Stroud School Review 2022

Highwood House Romsey SO51 9ZH +44 (0)1794 513231 enquiries@stroud-kes.org.uk www.stroud-kes.org.uk @stroudschool @Stroud_School @stroudschool

STROUD SCHOOL RE VIE W 2022

Stroud School

Contents

Celebrating

Headmistress’ Welcome 4

Celebrating 10 Years 5 Embracing the Great Outdoors 6

All Together Again 8 Nursery Highlights 10 Reception Highlights 14 Year 1 Highlights 20 Year 2 Highlights 26 Year 3 Highlights 32 Year 4 Highlights 40 Year 5 Highlights 48 Year 6 Highlights 56 Year 6 Leavers’ Destinations 66 Year 7 Highlights 6 8 Year 8 Highlights 72 Year 8 Leavers’ Destinations 73 Modern Foreign Languages 79 Residential Week 80 Learning Outside the Classroom 8 2 Science 8 4 ICT 86 STEAM Week 8 7 Design and Technology 8 7 Maths 8 9 English 9 0 World Book Day 9 1 Creative Arts – Art 92 Creative Arts – Music 9 4 Productions 96 Sport 1 00 Intrepidus Week 1 04 Clubs – Beyond the Curriculum 105 Supporting Charities 106 Stroud School Association 107 Staff Room 1 08 From our Head Boy and Girl 1 10

3

Celebrating 10 Years

Headmistress’ Welcome

A

s I was searching the internet recently, looking for inspiration for my end of term assembly, I came across a short film about the Koh Panyee football team of 1986, and it summed up perfectly the point I wanted to make. This was no ordinary football team and no ordinary island. Koh Panyee, in southern Thailand, is home to a fishing community and is built entirely on stilts. The children on that island in 1986 loved to watch football but had never played – as you can imagine, their location made playing football something of a challenge! But they were determined to find a way to play, so plank by plank they built a floating football pitch.

They practised tirelessly, barefoot, often slipping into the water or standing on nails… there were lots of splinters!

Eventually they had the opportunity to join a tournament on the mainland and headed off, joined by a literal raft of supporters from the village who had clubbed together to buy the boys some kit. At the tournament the boys were better than they thought they would be and made it to the semi-final. After a difficult first half, two goals down, the boys decided to take off their new boots and play barefoot, equalising with five minutes to go. Did they win this match and go on to win the tournament? No, sadly not. So, were all their efforts in vain? Hardly – after that, football became Panyee’s number one pastime, a new nail free professional pitch was built and the club they started is now regarded as one of Southern Thailand’s best football clubs. The lesson from this story? No matter what challenges we face in life, we can always do something about it, we can make a difference.

At this time of year, I always sit down and reflect on the things we have achieved as a school community, particularly as I read all of the children’s reports and I complete my end of year paper for the Governors. It’s important to have these points of reflection, to establish whether or not we have made a difference.

This year we have developed the wild side of Stroud; we have managed the woodland areas, built a new bird hide

4

and developed plans for a new outdoor environment for Nursery and Reception. Mr Caie has introduced outdoor learning in Years 3 – 8 and we have invited local community groups to provide much needed respite to groups such as Romsey Young Carers. We have also worked with Mrs Reid to develop our 4-year sustainability plan and we can’t wait to launch our Sustainably Stroud initiative in the Autumn Term with our first Green Day. We have welcomed seven Ukrainian pupils to the school, doing what little we can to support families in their hour of need, and our Student Council has raised more than £2,000 for the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. The SSA have been back in action, bringing our community together with a Curry and Comedy night, the annual Easter Egg Hunt, our hugely successful Pimm’s and Pudding evening and of course supporting with numerous other events, not least providing the Pimm’s and ice-cream on sports day! The SSA are already hard at work planning the return of the Christmas Fayre, and the introduction of a Summer Fete.

This year, through consultation with staff and our critical friend Professor Bill Lucas, we have finalised our Learning Wheel and we will be ready to share this with parents and children in the Autumn Term. Mrs Wilcox has worked with staff to overhaul our English curriculum, putting much greater emphasis on the teaching of writing, and we are already seeing rapid progress from the children as a result. We moved our end of year play to the Dobson Theatre at King Edward’s and it was a resounding success! Mrs Duncan, Mrs Fay and the wider team surpassed all expectations.

We have consulted with teachers and pupils on the way we mark work at Stroud and are launching our new feedback policy in September, with clear approaches that will support and stretch all our pupils. We have welcomed our families back into school and have loved returning to the busy, buzzy world that is unmistakably Stroud. And of course, we have done a lot of listening to parents so that we continue to develop in a way that meets the needs of our families. We’ll continue to consult on a wide range of topics in the coming terms.

So, my litmus test: have we made a difference this year? Yes, I really think we have. We want our children to flourish at school, not only in their accomplishments but also in their relationships, in their engagement with the issues of the day… we want our children to know how rewarding a life of purpose can be. We want our children to be aware of the world around them, be ready to act when needed and most of all we want them to be kind.

We may not have built a floating football pitch, but we are building strong foundations for our children to succeed.

Rebecca Smith, Headmistress

H

eraclitus, the Ancient Greek philosopher, said the only constant in life is change and that is certainly true in schools. We are not the school we were last term, let alone last year or 10 years Matilda Production at KES ago. In my introduction over the page, I have listed just a few of the many things we have achieved over the past year at Stroud and this shows just how constant change is in a busy prep school. Over the last two years we have also dealt with the coronavirus pandemic and this has shown us that when necessary, the wheels of change can spin faster than we had ever thought possible!

So how much has changed in the 10 years since Stroud was acquired by our senior school, King Edward VI Southampton? Well... a lot! In that time we have had three different Heads; Mr Dodds, Mr Worrall and myself. We have seen the retirement of some longstanding members of staff and have been lucky enough to recruit new, outstanding teachers in that time.

We have seen phenomenal investment in the school site with the new dining room, the Year 5 pod, the new KS1 building and most recently the new Middle School building and adventure playground – and that’s on top of other refurbishments, building upgrades and site security improvements. We have developed the school farm and the Forest School areas. We have embarked on joint prep and senior staff training and social events, and we have begun to use each other’s sites to make the most of our shared facilities – we love using Wellington Sports Ground, the Dobson Theatre and Lovaton Rural Studies Centre, and KES love using our woodland, cookery room and the ASD.

Stroud now benefits from greater support with HR, Finance, IT, Marketing, Operations and of course, Governance Support. Our children now enjoy Art, Drama, IT, Science, Sport and Music activities over at KES, to name just a few. We have changed the sibling discount scheme to ensure that it applies across both schools and we have also increased the opportunities for Stroud families to visit KES. We think we have come a long way, but we want the next 10 years to be even better.

In the Autumn Term we will start to set out our 10 Year Strategic Plan for Stroud. We will be consulting with parents and children on a number of topics to make sure that we continue to offer the absolute best independent education in our region, and that we continue to adapt as required to suit the ever-changing needs of our families.

Being able to adapt and adjust to the environment in which we find ourselves has always been the key to thriving, whether as an individual, a school or any other organisation. I think the next 10 years will undoubtedly see more change, but ultimately this will be the continued evolution, from strength to strength, of our fantastic school.

Middle School building

This year, we also held our first ‘Residentials Week’ with all children from Year 4 to Year 8 heading off for residential trips near and far, putting our school motto Forever Undaunted into practice. The younger children also had a week of trying new things and heading off on day trips – a great time was had by all!

5

Embracing the Great Outdoors

T

his year has been a year like no other for our outdoor provision – our children have been learning outside more than ever before! It’s fair to say we’re back with a bang and blossoming!

As part of our drive to embed and further develop outdoor learning, September saw the introduction of Mr Caie as Outdoor Education Leader and Wildlife Ranger, a new role for the school. Mr Caie has been focused on unlocking the potential of our extensive outdoor areas, whilst developing the curriculum of outdoor learning across all year groups.

This new momentum has been clear from the start, with September’s introduction of new Outdoor Learning sessions built into each half term for Years 3-8. Staff have also been given support to teach their curriculum lessons outside the classroom. Some highlights of these new sessions included: a rewilding study with Year 3, forest bathing with Year 4, Year 5 undertaking the RFS Junior Forester Award, orienteering challenges with Year 6, and ropework and weather systems with Years 7 and 8. Our new outdoor provision also supported our STEAM week and World Book Day; there were space themed challenges to build students’ teamwork and problemsolving abilities as part of our World Book Day, and sessions looking at planetary rovers and lunar craters in STEAM week.

We have also begun the development of our outdoor spaces, with several areas of woodland getting a new lease of life with pathway restoration, seating areas and hedgerows. Other areas are being left to recover organically as part of a wider rewilding effort. Mr Caie has also constructed a wildlife hide nestled into a forgotten corner of the grounds, in which pupils have been able to get closer to our wildlife and also have an outdoor hub to use in wetter weather. Many other exciting projects are on the horizon!

6

Meanwhile, in Early Years and Key Stage 1 our Forest School has continued to thrive, with children getting back in the mud and learning through adventures. We have also seen some staff changes with Mrs Lowndes joining the fantastic Forest School team, alongside Miss Godwin and Mrs Hodges. A highlight of this year’s Forest School was a series of trips to Half Moon Common in the New Forest, led by Mrs Lowndes. The children loved seeing the wildlife and following their curiosities.

It’s also been great to have Beach School back up and running, providing a fantastic opportunity to engage our children in Key Stage 1. Beach School is a whole lot more than environmental study: it can be designed to link with every aspect of the curriculum – from numeracy to art.

Children learn about the natural world around them and develop their practical, emotional and intellectual skills, all taking place at the seaside.

Alongside offering new opportunities to our children, Mr Caie and Mrs van Zyl have begun developing ways in which our facilities and staff can support our local community. To kick this off, 2022 has seen Stroud working with the brilliant team at Romsey Young Carers to offer outdoor experiences and events, including Easter egg hunts, as part of the charity’s support for young carers and their families.

With success and enjoyment already felt by all involved, we are looking forward to developing and expanding this outreach next year.

Mr Caie, our Wildlife Ranger sessions have proved to be an out and out success, creating a space for decompression, relationship building and for children to simply be themselves.

As a whole, this year has seen our outdoor spaces come alive with activity. The true potential of our surroundings is being unleashed for the benefit of our children, our community and our natural environment! We’re excited to see what the future holds…

As well as supporting the wellbeing of members of our community, this year saw a new initiative of woodland wellbeing, playing an important part of the school’s extended pastoral support.

Mr Caie, working in partnership with Mrs Brown, created time for children and groups within the school to receive outdoor wellbeing sessions, tailored to the needs and aspirations of those involved. In only a short amount of time, these 7

All Together Again

A

fter the national lockdown at the beginning of 2021, followed by teaching in bubbles, it was so nice to be able to all get together to mark the beginning of the new academic year in September 2022 – in person!

We hosted our first ‘Welcome Picnic’ on the first day of term, where we all gathered and welcomed old friends and teachers. We were absolutely delighted by the fantastic turnout from new and current families. This was such a fantastic opportunity for everyone to be together in person, after such a prolonged period of being apart.

Back at school we enjoyed being together again; Year 6 enjoyed putting on their sharing assemblies for their parents and we held our successful Public Speaking competition to live audiences. We ran parents’ breakfasts, so that Middle School and Senior School parents could come in, enjoy a croissant and juice and see their children’s work. Assemblies have taken place together again in the ASD and parents have enjoyed spectacular shows – in person – watching the Gym and Dance Show, the Year 4 ‘Pirates v Mermaids’ and of course our main summer production – ‘Oliver!’

Early Years showed off their work to their parents and grandparents and Year 8 cooked and served their parents and guardians a gourmet meal at the end of the Spring Term.

Parents enjoyed a very funny and successful Curry and Comedy Night run by the Stroud School Association, and the SSA also hosted a popular Easter Egg hunt around the grounds for our children.

Further changes here at Stroud for 2022 include a new adventure playground – Highwood Heights – which has log towers and climbing nets, as well as two very cool hammocks!

What a fantastic year we have had, and even though a few events still needed to be cancelled or postponed due to COVID, it has been amazing to be back together again at our wonderful school. Forever Undaunted!

8

9

Miss Roberts

Mrs Graves Mrs Fairbrass

Mrs Timms

Mrs Giles

Mrs Gocher

have had a wonderful year. The children in Deer ““We class have been an absolute pleasure to teach. We have had so much fun together. We have enjoyed getting to know you all and have loved watching you grow and learn.

”

Mrs Graves, Mrs Fairbrass, Mrs Timms, Miss Roberts, Mrs Giles and Mrs Gocher

We warmly welcome the following children who started at the beginning of the Summer Term: Margot, Misha, Maya, Saoirse and Mahaan.

10

11

Deer

Harry “ I like playing trains.

Ember “ I like using the stamps to make pictures with my new friends.

Aurora I like doing “ lots of puzzles.

”

Amber “ I like doing yoga. ”

”

”

Charlotte “ I like the role play area.

Thomas “ I like playing games in PE.

Sophia “ I love dressing up as a mermaid.

”

”

Rupert I like watching “ the trains from the garden.

”

Henry “ I like the farm toys.

Walter I like playing “ with the toy food.

”

”

Lilliana “ I like sailing in the pirate ship in the garden.

” Kian “ I love to paint pictures and singing at group time.

”

”

Montgomery I like building things with blocks.

“

”

Adrian I like building models.

“

Mila “ I like doing the princess puzzles.

”

12

Martha I “ like singing nursery

rhymes at Nursery.

”

Mehran “ I like playing with all my friends.

”

”

Magnus I like playing “ with toys in the garden.

Faye “ I like making models and sticking.

”

Rafferty I like playing “ games and doing puzzles.

”

Quentin “ I like splashing in the water at Forest School.

”

”

Anya I like colouring pictures.

“

Jesse “ I love playing pirates and going on treasures hunts.

”

” Ava “ I like drawing and colouring pictures.

”

Everlynn I like looking “ through the binoculars.

”

Juno “ I like playing board games with my friends.

”

13

Mrs Roberts

Mrs Humphreys

Mrs Stapley

Mrs Germain

Mrs Hansen

a wonderful year it has been. It seems so long “What ago that we all arrived at school, clutching our teddy bears for a Teddy Bears’ Picnic at the start of the year. We have visited Hillier Gardens, enjoyed watching ‘Dear Zoo’ at the theatre, zoomed into Space for STEAM week, and so much more. It has been such a pleasure to watch you all grow.

Mrs Humphreys, Mrs Roberts, Mrs Stapley,

”

Miss Germain, Mrs Hansen and Mrs Boyes

14

15

Squirrels

Ray “ I love playing with my friends and learning my number bonds by playing

skittles.

”

Abigail I loved the farm coming to visit. I stroked the rabbit – he was so soft.

“

Rupert “ I loved winning the section treat. We went to Frankie’s Fun Factory.

”

”

Elizabeth M I loved visiting Hillier Gardens with“my friends.

Elizabeth K “ I love to make things at the craft table.

”

Sophie “ I love to draw. I really like drawing pictures for my friends.

”

”

Elijah “ I loved building a puppet theatre with the bricks and using the puppets to tell a story.

16

”

Jenson “ I like building in the deconstructed role play area. My

favourite thing to do is build a house.

”

Charlie I liked going on our school trip “ to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens on the minibus.

”

Chania “ I love building with the small wooden bricks and making towers.

”

Ellis “ I love our singing assembly with Mrs Gocher.

”

Emily “ I love to paint and build models from Lego.

”

Felix I love pretending to be a policeman and building with the Lego.

“

”

17

Woodpeckers

Thomas I love making campfires “ in Forest School and can’t wait to

Eliza “ I love Forest School because I like climbing trees and splashing

Toby I like building houses with my friends in the classroom and the outdoor classroom.

“

”

in puddles.

”

Lucy I love ballet with Miss Natalie because I love dancing!

“

Abigail I like playing hide and seek with my friends in the garden.

“

”

”

Emily “ I enjoy ICT because I like drawing pictures.

”

eat marshmallows and chocolate soon!

”

18

Oliver

“ I like PE because we play football. ”

Evelyn “ I enjoy the dance club because Miss Natalie dances with me.

”

Alice “ I like playing ‘sisters’ with my friends in the classroom.

”

Alexander G “ I like PE because we get to run around and play different games.

”

Nicholas I like PE because we “ get to play ‘stuck in the mud’!

”

Alexander T “ I like playing with the cars and building ramps for them.

”

Elijah “ I like playing in the mud in the garden with my friends.

”

19

Mrs Lowndes Miss Fessey

Mrs Weston

Mrs Andrews

Mrs Carroll

Mrs Carr

year we have had so much fun, learning “This all about things from Florence Nightingale to Captain Blackbeard. The children have been a delight to teach, and we have loved seeing them learn through their discovery time.

”

Miss Fessey, Mrs Lowndes, Mrs Andrews,

Mrs Weston, Mrs Carroll, Mrs Carr, Miss Waterman

20

21

Foxes

Edward I like Year 1 because I love learning everything.

“

Ines “ I like Year 1 because we get to do nice things.

”

Jensen “ I really love Foxes because I love doing Maths.

Eleanor I like Year 1 because I like writing sentences.

“

”

”

Callum I love Year 1 because I get to learn new things.

“

Jack I like Year 1 because I am always happy, and I like playing.

“

22

”

”

Harrison “ I love doing Maths because it is fun.

”

Amaan “ I really liked going to the car museum because we

went on a car and a bus, and we didn’t have to wear a seatbelt.

”

Qianmu “ I really like eating lunch: my favourite is pasta.

”

”

Georgina “ I love Year 1 because I love reading books.

”

Olivia I like Maths because I like adding.

“

”

Coco “ I like doing Maths because it is fun.

“

Amaya I love all my teachers and friends because they are nice.

“

”

Sterling I love playing with my friends in the classroom.

“

”

Harry “ I like doing Maths because it is good.

”

Izabella “ Foxes is great because I love

playing with my friends.

”

Gabriel “ I love Year 1 because I really like doing Discovery Time.

”

23

Rabbits

Grace “ I loved going on Highwood Heights on Pirate Day.

Gabriela “ I liked Red Nose Day because we

Harry “ I enjoyed writing my weekend news every Monday morning.

”

did lots of dancing.

”

Konstantinos “ I like playing Star Wars

Lucas “ I’ve enjoyed learning to draw using

dodgeball at Sports Club.

the iPads because my pictures are great.

”

”

”

Max I like our Stroud families because I get to do things with my brother.

“

Sahaj I loved World Book Day because we all had space costumes.

”

Harvey I like Art. I liked drawing my oil pastel alien.

“

”

”

Oliver I like maths because we measure things.

“

Sally Leila “ I love doing experiments in Science.

”

24

Frederick I enjoyed playing jumping games in PE.

“

”

Sylvie “ I like doing handwriting and playing with my friends.

”

Keith-Alexander

“

I really like doing gymnastics in PE.

”

I really enjoyed the treasure hunt we did on Pirate Day.

Arthur “ I like going on the computers in ICT.

”

”

Florence “ I really liked pretending in the hospital on Florence Nightingale Day.

”

Evelyn I like making things in DT because you can add more until it becomes what you want it to be.

”

“

”

25

Mr Frisby Mrs Walton Mrs Roberts

Mrs Pike

Mrs Hodges

Mrs Boyes

Mrs Symmons

a great year we’ve had together in Year “What 2. We’ve explored many different topics, from Deep Down Under all the way up to outer space. You have all worked so hard and we have had lots of fun along the way.

Mrs Walton, Miss Pike, Mrs Keep,

”

Mrs Hodges, Mrs Symmons, Mrs Roberts, Mrs Boyes, Mr Frisby and Miss Upton.

26

27

Badgers

Eliana “ I loved learning about astronauts because it is fun to learn about.

”

Naina “ The theatre trip to see ‘The Lion, The Witch and

Rafael “ My favourite thing about Year 2 has been going

”

”

The Wardrobe’ was fantastic. I loved it when they went through the wardrobe into Narnia.

Oscar “ I loved going to the Mayflower Theatre because it

was really cool. My favourite part was when the White Witch went flying in the air and her dress was enormous.

up to the counter to get food at lunchtime. I also love speaking in Show and Tell on Fridays.

Sylvia “ I enjoyed making my aliens with the oil pastel

Kyra “ I love Show and Tell because I like talking

in Art, because it includes drawing and I love Art!

to everybody about the things I bring in.

Year 2 is really fun!

”

”

”

Hugo “ I have loved everything, because

”

Helena “ I have absolutely loved everything about Year 2. If I had to choose one thing, it would be making my clay polar bear because I like playing with clay.

”

Tara “ I love everything in Year 2. I loved reciting

our Sweet Space poem, and eating the sweets and chocolates afterwards!

28

”

Evangeline “ I enjoyed Show and Tell, because you

get to bring something in and talk to your friends about it.

”

Matilda “ I loved making my clay polar bear because I love Art lessons and making things.

”

Leonard “ Making my Moon Buggy was really fun,

and my best lessons have been learning about space!

”

Anna I loved Princess and Knight Day, because I liked when the Knight stormed into our classroom in the morning.

I will remember it forever!

“

”

Sage “ My favourite bit of Year 2 has been making our

Ruby “ I love Golden Time at the of the week,

Myah “ I love Year 2. There is nothing I do not like. It has

”

”

because we choose to do whatever we like!

been the best time ever and learning has been really fun!

Moon Buggies and our trips to the castles. I also loved Knights and Princess Day because I dressed up as a dragon!

”

Jack “ I loved making my Moon Buggy. I added

loads and loads of windpipes to help it go faster.

”

Lara I loved going to Arundel Castle because it was interesting. I loved seeing the spinning crown that floated up high on the fountain.

“

”

29

Mice

Georgia “ My favourite subject is Art and I enjoyed

William “ I have enjoyed learning about the Arctic

Penelope I like Mice class because of how many wonderful teachers there are and all the great Maths we do.

“

and about space. I also like Forest School and Beach School because we had s’mores and fires.

”

”

making my moon buggy in DT. I also liked making my clay polar bear and painting it white.

Harriet “ I enjoyed doing DT and making our

”

Delphine “ I like show and tell and Art lessons. I also like Forest and Beach School.

”

“

we also have hot chocolate and biscuits. I also enjoyed learning the violin.

get to set paper houses on fire and eat s ‘mores. I also like our school lunches.

moon buggy. My favourite subject is English because I get to write stories. I also like Forest school because we get to make lots of fires.

Sebastian I really like PE, because we get to do lots of different sports.

Sam “ My favourite lesson is at Beach School because

Emily “ My favourite lesson is Forest School because we

”

”

”

”

Zak “ My favourite subject is Maths, because we do 30

addition and I also liked making my moon buggy.

”

Daniel “ My favourite topic was ‘Reach for the Stars’ because we got to make our moon buggy and my favourite planet is Jupiter. I also like climbing at Forest School.

”

Konstantinos “ I like Forest School and Beach

Daniela I like reading books and doing Maths. I also like Beach and Forest School.

“

”

Lottie “ My favourite subject is Art and DT because

I made my moon buggy, which was sprayed silver. I also like the fires at Forest School.

”

Mialise “ I like writing in English and reading.

I have enjoyed all our topics in Year 2.

”

Jack

My favourite lesson was at Forest School because we got to eat s’mores and we have had fires.

”

School. My favourite subjects are History and Geography. I like playing at break times, too.

”

Mansimar “ I liked making my clay polar bear and all of my art lessons. I also like English, and I liked learning to play the trumpet.

”

Jake I like doing Maths because I like adding.

I also like playing in the adventure playground.

“

”

31

Mrs Tippett

Mr Rouse Mrs Hoggarth

Mrs Walder Mrs Cope

Miss Upton

an amazing year we have had, “What Year 3. From Tutankhamun to Moon shelters, Klimt artwork to Roman reenactments, we have learnt so much and had a great time along the way.

”

Mrs Tippett, Mrs Hoggarth, Mr Rouse,

Mrs Cope, Mrs Walder and Miss Upton

32

33

Robins

Cheikh Learning about perimeters was really fun. I liked the challenge of trying to make the perimeters of triangles and squares the same. I also liked playing the piano in the concert.

“

”

Rory “ I liked doing my prepared talk on running,

James “ I have enjoyed playing matches in football

because it made me feel braver and more confident talking out loud.

this year because it is really energetic.

Klimt painting, it allowed me to be really creative.

34

”

Violet “ I really liked that we made some really yummy smoothies in DT. Mine were made from banana and mango – it was delicious!

”

Charlotte I really enjoyed History, especially the bit about Howard Carter finding the tomb of Tutankhamun.

“

”

especially all the swirls and hiding a dragon in the picture.

Eva “ STEAM Week was really fun, and I loved making the moon shelters.

”

Dylan “ We read a book called ‘The Iron

Man’ and I liked trying to describe and draw him.

”

create. I loved painting it.

Felicity “ I have loved taking part in Games this year

Alexander “ I loved my Gustav Klimt painting,

”

”

River “ I have enjoyed painting my beautiful Gustav

Elsa “ The Moon shelters were really fun to design and

”

because I have loved playing netball against other teams.

”

”

Thomas “ Researching facts about Nigeria for my

leaflet was really interesting, because we got to find out about a country that we would not normally know about.

”

Finlay “ I really liked putting the papier mâché

over the balloon when I was making my Moon shelter.

”

Emma I have enjoyed making cool firework pictures using Purple Mash tools!

“

”

35

Swifts

Jennistaa “ I loved Outdoor Education because

Edward “Games has been great in Year 3. I am really

Barnabas “ I enjoyed singing the Periodic Table

good at dodging people in rugby and scoring a try.

”

song to the Year 8s and loved becoming quite popular this year. I also enjoyed learning the cello.

I liked learning about nature.

I also loved doing the Gym & Dance display for the first time: I did TPA and Gymnastics.

”

Luca I loved STEAM Week when we learned about rockets and made our own Moon shelters. I also like my new teacher Mrs Cope.

“

Freddie “ I liked ICT because it was interesting. I

Sam “ I liked painting in the style of Gustav Klimt in

liked doing animations and making things move.

Art and I loved my Maths lessons, especially adding and subtracting.

”

”

”

”

36

I also loved Art, especially our Gustav Klimt paintings. The best thing in DT was when we were making muffins.

”

Jasjot I like Maths and loved when we were measuring things around the classroom accurately with a ruler.

“

Florence “ I enjoyed being new to Groove Child and Thomas “ I loved ICT because it was

really fun creating Lego space animation.

”

Taaj Horse riding is so fun! I loved seeing the teachers and the horses. I also loved Games, especially when we played benchball.

“

”

Annabel “ I liked learning about measurement in Maths. I also love playing and smiling with my friends.

”

”

Aisha-Isis I loved DT when we made our smoothies – they were yummy. I also enjoyed writing the Rooted story.

“

”

Alice “ I love Art because it is fun and really relaxing when I get to do painting. I also loved having Florence in my class, because she is my best friend.

”

37

Wrens

Eleanor “ In Year 3, I enjoyed playing on Highwood Heights

Erin “ Netball with my friends was great! My passing

with my friends, especially the tower. I also enjoyed making my Tutankhamun sarcophagus in Art, and I started learning the oboe!

skills have really improved.

”

Charlie I loved my piano lessons this year. I enjoyed writing our postcards in English.

“

38

”

Rosalind “ I loved STEAM Week when we designed and

made our own Moon shelters.

”

“

Mila I was new to Stroud this year, but I have made lots of lovely new friends.

“

Alexander “ I loved learning about the awful

”

Lucas I’ve loved Games this year, particularly football and rugby.

Egyptians and Tutankhamun, especially the process of mummification.

”

”

Cameron I loved going on school trips, especially to the Tutankhamun Museum where I learnt lots of fascinating facts.

“

”

”

Mishka Rockstars was my favourite thing. I managed to get all 60 questions correct in under a minute!

”

James Maths was my favourite thing this year because I found it really challenging which I love! I learnt lots of new things.

“

“

Hari “ I loved getting muddy in cross-country and learning my timetables in Rockstars.

”

”

Luke “ In Year 3, I enjoyed playing the piano in front of Middle School at the Musical Delight Concert.

”

Brooke “ I enjoyed learning to play the violin and playing different pieces of music.

”

39

Mrs Lindsey Mrs Niziolek

Mrs Frost Mrs Robinson

Mrs Hannam

a year we have had! Through it all, “What you have shown wonderful creativity and a determination to succeed. Your adventurous, fun and caring personalities have really shone and made you a pleasure to teach. We have really enjoyed our Terrible (or fabulous) Tudor Day, exploring Butser Farm, learning outside the classroom and your dedication to everyday learning. We could not be prouder of you.

Mrs Niziolek, Mrs Lindsey, Mrs Robinson,

”

Mrs Frost, Mrs Hannam and Mr Applegarth-Jones

40

41

Kingfishers

Olivia “ I loved taking part in the Year 4 performance

Jack I really enjoyed dressing up as a Tudor and taking part in the Tudor activities, especially making the sugar roses!

“

Anna My Year 4 highlight was definitely spending time with friends.

I also enjoyed taking part in the ‘Pirates vs Mermaids’ performance and I loved the residential trip to Tile Barn.

“

Harry “ I loved dressing up in Tudor clothes and making

“

”

”

Tudor food, especially the butter. Learning about World War II was also interesting.

Miles History is my favourite subject. I loved learning about how we have developed over the years and how we now use more efficient resources and materials to create clothing and buildings. Visiting Butser Ancient Farm and the residential trip were highlights for me.

of ‘Pirates vs Mermaids’ and playing the part of a mermaid. I also enjoyed my piano lessons.

”

Theo I really like DT, because we get to do fun projects and make things out of wood. I enjoyed making a Bug Hotel.

“

”

”

”

Lara My favourite subject at school is Maths. I particularly enjoyed learning how to do the bus stop method.

“

42

”

Thomas “ I love cross country running and taking part in games. I also liked Tudor Day.

”

Ioannis “ I joined Stroud at the beginning of Year 4 and my first day was the absolute best. I made friends quickly and it was a fun day.

”

Heath “ I really enjoy Maths and ICT at school.

”

Maluke I really enjoyed doing my public speaking talk.

I got to the final with my talk on Mo Salah. I got a Merit for it!

“

”

William “ I enjoyed taking part in the ‘Pirates vs Mermaids’ play. I got to be a narrator! I also thought the trip away to Tile Barn was brilliant.

”

Flora “ Being in the play ‘Pirates vs Mermaids’ was great fun. I also enjoyed singing in Junior Choir and starting the flute!

”

43

Nightingales

James “ I really enjoy outdoor learning and I loved sailing our Nicholas “ My favourite subjects at school are Maths

and DT. I particularly enjoyed taking part in weaving and making a wooden bug hotel.

paper boats in the pond. We got to have hot chocolate after that! Our residential trip to Tile Barn was brilliant too.

”

Poppy I absolutely loved Tudor Day, because we got to have a banquet at the end of the day! We got to make our own butter and Tudor sugar roses.

“

Wilfred “ I loved going on the Stroud ski trip and

improving my skiing technique.

I got a ski award too!

”

”

Thomas “ I enjoyed learning about fractions using pancakes and bananas.

”

Daniel I enjoyed taking part in the science experiments throughout the year – especially learning about the digestive system!

“

Maximus “ I enjoyed doing the Tudor portrait and

Harry “ I enjoyed our trip to Butser Farm. We warmed up in

learning my times tables.

an old Anglo-Saxon mud house by a campfire and we built a wall made of sticks and mud.

”

”

”

”

Lois “ I love Art and DT; we have made some

44

fun things. I particularly enjoyed weaving in DT.

”

Martha “ I loved Tudor Day, because we got to dress up and we got to do lots of fun activities!

”

Jack My favourite subject at school is ICT. I love going to the ICT suite and using the keyboards. I also like playing the trumpet and joining the orchestra!

“

”

Alice “ I really enjoyed learning about the Anglo-

Saxons and going to Butser Farm. I also liked Tudor Day and learning about World War II.

”

Isabella “ I really liked Tudor Day. I dressed up as a

servant and we got to make and eat Tudor food. It was great going away with our friends on the residential trip as well.

”

Ripley “ My favourite part of Year 4 was playing a parrot

in the ‘Pirates vs Mermaids’ performance. It’s in my nature to act and I loved it!

”

Daisy “Cross-country running is my favourite.

The highlight of this year was when I came 6th out of 43 in the year group.

”

Freddie “ I enjoyed learning about perimeter and area whilst using Lego blocks.

”

45

Pheasants

Imogen “ Tudor Day was a highlight for me – I enjoyed Grace “ I loved playing netball, cross-country running

Theodore I loved going to after school clubs; they’re really fun, especially Computer Explorers.

“

and doing the bleep test. I also love Mrs Lindsey – she’s the best teacher I’ve ever had.

”

46

”

”

Charlie “ I love taking part in Games, particularly football matches.

making sugar roses. It was really fun! I also loved acting as a mermaid in our Year 4 play ‘Pirates versus Mermaids’, and my DT lessons!

”

Thea “ My favourites subjects are PE and Games. I

love sports and gymnastics. I also love my class teacher.

”

Ria “ My highlight of Year 4 was taking part in the ‘Pirates

vs Mermaids’ performance. I played the part of a mermaid.

”

Ellen “ The highlight of Year 4 was having Mrs Lindsey

Orion “ ICT is my favourite subject at school. I enjoyed

Leah I love taking part in art activities and I really enjoyed doing the Tudor portraits. The trips were great fun too.

“

playing Interland during Internet Safety Week.

”

as a teacher! She is the best teacher I have ever had! She lets us listen to nice calm music to help us to focus and learn.

”

”

Archie “ I enjoyed Tudor Day because we got to make butter, which was fun! It was tasty too!

”

Bernardo “ My favourite part of Year 4 was taking part in the ‘Pirates vs Mermaids’ performance and playing the role of a pirate!

”

Toby I love playing games and taking part in rugby matches. I love to improve my skills because I play for Romsey Rugby Club.

“

”

Henry I enjoyed playing a rugby match against Farleigh.

It was a big challenge because they were twice as big as us.

“

”

47

Miss Payton Mrs Godwin

Mr Case

Miss Andrews

have really enjoyed this year in our new “We home down in The Pod. It has been great looking at new topics, such as the Shang Dynasty, and seeing how all the children have flourished over the year.

Mrs Godwin, Miss Payton,

”

Mr Case and Miss Andrews

48

49

Eagles

Yasmine “ I enjoyed my piano lessons and playing a solo in the

History, English, ICT and Music lessons!

We have been on so many school trips and it’s been the best year ever!

50

I wasn’t confident but now I am in Year 5, I have learnt so much more and now I’m good at it. I liked doing the Bag2School drop with my friends and Miss P. It was really good fun.

”

been successful at making a fire before! I also enjoyed spending time with my friends, particularly on the residential trip to Ironbridge.

our Ironbridge trip. Also, I enjoyed Forest School. I really like Stroud.

”

”

”

Millie “ I have really, really loved Maths. At the beginning of the year,

Henry “ I enjoyed visiting Beaulieu Palace House and all the places on

Middle School concert. I also loved helping everyone with Bag2School recycling and I loved how everyone had old clothes to donate to charity.

Oscar “ I have some great forever memories of Year 5 from our Science,

Naomi “ I enjoyed making fires in the forest, because I had never

”

Dexter “ I love Year 5, because we have done many things from making fires to using Oreos to making phases of the Moon. When I did Bag2School, we had a poster and we had to wave and smile. It was fun! It has been a fun year at a great, new school.

Zachary I love how nice everyone is in Year 5 and I loved going to Beaulieu as a Victorian.

Forest School was great as well.

“

”

Jasper “ I loved dressing up as a Victorian – as you can see in the

picture – because I got to wear my old school uniform! I enjoyed all my lessons, but I especially liked ICT; it is such fun and I now do proper coding.

”

Tabitha “ In Year 5, I really enjoyed doing the writing assessment, making our wooden block-bots and making a fire in Forest School. But, ultimately, I just enjoy being at Stroud.

”

Roseanna “ I really liked the Shang Dynasty Museum that we

Jamie “ I absolutely loved making Oreo Cookies in Science. We then ate

Annabel “ I have enjoyed making new friends and I have

enjoyed Science. The best lesson was making the shapes of the Moon out of Oreos, as it was such good fun and we got to eat them at the end!

”

the Oreos. This has been one of the best years at Stroud. It has been great fun and I have lots of great memories.

”

”

Aaron “ In Year 5, I have enjoyed all of my lessons and I enjoyed the homework; my favourite one was making an oracle bone.

”

created in our classrooms, because I got to taste new kinds of food, which were delicious. I loved performing in Springburst concert, because I am always passionate about singing and my Mum and Dad tell me I have a great voice. I loved Year 5.

It was one of the best years.

”

David “ I loved playing the flute when I was in the orchestra and

I played in Romsey Abbey! I liked making Oreo Moons and playing on the new adventure playground. Also, I loved doing Scratch in ICT.

”

51

Falcons

Nicolina “ I loved the Christmas party and all the decorations we made, like the paper chains. I used all the colours of the rainbow.

”

Josephine “ I have enjoyed playing netball, especially playing matches against other schools. I like working with a team and the match teas!

fun, and I got to be a poor Victorian girl. The residential trip to Telford was also great as we did so much and had a brilliant time with our friends.

”

”

Leila “ I loved learning to play netball and cannot wait to join a 52

Saffron “ I really liked going to Beaulieu – the motor museum was

club! My favourite positions are Goal Attack and Centre.

”

Max I loved the Chinese part of Language and Culture Day, because there was a toy like a football which you kicked up in the air and tried to do keepie-uppies.

“

”

Charles “ I really enjoyed the Beaulieu trip, where I played the role

of a poor Victorian child. The trip to Ironbridge was also brilliant because we did so many things and also got to spend time with our friends.

”

Harry “ I really loved Victorian Day because I got to sit with my best mate, Raushan, and then we met a woman called Miss Clarke, who was really strict.

”

Jorge “ I liked eating the matzah the best because it tasted nice! I learned that each food on the Seder plate has a purpose.

”

Albert “ I enjoyed drama because I am a confident young lad

Layla “ During STEAM Week, I loved making the Moon shelters because we were allowed to be really creative. Another highlight was the dance-athon for Comic Relief.

”

”

Felicity “ I liked horse riding because it is calm and fun! My favourite pony is Buttons.

Raushan “ I enjoyed taking part in a poetry competition against other schools. We won Best Use of Voice and the food was nice! I also got to join the rock band which was great.

”

”

Anna “ I really loved doing claymaking because I do it at home a lot,

so I really enjoyed doing my clay Moon shelter and all the designs on it.

”

Sophie “ I really enjoyed the Christmas party we had

at school. It was fun dressing up all Christmassy!

”

Ellis “ I enjoyed the Victorian Day, because I dressed up and

pretended I was employed by Miss Clarke at Palace House in Beaulieu.

Our Year 5 performance in the Springburst Concert was also fun.

”

Drew “ I like making things out of clay and plasticine,

because you can be creative and make anything you want!

”

53

Ospreys

Esther “ My favourite thing this year was when we acted out pickpocketing in our English lesson. I also enjoyed visiting the Science Museum and our Beaulieu trip.

”

Harry “ I really loved learning about solids, liquids and gases. It was fun

Annabelle “ This year I enjoyed visiting the Winchester

Annika In Year 5, I enjoyed making block-bots in DT, and I have also enjoyed playing netball in Games.

“

Manny “ I love the fact that I have improved in Maths: I was not too good

Science Museum because we got to play with the resources they have there. My second favourite thing this year is just being taught by Mr Case, Miss Andrews, Miss P and Mrs Godwin and I would like to thank them for helping me this year.

”

and now I’m confident with it. I also loved the Shang Dynasty, because we got to show what we had learnt. I loved playing sports matches against other schools because we get to play them, and we like the feeling of victory.

”

54

because we all worked together and showed what we had been working on. I have enjoyed the sport; we did lacrosse. It was the best!

”

William F “ I love Science! It has been such fun this year with all the experiments we have done. I loved the Shang Dynasty Museum.

But my best thing has been rugby: I love matches and training.

”

Skye In Year 5 I liked making my wooden block-bot. I also enjoyed going on my school trip to Beaulieu. I have enjoyed playing matches against other schools on Wednesdays afternoons. It was also great when Year 5 sang and danced in the Springburst Concert.

“

”

”

”

Alexander “ I loved filling in the Torture Tables in Maths because it is

Daisy “ I enjoyed preparing for our Sharing Assembly,

when we got to conduct our experiments – salt was the hardest because we couldn’t see if it had dissolved. Sport was brilliant when I was goalkeeper for hockey. I also love cricket and they both involve hand-eye co-ordination. The trip to Ironbridge was also great.

fun to try my hardest at something that I love and be able to excel at it. I also loved History, because everything about it is so wonderful and fascinating, from the Shang Dynasty to the Victorians.

And I’ve l really enjoyed sports, because it’s just incredible to have access to the amazing facilities we have at Stroud.

”

Zara “ This year I have improved on common denominators. There are a few people who helped me with my maths. My second thing this year that I loved was making a timeline in History, because I loved finding out about more facts.

”

Lana “ My highlight was going to the Beaulieu Motor Museum,

because we got to learn a lot of cool things about what the Victorians did and about their cars. Another great trip was the residential to Ironbridge.

I also really liked making block bots in DT, because it was fun cutting the wood and drilling holes.

”

William W “ I like ‘Torture Tables’, because it is fun to challenge your

friends and try to beat your high score.

Also, I like sports matches because it is fun to challenge other schools and work as a team with your friends and try your hardest to represent your school.

”

Alice “ I am proud of my drawing of a cactus because it was displayed at KES. I also enjoyed writing the recount about our trip to Beaulieu Motor Museum because I worked hard on it. One of my favourite things was making my wooden block-bot in DT. I am also proud of playing the piano in concerts.

”

55

Mr Brett Mrs Duncan Mrs Martin

Miss Brooker

Mrs Fay

6 have enjoyed a return to normality “Year with a host of trips, activities and a fabulous residential, which gave them an actionpacked end to their time in Key Stage Two. The children worked hard to prepare for external exams, and staff have ensured that curriculums across the subjects are exciting, inspiring and rigorous, so children have continued to enjoy their learning. We wish all the Year 6 children the very best in their future endeavours, safe in the knowledge that they are Forever Undaunted.

”

Mrs Martin, Miss Brooker, Mr Brett, Mrs Fay and Mrs Duncan.

56

57

Holly

Atticus This year in Gym I have learned to do a front flip and I have also done a roundoff – this was difficult to do. I also like rugby and I scored a try for the A team. My team was proud of me because it was the first try for the A team.

“

Zachary “ My time here at Stroud has been amazing. When I

Isabella I am enormously proud of my team at the IAPS netball tournament – I was captain. I also really enjoyed the Gym and Dance Display. The gym took a long time to learn, and I was proud of how I performed, especially with how I improved my somersaults.

“

first joined Stroud, I was nervous and worried that I wouldn’t make any friends, but as soon as I walked into the classroom I felt at home. I have been incredibly happy here!

”

Arthur “ In Year 6, I really enjoyed the Paultons Park trip,

because the rides were exhilarating – we got to learn about forces and have fun on all the amazing rides.

Although I only joined Stroud at the beginning of Year 6, I am thankful to all the teachers for all their help.

”

Cherry “ I have loved Year 6: the rugby and the netball tour was

”

incredible, and we stayed at a PGL centre. The Year 6 residential was also excellent – we went to Edinburgh and we were allowed to buy something of our choice to eat; I had a delicious meal at a restaurant with my friends!

”

Finlay “ This year, I have loved the amazing sporting opportunities

such as the rugby tour and IAPS. I also loved the incredible trip to Scotland. In Februar y, I was proud of my prepared talk, especially because I came second in the competition.

”

”

Bronwyn This year I really enjoyed our residential trip to Scotland.

“

I have also enjoyed my History lessons. I love to find out how people from the past lived and compare it to how we live now.

Moving to different lessons was something to master in Year 6 – I feel that this has helped me become more independent. I will remember my time at Stroud fondly.

”

58

Alexander “ This year I am proud of my English because I improved my creative writing, and I managed to use this skill in my KES exam. My hockey also really improved. I am immensely proud of when I was captain for the Canford School hockey tournament.

We didn’t win all the matches, but I am proud of how I played.

”

Hector “ In Year 6 I have really enjoyed music at Stroud. At the KES

concert, I played with the orchestra, and I also played a solo on the baritone horn. I also enjoyed playing in the Springburst Concert at Stroud: Music at Stroud has been great!

”

John “ This year I am immensely proud of my rugby. I am also proud

of my maths and how much I have improved with my amazing teacher..

Another thing that I loved this year was hockey at the Canford tournament – I got five goals out of four matches!

”

Kitty

This year I have achieved I especially liked Drama things. several – our big production was ‘Oliver!’ In Art, we drew biscuits, and I loved my picture. I also enjoyed hockey – thank you to the Games staff for helping me improve my hockey skills.

”

Owen “ This year, I really enjoyed Science, especially when we made

Planet Top Trumps. It was also incredible when we went to Paultons Park, since we got to do science and ICT, and we went on the Cyclonator.

I have really enjoyed being at Stroud and I’ll be really sad to leave.

”

Harvey This year I have enjoyed Science, as we have done so many exciting experiments. I have also enjoyed Music as we composed a piece of music to fit a film clip! I have also been doing piano practice as I only started lessons in January – I really enjoy them.

“

”

Bonnie “ My favourite parts of Year 6 were the trips. For the

netball and rugby tour, we went to PGL Liddington, for our residential we went to Scotland. Year 6 has been great. I will be forever grateful for all I have learned and all the values I have gained at Stroud.

”

59

Juniper

Miriam At Stroud my favourite subjects have been Art, Spanish and Games. I have loved how the teachers always encourage us to do our best.

I will carry on improving, and one day be the best that I can be. That is the best thing that I have learnt from Stroud, and I am grateful for that.

“

Beatrice “ I loved the teachers and made lots of friends at Stroud.

My favourite subjects are RS and History. I really enjoy finding out about the cultures in different religions, especially in Buddhism. I am fascinated by the life of Siddhar tha Gautama.

I am sad to be leaving Stroud.

Henry “ I plunged into the busyness of Stroud and look where I am now! I passed my exams and won eight gold medals in the county championships in swimming and did very well in regionals. I am so grateful for all support I have had from the teachers.

”

”

Matilda I have loved Stroud from the moment I joined. I especially enjoyed learning Spanish and Games.

My favourite sport is netball, and I was proud to represent the school at IAPS. I also enjoyed learning the flute and am proud to be awarded an Art Scholarship to KES.

“

William “ Every year at Stroud has been fantastic. I really progressed in hockey. I believe that I have improved with tackling other players and my confidence has grown. I will really miss Stroud but am excited for the future and what Embley offers.

”

Zara “ Stroud has been magical.

It is like a book, with a new chapter

”

for every new year. I wish this book called Stroud could last forever, because I think it has gone too quickly. It is so sad to be leaving.

”

”

Alessandro “ This year, I have really enjoyed football. I have learned

60

so many new skills and I have made it to the A team at school. I have also been selected for the Gothia Cup, which is a giant tournament, and I am thankful for all the things my Games teachers have done for me.

”

Lewis “ I have really enjoyed hockey this year. I have progressed massively.

I have also enjoyed playing the guitar in the rock band, particularly our live performance in the Springburst Concert! I have really enjoyed Stroud and I wish I could stay longer.

”

Max “ I have really loved hockey at Stroud and think I have improved a lot.

I had the chance to play at Wellington Sports Ground, which was great. I have also really enjoyed drum lessons and playing in the rock band!

”

Oliver I am incredibly sad about leaving Stroud because I have lots of friends here and so many memories. However, I am excited to go to my new school.

“

”

Theodore “ Rugby has been a great highlight for me as I have

advanced a lot. I originally thought I was never going to be good at rugby, since I am a bit smaller than some others, but I did not let that stop me from doing it! I am devastated that I must leave Stroud, and I will never forget it.

”

Alice “ This year, I’m proud of being in the IAPS tournament and how well our Stroud team did. I am extremely proud of all the interceptions I made, and how many shots I took.

”

Frederik I have enjoyed Geography at Stroud because I really like learning about the planet and other related things. During the rugby season, I was picked to go to the IAPs rugby tournament, which I was proud of. The skills I’ve learnt at Stroud will help me to progress further at my next school.

“

”

61

Willow Emma I really enjoy being creative at Stroud. I have also really enjoyed sport as I didn’t in Years 4 and 5, but Year 6 made it just so much more fun. I am so confused why I wasn’t keen on it before, but now it is one of my passions.

“

Benjamin “ Stroud has such a lovely community, and the people

”

are extremely kind. We went on different school trips: my favourite trip was to Paultons Park trip when we were studying forces in Science.

I have really enjoyed my time at Stroud so far and look forward to another two years here.

“

Gabriel “ When I joined Stroud in Year 5, I was of scared to be in a

Laura “ I have only been at Stroud since Year 5, but I have really

different country, but I made friends very quickly. Fast forward to Year 6 and I have made so many friends.

I love my clubs. My favourite is gym because I’m good at it!

enjoyed how inclusive everyone is and finding new talents and likes. I am glad I had the best form tutors – they are the best form tutors I could have had. This year, I have really liked Languages, English and Art.

Sakura I’m proud of Games, DT, Maths and piano because I have worked hard in all these lessons. I have loved being at Stroud. I hope that I will love the next school that I am going to. I will miss Stroud.

Stroud will be in my heart forever.

“

”

”

”

Tiffany One of my favourite memories of Stroud was our Viking Day in Year 4 as we learnt so much about Vikings – it was so much fun. In Year 6 I enjoyed DT because we made a beehive door stop. The Year 6 residential trip to Scotland was also amazing.

”

”

Thomas “ I have learnt so much, from algebra to using a sewing

machine. I love all the amazing facilities and the lessons we learn inside those facilities. I really enjoy how we have an outdoor learning session to get some fresh air. I also got a lot from piano lessons and enjoyed performing in the school play.

”

62

Abe “ I have really enjoyed my time here and have made lots of

friends. Stroud is a great school and when I walk into school, I feel incredibly happy, and the teachers make the lessons incredibly fun.

”

Edward “ I love Stroud. I have made lots of friends and am thankful for my teachers that have helped me along the way. I will miss everyone; not just the people, but the Sport, the Art, the DT and the grounds!

”

Katie “ I enjoyed form time because we always did fun things.

Even though we sometimes got a bit over excited, we were always having fun! Every day in 6W was different, no two days the same!

”

Samuel I have loved every minute of Stroud. The atmosphere, the kind teachers, and my friends all make Stroud what it is. My favourite event was the Intrepidus Week, because I loved doing all the activities with my friends!

“

”

Strelitzia I have really enjoyed Stroud; I loved playing hockey and having lots of fun. I really enjoyed going to Paultons Park and the trip to Edinburgh was also amazing. I really loved learning English and Maths because we went through so many topics which I have enjoyed a lot.

“

”

Oscar “ I love Stroud. I’ve enjoyed playing in the school rugby team and

going on the rugby tour, to then win the cup. I am sad to be leaving Stroud now and will miss everyone very much.

”

63

Yew

Florence H This year I have enjoyed Art. I have also enjoyed dance and enjoyed doing the Gym and Dance Display and the choreography competition. I also won the dance award. I will be sad to leave Stroud, everybody is kind and welcoming and I will miss everyone.

“

Henry “ Some of my favourite memories from Stroud are the visit to the Sealife Centre

Zoë My favourite thing during my time at this school was in STEAM Week when we made lunar landers to make sure that our ‘eggnaut’ didn’t perish when landing on the moon – our ‘eggnaut’ survived!

I’m devastated to be leaving.

“

in Year 2, the Winchester Science Centre in Year 4, the Intrepidus Camp in Year 5 and the trip to Scotland in Year 6. I will be sad leaving Stroud, but it has taught me to embrace challenges with confidence and happiness.

”

Travis “At the start of Year 6, we went to Paultons Park, where we learnt

a lot and had a really fun time. A great thing about the school is the sport: we do it at least four times every week and I love it. I will really miss Stroud.

”

Florence B “ I have so many good memories including the Rugby

64

and Netball Tour and the trip to Edinburgh. But the best thing of all has been my friends. I am sad to be leaving Stroud and am grateful for all the things I have learnt here.

”

Orhaan My time at Stroud has been brilliant. You get so many opportunities, like trying out new sports or learning an instrument. The possibilities are endless! At Stroud I have met some of the nicest people, and there are so many people you can talk to if you feel down.

“

”

Max “ I have loved Stroud dearly and the food is delicious!. Everyone is family

Heidi “Although I love Stroud, drama is my passion and that is why I am

here and I have made so many friends.

The teachers are so kind and I wouldn’t have got this far without them.

so happy to be going to KES because they have a theatre called the Dobson Theatre. Even though I am leaving, I know I have created incredible memories during my time here and there will always be part of Stroud in my heart forever.

”

”

”

”

Theo “ Since joining Stroud I have seen so many smiling, happy

and friendly faces. I will very much miss Stroud – especially the friends I have made here, and I am grateful for the amazing education that I have been given.

”

Rylee “A real highlight of my time at Stroud was going to Paultons Park for a science trip on forces!

Hockey was also brilliant. In fact, sport in general has been great.

Stroud has wrapped its arms around me and given me a big hug.

”

Aaron “ Some of my happiest memories were playing at the IAPS

Football Tournament and the Paultons Park science trip. I have really enjoyed Year 6 and am sad to leave. Stroud has been like a marshmallow – full of sweetness! I will cherish all the memories, even the tricky ones.

”

Amelie “ I am so happy that I got the chance to belong to this lovely school and to have so many friends with so many different personalities.

But I am sad now because I have to leave. When I leave Stroud, it will be like leaving my second family. Once a Stroudie, always a Stroudie!

”

Charlotte “ There has not been a day at Stroud when I haven’t burst

into laughter. I am sad to leave Stroud.

It has felt like a home to me for so long and it will always be a part of me.

”

James “ Some of my highlights of my time at Stroud have been the

family-like feeling – especially in team sport. Some of my favourite moments have been the Paultons Park trip and Scotland trip in Year 6. We had such a good laugh whilst also learning. I am devastated to leave Stroud.

”

65

Year 6 Leavers’ Destinations NAME

Zachary

Samuel

Beatrice

Henry

Harvey

Benjamin

Henry B

Zoë

Isabella

William

Sakura

Travis

DESTINATION

SCHOLARSHIP

King Edward VI School

Florence B

King Edward VI School

Cherry

Godolphin

Alessandro

Moving to Copenhagen

Thomas

King Edward VI School

Orhaan

The Pilgrims’ School

Embley

Gregg School

Ballard School

Embley

Wildern School

King Edward VI School

NAME

Edward Academic Scholarship and Sport Scholarship

Lewis

Bronwyn

Alexander

Theo

Hector

Max

DESTINATION

NAME

DESTINATION

Emma

King Edward VI School

Rylee

Embley

NAME

DESTINATION

Amelie

Kings’ School

SCHOLARSHIP

SCHOLARSHIP

Kitty

The Romsey School

King Edward VI School Florence H

King Edward VI School

Matilda

King Edward VI School

Zara

Miriam

Tiffany

Kings’ School

King Edward VI School Art Scholarship

Owen

King Edward VI School

King Edward VI School

Laura

King Edward VI School

King Edward VI School

Strelitzia

King Edward VI School

Charlotte

King Edward VI School

King Edward VI School

Bishop Wordsworth’s School

Embley John

Embley

Sport Scholarship

Heidi

King Edward VI School

Oliver

King Edward VI School

Katie

Gregg School

James

King Edward VI School

Atticus

Ballard School

Frederik

Chafyn Grove School

Arthur

King Edward VI School

Bonnie

King Edward VI School

Sports Scholarship

Finlay

King Edward VI School

Alice

King Edward VI School

Sports Scholarship

Aaron

King Edward VI School

Oscar

Ballard School

Art and Design Technology Scholarship

Twyford School

King Edward VI School

South Wilts Grammar School

King Edward VI School

King Edward VI School

Kings’ School

King Edward VI School Theodore

66

SCHOLARSHIP

Embley

67

Mrs van Zyl

“What a fantastic year for Year 7! It has been full of day trips, residentials and on-site activities. This has all gone hand in hand with working hard in lessons and building friendships. It has been lovely to return to school fully and it has been a wonderful year to grow and develop as individuals and bond as a class. See you all in Year 8!

Mrs van Zyl

68

”

69

Elm

Keira-Ellen “ This year, I have enjoyed doing Speech and Drama

and learning how to play the violin.

Speech and Drama is a way I can express myself through prologues and dialogue. Although learning violin has been tricky, it has been a fun and interesting instrument. Another thing which I have found fun was making my metal keyring. I chose to make the shape of a Yin Yang out of brass.

”

Sookie “ l enjoyed Science this year because we did lots of fun experiments.

Felix “ This year, I really enjoyed the trip to Calshot Activity Centre because we

Alice This year I have enjoyed DT. I made a keyring that was an elephant: I am immensely proud of this because I have never made anything like it before and I worked extremely hard on it. I also enjoyed the dance-a-thon for Comic Relief – it was exhausting but we raised a lot of money!

“

Jessica “ I have really enjoyed Year 7 and I especially enjoyed all the Art and

”

DT. In Art, we created Mosaics; in DT we enjoyed metal work and I made a water drop which I am proud of. I also enjoyed the residential to Calshot. I especially enjoyed archery and I found it incredibly fun.

For example: using and experimenting with several types of fruit to see which one was the best conductor of electricity. I also really enjoyed going on our residential trips to Calshot. It was a fun, interactive weekend, jampacked with different activities.

did lots of different activities, including climbing which is one of my favourite things to do. I have also really enjoyed DT because we made metal keyrings which was really fun. I am also proud of the improvement in my cello playing.

”

”

Alexandre “ In Year 7 I really enjoyed Games and PE. In Games,

I mostly enjoyed football because everyone had a part to play in positions and I was happy with my position as striker. In PE, my favourite sport was basketball because it was fun and it is now my favourite sport.

”

”

Clarissa I really enjoyed DT in Year 7. My favourite part of making it was when we did the cold working with sandpaper. I also enjoyed the Spanish trip and lastly my drumming lessons – I have worked hard on my pieces.

“

”

Henry This year I have really enjoyed going into the forest because it is very relaxing and fun.

“

70

”

Matthew “ This year I have really enjoyed badminton, creating keyrings

Easher “ In Year 7, I thoroughly enjoyed sports, especially football

and badminton – it was fun to learn new things. I also enjoyed History and learning about the Battle of Hastings. This was fun because it was interesting learning about the past.

”

in DT, and designing games in ICT. At the start of the year, we had a trip to Calshot Activity Centre, where we did lots of activities such as team swinging, crate stacking, laser climbing and kayaking. I have also really enjoyed the after-school clubs, which were E-sports, Adventure club and Civic.

”

Harrison I really enjoyed speaking and singing at the Romsey Abbey Carol Service. I have also really enjoyed playing in the forest, building treehouses, horse riding and making new friends. Year 7 has been great!

“

”

Finn “ I joined Stroud this year and was welcomed into Year 7 with warmth and kindness. I have particularly enjoyed sport, including fixtures and training sessions.

Science has also been a highlight, with a range of fascinating practical experiments to bring it to life. I was worried about joining a new school mid-year, but it turned out to be a brilliant decision.

”

71

Year 8 Leavers’ Destinations NAME

Mrs Wilcox

Miss Edmondson

James A

Boundary Oak School

Timothy

Lord Wandsworth College

Thomas B

“disappointment of a couple of years of missed residentials, we started What a busy, jam-packed year we have had in Year 8! After the

the year with our pastoral trip to Calshot where the children finally got to experience the independence of nights away from home, actionpacked days of adventures and teambuilding, and sipping hot chocolate under the stars before bedtime. Further trips have included travelling abroad to Barcelona and a further residential with a Bushcraft Camp near Bramdean, Hampshire – we sure know how to make up for lost time!

All this fun has been carefully balanced with rigorous exam preparation and exciting hands-on curriculum experiences, brought to life by various events, such as World Book Day, STEAM week, a visit to Roche Court Sculpture Park, and Year 8 even hosted and prepared a gourmet meal and evening entertainment for their deserving parents and guardians, as part of their DT curriculum – an evening that I am sure will be remembered fondly for some time. All of Year 8 should feel so proud of how they have overcome huge personal and educational hurdles this year, stepped into

DESINATION

Charles

Embley King Edward VI School

Thomas C

Embley

Joseph

Embley

Elvin

Embley

Jenson Erin

SCHOLARSHIP

The KES Dodds Award

Sport Scholarship

Sherfield School King Edward VI School

Henry

Canford School

Vann

Embley

Ethan

Embley

Tobias

Embley

Nehir

King Edward VI School

Hugo

Embley

Finley

Perins School

their role as leaders and mentors to the rest of the school, and have really grabbed at the opportunities provided to them at Stroud. We will really miss Year 8 as they set sail for pastures new, but once a Stroudie, always a Stroudie. Thank you, Year 8, it’s been a true pleasure!

”

Mrs Wilcox, Miss Edmondson, Mrs Dolbear, Mrs McCarthy and Mrs Whitman 72

James W

Embley 73

Oak

Erin “ I joined Stroud in Year 7, and it has been incredibly fun ever since.

Nehir “ Unlike a lot of others in my year, I joined Stroud in Year 7. It was so

scary, starting at a new school, where everyone already knew each other. But all my worries were proven wrong when I first stepped foot in Stroud. Everybody was so nice and welcoming. From my first day, I met some of my closest friends and formed unbreakable bonds.

I have enjoyed so many different things that are a part of Stroud life. However, there were some experiences that stood out in comparison to the others. One of the main highlights of my time at Stroud was the Intrepidus Week in Year 7. I remember sitting down after a long day of bushcraft activities, eating my fajita, and joking around with my friends. This was an amazing experience and was an opportunity for me to forget about COVID and other stressful subjects. Another highlight of my time at Stroud was the Art Club. Ever since Mrs Brewer first told me about the club and I decided to join, it has been one of my safe places. I have made so many different memories there and enjoyed every project that we have worked on.

In addition to this, I have really enjoyed playing matches on Wednesdays and, occasionally, Saturdays. My old school did not have as many sports facilities as Stroud, so it was a big change. Although I might not be the best at sports, it has been fun to celebrate our wins and work as a team. This has been a great team-building opportunity for me.

74

I have loved being a Stroudie and I will be extremely sad when I leave at the end of this year. I will miss all my teachers, who have taught me important lessons. I am excited to have a new beginning and meet new people, but it will be hard to let my friends go. I would like to thank all my teachers and friends for putting up with me and being here for me when I needed them.

”

I remember my first day: I was terrified, but everyone was so nice and welcoming, and I settled in and made friends so quickly. Although I joined amid COVID, I still managed to enjoy one almost normal term before reverting to online school in the Spring Term.

My first term was filled with interesting activities, and even though we had to learn remotely online, I still found it wonderful. Despite the obvious difficulties, we still had amazing lessons, and pupils were often put in breakout rooms to talk amongst ourselves. I also had some of my friends’ numbers, so I could text and call them during breaks and lunchtimes, as well as after school, to make up for all the time we could not see each other in person.

Although online school was brilliant, I could not help but be relieved when we returned to in-person school.

Overall, I have loved being at Stroud! It has been such a wonderful experience, and I will be incredibly sad to leave. Thank you to all the amazing teachers and staff who have made this experience so enjoyable.

”

Tobias “ The main thing that I have enjoyed about Stroud – ever since my

first days back in Reception – is the setting. This has allowed me to feel safe and calm due to being surrounded by beautiful, peaceful grounds. Alongside the setting, I have found that the staff have been incredibly supportive of me and have made me feel open enough to talk about any of my problems safely. I have also been supported by staff teaching me to talk about my feelings, instead of hiding them.

A highlight of my time at Stroud was the ski trip. This stood out to me because it gave me the chance to make some of my last big memories with my school friends before I leave for my future school.

Coming up to the end of my time at Stroud, this would be the way that I would want to spend my last big opportunities with my friends.

Another significant memory I have at Stroud that fills me with mixed emotions was the first lockdown. I remember I was having a big meltdown but, nonetheless, I found the strength to join my class Zoom session where my caring teacher helped me to calm down and gain control of my situation. I will be forever grateful for this.

”

Jenson “ During my time at Stroud, I have had a fun time. I have been at Stroud School for 10 years and have been here the longest of all the pupils, as I joined in Nursery.

nervously, as beady eyes looked up. It was hard for me because I didn’t know a word of English. But Stroud helped me to develop my vocabulary and showed me kindness throughout the years.

One of the main things that I have enjoyed is the school trips – of which we have had many. It was always enjoyable doing fun activities with your friends. I mostly enjoyed our trip to Telford in Year 5.

”

was my first cross country run; it was one of the most difficult things I had done in a while. But I was able to make it through with all the help and the support of the sports teachers.

”

Elvin “Almost 8 years ago I joined Stroud and I remember my first day vividly: I stepped into the room

The most memorable moments I have had at Stroud have been the school sports fixtures: they made my week! I am so grateful for my Games teachers consistently teaching me more every day. I believe that I am ready to leave Stroud, but I have made extraordinary memories that have fulfilled my happiness. In truth, I shall be devastated the day I leave.

Joseph “ The main thing that I remember since starting at Stroud School

James A “ This year, I have really enjoyed Science lessons, because of all the interesting topics

My favourite subjects have been Science, Drama and ICT. I also enjoyed clubs, such as Lego, cookery and sock monkey club. I have fond memories of acting in the ‘Snow White’ production, school trips to the Winchester Science Museum and enjoying Forest School. One of the achievements that I am most proud of is being a finalist in the Senior School Public Speaking Competition.

”

we have covered and all the amazing experiments that we have done. I have also enjoyed Maths because my teacher is fun, but I still learn things.

” 75

Ethan “ I remember when I joined in Year 3: I was trembling with fear, but soon I felt happy and the people were

Charles “ I remember my first day in Year 2. I was extremely nervous; however, everyone was very kind and

really kind to me. It was fun just running around the huge grounds – they now feel a lot smaller, but still big. Some of my favourite memories of Year 3 include making the smoothies. They did not turn out very well, making me sick in fact, but it was fun making them. I remember during form time, when we went out to the adventure playground, and I had so much fun just running around.

welcoming to me. During the first couple of weeks, I made a few friends and that number only increased over the months and years to follow. I now have friends for life.

I have had many special memories over the years: the amazing school trips, including Hampton Court in Year 4, Paultons Park in Year 6 and Calshot in Year 8; the fun Maths competitions, including Portsmouth Grammar School and Bryanston; and the fantastic Intrepidus Week, where we did loads of fun activities and camped overnight!

My favourite residential was when we visited Avon Tyrrell in Year 4; I laughed the whole time. We did some fun activities, such as canoeing, biking and raft building. My personal favourite activity was biking. There was so much to explore, lots of bumps and muddy puddles. I was also really fascinated by the topic of WW2.

In Year 8, my family and I went on the school ski trip to Sestriere and we skied all day. It was amazing and we had such a blast. The snow was so white, the scenery was stunning, and the slopes were really challenging.

I have really enjoyed my time at Stroud. It has been amazing, and I have a load of nice memories. I must thank the teachers who have supported me through the tough times, and they have taught me so many useful lessons. I will miss Stroud dearly, but I look forward to my new school.

Timothy “ I joined Stroud in Year 6 and although there was less going on than usual at Stroud because of COVID,

everyone still managed to make me laugh and have fun. One of my favourite moments in Year 6 was when I was going on the school trip to Paultons Park and learning how the rides work, how they control them and what force does to them – this was great fun.

In Year 8, I have enjoyed cooking during our DT sessions as I was able to create food that I thought I would never make; for example, a smoked trout soufflé, which was insanely tasty and great fun to make. All my friends were there too, which made me feel incredibly happy.

I also feel so lucky that I have had the chance to go on lots of trips. One of my favourite trips was the ski trip, because even though it was a school trip, it didn’t feel like it – it felt like a holiday with all my friends. My favourite memory of the trip was skiing down the black slope, which is the hardest slope.

I will be sad when I leave Stroud, as the staff have taught me so many valuable lessons. I will also be incredibly sad saying goodbye to my friends, but I am also excited at starting my new school. So, thank you, Stroud, for being there when I needed you the most, and thank you to all the wonderful teachers.

76

”

”

”

Thomas B “ I remember when I joined Stroud in Year 4: I was nervous until break time when I

realised there was nothing to be worried about as everyone was kind and friendly. I soon made tons of friends. In Year 4, I went on my first school residential to Avon Tyrrell; it was super fun. We did lots of activities such as kayaking, raft building, pond dipping and orienteering.

In Year 5 we stayed in a youth hostel in Ironbridge where we learned lots about the industrial era whilst having fun. Then came Year 6, where unfortunately for us, COVID prevented us from travelling to France on our residential trip. We were fortunate, however, to be able to go on my personal favourite school trip I have ever gone on: a Science trip to Paultons Park. Before this visit, I had never been on a rollercoaster, but my first time on one was incredible. I loved it and hated it at the same time: it was amazing!

Thomas C “ I remember my first day of school. I was showered with kindness and friendliness, although

no matter how friendly people were, my stomach still felt twisted inside-out and the butterflies started zooming round as if on a racetrack!

One of my favourite memories of this school was the Paultons Park trip. It was super fun and really fascinating to see how all the forces worked together to create an awesome ride.

When lockdown hit us, I was grateful to all the teachers for everything, because I know how hard it was for them.

I will be sad to leave Stroud this year, as I have had the best possible time. I have learned some valuable lessons.

It will be sad to see some of my friends go, but I am ready to move on and make some new friends and learn some more valuable lessons. Thank you, Stroud and all the wonderful staff and teachers.

I would like to say thank you to all the teachers, to all my friends and to my family for getting me where I am today.

I am sad that I am leaving Stroud at the end of this year, but I will treasure all the amazing memories and experiences I have had here. I am now ready to face the new challenges that I will face ahead of me and all the exams that I will have to do in the future. Thank you, Stroud.

”

My time at Stroud has been wonderful. I have been able to make so many new friends and share fun learning experiences with them. From a two-day residential in Year 4 to now in Year 8: a week-long trip to Barcelona. I would also like to thank all the teachers for supporting me in getting me where I am today, especially throughout these lockdown years. It is going to be sad to leave Stroud, but I am excited to join a new senior school.

”

Vann “ I joined in Year 7 in Mr Brett’s form, and we had lots of laughs and fun. My best memory would be in Civic Club in

Year 7, where we were doing photography by the tent on camp, and we had to film a slow-motion fight scene – it was hilarious!

As my friend was filming my partner and I doing the fight scene, I got up, pretended to run away and ended up tripping over a guy rope strapped to the tent! I laughed so much it hurt.

I came from a school that did not really have good sports facilities, so when I moved to Stroud I was blown away: the sport at Stroud unlocked an updated version of myself in sport, which was helped with the teachers being so welcoming. My favourite sport at Stroud is rugby, because Stroud School’s sports facilities and teachers are amazing.

Another thing that I have really enjoyed is making the food for the parents’ gourmet dinner. I love everything about cooking: I love making the food or sweating or caramelising onion: anything. My favourite food that we made was the trout fish paste with small Yorkshire puddings – the paste was amazing, and I am grateful to Mr Protheroe for his help.

I will be sad when I must leave Stroud as I have had the best years of my life here and I have learned some valuable life lessons. I am grateful for all the teachers that have helped me become who I am now. I would not be who I am now without them.

”

77

James W “ I have had many memorable moments at Stroud, but one

Henry “ I have had many fun experiences during my time at Stroud. I

that I remember vividly was when I was on the Intrepidus Camp and we all went down to the woods to play with sticks and make our own tribe. I remember that we ate the most delicious chicken wraps and one of my friends ate 7! I also enjoyed going on a fabulous walk.

have really enjoyed all our residential trips, especially the one to Telford in Year 5.

I also thoroughly enjoyed cooking for our parents in Year 8 and preparing them a meal. In our art lesson, we designed cards to give them, and we also got to make some amazing food in our DT lessons.

Mrs Lopes

Mr Preston

In the evening, we also got to camp out in a tent with our friends; this special time with my friends meant so much to me and was a memory that I will always hold dear, as it was so much fun.

My favourite year at Stroud was definitely Year 6 because I thought it was interesting learning from home for the first time.

”

”

I

t continues to be a real pleasure working with all the children and I feel immensely proud of their commitment and enthusiasm to learning. We want our children to feel empowered and to contribute to a better world, through the implementation and promotion of social and academic skills through second language acquisition.

Hugo “ Everyone was very welcoming when I joined Stroud in Year 5 and it has

been incredibly fun since. My most recent memory was the ski trip. It was fun and all my friends went. Another great memory at Stroud is the Civic Camp in Year 7, where we camped on the school field for one night. We also had the Intrepidus Camp, which was camping on the school field and what I enjoyed about that was the fajitas: they were good. I have also enjoyed drum lessons and it was great to perform in the rock band.

I am sad to leave Stroud, but I am looking forward to a new chapter in my school life.

I am also excited to go to my secondary school. Thank you to everyone who has helped me to get to this point.

”

78

Finley “ My best memory of Year 8 is the ski trip. It was only the second time I had gone on a ski trip, and it was still a fun time to talk and get to know other people whilst having fun on the slopes!

I have been at Stroud for 10 years and started back in Nursery. Honestly, I can’t really remember my first day, but every time I go down there to pick Eli up, it brings back so many happy memories. The first class I was in was called Bunnies, but now it is known as Caterpillars.

Overall, I have loved being at Stroud and have progressed through every year and learnt so much in school. I will never forget Stroud School and everything it has given me.

”

Thus, we started the academic year covering a wide range of topics across the year groups. From talking about where we live in Year 6, to the weather forecast in Year 7, together with Year 8, we prepare ourselves to apply our newly learnt vocabulary to order some paëlla, whilst enjoying the sights of sunny Barcelona.

We strive forwards undaunted, knowing that our language learning experience will lead to the development of the skills and confidence needed for our pupils to perceive themselves as ‘Global Citizens’. We will succeed and continue to foster and encourage a lasting enjoyment and appreciation of the Foreign Language and its associated culture and traditions. I am so proud of our children!

A huge well done to you all.

79

W

e were extremely excited to run our Residential Week this year. Year 3 enjoyed Roman week and undertook a variety of Roman activities as well as visiting the Roman Baths in Bath. Year 4 spent two nights away at Tile Barn, Brockenhurst, taking part in a wide range of outdoor activities including orienteering, field games and team challenges. Year 5 children enjoyed their residential trip visiting Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s SS Great Britain and the Blists Hill Victorian Town.

Y4 – Tile Barn, New Forest

Not to be outdone, Year 6 spent a week in the beautiful county of Perthshire. The trip included an array of adventure activities on the PGL site, as well as a range of excursions, including Stirling Castle and the Dundee Discovery Centre. Year 7 embarked on a bespoke residential to the special Lovaton Field Study Centre on Dartmoor and Year 8 travelled to Hampshire for a 4-day adventure.

Y7 – Lovaton, Dartmoor Y6 – Dalguise, Scotland

Y5 – Ironbridge, Shropshire Y8 – Bramden, Hampshire

80

81

Mrs Lowndes

I

82

Miss Godwin

Mr Caie

Mrs Hodges

Mr Reid

t has been quite a busy time for our Stroud animals this year.

helping to nurture the confidence of pupils and build animal stewardship skills.

The school farm has had a productive year and has welcomed many new arrivals!

Early in September, Miss Godwin hatched some new chickens and ducks which, with addition to the four Guinea Fowl we have also introduced, have provided us with a diverse and bustling enclosure of birds. This has given our children lots of opportunities to help with egg collecting, bathing the ducks and hand feeding. We are now looking forward to hatching some of our own with the KS1 farm club next year, using our school incubator.

Regarding our bees: last September, long before the bees would have been thinking about clustering up inside the hive for winter, the Year 8 pupils helped Mr Reid remove a single frame and replace it with an empty one. The frame that was removed was full of delicious golden honey which reflected a rich foraging diet for the bees who would have visited pollinating flowers, in and around our wonderful school site. Honey was collected by pupils in the Senior School and some lucky children were able to dip their fingers into the honey jar and have a taste!

Our ponies Buttons and Clippy also welcomed their new neighbough Tully, our new pony! Tully is a seven-year-old, skewbald Welsh Cob and has joined as the newest member of our riding team. Last, Pluto and Mars, our Pygmy goats, are still happy and healthy and enjoying weekly interactions with our children. These sessions are

And now with the winter season behind us and a new one looming, Mr Reid is happy to report that our colony survived, and this summer season may see the bees begin succession planning, as the colony queen will be entering her fourth summer. Queens usually live for between 3-5 years, so she has done well so far!

83

T

his year, we have welcomed being back in the lab without interruption. It has meant the children have been able to benefit from a full and rich programme of practical science, both in the lab and outside in our diverse grounds here at Stroud. We have opened our doors wider than ever, with Year 5 using the lab for some of their lessons as well.

Year 6 resumed their annual trip to Paultons Park to launch their topic on Forces.

The incidental learning from riding the coasters is powerful and leaves the children with a better understanding of many of the concepts covered in this topic, underpinned by two excellent workshops. Year 6 also kicked off their topic on plant adaptations with a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This is a particular favourite of Mr Reid’s, as he used to work there and never really needs an excuse to visit with a group of keen botanists. The children explored the enormous glasshouses and walked up in the treetops, whilst learning how plants have adapted to the diverse and challenging environments around the world.

Mrs Haigh

Mr Reid

With an ever-evolving curriculum in science to respond to new innovations, discoveries and curriculum developments, we have made tweaks to some of the topics covered this year. Children have been able to have a go at more practical science than ever before. We have taken the time to celebrate scientists from across the scientific community with acknowledgement to Women and Girls in Science and scientists from other parts of the world, past and present.

Our ‘space’ themed STEAM week in March enabled the whole school to explore the universe in a ‘pop-up’ planetarium dome. Each phase had a closer look at propulsion making varying kinds of rockets and some children had specialist workshops with the Southampton University Astronomy Unit.

Some of our girls in Year 6 and Year 7 participated in the ‘Godolphin Great Egg Race’ which was amazing fun and involved designing and building to a brief that meant the safe carriage of an egg. King Edward VI pupils came to Stroud and delivered their ‘science roadshow’ to an eager Year 6 in the spring term. This was a highlight as the lab at Stroud was completely taken over by A-Level students and all their fascinating experiments.

Year 8 had a virtual tour of the Biomedical Imaging Unit at Southampton University Hospital. Lockdown restrictions meant we had to improvise our visit, but it nevertheless proved to be remarkably successful.

Our students marvelled at images taken with extremely powerful microscopes and spoke to scientists who live in the world of miniature, asking them questions about their jobs and equipment.

84

85

Exploring the Cosmos in STEAM Week O

Mr Atwal

Mrs Price

ur children took a giant leap into the cosmos during “STEAM Week,” with an exhilarating timetable of extra-terrestrial learning to develop their love of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths. Whilst they didn’t solve the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything, which apparently is 42, they did have a week of STEAM activities, where they explored space and astronomy, the solar system, phases of the moon and space travel.

During STEAM Week, our children boldly went where no child has gone before: looked at the stars, learnt about planets, enjoyed the planetarium, and examined the very beginning of the Big Bang.

W

e have been busy this year in ICT, with all year groups developing their core computing skills and enhancing their understanding and logical thinking in coding.

We also hosted a Digital Leaders’ Conference for primary and secondary school children from across Hampshire and Wiltshire.

This is always an extremely popular day, where children not only mix with children from other schools but undertake digitallyfocussed challenges. The day allows pupils to experience a range of innovative technology in a fun way and it also enhances their team working and problem-solving abilities.

They participated in lots of cross curricular learning, using mathematical and statistical elements and engineering skills. Key Stage One designed future planets, using skills from Art and Design to think about what would be needed to sustain life.

The children also learnt about propulsion and how rockets manage to leave the Earth’s atmosphere and make it into space. They made a variety of different engines using water, matches, chemicals and rockets and there were some spectacular sights as their carefully designed rockets were propelled high into the air.

What a fantastic week, with a dedicated timetable full of learning outside the classroom, activities and projects.

Days such as the Digital Leaders’ Conference are part of the school’s commitment to equip pupils with the ability to be selfreflective, independent, and confident. These skills will really differentiate its learners, who will be the highly digital, global citizens of the future.

86

87

Miss Edmondson

Miss Moody

M I

t has been a productive and exciting year in the Design and Technology Workshop, with the exciting introduction of a new laser cutter. With the return to full school life, we have watched the pupils flourish again in the specialist settings and are thrilled to welcome Years 3 and Year 4 into the workshop for the first time, so that they can also benefit from specialist subject teaching and learning experiences.

In Middle School, Year 3 started the year developing their sewing skills to produce seasonal hanging decorations in the form of foxes and penguins. They also expanded their culinary skills, learning about healthy eating and exploring graphic design, using sensory evaluation techniques to adapt recipes to make fruit smoothies and design packaging.

88

In Year 4, we incorporated a STEAM element to our E-Textiles project, where pupils were able to build on their scientific knowledge of electricity and explore the use of electronic textile components to make their tree light up. Pupils have also been designing and making wood products: Year 4 used basic woodworking tools to make Eco Bug Hotels, and Block Bots have sprung to life in Year 5, where pupils further developed these skills using new tools, mathematical accuracy and diverse creativity with their design skills.

In Senior School, pupils expanded their knowledge and skills with a wide range of materials, tools and techniques. Year 6 mastered sewing machines and needle felting techniques to create a beehive inspired door stop, followed by the contrast of a CAD project

where they have developed their own digital laser cutter files to make components for their Inspiration Quote LED light. Year 7 manipulated metal with a variety of saws, files, drills, polishing techniques and texturization tools, to produce an outstanding array of keyrings.

Finally, Year 8 started with the exploration of a tidal themed textiles project, where they experimented with tie dying, silk painting, batik and sewing to create bags or cushion covers.

Then followed the amazing opportunity to be taught culinary skills by gourmet chef, David Protheroe, as well as producing personalised professional invites, table decorations and then hosting a gourmet meal for their parents.

athematics at Stroud has never been more exciting. Through exploration with practical equipment and hands-on learning, pupils become deeper learners. At Stroud, Maths often spills outside the classroom into the natural environment, where opportunities for learning outside the classroom are seized and turn learning into something connected to real life that is interesting, exciting and relevant to our young learners.

We were thrilled to see the return of Maths competitions. Our children representing the school in both the Year 4 West Hill Park Mathematics Challenge and the Year 5 Pangbourne Challenge were excellent ambassadors for the school, demonstrating super collaborative skills and problem-solving.

Many of our Year 5 and 6 pupils took part in the Primary Maths Challenge, gaining several bronze silver and gold

awards. Harvey and Benjamin in Year 6 won the Eagle House Maths competition, and Laura and Miriam, came 23rd out of 68 pairs. Benjamin, Erin and Charlie entered the Intermediate Mathematics Challenge, achieving a gold and two bronze awards. Benjamin then earned a Merit in the bonus round! Several of our Year 6, 7 and 8 pupils achieved bronze and gold awards in the Junior Mathematics Challenge, and Benjamin was invited to sit the Junior Olympiad; truly an outstanding achievement!

Congratulations to all pupils on their mathematical achievements this year.

In the Summer Term we were also able to invite other schools to take part in our very own Stroud School Maths Competition, hosted here at Stroud, and organised and run by Mr Brett and our Year 6 children. This was a hugely successful and fun-filled event enjoyed by many local schools.

89

Mrs Wilcox

W

year, and we hope to see these opportunities become a more regular occurrence.

A highlight this year has been seeing our Reading Buddies reunite to re-establish our tailored scheme that brings together children across the school to collaborate, support and share with each other their love and celebration of reading and learning. Our older children get to develop their leadership skills as mentors for the younger children and the younger children learn to trust and feel safe in the company of our more senior pupils.

We were also able to extend our Reading Buddies scheme into Middle School this

This year also saw the return of our live Public Speaking Competition for children in Middle and Senior School. We are always in awe of the confidence with which our children at Stroud can deliver their speeches in what, for so many adults, would be considered a daunting setting. Our Public Speaking programme at Stroud, which gently stretches all our children outside of their comfort zones in a safe and supportive environment, helps to teach them the power of informative and persuasive speaking. We believe, through these early experiences, that we help to raise bold, and expressive young leaders, entrepreneurs, and human beings who can speak out about their interests and views with confidence, and it is an event that we certainly look forward to each year!

hat an absolute joy it has been to get English lessons back in person and resume our interactive and discursive approach to celebrating literature! There is simply nothing better than seeing that human connection when sharing stories, reading books and having discussions about high-quality and engaging literature.

90

Stroud’s Out-Of-This-World Book Day

W

e launched our STEAM week back in March with a World Book Day celebration that was out of this world! Children arrived in school dressed as space explorers, planets, or characters from their favourite sci-fi books and congregated for a special World Book Day assembly, which culminated in a fashion show by the children from Nursery through to Year 8, to showcase their fun and creative costumes. It was so wonderful to all be able to be together again and start the day off with a buzz. We will never forget looking out into the hall and seeing a sea of beaming faces from all departments in the school after such a long time divided.

We were lucky to welcome three visiting authors: Claire Freedman, Mark Powers and Isabel Thomas.

Claire Freedman joined Early Years and Key Stage 1 for a virtual celebration of her work as an author, including her book, ‘Aliens Love Underpants.’ Mark Powers met our Middle School and provided exciting and inspiring sci-fi writing workshops and book signings. Isabel Thomas joined our Senior School and had the children entranced with her expert subject knowledge and presentation of her non-fiction books.

91

Mrs Brewer

I

t has been a wonderful year with all classes back in the Art Studio. We have explored a range of materials, including colour pencils, inks, collage, water colour, mosaics, sculpting and more, while completing new projects with outstanding results! This year, we have studied and taken inspiration from cacti, birds, insects, pets, food, sculpture and tools, and produced some fantastic experimental pieces.

In Art Club, pupils have created fairy house lanterns from recycled materials. We have also been gifted three wonderful skulls, named Bogus, Bunce and Jonathan, who have provided us with rich source material to produce A3 acrylic paintings, inspired by Georgia O’Keefe.

Stroud was also fortunate enough to enter ten pieces of work into the King Edward VI Preparatory exhibition. We were incredibly proud of the high-quality work produced by the pupils, and we had amazing feedback from other schools attending the exhibition.

92

Year 7 and 8 had the exciting opportunity to explore Roche Court New Art Sculpture Park and take part in artist workshops run by the curation team. It was a beautiful day, and it was wonderful to watch the pupils engage with sculptures and have their viewpoints challenged by the stories they hold.

Pupils from Years 3-8 had the exciting challenge of creating a design to go on our Leveret for the Hampshire Hares trail.

Choosing the design was tough, as there were so many stupendous submissions!

Congratulations to Mishka from Year 3 who created a design that embodied Stroud’s wild heart, depicting the animals that represent our classes.

What a wonderfully packed year we have had; we could not be prouder of the progress and quality of work produced this year!

93

Mrs Fay Mrs Lowndes

I

t’s been great to get back to teaching music lessons in person! We have also enjoyed busy terms of rehearsals for choirs, orchestra, and rock bands.

Christmas was busy with nativities and the Carol Service, and it was lovely to be able to resume our concerts with a successful Springburst Concert in March. We were also pleased to introduce new Middle School Musical Delight concerts. Another new initiative saw Year 2 learning orchestral instruments – trumpets, violins, and toots (small plastic flutes).

A dedicated bunch of peripatetic music teachers have been hard at work, bringing on pupils’ talents. Mrs Fay and Mrs Lowndes have enjoyed teaching class lessons and the music room has been filled with all sorts of marvellous sounds!

94

95

Pirates v Mermaids

Early Years Nativity

Gym and Dance Show

96

97

Springburst

KS1 Nativity

Oliver!

98

99

Mrs Kent

Mr Morgan

Mrs Beaumont

Mrs Van Zyl

Mr Parker

S

port is back! The children and staff have enjoyed a fantastic year of sport, with high participation numbers and the return to a full programme of activities. It has been wonderful to host all our sports festivals and tournaments, using both the main school site and Wellington Sports Ground.

Year 3 and 4 children have enjoyed the development of sport on Thursday afternoons, with increased fixtures and tournaments.

Those in Years 5-8 have worked incredibly hard in all sports, with improved participation and results this year.

The U11 Rugby and Netball tour launched in the Spring Term and was a resounding success. All the players had an amazing experience and we plan to run the trip again in 2023.

Key Stage 1 children have had the opportunity to attend School Games Mark events and they have represented the school with pride. We have once again secured ‘platinum status’ for our sports provision, extra-curricular clubs, and wider community support.

We are extremely excited about the development of sport at Stroud. There is so much to look forward to in the 2022/23 academic year, and pupils will be given every opportunity to thrive at their level of competition.

100

101

Early Years and Key Stage 1 Sports Days

Middle and Senior School Sports Day

Middle School Swimming Gala

102

Senior School Swimming Gala

103

A

cross our school, from Year 1 through to Year 8, our children are offered a fantastic selection of clubs to see them through the academic year.

During the Autumn and Spring terms, there were 67 clubs available throughout the week for Years 1 to 8 and in the Summer Term, we ran 76 clubs every week.

These offered an array of exciting subjects and sporting opportunities: from Cooking to Yoga Club, from Ballet to Adventure Club and from Snorkelling to Computer Xplorers.

F

Even though we have been mindful of the COVID pandemic and avoiding extensive mixing of year groups, we have still been able to offer some new clubs to the children. In the Autumn, we introduced two new dance clubs: Acro and Groove, which are a modern fusion of dance and acrobatics to help develop a child’s confidence and ability to express themselves. This year, during our curriculum time, the children have had the opportunity to learn some Forest School skills and this was introduced as a new club in the Spring Term. We have also run an Eco Textiles Club, where the children were experimenting with natural products (such as cotton and linen, made from plants) and recycled and reused materials to create their own textiles designs and hangings. During the Summer Term, the children had the opportunity to further experience new clubs on offer, in the form of samba and snorkelling.

The timetable consisted of activities from cookery and gardening to bushcraft and Forest School, and country dancing!

After school clubs are incredibly important for our children, as they can enjoy socialising with friends, or make new friends in an informal, relaxed setting. They can also learn new skills and experience something they may never have tried before in a safe environment. Clubs continue to go from strength to strength at Stroud; it is wonderful to see the children gaining new experiences and trying out a hobby for the very first time, that will hopefully stay with them for a lifetime.

ollowing the success of last year’s Intrepidus Week, we decided to run this again: a week of exciting activities to develop resilience, collaboration and curiosity for our children! Our school motto, In Aeternum Intrepidus (Forever Undaunted), inspired us to create a week that pushes children outside their comfort zone and into a world of curiosity, teamwork, being in nature and having as much fun as possible.

104

105

Supporting Charities

A

t Stroud, we like to raise money for charity. These are some of the charitable causes we have supported this year: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Jeans for Genes Children in Need Link to Hope – shoeboxes of Christmas presents Royal British Legion – the Poppy Appeal Local foodbanks – Harvest Comic Relief The Murray Parish Trust Provisions and clothes collected and sent to Ukraine

Our sections are also linked to charities:

Youth in Romsey

Bulldogs’ nominated charity is Youth in Romsey, which is a support centre offering confidential advice, support, and an information service for young people from the ages of 6-25 years. This charity offers a variety of services including counselling, careers advice, health services, youth clubs and an open door to those who need support.

SOS Children’s Villages UK

This charity supports villages in countries where help is less readily available than in the UK. Through their sponsorship, Greyhounds are helping Hemeiusi in Romania, where many families live in poverty. A lack of sewerage and water treatment causes health problems and there are an increasing number of children who lose parental care. This charity supports families and provides professional medical help, and it also finances a play bus which is a mobile play centre, travelling to public parks, hospitals and orphanages.

106

Alfie’s Wish

Terriers are supporting a new local charity called Alfie’s Wish. After a five-year battle with a cancerous brain tumour, Alfie Butler sadly died at home in Romsey in January 2020, aged 6. A registered charity has now been set up as Alfie’s legacy, and this will hopefully make an enormous difference to other children who must fight cancer. Money raised will support families to have special days out and create lifelong memories.

We are grateful to parents and visitors for their donations after concerts, plays, the Carol Service and the Gym and Dance display. The school’s Eco team have also played their part, raising money through recycling textiles in the Bag2School initiative.

Reception and Nursery also raised money and adopted two snow leopards from the WWF and late in the Summer Term, we raised money for the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC).

Many people have put themselves out to help us raise money for charity, and we would like to thank all those who have supported our efforts.

Stroud School Association

T

he Stroud School Association (SSA) had a busy Spring Term and they took advantage of our new freedoms by bringing back the popular Comedy and Curry night. It was well-attended by parents and teachers who were treated to a fabulous curry buffet while enjoying three stand-up comedians. Thanks to all who came and helped on the night, they raised more than £700.

Towards the end of the Spring Term, we were blessed by a beautiful sunny morning on Mothering Sunday for the much-missed Easter Egg Hunt. It was lovely to see so many families enjoying the school grounds (along with delicious cake and flapjacks) while they followed the clues to win their chocolate prize. Congratulations to Daisy who took home the giant Easter bunny, Boost! Thanks to everyone who came along, more than £300 was raised on the day.

Sadly, COVID forced the Christmas Fayre to be cancelled again this year, but the SAA is excited about future plans. They always appreciate the help of parents at school events, and the team would be grateful for any parents who would like to join to help them shape future events.

107

Staff Room Our Fantastic Facilities Team

Our Wonderful Catering Team

Mrs Weston and Mrs Carr

Miss Brooker and Mrs Beaumont

Mrs Tippett and Mrs Walder Mr Brett

No Time for Sleeping Mrs Smith!

Mrs Godwin, Miss Andrews, Miss Payton and Mr Case

Our very capable Matrons – Mrs Tanner and Mrs Keith

Pastures New Miss Andrews and Mr Case Mrs Roberts and Mrs Gee Mrs Stokes and Mrs Moore

108

Mr Parker and Mrs Tanner

Our Utterly Brilliant Office Support Staff

Mrs Germain, Mrs Hansen, Mrs Fairbrass and Mrs Stapley

Mrs Symmons

Mrs Brown and Mrs Timms

Mrs van Zyl, Mr Reid, Mr Caie, Mrs Martin, Mrs Andrews and Mr Brett

Mr Applegarth-Jones

Mrs Whitman, Mrs McCarthy and Mrs Dolbear

We said goodbye to Mr Frisby, who left us to train to become a teacher.

Mrs Fairbrass departed for a new adventure in America with her family and Mrs Whitman left us after 11 busy years. She says: “I have decided Mr Reid, Miss Olive, Mr Caie and Mrs Dolbear the right time for me to retire has now come. I have had the pleasure of working with some resilient and charming pupils which has made my job a doddle. They are a credit to themselves, their teachers and their parents.”

Mrs Niziolek, Mrs Robinson and Mrs Lindsey

We would like to wish Mr Atwal all the very best in his new role at an IT company in Hampshire.

Mr Atwal was at Stroud for nine years and will be sorely missed. Miss Roberts and Mrs Niziolek also departed during the Summer Term and we wish them both all the very best in their new adventures.

109

visited Moors Valley, Marwell Zoo and even enjoyed a swimming party together – it was a real opportunity to allow friendships to grow and for us Year 8s to take on leadership and responsibility within our prefect roles. We also continued our Reading Buddies with the Year 2 children, many of whom we have known since they were in Reception, and we loved building on those relationships while celebrating the joys of a good book. We are excited to have been part of a new scheme this year, where the whole school is in Section Families, providing a chance for us to create friendships and provide support to children from across the school community.

Heads of School

B

eing Head Boy and Head Girl has been an absolute privilege. We vividly remember the end of the Summer Term 2021 assembly outside in the rain, where we used the Stroud Spirit values to persevere and watch everyone receive their awards! As the end drew near, and we were thoroughly soaked, it was a real shock to hear our names called out as Heads of School for the coming year. Going up to receive our badges from the previous Heads of Schools’ parents was a real highlight, and we will never forget the euphoria of receiving that responsibility.

Charlie joined Stroud in Year 2, and Erin in Year 7, but we both felt like Stroudies immediately, as we were welcomed into the school family. Highlights for us have included the residentials, particularly the Civic camps, Telford and Barcelona. We have vivid memories of campfires, Victorian sweet shops, and water sports – things that helped us to grow as people as well as learners. Lockdown was a challenge, but just goes to show the resilience of Stroudies! From learning in the ASD with two metre gaps between us, to online Zooms and Google Classroom – we managed to continue learning and growing, even in these challenging circumstances.

One of our highlights this year has been the Year 8 Mates scheme, which buddies up Year 8 children with Year 3s, as they begin their adventure into Middle School. We

110

As we reflect on our time here, we can really see the values and skills that Stroud has instilled in us. Family is first and foremost: Stroud as a family community, but also feeling like the teachers care about us and that our own families are part of the wider school family. Learning is hugely important, but always as part of wider skills including leadership, collaboration and kindness.

We have grown as people, and become resilient, independent, and ready for the next step ahead of us.

Stroud is an incredibly special place, and all the amazing experiences we have had here we will treasure for life. We are also incredibly grateful for all the teaching and support we have had to bring us to where we are now – something we will never take for granted. Remember: once a S troudie, always a Stroudie.

Charlie Boyes and Erin Hunter Head Boy and Head Girl

Forever Undaunted