Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 12th September 2025

The Head of Boardman News

Communicative Owls: The Power of Listening, Questioning and Responding 

This week in our Boardman assemblies, we have been celebrating the importance of communication — a skill that sits at the heart of learning and forming relationships. Our focus has been on becoming Communicative Owls, encouraging children to embrace and understanding the importance of listening actively, asking thoughtful questions and responding with empathy to others’ feelings. 

Communication is more than just talking. For our young learners, it’s about learning to tune in to others, to understand different perspectives and to express themselves clearly and kindly. These foundational skills help children build stronger friendships, resolve conflicts peacefully, and engage more deeply in their learning. 

Throughout the week, we have explored what it means to be a Communicative Owl: 

• Listening actively: Not just hearing words but showing others we care by giving them our full attention. 

• Asking questions: Being curious and showing interest in others’ ideas and experiences. 

• Responding to feelings: Recognising emotions and responding with kindness and understanding. 

Children listened to the story of ‘Owl and the Listening Oak tree’ and reflected how communication helps us feel heard and valued. Whether it’s taking turns in conversation, noticing when a friend is upset, or asking “Why?” to learn more – these small moments build big skills. 

As we continue to nurture these habits, we invite families to join us in celebrating communicative behaviours at home. Ask your child what it means to be a Communicative Owl, and you might be surprised by the wisdom they share! 

Mrs Tongue

Our Microsoft Showcase School Status…

Volts Sessions with Bloxham School

Dougy’s Weekend Adventure!

On Saturday, I showed my pet Valais sheep at the Moreton-in-Marsh show, in the Longwool and Young Handler class, and got to walk around the main arena with all the other sheep, goats, and cattle that were there competing, and we were all paid £5!

The Dragon School Rugby Festival

The U13A rugby squad began their season with a much-anticipated trip to the Dragon School Festival, eager to test themselves. Spirits were high, and the boys were full of energy, keen to showcase their ability and set the tone for the term ahead.

Our opening fixture came against Cheltenham College, a strong side with a reputation for fast, physical rugby. From the first whistle the Beachborough boys showed they were ready for the challenge. They defended with grit, attacked with pace and managed to take their opportunities when they arose. A single, well-taken try was enough to secure a 5-0 victory and provide the perfect start to the day. It was an encouraging performance and a sign that this squad has plenty of potential.

The second match brought us up against the hosts, The Dragon. As often happens in tournament rugby, the momentum shifted quickly and we found ourselves on the back foot. The Dragon capitalised on their chances and punished some hesitant tackling from our side. Although we managed to get on the scoresheet, the boys were outpaced at crucial moments eventually slipping to a 5-15 defeat. It was a disappointing result, but also a valuable lesson in the importance of defensive organisation and commitment in the tackle.

Determined to bounce back, the team regrouped ahead of their final group game against Spratton Hall. This was the performance of the morning. The boys combined sharp handling with direct running, and their attacking play really clicked into gear. The result was a convincing 25-10 win, full of flowing rugby and growing confidence. That victory ensured we finished second in our group and set up a cross-pool match with Caldicott, another well-drilled side.

By this stage, the squad had found their rhythm and were playing with purpose and intensity. Against Caldicott, the boys produced some of their finest rugby of the day. Strong defence kept the opposition at bay, while clinical finishing allowed us to build a comfortable lead. The final whistle confirmed a superb 15-0 victory, a fitting way to close out the festival.

Overall, it was an excellent day of rugby, filled with positive signs and clear areas for growth. The boys demonstrated resilience, skill and teamwork, laying a solid foundation for the season ahead. With improvements to be made in tackling and defensive discipline, the squad can take great pride in their efforts and look forward with real optimism.

Players of the day: Alex H and Ben S

Club Credits!

Music Lessons Begin! 

This week has seen the return of the ever so popular individual music lessons. From beginners to advanced musicians, it has been wonderful to hear music in action again. We were also delighted to welcome Mr Law, who is our new peripatetic (strings) teacher!

Wellbeing News…

We’re thrilled to share that Bertie, Mrs Mitchell’s Norfolk Terrier, is making a slow integration into the Wellbeing Department! Bertie will undoubtedly make a brilliant addition to the team, and we know that the children will thoroughly enjoy his company in and around the school within the coming months.

On a similar note, our new Wellbeing Ambassadors for the 2025/26 academic year are George V, Lavender G, Dallas S, and Eliza B. These children will be working alongside Mrs Crook, our Nurture and Wellbeing Practitioner, and will provide a listening ear and support to their fellow pupils. Congratulations in your new role!

Congratulating Isla!

Celebrations are in order for Isla R (FVII). Following her success at the English Nationals over the summer, where she reached the finals in the female 200 freestyle achieving 5th place, she has been selected for the GB Aquatics New Talent Programme.

‘Another season begins’- Colts A vs Swanbourne House School. Wednesday 10th September.

England v Germany. The Ashes. The British Lions’ tours. There are certain rivalries which transcend generations. Swanbourne vs Beachborough may not attract the same limelight, but it has close to a century of history that cannot be denied. This past Wednesday was the turn of the latest generation to take to the same turf that has seen generations of young men forged in the steely flames of rugby battle. The boys spoke before the game of having never beaten Swanbourne and being on the end of several one-sided affairs. Add into the mix the controversial (and much scrutinised) summer window transfer of Mr. Yates from Swanbourne to Beachborough, and the tension before kick-off couldn’t have been higher.

The opening 10 minutes were a testament to the boys’ bravery and willingness to ‘get stuck in’ and ‘run it straight’. To a man, the boys eagerly threw themselves into rucks, tackles and contact with the reckless abandon of a 40-year-old pub rugby prop. As the Swanbourne coach said, it wasn’t exactly ‘passing rugby’, but to the old school rugby fans, it was like witnessing the Mona Lisa being painted.

Unfortunately, it was Swanbourne who first began to show their moves, they possessed a few nifty players who managed to touch down four tries without a Beachburian reply. However, our captain began to show why he deserved the armband. Like Jonny Wilkinson, he marshalled his teammates in defence and single-handedly made at least 20 tackles. If not for his efforts, the score would have been worse. At half-time, Nick rallied the troops and delivered some rousing words. Beachborough came into the second half a changed team.

Krystian began to lead the pack, going on several rampaging runs, leaving bedraggled Swanbourne boys trampled into the dirt behind him. One such run earned him the deserved honour of scoring our first try of the season. Promoted from a long exile in the B team, Joshua (MDT to his fans) showed the commitment needed for the A team, bravely lowering his shoulder and bouncing off tacklers and showing himself to be a tenacious (hedgehog) in the rucks. Max made some gorgeous wrap tackles, expertly leveraging his weight to drag down their fast movers. On the wing, Kit began to showcase his speed and moves, dodging through some challenging defenders. On the other wing, Stanley asserted himself, showcasing a good strength along with his speed to break through the line on numerous occasions and claim our second try in the far corner. Henry proved himself a determined fella, always in and around the rucks, eager to pass the ball quickly, he has the makings of a fine scrum half! Sam showed his nimble feet with some fancy footwork, bewitching the Swanbourne defence on countless occasions. As the game drew on, his pace in the backs began to shine, drawing defenders in and allowing space for his teammates. I thought Jude’s and Thomas’ commitment to throw themselves into rucks and help win back loose balls was worthy of note. George overcame some early match nerves to become heartily involved in some scrappy tackles, true bravery is not in having no fear, but in overcoming that fear!

Unfortunately, our resilient efforts were not rewarded with a win. But a final score of 4-7 is no mean feat given the half time scoreline and the quality of the opposition.

Man of the match goes to our very own ‘Captain Fantastic’ Nick. His superb leadership and fearless tackling throughout the game was deservedly rewarded with a try. Honourable mention goes to our loyal travelling support. Despite the journey, they comfortably outnumbered (and out-cheered!) the Swanbourne contingent. Their rowdy dominance of the sidelines helped spur the boys on through a challenging fixture.

As I said to the boys, everyone had their own moments and proved they belonged at this level of rugby. However, what got me most excited (sometimes overly so) on the sidelines was the quality of some of our team moves. On a few glorious occasions, passes began to flow like Mozart’s Symphony no.40. The ball was zipped out through the hands and the space out wide was exploited. ‘Rugby!’ and ‘It’s like watching the All-Blacks!’ I exclaimed. Overall, despite the loss, this was a fantastic beginning, and if this performance is anything to go by, we have an exciting season on our hands.

We go again!

Mr. Yates.

Questions and Queries

Henry and Harriet’s Sporting Success

Last weekend, Henry L (VII) was thrilled to be awarded Player of the Season for Stony Stratford Cricket Club U11. Harriet L (FIV) also took part in, and successfully completed, the Thornborough Fun Run. Congratulations!

CREATE

What’s on next week?

Monday 15th September

• Skill of the week: REFLECTION
• 9.00am – 10.00am Regular Boarders Induction
• 1.30pm – Girls’ Hockey: U13A and U11A and B at the Stowe Prep Schools Festival (A)*

Tues 16th September

• 2.30pm – Boys’ Rugby: U8’s (all boys) v Ashfold (A)*
• 2.30pm – Boys’ Rugby: U9A and B Triangular v Akeley Wood and Ashfold (H)*
• 2.30pm – Girls’ Hockey: U9A v Akeley Wood (H)*
• 3.00pm – Girls’ Hockey: U9B v Akeley Wood (H)*
• 4.30pm – 5.00pm – Singing Assembly

Wednesday 17th September

• 8.30am – 9.00am – V-VIII Head’s Assembly
• 8.30am – 9.00am – III & IV Assembly (Boardman)
• 1.30pm – Boys’ Rugby: U11A and B at the Bloxham Festival (A)*
• 2.00pm – Boys’ Rugby: U13A at the St Hugh’s Festival (A)*
• 2.30pm – Boys’ Rugby: U13B and U12B v Pitsford (H)*
• 2.30pm – Boys’ Rugby: U10A v Ashfold (A)*
• 1.30pm – Girls’ Hockey: Colts A and B at the Bloxham Festival (A)*
• 2.15pm – Girls’ Hockey: Colts Cavaliers and Eagles v Chandlings (A)*
• 3.00pm – Girls’ Hockey: Colts Tigers v Chandlings (A)*
• 2.00pm – Senior Girls (Forms VII and VIII) Club Hockey

Thursday 18th September

• 8.30am – 9.30am – Reception Phonics Workshop for Parents (The Whybrow Theatre)*
• 9-10:30am: Boarders’ Induction (SC)
• 10.30am-11.00am – Church for FIII-V; Year Group Assemblies for Forms VI-VII

Friday 19th September

• 8.30am – 9.00am – Rec-PP2 Assembly (Boardman)
• 10.00am – IAPS U13 Girls’ Regional Hockey Championships (A at St Edward’s School)*