Newsletter

17 November 2023

We've had a fantastic start to the second half of the term, creating a lively atmosphere on campus that not even heavy rain can dampen. Over the past two weeks, we were delighted to host special visitors, including Mr. Alex Tate, the new Headmaster of St. John's Leatherhead. During our Evensong Service, Mr. Tate emphasised the importance of acts of kindness, a core value at Feltonfleet, in order to foster a sense of belonging for everyone. The Lower School Choir sang beautifully Aeyaya Balano Sakkad - a song celebrating Diwali.

After visiting the Chelsea Pensioners earlier this term, our exceptional Pupil Leadership Team delivered excellent assemblies for the Lower, ​Middle, and Upper School in preparation for our Remembrance Service. The senior pupils highlighted the qualities they observed in the veterans ​and emphasised the significance of why we remember. In the Pre-Prep assembly, children gathered to reflect on the poppy as a symbol of ​remembrance for the men and women lost in service.

It was a great honour to have two Chelsea Pensioners, Dave Godwin and John Morris, war veterans, join us at Feltonfleet for our Remembrance ​Service last Friday. Their presence enriched our children's understanding of Remembrance Day, highlighting the debt we owe to those who ​sacrificed for our freedom. We also paid tribute to Hugh Harold Percy, a former Feltonfleet pupil who lost his life in service. We were privileged ​to have his nephew, Mr. Robert Peel, read at the service.

During our Services, we observed two minutes’ silence at 11 am. Benji C and Ralph S in Year 8 played the Last Post and Reveille on the trumpet – a moving experience for all. Following this, children from the youngest to oldest, staff and parents stood shoulder to shoulder to place wreaths of poppies for the Feltonfleet Fallen by our War Memorial.

As many of you know, Feltonfleet School was evacuated to Perrott Hill in Somerset during the Second World War to avoid the air threat from the Luftwaffe, and we welcomed Perrott Hill pupils, staff and parents to Feltonfleet for the poignant and highly enjoyable annual fixture on Saturday morning (read more about this in the Sport section below).

To continue our celebration of black culture after Black History Month had officially drawn to a close, we were treated to a fantastic afternoon on Tuesday. The roof of the Ashbee Theatre was lifted high as we welcomed the Gospel KM Choir, singers from the Brit School and our very own dance trio, the Soul Sisters. It was a joyful and impactful set of performances, leaving us with awe and appreciation.

This second half of term sees a full programme of teaching and learning right through to 13th December. Along the way there will be various events, festive concerts, and community gatherings. Please do check your Calendar carefully. I look forward to seeing you. Here’s to a great half-term!

We’re delighted to share some of the poems written by our younger pupils in response to the Head’s half-term Challenge.

Some of the poems are very poignant and express inner feelings and thoughts. Our pupils have such a clear understanding of EDI and commitment to our school values.

Prep School pupils were treated to an uplifting and joyful afternoon of singing and dancing in celebration of Black History Month and the contributions of black artists to the world of popular music. Thank you to the Kerba Music Gospel Choir, Brit School Singers and our very own Soul Sisters, Year 7 pupils Amani, Zoe and Aisha.

Thank you to our Performing Arts Prefects, Annabel, Honor, Aran, Florence, Bluebell, Rafa and Willow who devised and delivered an ​excellent assembly for Diwali, which was not only informative but also entertaining. Ahead of the assembly, the group had created a video ​telling the story of Rama and Sita, which is retold every year and is one of the reasons clay lamps are lit at Diwali. We were once again ​entertained by the Lower School Choir performing Aeyaya Balano Sakkad.

Year 1 children were treated to a wonderful opportunity to try out a range of careers with a visit to KidZania London at Westfield in Shepherd’s Bush. During the full day visit, some children completed a liver transplant. Everyone took on the role of an emergency responder as a firefighter, paramedic or police officer. In groups they explored career pathways of the future including creating sustainable fuel as scientists.

Creativity flowed throughout the day with some children designing fashion and some conducting interviews and crafting articles using technology as journalists.

The scenario workshops were realistically kitted out with child sized equipment and costumery. Each child was able to accrue a cash salary for the job they carried out.

The Nursery children also ventured out on their first school trip to Wisley. They were excited about going out of school together on the minibuses. During their trip they learnt about different edible plants and the great outdoors. Amidst the lovely autumnal background of Wisley the children planted their own pea plants.

In school, all the children are continuing their learning about school values and this week Respect has been at the top of the list. Pre-Prep children respected our fallen servicemen and women in silence as poppies were laid at the memorial. Year 2 created a natural poppy collage in Forest School.

We found out about how some families celebrate Diwali and the significance of light as well as the food enjoyed during the celebrations. Saskia shared with her Reception peers how her family celebrate Diwali, by lighting Diwali candles and eating some spicy pastries with Indian yoghurt.

In the Nursery, children continue to develop respectful boundaries between themselves and others. Mrs Hunte, educated the Nursery children in how her black hair feels and how she dresses it.

Pupils in Year 3 have loved listening to their friends talk about their wonderful Egyptian diorama projects that they created over half term. Thank you for all the incredible hard work and inventive ideas that went into making these superb creations; they certainly brighten up the Lower School corridors! What a talented and creative cohort you are! Well done Year 3.

Year 4 pupils donned their chef aprons and got messy this week as they turned their hands to some Bronze Age baking! Using only the ingredients found in every Bronze Age kitchen, they made cookies which would have surely made them worthy recipients of a Paul Hollywood handshake! The pupils have shown a huge amount of interest and enthusiasm in their IPC Unit of work so far this term and have impressed their teachers with their depth of knowledge and curiosity.

‘Enfant de Paix’

Year 6 pupils have been learning and exploring the meaning of a song called ‘Enfant de Paix’, translated as ‘Child of Peace’ in lessons which ​has become our French hymn. The hymn encapsulates the very essence of what we strive for at Feltonfleet – a community that fosters peace, ​understanding and unity. The lyrics remind and inspire our prep school to live out our school motto ‘Pacem Sequamur’ (Spread Peace).

We extend our sincere appreciation to the music department for organising a singing assembly to perfect our pitch and pronunciation whilst ​encouraging us to embrace diversity, cultivate empathy and foster an atmosphere where peace is not merely an inspiration but a lived reality.

dia de los Muertos

The MFL Department is always looking for different activities to promote and develop our students’ sense of curiosity and understanding of other ​cultures. This week, our Year 6 pupils explored the Day of the Dead festival which takes place mainly in Mexico and some countries in Central ​America. Our lessons included key facts about the origin of this tradition and all the celebrations taking place during el Día de los Muertos, a ​Kahoot quiz and many tutorials on how to create ‘calacas’ (skulls), ‘altares’ (shrines), ‘papel picado’ (paper banners), marigold flowers and ​candle holders. The pupils showed great enthusiasm and engaged in all these hands-on activities with delight!

Señora Horton y Señora Allocco

In PSHE, Year 8 pupils have been discussing racism, equity, diversity and inclusion. Topics have included, White Privilege, Prejudices, Stereotypes, Racism, Refugees and Immigrants. Through discussions, collaborative projects, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact, Year 8 have learned to celebrate differences and appreciate the unique qualities that each individual brings to our school community.

Year 8 are now aiming to turn their newfound knowledge and understanding into tangible actions. In the upcoming lessons and months, they plan to organise awareness campaigns and initiatives for the Feltonfleet community.

lower choir evensong

Last week the Lower Choir celebrated Diwali by singing Aeyaya Balano Sakkad, during our Evensong service. The song is in the Konkani language - spoken in parts of Goa, India - and they worked incredibly hard, perfecting some tricky vocal lines and language. We welcomed Samir Randhawa to teach us about the Indian tabla drum and sitar. The choir were fascinated as Sam kindly showed us how both instruments worked before accompanying us.

Violin & Viola Coffee concert

Congratulations to students of Ms Helen Ward for a fantastic concert of violin and viola music this week!

Athena B, Max T, Elizabeth T, James R, Amani F, Olly B, Téa P, Pippa M, Emily J, Ellie P, Edie E-E, Jolie K, Rosie B, Happy H, Rocky Z

Book fair

This week during library lessons the children have had the opportunity to look at a selection of books we have chosen for this year's Book Fair, kindly provided by ‘Regency Books’ in Surbiton. More information about the initiative, including how to order online, was in last Friday’s post. Deadlines for ordering is Monday 20th November at 9:00am and books ordered will be ready to take home in time for Christmas.

Congratulations to Darcy P (6JBu) and Casper P (6ARi)

Until the Road Ends by Phil Earle

The new book from bestselling author Phil Earle (When The Sky Falls). Peggy saves a stray dog, Beau, from the streets of London during World War 2 and takes her into her home and heart. They soon become inseparable, but then Peggy and her brother have to be evacuated from London, without Beau. Tragedy strikes the family that is left behind, and Beau takes it upon himself, along with the help of some animal friends, to find Peggy and reunite.

A beautifully written book with a lovely combination of drama and humour, as well as being emotional in parts.

Recommended for Years 6 - 8.

By Mrs Kinghorn, Librarian.

Parent Pupil Book Clubs

We have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming both Year 5 and Year 6 pupils and parents to the first two of our four Parent & Pupil Book Clubs that we are holding in the Cabin Library this term.

Last week, Year 5 read and discussed Onjali Q Rauf’s wonderful book, ‘The Lion above the Door’, a perfect read for Remembrance Day. We all enjoyed discussing the themes within the book and learning so much about the unsung s/heroes of WWII. This week Year 6 delved into ‘Oh Maya Gods!’ by Maz Evans, the first in a new series of books about the adventures of two children in the world of Maya mythology. Both sessions were held with delicious hot chocolate and pastries, and we look forward to our next two book clubs over the forthcoming weeks.

On the last Thursday before half term we enjoyed our first Movie Night of the new academic year. Everyone enjoyed snuggling up in duvets and having a chilled out evening. We supported the idea of our MFL Prefects to watch a foreign language film for film night, enjoying the beautiful Belle et Sebastian in French with English subtitles. Madame Karaca was, as usual, magnificent in organising popcorn and hot chocolate for everyone to enjoy as they watched the movie.

It will be the Boarding House Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 13th. We will be enjoying our traditional celebrations with Kangaroo Court, the Christmas Grab and a Christmas Feast for dinner! If your child is a boarder and would like to attend please let me know on james.thompson@feltonfleet.co.uk.

There are still boarding trial night places available for Monday, November 20th. If your child is in Year 7 and 8 and would like to have a go at boarding, please do get in touch via james.thompson@feltonfleet.co.uk to book a place!

U13 v Perrott Hill

In a poignant display of our strong historical connection, the 1st VII hockey team recently hosted Perrott Hill. The occasion was not only marked by the competitive spirit on the pitch but also by the meaningful remembrance service held in honour of Remembrance Sunday. The atmosphere was charged with camaraderie and respect as both teams paid tribute to the fallen soldiers. The standard of play across the Year 8 team showcased an excellent level of skill and determination, setting a high bar for the season to come. This event not only celebrated the athleticism of our pupils but also reinforced the enduring connection between our schools.

On the boys front, it saw our first fixture of the season. With an emphasis on training for all age groups in the past week, learning the new RFU tackle laws as well as getting back into the swing of Rugby. We hosted Perrott Hill on a glorious sunny morning, the match was played in a brilliant spirit by both teams, with all boys involved truly getting stuck into every tackle and each phase of play. The match ended with Feltonfleet triumphant, winning 6 tries to 3. The dining hall was buzzing with chatter between players during match tea, as the boys and girls mixed with our opponents and cemented the fantastic bond between the two schools.

GIRLS Hockey

Our girls’ hockey teams wasted no time getting into the swing of things, showcasing determination, teamwork, and skill on the hockey pitch. We recently had a block fixture week with Downsend, and the results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the girls. Our youngest players in U8 engaged in a series of thrilling matches against Downsend, resulting in an even split of 2 wins and 2 losses. The U9s took on a very strong Downsend age group in hockey matches at Epsom Hockey Club. The girls played amazingly well with special mention to the Navy Blue team who came away with a victory after scoring 3 goals to 1. Their enthusiasm and sportsmanship were truly a joy to witness.The U10s faced a challenging contest against Downsend, with the As achieving a commendable win and gaining valuable experience from the closely contested matches, with a final score of 1 win and 3 losses. Our U11 girls demonstrated their prowess with an outstanding performance, securing victories in both matches against Cranleigh.

U11 Surrey Hockey Tournament

In a remarkable showcase of teamwork and tenacity, our U11s triumphed at the Surrey Hockey Tournament, securing the coveted title of Surrey champions. The journey to victory commenced with an impressive 7-0 win against Caterham, setting the tone for the day. Facing a formidable Holy Cross side, our girls continued their winning streak with a hard-fought 2-1 victory. After a short break and some quick efforts to dry out, the team demonstrated resilience in two 1-1 draws against Notre Dame and St. Georges. The final match against Downsend was a must-win situation to qualify for regionals. Fueled by a powerful pep talk, the U11s took to the field with unwavering determination, clinching a resounding 4-1 victory and securing an unbeaten record throughout the day.

This outstanding performance not only showcased the individual and collective talents of our U11s but also earned them the well-deserved title of Surrey champions. With this victory, they have earned the opportunity to compete at the regional level, and we couldn't be prouder of their achievement on the hockey pitch. Congratulations to our U11s for their exceptional performance and best of luck as they progress to the next stage of competition!

U13 IAPS National Finalists

Written by Amelie T (Hockey Captain)

On Wednesday the 8th of November, the 1st VII took part in IAPS at Junior Kings School. We started off the tournament strong by beating City Of London Freemans School 4-0. We then played Sevenoaks which was our toughest competition and we really had to fight to win. At half time, the score was 1-1 which caused us to panic but we kept persevering and Chloe F scored the winning goal. We then went on to play Junior Kings which led to a great 4-0 win. Our last match was against Marlborough House with an awesome outcome of 4-1 to us. Everyone played extremely well, especially Cece H who only conceded 2 goals throughout the tournament. We worked very hard and deserved to go through to nationals.

CRICKET UPDATE FROM MR RISHTON

I was incredibly fortunate to have been selected to represent England for the third time this term. Playing in the Dream11 Cricket European Championship T10 in the south of Spain. Once again I found the quality of cricket has improved significantly compare to the previous years, the qualifying period flew by, and with only a small hiccup (losing to Switzerland), we managed to secure a place in Finals week. Once again, the pressure was ramped up, with the average viewers per game being 40 million, we were made acutely aware of our privileged position. We played well and sailed into finals day without too much trouble. It was not all fun and laughter, we lost 2 players this week to illness and mental strain, just proving to all of us how vulnerable we all are. Friday finals came around, we had The Netherlands in our path twice! Both matches were fiercely fought (they had the wool over us this time last year, pipping us in the final to become champions), we held our nerves to win ourselves our 2nd title in 3 years.

On a personal level, this would be my final match in this tournament, I never thought I’d have another opportunity in cricket to represent a higher level, and to have had this chance, I am truly grateful. I have loved every minute of each of the three tours, it’s shown me the power of sport, what it means to be a part of a team, meeting new people and playing against people from all walks of life. I would like to thank Mrs Lance and the Feltonfleet team for allowing me time to go off and play the sport I’m so passionate about, as well as the pupils, staff, parents and wider community for the support I’ve received, it has been incredible.

Monday 13th - Friday 17th November marks national Anti-Bullying Week.

Over the course of this week and next, pupils across the school have discussed the definitions of teasing, banter and bullying in their forms. They have considered the impact of unkind behaviour, but also the importance of empathy and how to manage disagreements that may occur between peers.

Aligned with resetting expectations this term, we want our pupils to recognise that being kind to others creates a sense of belonging in a community and improves emotional well-being. ARK (Acts of Random Kindness) Week encourages everyone to keep an eye out for an opportunity to help someone else, or to hold onto that warm feeling when someone helps you.

Each pupil (and staff member) in the school has randomly selected a name of someone in their form to be sincerely kind to through words and actions. We have witnessed pupils helping one another in lessons, offering to carry belongings, leaving an uplifting note to name but a few. Perhaps this will extend to home life and the offer of doing a household chore…

I am thrilled to announce the results of the highly anticipated House Mathlete competition! The mathematical prowess displayed by our pupils from Y2 - Y8 was truly remarkable. Otters emerged as the champions, securing victory with an impressive 13 points. Right on their heels, Tigers claimed a well-deserved second place with 12 points and Foxes secured the third spot with a strong performance, accumulating 11 points. While Badgers may not have clinched the top spots this time, the contestants did their House proud and were brilliant on the day! Congratulations to all the contestants for stepping up and representing their House and showing their incredible mathematical skills! More info to follow in next week’s newsletter about Maths Week.

Charlotte Collard-Rowe

Pre-Prep

Bertie R (RRi) - For showing increasing confidence in ​school routines.

Lower School

Molly F (4DP) - For showing the importance and value of ​friendship and support to others.

Middle School

Lottie B (5HMr) - For being positive, organised and ​helpful during Form Time.

Upper School

Annabelle C (8BWh) - For demonstrating outstanding ​responsibility and organisation skills in managing her ​busy prep school portfolio, all the while maintaining a ​positive outlook, acting as an excellent role model for her ​peers and the younger pupils.

Scholarship news

Huge congratulations to Bluebell S, who has been awarded a Sports Scholarship ​to Charterhouse in recognition of her talents, in particular for hockey and ​cricket. What a fantastic achievement, and well deserved!

further swimming success

The medals just keep coming for Year 5 pupils Athena B and Issac K. Athena came away from the Dorking Swimming Club gala on the 5th ​November with three gold medals in the 50m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly and 200m Freestyle; and a silver medal in the 100m Freestyle, where she ​narrowly missed out on the gold by 0.3 seconds. Meanwhile, Issac achieved seven personal bests, four medals and three more Surrey qualifying ​times at a gala over the half term holidays. Well done to both, we are all very proud of your hard work and determination.

DEMENTIA DASH update

The Kumars have done it!

The Kumars have completed their Dementia Dash, which was to complete a minimum of 300 miles between them throughout October. They smashed through their targets of 300 miles and £1,500, with a total of 356 miles completed and (so far) a huge £3,307 raised for Alzheimer's Society. Daisy completed 23 miles, Jay 57, Mrs. Kumar 76 and Mr. Kumar 200.

If you’d still like to donate you can do so here.

"On behalf of all the Kumars we would like to say a massive thank you to the entire Feltonfleet community for their generosity, encouragement and unbelievable support throughout the process. We couldn't have completed the challenge without you and your continued interest and kind words - truly a Feltonfleet team effort!"

Neil Kumar

rohan recognised for outstanding achievement

We were thrilled to learn the news that former Feltonfleet pupil, Rohan Handa, has been awarded a British Citizen Youth Award at the Palace of Westminster. The British Citizen Youth Award, now in its eighth year, honours young people from across the UK that have made a difference in their communities and to society.

During lockdown Rohan created the cricket and fitness YouTube channel 'Cricket Nuggets'. His aim was to promote healthy living for all, to inspire, encourage others to keep fit and develop their cricket skills during isolation. Sport plays a vital role in promoting physical and mental health.

His channel continues growing subscribers and has generated over 250,000 views. His commitment to keeping active and his love of sports shines through in the videos. Rohan's videos are informative containing tips and help with starting out and continuing in the sport of cricket. Having a global reach through YouTube, those viewing are able to ask Rohan questions and interact about the sport.

Rohan helps others develop in confidence with his good communication skills and is comfortable interacting with people from different walks of society. His keen interest in sport has given him the opportunity to become the youngest board member on the Chance to Shine Youth Advisory Board, a national cricket foundation. In this volunteering role, Rohan is responsible for assisting the foundation in promoting cricket as a national sport, helping it to be inclusive and to reach out to as many young people around the UK as possible.

Rohan attends Charterhouse School, having joined on a Sports Scholarship after leaving Feltonfleet. We are extremely proud of his achievements and look forward to following his career. Well done Rohan!