Notes from Stonyhurst 2024 Issue 1 by Stonyhurst College

NOTES FROM Stonyhurst

From the Headmaster

Dear Stonyhurst Families,

The first day of term is always my favourite day of the year Returning pupils are always delighted to see their friends after the holidays. New pupils are excited to start their Stonyhurst journey. Everyone has hopes and dreams for the new school year

On Thursday we held the Ascensio Scholarum ceremony in St Peter’s Church. By tradition the day when pupils officially ‘ascend’ to their next Playroom. It was the Jesuits who invented the idea that education should have a different curriculum for each year of a school or university career which is now a universal custom In fact, until 1914 after Rhetoric you would ‘ascend’ to Philosophy before going to university This is why we have a Philosophers’ Drawing Room, Philosophy Library, Phils’ Field and so on.

For Stonyhurst this Ascensio Scholarum is particularly special as we welcome Figures and Rudiments back to the College. I say welcome back because they were always at the College prior to 1946. Figures and Rudiments have been brilliant this week and embraced everything the school has to offer as well and bringing their wonderful spirit and energy.

I explained to everyone that this is the 431st year of our foundation and that we were founded as the English College in Saint-Omer in the then Spanish Netherlands. The Foundation Charter from Philip II of Spain was placed on the altar which explains that the English boys were to be ‘instructed in our holy Catholic faith, and to studies, letters and good manners.’ St Omers (as we call it in England) became famous throughout Europe with its creative curriculum (Astronomy, science, world religions and culture etc) and wonderful facilities including libraries, a theatre, churches, elaborate gardens, a printing press and even a brewery to make beer! Many of these traditions continue to this day.

The third Headmaster of St Omers, a Dutchman called Giles Schondonch, wrote in his Customs Book in 1609 that this was ‘a family like no other’ On Monday I emphasised the importance of making strong relationships with each other. Being ‘big hearted’. Being involved. Being ‘men and women for others’. Above all being kind. This is what makes a family like no other.

These first days are about getting everyone settled into new routines, following the right courses, signing up for exciting new activities and developing the aspiration of Quant Je Puis To be ‘as much as I can’ – for others. The journey begins.

Ascensio Scholarum

All pupils were welcomed back yesterday morning at our first school assembly of the new academic year

Known as Ascensio Scholarum (the ascension of the scholars), the assembly takes place before our whole school Opening Mass, where the tradition of celebrating all pupils moving up the Year Groups continues to be upheld, which is of particular significance this year as we welcome Years 7 (Figures) & 8 (Rudiments) to Aloysius House at the College.

Aloysius House

It has been wonderful to welcome Figures and Rudiments pupils to their new Playrooms at Aloysius House this week.

The beginning of a new and exciting adventure

Heads of Line

Introducing our Heads of Line for the 2024-25 academic year.

Pupils will be looking to Seb and Emma to lead by example, inspire their peers, and further strengthen a sense of unity within the Stonyhurst community.

It is an especially proud moment for us to see Seb and Emma in these roles, having both started their journey at St Marys Hall.

Team Building

On Tuesday, our pupils new and returning had an unforgettable day out at various outdoor adventure centres in the North West Engaging in activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and zip-lining, they pushed their boundaries, built confidence, and developed important teamwork skills. The day was not just about physical challenges, but also about building new friendships The excitement of shared experiences created bonds between pupils who may not have known each other well before. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to step out of their comfort zones, enjoy the natural beauty of the region, and create lasting memories together. We’re already looking forward to next year!

Co-Curricular Fair

On Wednesday, Rhetoric hosted our inaugural Activities Fair for all Playrooms (year groups) to find out about all of our activities and sign up From and array of fishing rods, to a working 3D printer, to remote control vehicles to a fully fledged Model United Nations recruitment video, Rhetoric put on a magnificent show for the rest of the College. Following the brilliant success of the Shooting Team at Bisley this summer, target rifle shooting was a very popular activity There was wonderful buzz of pupils committing to developing their passions, trying new things and making sure they will be very busy in the term ahead The Line Captains were perhaps the busiest of all, recruiting madly for the multisport event later in the day and getting to know new pupils in their Lines. The perfect start to a very busy term for our activities, clubs and societies!

The Unicorn

Our Higher Line Cafe, The Unicorn, opened its doors for the first time this week.

What was once the original refectory has now been restored to a place where pupils can come to relax and refresh in between lessons

The place was filled with excitement on Thursday as our Higher Line pupils sat to enjoy a coffee whilst catching up with friends.

Welcome Ball

On Thursday evening, after a busy induction, Poetry pupils let their hair down with a Welcome Ball at Mitton Hall, accompanied by the Headmaster and Chair of Governors along with their tutors, the pupils had a delicious meal in the 15th century house They were welcomed with mocktails, which went down very well before enjoying the sunset on the terrace After the meal a s few brave pupils led the dancing before being joined by the whole Playroom. It was a wonderful way for pupils to end their induction week with their new friends before their studies began on Friday morning

Artist in Residence

Pete the Street has returned over the summer as our Artist in Residence capturing life at Stonyhurst, following his time with us in 2019 Those who have arrived this week may have seen him in action on the Black and Whites at the College An exhibition of Peter’s paintings will be put together later this year for Great Academies

Mountain Bike Club

Mountain Bike Club got off to a great start this Thursday with the new Syntaxians. Mr Jackson Read noticed early in the session that Adriano looked coolly confident, capable and comfortable on a bike .

It emerged that this confidence is well founded as Adriano is the current junior Mexican national enduro champion

Unifrog

On Thursday Rhtoric were introduced to Unifrog, an online platform that helps students explore educational and career opportunities. Unifrog allows students to research university courses, apprenticeships, and careers, all tailored to their interests. It also provides tools for building strong applications, including personal statement and cv builders Teachers will use Unifrog to offer personalised guidance during tutor periods, ensuring each student receives targeted advice. The platform tracks student progress, allowing teachers to support their development By using Unifrog, Stonyhurst is empowering students to make informed decisions about their futures.

We are also leveraging Unifrog's extensive library of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) to further enrich students' learning. Unifrog provides access to a wide range of MOOCs from top universities and organizations, allowing students to explore new subjects, develop skills, and enhance their academic profiles, all at their own pace