Shrewsbury House School Alto Peto Spring 2023

ALTA PETO

SPRING TERM 2023

Years 5-8 Ski Trip to Prato Nevoso, Italy

WELCOME FROM OUR EXECUTIVE HEAD

Whilst 2023 began with sadness, both for our own community and across the world, the boys at Shrewsbury House have brought their trademark energy, enthusiasm and joie de vivre to the many events that have taken place this term.

We have enjoyed plays and concerts, with a truly fantastic Spring concert where boys from all age groups showcased their considerable talents through ensembles, groups and choirs. The inaugural ‘Shrewsbury House Talent’ competition brought laughter and awe as the boys demonstrated their many talents and raised money for charity in the process. They have been equally busy on the sports field and the boys have embraced the rugby season and showcased their talents in the pool. With fixtures and tournaments aplenty, there have been many successes as well as great teamwork on display – the values of rugby echo strongly the values of Shrewsbury House and the boys themselves have grown in their commitment for respecting each other and aiming high. A multitude of other sports have also been on offer and the much anticipated cricket season is just around the corner.

The boys have been equally busy in the classroom this term and we are immensely proud of their many achievements and the energy they bring to their learning. Those sitting

assessments for their senior schools have given of their best and many outstanding successes have been achieved. This learning is further enriched by the numerous activities, trips, visiting authors, and House competitions which the boys throw themselves into with gusto.

Our thanks go to all of you for your support this term and to our dedicated parents involved in the Shrewsbury House Association who arrange enjoyable events for both the boys and parents to benefit from. They have also supported the charitable fund raising and we are hugely grateful to them, and to you, for your contributions towards the sponsored run where £2,396 thus far was raised for The Change Foundation.

MRS JOANNA HUBBARD EXECUTIVE HEAD

School Events

STEAM Day

Years 3 and 4 participated in a STEAM day (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) where they followed a day of planning, constructing and challenges. The aim of the STEAM day is to bring across a variety of different subjects together to allow the boys to design and make a project specific to their year group. The theme which both year groups’ projects were based on was transport.

Year 3 were challenged to design and build a balloon powered recycled boat to see how far it could travel across the Shrewsbury House swimming pool. This meant the boats had to be sturdy, yet buoyant and have the ability to glide easily through the water. The races saw the boats slowly move across the pool in many directions but the great design meant they all stayed in one piece. Points were awarded for the distance that they travelled. These were added to their teamwork and overall design scores.

Year 4 had to really apply their knowledge of science when making the foam gliders, which proved trickier than first anticipated. There was a lot of intricate detail added to the construction process which allowed the gliders to fly through the air. They were flown in the sports hall in the afternoon.

All of the boys worked tremendously well throughout the day, demonstrating great teamwork, aspiration and perseverance.

Year 8 Concert

The Year 8 Concert featured a marvellous array of performances by our talented musicians. There were many different instruments and musical genres on display, from exciting renditions of famous rock and jazz classics to beautiful performances of classical repertoire.

We were even treated to a premiere of a new piece by Ayush A who performed his own composition ‘Summer Breeze’ on the piano. The evening concluded with the whole year group joining together to sing the Ben E. King classic ‘Stand By Me’.

Very well done to all the Year 8 boys for such a successful concert which showcased their many talents and their passion for music.

Year 5 Production 'Minotaur'

Year 5 boys took to the stage in a roarsome musical: Minotaur! Each class took on a section of the story, learning a song and dance routine. They performed with great enthusiasm and threw their voices to the back of the auditorium. Year 5 parents came up trumps with costumes and the stage was awash with white tunics and a rainbow of sashes. We were truly transported back to ancient Greece! Many of the boys had asked for solos in the play and these were performed with confidence. Real highlights for everyone were the whole year group songs. The combined voices of the boys brought goosebumps and it was a genuine joy to watch them all in their group success.

Theatre club was on hand to support and provided a range of skills: makeup, lighting, back stage, cueing and even standing in as an understudy! These Year 7 and 8 boys do a great job supporting events.

Seminar Series

Year 8 boys were thrilled to learn the inside track from Simon Lazenby, lead presenter for Sky Sports F1, who led a fascinating seminar with the theme of ‘communication.’ Using the controversial incidents from 2021 as a talking point, he highlighted the challenges of communicating intricate technical information to a wide audience and how to present effectively to maintain interest and attention. Simon outlined his journey to his current career and inspired the boys with pathways for their future as well as developing their passion for sports. As always, their questions were most insightful and we are very grateful to Simon for joining us.

Paul Goldstein Talk

Boys in Year 7 and 8 enjoyed a truly inspirational talk from award winning wildlife photographer, Paul Goldstein. Paul showed many of his stunning wildlife images and explained the work that went into capturing them, as well as describing the momentous fundraising he has carried out over many years in support of endangered animals and communities overseas. Several parents also attended the talk which gave them a

window into the opportunities the boys receive through this programme and the wealth of knowledge, so articulately, and confidently shared with speakers was very impressive. Paul himself said, “I haven’t enjoyed an audience as much for a long time, massive credit to teachers, school and indeed parents.” He presented signed photographs to boys who demonstrated their knowledge and asked excellent questions and these will no doubt be treasured possessions for many years to come.

Eco Committee

This year, Shrewsbury House celebrated World Recycling day on the 18th of March. In the lead up to this, the Eco committee members held a whole school assembly where they discussed the benefits of recycling, the ways we can recycle and how slowly but surely we can make an impact to help improve our planet’s health.

Eco committee members from Shrewsbury House met Eco members from Shrewsbury House Pre-Prep and The Rowans School where they discussed various ways to promote sustainable and clean ways of travelling to school. There were some fabulous ideas to help improve our environment so watch this space for some exciting developments in the coming term.

In addition, we are very excited to have planted 30 trees at the Shrewsbury House Sports Ground and are keen to watch them flourish in the coming years.

World Book Day

Shrewsbury House School celebrated World Book Day in absolute style. As part of our celebrations, children's author Aisling Fowler visited the school to promote her second book in the Fireborn fantasy fiction series: Fireborn: Phoenix and the Frost Palace

Boys in Year 3 and Year 4 joined a virtual author Q&A session with Michael Morpurgo and we are very proud that a question from one of our boys was the first to be read out in the national online event.

Throughout the morning, some of the teachers read their favourite books to the boys and those who excelled in Accelerated Reader joined Mrs Hubbard for a spectacular Alice's Adventures in Wonderland themed Millionaire's Tea Party.

Year 7 Concert

There was a wonderful array of musical talent at the Year 7 concert this term. Families and staff were treated to performances of many different genres and styles of music on a wide array of different instruments. All of the soloists demonstrated professionalism and confidence in their performances which were hugely enjoyed by all. All Year 7 boys joined together at the end of the event to perform a polished rendition of 'Hold Back The River'. Well done to all!

British Science Week

To help celebrate British Science Week, during lunch times the science department ran exciting activities supported by Year 8 boys. The theme for Science Week this year was 'Connections' and the boys were able to appreciate just how different areas of science are in fact linked.

Year 3 used detective skills and looked at fibres under the microscope, made their own invisible ink, and learnt how each fingerprint is unique.

Year 4 had lots of fun making their own 'steady hand game'.

Year 5 were able to see how quickly dry ice sublimates and were able to make some interesting patterns using this solid form of carbon dioxide.

Year 6 had to use their knowledge of density to make a tower of colour and looked at the process of diffusion.

Year 7 managed to extract DNA from strawberries.

As well as science in the laboratories, there was also a chance for Years 3-5 to design their own lab coat and Years 6-8 to construct a poster of their take on the theme of 'Connections'.

Thank you to the following Year 8 boys who gave up their time to help with the science activities during their lunch break: Ayush A, Josh B, Theo B, Noah B, Luke C, Thomas H, Ali J, Victor M, Zach P, Troy P, Archie R, Tom S, Amar S and Luke W.

Spring Concert

The annual Shrewsbury House Spring concert took place during the Spring term. This special event saw all of the school musical ensembles perform. From choirs, string ensembles, brass groups, wind bands to rock bands, this was a truly eclectic evening of music with something for everyone. Whether a beginner group or one of our advanced ensembles, all of the boys' excellent performances were a real testament to the commitment and hard work that is required to play music to such a high standard.

House Poetry Competition

SHS were proud to host their annual Poetry Competition. All the boys auditioned with three representatives from each year nominated to perform in our grand final. With a spectacular array of poetry, representing different genres and themes, each and every boy impressed the judges with their intonation, gestures and performances. For the grand final, Head of English Dr Buckingham and SHST Governor Mrs Lowe were our judges and both were thoroughly impressed by those performing on stage. Our judges and the school as a whole were also treated to musical interludes by Matthew H, Benji H, Charlie D, Pip M, Alex C and Thomas B. The eighteen SHS Poetry Competition finalists for 2023 were as follows:

Junior School Competition (Years 3 and 4)

Hedy B – 'Little Red Riding Hood' by Roald Dahl

Erik J – 'The Teacher's Day in Bed' by David Orme

Hecong X – 'Bonfire' by Jean Kenward

Felix C – 'George's Marvellous Plan from George's Marvellous Medicine' by Roald Dahl

Hawken E – 'True Story' by Shel Silverstein

Oliver T – 'The Crocodile' by Roald Dahl

Middle School Competition (Years 5 and 6)

Lorenzo B – 'Mum and Dad' by Bill Watterson

Elliot M – 'Yo Yo' by Michael Rosen

Bertie M – 'Sick' by Shel Silverstein

Joseph L – 'Hot Food' by Michael Rosen

Barney M – 'The Quangle Wangle's Hat' by Edward Lear

Elijah S – 'Charge of the Light Brigade' by Alfred Lord Tennyson

Senior School Competition (Years 7 and 8)

Arthur T – 'Imagine' by John Lennon

Rishaan K – 'Burn' from Hamilton the Musical

Felix W – 'Everyone Sang' by Siegfried Sassoon

Ayush A – 'Barter' by Sara Teasdale

Theo O'D – 'The Visitor' by Ian Serraillier

Jax W – 'Alive' by Anonymous

After much deliberation from our judges, our Junior School Competition Winner was Hawken E with his wonderfully comic interpretation of 'True Story' by Shel Silverstein. Having produced a similarly humorous performance, Bertie M was our Middle School Competition Winner with his

witty delivery of 'Sick' by Shel Silverstein. Finally, our Senior School Competition Winner was Theo O'D with his dark and dramatic performance of 'The Visitor' by Ian Serraillier. Many congratulations to our winners and to all of the finalists in this year's SHS Poetry Competition. Finally, a huge thank you and well done to the English Department, our parents and the entire SHS community for supporting the boys and helping them deliver such professional performances on the day.

Year 4 Production 'Switch'

Year 4 took to the stage with great enthusiasm, presenting the original production of ‘Switch!’ The story followed three boys who, on a rainy day, get sucked into their Nintendo Switch. They then have to complete four different games to make their way back to reality.

There were fantastic performances across all classes. The wonderful array of characters came to life on stage with thanks to the great efforts of SHS parents and their sourcing of the perfect costumes. Advanced Drama club also supported the dramatic effects with Year 7 and Year 8 boys running the lighting (Rishaan K), sound (Ayush A), backdrops (Leo F), makeup and backstage.

The audience were thoroughly entertained by the scenes, each including a song linked to the game being played. There were stand out performances from boys who have blossomed in confidence over the last few weeks, gaining a range of skills for the play. It was fantastic to see the boys take on larger speaking roles and we are starting to see the shimmer of star quality.

Shrewsbury House Got Talent

The first ever SHS Got Talent took place on the last day of the Spring term. The event was the idea of Barney and Pip M, Year 6, as a way for the school to celebrate the hidden talents of boys in the school and raise funds for the school charity.

Since January, over 70 boys have shared their wide and varied talents with their tutor group. This led to some outstanding acts going through to the Year Group Semi-Finals. We had martial arts demonstrations, magic, comedy, music and a range of variety acts too. These were whittled down to two finalists from each year group to perform in the final.

The final was presented by Barney and Pip on the stage of the school hall, with all boys and staff in the audience. The acts thoroughly entertained the audience and represented the fantastic skills of the boys at SHS. Accompanying Mr Smart (Head Judge) were Mrs Hubbard, Mrs Rose and two representatives from our school charity: The Change Foundation. Throughout the event there were many laughs, cheers and opportunities for volunteers on stage. The audience were enthralled by the skills and talents on show. There were four awards available. These reflected the purpose behind the competition – to celebrate the very wide ranging and previously uncelebrated skills of the boys. The awards and winners were as follows:

Special Recognition for Originality – Zach H and Beau P, Year 6 – the boys performed an original rap.

Special Recognition for Quality – Caspar M, Year 3 – who excelled in showmanship in his magical act.

Special Recognition for Entertainment – Tobias D, Year 7 –who juggled with toys, toilet rolls and chocolate eggs!

Overall Talent Show Winner – Ralph L-L, Year 6 – who was supported on stage by William S and Jonty R (also Year 6) in a fantastic bubble blowing show, which included putting our tallest Year 8 boy in a giant bubble!

The event, the first of its kind, was a resounding success. Many thanks to Barney and Pip for putting forward the idea and supporting our school charity. Please look out for communication regarding how you can donate to the Change Foundation in support of this event.

Battle of the Bands

The boys celebrated World Maths Day with great enthusiasm this year, as Shrewsbury House hosted its inaugural 'Battle of the Bands'.

The boys worked feverishly to try and score points by answering times tables questions correctly during their Maths lesson on WMD. Those results were then collated together, and the results announced in assembly.

Hearty congratulations go to the following :

Top Performers in Each Year Group

Year 3 – Jack K (and 3rd in School).

Year 4 – Hawken E.

Year 5 – Caspar H.

Year 6 – Yoonjoon B (and “Top Performance in School”).

Year 7 – William W (and 2nd in School).

Year 8 – Charlie V.

Top Performing Tutor Groups

Year 3 – Mrs Krishnan’s Group

Year 4 – Mrs Hand’s Group

Year 5 – Mr Barnett’s Group

Year 6 – Mr Davison’s Group

Year 7 – Mr Rush’s Group

Year 8 – Mr Sims’ Group

The boys received certificates to recognise their achievements, along with the boys who achieved 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in each Tutor Group team.

2 School Trips

Year 3 Visit the Natural History Museum

To enhance their learning in science, Year 3 visited the Natural History Museum. The museum exhibits a vast range of specimens through many eras of natural history.

The visit started with the Hintze Hall which displays the huge skeleton replica of Hope the blue whale. Throughout the day Year 3 were able to explore the dinosaur exhibit, look at the findings of Mary Anning and appreciate the many different rocks found within the earth. The workshop allowed the boys to learn the skills of a palaeontologist to identify the dinosaur. It was a fabulous day of hands on learning with much fun and discussion.

Year 4 Trip to RHS Wisley Gardens

Year 4 visited RHS Wisley Gardens this term on a crosscurricular trip for art, geography and science.

The weather was exceptionally kind with glorious sunshine throughout which allowed them to make the most of their garden visit. The exploration of the gardens allowed the boys to really look closely at the structure and formations of a variety of plants. The glasshouse was hosting an indoor house plants event showing the vast array of different plants and plant arrangements, which were fantastically put together.

For science, the boys looked at the life cycle of a flowering plant and were able to take a cutting to grow at home. For geography they looked at all the many different adaptations that plants have, including the many different cacti.

For art, the boys were able to explore the intricate detail of plants to later be made into clay models.

It was a great day of outside learning with lots of knowledge to take away. Well done Year 4.

Wellington College

As an introduction to chemical reactions ready for the senior years at SHS, Year 6 travelled to Wellington College to be spectacularly entertained by their science team. They were taken through the history of the periodic table, looking at the properties and reaction of many different elements. The show started with a bang as a hydrogen balloon burst into flames. This continued to show lots of mini explosions, lights and colour which kept the boys transfixed. A very brave Jonty R was chosen to be on stage, to help show how hydrogen reacts with oxygen, having it ignited on his hand.

The boys were wonderfully behaved and represented Shrewsbury House well, volunteering to answer many questions that were asked by the Wellington team. A great day out, well done Year 6.

3 Competitions

House Maths Challenge

The annual House Maths Competition kicked off with some high-energy and hard-earned performances, including a welldeserved win for Drake in Year 7 with Grenville topping the podium finish in Year 3.

However, it was Nelson and Raleigh that eventually shone through on the day with four top and second positions across the six year-groups respectively.

Millionaire’s Club – Accelerated Readers

Reading allows us to be transported from our own world to another. Between the pages of a book, we can become immersed in the lives of fictional characters and learn about a culture entirely different from our own. We can also learn new words and phrases, experience a range of emotions, and acquire skills and knowledge.

Accelerated Reader is an online programme that encourages pupils to record their reading and enjoy a wide range of children’s literature.

We set a challenge to the boys that if they accumulate one million words before World Book Day, on Thursday 2nd March 2023, they would celebrate with a Millionaire’s Tea Party, as part of the school’s programme for the event.

Quiz Club

Year 5 and 6 boys represented Shrewsbury House School in an online Science Quiz Club Competition.

After a successful first round, the teams reached the semifinals, so it was all to play for.

Over 45 schools were competing and the questions tested a very diverse range of science knowledge, progressing in difficulty each round. The team worked really well together, collaborating their knowledge to answer many challenging questions correctly. Each round we progressed up the leader board and found ourselves 23rd overall. Well done to the following boys:

Year 5 – Alexander H, Declan M, Gregory N, Roshan P and Maxi L

History Chariot Challenge

Year 3 boys have been learning about the Celts in history this term. During the half term break they were set a challenge to make their own model Celt chariots. The Celts were keen charioteers and used them throughout Europe for war and some general transport.

Lots of impressive model chariots arrived in school and were displayed in the assembly hall. All the boys who took part were awarded plus prizes with Nathan N winning the overall prize for his impressive design.

Year 6 Rivers Project

Year 6 have been studying rivers and coasts during the Spring term. They produced a 3-dimensional river basin model that included the different parts of a river basin from the source to the mouth and presented the features of the upper, middle and lower parts of a river basin. The fantastic models were displayed around the school and have been admired by pupils and school staff.

It was incredibly difficult to judge the competition and the winners were announced during the final assembly at the end of term.

Congratulations to the winning rivers design created by Jack W.

Benji M was awarded runner-up position and Siggi v K, Charles B, Rory R and Elijah U were all highly commended. Well done to all the boys for their effort and beautiful river models.

4 Sport Round-Up

Sports Report

Another stellar term of Sport has been enjoyed by all the boys here at Shrewsbury House School. Opportunities for pupils over the past few weeks have included the chance to participate and compete in rugby, hockey, swimming, tennis, rowing, football, cricket and cross-country running. The post-rugby, mini ‘multi-sport’ season has been so rewarding, and of great benefit to the boys. In every regard all those involved can be super proud of their efforts, achievements and successes. Across the board it was easy to recognise positive behaviours and fine examples of actions that extol our school values of respect, integrity, compassion, perseverance and aspiration. Sport, both of the individual and team nature, provides an excellent foundation for the development of these key pillars for the positive growth of these fine young men.

it has been – uncompromising performances delivered in an environment of fun and respect. One special note of congratulations – to the senior Year 8 rugby VIIs team who saved the best until last to not only come equal top at the SHS tournament, but also to secure fine victories in the RP7 national event.

It is hard to remember a rugby season that was so looked forward to by the pupil cohort. Across all the year groups there was a palpable and overt enthusiasm for this core sport. Even when this term’s planned programme was heavily disrupted by the adverse weather, the boys maintained their hunger and forward-looking approach to the sport. This meant that when the opportunities to play did come around, they certainly made the most of them! All the way from the Year 3 boys trying to evade opposition ‘taggers’, up to the elite Year 8 teams performing at a very high level, all can be happy with the superb performances across all competitions. Progress is key; and it has been marvellous to witness this in the form of skill acquisition, performance level and material success when it comes to rugby. The House rugby events (results below) epitomised what a fantastic season

THE HOUSE RESULTS

House Rugby Cup

Year 3: Grenville Combined A and B Events

Year 4: Nelson Combined A and B Events

Year 5: Grenville Combined A and B Events

Year 6: Raleigh Combined A and B Events

Year 7: Grenville

Year 8: Raleigh

SHS House Rugby 2023 Position Nelson:

Although the boys are swimming, and competing, all year round, it is in this term that the highest number of competition galas take place. With increased in-curriculum swimming within our new programme, higher numbers choosing to swim outside of lesson provision and an accelerated competition menu, swimming is certainly heading in the right direction here at SHS. With five events scheduled in this term alone there was plenty for the swimmers of all year groups to get stuck into. From friendly small-team events with one school, to all-year/multi-team events, to senior elite galas and regional rounds for national competition it has been a busy one! We await news to see if any of our top swimmers and relay teams have qualified for the national finals next term, and a note of special congratulations for those top proponents who dedicate so much of their time to making such impressive progress in the water. One event to highlight must be the all-year gala at Parkside School. For those lucky enough to attend, this will live long in the memory. Every race was tightly contested, every performance inspirational, competition balanced throughout the evening and after an incredible hour-long event covering hundreds of points, just one point separated the teams!

Hockey has been a revelation this term. Time and effort was dedicated to the sport and a short but meaningful season built for all the boys. This centred around access to worldclass playing surfaces for practice at Surbiton Hockey Club, and by offering some competition for teams with local school opposition. It is safe to say that hockey will remain in the programme.

The boys have really taken to the opportunity and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of developing skills, and playing in friendly matches, in a sport that many will have the chance to pursue at their senior schools. Opposition came in the form of Danes Hill, Cranmore and Feltonfleet, and despite the relative lack of competition experience, the boys acquitted themselves superbly. More to come!

It takes talent, yes, but also courage to perform well in crosscountry events. Arguably sport in its purest form – inclusive, simple, open and a core activity accessible to all. Three events this term formed the basis of what is hoped to be a growing programme. The benefits of steady and consistent running over modest distances cannot be underestimated and an increased provision for the sport is planned. Every boy at SHS ran in both the House Cross-Country (results below) event and the SHS Sponsored Run. The strongest among them were selected for the (very tough and elite) Danes Hill event – safe to say that the young talent at SHS, properly supported, have every chance of competing at a very high level in the future! A nod must go to every boy for their efforts in the House crosscountry event run at the Shrewsbury House Sports Ground (SHSG) over a varied and challenging course of multi-terrain and mixed surfaces – superb!

House X – Country Cup

YEAR 8

1st: Raleigh 22.67

2nd: Grenville 23.00

3rd: Nelson 23.58

4th: Drake 29.75

Overall House X-Country RESULT

1st: Nelson 131.17

2nd: Grenville 138.80

3rd: Raleigh 150.70

4th: Drake 170.32

Football would not always feature in a Spring term report but the delayed ISFA regional competition for the elite Year 6 U11A team fell on the 1st March and what a day it proved to be! With super tough opposition throughout, the boys knew that only a place in the final would suffice if they were to achieve their dream of qualifying for the national finals. The team showed aspiration and perseverance in spades to find a way past all-comers to achieve just that – well done indeed! The boys will make the long journey in May to St George’s Park (national home of football) for the ISFA national finals. All the very best to the U11A football team, we are so proud of you.

Come next term and some boys will be lucky enough to compete for their respective SHS tennis teams in friendly competition. This term the opportunity has been open to all to brush up on their skills, and to try out for their age-group teams. It is patently evident that the sport is very popular and we were very happy to extend the opportunity to as many as possible – roll on the summer tennis season! This term has seen the senior rowing activity continue at Kingston Rowing Club – a brilliant opportunity for the older boys to try-out, and develop skills in, this brilliant sport. Also to look forward to will be our eagerly awaited cricket season. Preparation for the boys’ cricket matches and events has been in full swing this term. From indoor after-school ‘nets’, to dedicated sessions within their curriculum lessons, SHS pupils should be well-ready for next term.

Supporting the SHS sport programme as ever has been the SHS co-curricular clubs menu this term. The combination of in-house provision and expert offerings delivered by external coaches and organisations has been marvellous, and of great benefit for the boys. Among the broader schedule of a varied and enriching programme, the sports’ offering included swimming, cricket, karate, table tennis, shooting and fencing.

Ski Trip

Wow! What an extraordinary trip we had! SHS boys from Years' 5-8 made the very early start on the Saturday of half-term for the journey, via Milan, to the sunny slopes of Prato Nevoso. With a ski-in/ski-out hotel located on the main slope of the resort the boys were best-placed to enjoy a wonderful week's skiing. The Italian Ski School instructors were wonderful and with five hours of lessons each day the SHS pupils made stunning progress. The evenings were spent caving, tubing (sledging) and playing fun games at our wonderful hotel. Blue skies, white mountains, bright sunshine and non-stop smiles – happy days!

Sports Stars Visit SHS

Delon Armitage

The senior rugby players were thrilled to have a training session with guest coach Delon Armitage. The rugby legend provided some expert tips and amazing insights.

The boys responded brilliantly to Delon's coaching ahead of their rugby VIIs events.

Jonny Bairstow

We were delighted to welcome one of England's World Cup Winning Cricketers, Jonny Bairstow to Shrewsbury House. The boys were incredibly privileged to enjoy an assembly from one of the best cricketers in the world, who talked to them about some successes that he has enjoyed throughout his career but also the different challenges that he has faced, playing sport at an elite level.

Many of his stories aligned closely with the SHS values and Jonny was able to give many examples of where he has had to display great perseverance and aspiration in his life.

5 Awards

AWARDS

Executive Head’s Commendation

Congratulations to Lucas B, Year 4, who was awarded an Executive Head’s Commendation during assembly.

Lucas set himself a running challenge last December where he ran 100km in support of Starlight’s Christmas appeal which raises money for children who sadly must spend their Christmas holiday in hospital. It’s called “Play Loneliness Away”.

Lucas’s determination and dedication to this challenge raised over £1,700 for Starlight.

Mrs Hubbard was delighted to present an Executive Head’s Commendation to Kevin R for displaying the school values. On the school ski trip, he showed kindness, perseverance and integrity, supporting his companions and even offering his skills as a translator. Well done, Kevin!

Houses

Congratulations to Gabriel M, Year 8, who joined Raleigh House as their new House Vice-Captain.

EXECUTIVE HEAD’S FINAL ASSEMBLY AWARDS

During the final Assembly of the Spring term, awards, trophies and prizes were announced in recognition of the boys' many achievements.

Colours

Music

Thomas B, George C, Joe H, Rory M-W, Aaron S and Brannon W.

Design Technology

Seb F, George H and Jasper R.

Academics

JJ A, Theo B, Theo O’D and Luke W, for excellence across the curriculum – particular highlights in English and maths due to their proactivity and not being afraid to make mistakes along the way.

Sport (Rugby)

Rugby Colours will be awarded at the beginning of the summer term.

TROPHIES AND AWARDS

Chandler Cup for U8 Sportsman of the Term

Craig McC.

Coerver Shield for U9 Sportsman of the Term

James McC.

Long Ditton CC Cup for U10 Sportsman of the Term

Ben A.

Grant Shield for U11 Sportsman of the Term

Jonty R.

William Hitchcock Cup for Maximum Effort (U12 Rugby)

Jack W.

Whittam Cup for Most Improved Rugby Player

Gabriel M.

Le Grice Cup – Senior Sevens Cup for Best Player

Luke L.

Bolton Cup for the Outstanding Rugby Player

Luke A.

Huckin Rugby Cup for Outstanding Defensive Play

Charlie B.

Co-Captains of Swimming

Luke C. and Seva M.

LATIN SPELLING BEE WINNERS

Y7: (attainment)

Gold – William D-E; Silver – Nicholas C; Bronze – Ludo H.

Y7: (progress)

Gold – David K; Silver – Sion P; Bronze – Max S.

Y8: (attainment)

Gold – Theo O’D; Silver – Tristan M; Bronze – JJ A.

Y8: (progress)

Gold – Thomas B; Silver – Luke A; Bronze – Victor M.

CRICKET

Captain of Cricket – Charlie H.

Vice Captain of Cricket – Tom S.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE

Y3 – Alexandre B, Zachary C, Felix G, Felix H, Max K-H, Paul L, Nathan N and Kasim S.

Y4 – Lucas B, Theo G and Samuel P.

Y5 – Ernest A, Lorenzo B, Charlie D, Henry G and Daniel L.

Y6 – Max B, Ollie C, Alexander Da C, Oliver H, Barney M, Pip M and Jack W.

Y7 – Max A, Leo L, Alexander C, Nicholas C, William F, Leo L and Hiro S.

Y8 – Alexander S, Charles S and Luke W.

DA VINCI ART AWARD

Y3 – Arjun B, Leo D, Max K-H, JJ Mc S and Otto R.

Y4 – Joseph C, Benji F, Benji H, Misha K, CJ M, Lawrence R and Leopold von D.

Y5 – Casper H, Elliot M and Robert B.

Y6 – Max B, Oliver H, Hugo J, Conor O’K. Barney M, Simon M, Hugo R, Rafe R, Rory R, Marcus S and Elijah U.

Y7 – Alexander C, Thomas C, Gethin D, William F, Magnus

H, David K, Rishaan K, Ludo H, Sion P, Hiro S, Luca T B and William W.

Y8 – George H and Jasper R.

SENIOR MUSICIANS PRIZES (Books)

Y6 – Barney M.

Y7 – Magnus H.

Y8 – Ruairidh M W.

ABRSM CERTIFICATES

Prep Test Piano 2023

Agastya K.

Jalil D.

RSL AWARDS CERTIFICATE

Grade 1 Electric Guitar Merit

Max B.

Grade 3 Electric Guitar Merit

Noah B.

Grade 3 Electric Guitar

Carter J.

Grade 3 Electric Guitar

Luke C.

DRAMA AWARDS

For Outstanding Performance in a Play

Y7 – Gethin D.

Y5 – Charlie C.

Y3 – Craig McC.

For Outstanding Commitment to a Play

Y7 – Leo F.

Y3 – Huxley A.

Y5 – Archie W.

For Continuous Commitment to School Drama and Productions

Ayush A.

HISTORY – TOWNSEND WARNER RESULTS

6th Place

Theo O'D.

Maths – House Times Table Results

1st – Nelson

2nd – Raleigh

3rd – Grenville

4th – Drake

Hardy Plus and Minus Shield

1st – Nelson

2nd – Grenville

3rd – Raleigh

4th – Drake

Cock House Cup

1st – Nelson

2nd – Grenville

3rd – Raleigh

4th – Drake

House Results

Plus and Minus Results

1. Nelson – 58.5

2. Grenville – 55.3

3. Raleigh – 54.45

4. Drake – 54.44

House Quiz Results

4th – Nelson

3rd – Drake

2nd – Grenville

1st – Raleigh

Overall Cock House Trophy: Nelson

6 External Examinations

EXTERNAL AWARDS

ABRSM Certificates

Congratulations to all the boys who were awarded ABRSM Certificates this term:

Grade 1

Alto Saxophone Grade 1: Benji H

Oboe Grade 1, Merit: Stanley L

Singing Grade 1: Oscar S

Trumpet Grade 1, Merit: Pharrell A-T, Thomas B, Henry G and Benjy C

Violin Grade 1: Hans Christian K-H

Violin Grade 1, Merit: Mason J, Daniel L, Aiyan S and Hassan S

Grade 2

Alto Saxophone Grade 2: Joe H, Siggi v K and Jack W

Flute Grade 2, Merit: George C

Piano Grade 2: Erik J and Misha K

Trombone Grade 2, Merit: Luca T B

Trumpet Grade 2: Charlie D

Violin Grade 2, Merit: Barney M.

Grade 3

Clarinet Grade 3: Walter Z

Singing Grade 3: Merit.

Violin Grade 3: Avik G

Grade 4

Violin Grade 4: James C.

Grade 6

Trumpet Grade 6: Thomas B.

Townsend-Warner History Prize

Shrewsbury House scholars and volunteers sat Paper 1 of the Townsend-Warner History Prize this term and five boys qualified for Paper 2.

More than 1000 Prep School students entered originally and we have 5 who qualified and one boy who was one of those seventeen students above 80%. That was Theo O’D with an amazing 89%! He was joined by; Theo B, William D-E, Luke W and Christopher C. In the first paper Theo O'D finished 6th overall across the country. An impressive result.

Well done to all the boys who entered. It is a big commitment and a lot of work; they tried their hardest and represented SHS well in this annual competition.

Townsend-Warner History Prize

ABRSM Certificates

ABRSM Certificates

THE LONDON ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND DRAMATIC ART (LAMDA)

Congratulations to the boys who were awarded with their LAMDA certificates during the final assembly today.

Aneesh A – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 4 Merit

Ayush A – Acting – Duo

Grade 5 Merit

Christopher C – Acting – Duo

Grade 5 Merit

Sam C – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 2 Distinction

Sasha D – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 1 Distinction

Finn E – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 1 Merit

Ruzhen G – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 2 Merit

Theo G – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 1 Distinction

Maximilian L – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 1 Distinction

Stein M – Acting – Duo

Grade 5 Merit

Alexander N – Acting – Duo

Grade 3 Merit

Theo O’D – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 5 Distinction

Arun S – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 4 Distinction

Elijah S – Acting – Duo

Grade 3 Distinction

Max S – Acting – Duo

Grade 5 Merit

Milo T – Acting – Duo

Grade 3 Distinction

Walter Z – Speaking Verse and Prose

Grade 2 Distinction

7 Charity Fundraising & Other Initiatives

NSPCC Numbers Day

Boys and staff wore a shirt with a number in support of children across the country for NSPCC Numbers Day. For nearly two centuries, the NSPCC has led the fight against child abuse in the UK through its timely action, informational drives, and volunteering network.

Thank you to our parents and boys for their support, the total amount raised was £307.72.

Children’s Book Project

Thank you to all the parents who have supported the Children's Book Project again this year. This charity describes themselves as a 'food bank for pre-loved books' and they aim to donate over 250k books in 2022-23 to children who have few or none of their own.

Conversion Shoe Project

We were delighted to see so many donations of sports shoes arrive at school throughout the Spring term supporting the conversion shoe project.

Sponsored Run

Ending the term with the fabled Sponsored Run is always a highlight. Each of the boys can be immensely proud of their efforts and camaraderie throughout the afternoon. Supported by parents, staff and peers alike, this is an event to celebrate and inspire. It was wonderful to see so many staff (some in very dubious costumes!) take to the course to motivate the boys, and be part of this community event. Thank you to the Shrewsbury House Association for their support.

Shrewsbury House Parents' Association

SHA Spring term update

The SHA were pleased to welcome in the Spring term with a coffee morning and uniform sale at Shrewsbury House.

Comedy Night returned in March and was a rollicking event attended by parents and staff allowing a rare catch-up out of hours, and a very amusing night.

The SHA were pleased to support the end of term sponsored run with Easter eggs for the boys and a seasonal second hand pop-up sale for those Spring and Summer months ahead.

We pay tribute to Stephanie Cross, much loved friend, colleague, tutor and teacher to so many SHS boys across every year group, past and present. Joining SHS in 2010, Stephanie soon made her mark in the English Department, inspiring the boys in their love of English and directing many legendary performances on the assembly hall stage. Many colleagues joined Stephanie and Stephen for the celebration of their marriage and we all celebrated the birth of daughter Eloise and then her son, Nicholas. Stephanie’s promotion to Head of Drama saw her lead yet more thespian adventures and then as Head of English she further developed the English talents of our boys whilst leading our vibrant English Department.

Whilst we celebrate the public achievements of Stephanie through the visible learning outcomes for her pupils, the pastoral guidance and support of her tutees and the countless entertaining performances on stage, there was so much more that often went unseen. So many colleagues have commented about her wonderful mentoring; she was so supportive and always there with a friendly ear, giving advice and offering help and guidance. Colleagues have also reflected on the happy times, a thinly disguised wicked sense of humour, chatting and laughing and drinking tea, a colleague who was so lovely, kind and great company, with a smile that could light up the room.

A

Tribute to Stephanie Cross 10th September 1983 – 1 February 2023

Stephanie loved a good idiom and never a truer word than ‘out of the mouth of babes’ rings loud through SHS; the notes and good wishes written by the boys to Stephanie’s family honour her in the exceptional manner deserved by an exceptional person. The messages received from SHOBS, their parents and excolleagues are a true testimony to the incredible respect and love felt towards Stephanie.

There are no words that adequately convey our sadness at the loss of Stephanie in such an astonishingly fast timescale, and our thoughts remain with Stephen, Eloise, Nicholas and Stephanie’s parents, Pam and Julian, whose loss is even greater than ours.

They have particularly asked us to pass on their heartfelt gratitude for all the kindness, help and love they have received from so many in the SHS Community. Donations in memory of Stephanie are invited to the Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/.