A message from
Rich Jones, Head.
I was chatting recently with a student whose parents now live separately. He divides his time between homes and, like many young people in similar situations, has developed a pragmatic view of the commute. He mentioned that he walks past St Paul’s Cathedral most days and, in a fit of proper teenage understatement, described it as “not the worst view I guess”.
Not the worst view indeed.
I have always been fond of St Paul’s ever since tearing through my family encyclopaedias and stumbling over that famous image of it, on fire, during the blitz. St Paul’s was designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London. In the ten years that followed the fire, Wren rebuilt 58 churches. He reshaped a city that had been reduced to ash. When he died, he was buried inside St Paul’s and his memorial reads simply: If you seek his monument, look about you.
It is a wonderful line….simply, let your work speak for itself.
But the story that has been sitting with me this week is not about St Paul’s but a story about another of his buildings: A smaller building, tucked beneath the shadow of Windsor Castle - the Windsor Guildhall.
In 1689, Wren designed the Guildhall to be supported by a colonnade around the edge of the building. It was elegant and clever. The space inside would be open and airy. Structurally sound and architecturally bold was the theory.
The town guild were not convinced. They worried it was too risky. They insisted on additional pillars in the centre of the hall to hold up the ceiling. Wren protested. They persisted. Eventually, they threatened to dismiss him unless he complied.
So he agreed.
The central pillars were installed and remain there to this day.
However, if you visit and look carefully, you will see something remarkable that fits my interest in stubbornness, boldness and confidence. Each of those pillars stops one inch short of the ceiling. They do not touch it. They never have. They support nothing. I love Wren.
Wren had done what was required, but he also quietly trusted his own judgement. The building stands, more than three centuries later, exactly as he knew it would.
For me it is a good story about confidence. Not arrogance. Not bravado. Simply a steady belief in your preparation, your craft and your capacity.
There is compelling research showing that when we anticipate success, the brain activates reward pathways. Confidence propels action. Anxiety, by contrast, nudges us towards retreat. The two compete for our attention. One pulls us forward, the other holds us back.
Most of us, at some point, assume that everyone else has life more sorted than we do. That other families, parents, other students, other work colleagues, other humans have a clearer plan, a firmer grip, a steadier stride. The truth is more human than that. Self-belief wobbles for all of us.
For our young people in particular, that internal dialogue matters enormously. The words they say to themselves shape whether they step forward or step back. Confidence is not about thinking you are perfect. It is about believing you can try, improve and persist.
As we move deeper into the term, with assessments, performances, fixtures and decisions on the horizon, this feels timely. We want our charges to cultivate grounded confidence. The kind that comes from preparation and reflection. The kind that allows them to act even when certainty is not guaranteed. Surely that is human and real and seen in 3D design workshops, art studios, chemistry labs, playgrounds and during phonics practice, on the playing fields and in their interactions with the people around them.
Wren’s pillars remind me, rather often to be honest, of something simple and powerful. Sometimes you can know you are right. Sometimes you can quietly hold your nerve. And sometimes the strongest structures are the ones that do not look as though they need propping up at all. For me that is our school in a nutshell. And not to be underestimated.
If you seek the monument, look about you.
Careers Fair
Our Careers Fair was a great success on Wednesday as our students practised networking with professionals from a wide variety of industries, including aviation, health care, housing development, financial crime, psychology, and law. Our volunteers included several former students, as well as parents and friends of St Chris.
The Fair created space for conversation, curiosity and confidence-building across every year group. From apprenticeship providers and universities to employers and industry professionals, the breadth of opportunity on offer was both impressive and energising.
What stood out most, however, was our students.
We saw thoughtful self-awareness as students spoke clearly about their interests and ambitions. We saw opportunity awareness as they explored pathways they had not previously considered. We saw careful decision-making in action — weighing up GCSE choices, post-16 routes and longer-term aspirations with maturity.
There was also bravery. Many stepped beyond their comfort zone to introduce themselves, ask questions and start conversations. Exhibitors commented on the quality of communication throughout the day — confident, articulate and genuinely engaged. Networking, problem solving and goal setting were not abstract ideas; they were visible in real time.
Career development is not a single event. It is an ongoing process of reflection, exploration and informed choice. The weekly Careers Newsletter, work experience opportunities and employer spotlights all play their part. Wednesday’s Fair was an important moment within that wider journey.
Each student has a booklet from the Careers Fair which encourages them to continue their career conversations at home.
We look forward to sharing students’ feedback and to building on this year’s success. And perhaps, in years to come, we will welcome back many of those who walked the hall this week — returning not as students, but as alumni ready to inspire the next generation.
Wellbeing Update
Sign Up for the Wellbeing Hub
At St Chris, we’re proud to empower our staff and families to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people through The Wellbeing Hub — an online platform offering expert guidance and practical resources.
Parents and guardians are warmly invited to register for access via the button below. Once signed up, you'll find a wide range of support at your fingertips — including podcasts, online courses, live events, and Q&A sessions with leading professionals in the field.
Week Commencing 2 March
Podcast: Family breakdowns and how to support your child with Alicia Drummond, Founder and CEO of The Wellbeing Hub
This week is also Eating Disorders Awareness Week: The resource pack HERE to help raise awareness and support communities includes:
- A webinar recording with Isa Robinson
- Guidance for educators and parents
- Support pathways for young people and families
- Links to reputable organisations and helplines
Literary Festival Week
2-6 March 2026
As we look forward to the Senior School and Sixth Form St Chris Literary Festival running from Monday 2 March - Friday 6 March, we wanted to send out a special reminder regarding one of the week's most anticipated highlights.
Senior School - World Book Day Fancy Dress Reminder!
On Thursday 5 March, we will be celebrating World Book Day. We are looking forward to seeing everyone’s wonderful costumes again this year, and we are especially eager to see high engagement across the Senior School and Sixth Form.
Students are warmly invited to come to school in optional fancy dress as their favourite book characters. Whether you choose a classic protagonist or a more contemporary figure, we can’t wait to see the creativity and imagination on display. Let’s show the whole school how much spirit the senior years can bring to this celebration!
Don't Miss Out on Other Festival Events:
- Book Fairs: Browse the Bow Books Book Fair in the Social Library on Tuesday or grab a bargain at the Pre-Loved Book Fair on Friday. Every pre-loved book is just £1, with all proceeds going to charity.
- Drop Everything and Read!: On Wednesday, students in I, II, III, and IV Groups will participate in this special reading event.
- Workshops: Throughout the week, various groups will be heading to Creative Writing and Poetry Workshops to showcase their brilliance
We look forward to a fantastic week of celebrating literacy together.
Pre-Loved Book Fair
During Literary Week, we will be hosting a Pre-Loved Book Fair in the Senior School. Every book will be available for £1, with all proceeds going to charity. We would love your support in collecting books for the fair.
If you have any pre-loved books you could donate, please could students bring them to E1 at school, where they will be stored safely until the week of the fair.
Junior School World Book Day
Thursday 5 March
We are delighted to invite Junior School families to celebrate World Book Day with us on Thursday 5 March. We are planning a day filled with stories, imagination and a shared love of reading.
Books & Breakfast - 8:00-9:00am
Parents are warmly invited to join us in the Foyer and Hall for our special Books & Breakfast event. Come along to enjoy some reading time with your child and start the day together with a story.
Dress Up
There is no theme this year - we simply cannot wait to see the fantastic costumes students choose. Creativity is encouraged and we are looking forward to a wonderful parade of book-inspired outfits during Morning Talk.
Take One Book
Each class will focus on one special book across the day, using it as inspiration for a range of activities and discussions. Class teachers will share their chosen author and text on Dojo.
Extra Activities
Please see the attached list of optional projects that students may wish to complete at home. If they choose to take part, they are invited to bring their creations in on World Book Day so we can share and celebrate them together.
We look forward to a wonderful celebration of reading!
Notices
Whole School
Inclusion Leadership Update
At the end of this term, Zoe Woodhouse (Inclusion Strategy Lead) will be leaving St Chris. The Inclusion Strategy Lead role was established on a fixed-term basis to support the development of Arunfield and strengthened Inclusion systems across the School, and we are grateful for her contribution to this work.
Moving forwards, the School will move to a single senior leadership role - Assistant Head (Inclusive Learning and SENDCo) - providing clear and accountable oversight of Inclusion. Please find below a link to the job description:
Assistant Head (Inclusion & SENDCo) Job Description
Day-to-day Inclusion provision and statutory SEND responsibilities remain unchanged, and pupils will continue to receive the support they need.
V Group (Year 11) Student Fundraising for St John's Hospice
On Sunday 29 March, Amelie Randall in V Group will be running 10K for St John's Hospice in memory of her mum, who sadly passed away just before half term. Amelie is raising money for the charity that supported her mum during her final month. Amelie's supporting message is:
'Two weeks ago I lost my mum after she battled cancer for four and a half years. For the last week of her life she was cared for at St John’s Hospice, a place filled with warmth and kindness despite the dire situation. On the 29th of March I will be doing a 10k run to raise money for hospices across the UK to give something back. If you want to, please donate using this link: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/10k-on-march-29th'
Theatretrain Taster Day: Saturday 7 March 2026
Theatretrain run structured, confidence-building sessions in singing, acting and dance, and we’re inviting local pupils (ages 6–18) to their next Taster Day.
What it is: a friendly, well-supported introduction to a Theatretrain session
When: Saturday 7 March, 9:00–12:00
Where: St Christopher School, Barrington Road, SG6 3JZ
Cost: £25 per child
It’s ideal for kids who enjoy performing arts, or who’d benefit from building confidence, communication and teamwork in a positive group setting.
To book, go to their website: www.theatretrain.co.uk/letchworth
Donations Needed: Barbie Dolls for GCSE Art Project
One of our Year 11 students is currently developing her GCSE Art project, exploring the theme of societal pressures experienced by women and girls. As part of her creative process, she is hoping to work with Barbie dolls (or similar fashion dolls) as a medium for her ideas.
If you have any unwanted Barbie dolls or similar items at home that you would be happy to donate, they would be greatly appreciated and thoughtfully repurposed as part of this important and reflective piece of work.
Please bring any donations to Reception. Thank you for supporting our students’ creative journeys.
Reminder: School Bus Service to St Chris
As we look ahead to the coming weeks, we would like to remind families of the range of transport options available for students travelling to and from St Chris.
Our extensive school bus network supports families across a wide geographical area.
Our current school bus routes operate from:
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North London (Highgate or Cockfosters)
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St Albans and Harpenden
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Welwyn Garden City and Hadley Wood
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Hitchin railway station (coordinated with trains from London, Cambridge and Peterborough)
Each route includes a number of planned stops along the way.
Students are eligible to use the school bus service from E Group (Year 5) onwards.
Full details of stops, routes and timings for both day students and boarders are available to help families plan effectively.
ST CHRISTOPHER BUS SERVICE - ZEELO
EPQ Research Survey – Parent Participation Requested
One of our Sixth Form students, Jen, is currently completing her EPQ, exploring the question: “To what extent does the media portrayal of female MPs in the UK House of Commons reinforce gender stereotypes?”
As part of her primary research, Jen has created a short survey and would greatly value responses from parents and other members of the St Chris community. A wide range of perspectives will help strengthen the depth and balance of her findings.
If you are able to spare a few minutes to contribute, please follow the link below:
Media Portrayal of MPs – EPQ Survey
Thank you in advance for supporting Jen in this important and thought-provoking piece of research.
Royal Academy of Arts Young Artists Summer Show 2026 - Call for Entries
We are delighted to invite our visual artists to consider submitting work to the Royal Academy of Arts Young Artists Summer Show 2026. This respected annual exhibition is open to students aged 4–18 and celebrates creativity in all its forms.
Students may submit one piece of artwork in any medium. A clear colour photograph of the work will be required, along with a title and a short description.
The Art Department has created a school account to make the process straightforward. Entries can be completed from home by searching for ‘St Christopher School’ on the Royal Academy website:
https://youngartists.royalacademy.org.uk/schools/lookup
The deadline for submissions is Wednesday 4 March 2026 at 5.00pm.
Students are warmly encouraged to speak with their art teacher if they would like guidance in selecting a piece.
Please find the submission guidance and permission form attached.
Senior & Sixth Form
Mulberry Building: Revision Corner
In the Mulberry, students can find the ‘Revision Corner’ - a dedicated space packed with useful resources to support exam preparation.
They can discover a range of revision strategies, from the Pomodoro Technique to guidance on what works best for neurodiverse students. They can also pick up self-help pocket cards to keep, access GCSE past papers for all subjects, find out where to locate high-quality revision resources, and get support creating effective revision timetables.
Everything students need to revise with confidence is in one place.
Future Doctor: Should I Become a Doctor? Free Webinar 6 March 2026
For III-V Group (Years 9-11) students and their parents who'd like to explore whether 'Medicine' or becoming a Doctor, is for them. For further details of this free webinar on Friday 6 March at 6.30 - 8.00 pm, please look at the flyer. The booking link can be found here.
Year 11 & Year 13 Summer Exams: Timetables & Study Leave
Summer Examination timetables are now available on My School Portal under My Children → Exam Timetable.
Note: Languages Speaking and Practical Exams may show TBC while internal scheduling is finalised; updates will appear automatically. Queries can be sent to Examinations Officer Nikki Timbers at nikki.timbers@stchris.co.uk.
National Contingency Day: Students should remain available until 24 June 2026 in case of national or local exam disruption.
Study Leave:
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Year 11 (V Group): last school day 7 May, study leave from 8 May
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Year 13 (Upper Sixth): last school day 8 May, study leave from 11 May
Class teachers will remain available for lessons during study leave, should students wish to attend in their usual timetable slots.
The Week Ahead
Nursery & Junior School
- Wednesday 4 March: E Group (Year 5) Holi Festival
- Thursday 5 March: U11 Football Match vs Stonehill; World Book Day - Fancy Dress Day!
- Friday 6 March: Year 3 (G Group) visit to Celtic Harmony
Senior School & Sixth Form
- Monday 2 March: Literary Week; GCSE Food Practical Exam (Group A)
- Tuesday 3 March: Literary Week; Book Fair; GCSE Food Practical Exam (Group B)
- Wednesday 4 March: Literary Week
- Thursday 5 March: Literary Week; World Book Day - Fancy Dress Day! Sixth Form Psychology in Action Conference
- Friday 6 March: Literary Week; Pre-Loved Book Fair; GCSE Food Practical Exam (Group C)
- Saturday 7 March: Welwyn Garden City Youth Drama Festival Performances
Spring Term Diary
| Monday 9 March |
Year 1 (J Group) visit to The Paddington Experience, London Year 4 (F Group) visit to Hobbledown Year 10 (IV Group) Geography GCSE Fieldwork Day |
| Tuesday 10 March |
Year 10 (IV Group) GCSE French Immersion Trip Full Governing Board |
| Wednesday 11 March |
Year 10 (IV Group) GCSE French Immersion Trip Senior School Film and Philosophy Screening |
| Thursday 12 March |
Year 10 (IV Group) GCSE French Immersion Trip U11 Football Match - Details TBC Year 9 (III Group) Mock Exams A Team Netball at St Francis Safeguarding & Boarding Committee |
| Friday 13 March |
Year 10 (IV Group) GCSE French Immersion Trip Year 9 (III Group) Mock Exams |
| Monday 16 March |
Year 6 (D Group) Residential Trip to York GCSE & A Level PE Practical Subject Assessments |
| Tuesday 17 March |
Year 6 (D Group) Residential Trip to York C Team Netball Fixture at St Francis |
| Wednesday 18 March |
Year 6 (D Group) Residential Trip to York Year 8 (II Group) Parents' Evening Year 12 (LVI) Art Exhibition Private Viewing at The Broadway |
| Thursday 19 March |
Year 6 (D Group) Residential Trip to York A Level Art Exhibition at The Broadway commences (until Saturday 11 April) |
| Friday 20 March | Year 6 (D Group) Residential Trip to York |
| Saturday 21 March | Brozne DofE Practice Walk |
| Monday 23 March |
Year 2 (H Group) visit to Apsley Canal Year 12 (LVI Group) A Level Geography Fieldwork Day 1 GCSE Art & Design Practical Exam |
| Tuesday 24 March | GCSE Art & Design Practical Exam |
| Wednesday 25 March |
A Level Psychology Grade Booster Conference Senior Jazz Band at Club 85 |
| Friday 27 March | Spring Term Ends 12 noon. |
Careers Newsletter
Edition #21
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.
Please see Edition 22 below. If you have any further questions about Career Related Learning at St Chris, please contact Lizzie Hedderson.
Nursery & Junior
Faith Week
It has been a truly enriching and inspiring Faith Week across the Junior School, with every year group from Monte (Nursery) through to D Group (Year 6) taking part in meaningful experiences designed to deepen their understanding of different faiths and worldviews.
From meditation walks and storytelling to visits to churches, a synagogue and a gurdwara, the children have explored places of worship, handled important artefacts, asked thoughtful questions and reflected on values such as kindness, peace, respect and community. Visiting speakers have further enhanced the week, sharing personal insights and bringing learning vividly to life.
We are incredibly proud of the curiosity, maturity and respect shown by all the children throughout the week. To find out more about what each year group experienced, please read on below.
| Monte (Nursery) |
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As part of Faith Week, Monte (Nursery) set out on a peaceful meditation walk, taking time to slow down and tune into the world around them. The children thoughtfully explored how they could use their senses — noticing what they could see, hear, smell, touch and even taste along the way. Monte (Nursery) made wonderful connections to their classroom learning, excitedly spotting the many signs of spring emerging in nature. Budding flowers, fresh greenery and gentle seasonal changes sparked thoughtful discussion. The children also reflected on how meditation can help us to feel calm and centred, recognising the importance of taking quiet moments to care for our minds and bodies. |
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K Group (Reception) |
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During Faith Week, K Group (Reception) listened to the story Under the Bodhi Tree whilst enjoying a sensory walk to Kennedy Gardens. Bathed in warm sunshine, the experience brought storytelling to life in a meaningful and memorable way. On their journey, K Group (Reception) carefully identified a variety of environmental sounds, demonstrating impressive listening skills and awareness of their surroundings. The walk also provided a valuable opportunity to discuss road safety and the potential dangers they might encounter, reinforcing important life skills. After listening to the story, the children noticed the gentle sounds of the water fountain, linking their sensory observations to the themes of reflection and mindfulness explored throughout the week. The morning concluded with a joyful class photograph beside the fountain — a special way to capture a moment of calm, curiosity and shared experience. |
| J Group (Year 1) |
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As part of Faith Week, J Group (Year 1) joined H Group on a visit to St Mary’s Church in Willian. The children enjoyed exploring the church building and learning more about Christianity in a calm and reflective setting. During their visit, J Group (Year 1) took a closer look at key features of the church, including the altar, font and crucifix. They were particularly captivated by the beautiful stained glass windows, noticing the colours and stories shown within them. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for J Group (Year 1) to deepen their understanding of Christian worship and symbolism in a meaningful and memorable way. |
| H Group (Year 2) |
| H Group (Year 2) had a lovely and enriching visit to St Mary’s Church in Letchworth as part of Faith Week alongside their children in J Group. The children explored the peaceful surroundings of the church and learned about the simplicity of Christian life, gaining insight into the values and beliefs that guide followers of Christianity. During their visit, H Group (Year 2) listened to inspiring stories that deepened their understanding of faith and community. They approached the experience with curiosity and respect, asking thoughtful questions and reflecting on what they saw and heard. It was a meaningful opportunity to bring their learning to life beyond the classroom. |
| G Group (Year 3) |
| G Group (Year 3) enjoyed a wonderfully informative and engaging morning at the Welwyn Garden Hebrew Congregation synagogue on Tuesday. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to explore the features of a synagogue firsthand, helping to bring their classroom learning to life in a meaningful and memorable way. During the visit, G Group (Year 3) took part in role-play activities to prepare for Shabbat, deepening their understanding of Jewish traditions and family customs. They were also fascinated to learn how Torah scrolls are carefully and respectfully written, gaining insight into the dedication and skill involved in this sacred practice. The children asked thoughtful and inquisitive questions, while confidently sharing their existing knowledge — they were an absolute credit to the school. After walking quite a distance as part of their trip, G Group (Year 3) certainly earned a well-deserved rest and are sure to have slept very well that evening! |
| F Group (Year 4) |
| F Group (Year 4) enjoyed a truly wonderful and enriching visit to the Gurdwara this week as part of their Faith Week learning. The children embraced the experience with curiosity and maturity, listening carefully and engaging thoughtfully throughout the morning. They learned a great deal about Sikh beliefs, worship and community life, gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of respect, equality and service within the faith. Staff were incredibly proud of how respectfully F Group (Year 4) conducted themselves during the visit, demonstrating excellent manners and genuine interest. A particular highlight was being offered parshad, which the children were delighted to receive and very much enjoyed. It was a memorable and meaningful trip for everyone involved. |
| E Group (Year 5) |
| As part of Faith Week, E Group (Year 5) were delighted to welcome Rachna into the classroom to share her knowledge of Hinduism. The children explored a range of fascinating topics, including traditional clothing, important festivals and different deities. They were especially engaged by the opportunity to see significant artefacts up close and learn about their meaning and relevance within Hindu worship and daily life. Thoughtful questions and lively discussion reflected E Group’s (Year 5) curiosity and respect as they deepened their understanding of the faith. Excitement is already building for next week, when E Group (Year 5) will take part in their own Holi celebration. The festival of colour promises to be a joyful and memorable experience — colourful pictures to follow! |
| D Group (Year 6) |
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During Faith Week, D Group (Year 6) approached their learning with impressive enthusiasm, curiosity and thoughtful reflection. In their lesson on Islam, D Group (Year 6) took part in a carousel of engaging activities focused on the Five Pillars. They developed a secure understanding of what each pillar represents and reflected deeply on the significance these commitments hold in the daily lives of Muslims. Their insightful discussions demonstrated both maturity and respect as they explored the values at the heart of the faith. Alongside their classroom learning, D Group (Year 6) have also had a fantastic week participating in their Bikeability course, developing both their cycling skills and their confidence on the road. Throughout the programme, D Group (Year 6) focused on riding safely in public spaces and navigating roads responsibly.By practising signalling, road positioning and maintaining awareness of traffic, D Group (Year 6) strengthened their independence while learning essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the school gates. It has been wonderful to see them challenge themselves, support one another and grow in confidence as safe and capable young cyclists. |
Senior & Sixth
Italian Ski Trip
During February half term, a fantastic mix of students from across all year groups travelled to Santa Caterina. With five hours of skiing each day, our students showed resilience and determination, making wonderful progress on the slopes. Beyond the skiing, the week was packed with highlights including delicious Italian cuisine, a lively pizzeria evening, ice skating, crêpes, a visit to Bormio’s Olympic Village, a cosy film night, and a grand finale quiz and awards evening celebrating everyone’s hard work and achievements! There were plenty of giggles, teamwork and unforgettable memories made.
Duke of Edinburgh's Award Evening
On Wednesday evening, we were delighted to host our second annual Duke of Edinburgh’s Award celebration. The event brought together students, staff and families to recognise the dedication and achievement of our participants.
We were privileged to welcome record-breaking adventurer Alex Staniforth, who shared his powerful story of resilience. He spoke candidly about how embracing the outdoors and setting ambitious goals enabled him to overcome significant physical and mental health challenges, offering an inspiring message to everyone present.
This was followed by an excellent address from UVI (Year 13)student Art Quelch, the first St Chris student to complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The Gold Award was launched at St Chris last year by Emma Buckett, and since then our students have shown remarkable commitment in completing its demanding sections. Art has completed all five elements in an exceptionally short timeframe and will travel to Buckingham Palace later this year to receive his award.
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards to our 2025 Duke of Edinburgh’s cohort. We are proud to celebrate 24 students who achieved their Bronze Award and seven who successfully completed their Silver Award.
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