Newsletter

01 March 2024

The welcome this week is written by my brilliant Heads of School Sam, Faris, Libby and Charlie who are now entering the final phase of their Feltonfleet journey. Here our excellent young leaders reflect on their year so far and the positions of leadership they hold.

This school has always been a second home to me and I hope it has been for the rest of my peers. The atmosphere is great in and out of class. Although everything is brilliant at the school, I would have to say my favourite thing is the people and how everyone always looks out for one another. As Head Girl I’ve enjoyed doing various assemblies and my favourite thing I have probably done so far is to see the Chelsea pensioners for the day with my fellow Pupil Leadership Team. The challenges I have faced are adapting to my Head Girl duties with my other school life and homework. In Calvi I always looked up to Year 8 and I always dreamt of being Head Girl. I remember them reading to us, inspiring us and leading us and I wanted to do the exact same thing when I was in Year 8 even if I wasn’t Head Girl. As I've been here for 10 years I’ve watched the school grow for the better and I have to admit even though I might be biased since it’s my last year but this has been my favourite term so far.

Faris

Being given the role of Head Boy this year has been an incredible opportunity and one that I have tried my best to grasp with both hands. One of the highlights of leadership this year has been working as part of the amazing Pupil Leadership Team.

All the opportunities that I have been given throughout my time at school have been brilliant and I have tried my best to dive into all that have come my way. However, balancing my time effectively has been a real challenge throughout this year so far. For me the single most amazing thing about our community is that you feel a part of it from the start to the finish of each day. It certainly feels like every individual matters. As a member of this community for the last six years I have had the opportunity to watch this amazing school grow and develop. Throughout the years I have watched former Head Boys and Girls be the people I look up to. This has encouraged me this year to be the person that younger students look up to and say ‘I want to be like him when I’m older’ and I want those people to carry that motivation on with them as they climb up through this brilliant school.

Sam

The past 10 years at Feltonfleet have been absolutely amazing, filled with memories and relationships that will last a lifetime. I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in many areas of school life. Music is a passion of mine and I’ve loved being in a range of music ensembles as well as learning two instruments. I’ve really enjoyed my leadership experience so far because it has helped my confidence grow when talking in groups, big or small as well as teaching me many key skills that will help me in later life. I’ve really loved meeting different people in Calvi as well as the main school. In particular I have enjoyed meeting the Calvi pupils and learning all about them.

Feltonfleet is a very special place. This is down to the teachers who have supported me in and outside of the classroom as well as the inclusive and welcoming community. The school has had a very positive impact on the person I am. It has taught me important qualities such as honesty and kindness that I strive to use everyday.

Libby

In my final year at Feltonfleet, I have been blessed with the role of Deputy Head Boy. This has given me lots of leadership experience already. A really exciting part of this role is presenting assemblies to my peers and to other years in the main school and in Calvi. This is very exciting for all of us in the PLT (Pupil Leadership Team) because working together builds strong bonds between us and means we look forward to working with each other. Working with the PLT has been a very easy part of leading this year. We have grown to take much enjoyment from working with each other and having this group of us makes leadership far more fun for all of us.

Something that’s been challenging about leading this year has been needing to remember sometimes last minute changes or additions to what I have to prepare or remember to do.

By summer, when my ten year journey at the school is over, some goals I’d like to have accomplished include getting to know the younger pupils more and bridging the gap between younger and older pupils, developing my public speaking skills and having a good impact on all other students by being a good role model as a leader. Overall I want to leave feltonfleet a better place than it was before.

Feltonfleet has given me a passion for many different sports and the games lesson is a highlight of almost any pupil’s week. Sport here is amazing and I am sure I wouldn’t be the same without it. Lessons such as art, music and drama have provided me with a variety of skills which I’m sure to use throughout my life. There are also individual music lessons and after school clubs both of which most people are part of. The academic side of the school is in no way second to the co curricular opportunities. Many of my friends and I have made it into our first choice schools thanks to the preparation the excellent teachers gave us. The community really is true to the school’s slogan, “every individual matters” in that all the teachers know all the students personally and are respected, but not feared. For example no pupil is afraid to ask for extra help and all teachers know the individual needs of their students. This, I think, is truly standout about Feltonfleet.

Charlie

#FeltonfleetWhereIndividualsReallyMatter

#Destination13

We belong

We’re delighted to welcome you to listen to the first episode of our new EDI podcast - Dove Audio - which this week offers an opportunity to get to know Mrs Jessica Hunte, Feltonfleet’s EDI Lead. It’s a relatively short listen at just under 7 minutes. Enjoy (with sound on of course)!

#FeltonfleetWellbeingAndInclusion

Bravo to our incredible Year 4 pupils for a spellbinding performance of The Lion King before half term! Your talent, enthusiasm, and dedication shone through on stage. A roaring success!

Simon Fellingham

#FeltonfleetPerformingArts

This was the third annual Public Speaking Event and this 'Year 6 Calendar Highlight', continues to go from strength to strength. Over the past few weeks the English Department has been working with various groups, all consisting of a mixture of boys and girls from a variety of sets, to hone their persuasive speeches and presentation skills. There was a wide variety of topics to choose from, such as: 'AI does more harm than good', 'Is our society obsessed with social media?', 'Is graffiti art or vandalism?' and 'Are professional athletes overpaid?' to name but a few. The children were quite simply outstanding. To be able to stand in front of a packed Ashbee Theatre filled with adults and peers, deliver emotive, hard-hitting, intelligent, witty and thoroughly engaging speeches, truly showed what a remarkable Year Group they are. The life-skills and confidence that they gained throughout this process are genuinely immeasurable and the parents, staff members and judges, couldn't have been more impressed with their efforts.

Individual / Group prizes; Best group - Badgers; Collaboration - Foxes; Speaker - Foxes; Content - Otters.

#FeltonfleetLiteracy

In our RE lessons and assemblies we have been finding out about how different celebrations occur at different times of the year. With the help of some of our Chinese families and Mrs Ip we found out how some people around the world celebrate Chinese New Year. We looked at China on the map and on the globe and pupils in Reception and Nursery learnt about the story of the animal race that gave each animal a year in the Chinese calendar.

In Nursery literacy, children learnt about the story of the Three Little Pigs and linked their reading and storytelling to the construction and creative areas, building houses and acting out roles from the story. They were encouraged to create their own versions and alternative endings to the story, developing their language use and extending their vocabulary with some highly imaginative ideas about what could happen to the wolf!

Year 2 enjoyed a marvellous historical learning experience on location at Hampton Court, travelling on a coach with staff and supporting Parent Reps who are Friends of Feltonfleet. Despite a very rainy day, the children engaged in an insightful workshop, learning a Tudor dance and handling artefacts. The kitchen drew pupil’s interest and imagination and the Chapel provided a quiet moment of reflection.

We’ve also been learning about the cycle of seasons, and as new bulbs and blossoms are beginning to burst into life in the garden, we have been mapping seasonal weather and natural growth.

#FeltonfleetPrePrep

Focus on PSHE

During PSHE lessons this week, Year 3 pupils have been exploring the dreams and goals of Dr Jane Goodall, conservationist and chimpanzee expert. She had a big dream when she was young and, with hard work, she made it come true! Pupils spent time discussing their hopes and goals and explored how these are like maps, guiding us through life. The Year 3 pupils should be proud of their growing resilience and courage in all that they do and their teachers are helping them to realise that, to achieve great things, they must believe in themselves.

Focus on IPC

Year 4 have been researching cacao and where it grows, as well as its impact on the local economies who grow it through organisations such as fair trade. Their independent learning was supported through digital research and pupils were encouraged to use an atlas to locate the cacao growing regions. It was clear they enjoyed this activity, working collaboratively with their peers, and it helped to develop their knowledge of countries and climates. The topic led to some interesting discussions about what a living wage was and why the farmers are paid poorly for their produce.

Year 4 were treated to a special presentation by Oliver P (4ERs), who prepared and delivered an exceptional talk about the history of Mexican Day. He shared lots of pictures and fascinating information about the Aztecs and explained that he has a Mexican heritage. Oliver brought in various artefacts, including a precious monkey vessel, huge Mexican flag and a tortilla press. Thank you for sharing this rich history and culture with Year 4, Oliver!

Lower School Disco

The Lower School disco was a night to remember, as the DJ kept the dance floor alive with energetic beats, and our pupils showcased their fantastic dance moves. Laughter echoed through the Ashbee as children enjoyed the festive atmosphere, creating unforgettable memories with their friends. A massive thank you goes out to the Friends of Feltonfleet for their dedicated efforts in organising this special evening.

#FeltonfleetYear3

#FeltonfleetYear4

We have had an extremely creative start to the year in Year 6 RE, with a focus on how various religions employ the arts - think music, dance, drama and art - to breathe life into their sacred stories. Whether it was creating melodious tunes that echo tales of faith, designing geometric patterns in the style of Islamic art or choreographing mesmerising dances that celebrate cultural heritage - the Jewish Hora, our pupils have been on an artistic odyssey, discovering how religions use these creative avenues to share their beliefs.

Our explorations extended to the colourful and light-filled festivals of Hanukkah, Diwali, and Christmas. Our young scholars had a blast uncovering the unique and vibrant ways in which these celebrations unfold across different faiths. The classroom buzzed with creativity as we designed dazzling Diwali lamps, sprinkled the ephemeral patterns of Rangoli, crafted menorahs for Hanukkah and embraced the festive spirit of Christmas. Throughout the entire topic, Year 6 pupils not only acquired knowledge but also developed an appreciation for the diverse ways in which religions express their beliefs through the arts.

We have since adventured into the Christian concept of the Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - and the broad, vibrant traditions of the Hindu religion. From unravelling the mystical attributes of Hindu deities to creating picturesque posters of Hindu temples, Year 6 have had the opportunity to research, collaborate, present and evaluate. To top it off, they compiled their very own 'passport' of Hindu pilgrimage sites, adding an exciting hands-on element to our exploration of faith.

Here's to the joy of learning and the beauty of understanding each other's journeys!

Jennifer Butcher

#FeltonfleetYear6

In our Year 8 history lessons this year, we've embarked on a fascinating journey through pivotal moments in history; this term’s particular focus has been the Abolition of Slavery. Exploring West Africa in the 18th century, students delved into the economic, social, and cultural dynamics surrounding the transatlantic slave trade. Through engaging discussions and immersive activities, pupils gained insight into the harrowing experiences endured by enslaved individuals during the Middle Passage, highlighting the human toll of this tragic chapter.

As the term progressed, our young historians delved into key milestones of the abolitionist movement, examining the courageous efforts and significant figures who campaigned tirelessly for freedom and equality. Culminating in a collaborative project, students are showcasing their understanding of major events and influential figures in the UK abolition movement, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the power of collective action in shaping history.

Melissa Williamson

#FeltonfleetYear8

Brass Concerts

Before half term, Feltonfleet Music Department hosted two super instrumental concerts. On Tuesday 6th February, the pupils of Mrs Alison Knight entertained us with music played on cornets, trumpets, trombones and the french horn. It was great to see the range of ability from our youngest players right up to our most experienced Year 8s. It is wonderful that Feltonfleet has such a big cohort of brass players. Thank you to Mrs Knight for all of her hard work and to Mr Andrews for his piano accompaniments.

SINGING Concert

On Thursday 8th February, there was a lovely singing concert, put on by the pupils of Ms Hepzibah Tagoe. This was a big event with many keen performers. It was great that the Year 2 children could join us and wonderful to hear such a diversity of songs. It is super that the children get to learn how to sing with the correct vocal techniques and that they have the opportunity to perform in front of an audience. Thank you to Ms Tagoe and to all the parents and family members who attended both concerts

Emma W

#FeltonfleetPerformingArts

World Book Day Reminders

We’re so excited for World Book Day next week, and have lots of fun and inspiring events scheduled for the pupils, including author visits from Julian Sedgwick, Jack Meggitt-Phillips and Tom Palmer, our favourite book character Dress Up Day on Thursday, as well as a mysterious Harry Potter themed event!

Francesca Kinghorn & Emma Burnside

#FeltonfleetLiteracy

Congratulations to Oscar W (7BDa

Skandar and the Unicorn Thief

By A F Steadman

This book tells the story of a 13 year old boy called Skander. Skander is desperate to be a professional unicorn rider and win the chaos cup. Not everything goes to plan, but following 3 magical knocks at the door, his adventure begins.

I refused to read this book for several months because it had unicorns in the name. However, these unicorns are not pink and fluffy, they are deadly monsters! I found the book a challenging read but it was really really worth it!

I would rate this thrilling book 10 out of 10. My favourite part is the twist at the end but I won't tell you what happens because it will spoil the story!

It has been wonderful to see a number of Lower School pupils start their boarding journey at Feltonfleet through this year. Boarding can be a great way for children to meet fellow pupils from other year groups, create secure friendships and develop their independence. I spoke to a few of our Lower School boarders to find out about their experience so far!

#FeltonfleetBoarding

Cross Country

This term the boys and girls have been busy in the pursuit of cross country. The first event of the year took place at Highfield Prep on what was a particularly wet week making the course especially challenging (muddy). Undeterred, our runners put in an incredible performance with Elizabeth B winning 1st place in the U10 girls, Tahlia T coming 2nd in the U13 girls and the U10 Boys winning the team race!

A week later, the boys and girls were at it again this time at Priory Park in Reigate for the Surrey Primary Schools Cross Country. This is an open event to both independent and state schools and as such draws in a highly competitive crowd. The runners showed incredible spirit and resilience and brought home a number of top 20 finishes. Jay K, Max T, Elizabeth B, Millicent B all received invites to a Surrey Athletics training event.

Ben Baldwin

#FeltonfleetSport

girls’ sport round up

This week the U11A Team travelled to Charterhouse for the Regional IAPS Netball Tournament. This would bring together 25 of the top netball teams from across the county for a place in the finals. The girls had a tough group playing Halstead St Andrews in their first match, followed by Rowan Prep, Maltmans Green and finally to round off the group stage Westbrook Hay. The girls worked incredibly hard, from start to finish, displaying great skill but also incredible sportsmanship. Their hard work saw them qualify for the Plate competition playoffs against Orchard House School. This was the toughest game yet and unfortunately, they narrowly lost. Well done to the girls.

After a restful half term break the girls were straight into their House Netball tournaments. The tournaments saw every girl in the school, spanning from Years 3 to 8, participating with enthusiasm and dedication, showcasing the inclusive nature of the House and Sports programs. Particularly notable were the tightly contested competitions in the Lower School, where the budding talent of the young netballers was on full display. The event also provided a platform for our House captains to demonstrate exemplary leadership, guiding their teams with passion and determination. Reflecting the core values of respect, kindness, responsibility and honesty, the event was a resounding success.

#FeltonfleetSport

BOYS’ SPORT update

Another busy couple of weeks back from half-term for the boys on Hockey. Our U11s had solid victories and a couple of narrow loses over Cranmore and Shrewsbury house, and our U9s had their first matches of the season against Broomswood Boys which saw our A&B teams win and our C&D team unfortunately come up second best in some well fought fixtures. The U9s went again, this time against Cranmore, with similar sides matching up, it saw some wins and loses, making a great afternoon of sport for all involved. Our 1st team travelled to Cranleigh to compete in the U13 IAPS competition. With a tough group and some nail biting end to end matches, we just missed out (by 1 goal), placing us into the Plate Competition. We sailed through to the finals, winning in a golden goal match in the semi’s. We saved our best performance till last, winning a convincing final 2-0 against Walhampton to win the plate. The boys played brilliantly and should be proud of their performances across the day.

Coming up, we’ll have played Eagle House, Hall grove, hosted our Rugby 7s competition and played some more fixtures with Cranmore and Shrewsbury House!

Andrew Rishton

#FeltonfleetSport

Every second month something spectacular happens in the Art Studio. It is time for the Artist of Excellence Awards. Works for this prestigious award is selected by a "SECRET" member of staff. Three Artworks are selected per year group and then posted on Seesaw and Firefly for our pupils, staff and parents to vote for their favourite.

See the full February 2024 results here.

Arie Coetzee

#FeltonfleetCreativeArts

Yesterday we welcomed parents to join us for Evensong, where Mr Mark Hoskins, Headmaster of Reed’s School was our guest speaker. Mr Hoskins talked about the importance of noticing the incredible natural world we live in, being grateful for it and acting to preserve it with an appropriate sense of awe and wonder.

The Upper School Choir sang a truly uplifting version of Oh Happy Day and a very special mention to Violet P who sang the solo brilliantly. Did you know that Oh Happy Day was originally a hymn written in 1755, but became a staple in African-American churches where gospel music developed. Edwin Hawkins released his arrangement in 1968 and won a grammy for it in 1970. Now it's the version everyone uses!

It was a lovely occasion, and many parents enjoyed afternoon tea with Mrs Lance and Mr Hoskins after the event in the Old Library. Thank you to all who were able to support this event.

Pre-Prep

Yuna A (Squirrels) - For increasing independence and confidence in Nursery

Lower School

Sebastian D (4ERs) - For always showing a positive attitude and bringing joy to the class each day

Middle School

Olivia BG (5BBa) - for showing adaptability and resilience in everything she does.

Upper School

Mason W (7BDa) - for being an especially kind friend to his peers. Showing great patience and respect to others. Demonstrating responsible behaviour.

#FeltonfleetCharacterAndCulture

Year 8 ScholarsHIp Success (So Far)!

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that a number of our exceptional Year 8 pupils have been awarded scholarships at their senior schools, a testament to their dedication, talent, and the foundation they’ve received here at Feltonfleet. These scholarships reflect the outstanding achievements of our pupils in a variety of areas, and we couldn't be more delighted about their well-deserved recognition. Whilst we eagerly anticipate more scholarship announcements in the coming weeks, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of those who have already received this honour. Many congratulations!

Harry H - Cranmore - Academic Scholarship

Harry H - Cranmore - Sport Scholarship

Liam M - Cranmore - Sport Scholarship

Harry N - Cranmore - Academic Scholarship

Harry N - Cranmore - Sport Scholarship (golf)

Bluebell S - Charterhouse - Sport Scholarship

Rocky Z - Cheltenham College - Music Scholarship

#FeltonfleetDestination13

swimming success for Isaac & sophiA

Surrey Age Group Championship was held at Surrey Sports park over two weekends at the end of January and beginning of February.

Sophia and Isaac both had a very busy programme with many races to swim and they have been working very hard to prepare for this meet.

I was delighted to hear about their outstanding achievement.

Sophia won a silver medal in the 400m individual medley and three gold medals in the butterfly events (50m, 100m & 200m).

Isaac won three bronze medals (200m freestyle, and 50m & 100m backstroke), three ribbons and swam 8 PB’s.

Congratulations to Sophia and Isaac, we are so proud of you!

#FeltonfleetSport

Maths Challenge

Some of our talented mathematicians took part in a Maths Challenge at St John’s Beaumont earlier this month. All the pupils showed exceptional problem-solving skills, cracking complex puzzles and unravelling tricky equations as well as running a half marathon between them! We’re delighted to say that Ben M and Charlie S came 3rd out of 35 teams! Huge congratulations to all involved.

#FeltonfleetMaths

Ski success at the English Alpine Championships

Charlie S took part in the English Alpine Championships over half term, his first time competing at this level. He was representing his club, Sandown Park Ski Race Club, and participated in the U14 Boys Slalom and Giant Slalom races, placing 40th and 53rd respectively. A great performance for his competition debut. Well done Charlie!

#FeltonfleetSport

On Friday 23rd February Teresa Hughes delivered a workshop to our parents and Upper School pupils. Teresa is a former police detective who now supports more than 300 national and international schools, organisations, charities and companies with the delivery of their safeguarding/child protection training both on and offline.

Some key messages from the talks were:

• Pupils: Trust your gut; if something doesn’t feel right then it probably isn’t.
  
• Pupils: Know who you can trust and make sure you share anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or worried.
  
• Pupils: Be mindful of digital footprints; what you put and share online now can have a lasting impact on your reputation, relationships and employment opportunities.
  
• Parents: Check your sons/daughters devices to see what they can access/find. Are your home safeguarding/filtering systems in place?
  
• Parents: Don’t remove the devices if there is a problem, it might mean that they are reluctant to tell you about an issue again in the future.
  
• Parents: Do your children know who they can ask (if it’s not you), for help and support? They might be too embarrassed to share something with you so help them to identify someone in their lives. Help them be specific with naming one or two adults they can go to.
  
• Both: The internet is not a bad thing - it is people, and their choices/actions, that make it what it is.
  

Link to an abridged version of Teresa’s slides on Firefly.

Sam Blewitt

#FeltonfleetDigitalLearning

On Thursday 22 February it was World Thinking Day, where Guides across the world think about ways to make a positive difference. Members of The Guide Association were invited to wear their uniforms to school, and it was lovely hearing pupils talking of their Guide experiences. Seeing our Guides proudly wearing their uniforms prompted discussions about the significance of Guiding, as well as our global community and the impact of our actions.

#FeltonfleetPeopleAndCommunity

Congratulations to all the pupils who submitted a House-themed crossword puzzle or picture. Your efforts are commendable, and I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing each one. They made me think and smile. A big thank you to all the pupils who participated.

A selection of the best entries are shown below, and I’d like to make a special mention of Bella M, Blake S and Lottie B, whose entries I particularly enjoyed.

It's worth noting that the Tigers stood out this time with a record number of entries, which is reflected in the number of selections made from their house. Keep up the fantastic work, everyone!

In future Head’s Challenges I will ask pupils to hand entries to their form tutors to pass on to me and upload a photo to Seesaw. This will allow me to give personal feedback and share what I liked and enjoyed about each pupil’s entry.

Every entry will receive a House Point and every point matters in the tightly fought House Championship

#FeltonfleetPeopleAndCommunity

Former Feltonfleet pupil Jonny Amies is starring as Henry Fraser in brand new musical The Little Big Things, at Soho Place in the West End. Based on the Sunday Times best-selling autobiography by Henry Fraser, The Little Big Things is a new British musical with an explosive theatrical pop soundtrack in a world premiere production. We are thrilled to see Jonny’s success on the stage, and wish him continuing success in his acting career.

"Amies has a voice so ripe, it makes any song he sings sound effortless." - Timeout

We were delighted to hear that former Feltonfleet pupil Charlie Wilson Papps earned a coveted spot on the England futsal team recently, after showcasing his exceptional skills in recent matches against Scotland and Belgium. Futsal, a fast-paced and skilful variant of football, demands precision, agility, and teamwork. Charlie's selection for the national team is testament to his dedication and talent, as well as the strong foundation laid during his formative years at Feltonfleet.

Congratulations Charlie on this outstanding achievement!

#FeltonfleetPeopleAndCommunity

Please send your news, or any feedback, to marketing@feltonfleet.co.uk.