Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 5th December 2025

Head’s Blog

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Helen Keller 

Helen Keller’s words are a timely reminder that meaningful progress is often achieved when people work together with shared purpose. This week at Beachborough certainly illustrated this, as we welcomed a team of inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate and saw our whole community come together to work exceptionally. I can’t wait to share the inspector’s findings with you all when the final report is published, which will hopefully be sometime in February.    

The theme of community continued throughout the week. Mr Jackson led a Church Assembly for Forms III to V, exploring what it means to be part of a community. He spoke about the habits, attitudes and responsibilities that help a group function well, and the importance of recognising the role each individual plays. The children were encouraged to reflect not only on what they gain from being part of a community, but also on what they contribute. As ever, the children amaze me with their thoughtful understanding as they highlighted the importance and value of teamwork, respect and kindness as essential skills for both school life and the wider world. 

The same spirit of community was clear among our youngest pupils during the Nursery and Kindergarten Songs and Rhymes Christmas show. For many, it was their first time performing in front of an audience, a milestone filled with excitement and just the right amount of nervous energy. With staff and families coming together, we created a warm, encouraging environment that allowed the children to shine, performing with confidence and clarity. It was an absolute joy to see.  

The Beachborough Friends Christmas Bazaar also reflected the strength of our community as we welcomed families, staff and alumni back to school. Events like this remind us how community extends beyond the classroom and the school day. The atmosphere was lively and positive, and it was clear that everyone involved played a part in creating a memorable occasion. 

Reflecting upon this week, it’s clear that community is not formed by chance; it is built through shared values, consistent effort and genuine connection. The events of the past week have demonstrated how those elements shape everyday life at Beachborough and contribute to a culture where every child feels a sense of belonging.  

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported and contributed to our community this week. Wishing you an enjoyable weekend.      

Simone

Head of Boardman News

A Song and a Rhyme at Christmas Time – Beachborough’s Youngest Learners Shine Bright 

Beachborough’s festive season began in the most heartwarming way as our Nursery and Kindergarten pupils took to the stage for A Song and a Rhyme at Christmas Time. This delightful event was a true celebration of confidence, creativity and joy, showcasing the incredible progress our youngest learners have made over recent weeks. 

A sincere thank you to the families who gathered to watch groups of bright and brilliant children perform Christmas-themed lyrics set to well-loved nursery rhyme tunes. Each child sang with enthusiasm, filling the Whybrow with festive cheer and child-like wonder. Every performance reflected the skills and self-assurance the children have been developing – standing confidently, singing proudly and sharing their excitement with everyone present. 

Our Early Years provision plays a vital role in providing a holistic and nurturing foundation for every child at the start of their Beachborough journey. These formative experiences help develop confidence, creativity and a love of learning – skills that will support them throughout their time at school and beyond. 

I therefore extend my gratitude to the Nursery and Kindergarten team for all they do to nurture each child’s confidence and for planning and choreographing such a beautiful performance. Special thanks also to Annie Chatfield, whose support with singing throughout the preparation and performance helps foster the children’s love for music. 

This magical moment truly captured the essence of Christmas through the eyes of our youngest pupils. Their joy was infectious, their confidence inspiring and their smiles the perfect way to kick-start the celebrations at Beachborough. 

We look forward to continuing the festive spirit with the Reception and Pre-Prep Nativity performances next week! I wish all our families a very happy, restful and festive weekend ahead. 

Mrs Tongue

A Macbeth Sneak Peek!

A glimpse into a world of prophecy, ambition and peril. Form VII’s production of Macbeth is almost here!

It’s a performance that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat, so don’t forget to reserve your tickets now by emailing l.dodd@beachborough.com.

The Beachborough Run 2025

On Tuesday afternoon, we hosted our annual cross-country event, The Beachborough Run.

We were thrilled to welcome 12 local schools, whose pupils rose to the challenge of a demanding course around our grounds. Our U11 runners completed a 3.2km route, while the U13s, who set off a little later, tackled 4.2km. Every participant should feel immensely proud of their efforts, and a huge congratulations goes to all of our winners – particularly our U11 girls’ team who won the junior race!

We look forward to welcoming our visiting schools back next year.

More Fundraising for Mary’s Meals

Mr Gross’s tutor group brought a fantastic burst of warmth to school this morning, by selling hot chocolate during short break to raise money for Mary’s Meals. The children were delighted to enjoy a comforting cup for just £1, with the option to add marshmallows or squirty cream for an extra 50p. The initiative was a huge success, not only lifting spirits on a chilly day but also supporting our wonderful main school charity. Well done, everybody!

Mr Gross’s tutor group aren’t the only children who have been fundraising recently. Leila Y (FVI) has her own small business, creating custom phone charms and key rings! Thanks to her lovely, personalised designs, Leila raised a fantastic £40, which she has kindly donated to Mary’s Meals. Thank you so much, Leila.

Stowe Scholarship Success 

We are proud to announce that all of our pupils who attended the Stowe Sports 13+ Scholarship assessments were successful. We would also like to give particular congratulations to Alex H, who achieved the accolade of top-performing boy on the day; an excellent achievement and a reflection of his hard work and commitment.

  • Eva M – Exhibition
  • Jenna S – Exhibition
  • Alex H – Scholarship (Top Male Performance)
  • Bertie T– Scholarship
  • Ollie G– Scholarship
  • Rory C – Scholarship

Ultimate Activity Camps return in 2026

We’re excited to welcome back Ultimate Activity Camps in 2026, giving children the chance to try something new, grow in confidence, and make lasting friendships! Each week is bursting with over 40 exciting sports, games, and creative activities, all run in a safe and fun environment.

Ultimate Winter Saver – save up to £75 per week and £8 per day!

Offer ends Tuesday 20 January. Start the new year with great savings on your 2026 childcare.

This offer is available online. Visit https://www.ultimateactivity.co.uk/locations/beachborough-school to book and save today.

2026 camp dates
  • EASTER: 7th – 10th April 2026
  • SUMMER: 20th July – 21st August 2026 | Survival: 20th July – 21st August 2026 | Tech: 10th – 21st August 2026

Beachborough’s Flying Club

We’re excited to launch Beachborough School Flying Club, as a new co-curricular offering for our Beachburians!

We’ll be working in partnership with British Young Pilots (BYP) from January 2026, where each week, children will enjoy lessons led by a BYP instructor, combining theory with practical flying skills on a flight simulator. Plus, each half term, pupils will have the opportunity to fly a real aircraft for 30 minutes and put their skills to the test!

Open to Forms VI-VIII, this club offers the chance to pass civilian pilot exams and, for motivated members, even graduate with a Private Pilot License (PPL).

A huge thank you to Mrs Dodd, our Co-Curricular Lead, for organising this incredible opportunity.

U13 IAPS Rugby Champions!

The U13 rugby team produced a truly exceptional performance to be crowned IAPS Rugby Champions, rounding off a day that showcased their resilience, teamwork and unwavering determination. Every member of the squad stepped up when it mattered, contributing to a memorable tournament that highlighted both individual skill and collective spirit.

The opening group match against a strong St John’s side proved to be a testing start. The boys were a little slow to settle into their rhythm, and despite showing glimpses of their potential, the game finished in a 10–10 draw. However, this result sparked a shift in momentum. In their second group match, the team rediscovered their confidence and intensity, producing a statement performance against St Faith’s. Their attacking play was dynamic, their defence resolute, and they ran out convincing 35–0 winners.

Next came Swanbourne House, where the team continued to build on their growing form. Controlling territory and possession, they demonstrated excellent game management to secure a 15–5 victory. The final group match against a very strong Bishop’s Stortford Prep side would decide who topped the pool. Knowing what was at stake, the boys dug deep and delivered a display full of heart and discipline. Their defence was outstanding throughout, and a well-earned 10–0 win ensured they progressed to the final.

In the championship match against Cheltenham College, fatigue threatened to take its toll, yet the boys once again found another gear. Facing a skilful and well-drilled opponent, they rose to the occasion magnificently. In a fiercely contested final, the team scored three superb tries and sealed a 15–0 victory.

A remarkable day of rugby concluded with the team lifting the trophy and proudly claiming the title of U13 IAPS Rugby Champions.

Mr Stoop
Colts A at the Warwick Festival

All good things must come to an end, and today it was the Colts’ turn as Mr Yates’ much-vaunted series of country-wide escapades drew to a fitting conclusion. On the fields of Warwick—a setting for countless sporting battles since the days of Henry VIII—our own final stand was set to unfold. The last test came in the form of a gruelling six-match tournament against unfamiliar opposition from (slightly) foreign shores: Warwickshire.

We began strongly with a dominant 5–0 win to open the tournament. Our second game, against Mr Yates’ own alma mater, The Croft, proved a far tougher affair and ended in a hard-earned 1–1 draw. Another narrow draw in the third match extended our season-equalling unbeaten streak.

Unfortunately, the next two games went against us. The first was closely contested; the second, against a powerful Bedford side, was decidedly one-sided. Spirits dipped—would the boys find the energy for one last push?

Inspiration arrived from an unexpected place: our B-team friends. We were able to watch and cheer them on for a few minutes, and the A-team boys seemed to tap into a new reservoir of energy as they supported their classmates. A huge cheer greeted Marshall’s excellent tackle, and another roar followed as Jacob carried the ball into contact with a grin. Marshall then added the highlight of the day, scooping up a loose pass and powering through five tacklers—sending the terraces into delighted pandemonium. The Bs may not have been winning, but for those brief moments they were cheered as though they wore the hallowed red rose at Twickenham.

Re-energised, the Colts took to the field for their final match. Cries of “eight more minutes” and “leave it all out there” echoed around the concourse. What followed was a superb performance against a strong, physically imposing side—full of flowing passes, firm tackles, determination and composure. At last, the boys showed the full range of their abilities as the sun set on the season. A deserved 2–0 victory was met with clenched fists and broad smiles.

Where once a disparate mix of individuals had limped along, a team now strode off the field—one forged between the hammer of contest and the anvil of challenge. Rugby is not always a smooth ride, and this year group knows that well. The true test of a player lies in how they handle adversity, how they stand firm against larger opponents, and how they continue to play for their teammates even when the odds are against them. In those final minutes, on a muddy field miles from home, a true rugby team was born.

Clear eyes. Full hearts. Can’t lose.

Players of the Match!

Congratulations to our children in Forms III-VIII, who have been awarded Player(s) of the Match this week in their respective fixtures.

 

Club Credits!

CLUB CREDITS AVERAGE
Boardman 492 5.29
Carder 489 5.49
Chappell 424 4.82
Sprawson 511 5.21

What’s on next week?

Monday 8th December

  • Last Week of Co-Curricular Clubs
  • 9:00am-3:30pm – Rec-VIII Flu Vaccinations
  • 8.15am – 9.15am – The Link (Manor House Library)*
  • 9.00am – 10.00am – Rec–PP2 Nativity Performance to Boardman pupils and Manor House siblings (Whybrow Theatre)
  • 1.30pm – Attitude to Learning Lunch
  • 6.00pm – Festive Concert (Whybrow Theatre)*

 

Tuesday 9th December

  • 9.00am – 10.00am – Rec-PP2 Nativity family friendly performance to Parents (Whybrow Theatre)*
  • 2.15 – 3.30pm – Forms III and IV Club Wide Games
  • 6.00pm – Form VII Macbeth Performance to parents (Whybrow Theatre)*

 

Wednesday 10th December

  • 9.00am – 10.00am – R-PP2 Nativity Adult only Performance (Whybrow Theatre)*
  • 10:30-11:00am PP1 & PP2 Caught Being Kind Celebration Ghab
  • 2.30pm – 4.30pm – Forms V-VIII Club Wide Games

 

Thursday 11th December

  • Christmas Jumper Day (Staff & Pupils)
  • 8.40am – 10.00am – Autumn Prize Giving 2025
  • 11:30am – 12:10pm – EYFS Christmas Feast
  • 11:30am – 12:10pm – Pre-Prep Christmas Feast
  • 12:30pm – 1:15pm – Form III – VIII Chappell & Sprawson Christmas Feast
  • 1:30pm – 2:15pm – Form III – VIII Boardman & Carder Christmas Feast

 

Friday 12th December

  • Games kit to go home.
  • 8.30am – FIII-VIII Celebration Assembly (Whybrow Theatre)
  • 9:30am – R-PP2 Celebration Assembly (Boardman Foyer)
  • 11.00am – Brass Carols on the front terrace / Staff Carols
  • 3:15-3:45pm – FIII-VIII Caught Being Kind Celebration Ghab
  • Kites Friday Night Boarding – Pantomime trip (FV-VIII)

 

Saturday 13th December

  • 10.30am – Boarders Collected