hanger, but will remain teaching cello at the school. I am indebted to both of them for all they have done for the school and would ask you to join me in giving a huge round of applause for the Quintons.
My thanks also to the school prefects who have been a huge support this year and once again helped shape pupil experience. I would particularly like to thank our outgoing heads of school – Paige Griffiths, Harry Jude and Danielle Yu – for all they have done this year. They have been fantastic role models and led the school with calm
authority – our weekly meetings have always been hugely enjoyable and informative for me, helping me to understand the pupil experience and where we as a school should be trying to be better. They have always spoken with honesty and clarity, challenging at the right time and in the right way and bringing humour and warmth to our interactions. Good luck to all three of you and thank you for all you have done. Please step forward and accept this small token of my appreciation. Good luck also to our new Heads of School for next year: Philip Morgan, Genevieve Alcock and Ria Manvatkar. This is an exciting time for this school – I don’t want to keep mentioning that we are the TES Independent Senior School of the Year – but it has a nice ring to it don’t you think?
The Prep School has also been shortlisted by Independent School Parent magazine for ‘Prep School of the Year’. At every level, this school is absolutely fizzing with energy and ideas and doing things that are important. Not only is this an exciting time for our through school, it is also an incredibly exciting time to be at the heart of education.
The impact of technology over the past eight months as AI has stepped out of the shadows and generative AI has shown the power of machine learning through things like Chat GPT has forced a conversation about the nature and purpose of education, about the nature and purpose of knowledge and learning, about where and how education happens, about the nature and purpose of assessment, about the nature of intelligence, about the purpose of a school, what is the difference between artificial intelligence and human intelligence. These are big and exciting questions. I am proud and excited that Caterham is at the forefront of that conversation and that we are already doing some incredibly interesting work in this space which will accelerate in the years ahead.
Too much of the debate about this in the media is incredibly reductive and unhelpful – either AI and technology is going to save the world or we are the architects of our own destruction and AI is going to take over. As ever, the reality of the situation is that we will adapt – it’s what humans do. We adapt. We adapt because we have imagination and an ability to think critically. You can train AI to be an expert in a certain area – like reading scans in a hospital, or to spot if potatoes are healthy or not (that is a thing apparently). A human brain can do both these things simultaneously by the way – AI can only do one of these things at a time. Our brain is much more dextrous and flexible –maybe not as fast, but certainly it has infinitely greater capacity to process different types of information – it has the capacity to deal in multiple intelligences at the same time (including emotional intelligence)
which gives a much more nuanced and complete picture of a situation than AI can. The human brain can engage in scholarship. AI can produce content. At least for now
So what is Caterham School doing about this? Well, we’ve been doing this stuff for a long time. Teaching pupils to deal with AI is not about teaching them to understand code. Some people talk about ‘the new fashion that every kid should be a coder’. I’m afraid that view of how to deal with the challenge of AI is a decade out of date. Coding is pretty straightforward but most of us who are involved in education understand that that is too simplistic. The response to AI has to be both a technical and an intellectual one – ironically the antidote to the rise of AI is drawing us back to some of the disciplines that were around with the early Greeks – what we are doing more and more is talking
to your children about ethics, philosophy, debating, oracy and critical thinking in our fantastic EDGE curriculum which blends these key disciplines with project management, collaboration, metacognition and project based learning. Giving our pupils the opportunity to critically engage with AI and understand the opportunities and threats it poses so that they can navigate this complex issues confidently for themselves. That’s what education is.
I have even seen this happening in the Prep School, with 9 year old pupils being challenged to explain why AI generated images have an inbuilt bias. The EDGE curriculum will continue to grow and develop over the coming years
We have been experimenting this term with AI in lessons and using some personalised learning tools to test what is possible and what is effective, we are teaching
pupils to co-author work using Chat GPT – so we are seeing for ourselves what works and what doesn’t. But we are also seizing the opportunity to develop and discover new opportunities – exploring these opportunities through our own EdTech research company here at school led by Adam Webster, and through a new educational research arm of the school led by Kim Wells. Those questions I posed earlier about the nature of knowledge, the nature of learning, the nature of education – these are not new questions. Every generation has wrestled with them. The fact that we have been jolted out of our complacency by large language models such as Chat GPT is exciting, not terrifying, full of possibility and potential, not full of gloom and despair. As an educator, to be alive at a time when we sit at a really interesting juncture where
AI and quantum computing are accelerating the need for us to think quickly and deeply about some fundamental issues is energising. As you would expect, we are putting what is best for your children at the heart of our thinking and we will not be chasing headlines.
I am grateful to the way that many sections of our wider community are also supporting this work. The Old Caterhamians generously support our annual Innovation Prize (which will be awarded later) which supports and enables pupils to put into practice the skills they are developing through the EDGE curriculum – the fact that this year our winners were not coders or computer types speaks volumes about how this school views Innovation. The Old Caterhamians are a hugely valued and incredibly important part of the experience of your children – in many cases providing the bridge and opportunity to the real world experiences that bring to life the classroom theory.
I am also hugely grateful to the Parents’ Association for all their support this year. The work of the committee and the reps in enhancing the experience of your children through supporting key projects –such as our Green Power Car project or the new inflatable planetarium – is hugely appreciated – along with your other key roles of building our community of parents and being a critical friend to the school.
I would also like to publicly thank all those who give their time and energy to the school – particularly members of the school Foundation and especially our Trustees. Strong and effective governance and challenge is key to any successful organisation. The school is as successful today as it is because of the work of outstanding volunteer
trustees. I am extremely grateful and would ask you to join me in thanking our Trustees.
Finally, I would like to thank all of you who support the school with the work we do in partnerships and bursaries. You will find on your seats copies of our first ever impact report on the work we do in these areas. Our broader educational purpose beyond this school is incredibly important to me – that sense of purpose beyond just exam results is what (I think) lies at the heart of this school. We were founded in 1811 by John Townsend with a clear sense of purpose about what a school should be (and I don’t think AI should ever change that sense of purpose) – I am incredibly proud that that sense of purpose is so clearly visible in the work we do. Please do take time to look at this document – we are living up to our founding purpose of being a charity that does education, not simply a school with charitable status. This work could not happen without the generous philanthropic support of so many of you. Thank you.
Before I close, I would also like to pay tribute to our Sunflower Scholars – the seven pupils from Ukraine who have been with us throughout this year. We are incredibly proud of you and what you have achieved and continue to achieve, and in awe of your resilience and determination to make the most of every day and every opportunity.
Finally, to the Upper Sixth. As I wrote in your year book – you are the first pupils that I offered places to when I arrived as Headmaster and I will always remember you with fondness. You have certainly not disappointed me over the past seven years. You are smart, and curious and passionate and supportive and confident but not arrogant. You have
made the school a better place and I hope you feel incredibly proud that you have helped the school you are now leaving be the best in the country. Three parting thoughts as you leave today – firstly, there is an old Hebrew proverb that says ‘If you spend your life trying to be someone else, who is going to be you.’ It took me a long time to learn that lesson – I hope you get there quicker and revel in being your own wonderful unique selves. Secondly, World War II US General George Patton said that ‘Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom.” I suspect all the adults in the room can testify to that – do not let setbacks define you. Finally, fill your life with purpose and meaning not just the pursuit of trophies – if you get the first bit right the second will inevitably follow.
Good luck in all you do. Of course, you are not leaving the school – you are simply changing your relationship with us. As you leave the marquee this morning the Old Caterhamians will be waiting there with a glass of fizz for you – they and the school will be here for you as you grow into adulthood. Bon voyage class of 2023.
I wish all of you here today a restful summer and good luck to all of you awaiting public examination results.
Ceri Jones Headmaster
Motorsport and TV fans know her as the first and only woman to drive a World Rally Car. Penny knows how to compete and beat the odds, but she also knows top performance requires even more than sacrifice and maximum commitment. It also takes heart, insight and the courage to keep going and the refusal to quit. She gets it, because she’s lived it.
SPEECH DAY PRIZES
As a leading authority in Mental Toughness, Penny has perfected the art of Psychologically-Powered Performance. Her interactive, challenging and transformational insight into how and why developing confidence, resilience, commitment and focus is critical in today’s world.
Her experience working inside and alongside world class teams, including Formula One, enables her to inspire and influence meaningful change within organisations.
Penny’s expert understanding of how our thinking affects our behaviour is brought together in the work that she does. Penny’s words aren’t hollow, her life attests to their human truth.
As a child she saw alcoholism and mental illness destroy her family. Fleeing home at 14, homeless and fending for herself on the London streets, her life couldn’t have been more dangerous or bleak, yet an inner strength and self-belief enabled her to take control of her future. She made impossible possible and has since dedicated her life to helping others do the same.
Guest Speaker, Penny Mallory
ACHIEVEMENT, PROGRESS AND CONTRIBUTION TO SCHOOL LIFE
First Year Prizes
Benjamin Donovan
Alessandra Broccolini
Lexie Beck
Jake Dawrant
Emily Stanley
Eugenie Chiu
Oliver Jayasingha
Liam Kitavujja
Rupert Marsden
Syan Patel
Aaradhana Suresh
Catherine Yap
Third Year Prizes
Yolanda Cao
Liam Howgego
Posh Kangsathien
Sammy O’Donovan
Ava Paul
Rosie Butler
Rory Wallace
Matthew Chan
Daniella Swanepoel
Louise Lam
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND EFFORT
Fifth Year Prizes
Maxmilian Tatara
Violet Wan
Ava Floyd
Casey Mear
Elle Davidson
Hazel Tsang
Adrian Hui
Freddie Lowndes
Isabelle Seren Young
Sydney Mei
Lower Sixth Year Prizes
Justin Leung
Dexter Bishop
Marcus Kwok
Yushi He
Dante Butler
Xavier Parker
Millie Carmona
Abbie Wynn
Tiffany Ku
Sophie Hobbs
DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S GOLD AWARD
Shreyan Patel
Alex Stuart
Theo Charlesworth
Ewan Saunders
Lara Paul OC
Sebastian Kensey OC
Phoebe Wearing OC
Maddy Pullen OC
Max Tyler OC
Matthew Sharpe OC
Second Year Prizes
Darcey Johnson
Xavier Khiara
Ann Tagg
Oliver Craddock
Finn Kannenberg
Sophia Minhas
Samuel Mulvihill
Ava Flaherty
Tess Carman
Daisy Clarke
Fourth Year Prizes
Trevor Liu
Millie Burns
Vivienne Lo
Jonathan Woods
Jenny Mylet
Sam Parsons
Joshua Kwok
Leeane Baclao
Annie Liu
Anastasiia Mironenkova
PRIZES FOR OUTSTANDING ALL-ROUND CONTRIBUTION TO SCHOOL LIFE
The Rignall Prize
The Gregory Prize
The Gorman Prize
William Baker
Isabel Singleton
Anna Davies Nithusha Sathyendran
Alex Mylet
Ellie Shipsey
Austin Taylor
Noah Willson
Aaron Houlton
Mili Greener
Tomini Oyeniyi
Nico Wong
Danielle Yu
Paige Griffiths
ENRICHMENT PRIZES
Senior Academic Shorts Holly Gordon Clark
Junior Academic Shorts
Alexander Mirza
The Eothen Prize
Old Caterhamians’ Prize
Harry Jude
SERVICE PRIZES
The Bonarjee Prize
The Brooke Prize
The Wakefield Prize
Will Atterbury
Sophia Mabbutt
Oliver Masters
Anastasia Spuma
Holly Bradley
Paddy Agnew
Sienna Aldridge
Mina Darwin
Leo Lyu
Olivia Morley
Anaiya Patel
Scarlett Sanderson-Marsh
Sophia Termanis
Ethan Whenman
Emily Worrell
Catherine Chao
Flora Hannay
Artie Hunter
O-Teen Kwok
Fred Oliver
Alice Caiger
Marcus Cheng
Fiona Chung
Harry Evans
Iris Floyd
Sally Henley
Ewan Saunders
Sonya Starodubtseva
Xavier Vodzi
Jess Whyatt
James Willimont
Hannah Belshaw
Rachel Chan
Willow Park
Emmaya Sarves
Annabella Woodruff
The Bacon Prize
Bobby Benford
Rose Burke
Katie Davies
Sophia Emery
Alice Fordyce
Jamie Hannah
Sophia Hashemi
Sophia Liu
Ewan McLaggan
Rianna Rennie
Scott Rix McGarvie
Oscar Tait
Tom Thurgood
Marilie Van Slingelandt
Natalie Watt
Avery Chen
Anya Lu
Luke Yuan
Holly-Heather Cook
GAMES PRIZES
Honours Cap Wales U18 Lacrosse
Honours Cap Wales U18 Hockey
Honours Cap Wales U21 Lacrosse
Honours Cap Germany U21 Lacrosse
Honours Cap GB U20s Underwater Hockey
The Dunwoodie Cup – Best All Rounder in Girls’ Sports
Games Prize for Consistent Contribution to Games (Girls)
The John Villers Cup for Consistent Contribution to Games (Boys)
Darby Medal for Swimming
The Smith Prize for Outstanding Contribution to Boys’ Sports
The Whiting Prize for Outstanding Contribution to Girls’ Sports
The Dermer Prize for Top Sportsman
British Formula 4 Championship & Williams Formula 1 Academy
Tilly Golesworthy
Lana Golesworthy
Isabelle Seren Young
Anna Faulstich
Jenny Lomas
Sophia Emery
Esme Glass
Louis Preston
Ronnie Thomas
Ellie Shipsey
Fred Oliver
Caiden Hibbert
Ava Kelly
Jonny Naylor
Harry Pluck
Imogen Lack
Austin Taylor
Ollie Gray
1st X Lacrosse
1st XV Rugby
UPPER SIXTH ACADEMIC PRIZES
The Allison Prize for English Annabella Woodruff
Academic Prize for Biology Ryan Li
Academic Prize for Business Emma Mercer
Academic Prize for Chemistry Avery Chen
Academic Prize for Computer Science Alex Mylet
The Coleman Prize for Design Shreyan Patel and Technology
Academic Prize for Drama Nithusha Sathyendran and Theatre Studies
Academic Prize for Economics Nico Wong
Academic Prize for Fine Art Mili Greener
The Hilton Prize for French Emmaya Sarves
The Stephen Smith Prize Abi Schoorlemmer for Geography
The Prize for German Connor Hart
Academic Prize for Greek Artie Hunter
The Leathem Prize for History Holly Bradley
Academic Prize for Latin Holly Bradley
The Prize for Double Maths (Pure) Alex Mylet
The Prize for Double Maths (Applied) Luke Yuan
Academic Prize for Single Maths Holly-Heather Cook
Academic Prize for PE Willow Park
Academic Prize for Photography Flora Hannay
Academic Prize for Psychology Rachel Chan
Academic Prize for Physics Alex Mylet
Academic Prize for Politics Tomini Oyeniyi
The St. John’s Prize for Paige Griffiths Philosophy and Ethics
Academic Prize for Spanish Tyler Snowsill-Henry
Academic Prize for Textiles Flo Black
INDEPENDENT RESEARCH PROJECT AWARD
The Young Prize Holly Gordon Clark
The Frederic H. Gay Prize Noah Willson
The Alden Davies Prize Alex Mylet
Audience Prize O-Teen Kwok
Shortlisted Chelsea Chen
Shortlisted Paige Griffiths
Highly Commended
Holly Bradley
Catherine Chao
Avery Chen
Kelly Hou
Ryan Li
Sophia Liu
Leo Lyu
Elliot Major
Winner of the Intermediate IRP Competition
Oliver Masters
Molly Meyer
Belle Mok
Sonya Starodubtseva
Natalie Watt
Nico Wong
Danielle Yu
Violet Wan
SPECIAL PRIZES
The Christine Walker Prize
The Abbott Prize for Choral Singing
The Blake-Thomas Falaises Prize (CCF)
The Alexander Clarke Prize for Community Service
Sophie Chung
Hannah Belshaw
William Baker
Nithusha Sathyendran
The Hilary Trehane Prize for Services to the Community Issy Man
The Ansell Reed Prize for contribution to boarding and school life
The Thomas Warren Prize for backstage support
The Baynon-Milnes Prize for outstanding concert performance
The Andrew Fisher Prize for outstanding performance in drama
The Jen Dodd Maths Prize
The Pidgeon Prize for Literature
The Caldwell Cup for Musical Theatre
Emma Mercer
Skyla Chen
Violet Wan
Anna Davies
Anna Davies
Holly Gordon Clark
Anna Davies
The Caterham Engineering Prize O-Teen Kwok
The Harvard Book Award – for the most outstanding Lower Sixth Pupil
Moncrieff Jones Science Prize
Amali Carter
Isabel Singleton
The David Rogers Maths Prize Anya Lu
The Susan Child History Essay Prize
The Chris Wright Cup for Junior Music
The Susan Herbert Prize
The Wright Society Prize
The Junior Academic Shorts Competition
Spivey Essay Prize
The David Evans Award for Overall Academic Excellence
Isabella Burns
Thomas Chang
Catherine Chao
The OCA Innovation Prize
Intermediate Scholars Paper
Junior Scholars Paper
Chelsea Chen
Anson Cheng
Belle Mok
Natasha Smith
Dima Zlobicki
Bella Beadle
Abi Pond
Noah Willson
Holly-Heather Cook
Ethan Tsang
Finn Ogilvie
Izzy Gooding
Emma Randall
Scarlet Louca
Oliver Tatar
THE CATERHAM AWARD
The ‘Caterham Award’ is awarded to Upper Sixth Form pupils who have participated fully in the Caterham School community. The award winners represent a great variety of interests and talents, and they will all have demonstrated responsibility, creativity, and a commitment to life at school. The Caterham Award promotes the School philosophy, ‘Inspiring Education for Life’.
Chiara Abdini
Ade Afuwape
Paddy Agnew
Krishan Ahuja-Hofheiz
Sienna Aldridge
Reuben Allouche
Maaduri Anbukumar
Will Atterbury
William Baker
Ted Barlow
Adam Barry
Max Barry
Issy Bartsch
Ryo Baxter
Charlie Beck
James Beckett
Hannah Belshaw
Flo Black
Millie Blagg
Holly Bradley
Laura Brooker
Joanna Bulley
Sorcha Burgess
Rose Burke
Isabella Burns
Alice Caiger
Nigel Chan
Rachel Chan
Thomas Chang
Catherine Chao
Theo Charlesworth
Avery Chen
Chelsea Chen
Marcus Cheng
Anson Cheng
Nicole Chou
Fiona Chung
Sophie Chung
Ollie Coe
Holly-Heather Cook
Hermione Cooper
Hannah Cossins
Felix Curson
Mina Darwin
James Davidson
Anna Davies
Katie Davies
Rohan de Silva
Lola Dowbiggin
Sam Drury
Sophia Emery
Harry Evans
Sam Everett
Henry Feng
Iris Floyd
Alice Fordyce
Esme Glass
Holly Gordon Clark
Ollie Gray
Mili Greener
Paige Griffiths
Jamie Hannah
Flora Hannay
James Harding
Sophia Hashemi
Jacob Henderson
Sally Henley
Kelly Hou
Aaron Houlton
Winson Huang
Harry Hudson
Artie Hunter
Nicole James
Harry Jude
Hamish Kennedy
Joshua Ko
O-Teen Kwok
Imogen Lack
Oliver Lewington
Ryan Li
Sophia Liu
Anya Lu
Leo Lyu
Sophia Mabbutt
Elliot Major
Issy Man
Oliver Masters
Ewan McLaggan
Emma Mercer
Molly Meyer
Belle Mok
Olivia Morley
James Murray
Alex Mylet
Asha Nair
Jonny Naylor
Treve Ninnes
Charlotte O’Brien
Seb Odeide
Jimi Ogun
Fred Oliver
Tomini Oyeniyi
Valerie Pang
Willow Park
Charlie Parkes
Anaiya Patel
Shreyan Patel
Zara Pitts
Harry Pluck
Daniel Qi
Rianna Rennie
Scott Rix McGarvie
Isabel Sampson
Scarlett Sanderson-Marsh
Emmaya Sarves
Nithusha Sathyendran
Ewan Saunders
Abi Schoorlemmer
Zayd Sharif
Paramita Shen
Ellie Shipsey
Isabel Singleton
Leo Smith
Natasha Smith
Tyler Snowsill-Henry
Anastasia Spuma
Sonya Starodubtseva
Max Stephanos
Olivia Stone
Alex Stuart
Eva-Grace Tague
Renee Tai
Oscar Tait
Austin Taylor
Sophia Termanis
Ronnie Thomas
Tom Thurgood
Marilie Van Slingelandt
Charlotte Vanns
Xavier Vodzi
Tony Wang
Natalie Watt
Ethan Whenman
Jess Whyatt
James Willimont
Ethan Willson
Noah Willson
Nico Wong
Annabella Woodruff
Emily Worrell
Danielle Yu
Luke Yuan
Dima Zlobicki
EXTERNAL ACADEMIC AWARDS
We have seen an impressive number of pupils achieve success in external academic competitions during this school year. Application rates for showcasing excellence in this way is the highest we have seen for a number of years now – a sign that pupils really are embracing the challenge of truly ambitious A Level study.
Paige Griffiths (Upper Sixth Form) was a short listed winner of the John Locke essay competition (Theology) and won first runner up for the Keble College Oxford Theology essay competition.
Millie Burns (Fourth Year) and Amali Carter (Lower Sixth) were both Highly Commended in the Minds Underground global essay competition – Millie for her Philosophy essay entry and Amali for her Literature essay entry.
Rachel Chan (Upper Sixth Form) was selected as a finalist (national top 10%) in the 2022 NCH Year 12 Essay Competition Awards (Psychology). Her work addressed the question: How could psychology help in understanding criminal behaviour – does society create criminals?
Cindy Chen (Fourth Year) won a place on the highly competitive John Locke Summer School based at Oxford University, a week-long programme completing a Foundation Certificate in Philosophy, Politics, Economics and History. To achieve her place Cindy had to complete a written application and an online admissions interview with the Institute’s Academic Dean in the United States.
Sophie Hobbs (Upper Sixth Form) achieved highly commended in a New College of Humanities essay competition in May 2023 and was Highly Commended in the Corpus Christi College Peter Cane Legal Reasoning Prize in March 2023, including an invitation to visit the Oxford’s Faculty of Law.
Alex Mylet (Upper Sixth Form) competed nationally to be selected for the UK team in the International Physics Olympiad in Tokyo this summer.
Tiffany Ku (Lower Sixth Form) Xavier Parker (Lower Sixth Form), Annie Lui (Fourth Year), Isabella Britain (Fourth Year) reached the Grand Final of the Science Snippets competition in May 2023.
Xavier Parker (Lower Sixth Form) competed in the regional final of the National Gallery Articulation Competition, placing second for his talk about the rise of artificial intelligence in art.
Avery Chen, Alex Mylet, Luke Yuan (Upper Sixth Form) and Lisa Hu and Philip Morgan (Lower Sixth Form) joined as a team to compete in the fourth Chemistry Race at the Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge. The Caterham team came sixth at Cambridge and ninth nationally.
Two pupil teams from Caterham had their experiments selected to operate on the International Space Station (ISS). The experiments were submitted as part of the the AstroPi Competition, run by the European Space Agency. The selection means that the ISS will carry the equipment and run the code to run the Caterham pupils’ experiments in space.
Phil Morgan, Finn Ogilvie, Winston Tai, Rupert Leung, Hailey Cheng, Tiffany Ku (Team Borealis) designed an experiment to measure the magnetic field strength on Earth and see if there is any correlation between its strength and level of urban development.
Xavier Parker, Ho Bun Ng, Aaron Zhou, Marcus Wong, James Owen and Annie Liu (Fourth Year) designed an experiment which looks to determine the correlation between vegetation levels and population levels and how this changes over time.
A team of 10 pupils from across the Fourth Year and Lower Sixth Form beat Eton College to win first the regional round of the Ethics Cup Competition and then again as they were placed as a top four team nationally in the competition final. Congratulations to Millie Burns, Lana Carter, Amali Carter, Vivienne Christofides, Sophie Hobbs, Chante Morris, Louis Preston, Sebastian Quijano-Evans, Oliver Rose and George McAree.
Amali Carter (Lower Sixth Form) won the University of Sheffield Philosophy Essay Competition with her response to the title, ‘Is religion important for a good life?’. In addition, Amali achieved highly commended in Northeastern University London’s Philosophy essay competition, and for the Minds Underground’s English Literature essay competition.
Caterham Sixth Form Biologists sat the Biology Olympiad and achieved an impressive haul of medals. Entrants are required to sit two 45-minute exams which stretch them beyond the A Level specification and test their data handling and problem-solving skills to the limit. Congratulations to Ryan Li, Samuel Li, Holly-Heather Cook, Kelly Hou, Justin Leung, Paramita Shen and Elliot Major who all achieved Gold Medals; Lily Li, Annie Ho, Marcus Kwok and Belle Mok who all achieved Silver; Natasha S, Yushi H, Iris F, Sophia L and Ziyan H who all achieved Bronze Medals.
Congratulations to the Lower Sixth Form pupils for their success in Physics Olympiad and Competition successes:
BPHO ROUND ONE UPPER SIXTH FORM RESULTS:
Tiffany Ku – Bronze I
James Williamson – Bronze I
Winston Tai – Bronze II
Aaron Zhou – Bronze II
Philip Morgan – Bronze II
Marcus Wong – Bronze II
Annie Ho – Bronze II
Grisha Lukianov – Bronze II
Xavier Parker – Bronze II
Justin Liu – Bronze II
Lisa Hu – Bronze II
Ho Bun Ng – Bronze II
Jack Forde – Bronze II
Lena Chen – Commendation
Alice Himsworth – Commendation
Jason Kam – Commendation
Harry Xu – Commendation
Luca Sobrattee – Commendation
SENIOR PHYSICS ONLINE CHALLENGE LOWER SIXTH FORM RESULTS:
Gold: Lily Li, Parco Wong, Winston Tai, Tiffany Ku, Marcus Wong, Phil Morgan, Annie Ho
Silver: Ho Bun Ng, Caiden Hibbert, Justin Liu, Jack Forde, Benji Campbell, Luca Sobrattee, Aaron Zhou, Xavier Parker, Finn Ogilvie, Jason Kam, Grisha Lukianov
Hailey Cheng, Parco Wong, Aaron Zhou, Justin Liu, Caiden Hibbert, Phil Morgan, Jasper Mills, Tiffany Ku, Winston Tai, Marcus Wong, Lisa Hu, Luca Sobratte, Annie Ho, Alice Himsworth, Jason Kam
RESULTS LAUNCH BRIGHT FUTURE FOR CLASS OF 2023
A Level results unlocked a bright future for Caterham pupils moving onto Oxbridge, to medical school and universities across the UK, the US and Australia. 25 per cent of all grades were the top A* grade and almost two out of every three grades an A or A* grade. With 85 percent of all grades at A* to B, 2023’s results once again secure Caterham’s position in the premier league of independent schools, and follow the Times Educational Supplement naming Caterham as the UK’s top independent senior school in summer 2023.
All leavers have secured a destination of choice for September, with over three quarters securing both their first-choice destination and course. 11 Caterham pupils won their places at Oxford or Cambridge University, joining the 60 at Oxbridge across the last five years. A long-established tradition of Caterham medics continued with 100 percent of Caterham candidates taking up their places to read medicine in the autumn.
Headmaster Ceri Jones said: “My warmest congratulations to a fantastic group of young people. 2023’s A Level exams were the first public examinations sat by this cohort pupils across their entire school career and so to secure these grades is a remarkable achievement. I am proud that we maintained the academic and full school provision for them throughout Covid times. I am also proud that the school has maintained our long-standing top A Level grade
profile, particularly set against a UK-wide picture of grades adjusted down following the step away from Teacher Assessed Grades which were in place across the last three years. Caterham is a supportive school –these top grades have been secured with 99 percent of pupils moving up from our Fifth Year to Sixth Form A Level study with us. I am proud that we stick by our pupils and their families through their entire senior school journey.”
HIGHLIGHTS IN SUMMARY
85% of all grades at A* to B
25% of all grades are the top A* grade
Our young people have proved themselves to be resilient and focused, they deserve every bit of their success. As they move on, I know that they will take the fun and friendship they have enjoyed here at school and flourish in their ambition. Thanks also to the parents and teachers whose support has played a significant role in these results.”
Ceri Jones, Headmaster
99% of pupils remain at Caterham after GCSEs to complete their A Level studies
TOMINI’S TAKES HER CHANCE TO CHANGE THE WORLD
Tomini’s sharp interest in all things politics has been put to good use during her time as editor of Caterhams political magazine Preview. Securing two A*s and an A grade secured Tomini’s dream of studying Politics and International Relations at University of Bath. Tomini said: “Today has been such a whirlwind of emotions but I’m over the moon. I’ve been interested in world politics for as long as I can remember and so wanted to choose a course that gave me insight and a platform to go out there and change whatever I can. As editor of the politics magazine I had to review all the articles, edit them all and compile them to make an engaging magazine and I really enjoyed the process!” Looking back on her Sixth Form time at Caterham, Tomini said: “Coming to Caterham was the best decision I have ever made. I’ve learnt how to really value friendships and what true friendships really mean, I’ve had a brilliant relationship with all my teachers and really learnt how to immerse myself in my studies. I’ve learnt life skills that will stay with me forever.” Tomini’s advice to younger pupils is simple: “Join in everything, talk to everyone – you only live once so make the very most of it!”
MARILIE HEADS ACROSS THE POND TO STUDY MARINE BIOLOGY
Having secured a string of A grades, Marilie is heading to the States to take up her place at San Diego University where she will study Marine Biology. Reflecting on her exciting next steps Marilie said: “I was attracted to US unis because of their broad curriculum which covers more subjects and classes than in the UK. The application process took a lot more time and effort than my UK uni applications. There was a lot of essay writing for each individual US uni but ultimately it has paid off. I had expert support to guide me through here and that was a great help. I’m looking forward to new experiences, a new country, a new subject. It’s going to be a big exciting step!” Marilie joined Caterham from St Michael’s Prep School in Otford and is now ready to make an even bigger leap as she moves overseas: “I’ll miss the great friends and teachers at Caterham – and the support I got from them. I’ll miss Geography lessons particularly – a big shout out for Mr Terrell who has always been sucha great supporter.”
Almost two out of every three grades are an
A/A*GRADE
ALEX IS THE UK’S TOP YOUNG PHYSICIST!
Collecting 5 A* grades on results day was yet another high point in 18 year-old Alex’s summer. While most A Level pupils spent their post-exam summer kicking up their heels, Alex enjoyed a very different travel experience; one which saw him ranked as the UK’s top young physicist and in the top 50 globally. Alex was one of the five-strong UK team competing at the global Physics Olympiad held in Tokyo this summer. Alex walked away with a silver medal after completing two A/A*GRADE Almost two out of every three grades are an fivehour papers, one Experimental and one Theoretical.
Alex will be studying Mathematics and Computer Science at St John’s College, Oxford and is looking towards a career in computer science or academia. Alex joined Caterham from Hazelwood Prep, and has been a very active member of the science and maths departments at Caterham.
NITHUSHA’S OFF TO OXFORD
“I have wanted to go to Oxford since I could first form the word ‘Oxford’ and say it out loud! It’s been a dream for me, and is such a big deal for me and for my family. On results day I made the mental switch from ‘I’m hoping to’ to ‘I’m going to’ and it feels crazy, but great. I’m over the moon!
Nithusha joined Caterham in the Sixth Form and soon settled into life in a new school: “I’m going to miss Caterham and all the friends I’ve made over the last two years. I used to go to a pretty closedminded school but moving here for Sixth Form, everyone wants to be friends with everyone else and it’s such a nice environment to be in.”
“I’d like to give a shout out for my English teacher Mrs Wildsmith who has been an inspiration and to my tutor Mr Philips who is just lovely. Originally I wanted to be a vet but changed my mind and they really helped me work out what it is I want to do, and to pursue it – and now I’m off to read English Literature. Thanks also to Ms Guttner and the drama department who pushed me and helped me believe in myself so I could see what I was really capable of.”
THEO REACHES FOR THE SKIES WITH DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP
Theo’s next step is a Degree Apprenticeship (with BAE Systems) which is an increasingly popular but competitive choice for pupils. Said Theo: “I chose to do a degree apprenticeship as I knew I would get hands-on experience working at a prestigious company while also learning about the theory behind the work that I would be doing. Also, I get paid a good salary while working for my degree, and am likely to be offered a job with the company at the end of it. Besides this, I will still receive the same degree had I gone to university.”
Theo attended Caterham’s Degree Apprenticeship Program which runs every Tuesday for Sixth Form pupils: “It helped tremendously, giving me guidance on all aspects of the application process from how to answer the application questions to making an impact on the interviewers. I also had advice from an alumni who started his degree apprenticeship with BAE Systems 3 years ago. He was able to give me some insight into what skills and attributes the interviewers are looking for in applicants and lots of useful information about the culture of this innovative company.” What will Theo miss about life
at Caterham?: “The Classics departmentat Caterham has been particularly memorable; my Greek set with Mrs Hunter would go off curriculum yet we learnt what we needed to, and we all got fantastic grades. I have found Caterham to be instrumental my academic success. More than that however in the context of degree apprenticeships employers were most interested in applicants’ problem solving skills and initiative, people skills and passion for the industry rather than just grades.”
A* STAR PERFORMANCE FROM ANNA
Seasoned performer Anna confirmed that opening results envelopes is more stressful than an opening night – but any nerves today soon melted away on receipt of her fantastic results of A*, A, A. Anna now takes up her place at Guildford School of Acting to study musical theatre and judging by her stellar performances at Caterham a bright future awaits! Anna joined Caterham from The Hawthorns School: “I don’t know where to begin with where Caterham has helped me. The performing arts department is incredible in bringing out the best of your abilities and growing your confidence, just allowing you shine through. That’s something I’ve really appreciated.”
CATERHAM ON CLOUD NINE WITH RECORD BREAKING GCSE RESULTS
Nine is the number for 2023’s GCSE results with almost half of all results at the highest possible Grade 9. Close to nine out of every ten exams sat were awarded the top 9 to 7 Grades (previously A*) and 68 per cent received grades 9 to 8. This year’s GCSE results are record breaking, surpassing all pre-Covid grade records, even as marking nationally returns to pre-pandemic grade boundaries. 9 pupils secured a clean sweep of grade 9s across every exam and 24 pupils got at least 10 grade 9s across their subjects.
Ceri Jones, Headmaster, said: “2023’s results are outstanding with the average grade achieved across all results a Grade 8 and almost no grade lower than a 6. I am absolutely thrilled for our young Caterhamians who overcame early disruption to their education during the pandemic to throw themselves into every aspect of school life. They now have an impressive set of exams results alongside the problem solving, entrepreneurial and digital skills they have honed in our unique Digital & Innovation EDGE curriculum. Pupils’ GCSE results have been achieved along with a raft of significant cocurricular, sporting, partnership and community achievements by our young people who now move on to a bright future as they begin Sixth Form.” 2023’s record breaking results reflected strength across all subjects. Caterham’s results in Maths were particularly strong with 75 percent of grades the top 9 and 8 grades.
The School’s science departments recorded top results with 50 percent of Biology grades at the top grade 9 and 80 percent at grades 8 & 9; 47 percent of Physics grades at grade 9 and 45 percent of Chemistry grades 9 and three quarters at 8 & 9. English secured 60 percent of grades at grade 9 and 82 percent at 8 & 9. The Drama department secured 100 percent of grades at the top 8 & 9 and three quarters of all grades at 9. Textiles and Greek each gained 100 percent of results at grades 8 & 9 with Latin 92 percent at 8 & 9.
JACK OF ALL GRADES, MASTER OF NINES
With his sister securing top grades at A Level last week, it was very much Jack’s turn to shine today: “It was quite tricky to sleep last night but I felt I had done all I could do in the exams. When I opened the envelope, it was the best I could have hoped for with all grade 9s across all of my subjects. That means I can do all the subjects I want to at A Level this summer: physics, maths economics and biology and perhaps look to do engineering at university beyond that.”
69% received grades 9 to 8
A summer packed full of travel, working and seeing friends has flown by and Jack is now looking forward to getting stuck back into life at school. “I play quite a lot of sport here and am looking forward to rugby in the Autumn Term. I love hockey too and was in the team that got to the plate final last season. Cricket is another passion and I’m looking forward to a season uninterrupted by (necessary) exams next time.” Jack’s advice for younger pupils is to take all the support that is on offer: “The teachers help so much and even if you don’t think you need extra help sessions just go and make the most of what is on offer. It helped me a lot to really grasp my subjects.”
ISABELLE GAINS FULL SWEEP OF TOP GRADES
Isabelle was on cloud 9 with a full set of Grade 9s bursting from her GCSE results envelope.Despite some early morning nerves on results day, Isabelle was thrilled with her results.
Isabelle is a prominent musician at Caterham as well as being active in the technical side of theatre – such is her passion that her long post-exam summer included singing with young people from across the country at the National Children’s Choir Camp in Birmingham.
Isabelle is also a member of Caterham’s active Voice for Change group, which promotes and engages the whole school community in celebrating our diversity. Isabelle is also part of the Combined Cadet Force and almost as soon as her results envelope was opened jumped on the departing coach for the summer CCF camp in the Brecon Beacons.
Sixth Form will bring psychology, biology, chemistry and philosophy at A Level as well as continuing a busy programme of performing arts and wider activities.
ENGLAND HOCKEY SUMMER FOR CASEY
Ten grade 9s and one 8 has left Casey over the moon with his GCSE results. Casey is youngest in a long line of successful Old Caterhamians, which includes his grandfather, father and older sister, so was feeling positive pressure from family for his results! Casey said; “It was actually an incentive to do well and another factor which kept me focused in the run up to exams.”
In addition to his academic success, Casey has a growing sporting career and participated in an England Hockey tournament this summer. He was also a key part of Caterham’s hugely successful hockey season last year which saw the school in two national finals. Looking forward to life in Sixth Form on every front Casey said: “Next year I think we can go further and win a title –our attitude and skills are all in a good place.” Ever dedicated to his sport, Casey was saving any celebration of today’s results until after his evening hockey training session.
pupils got at least 10 grade 9s across their subjects
ALL SMILES FOR SIMI
Simi was all smiles on results day and ready to celebrate her top GCSE grades: “I’m really happy and excited with my results with all 9s and 8s and one 7. For me this means I can do the subjects I want as I move to the Sixth Form which is psychology, biology, chemistry and photography at A Level. It means I can consider applying to do medicine beyond that and I am definitely going to join the Wright Society here at school for young medics.”
Beyond her studies, Simi has broad interests and has been an active member of a range of clubs and activities: “I do a lot of drama clubs which I love and have been part of engineering club too. I would like to say a big thank you to all my teachers for the time they have given up helping me which is what made the difference. My advice for younger pupils is to make the most of the support that’s available.”
ALL NINES CLEAR
ELLE’S NERVES
Elle has been at Caterham since starting at Caterham Prep aged 5 but familiarity didn’t quell her results day nerves this morning: “I was so nervous I had to step away from everyone to open my envelope this morning, but it’s all great now with grade 9s across every subject. I didn’t think I could have done as well as I have!” Elle was a finalist in the 2023 Independent Research Project competition with her research and final piece on limb regeneration. Life beyond academic study is just as busy for Elle who plays netball and swims for Caterham as well as her musical pursuits of singing and piano.
Today’s run of top grades means Elle moves on to the next step in her Caterham journey studying Greek, chemistry, economics, further maths and maths at A Level. Elle is most looking forward to the different vibe in Caterham Sixth Form and has received lots of advice from her three older brothers who all progressed through Caterham – but Elle is determined to make sure her time is unique to her.
STANDING OVATION FOR ROCK STAR JOEL
Used to taking centre stage as lead guitar in his rock band, Joel was celebrating a riff of great grades today having secured all grades 9s and one grade 8.
Joel said: “I am really happy as these results will allow me to do all the subjects I want to at A Level and means I can now focus on maths, further maths, biology, physics and chemistry in the autumn. I am really looking forward to being part of the Moncreiff Jones Science Society and the Wright Medics Society, especially as I am thinking of applying to medicine at university in the future.
Joel is a keen Combined Cadet Force cadet and swiftly swapped his results envelope for a very much heavier backpack as he jumped on the coach headed to deepest Wales for the summer CCF camp.
2023’s results are outstanding with the average grade achieved across all results a Grade 8 and almost no grade lower than a 6. I am absolutely thrilled for our young Caterhamians who overcame early disruption to their education during the pandemic to throw themselves into every aspect of school life.
Ceri Jones, Headmaster
WHERE OUR STUDENTS GO ON TO STUDY
UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS AND COURSES 2023
Our focus at Caterham is to support our young people towards the course and university about which they are passionate, and which best supports and enables their ambitions. The below table details the destinations of our 2023 leavers, the number of pupils moving on to the university and the range of courses secured.
Caterham
100% of young medics, vets & dentists secured their place
Caterham is a supportive school – these top grades have been secured with 99 percent of pupils moving up from our Fifth Year to Sixth Form A Level study with us. I am proud that we stick by our pupils and their families through their entire senior school journey.
Ceri Jones, Headmaster
UK & GLOBAL DESTINATIONS FOR CATERHAMIANS
Caterham’s 2023 leavers opened doors of opportunity with the grades to secure their future path. 99 per cent achieved the university destination of their choice. While Oxbridge and UK ‘G5’ universities remain popular with Caterhamians, the post Sixth Form landscape is changing. Professional degree apprenticeships and overseas universities are increasingly popular with our Sixth Form pupils. To support their ambitions all Caterham Sixth Form pupils follow the EDGE Pathways programme alongside their academic study. This programme is delivered by our expert staff who are experienced in both supporting US university applications and in the often complex applications for Degree Apprenticeships.
UK and overseas university places secured in 2023 once again reflect the high ambition of Caterham pupils. 11 pupils secured their places at Oxford and Cambridge Universities, joining the 60 Catehramians who have moved up to Oxbridge across the last five years. Three secured their place at an overseas university. Degree apprenticeship continue to grow in popularity with recent leavers
securing places at BAE Systems, AIG, Grant Thornton, BP and EY. Caterham has a long-established tradition of preparing young people for medicine, dentistry and veterinary science courses through our UK leading Wright Society for young medics, which is also open to pupils in our local state-maintained partner schools. 100 per cent of our young medics secured their places in 2023.
Ensuring that our pupils have the skills and knowledge, alongside top academic grades, to thrive in a fast-changing world is one of our core priorities.
From the First Year to the Sixth Form, pupils follow our EDGE innovation curriculum, which stands for Explore, Develop, Grow, Evolve. EDGE is built upon three central elements: Learning to Learn, Big Ideas and Practical Problem-Solving. Each year group will experience these elements in different and challenging ways, whether that’s through the Theory of Knowledge and Critical Thinking (Learning to Learn), the environment and communication (Big Ideas) or the School in a Box and Circular Economy projects (Practical Problem-Solving), the EDGE curriculum builds up a wealth of ideas, knowledge and skills which our pupils can put into action in lessons, in their day-to-day lives and to inspire them to face challenges with the tools to overcome, redesign and rethink any problem they choose to tackle. The EDGE Curriculum begins in the First Year, with a focus on metacognition and developing the ability to conduct effective selfreflection and culminates in the Sixth Form with pupils participating in seminars from world-leading experts in fields as varied as ethics, activism and Artificial Intelligence. EDGE enables our pupils to develop skills for today and the future. The skills we focus on are informed by research and by working with organisations across the world, ensuring that we are constantly adapting and developing our work allows our pupils to succeed in whatever they choose to do.
PARTNERSHIPS
WIDER CIRCLES
Ukrainian Support One Year On
As we pass the twelve month anniversary of the full scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia and its troops, it’s hard to imagine a day without terrible reports and images of death and destruction. Since February 2022 some eight million people have fled Ukraine and become refugees seeking safety in other countries, many fleeing with only the bare essentials and most often leaving loved ones and family behind, living with the constant fear of what has become of them on a daily basis.
Over the last year Tandridge has welcomed over 400 Ukrainians, mostly women and children, and the community has supported many more from the neighbouring areas of Croydon, West Kent and wider Surrey. We have seen amazing efforts to welcome these families into our lives with hosts, schools, local businesses and community groups coming together to provide not only practical help but also emotional support, compassion and friendship. Caterham School and its community has been a key part of this work. Our local Ukrainian Christmas Appeal was massively supported by both Caterham parents and staff and saw over 150 presents bought for Ukrainian families in need. Alongside this, the Caterham School Bakers once again did an amazing job of putting on a great spread for families to enjoy on the day.
Sals Shoes, a charity supported by the Caterham School Parents’ Association, has continued to generously donate to all of our giving days with their pop up shoe shop –
making sure children and their mums have shoes that are comfortable and suitable. One little boy recently told us after receiving a pair of shoes:
It’s great to have a new pair of trainers –now my feet don’t hurt.
We have also received many private donations, from parents, of vouchers, translation services, equipment and practical help which has been gratefully received and very much needed. Despite great efforts all round, unfortunately the war continues, so our work is by no means done. For many of the families we work with circumstances have become more precarious and unstable, due to the worsening situation back home, coupled with the housing issues many of them are now facing, being unable to find suitable longer term accommodation in the area. Local Councillor Annette Evans said:
I would particularly like to thank Caterham School and parents for their amazing contributions to our clothes and Christmas present appeal and of course the wonderful cakes. Our Ukrainian guests have now got to know Caterham and have settled into schools and jobs and improving their English.
Local host and Caterham parent Claire Dunn added: Since my guest and her three children arrived, I have stood back in awestruck admiration as she has settled her children in school, found herself an English speaking job and conjured up delicious meals on minimal income. All whilst operating as a single parent with support networks she has had to start from scratch. Since 28 April 2022, whenever I have felt overwhelmed I know where to look to get some perspective. We can’t change the world – but if anyone has a few spare vacant flats up their sleeve, please let us know…
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Caterham School community for all its support over the last year. We really could not do what we do without your support. It really is testament to the generous and caring environment we are lucky to be a part of.
| LOUISA DREJA UKRAINIAN SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Tatler Awards RECOGNITION FOR CATERHAM
Caterham has been recognised for its excellence and environmental work in the highly competitive Tatler Awards and accompanying Schools Guide 2023. Alongside Caterham’s academic prowess, the Tatler Schools Guide review recognised that “The focus on diversity and sustainability (and fun!) sets students up for great things.”
Concourse Café funds life changing clean water project
Caterham School’s project in India is now complete and providing clean water to 821 people in Bila Kuppam Village, Tamil Nadu. This has been funded through Chartwells by pupils and staff purchasing ‘Life Water’ in the Concourse Café.
Michael Rosen Visits!
Over 300 hundred voices spontaneously erupted into synchronised poetry on Thursday – such was the impact of our very special guest Michael Rosen, former Children’s Laureate and much loved author. Mr Rosen met with our Fifth Year Drama Class and pupils of all ages in the Centre for Performing Arts, He held the audience of pupils from Caterham Prep School and our East Surrey Learning Partnership schools spellbound as he gave them a whistle stop tour of his 50 years of writing for young people, the inspirations for his favourite stories and how he turns ideas into enduring tales. The questions flowed, as did the laughter, and a thoroughly inspiring morning was enjoyed by all. To prove the longevity of Rosen’s children’s stories one prep pupil even brought her family’s treasured first edition print of ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ for signing – the book was her parents’ from their own childhood!
UK Social Mobility Awards
HONOUR ROLL 2022
Caterham has been recognised in the UK Social Mobility Awards, with a special slot on the Honour Roll 2022, for Transformational Bursaries which are supported by our school community and for the school’s role as founder and centre point of the East Surrey Learning Partnership. The ESLP is a partnership of independent and maintained schools working together to support ambition and achievement for all. Activities include regular science lessons, sport and outdoor learning, maths and English support and extension work for young people. The SOMOs themselves have been specifically established to recognise and encourage action that will promote and increase social mobility within Britain’s companies and institutions. These awards will recognise best practice and innovation and celebrate excellence and achievement and elevate social mobility as a cause equal to the level of other diversity issues.
Creative Partnership
Our first after school primary school drama club session was launched, led by Mrs Fahey and two Lower Sixth drama leaders Skyla C and Isabella Q. The workshops were supported by a team of Fourth Year dramatists: Amelie D, Bella C, Charlie S, Chloe E, Lynus L, Ruby C, Sam P and Sky-Brooke D-S. The pupils from St John’s Primary School created short, improvised scenes and fantastic frozen pictures as a starting point for a creative final production, possibly at the end of May. It was great fun for our pupils and the primary school children alike. At the end we collected much positive feedback and advice from everyone, including Mrs Fahey, Mr Fahey and Miss Denton.
| SKYLA C UPPER SIXTH
REFLECTIONS
Christmas in the Concourse!
We had some Christmas trees and activities in the concourse during December. There were a range of trees to recognise and celebrate our diverse communities, encouraging pupils to consider different perspectives and experiences at this time of year.
• We supported the Great Ormond Street Christmas appeal at the suggestion of one of our First Year pupils.
• The first tree encouraged pupils to think of those in war and conflict this winter.
• We had a Tree of Remembrance giving staff and pupils the opportunity to acknowledge people they will miss this Christmas.
• The un-decorated tree was to acknowledge people who will be going without this Christmas.
• A menorah was placed alongside the Christmas tree in the entrance hall to acknowledge the significance of Hanukkah to our Jewish community
• Pupils were invited to write a message of thanks to a member of staff within the school.
• Pupils were encouraged to consider ways to make Christmas sustainable by making angels out of recycled books. These provided an eye-catching way to decorate our final tree.
It was fantastic to see our pupils collectively thinking of others and using their creative talents to decorate our trees.
Hope is here
In 2018 UK Parliament initiated a national campaign to celebrate the 1928 Representation of the People (Equal Franchise) Act, which gave equal voting rights to all women and men. As part of the campaign, they built a Lego Suffragette figure called Hope which has been displayed in universities and museums across the country. Our bid to host Hope here at Caterham was successful. Hope was built by The Lego Group and it took three people 171 hours to build her. She is life sized – 170 cm tall and weighs 95 kg. We are using the installation to inform and educate pupils and the whole community on wider issues including UK parliament and democracy, equal representation, the impact of WW1 on society and feminism, women’s movements in science, art and literature.
A Right Royal Spread
Pupils and staff in the Senior and Prep schools were treated to a fantastic street party style lunch complete with union jack bunting and King Charles III in attendance to celebrate the King’s Coronation. Pie and mash, Coronation sandwiches, Yorkshire pud sausage and stuffing rolls topped off with trifle, ice cream and scones. Thank you to our amazing catering team for putting on such a right royal spread!
Welcome to London Academy of Excellence
On Wednesday 26 April Lower Sixth pupils from our partner school the London Academy of Excellence visited Caterham School for an afternoon of creative sessions. Pupils enjoyed a piano masterclass, where they played a range of pieces and received feedback from our subject specialists on technique and style, and an art session, drawing inspiration from Matisse’s patterns to design and make a pillow case using industrial techniques. Our Lower Sixth pupils organised and ran a debate with the LAE pupils focusing on the motion ‘Is the carrot more effective than the stick?’ – coming to the diplomatic result that everyone was a winner! It was a fantastic afternoon and it was wonderful to see our pupils connecting with their peers at LAE.
Awards Finalists
RECOGNITION FOR INNOVATION & PASTORAL CARE
Hot on the heels of Caterham’s shortlisting for the Times Educational Supplement Best Senior Independent School, the school has also been recognised in not one but two categories in the nationwide Muddy Stilettos Schools School Awards. Caterham is a finalist for Most Innovative TechnologyLed Teaching and Best Pastoral Care. It is quite an honour to be recognised as finalists across different awards that between them span experts in educational provision and parental experience.
Fizzy Maths Fun
Fifty-five Year 5 pupils participated in our latest Fizzy Maths session, which run regularly as part of our busy partnerships programme to boost maths learning in primary age children. These events have become part of the termly cycle of five local primaries; St John’s, Furzefield, Audley, St Francis and Marden Lodge. The participating pupils have been working on their ‘Fizzy Maths’ resources packs this term at their schools and came into the library to work with 26 of our Fourth Year and Lower Sixth ‘Maths Ambassadors’ to develop their higher order thinking skills and problem solving with logic, mathematical techniques and a bit of trial and error. The session was orchestrated by Mrs Griffiths and included a group of ‘Flying Ambassadors’ who went out to a school who were unable to make it to Caterham, but joined online.
On the Path to Hope
Two incredible First Year pupils (Abi G and Nami D) watched a Refugee Week assembly and were inspired to take action. Recognising that challenges don’t stop when refugees reach a country of safety, they wanted to bring together voices from across the UK to send a strong message of hope in difficult times. They reached out to leading Refugee Support organisations, receiving contributions from the Refugee Council, Safe Passage, Croydon Refugee Day Centre and Freedom from Torture alongside inspiring individuals, such as Baroness Warsi of the House of Lords and Shaharzad Akbar, former Chair of the Afghanistan Human Rights Committee. Abi and Nami’s hard work and passion shines through in this rich collection of art, anecdotes and stories – but it is clear that throughout this process they have continued to honour the voices of the contributors most.
Sixth Form Host Local Pupils
Our Lower Sixth hosted 150 Year 5 pupils from St Francis, Marden Lodge and Whyteleafe Primary Schools. The pupils took part in sessions in science and humanities including the physics of parachutes, a philosophy treasure hunt, coding robots and problem solving in the woods. In the afternoon the Lower Sixth supervised a range of games on Homefield. Everyone had a great time and everyone was learning throughout the day.
Clifton Hill Sports Day
At the beginning of July we hosted Clifton Hill School’s sports days. The Clifton Hill pupils took part in a range of activities, from penalty shoot out to parachute games, finishing with a medal’s ceremony. The activities were organised and run by Lower Sixth pupils, who have worked with Clifton Hill throughout the year, organising weekly activity sessions centring on having fun through group games. These events were a fantastic final celebration of their hard work.
INNOVATION
Digital & AI – Leading the way
AI in Education: A Glimpse into the Future
Caterham is once again leading the way in innovation, Mr Lang represented Caterham Prep at the annual IAPS Headteachers’ Conference in Liverpool, sharing insights and answering questions on the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities that schools face in response to Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. The conference is the largest gathering of independent headteachers in the UK, gathering school and industry leaders from across the country to engage with the critical issues facing schools and their communities in the years ahead.
Pioneering a Culture of Experimentation
Mr Lang emphasised fostering a culture of experimentation with AI, anchored in school values and adopting a children-first “Why not?” approach to encourage both staff and students to explore AI’s potential whilst prioritising child safety. If a new development, whether based on technology, pedagogical research or practical experience, could benefit children’s learning now and preparation for the future, schools have a responsibility to investigate and look for opportunities to improve their practice.
Training and a collaborative approach support the professional development of teachers whilst dedicated taught units around the mechanics and ethics of AI with the children aim to develop ‘AI literacy’, preparing them for a world in which such technology is already omnipresent.Although children within the Prep age range are below the age for personal accounts for many of the emerging tools, knowing how they function and making appropriate use of shared systems where appropriate is critical to building skills, understanding and safe habits in a protected environment. Case studies showcased AI’s capability to offer individualised learning paths, from recommendation engines such as CENTURY and Atom Learning to supervised co-working with generative AI to develop and refine ideas through ‘digital peer feedback’. The integration of AI offers the potential for an ‘Industrial Revolution for the Mind’, bringing a focus on creativity and refinement over production and allowing increased focus on ‘higher-order’ thinking skills prioritised by the World Economic Forum in their annuallyupdated ‘Top 10 Work Skills’.
AI Policy & Ethical Considerations
Caterham understood that the first step was to develop a policy that allowed freedom to experiment whilst keeping children’s safety as an utmost priority. A simple yet effective AI policy, developed with flexibility in mind, guides the ethical use of AI across Caterham senior and Prep by staff and pupils. The policy addresses privacy, bias, and accountability, ensuring a responsible approach to AI integration and has set a benchmark for other schools who wish to adopt a standard that is both comprehensive and able to adapt to a constantly-changing landscape.
Inspirations & Future Prospects
Mr Lang cited inspirations in the field of GenAI, emphasizing the importance of credible educators who put children at the heart of AI. He expressed excitement about the prospects of individualized learning and the unique opportunity independent schools have to lead the conversation on AI in education
Addressing Concerns
Concerns surrounding budgeting and age restrictions were discussed, with Mr Lang emphasising the importance of safety and adherence to regulations like COPPA (in the US) and GDPR, which restrict the information which apps can collect on children. The conference also addressed potential risks and the need for students and adults to be more savvy in a world ever more integrated with online technology.
Parents’ Reception & Community Engagement
The transition from initial concerns to a growing demand for AI has been noted among parents. Media such as podcasts and webinars have been employed to raise awareness and share information.
Concluding Thoughts
In his concluding remarks, Mr Lang underscored that AI is here to stay, likening the current phase to the onset of an Industrial Revolution for the Mind. Just as we prepare our children to cross the road safely by leading them through it, identifying dangers and teaching them what to look out for and how to react when they spot an unsafe situation, we cannot prepare our children for the world they are growing up in by isolating them from it. Independent schools are uniquely positioned to lead the way, preparing students for the future while adapting to the rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Take-Home Message
Mr Lang left the audience with a thoughtprovoking message:
“We have a duty to prepare our children for the world they are growing up into, rather than the one they are growing up from.”
Plato predicted that the teaching of reading would mean the death of learning. King Canute famously planted his throne on the beach and commanded the sea not to advance. But what is often forgotten is that his point was not that the sea should obey him but that wishing differently cannot alter the tide. Instead, we owe it to our children to teach them to surf.
Computer Science
INNOVATION DAYS
Pupils from the Second Year spent a whole day taking part in the Computer Science Innovation Days during February. This initiative aims to allow pupils time to become immersed in creative problemsolving activities.
Their brief was to create two innovative solutions to problems in one of four fields chosen from health, transport, sport or home and leisure. After finding their own real-world problem to solve, pupils had to design and build two prototypes, both incorporating technology with the micro:bit. This small computer requires students to write software to control a range of sensors and outputs to produce their desired solution. Products included a treadmill calculating distance end energy expenditure, a step counter embedded in the sole of your trainer, an alarm clock using light to wake you up, a reaction time tester, a thermostat to help the warn the elderly if they are getting too hot or cold, a device to make decisions when you don’t know what to do, a wallet with a digital display so you always know how much cash you have and a hot potato game. All teams are to be commended for the way they overcame obstacles and found solutions when building the electronics of their prototypes and the effectiveness of their code.
| NEIL STOKES HEAD OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
All teams are to be commended for the way they overcame obstacles and found solutions when building the electronics of their prototypes...
Articulation Prize
SILVER POSITION FOR XAVIER
Our bid to win the prestigious, national ARTiculation competition 2023 was hard fought for by Xavier P (Lower Sixth), who had been previously selected by a panel of school judges to represent the school at the regional semi-final in Folkestone in. The internal heat was a highly engaging event, held in November and was initially entered by 25 Lower Sixth Form pupils with six shortlisted to present their talks. The competition requires each contestant to talk for ten minutes about an artwork of their choosing and celebrates contextual understanding, personal opinion and oracy skills. Xavier’s presentation on the rise of AI artwork and the work of Jason Allen using the algorithms in Midjourney was judged by renowned artist Jyll Bradley. She was highly impressed with the presentation – although she said she did not understand all of it! She asked whether AI collaboration with art would be something he could see himself doing – he gave an excellent answer about the importance of collaboration. She pushed him about whether he himself would like to do it and he replied he would but only on the technical AI side. It is exciting for us to see the hybrid interests of a scientific pupil such as Xavier being bold enough to enter a national arts competitions. Xavier gained second place out of seven regional finalists which was really impressive and only narrowly missed out being in the final ten pupils presenting at the final at the National Gallery.Members of audience were very impressed with the AI art Xavier had “created” and his talk opened up many important questions about the use of AI in creative work.
AI in Education GLOBAL INSIGHTS FOR LOCAL IMPLEMENTATION
In May Mr Lang hosted the IAPS AI national conference discussing AI in education with n ational and international educational leaders. Caterham was well represented with both Mr Lang and Mr Webster speaking. They were joined by special guests from across the education and EdTech sectors, including Priya Lakhani OBE, they discussed the future of AI in education with senior leaders from schools and universities, some travelling from as far away as Canada. The conference was titled ‘ChatGPT and Beyond – Revolutionising Education with Artificial Intelligence: Innovations and Opportunities,’ and centred on practical AI use, the risks involved and necessary mitigations. Crucially, it focused on how these elements could be navigated to improve children’s education. Interactive sessions allowed attendees to discuss and test AI tools in practical scenarios, helping to shape strategies for effective and responsible implementation in classrooms worldwide. The knowledge gained will directly benefit our pupils, equipping teachers with new tools and enhancing our approach to teaching and learning. This conference signifies an important step towards effectively integrating AI into our education system. With the insights gained, we’re excited to continue innovating in ways that will benefit our pupils’ learning journey and prepare them for the rapidly-changing world that they are growing up in.
Caterham onnected
STALINGRAD LECTURE
Long-hidden tales of bravery, fierce fighting and indeed of propaganda were explained to a rapt audience at the CaterhamConnected Autumn Lecture as author and historian Iain MacGregor explored his latest book The Lighthouse of Stalingrad.
Caterham School Community
Positivity for Peak Performance
Since February 2022, with the devastating news that Russia had advanced its invasion into Ukraine, the Caterham School Community has swung behind local efforts to welcome our new Ukrainian families. We have seen Caterham parents open their homes and lives as host families, the Caterham School bakers have provided amazing homemade cakes for 25 Ukrainian support coffee mornings, people have donated their time, money,
Iain was able to access the archives of Volgograd museum, Russia in 2020 and gained access to unpublished testimonies and archives that offer remarkable new voices of the battle. Iain MacGregor has been an editor and publisher of nonfiction for over 25 years. He is the author of the acclaimed history of Cold War Berlin: Checkpoint Charlie.
As a history student he visited the Baltic and the Soviet Union in the early 1980s and has been captivated by Soviet history ever since. He has published books on every aspect of the Second World War on the Eastern Front 1941-45 and has visited archives in Leningrad, Moscow and Volgograd. He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and his writing has appeared in the Guardian, the Spectator and BBC History Magazine.
toys and preloved clothes to two Ukrainian Giving Days, attended by over 200 local Ukrainians and their children.
We have also fulfilled specific requests for needed items which have been sent by Caterham parents from all over Surrey and the surrounding areas, we have even had packages delivered from Caterham school parents in China. The PA charity Sal’s Shoes have donated nearly 400 pairs of new and preloved shoes for women and children – with a specific focus on school shoes meaning that local Ukrainian children could start school in shoes that were appropriate, fitted well and were comfortable.
OCA INNOVATION & COLLABORATION AWARD 2023
The OCA Innovation and Collaboration Award has been running for five years and is pleased to announce the fourth winner since its inception. The grand final at the end of the Summer Term never fails to be an event which inspires the judges and reminds us about the breadth of talent and creativity amongst the pupil body.
An almost entirely new panel, made up of award architect and former OCA president, Clive Furness, current OCA president David Kinnear, former Head Girl, Rhia Patel and our Principal Deputy Head, Mr Gabriele, saw three groups competing for the prize. By the end of the evening there was a definite sense that this had been an extraordinary year for the competition!
Team ExoSafe made up of Otty, Samuel, Alex, Wayne and Santosh gave a perfectly executed presentation on their electromagnetic doorlocking mechanism with smart home integration. The sense of team spirit was what truly excited the judges along with their strong idea and a clear sense of how they might overcome every barrier and obstacle the judges threw at them!
Seb and Phil gave a thought-provoking and impassioned presentation for their concept, Vapid, a company built around the idea of recycling the lithium found in used, disposable vapes which would otherwise go to landfill. They explained to the judges that this was not only a waste of an important, and finite natural resource, but also an environmental hazard due to the fire risk. The judges were impressed by their energy and the thinking behind the concept, which was an issue they were keen to solve.
This year’s winners, however, were Izzy and Emma in the First Year. Their idea was a simple, elegant concept called V-Bowl. V-Bowl, short for vacuum bowl, is a fruit bowl which creates a vacuum seal over the bowl’s contents, ensuring that the fruit lasts up to 15 days longer than it ordinarily would, thus solving one of the most prevalent and common food waste issues in the world. They presented their idea with quiet confidence and the judges were impressed by the work they had done, speaking to a local council, to best understand the need for their solution.
V-Bowl, short for vacuum bowl, is a fruit bowl which creates a vacuum seal over the bowl’s contents, ensuring that the fruit lasts up to 15 days longer than it ordinarily would, thus solving one of the most prevalent and common food waste issues in the world.
CC INSIGHT WEBINAR
In July we held an enlightening webinar hosted by the Headmaster, Mr Jones. The webinar, titled ‘Positivity for Peak Performance’, featured three distinguished speakers who captivated the CaterhamConnected community with their invaluable insights and personal experiences.
Positivity for Peak Performance
Mark Kingston OC, a former Head Boy and Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Products, Gaming & Experiences at ZAG STUDIOS, graced the virtual stage with his remarkable journey. With an illustrious career spanning across renowned brands such as MARS, the BBC, The Walt Disney Company, Nickelodeon, MTV, and Paramount, Mark shared his wisdom on harnessing positivity in the pursuit of success.
Tom McJennett OC, is the Managing Director of Ventures at Two Circles Sport. With a background as the former Head of Global Digital Marketing at the International Olympic Committee, Tom brought a wealth of expertise to the conversation. His insights emphasised the importance of positivity in achieving peak performance in the realm of sports and beyond.
Completing the trio of outstanding speakers was Katie Warriner (Mobed), one of the UK’s leading Performance Psychologists. Renowned for her work with top athletes, leaders, and organisations, Katie emphasised the significance of maintaining a genuine and mindful approach to positivity. She shed light on the potential pitfalls of false positivity, urging the audience to find a balance between embracing optimism and acknowledging genuine challenges.
Throughout the webinar, the speakers provided practical strategies and techniques for cultivating both a positive and a growth mindset, how to turn obstacles into opportunities, and how to maintain resilience in the face of adversity.
The audience were reminded that positivity is not simply about wearing rose-tinted glasses, but about cultivating a genuine and empowering outlook. By acknowledging both the highs and lows of life, we can harness the power of positivity to propel ourselves towards peak performance in all aspects of our lives.
A warm thanks to Mark Kingston, Tom McJennett, and Katie Warriner for their time and wisdom.
MARK KINGSTON
TOM MCJENNETT
KATIE WARRINER
Parents Association
THANK YOU FROM SAL’S SHOES
Many thanks to the Parents’ Association for organising a Sal’s Shoes collection. Our core team of volunteers, including some Caterham mums, spent a morning sorting and counting and we are delighted to share that 1,067 pairs were donated. 100 pairs were set aside for the Sal’s Shoes pop up ‘shop’ for Ukrainian refugees in Caterham and the surrounding areas – organised by the Ukrainian Project in Caterham and supported by lots of the parents at the school. The space allows families to retain their sense of dignity and exercise choice without having to pay for any of the clothes, books, toys and shoes they select. 60 pairs of trainers were given to Stripey Stork, the Surrey baby bank who collect donations of clothes, toys and essential items for babies and children aged 0-16 and rehome them with local families experiencing hardship.
Thanks so much to the PA and Caterham families for the ongoing support.
LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR
Stalls Support School Charities
The Lower School Christmas Fair was a big success, raising £2417 which will be split between two school charities – Mercy Ships and Lerang’wa lunches. The pupils were inventive and creative with their stalls, with the stall that made the most money being the Bubble Tea stall. Well done to all First and Second Year pupils who made the event such a success.
HOUSE REPORTS 2022-23
Caterham School’s Heads of House report on the year’s events...
HARESTONE
Having finished the 2021-22 year with a big win, I wasn’t sure Harestone could do any better this year, they’d set themselves a dangerous precedent with their success. Little did I know that the winning attitude would spur them onto even better things this year.
The autumn term brought with it, not snow, but a flurry of House events and a slow start for Harestone with the always excellent House badminton events (thanks Mr Todd!). Some low placings early on and my confidence in lifting the House trophies at the end of the year was knocked. Faith was restored as they soared to second place in the House quiz and a strong third in House music – Phil M fantastic violin piece blowing the crowd away with intricate playing at high speed!
The girls performed excellently in lacrosse earning some solid mid-table points, and a second place in the newly envisioned Taskmaster event had us jumping up the league tables.
DR ROBERT SOLTYSIAK HEAD OF HARESTONE
Debating brought with it some daylight robbery as Harestone were pipped to the post by Newington in a hard-fought final – Amali C leading a strong team and proving herself a deft opponent in a verbal battle. Finally, the House swimming and rugby events at the end of term brought success for Harestone – the U15 boys again dominating their age group with an unbeaten tournament, and both inter and junior boys nearly setting new relay records in the swimming. Wins for both junior girls and boys secured a lead in the overall House competition in time for Christmas.
The start of the new year brought a shorter term, and fewer House events – but Jay W led Harestone seniors to a big win in House table tennis, which was repeated by the senior girls and the inter boys.
Strong running in the House cross-country, particularly from Lisette M meant Harestone ran into the Easter holidays in a great position in the House leagues.
Congratulations also go to Rafe T, Matthew I and Will C for getting first to third place!
Table tennis grew into big tennis for the summer term, and seniors and inters took first and second place in the events to continue their winning trends. House drama brought with it some energetic performances from a large ensemble of First Years and Harestone shared the crown with Underwood for the sixth and seventh year in a row! Finally, at the end of the summer term we were treated to a gripping House athletics, and with junior and inter boys winning their overall categories, Harestone were flying into the holidays. This secured both the Stephen Smith cup, Diane Raine Cup and the cup for overall Juniors and Inters wins, and the blue roar from the final assembly was deafening – what a success and what promise for the future of Harestone. With Joe S and Olivia A leading in the 23/24 year, I can’t wait to see how we do!
As the Head of Aldercombe, the essence of our House is undoubtedly encapsulated by passion, enthusiasm, and relentless endeavour. I am genuinely impressed by the collective spirit, unwavering determination, and the eagerness of our pupils to actively participate in a diverse range of House events, ensuring that their performances truly reflect the pride of our House.
Throughout the year, the mighty reds have secured notable victories in the wide range of House events on offer. Notable triumphs include wins in the junior girls badminton,
ALDERCOMBE UNDERWOOD
The 2022-2023 school year was my last year as Head of Underwood. It has been a brilliant journey with the House, and it is wonderful to see the events up and running again and the House spirit buzzing around the school.
Over the course of the year, we have seen the success of Underwood grow and grow which is brilliant. We have had particular success throughout the year in the junior and inters events and have begun to creep up the rankings for the overall House points.
A highlight of the year was House drama. It was wonderful to see some Third Year pupils
ROBERT MUGRIDGE HEAD OF ALDERCOMBE
senior boys swimming and the senior girls sports day. Equally significant and gratifying is the fact that this year, over 124 pupils, constituting an impressive 91% of the House, proudly represented Aldercombe. Regardless of the event or outcome, it is evident that each pupil embodies the House’s values with pride, offering support to one another in the face of challenges, all while competing with a sense of fun and enjoyment.
On behalf of Aldercombe, I extend heartfelt thanks to all our departing members for their invaluable contributions to the house over the years. We wish
you all every success in your future endeavours, with special recognition for Imogen L and Ewan M who led the House with vigour and gusto. Additionally, I express gratitude and thanks to Ms Catherine Stedman, the Deputy Head of the House, for fulfilling her role with good humour and dynamism. As we look forward, I am eager to build on our successes and anticipate securing more victories in the coming year. With an eye on surpassing our already impressive participation numbers, Aldercombe is poised for another year of achievement and camaraderie.
MRS PIPPA BURTENSHAW HEAD OF UNDERWOOD
take ownership of the event and manage the group piece through! Well done to Rosie B for writing and directing the whole piece. This was heavily rewarded with first place in the overall, after some excellent monologues and duologues that accompanied the group piece.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank all Underwood pupils’ who got involved in House events this year; we have sparked the energy back into the House system and the competitive nature of Underwood is once again on the rise. We have laid the foundation of our building blocks to start bringing home the
House cups once again! Finally, I would like to thank our pupil Heads of House this year, they have truly shown great house spirit throughout their time at Caterham and were always prepared to step in at the last moment if there was a House event in need as well as motivating our younger Underwoodians to participate in anything offered. I would also like to thank our Deputy Head of House, Miss Troughton, for all of her efforts in helping the running of the House and I wish her luck taking over as Head of House next year. GO UNDERWOOD!
BOARDERS
The year 2022-23 was another busy, fun and successful one for Caterham’s boarding community. The year was full of highlights ranging from individual academic and co-curricular achievements to memorable trips and success in house competitions. Perhaps the most significant event of the year, however, was the changing of the guard in Townsend and Beech Hanger with Mr Comerford and Mrs Quinton stepping down from their posts as Housemaster and Housemistress respectively.
As always, the boarders have enjoyed a huge range of weekend and evening trips this year. A new and hugely popular initiative this year was Mr Comerford organising a Sunday trip to an escape room, while Mr Taylor’s paintballing trip was as well attended as always. The boarders who enjoy culture had the opportunity to go to the
NICK MILLS SENIOR TEACHER (BOARDING)
West End to see the Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King, while boarders were very involved in charity work throughout the year, notably with the Beech Hanger girls’ sponsored Twelve Bridges walk through central London, led as always by Mrs Quinton, and also the Sixth Form boys and girls volunteering en masse to assist the Rotary Club’s Christmas charity collection
The boarders also performed extremely well in the House competition this year. Particular highlights were a strong performance in House music, a dominant performance in boys’ House swimming, and further victories in chess, badminton and table tennis. Beyond these specific events, the boarders fought hard in every competition and performed well even when the odds were stacked against them. It was this
strong House spirit more than individual excellence that ensured that the boarders again won the overall House competition, the Jim Seymour trophy.
Finally, a farewell to Mr Comerford and Mrs Quinton. Mr Comerford has had a huge impact on the boarding community over the past few years, first as a tutor and then as Housemaster in Townsend where his care for the junior boys has been exemplary. Mrs Quinton’s contribution to the boarding community is beyond measure. Twenty years as Housemistress in Beech Hanger has seen her inspire and support hundreds of girls of all ages from all over the world, and she has played a huge part in shaping the strong and vibrant boarding community that we see today. They will both be remembered fondly by both boarders and staff.
NEWINGTON
As I write this report I have the spreadsheet open detailing the House events that have taken place over the year. The thing that strikes me as I review the results is the dizzying array of House events that take place over the year. To have an annual competition that is able to cater for the range of talents that Caterham pupils possess, from sports to drama to music to art to general knowledge to….well, the list goes on. I am very pleased that although Newington may not have had the most successful of years in terms of actual results in the house standings in the junior, inters and senior age groups, we were able to field full teams in every event.
One of my highlights of every year’s House competition is House drama. We came 7th (or last as others might say) but the result was unimportant. The way we managed to create a group of willing, if slightly inexperienced, thespians to produce a piece of drama that was an original
NEIL PARKER HEAD OF NEWINGTON
(and never to be repeated!)
piece of performing art was a joy. The way the Newington cast worked together to cover up for forgotten lines, missing props and the lack of anything that might resemble an ending was magnificent. We may not have won, but we lost in a way that added to the great tradition that is House drama.
An event that went particularly well for us (in that we won) was the House quiz. The great thing about this competition is to see the way all age groups have to work together as a real team, bringing different areas of expertise to the table. We had a full team who worked extremely well together which was almost (almost) as pleasing as the result.
Junior and inter sports day is always a special day in the school calendar. To see so many young people running, jumping, throwing and having great fun whilst doing so is a pleasure to behold. I was so pleased to see the way Newington pupils
rallied round to make sure we had no gaps in any of the events. It is always a Head of House’s nightmare to hear Mr Salem announce to all that they are still waiting for a competitor in a particular event from your House. Thankfully I was spared this public shaming as we managed to fill every heat of every event. We even managed to win the junior girls title
All in all I would describe this year as one where we were seeking to embed House spirit rather than chasing titles. I think premiership managers call these “development” years. If we say that was our aim, it was a highly successful year.
I finish by expressing my gratitude to my two pupil Heads of House, Alex and Willow. They both led by example in terms of participation and were excellent role models for the junior pupils. I wish them both all the very best for the exciting future beyond Caterham and beyond Newington.
All in all I would describe this year as one where we were seeking to embed House spirit rather than chasing titles. I think Premiership managers call these “development” years. If we say that was our aim, it was a highly successful year.
LEWISHAM
Handel’s Water Music may be the best backing track to our success this year. Our musicians produced excellent performances in the House music competition. Ellie S led the way with fine pieces on Cello and Piano. The wonderful Anna D won the solo vocal competition, with Hannah B also producing a fine singing performance, and finally, at the end of the summer term, Lewisham House struck gold with their rendition for the House song.
Our aquatic achievements were even more dominant with our girls sweeping the board in House swimming. Luckily, we have some great swimmers: Ava K, Sam C, Lucy L, Jenny L, Mia K, Izzy N, Lilly, Sophie S, Bea G, Lucy A and Kayla A. Not to be totally overshadowed, our boys took the senior title led by Ethan K and supported by Sammy H, Jack F and Stanley M.
We cover all bases in Lewisham. Our very able mathematicians, Jason K, Scarlet L, Iris and Jack F, almost threatened the dominance of the Boarders. Our junior and inters girls have enjoyed great success in House netball and lacrosse showing excellent teamwork and great athletic ability. As ever, our hockey boys continue to dominate with Will
MR TODD HEAD OF LEWISHAM
L, now at senior level, leading by example. We even managed to win the House tug of war contest with sheer determination.
This year, I said farewell to my Lewisham tutor group of five years. They were certainly a talented group. Paige G and Anastasia S both going to Cambridge, Ellie S going to medical school and Iris F gaining entry to vet school. James W becoming the world’s leading authority on Panzer tactics and Tiger Tanks. Aaron H holding on to his school sprint records. Scott M-R bolstering my 2nd XI hockey team rather than playing for the 1sts!
Looking to the future, we have some great pupils taking things forward. Adam W continuing to volunteer for absolutely everything. Caitlin M and Florence R always keeping an eye on logistics. Luke S, studying hard to become our barrister in residence. The talented Will C slowly working toward his broadway debut, and of course, the Lomas sisters holding the whole House together. Special thanks go to our amazing Heads of House, Rose B and Aaron H, good luck to the incoming leadership team of Jenny L, Dante B and Mollie S.
RIDGEFIELD
Grand green forest glory for Ridgefield. Nothing beats the magic of a competitive event calendar, especially not when the camaraderie is front and centre throughout. This is Ridgefield’s 2022-23 in one sentence. The following paragraphs are also about Ridgefield’s 2022-23, but they include more than one sentence, which chimes perfectly with the House system’s philosophy that the more you take part, the more you gain from doing so.
There are many reasons why I love all things House, but perhaps the most important reason is the variety of activities that we do in Ridgefield assemblies and House competitions. This is a branch of the Caterham community in which you can find yourself playing competitive netball one week, chess the next, and then taking part in a House quiz, while playing Family Fortunes, Blankety Blank, and a heads-or-tails tournament in your three House assemblies in these weeks. We strive to be predictably unpredictable, with recognisable old and new favourite events in the mix. 2022-23 has been my favourite year yet in the predictably unpredictable and recognisable House system. Starting the year with some huge wins in junior boys’
MR RICHARD EVANS HEAD OF RIDGEFIELD
badminton (Oliver T, Noah F and David O), junior chess (Rupert M, Gia A, Taran S, James S), and senior rugby (fifth year and upper sixth), we soared into 2023 and capitalised on our zest for success to win inter netball (Jess L, Lilian dB, Annabelle FM, Yolanda C, Isabelle H, Abi W, Lucy J, Ava W) and inter cross country (including a titanic performance from Estee N). In House drama, an event that has always been one of my highlights of the year, we came third overall (thanks to George M, Abi P, Sam Y, Gia A, Namratha D, Florence S, and Zoe M) and were victorious for the second consecutive year in the devised group round (with a hilarious script by George). Long may Ridgefield’s iconic devised performances continue!
In the final week of the year, House song returned for the first time since 2019, and we loved putting our own spin on Bastille’s anthemic Pompeii, with guidance from Katie, our fantastic rock choir coach (and with some irrepressible background support from me). We also had a whale of a time cheering each other on at House sports day, although I cannot say if anyone was cheering when I spontaneously sang Let It Go and We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together when
they appeared on Mr Salem’s legendary sports day playlist.
Ridgefield’s House assemblies in 2022-23 often took the form of a long-running gameshow, with weekly leaderboards for all the year groups. The Third Year won the forestry fortunes tournament in the autumn term, which culminated with our now-traditional Christmas raffle (featuring prizes such as a packet of highlighter pens). In our spring term tournament, everyone secretly chose a number between 1 and 150 and hoped that their numbers would not get called out by the weekly assembly game winners. Will A, Celia E-S, Abbie W and Zac L made it to the final, but it was Florence S who took an admirable second place and Isabelle H who won overall, making her the “Champion of the Forest” for 2023. Only time will tell if she retains her title in 2024.
Thank you to everyone in Ridgefield for an incredible year, especially Miss Henry (our fantastic Assistant Head of House), Will A and Katie D (our Pupil Heads of House), and Harriet L and Zach F (our incoming Pupil Heads of House).
To our friends that are green, let’s go for 2023-24!
HOUSE EVENTS 2022-23
HOUSE QUIZ
Newington victorious!
On Thursday 10 November, our Houses showcased their general knowledge and deduction skills at the iconic House Quiz.
It was fantastic to see all the representatives from each House gathering in their circles of chairs and preparing to face the music. There were at least ten representatives in each circle, which ensured that the House spirit would be on full display throughout the event. Each Head of House had written a round of questions on a particular subject. Dr Soltysiak and Mr Todd opened proceedings up with their questions on “sci-fi and fantasy” and “maths,” respectively. Mr Parker’s Latin America round tested everyone’s geography and cultural knowledge. Mr Evans’ history round sent everyone back in time. Mr Comerford’s “modern culture and current affairs” round (read with panache by Ms Kerslake) gave us an opportunity to commemorate a certain Internet-famous lettuce and a 1987 pop classic called Never Gonna Give You Up, among other things. Mr Mugridge and Mrs Burtenshaw’s questions were presented on a PowerPoint, so their “sports” and “famous faces” rounds were beamed across the room for everyone to watch.
The Houses had to choose when to play their Jokers. These irreplaceable quiz delights would double a score for a particular round and could only be used once per House. Four Houses used their Jokers in the maths round; Lewisham used theirs in the “modern culture and current affairs” round; Aldercombe and Underwood waited until the final round (“famous faces”) to play theirs.
This worked out particularly well for Underwood, who achieved their best score of the evening in that final round (in terms of how many correct answers they got). None of the other Houses used their Jokers in their strongest rounds, with the possible exception of Lewisham, whose Joker round was one of their joint-best rounds.
At the end of the evening, after Quizmaster (and former University Challenge contestant) Mr Evans’ very animated countdowns had run out of time, the contestants eagerly gathered round to hear the final results and the answers to all the questions. Many pupils sounded particularly pleased to hear that they had correctly worked out the name of the seventh Wonder of the Ancient World and that the largest prime number under 300 is 293. Ridgefield was even more pleased to hear that they had taken third place, but their delight was outweighed by Harestone’s joy at coming second, which was itself dwarfed by Newington’s (especially Mr Parker’s) celebrations for first place. Congratulations to Newington and to everyone who took part in the quiz, including our House question writers, readers and markers. We look forward to our next few big House events with all year groups taking part.
| MR R. EVANS TEACHER OF CHEMISTRY, HEAD OF RIDGEFIELD, HOUSE QUIZ CHAIR
HOUSE MUSIC
Superb performances all round
House Music 2022-23 was, as always, an outstanding event. Each House was required to present a solo instrumentalist, solo vocalist and an ensemble performance. There were superb performances all round, and it was great to see so many pupils performing and the buzz around the music department.
In the Solo Instrumentalist Class, Harestone’s Philip P (Lower Sixth) won the class with his stunning violin performance of Moto Perpetuo, Bridge. His technique as well as his musicianship resulted in an energetic and virtuosic performance. Second place was awarded to Underwood’s Jack B (Lower Sixth), who performed Merle’s Caballero on the Double Bass. This was a characteristic and stylish performance which was warmly received by the audience. Third place was awarded to Ellie S (Upper Sixth), who performed a piano arrangement of Lloyd-Webber’s Memory from Cats, The Musical. This was a highly expressive performance with excellent balance between the left and right hands.
The Solo Vocal Class First Prize was joint this year due to both winning performances being outstanding, however completely different in style and genre. These were awarded to Ridgefield’s Isabelle P (Fifth Year) and Underwood’s Annabella W (Upper Sixth). Isabelle P performed the beautiful Somewhere from Bernstein’s West Side Story. It was a wonderful, delicate performance which communicated the lyrics perfectly to the audience. Annabella’s performance was Get Down from the musical, Six. This was a performance full of panache which was musically excellent whilst being both historical and hysterical! Third place was awarded to Lewisham’s Hannah B (upper Sixth) who stepped in at the eleventh hour and performed DeBose’s
Alyssa Green. It was a well-communicated and expressive performance.
The Ensemble Class is always a highly-contested and enjoyable part of the competition and this year was no exception! First Prize was awarded to the Boarders for their phenomenal performance of LloydWebber’s Phantom of the Opera with full orchestra! Special mention must go to Violet W (Fifth Year) for her fantastic vocals. Second place was awarded to Underwood for their beautiful performance of Dear Theodosia from Hamilton. Rosie B and Jack B producing a sensitive and emotive performance. Third Prize was awarded to Aldercombe for their performance of You’ll Be Back from Hamilton, also. This was a vibrant and energetic performance with a real sense of togetherness and unity.
Each year, the Music Department award a prize for particularly poignant and impressive performances. We were unable to choose between two this year and the recipients of this prize were Sophia S (First Year) for her beautiful performance on the violin. She performed with such confidence and accuracy. We had to share the price with Lisa H (Lower Sixth), who accompanied one of her Boarding colleagues with real sensitivity and stylistic excellence.
Congratulations to all participants and a huge thank you to all of the Heads of Houses and Assistant Heads of Houses for their hard work in putting together rehearsals and pupils to perform.
A blockbuster day for House spirit and innovation... Just before Christmas, seven eager House teams and a parliament of audience members headed to the Sports Hall for the first staging of House Taskmaster, and the half hour of eventing that followed was fantastic for everyone.
The House programme at Caterham has always been an opportunity for our pupils to take part in familiar and unfamiliar events with as much commitment, but considerably lower stakes, than our other academic and co-curricular commitments.
In a departure from the structure of most House events, the details of the tasks in House Taskmaster were not revealed before the event day, except for the Prize Task. The teams had prepared their Prize Task submissions in the week leading up to the event. For this, they were tasked with bringing along “the best, and most surprisingly fitting item to put on the top of a Christmas tree.” This was a test of the teams’ originality of thought and clarity of argument. Lewisham won this task by bringing along a Ukrainian flag, in a great show of support for our friends and neighbours; some other worthy submissions included a glitterball and a Santa hat, but a pen and a mug scored less well. In an event such as this one, there is a definite honour in taking last or nearly-last place, just as there is in every other House event! As Nicholas Parsons often said on Just a Minute, it’s not really about the points – it’s about the camaraderie.
For the second task, the House teams (some of which included at least twenty pupils!) took their places at the back of the Sports Hall, and Mr Comerford opened the task envelope and read out its contents. Given numerical cards from 1-7, each House had to hold up a number on every turn, but they would only be able to move forward that many spaces if no other Houses were holding up that
number. First House to make 21 steps forward would win. Newington got moving quickly, much to the dismay of Harestone, Ridgefield and Underwood, but everyone moved at least a few steps forward by the end of the task. A few giant leaps from Underwood saw them coming from behind to win the task.
The third and final task was all about target practice – but not as our contestants knew it. Each House, on their turn, had to throw a hula hoop at least three metres forward, and then five other team members from each House had to throw one beanbag each. The task, as unveiled and read by Dr Soltysiak, was to land a beanbag as close as possible to the hula hoop without any beanbags touching or landing inside the hoop. This quickly became a closely-fought contest, with a couple of Houses landing their beanbags less than 30 cm away from their hoops, and two other Houses sending their beanbags skating across the floor until they touched their hoops, thus eliminating them from the task!
In the final standings, Ridgefield took third place and Harestone was second, but the inaugural House Taskmaster champions – with 18 points out of a possible 21 – were the representatives from Lewisham. Congratulations to everyone who took part in the event, for bringing lots of House spirit onto a big primetime stage.
| MR R. EVANS
SENIOR HOUSE MATHS
Newington Worthy Winners
The annual Senior House Maths competition took place in February. Teams of four battled it out in a team maths challenge where not only maths skills are required but strategy as well.
Round one was a challenging group round with a set of ten questions to be answered within the time. Next up was the cross number which sees the teams split into two pairs with one pair having the across clues and the other having the down clues. Lastly was the shuttle round, also completed in pairs, where the next question can only be completed with the answer from the first. It was a hard-fought battle with some excellent performances but with Newington pulling ahead early on, they were impossible to catch and ultimately went on to win the competition. The Boarders placed second and Harestone took third place.
HOUSE ART
The 2023 House Art Results Event was held on Thursday 23 March and was eagerly attended by the hopeful competitors.
This year’s theme was ‘Visibility’. There were many wonderful entries in a wide range of media showcasing pupils’ work completed over half term without any teacher direction. The boarders swept the board with many outstanding entries followed by Aldercombe in second place and Underwood came third.
First Prize: Newington | Second Prize: Boarder | Third Prize: Harestone
First Prize: Boarder | Second Prize: Aldercombe | Third Prize: Underwood
HOUSE DRAMA
Pupils and staff gathered in the Humphreys Theatre for the annual House Drama competition.
Each House had to provide entries in three categories: Monologues, Duologues and Devised, with each entry linking to this year’s Cat Among the Pigeons theme, ‘Visibility’. Points were awarded for skill, entertainment and participation. There were stand out performances in each category, however the judges were genuinely impressed by the overall standard shown, and the level of creativity and effort that went into the various entries. Highlights were an endearing duologue from ‘Blood Brothers’ presented by Isabelle C & Tanya C from Harestone, which had us all feeling nostalgic for our childhood days, and an incredibly clever (and hilarious!) script written by George M for Ridgefield’s devised piece. There were many tears of laughter at the judge’s table!
Congratulations to all of this year’s participants and winners!
Monologues:
1st: Underwood (Daisy C)
2nd: Ridgefield (Gia A)
3rd: Newington (Oliver C)
Duologues:
1st: Harestone (Isabelle C & Tanya C)
2nd: Aldercombe (Lyla B & Connie M)
3rd: Underwood (Daisy C & Rosie B)
Devised:
1st: Ridgefield
2nd: Underwood
3rd: Aldercombe
Overall (including points for participation in the devised category):
1st: Underwood & Harestone
2nd: Ridgefield
HOUSE EVENTS 2022-23 RESULTS
EVENT
The House programme at Caterham has always been an opportunity for our pupils to take part in familiar and unfamiliar events with as much commitment, but considerably lower stakes, than our other academic and co-curricular commitments.
WINNING HOUSE
House Badminton (Junior Boys) Ridgefield
House Badminton (Senior Boys) Boarders
Junior House Chess Ridgefield
Junior Girls House Table Tennis Newington
House Badminton (Senior Girls) Boarders
House Quiz Newington
House Music Underwood
House Badminton (Junior Girls) Aldercombe
Sports Day Results Boys Ridgefield
Sports Day Results Girls Aldercombe
Junior House Lacrosse Lewisham
Inters House Lacrosse Newington
‘Taskmaster’ Lewisham
Senior Chess Boarders
Senior House Debating Newington
Senior House Swimming (Girls) Newington
Inters House Swimming (Girls) Newington
Juniors House Swimming (Girls) Underwood
Senior House Swimming (Boys) Aldercombe/Boarders
Inters House Swimming (Boys) Boarders
Junior House Swimming (Boys) Harestone
Senior Rugby (U18 and U16) Ridgefield
Inters Rugby (U15) Harestone
Junior Rugby (U12) Underwood
Junior Boys Table Tennis Ridgefield
Junior Girls Table Tennis Newington
Junior Netball Lewisham
Junior Cross Country Newington
Inter Boys Table Tennis Harestone
Inter Girls Table Tennis Boarders
Inter Netball Ridgefield
Inter Cross Country Ridgefield
Senior Boys Table Tennis Boarders
Senior Girls Table Tennis Harestone
Senior Cross Country Lewisham
House Drama Underwood
Tennis (Inters) Ridgefield
Tennis (Juniors) Underwood
Tennis (Seniors) Harestone
BEECH HANGER TAKES ON TWELVE BRIDGES SPONSORED WALK
On a surprisingly sunny Sunday, a group of ten Beech Hanger girls went on a memorable 16-kilometre walk, criss-crossing twelve London bridges from Battersea to iconic Tower Bridge.
Our purpose was to raise funds for the Altevette Project, a charity supporting the education and boarding of girls in the impoverished Upper Mustang region of the Nepalese Himalayas, near the Tibet border. Our boarding buddy, fourteen-year-old Yangkyi, has studied there for three years now.
After a relaxing stroll through Battersea Park, we walked across
Albert, Chelsea, Vauxhall, Lambeth and Westminster Bridges. There, we took a well-deserved break for lunch, enjoying the sandwiches made by Miss Gibbs and delicious flapjacks prepared by Mrs Quinton, with the picturesque view of the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye adding to the charm of the event.
With renewed energy, we continued our journey, crossing Hungerford, Waterloo, Blackfriars, Millennium and London Bridges, finally reaching the renowned Tower Bridge. The sheer determination and perseverance were evident, though there was a fair amount
of complaining and grumbling!
Upon completing this long walk, we treated ourselves to an ice cream. With tired legs and sore feet, we trudged to the station then dragged each other back to the Boarding House, where more ice cream awaited us!
Many thanks to Miss Gibbs for organising and supporting this event, and to Mrs Quinton and Mrs Acharya for accompanying us. Also, well done to all ten of the girls who took part – it was a remarkable experience. Finally, many thanks to all the people, be they parents, friends or teachers, who sponsored us for this splendid cause.
BOARDERS’ WALKING TOUR OF LONDON
The end of Lower School exams meant that our Junior Boarders (Third and Fourth Year) enjoyed a wealth of activities in and around Caterham.
A group of our juniors joined Mr Mills and Miss Kerslake on a walking tour of South London – with the typical British weather forecasting both a heatwave and stormy skies, we marched down Harestone Valley Road lathered in sun cream and armed with brollies.
Our route started at Blackfriars
station and carried us down the riverbank to enjoy the Southbank and take in some culture with the outdoor performers on the National Theatre’s River Stage and some excellent musicians on the Royal Festival Hall Riverside Terrace.
A quick pitstop for food at the market and a cool down in the spray of the fountains and we were off again, Mr Mills charging at the helm and Miss Kerslake snapping at the heels of any slow movers. We passed the Houses of
BOARDERS’ BOUNCING BONANZA
The last weekend in June was full of fun for the boarders. On Sunday they descended onto Titch Pitch with a multitude of inflatables and outdoor games to round off a jam-packed weekend.
The sun was shining, and the boarders were ready to show their skills and compete against their
friends in gladiators, superhero wrestling, and the ultimate penalty shoot-out. Cheesy music and cheers from the crowd echoed around the Sandy Ross Field as Ethan G was named the Greatest Gladiator of them all, knocking several competitors off their podiums for the crown. However, it was the Total
Parliament, awed at Big Ben (and did some quick Latin translations along the way) and continued down to see the site of King Charles I’s execution. Finally, we reached Covent Garden to take in some street performer’s juggling skills and to shop around – plenty of books and bubble tea purchased! We jumped on the train out of London Bridge just as the rain started to pour and our tired troops arrived just in time for a well-deserved dinner.
Wipe-Out which proved to be an all-round favourite, especially when asking the operator to turn up the speed for certain staff members…
A picnic on the field and a freezer full of ice cream was a well-received treat to round off the afternoon before many went on to the sports centre for a cool down swim.
TwelvesponsoredBridgeswalk
Walking tour of London
PUPIL SUCCESS
SPIRIT OF NORMANDY TRUST YOUNG HISTORIAN AWARD
Top Three for Annie
Annie L has been highly commended in the Spirit of Normandy Trust Young Historian Award, placing her in the top three amongst hundreds of entrants from all over the world. She wrote an extended analysis of the allied campaigns in North Africa during the Second World War last year and the judges reached their decision over the course of the summer break. Annie recieved a book token for a generous amount as her prize.
GEOGRAPHY WINNER
National Win for Abi
Annie is undoubtedly an exceptional young historian and this commendation serves as fully merited recognition for all her fine work. Enthusiastic, diligent and razor sharp, she is one of the most outstanding pupils amongst a very able cohort. Congratulations to Annie.
One of Caterham’s top Geographers, Abi S, performed an amazing feat by winning Cambridge University’s Immerse 2022 Essay Competition with her submission of the question “How do Atomic Bombs and Chemicals spills adversely affect the environment of the incident?”
Abi has thereby won a scholarship for a week’s lectures at Cambridge with globally renowned university professors from Yale, Harvard, Oxford and Cambridge. Abi also launched this year’s Caterham Geographical Society lecture series with a spectacularly well researched presentation on Cultural Erosion in Dubai. A great effort all round. Well done Abi.
IMPRESSIVE MUSICAL SUCCESS
One of our talented musicians, Jerry T (Lower Sixth) passed an advanced diploma, ATCL (Associate of Trinity College London) in Percussion. This demanding examination is a qualification equivalent to a first year, undergraduate recital and requires incredible hard and focused work. The examination combines both a performance (pieces at a very high level) and written programme. To pass such an exam on Percussion is particularly impressive – the skills required at ATCL level require immense coordination, precision and control. Congratulations to Jerry on this wonderful achievement.
WESTMINSTER HORIZONS ESSAY COMPETITION
Annie L Commended
Well done to Annie L (Fourth Year) for her “Commended” submission to a national essay competition. The Westminster Horizons Competition asked entrants from the Third – Fifth Years to choose from four questions and submit a formal essay of 1,500 words in response. Annie elected to tackle “‘Science alone cannot solve the climate crisis.’ Discuss.” with a splendid and original piece of writing. The judges commented that the overall standard was “extremely high”, yet Annie, competing in many cases against older pupils, was listed among a small handful of entrants nationwide to receive particular commendation. Well done, Annie.
FROM WEST END TO EAST END
From West End stage to Albert Square –congratulations go to our own Logan C who has been cast for a role in TV’s EastEnders. Logan was part of the cast of ELF, The Musical at the Dominion Theatre over Christmas but hot from taking the lead in our recent production of Bugsy Malone, Logan will be swapping his New York accent for a cockney twang for a few episodes of this popular BBC soap. We can’t wait to see you on screen Logan – good luck with filming.
INTERNATIONAL
PHYSICS OLYMPIAD, TOYKO
Alex Top GB Young Physicist
During the summer we followed Alex M as he was selected from over 4,000 pupils nationally to represent the UK and travel to Tokyo to take part in the 53rd International Physics Olympiad.
Above and beyond securing his place on the team, Alex’s performance in Tokyo also saw him ranked as the top Physicist in the country and 48th globally. The UK team was one of almost seventy countries taking part in the Olympiad and completed two gruelling 5 hour papers, one experimental and one theoretical. At the closing ceremony, they were proud to be awarded 3 silver and 2 bronze medals to place them in the top 20 globally. Our congratulations go to whole team and in particular to Alex who won one of the silver medals.
Aside from the academic challenge, Alex and the team were able to enjoy some downtime and take in some of the best cultural experiences Tokyo has to offer. Alex returned home to go on to be awarded five A* grades in his A Levels and secure his place at Oxford to read Mathematics and Computer Science. Congratulations Alex.
ART AND TECHNOLOGY
CREATIVE ARTS ON SHOW
The school buzzed with creativity and energy, kicking off the school year. Over 100 pupil artists featured in our annual arts event. With pupils’ work adorning the corridors and halls, Caterham played host to the 2022 launch of the ‘Cat Among the Pigeons’ Arts and Literary magazine. The best of Caterham art was showcased alongside performances of creative writing featured in the magazine. The immersive nature of the exhibition took visitors on a walking tour of the school punctuated by pop-up dance and drama. The event culminated with the presentation of this year’s edition. Congratulations to the 2022 editorial board, headed by Paige G for producing a fantastic and vibrant publication.
SPANISH INSPIRATION
Sixth Form Art
The Lower Sixth Art, Photography and Textiles pupils went on a fantastic, inspiring trip to Barcelona at the beginning of the Easter holidays. In contrast to the grey, rainy UK weather, the sun was shining, and the pupils got in plenty of outdoor drawing time in this beautiful European destination. In addition to admiring the unique architecture of the city, they visited a range of galleries including Museu Del Disseny, Picasso Museum, Museu d’Art Contemporani and KBr Photo Centre. They also had the opportunity to visit the magnificent La Sagrada Familia, as well as the La Boqueria market and a spot of dancing with the locals in Parc de la Ciutadella.
ARTiculation
Caterham School’s bid to win the prestigious, national ARTiculation competition 2023 was hard fought for by Xavier P (Lower Sixth), who had been previously selected by a panel of school judges to represent the school at the regional semi-final in Folkestone on Wednesday 22 February.
The internal heat was a highly engaging event held in November and was initially entered by 25 Lower Sixth Form pupils with six shortlisted to present their talks. The competition requires each contestant to talk for ten minutes about an artwork of their choosing and celebrates contextual understanding, personal opinion and oracy skills. Xavier’s presentation on the rise of AI artwork and the work of Jason Allen using the algorithms in Midjourney was judged by renowned artist Jyll Bradley. She was highly impressed with the presentation –although she said she did not understand all of it! She asked whether AI collaboration with art would be something he could see himself doing – he gave an excellent answer about the importance of collaboration. She pushed him about whether he himself would like to do it and he replied he would but only on the technical AI side. It is exciting for us to see the hybrid interests of a scientific pupil such as Xavier being bold enough to enter a national arts competitions. Xavier gained second place out of seven regional finalists which was really impressive and only narrowly missed out being in the final ten pupils presenting at the final at the National Gallery.
A-Level art
By Harry E
By Sophie C
By Olivia S
By Mili G
A-Level Fashion and Textiles
By Esme G
By Esme G
By Flo B
By Rose B
By Izzy H
By Scarlett S
A-Level Photography
By S Drury
By F Hannay
By J Willmont
GCSE Fashion and Textiles
By Sienna A
By John L
By Beth E
By Izzy Y
GCSE Fine Art
By Scarlet L
By Leane B
By Rhianna P
By Simi A
By Joel V
By Anna H
ARTS WEEK
MADLive
Tenth Anniversary Performance
During Arts Week MADlive returned for its ten year anniversary performance.
The Humphreys Theatre was packed to the rafters and the audience were treated to an evening of truly incredible music and dance. The evening kicked off with a set from Lost Ambition, our talented Fifth Year band which got the crowd going for the night ahead. With everything from Donna Summer to Pink, MC Hammer to Justin Timberlake, our singers, dancers and musicians from the First Year to the Upper Sixth performed with amazing stage presence, maturity and above all joy. Congratulations to all for an incredibly memorable evening and a highlight of the year.
Music Training Day
Orchestral musicians from both the Senior and Prep schools took part in our Orchestral Training Day in the Humphreys Theatre.
The Symphony Orchestra is an exciting new ensemble, with over 60 players, and the day gave pupils the opportunity to work on new repertoire. Year 5 and 6 pupils who will soon be joining senior school were also invited, well done in particular to all of them for taking up the challenge to work and perform alongside our senior pupils. All our musicians benefitted from the expert guidance of two visiting professional musicians, conductor and timpanist Chris Ridley, and violinist and chamber musician Nadine Nagen. The orchestra tackled advanced orchestral repertoire including Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony and Elgar’s Enigma Variations. At the end of the day, parents and friends were invited to watch a short performance of both pieces. Running alongside this was a training day for our fabulous Chamber Choir. They spent the day working on new repertoire including Bob Chilcott’s beautiful, filmic ‘Canticles of Light’, in anticipation of working with the composer in-person, next term. Choir members also learnt about wider aspects of singing in a sacred choir- types of church services, brief history of choral music and composers that are significant to our chamber choir.
Orchard Theatre Festival Third Year Film Festival
On Thursday 29 and Friday 30 June we held our annual Orchard Theatre Festival, showcasing a variety of performances from across year groups.
Despite the weather driving us indoors, we made the most of it and turned the Deayton Theatre into a magical indoor/outdoor oasis. Vines hung from the ceiling, flowers adorned the seats and the audience brought in their sunniest of smiles for two evenings of incredible entertainment. LAMDA pieces, masked theatre, excerpts from The Jungle Book and Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations, musical theatre and even a staff performancewe had it all! A huge congratulations to all involved and for bringing our theatrical year to a close with an excellent curtain call.
Vines hung from the ceiling, flowers adorned the seats and the audience brought in their sunniest of smiles for two evenings of incredible entertainment.
On the Monday morning of Arts Week, the whole Third Year gathered in the Humphreys Theatre for a mini-Oscars event.
Dressed in their finery, the pupils were there to celebrate the work of the dramatists amongst them who had created films earlier in the year, in three different genres: Film Noir, Horror and Silent Comedy. The morning also included a breakfast reception, a scavenger hunt in which groups had to recreate famous film posters, and a highly popular selfie pod! Great fun was had by all, and it was amazing to be able to celebrate the hard work of the Film Companies who had produced some excellent films. The winners of the event were as follows:
Best Story: Lost Love (Script editor: Rosa H)
Best Cinematography: Ding Dong Ditch (Director of Photography: Isaac A)
Best Editing: Bye Bye (Editor: Cato K)
Best Performer: Haunted (Performer: Marusia E)
Best Film Noir: Double Identity
Best Silent Film: Chaos in Camouflage
Best Horror: Dear Inspector
Best Picture: Haunted People’s Choice Award: Double Identity
Iphigenia at Aulis
AN EPIC PERFORMANCE
At the end of the Autumn term, we were transported to an airport departure lounge as pupils from Fourth Year to Upper Sixth performed in Iphigenia at Aulis by Euripides.
Taking the ancient tale and putting it into a contemporary setting, the cast did a phenomenal job telling the story of an ambitious general seeking a military victory, and the sacrifice he is willing to make in order to achieve it. Written at a time when war was a constant and honour was heralded as the most important thing, Iphigenia at Aulis still holds relevance today. Don Taylor, whose translation we used, notes that the “central metaphor is as telling now as it was when [Euripides] first set pen to papyrus. In all wars the old sacrifice the young to preserve their own power, and in far too many the young are willing participants in their own destruction.”
Taking on such a weighty tale with a complex moral question at its heart is no easy feat, but our incredible cast rose to the challenge, working tirelessly to understand the motivations of their characters, the situations they found themselves in, and the decisions they had to make.
Oh, and they had to grapple with a text from the ancient world, the convention of a Greek chorus and my giddy delight at having found yet another ‘weepy’ song, almost on a weekly basis.
This was not a simple production, and yet what they managed to achieve looked effortless. I am so grateful to the cast for their tenacity, curiosity, and willingness to dive headfirst into the show and for the amazing job they did with it. Every rehearsal was a joy, with someone always laughing about something, and as we were dealing with such a dark and tragic story, these moments of light were very much appreciated. Every single member of the cast did a fantastic job, but a big shout out must go to Tristan, Max, Anna, Sophie P and Sam who had to learn some decidedly epic passages of text. Not only did they learn them perfectly, but they also found the nuance and truth behind every word. I was in awe watching them, and I know many of you were too!
A big thank you also has to go to the backstage team who, as ever, made everything run smoothly. Despite my worst nightmare coming true on opening night (the opening scene was not meant to be in the dark – that’s technology for you, simply choosing not to work when it needed to!) the team stayed calm in the crisis, reset, and carried on like true professionals. A special thank you to Rosie in Fifth Year; this was her third time calling a show (which essentially means she was running the whole thing) and once again she tackled it like someone who has been doing it for decades. Bravo!
| MS GUTTNER DIRECTOR OF DRAMA
Sixth Form Play
Lower Sixth pupils took to the stage in the Deayton Theatre with their production of VS09 by Hayley Squires.
Directed by Dante B, the play casts its audience as a fly on the wall of an airport restaurant, observing the various relationships forming, developing and ending before a flight to New York – a land of hope and possibility. With various food stuffs to contend with ("that's a lot of apple juice Miss..."), a lit birthday candle which had its own risk assessment and an airport trolley that turned into a bit of a diva, having already had a starring role in the senior school production, the cast had more to deal with than just the fast-paced dialogue and surprisingly poignant sentiments.
There was a lot to get to grips with in this play, and the pupils did a phenomenal job. This was reinforced by the laughter that continuously echoed throughout the hourlong production and the rave reviews given by the proverbial flies as they left their wall at the end of each evening.
There was a lot to get to grips with in this play, and the pupils did a phenomenal job.
XCITE
On the weekend 18 and 19 February we were thrilled to take four dance crews to the XCITE Dance competition in Leatherhead.
This was our first foray into a competition of this calibre and our pupils did us proud. The event took place over two days and featured classes in ballet, street, jazz, musical theatre, lyrical and tap as well as open classes for mixed genres.
Our 40 strong team were up against some incredibly tough competition from local and national dance academies but nevertheless held their own. Congratulations to all our dancers for an exciting and memorable weekend.
RESULTS
Gravity crew
5th place (Junior | Large group | Open)
Waves crew 5th place (Teen | Small group | Lyrical)
Adrenaline crew 3rd place (Teen | Large group | Open)
Fusion crew 1st place (Senior | Large group | Open)
Dance Dub Juniors
Crews Take to Harlequin Stage
In March our wonderful dance crews once again took to the stage as part of The East Surrey Dance Festival at The Harlequin Theatre in Redhill.
We are always thrilled to take part in this inclusive show and have the chance to not only perform on a professional stage, but also to watch and support other schools from the local area. 40 of our pupils from across the senior school make up our 4 crews: Gravity, Adrenaline, Waves and Fusion, all of whom performed to a very high standard. Congratulations to all for another successful performance.
Audition Ready
On Wednesday 10 May, Miss Sidell in the Prep School kindly organised for Voice Over talent agency, Dub Juniors, to come in and lead an audition workshop with pupils from the prep and senior school, as well as one of our partnership schools, St John’s Primary.
Pupils were given scripts to work with and were taught how to take direction and to perform in front of a camera. Much fun was had by all, and they will now be considered for representation by the company, who provide talent for some of the biggest names around, including Netflix!
Our wonderful dance crews once again took to the stage as part of The East Surrey Dance Festival
Much fun was had by all, and they will now be considered for representation by the company, who provide talent for some of the biggest names around, including Netflix!
Splurge-tastic Bugsy Malone
LOWER SCHOOL PRODUCTION
We said goodbye to the Spring Term in the Drama Department with some good old fashioned 1920s gang warfare. Fat Sam and Dandy Dan turned the Humphreys Theatre into their very own battleground, fighting for supremacy over prohibition New York with the latest in weaponry: the splurge gun.
Taking us through this tale of gangs, speakeasys and bad guys (who aren’t so bad after all) was the man of the hour, Bugsy Malone. When he wasn’t trying to convince Blousey Brown that he’s a decent enough sort of fellow, he was taking us on a journey through the underbelly of New York, where gangsters had epic car chases, appeared out of laundry trolleys and splurged unsuspecting victims at the Barber’s.
Based on the beloved film that saw the beginning of Jodie Foster’s career, you would be forgiven for suspecting that many of the cast are on her similar trajectory of success. The talent, skill and sheer enthusiasm displayed by pupils in the First and Second Year blew everyone away – the standing ovations weren’t for nothing! From Florence Rs
depiction of tough New Yorker Fat Sam, who was constantly despairing at his motley crew of ‘bad guys’, to Daisy Cs smooth talking, sinister Dandy Dan, you could easily forget that you were watching two of the politest pupils you could hope to meet. When they sneered at their crews with their drawling New York accents, I certainly shrunk in my seat and made a mental note not to get on their bad sides! We were also in very good hands with our narrator, Bugsy Malone himself. Logan C had us hooked from the beginning, with his charming, easy-going character, who was just trying to make a decent (if not honest!) living, whilst Lily W and Healy D melted our hearts with their beautiful renditions of ‘Ordinary Fool’ and ‘Tomorrow.’ We also need to applaud the debut performances of our First Years, who took to the stage like they had been performing in the West End for years. Emily S as Tallulah, Elliott R as Cagey Joe and Aggie P as Lena M all wowed with their voices, stage presence and fully committed characterisation. But this was not a show of individuals. Every single member of the company did themselves proud, putting their full energy and joy into a show made up of larger-than-life characters and beloved songs. There were hilarious double acts, incredible showgirls, witty one-liners, nosy reporters and a whole bunch of sad down and outs needing a break. Every cast member put their all into their performance, and I was so impressed by their commitment, timing and enthusiasm. A big congratulations also must go to the crew! If it wasn’t enough that they had unyielding set pieces, exploding follow-spot lights and precisely timed sound effects, they also had to deal with a cast armed with splurge guns. Kudos, team.
SUPERB RESULTS
Congratulations to the 52 pupils who took their LAMDA exams in May. Superb results were achieved across a huge range of grades and disciplines. With 36 distinctions and 16 merits, the pupils should be very proud of their successes. Particular mention needs to go to Stuart S in the Lower Sixth who achieved our first ever 100% in his Speaking in Public Grade 7 exam. The examiner was charmed by his relaxed and easy manner, and confidence in discussing matters such as the most collectible and covetable watches, whether YouTube would one day replace teachers and why the gender pay gap matters. Congratulations Stuart!
With 36 distinctions and 16 merits, the pupils should be very proud of their successes.
SCIENCE ADVENTURES
TRIP TO HERSTMONCEUX
On Tuesday 20 September 2022, the Second Year joined twelve staff members and travelled to the Herstmonceux Observatory, East Sussex, for a day of science enrichment and team building. The Herstmonceux trip has been a Caterham science tradition for many years, and we were thrilled to be able to continue the tradition this year, albeit in the sombre aftermath of Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral.
After picking up a packed lunch each, the pupils boarded their designated coaches (named Galileo, Cassini and Magellan, after pioneering space probes) and we headed off just after 8.50am. Greeted at the Observatory Centre by Education Director Jo at about 10.30am, we split up into twelve teams and the challenges duly began.
Each team had an opportunity to visit the Discovery Park (a playground with exhibits inspired by discoveries and principles from the DNA double helix to the creation of standing sound waves in partially-closed pipes of different lengths), the Water Play section (which included Archimedes’ screw and other fundamental ideas of liquid flow), and the Exhibits Corridor (all sorts of installations inspired by forces and astronomy). The sculpted fish heads near the pond, which doubled up as light filters (allowing everyone to see the pond in a fascinatingly distorted view), were as popular as ever, but this year, the real fish in the pond outsold the sculpted fish and became the stars of the show.
To prepare the teams for a Second Year science course full of practical work and experiment design, all building up to the Junior Science Fair next spring, we also competed in three challenges. The iconic Tower Building Derby was held in the heights of one of the domes at the Observatory; the legendary Bridge Building Contest took place in a tent near the pond; and the secretive Codebreaking Crusade was undertaken in a marquee at the back of the site.
The teams, divided by Academic Houses, rose to the occasion and executed some formidable strategies for cracking codes and building tall towers and long, stable bridges as quickly as possible. This led to the annual speculation about whether any of the towers would collapse during construction and whether any of the bridges would be built to the wrong specification. Regardless of the outcomes of the challenges, the teams showcased their great House spirit and gained valuable insights into the art of sharing ideas and not just rushing in without planning. Congratulations to Lewisham for winning the Tower Building Derby, to Team “Eiffel Swift” for winning the Bridge Building Contest, and to Team “Levine Lantern” for winning the Codebreaking Crusade. (There were honorary bonus points available for anyone, staff or pupil, who could explain why I had chosen team names such as Eiffel Swift and Levine Lantern for the teams containing pupils from two Houses!) However, maximum points in one challenge each was not sufficient to give any of these teams the overall victory, as Hebridean Pink, captained by Mr Bailey, took second place in all three challenges and won the overall gold medal. Congratulations to them and to all the other competitors. Of the six Houses, Lewisham took first place for the second consecutive year, followed by Ridgefield and Newington.
| MR R. EVANS TEACHER OF CHEMISTRY, HEAD OF RIDGEFIELD
arriving at the Herstmonceux Observatory
a beautiful day of blue skies
Old Cat Shares Experience Darwin Society Launch
Sixth Form Science
At the end of the summer term, we were honoured to host a returning Old Cat, Robyn Noble, and Katie Doyle to talk to A-level biologists about Robyn’s experience having a liver transplant and about Katie’s research surrounding this area.
I can confidently say we were all fascinated by Robyn’s powerful story with all the complications along the way and now, standing in front of us presenting a talk with a transplanted organ. We all learnt so much including what autoimmune hepatitis and cirrhosis are, coming from someone who has experienced these firsthand. Especially for medics, the ethical dilemma surrounding organ donation was interesting to hear more about and how organs that aren’t suitable for transplants are used in research. Leading on from this, Katie took us on a whirlwind trip delving into her work in research and her interest in the programming side of it – which was all engrossing to hear about.
Biology
On 26 September, the Biology Department launched The Darwin Society, a club designed to stretch A Level pupils with a series of university level lectures.
Each lecture is delivered by an Upper Sixth pupil with a particular interest in the topic, with the aim to share our collective love of Biology, but at undergraduate degree level. Be it biochemistry, neuroscience, or medicine, it is a great opportunity for Lower Sixth pupils to hear from some of the most passionate members of the year above.
Be it biochemistry, neuroscience, or medicine, it is a great opportunity for Lower Sixth pupils to hear from some of the most passionate members of the year above.
Wright Society Leading Imperial Proteomics Researcher Visits
Aspiring Medics Inspire Prep
The Wright Society visited the Prep School in November to inspire the Year 4 pupils to think about medicine.
The Wright Society is the Sixth Form medics society and is committed to helping pupils from Caterham and our local state schools to achieve their dream of studying medicine, dentistry or veterinary science at university.
This year’s President Holly H and Vice President Sally H visited the Prep School to explain their passion for studying medicine and give a lesson to the pupils on the major organs of the body.
The lessons were truly inspiring and Mr Quinton commented on how impressed he was with not only the enthusiasm shown by the pupils but also their knowledge of the human body at such a young age.
Sixth Form Biology
On Wednesday Lower Sixth Biologists turned up to their lessons expecting to go through an exam, but instead were treated to a lecture by a senior proteomics researcher from Imperial College.
Dr Harry Whitwell talked about how his department at Imperial separate and identify proteins through mass spectrometry, and how he uses this in his research in the early detection of ovarian cancer. The lecture not only took our Lower Sixth into undergraduate level Biology but was inspirational in showing our Sixth Form just what one can do by taking Biology at University.
...committed to helping pupils from Caterham and our local state schools to achieve their dream of studying medicine, dentistry or veterinary science at university.
I specialise in a technique, called mass spectrometry, which allows us to study proteins and how these essential biological molecules interact with each other in cancer.
Lily Foundation Visits Physics visit to Imperial College
Sixth Form Biology
Our Upper Sixth Biologists finished studying the biochemistry of respiration at the end of the autumn term, were treated to a lecture about mitochondrial disease by a member of the local charity The Lily Foundation.
The Lily Foundation is based in Warlingham but is Europe’s leading charity funding research into this debilitating and potentially fatal disease and has successfully fought for a change in the law to allow treatment of patients through genetic modification. Our guest speaker was none other than Upper Sixth pupil Isabel R from our partner school Warlingham School, who is a member of The Wright Society. Mr Quinton said how impressive it was to see Isabel speak so confidently to the entire Upper Sixth Biology cohort here at the Caterham. This is the first step in Caterham Biology and The Wright Society forging a link with The Lily Foundation.
On Tuesday 21 February a group of our Lower Sixth physics pupils ventured up to Imperial College in South Kensington for a lecture on neutrino physics and detection.
A fantastic introductory lecture on these tiny, incredibly light and infuriatingly evasive particles began by explaining that they are produced all around us; in the atmosphere, in nuclear reactors and abundantly in the Sun – 65 billion of them pass through an area the size of your fingernail every single second at the Earth’s surface! We learnt that these elusive particles possibly hint at why the Universe is predominantly filled with matter rather than antimatter and why we’re lucky to exist at all. Since these fundamental particles interact with other objects so infrequently (in fact 50% of impinging neutrinos would happily pass through a piece of lead one light-year thick without interacting with a single atom once!), their detection is a marvel of cutting edge machine learning and experimental physics. Our Sixth Formers braved asking lots of questions in a packed auditorium at the end and continued their discussion with the speaker after!
BRITISH PHYSICS OLYMPIAD
Engagement Across Upper Years Yields Fantastic Results!
Caterham has achieved record results in the British Physics Olympiad 2022 with record numbers of physicists volunteering to take part. Aimed predominantly at those in Upper Sixth, the BPhO is notoriously challenging, yet 50 Caterham pupils across all years from Fifth Year to the Sixth Form volunteered to take part in the gruelling three hour-long competition. 16 Bronzes, five Silvers, one Gold and two Top Gold medals were achieved. A particular mention must go to Alex M and Thomas C in Upper Sixth for achieving Top Gold, placing them in the top 180 of the 3000+ participants and making them eligible for the even more formidable Round Two paper in February. A second special mention must also go to our Fifth Year pupils who took part – this is no mean feat for those tackling A Level physics, so getting stuck into questions on thermal coefficients of metals, gravitational forces on Jovian moons and the energetics of radioactive decay is particularly impressive!
Senior Online Challenge
Off the back of the recent record-breaking success in the British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) we saw another amazing haul of medals for our Lower Sixth and Fifth Year pupils taking part in the Senior Physics Online Challenge. Over 30 pupils volunteered to take part and were rewarded by achieving 10 Golds, 17 Silvers and five Bronzes between them. Designed to get the cogs whirring for the Lower Sixth, hats off to the many Fifth Year pupils who took part and were rewarded with Bronze and Silvers and especially to Jason C for securing that elusive Gold.
Experimental Project TEAMS PROGRESS TO NATIONAL STAGE
February saw Caterham’s submissions to the British Physics Olympiad Experimental Project. Over 15 teams across Fourth Year to Upper Sixth took part in a nationally set experimental challenge to determine how various impact parameters effect the size of craters. Armed with a selection of ball bearings, displacement cans, micrometers, electromagnets, projectile launchers and other physics paraphernalia along with a deep tray of flour, some very inventive and ingenious methods and hypotheses were devised.
Showcasing not only their well-honed experimental skills but also some fantastically wellconsidered analysis, Team Physics at Caterham have been incredibly impressed with all entries, but sadly only one from each year category can be put forward. Congratulations and good luck to O-Teen, Elliot and Alex in Upper Sixth and Annie, Jenny and Isabelle in Fourth Year who were selected to go into the national competition.
PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY OLYMPIADS
Alex’s Gold
Secures Chance of International Selection
The Physics Department couldn’t be any prouder of its pupils. From achieving 24 medals in Round 1 of the British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) including two prestigious Top Golds to our Intermediate Physics Challenge competitors in Fourth and Fifth Year receiving a further 23 medals, it has undoubtedly been another very successful term.
To top it all off, Alex M in the Upper Sixth was invited to take part in both Round Two of the BPhO, a would-be gruelling experience for any undergraduate student let alone an A Level candidate, as well as the British Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad (BAAO). Alex went on to score Golds, the highest award, in both of these competitions placing him among the top 24 physics students and the top 12 astronomy students nationally – an outstanding achievement.
Alex made it through to the select few places on the Easter training camp at Jesus College (Oxford) which prepares students for the international(!) Physics and Astronomy Olympiads. From the training camp’s cohort of around twenty students drawn from across the UK, Alex could be picked to represent the UK at either the IPhO, held in Tokyo, or the IAAO, the astronomy equivalent held in Poland!
SATRO Physics Competition Final
Second for Caterham Problem Solvers
On Monday 20 March 6 members of the Fourth Year ventured around the M25 to Charters School near Ascot to compete in the final of the SATRO problem solving competition.
Having won the previous round hopes were high and the team of Andrew O, Isabelle H, Ryan C, Anneka C, Joshua K and Melissa T were well prepared. The theme of the competition was sustainability and the challenge for the final involved moving hazardous waste across a chasm (the gap between two tables). There was a 90-minute time limit in which the teams had to submit a design as well as build and test a working model. At the end of the time each team had one minute to move as much waste as possible. It was tense awaiting the results but we were overjoyed to be awarded second place! This is a great achievement as over 30 teams entered the competition. The team demonstrated creative thinking, resilience and teamwork throughout the competition and were rightly pleased with the final result.
University of Cambridge CHEMISTRY RACE
On Saturday 4 February, a team of five of Caterham’s strongest chemists competed in the fourth Chemistry Race at the Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge. We came sixth at Cambridge and ninth nationally. The team consisted of Avery C, Alex M, Luke Y (Upper Sixth) and Lisa H and Philip M (Lower Sixth), accompanied by Mr Keyworth, competing under the team’s name Alex and his Besties. Although Alex had tried to suggest other names after this one was initially suggested, if the team’s name were to be X and their Besties, Alex thought the original proposal was the best. Leading up to the event, we assigned ourselves specialities to focus our preparation on. We therefore learnt content both on the A-Level syllabus and beyond it, as well as attempting questions from both past Chemistry Races and from various chemistry Olympiad competitions. With the aim of answering as many questions as possible in a two-hour period, each team worked on six questions at a time. The questions tested chemistry knowledge, mathematical ability, and problem-solving ability. Topics in questions included Atomic Force Microscopy, the ingredients of toothpaste, the number of sigma bonds in buckminsterfullerene, heating a bath using the energy released from the reaction of sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid, filling party balloons using alpha-particles released from the radioactive decay of Polonium-210, and the ionic radii of group 1 metal ions held inside organic molecules.
Junior Science Fair
MJS team Judge Spring Projects
April saw the Second Year scientists hold their annual science fair.
After working hard for the second half of the Spring Term, researching topics about questions in their life and school, designing interesting experiments and collecting their data, it culminated in an evening where the six best projects presented their work to parents and teachers alike. Some of the most interesting projects focused on Mouse Trap Cars, Microbial Growth and the 5-Second Rule, but the Moncrieff-Jones science society team of judges decided that the winning team of Florence R, Caitlin M and Aimee L designed and executed an excellent project investigating the melting point of different chocolate bars. Their work was well researched, and they collected some robust data, before displaying it in a clear and interesting poster and delivering a fantastic presentation outlining the project and inspiring us all to enjoy experimenting at home, especially if chocolate is involved!
the winning team designed and executed an excellent project investigating the melting point of different chocolate bars
INTERNATIONAL CHEMISTRY OLYMPIAD
Intellectual Curiosity Sparks Record Entries
A record number of our pupils entered the first round of the IChO (International Chemistry Olympiad). This is a really hard, but fun, twohour exam designed to stretch and challenge the best Upper Sixth Form pupils in the country. Questions covered topics that included rocket fuels, electronegativity, amino acid complexes, vaping and cheese. Electronegativity is a timely topic as it was the 90th anniversary of Linus Pauling’s proposing the concept of electronegativity in 2022. With the 2023 International Chemistry Olympiad being held in Switzerland, a question on cheese was obligatory, and quizzed pupils on the conversion of lactose to lactic acid during fermentation in cheese manufacturing. Of those who sat the paper along with our Upper Sixth pupils there were also twenty pupils from Lower Sixth, five from Fifth Year and one from each of the Fourth and Third Year. It is fantastic that so many younger pupils wanted to enter and testament to their intellectual curiosity.
We are delighted to report that Caterham won 5 Gold, 12 Silver and 13 Bronze awards. This is a huge achievement, especially considering that this competition is aimed at Upper Sixth pupils.
Particular congratulations must go to:
Lower Sixth: Lisa H and Samuel L achieved Gold Awards with the rest achieving Silver or Bronze.
Fifth Year: Kayla A, Hazel T and Ariel W, achieved a Bronze Award – a fantastic achievement for sitting the paper two years early!
Third Year: Yolanda C achieved a Silver Award – this is a hugely impressive achievement and deserves great praise.
Upper Sixth: Avery C and Alex M both scored extremely high scores, putting them both in the top 40 of 12,000 people who sat the paper. Avery C has been selected to participate in the second round of the IChO. This is an invitation sent to the top 30 pupils to select a team of four to represent the UK in the international final in Zurich later this year. The second round consists of four days of Chemistry at Nottingham University over the Easter Holidays.
All of our pupils did extremely well and should be very proud of their achievements in what is the most rigorous chemistry challenge for pupils. Well done all!
SPACE SUCCESS AT SCIENCE SNIPPETS COMPETITION
On Wednesday 10 May, a Caterham delegation was delighted to attend Tonbridge School’s Science Snippets competition. This event is a fantastic opportunity for GCSE and A-Level scientists to present four-minute speeches on a science topic of their choice, with suitably science-themed prizes up for grabs for the winners in each age group.
Presenting in front of an audience of one’s peers is a crucial skill in all walks of life – many would call it a daunting skill. Presenting a huge science topic and making it engaging and accessible for all audiences, irrespective of the listeners’ knowledge base, is another skill entirely. During the Science Snippets evening, twenty-two speakers from eight schools took to the stage and used their moments in the spotlight to great effect, introducing us to topics as far apart as the science of photography and protecting the planet’s pollinators, via how not to build the perfect rocket.
Caterham’s GCSE representatives were Annie and Isabella (Fourth Year). Annie introduced the expansion of the universe in an ironically compact, but very vibrant and informative, presentation, with Edwin Hubble being namedropped in a way that he probably would not have expected. Isabella delivered an insightful, empathetic overview of type 1 diabetes, and was one of only a few speakers to rely largely on just one PowerPoint slide in her presentation. It was terrific to see how she used this slide to underpin her speech without letting it overpower her address.
Our A-Level representatives, Xavier and Tiffany (Lower Sixth), took to the stage after a quick refreshment break. Xavier’s increasingly formidable track record as a presenter continued that evening when he introduced a fictional robot walking around the tiles of a board game, which turned out to be a revealing metaphor for reinforcement learning in computers and AI. Tiffany explained the potential energy revolution of nuclear fusion, a topic that has
latterly received some attention in the news which, as she suggested, should be treated with cautious optimism and healthy scepticism. After the final presenter had completed their speech, the judges –all of whom were either science teachers or industry scientists – retired to decide the results. Our lead host, Mr Fisher of Tonbridge School, reflected on the importance of science communication in everyday life, and how it is our duty as scientists not just to understand our work, but to be able to explain it clearly and persuasively to all our neighbours without any political partisanship.
Caterham’s Annie was victorious in the GCSE category. Congratulations to all the presenters for an excellent evening of science, all of which was cast in the welcoming shadow of an elaborate model of the Periodic Table and a sculpture representing the common organic compound cyclohexane. Thanks to Tonbridge for hosting and judging the event.
A VISIT FROM THE PREP SCHOOL
In June we had the excitement of hosting some of the Prep School in the science department. Year 3 were in Biology solving the question of why green bananas taste yucky? They took bananas in various states of ripeness and tested them for starch and glucose. It was discovered that as a banana ripens the amount of starch decreases and the amount of sugar increases –bananas get sweeter as they ripen. Year 4 were in Chemistry putting their measuring skills to the test and examining how changing the volumes of different chemicals alters the time it takes for a chemical reaction to take place.
They used lots of glassware and solutions to produce what is known as an iodine clock. There was great excitement as the iodine colour suddenly appeared. Year 5 were in Physics learning about forces. They were looking at ways to overcome friction using an air track and even had a ride on a hovercraft. They also made their own mini hovercrafts and raced them down a ramp. It was all great fun, and fantastic to see the enthusiasm and curiosity of our younger pupils. With many exciting future scientists among the year groups we look forward to working with you all throughout your Caterham journey.
Third Year Visit to Historic Battlefields
On Friday 7 October, the entire Third Year (139 pupils) arrived at school at 4.30am for an unforgettable trip to the battlefields of France and Belgium!
A seamless transition through Dover saw us board earlier shuttles than anticipated, which whizzed us under the channel in just 35 minutes. Blinking into the French dawn, our coaches lumbered into Belgium for our first stop at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery. Surrounded by sunlight and the graves of around 10,000 fallen soldiers, we discussed the causes of the First World War and how the conflict originated. Next we headed into
the centre of Ypres for a thoughtful sandwich atop the Menin Gate. This was truly mesmerising, with the names of nearly 55,000 soldiers whose graves are unknown. After a quick stop at the famous chocolate shops of Ypres, where we enjoyed delicious sweets, our next destination was the German cemetery at Langemark including the hidden ossuary. That site was followed by the Hooge Crater Museum where our wonderful tour guides gave us a brief on the weapons, kit, warfare, use of trenches and the daily routine of soldiers, as well as exploring a replica of a WW1 trench, giving an interesting yet saddening insight into life in the trenches. The interior of the Museum was made up of different objects from the war.
To finish the day we had a ceremony to honour the Old Caterhamians who lost their lives fighting for their country and for our freedom. Each coach stopped at a different cemetery: Dozingham, Lijssenthoek, and Tyne Cot, to lay a wreath and commemorate an individual Caterhamian. The ceremony was truly a moment to take with us as a time of reflection, and some tears were shed as we paid our respects.
The Menin Gate
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Black History Month
Saturday 1 October marked the start of Black History Month 2022.
In assemblies and tutor periods pupils reflected on the positive contribution that the Black community has had, and continues to have, on the development of Britain.
The theme for Black History Month is Time for Change: Action Not Words. This theme acknowledges that the Black community is often given the double burden of experiencing racism and discrimination, and then being expected to fix it. Hopefully, by making the theme of this year’s Black History Month ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words’ we can come together to make a change for the better.
CLIO PRIZES AWARDED
Every half-term, the History Department award the CLIO History Prize to three pupils who show particular promise, aptitude, endeavour, and enthusiasm for the subject and are thus considered deserving of recognition. The prize is split three ways to recognise the talents of a senior, middle, and junior school historians, with all receiving a certificate, chocolate, and a book of their choosing. Congratulations to our winners this year.
... the Black community is often given the double burden of experiencing racism and discrimination, and then being expected to fix it.
FIRST YEAR VISIT ROCHESTER CASTLE
On Friday 16 June, three coaches laden with excited First Year history pupils pulled over the River Medway and drew to a halt in the shadow of Rochester Castle. As we reached these amazing historic grounds our extraordinary history teachers gathered us together and told us what we would be doing that day. To begin with we would visit the cathedral, then look around the castle, get sweets and have a talk at the Guildhall.
Sitting in the sunshine outside the cathedral, Mr Hosking and Mrs James told us many interesting things about the cathedral’s history. Did you know that fighting was not allowed in medieval churches so a criminal could hide there from the law? This was known as claiming sanctuary, and you could stay inside for up to 40 days. This place was the centre of most people’s lives during this time and the spire would act as a landmark for travellers.
Next up was the castle. This is where lords, or even the monarch, would have lived during this time and has some surprising history. Due to its strategic position, enemies of the king captured this castle in 1215 during the Baron’s Revolt. To recapture it, John’s men dug a tunnel under one
tower and propped it up with wooden sticks, then they set it alight with the fat from 40 pigs who were ‘too fat to eat,’ and the tower was destroyed, but it took five more days for the barons to surrender. As a result of the tower being destroyed one tower is a modern circle shape and the others are squares.
After lunch we went to the Guildhall to have a talk on the Battle of Hastings and on Norman Castles. This was extremely exciting because we got to see Aarav, Aggie and Cam dressed up as knights. We also learnt many interesting things such as, knights wore chainmail armour and would wear a helmet with soft padding on the inside to absorb shocks to the head. Some people got to launch paper at a model castle with a catapult to recreate the tactics during the siege.
At half past two it was time to go home. We had learnt alot about Rochester and the fascinating history all around us, and the trip was very fun and informative.
| WRITTEN BY FIRST YEAR
PUPILS
RUPERT M, OLIVER J, ILFAT T, AND CATHERINE Y
FIFTH YEAR TRIP TO BERLIN
On 15 October 2022, 50 excited Fifth Year pupils arrived at Gatwick airport with open minds and enthusiasm for the four busy days ahead. Four days of culture, walking, and a great deal of currywurst!
Following a short flight alongside two other English school groups, we arrived at the shiny new Berlin Brandenburg Airport and travelled to the hostel by coach to the strains of the first of many songs, got settled in, and went to bed eagerly awaiting the dawn. The first full day began with a walking tour of Berlin with our guides Amy and Fran. This was really interesting as we were told lots of personal anecdotes about the history of Berlin and the Cold War that wouldn’t be found in textbooks and allowed us to get a feel for the city.
After 3.5 hours we stopped off for the very first currywurst, of many. Everyone was keen to hit Mr Hosking’s ‘Triumvirate of Berlin Food’ – currywurst, kebab, weiner schnitzel in Hackeschermarkt along with a well-earned sit down. Re-energised, we boarded a coach to the Glienicker Bridge, as made famous by the film Bridge of Spies, where we received a first-hand perspective talk on the history and significance of the bridge by Bob, our captivating tour guide. Afterwards, we went to Potsdam, site of the famous Potsdam conference in 1945, where Mr Wood gave us a detailed breakdown of the history of the house and the wider context of the Second World War. This segued nicely into a talk from Mr Hosking and Mrs James on the Wannsee Conference and the development of the Holocaust, after which we headed back into the city to visit Gleis 17 (Platform 17). This memorial cemented the shift in tone begun at Schloss Cecilienhof with the pupils becoming more sombre and reflective, mirroring the mood of the memorial itself. Many found it hard to process the numbers engraved beneath their feet.
Nevertheless, after the eye-opening experience we were able to slowly pick up the mood on the coach ride back with songs before dinner at a restaurant in Alexanderplatz. After a walk around Berlin following dinner, the first day drew to a close and the opportunity to rest.
The second day started earlier with a coach journey to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, arguably the most hard hitting and thoughtprovoking location visited on the trip. The day advanced with a trip to the Topography of Terror, built on the site of the SS Headquarters during the Nazi era, and a closer look at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe which occupies an entire city block in the centre of Berlin. After dinner, we met again with Fran and Amy who restored our spirits with a night-time counterculture tour of Berlin; a fascinating journey into the hidden underbelly of art and graffiti this diverse city has to offer. The last historical site we visited was an inoperative Stasi Prison, now a museum, which expanded our knowledge on the lifestyles of East Germans during the Cold War and the use of psychological control. With time ticking on, it was time to head back to the airport.
Auf Wiedersehn, Berlin!
Walking tour of Berlin
Berlin graffiti!
Memories of a Holocaust Survivor Shared
The power of education and remembrance came to life in the eyes of the Fourth Year history pupils as we had the honour of inviting the son of a Holocaust survivor for a talk given in the Deayton Theatre.
With the passage of time, it is imperative that we remember and learn from the past, and the talk provided an invaluable opportunity for us to engage with real life events and historical analysis. Seymour Kelly’s talk on his mother, Lushka, provided us with an in-depth historical account of her experience as a Holocaust survivor. For a generation like ours, for whom the Holocaust was so long ago, this was proof that it was not so long ago as we might like to think. Such a mentality is perhaps rather a way to detach ourselves from what actually happened less than a century ago. Having Seymour’s mother recording her experience before her death in 2003 allowed us to have a first-hand perspective of the horrible conditions in concentration camps, the extent of dehumanisation and the maturity needed to face events like this one at such a young age. It was shocking how little
food was given in concentration camps; merely a ‘soup’ of water and flour with a side of bread was provided for an exhausting day of work. You couldn’t even wash yourself, meaning lice and disease often ran rampant. The extent of intimidation and control instilled was simply astounding. This is a strong lesson to contemporary society of the dangers of extremism and its impacts on people’s lives. It made us as an audience grateful for our presentday living conditions, despite us facing problems of our own. The little assumptions that remained of the Holocaust were completely eradicated in what was an enlightening talk which broadened our perspectives. Talks such as this one allow us to hold more informed, kind and educated views about historical events and assess their significance. Listening to Seymour Kelly was a unique experience.
The impact of this talk went beyond mere education. It created a space for reflection. There was an opportunity to engage in a Q&A session at the end, where many asked thoughtful questions about the Holocaust, its historical significance and its impact in today’s world. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Seymour Kelly for his invaluable contribution to both our GCSE journey and personal development. His presence and family stories will undoubtedly leave a mark on us all. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the memories of the Holocaust are preserved, honoured and used as a guiding light for a more compassionate and tolerant world.
| VIVIENNE C AND ANNIE L (FOURTH YEAR)
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Seymour Kelly for his invaluable contribution to both our GCSE journey and personal development.
FOURTH YEAR GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP
A DAY AT THE
BEACH
The Fourth Year geographers went in search of the sun on Thursday 18 May and found plenty of it on the south coast. They spent the day investigating the impact of different coastal management schemes such as beach replenishment and sea walls on coastal processes and coastal morphology at Seaford and Cuckmere. They used a range of fieldwork equipment to measure beach profiles and sediment size as well as undertaking environmental quality surveys on the management schemes identified. A very successful day in a beautiful part of the country was finished off with a well-deserved ice cream.
Music Scholars Concert Tan Dun’s Buddha Passion
An Evening of Excellence
Our annual Scholars’ Concert was an evening of style and excellence. All performers showed precision, confidence, depth and passion in their playing.
Repertoire was diverse and excitingranging from early Baroque (Albert C’s violin performance was gripping) and extending to a modern marimba masterpiece (delivered with expertise by Rupert L). All year groups were represented and particular congratulations must go to First Years Catherine Y and Holly C. The concert opened with the delightful trio (Alice H, Violet W and Franchesca C) performing the challenging but stunning Trio by Madeline Dring. Other notable performances were given by cellist Alex M (performing Prayer by Bloch), clarinettist Ammara K (performing Sarabande et Allegro by Grovlez) and pianist Ethan G (performing Schubert’s Impromptu No. 3). It should be mentioned that many of our Scholars are multi-instrumentalists and singers.
Li Sings with London Philharmonic Choir
What better day could there be to present an important work blending Chinese and western music than the Chinese new year, which fell on Sunday 22 January.
It is the Year of the Rabbit, signifying mercy, elegance and beauty, each happily represented in Tan Dun’s Buddha Passion performed at The Royal Festival Hall. London Philharmonic Orchestra were joined by London Philharmonic Choir and London Chinese Philharmonic Choir. Staff from our school were thrilled to support Li from the school cafe who performed wonderfully as an important member of this combined Choir. The evening was simply stunning.
It is the Year of the Rabbit, signifying mercy, elegance and beauty, each happily represented in Tan Dun’s Buddha Passion performed at The Royal Festival Hall.
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
Choirs Perform a Moving Recital
Our sacred choirs, JETS, ETS and Chamber Choir performed their annual ‘Recital of Reflection and Contemplation’ following the Remembrance Service on Sunday 13 November.
The recital, held in the Wilberforce Hall continued the tradition of a short, poignant performance where powerful texts are chosen to further commemorate the day. As always, the choirs gave polished performances of beautiful pieces which included old and modern settings of wellknown texts associated with Remembrance Day. The occasion brought together our sacred choral family; pupils in Year 4 to Upper Sixth working together and blending in harmony. Parents, Old Caterhamians and staff were moved by the recital and congratulations must go to all of the singers for their continued dedication to their role in providing excellent music for whole-school occasions such as Remembrance Day, Carol Services and Speech Day.
The occasion brought together our sacred choral family; pupils in Year 4 to Upper Sixth working together and blending in harmony.
LIVE LOUNGE
MUSICAL TALENT
Our bi-annual Live Lounge held at the end of the autumn term, featuring soloists, our Swing Band and the wonderful Fifth Year band Lost Ambition was a highly enjoyable evening for all displaying great talent from our pupils. Live Lounge is our open-mic/acoustic musical evening where pupils choose their own pieces to perform. Swing Band kicked off proceedings with three fantastic jazz standards in their debut performance at Caterham, with brilliant solos from Fraser Z (Lower Sixth), Ammara K (Lower Sixth) and James W (Lower Sixth). Our soloists included pupils from the First Year to the Upper Sixth, all of whom performed with confidence and musicality. Particular highlights included Melissa T (Fourth Year) with a beautiful performance of ‘So Near, So Far’, Julie A (Fifth Year) with her haunting rendition of ‘No Time to Die’, Lola D (Upper Sixth) with a stunning version of ‘Skinny Love’, Poppy R and Oliver J (First Year) with their fabulous version of ‘Crazy’, Hannah B (Upper Sixth) with her captivating performance of ‘Million Years Ago’ and Anna D (Upper Sixth) with her moving rendition of ‘Ordinary World’ to name but a few. Lost Ambition, Fifth Year band, played out the evening with an absolutely fantastic set of classic tracks including ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ and ‘Paint it Black’, which had the audience on their feet and pupils dancing around the theatre. Congratulations to all performers for a wonderful evening of live music.
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES
Pupils across all year groups impressed and enchanted once again in the spring term Live Lounge with a great ‘track-list’ of everything from Rag and Bone Man, Oasis, Beyonce, John Legend, Pink to old classics from Frank Sinatra, Gloria Gaynor and Queen. Pupils performed with great maturity and professionalism. There were many highlights and every single performer should be highly praised. Performers who had the audience truly mesmerised included Namratha D with her version of Queen’s ‘Too Much Love Will Kill You’, Abi C’s rendition of Harry Styles’s ‘As It Was’ and Tanya C’s cover of Cam’s ‘Diane’. Congratulations must also go to singers in Vocalpoint and Close Harmony.
Carol Service Evensong
Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
The Senior School Carol Service was a wonderful way to end the autumn term and once again our choirs ETS (Eric Thiman Singers) and Chamber Choir gave stunning performances of anthems, both old and new.
The processional carol, in traditional form, featured Second Year Henry B singing the solo verse of Once In Royal David’s City. This year, the service was attended by the Second Year who contributed to the service with their Anthem, ‘Torches’ – a rousing and powerful piece. Uplifting descants and triumphant organ accompaniment from Mr Hall made this service a wonderful start to the Christmas holidays.
The service of nine lessons and carols was well attended by many parents, staff and friends of both the Prep and Senior Schools. This year the service was held at the beautiful St. John’s Church in Caterham which provided us with the space needed to accommodate both choirs and congregation. Donations from the retiring collection were generous and will go towards the church’s Accessibility Fund – a worthy and valuable cause.
Magical Service at Rochester Cathedral
ETS and Chamber Choir performed an Evensong service that was uplifting and stirring at the iconic and beautiful Rochester Cathedral.
Rochester Cathedral is a Norman church with choral roots tracing back to AD 604. Our choirs sang the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis settings by Purcell and in the response settings by Byrd. The anthem ‘Litany to The Holy Spirit’ by Hurford was a particularly beautiful moment as well as rousing hymns. Chamber Choir’s psalm was subtle and stirring. It was a wonderful experience for our choirs to perform in this inspiring setting and the cathedral expressed their admiration for our choirs and commented on their professionalism as well as their singing. We are particularly proud of our choirs for their ability to adapt to surroundings, without preparation. This glorious, but somewhat daunting venue presents all manner of challenges – acoustics, sight-lines and processionals. We were delighted to have a huge number of parents and family members in the congregation. Congratulations to ETS and Chamber Choir on another fantastic performance.
Spring Concert
CELEBRATING BRITISH COMPOSERS
Our Spring Concert, which featured instrumental ensembles, paid tribute to British composers with an exciting range of music from Purcell to Elgar and original composition from our own Mrs Helena Richards.
Our theme was chosen to mirror the repertoire chosen by many orchestras this year as they reflect the Coronation of HRH King Charles III later this year and celebrate a diverse range of music composed by British composers.
Our programme included masterpieces such as Handel’s ‘Sarabande’, Purcell’s ‘Rondo’ (String Orchestra), Elgar’s ‘Nimrod’ – from Enigma Variations (Senior String Orchestra), and Vaughan Williams’s ‘Folk Song Suite’ (Wind Orchestra).
The Symphony Orchestra brought together all ensembles in a performance of Delius’s ‘First Cuckoo In Spring’ – a wonderful moment to see and hear all of our orchestral musicians, whatever their ability, playing together. Sinfonia, our senior orchestra, performed two original pieces composed by Mrs Helena Richards. These pieces were composed for Caterham School in her capacity as Composer in Residence; Veritas (2013) and Sine Timore (2014) are both complex and enticing and are inspired by the school motto ‘Truth Without Fear’.
The second piece features live narration with words from Roosevelt’s ‘Man in the Arena’ speech. This was expertly read by Mr John Dodwell. It is hugely inspiring for our young musicians to hear and be involved in performances of creative, original compositions written by their conductor, Mrs Richards. The closing item, Holst’s ‘Jupiter’, performed by Sinfonia, displayed great energy and force and provided the perfect end to the evening’s feast of great music.
OUTSTANDING EXAM RESULTS
Out of 64 pupils entered for exams, an amazing 21 pupils scored over 85 per cent to achieve distinctions and 19 pupils scored over 75 per cent to achieve merits. This is an outstanding and remarkable set of music examination results from the Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music and Trinity College London (including Musical Theatre). It is reflective of the incredible talent and commitment of all our pupils, from Caterham Prep School through to Upper Sixth Form, along with a dedicated consort of inspiring music teachers. It is wonderful to see such huge achievements from pupils who contribute so much to the Music Department and music across the school – not only have they worked so hard to attain these exam results, but they are also members of bands, orchestras, choirs and perform as soloists. Their magnificent results, which have been achieved under exam pressure and are just a snapshot of the immense skill and abilities of our pupils, are indicative of their enthusiasm for music and are hugely deserved. Congratulations go to all our pupils for their hard work whatever their result, however, a special mention must go to pupils achieving Distinctions: Henry B, Rosie B, Jessica C, Lana C, Ruby C, William C, Healy D, Humphrey D, Molly D, Ella D, Alfred D, Rosa H, Sophie H, Dylan J, Vivienne L, Emily S, Florence S, Zoe T, Ella W, Lily W, Johanna C and Annabella W.
Musical Theatre Talent on Show Lower School Concert
Our Musical Theatre Evening was a showcase of vocal talent from pupils across the school.
Accompanied by a live band, our singers took to the stage delivering songs from musicals through the ages, from 1927 to present including Showboat, West Side Story, Chicago, Sweeny Todd, Phantom of the Opera, Hairspray, Matilda, Hamilton and Six. Singers performed with great confidence and style whilst portraying the character from their songs, in magnificent costume and with props. Our combined massed choir (Chamber Choir, ETS, Vocalpoint and Close Harmony) performed a powerful medley of songs from the stage show The Lion King; an uplifting moment for all. Stand-out solo performances included; Annabella W’s dramatic rendition of ‘Don’t Tell Mamma’ from Cabaret, Logan C’s moving performance of ‘Bring Him Home’ from Les Miserables and Anna D’s stunning performance of ‘I’m Not Afraid of Anything’ from Songs From A New World. The concert began with drummer Sophia E performing the Overture from Gipsy – an impressive and striking start to the evening. As commented on by Headmaster, Mr Jones, what was particularly wonderful to see was the camaraderie and support amongst the pupils throughout this performance.
Our annual Lower School Concert displayed a wealth of excellent musicianship, both vocal and instrumental.
ETS, our chapel choir, performed a trio of pieces by British composers Will T, Karl J and Edward Er. New member of ETS performed for their first time with the choir and 3rd year pupils enjoyed their final performance. Our String Quartet performed Elgar’s Chanson de Matin with great depth followed by an exciting, rhythmical rendition of the theme from Pirates of The Caribbean. The Piano Trio performed the first moment of Haydn’s Trio no. 19 with flair and precision. Stand-out solo performances were given by cellist Izzy N (Bernstein’s ‘Somewhere’ from West Side Story), saxophonist Josh P (Bennett’s ‘Lamplight’) and trumpeter Ethan T (Goedicke’s Concert Etude). Congratulations to all performers on a wonderful and entertaining evening of music.
Stand-out solo performances were given by cellist Izzy N, saxophonist Josh P and trumpeter Ethan T
June Twilight Concert
HUGE TALENT DISPLAYED
The June Twilight Concert was a triumph.
An eclectic range of repertoire from Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D to Swing Band performing classics by Rollins and Lerner/Loewe.
The concert began with Caterham’s resident Swing Band; they performed Tenor Madness by Rollins and Almost Like Falling in Love by Lerner/ Loewe. Outstanding solos by James W, Ethan T and Lynus L as well as cool, calm and collected piano playing by Ethan G. The Swing Band are a new ensemble that formed in September 2022; it has been a pleasure to hear them rehearsing every week and seeing them progress. Aimee L and Ann T both gave beautiful harp performances, playing with both elegance and stylistic awareness – it was a delight. Our String Quartet, featuring Annie L,
Catherin Y, Winnie K and Yolanda C performed La Calinda by Delius; a beautifully chromatic, lyrical piece of music with togetherness, superb balance and excellent intonation. Antoine G gave a delightful solo performance of Musette on the guitar, playing with confidence and lyricism. This was followed with an electric guitar performance by Chris H, who performed Lettieri’s, Sunday Brunch. Rosa H’s stunning vocal performance of Allegria, from Cirque du Soleil was outstanding. Accompanied by piano, guitar and violin, Rosa’s understanding of the folky and narrative style of the song whilst singing it in multiple languages, with musicianship and technical detail was excellent. The Cello Ensemble gave an energetic and exciting performance of Vivaldi’s Double Cello Concerto (first movement) which was followed by a superb performance by our Lower Sixth Quartet of Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D (first movement). The balance and detail in articulation and phrasing as well as the light and shade within passages was excellent. Members of the ensemble had superb interplay between one another whilst dovetailing melodic ideas throughout. A special mention must go to Leo L, who concluded the concert with the momentous yet beautiful first movement of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D Not only is this a monumental, technical ‘beast’ to perform, but the musicality required for this twentyminute movement is quite astounding.
West End Summer Performance
Caterham Singers Take the Stage
Our amazing representatives from ETS, Chamber Choir, Close Harmony and Vocalpoint performed excerpts from The Lion King musical at the Lyceum Theatre in the heart of London’s West End Theatreland in July.
Singers from Caterham Prep and Senior School attended and were wonderful ambassadors for the school, forming the bulk of the choir. The event was featured on ITV with Caterham School’s Zandile A-N in an interview. Organised by Disney UK, the exciting day was flawlessly run by members of the Lion King musical crew and orchestra, including our own VMT, Mr Matthew Arnold. A special mention must go to Lily W who performed as a solo singer for some of the pieces – she was outstanding and showed great flair and confidence. The Music Day also brought together a symphony orchestra and praise must go to Shailey R who joined on harp. The choir and orchestra learnt and performed four magnificent pieces from the stage show which has a strong emphasis on African rhythms and language. The demanding score was expertly taught and rehearsed during the morning and was performed to parents and supporters in the afternoon – a truly glorious and uplifting moment.
OUTSTANDING ABRSM SUCCESS
Pupils from across the school, from Year 3 in the Prep School to Lower Sixth, earned fantastic results from this term’s internationally renowned ABRSM (Associated Board of Royal School of Music) exams, with almost 70% achieving merits or distinctions! Splendid performances by candidates were given by pupils on everything from flutes to violins, and saxophones to singing; highly impressing the visiting examiner. Not only are pupils’ musical performances assessed, but they are also tested on scales, sight reading and aural ability. Despite nerves being naturally evident for some, pupils played and sang confidently and with conviction. They all worked extremely hard and have been supported by their inspirational music teachers to achieve these tremendous results which are highly deserved.
Congratulations go to all pupils who were entered. Special recognition goes to those awarded the highest level, distinction: Senior pupils – Lucy B, Bea G, Izzy N, Josh P Prep pupils – Robin A, Charlotte B, Ella W, Alejandro G-B, Stella VL
Sixth Form Psychology pupils visit Prep
Our Upper Sixth Psychology pupils visited Year 1 and Year 3 pupils in the Prep School to conduct observations and see first-hand Piaget’s stages of development.
Pupils performed a range of experiments testing children’s ability to conserve (understand that mass/volume/number stays the same even if the appearance changes) and egocentrism (ability to understand another’s point of view). It was certainly a fun afternoon for the Prep School children and a real opportunity for our Upper Sixth to see the psychological theory they have learnt in the Cognition and Development topic come to life.
National Psychology Competition
On Wednesday 5 July, three of our keenest Lower Sixth Psychology pupils, Sophia W-S, Philippa R and Atlanta G, headed to Royal Holloway University to compete in the National Psychology Competition.
...a real opportunity for our Upper Sixth to see the psychological theory they have learnt in the Cognition and Development topic come to life
Asked to respond to the prompt ‘How can psychology be used to understand the misinformation epidemic?’ the team undertook extensive research into a range of cognitive and behaviour explanations for the rise in the spread of misinformation. They considered cognitive biases such as confirmation bias, where individuals tend to seek out information that conforms with their existing views, while discounting dissenting facts and opinions. The group conducted research before creating a video on their key findings. The team also presented their scientific poster and tackled challenging questions from the judges, competing against 30 other teams, judged on their communication and presentation skills, understanding of psychology, originality, and creativity. Pupils also received lectures from Dr Gemma Northam, senior lecturer on Neuropsychology, who shared her neuroimaging research into the effects of perinatal stroke on later development, and Dr Joe Barnby, Neuroscience lecturer, who is using sophisticated mathematical modelling to turn electrical signals produced by our brains into music and art.
Brain Day 2023
On Tuesday 2 May, Lower Sixth Form psychologists participated in ‘Brain Day’, a series of neuroscience seminars delivered by Dr Guy Sutton, Honorary Special Lecturer in Neuroscience and Psychiatry at University of Nottingham Medical School.
Pupils consolidated the work they were covering in Biopsychology, looking at the structure and function of neurons and synaptic transmission. Dr Sutton performed a sheep brain dissection with pupils getting to poke and prod key brain structures including the hippocampus and pineal gland.
Dr Sutton spoke about recent advancements in neuroscience, including Oxford University’s work growing cerebral organoids (human brains grown in vitro from stem cells) which raised interesting and important ethical questions: What happens if/when these organoids become increasingly complex and develop consciousness? Should they be subject to the same ethical standards as human and non-human animal subjects? Would it be unethical to now prevent this technology, knowing its important applications for understanding various neurological disorders?
Dr Sutton helped to bust brain myths and explained how our current models of schizophrenia, language, dementia, and even criminal behaviour are rapidly developing based on our new understanding of genetics, neurodevelopment and advanced brain imaging techniques. Dr Sutton spoke to pupils about the future of neuroscience and the inevitable widespread implementation of brain-computer interfaces (BCI). He took pupils through where the technology is now: allowing completely paralysed ‘locked-in’ patients to communicate in full sentences using only their thoughts via bluetooth, to where it will be in 20 to 30 year’s time, where he predicts humans will have microchips inserted purely for extrasensory and cosmetic purposes (e.g. enhanced memory and intelligence). He shared with pupils his work as an advisor to barristers and judges, discussing the ethics of BCI in the criminal justice system: should we use this technology to ‘read minds’ and determine the guilt of an offender? Should they be used to prevent offending, by reading the unique pattern of brain activity that precedes aggressive behaviour to interrupt brain signaling to placate the individual? Could this be a viable alternative to custodial sentencing?
Pupils were certainly left with plenty to ponder about the future of neuroscience and what this means for humankind.
Outstanding Competition Success for Paige
During the summer holiday Paige G (Upper Sixth) received the exciting news that her essay in the Theology category of the John Locke Institute 2022 Global Essay Competition had made the shortlist.
As a result, she has been invited to Oxford to attend the awards ceremony and gala dinner. For this essay, she considered whether one can be a Christian, without believing in the miraculous resurrection of Jesus? Following this great achievement, she also has been awarded a £100 prize as the first-runner up in the Keble College Oxford Theology Essay competition. In this essay Paige examined the extent to which the Council of Chalcedon can be described as a failure? Both of these individual accolades are outstanding, however, to have been awarded such success in both is a truly fantastic achievement, congratulations Paige!
More Philosophy Competition Successes
Amali in the Lower Sixth recently entered the University of Sheffield Philosophy Essay Competition. She submitted her response to the title, ‘Is religion important for a good life?’ and we were delighted to find out that she was one of the winners! This is a fantastic achievement and she has now been invited to an online workshop following her success. In addition, she achieved highly commended in Northeastern University London’s Philosophy essay competition, and for the Minds Underground’s English Literature essay competition. Well done Amali!
Both of these individual accolades are outstanding, however, to have been awarded such success in both is a truly fantastic achievement...
Millie in the Fourth Year also entered the Minds Underground™ competition, which saw over 2000 students enter from across the globe including those from Thailand, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, USA, Italy. Despite only being in the Fourth Year, with most applicants coming from the Sixth Form, Millie achieved Highly Commended for her response in the Philosophy Category. Millie’s title was certainly a topical one, as she responded to the following statement, ‘It may be bad taste to commit genocide in a computer game, but it is no more wrong than it would be right to alleviate world poverty in a computer game.’ Congratulations!
Senior Kangaroo Qualifications
Well done to the 16 pupils who qualified for the Senior Kangaroo, the follow-on round for the Senior Maths Challenge held before October.
Particular congratulations to the eight Sixth Form pupils who achieved Merits, they were Millie, Sophie, and Lily in the Lower Sixth and Thomas, O’Teen, Leo, Belle and Nico in the Upper Sixth.
Hans
Woyda Semi-final
On Monday 20 February, having beaten Reigate Grammar and Eltham College to get there, our Hans Woyda Maths team took the challenge to Trinity School in the semi-finals of the southern plate Hans Woyda competition.
The maths was hard, the pressure was intense and the snacks were pretty good! The match was close fought from the outset with the lead going back and forward between the teams. We entered the final round neck and neck with brilliant problem solving on both sides. The final round is a head-to-head race and, with everything to play for, the most intense round of the match. Unfortunately, Trinity pulled ahead in the last few questions and won with a score of 31 to our 27. Commiserations to our team, Alex M, Sophie H, Ariel W and Yolanda C, but also congratulations for excellent performance in this round and all the previous ones, bettering our results from last year.
Well done to the 16 pupils who qualified for the Senior Kangaroo...
The maths was hard, the pressure was intense and the snacks were pretty good!
Teams impress judging panel at investment competition final
In September, five teams ranging from Fourth Year to the Lower Sixth, entered the Wharton Global Investment Competition.
A ten-week competition, 1300 teams from around the world are tasked with devising an investment strategy to meet the short and long-term goals of a real-life client, part of which involved buying and selling stocks on Wharton’s trading simulator.
The teams worked incredibly hard throughout the Autumn term, building an impressive knowledge base of investment concepts with terms such as P/E ratio, fund, index and bond soon becoming second nature. Teams were required to work independently to research the most suitable investments, with a key part of the project being the explanation of why their chosen investments were the most suitable. All teams had to submit a 12 page report to Wharton as the final deliverable. In February we held our own internal competition where the final four teams presented their strategies to a panel of judges from our Caterham community.
We were delighted to welcome two financial experts – Tim Dunn and Angel Wu – as well as our own headmaster, Mr Jones to judge the competition. After some wonderful presentations, in which all teams demonstrated a huge amount of knowledge and maturity, it was team Total Returns that took the winning spot, consisting of Luke S, Chris S, Seb QE, Francesco F, Jerry T and Marcus K. The judges were impressed by their focus on the client’s objectives, their realism and their personal engagement – all such important factors when working with any client. All teams were also lucky to receive some fantastic constructive feedback from Angel and Tim –which they will undoubtedly be able to use in the future.
Renewables Leader Inspires
Cross
Curricular Economics of Migration
On Wednesday 18 January, Economics, Business and Geography pupils came together to listen to an inspiring talk given by Andrew Elmes, Head of Business Development at wind engineering company, Siemens Gamesa.
Andrew’s talk about the economics of renewables covered a range of topics from how China has used scale, competition and subsidies to create a monopoly on the production of solar panels to the UK’s pioneering of CfDs, which allowed cheaper financing of renewables projects. Andrew also discussed his role in the development of a new turbine with a rotor diameter of 236m that will be able to power 30,000 households. After the talk Andrew gave some incredibly insightful answers to the plethora of questions that pupils asked.
On Wednesday 25 January all Sixth Form Economists and Geographers were treated to an insightful talk on the “Economics of Immigration” presented by Daniel Pryor; the Head of Research at the Adam Smith Institute.
Known to be one of the world’s leading Think Tanks, pioneering to solve numerous problems such as the cost-of-living crisis, homelessness and environmental concerns to name but a few. Daniel’s talk covered topics ranging from, immigrants effects on wage rates through the forces of supply and demand of labour, potential costs to the economy of immigration and the Fiscal impacts of migrants in a country. Daniel also discussed other influxes of people into the labour market, due to the increased role of women. After the presentation Daniel offered detailed answers to a host of questions from pupils.
...Andrew gave some incredibly insightful answers to the plethora of questions that pupils asked.
...one of the world’s leading Think Tanks, pioneering to solve numerous problems...
CATERHAM CAREERS
University Fair 2023
TOP UNIVERSITIES
VISIT CATERHAM
February saw the annual university fair take place, where we welcomed thirty-five of the UK’s top universities to Caterham School. For a fantastic three hours our pupils had the opportunity to talk to representatives from institutions such as the Arts University Bournemouth, Durham, Imperial College, Exeter, Bath, Bristol, and Cardiff, to name just a few, enabling them to find out more about the courses they offer and how to make their application stand out. We were also delighted to welcome one of the top overseas university consultants in the UK, David Hawkins from The University Guys, to the event.
There was a palpable buzz in the Humphreys Theatre where the main exhibition stands were located, as pupils from across the year groups as well their parents and guardians, used the chance to delve deeper into the array of courses available to them after leaving school and what A levels were required to make a successful application. It surprised some to find out that you did not need A level psychology to read this discipline at university, nor was it necessary to have economics A level for many undergraduate courses in this field because maths is far more important.
As well as the exhibition aspect, a programme of twelve talks took place across the fair, covering subjects in a wide range of topics from preparing an art portfolio, fantastic personal statements, getting into medical school and creative careers to student finance, applying to competitive universities and global opportunities to showcase just some of the themes.
We were also delighted to welcome over one hundred and fifty pupils and their parents from our local schools including Oxted School, St Bede’s, Warlingham School and Sixth Form College and Reigate College, to this event.
A huge thank you to all our guest universities and the University Guys for making this event such a success and to everyone who turned up and engaged with everything on offer.
| MRS CLARE BROWN HEAD OF CAREERS
There was a palpable buzz in the Humphreys Theatre where the main exhibition stands were located, as pupils from across the year groups as well their parents and guardians, used the chance to delve deeper into the array of courses available to them...
US UNIVERSITIES
Eight Offers Secured
Congratulations to our Upper Sixth Form Pupils who have received eight well deserved offers from US universities, including Boston University, UCLA, University of Michigan. The pupils’ US offers sit alongside those from UK universities, including from Imperial, giving them an enviable breadth of top choices beyond Caterham.
The suite of offers follow a pathway of expert advice from the Sixth Form and Careers team at Caterham, including from Mrs de Silva whose role includes dedicated support for pupils looking to make successful US applications. The programme of support for overseas university applications typically begins in the Fifth Year and runs throughout the Sixth Form. The application process for US universities differs considerably from the standard UCAS application for UK universities with an increased focus on personal references from teachers and a focus on breadth of co-curricular and/or sporting achievement alongside strong academic achievement, meaning that our Upper Sixth form have been working incredibly hard across all areas of school life – well done!
Bonkers Careers Fair 2023
On Tuesday 30 June, we welcomed ten amazing alumni, parents, staff, former staff and some of our fabulous local businesses to Caterham School to talk about their unusual and exciting jobs. Over two hundred eager First and Second Years descended on the Wilberforce Hall and the Cafe Concourse to find out more about these more adventurous roles.
Anne Jackson from The Godstone Brewers, a local independent brewery based behind Flower Farm, arrived with the bottles, cans, and kegs they use, alongside examples of the barley and hops used in the process of making such wonders as Pondtail, Junction 6 and Santa’s Tipple. Pupils were even amazed to find out that the biggest component in beer, is water! Ben from Blades Biological, a Biologist also known as The Bug Farmer, came furnished with a microscope along with pond fleas and larvae and talked about how he loves the summer when he spends most of his time wading through ponds collecting some of his specimens for breeding. He was extremely impressed with the questions he was asked, including “What protocols do you have if some of your bugs escape?”, a question he had never had before! Charles, our world of theatre specialist, wowed his eager listeners with the amazing diversity of roles within the theatrical set-up. Who knew that one in five roles in the theatre are nonacting? Mark, an ambulance driver, turned the questions to the pupils, asking them what they thought were the most important skills needed in this role and of course, the pupils wanted to hear all about the gory details of what goes on in the back of an ambulance. Lisa McMullin, a former drama teacher at Caterham School, talked us through the process of scriptwriting for shows such as Dr Who and Eastenders.
It was so interesting to hear about how story lines can be written by multiple people and spread across many years and to see copies of actual scripts, which are written using specialised software.
Paul Chambers, a current parent, came along in his pilot’s uniform, as did James and Max (both OCs) in their Police and Law Enforcement Agent uniforms respectively. Paul regaled his young listeners with his stories about flying all over the world with British Airways and how important it is that all pilots are continuously updating their training through the use of simulators, even when they have been flying as long as he has. James and Max not only came in full uniform, they also brought along tasers, pepper sprays, flashing lights, a big battering key as well as stab vests. At one point in every talk, a pupil was handcuffed! Emily, also an Old Cat, talked animatedly about her career in the music industry as a photographer and videographer. As a freelancer she explained that the most difficult thing about her role initially was making connections and bringing in new business to a start-up, but now she has a big network, her work is all based on recommendations. Another alumni, Sean talked about his role as Partnerships Manager at OneFootball, a football media platform that keeps football fans around the world in touch with some of the top clubs and football news stories. He talked about the importance of communication and teamwork and how, in his particular industry, a passion and knowledge for football was paramount.
All pupils were also given a Bonkers Bingo Card to complete. On this they had to find out specific pieces of information such as a job where it was important to be nosey, a job that involves being patient or a role that might involve health hazards. At the end of the event, these were entered into a prize draw, to win a copy of The Bonkers Book of Jobs. The five winners are Aimee L, Oliver J, Lexie B, Ishani P and Emma T. In the run up to the event the Art Scholars took part in a competition to design a poster for the event and I sent the three winning designs by Honor, Anastasia and Eugenie, to the book’s authors who are so impressed they are hoping to include them in their updated version coming out later in the year.
It was such an amazing event and the pupils had the best time hearing such a variety of talks. To say the whole event was ‘Bonkers!’ would be an understatement.
| MRS CLARE BROWN HEAD OF CAREERS
CATERHAM LIBRARY
AUTHOR VISIT
Sarah Govett Engages Second Year
Second Year pupils were treated to an engaging talk from award winning author Sarah Govett. Sarah’s talk raised thought provoking questions about dystopian writing, climate change and the danger of antibiotics resistance. She followed this up with a lunchtime Q&A in the Library with members of the Library Book Group, Junior Lit Soc and budding creative writers.
WORLD BOOK DAY
Drop Everything and Read
World Book Day was celebrated with a Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) event on Thursday 2 March. Staff and pupils across the school enjoyed 20 minutes of quiet reading in the middle of the morning; a very quiet break from the usual daily activities.
WHO DONE IT??
Tuesday 4 July saw the discovery of a body in the library, followed in true Christie-Esque fashion by another murder. This was the judging, by Mrs Moore and Mrs Tuckett, of the First Year Scholars’ Soc. project – how best to promote the art of reading amongst their peers. Ideas ranged from ‘a book in a box’ with accompanying trailer, to a digital weekly book review.
TRINITY SCHOOLS BOOK AWARDS 2023
Cato Commended
The Library book group were delighted to attend a live stream of the 2023 Trinity Schools Book Award ceremony. Pupils from 23 schools read the shortlisted titles and voted for their favourite. Congratulations to Cato in Third Year who won our internal prize for his fantastic creative response to the winning book Green Rising by Lauren James. His poem entitled Global Crisis was commended by the TSBA Committee, a great achievement.
Second Year pupils were treated to an engaging talk from award winning author Sarah Govett.
CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
MAGIC AND BLOODBOWL CLUB
Magic and Bloodbowl Club got off to a wonderful start in September with our current Sixth Formers teaching our new First Years how to play the card game Magic the Gathering. Massive thanks to Sixth Formers Oscar H, Xav P, James O and James S for giving such a big welcome to our First Year club members.
CATERHAM EXPERIMENTS GO FOR LAUNCH ON ISS
Two teams from Caterham were thrilled at the news that their experiments for the AstroPi Competition run by the European Space Agency, carefully designed and meticulously coded over the past five months, were selected to operate on the International Space Station (ISS). Orbiting around the Earth at a rather hasty 90 minutes per orbit, the ISS will carry the equipment and run the code to enable two Lower Sixth Form groups to claim that they have had their own experiments run in space! Phil M, Finn O, Winston T, Rupert L, Hailey C, Tiffany K, or Team Borealis, designed an experiment which will measure the magnetic field strength on Earth and see if there is any correlation between its strength and level
of urban development. Xavier P, Ho Bun N, Aaron Z, Marcus W, James O and Annie L (Fourth Year) have designed an experiment which looks to determine the correlation between vegetation levels and population levels and how this changes over time.
SURREY CHESS
Check Mate!
In September Benjamin H (Fourth Year) was selected to represent Surrey at Chess for their U18 team in the Southern Counties Chess Jamboree. This follows Surrey selection at U9, U11 and U14. This is a fantastic achievement given that Benjamin is only U15, It was a great experience for him and his team finished second in the competition in this six county tournament.
... the ISS will carry the equipment and run the code to enable two Lower Sixth Form groups to claim that they have had their own experiments run in space!
FIRST LEGO LEAGUE CHALLENGE TOURNAMENT
In March LEGO Cats competed in the FIRST LEGO League Challenge tournament in Epsom. An early start saw an optimistic attitude towards the tournament, with seven pupils piling into the minibus with Mr Hillier and Mrs Wallis. Upon arrival, we entered the crowded competition room, where we would go against nine other teams. Some were older, but we were determined to persevere. We set up our station and began to rehearse for the Innovation Project, upon which countless hours had been spent. Through initial difficulties, the team brought their speaking skills up to standard. However, before the presentation, the first round of the course awaited. We marched through to the official course room, where our coding, robotics and innovation would first present itself. Through preliminary nerves, the robot did not perform as high as hoped, but we resolved to do better. We resolved to beat our score (of 135) and mount the leaderboard. However, first, we had the Innovation project to attend to. We entered the judging room with confidence, but our adrenaline levels soon peaked on discovering we had a five-minute time limit. Though previously unaware of this advancement, the team tried their best to present a satisfactory performance. Under pressure, they were able to answer all queries from the judges and, barring a few slip-ups, the team came out of the room pleased they had done their best.
... the team entered the room confident but nervous, aware this was our final chance at victory.
Nevertheless, the competition had not finished yet. The next round of the robot was soon upon us. We performed well, but fate’s hands were puppeteering our moves. Unfortunate chances meant a few unnecessary points were lost but, alas, there was little the team could do about it. We still came out with an improved 140 points.
Determined to improve further, a few members of our team ploughed on through code and calculations. And, when the time came, we were prepared. A full hour and half later after our previous round, the team entered the room confident but nervous, aware this was our final chance at victory. Every exercise completed and succeeded, we could not have been more proud. A full 180 points more later, we sat ourselves at our station and waited. We looked around the room, assessing our opponents. We were in fifth place but could our professionalism, hard work and research save the day? We hoped so. The only thing left to do was await the results…
Despite our impressive efforts, alas, it was not to be, though we did achieve the Confidence and Capability Award, a deserved prize. We departed content with our success and determined to double our efforts next year.
| EMMA T – 2W
CODING CLUB
Christmas Coding Competition
To celebrate the end of the Autumn term, the First Year Coding Club were tasked with designing and creating a Christmas-themed coding project. Their brief was left very open to allowing the creative juices to flow. Several types of games were created using the online Scratch program. These included games such as Flappy Reindeer, Catching Santas and even a game with some Christmas Tacos! Others used the newly learnt HTML/CSS skills to develop websites about Father Christmas. The group had fun trying to win at each other’s games.
The Winner of the competition and a bag of Christmas Haribos was the “Battle of the Sounds”, made by Jake D. This game involved trying to press keys when moving Christmas presents crossed certain parts of the screen. Jake added timers and various ways to win and lose points.
COMPUTER ENGINEERS CLUB
Pupils Design Mars Rover
The Caterham Computer Engineers Club were tasked with designing and building a Mars rover. Their brief stated that the vehicle should be both manoeuvrable and rugged enough to be able to cope with extremes of terrain such as soft sand and rocky outcrops. Several prototypes used Lego EV3 components which were controlled via an iPad whilst others used either a Raspberry Pi or Micro:bit to control movement. The winning rover, designed and built by Ho B, was an eight-wheeled monster. Four motors independently control all wheels working in pairs to ensure traction is never lost whilst the high ground clearance allows easy passage across rough terrain. A purpose-built controller makes it easy to drive the rover either from an onboard seating position or remotely should safety become an issue. Everything is controlled by a Raspberry Pi which Ho also programmed.
| NEIL STOKES HEAD OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
GROW YOUR OWN VEG
Horticultural Club
This year has seen the start of a new Horticultural Club, pupils were given a session on “potting on” with some courgette seedlings.
They each extracted their own plant and will take it home to grow on in their own pots or gardens. They will look after the rest of the plants in the school’s greenhouse. An array of vegetable seeds has been sown and the seedlings are starting to appear. Pupils will be taking responsibility for looking after the plants and harvesting the produce. The school’s environmental group are also taking part in this new venture.
Superb Presentations at IRP Final 2022
Six Upper Sixth Form pupils modelled the very best in presentation skills, communicating complex ideas, and thinking on their feet in an epic IRP Finals Night in November.
Each pupil had just 7 minutes to present on their six months of research, followed by another 7 minutes of questioning from both judges and the audience. Huge credit is due to all six finalists; the standard of competition was as high as it has ever been in the twelve years of the competition. Prize winners were as follows:
Winner – Holly
The Importance of Being Mansfield –How did Wilde’s Aestheticism and colonial upbringing shape Mansfield.
2nd Place – Noah Imperial Rome
3rd Place – Alex Quantum computing architecture
Audience Prize – O-Teen Quantifying uncertainty
Intermediate Independent Research Prize
The Intermediate Independent Research Prize (IRP) came to its climax with a splendid virtual evening before a large audience of online spectators.
Over the winter, pupils in the Fourth and Fifth Years were invited to choose any academic topic, to discuss a question with their teachers and to spend the holidays researching in depth to produce an essay or similar submission. Some 40 pupils elected to enter the competition initially and the standard was phenomenal. Comments were canvassed on each entry from subject specialists and collated by a small judging panel. The five finalists had therefore already beaten off tremendous competition to stake their place in the final. They all presented with panache and confidence, but much more importantly with obvious passion and deep knowledge beyond what would be expected even for Sixth Formers. Perhaps most impressive was the way in which they handled difficult questions which came in from staff, parents, pupils. Elle D, Casey M, Spencer T and Sam P all performed magnificently on a dazzling range of subjects, but Violet W’s exceptional research and exegesis of the Promethean figure in Byron, Percy Shelley and Mary Shelley eventually secured for her a thoroughly deserved if narrow victory.
| MATHEW OWEN SENIOR ENRICHMENT TUTOR
ETHICS CUP TEAM BEAT ETON AGAIN
Heroic Performance at St Andrews
Our team of 10 pupils from the Fourth Year and Lower Sixth Form have been working hard since their epic regional win at the Ethics Cup Competition in February. With new case sets to research and discuss they had a lot to prepare for. Just before half term the team made the long journey to St Andrews, where they competed in the National Final. Having a short cultural stop in Edinburgh on the way, they made it to sunny St Andrews by Wednesday evening. On Thursday morning they arose in their student accommodation and after a hearty breakfast, were taken on a guided tour of the University by current students. We were told about the quirky traditions and superstitions followed by the University students, including how to wear your gown, how to wash away any academic sins and May Day activities. The team then gathered their thoughts and prepared to do battle, with their trusted mascots (the ducks) cheering them on from the wings. They entered a draw for the group stage of the competition where they found themselves facing Eton school again. Despite some tough matches, they came out victorious in their group, with another defeat of Eton, and were the second highest scoring team in the group stage.
For the semi-finals the atmosphere was tense, and the team had a difficult case about Airbnbs in New York City. Despite an impressive performance, they narrowly missed out on their place in the final however, were proud to be in the top four teams nationally. This defeat was hard to swallow, but they could do no more and with a subjective competition such as this, the judges’ decisions are not always ones we will agree with. However, a walk to the beach and some fish and chips helped to lighten the mood and the team instead took time to reflect on their amazing successes, the bonds they have formed as a team and the enrichment they have experienced as being part of this highly academic competition.
...proud to be in the top four teams nationally.
ELECTRIFYING PERFORMANCES MAKE UNFORGETTABLE TALENT SHOW
After a big week of hype and promotion, the Charity Talent Show returned to the Humphreys Theatre on Saturday 21 January, and fourteen acts (plus two Upper Sixth dance troupes – more on them later) took to the stage and created plenty of immortal memories.
The traditional Matinee Show kicked off at 3pm with a terrific cast of Second Year, Third Year, and Lower Sixth performances. Returning judges Josie Branson (OC 2017), Mr Stamper and I had an unforgettably difficult decision to make regarding our top three acts. The audience, for the first time in Talent Show history (or at least since 2017), had an unforgettably difficult decision of their own, as they had the opportunity to cast their votes for the Audience Prize winner. Sophia (Second Year) narrowly won the Audience Prize and also took second place in the judges’ verdicts, with her charming and spirited rendition of Amy Winehouse’s Valerie; Will (Third Year) took third place with his rousing stage presence and performance of Michael Kiwanuka’s Love and Hate; and Zandi (Lower Sixth) took first place with her moving rendition of the Encanto tune Waiting on a Miracle. Honourable mentions must go to Crossed Wires (Second and Third Year), to Fraser (Lower Sixth), and to Connie (Third Year), for their electrifying performances.
In the Evening Show, Josie and I were joined on the judging panel by Director in Residence Miss Riley. This show featured spirited instrumental ensembles from Nova (Fifth Year) and Viney-DaPooh (Lower Sixth), with the latter band winning the evening’s Audience Vote; a hilarious standup routine from Stuart (Lower Sixth), featuring his highly informative Quiz About Stuarts; some powerful dance numbers from Estella, Isabella and Victoria (Lower Sixth), and from Fiona and Belle (Upper Sixth); a stunning cello-and-piano duet from Marcus and Jerry (Lower Sixth); and some mesmerising vocals from Hannah and Anna (both Upper Sixth). Each act brought lots of indomitable spirit to the stage and immersed the audience into their performance, which left the judges with another challenging call to make. After much deliberation, we awarded third place to Stuart, second place to Marcus and Jerry, and first place to Anna – all of whom were greeted with suitably loud applause as they collected their statuette prizes!
The marquee act of the Evening Show, however, was the Upper Sixth Dance Battle. The boys’ performance opened with a bizarre and very darkly amusing whodunnit-themed video, after which their dance told the story of the whodunnit villain (played by Harry) hiding out amongst some enigmatic underground dancers… and eventually getting caught and arrested to the tune of Basement Jaxx’s
Red Alert. During this performance, the judges were unexpectedly gifted with a rose and some Hawaiian necklaces, which we thoroughly appreciated! (Worth noting, though, that the boys’ very colourful outfits in the final part of their dance were rarely consistent with the House colours of the dancers!)
The girls’ video told the story of a great unanswered question and the tale of a long-running dispute about land ownership. Their dance started in a very fast-moving rave, eventually included some umbrellas (in a lively interpretation of a certain weather-themed Rihanna and Jay-Z song), and concluded with a huge beach party to the tune of the ABBA classic Lay All Your Love On Me. Having unofficially advised both teams during some of their rehearsals, I could tell that this Dance Battle would be closely-fought, and it certainly was; this was easily the most unpredictable dance-off since 2019, such was the enthusiasm and inventiveness of both teams. After Mr Patterson and the judges gleefully dragged the final countdown out as long as we could, we got the first split vote since 2019, with the boys taking two votes and the girls taking one. Congratulations to the boys! The judges secretly admitted amongst ourselves, after the audience had headed home, that the Hawaiian necklaces were what won it. That’s the ultimate hallmark of a brilliant Dance Battle – it really could have been decided by a coin toss.
I would like to thank Mr Patterson and the Charity Committee (especially Nithusha) for masterminding the auditions, managing the acts, and hosting the refreshments stall; Mr Riley and his tech team for creating such an engaging atmosphere in the theatre; Anna and Annabella, for hosting the Evening Show with such panache (my airport-themed joke aside); Mrs Fahey, for leading the front-of-house teams at the shows; Mr Moore and Mrs Richards, for supporting the closest Dance Battle for several years; my fellow judges, for stepping up to share the best stage-side job in the world; and all the audience members, for coming along and supporting our acts and charities. Performing on stage, in whatever capacity, is such an amazing skill and such great fun, and the Talent Show is a priceless hub for encouraging our school community to do this. Knowing that we were supporting Lerang’wa Lunches and The Children’s Trust made the show even more of an honour.Connie’s Matinee Show dance was soundtracked to Hoppípolla, by Sigur Rós; next time I hear this unspeakably beautiful piece of music, I will think back to the 2023 Charity Talent Show and remember that this tune sounds like how it felt to be there.
| MR R. EVANS TEACHER OF CHEMISTRY, HEAD OF RIDGEFIELD, TALENT SHOW JUDGE
COMBINED CADET FORCE
Caterham & Trinity Cadets Join Forces
Joint JNCO Cadre Camp
Six Upper Sixth Form pupils modelled the very best in presentation skills, communicating complex ideas, and thinking on their feet in an epic IRP Finals Night in November.
Corps was delighted to run a joint JNCO camp with Trinity School CCF over half-term for the second time. Forty cadets from the Fifth Year of both schools underwent a rigorous five-day cadre to practise and assess their skills as potential junior non-commissioned officers. Working in four squads with leadership duties shared amongst them, the cadets revised core military skills such as skillat-arms, drill, fieldcraft and military knowledge. On Saturday, the students were put through their leadership paces on assessed command tasks and had a chance to compete with their squad in the exhausting march and shoot competition. In the evening, each of them delivered a theory lesson on topics from badges of rank to the history of the Royal Air Force, with officers assessing their instructorship and discussing the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Sunday saw the RN and RAF cadets on camp conducting section-specific training, while the Army cadets headed out for a day in the field. Students had a chance to lead their sections into enemy contacts, testing their skills as section
commanders; to manage a casualty evacuation under fire (with terrifyingly life-like wounds); to lead a patrol; and to mount an OP on unsuspecting recruits. Cdt Pullen, LCpl Gill and Cdt Fogelman showed particular talents in the field, while many others from the cream of the Army’s crop also impressed.
Monday brought the dreaded practical TPs, when the cadets delivered a skills-based lesson to their peers. This year the pressure was cranked up by the presence of Maj Gen Swift, the head of the UK Cadet Forces, and Col Dennison, Colonel Cadets for London District. Inspired the presence of the toppest of top brass, the cadets prepared kit, resources and lesson plans and instructed one another in movement with the weapon, camouflage and concealment, target indication and many other lessons from the fieldcraft syllabus, all again assessed in detail by officers for feedback and grading. LCpl Amsel, Cdt Perdoni and Cdt Wolstenholme shone in particular with some excellent and innovative training periods.
Tuesday concluded an exciting and demanding camp with an inter-squad competition of tug of war and the obstacle course. Muddy, sweaty and smiling broadly, the cadets threw themselves into the fray with the gusto they had shown throughout, until Blue Squad emerged as narrow victors.
A smart final parade beneath Caterham and Trinity’s banners brought camp to a conclusion. All the cadets were deservedly congratulated on their fine performances, and particular prizes were awarded:
Best Potential JNCO LCpl Amsel
Most Improved Cdt Louca
Best Skills Lesson Cdt Wolstenholme
Best Theory Lesson LCpl Gill
Best in the Field Cdt Pullen
| CAPT M M OWEN OC JOINT JNCO CADRE
CCF Recruits’ Camp
A Recruits-Eye Account
Our first camp with Corps was a very fun and different experience. It all began with us getting up to school an hour before departure to have a kit inspection, before we boarded the bus to go to the camp, Crowborough Training Camp in East Sussex.
After lunch, we split off into three sections for lessons: my section first had rifle training, then observation and indicating targets. Next we learned how to move and signal in the field, which was great fun, and of course some drill. After this we went to dinner – the food was alright! – before all the sections went to their night exercises. My section began with a lesson in night noises and night movement, learning how light and sound affect operations in darkness. It finished with an activity where the aim was to try not to be detected creeping through a field and woods –this was my favourite activity. After passing our tests on the rifle, our first long day was over and we returned to our billets.
Our next day started early with breakfast at 7am. We then went out to an all-day activity at a military training area, which started with stalking for my section. Then we moved on to how to use your surroundings to help conceal yourselves, looking at cam and concealment – learning how to apply cam cream and foliage properly. We then stopped for lunch, which we did by making a harbour area and cooking over a fire. Next we had a briefing about what we were doing at night, and we were off. It was a big exercise which we had been preparing for all day, and it was really fun as we moved (quite) stealthily around in search of enemy intelligence without being seen. After this it was back to camp for much needed sleep.
The final day was competition day. It started with a daunting room inspection from the CO, Wg Cdr Bage. Then my section started with paintball target shooting through woodland, before we moved onto a full military obstacle course to test our stamina, strength and teamwork – my section
came second. We finished on an air rifle target range was we tried to earn badges and win the competition at the same time, using our new skills with the weapon. After our last taste of Army food, it was time for Final Parade. This was quite long because there were lots of awards, and my section won the Best Section award, while I was very proud to be awarded ‘Best Recruit’ on camp. And in a flash our first three, action-packed days were over and we felt exhausted, proud and properly part of Corps.
| RCT ARTHUR P THIRD YEAR, ARMY SECTION
Remembrance Sunday 2022
Remembrance Sunday was, as always, the main event in our Acts of Remembrance as a large congregation of pupils, parents, staff and OCs gathered under a weak Autumn sun.
The service began with a Guard of Honour, who slow marched onto parade and bowed their heads with arms reversed as the Heads of School read out the Roll of Honour, while Dr Sinclair added a plangent lament on the bagpipes. Then, to the powerful accompaniment of the band, a 150-strong parade of cadets marched on under the command of RSM William Baker to pay their respects. After words from the Padre and the Headmaster and a poem beautifully read
by Cpl Bortey, silence fell across the country and thoughts turned to terrible and humbling sacrifices made for our peace and freedom. At the Last Post, played beautifully by cadets and pupils, CSM James Willimont lowered the CCF Banner in tribute, before the Reveille brought it up again as a symbol of new life so dearly paid for. The hard work of the cadets, the skill of the musicians and the lovely singing of ETS during and after the service conspired to produce a moving morning, a sobering reminder of the destruction of war and a statement of the gratitude of the living for the sacrifices of the fallen.
We will remember them.
CCF Corps Dinner
Corps marked the 82nd year since its foundation as tradition demands with the annual Corps Dinner. 150 cadets were joined by officers, representatives of the School including the Headmaster, and guests from the regular and reserve Armed Forces.
After a fine three-course meal, prepared by the incomparable kitchen team and served by the Fifth Year JNCO Cadre, the Commanding Officer Wg Cdr Bage reminded the cadets of their history and introduced the Senior NCO team to give a review of the year. Embarrassing images of their superiors’ more youthful years and horrendous jokes aside, the seniors delivered a very amusing and polished summary of another busy twelve months which missed no opportunity both to show the unit in the best light and to defame its officers. The Headmaster responded with warm words of praise for the cadets’ endeavours and the value their commitment brings to school life.
CCF Ex Western Mole 2023
February Adventure Training Camp
A party of almost fifty cadets, NCOs and officers made for the beauty of the Mendip Hills in Somerset and Yoxter Camp, a collection of buildings gradually being picked off by sink holes in the middle of nowhere a few miles from Cheddar Gorge.
Saturday saw cadets abseiling at Split Rock, lowering themselves from a nauseating height in gusty conditions down a sheer cliff to the ‘encouragement’ of their friends at the top and bottom. Meanwhile, over in the equally-stunning Quantock Hills, an arduous mountain biking package tested stamina and the claims of mums’ laundry powders in equal measure as cadets powered up and flew down the twisting woodland trails. The evening back at camp was spent revising navigation skills and planning routes for Monday’s NavEx.
A sunny Sunday brought a combined package of dry caving and rock climbing at Burrington Combe. Above ground, the dauntless cadets scaled six climbs on a tricky rock face, belaying one another under staff supervision and some seeking the extra challenge of blind-folded or one-handed ascents. Far below them small groups vanished into the myriad natural caves of the Mendips, taking their first steps in caving and learning the basics of subterranean movement and navigation. The beauty of the rock formations combined with the exhilaration of the adventure in what was a claustrophobic’s nightmare, culminating in the Drainpipe: a thirty-metre tunnel just big enough for a grown man (/ OC Army Section after a large breakfast) to wriggle along head-first, and for Rct Hutton to skip along. Such exertions amply warranted a relaxing night of bowling and laser tag for most, while the officers took time out to school LCpls Gill and Baxter in the manly art of pool.
Monday was the highlight of our stay. The juniors set off for a five-hour navigation exercise from camp to caves across the tops, high spirits augmented by balmy sunshine and undimmed by Rct Wolstenholme’s understandable confusion between north and south. All made it safely eventually, having done battle with an intransigent herd of cattle, to Swildon’s Hole, where an afternoon of wet caving awaited, entering the caves in the torrent of an underground river and exploring the waterfalls and thigh-deep streams of the upper series. Meanwhile the senior cadets spent a long and extraordinary day in the famous system. Few young cavers get the opportunity to dive the first
sump as our hardy cadets did: they abseiled down (and in) several underground cascades to where the water level meets the roof. A six-foot, pitch black, fully submerged dive, head banging on the roof in vain search for oxygen, was an unforgettable and terrifying experience, but one which the senior cadets handled with a courage and determination that quite bowled over their instructors. For most this was the climax of a very successful, tiring and enjoyable exercise in which the cadets acquitted themselves outstandingly. It was a unique and almost otherworldly experience in the chasms beneath the earth and a reminder of the beauty and adventure England has to offer so close to home. You can watch the video of our camp on Youtube
RAF Section Air
Experience
On an overcast March morning, a group of RAF cadets travelled to RAF Benson in Oxfordshire to take part in one of our regular flying days. The busy day saw all the cadets take to the skies alongside RAF pilots, who instructed them in aircraft handling and gave them a stomach-lurching taste of aerobatics. Congratulations in particular to two first-time flyers from the Third Year, Cdt Howgego and Cdt Denning, who earned their First Flight Wings.
| FLT LT JAMES ARROL-BARKER OC RAF SECTION
CCF Ex Eager Tiger
Recruits Fieldcraft Assessment Day
Third Year Army recruits undertake training in the Army Proficiency Certificate (Basic) throughout their first year with Corps.
At the heart of this syllabus is fieldcraft –operating as a rifleman in an infantry section in the field. Six months of training was put to the test on a chilly Sunday in March as the recruits made for Pippingford Park. The cadets conducted patrols, demonstrating their competence in various formations and crossing obstacles, before being assessed on their ability to live in the field, erecting two-person shelters and cooking a hot meal from ration packs. Their final assessment gave them their first chance to fire the rifle with blank ammunition, working in pairs to suppress the enemy and advance or withdraw in contact. The young Army cadets performed admirably and all passed the assessment with flying colours.
| CAPT MATHEW OWEN OC ARMY SECTION
Cadets in the Trees
NCOs qualify as Wild Cats Instructors
Several Fifth Year JNCOs spent a weekend in the trees in March, striving to become certified Assistant Instructors on the school’s Wild Cats area.
All the cadets have attended several adventure training packages over their three years as cadets and were keen to convert this experience into a formal qualification. Following many hours of training in PPE, rope-work, safe practice and emergency procedures, the cadre of cadets was assessed in its skills on the climbing walls and high ropes by external examiners. All passed with flying colours.
CCCF JNCO Cadre Passing Out Parade
In a parade before parents, the Headmaster and all of Corps, thirty-five Fifth Year cadets passed out of their JNCO training as Lance Corporals.
The JNCO Cadre is perhaps the most demanding element of training we deliver. During the first two terms of their Fifth Year, including a five-day camp, cadets have been put through their paces in military skills, leadership values and methods of instruction by officers of Corps and instructors from the regular Armed Forces.
They have been assessed delivering classroom lessons, leading sections in the field and preparing exciting training for their juniors. And they have excelled.After taking the salute, the Commanding Officer, Wg Cdr Bage, warmly congratulated the Cadre: wearing military rank, he said, is no small honour and no negligible responsibility; it is a mark of our esteem for the cadets and the training they have passed through.
From the outset, this cohort of cadets has been a special one. If they maintain the standards they have set this year, they will transform Corps by their presence and leadership. Well done to them all, and in particular to the following prize winners:
JNCO Cadre 2023 – Best Cadet Cpl Gill
Best Cadet on JNCO Cadre Camp Cpl Amsel
Best in the Field LCpl Pullen
Best Lesson LCpl Wolstenholme
Most Improved LCpls Andrews and Louca
CO’s Commendation LCpls Beukes, Floyd A, Floyd J, Keyworth and Perry
Ex-Caterham Cadets Flying High in the Army
2Lt Richard Webb OC (2016) was commissioned into the Royal Engineers in December 2022 before the eyes of the OC Army and 2Lt Carracher in the bitter cold of Commandant’s Parade at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. Since then, he has earned the right to wear the famous maroon beret by passing P-Company: three-and-a-half weeks of brutal physical training culminating in a week of tests, all of which 2Lt Webb passed. He thereby wins the chance to serve in 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s high-readiness force.
2Lt Ed Chatfield OC (2015) also passed out of RMA Sandhurst in April 2023 and is commissioned into the Royal Corps of Signals. His Sovereign’s Parade was very special, being the first to be inspected by HM The King, who presented a new Sovereign’s Banner which was paraded through the Academy by 2Lt Chatfield and his platoon, who won the honour of being Sovereign’s Platoon over the course of their training. In addition, 2Lt Chatfield himself was awarded the Agar Memorial Prize for the best performance of any cadet in his intake heading into the Royal Corps of Signals.
Wing Commander Kevin Bage, the Contingent Commander, said:
Both young men were senior cadets and then adult volunteers with us, in which capacities they set fine examples and made very positive contributions to the running of Corps. They maintain a long tradition of cadets of Corps making careers in the regular Armed Forces.
We wish them all our very best.
God Save The King!
CCF Coronation Parade and 82nd Annual Review
Corps put on a very special version of its annual showcase this in beautiful sunshine as we not only paraded our cadets’ skills and training, but also marked the Coronation of our new Sovereign and Captain-General of the Combined Cadet Force.
An immaculate Guard of Honour welcomed back a distinguished Old Caterhamian and ex-cadet, Gp Capt Piers Holland MBE RAF to the Home Field. Thereafter a very large audience of parents, staff and guests were shown around various stands, including climbing, fieldcraft, first aid and drill, where the cadets showed off their training. News of dangerous enemies of the Crown brought the guests back to Home Field in alarm, but thankfully the Caterham Rifles were on hand once again to save the day. A slick section attack drove the dastardly republicans from their rickety shacks until all resistance was crushed. There followed the hotly contested Inter-Service Gun Run race: the competition to move a full artillery piece across a demanding obstacle course was won, once again, by the Army crew. It was a great pleasure for awards to be made as Corps paraded en masse at the end of the day. Having warmly commended the cadets on their excellence and commitment, Gp Capt Holland awarded the prize for Best Recruit
to Rct Peachey (Third Year); Best JNCO to Cpl Gill (Fifth Year); and Best Cadets in the two sections to CSM Willimont and CWO Masters (Upper Sixth).
The Stokes Pace Stick was presented to Head of Corps, RSM Baker (Upper Sixth).
Before the Union Flag and RAF Ensign were lowered, Corps marked the beginning of His Majesty’s reign with the dedication of a new Union Banner, which was trooped through the contingent. Cadets then joined their officers in proclaiming their allegiance and vowing service to king and country, before two rousing verses of the National Anthem sounded across Home Field.
Shooting Stars
CCF Range and Obstacle Course Day
Thirty cadets enjoyed a sunny day’s shooting at Pirbright Ranges.
After lessons in the principles of marksmanship, each of the cadets, from the Third Year to Lower Sixth, tried their hands at various shoots at 100m from the prone, sitting and kneeling position and in a fire-trench. Some kind souls left the targetry largely unscathed, but others shot splendidly, especially considering that many had not fired at this distance before. Most cadets passed as Trained Shots; some earned their Marksman badge; but particular congratulations of Cdt Woods (Fourth Year) and Cdt Kwan (Third Year) who scored sufficiently highly to be awarded their Advanced Marksman badges. The afternoon gave the cadets the opportunity to launch themselves over Brunswick’s demanding obstacle course. After a familiarisation run, the three sections competed against one another over walls, through tunnels and across the gungy murk below the monkey bars with gusto, teamwork and aggression, with 1 Section emerging as narrow winners.
CCF Self-Reliance
Expedition
Forty-five cadets from the Third and Fourth Years gave up the last weekend of May half-term for a rigorous assessment of their skills in navigation, campcraft and self-reliance.
After revision, kit-packing and a theory test, the cadets headed out onto the North Downs in groups of six, carrying all they needed (in some cases a good deal more) on their backs. Passing through a sequence of checkpoints
(in what seemed a random order) at which they were quizzed on their map and compass work, some groups made good progress, others’ routes took them past polar bears or mangrove swamps. Before sunset, however, all groups had reached camp for a feast of nutritious fare from their military ration packs and a chance to rest their tattered feet around the fire.
As the next morning dawned bright and warm, the recruits were up and off, ignoring burning blisters and aching backs as they sallied forth once more towards. Fatigue was beginning to show by the time, later that afternoon, in dribs and drabs the hardy explorers reached the Fox Pub, the entirely coincidentally chosen end-point where the officers were waiting in fine spirits. All told the recruits showed no little competence with the map and compass and plenty of fortitude in the heat –exhausted, blistered, sun-baked but satisfied, the recruits can be very proud of a strong showing in this stiff test of their skills and mettle.
Ex Caterham Kayaker
On Sunday 18 June, 22 CCF Cadets and 2 contingent staff attended an adventure training day held at Blacklands Farm in Sussex.
Cadets completed 2 high ropes activities, first they needed to take turns to climb a wobbly pole and stand on a small platform (about the size of a large pizza box) then with up to 4 cadets on the platform, hold onto each other and lean out. The second activity involved cadets working in groups to stack crates to create the tallest tower whilst 2 cadets stood on the tower. The Cadets also completed a kayaking session, providing many with their first kayaking experience. This session taught them the basic skills needed to safely paddle. All cadets participated well and completed the British Canoeing Paddle Safety and Paddle Start awards.
| FG OFF MARTHA B
CCF Ex Summer Lightning 2023
In response to intelligence that a foreign power was operating out of the Home Counties, a platoon of Corps’ Army Section deployed to Bramley Training Areas in Hampshire.
After battle preparation, the cadets advanced to a harbour area and soon began to dominate the ground with patrols. Following careful reconnaissance, the enemy was driven from huts, pillboxes, tunnels and fortified positions in a string of fighting patrols, before a devastating night ambush on a vehicle convoy seemed to have ripped the heart out of its pitiful resistance. But after a few hours kip ‘stand to’ was called with reports that a small but diehard faction was active again. A downed helicopter was found and some straggling enemy eliminated, before a slick platoon assault on a trench and tunnel system finally scotched out this terrible threat to our democracy. The cadets who braved these exhausting two days, many of them recruits exercising only for the second time, performed admirably and have a sense of pride and satisfaction to take home in place of the medals they surely deserve.
RAF Summer Camp 2023
RAF St Mawgan
On Saturday 1 July, 12 of Caterham’s RAF cadets headed down to Newquay, Cornwall, where we spent a week based at RAF St Mawgan.
On this camp we were joined by Whitgift School CCF, City of London CCF, St Lawrence College CCF and Cranbrook School CCF. Upon arrival we were split into our four flights of mixed schools; we would stay in these flights for the whole week taking part in a number of activities including an inter-flight competition. The first two days involved preparation for the long-range package on day 3 firing rifles from distances up to 300m, working towards achieving the advanced marksmanship award. The cadets got the chance to fire on a DCCT (Dismounted Close Combat Trainer simulator), an indoor firing simulator to recap and develop the skills of firing the rifle. We also conducted exercises in navigation and other leadership tasks on the rolling dunes of Penhale
The Pinnacle of Cadet Training
Five Caterham Cadets attend Master Cadet Courses
The most demanding course in the Army Cadet movement is the Master Cadet Course, run by the Army at Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park, the home of cadet training.
As the camp began to come to a close, the officers treated the cadets to a surprise late evening barbecue down on the beach where the cadets were allowed to cool off in the sea and also take part in an inter-flight karaoke competition! On the final morning of training the 4 flights performed their continuity drill, (drill sequence that carries on from each drill movement without any given commands). The final evening came with an award ceremony and some exciting rifle cleaning. The cadets returned home on Saturday the 8th of July all tired with plenty of washing. Overall, an incredible summer camp and many thanks to all the staff who helped make such an enjoyable week away learning new skills.
| CDT W CHAMBERS FOURTH YEAR, RAF SECTION
Only the most impressive senior cadets across the UK are selected to attend. And only the best
of them pass the course. This summer, five of us NCOs from Corps were selected to subject ourselves to the ultimate test of our cadetship, fitness, mental strength and leadership. The Master Cadet qualification aims to “broaden and develop the cadet’s leadership, teamwork, instructional and administrative skills above those gained” at the most senior level of training at unit. In essence, it is the pinnacle of cadet training, the final challenge.
On the first day, full of nerves, we were issued the same kit and stripped of our ranks. We were all equal, absorbing skills and knowledge from peers immediately, such as spinning sleeping bags inside bivvy bags to get the air out of them or converting our wardrobe into a drying room with an old air heater. The first couple days were formal, and in
some ways, luxurious: receiving lectures, tea and biscuits, and people picking our plates up and refilling drinks at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But soon the real fun and the real challenge began.
We deployed into the field on the third day, the four-day exercise spanning Monday to Thursday. A cadet’s true colours are exposed after 72 hours in the field. The aim of Master Cadet is to let these colours shine, especially when under pressure and the weight of exhaustion and constantly high expectation.
It’s 0515 hrs. Reveille. You put on your wet kit from the day before and get ready, clean your rifle, fill bottles and so on. You were briefed on your first mission the night before and deploy before 0700 hrs. Once this mission has been accomplished, you are 90 rounds of ammunition lighter (50 cadets went through 34,000 rounds in 3 days), so you replenish and start patrolling again. Repeat until 1700 hrs, along the way calling in an airstrike on the radio, assaulting an enemy position or conducting an impromptu medevac under fire. Every few missions, it will be your turn to lead, prepare orders, run your section, all assessed by eagle-eyed DS. Now to set up your harbour area and build sentry posts, manned 24/7 by one of the men in your section, one by day, two by night. Then to set up your tarp and lay your doss bag on the floor before slipping out of your wet clothes for a whole three hours of sleep with your rifle before your sentry duty comes around.
The grand finale is the platoon attack, in which two platoons conduct an attack in synchronous harmony from different directions to secure an objective. It was a feeling like no other operating as such a tight team, led in turns by one another and always observed, chivvied and judged by staff. The esprit de corps in our section was unbreakable, working together longer than the sun shined and burning over 4,000 calories a day. It was the respect and confidence in each other that gave us strength to aid each other, even when we had nothing left.
It was the most demanding and exhilarating experience of my life as a cadet. I get cold from time to time, but I’ve been colder on sentry. I get tired, but not as tired as I was in the platoon attack. I am comfortable being uncomfortable thanks to the course. Never more clearly have I
seen how team cannot excel if everyone is skilled in the same areas. It is the fact that one’s weakness are filled by another’s strength which makes a team effective.
Despite our relative youth and juniority – many on the course were well over 18, when some of us were barely 16 – we all passed with strong reports. Many did not complete the course or pass it. We hope we represented Corps well and bring back countless skills, great confidence and many stories to our work at unit. We are proud to call ourselves Caterham’s first Master Cadets.
| SGT PHILIP M LOWER SIXTH, ARMY SECTION
CCF Army Section Summer Camp
A contingent of 54 members of Corps’ Army Section headed for Sennybridge, Wales for the highlight of the training year: annual Summer Camp.
After travel and an evening of revision and briefings, Days 2-3 took the cadet straight into a two-day battle exercise in a purpose built training village. Under Capt Jones’s expert instruction, the sections learned and practised building clearances, fighting withdrawals and urban defensive operations in the amazing facility which tested the younger cadets in a new environment and stretched the NCOs as they navigated the different challenges of commanding sections and platoons in built-up areas. An evening of bowling, dominated as usual by the prowess of the staff (especially Flt Lt Hillier, whose 1-point victory over the reigning champion, Capt Owen, will linger long and bitter in the memory), seemed enough to reenergize the indefatigable cadets, who spent the next two days on expedition in the Brecon Beacons. Through a combination of dry and liquid sunshine, they explored Fforest Fawr, reached their wilderness campsite, and enjoyed the glow of a campfire as the sun set over the Neath Valley.
Up with the lark and the rain, off the cadets went again, straight from their tents to training. Some were into wetsuits for a gorge walking session in a torrenting River Mellte which featured jumps from waterfalls, surrender to the current and desperate swimming to safety; others abseiling underground into the caverns of Porth yr Ogof. Following an evening of platoon sports and a night back in Sennybridge’s palatial accommodation, it was back into uniform for Day 6. The day was spent on the ranges, engaging targets from four positions at 100m and winning, in some cases, new badges for marksmanship. Sgt Noad’s grouping of 45mm at 100m with iron sights was a particularly remarkable effort in unfavourable conditions. And so to our last full day, spent on the rock faces of Morlais: with
the enthusiasm and sense of competition that characterised this hardy cohort, the cadets scrambled up demanding pitches and abseiled from colon-slackening height, before the intersection competition reached its conclusion in the evening with stands of first aid, sports and drill.
And in a jiffy, eight days were up and the curtain came down on final parade, where prizes were awarded to several cadets, including Best Cadet on Camp, Cdt Beukes, and Best NCO, Cpl Keyworth. But in truth many deserved prizes for their sterling performances over the eight days, in which all the cadets exhibited in buckets the spirit and values of cadetship.
| M M OWEN CAPT, OC ARMY SECTION
SPORT NEWS
FENCING
Third place for Melissa
With five victories and two defeats in the first round Melissa won two direct elimination fights and finished 3rd at Elite Epee Moulton. Well done.
Alexander G Qualifies for British Fencing Nationals U16
Congratulations to Alexander G (Third Year) who came 6th overall at the South East region nationals qualifiers in Burgess Hill. Fencers compete regionally for a place to attend the National Championships in Sheffield at the end of April with the top eight from each region going forward. Thirty fencers from the South East region competed in the U16 group. Alexander just missed out on a podium position in a very tense final fight.
TABLE TENNIS
U16 Boys become Surreys Schools Champions
In November, we had another terrific Table Tennis tournament, where our U16 Boys Table Tennis team consisting of Marcus, Andrew, Spencer and Rodney saw off their opponents. It came down to one extra game won between all four of them, so it was a close victory. As they are now Surrey Schools Champions, the U16 Boys join the U19 Boys Table Tennis Team in the Zone 7 Finals in East London. Well done for the win and good luck in 2023.
Surrey Table Tennis Champions Play at Zone 7 Finals
On Sunday 15 January, our valiant Table Tennis U16 Boys and U19 Boys – both teams being Surrey Champions – travelled to East London and played top teams from six other counties. There was some amazing skill on display from our teams and the others. Sadly, we did not progress to the next round in Bristol. Our boys’ commitment was excellent and they fought for each and every point.
In November, we had another terrific Table Tennis tournament, where our U16 Boys Table Tennis team saw off their opponents
KORFBALL
Final Win For Abi
Congratulations to Abi W in Third Year who took part in the England Korfball Youth inter area competition. It was a three-way tie in the final which Abi’s team London won on goal difference. Korfball was first played in 1902, it is a bit similar to netball and teams have equal numbers of male and female players. Every two goals players switch from attack to defence, so they have to be quick thinking and agile. The ball is a leather ball, the korf is 11ft high, and players can score from anywhere in a half. It is fast and fun!
ATHLETICS
SOUTH OF ENGLAND ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
Ben and South
London
Harriers win Road Relay
Ben W (Fifth Year) competed for his athletics club (South London Harriers) in the South of England Athletic Association 4 stage road relays (U17 men’s) at Crystal Palace. His team won the prestigious event with Ben completing his 4.8km stage in 17.01 minutes. Ben received £60 prize money for being part of the winning team.
Ben competed for his athletics club in the South of England Athletic Association 4 stage road relays... His team won the prestigious event...
ENGLISH SCHOOLS’ TRACK AND FIELD CUP
SURREY
Round 1
The Caterham athletics squad produced a fabulous set of results in round one of this national competition, finishing in first place out of ten schools in the Inter Boys, second place in the Inter Girls, third in the Junior Girls and fifth in the Junior Boys. This competition aims to find the best all-round athletics team, with athletes only allowed to compete in two events; one of which must be track based and one field based. Points are awarded in a positive correlation for increased distances thrown or jumped, and an inverse correlation for running times.
Standout performers:
Estee N in the IG High jump 1.47m (20 points) and 800m 2:19.5 (31 points) both of which are school records
Ryen R in the Inter Boys High Jump 1.77m (25 points) and 300m 37.6s and (27 points) the latter a new school record
Lisette M JG 1500m 5:37.2 (23 points)
Mimi C JG 800m 2:49.4 (21 points)
ATHLETES EXCEL IN THE HEAT AT EPSOM COLLEGE
In a fiercely competitive meet under the searing heat of the midday sun, the athletics team arrived to compete with some familiar South-Eastern foes, buoyed by the success both individually and collectively of the squad this year. Epsom, hosting on their home track, invited Brighton, Cranleigh, St John’s and Sevenoaks to compete in one of the most popular meets in the calendar with many looking to secure times and distances that would be so crucial in this tight affair.
The U15 Boys didn’t disappoint, securing podiums in every single event on the track and many more in the field events. An impressive victory from Alex S in the 100m was supported by narrow second places for Fionn F, Edwin K, Arthur P in the 200m,300m and 800m respectively. The quartet of Fionn F, Edwin K, Rehan Y and Alex S broke their own Co-Ed school record set earlier this year and also set a new all-time Caterham record. They beat the former record held by Bawler, Hastings, Read and Annoh of 48.00s by the finest of margins to cross the line in 47.99s, a record that has been in place since 1993.
A huge thank you and congratulations must go to the Fifth Year boys who travelled to Epsom during their study leave to compete. This cohort was the successful inter-age group that took the competition by storm last year winning as Fourth Years. This year, to challenge themselves, many opted to compete in the Sixth Form category and they certainly set the ‘cat amongst the pigeons’! Ben W dominated the 800m and 1500m, despite being two years younger than the competition, leading from start to finish in both events. Tom C running a gritty 800m narrowly being pipped on the line, backed this performanceup with a strong 1500m time. Both Ben and Tom comparing times throughout the day. Freddie A, fresh from his school discus record at the Surrey Championship, opted to compete in the Sixth Form category and won comprehensively by a distance of 7m, just shy of the senior discus record. Other notable performances - Alex S was third in the senior boys’ 400m and Tunrore A in the inter boys’ 400mboth contributing greatly to a second place in the 4x100m relay.
Tom B captained the team of Inter-boys and led from the front in truly impressive form given his early season hamstring injury. He won in a time of 11.79s. Both Harry and Will O showed amazing grace and speed to clinch podiums in their hurdle events, Will competing against boys’ two years his senior led from the start only to be beaten to the dip by the finest of margins.
Strong Sixth Form performances from Antony S-K in the sprint double and JP Emma-N fourth in the Shot Putt, a discipline he’d only learned on the Saturday morning earned valuable points towards the team total and both running fabulous legs in the 4x100m.
Podiums for the Third Year Girls came from Marusia E in the 200m Ellen H in the hurdles, Hannah K in the Long Jump, Ava P in the Shot Putt, Jess C in the Javelin. A fabulous run in the 4x100m by Marusia E, Ellen H, Giselle C and Hannah K saw the quartet steam around the bends and clinch a brilliant second a feat replicated in the following 4x300m relay.
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
H. TSUI • C. EMMA-NWAKANMA • A. SESSI-KNOTT
U15 ATHLETICS
U12 ‘A’ ATHLETICS
Z. LAUDER • R. WALLACE • R. YOUNG • E. KAMARA
A. STARODUBTSEV • 0. MASON • E. HANLON • J. LI
A. PEACHEY • C. WHITFIELD • F. FLAHERTY
U13 ATHLETICS
U15 ATHLETICS
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
U12 ‘A’ ATHLETICS
U13 ‘A’ ATHLETICS
U14 ‘A’ ATHLETICS
CRICKET
COUNTY CUP WIN FOR UPPER SIXTH BOYS
For the second time running, Felix C, Jonny N and Ethan W (Upper Sixth) have been part of the team to take victory in the U17 Surrey County Cricket Cup for Oxted & Limpsfield Cricket Club. Very well done!
MR BATTY RETURNS FROM AUSTRALIA
As we warmly welcomed Mr Batty, our Master in charge of Cricket and Assistant Director of Sport, back to school, there were a few burning questions that we wanted to ask about his short but exciting stint down under – not including why didn’t you pack the sun in your suitcase and bring it home?
You’ve had an exciting few weeks – what have you been up to!?
I’ve actually been away in Australia working as Head Coach of the Melbourne Stars Cricket team in the Women’s Big Bash league. The Big Bash is a franchise tournament, that is generally recognised as the premier T20 competition in world cricket. The women’s competition is in its 8th season and attracts the best international players from around
the world as well as the cream of the Australian domestic players. It’s also one of the more arduous competitions with 8 teams and 14 matches in the competition in 5 weeks, with huge amounts of travel all across Australia.
Continuing to coach at a pro level must sharpen your skills and broaden your learning, how do you think it helps the pupils you coach here at Caterham?
I’m incredibly fortunate to be able to combine my school career alongside still being able to coach elite, professional athletes in both The Hundred and the WBBL. There are so many crossovers, and it’s still striking that the best international players are the more often than not, the players who can consistently nail their basic skills, which is the same message that I pass onto the pupils at school. A lot of my work with the professionals is helping them understand their strengths and how best to use them to win the battles that occur in professional sport, which sits really nicely alongside helping our pupils understand their strengths, as well as understanding where they are on their sporting or academic journey. It also allows me to stay at the cutting edge of new developments within cricket and pass those on to the pupils here at Caterham.
How far did your team get in the competition?
Unfortunately, we missed out on qualifying for the finals by 2 points (1 win). We won 5 games and had 3 abandoned due to rain. With a very young and inexperienced side, there were lots of successes to one proud of. We were also in winning positions in 2 or 3 other matches, which with greater experience we could have won and progressed through to the later stages.
What were the highs/challenges of the last few weeks?
The highlights were some amazing performances by the players, a young Australian player called
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
U12 ‘A’ CRICKET
U12 ‘B’ CRICKET
U13 ‘A’ CRICKET
U12 ‘C’ CRICKET
U15 ‘A’ CRICKET
U15 ‘B’ CRICKET
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
U14 ‘A’ CRICKET
U13 ATHLETICS
U12 ‘A’ CRICKET
U15 ‘A’ CRICKET
U13 ‘B’ CRICKET
U13 ‘C’ CRICKET
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
U13 ‘A’ CRICKET
U14 ‘A’ CRICKET
U12 ‘B’ CRICKET
U13 ‘B’ CRICKET
U14 ‘B’ CRICKET
Tess Flintoff set a world record against the eventual champions, The Adelaide Strikers, by scoring 5 runs from only 16 balls. Alice Capsey the young English superstar, who also played for the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred, played a couple of outstanding innings including scoring a magnificent 80 against Hobart Hurricanes. The main challenges revolved around the travel aspect which saw us taking 10 internal flights including travelling to Perth on the West coast twice (each flight was around 5 hours) In total the team covered over 21,000 km within Australia.The weather was also unseasonably cold and wet, which meant that playing conditions were more difficult than expected.
HOCKEY
NATIONAL
CLUB
CUP SUCCESS FOR OXTED HC’S U14 CATERHAM BOYS
During the weekend of 19 and 20 November, we saw a terrific spectacle of hockey taking place on the pitch at Caterham School as Oxted HC hosted Surbiton HC in the U14 England Hockey National Club Cup round of 16. Surbiton HC is one of the biggest junior clubs in the country, but this did not deter the Oxted boys, who put in a terrific showing to come back from 3-1 down with 15 minutes to go on to draw 3-3 just before full time and take the game to penalty strokes. The tension was almost unbearable, but the Oxted boys held their nerve to run out deserving winners in the shootout and advance to the quarter finals. Huge congratulations go to all eight Caterham School players representing Oxted in the game and best of luck for the next round.
Caterham School pupils representing Oxted HC: Rory W, Orin D, Hector H, Tijmen P, Jamie W, Sam D, Arthur P and Yannick P.
U16 INDOOR HOCKEY SUCCESS
National Final Runners-up
After becoming Southeast Champions just before Christmas, on 12 January our U16 boys indoor side travelled to Whitgift to take part in the England Hockey U16 Super 6s Indoor National Finals. The team had already made history by qualifying for the finals for the first time in the school’s history but, such is the quality of this team, the boys were not just there to make up the numbers.
After being drawn in a tough group, the team began their tournament with a game against reigning champions Whitgift. We were very quick out of the blocks, creating several chances which drew some spectacular saves from the Whitgift goalkeeper. We also created a number of penalty corner opportunities that we just couldn’t convert, and ultimately, we were punished by some slick counter attacking and lost out 3-0. The game gave the boys belief, and they put in a very professional performance to defeat King’s School Chester 4-0. This led to a crunch game against previous
Champions Trent College with the boys knowing that a draw would be enough to take them through. After dominating the first half and taking a 1-0 lead, Trent grew into the game and equalised through a penalty stroke. Trent were pushing on for a winner and won a final whistle penalty corner. Up stepped A Sherry in goal who charged out and got a touch to send it wide and send us through to the semi-final.
Our semi-final opponents, Yarm School, had come through as group winner, but our boys put in another fantastic performance to take the game 3-1. Goalkeeper A Sherry was particularly effective, making numerous saves.
On to the final, and after an extended break to recharge the batteries including a rousing team talk from captain Mear, the team went toe to toe with a very strong Whitgift side who started strongly and found themselves up at half time. In chasing the game, we removed our GK and replaced him with an extra player which worked as we scored immediately. Unfortunately, fatigue set in, and our opponents were too strong, taking the win and the title. Although disappointed with the result, the boys were extremely pleased with the progression of the team over the season and the achievement of making the final. Director of Hockey, Mr Friend, said:
This has been an incredible journey and we are immensely proud of the development of the group over the season as well as the sportsmanship and spirit in which we played our games. The group work extremely hard and they fully deserve all the credit. Finishing second in the country has firmly put Caterham Hockey on the map, and they have inspired countless young players from our hockey programme.
U16A Indoor Hockey Squad:
A Sherry, C Mear, W Lumbard, W Agnew, E van Huyssteen, J Ford, S Gill, W Taylor, S Houlton, T Banton, R Wallace, O Denton, A Peachey
GIRLS’ 1ST XI NATIONAL HOCKEY FINALS
Our girls’ 1st XI travelled to Nottingham Hockey Centre just before February half term to take part in the U18 Tier 4 National Finals. After an overnight stay and a delay due to frost, the girls set about trying to finish top of the group to make the final.
Our first game was a tough one against KLB, a nervy affair which ended in a 1-0 loss. The second game saw the girls spring into life as we took a 1-0 win v Hill House School. Going into the last game v Abbotsholme, we knew that a win for us might not be enough as the result of the other group game would have to go our way too. Both games were played simultaneously, and our girls dominated the game, eventually taking a 1-0 lead. News was filtering through that the other group game result was going our way and with 1 minute to go we were in the driving seat with one foot in the final and just needed to hold on. The girls dug deep but devastatingly, with seven seconds to go, Abbotsholme equalised, sending them through to the final and us to the 5/6 place playoff.
Although the girls were devastated, they showed great character to pick themselves up and dominate the 5/6 place playoff. That game ended in a 0-0 draw and both teams took the joint fifth position. The most impressive part of the performance was the fact that in an U18 competition, our team average age was 14.1 years. This shows the competitiveness and drive of the team and the resilience to take on players much older. The future is bright for these girls.
U16 BOYS WIN SECOND NATIONAL SILVER MEDAL OF THE SEASON
On 26 April our U16 Hockey boys travelled to Lee Valley National Hockey Stadium for the U16 Tier 2 National Final v Trent College. The boys knocked out some well-known hockey playing schools on the way including Kingston Grammar and St Lawrence College and were full of confidence heading into the game. They started well, creating a clear-cut chance that fizzed across the face of goal, Theo B just could not get enough on the ball to direct it goalward. After some resolute defending, the boys held out and headed into half time all square, 0-0.
After a rousing half time team talk, the team came out of the blocks firing, and forced a number of penalty corners, executing a well work routine which saw the outstanding Will Lumbard hit the roof of the net to make it 1-0. Some end-to-end hockey followed, but a moment of brilliance by Josh F followed, at full stretch, volleying a half pitch aerial pass from Will L into the far corner past the onrushing goalkeeper to put the boys 2-0 up with 15 minutes to play.
Four minutes later Trent College pushed forward and an incredibly skillful run by their forward ended in the ball being lifted over goalkeeper Alex S to half the deficit, making for a nail-biting finish. Some further pressure from Trent forced a mistake and led to a scrappy equalising goal with 8 minutes
to go. Our boys pushed forwards and finished the game on the front foot, but ultimately could not find a way through as the game finished 2-2.
On to the shootout with players going one v one against the goalkeeper and having 8 seconds to score. Trent College were cool and calm and slotted their 3 opening shootouts whilst our boys just couldn’t find a way past their goalkeeper leading to a Trent victory.
The final ended in defeat for the boys, but that only tells a tiny proportion of the story the team have written this season. After making the final of the U16 National Indoor competition earlier in the season, and now making the final of the National outdoor Tier 2 competition, they become the most successful hockey team the school has had in recent history.
Team:
Alex S. Sammy H. Jack F, Theo B, Robert T, Casey M, Ethan vH, Josh F, Sammy W, Freddie L, Seb T-S, Jack B, William A, Sam G, Will L, Will T and George P
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2ND XI HOCKEY
1ST XI HOCKEY
Gillman & Soame photographers
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
U16 ‘A’ HOCKEY
U15 ‘A’ HOCKEY
U15 ‘C’ HOCKEY
U15 ‘B’ HOCKEY
1ST XI HOCKEY
U16 ‘A’ CUP HOCKEY
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U12 ‘B’ HOCKEY
U12 ‘C’ HOCKEY
U13 ‘A’ HOCKEY
U12 ‘D’ HOCKEY
U12 ‘A’ HOCKEY
U12 ‘A’ HOCKEY
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U13 ‘C’ HOCKEY
U13 ‘D’ HOCKEY
U14 ‘B’ HOCKEY
U14 ‘A’ HOCKEY
U13 HOCKEY
U13 ‘B’ HOCKEY
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U14 ‘A’ HOCKEY
U14 ‘C’ HOCKEY
U14 ‘D’ HOCKEY
LACROSSE
SEASON DRAWS TO END AT COUNTY TOURNAMENT
Our U14A, B and C team took part in the county tournament in November. Our B and C team fought hard in the group stages to bank themselves a place in the fifth place play off against each other, with the B team taking the win. Our A team played some fantastic lacrosse all the way through the tournament, coming second in the group by 0.04 difference of goal average. However, they fought hard with a 4-2 win against Guildford High in the semi-final. In the final, we matched St. Catherine’s with a goal for goal score until the last ten seconds when St. Catherine’s scored taking the victory. Well done to all girls involved, what a fantastic way to end your season.
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1ST X LACROSSE
2ND X LACROSSE
These photographs have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers
U15 ‘B’ LACROSSE
U12 ‘A’ LACROSSE
U12 ‘C’ LACROSSE
U12 ‘B’ LACROSSE
3RD X LACROSSE
U15 ‘A’ LACROSSE
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U13 ‘C’ LACROSSE
U14 ‘A’ LACROSSE
U14 ‘C’ LACROSSE
U14 ‘B’ LACROSSE
U13 ‘A’ LACROSSE
U13 ‘B’ LACROSSE
U14 NATIONAL LACROSSE CHAMPIONS
Thursday 23 March saw the return of the National Schools Championships for our U14s. With last minute schedule amendments on Wednesday night, we knew we had to top our section in order to safely progress to the quarter-finals. This was not an easy task with the calibre of schools in the section. However, the U14s rose to the challenge and managed to top their section winning 4/4 games, earning a full 20 points, beating Godolphin 3-1, Wycombe Abbey 2-1, Walthamstow Hall 3-1 and St. Alban’s High School 4-2 on their way.
The quarter-finals, saw Caterham take on Downe House, a team they had narrowly beaten earlier in the season. This was a physical, fast-paced match, but Caterham channelled their nerves and excitement and left everything out on the pitch beating Downe House 5-2. Progressing into the semi-finals, we were up against St. Swithun’s. The nerves were starting as they had beaten us 2-15 last season. However, after all their hard work this season and sticking with our moto of ‘play lax and have fun’ we beat St. Swithun’s 5-2. The final saw us take on our rivals St. Catherine’s, the same team who beat us 2-3 in the County finals earlier this year. We were so ready to take on this challenge and put everything into practice that we had perfected this season! Conditions were tough, with torrential rain, but the mood was high, and the final began!
St. Catherine’s came out hard and caused us to go 0-1 down, but we fought back and the score was 1-2 by half time. The second half was a game of pitch sprints with some great saves by both goalies, however we played smart and continued to draw the fouls, including a great interception by A Paul, causing a turnover leading to a fast break goal from J Cooper. The last minute of play saw 2 shots on goal for us without success. However, chasing it off the back line, we regained possession and shifted the ball round to J Lowe. With 2 great drives and 2 fouls drawn J Lowe saw the advantage flag and used it to gain a better angle for a free position. With 30 seconds left of the game, Jess was calm and composed and scored the final shot. As the ball went back to the draw, the final hooter went and Caterham became National Champions for the FIRST TIME EVER!
This was a physical, fast-paced match, but Caterham channelled their nerves and excitement and left everything out on the pitch...
LAXCATS ON REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL STAGE
Over the Easter holidays Caterham continued to have a high level of lacrosse representation at international and regional level. The 16 and 17 April saw the return of Home Internationals, as well as the annual regional academy tournament. Huge congratulations to all girls involved, this was the highest level of representation that the school has had internationally and regionally in a very long time, which is testament to the hard work that the players put it over the season and during their own time.
Congratulations to all those representing at Home Internationals: G Alcock representing England U21, I Lack and J Lomas representing Wales U21. M Swan and E Shipsey, representing England U18, L Golesworthy, T Golesworthy and I S Young representing Wales U18. Finally, to two Old Cats representing Wales seniors, congratulations to R Lack and K Galvin.
Congratulations to those representing at the regional academy tournament: H Lowe, C Pay and I Hurley who represented London South U18, and to L Lomas, J Cooper, D Bance, S Wintle, T Challier, A Paul, E Tagg, E Norman and J Lowe who all represented London South U15s as well.
FAB FOUR SELECTED FOR INTERNATIONAL LACROSSE SQUADS
Over the last couple of years, our lacrosse programme has gone from strength to strength. This year, we have had our most successful season yet, with a 54% win ratio, 17 teams regularly out on Saturday fixtures, a senior semi-final at National schools, an U14 National title and more girls than ever representing their countries on a talent pathway. This year, we have seen a total of 29 girls on talent pathways and eight girls representing England and Wales at Home Internationals which is an incredibly achievement. The achievements don’t stop there, we have six girls who have been selected for a National Academy assessment
and Mrs Burtenshaw has been named one of the coaches on the academy for the next year. Congratulations and best of luck to all involved.
However, one of the biggest achievements this year, is a total of four girls have been selected in various international squads for the upcoming euros. Sophia E (Upper Sixth) will represent Germany and Jenny L (Lower Sixth) will represent Wales in the tournament. Molly S (Lower Sixth) and Genevieve A (Lower Sixth) have also been named as reserves for Scotland and England respectively. This is a phenomenal achievement for all girls, particularly as the championships is an U20 tournament. We wish all the girls the best of luck and will be sure to watch the live streamed matches.
I would like to congratulate all the girls involved in the lacrosse programme over the last year as these stats would not have been possible without each and every one of you. A huge thank you to the continued support and effort that parents have put in, driving to extra sessions and matches to support, again, none of this would be possible without you. We hope the success of the previous season will continue into next year, with more girls staying in the sport and further national titles to be won!
This year, we have had our most successful season yet...
NETBALL
NATIONAL SCHOOLS CUP BEGINS
The start of the autumn term saw our Netballers take to court in the National Schools Cup competitions and the NetCats have returned with a bang. First up was our U15A team who were drawn at home against a strong opposition from Highgate. Captain Sienna P led her team superbly with a Player of the Match winning performance. Caterham ran out to a 46-30 win and now face Royal Russell or Godolphin and Latymer in Round 2. The U13A team have also been in action drawn against local rivals Croydon High School. A nail biting second half saw Croydon close the gap but a resilient performance saw us take the win 1812. Player of the match was awarded to Sophie C. They now face Epsom College or City of London Freeman’s in Round 2.
VICTORY FOR U12S
Our youngest NetCats were in action in the Schools Sport Magazine National Cup v Wallington High School. They stormed to a 38-6 victory and this was their first time playing together. What a debut and an exciting future ahead for this group. Player of the match was Izzy N.
FIRST TEAM MAKE NATIONAL FINAL!
The 1st Netball team continue their stunning season with a win in the SisterNSport National Semi Final against Mill Hill School. A full squad performance saw us battle a tall and physical Mill Hill team 47-23. This meant the squad have secured their place in the National Final which takes place on Wednesday 22 March in Birmingham. This is the first time a Netball team has reached a National final in over eight years.
U13A DID US PROUD AT SURREY FINALS
Our U13A Netball squad took to the courts to battle with the best netball teams in the county at Surrey Finals Day. Having qualified for this back in January the squad were excited to put onto court the skills they have been practising in training. A tough opening match against Alleyns followed by a draw against Surbiton proved just how high the standard of netball is in Surrey. Two further losses against Wimbledon and St Cats did not dampen their spirits and they ended in stunning form with a hard fought win against Priorsfield. Player of the day went to Ellen Hill who tirelessly hunted ball and made her opponents lives difficult.
SILVER MEDALS FOR NETBALL 1ST TEAM
On Wednesday 22 March, our netball 1st team became runners up in the National Netball Plate Final. The squad travelled up to Bromsgrove School to face St Peter’s School, York in the final of the Sisters N Sport competition. Over 11,000 players and 960 teams entered the competition and Caterham made it to the final 2 knocking out Esher College, Surbiton High, Eltham College, Royal Russell and Mill Hill School along the way.
Despite some first quarter nerves Caterham came out flying taking an early lead but by half time things were levelled at 20-20. A tricky quarter 3 and some unforced errors allowed St Peter’s to pull away and despite drawing the final quarter we didn’t do enough to steel the win back. Some of this squad have been playing together since they were in the prep school and we say goodbye to our Upper Sixth pupils who wore the Caterham netball dress for the final time. Caterham have never made a netball final before and this special group of athletes will go down in the history books as national silver medalists. Here we go, NetCats!
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U16 ‘B’ NETBALL
3RD VII NETBALL
2ND VII NETBALL
U16 ‘C’ NETBALL
1ST VII NETBALL
U16 ‘A’ NETBALL
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U14 ‘C’ NETBALL
U14 ‘D’ NETBALL
U14 ‘F’ NETBALL
U14 ‘E’ NETBALL
U14 ‘A’ NETBALL
U14 ‘B’ NETBALL
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U12 ‘C’ NETBALL
U12 ‘D’ NETBALL
U12 ‘F’ NETBALL
U12 ‘E’ NETBALL
U12 ‘A’ NETBALL
U12 ‘B’ NETBALL
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U13 ‘C’ NETBALL
U13 ‘D’ NETBALL
U 15 ‘A’ NETBALL
U13 ‘E’ & ‘F’ NETBALL
U13 ‘A’ NETBALL
U13 ‘B’ NETBALL
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RUGBY
OLYMPIAN TOM MITCHELL LEADS MASTERCLASS
On Friday 24 February our U16 and U18 Girls’ 7s squads had the chance to be coached by 2 times Olympian Tom Mitchell! The England sweeper led a masterclass in which girls could test their understanding of the game as well as posing game related decision-making scenarios. Subsequently, squads were able to test the techniques learned in an age grade round-robin tournament. 22 different schools entered producing 30 teams across the age ranges 14-18, a whopping 300 players! It certainly supports the claim that female rugby participation is increasing at great speed.
U15 ‘C’
Caterham Rugby season
RUGBY ROUND UP
Amy H finished off the season in style with a captivating 38-26 win in her final club game of the year for Sutton and Epsom Rugby Club. Amy is pictured here playing at Fly Half scoring one of her two tries at the weekend. Amy has also been invited to join the UR7s (Ultimate Rugby 7s) training squad for the upcoming year. Well done Amy!
Emily H finished off a successful season for Old Reigatians Rugby Club in which she helped her team win the shield in the U12 Waterfall Cup.
Fionn (Third Year), Will (Fifth Year) and Santi (Third Year) were all in action over the Easter break playing for the UR7s (Ultimate Rugby 7s) South teams. They played for three different teams against the North in matches that were livestreamed by Next Gen XV. Fionn scoring two tries on the main pitch playing a pivotal role in helping his team beat the North.
Will has his place on the UR7s programme confirmed for next year, a fantastic achievement putting him in the top cohort of 7s players nationally.
Freddie in Fifth Year has secured his place in next year’s Harlequins U17 Player Development Group (PDG). An athletic second row who demonstrated fantastic potential in the lineout has impressed the Harlequins coaches who came to observe the U16s group during their run to the Semi-final of the Surrey 7s competition this year.
The U16 side entered the Rosslyn Park National 7s competition along with 216 other schools for this age group. They managed to qualify for day 2 of the event which puts them into the top 28 schools nationally.
1st XV
Led by the omnipotent Harry Pluck, the side had a good season with impressive victories against St George’s, King’s Canterbury and Colfes. The side offered excellent ball carrying ability from the likes of Fred O, Harry P and Harry H. A forward pack that dominated all teams on the circuit with their superior scrummaging from Will
and Euan S; combined with the wide and accurate passing ability of Jonny N and Ethan W and the speed and footwork, respectively from Aaron H and Austin T. The team rounded off with the physicality of Jamie H, James B and Jimi O never game up and did the shirt proud.
1st team secure the David Rogers Cup for the second year, defeating Sevenoaks School.
U16 Rugby
U16A Unbeaten Season
The U16 A group produced a fantastic set of results to go unbeaten this season and extend their unbeaten record to 13 consecutive games from U15-U16. The cohort played with a detailed attacking shape which created wave upon wave
U16B
Not to be outdone U16B had an outstanding season. Electing to test themselves further by playing against a couple of A teams the group stood resolute with positivity and encouragement from their leaders, Ollie P, Ollie L, Sam G and Tom R
U14 Rugby
U14A Unbeaten Season & District Champs
The statistics may seem one sided, but this group have had to dig deep on several occasions to maintain their unbeaten run which now stretches back 21 games. Crowned district champions by the end of September the team were unlucky to lose out on a place in the third round of the national cup drawing at home 19-19 against Whitgift with the away team progressing. Late on in the season and showing a brilliant growth mindset, the team accepted the challenge of another unbeaten team
of runners that opposition found overwhelming to say the least. The likes of Theo B, Alex S, Jack F, Sam W, Ethan vH, Will T and George P impressed all who came to watch with mesmerising runs and try saving tackles.
in Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School. The Caterham side were engaged in a physical bout that went right down to the wire, in a way that the group hadn’t foreseen. With time running out, the gold and black hoops were trailing by 5 points. Undeterred, they showed incredible composure to link together 20 phases of play, gradually inching their way up the field to score and level the match. In doing so, both sides went home with an equal share of the spoils.
An impressive first season the U14B’s saw this squad amass the greatest points difference in the school. Led by Mr Daniels this group thrived on his enthusiasm for the game and worked with rigor on how to identify and move the ball to space in the quickest way possible.
U14
MIXED
TOUCH RUGBY
TEAM WIN INAUGURAL NATIONAL TITLE
The mixed touch squad went all the way defeating 7 school on finals day to be crowned National Champions in the first schools touch competition of its kind. Playing in the impressive Sixways stadium, home of the once Premiership Worcester Warriors, the squad showed incredible teamwork to come back from a deficit to win the title. To supplement their silverware, the side has been invited to play in a curtain raiser for the England Vs Ireland match taking place on 9th March 2024, the team will take part in an exhibition match on the hallowed Twickenham turf and will hold the giant St George’s Cross flag when the national anthems are being sung!
Girls Rugby Master Class with USA International Olivia Ortiz
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U13 ‘C’ & ‘D’ RUGBY
U15 ‘A’ RUGBY
U16 ‘A’ RUGBY
U15 ‘B’ RUGBY
U13 ‘A’ RUGBY
U13 ‘B’ RUGBY
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U12 ‘B’ RUGBY
U12 ‘C’ RUGBY
2ND XV RUGBY
1ST CV RUGBY
U16 ‘B’ RUGBY
U12 ‘A’ RUGBY
SWIMMING
RELAY TEAM COMPETE AT OLYMPIC PARK
The Bath Cup swimming relays took place at the Aquatics Centre in Stratford. Both teams swam brilliantly with the girls placed 19th overall and the boys placing 14th out of over 80 schools. I am sure we can press on with this achievement and make the finals next year. Well done to all the swimmers who took part.
U14 ‘C’ RUGBY
U14 ‘D’ RUGBY
U14 ‘A’ RUGBY
U14 ‘B’ RUGBY
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U13 TENNIS
U14 ‘A’ TENNIS
1ST TEAM TENNIS
U14 ‘B’ TENNIS
U15 ‘A’ TENNIS
U12 ‘A’ TENNIS
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U12 ‘B’ TENNIS
U12 ‘C’ TENNIS
U13 ‘A’ TENNIS
U12 ‘D’ & ‘C’ TENNIS
U15 ‘A’ TENNIS
U12 ‘A’ TENNIS
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U14 ‘A’ TENNIS
U14 ‘B’ TENNIS
U14 ‘C’ TENNIS
U13 ‘B’ TENNIS
U13 ‘C’ TENNIS
SPORTING SUCCESS
NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE CALL UP FOR ANNA Hockey
Huge congratulations to Lower Sixth pupil Anna F who made her National Premier League Hockey debut for East Grinstead HC Ladies 1st XI. They played against reigning National champions Surbiton HC with both sides stacked with current and former Great Britain Internationals and Olympians. This is a tremendous achievement for Anna and one that puts her against the top hockey players in the country and even some of the top players in the world. Anna has been captain of the England U16 national side and is currently making her way through the selection process for England U18s. Anna is also part of our Caterham Athlete Programme which will support her athletic development over the next two years. We wish her the best of luck with the rest of the season.
SEBASTIAN ACHIEVES BLACK BELT
Taekwondo
After six years training Sebastian C (First Year) passed his formal Black Belt grading. Seb has moved on to instructor training and competitions. Congratulations and good luck Seb!
SURREY SELECTION FOR AMY
Rugby
... the consistency and determination in Amy’s play, that we have all been accustomed to, caught the selectors attention.
Current Fifth Year pupil, Amy H achieved selection for the Surrey U16 Girls rugby team. Surrey boasts arguably the most rigorous and challenging trials given the huge number of schools and clubs in the county. But the consistency and determination in Amy’s play, that we have all been accustomed to, caught the selectors attention. Amy represented Surrey for her first full cap in a game against local rivals, Sussex. In which Surrey won 31-14. A tougher test came following this victory in the shape of a Hampshire. This side, determined to cause an upset, pushed Surrey to the wire. But in the end Surrey proved too strong winning 14-7.
NATIONAL
SUCCESS
FOR RHIAN
Taekwondo
Congratulations to Rhian C in Fourth Year who has had success at the National Taekwondo championships. Rhian got a silver medal in board breaking and a bronze medal in patterns. What a fabulous achievement in what was an U17 event competing against older athletes.
NATIONAL CLUB TITLE FOR ANNA
Hockey
During the Easter break, Lower Sixth pupil and Sports Scholar Anna F competed in the Vitality England Hockey League Finals for her club, East Grinstead Hockey Club ladies’ 1st XI. This event comprised the top four adult club teams in the country at the end of the regular season, battling it out to see who would be crowned National Premier League winners. In the semi-final they defeated Clifton Robinsons which gave them the toughest task in English Women’s’ hockey, a Final vs Surbiton HC, hosted at Surbiton.
During a pulsating game, Anna was able to show her huge talent throughout, scoring East Grinstead’s second goal of the game as they triumphed 3-2 and became champions of England as well as booking their place at next seasons Euro Hockey League. We are hugely proud of all Anna has achieved and look forward to seeing her represent England at U18 level.
UR7S
Rugby
Well done to the Fionn (Third Year) Will (Fifth Year) and Santi (Third Year) who competed for the South at the UR7s end of season tournament in Coventry over the Easter break.
U16 NATIONAL CLUB
TITLE FOR ISSY
Hockey
The Easter Holidays saw success for the hockey programme as Fourth Year pupil, Isabelle C competed in the England Hockey U16 Club Tier 2 National Finals with her team Reigate Polecats HC, held at the Nottingham Hockey Centre. They beat a strong Surbiton team in the quarter-finals, Richmond in the semi-finals and Bishops Stortford HC in the final to become a Tier 2 National Champion. Issy is a member of the Performance Hockey Academy at school, and we are hugely proud of her achievements and her development. Well done, Issy.
LIFTING THE TROPHY AT TWICKENHAM STOOP
Rugby
Seb T-S (Fourth Year) played alongside Fionn F (Third Year) at the Twickenham Stoop, home of Harlequins Rugby Club and lifted the trophy for Warlingham in the U15 Waterfall Cup with a comprehensive 36-5 Victory over the unbeaten Camberley RFC. Supported by fellow pupils Ethan W and Josh H with Mr Taylor and Mr Fieldhouse cheering from the stands!
HOCKEY AWARD FOR CASEY
Hockey
Congratulations to Casey M (Fifth Year) who was awarded the ‘Graham Foggin Young and Upcoming Player of the Year Award’ at the Oxted HC Awards Dinner. Presenting the award to Casey was Graham Foggin’s son Joe Foggin (OC).
Congratulations to Casey M who was awarded the ‘Graham Foggin Young and Upcoming Player of the Year Award’
AVA WINS COUNTY LEAGUE WITH SURREY U14S
Hockey
Third Year and School 1st XI hockey player Ava P won the County Hockey League whilst representing Surrey U14s. The team have also gone unbeaten for the season, making this an extra special achievement. Ava has been a long-time member of the Caterham School Hockey Academy and it has been very pleasing to see how much she has developed as a hockey player. Well done Ava.
SILVER FOR JACOB
Judo
Well done to Jacob H who competed for Surrey at the local inter county Judo tournament. He fought for his county at his weight category (U42kg) against Kent, Sussex and Hampshire and secured silver.
AMAZING ESTEE BREAKS INTO THE TOP 5 NATIONALLY!
Athletics
Fourth Year athlete Estee N secures three medals at the Surrey County Championships.
• Bronze in the Long Jump with a leap of 5.02m
• Silver in the Javelin with a throw of 26.30m
• Gold in the 300m Hurdles with a time of 45.32s which ranks her at 5th Nationally for this event!
She also competed in the 80m hurdles – 12.72 and 200m – 26.99s. These impressive times and distances contributed to no less than five personal bests on the day! An incredible achievement in a fantastic season.
These impressive times and distances contributed to no less than five personal bests on the day!
FIRST YEAR BOYS CELEBRATE WITH RUGBY HEROES
Rugby
Antoine, Zac and Ben (First Year) as part of their Warlingham U12s team celebrated the close of the rugby season in style by being invited to represent Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership final. They were treated to photographs on the pitch with rugby stars, George North, Ellis Genge and Henry Arundell. A pitch-side lap of the stadium normally reserved for players and media teams and an individual presentation for award winners topped off the experience. Well done boys!
EUROPEAN ADVENTURE FOR STANLEY
Basketball
June saw Stanley (Fourth Year) travel to Valencia to represent the London Lions in the JrNBA U15 European Championships, competing against the Israeli and Lithuanian national teams and the champion clubs of Spain, Italy and Turkey. The twelve-man Lions squad had been selected after two days of trials in May in which well over a hundred leading players from across London and South-East England competed for places on the
team. After a three-day training camp at the Lions base in Stratford, the team flew out to Valencia for the tournament. Despite the fact that the Lions team had no experience of playing together, they competed well against more established teams, ultimately finishing in fourth place after a narrow defeat to the Lithuanians in the bronze medal match. Overall, an amazing opportunity for Stanley and his teammates to test themselves against some of the best basketball players in Europe.
KATIE RIDES AT HICKSTEAD
Equestrian
Congratulations to Katie who rode in the NSEA finals at the All England Jumping Course, Hickstead recently on her pony Owen. She did two amazing clear rounds and had one pole down in the final jump off.
THEO HEADS STATE SIDE FOR IVY LEAGUE COACHING
Rugby
Theo B (Fifth Year) travelled to Dartmouth College in America to take place in a weeklong rugby scholarship assessment. He was joined by players from across the globe and received world-class coaching from the top Ivy-League Universities on the west coast, namely, Dartmouth, McGill, Brown and Yale. Theo shone in his favoured position of hooker and his team ‘The Tornado’s ‘went on to win the tournament held on the final day.
BEN W SECURES PLACE AT LONDON ACADEMY
Triathlon
Earlier this year Ben was successful in his trials to be one of only 6 Youth boys to get into the British Triathlon Association’s London Academy. He has been on a pre-season training camp in Spain earlier in the year and competed in the Super Series Triathlon event in Llanelli, Wales in May. Juggling training and GCSEs was a challenge.
HARRY H REPRESENTING THE U18 SOUTH-EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL LAMBS
Rugby
Harry out-shone the competition to be selected for the South East team to play at the Presidents Day competition which pitted players from all over the country vying for a place in the coveted National team. He hopes to emulate the success of former 1st XV Captain Rory C back in 2012-13 season.
SIXTH FORM
LAUNCH OF EDGE PATHWAYS PROGRAMME
We were excited to launch the new Sixth Form EDGE Pathways programme to our Lower Sixth. This innovative course has been developed entirely to support our pupils in preparing them for life after Sixth Form. Recognising the need to be equipped with skills to thrive both in school and in their future pathways, pupils will be coached this term by industry specialists, Old Cats and our own internal experts on topics such as public speaking, how to network and managing projects. Next term, they will have structured sessions focusing specifically on the journey they wish to pursue after Sixth Form, providing them with invaluable enrichment opportunities.
TOXIC TV
On Wednesday 16 November, Anna and Nithusha blew their audience away with their examined devised performance ‘TV: Toxic Visions’. Exploring how toxic relationships are glamourised on TV, the two Upper Sixth Pupils took us on a journey through some recognisable TV shows alongside the concerning effect they seem to be having on today’s young people. We laughed, we gasped, we sat in thoughtful silence as they managed to get a lot of complex ideas across in under 15 minutes. A huge congratulations to the pupils who worked so meticulously in the lead up to the final performance and left their audience with a lot to think about.
CELEBRATING OXFORD OFFERS
Congratulations to our Upper Sixth pupils who begun 2023 with offers from Oxford University. This year’s offers include highly sought-after courses and span a wide range of subjects including Medicine, English Literature, Chemistry, Classics, Biomedical Sciences, Maths and Computer Science. Of all Caterhamians who gained an interview, fifty per cent went on to secure an offer. Ceri Jones, Headmaster, said:
These offers represent a huge achievement for our pupils – they have my warmest congratulations. It is vital that our young people take the path that is right for them as they progress on from Caterham.We are proud to support the increasing array of options available post school, and Oxford and Cambridge remaining popular choices alongside Russell Group, UK and overseas universities and degree apprenticeships. Of course, we celebrate securing Oxbridge offers, but this is just one measure of success. It does, however, say something important about the academic ambition and experience of the school which benefits all pupils whatever their own particular journey or ambitions may be.
– Ceri Jones Headmaster
STUDY BUDDIES AND
BEYOND
Seven intrepid members of the Lower Sixth completed a two week intensive course in advanced coaching techniques. This series of face-to-face sessions and evening webinars built on the coaching training they had already received to become Study Buddies. Sessions on powerful questioning and deep listening were interspersed with hands on practice at coaching and being coached. The course was run by Mr Wells, our Director of Learning & Teaching, who is an accredited coach with the International Coaching Federation and runs coaching training in organisations across the UK and Continental Europe.
SPIVEY PRIZE ESSAY IS BACK!
In the autumn term one of Caterham’s most feared and respected opportunities for academic enrichment was held following a Covid hiatus. The Spivey Prize Essay invited any willing members of the Sixth Form to subject themselves to an unseen 90-minute general essay, the title taken from the classical corpus.
Almost 40 pupils elected to enter and were presented with a blank Word document and the choice of three questions:
• “Poverty produces revolution and crime.” (Aristotle)
• “All art is the imitation of nature.” (Seneca)
• “Those who are enslaved to their mindsets are not merely devoid of all sound knowledge, but they will not even stop to learn.” (Galen)
Of the essays, which approached the questions from a remarkable variety of angles, eight were shortlisted for final adjudication by senior staff. In a very close-run race, Finn O became the first Lower Sixth pupil ever to win the day with his excellent piece. Well done to Finn and to all the intrepid scholars who chose to enter.
SUCCEED THRIVE BE INSPIRED CATERHAM PREP
Across the curriculum pupils are encouraged to discuss, debate, challenge and explain, they’re taught and encouraged to problem solve, to collaborate and to think critically about the challenges they face.
Ben Purkiss BSc Headmaster, Caterham Prep
SO LONG FAREWELL GOOD LUCK CATERHAM PREP
Class of 2023 6DS
Olivia Batty
Henry Bundred
George Chapman
Alfred Dunn
Archie Elden
Jack Elston
Adam Ibrahim
Alexander Lissaman
Mia Mehmood
Aarya Patel
Sara Patel
Gruffudd Roberts
Annabel Savaria
Nicole Slowinski
Ishaani Srirajaskanthan
Isla Terrell
Stella Veach Lutterbach
Elliot Webster
Oak Wilkinson
Katya Yankova
Riva Zulfiqar
Class of 2023 6NS
Tiroye Adeniji
Diya Anand
Charlie Atkinson
Thomas Bell
Rosie Blake
Henry Bryant
Natasha Callaway
Erin Chukwuma
Max Di Prinzio
Harry Dresner
Neethan Emmanuel
Noah Forbes
Adam Hamada
Maya Jeyaraj
Isaac Kinzley
Kohana Lewis
Samuel Parsons
Alysa Patel
Rio Patel
Olivia Pickett
Willow Tasker
Anja Van Damme
Sp ch Day
Remember, Success is measured by the impact you have on the people around you – you don’t win trophies and cups for that…
Ms Shah, Mr Jones, Reverend Banks, guests, parents and pupils. Good Morning and a very warm welcome to Caterham Prep School’s Speech Day. Monisha, many thanks for your warm words and reflections on initiative and independence which lie at the heart of our provision and, no doubt, underpin our guest speaker’s journey too! I would like to welcome Leah Chowdhry our guest today. Leah is an entrepreneur, fundraiser, author and a champion of a ‘can do’ attitude and were delighted she has been able to join us this morning. Welcome Leah. Thank you too to both Cecelia and Alfred for their stunning contributions this morning on piano and flute. There’s more music to come, including Junior ETS and ‘Caterham first’ performance from the combined junior and senior choir…
This morning is about celebrating the remarkable achievements of our
incredible young people at Caterham … an occasion that highlights the dedication, perseverance, initiative, independence, and exceptional talent displayed by our students, across the Prep School. Its also an opportunity to reflect on everything else that’s going on in the Prep at the moment. To reflect upon some of the things that make us unique and, which, when combined with the day-to-day provision, make Caterham Prep the most outstanding place to grow up.
Over the last few months alone Caterham has won the Muddy Stiletto’s award for Most Innovative Technology-Led Teaching and shortlisted for its Outstanding Pastoral care , we have been reawarded the National children’s bureau wellbeing award , (if you remember, we were the first school in the UK to get this gold standard) and most recently the Senior School was awarded the
Independent School of the Year Award by the TES – the Oscars of school awards. And I’m able to announce this morning that this week we found out that Caterham Prep has been shortlisted for the Independent Prep School of the Year award too.
Now, taken in isolation, each of these accolades are impressive in their own right, but when one steps back and reflects on what this says about an education at Caterham, it really is quite phenomenal! We don’t do, what we do to win awards, but it’s wonderful to be recognised for the things that really make us stand out and I briefly want to spend two minutes pulling out some of the detail that makes us so unique and so successful...
PARTNERSHIPS
Caterham Prep is in the rare if not unique position as a Prep School of
making a significant contribution to local partner schools in the maintained sector – this a landscape that is predominantly the domain of Independent Senior Schools. The East Surrey Learning Partnership is a shining example of collaboration between sectors and educational excellence within our local community. Originally set up and developed by the Senior School, the Prep School now plays a key role in partnerships work too.
One of the key successes of the Partnership lies in its commitment not only to promoting academic excellence but holistic development, and the Prep team, through sharing expertise with other schools in the creative arts and innovation, have played a significant role in improving academic outcomes across the partnership.
Workshops for teachers including ceramics, digital art and robotics have all contributes to a richer provision across the ESLP and many more reciprocal sessions are planned in the future. The Prep team has also been instrumental in the design and delivery of the Saturday+ provision which supports children from other schools within the partnership to access academically selective senior school admissions processes - I’m incredibly proud of the lead the Prep community has taken in enhancing the lives of children beyond the valley.
So what does this mean for our own children? Well, to grow up as a child at Caterham Prep is to grow up surrounded by role models who are invested in collaborative projects, social responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact in society. The impact that this has on our own pupils is to produce well-rounded individuals who are not only academically
accomplished but also socially conscious and compassionate. And I’m incredibly proud of the team and the work we do in this space.
Education is in an interesting place at the moment and, potentially, on the brink of some significant change. Much of the media narrative around this is led by the clamour for graduates to be taught the kind of skills they need for life, rather than simply to pass a test, or the recent rise and rise of AI in all our lives but the reality of this is that none of this is new news (and the system has needed reform for a long time). For some time now Caterham Prep has been known for its commitment to providing an innovative and forwardthinking curriculum that prepares students, not just for a senior school for the challenges of the future.
At its core, our curriculum is modern and, most importantly, relevant. Subjects like Global Citizenship that enable the children to unpack some of the big questions are invaluable – ask a child in year 5 “what makes a successful civilization or are all people free” and you would be amazed at the depth and quality of debate and enquiry that flows from questions like these.
In Digital Innovation, our industry partnerships allow children of all ages to engage in real time research and development with start-ups and well-established technology providers – not only giving our pupils an unparalleled classroom experience but an insight into how their developing skillset is deployed in the real world. Across the curriculum pupils are encouraged to discuss, debate, challenge and explain, they’re taught and encouraged to problem solve, to collaborate and to think critically about the challenges they face. Our subjects ‘speak’ to one another, so nothing is taught in isolation and therefore the value and application of what’s being learned understood and applied elsewhere, rather than just being digested for regurgitation for a test.
We have been developing an EDGE curriculum (this stands for Explore Develop, Grow, Evolve) that we will deploy from September. This will further enhance our current curriculum and provide a seamless provision throughout an entire education at Caterham from the Pre Prep to Upper Sixth fostering their creativity, critical thinking, problemsolving, and collaboration skills.
It’s a genuinely 21 Century curriculum that places equal importance on academic rigour as it does developing students’ social and emotional intelligence. The curriculum incorporates character education and mindfulness practices to promote well-being, empathy, resilience, and emotional regulation and everything we do is underpinned by a culture of outstanding pastoral care that is woven into every touch point within the school week, supported by a powerful wellbeing curriculum, the Caterham Way and our Learning Powers that enable the children to recognise and respond to the personal challenges they face in life, to manage stress, develop healthy relationships, and cultivate a positive mindset.
It’s no wonder then, is it, that the children and young people with us this morning ooze potential and a tangible sense of ‘can do’. They are an impressive bunch and I speak on behalf of the entire common room when I way that it’s a privilege to play a part in their lives.
Children, whilst today is about individual successes, it is important to note that we are incredibly proud of all you achieve, in every area of school life. Your performances on stage (and screen), on the sports field and in the classrooms are phenomenal, for each of you in their own, very personal way. So, whilst it is impossible to mention every name, and every success, if you do not come on to the stage this morning, please understand that your contribution is no less important. Remember, Success is measured by the impact you have on the people around you – you don’t win trophies and cups for that…
We should also acknowledge that none of these accomplishments would have been possible without the unwavering support and guidance of our outstanding staff, who have worked tirelessly to nurture and inspire our students. Every member of the community, from teachers and TA’s the admin team, grounds, housekeeping, maintenance, and the bursary have laid the foundation for success that we celebrate here today. Please join me in recognising their incredible contribution.
Sadly, at this time of year some staff head off to pastures new and I want to thank each of them for their contribution to the Prep School.
James Gowling and Grace Blair –James and Grace joined us last September as Sports Assistants and, over the last year have taught every single child in the school and supported the games provision brilliantly throughout. James heads back to Loughborough to complete his degree and Grace to embark on her teacher training at Greenwich. We wish them both the very best of luck.
Georgia Siddell – Georgia joined us in January for two terms and has done the most incredible job in the Drama department. Anyone lucky enough to have attended the year 6 performance of SHREK a couple of weeks ago will be in no doubt as to the impact she’s had. Many thanks Georgia and good luck!
Nicola Stone – It’s difficult to describe the impact that Nicola has had on the English provision at the Prep school (although Ive no doubt that if I invited her up here, she would tell you…and she’s do a far better job than me!). Nicola’s contribution has been transformational and not just from a departmental point of view. A modern, dynamic ultra-professional attitude and approach will stand her in excellent stead as she takes on the Deputy Head Academic role at Newton. Thank you, Nicola and good luck.
PA COMMITTEE AND CLASS REPS
I’d like to take this opportunity too to say a huge thank you to the PA committee and class reps, who do an incredible job in the background. Whilst I know its not a job I’m sure that at times it can feel like it and I’m incredibly grateful to you all for the time you dedicate to the school.
The PA are incredibly supportive of the Prep and have over the years made some incredible donations… but I would like to say thank you on behalf of us all for your generosity this year in the purchase of, among other things, the interactive fully immersive DOME (the children have all been inside and loved it), that will also be used within the ESLP, a Yurt for the outdoor classroom and the Prep School’s own green powered car, that we look forward to racing at Goodwood next year! Thank you…
YEAR 6 LEAVERS
Year 6, we met last Thursday evening, didn’t we, to reflect and reminisce on your time at the Prep School. We said goodbye then, but today marks the end of your incredible journey and we all wish you all the best of luck. Each and every one of you has achieved incredible things and I hope that you leave us today with your heads held high full of memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy this morning – try to be present – celebrate one another’s successes and be proud of the role you have played within our community. Among you are an unprecedented 14 scholars, brilliant musicians, artists, actors, innovators, sports people, comedians and wonderful friends and we wish you all the vest best of luck as you move on.
INTRODUCING LEAH
I’m thrilled to introduce our special guest speaker, Leah Chowdhry. Leah is the kind of person who, when you meet them, makes you want to be more like them! She is entrepreneur, author, athlete, philanthropist, and all-around extraordinary person, whose mission is to inspire and mobilise more people to dream big and have a go!
Leah was the first British Asian woman to swim the English Channel (one of only 1500 people ever to complete the swim), raising an incredible £50 000 for the British Asian Trust, and since then and was also awarded the London Woman of the Year at the London Asian Business awards.
What truly sets Leah apart is her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world.
She’s actively involved in fundraising efforts for various charitable causes, showing her compassion and dedication to helping others. And she is an inspiring example of how one person can have a positive impact on society.
I’m delighted that Leah has been able to join us today to share her story and hopefully inspire one or two of our community to have a go! Were incredible grateful to Kaia and Kavi’s Patel’s parents who have very generously donated a copy of Leah’s book, A Big Splash, to every child in the school, thank you!
Ben Purkiss BSc Headmaster, Caterham Prep
A DIARY OF OUR YEAR CATERHAM PREP
September...
INNOVATION CENTRE OPEN FOR NEW IDEAS
Prep had their first lessons in the new Prep Innovation Centre at the start of the Autumn term, talking about how to keep safe online and then planning how they might begin to use the space for creativity and exploration as we move into the new year. There were some wow moments when pupils entered the centre for the first time and we can’t wait for this space to inspire the children to create some wow moments of their own over the coming years.
PARTNERSHIP VISIT TO INNOVATION CENTRE
As part of the East Surrey Learning Partnership, Year 6 pupils from St John’s made their first visit to the Prep Innovation Centre, where they designed their own personalised keychains, which were printed out in full-colour 3D. They also tried running various obstacle courses with a variety of robots, from simple to more complex, using remote control and pre-programmed instructions to find and improve their routes across each map.
CHILDREN’S LAUREATE, MICHAEL ROSEN VISITS CATERHAM
Over 300 hundred voices spontaneously erupted into synchronised poetry in September – such was the impact of our very special guest Michael Rosen, former Children’s Laureate and much-loved author for generations of children. Mr Rosen held the audience of Prep School and our East Surrey Learning Partnership schools spellbound as he gave them a whistle stop tour of his 50 years of writing for young people, the inspirations for his favourite stories and how he turns ideas into enduring tales. The questions flowed, as did the laughter, and a thoroughly inspiring morning was enjoyed by all.
PRE-PREP GROW THEIR TREE KNOWLEDGE
Pre-Prep were learning to identify the trees in the outdoor space. They were looking at the leaves, bark and berries. The children enjoyed leaf and bark rubbing and doing a tree treasure hunt in the woodland, which has helped reinforce their knowledge of trees.
YEAR 4 VISIT THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
In September Year 4 were able to take part in a trip to the Natural History Museum. This trip involved a self-guided tour around the exciting world of volcanoes and earthquakes and their effects on society. As the children went around the displays, they filled in a workbook to help them remember some of what they had seen. After lunch the children attended a workshop exploring geological forces from deep within the Earth using interactive demonstrations. They took part in making a real earthquake as well as seeing the effects of lava; and they tried to use their skills to save a town from a catastrophe.
READY STEADY COOKERS
Our amazing catering department visited the Prep School with a Ready, Steady, Cook Assembly. Chef James was incredible as he led the school through healthy eating habits as well as reminding the children about each of the different food types. Many children were able to volunteer excellent answers to his questions. After ensuring that all the children had a sound knowledge of food groups, some Year 6 pupils and two teachers came up for the cooking challenge. The Red Team was made up of Anya, Kohana and Mrs Chattaway, whilst the Green Team comprised Mr Snow, Ishaani and Aarya. Each team was presented with some ingredients, a recipe and all the equipment they required, along with a safety talk about how to use it. A timer was set for 15 minutes and their task was to create the recipe and present it. Whilst the food preparation was going on, the rest of the school were invited up (in small groups) to view the cooking action and share their opinions ahead of the all-important final vote for a winning team. After an extremely tense 15 minutes, both groups presented their final work of art. The penultimate test was a small tasting group from each year. Finally, a sound meter was used to measure the cheers for each team. It was incredibly close, but the Red Team were declared the winners. The children thoroughly enjoyed the assembly and huge thanks must go to Chef James and all of the catering team for their hard work.
VEGGIE HEADLINERS AT THE PRODUCE SHOW
On 30 September, the Prep School held its annual produce show. The entries into the show were absolutely fantastic and there were indeed some very unusually shaped vegetables on show! The children entered a variety of categories ranging from best collection of tomatoes to the largest marrow and carrot. The children also showed off their artistic talent in the painting and photography categories with some brilliant landscape and wildlife photographs and paintings.
October...
THE WONDER OF BEES
Sam, from Reigate Bee Keepers came into school and shared lots of amazing facts about bees with the Year 1 pupils. She was incredibly impressed at how much the children knew. We were all fascinated to learn that bees prefer blue and purple flowers.
AROUND THE WORLD DAY
The school was buzzing with excitement and colour as the pupils set off on a journey around the world. Pupils stopped off in India to design a Henna handprint, then on to Ireland for a bit of Irish Dancing. In Japan they showed off their collaboration skills making Mandalas. Mid way through the day they all stopped off on their journey to tuck in to some tasty fish and chips in England and a bit of extra football coaching. Finally, they visited Africa where they made their own Massai necklace with a final pit stop in Spain to play some traditional children’s games. It was wonderful to learn more about all the nationalities represented in our school and we all had fun guessing the different flags!
MUSIC FLOWS AT RUSH HOUR
In October, we hosted our first ever ‘Rush Hour’ concert in the Soderberg Hall. At the end of a busy day, twenty of our talented prep musicians entertained parents, siblings, and teachers with beautifully prepared solos. In an oasis of calm, we listened to performances on the piano, cello, violin, trumpet, flute, saxophone, oboe, guitar and trombone. Well done to all the children for their hard work and for giving such confident musical performances.
FRENCH FROLICKS FOR YEAR 6
Just before the October half term, 44 Year 6 children and 5 staff met at school at 4.30am to embark on their day trip to France. It was so exciting to be able to run this trip again after a three year gap.
November...
REMEMBRANCE DAY
To mark Remembrance Day, Year 6 performed a special assembly for the rest of the Prep School. They showcased all their learning about the origins of Remembrance Day, including the work they have done about the First World War. They performed short scenes from the novel they have been studying – Private Peaceful – which they adapted and rehearsed in their drama lessons. They gave moving and impressive performances of a number of war poems, including In Flanders Fields, For the Fallen, My Boy Jack and To Germany. They showcased some of their writing about the causes of World War I and the monologues they have written inspired by ‘over the top’, as well as their artwork on a similar theme. Stella gave an extremely moving performance of the anthem for peace, ‘Last Night I Had the Strangest Dream’, and they ended the assembly with ‘We’ll Meet Again’. The rest of the children and staff in the Prep School were captivated and impressed by their professionalism, sense of respect and sensitive reflection on this important day. Well done Year 6.
CHOIRS PERFORM A MOVING RECITAL AT REMEMBRANCE DAY
Our sacred choirs, JETS, ETS and Chamber Choir performed their annual ‘Recital of Reflection and Contemplation’ following the Remembrance Service on Sunday 13 November. The recital, held in the Wilberforce Hall, continued the tradition of a short, poignant performance where powerful texts are chosen to further commemorate the day. As always, the choirs gave polished performances of beautiful pieces which included old and modern settings of well-known texts associated with Remembrance Day. The occasion brought together our sacred choral family; pupils in Year 4 to Upper Sixth Form working together and blending in harmony.
IMPRESSIVE KNOWLEDGE AT FIRST FLAG BEE
In November Caterham Prep hosted our first Flag Bee! Children had been learning the flags of countries all over the world in preparation, and we were thrilled to see so many children put themselves forward to take part in the Flag Bee. There were so many competitors that we had to go straight to ‘knock-outs’, where children were shown different flags in turn, and asked to identify (from a selection of options) which country the flag belongs to. The level of flag knowledge was impressive, and we had to hold multiple rounds for each year group in order to find our winners! Congratulations to Kiara (Y4), Ella (Y5) and Mia (Y6) who won the Flag Bee for their year groups, and well done to all who took part. We can’t wait for the next one!
RANGOLI
In Year One they learnt lots of new skills in their outdoor sessions. They recently made ‘Rangoli’, which is a traditional Indian art using lots of different colours, patterns and shapes. The children had a lot of fun exploring and collaborating using chalks in the playground.
GREAT FIRE OF LONDON WORKSHOP
Year 2 had a fantastic workshop about the Great Fire of London in 1666 which brought all their learning to life. The children took part in building a typical London street alongside London Bridge before seeing how this layout contributed to the fire spreading rapidly. They found out how people tried to escape the fire as well as how Londoners attempted to put out the fire, enjoying some excellent roleplay. Samuel Pepys made an appearance to read from his famous diary to give his first-hand account of what occurred. Afterwards, the children had fun participating in some activities including an information room with quiz, building a street scene and playing a Fire of London board game, as well as handling (and smelling) some artefacts that would have been used at the time of the fire. A wonderfully interesting morning for all of Year 2!
FANTASTIC FIREWORKS!
In Reception they thought about the sounds and sights a firework makes. They watched and listened to fireworks on the screen and talked about the displays. They then went on to create fantastic pictures using oil pastels, chalk and glitter.
CODE TO SOLVE CHALLENGES
A team of enthusiastic Reception pupils got to work testing out STEM education equipment including TacTile coding blocks to create and solve navigational challenges in the Prep Innovation Centre.
HASLEMERE MUSEUM
Year 3 visited Haslemere Museum in November to focus on mummification as part of their Global Citizenship topic of Ancient Egypt. They were able to take part in a mock mummification processtaking organs out, embalming them and putting them into canopic jars. There were hieroglyphics to solve, games to play and both replica and real ancient artefacts to handle. The highlight of the day was seeing the real mummy who had their shoulder and toes exposed if you were brave enough to take a look! The day culminated in mummifying their own dolls and teddies, which included wrapping, placing lucky charms and making a Death Mask.
ALMA THOMAS INSPIRES
The children have been learnt about Alma Thomas in their outdoor learning lessons. She was an inspiring, African American artist who painted abstract pictures of trees and nature. She made history in 1971 by becoming the first African American woman to give a solo show in the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York at age 81. She also has artwork displayed in the White House. The children worked together collaboratively to make their own Alma Thomas artwork, they used paint and natural objects they found to create their mixed media painting.
YEAR 5 HEAD TO HAMPTON COURT FOR SOME ANSWERS
Have you ever wondered if King Henry VIII had other interests such as music? Or if he was a fair king? Perhaps there is debate as to whether he really did change the course of religion or was he just a dashing energetic king? How close was Hampton Court Palace to the River Thames in order to access water? Well, Year 5 had been wondering this too, so they went on a trip to Hampton Court Palace to see if they could find out these answers and more. Each class had a turn investigating these concerns around King Henry. In groups, they were given primary and secondary sources of evidence to read, view and debate and then had to decide on an answer to their particular question. It was fascinating listening to their debating skills and
seeing them use the different sources of evidence to decide upon the given queries. When they were not debating these issues, both classes had the opportunity to walk around the palace exploring a number of areas. They found the kitchens, which were tasked with feeding between 800 and 1000 people on a daily basis, to be fascinating as they learnt about how meat was roasted over an open fire, amongst many other things. They also explored the beautiful chapel upstairs and downstairs as well as seeing the first ever tennis court and of course The Great Hall with its beautiful tapestries. The children were enchanted with the ceilings at the palace as every room had different features to look out for such as the eavesdroppers in the Great Hall. They even had a chance to debate some issues in the council chamber, where King Henry and his Privy Council made some of the biggest decisions in English History.
December...
YEAR 1 BUILD IT
Our budding architects and engineers in Year 1 had a fun time in ‘Build It’ club. Each week the children were given a selection of construction kits to make their own models with. They were very creative, making castles, mazes, playgrounds, an array of buildings and rockets. They were always super busy, building in little teams!
RUGGED ROBOTS JOIN THE PLAYGROUND FUN
Christmas came early in December as our new set of Rugged Robots was delivered for playtime coding in all weathers. Some of our digital leaders jumped at the chance to introduce them to Year 1 at lunch break. They were masters in moments!
NATURAL WORLD CLUB MAKE A WORM FARM
Natural World Club made a worm farm for the science lab – the worms were carefully captured and re-homed amid layers of compost, chalk, sand, leaves and fragments of fine bark on the top to help keep the moisture in. We will be watching them closely to see how they mix the layers and where they travel to making new homes.
FAILING FORWARD FOR SUCCESS
Year 4 have been using their Digital Innovation lessons to put a practical slant on their Global Citizenship theme for the Autumn term, planning disaster rescue missions for their Sphero Mini robots. Given the challenge of coding a robot to conduct rescue missions in areas affected by a catastrophe, the children have worked in teams to map, measure, plot and plan their rescue operations. They used their understanding of measure and angles to take notes and plan out their code for the robots, which would need to complete their mission autonomously once put into action. Embracing a ‘fail forward’ growth mindset, each group learned to take each setback with good humour and as an opportunity to refine their code in order to find a better solution until they were able to complete their missions successfully. The same sorts of challenges are taken on by NASA and ESA scientists programming rovers on Mars and by humanitarian forces using robots to help rescue trapped civilians in parts of Ukraine. Fortunately, the stakes are a little lower in the Prep Innovation Centre, but the skills of planning, communicating and problem-solving are invaluable nonetheless.
A VISIT FROM THE WRIGHT SOCIETY FOR YEAR 4
Year 4 were treated to a visit from Holly and Sally, Sixth Form pupils from the Wright Society in the senior school, which is for pupils who wish to become dentists, doctors and veterinarians. They learnt all about the organs of the body and handled models from a life-sized body. They then drew around themselves and tried to remember where all the organs were and any facts they could add. Mr Quinton, Head of Biology at the senior school commented on how impressed he was with not only the enthusiasm shown by the pupils but also their knowledge of the human body at such a young age.
CHRISTMAS IN FRANCE
The pupils in Year 2 have been had a lot of fun creating their books about Christmas in France. They used book creator and recorded their words to play back to us.
CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH THE RECEPTION NATIVITY
The Reception officially launched our Christmas celebrations with their annual Nativity. The children performed, for the first time, on stage in front of a live audience. The show was a mix of new songs and traditional favourites.
Caterham Prep nativity
CHRISTINGLE
At our Christingle assembly, each pupil in Pre-Prep held a candle and gave thanks for all the things they were grateful for. It was a wonderful moment of calm and reflection.
A MAGICAL EVENING AT URC CAROL SERVICE
On Monday 12 December the Prep School community came together for a beautiful evening of Christmas readings and carols. The service began with a solo by Xander L, who sung the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City. Year 6 children then processed with candles and led the service by each reciting a reading. All the children sang a year-group carol and there were stunning performances from the Senior Choir and the Junior Eric Thiman Singers (JETS).
THE INN-SPECTORS WERE IN AT THE YEAR 2 NATIVITY
The inn-spectors were in Bethlehem and they were not pleased! They believed that a stable was no place for visitors and their newborn baby, and, it really was a health and safety nightmare! Worry not though – The Year 2 performers managed to convince them that the stable really was fit for a King!
PREP CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Parents were treated to a delightful programme of festive performances from our various ensembles and choirs in the Prep Christmas Concert. The programme ended with staff and children joining together on the stage to sing ‘Have yourself a merry little Christmas’.
ALL THE FESTIVE FUN OF THE CHRISTMAS FAIR
It was a packed Wilberforce Hall at the senior school for PA Prep Christmas Fair. Along with the Year 6 stalls there were plenty of shopping outlets to get stocked up for Christmas. Santa arrived in time to take his seat and welcome families at his Santa’s Grotto and the Secret Present Room was packed full of children busily wrapping presents for loved ones ably assisted by our Sixth Form volunteers. Tea, coffee (with the odd mulled wine) along with bacon and sausage rolls and a multitude of cakes and cookies kept everyone well fed. Year 6 pupils designed and ran some super stalls which collectively raised £1057.68 with the House stalls taking a further £269.70. A fantastic amount which goes to the PA and its chosen projects and charities. Safe to say that the Fair got everyone into the festive spirit ready for the Christmas celebrations in the run up to the end of term.
JETS JOIN SENIOR CHOIRS AT CAROL SERVICE
The Senior School Carol Service was a wonderful way to end the Autumn term and once again, our choirs ETS (Eric Thiman Singers) and Chamber Choir gave stunning performances of anthems, both old and new. The processional carol, in traditional form, featured second year Henry Bell singing the solo verse of Once In Royal David’s City. This year, the service was attended by the Second Years who contributed to the service with their Anthem, ‘Torches’- a rousing and powerful piece. Uplifting descants and triumphant organ accompaniment from Mr Hall made this service a wonderful start to the Christmas holidays. The service of nine lessons and carols was well attended by many parents, staff and friends of both the Prep and Senior Schools. This year the service was held at the beautiful St. John’s Church in Caterham which provided us with the space needed to accommodate both choirs and congregation. Donations from the retiring collection were generous and will go towards the church’s Accessibility Fund- a worthy and valuable cause.
January...
A MYSTERIOUS EGG IS FOUND IN YEAR 1
Year 1 was a hive of excitement in January when Mrs Clark and Mrs Pudney stumbled upon a mystery egg… Where did it come from? Who laid it? The pupils set about to find out!
TOOTS AND DOODS
Our ‘toots’ and ‘doods’ scheme started in the Spring term with the Year 3 classes learning to play a basic version of either the flute or clarinet.
YEAR 3 ROMANS AT LEEDS CASTLE
At the beginning of January, Year 3 took a trip to Leeds Castle to launch our topic on Romans. Thankfully, the sun shone, creating a fabulous backdrop for the Castle and its surroundings. The children took part in a workshop which spanned a timeline from Caves to Castles, helping them to see where Roman Britain sits, chronologically, in History.The children listened attentively and enjoyed the dressing up and drama aspects of the workshop. The Leeds Castle staff even commented upon some of the drama, being the best they had ever seen from a school group!
FROM LANDSCAPES TO MATCHBOX DESIGNS IN ART
Year 3 have been studying landscapes in art. After looking at the work of Lucy Kent they have created their own landscape canvas paintings and did a super job.
Year 4 completed their ceramics project based on fish, in the project they learnt lots of clay techniques and were able to make suggestions to one another of how they could improve their work further. They have also been paper weaving in Art inspired by Kente cloth.
After exploring some World War II artwork, Year 6 designed and created their own war inspired matchboxes. They have also been exploring the work of Heather Hansen and creating some wonderful performance and movement drawings.
Year 4 ceramic fish
Year 4 paper weaving
Year 6 World War II matchboxes
Year 6 Heather Hansen
EGG-TRAORDINARY PROBLEM SOLVING BY YEAR 1 SCIENTISTS
Year 1 received an interesting letter from Kate in the Pre-Prep kitchen. The eggs in the kitchen kept rolling around and cracking and she needed some help to find a way to stop this from happening. As Year 1 had been learning all about materials, they were the perfect scientists for the job! The children explored and investigated what materials would be best to protect the eggs. Then, the fun part came…testing to see if their chosen materials were in fact, suitable. The children decided it would be fair to drop the eggs from the same height so no cheating could happen. Kate was thrilled with the results and from now on…the eggs in the Pre-Prep kitchen are safe.
PERFECT WEATHER FOR POLAR EXPLORATION
The Reception children learnt about the Polar regions. They learnt about the animals and people that live in the Arctic and Antarctica, explored blocks of ice and were challenged to make igloos with sugar cubes! The children produced some fantastic polar bear art where they used forks to paint the fur!
RAISING THE ROOF IN OUTDOOR LEARNING
In outdoor learning in January, Year 6 used teamwork, cooperation, communication and problem-solving skills to make a tent without instructions.
RAISING THE ROOF IN OUTDOOR LEARNING
Year 6 were treated to visions of a powerful future as Mr Elmes, Head of Business Development at wind engineering company, Siemens Gamesa, came in to talk with them about how renewable energy developments are the way forward for sustainable electricity sources.
Offshore wind farms are set to become the world’s most important source of energy being both reliable and ‘safe’ for our environment. Some, like those around the UK, are locked into the seabed and are static, but for deeper seas –such as those around California, tethered floating platforms are more suitable – albeit currently more expensive.
We learned that on windy days we can produce excess electricity in the UK and looking to the future, this could be the way we have to manage our energy where we match supply available to demand rather than demand to supply.
Year 6 thoroughly enjoyed trying on the safety equipment needed to be worn when inspecting a wind turbine – the harnesses were very heavy and it must take a very fit person to climb so many ladders wearing them.
‘WHO DO THE POLAR REGIONS BELONG TO?’
In Year 5, our Global Citizenship question is ‘Who do the Polar regions belong to?’, in English, we read ‘Sky Song’ by Abi Elphinstone, which is a fantasy novel set in a fictional environment inspired by the Arctic. As a part of our pre-reading activities, we explored the concept of ‘world-building’ in fantasy literature. We read and listened to fairytale voiceovers that form the prologue in a number of well-known films and stories, and discussed how this section of a text can be used to build a picture of the world of a story, so that we, as readers, are able to access the content of the plot.
We found out that Abi Elphinstone takes inspiration for her fantasy novels by drawing on real people and real places. Sky Song tells the story of three tribes whose discord and distrust has allowed a villain to take control of their kingdom. In order to make her descriptions of people living in a frozen environment, Abi Elphinstone went on her own adventures to visit people indigenous to the Arctic: the Inuit. She also learnt about the Kazakh Eagle Hunters, who are a group from Mongolia who use eagles to help them hunt, including the first female eagle huntress – Aisholpan Nurgaiv – who was the inspiration for the main character in the book, Eska, who has a special bond with a golden eagle. We used research questions to help us to discover more about Inuit culture and the Kazakh Eagle Hunters. We then recorded this information and chose how to publish it, so that we could present and share it with others.
SPEEDY SOLVES SECURE SECOND ROUND
Caterham School was well represented at the World Cube Association competition at Guildford in February. Marcus L (Fourth Year, Senior School) and Evan G (Year 5, Prep School) each competed for the first time, both making it through to the second round after some amazing – and very speedy – solves! This was Evan’s first ever Rubix cubing competition and he managed to come in the top five in his group. Amongst a number of solves, he managed to pull off two that were outstanding – 13.79 seconds and 14.19 seconds –leaving him with an amazing 16 second average. He really enjoyed the day and left with his head held high and a smile on his face.
BE A SHINING EXAMPLE
Mr Jones brought a little sunshine to the Prep assembly with a talk on the topic of the sun and black holes and the importance of both celestial bodies in our lives and universe.
Starting with the sun, Mr Jones challenged the children to give him some facts about our nearest star. He then shared some facts of his own, from the difference in temperatures between the sun’s surface and core to the time it takes light from the sun to reach our eyes (8 minutes). He also talked about the ways the sun influences our planet, from essentials such as bringing light and warmth to wonders such as the ‘northern lights’, caused by interactions between the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field. Mr Jones then moved on to talk about the black holes that can form upon the collapse of stars at the end of their lives and the crushing gravity that they exert on space and even time around them.
But the real highlight of the assembly was when Mr Jones shifted the focus to the impact of our actions on others. He talked about how we can bring sunshine into the lives of others, just as the sun provides light and warmth to our planet. He also explained that negativity and unkind actions can have a devastating impact, much like a black hole that sucks in light and warmth.
Mr Jones left the pupils with a powerful message to always strive to be a positive force in the lives of others and to make a difference in their own unique way. It was a truly enlightening assembly that will stay with the pupils for a long time.
KINDNESS TREE IN FULL BLOOM
Our kindness tree is filling up with colourful leaves bearing names of those who have been nominated. Acts of kindness included helping a peer find lost kit, picking someone up when they fell, being a welcoming friend and being kind when a classmate felt sad. We love to celebrate these acts of kindness, and teachers have been known to get a little emotional when they are nominated by a pupil.
ESLP TEACHER TRAINING
Fourteen teachers from the East Surrey Learning Partnership schools attended a training session with Mr Lang in the Prep Innovation Centre. There followed a ‘hands on’ session with robotics equipment with an emphasis on experimentation, learning from mistakes and above all – problem solving. The equipment used will be available to the local primary schools involved via our ‘Resource Library’, helping to develop the next generation!
GIRLS 2022-23 SEASON
Hockey
In their first season of sporting fixtures, the U8 girls played small-sided hockey matches against Hawthorns, Micklefield, Reigate St Mary and Copthorne. The girls worked hard in lessons on ball-carrying, passing and safe tackling, but thoroughly enjoyed the opportunities for game play. The U9s also played mini games, in round robin friendlies with Hawthorns, Micklefield and Reigate St Mary, where they built on skills from the previous year, looking at moving into space and attempting to play the ball down the left foot. The U9A’s also had the opportunity to play as a 7 a side team in the Hawthorns and Lingfield Tournaments. The girls played extremely well, holding strong opposition to 0-0 draws and coming away with a couple of wins against Micklefield and Reigate. In their first season with padded GKs, the U10s had a mixture of results, getting to grips with the much larger pitch, fitness was going to be key over the season, but this energetic bunch ran their socks off every game. Working on hitting the ball hard and driving down the right, the girls had a great season. The U11s played a mixture of matches across A-C squads and had a notable set of results-draws against our local rivals were welcomed, particularly following previous matches. House hockey winners were Year 3 Pilgrims, Year 4 Viewpoint and Year 5/6 Viewpoint.
Netball
With a season of the BEE Netball format under their belt, the Prep Net Cats enjoyed the opportunity to play in several friendly fixtures against our local prep schools, as well as the hotly contested House matches. Year 3 and 4, predominantly played the 4 v 4 ‘Flier’ format, which allowed them to work on their team passing and moving around the court with no restrictions. The rule adaptations support the learning of the game and allow everyone to work through the appropriate levels of development. The Year 5 and 6 moved towards the ‘Stinger’ 5 a side format, learning specific positional roles, with everyone playing a variety of positions over the course of the season. Competitive match results varied, but some notable wins for the U11/10 came against Reigate St Mary and our very own Caterham U12E and F teams. The girls also hosted our partnership school St John’s, for an afternoon of match play and of course, match tea! House Netball winners were Year 3 Pilgrims, Year 5 Foxburrow and Year 6 Viewpoint.
Football
The second half of the Spring Term, was an opportunity for the girls to run out on the football pitch. It’s always a short block of activity, but the enthusiasm to learn the game was fantastic. Individual skills were worked on during lessons, as well as smallsided game play and several friendly fixtures against our local opposition. The U9s participated in the first Caterham Girls Football Festival, with teams from Hawthorns, Reigate St Mary, Aberdour and Banstead all going head-to-head on a wet, but fun filled Saturday morning. House Football winners were Year 3,4,5 and 6 Pilgrims!
Cricket
The weather at the start of the season was a little temperamental and the girls were unlucky to have a few matches cancelled. However, training got off to a flying start with several girls attending the extra club session to work on their bowling and batting techniques. For Year 3, many picking up the bat for the first time, played a mixture of matches ‘off the tees,’ which encouraged lots of batting practise and with coach fed balls. The Year 4 and 5 girls had a super season, with the ‘A’ teams winning most of their matches quite convincingly and the ‘B’ teams improving significantly with their attention in the field. The Year 6 teams, had a mixed bag of results, but continued to improve over the season, particularly in attacking the ball in bat and honing bowling techniques. House cricket winners were Year 3 Viewpoint, Year 4 Pilgrims, Year 5 and Year 6 Foxburrow,
BOYS 2022-23 SEASON
Football
It was a tough football season for the Colts this year facing some very tough opposition, the standout team was the Colts B who won 4 of their 7 games. The junior teams faired much better with the U9 A, B and C teams losing just 1 game all season and the football they played at times was fantastic to watch. The U8’s also had a fine season with the U8 A team winning all but one game, a record matched by the B team. The school was also very busy in hosting 3 major tournaments at Colts, U9 and U8’s. With the junior sides doing so well the football looks bright for next year.
Rugby
The Rugby season by contrast was an amazing success for all teams. The U11 A won all but one game and the B team won every game they played. The 10 A won all except one game and the B team won every game in a remarkable season.The team of the season was undoubtably the U9A who won 7 out of 7 games as well as winning all their games at the Copthorne festival beating Brighton College convincingly in the final game. The side’s determination in defence was incredible and the teams work effort was fantastic. The strength in depth was illustrated by the B team just losing once in 6 games. The Under 8’s were equally very strong with the A’s winning 5 out of 6 games and the B team 5 out of 5. The Rugby continued to go from strength to strength in the Prep School.
Cricket
The Colts A team experienced a remarkable season winning all their matches against some very strong opposition and even managed to get the IAPS cricket tournament semi final which frustratingly we lost on the last ball. The boys played some very attractive, attacking style of cricket which was a joy to watch. The B team also had a good season losing just the once and the C team went unbeaten all term. The U9 and U8 boys teams had a mixed season but they all won 50% of their games, more focus is needed on our bowling discipline and the need to reduce the amount of extras we give away.
Cross Country
The Cross-Country team ran very well at various meets during the Autumn and Spring terms. The standout performance was Piers M winning the Lingfield College Cross Country by a country mile. The enthusiasm of junior teams was a joy to see.
Swimming
The Swim Squad continues to go from strength to strength under the guidance of Mr Tonks and recorded fine wins against Reigate, Oakhyrst, Walthamstow Hall and Hazelwood and performed with distinction at the IAPS gala.
Sports Day
The finale of the sporting year was our own Sports day. The sun shined on us yet again on Sports Day and the children’s performances certainly did not disappoint. In the morning we had our traditional field events competition and it was great to see a few school records fall. In the afternoon, the eagerly awaited track events took place, and we were treated to some spectacular races. The Year 5 boys’ 600m finale, was something we will remember for years to come with three boys giving everything in a near blanket finish. In the end the competition came down to the final relay and Viewpoint were victorious. There were so many wonderful moments throughout the day, moments of great sportsmanship, camaraderie, and just great support for each other.
WORLD BOOK DAY 2023
On World Book Day, children in Prep turned to a range of non-fiction books to learn about and explore the lives of inspirational people from history. They chose inspirational people to dress up as and then shared the stories of their chosen person with their peers. During assembly, all children took part in a parade where they were able to see each others’ costumes and many children volunteered to present to the assembly some information about their inspirational person and their reasons for choosing them. They also completed a scavenger hunt in house teams, searching for information about inspirational people in a range of non-fiction books. A wonderful celebration of non-fiction! Our youngers years focused on poetry and rhyme. Year 2 led the way in the morning with an assembly all about their favourite poems and rhyming books. The pupils took part in a range of activities throughout the day, including a trip to Caterham library for our Reception classes.
ETS PERFORM EVENSONG AT ROCHESTER CATHEDRAL
ETS and Chamber Choir performed an Evensong service that was uplifting and stirring at the iconic and beautiful Rochester Cathedral. Rochester Cathedral is a Norman church with choral roots tracing back to AD 604. Our choirs sang the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis settings by Purcell and in the response settings by Byrd. The anthem ‘Litany to The Holy Spirit’ by Hurford was a particularly beautiful moment as well as rousing hymns. Chamber Choir’s psalm was subtle and stirring. It was a wonderful experience for our choirs to perform in this inspiring setting and the cathedral expressed their admiration for our choirs and commented on their professionalism as well as their singing. This glorious, but somewhat daunting venue presents all manner of challengesacoustics, sight-lines and processionals. With only 15 minutes to rehearse in the cathedral itself, it is testament to our talented singers that they could perform such polished music. We were delighted to have a huge number of parents and family members of our singers in the congregation. Congratulations to ETS and Chamber Choir on another fantastic performance.
PRESENTING INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Year 6 completed research inspired by International Women’s Day. They read about the history of suffrage, as well as exploring some inspirational women both past and present. They chose to write up and present their information as either a PowerPoint presentation or a poster, and then shared these with their peers, offering each other constructive feedback. We were all very impressed with the quality of the presentations and enjoyed finding out about the history of International Women’s Day and some of the women who have changed the world.
ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR INTERVIEW, MR ATTENBOROUGH?
Our curious and independent Year 2 pupils explored the wonders of the world from the comfort of the classroom with the help of their iPads. They conducted a virtual interview with none other than the legendary David Attenborough, using a mindmapping app to come up with thought-provoking questions. The children then worked together to research and find answers on the internet, taking notes and looking up definitions (such as ‘broadcaster’) to broaden their vocabulary and build a picture of one of our national treasures. There was a focus on online safety, talking about safe searching and how we can check information that we find online. It’s safe to say that our Year 2 pupils are becoming quite the digital journalists themselves!
A VISIT TO THE LIBRARY
Reception enjoyed a visit to Caterham Valley Library. They shared books with one another, listened to stories being read by the librarian and even got to use the scanner to scan their own book out.
YEAR 1 KNIGHTS IN SHINING ARMOUR
Year 1 had an amazing day when they were trained to be ‘real life knights!’. They learnt all about the armour they should wear, how to joust and the important skill of building a strong, indestructible castle.
YEAR 1 WIZ WHAM ALAKASAM
The Year 1 children showcased their performance of Wiz Wham Alakasam. The show was based around a castle full of wizards who all have different strengths and talents. However, poor Wizard Notyet had no idea what her talents are, finding everything that the other wizards could do really tricky. While Wizard Notyet searched for her talent, the rest of the wizards realised that their sun was slowly fading and that their castle was about to be taken over by the scary ice creatures. Through hard work, determination, collaboration, perseverance and risk taking, the wizards acted as a team to restart the sun’s energy and therefore melt the ice creatures away. How did the wizards restart the sun? It was all down to Wizard Notyet’s detective skills, finding an old lost spell book which had the most powerful of all spells in it, the Sun Spell, which was strong enough to restart the sun and save the castle.
RECEPTION LEARN ABOUT PEOPLE WHO HELP US
Reception learnt about People Who Help Us. They had had some amazing visits from a variety of people. This started with a visit from the police who told them all about their amazing vehicles and all of the different jobs they have to do. They got to try on hats, high vis jackets and even got to hold a pair of handcuffs. Next up was a visit from a doctor who talked about how to stay healthy and then showed the pupils her really cool doctor’s bag. They all had their ears and eyes checked, listened to our hearts using a stethoscope and even used bandages. They were shown an oxygen reader and a blood pressure monitor, following this, they had a dentist visit. He told them how to keep their teeth healthy and learnt all about check-ups and brushing their teeth. They learned how many teeth they have and even talked about them falling out. The pupils drew bugs and dirt on pictures of teeth and then used their two minute timers to brush them away.
They then met a vet who told them how to care for and look after pets and animals. She showed them some photos of poorly animals and then talked about how she made them better. They got to see some equipment like a surgery gown, mask, gloves, breathing tubes and animal collars. They then had a visit from our school nurse who talked about what she does when children are unwell at school. The final visitor was the fire brigade. They told them about fighting fires, staying safe at home and they even got to see their fire engine!
CATERHAM SCHOOL JUNIOR GLOBETROTTING QUIZ 2023
Two eager teams ventured to the senior school to participate in the much-anticipated Annual Junior Globetrotting Quiz hosted by the Geography department. As last year’s winners, we returned with the trophy and high hopes for a strong performance and a consecutive win. There were thirteen teams altogether competing for the prize, many of whom had been practising relentlessly for the last few weeks. After six rounds and a bonus round which required the children to create a waterfall out of play dough, the results were announced. Congratulations went to Rokeby School who were worthy winners and took home the trophy this year. Our teams were not too far behind and should be very proud of their performance. In the weeks leading up to the quiz, many of our pupils had been revising geographical facts to be in tip-top condition for this quiz.
TOOTING YEAR 3
At the end of March Year 3 pupils demonstrated their toot playing to a full hall of parents. They have been learning to play the toots (essentially plastic flutes) since the start of term and thoroughly enjoyed showing off their new skills to an appreciative audience. The children performed the piece ‘Toot toot’ with incredible focus and, most importantly, no squeaking! What a lot of progress they have made since the sounds of the toots first drifted along the corridors of Prep in January.
OLD PARK WOODS REPLANTING PARTY
A huge thank you to parents, friends and neighbours who braved the wet weather to help replant Old Park Woods following the clearance of diseased ash trees. Jay, our Woodsman, led a party of energetic and enthusiastic planters. A big thank you also to our Parents’ Association who supported the replanting project by supplying fencing to secure replanted areas from hungry deer and woodland creatures. The species of trees replanted include Oak, Beech, Hazel, Birch and Wild Cherry. These species of trees have been chosen deliberately as they are native to the UK. Planting a breadth of tree species will bring diversity and help to safeguard the woodland should one species be hit with a disease in the future. One of the reasons that Old Park Woods was so impacted by Ash Dieback is that through the years that the wood was left unmanaged prior to the School’s ownership, and so ash became the dominant tree species by a significant margin.
CELEBRATING OUR CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Mr Jones, visited from the senior school to talk about the Hindu festival of Holi. The event was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to celebrate our cultural diversity. During the assembly, Mr Jones shared with pupils the story of the Holi festival and explained the traditions and customs associated with this joyful occasion. The pupils were fascinated to learn about the origins of Holi and its significance in Hindu culture. The highlight of the event was when one of our pupils explained what the festival is like to celebrate in his family. The pupils enjoyed hearing about colourful powders, music and dancing and were able to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this vibrant festival.
TOP MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
The Woodwind and Brass heats of the Coulsdon & Purley Music Festival were held at Caterham School and we were delighted to present a number of soloist and ensembles from both Caterham Prep and Senior School. Congratulations go to all who took part and well done in particular to those who won their category: Piano Trio ( Francesca C, Alice H and Violet W ) for the Coulsdon & Purley Cup for ensemble playing and Thomas B for the Advanced Concerto class. These senior pupils will be performing along with the Prep winners below in the Festival Concert and Award Ceremony on Saturday 22 April in the Humphreys Theatre. Pupils from Caterham School also took part in the Vocal and Strings part of the festival held at other locations in the area. The Coulsdon and Purley Music Festival is in its 79th year and is a long-standing local event that engages expert adjudicators and accompanists. It was wonderful for our pupils to receive such high praise for their performing.
Prep had tremendous success with Alfred not only winning his Woodwind class but also being awarded with the Landsell Cup for Solo Woodwind, a huge achievement.
Ella W (flute) also came first in her class of Solo Woodwind Grades 1 – 2, gaining ‘Outstanding’.
Ella D (flute) gained ‘Distinction’ and second place in the Grades 3 – 4 Woodwind class and Sophia gained ‘Honours’ for her Oboe playing in the same class.
Natasha (trombone) gained second place and a ‘Distinction’ in the Solo Brass Grades 1 – 2 class.
Alejandro meanwhile headed over to Trinity School where he performed on the piano in the ages 10 – 11 class and gained ‘Honours’.
In other competitions, Eugenia performed in the Richmond Music Festival in the Youth Beginner class where she gained a ‘Distinction’ and a Gold medal for being awarded first place.
Congratulations to all these children who not only performed brilliantly but were also fine ambassadors for their school.
OUTSTANDING MUSIC EXAMINATION RESULTS
Out of 64 pupils entered for exams, an amazing 21 pupils scored over 85% to achieve distinctions and 19 pupils scored over 75% to achieve merits. This is an outstanding and remarkable set of music examination results from the Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music and Trinity College London (including Musical Theatre). It is reflective of the incredible talent and commitment of all our pupils, from the Prep School through to Upper Sixth, along with a dedicated cohort of inspiring music teachers. It is wonderful to see such huge achievements from pupils who contribute so much to the Music Department and music across the school – not only have they worked so hard to attain these exam results, but they are also members of bands, orchestras, choirs and perform as soloists. Their magnificent results, which have been achieved under exam pressure and are just a snapshot of the immense skill and abilities of our pupils, are indicative of their enthusiasm for music and are hugely deserved. Congratulations go to all our pupils for their hard work whatever their result, however, a special mention must go to our Prep School pupils achieving Distinctions: Henry B, Humphrey D, Molly D, Ella D, Alfred D, Dylan J, Ella W and Johanna C.
CORNETS AND TROMBONES
Year 4 performed an ambitious programme of music to their parents. After studying the cornet and trombone for just nine weeks, they were able to demonstrate that they had learnt a range of notes. The concert started with ‘Hot Cross Buns’, followed by ‘Heavy Metal’ and ‘Feeling Down, Feeling Blue’. The children have worked really hard this term, from the first lesson when several of them could not even blow a note, to being able to play these three pieces confidently. We also treated to a performance from Sixth Form pupils on the Tuba and French Horn which gave the children an example of other brass instruments that they could go on to learn.
YEAR 1’S TONBRIDGE CASTLE ADVENTURE
Year 1 embarked on an exciting adventure to Tonbridge Castle! The children got the opportunity to fire a catapult, dress up in an array of costumes as well as complete brass rubbings and many more fun, hands on activities. They then explored the castle, spotting murder holes and arrow slits and learning interesting facts such as what a Gong Farmer’s job was. They even managed a run around the castle grounds. D, Ella D, Alfred D, Dylan J, Ella W and Johanna C.
Year 1 visit
Tonbridge Castle
PIRATES VS MERFOLK
The children in Year 4 performed their show Pirates versus Merfolk to a packed Soderberg hall. The renditions of songs such as ‘Pool Party’ and ‘I’m a Parrot’ were greeted with riotous applause, and the children managed to portray mermaids, pirates, parrots, crocodiles, and delivery people with ease. Sound and lighting were ably operated by some Year 5 and 6 pupils and added to the super effects. Managing to produce a performance in such a short space of time is no mean feat and Mrs Sidell and Mrs Flanagan were thanked with flowers at the end of the evening.
BEE HAPPY HOUSE DANCE-A-THON!
The end of Spring Term saw our whole prep and pre-prep community take part in an epic bee-happy dance-a-thon! Building on the fun we had with last year’s Giving Day, we learnt all about what Giving Back means, and our special relationships across the globe with our partner school in Lerang’wa, Tanzania.
In preparation for our Easter Telethon, Mr Lang hosted an assembly on partnerships and community engagement. Pupils were focused and inquisitive, as Mr Lang explored our Caterham Partnerships programme and discussed the importance of giving back. This ranges from the little things we can do to help our friends around, to the big, amazing projects like our Resource Library and our East Surrey Learning Partnership.
We also said hello to pupils in Lerang’wa Primary School, Tanzania, who we have been visiting and raising money for hot school lunches for over 15 years. We learnt about the school, our friendship, and most importantly our shared love of dance and music! In response, we decided to host our very own House Dance Off! Our pupils hopped, bopped, and flip-flopped to Can’t Stop the Feeling, I’m Still Standing and Best Day of My Life all in the name of FUN-raising.
Our Bee-happy house dance-a-thon was to highlight this Easter’s telethon, that will be raising money for our Transformational Bursaries and our Partnership Programmes.
LOTS TO LEARN IN THE
FOREST CLASSROOM
The Pre-Prep children spent lots of time in the ‘new’ Outdoor Classroom. They were amazed by the many fruit trees that had been planted in the area. The children all wanted to know why the trees were surrounded by a wire structure and they were surprised to find out that deer would eat the trees if they weren’t protected by the wire and that the fruit trees will eventually become an orchard. The children also explored the herb garden and everyone had a chance to smell the different types of herbs. In addition to all this learning they expanded their knowledge about foxes. They discussed that baby foxes were called cubs or kits and that a female fox was called a vixen. The children loved sharing their fox stories with each other.
YEAR 3 FEET FIRST TRAINING
At the end of April Year 3 did their feet first training. We learnt all about staying safe while crossing the road as a pedestrian. We also learnt all about the different crossings used to stay safe. We were taught about something called the green cross code.
YEAR 2 LOOK AT FLIGHT
Year 2 learnt about Flight in their Global Citizenship lessons. After learning about how the Montgolfier brothers made their famous discovery and invention of a hot air balloon, 2M had a go at piloting their own hot-air tissue-paper balloon to demonstrate how the balloon can fly.
HOUSE DEBATING FINALISTS TAKE TO THE STAGE
The annual House Debating competition took place Friday 28th April in front of the Prep school. The finalists who took part had each won the previous round in the weekly debating co-curricular club, having written speeches to support the Motion, ‘This House believes that the most inspirational woman in history is…..’ Team Viewpoint consisted of Humphrey and Isaac, Team Foxburrow Evan , Max DP and Tom B and Team Pilgrims were Isla T and Kohanna. Each team prepared written speeches to persuade the audience that Emmeline Pankhurst, Rosa Parks or Florence Nightingale, respectively, was the most inspirational. This was followed by challenge questions and rebuttals, whereby the children had to think on their feet! Our star judge, Mrs Moore, was impressed by the confidence of the children, their thorough research and their use of persuasive language. Congratulations to the winning team: Foxburrow.
SPRING CONCERT
We had a truly memorable Prep Spring Concert in the Humphreys Theatre at the end of April. 90 children took part in a joyful celebration of making music together. The sheer hard work that had gone into every performance was truly evident as was the enjoyment the children had in showing off their accomplishments. It is impossible to single out a particular highlight of the evening as every item was a musical treat.
The evening started with the whole of Year 6 singing and playing their guitars with Xander and Stella on vocals and Charlie on lead guitar. We then had a wonderful performance by the beginner strings who no longer sounded like beginners! The Junior Choir lit up the auditorium as they sang Count on me by Bruno Mars and Naughty from Matilda. The flute quartet played a beautiful set of Welsh Airs and Alfred later played a stunning solo on the flute, Mountain Dreams. Junior ETS then sang Rutter’s All things bright and beautiful and the String Orchestra performed a rousing rendition of Pirates of the Caribbean.
As the concert drew to a close the Senior Choir delivered a beautiful performance of One small voice followed by Chim chim cheree and the evening ended with a very impressive performance by the Concert Band of Thriller, Mama Mia and Havana.
NALA VISITS PRE-PREP
Reception children had a special talk on how to stay safe around dogs. A beautiful dog called Nala came to visit them with her owner. The children learnt what to do if a dog approaches them, where they should stroke a dog and how to spot a dog that’s happy and relaxed and a dog that isn’t happy and should not be touched. The children also learnt how to stand like a tree if a dog is jumping up and they don’t like it. The children really enjoyed the talk and learnt so much!
YEAR 2 PUPILS JOIN SCHOOL COUNCIL
The School Council were delighted to welcome representatives from Year 2. All were confident at speaking in this pupil voice forum, where topics ranged from playtimes to homework to uniform and more! Mrs Deale and Mrs Moore were impressed by the sensible contributions from all reps, some of whom then presented in an assembly their ideas and actions.
YEAR 6 ENJOY A DAY ON THE WATER
The Year 6 trip to Aqua Sports provided them with an exhilarating morning of water-based adventure and fun. Dinghy sailing and paddle boarding allowed them to discover some new skills and enjoy the beautiful lake at Mercers Park. Moreover, the experience fostered teamwork, communication, and resilience, as everyone overcame challenges and embraced the joys of water sports.
PERFORM PETER PAN WORKSHOP
The children had a wonderful time exploring the theme of Peter Pan and using drama, dance and singing to help develop their confidence, concentration and social skills.
A RIGHT ROYAL CELEBRATION!
The King’s Coronation celebrations were a resounding success. With everyone dressed in red, white and blue the school was a sea of colour. The pupils and staff were treated to a fantastic street party-style lunch, complete with vibrant Union Jack bunting and even King Charles III in attendance on his horse and in his sumo suit?! The amazing catering team did an outstanding job of putting on a right royal spread, featuring classic British dishes like Coronation sandwiches, carrots, cucumber, and delicious desserts such as jelly, ice cream, and cupcakes.
The Pre-Prep pupils also had a wonderful time taking part in a drama workshop, where they learned how to be eco-warriors, protect the planet, and be charitable towards others – following in the footsteps of King Charles. They were also challenged to use their best royal waves, smartest ceremonial walks, and clearest cheering voices in a coronation challenge, which provided a fun and engaging way for them to practice their ceremonial skills and imagine what the ceremony might be like.
HILL START TO HENLEY FORT AT YEAR 4 RESIDENTIAL!
After a quick coach journey to Guildford, Year 4 pupils trekked up the hill, taking in beautiful views of Guildford and the countryside, to Henley Fort. A quick site brief was followed by their first task, to make their beds, as a team in their yurts. Various levels of success occurred but teamwork was key with those able to do this, helping others. Activities followed with the groups showing excellent teamwork, cooperation and communication to successfully complete their activities. An evening hike with the sun shining allowed pupils to spot the shard and other buildings in London’s famous skyline. They collected firewood for the campfire and played some amazing team building games including Evolution.
The following day started with an early rise, cooked breakfast and then off to activities including the climbing wall, bouldering and woodland survival. All the pupils had success in pushing themselves to go higher on the climbing wall and persevered to create fire. The second evening ensued with roasting marshmallows on a campfire and a fun game of kick rounders. A slightly earlier night due to some very tired pupils and once more fast asleep by 9.15pm! Our last morning in camp started with a final cooked breakfast and onto our last activities. Yurt inspection results announced, learning powers recognised by each pupil over the residential and a final walk to the coach home. The pupils behaved magnificently throughout, helping each other, becoming more independent and developing a sense of pride and achievement in themselves and their peers.
Making campfires
CLimbing high
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN RACE FOR HUNGER
Pupils from Reception up to Year 6 took part in the Race for Hunger, an event supporting The Trussell Trust and raising awareness about their food banks. We extend a heartfelt thank you to parents for their generous donations, which will benefit the Caterham food bank. During the Race for Hunger, our pupils showed determination, resilience, and, most importantly, it was great to see so many smiles on their faces! We appreciate the support of parents who contributed to this event. Your generosity will make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families in need. Together, we have shown compassion, empathy, and a commitment to making a positive difference. Thank you.
RUN FOR HUNGER FOOD DONATIONS DELIVERED
Caterham Food bank were thrilled with all our kind donations from the Run for Hunger event. Representatives from the food bank arrived, greeted by eager students who helped load the abundant donations. Boxes and bags filled to the brim showcased our collective effort. These contributions provided nourishment and relief to families and individuals facing food insecurity in our local community. Together, we have proven that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.
THINK SPACE BY SPARKFISH FOR BELIEFS WEEK
In the Prep and Senior Schools, we have had a Think Space set up by the charity Sparkfish. This is something that we do annually for Beliefs Week with a different theme each year. Each class is given an opportunity to go into the Think Space and reflect.
ENGAGING ENCOUNTERS WITH BIRDS OF PREY
Year 2 spent a wonderful afternoon learning all about birds of prey. They were visited by five different owls, some small, some large! We were also excited to see a Harris Hawk named Billy and a Peregrine Falcon named Max. Elmo, the Great Grey Owl, showed them his impressive wingspan in flight and Billy demonstrated his terrifyingly accurate hunting skills. They had the opportunity to hold some of the birds on our arms and all of Year 2 stepped up to the challenge!
AI IN EDUCATION CONFERENCE: GLOBAL INSIGHTS FOR LOCAL IMPLEMENTATION
Mr Lang hosted the IAPS AI conference discussing AI in education with national and international educational leaders. At the IAPS AI conference in London, Caterham was well represented at the conference with both Mr Lang and Mr Webster from the senior school speaking. They were joined by special guests from across the education and EdTech sectors, including Priya Lakhani OBE, they discussed the future of AI in education with senior leaders from schools and universities, some travelling from as far away as Canada. Titled ‘ChatGPT and Beyond – Revolutionising Education with Artificial Intelligence: Innovations and Opportunities,’ the conference centred on practical AI use, the risks involved and necessary mitigations. Crucially, it focused on how these elements could be navigated to improve children’s education. Interactive sessions allowed attendees to discuss and test AI tools in practical scenarios, helping to shape strategies for effective and responsible implementation in classrooms worldwide. The knowledge gained will directly benefit our pupils, equipping teachers with new tools and enhancing our approach to teaching and learning. This conference signifies an important step towards effectively integrating AI into our education system. With the insights gained, we’re excited to continue innovating in ways that will benefit our pupils’ learning journey and prepare them for the rapidlychanging world that they are growing up in.
YEAR 6 BUSHCRAFT
On Wednesday 7 June, a very excited Year 6 made the short coach journey to Penshurst Place where they would be spending the next three days fully embracing the wilderness and developing their outdoor skills…as well as having a lot of fun! As soon as they arrived at the site, the camp leaders made the children feel very welcome and it did not take long for the chanting and singing to begin. After splitting up into tribes and collecting wood, the children helped to make campfires, which were then used to cook freshly made burgers – a delicious lunch to get us started. The afternoon was time for camouflage and concealment. After covering their faces (or the majority of their bodies in some cases) with naturally sourced camouflage made from the ashes of the fires, they were taught tactics to hide in and amongst the woodland areas and evade capture from each other. A hearty dinner was followed by an evening activity of shelter building and s’mores. It would have been a shame to not make full use of the shelters, so children spent the first evening sleeping out amongst the stars – a magical experience!
The early sunrise meant that children were wide awake by 5:30am, but after a short – and encouraged – lie in, they were up and ready to start the day. A full day of activities were planned which included first aid, knife skills, paracord survival bracelet making, archery and tomahawk axe throwing. Special mention to Diya and Miss Blair as they only two that managed to get the tomahawks to wedge into the wooden targets. Homemade pizzas were enjoyed for lunch and then we were treated to a demonstration of pannassing, a traditional way of cooking salmon, in which it was de-boned, butterflied and cooked over an open fire for about four hours producing the most amazing flavour. The eyeballs were up for grabs and two very brave volunteers opted to get in a pre-dinner snack and try them! Apparently, they were not that bad! The evening saw children practising and then performing ‘Tribe’s Got Talent’, which produced a whole host of skills we never knew the children had. Samuel and Harry’s golden buzzer dance performance certainly provided a lot of laughs before finishing the evening
with brownies and freshly pannassed salmon. Children spent the second night sleeping in large bell tents and given the early morning and busy day, children were out for the count and fast asleep before we knew it. After a good night’s sleep and hot breakfast, children spent the morning learning how to make traps that could be used in the wilderness to catch a whole range of animals. However, with no animals in close proximity, it was up to the unsuspecting teachers to fall prey to the children’s cleverly made and concealed traps. Using biscuits as bait – they just knew the lure would be too much! After a clear up of camp and final meal, it was time to bid farewell to the Bushcraft adventure and our Year 6 residential. We returned tired and with bags of dirty washing, but most importantly with plenty of stories and some fantastic memories.
YEAR 2 SUPERSONIC VISIT TO BROOKLANDS
Year 2 had a fabulous trip to Brooklands as part of their work on Flight. The day took off with children having various tours around the site, looking at how aeroplanes developed from the basic and dangerous first planes like the Dragonfly steered by a rod sewn into the pilot’s jacket to supersonic Concorde and Harrier jump jets. They made their own ‘loopy gliders’, sampled Concorde’s luxury seating and learnt how various parts of the planes were produced in the aircraft factory. The day certainly flew by and everyone had a super(sonic) time.
LEEDS CASTLE CAPERS
On 13 June, a wonderfully sunny day, Year 4 went to Leeds Castle. They were treated to a train ride to take them from the coach to the entrance, then they took part in an amazing immersive history lesson about how the castle was built, who it belonged to and when, and how it became privately owned. It involved a lot of pretend dying, which the children were very good at! After lunch they had a tour of the buildings and were allowed into places not usually open to the public. They ended the day with a short play on the fantastic adventure playground area. It was a really useful and fun day out, fitting perfectly with our topic of ‘Who is in charge of Great Britain?’.
NEW OUTDOOR GAMES TABLES FROM THE PA!
Children have been enjoying the new additions to the Prep playground, which have arrived courtesy of our amazing Parents’ Association. Bespoke picnic tables with chess, snakes and ladders, a maze and a giant map quiz have added an extra option for breaktimes.
RIGHTS OF THE CHILD ASSEMBLY
In June, our Years 2, 3 and 4 children gathered together for a special assembly, which began with wonderful performances from our talented junior musicians and the Junior Choir, showcasing the wide range of musical abilities within our school community.
After the musical segment, Mrs Sharpe led a thoughtful assembly on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. She gave an overview of these fundamental rights and discussed their significance. Mrs Sharpe highlighted how fortunate we are in this country to have access to these rights, and stressed the importance of supporting initiatives that aim to ensure these rights for all children globally.
Adding a personal touch to her presentation, Mrs Sharpe shared some photographs from her own childhood and spoke about the Right to Play, as outlined in Article 31 of the UN Convention. This article states that every child has the right to rest, leisure, play and participate in cultural and artistic activities.
Through assemblies like this, we build a sense of global awareness and empathy in our pupils that extends beyond discussions and activities within the classroom. These values are key to helping our children to grow to become responsible and compassionate young adults, ready to contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.
YEAR 5 PGL ADVENTURE
In June, Year 5 pupils excitedly boarded the bus to Liddington for their weekend residential to PGL. After some fun games and a large lunch, the groups worked on their use of senses, completing a sensory trail blindfolded. They also managed to use teamwork, leadership skills and communication to solve many problems including moving a “bomb” from one place to another without dropping it! A hearty dinner followed with an evening activity involving groups working together to stop a water balloon from popping using lots of different materials. Lights out at 9.15pm and day one was over.
The second day started with an earlier than scheduled start and a full English breakfast! All the pupils pushed themselves to climb as high as they could on a super tall climbing wall. Fun games and challenges were the order of the day on micro scooters. Many Robin Hoods were found with some excellent accurate archers in the year group and all pupils getting better throughout the session. The final activity completed was a buggy build where pupils learnt how to make different knots to create a buggy using ropes, wood and barrels. An exciting stop due to thunder and lightning towards the end of the session meant we retreated back to our rooms. The activity for the evening was the great PGL challenge with groups competing to be the best team in a variety of events.
Day three arrived and a much sleepier group woke up to the adventures of raft building. The pupils loved having to create the raft and managed to complete challenges before many chose to jump in the lake! Teamwork was key again as the children worked out how to complete a series of challenges on the challenge course. Calls of “on guard, lunge and parry” were shouted at each other as they learnt new fencing moves. Finally, the pupils attempted to get to the top of the vertical challenge overcoming fears, challenges and even racing each other to get to the top. Stormy weather halted the planned evening activity but this did not stop the children throwing themselves into a giant quiz styled like “family fortunes” in teams. A quick bag pack and an earlier bedtime brought the third day to a close.
A SUNNY OUTING TO PAINSHILL PARK FOR RECEPTION
The Reception classes had a wonderful sunny day out at Painshill Park. The children were able to explore the beautiful surroundings, including a crystal grotto and a ruined abbey. In the afternoon they went on a minibeast hunt, searching under logs, using nets in the meadow and shaking trees in search of caterpillars! It was a very busy day and it was lovely to see the children having so much fun!
WONDERFUL WISLEY
At the end of June Year 3 ventured to RHS Wisley to delve into the fascinating world of plant life cycles. Their journey through the gardens offered a hands-on learning experience full of discovery and fun!
YEAR 6 BOOKMARK THEIR TIME AT PREP
The Year 6s were treated to a special science project to mark the end of their journey in the Prep School. Every member of 6DS and 6NS made a bespoke resin book mark using natural materials obtained from the school grounds as a memento of their time here. Mrs Hills-Matthews and Mrs Rowe picked some of the Caterham flowers, pressed and dried them for the project. Some pupils chose to add mini shells and glitter too. As is the way with scientific experiments, you learn by mistakes, and in this case some of the glitter reacted with the resin (pink was a particular unforeseen foe) and prevented it from setting properly! Undeterred, remedial measures and replacements were made and glitter was then consigned to ‘prototype status’.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM PRE PREP SPORTS EVENTS
The end of the Summer term saw our three Pre-Prep sports events, fortunate to have good weather. The pupils participated enthusiastically in carousel events, showcasing their improvements and personal successes. Their talents were on full display in various activities, including the standing jump, throwing, obstacle course, and batting. Everyone had a superb morning, enjoying all the different activities before demonstrating their running and hurdling skills in the House racing event. The races were impressive, with even Reception pupils demonstrating their hurdling skills. Many thanks to the supportive parents who came to cheer on the pupils. There were massive smiles all round as the children collected their medals, and there was just enough time for a well-deserved cuddle with parents to end an exciting morning of fun.
VICTORIOUS VIEWPOINT –SPORTS DAY 2023
The sun shined on us yet again on Sports Day and the children’s performances certainly did not disappoint. In the morning we had our traditional field events competition and it was great to see a few school records fall. In the afternoon, the eagerly awaited track events took place, and we were treated to some spectacular races. The Year 5 boys’ 600m finale, was something we will remember for years to come with three boys giving everything in a near blanket finish. In the end the competition came down to the final relay and Viewpoint were victorious. There were so many wonderful moments throughout the day, moments of great sportsmanship, camaraderie, and just great support for each other.
