In this week's Roundup:
Head's Welcome | The Week Ahead | Key Term Dates | Noticeboard | Photo of the Week
Nursery & Junior | Senior & Sixth Form | Submit a Story
A message from
Rich Jones, Head.
Last week, I was away from school for a time as I was at a conference in central Bristol.
Whilst meeting with 80-odd egotistical Heads (Heads have egos, perish the thought!) in a slightly pale conference centre room, filled with bottles of water, name tags and beige food may sound like the dream, but for me it was a little drawn out.
Luckily, there were some downtime opportunities which I used to wander around central Bristol. I am Bristolian born and bred so know the area well. In fact, my somewhat thick and now carefully disguised West Country accent does occasionally make a cameo performance (think Hagrid eating a large carrot and you’re somewhere close) but I hold it at bay as much as I can.
Anyway, I wandered around the now rather dilapidated Bristol Hippodrome and suddenly remembered that I had performed there as a 10 year-old. It was a performance of 180 Days Around the World, with each local school given a country to perform as at the gala concert. We were given Russia and for some reason (it was the 1980s mind) I was given the dual role of Cossack Dancer #3 and a Communist Dictator.
It was a disaster.
During the actual Cossack dance performance, my oversized Muscovite boot had flung off and hit the girl playing Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn in the face, and my brother (Lenin) had gotten into a fight, on stage, with another school’s student who was dressed as Mr T from the A Team.
Not a highlight for Mr and Mrs Jones.
It was a quiet trip home in the car that night.
So it was a fascinating transition returning to St Chris from Bristol last week, just in time to see two sell-out performances by the Junior School of Moana.
It was such a joyous performance, full of energy, passion and talent. The sheer creative exuberance was clearly manifested on stage throughout. The cast, the crew (well done the Clangers!) and the staff showcased what a special, inclusive, creative and wholesome place our community sits proudly within. There were parts and showcases for all of our students, and they all collectively shone brighter than they thought they would, achieved more than they thought, enjoyed the adrenaline, and made friends, connections and stories that will last them a long while.
Incredible.
In its essence, Moana’s story seems to be about her journey of embracing and realising her true identity, learning to trust herself despite doubts and dealing with those pesky external expectations.
However, it is her unwavering determination to make good things happen, to allow her community to shine, to uncover her self-identity, to achieve more than she believed possible and to celebrate female leadership that really struck a strong chord for me as the Head.
Important lessons for the young people taking part and the audience alike.
Much of those themes are tied up with our work at St Chris as we develop and flex. Moana is all about finding one’s own path while honouring tradition and caring for the world we inhabit.
The sacrifices so many make to send your children to this school; to feel the benefits of those opportunities and to experience the ‘extra’ that St Chris offers cannot be underestimated and it was a joy to see that manifested in a wonderful production last week.
I never did get an opportunity to redeem myself as Cossack Dancer #3 but I imagine if the technology had been there, the Lenin vs Mr T fight would have gone viral.
Notices
Whole School
Recycled Fashion Show Exhibition: 14 March - 3 April 2025
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Recycled Fashion Show Exhibition private view last night. If you are visiting Letchworth in the next few weeks please do pop down to The Letchworth Settlement to see the exhibition of costumes and photographs from the show. There are some incredible costumes on display and a huge amount of time, effort and creativity has obviously gone into their creation.
The exhibition is open to the general public from Friday 14 March to Thursday 3 April (last week of term) at the following times and entry is free:
- Saturday 15 March: 10.00am - 12.00pm
- Monday 17 March: 3.00 - 5.00pm
- Tuesday 18 March: 3.30 - 5.00pm
- Wednesday 19 March: 12.00 - 5.00pm
- Thursday 20 March: 9.00am - 1.00pm; 3.00-5.00pm
- Saturday 22 March: 10.00am - 12.00pm
- Monday 24 March: 3.00 - 6.00pm
- Tuesday 25 March: 3.30 - 5.00pm
- Wednesday 26 March: 12.00 - 5.00pm
- Thursday 27 March: 3.00 - 5.00pm
- Saturday 28 March: 10.00am - 12.00pm
- Monday 31 March: 9.00am - 5.00pm
- Tuesday 1 April: 9.00am - 5.00pm
- Wednesday 2 April: 9.00am - 5.00pm
- Thursday 3 April: 1.00 - 5.00pm
Wellbeing Hub
Teachers and parents from St Chris are empowered to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people through an innovative online platform provided by The Wellbeing Hub. Parents and guardians can sign up to use The Wellbeing Hub using the button below. We do encourage you to look through the extensive resources available, including podcasts, online courses, events and Q&As.
Further information can be found in a letter from Lizzie Hedderson, Assistant Head (Pupil Development and Wellbeing) here.
Register for the Wellbeing Hub
WEBINAR on Tuesday: 18 March: Be curious not judgmental: 'teens and drugs, what to know, when to worry and what to say' with Professor Adam Winstock, Director of Staying Safer.
The Week Ahead
Nursery & Junior School
- Week Commencing Monday 17 March: D Group (Year 6) Bikeability
- Wednesday 19 March: U11 Touch Rugby Match
- Thursday 20 March: E Group (Year 5) Morning Talk; U11 Netball Tournament (away)
- Friday 21 March: H Group (Year 2) Morning Talk; Swimming ESSA Primary Teams Gala
Senior School & Sixth Form
- Monday 17 March: PE GCSE & A Level Practical Subject Assessments
- Tuesday 18 March: Boarders' Go Karting
- Wednesday 19 March: Mental Health First Aid Day
- Friday 21 March: GCSE Drama Practical Exam; Swimming ESSA Primary Teams Gala
The Term Ahead
Please see the term dates for this academic year below.
| Monday 24 - Friday 28 March | D Group (Year 6) residential trip to York |
| Tuesday 25 March | I Group (Year 7) Parents' Consultations |
| Wednesday 26 March | Junior School Open Day |
| Thursday 27 March |
K Group (Reception) Morning Talk Go-Karting for Boarders (older students) |
| Friday 28 March |
Top Monte (Nursery) Stay and Play (with new families) V Group and Upper Sixth reports issued Drama 4 All Workshops |
| Saturday 29 March | GCSE Art Exam Preparation |
| Monday 31 March |
GCSE Art & Design exam Lower Sixth (Year 12) A Level Geography Fieldwork Day |
| Tuesday 1 April | GCSE Art & Design exam |
| Wednesday 2 April |
Parents' Circle and Junior School Community Litter Pick Film and Philosophy Screening |
| Thursday 3 April |
Club 85 Music Performance J Group (Year 1) Morning Talk |
| Friday 4 April |
Easter Egg Hunt Easter Holidays begin at 12.00pm II Group (Year 8), III Group (Year 9), and Lower Sixth (Year 12) reports issued |
| Friday 4 at 12.00pm - Tuesday 22 April | Easter holidays |
Careers Newsletter
Edition #3
Our weekly Careers Newsletter has a different theme and excellent links to further information to help students explore careers they might be interested in. It features up to date Labour Market Information, an Employer Spotlight and a University Spotlight. We encourage you to explore this resource with your child to help spark careers conversations at home.
If you have any further questions about Career Related Learning at St Chris, please contact Lizzie Hedderson.
Nursery & Junior
This week has been full of creativity, outdoor exploration, and hands-on learning across the Junior School. From poetry workshops and historical role-play to Forest School adventures and a visit to the St Chris Animal Centre, our students have been busy developing their skills and embracing new experiences.
| Monte (Nursery) |
|---|
| In Nursery, the children battled a brisk north wind at Forest School but kept warm with a flurry of activity! They crafted stick men (with a little charcoal artistry for faces), tackled knots while repairing the ladder, and brewed magical potions in their imaginative play. A highlight was constructing a den, sparking discussions on structure and stability. |
| K Group (Reception) |
| K Group (Reception) enjoyed an afternoon of sunshine, despite the threat of rain. The children sowed pea seeds in pots, which they will nurture until ready for the kitchen garden. The orchard provided the perfect setting for tree climbing, rope swinging, and even an impromptu train-themed game inspired by their surroundings. |
| J Group (Year 1) |
| J Group (Year 1) planted cowslips, adding to the growing number of blooms brightening up Forest School. The discovery of primroses, daffodils, and the first plum tree blossom sparked excitement, and some students took inspiration from the older children to weave willow platters—ready to try for themselves next week! |
| H Group (Year 2) |
|
A hands-on science lesson had H Group investigating materials by comparing two wands—one real wood, the other plastic disguised as wood. The children observed weight, texture, and grain patterns to determine the difference before practising their own "magic skills." Meanwhile, over at the campfire, they cooked homemade nettle soup using freshly picked nettles, onions, and potatoes. Many children were surprised by how delicious it was and even went back for seconds! For those keen to try at home, we’ve included the recipe in the main newsletter. Last week, H Group also welcomed poet Cheryl Moskowitz for a special workshop. The children created their own cinquains, using rhythm and syllables to shape their poetry into powerful pieces. |
| G Group (Year 3) |
|
Year 3 continued their Greek mythology poetry project, combining their individual verses into a fantastic class poem. Meanwhile, their cake presentations were successfully recorded, and students thoroughly enjoyed tasting the delicious bakes—spread across two days to savour every bite! In Forest School, they got stuck into shelter-building, potato peeling, and knot-tying. A spontaneous challenge saw them crafting triangular beds from rope and branches, demonstrating teamwork and problem-solving skills in action. |
| F Group (Year 4) |
|
It was an inspiring start to the week for F Group, as they watched a mini catwalk showcasing the creative, eco-friendly designs from the Recycled Fashion Show. Congratulations to Reeva, who won the Junior School prize! Midweek, the class swapped the classroom for a visit to Arunwood Animal Centre. Meeting everything from goats and turkeys to sugar gliders and chipmunks, the children relished the chance to interact with the animals up close. A huge well done to F Group for their Morning Talk performance—you delivered a fantastic presentation! |
| E Group (Year 5) |
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In preparation for their upcoming Morning Talk on 20 March, E Group began rehearsing and planning their Ancient Greek-inspired costumes. Parents are kindly asked to provide simple tunics, cloaks, or dresses, with accessories created in class. Last week, the class engaged in a lively debate on whether "All 10-year-olds should have mobile phones." With thoroughly researched points and strong rebuttals, the children demonstrated fantastic reasoning and public speaking skills. Be sure to ask them about the final verdict! A Gem Day also gave the students the chance to participate in activities of their choice before spending the afternoon at the Animal Centre, where they bonded with the resident furry (and feathered!) friends. |
| D Group (Year 6) |
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Last week was an exciting one for Year 6, packed with Moana performances and World Book Week celebrations. A poetry workshop with Gita Ralleigh inspired the students to create their own verses, with many bravely sharing their work aloud. In history, the children explored the turbulent events following Edward the Confessor’s death, stepping into the shoes of rival claimants and re-enacting the battle for the throne outside! Their dramatic retelling helped bring this pivotal moment in history to life. Meanwhile, in art, the class has been experimenting with dyes to create their own stained glass window designs, inspired by the stunning examples at York Minster. |
Senior & Sixth Form
| Netball |
|---|
|
IV Group (Year 10) II Group (Year 8) III Group (Year 9) |
| Swimming Gala |
| Huge congratulations to Theo S, John M and Carl B who were all selected to represent North Herts in the Inter-District County Schools Swimming Gala last Friday. John helped the Inter boys win Bronze in the Freestyle relay and Carl, with his breaststroke in the individual race and the medley relay helped them come 4th overall. Theo had a great night and medalled in his Senior Individual IM (Bronze), individual breaststroke (Silver) and for his breaststroke in the Medley Relay (silver). A notable achievement to be selected in the first place, and a fantastic result to medal. Well done! And congratulations, and commiserations, to Toby C who was also chosen but frustratingly broke his collar bone in half term, so couldn't compete. Maybe next year ...? |
| Basketball |
| Our Senior Basketball team had a brilliant end to the season against Fearnhill winning 65-30. The senior team have progressed well this season and a special shout out to our Y11 and Y13 leavers AJ, Hal and Dan who have been key players over the last few years. We look forward to next season! |
| Rugby |
|
We had a brilliant afternoon of rugby on Wednesday. Our III/IV Group (Year 9 & 10) team played a well drilled Knight Templar school who had lots of club rugby players in their ranks. Despite this our team came out strongly with great runs, top tackles and great rucking. The teamwork and effort put in by all was exemplary and led to a strong 75-59 win for St Chris. This means our team have now beaten Fearnhill, Thomas Alleyne's, Nobel and KTS this term to go undefeated. A huge well done to all involved. |
| Young Musician Competition |
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On Monday evening, St Chris had the honour of hosting the first Talented Young Musician Competition, organized by the Letchworth Music Group. The competition saw Years 7-11 students with a minimum of Grade 6 standard and Sixth Form students with a Grade 8 standard participate. St Chris was proud to have 11 talented students competing across various categories! Each participant showcased their exceptional musical abilities with professionalism, and we thought their performances were nothing short of sensational. Not only did they demonstrate remarkable talent, but they also displayed impressive support and encouragement for students from other schools. We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication, talent, and the positive representation they brought to St Chris. A huge well done to everyone involved! |
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