Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 26th September 2025
Head’s Blog
“Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another.” Alfred Adler
This week in school, our CREATE skill is Empathy, and in my assembly, we explored what that looks like in action. Inspired by Robin Williams’ character, Mr John Keating, in Dead Poets Society, who asks his students to stand on their desks to see the world differently, I invited the children to do something similar by sitting somewhere new, next to someone they would not usually choose. A small change, but it encouraged them to think about what it feels like to step into someone else’s shoes and to experience assembly from a different perspective. In this way, the children discovered that empathy begins with noticing the world as others might see it.
I also spoke about the role of reading in developing empathy, the idea that every book gives us a chance to practise our “empathy muscles.” When we immerse ourselves in a story, we are transported into someone else’s world, noticing how they live, what they face, and how they feel. Stories allow us to see through another’s eyes, which is perhaps empathy’s greatest superpower.
Adler’s quotation reminds us that the ability to step outside ourselves and understand others is what makes empathy such a powerful force in children’s development. Of all the qualities we seek to nurture, empathy can be the most transformative because it helps children to connect, promotes inclusion, and builds kindness.
I have recently been following Simon Sinek, who speaks persuasively about leadership and purpose, and reminds us that people don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. It occurred to me that at the heart of empathy lies the same question of why? When a child pauses to ask, “Why might my friend be feeling this way?” they are beginning to develop a deeper understanding of others that goes far beyond simple kindness. They are learning to notice, to connect, and to act in ways that strengthen relationships.
Empathy goes far beyond being “nice.” It is an important skill for children’s growth and development. When children experience empathy at home and at school, they are more likely to grow into adults who carry that same care and understanding into their own relationships. Empathy is not something fixed at birth; it is shaped by the experiences and connections we build along the way. This is encouraging because it means empathy is not fixed. With the right support and practice, the children can learn and grow it.
As I reflect on this week, I am reminded that empathy is both powerful and fragile, it needs to be nurtured, modelled, and practised daily if it is to flourish. As a school, we will continue to place empathy at the centre of what we do. If the children leave us with knowledge and skills, alongside the ability to show empathy, then we will have prepared them well for the future. That is why this CREATE skill matters; it develops not only confident learners but also young people who can work well with others and make a positive difference.
At Beachborough, we believe that developing empathy is just as important as building academic knowledge. Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others – helps children (and adults!) build stronger friendships, resolve conflicts peacefully, and grow into compassionate, responsible members of their community. It is a skill that underpins kindness, respect and positive relationships both inside and outside the classroom.
This week, pupils were introduced to our Empathetic Deer within our CREATE skills. The Empathetic Deer symbolises understanding, care and compassion – encouraging children to pause, listen and consider how others might be feeling before they act. Through stories, discussions and daily interactions, pupils are learning how to “step into someone else’s shoes” and respond with kindness and support.
Our Boardman assemblies this week centred around the beautiful picture book ‘I Am Human’ by Susan Verde, which explores what it means to be human – to make mistakes, to grow and to show compassion toward others and ourselves. The book’s message reinforces the lessons of the Empathetic Deer, reminding children that empathy begins with recognising our shared humanity. It acknowledges that as humans we are not perfect, but we do have the ability to make choices – choices to make something better or to be kind.
We are starting to see pupils beginning to use the language and behaviours of empathy, and through CREATE can explicitly acknowledge this by thinking carefully about how their words and actions affect those around them. As we continue to nurture this vital skill, we look forward to seeing our children grow not only as learners but as caring individuals who make a positive difference in their world.
Together, with the support of home and school, we can help our children develop empathy – a quality that will serve them for life.
Mrs Tongue
A Staffing Update:
We are delighted to announce that Dr Andi Holder has been appointed Head of Science from 1st October, taking over from Mrs Caddick to enable her to concentrate on her role in the Boarding House.
You may notice a couple of extra staff in the school over the next few weeks: we have been joined by Wayne Rogers in the Medical Room, supporting Mrs Holden in her role as School Nurse. Wayne has many years of experience, having previously worked as a Medical and Welfare Officer in a school setting, as well as holding roles for the Ambulance Service and The British Red Cross. In addition, Mr Thompson and Mrs Krelle will be supporting the Games Department, so please make them feel welcome if you see them at a school fixture.
Match Teas
Following a successful trial this week, in response to feedback, we will be holding match teas in theWhybrow from now on.
Club Harvest Collection
To celebrate harvest and to help others, we are organising to collect non-perishable foods (packaged in your child’s club colour) to donate to Brackley Food Bank.
Pupils and staff are being asked to bring in food that is packaged in their CLUB COLOUR.
Collection Point: Back of The Whybrow Theatre.
Collection Weeks 5 and 6: Monday 29th September to Friday 10th October.
Ideas for food to buy when you next go shopping (please just add an extra tin or packet to your normal shop):
Tins of: Baked Beans, Spaghetti, Tomatoes, Vegetables, Soup, Fruit, Rice Pudding, Cooked Meat or Tuna Fish.
Cartons of: Fruit Juice, Long Life Milk, Custard or Tomato sauces.
Packets of: Biscuits, Cup a Soup, Teabags, Coffee, Sugar, Breakfast Cereal, Stock Cubes, Dried Pasta,
Jars of: Jam, Marmalade or Spreads.
Please remember that we are a NUT FREE school, so please ensure there are no nuts in the ingredients of your items.
Thank you for your generosity – we know that this will make a huge difference!
Beachborough U8s v Winchester House
The Form III boys made the short journey to Winchester House on Tuesday afternoon. Our 4 teams played 8 minute quarters against WHS’s 2 teams scoring lots of fantastic tries and conceding lots too. The boys played with smiles on their faces, lots of positivity and ran forwards with purpose.
The boys should be very proud of themselves! The crowd and coaches had a great afternoon and look forward to many more successful afternoons cheering the U8s on. Any one of the 23 boys could have been Players of the Match, but special mentions this week to Sam J, Arnaud G-W, Frederick P and Grady T.
Mr Jackson
Diary Dates
Due to an error in the diary, please note that the ‘Find Out More About FVII & VIII at Beachborough Parents’ Talk’ is in fact taking place on Tuesday 25th November at 5:30pm: apologies for any inconvenience caused by this error.
You may have seen the ‘Senior School Event’ in the diary for Thursday 2nd October. At this event, Mrs Mitchell will be giving a talk and offering advice, talking through the timelines involved and asking questions regarding future schools. If you wish to attend, please email Mrs Shannon on e.shannon@beachborough.com just so that we have an idea of numbers.
Mr Phillips
Guest Wifi
We are pleased to let you know that Beachborough Guest Wi-Fi is now available for parents.
If you would like to connect, please ask at Reception for details on how to log on.
Leila’s Blossoming Curiosity Leads to a Wild Weekend Ahead!
Science has truly come to life in Form VI this term! As part of our topic on Plant and Animal Lifecycles, Leila has shown exceptional engagement and curiosity. So much so, that she brought in a selection of flowers from home to help her identify the anther and stigma—two key parts of a flower’s reproductive system. Her initiative sparked a hands-on exploration in class and reminded us all how exciting it is to connect learning with the natural world.
Leila’s passion for plants and the environment doesn’t stop there. This weekend, she has an incredible opportunity to spend time at an award-winning rewilding estate, where she’ll be learning about conservation and biodiversity. It’s a chance to deepen her understanding of ecosystems and the importance of protecting our planet’s natural habitats.
We’re so proud of Leila’s engagement and enthusiasm and can’t wait to hear all about her experience. Well done, Leila—keep exploring, questioning, and growing!
Dr Holder
Club Credits!
CLUB
CREDITS
AVERAGE
Boardman
559
6.73
Carder
460
5.75
Chappell
458
5.73
Sprawson
568
6.60
Sporting Excellence
A massive congratulations to Sophie L and Bebe H for being selected for U13 Northants County Hockey. Both girls are currently U11, so this is a fantastic achievement being selected a year young! They both went to the two day trial in Wellingborough and played some fantastic hockey, and were confident at showcasing their skills against older girls. Well done, girls!
Team Photos!
Our U9s after their match against Winchester House on Tuesday.
The U11A team after their win against Winchester House on Wednesday.
‘Where did you get those biscuits?’ Colts A at the Stowe Rugby Festival
Millionaire footballers are currently up in arms over ‘fixture congestion’. Perhaps soon the Colts will be joining them on the picket line. Eleven matches in two weeks. Not since Elizabethan children were working down the mines have eleven-year-olds had it so hard. I broached this matter with some pupils and it turned into a debate about proper techniques in Minecraft. Perhaps the children indeed do yearn for the mines.
Business plans aside, Stowe played host to our second tournament. The prestigious front lawn of Stowe would witness the latest generation of Beachburians. Could the next Henry Pollock be amongst our cohort? Despite our scintillating performances this season, we had been placed in pool B. Upon closer inspection, Mr Yates’ eyes were immediately drawn to a familiar name in our pool…Swanbourne. For the third week running we had been drawn to play them. Swanbourne have become that awkward neighbour that won’t take the hint and keeps chatting to you over the fence.
At least we had a new face to welcome. Carter, having earned the praise of our Northampton Saints’ coaching staff, had agreed to relinquish captaining his beloved B team to join our ranks. He is of fine Nebraskan ‘Cornhusker’ heritage, and I hope we see him bring that gridiron attitude to the rugby field.
Our first match was against Ashfold and it was simply a very one-sided affair. Both Sam and Nick (Captain Fantastic) ran in two tries each. Krystian (Maverick) added one and then Thomas deservedly scored his first try of the season to finish the job, a fine reward and long time coming for a boy growing in stature every week.
Our second match was against Swanbourne, and it was an absolute corker. The sort of back-and-forth affair that has nails chewed and teeth ground. The boys answered my charge to ‘set the tone’ and we scored the first try of the match within seconds, due to a signature aggressive Krystian run. But then Swanbourne came quickly back with two tries before the game settled into an even affair. Organised Beachborough vs athletic Swanbourne. The minutes ticked on; the sideline began to feel the pressure. An umbrella was pointed and shaken at the ref; the perpetrator quickly found himself being told off by his daughter, meanwhile Mr Yates and the Swanbourne coach became embroiled in a friendly exchange of tactical opinions. Against the run of play, Swanbourne broke through and scored. Pandemonium in the derby. Yet, amongst the tempest, the Colts retained their composure on the field. With a minute to go, Sammy’s quick feet gave us life via a brilliant solo try to make it 3-2. Nick’s resulting kick-off was perfect, and our defensive pressure meant we secured a scrum for the last play of the game. The packed sidelines held their breath. ‘Crouch… Engage!’ the ball squirmed loose, we snatched it up and began a passing move, the try line beckoned… but alas one slight error; we knocked on, and the final whistle blew. A heartbreaking end, but when compared to our previous matches against the Swans, a performance that proves how far we have already come this season.
Our third match saw us put Spratton to the sword. Yet this performance was built on brutal defensive performances more so than our attacking play. Spratton could not escape their own 22. The blue and yellow wall had become an immovable object, where previously it resembled Swiss cheese. We forced mistakes and capitalised ruthlessly. We were scoring try after try from quick turnovers. A sumptuous hatrick was scored by Nick, the pick of the bunch being a cheeky show and go to cut through and score in the corner. Stanley began to show some defensive vigour to go with his attacking spirit, perfectly timing his runs from kick-off to clatter Spratton players, from one such tackle he seized the ball and smartly passed to Krystian to score. But, to watch Henry play rugby in this game was to witness the saying ‘It’s not the size of the dog, but the heart of the dog in the fight’. Henry resembled Mel Gibson’s William Wallace, it was as if his nation’s freedom was on the line, such was his determination to begin fearlessly flinging himself into every possible contact with players twice his size. Henry’s highlight came when he singlehandedly drove two players backwards off a ruck and the crowd boisterously roared their approval. Yet, Henry also brought a calm confidence on the ball to go with this newfound ferocity, his diving offload to set up our fifth try was a thing of beauty. But, if only a photographer had captured his grin coming up out of that ruck.
The good, the bad and the ugly. Our penultimate game against Oratory truly showed the full extent of what the Colts are capable of. We quickly went down 4-0 within five minutes. The boys admitted themselves that they fell to infighting and bickering. It appeared as though we were on course for a deserved hiding. Oratory’s speedy winger had broken through again. Destined for a 5th try… or so we thought. Cometh the hour cometh the Sam. Out of nowhere a blue streak tore across the pristine green grass to deliver an incredible diving tackle to bring down the winger and allow Henry to reclaim the ball inches from our own tryline. A switch had been flicked. The boys began to play some of the best rugby we had seen all season. Passes were spun and rucks were won. Mr Yates became delirious, jumping and shouting ‘That’s rugby!’. Within minutes, the boys had brought it back to 4-3. The pick of the tries being Sam’s own bamboozling run and score that had the whole crowd ‘oohing’ and ‘ahhing’ as he displayed a mixture of stunning speed and dogged determination to run through the entire Oratory team. Alas though, we could not nick that final try and the final score remained 4-3. However, the boys had managed to show themselves at their beautiful best when their ugly worst had threatened.
Our final match was against St Hughes, and it was a dogged affair between two battle weary sides. If not for some ‘opportunistic’ biscuit acquiring in the match build up, I fear we would have run out of energy. Instead, we dominated the opening exchanges. However, we only had one try to show for it after St Hughes managed to have two of our attempted tries held up. George being cruelly denied despite some excellent try line squirming. Possibly the moment of the match happened here, when every single player on both sides stormed into one great big rolling maul. As the Colosseum of Rome had in its heyday, the Front Lawn of Stowe roared its approval at such a gladiatorial display. Kit in particular relished the occasion, loudly cheering as he charged in, thoughts of self-preservation cast aside in the search for glory. Unfortunately, for all our efforts, St Hughes’ organised passing eventually broke us down and our hearts were broken yet again by a final-second try.
Frodo Baggins often gets the glory for his role in the quest to destroy the one ring in the fiery pits of Mt Doom. But who was there to inspire him to keep going at the ruins of Osgialth? Who was there to rescue him from the orks of Cirith Ungol? Who was there to carry Frodo up the final steps of Mt Doom? Samwise Gamgee. Our own Sam more than matches the loyalty and determination of his namesake. Man of the tournament; as much due to his consistency, dedication and humbleness as his heroic actions in our penultimate match. Scorer of seven tries. Arise Samwise, you shall bow to no one.
We may have lost three matches today, but these losses were only by a combined 3 tries. And our two wins were clinical 6-0 dismantlings. This meant that our try differential stood at a sturdy +9. Currently, the Colts are a good side, but they could be great. If I can be so bold as to steal the words of John Silver (from the criminally underrated film Treasure Planet): ‘You’ve got the makings of greatness in you, but you gotta take the helm and chart your own course! Stick to it, no matter the squalls! And when the time comes, you’ll get the chance to really test the cut of your sails and show what you’re made of! And… well, I hope I’m there, catching some of the light coming off you that day.’
We go again!
Mr. Yates
Please note: this event is CASH ONLY. Thank you!
We would love your help setting up, serving food, or clearing away. If you can spare a little time, please complete the ‘Can You Help?’ section at the bottom of the booking page.
To celebrate harvest and to help others, we are organising to collect non-perishable foods (packaged in your child’s club colour) to donate to Brackley Food Bank.
The Form III boys made the short journey to Winchester House on Tuesday afternoon. Our 4 teams played 8 minute quarters against WHS’s 2 teams scoring lots of fantastic tries and conceding lots too. The boys played with smiles on their faces, lots of positivity and ran forwards with purpose. 
Millionaire footballers are currently up in arms over ‘fixture congestion’. Perhaps soon the Colts will be joining them on the picket line. Eleven matches in two weeks. Not since Elizabethan children were working down the mines have eleven-year-olds had it so hard. I broached this matter with some pupils and it turned into a debate about proper techniques in Minecraft. Perhaps the children indeed do yearn for the mines.
