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DANCE & GYMNASTICS SHOWCASE
Dazzling displays: junior and senior schools take the spotlight together
TRIPS AND VISITS
STUDENT FUTURES EVENING
Inspirational guidance helping pupils explore career pathways
Trips to New York, Pinewood Studios and more WINTER DINNER
Sixth form dine in style
Dear parents,
I am delighted to welcome you to this edition of The Chronicle. Despite unrelenting rain since the start of the sping term, the pupils’ typical energy and enthusiasm for the start of 2026 has not been dampened The calendar has been rich and varied, with highlights ranging from a dynamic dance and gymnastics showcase, important student futures evening, through to thoughtful performances of Animal Farm, alongside an impressive range of sporting fixtures and enrichment trips.
This half term has been rich with enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom. A series of visiting speakers have sparked thoughtful conversations about future pathways, while trips to Pinewood Studios, the Allianz Stadium and more have given pupils memorable real world experiences. Meanwhile, house contests, clubs and co curricular activities continue to thrive, adding a real sense of forward momentum across the school
A particular highlight was the inaugural sixth form winter dinner, a warmly received new tradition that brought our oldest pupils together to celebrate their contribution to school life I hope you enjoy looking through this edition of The Chronicle.
William Brierly,
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
EXPLORING CREATIVE CAREER PATHWAYS
We were delighted to welcome Bryony from UCA earlier this term, who delivered an inspiring talk on creative career pathways She shared her professional experiences working with major museums and galleries, helping students to understand the wide range of opportunities available within the creative sector beyond traditional art roles.
Emma Stevens delivered an engaging presentation to Year 7 She shared insights from her recent visit to Antarctica, organised through a specialist travel company and brought along specialist clothing and equipment to support pupils’ understanding. The session brought the topic to life, with pupils showing great enthusiasm, asking thoughtful questions and particularly enjoying the wildlife videos shared during the talk
APPRENTICESHIP TALKS FOR PUPILS
On Monday 19 January, pupils attended an informative apprenticeship talk delivered by Mrs Jones, which explored a range of pathways and opportunities beyond the classroom
The session covered key topics including what apprenticeships are, when students can apply, the sectors offering apprenticeships, entry requirements, training alongside employment, how to become a strong candidate and the application process.
At Claremont, every student’s future is nurtured While most sixth form students progress to their first-choice university, personalised guidance is also provided to those pursuing highly competitive apprenticeships, enabling all students to make informed and confident career choices
Every career has a story and yours could spark a future! We are looking for lunchtime speakers to give a 30 minute “day in the life of ” talk for Year 7 and 8 pupils as they start thinking about their GCSE choices With our new three year GCSE programme giving children more time for breadth and depth in their studies, it is more important than ever that pupils access a range of insight to explore subjects that match their strengths, interests and future aspirations.
MRS JONES
UNIVERSITY APPLICATION HIGHLIGHTS UNIVERSITY APPLICATION HIGHLIGHTS
This term has been a busy and successful one for Student Futures, with a range of activities designed to help pupils explore their options and plan for life beyond school We welcomed a guest speaker from the University for the Creative Arts, who spoke to pupils about the wide range of careers available within creative industries Many sixth form pupils also attended an informative session on apprenticeships, learning about the different pathways available and how to apply for them
On 12 February, we held our annual Student Futures Evening This wellattended event gave pupils and families the opportunity to visit university information stands and to speak directly with professionals from a wide range of career backgrounds. Pupils were encouraged to identify career areas of interest in advance and to prepare questions for the professionals working within those fields.
In addition, four specialist talks were delivered during the evening: one on Oxbridge applications, one on AI and the future of careers, one on applying to universities in the United States, and one on apprenticeships The evening was a great success, and we would like to thank all staff, visitors and professionals, and families who supported the event
This term has also seen Year 8 pupils begin the process of making their GCSE choices. They have taken part in two assemblies focused on the options process and attended the Year 8 Options Evening, where they were able to visit subject departments to gather further information about courses Pupils have also had the opportunity to meet with Mrs Wigley, our Student Futures Coordinator, for additional guidance and support where needed This process will be completed on the 16 March when they will hand in their choices forms for next year.
DESTINATION HIGHER
EDUCATION UPDATE
Following a Higher Education assembly, outlining important aspects of the university application process, Year 12 students have engaged in 1:1 Student Futures meetings, exploring future pathways, including applications to courses in the UK and internationally Students also had the opportunity to attend an Applying for Apprenticeships talk. Weekly Oxbridge preparation sessions have enabled students considering applications to high tariff universities to extend their supercurricular engagement and gain insight into the interview and admissions process Students have also attended a workshop on the TMUA admissions test required for admission to some high tariff universities
Our annual student futures evening took place on 12 February was an inspiring event, for pupils in Years 9 and up The Mansion was bustling as students explored stands from a wide range of universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE, Durham and Exeter.
James Darley, CEO of Transform Society, delivered a thought provoking talk on the graduate employment market, emphasising the importance of developing key transferable skills such as resilience and leadership. Professionals from sectors including health and wellbeing, business and finance, arts and media, science and technology, law and public service, and design and architecture also shared practical advice and personal career journeys.
Talks on Oxbridge applications, AI and the future of careers, applying to US universities and the apprenticeship process were extremely well received.
We are grateful to all participants who gave their time to make the evening such a big success
STUDENT FUTURES & PERSONAL PATHWAYS
EXPERT ADVICE FROM MRS JONES
r higher education and ordinator, gives an insider look udent futures team support nts to explore the that excite them most. From one-to-one meetings to oad, Mrs Jones describes how reflection turn uncertainty t, inspired next steps.
Key takeaways:
Tailored guidance: 1:1 meetings help students test and refine their interests. Beyond the UK: Opportunities in the US, Australia and Europe are explored with equal attention. Follow your strengths: Students are encouraged to choose paths that align with their passions and abilities Reflect and decide: Thoughtful questioning helps students make informed, authentic choices
SCHOLARSHIP: OXFORD PHILOSOPHY SUMMER SCHOOL
Pupils can now work towards a FUTURE READYAWARD by collecting stamps in a passport each time they attend one of our regular academic enrichment talks, the student futures evening, enter competitions or go to a what’s on event. Recently we have been pleased to welcome experts such as Simon Parker, author and filmmaker, Professor Lewis Dartnell on the hunt for alien life forms and Captain Imogen O’Brien, one of the four women who made up Force Atlantic, the British Army’s first all-female team to undertake the World’s Toughest Row.
There are three levels within the award programme:
1.Pupil Explorer Certificate – attend four talks.
2 Rising Thinker Certificate – four talks plus a What’s On event and the Student Futures Evening
3 Future Ready Ambassador Award – six talks, a What’s On event, one academic competition, and the Student Futures Evening
WITH 2026 BEING THE NATIONAL YEAR OF READING, CLAREMONT SENIOR SCHOOL IS COMMITTED TO ENCOURAGING PUPILS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH READING.
Reading for pleasure is a habit that reduces stress, strengthens the brain, improves focus, memory, concentration, vocabulary and communication skills. It expands your knowledge, enhances creativity and fires up your imagination. What’s not to like?
But what if you’re studying English literature and are expected to read an array of all embracing, weighty, highbrow class texts anyway? What do you reach for when reading for pleasure?
We asked four A level English literature students and their teachers:
Tom O’Brien, Year 13
I have recently read a lot of American literature as it is part of our A level course. I’ve read and enjoyed White Fang by Jack London, The Beautiful and the Damned by F. Scott Fitzgerald and The Awakening by Kate Chopin.
Clea Starosselets, Year 13
A while ago I read The Secret History by Donna Tartt. It will always be my favourite book. I love Donna Tartt’s writing style so much, it is so well written and is an intellectually stimulating book, exploring complex themes. I also enjoyed Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro which is a sad and beautiful dystopian book Bunny by Mona Adwal was one of the strangest books I have ever read but good. I would recommend it.
Chloe Way, Year 12
The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner was hard to read but interesting and analytical. I really enjoyed Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell, it was so sad but so good. Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo was an interesting read I liked the different fragmented narrative prose and the stream of consciousness.
Josie Warner Lacey, Year 13
I am currently reading a nonfiction book called The Uncool by Cameron Crowe. It’s a memoir of his life which I would highly recommend as it’s very influenced by music and the age of rock and roll. It’s also based on the film Almost Famous which is amazing
Mrs Beamer, Teacher of English
I am currently reading The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. I'm really enjoying the multi-narrative style and the fact that it's a whodunit detective book
The National Year of Reading 2026 is the biggest campaign in a generation designed to help more people (re)discover the joy of reading and make it part of their everyday lives. A Department for Education initiative, in collaboration with the National Literacy Trust, the campaign aims to tackle the profound decline in reading enjoyment in the UK and reconnect people of all ages with reading as a relevant and immediately rewarding activity
Mrs Fabregas (Head of English)
I loved If We Were Villains by M L Rio It’s Shakespeare-centric wrapped up in university drama and tragedy! Very enticing and reminded me of Donna Tartt's The Secret History. I enjoyed The Names by Florence Knapp, it was incredibly thought-provoking and challenged me to think about how our names might set us on our life paths. I loved the structure of this book! I really enjoyed the interview format of Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid Each character is different which means you might be able to see aspects of yourself in all of them, which is interesting.
“THE MUN WAS TRULY A GREAT EXPERIENCE. THE CHAIRS RAN THE COMMITTEE ROOMS VERY WELL AND FOSTERED A FUN AND EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT. THE LEVEL OF DEBATE TRULY TESTED OUR KNOWLEDGE AND ALLOWED US TO TEST OUR CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS. ADDITIONALLY, WE WERE ABLE TO PRACTISE OUR PUBLIC SPEAKING AND DEBATING SKILLS. THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WAS A GREAT WAY TO WORK ON OUR TEAMWORK AS WE COLLABORATED TO COME UP WITH NEW LINES OF ARGUMENT.”
DAY: FRIDAYS TIME: 1.30- 2.25PM YEAR GPS: YR 10 - 13 ROOM: CHEM LAB 2
A LEVEL PINEWOOD STUDIOS FUTURES FESTIVAL
Sixth form students attended the Pinewood Studios Futures Festival on 31 January, gaining valuable insights into careers across the creative industries. The event featured leading organisations including Disney, Star Wars, Sony and the British Film Institute, providing students with the opportunity to meet professionals from a wide range of backgrounds across the sector
Students took part in practical workshops, including filming a short production, and attended a live stunt demonstration on the iconic 007 stage. They also learned about a gap year opportunity based at Pinewood Studios. One student described the experience as “a truly incredible experience and a privilege to meet and speak with some of the most talented individuals in the industry,” highlighting the inspiration gained from the day
YEAR 8 GEOGRAPHY - ALLIANZ STADIUM
Year 8 recently visited Allianz Stadium, Twickenham as part of their geography unit on climate change Pupils took part in a sustainability workshop, toured the stadium and explored the Museum of Rugby, gaining insight into how major venues are reducing their carbon footprint.
GCSE MUSIC STUDENTS SEE WICKED IN THE THEATRE
On Wednesday 4 February, some of our GCSE Music students attended a matinee performance of Wicked at the Apollo Theatre in London, enriching their understanding of the GCSE set work Defying Gravity.
HOUSE HALF TERM HIGHLIGHTS
At the end of this half term, the standings could not be closer, and it is all still to play for!
PUZZLE COMPETITION BATTLE OF THE BRAINS QUIZ
The recent production of Animal Farm showcased the remarkable talents of pupils from almost all year groups, who collaborated seamlessly behind the scenes and on stage. With a dedicated team handling everything from lighting and directing to stage management, under the careful guidance of Mrs Rose, the effort was a testament to their collective maturity and commitment. The cast delivered a faultless performance, with each actor bringing depth to their roles, contributing to the powerful storytelling that captivated the audience. The unique staging of the show, enhanced the experience, allowing for a more immersive connection with the narrative Their creativity and passion truly brought the story to life, leaving a lasting impression on the audiences.
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL
The drama department recently revealed the next Senior School musical to pupils, announcing that this year’s production will be High School Musical. The big reveal was shared through an entertaining video shown in assembly, with teachers dropping clues to build excitement before the big announcement
CLAREMONT’S CAKE AT BREAK WINNERS
Our exciting co-curricular club programme continues to offer something for everyone this term, with fantastic energy and engagement across the school. From thriving creative clubs such as textiles, experimental drawing and drama, to popular societies including med society, game design, MUN and Japanese culture, pupils are embracing opportunities to explore new interests, develop their talents and make new friends.
This half term our forest school peer support club (where Year 9 and 10 pupils play peer pals to our littlest learners in Nursery) has been top of the popularity Running three lunchtimes every week, all the mud and puddles have only added to the fun! Clubs that are building momentum and definitely worth checking out include music club, DJ club and podcast club - pop in and see if they’re your thing!
New this term, photography club for our Year 8's on Wednesday lunchtimes is a fantastic addition to our jam packed programme. Sports clubs of all abilities continue to be enjoyed across the school, by pupils who already know and love a particular sport, as much as those who give something completely new a try. It is wonderful to see so many pupils making the most of opportunities beyond the classroom.
MUSIC IN FULL VOICE THIS SPRING
It has been a busy and uplifting half term for music at Claremont. Our Year 9 to 11 GCSE music tea showcased talented pupils performing on harp, classical guitar, violin and more which made for a wonderful celebration of their hard work and progress We now look forward to our singing tea on 25 February, when voices from across the school will take centre stage in the mansion.
Ensembles are already rehearsing for the spring concert on Monday 23 March in the Great Room. Expect everything from Taylor Swift and John Williams medleys in our orchestra, to music from Stranger Things and Les Misérables from our choir. Our jazz band are perfecting All Blues and Fly Me to the Moon, while our musical theatre singing group are bringing energy to a Disney mash up. We are also excited to launch a new senior school rock band after half term
Meanwhile, rehearsals are well underway for our exciting production of High School Musical, with an incredible cast of 90 pupils! The stage is certainly set for another spectacular half-term ahead.
YEAR 8 TAKE CENTRE STAGE WITH SHAKESPEARE
New this term, our Year 8 photography club has been exploring some exciting techniques, including early camera less image making through cyanotype, as well as experimenting with studio lighting and creative composition. Pupils have even used shapes found around the school site to form letters and capture unique perspectives through their lens
If you love taking photos or are considering photography at GCSE, this hands-on club is a brilliant opportunity to experiment, develop your skills and see the world in a whole new way.
Here are two examples of our pupils’ early image making using the camera less cyanotype process and see the creativity and care behind each unique print.
INVITING: YEAR 8
DAY: WEDNESDAY
TIME: 1.30PM - 2.15PM ROOM: AR3
TAKE A LITTLE LISTEN TO OUR
PODCAST CLUB
We thought you might like to hear about our junior school podcast club because it is such a joy to listen to, and includes interviews with the local community. Each week, pupils in Years 3 to 6 create The Download, celebrating school life and pupil voice Listen to this episode where our ‘digital explorers’ interview our neighbours at Claremont Gardens
LISTEN HERE
LOVE TALKING, STORYTELLING OR TECH? TRY OUT THE
INVITING: YEAR 7 - 13
DAY: MONDAY
TIME: 1.30PM - 2.00PM ROOM: MATRONS
Pupils interviewing Mr Bishop, from National Trust’s Claremont Landscape Garden
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
THE
INDOOR WORLD
RECORD
STATUS WA 25 TROPHY TOURNAMENT & THE COUNTY OF SURREY INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIP
In archery, the WA25 Tournament and Surrey Indoor Championships took place on 18 January 2026 at Guildford Spectrum, bringing together archers from across the region.
Competing in the WA25 round for the first time, Rosie delivered an impressive performance in the U18 Women’s Barebow category, achieving a score of 359 She was crowned Surrey U18 Barebow Champion and set a new Surrey County Record, marking an important milestone in her archery journey.
U13 GYMNASTICS COMPETITION
The U13 gymnastics team delivered strong performances at the Surrey Floor and Vault competition, showcasing excellent floor routines and impressive vaults throughout the day. Their efforts were rewarded with a well deserved sixth place finish.
SENIOR TENNIS LEAGUE SUCCESS
The LTA Senior League fixtures against Gordon’s saw both teams deliver strong performances. The Senior Girls’A Team achieved an excellent 10 to 2 victory, demonstrating outstanding teamwork and skill throughout. The Senior Boys’ A Team competed in a closely contested match that went to a championship tie break, narrowly losing 9 to 7 Both teams showed great determination, commitment and sportsmanship.
RUGBY SEVENS SHOWDOWN:
CLAREMONT FALL AGONISINGLY SHORT IN FINAL MATCH
The new Mole Valley Series saw Sevens squads from each age group compete in a league across the week before half term to determine the overall Cup winner.
Four schools, CFC, Dunottar, CLFS and RGS Surrey Hills (formerly Box Hill) make up the tournament participants. Y9 played some decent structured Sevens but came unstuck against RGS Surrey Hills, winning against both CLFS and Dunottar. The U15 boys were too strong for both Dunottar and RGS Surrey Hills (CLFS absent on this day).
Particular thanks to Year 11 Ben M, who expertly refereed all matches on the day (hosted by Claremont at Old Cranleighans RFC), further increasing his standing as one of the best YMO (Young Match Officials) on the London Society Program.
Claremont seniors beat RGS comfortably, but lost in tougher games against a well drilled Freemens and physically imposing Dunottar.
Our Year 8 boys played superbly in winning two games, only losing to Dunottar in a brilliant match, the winning score snatched in the dying play to seize the day 4-3.
Going into the final day, Claremont led the standings, three league points clear of Dunottar across the week. All to play for then, as the Year 7 boys wound up a terrific entertaining, hard fought but ultimately friendly week of Sevens rugby.
Claremont fell just short, despite battling back to 3-4 after conceding four early tries in a pulsating game Dunottar take the inaugural title winning this game 6-3, and the overall title by the narrowest of margins on tries scored and therefore points difference.
This has been a fantastic initiative, with everyone on the edge of their seats with the final standings undecided until the very last day, highlighting the excellent and nail-bitingly matched talent, and competitive nature of the tournament.
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
HOUSE NETBALL COMPETITION AND INDOOR FOOTBALL
Despite challenging weather conditions impacting many fixtures over the end of this half term, our Year 7 pupils continued to embrace the excitement of sport The House Netball Competition took place, alongside energetic indoor football sessions.
1ST TEAM NETBALL SHOW STRONG START TO THE SEASON
The 1st team played a closely contested and highly competitive match against Notre Dame, finishing with an impressive 14 to 14 draw. The defence worked with determination, making several key interceptions and showing strong one-on-one marking Improving communication will be a focus for the next match. In attack, the shooters received excellent overhead passes into the circle, creating strong scoring opportunities. Overall, it was a very positive performance, with Clara B awarded the opposition’s player of the match.
CELEBRATING BEN’S SKIING SUCCESS
Ben E (Year 8) recently competed in and the British Ski Association Cham January as part of the Sandown Par
He achieved an excellent result, plac competitive field of academy and G earned him valuable seed points for Caterina during the Easter holidays.
We are delighted to introduce a new feature in our Sports Round Up, our weekly summary of sporting events at Claremont: Team of the Week This initiative, led by Megan T (Year 12) in collaboration with the Editor, will recognise and celebrate outstanding team performances across the senior school each week.
On Tuesday 10 February, Claremont’s sports hall was transformed into a stunning performance space for our first ever Gymnastics and Dance Showcase The atmosphere was electric as over 50 performers from both the junior and senior schools took to the floor, combining their talents to dance, tumble and leap with confidence and flair
Families and friends filled the sports hall, creating a wonderfully supportive audience who were delighted by the energy, skill and teamwork on display. From elegant choreography from the pupils themselves, to impressive acrobatics, every moment reflected the hard work and enthusiasm of our pupils and we are grateful for the PE team for putting this event together.
OUR SIXTH FORM DRESSED TO IMPRESS AND ENJOYED OUR FIRST SIXTH FORM WINTER DINNER. HERE KIERAN IN YEAR 12 GIVES A GLIMPSE INTO THE DELICIOUS DINING EVENING EXPERIENCE.
The winter dinner at our school was a really fun and memorable evening for everyone The space was beautifully decorated, which created a warm and welcoming atmosphere and made the whole event feel extra special. The food was amazing and was definitely something everyone enjoyed, giving people a chance to relax and enjoy the night together. Since it was the first winter dinner our school has ever held, there was a strong sense of excitement throughout the evening. It was also great fun to socialise with friends and classmates after a busy school week. Another highlight of the night was a fun heads-and-tails game based on true-or-false questions that were created from a survey we all completed beforehand This activity brought lots of laughter and made the evening even more enjoyable and memorable for everyone
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
BEE CURIOUS! THE BUZZ IS BACK AT CLAREMONT!
BRINGING TOGETHER CLAREMONT’S PAST AND PRESENT
Claremont’s alumni community is a valued network of former pupils, staff, governors and past parents and the school will always be a place to return to for reunions, celebrations and special events. We are delighted to share our new annual Alumni Review, hot off the press. The 2025 edition reflects on highlights from the past year, features alumni spotlight interviews, shares updates from our archivist and looks ahead to exciting plans for the year to come, including Alumni reunion events Read the latest annual review here
ANNUAL REVIEW
SIGN UP FOR THE BIG FEED!
Our wonderful school caterers, Thomas Franks, run a charitable foundation tackling food poverty by providing free nutritious meals to those in need This April, we’ll once again host The Big Feed on Thursday 9 April, when pupils will come together to assemble meals from surplus food for families who need them. Keep an eye out next month, March, for the sign-up notice in School Post!
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
Sharing just some of the exciting ways pupils can get involved locally, whether for Duke of Edinburgh, boosting UCAS portfolios, pursuing personal interests or simply playing an active part in community life.
Social Media Star Wanted: Opportunity with Hersham FC
Our community grass roots sports outreach continues to create exciting opportunities for our pupils.
Working with Hersham FC, following successful match-day photography volunteering, Hersham FC is seeking a permanent social media volunteer (Year 9-13)
The role involves creating posts, writing copy and designing artwork in Canva, offering excellent experience for anyone interested in media or marketing
The commitment is around one hour per week, unpaid but invaluable for building skills and a portfolio.
Interested pupils should email kbradford@claremont. surreysch uk for further details. The pupils' parent will be informed of further details and contact information for Hersham FC
