The Cliftonian 24/25

The Cliftonian

Thoughts from the Year

Last year in the half term after Commem I travelled to New York with Jeremy Pickles, Head of Alumni and Community, accepting an invitation to attend the OC dinner.

It was, as always, a fantastic get together and all the more fun as many of the OCs were pupils that I had taught when I first came to Clifton. We had a slight hiccup on the return flight with a 12 hour delay in JFK airport; I think Mr Pickles is still in dispute with American Airlines, and having just got back to College for the restart of the Summer Term I quickly departed again for Tignes in the French Alps to join the Year 9 away trip. I arrived on time, collected the keys for my hire car, and found my way to where a rather splendid brand new vehicle was parked.

Now my troubles began. I have never driven a car without a manual handbrake so for the next 15 minutes I navigated a series of YouTube clips, not to find out how to start the car, but rather to learn how I might permanently stop it. Feeling pretty smug and at the cutting edge of the digital world, I set off. Ten minutes later that smugness had evaporated. I was parked in a layby having rather tarnished the new look of the car by scraping one side along the full length of a stationary public bus. The bus driver was extremely good about it all; nevertheless

none of his phrases seemed to chime with what I could remember from my French O-level oral in 1983. To be honest, I felt old, hopeless and pretty lost. I really wasn’t sure what to do next. So I reached out to Emilie, my wonderful PA, who it turned out spoke fluent French and took over, sorting everything out. I received kind messages from SLT and after much activity, in the small hours of the night, I arrived in Tignes to be greeted by Mr Mather, who had kindly waited up for me.

The next morning I got up early to take in the magnificent views that I had not seen the night before. I was sitting on my own at breakfast still feeling a little low and wondering why I hadn’t gone for the insurance option with the smaller excess, when in came a group of pupils from their early morning jog in the Alps. All at once my problems were forgotten and I was carried along on a wave of enthusiasm and great chat.

The trip was a wonderful experience; hiking in the mountains with some pupils who had never walked in the countryside before, high ropes with pupils who are very nervous of heights and climate workshops with local glaciologists. We even held a bake off competition to see who, with a limited number of ingredients, could make the best pudding, though having judged them with Mrs Coomber and Mr Mather, I should say the least worst - they were horrific. Overall it was a great week where phones were forgotten and every day I saw pupils supporting each other to try new things and step up to a new challenge. Of course, I didn’t need to go to the Alps to see this, it is around us all the time as an amazingly impressive part of what it is to be at this school.

I saw it at our first ever Cabaret Night held in BSK, a new initiative from Mr Moore, the Director of Performing Arts; wonderful performances from many pupils, some of whom I had never heard sing before, yet here they were performing to a room packed with parents, staff and their peers. I saw it again in the amazing mutual support between all those taking part at the St George’s concert. There is such enjoyment in watching the journey our pupils have made during their time here. I remember first hearing Sophie Chung playing in Hong Kong before she joined Clifton and I remember Henry Gittings back in the Prep, standing on a stool at a fundraising gala and singing with immeasurable gusto ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ to huge applause. These are just a couple of examples taken from across the year, from ‘Made in Dagenham’ to Thursday morning recitals in the Music School, from Band Night in the Redgrave to Open Mic in the crypt and the Kadoorie competitions. Mr Drinkwater tells me we will have 85 concerts across the College this academic year. In every single one of these concerts and in our drama performances, pupils felt supported to push themselves to see just what amazing things they could achieve.

The same of course also applies to all the sports teams who have represented the College over the last year. In boys Rugby the first XV came top in the country winning the Daily Mail Cup, an amazing achievement and testament to over a decade of vision

and hard work from Mr Salter and more recently Mr Grewcock. The team also nearly beat Blackrock, a College in Dublin and one of the top rugby schools in the world. Sadly the team did not quite follow Mr Salter’s advice for the last play of the game, and gave away an easy penalty and the match to the opposition. Both Mr Salter and Mr Grewcock certainly needed a great deal of support from their colleagues as a result.

I saw the same determination to give of their all from the boys and girls who went to Rosslyn Sevens. We sent more teams than any other school taking part. Some teams of amazingly experienced and talented players and others commendably giving it a go with most of their rugby knowledge being acquired in the minibus on the drive to London. I watched the U18 girls battling away on pitches like dusty concrete in some very competitive and bruising games. Megan Whatley, one of the Deputy Heads of School this year, joked with me that she had been tackled so hard that some of her fake tan had rubbed off. Perhaps something for the RFU to consider in the next revision of the laws.

Of course that level of mutual support is also evident in the pupils’ academic journey. I see it in the classroom every day but also at the Year 9 scholars’ presentations a couple of weeks ago where the topics ranged from ‘The intelligence of dogs’ to ‘How have the perceptions of old age varied and evolved over time’. The later talk and the handling of subsequent questions was very sensitively done given those of us closer to retirement in the audience.

It is not only peer support that underpins all we do but the impressive commitment of so many colleagues. Last term the U14

and U16 girls hockey teams both made it to the last four in the country and I went up to London to watch them compete with amazing energy and determination. I set off from Clifton at 5am and that night at 10 o’clock I found myself sitting with staff and students in Reading motorway services waiting for the replacement bus driver and being persuaded by Mr Loughrey to put an unbelievably unhealthy amount of KFC for the team on my credit card. We finally made it back to Guthrie Road at just after midnight to be greeted by a group of the tirelessly supportive parents. I gave the pupils lesson one off the following day to have a lie in, but as a number of adults pointed out, I was not able to extend this to them.

All such shared experiences build community and create memories that our leavers will take with them at the end of this year. Perhaps it is the memory of the silly rap version of Romeo and Juliet from Year 13 at the West Town performance evening or the entertainment at the CCF regimental dinner; the latter showing judicious use or perhaps more truthfully complete reliance on AI for its scripting.

And so I say to all our leavers, not only cherish these memories but draw on them to keep in touch with one another and to support one another. As you head out into the world, be the sort of person that someone would know they could reach out to if, for example, they find themselves parked up in a layby, feeling hopeless and in need of much friendly support.

Dr Tim Greene Head of College and Head Master of the Upper School

Heads of School Speeches

The moment I was told I had been appointed Head of School I was in the car with my dad, on the way back to school, missing Chapel.

Not a great first impression. Initially I was skeptical, surely this was my friends pulling my leg. It was only When my Housemaster Mr Doran emailed, to congratulate me on being Watson’s first appointment as Head of School in 17 years, that it sunk in.

It was in that moment that it struck me how much I and the school had changed over the past five years. I remembered my first taster day, sitting in the back row of Dr Grohmann’s Biology classroom preparing myself, and my stomach, to dissect a mouse. It was here when I met my first friends at Clifton, Luca and Zac. All of us out of options for a group teamed up, much to the dismay of the mouse.

That was the start of my Clifton career, small though it may seem, it was the seed that would grow into what was to come, and I had found my first friends on which it would be grounded.

We joined the Upper School in September of 2020, right as the school and the world encountered a rather unique problem. When talking about this time I find people tend to dwell on what was lost; the

hours of schooling, predicted grade and a lack of integration of the new Year 9, and while it’s true I spent only two weeks of my first Michaelmas Term actually in classrooms, in many ways this helped me to more deeply appreciate Watson’s for what it was… a home.

While Watson’s has never been the most successful in House events, the passion and spirit for the house has grown in leaps and bounds over the past five years. I think it was three years ago yesterday that Watson’s were so unjustly cheated of the House Dance cup. At the time of the announcement I was sitting next to the Headmaster, who laughed and applauded as I hung my head in disbelief.

Considering where I am right now, giving this speech, I still find it hard to believe that as recently as transitioning into the sixth form, I was considering moving away and joining a day school closer to home. It was the encouragement to pursue my passion in Classics that led me to a deeper appreciation of the college as a whole…a return on my parents’ investment with one-to-one Greek classes, and an insight to the Classics teacher’s music tastes, … who knew Mr McNally was such a fan of Sabrina Carpenter. The Classics Department as a whole has gone above and beyond what can be expected from your teachers. They taught me to be proud of my interests. I’m ashamed to say now that they also got to witness some of the worst haircuts known to mankind.

Over time my confidence grew, along with my hair, bit by bit, a prayer in the Chapel here, an announcement in House assembly there. Perhaps it grew a bit too much. Standing up in front of the school with four of my closest friends to give a rendition of George Ezra’s Budapest may not have been our finest nor most thought through plan. With only five days of less than exemplary practice, four tone deaf boys and only Osian to keep us in time, I’m afraid to say we narrowly missed out on the trophy. However, it is a fond memory that I will carry with me beyond my Clifton life.

There are two other people I’d like to thank. My Housemaster Mr Doran, and Matron Jane. These two have helped me in more than one tough situation. Mr Doran is quite frankly the only Housemaster any pupil could ask for. His calm and collected presence has helped to guide me through all the highs and lows of school life. I truly don’t believe any House is more defined by their matron than Watson’s is with Jane. She has been our sounding board for life’s big questions, like: why do lessons end at five? How injured is injured enough to miss the Pens? And of course, “Jane, what does it mean when a girl says…?” Of everything I’ll miss about Clifton, I’ll miss these conversations the most.

Finally, I’d like to give a huge thank you to my family, not only for giving me the opportunity to attend Clifton but for supporting me through it all. It hasn’t always been smooth sailing, whether navigating school life or figuring out which rules were … optional. Your steady support and just the right amount of ‘constructive advice’, have meant the world to me.

Thank you.

It occurs to me now that my time at Clifton has been more than simply my education. Standing here I realise how much I have changed, when I joined, overwhelmed by new experiences, I thought I knew it all, and could handle anything life threw at me. It’s been through the support and guidance of those closest to me that I have grown into the person I have become. I’m sure there will be much more change to come, both for me and the school as we part ways, but if there has been one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that although change can be scary, transition can be something to look forward to.

Alex Phelps Watson’s House (WaH)

“Over time my confidence grew, along with my hair, bit by bit, a prayer in the Chapel here, an announcement in House assembly there.”

Heads of School Speeches

Some people may wonder how someone could spend 16 years at the same school — but they’ve clearly never been to Clifton.

From building a rainforest classroom in Year 2 with Costanza to sitting our final A Levels, Clifton has grown with me on a journey year by year into making me who I am now and I couldn’t be more grateful.

To some, school is a chore — a place to simply get through. But my experience has been the opposite. Clifton is a place where you’re encouraged to try, to fail, to laugh, and to learn. A place where trying something new isn’t scary, because you’re always supported.

I never imagined myself fencing, debating, playing water polo, or even joining house dance. Yet I did all those things. I can’t say I was always successful. Out of nine house songs, I only experienced victory once, but at least I’ve had time to perfect the ‘we were robbed’ line. But success wasn’t the point — the memories were. And those are what I’ll take with me.

Even morning Chapel — something people outside Clifton find hard to believe I enjoy — became a highlight of

my week. Although I think Mr Luker pulled the short straw in his seating in front of Eloise and I. We probably owe him an apology for the damage we’ve done to his hearing, especially during to Jerusalem.

But it’s not just about the big moments. It’s the quieter ones too — drives to school with Fenella praying that breakfast wasn’t boiled eggs, summer evenings on the Close and crypt coffee breaks. These are the true moments that make up school life.

For me, sport has been where I’ve learnt the most. Eleven years of Clifton hockey has now come to an end. Being part of a team that works for each other is something I’ll always carry with me. Coming second in the country is something I’m incredibly proud of — proof that hard work brings reward. As Mr Keenan says: “You’ve passed your most difficult, dangerous test if the man in the glass is your friend.” And I think we can all look back and say we’ve earnt that. Yes, we had the silver curse; three silver medals but we learnt from them nonetheless and our achievements are something to be truly proud of. I’ll even miss the lows — though maybe not the music battles between Josie and Mr Catchpole on away journeys.

From almost setting Mr Dunning’s classroom on fire in GCSE chemistry, to learning that the Marshal does have the ability to smile, and that no amount of complaining will ever get rid of UpLearn - we have learnt a lot.

Clifton’s teachers excel beyond the classroom, mentoring us into the adults we become. Four years ago, I found my love for Biology in Lab T with Miss Hawkins and never looked back. Even Saturday lessons were bearable with the promise of Lab T.

Economics didn’t necessarily come naturally to me and yet at no point did Mr Luker give up. Believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Pushing me to a deeper appreciation for Economics which I can now even say I enjoy.

After 16 years, I can say this with certainty: you get out of Clifton what you put in. If you dive in, you’ll find laughter, friends, growth, and a sense of purpose. Not everything is easy — but you’ll never know what you’re capable of if you don’t try. My biggest piece of advice? Try everything. Say yes more often than no. Clifton has taught me to trust myself — to see both my strengths and my flaws and to grow from them. I wouldn’t trade that journey for anything.

There’s no other place quite like Clifton to explore who you are - in the Right time, right place, right kit and right attitude.

To Year 13 — no more house songs, dodging parking wardens, Ryan Bresnahan matches or debating skirt lengths. But what a year group to grow up with, with students off to drama school, representing their country in sport, and gaining full music scholarships. The wins don’t come without effort, but every one of us has had the space and support to grow in our own direction — and that’s rare. Whether you joined in nursery or Sixth Form, we’ve all played a part in each other’s story. And no matter where we go next, Clifton will always be part of us.

It seems like just yesterday my parents were watching me perform in the saxophone ensemble, telling me I did well — even though I was shorter than the music stand

and barely visible. I can’t begin to thank you enough for the opportunities you have given me, your endless support has gotten me through 16 years of ups and downs. No matter what happens the family roast on a Sunday was something to look forward to. I hope I’ve made you proud.

Now as I stand here looking back I can see how much I have grown. My little Year 2 rainforest has remained with me but is now a part of something so much bigger. There have been many hIghs but there have also been many setbacks. If there was one lesson I was to take away from my Clifton career, it would be, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it’s the courage to continue that counts”.

Sophie Houghton Holland’s House (HLH)

“But it’s not just about the big moments. It’s the quieter ones too — drives to school with Fenella praying that breakfast wasn’t boiled eggs, summer evenings on the Close and crypt coffee breaks.”

Heads of School Speeches

Before I begin, I’d like you all to join me in a round of applause for the incredible cleaners, ground staff, and porters here at Clifton.

Your tireless work, often behind the scenes, is what keeps this place running with grace and care every day! Thank you for going above and beyond for us.

There are moments in life that carry a bit more weight than others. Selfishly, for me, birthdays have always been those moments. Just before my thirteenth, during my first weeks at Clifton, my dad asked what I wanted as a gift and with unusual wisdom for teenage me, I replied: “Clifton is the gift.”

At the time, I had no clue what that really meant; no understanding of the hefty price tag this “gift” came with but also no idea of the privilege, or the journey it would give me ahead.

Five years later, I see how right I was. Clifton has been one of the most meaningful gifts I’ve received not just as a school, but as a community and at the centre of that community is our Year 13. We’ve faced it all together, from Mondays that finished at 6pm to now sitting our actual A Levels.

We were recently asked to sum ourselves up in three words for the yearbook; a surprisingly tough task because how do you condense years of growth into

such few words? And if it seems hard to complete that task, to capture the essence of Clifton college seems impossible.

Still, I gave it a go and I’ve picked a phrase that I think comes close, and I now invite you to work out what I’ve chosen.

Because in my opinion, Clifton’s strength isn’t in its buildings or traditions, but in its people, and in a culture that pushes us to go above and beyond. This culture, distinctly British in many ways, can be quite the shock to international students like myself.

When I arrived from India, I wasn’t just starting a new school, I was navigating an entirely new world. Moving away from family, my home was hard enough, but suddenly living every moment in a different language and culture? That was its own challenge.

Like many international students, I arrived having practised saying “bottle of watah” and watched “Wild Child” thinking I was prepared. I was not.

I remember my first week—the confusion when everyone asked “you alright?” when I looked perfectly fine, and everyone’s love for something called “Marmite”, I’ll never understand.

My vocabulary expanded quickly though not always in the textbook ways. I learned that “pants” and “trousers” are definitely not the same thing here.

And the Houses! All twelve of them, and I had to not only learn their names, recognise their ties, but also understand their reputations - something that everyone else around me seemed just to know?!

But not all my learning was as challenging. I quickly discovered the bargain wonders of meal deals, and Love Island managed to teach me more about British social dynamics than any news channel could have.

At Clifton, I learned to appreciate not just British culture, but the richness of a truly international community, such as the fact that it is normal for Sophie Chung to buy nine goldfish every week for good luck.

While the international community gave me new perspectives, it was Hallward’s that gave me something even more meaningful: a chosen family. You may know Hallward’s or maybe not, given our iconic streak of always almost winning. Well, I’m delighted to say that last night we finally broke that streak by winning House Dance! Thank you for ruining my perfectly crafted line! But jokes aside, Hallward’s has been my home away from home, where everyone lives by our motto: “Believe in yourself and the world is yours.” Perhaps what makes Hallward’s truly special is having an entire house believing in you too.

The houses are full of unexpected opportunities from house darts, instrumental, water polo, to even hula hooping in Chapel. All proof that at Clifton, every space encourages you to go above and beyond.

None of this would be possible without our true anchors in Hallward’s: Miss Evans, whose razor-sharp wit keeps us all in line, and Mrs. Kenyon, the one constant in my Clifton journey. She often jokes she’d be worryfree leaving the house in my hands, to which I can only say No Thank you! But it actually speaks volumes about her trust in us and how she makes us all feel seen, valued and capable. But above all else, Thank you Mrs Kenyon for seeing our potential, even in times when all we saw were flaws.

This belief extends throughout Clifton, where teaching goes far beyond classrooms from societies, sports tutor groups and somehow still showing up with a smile- so to all of you, hank you for going above and beyond in ways that often went unnoticed yet made the greatest impact. And to our Senior Leadership Team, masters of the crossed-arm pose, thank you for keeping us grounded, growing, and just the right amount of scared.

Life at Clifton can often feel like it’s happening at you, not from you. Between chairing debates, tennis practice, BEP meetings, and Chapel speeches, the opportunities can be overwhelming. I arrived thinking I knew my limits—but I leave understanding they were only barriers I imagined. This community has shown me, time and again, how far we can go when pushed with purpose.

We’re told to ‘aim high and stay grounded,’ but what I’ve come to cherish most is how Clifton gives

you the courage to leap—while gently insisting that you must.

And that is why I think the words ‘Above & Beyond’ captures Clifton’s essence—its people, spirit, and unwavering belief in potential—not just as a memory, but as a legacy we carry forward.

Looking far ahead into the future, one day hopefully, I’ll be carrying this same legacy forward as I walk down the aisle, of course surrounded by my bridesmaids and front row guests I found here, and perhaps as British tradition dictates, with something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. Conveniently, Clifton has given me all of those too.

My something new? The confidence to speak my mind, the strength to stand up for what’s right, and the wisdom to know when to listen—the qualities of a true Cliftonian.

My something borrowed? The unforgettable echoes of Congers and Chapel, where we belted out ‘Libera Me Domine,’ ‘Shine Jesus Shine,’ and ‘I Vow to Thee My Country’ like our lives depended on it. Harmonies that weren’t always in tune, but always full of heart.

My something old? Well… Dr Greene.

And as for something blue— Clifton, you’ve always worn that proudly. And now, so will we.

Finally, to my family. To my sister, who never lets me forget she got here first and therefore guided me every step of the way, thank you for being the ultimate blueprint to my journey here.

To my parents, thank you for going above and beyond—and for the priceless gift of a school that showed me how to do the same.

Michelle Arora Hallward’s House (HH)

Art

The Art Department has

introduced several new co-curricular activity options to Year 9 and 10 pupils.

These include animation, graphics and media, fashion, textiles and costume design. We continue to offer open studios, painting, drawing and sculpture, with a regular class now open to Year 7 and 8 pupils from the Prep School.

The artist Chris Dye delivered a cross-College scholars workshop. This involved art scholars from Year 8 to Year 13.

House Art has seen some new additions to the traditional exhibition. These have been in the form of an Art Fight, a public vote in Studio 74 on Whiteladies Road, and a collaborative House Art piece.

The Sixth Form and Year 11 pupils have been creating murals in some houses. This has been with a view to moving out into the community to paint further commissions. We have also introduced a photography, media and marketing group for Clifton in the Community. These pupils are involved in taking photographs of the staff at the Bristol Museum with a view to the museum using these images to promote the team.

Life drawing continues to run as a Sixth Form co-curricular activity with some members of staff attending.

Scholars and manga enthusiasts were invited to a manga workshop organised by the staff in the Percival library and hosted in the Tribe Building. This was led by Chie Kutsuwada, a professional manga artist.

Staff from the department have also been engaging with the Prep School art teaching.

P Wigginton Acting Head of Art

Art Showcase 2024/25

Music

Competitions

House Song kicked off the year full of spirit, with some fine close-harmony numbers and soulfulness from the wholehouse songs. West Town with Olivia Rodrigos’s ‘All I want’ won the Unison competition for their blended tone and expressive dynamic range; in unaccompanied Part Song, with 99 pupils participating, Oakeley’s won with an impressively elaborate Billie Eilish medley. The various Kadoorie competitions saw first prizes for clarinet and violin performers alongside singers, in music from Mozart to LinManuel Miranda. High levels

of participation marked out the June House Instrumental competition - up to a dozen players for each house group. Special congratulations to Edmund H and Antonia Z for gaining runner-up and first place at the fiercely contested Bristol Rotary Young Musician competition at the Bristol Beacon.

Voices and Choirs

In November, Made in Dagenham enjoyed double-casting for several principal roles alongside large company numbers. In Lent, the new Big School Cabaret evening showcased soloists, duets, a quintet from Hamilton

and a sextet from Six! Meanwhile the choral highlight was our new outreach partner Fishponds Primary joining Prep and Upper pupils with Fine Arts Brass for an uplifting programme of Rutter’s Gloria, newly arranged folk songs and Ellington’s jazzy Sacred Concerts. The Chamber Choir were re-invited to give Evensong at the beautiful St Mary Redcliffe Church. Soul Bands joyously bookended Band Night, alongside external trips.

Instrumental Showcases

Besides Autumn and Christmas Concerts, the instrumental highlight was the St George’s Bristol gala: orchestral Beethoven (with student conductor), Yiddish music from Concert Band, Strings in two rediscovered pieces by AfricanAmerican composers, the new Big Band in Mancini, and a jazz orchestra accompanying vocal solos including Nat King Cole’s ‘Unforgettable’. An expanded chamber music programme saw Clifton pupils debuting two ensembles at the Clifton International Festival: complete performances of Brahms’s exuberant Op.7 Piano

Trio and Schubert’s sublime String Quintet. In the Summer Serenade seven concerto movements were played by pupils with a professional orchestra, including Mozart, Dvorak, Wieniawski, and Sibelius (violin), Dvorak and Tchaikovsky (cello), and Tomasi (trumpet).

Individual successes

Year 13 pupils were offered scholarships at Royal College of Music (Henry) and the Royal Academy of Music (Sophie), places to read Music at Exeter College Oxford (Antonia) and Royal Holloway (Alice), plus an organ scholarship to St Peter’s Oxford (Jude), alongside numerous diploma and Grade 8 distinctions. Antonia and Sophie (Year 13) were invited to participate in the Verbier International Festival. Vera (Year 10) was a member of the GB National Youth Orchestra, including a performance at the BBC Proms in August. Thanks to all pupils and the indefatigable and creative music staff.

J Drinkwater Director of Music

Drama

School MusicalMade in Dagenham

This year’s November musical saw more than fifty Upper School pupils tread the boards of the Redgrave Theatre in a four night run of the funny and poignant Made in Dagenham. Set in the 1960s, the musical focuses on the real life story of female workers at Ford Dagenham, who having been downgraded from skilled to unskilled workers, went on strike and were key in women’s fight for pay equality. Stand out performances were Jemima

Smith and Lucy Greene, who were both cast as plucky Rita, Roman Kirk, who played her Husband Eddie, and Eli Jacobs who played Barbara Castle, portrayed as a long suffering women fighting against male ineptitude in the upper echelons of the government of the time. These lead roles were supported by a range of polished performances from both the female ensemble and male ensemble, and by a crew of dedicated student stagehands and technicians. With a strong message and heart-warming plot, the musical was a real success across the school!

The Trials - Dawn King

This year’s May production was a postapocalyptic take on the climate crisis. Set fifteen years in the future, the planet can no longer support its population, and older generations are being put on trial by the younger generations for their climate crimes. The three defendants were double cast by Sixth Form students, with Mabel Moloney, Lucy Greene, Hannah Dabbs, Eli Jacobs, Anson So and Julian Grad cast as the adults justifying their past behaviours, including their choices of car, foreign holidays and whether they had had children. The twelve jurors were a mixture of Year 9, 10 and 12 pupils, with standout performances from Annie Perks, Polly Lloyd and Olonya Ogbe. Strewn with theatre paraphernalia, red velvet curtains that were burnt, and the lighting rig slanted at an angle, the striking set placed this makeshift court within an abandoned theatre. Accompanied by a haunting soundtrack, this thought-provoking production encouraged the audience to reflect on their own behaviours and how they might be perceived by future generations.

House Play Festival

With twelve plays performed over four evenings, the House play festival is always a delightful mix of styles, achievement and individual performance, with this year being no different! Sarah Clarke and Mary Beever returned as judges for their second year, and we also welcomed James Moore, Director Performing Arts, to join the panel. Best Actor in a Drama went to Frida Kelly for her convincing performance in The Attic, Best Actor in a Comedy was jointly awarded to Hannah Dabbs and Mabel Moloney for their accomplished and hilarious performances in Crimes in Egypt. Best Director was awarded to Edward Tomlinson, and Best Comedy was awarded to his House’s performance of Fawlty Towers. Best Drama was awarded to Worcester House for their performance of Cut, which focuses on a group of actors rehearsing a play, and best production went to Oakeley’s for their professional performance of Crimes of Egypt. An incredible week of performances which really showcased the commitment and talent of our pupils!

Drama ShowcaseThe Tobacco Factory Theatre

Our inaugural Drama Showcase was performed on The Tobacco Factory Theatre’s main stage to round off a year of outstanding performances! Twenty five performers from across the school performed in twenty two short acts to demonstrate the talent and skills across the breadth of the year groups. We had several excellent musical theatre performances, with Ella Ross and Roman Singh-Patel performing Aladdin’s A Whole New World, supported by Max Mather’s energetic performance as the Genie. We also saw musical theatre performances

from Alice Woodall, who performed the haunting With You from Ghost The Musical, Eli Jacobs performing Requiem from Dear Evan Hansen, and Lucy Greene and Florence Fraser-Hawkins performing Wicked’s Popular. There were also a variety of monologue and duologue performances, from extracts from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, to Emily Ryder’s excellent performance of Adelaide from Guys and Dolls, Jemima Smith’s Portia from Julius Caesar and Eva Clear’s emotive monologue from After Juliet. With a variety of styles, year groups and scenes selected, it was a hugely entertaining evening, supported by an enthusiastic audience; what a wonderful way to end the year!

“With a variety of styles, year groups and scenes selected, it was a hugely entertaining evening.”

Workshops

Our students have also participated in a number of engaging workshops and masterclasses with both staff and industry professionals to develop their skills and experience further beyond the curriculum.

Workshop with Krista Matthews - Director and Facilitator

Krista delivered an incredible physical theatre workshop with our scholars, focusing on their awareness and quality of their movement, collaborative skills and creating character and imagery.

Devising workshop with Harry Gould - Deviser and Director

Harry led an innovative devising workshop with our students, working on the principles of saying yes, interpreting stimuli, free writing and developing ideas.

Physical comedy workshop with Feargus Woods Dunlop (New Old Friends Theatre Company).

Feargus led a comedy workshop, focusing on physical, characterled comedy in particular.

Workshop on developing puppetry work for performance with Chris Pirie (Green Ginger Theatre Company).

This focused on the central puppetry principles of the breath, gaze and basic movement.

Stage combat workshop with Maisie CarterStage Combat and Fight Choreographer.

An excellent, engaging workshop focusing on the craft and illusion of hand to hand combat.

“This focused on the central puppetry principles of the breath, gaze and basic movement.”

Library & Literary

This year, the English Department and Percival Library joined forces for an engaging programme of literary activities and events. Here are some of the highlights.

Michaelmas Term

At the start of the academic year we took over a hundred Year 10 pupils to see a powerful, hard-hitting and poignant production of ‘An Inspector Calls’ at the Bristol Hippodrome. J. B. Priestley’s classic tale of class struggles, inequality and tragedy was brought to life with a stellar cast and against a striking backdrop, raising complex and nuanced questions about morality and responsibility, and the whole experience was deeply moving and memorable for all.

During Black History Month, we were privileged to host the writer and activist Alex Wheatle, who spoke movingly and compellingly to Years 10 and 12 and to Year 13 History and Politics students, about growing up in the care system in the 1960s and 1970s, and his involvement in the Brixton Uprising of 1981. His account vividly conveyed his struggles and resilience, and impressed upon his rapt listeners the importance of friendship, reading and working for social justice. He left a profound impression upon the pupils lucky enough to hear him speak, and it was with great sadness that we learnt of his death only a few months later.

In November, Sixth Form pupils were treated to an in-house screening of Zadie Smith’s innovative and arresting ‘The Wife of Willesden’, a modern verse interpretation of Chaucer’s ‘The Wife of Bath’. Chaucer’s bombastic and entertaining character was transported to a bar in Kilburn to deliver a feisty and thoughtprovoking monologue on her life and her attitudes to love, as gleaned from five eventful marriages!

In December, we were joined by writer and lecturer Wren James. Wren is the founder of the Climate Fiction Writers League and a story consultant on Netflix’s ‘Heartstopper’ series. Wren delivered two engaging talks for Years 9 and 10, and a special student-led Q&A for the Creative Writers, student librarians and Pride Society. The Year 9 talk focused on Wren’s latest mystery novel, ‘Last Seen Online’, whilst the Year 10 event looked at Wren’s sci-fi thrillers and how a background in STEM has influenced their writing.

Michaelmas Term also saw a tour of Bristol’s finest independent bookshops for the student librarian team; a spooky candle-lit screening of ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ for Shocktoberfest; and everyone’s favourite festivity, the Winter Book Fair, which raised £243 for Book Trust’s Christmas Appeal.

Lent Term

After a fallow year, the Read Off returned in full force, breaking almost every record from the preceding ten years. The Year 9 students and their teachers read an astonishing 860 books, totalling more than 260,000 pages, over the course of one term. Record-breaking reading meant a record-breaking number of prizes. The end of term awards ceremony saw 164 parcels of literary and chocolatey treats distributed to everyone who read two or more books, with heftier goody bags given to those who read one book from all twelve genres. Prizes were also awarded to those who managed to: outread the librarians (no mean feat with Ms Walker to contend with), wrote the best book reviews, or read the most pages in their class. The big class prize, Read Off Champions, was the closest title race we

have ever witnessed. Mrs Cuesta’s class and Mr Harris’ 9AG class swapped pole position throughout the term, so tensions were high as we reached the final award of the ceremony. But, there could be only one winner. Screams of delight rang out in the Prichard Room as Mr Harris’ 9AG class were proclaimed the 2025 Great Clifton Read Off Champions - a first for Mr Harris and something we feel his class will not soon forget.

We celebrated Lunar New Year at the end of January with some special guests from Years 1 and 2. They listened to seasonal stories, including ‘Lanterns and Firecrackers’ and ‘Chloe’s Lunar New Year’, read by our Mia Collins, Sonia Lam, Polly Lloyd, Charmaine Leung, Kathy Yao, Oli Dent-Young, Joung Youn Hoang, Jenny Wang and Candy Zhuang. The Sixth Formers answered questions and shared their experiences of celebrating Lunar New Year with their families.

A favourite fixture in the literary calendar, February saw Sixth Form Literature students visiting ‘Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein’ in Bath. This immersive experience, featuring themed rooms crammed with information about Shelley’s fascinating and tragic life, two highlyentertaining gothic escape rooms, and an intriguing ‘bodyin-a-suitcase’ puzzle, provided a stimulating and hugely fun experience for staff and students alike. We will certainly be visiting again, if only to improve the staff team’s time in breaking free of ‘The Shallows’ escape room!

“The whole experience was deeply moving and memorable for all.”

We ended the half term in style with an author visit from the amazing Rachel Delahaye who went on to win the Bristol Teen Book Award (see details below). Rachel delivered an engaging and thought-provoking talk for Year 10 that asked where we are heading as a society, and included readings from her gripping YA thrillers ‘Electric Life’ and ‘Splinters’. We were thrilled to host the 2025 Bristol Teen Book Awards (BTBA) ceremony and welcome four of the authors from the shortlist: Rachel Delahaye (‘Electric Life’), Gavin Extence (‘Finding Phoebe’), Anika Hussain (‘Desi Girl Speaking’), and O.R. Sorrel (‘Apocalypse Cow’). Twelve school groups from across Bristol, including some dedicated Clifton College readers, took part in a range of activities: BTBA-themed literary games; workshops and talks with the authors; and a special Q&A. The BTBA is an amazing celebration of books and reading, with the students casting the final vote and deciding on the winning book. Rachel Delahaye’s ‘Electric Life’ was this year’s winner. Rachel was delighted to have won and used her acceptance speech to urge young people to follow the message of her novel: to go out into nature, experience real life and have a break from screens.

Anika Hussain was our guest quizmaster for the fiendishly challenging World Book Day Literature Quiz Final, which saw an impressive Hallward’s team (Evelina Locmele, Tami Ogunbajo, Sophie Wilmot and Antonia Zgólka) put in a stellar performance, though it wasn’t quite enough to prevent the teachers’ team (Ms Hawkins, Mr Harris, Dr Snook and Dr Wells) from retaining the trophy!

World Book Week also saw the return of ‘Everyone Reading in Chapel’ and - (perhaps!) a world-first - literary duck hunt! Anika also delivered a captivating talk on myths and fairy tales in modern literature to Year 9, and a bookish photobooth drew out some big-name literary confessions!

Year 12 and 13 English Language students were fortunate enough to see leading socio-linguist Deborah Cameron headline at the A Level English Language Conference at the EMC in London, where they heard lectures on Memory, Mind and Language, Doing Gender and Queering Language, ReShaping and Re-Signifying English as a Lingua Franca, and Why We Are What We Speak. In March, Year 9 pupils watched a spectacular performance of ‘Romeo and Juliet’.

Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers were transported to the modern day, and their doomed love conveyed through powerful spoken word, rap and dance performances. This was a dazzling introduction to Shakespere for some of our pupils and hopefully will have inspired them to continue visiting the theatre for years to come.

Six brave Year 9 pupils read eloquently and beautifully in front of parents, friends and the Head Master in the annual Public Reading Competition, which again this year was a cross-college venture held in collaboration with the Prep School, and was hugely enjoyed by all. Congratulations to the Upper School winner Lily Limage who moved us all with her poignant reading of ‘A Home of Warmth’ that she had written herself.

Summer Term

The term began with a visit from acclaimed children’s author Julian Sedgwick and manga artist Chie Kutsuwada Julian and Chie ran a series of powerful talks and engaging workshops. There was a special Q&A for Julian from the Creative Writing Group and the Academic Scholars, expertly led by Evelina Locmele; a writing workshop on crafting Japanese ghost stories for Mr Harris’ Year 9 English class, a reward for winning The Great Clifton Read Off!; and a manga drawing workshop for the AniManga Club and the Art Scholars. The finale was a captivating and moving talk for all of Year 8 and 9 on the duo’s beautiful collaborative novels, ‘Tsunami Girl’ and ‘100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Cafe’, which are told in both manga and prose.

Next, pupils took themselves off on a self-guided tour, following a treasure hunt to find out about the city.

Four insightful and eloquent essays were shortlisted for the 2025 Stanley Steadman Essay Prize: Lase Adewumi’s appreciation of ‘Ace of Spades’ by Àbíké-Íyímídé, Romilly Dutton’s celebration of ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ by Mitch Albom, Evelina Locmele’s discussion of ‘Conversations with Friends’ by Sally Rooney, and Kathy Yao’s ode to ‘A Clockwork Orange’ by Anthony Burgess. Congratulations to the overall winner, Lase Adewumi, for her essay, which was powerful and thoughtprovoking in equal measure. Lase’s profound responses during the viva voce so impressed the judges, who noted her deep connection with her chosen novel.

showcased the work of creative writers Annie Perks, Annabel Philp, and the oratory talents of Jacob Cuesta, Molly Harding, Lily Limage, Milly Mason, Delilah Millard and Emily Ryder, who had delighted us in the Public Reading Competition earlier in the year.

The talk featured live manga drawing from Chie, readings from Julian, and themes around ghost stories, resilience, mental health and Japanese culture.

The Year 9 EAL pupils had a trip to the dreaming spires of Oxford in May. They had a fantastic guided tour of the city, including a visit to New College. For lunch, the pupils went to the outdoor market, to sample food stalls from across the world. After that it was project time: pupils had to ask members of the public their opinions about one of Oxford’s famous buildings. The Year 10 EAL pupils also had a trip this year to the fine historic city of Salisbury. The pupils had prepared a tour of the cathedral for us, each delivering a short talk about a different aspect of this extraordinary building.

During their final tutor group before study leave, the Year 13s grabbed an alcohol-free Pimm’s and collected the letters they had penned to themselves back in 2020. A cohort perhaps affected more than any other by the coronavirus, it was a sombre time upon which to reflect, but thankfully their Year 9 selves still managed to provide some embarrassing stories and lots of silliness!

The Percival librarians teamed up with the Geography Department for an icecool Commem featuring special guest polar explorer, photographer and climate advocate Martin Hartley Visitors were asked to consider whether the threat of significant seA Level rise from melting ice is serious enough to demand immediate and major global action to cut greenhouse gas emissions. A discussion and Q&A was expertly led by Jay Greengrass, Galron Lau and Hattie Wells. The Polar Percival also featured a huge glacier, an interactive ice fishing challenge, a Cabinet of Curiosities with a sustainability focus, and five giant polar bears with themed accessories created by some of the library clubs. The English Department

The library and the English Department teamed up to shadow the novels shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, the UK’s oldest and most prestigious award in writing for young people. The challenge culminated in a competitive inter-class contest for Year 9, adjudicated by former Carnegie judge J Jones and writer, director and actor M Pointer. Seven groups took to the stage and performed with gusto, really capturing the spirits of the texts. S Cuesta’s class took the top spot for their polished presentation on ‘Little Bang’ by Kelly McCaughrain. The judges praised their use of staging, props and projections to produce a persuasive and dramatic presentation. The competition took place a day before the winner of the 2025 Carnegie Medal was announced; this year’s award went to its youngest ever winner: Margaret McDonald for ‘Glasgow Boys’. The librarians also challenged students to read and review as many of the shortlisted books as possible over the course of the term; well done to top reader Olonya Ogbe who managed to read five out of eight books in a matter of weeks!

As the academic year drew to a close, we bid farewell to Student Librarian leavers Alicia Milligan, Zoe Milligan, Tami Ogunbajo, Amon Tamnarnchit and Aleksander Ziajowski, who have all given so much to the Percival during their time at Clifton.

E Hawkins Teacher of English

L Shaw Percival Librarian

Postcard Short Story Competition

The theme of this year’s short story competition was fairytales, folktales, myths or legends. Students and staff were challenged to write a story that would fit onto a postcard. The competition was judged by Anika Hussain, author of ‘Norse Folktales, Myths and Legends’, ‘This is How You Fall in Love’, ‘Desi Girl Speaking’ and ‘Heartbreaker’. The winner of the student prize was Freya Brown and the staff prize went to Ms E Hawkins. Here are their stories:

Don’t Look

Beneath the Surface by Freya Brown

As the last light from the sun disappeared, when the sea was disturbingly still, the pale faces of five mermaids rose to the surface, their widening eyes staring at the shore. I froze in the water. Their eyes weren’t human but empty and cold, like predators observing their prey.

I kick as hard as I can, trying to get back to safety. I feel something brush past my leg, my lungs almost filling with water. I begin to kick faster, attempting to get away. I feel something wrap around my leg. I scream and with one last effort I kick away and swim as fast as I can. As I lie on the shore catching my breath, a single shimmering scale washes beside me. It twitches.

Judge’s Feedback

“Freya’s writing is haunting and claustrophobic while at the same time enchanting. From the very first line, I was absolutely hooked! She brilliantly writes intrigue and the way she describes the scene and setting is vivid and inviting. I can’t wait to read more from her in the future!”

Gift Horse by Emily Hawkins

As she died, the old mare twitched her foaming mouth so that the spittle flecked her greying muzzle. Her lips receded like the spring tide, exposing the still strong, yellowing teeth. Her eyes, full of visions of a hard moorland life, rolled back too, wild and terrified.

A long-forgotten memory deep within his youth burst forth: the whistle of the steam train as it clattered along the Devon coast to Bristol; the severe grip of his nurse’s hand in the Zoological Gardens; his terrified fascination at the horse’s head strung up

in the lion’s enclosure from a meat hook, as that terrible beast hurled itself upwards with savage tooth and claw and strength. As a boy he’d dreamt of that head when the roar of the wind tore across the Moor with its own leonine violence.

He was dying too. Alone amongst the lichen-covered granite, a deep, primal part of him knew that the mare was his only and last hope, more useful to him now dead than dying. He withdrew the hunting knife from his overcoat and drew it along her spent flank with all the strength he could muster, paring the layers of flesh back, as he had once gutted gleaming wild salmon as a boy.

Resolutely wresting his gaze from that harrowing, fearful muzzle, he forced himself to peer instead into the wet sanctuary of the still warm abdomen. Never look a gift horse in the mouth, he thought grimly.

Judge’s Feedback

“What a visceral and powerful piece of writing, with terrifyingly vivid imagery. Memories are woven together in such an effective and skilful way, encouraging the reader to really empathise with the protagonist and the grim task he must undertake on the windswept moors.”

“The theme of this year’s short story competition was fairytales, folktales, myths or legends.”

Design Technology

This year has been filled with hard work and dedication from our pupils in all year groups and areas of Design and Technology.

Our Year 11 and Year 13 Product Design pupils have really worked hard, and their coursework, which counts as 50% of their final grade, was the strongest it could be as they went into their exams. Our Year 11 Textiles Art pupils finished their practical exam bringing their course to a close. We showcased some of the best work at Commem in the Percival Library.

Our Year 9 pupils have been working on a packaging competition in recent weeks as well as test driving some new CAD software for chromebooks. Year 10 have developed all the skills they need for their coursework which is now underway.

Some other highlights from this year were the trip to New York in October, some great projects made by our DT Product Design scholars and our Textiles scholars making it through to the London Finals of ‘Junk Kouture’.

Classics

The lure of Italy was strong in 2024/25, drawing the Classics department out for two trips, one with Years 10-13 and another with Years 7-9. The older pupils travelled to the living museum that is Rome, where we visited the Forum, Palatine Hill and Colosseum, toured the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and saw the Pantheon and Ara Pacis up close.

A highlight for many was Margarida, our brilliant guide, who managed to make even Roman brickwork genuinely

exciting and had an answer for every question, no matter how obscure. By the end of the trip, several pupils were ready to start a fan club.

Evenings were spent making pizzas, taking in the Trevi Fountain and wandering through the historic centre, while the final day finished with a sunset walk along the beach at Ostia Lido.

The younger pupils went to the Bay of Naples, where we trekked through the streets of Herculaneum and Pompeii, marvelling at Roman city life frozen in time in AD 79. Casting aside Classicists’ reputation as library-loving deskdwellers, we also braved the entrance to the Underworld at Lake Avernus, entered the dark cave of the prophetess Pythia, and climbed Mount Vesuvius to stand at the precipitous edge of a slumbering volcano, one of the most dangerous in the world.

Academic

Back in Bristol, the release of Gladiator 2 necessitated a cinema trip with Years 12 and 13. We enjoyed the Colosseum battle sequences and the awesome recreation of Ancient Rome, but everyone seemed to have the most fun discussing the many historical inaccuracies afterwards. We also held our usual mildly anarchic Saturnalia (‘classical Christmas’), and our bittersweet pre-exams farewell party for the GCSE and A Level pupils.

Finally, the Classics Masterclass series continued to draw enthusiastic audiences this year, producing an incredible range of talks. Highlights included discussion of the influence of Aristotle’s Virtue Theory upon modern moral philosophy (Mr Janke); the question of whether replicas of ancient statues might actually be superior to the originals (Dr Snook); looking at the enduring effects of the Romans in Britain (Ben Scott); exploring Roman ‘socialism’ (Alexander Phelps); examining the origins of the famous phrase ‘carpe diem’ (Dr Rostron); and revealing celebrities with a classical past (Sophie Murray and Lottie Whatley). Overall, it was a great platform for learning, but also for enabling pupils to present and share their interests.

Economics & Business

Lights, camera, enterprise! Our Year 11 Enterprise pupils kicked off their entrepreneurial journey with a bang during the Michaelmas Term, diving into a one-day film school workshop led by industry professionals. They gained valuable first-hand experience in the creation and production of commercial advertisements. Pupils learned the powerful techniques corporations use to drive product engagement and foster emotional attachment, all while widening their digital skill sets. The day culminated in a showcase of their adverts in the Redgrave Theatre. A huge congratulations to Luke Smith, Arthur Toogood, Leo Pugh, Archie Gillings, and Harry Rendle, whose “Obey Your Thirst” advert. won for its outstanding execution!

In the Lent Term, eight Year 11 Enterprise teams enthusiastically participated in the Young Enterprise’s 10X Challenge. The competition saw incredible creativity, resourcefulness and salesmanship. Beatrize Capurro, Daniela Haack Vicente, Harriet Dixon, Mimi Rickards, Nicolas Felix Paredes and Trinity Lio were our eventual winners who sold many handmade and personalised boxes of slime to pupils in the Prep School.

Our Year 13 enterprise pupils achieved notable success by securing kick-starter funding for their business start-ups through the esteemed Peter Jones’ Foundation Tycoon Enterprise competition. This incredible achievement highlights their well-developed business plans and creativity. The term concluded with pupils showcasing and selling their products at the Prep School’s Christmas fair and in the Upper School. A range of innovative products were designed and sourced by the pupils, including beanies, socks, and athletic clothing. ‘Wot Socks’ were our eventual winners, with their ‘Big Side’ inspired premium sock designs proving popular not only with pupils but also with a number of staff!

The next academic year’s enterprise programme is already being launched with an exciting field trip for Year 10 pupils to Legoland. This visit will provide a fantastic opportunity for pupils to explore Legoland’s marketing mix via a dedicated workshop, all while enjoying the park’s various attractions.

Geography

Lower Sixth Geography trips to Watercress Farm, Belmont Estate and Bristol Regeneration Zone.

As part of their preparation for their NEA coursework (20% of the A Level), our Year 12 Geographers visited Watercress Farm on the Belmont Estate in June. The focus was learning how to collect data on both water and carbon. These fieldwork skills will then be used when the students are gathering data for their own projects. In addition, students went on a safari walk. This was led by Belmont Estate’s Head of Nature Connection - Martin Williams, a former Head of Geography at Clifton College. The students were able to see firsthand how

Year 10 trip to the River Holford, Quantock Hills, Somerset

To improve the pupils’ understanding, in June Year 10 Geographers walked along 3 kms of the River Holford’s upper course. Here they collected data on the river channel and bedload. This will form the basis of their answers to the fieldwork exam. Thankfully the sun shone and the pupils were on excellent form.

Year 9 trip to Eden Project February 2025

The whole of Year 9 popped down to Cornwall in February to find out how to produce enough oxygen for a stranded astronaut and determine whether or not sustainability is attainable. There was a whole range of activities from creating a fashion show out of newspaper, calculating rates of photosynthesis and exploring the Mediterranean and Rainforest Biomes.

the rewilding and rewetting of Watercress Farm is impacting on the natural systems and biodiversity. Nature is certainly bouncing back and it was easy to see skylarks, hares, herons and geese (just some of the 1000s of animal and plant species that have returned to the land since the rewilding project began). The day finished off with a mindfulness activity helping us all to reconnect with nature and ourselves. The elderflower pancakes (picked on our walk) certainly helped!

As a foil to this, the week before, students cruised Harbourside on a Bristol packet ferry and investigated one of the UK’s largest regeneration projects at Temple Quarter Quay centred around Brunel’s Temple Meads Station. This is designed to create 10,000 homes and 22,000 new jobs.

Eden Project Competition

After their trip to the Eden Project, Year 9 pupils were invited to submit entries into a whole school competition on the Eden Project. Work included Tik Tok style videos, songs, slideshows, artwork, poetry, models and even a couple of terrariums. First place was Zhuoli Yu, in second was Jemima Catchpole and third was Harry Ross. Huge school shop credits formed the prizes so they could share with their friends.

“These fieldwork skills will then be used when the students are gathering data for their own projects.”

Psychology

A highlight of the year has been the annual BEP psychology research competition held at Badminton School. Two groups of pupils put themselves forward to participate in this independent competition which requires pupils to research, carry out, analyse, evaluate and present a piece of research of their own devising. Pupils came up with some impressive research which was well thought through and written up. One group looked at conformity within boys and girls houses, completing an amended replication of the famous Asch experiment whilst our other group of pupils analysed over 100 questionnaires into life priorities of different age groups. A huge well done to those pupils who participated as the task to research, carry out, analyse and present is at an undergraduate level.

We had several pupils enter the first Psychology Olympiad this year which was an online event run by Minds Underground. This is a national competition where pupils are challenged in their psychological thinking to complete a timed online assessment. Whilst no pupils made it through to the final there were some great lessons learned and we look forward to pupils developing their knowledge and research through participation next year.

Psychology Society has gone well this year with a range of pupils giving interesting presentations on topics all the way from facial recognition to psychopathy. We also had a very interesting talk from Mr Jones about studying Psychology at university and from Dr Ballesteri about Educational Psychology.

History & Politics

The highlight of this year in History was the trip to the heart of US political life on the eve of one of the most consequential presidential elections in modern times. The History department embarked on an unparalleled adventure last October half term, journeying through Philadelphia and to the heart of American democracy, Washington D.C. This was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity, as 21 pupils from the Sixth Form witnessed the US a week prior to a dramatic US election which saw Trump win his second term in office. This provided a unique window into the politics of a nation studied extensively at Clifton for History and Politics A Level.

Miss Lynch meticulously curated the itinerary which began in Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence. Here, pupils would visit Independence Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution and toured UPenn, an esteemed Ivy League institution. Fuelled by pizza, buffalo wings and ‘philly cheesesteak’ sandwiches throughout their time here, the pupils fully embraced the surrounding culture and the delights of Philadelphia.

Whilst transiting to Washington D.C. via coach, pupils were provided with a guided tour of Gettysburg National Park, the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, a pivotal three-day battle taking place in 1863 at the height of the American Civil War. Here, pupils stood in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln where he delivered his famous Gettysburg Address, whilst witnessing the breathtaking natural beauty of the East Coast’s ‘Fall foliage’ in what was a truly memorable road trip.

Onwards to D.C., where pupils would delve deep into the epicentre of American power

and culture. Highlights included an external viewing of the White House, a visit to the Supreme Court (including the courtroom itself), and a tour of the Capitol Building, this time, fuelled by American ‘candy’ at the height of Halloween. A profound experience awaited at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, widely acclaimed as one of the world’s best museums, which left Mr Smith in his element as he would point out references to his A Level History course roughly every two minutes. This was undoubtedly a day of culture and high step-count, which culminated on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where pupils would overlook the historic view of the Washington Monument, witnessed in photographs of King’s ‘I have a dream’ speech, Vietnam War Protests, or in Forrest Gump, as pointed out by many pupils. On the final day, pupils were guided around the War memorials of D.C., including those of the Korean War and the Vietnam War before returning to Heathrow that evening.

A special thank you to the staff who supervised during this trip, Mrs John, Mr Smith and Ms Walker, who drew upon their expert knowledge, wit and organisation to make the trip a memorable one for those in attendance. Our pupils were truly outstanding throughout their US experience, serving as incredible ambassadors for Clifton.

In the Summer Term, all Year 12 Politics pupils visited the Westminster Parliament. They toured around both the House of Commons and House of Lords and learnt about their various functions. Pupils sat in the gallery and watched senior cabinet and shadow MPs debate. Afterwards, pupils attended a workshop where they discussed and debated the merits of various political party’s policies.

ICT/Computer Science

This year has seen pupils across all year groups demonstrating impressive talent, dedication, and a clear passion for Computer Science and ICT through a series of engaging activities and notable achievements.

Our new Year 9 pupils quickly delved into practical programming, significantly developing their skills by applying their knowledge to create their own games using Pygame Zero. This hands-on project boosted their Python programming abilities, allowing them to witness their code spring to life in interactive and engaging creations.

The Year 13 ICT pupils showcased exceptional practical application, undertaking a project to create comprehensive spreadsheets for a fictional cheese shop. Their diligent efforts produced exceptional results, highlighting their capacity to effectively manage and organize data for a practical business scenario.

This year the A Level Computer Science projects stood as a testament to the advanced capabilities and diverse interests within our senior cohort. This year’s outstanding contributions included a robust library database, an intricate Rubik’s Cube solver, a highly functional questionnaire manager, a sophisticated workout recommendation system, and an intelligent maze-solving program. Each project not only showcased impressive technical skill but also produced applications with genuine marketable potential.

A particular highlight of the year was the Computing Society’s School Hackathon. Centred around the imaginative theme “Animals...with a jungle spin,” the competition fostered innovative thinking and problem-solving across all participants. The projects presented demonstrated a fantastic blend of creativity and technical prowess. The top prize was awarded to ‘Tidebound,’ a fishing game set on a jungle island. This application not only provided an engaging experience but also incorporated a procedurally generated island, a comprehensive commerce system, and upgradeable equipment, demonstrating remarkable depth.

“In the Summer term, all Year 12 Politics pupils visited the Westminster Parliament.”

Maths

The Michalemas Term started with the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls, with eight girls achieving a Distinction. Well done to Nico Zhang for achieving Best in School. The Senior Maths Challenge also took place this term, where 21 gold certificates were awarded and Michael Yu gained Best in School. This was particularly impressive in a competition aimed at pupils in school Years 11 to 13. Michael and Joung Youn Hoang both qualified for the British Mathematical Olympiad, with Michael gaining a distinction in this.

The Intermediate Maths Challenge took place in the Lent term, with 26 gold certificates being achieved, two pupils qualifying for the Olympiad rounds and 15 qualifying for the Kangaroo rounds. Michael Yu achieved another Distinction in the Hamilton Olympiad whilst Kaifeng Wang achieved Merit in

the Maclaurin Olympiad. Charlie Griffin achieved Gold in the Grey Kangaroo.

Pi Day was once again celebrated in the school on 14th March (written as 3.14 in month-day format). The catering department put on a wonderful selection of Pi(e)related food, whilst pupils participated in a number of Pi-themed activities and competitions.The hunt for slices of Pi was won by Hallward’s House, whilst East Town and School House shared the Pi Day Quiz prize. Jemima Catchpole won the Pi-Ku competition with her inspiring poem.

March also included the Maths Department Chapel Week, where pupils were treated to a series of interactive mathsrelated assemblies. The finale of this involved Mr Catchpole in a very dashing sequined jacket as game show host for a demonstration of the famous Monty Hall problem.

PSHE

PSHE has had another exciting year, with a lot of changes. This year, the curriculum has been updated to make it more bespoke for the pupils at Clifton College. Next year, the school is expanding the PSHE curriculum for Years 9 and 10, meaning pupils will receive an extra lesson a fortnight. This will allow for pupils to be taught about topics in greater detail, as well as be taught about new topics such as allergy awareness, the limits of AI and positive role models.The department has sought advice from various experts across the College, for example staff from the Wellbeing Centre and the Online Safety Lead, Joanna Evans, to help replan the curriculum for next academic year. Pupils have also been asked about any content they wish to see included in the PSHE curriculum.

The Lent Term also saw Year 12 pupils attend the Maths Inspiration Lectures at The Forum in Bath. This involved a series of inspirational talks including “Numbers in the News” and “The Sacred Geometry of Chance”.

In the Summer Term, we hosted another successful Junior InterHouse Maths Competition for Year 9 and 10 pupils, with four pupils representing each house.

Pupils worked excellently both in the group and shuttle rounds to solve complex mathematical problems with their teammates. Scores were very close at the top with only three points between first and third place, but The South Town eventually came out victorious.

C Gold

Deputy Head of Mathematics

This year, we have also hosted a guest speaker to speak with Years 9 and 10 as part of this term’s PSHE drop down morning. Years 9 and 10 attended a talk by SARI about inequality in sport. Pupils learnt about protected characteristics, the Equality Act 2010 and the importance of appropriate language. We have also had talks from Chloe Combi about the risks of social media as well as a talk from Bold Voices about consent. In the Sixth Form, we have hosted a wide range of visiting speakers, covering topics as diverse as gambling addiction, meningitis awareness and applying for student finance. As always, the focus of the Clifton Futures Programme remains on helping to best prepare our pupils to navigate the challenges of life beyond school. We have also had several parents events, including the RSE morning in Michaelmas term. The Prep and Upper school invited parents to a talk from Papaya about phone addiction.

Philosophy, Religion and Ethics

The Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Department has enjoyed an incredibly lively year, with an educational visit for all ages to Amsterdam during the Lent Term half term, a masterclass for A Level and Year 11 GCSE pupils hosted by the Faculty of Divinity in the University of Cambridge, and participation in the Bristol Education Partnership (BEP) Philosophy Society throughout the year, culminating in the Department’s hosting of the event in May.

With half of the 2024 GCSE cohort achieving nine grades, Religious Studies is an increasingly popular option where pupils achieve excellent results; next year, approximately two-fifths of the cohort have chosen to study the subject at GCSE. At A Level, a dynamic group of pupils studies either Religious Studies or Philosophy, and these A Levels have again supported successful Oxbridge applications this year. Not everything in education can be measured: the Year 12 philosophers have been responsible for jump-starting the Department’s Philosophy Society, which has hosted a number of fascinating talks from pupils, and creating a magazine

Modern Languages

This academic year has been busier than ever. We have planned and organised a range of events in the faculty but also in respective departments. As usual, the faculty highlights brought pupils and parents together and we thoroughly enjoyed these events.

Firstly, the Day of Languages on 26th September was an excellent opportunity to start the academic year on the right foot. Pupils made the most of this opportunity to learn about languages spoken around the world, discovering fun facts but also reflecting on the diversity of our student body. At Clifton, we have more than 42 different nationalities. Needless to say that the Day of Languages was a brilliant opportunity to celebrate this!

Later in the term, we held our annual Poetry Evening. This event is a real success each year as pupils enjoy the opportunity to recite a poem of their choice in front of an attentive crowd of teachers, pupils and parents. Parents also enjoy this event as it is an opportunity for them to see their children in action.

that showcases the writing of various pupil contributors. Likewise, Year 9, Year 10, and Year 12 pupils crafted an inspiring Chapel Week on the theme of faithfulness, delivered just before the Summer Term half term.

The life of the department has benefitted immeasurably from the dynamism and expertise of a number of colleagues. Dan Janke has spearheaded the A Level Philosophy course; he also oversaw the outstanding presentation on transhumanism delivered to Bristol schools by Hannah Dabbs, Yolanda Jin, Edward Tomlinson and Tristan Turner at the BEP Philosophy Society. Similarly, Kate Dodd

was instrumental to the organisation and execution of the department’s first international educational visit to Amsterdam; together with Jim Williams, she has also overseen the successful revivification of the Year 9 curriculum. The department loses some very promising pupil philosophers and theologians this year, especially in its prize winners, Catherine Collins (Religious Studies) and Antonia Zgółka (Philosophy); however, another substantial crop is coming up in Year 12 and the department anticipates further success in the years ahead, not least with its forthcoming educational visit to Rome in October 2025.

We are always impressed with the poems they choose and how well they practise for the event. Once upon a time, they were allowed to bring some notes in case they forgot a few lines, but over recent years, it became a real competition! The pronunciation, intonation and pace, as well as the quality of the poems were skills and elements taken into account by the judges! This year, the winner of the Nigel Jones Cup is Alicia Milligan for her German poem. Well done, Alicia!

The start of the Lent term is probably one of the busiest periods in the Languages Faculty. Nevertheless, we always look forward to the debates. This is, again, an annual event where fourteen schools from the South West come to 4/5 Worcester road to debate in a range of languages. Schools are always excited about this event because it is a real opportunity for Sixth Form linguists to meet other pupils who are on the same journey. It is a busy and undoubtedly exhausting evening but at the end of the day, we only remember the buzz and excitement in the building.

G Maringo, Head of Modern Foreign Languages

French

This year, the French department has had a range of activities for different year groups starting off with a film night to watch “Bienvenu Chez les Ch’tis” at the end of September.

In November, things got festive with Christmas card workshops. It was like a lovely way for our Year 10 and Year 13 pupils to mingle, get creative, and enjoy some Christmas cheer with songs and treats.

Then, in February, our budding linguists in Years 10-13 broadened their horizons by attending the University of Bristol lectures, which included an engaging talk about the importance of French food and culture. This was followed by

a presentation by university students about studying languages at university and what the year abroad is like.

Shortly after, the department hosted its own version of Le Meilleur Pâtissier. What a delicious event! From tarte aux fraises to crêpes, there was a wonderful array of French baking talent on display. Pupils tasted each other’s bakes which were then judged by our French assistant, followed by a French cakes and pastries quiz.

Looking ahead to the next academic year, there’s an exciting trip to Paris in December to anticipate which will be at the end of the Michaelmas term (11th-15th December).

L Dales Head of French

German

It has been another busy year in the German Department, with so much to look back on and celebrate. The Michaelmas Term saw the return of the popular Lebkuchenhaus decorating competition and Christmas quiz for pupils in Years 8 and 9. With thanks to Mrs Higham, Head of MFL in the Prep School, for bringing along a host of enthusiastic Prep School Germanists!

We then set off for Cologne at the end of term for a jam-packed four day trip for pupils in Years 9 - 11. Highlights included: a guided tour of the FC Köln football stadium, a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Factory and

Museum, an evening at a local bowling alley and lots of time spent exploring the famous Christmas markets.

In the Summer Term, pupils in Year 9 took part in a digital exchange with the Kantonsschule Wohlen in Switzerland, led by our German Assistant. Pupils were tasked with researching a Swiss legend and coming up with their own contemporary interpretation of the tale. A lot of fun was had in creating these adaptations and watching them back, as well as finding out more about British culture through the lens of Swiss pupils.

S

Breet

Head of

German

“We then set off for Cologne at the end of term for a jampacked four day trip for pupils in Years 9 - 11. ”

Spanish

In the Spanish department, we believe that learning a language goes far beyond textbooks and grammar drills. It’s about opening doors to new cultures, fostering global citizens, and unlocking a world of exciting opportunities. That’s why we’re so committed to offering a vibrant calendar of events designed to make Spanish come alive for your children, inspiring them to embrace the power of communication.

We have had a fantastic year, filled with initiatives that have truly enriched our pupils’ linguistic journeys. Last November, our Spanish Film Night was a success, immersing students in authentic Spanish storytelling and giving them a taste of contemporary Spanish cinema with “Coco”.

Looking back to February, our bright Year 10-13 linguists had an incredibly valuable experience at University of Bristol’s lectures. They gained invaluable insights from university students who shared their firsthand experiences of living overseas and offered practical advice on adapting to new environments. This was a fantastic opportunity for them to see the academic and personal growth that comes with language learning.

Following this, in March, we hosted live interviews with successful bilingual young people. Hearing directly from individuals thriving in various careers thanks to their language skills was profoundly inspiring, highlighting the vast possibilities and career advantages that come with mastering another language.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! We are thrilled to announce an amazing trip to Madrid in October 2025! This will be an unparalleled opportunity for pupils to truly immerse themselves in Spanish culture, practice their language skills in real-life situations, and build incredible memories. From navigating the bustling streets of Madrid and Segovia to engaging with locals, this trip promises a powerful blend of cultural awareness and practical linguistic application.

We wholeheartedly encourage your child to seize these opportunities. Learning Spanish is not just about words; it’s about connection, understanding, and personal growth. Let’s continue to foster their love for languages together!

Y Diez-Urkidi Head of Spanish

Native Languages

The Native Languages Department is a fairly new department but we are actively involved in the ML Departmental events. We also set up our own departmental cultural activities across the academic year. To kick off the academic year, we had our annual Moon Festival celebration. We had a combined force from the Prep School and the Upper School pupils and we had a lovely meal out in our local Chinese restaurant. We arranged film nights in the Michaelmas Term for Chinese, Hebrew and Russian languages and the pupils who attended all enjoyed the events. Dr Braude, who is also our Jewish Life Coordinator, has been busy organising events for our Jewish community. I took part in the Chanukah Party last December and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Many pupils and staff were invited to join, and we indulged in the rich community spirit, enjoying a feast and a wonderful time socialising with everyone.

In the Lent Term, we launched our very first ‘Let’s talk in Cantonese’ club. We meet up during the morning break every Wednesday and pupils have a good chat with their friends in Cantonese and we also play some games e.g. poker, mahjong etc. The biggest event for this term would be the Lunar New Year celebration. We held a craft activity in the library and the pupils from our Asian community also organised a school assembly to raise everyone’s awareness about this important festival. There was also a Taiwanese snack tasting session and our

pupils had some exciting experiences on their taste buds. Needless to say the most vibrant and lively part would have been the lion dance performance. We were fortunate to invite the Lion Dance Troupe from the University of Bristol to perform for us again and the Upper School pupils and staff all appreciated the excellent performance.

Summer Term has always been a busy term for all as the language teachers are preparing our pupils ready for the oral exams and they also need to conduct the exams. The pupils have to make a great effort in preparing the rest of their language exams so that they can achieve the best result they can. With the exam pressure, we still manage to organise the shuttlecock kicking and the Go Game competitions, so that we have a good work-life balance. Many pupils took part in the shuttlecock kicking competition and we had two champions this year. Michael Yu managed to kick 16 times and Vincent Wang kicked 15 times without the shuttlecock falling to the ground. Both of them were very skillful indeed. We introduced the Go Game this term and to be able to master this game, pupils are required to equip themselves with quick wit and great patience.

We had a lot of fun this academic year and we hope to carry on with these cultural activities or create more new activities in the new academic year. Watch this space!

E Tsao Head of Native Languages

Biology research trip to University of Bristol

On Tuesday 4th February our Year 12 biologists ventured to the University of Bristol research laboratories to participate in a study investigating the effects of stress and exercise on observational physiology such as heart and respiratory rates as well as oxygen saturation with pulse oximeters. This study was linked to how A Level pupils can use exercise as a stress reliever during the exam season by reducing adrenaline and cortisol and boosting endorphins; chemicals in the brain that are the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators promoting improvements in mental health. The morning started with a mini lecture on the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system together with the regulation of heart rate via adrenaline. Baseline data was recorded for both controls and those completing moderate exercise with a stress response, induced using a challenging cognitive assessment test under timed conditions.

The third year university students running the session also discussed university degree courses linking to potential career aspirations and also demonstrated a state of the art human body simulator investigating physiological responses following various drugs such as Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic 50 -100 times more potent than morphine.

Biology Olympiads

The UK Biology Olympiads reward those students whose knowledge of the subject has been increased by reading books and magazines, watching natural history programmes, taking notice of the news media for items of biological interest, and are generally aware of our natural flora and fauna. The Biology Challenge Gold winners were Dillon Scott, Annabel Philp, Joaquim Jeremie and Michael Yu, and full Biology Olympiad medal winners were Gary Wang (Silver) and Charmaine Leung (Bronze), with Nicole Li gaining Highly Commended.

Biology succession field trip

To complete an A Level biology core practical on sand dune succession, the Year 12 biologists explored Kenfig nature reserve in Wales. They investigated the impact of abiotic and biotic factors on plant biodiversity, placing transects and quadrats on the embryo dunes to record various species such as marram grass, dewberry and kidney vetch. Using ranging poles and clinometers they also collected topography data to record the differences in dune height relating this to the prevailing winds and soil drainage. Collaborative teamwork was clearly a big part of the day and also when the soil samples collected were analysed for moisture content, pH and organic material. Darcey Hodges, Emma Cross, Ronnie Pang and Lucas Prado won our photo competition for their biodiversity images, with close runners up Gary Wang and Ethan Ho for a camouflaged shield bug and Madi Savory, Alana Peto and Liv Breakwell for a beautiful sea

holly image. Following lunch on the beach, plenty of camaraderie was observed during an interclass rounders competition. We had some superb bowling from Meg Titcomb and Harriet Taylor, with home run hitters from Emilia Puddicombe, Matilda Mortimore and Thea Milton to name a few. There was plenty of team spirit with screaming, shouting and clapping to fellow team members, with great catches from Jess Gunter and even Mrs Hastings.

Chemistry

We have enjoyed a good year in the Chemistry department this year enjoying the normal curriculum matters. Chemistry from Year 9 to Year 13 has a wide range of topics from metals to acids to reaction speeds and atmospheric issues. We have illustrated themes in practicals and developed our theory. We have also enjoyed the enrichment of a relaunched Scientific Society and the essays of the Stone Library competitions. Within Chemistry we have enjoyed homework

projects in Years 9 and 10 alongside holiday projects on areas such as the atmosphere, bonding, calculations and metals to prime us for topics covered. We hosted a handson lecture and session on the theory of Chemical cells, and it was rewarding to see the uptake of pupils in the extension papers of Chemistry Challenges and the RSC Chemistry Olympiad. A personal highlight was the success of the Junior Chemistry Challenge and the number of students from Years 9-11 earning gold and silver awards.

Physics

Students have continued to see outstanding success in the British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) competitions. These challenging exam papers push pupils beyond the curriculum, presenting complex, investigative problems that demand critical and creative thinking. Participants are often required to apply their physics knowledge in novel

ways, drawing upon concepts encountered in school while also thinking ‘outside the box.’

This year, seven Year 13 pupils and one Year 12 pupil participated in the rigorous BPhO Round 1 competition. We are delighted to announce that Michael Lam achieved a coveted Gold award, Alex Lahdiri, Lucy Newham, and Patrik Hopkinson secured Silver awards, Nico Zhang earned a Bronze I award, Thomas Weston and Alicia Lee received Bronze II awards, and Anna Lu achieved a commendation.

Furthermore, the BPhO Senior Physics Challenge, open to our Year 12 pupils, saw Jason Chan achieve a Gold award. Anna Lu, Aleksandr Shabanov, and Heather Jones all earned Silver awards, with Aiden Jim, Anson So, and Dmitry Mikaelyam securing Bronze awards. A huge congratulations to everyone who participated in these demanding competitions - your hard work and intellectual curiosity are truly commendable!

“Participants are often required to apply their physics knowledge in novel ways”

Chaplaincy

Chaplaincy is about supporting the whole person; we are physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual beings. In all that we offer we hope to provide opportunities for reflection and space to ask some of the big questions of life.

The Chaplaincy team consists of the College Chaplain, the Jewish Life Co-ordinator and the College Rabbi. We work closely together seeking to provide greater support and consistency in our work in the Upper school and beyond, with a desire to express both our distinctiveness and unity.

One of the events that highlights the importance of this collaboration and demonstrates our unity is Holocaust Memorial Day. Each year the service, which is held in the chapel, provides the whole community the opportunity to gather, to reflect and to remember. This year’s service focussed on the theme ‘Hope for the Future’; through which we explored two ideas. Firstly, how hope can spread with the courage and action of one individual, creating a ripple effect. And secondly finding balance between recognising the enormity of the task of making the world a better place and the importance of doing what we can. As the choir so beautifully sang,

“Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief.

Do justly now, love mercy now, go humbly now.

You need not complete the work, but you cannot abandon it.

You need not complete the work, but you cannot abandon it.

Do justly now, love mercy now, go humbly now.

Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief.

Do justly now, love mercy now, go humbly now.”

It was good to be able to provide follow up materials for tutor group discussions.

Within the life of the Synagogue

This year we have been delighted to celebrate and honour the various elements of the Jewish Calendar, both on site through activities and meals and in collaboration with Bristol’s wider Jewish Community.

In the Lent Term, we were delighted to host a visit from the inspirational team at Solutions Not Sides. This organisation supports the exploration of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by introducing pupils to an Israeli and a Palestinian peace activist. These guests shared their lived experiences and were open to answering questions. The sessions were open to all staff and students in the Upper

School and were attended by students and staff from various faiths. We were very impressed by the questions that the students asked and the sensitivity with which they engaged in discussion. We are hopeful that we will be able to run similar sessions next year.

It is always wonderful to come together for specific events, but for Shelley, the best part of the Jewish Life Program has been the regular Friday Night Suppers. Each week, the students join Shelley and her family in the Polack Centre to welcome the Shabbat, by lighting candles, making kiddush (prayer) over the wine and Challah bread and then eating a Kosher meal together. The end of the meal is marked with a raucous rendition of Grace, and although some of our students will then return to house, others will stay behind to play board games and chat or debate in the warm glow of the Shabbat candles. The students who attend range in age and energy levels- our youngest is 8 years old and our oldest is 18 - but for a couple of hours each week, it feels like we are part of one big, eclectic family.

Finally, I would like to touch on the lovely Commem and OC reunions that took place in the Polack Centre. It has been a pleasure to welcome so many to see and experience our beautiful synagogue. It is always so lovely to meet people who are passionate about Jewish Life as well as those who are curious to see what it is all about.

Within the life of the Chapel

The week day morning Chapel services have been led by houses, departments and groups again this year. It has been heartening that more departments and groups want to get involved in this aspect of college life. Hymn singing has had plenty of variety, with a focus on further adding to the well-loved repertoire.

The themes this year have included care, friendship, compassion, respect and wisdom. Once again this year different groups of students have shared important aspects of their faith and culture. Chapel has been led by Jewish, Muslim and Asian students, further enriching our community and developing greater understanding and respect. Our brilliant Learning support department led chapel services for the first time this year, celebrating Neurodiversity week. It was humbling to hear from both students and staff of their lived experiences as neurodiverse people. It was a reminder too of the way in which we, as a whole community, can offer genuine support and understanding so that our whole community is able to flourish.

Some of the memorable services this year have been Harvest where we were able to provide much needed support to the North West Bristol Foodbank, Remembrance Sunday, Advent Carols, Nine lessons and carols for Christmas, Holocaust Memorial Day, and Commem. The music department has provided music with creativity and energy that has enriched our worship on these occasions. As ever I am enormously grateful for their dedication, talent and skill.

The much loved Christingle service on Christmas Eve seems to grow year on year. It was very well attended again this year, and despite an increased number of Christingles made, we ran out! The tradition of the youngest child placing baby Jesus in the crib scene continues and this year’s was just six weeks old!

In a world that can feel uncertain and challenging, Mel is grateful for both the weekly services and the starred services which act as an anchor and a place where we are enabled, together, to reflect on lessons from the past and to look at what the future holds. Through it we are able to see how each of us has a part to play in shaping our world today and in the future with hope, kindness, and integrity; to make a lasting positive difference to our world.

The Chapel continues to be used for the awesome community events like house song and the termly concerts and this brings the student and staff body together in joyful connection and community. Being together and singing together creates a feeling of cohesion and celebration alongside moments of contemplation and reverence. Hopefully it provides those glimpses of awe and wonder in the midst of the everyday.

Being able to be more involved in the work of the EDIB committee has been a real source of inspiration this year. The commitment that the students demonstrate have made it a privilege to be a part of. Their desire to learn more about diversity and to explore, question and challenge is humbling to witness.

And Finally…

It is a pleasure to jointly wish our leavers the very best for their future endeavours. They are always very welcome to come back to visit and share with us how they are getting on. As they finish school, and look forward to a multitude of possibilities, it is our prayer that those possibilities make a difference for good in the wider world. The values, friendships, and teaching that they have experienced will stand them in good stead for the future. Every one of them will inevitably face many decisions in their life ahead and our prayer is that they will be able to discern the course of action that brings life and goodness. May they find the moral courage within them to choose this path.

Kang Yatse 2

During the summer break, nine Clifton College pupils took part in a successful summit attempt of Kang Yatse 2, a 6,250m peak in Ladakh, hiking a total of 91km with an ascent of 4,788m and descent of 4,685m.

On 03 July we set off from school at 4am on an epic adventure that would prove life changing for all those involved.

First we flew to Delhi, the spectacular connecting flight over the Himalaya took us to one of the highest airports in the world at 3,350m. We stepped off the plane in Leh and it was literally breathtaking… feeling the altitude immediately. We arrived at our hotel and started the challenging task of drinking a minimum of three litres of bottled water a day. Beginning our acclimatisation, we wandered around the busy city of Leh, at an altitude of 3,500m the city became our home for the next couple of days.

To continue our important acclimatisation, the next day we had a day of sightseeing visiting some beautiful monasteries in the area. We drove to Shey and explored inside a small temple containing a 350-year-old copper and gold statue of Buddha. In the evening we packed up our mule bag, bought any forgotten items from the markets in town, enjoyed our last shower and prepared for the expedition.

The next morning, we drove from Leh to Spituk and continued on a dirt jeep track road into a parched and exposed region. After about an hour drive, we entered the Zingchen Valley where the Rumbak River flows into the Indus, this is where we

Outdoor Pursuits

met our expedition team with our 20 mules, including our favourite mule Orla. From here we took a short and slow walk to our first camp at an altitude of 4,300m. Upon reaching the camp we helped set up our expedition tents then rested whilst taking in the spectacular views and nursing altitude headaches.

After an uncomfortable night sleeping at a higher altitude, we had a very challenging day ahead – we took a gradual but long ascent over the pass of Ganda La 4,980m, putting the

altitude into perspective, Mont Blanc’s height being 4,806m. The Stupas and prayer flags marked the top of the pass, we had a quick celebratory photograph so we could start the descent before the effects of the altitude took over. On the descent we saw much wildlife including blue sheep, marmots, yaks and a lammergeier. Descending to the tiny village of Shingo, inhabited by only two families, we camped for the night enjoying another vegetarian banquet cooked by our expedition chef Rigzin.

The morning routine of camp life was becoming the norm, with our morning wakeup call and a delivery of a cup of black tea and a bowl of water. We packed up our mule bag, ate breakfast and then left the campsite for our day’s hike. We entered a narrow gorge with spectacular colours and rock formations – we continued descending the gorge until it opened onto the Markha Valley near the green hamlet of Skiu, which was a welcome relief after days of being in a dusty high-altitude desert. In this idyllic hamlet lies an old monastery and ruins of an old castle, once a rest stop for the Royal family on their way to Srinagar. After having the opportunity to experience our first tea house, we continued to Hamurtse, a green pasture land by the Markha river.

The next morning we continued on the trail along the Markha River, feeling full of energy with all the oxygen down at 3500m. We passed the remains of old hermitage caves high on the cliffs which inside are the remains of tiny caves where Lamas once sat in meditation on platforms carved in rock. After about four

hours of hiking we reached the village of Markha, the largest village in the valley and inhabited by 20 families. After taking a good rest in the village, we continued along the Markha River. Soon we came across a mountain that seats the auspicious monastery of Techa we climbed up the steep path for a quick visit then took the short walk to Umlung. When reaching the campsite the pupils built a dam improvising their own foot spa and bath in the river where they enjoyed a wash and cool down before their camp life entertainment of a game of Uno.

The next morning from Umlung we pushed on towards the head of the Markha Valley, past old stone-mills, a ruined castle and the last village in the valley, Hankar. This day brought us our first views of the larger snow-covered summits, giving the team a sense of perspective on the challenges yet to come. Our campsite for the night was the idyllic green pasture of Thachungste (4,100m), in the evening we sat and watched the sun go down on the dramatic landscape.

In the morning the team woke up excited to finally set off from Thachungtse to reach Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp at 5,100m. Along the way we saw some Himalayan Pika, passed statues of deities balancing in small mountain lakes and watched groups of mules running wild over the grasslands. Walking into basecamp, as a team, we all felt massive sense of achievement, we had a celebratory photograph. At the camp we had a clear view of Kang Yatse 2 which was both exciting and nerve-racking – base camp was busy and buzzing with excitement with teams arriving from their summit attempt and some teams busy packing kit for their night ascent.

After our first night at base camp we had breakfast and took a short walk climbing a little higher up to organise our summit teams and practice ice axe, crampon and rope work skills. By noon we were back at the base camp and enjoyed a hot meal for lunch before spending the afternoon relaxing and preparing for the summit push that night.

The summit team woke at 10pm – after forcing a bowl of porridge down the team set off for the summit. Of the six pupils that left camp, four pupils successfully made it to crampon point at an altitude of 5,600m which was a huge achievement. At this point the teams put on their crampons, harnesses and helmets; roped up, grabbed their ice axes and started heading up the steep snow. Placing one foot in front of the other just a few steps at a time they started moving up into the darkness with heavy snow falling. Headtorches lighting the few meters in front of them they pushed on as the air thinned with every step. As day broke they reached ‘The Shoulder’ as a collection of rocks formed the first identifiable feature once crossing the snow line. At this point the zigzagging line taken takes a sharp turn and heads straight up towards the summit ridge. With sweet supplies beginning to run dry, the pupils continued to forge their way upwards. Moving towards the summit gained a monotonous rhythm; a few steps, rest, breathe,

a few steps, rest, breathe. Until, upon reaching the summit ridge the snow, which had been continuous up to this point, stopped and the clouds started to clear. Once on the summit we had a spectacular view of the Himalayan range, after handshakes and celebrations we had a quick photograph and started the descent back down to Base camp where we were greeted with great excitement and pride from all of our team.

We woke up at basecamp for our last day of hiking, feeling fatigued, all the team had a high motivation to get back to Leh for Wifi signal, a shower and an actual toilet! After a short hike from base camp we slowly

ascended towards Kongmaru La 5,300m – with tired legs this was a mammoth task for all, with this also being the highest point for some of our team on the trip! Once on the top we waved goodbye to the beautiful views of Kang Yatse 2 and began our steep descent to Shang Gorge. After a quick stop off in a tea house we finally made it to the end of our trek – we said an emotional farewell to our horses and horsemen and made the drive back to the hustle and bustle of Leh where the team enjoyed creature comforts of modern life and had a final meal to celebrate the achievements of the Clifton College team!

“After our first night at base camp we had breakfast and took a short walk climbing a little higher up to organise our summit teams and practice ice axe, crampon and rope work skills.”

Tignes

In the final few days of Summer Term, 130 of our Year 9 pupils, accompanied by 15 dedicated staff, embarked on a remarkable journey to Tignes, France, for an enrichment trip unlike any other. Based at the prestigious Apex 2100 High Performance Academy, the expedition was a testament to our commitment to providing unique, character-building experiences. Far from a typical school ski trip, this adventure was designed to challenge and inspire, fostering independence, teamwork, and leadership in an awe-inspiring natural environment:

Preparation Meets Opportunity

Ahead of the trip, our pupils embarked on a number of activities to prepare them for the trip. These included being sorted into their work group

so they had plenty of time to become familiar with peers they may not have worked with before. Pupils attended a visit to the Belmont Estate and Climate Change lectures so that they could fully understand and appreciate the changes to the Alpine biome during their visit, and a sauna and cold plunge day accompanied by French cheeses and a barbecue to give them the full taste of what was to come.

A Journey of Independence and Teamwork

Our pupils started their journey early, heading to the Alps by train. This wasn’t a simple transfer; it was the first leg of their enrichment journey. Split into teams, they were tasked with navigating their way, using their developing language skills to purchase food, and entertaining themselves with board games and books throughout the journey. This initial challenge set the tone for the entire trip, emphasising self-reliance and collaborative problem-solving from the outset.

Maximising every moment in the Alps

The trip to Tignes was meticulously planned to maximise every moment. The pupils’ days were packed with diverse and challenging activities that pushed them outside their comfort zones. They undertook a challenging trek to a mountain refuge, which tested their physical endurance. They engaged in sustainability education and visited the Grande Motte glacier, gaining a firsthand understanding of the delicate alpine ecosystem. Other thrilling activities included a high ropes course, fishing in glacial waters, and a raft-building exercise that put their engineering and teamwork skills to the test. One of the highlights was an overnight

stay in a mountain Refuge, an immersive experience that allowed them to fully appreciate the raw beauty of the Alps.

Leadership at the heart of the experience

What truly set this trip apart was the focus on pupil leadership. At every turn, pupils were encouraged to take the lead. They worked together to navigate challenges, make decisions, and support one another. A key component of the trip was peer-to-peer learning, with pupils regularly presenting to each other, sharing their discoveries and insights. This emphasis on student-led activities empowered them to take ownership of their experience, building confidence and a sense of responsibility that will serve them well in the future.

“This trip exemplifies the unique and enriching experiences that Clifton College strives to offer its pupils.”

A recognised and rewarded experience

This trip was recognised as a Finalist in the Independent Schools of the Year 2025 awards,a testament to its innovative design and profound impact on our pupils. The Tignes trip was more than just a holiday; it was a carefully curated educational experience that blended physical challenge with academic enrichment and personal growth. It provided our Year 9 pupils with a unique opportunity to build resilience, sharpen their

leadership skills, and forge lasting bonds with their peers and staff. This trip exemplifies the unique and enriching experiences that Clifton College strives to offer its pupils.

We are continually striving to provide our pupils with enriching and practical experiences which will equip them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing modern world. We already look forward to the next trip to Tignes in Summer Term 2026 with our current Year 9 cohort.

CCF Navy

It’s been another packed year for the Navy section, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have the Docks right on our doorstep. This prime location means ample time on the water for our cadets. This year, they rotated through six-week blocks of sailboat and powered craft training, diligently working towards their RYA qualifications.

A huge thanks to Mr. Rosser, whose dedication means some of our more skilled sailors are on the cusp of completing their Dinghy Instructor exam, ready to lead younger cadets. SLt Marchesi expertly guided our powerboat training, with many cadets achieving their PB Level 2. It’s fantastic to see so many cadets earning these valuable qualifications before they leave the College, often helping them secure gap year roles or parttime jobs.

Our powerboat training has benefitted this year from a very generous donation from an Old Cliftonian. This has enabled the school to purchase a Highfield 5.9m RIB, which is set to revolutionise training facilitating access to the River Avon and Bristol Channel. Adding to this progress, the College is to become a registered RYA training centre, allowing us to broaden our qualification offerings even further.

While MOD resource constraints made it tougher to access Navy bases this year –unfortunately impacting our October Field Days – we still made a full-section trip to HM Naval Base, Portsmouth. There, we immersed ourselves in the historic dockyard and museums, exploring iconic vessels like HMS Victory, the Mary Rose, HMS Warrior, and the M.33. It was a powerful insight into the Royal Navy’s rich history and its involvement in various conflicts.

The summer field day brought us back to Biblins campsite in the Forest of Dean for four days of adventurous training, a core part of the Navy syllabus. Mountain biking, kayaking, navigation, team building, and bushcraft sessions ensured everyone had a truly enjoyable time.

As our current NCOs transition to university, we owe them immense gratitude for their tireless input and dedication. Their help and support are crucial to the diverse training opportunities we offer. During this year’s summer Field Day, the Year 12 NCOs stepped up, with Ted Richmond earning a well-deserved promotion to Head of Section for September 2025. A huge well done to Ted and all the NCOs for their commitment and support of younger cadets. Finally, a massive thank you to all the Officers, many of whom consistently go above and beyond to ensure our training remains engaging and worthwhile.

CCF Army

The Army section has enjoyed a dynamic and rewarding term, taking part in a variety of challenging and enriching training activities. From fieldcraft to first aid, shooting to skill at arms, cadets have been developing essential military and life skills both in the classroom and the field.

This term, we were also pleased to host the RAF Section, allowing both groups of cadets to work alongside one another and share in a wider cadet experience. One of the key highlights of this collaboration was the opportunity for cadets to shoot on the range and take part in Live Firing Marksmanship Training (LFMT), further honing their accuracy, safety and confidence with the rifle under controlled and supervised conditions.

A major highlight of the term was the summer camp at Cadet Training Centre (CYG) in Crickhowell, where cadets were truly tested across a range of environments and activities. Senior cadets stepped up to leadership roles, taking on the responsibility of Section Commanders during the demanding 36-hour fieldcraft phase. Operating in authentic field conditions, cadets slept under bashas, cooked their own rations in the field, and carried out tactical exercises - including a night-time ambush that tested their teamwork, discipline and situational awareness.

Following their time in the field, cadets transitioned into the Adventure Training phase of camp. Over the next few days, they rotated through a range of exciting activities including

stand-up paddleboarding, climbing, bushcraft, hiking, and archery - each designed to challenge them physically and mentally while building camaraderie and confidence.

Evenings at camp offered a more relaxed pace, with cadets enjoying ball games, self-run quizzes, and valuable downtime to reflect and bond as a team.

The week concluded on a high note with several senior cadets receiving well-deserved promotions in recognition of their dedication, leadership and development throughout the year. Congratulations to all those who earned new ranks!

Looking ahead, preparations are already in motion for the arrival of the new Year 10 cadets in September. October Field Days are also taking shape, promising yet more opportunities for challenge, growth and achievement.

The Army section continues to uphold its proud tradition of developing future leaders through adventure, discipline and teamwork.

“Senior cadets stepped up to leadership roles, taking on the responsibility of Section Commanders”

CCF RAF

Monday afternoon activities this year with the RAF have included time on the flight simulators, laser weapons, low ropes, field gun practice and paintballing. We have also spent time doing first aid training and scenarios, along with various team building and leadership exercises. In addition, cadets completed their drone theory and skill at arms tests.

We were also lucky to be offered a day of air experience flights, which saw six lucky cadets going up in two-seater planes, taking the controls for various manoeuvres. We also went to the Cosford Air Show, seeing some spectacular flying from both civilian and military aircraft.

Our October Field Day was spent in the Wessex Downs, where cadets went air rifle shooting and night hiking amongst other things. We were also lucky to visit Popham Airfield, getting

to see various civilian aircraft, including a pure electric plane.

Our summer field day was spent firstly with the Army section in Crickhowell for live range shooting and blank firing exercises. Some cadets opted for more shooting on day two, while others enjoyed a peaceful walk along the Monmouth and Brecon Canal. We then joined the Navy in the beautiful Wye Valley for canoeing and field craft activities, and finally visited Aerospace in Bristol, home of the last Concorde that flew.

There are many to thank for helping the RAF this year. The Navy and Army sections for hosting us on summer field day; Mr Mitchell for his steadfast work organising many things including all our equipment; Dan, TszYan and Kay (NCOs) for their great leadership of the cadets; Mrs Lucas, for being a brilliant colleague; and the cadets, for showing up and getting involved.

Activities & Societies

Environment Action Group

The environmental action group is a pupil-led initiative aiming to reduce the school’s environmental impact. A representative from each house helped to assess the ‘Environmental Health’ of Clifton College, working out energy, food and resources wasted and designing strategies to help combat this on a whole school level. Pupils have also helped to re-develop and maintain the school pond and garden area.

The action group is ideal for pupils with an interest in sustainability, those looking to reduce their own carbon footprint and those interested in project management. The exciting thing about this group is it can take any direction it wants. This year we planted seed bombs to encourage natural rewilding, made bird feeders out of lard in the winter months and visited Belmont Estate in Somerset. It’s been an exciting year developing the Biology pond-garden area and discussing environmental issues and solutions.

Eco-Clifton newsletter

Created through the SEEd Young Change Makers programme, Eco-Clifton is the school’s sustainability newsletter; designed to tackle the lack of awareness around global sustainability progress. It is a pupil-run, informative and collaborative platform to initiate, facilitate and advertise positive change. The newsletter has been running for over a year and topics have ranged from clothing made from disused hot air balloons, to dogs helping rewild forests - there is truly an article to interest everyone.

Christian Forum

Christian Forum has continued weekly on Wednesday evenings in the College’s MFL cafe, with a nice mixture of Bible studies and short talks. We have looked at the theme of the Challenge to Change, Joseph in Genesis, Luke and other gospels in the programme. A number of pupils have attended from a range of houses and discussions have been deep and meaningful. The earlier slot of 7pm has continued to enable more day pupils to attend than previous years. We would be happy to welcome new faces next year, the sole requirement being a willingness to think about and discuss the Christian faith. Social highlights have been the annual pizza evening in the Michaelmas Term and barbeque in the Summer Term.

Thanks are due to Lymington Rushmore holidays and local churches for their excellent support. The Chaplain has been a welcome regular attendee who has contributed to the discussions with insight. We would also like to thank Mr Mather, Ms Gold and Ms Coleman for their encouragement and interest in their roles overseeing activities and the co-curriculum.

Model United Nations (MUN) Society

The MUN Society meets every Wednesday afternoon to debate current affairs and prepare for competitive representation at conferences in and around the south of England. This year, tremendous success has been achieved at Queen’s College Taunton (QUMUN), Bristol Grammar School (BGSMUN), and Epsom College (EPMUN). Stand out performances include those of Daniel Milne, recognised as a commended delegate at QUMUN (which placed him in the top 10 percent of debaters), Aleksander Ziajowski, recognised as a highly commended delegate at BGSMUN (which placed him in the top five percent of debaters), and Zhuoli Yu, recognised similarly at EPMUN. In the academic year 20252026, the MUN Society hopes to host its own conference here at College, and has slated the most pressing issues in politics and international relations for discussion and debate. Thanks go to E Vicary and B Wells, who have been instrumental in ensuring the College’s representation at four conferences this year - a school record.

Code Club

This term, our Monday afternoon Code Club sessions have centered around game development. Pupils have been exploring the fundamentals of creating their own games using the Godot game engine. This has involved learning the basics of the engine’s interface and tools, as well as understanding how to implement simple game mechanics, such as player movement and collisions.

We also hosted the school’s hackathon, a fantastic opportunity for pupils to showcase their coding skills in a more intensive, projectbased environment. A huge congratulations goes to Sun Zheng, who won this year with an impressive fishing game. A particularly impressive feature of Sun’s game was the procedurally generated island, meaning the island’s landscape was created by code rather than being pre-designed. This showed an advanced level of design and creativity.

Pride Society

A Year of Pride and Progress: Clifton College’s LGBTQ+ Society

Shines Bright

Clifton College’s Pride Society has concluded another vibrant and impactful year, marked by a diverse array of events that fostered community, education, and celebration. From intimate listening parties to a spectacular Prism of Light festival, the society has championed inclusivity and made its presence felt throughout the academic year.

The Michaelmas Term set a strong foundation, focusing on connection and awareness. Kicking off Black History Month with a BIPOC and LGBTQ+ musical artists listening party, the society celebrated diverse voices and shared cultural experiences. Crucially, the term

also saw a vital dialogue with Director of Safeguarding, Rob Farrow, and School Counsellor Leslie-Anne Calder, addressing issues pertinent to the society’s members. A unique Pride Fireworks Night lit up the library ceiling, with members sharing the personal significance of their chosen musical tracks accompanying the light show. Beyond school, the society actively participated in Amnesty International’s Write for Rights campaign, demonstrating a commitment to wider social justice. The term rounded off with a stimulating Q&A with author, screenwriter and science communicator Wren James, inviting creative exploration and personal expression.

The Lent Term transformed into a period of deep learning and historical appreciation, aligning with LGBTQ+ History Month in February. Pupils and

staff alike contributed to a rich tapestry of talks and workshops. Ms. Trattner enlightened the society on the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in Maths and Science, while Dr. Snook led a fascinating discussion on gender roles and the subversion of gender norms in classical Greek myth. The society also looked into more recent history, exploring key events in the Pride movement and spotlighting the pivotal figures of the Stonewall riots; Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. A pupil-led Porter Robinson presentation and listening party offered a different kind of engagement, and a delightful crossover with Lunar New Year celebrations saw members crafting rainbowcoloured paracord snakes. Behind the scenes, the term was abuzz with meticulous planning for the highly anticipated Prism of Light event.

“As twilight descended, rainbow lights bathed the cloisters, creating a magical backdrop.”

The culmination of the year’s efforts arrived in the Summer Term with Pride Chapel Week and the breathtaking Prism of Light Pride celebration in the school Quad. This spectacular event, a true highlight of the year, brought together pupils, parents, staff, Old Cliftonians, and friends in a joyous display of unity. As twilight descended, rainbow lights bathed the cloisters, creating a magical backdrop for the festivities accompanied by a beautifully curated soundtrack from DJ Charlie Read.

The stage was alive with incredible pupil talent: Mimi Glendinning’s powerful rendition of Hold Me Closer, Maggie McLure channeling Taylor Swift’s Fearless, and Emily Ryder’s stunning vocals on Spotlight. The celebration soared to new heights with a breathtaking performance by Circomedia pupils on the Close, showcasing remarkable circus skills and artistry.

Inspiring words of support, inclusivity, and love resonated deeply as Head of College Dr. Greene and Chaplain Mel Parkin addressed the gathering. The musical performances continued to enchant, with Vihan Chugani’s beautiful piano rendition of Lavender Fields offering a moment of calm, and Jemima Smith’s energetic Let’s Hear it for the Boy getting everyone dancing.

The night concluded in a blaze of light and love with a dazzling sing-along performance of ABBA’s Dancing Queen led by Mimi, Emily, and Jemima, leaving the quad filled with singing and a profound sense of community.

The Clifton College Pride Society’s year has been a testament to the school’s inclusive and supportive spirit, demonstrating that through education, celebration, and unwavering commitment, the community can truly shine its lights brightly for all.

Ms Walker & Mr Rossell

Appreciation of Art and Architecture

In this Monday afternoon Sixth Form enrichment activity we have studied painting, sculpture and architecture from Ancient Egypt to the present day. We have looked at the chronology and development of styles and techniques, how artists and architects respond to previous styles and the impact of social, historical and cultural factors on works of art. We have explored some of the most famous works of art and architecture from around the world and discovered some lesser-known artists through personal pupil presentations. We have also considered important issues from the art world such as value, provenance and restitution.

Textiles scholars

This year has seen Clifton’s first ever entry into a worldwide competition called ‘Junk Kouture’. This platform offers schools and pupils a creative way to become involved in active climate change initiatives, empowering them to lasting behavioural change.

Each year, young people from across Ireland, UK, USA, France, Italy and UAE get involved. Junk Kouture challenges the next generation of Fashion Designers, Engineers, Climate Activists, Artists and Performers to envision, upcycle and create high end couture from recycled junk.

Clifton College entered two teams made up of textile scholar pupils (Grace Wong, Freya Hill, Darcy Rudrum, Marie Jurtin). Our two entries were aptly named ‘The tree of life’ and ‘Fire of the forest’. Our scholars used a combination of found, upcycled and recycled materials to create their final garments with everything from bed sheets, rubber tubing, and old books, to milk cartons and decorative plastic plants. Our submission of ‘Fire of the forest’ made it to the London UK finals and we could not be prouder.

Senior Debate Competition,

2024-25.

This year’s debates were of exceptionally high calibre across all twelve Houses, and it was clear that each and every one of the competing teams was there to win and progress. After two terms of preliminary rounds covering a wide range of debate topics, the competition culminated in a closely fought final on May 7th, judged by Dr Tim Greene, who commended both teams on their exceptional arguments and delivery. Worcester House debated powerfully in support of the motion - ‘This house believes that democracy is an obstacle to addressing climate change’ - but South Town’s clarity of thought, poised delivery and nuanced arguments led to them being crowned the winners this year. Well done, South Town!

M Beever

The 2024/25 junior debate competition

The competition finished with a bang as West Town and Worcester battled it out in the final. West Town, debating with skill and passion, proposed that police funding should be redirected to social services but Worcester won the cup! Both teams were exceptionally well prepared, articulate and nuanced. It was a joy to watch our younger debaters excel in something they have worked so hard for. Well done to each member of the final teams, but also huge congratulations to every member of the house that helped get them there. Especially those who debated in previous rounds, those who helped in writing the debates and the supportive Sixth Formers who helped coach the younger teams through the gruelling competition. Congratulations to Worcester, your purposeful and sustained argument and clear headed delivery impressed our adjudicator - well done!

A Lopez

“Our two entries were aptly named ‘The tree of life’ and ‘Fire of the forest’.”

Clifton College’s Gabbler for 2024/25

This year, Amy Fowler represented the school in the prestigious ‘Gabblers’ competition, where twenty different students from schools across Bristol compete in the art of after-dinner speech making. Amy was given titles like ‘Money,

Money, Money’ and ‘Crossed Wires’, and had to use her wit and creativity to craft four minute speeches that would delight and entertain the other dinner guests. In the Grand Final, which was held at the Bristol Hotel and hosted by the Lord Mayor of Bristol, Amy gave a brilliantly clever, thoughtful and funny speech to a record breaking crowd of 225 people.

B Edwards

Charities

2024/25 Committee

Over the past year the Charities Committee has worked to raise money and awareness for nine charities dealing with a variety of issues and, at the time of writing, we have raised nearly £9,000!

The Committee returned to the Michaelmas Term feeling rejuvenated and ready to raise awareness and funds for our two new charities, as nominated by the College communityInternational Medical Corps who provide emergency medical services to those affected by disaster or conflict and the Ocean Conservation Trust who work to restore and protect ocean ecosystems. We started the term by relaunching the Charity Cup competition which encourages houses to engage with fundraising and charity awareness throughout the Michaelmas and Lent Terms, with the most successful house winning the Charity Cup. Our first home clothes day of the academic year was in support of the St Peter’s Hospice “Wear It Blue” campaign, encouraging the staff and pupil body to don their best blue attire. Alongside our usual home clothes days, the Krispy Kreme doughnut sale returned with 432 of the glazed treats sold, raising over £115 and the school musical, Made in Dagenham, proved an excellent opportunity to raise further funds through selling sweet treats to theatregoers. With the

Prep School Fair unfortunately cancelled due to poor weather, we finished the term with our first Sixth Form Quiz Night in the Crypt. Mrs John stepped up to be our quizmaster and, after six rounds including sport, films and Clifton College, our winning team of Barney Bishop, Fergus FraserHawkins and Spencer Reece claimed the glory and a healthy amount of chocolate.

The Lent Term saw us hold a number of events to raise money for our latest charities, British Heart Foundation who fund world-class research into heart health, National Autistic Society who provide support to autistic people and their families and workplaces and finally STAR, a charity who use rugby to tackle adversity in childhood. We were lucky enough to have a visit from Louise Gallard, British Heart Foundation Fundraising Manager for Bristol, Bath & Gloucester, who spoke to us about the Charity’s work. Louise’s visit has motivated the College to work towards getting our defibrillators registered on the national system. An annual favourite returned this term - the Love Day chocolate sales. Each year the Committee takes on the role of cupid (either romantically or platonically), this year delivering a record 290 small bags of chocolates with personal notes attached to those who have been shown some love and appreciation. A hot chocolate sale proved similarly popular and, thanks to all of the hot chocolate being donated by the Catering department, we were

about to make over £60 for our charities. We also held our first chess tournament in the Crypt, with sixteen players battling it out through intense games of knockout chess. You could hear a pin drop during the final match but there could be only one winner - North Town’s Mathew Small! Calculations for the Charity Cup were quietly being made throughout the Michaelmas and Lent Terms and final assembly saw the cup awarded to West Town for their excellent fundraising activities, going above and beyond the usual.

As Year 13 departed to focus on their upcoming A Levels, we started the Summer Term with a fresh intake of Year 12 fundraisers. The new Committee voted to support two new charities, Project Waterfall who bring clean water and sanitation to coffee growing communities across the world, and War Child who work to secure a safe future for children affected by conflict. Our Summer Term home clothes day was in partnership with Pride week and we encouraged staff and students to wear bright and sparkly attire. This was thoroughly embraced

by many areas of the school and it was great to see people decked out in an entirely orange or yellow ensemble. We donated a portion of our fundraising to Freedom Bristol, a section of Off The Record, who provide a safe and supportive space for young people aged 11-25 who are LGBTQIA+.

A spate of warm weather motivated us to organise our next two events. First was an extremely popular Magnum ice cream sale where we sold out of stock in under an hour, making over £50 for our charities. Sponge the Teacher came next and, as always, we want to say a very big thank you to the brave teachers who chose to take part, particularly Mr Salter and Mr Grewcock who took the brunt of the soaking from certain Year 9 students with excellent throwing arms!

A final thank you must be said to Mr McNally and his second hand uniform shop team for donating all of their proceeds to the charitable causes supported by both the Prep and Upper schools. The Charities Committee

Community

Community and Enrichment

The Clifton in the Community programme provides Sixth Form pupils with the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into volunteer roles in local charity shops, primary schools, nurseries, care homes, and food banks. Each week, around 70 students lend a helping hand in the wider community, supporting local organisations and making a tangible impact on the lives of others around them.

Below are some pupils’ accounts of their experiences in this hugely rewarding programme:

Volunteering at Cedar Care Home

For the past five months we have had the opportunity to volunteer in a local Bristol care home and although I was unsure what to expect at first it has been a really fun experience. Every week we hear the latest care home gossip and chat to the residents who are very opinionated on our lives too. It is also very rewarding as we get to witness how much our visit uplifts all of the residents.

The care home has allowed us to build our own personal connections with the residents. We get to listen to interesting stories and experiences from when they were younger, such as their experiences during the war. We also get to provide residents with stories of our own, as well as do activities with them, like painting and drawing. Personally I have grown very fond of a 98 year old resident named Daphne who is partially blind and deaf. She reminds me every time I see her that these visits are her favourite part of her week, and she looks forward to them. This shows how even small acts of kindness, such as having a chat or bringing some biscuits, can have a bigger impact than you would think, which in itself is greatly rewarding.

Llywella Kenyon & Jaimie

Roberts

Volunteering at Christchurch Primary School

Every other Monday, Daisy and I have the privilege of volunteering at Christchurch Primary School and it has been such a rewarding experience. One of our main roles is reading with the children which is something we both love. It is amazing to see the excitement when they start to understand a story or improve their reading skills, and watching their confidence grow.

We also help to supervise them during playtime which is always full of energy and fun, whether we’re organising games, settling disputes or listening to their endless stories. It’s such a joy to be a part of their world. Volunteering at Christchurch has shown us how even the small things like reading a book or playing a game can make a real impact.

Overall our time at Christchurch Primary School has been such a meaningful experience. It has taught us patience, kindness, and just how important it is to give back to the community. We always leave feeling a sense of achievement and we’re so grateful to be a part of their learning and play.

Mitzeee Tadhunter and Daisy Sears

Volunteering at The Basement: Clifton College’s Charity Shop

As volunteers at The Basement, Clifton’s own charity shop, we are excited to share the principles that guide our work and the difference we strive to make.

For those unfamiliar with it, The Basement is located near the Prep School Hall and was set up to promote sustainability and affordability. By selling secondhand school uniforms and sports kits donated by leavers, we not only give these items a second

life but also help reduce financial pressures on families and minimise waste.

Running The Basement is about much more than just selling clothes. We collect donations from houses, sort and price items, promote the shop, and serve customers. More importantly, we direct our efforts towards supporting causes chosen by the student body, ensuring the money raised goes where it is most needed.

Last term alone, thanks to the generosity of the Clifton community, we raised over £5,000. This money has been donated to charities such as the British Heart Foundation and the National Autistic Society. Beyond fundraising, our goal is to encourage sustainability and promote thoughtful consumption within our school.

Nicole Li

Volunteering at the Bristol North West Foodbank

The enrichment programme also provides you an opportunity to volunteer in the Bristol North West Food Bank. Food banks are crucial community

resources that help combat hunger and food insecurity. They provide essential support to a lot of individuals and families facing economic hardships by distributing donated food. By volunteering, you are keeping these vital services alive, ensuring that food reaches those in need during rough times. In addition to impacting others, volunteering at the food bank can give you an opportunity to meet other people, to understand their different backgrounds and develop a new sense of community.

We travel up to the foodbank each week on a Monday afternoon. The foodbank has been open since 2011 and has helped over 74,000 people in crisis by providing food supplies to people and families. As part of our volunteering, we sort through donations, dating them and organising them so that they can then be given to those in need. Everyone who works or volunteers at the food bank is amazing and makes it a lovely place to volunteer each week. It is brilliant to see all the amazing work that they are doing and to play a part in helping towards their cause.

Galron Lao and Mabel Moloney

Sustainability

As with all historical examples of large structural changes to our economies and societies, change starts slowly, then happens very fast.

The first industrial revolution, the introduction of the motor car and the development of the internet are all examples. They were all met with scepticism by those worried by change, but they have all left an indelible mark on our society and, in most part, been positive in their contribution creating wealth and opportunity. Social tipping points are not only interesting to understand but they help us to recognise how as institutions and as individuals we can leverage our own choices to make positive changes to protect the things that we love. As we stand on the cusp of the next great acceleration, one that recognises the role of nature and the importance of healthy and functioning planetary systems, we are excited by the potential opportunities for the young people shortly leaving Clifton.

This year has continued to see some exciting developments in this new area of school life. Below are a few highlights.

Clifton College has a rich history and fantastic heritage buildings, but is incredibly expensive to heat and cool due to its age. The development and opening of the Chellaram Sports Centre brings a fantastic new generation facility to be enjoyed by Clifton students and the wider community. It also boasts an astonishingly low environmental impact. Extremely well insulated and heated with

air source heat pumps, powered by 80m2 of photovoltaic panels, it is one of the most energy efficient sports facilities in the country. It also has created an 80% uplift in biodiversity from what was there before. This is a building for which we can be incredibly proud.

This year, the college conducted its first ever carbon and environmental audit through Future Leap. This baseline will allow us to recognise where our largest impacts as an organisation. It will help guide us in identifying where we can make greatest improvements and give us a sense of purpose in making better decisions as a community. The student sustainability committee went to Future Leap’s HQ in October and received a superb presentation of findings. You can find access to the report in the first Sustainability Broadcast.

The sheer volume of food discarded at Clifton College is a deeply concerning issue. To address this alarming problem, a collaborative effort was launched, involving Sodexo, the College praeps, and the entire school community. This initiative aimed to draw attention to the magnitude of food waste and the subsequent repercussions. An interactive element was introduced in the form of daily questions about food waste, designed to test understanding and raise awareness. The results of this exercise were disconcerting across the board, with the majority of the community answering each question incorrectly. Praeps then fed back our findings in house meetings. This outcome highlighted a fundamental need for education and a shift in perspective regarding food consumption and disposal within the College.

Sustainable food was also a theme in the new Year 9 ‘Climate, Nature and Ice’ programme, to give some better contextualisation for our time in Tignes and the environmental changes which are becoming increasingly obvious. This groundbreaking programme introduced a variety of visiting speakers and workshops designed to give students a better grounding in the science behind climate and biodiversity emergencies. This programme has been a collaboration between college staff, The Belmont Estate and ‘Protect Our Winters’, a snow sport advocacy group aimed at improving levels of education around climate impacts on the snow sport industry around the world. The programme included three separate events. A climate science outreach event with schools from across Bristol, which included one school showing the film ‘Downstream’ followed by a Q&A with the film maker, a science show capturing the basic laws of science which govern planetary

health, and a performance of school production of the Trials. Next was a visit to the beautiful and inspiring Belmont Estate rewilding project. This involved spending time in nature through a walking and navigation exercise, a sustainable food workshop which included discussion around the benefits of including game meat like venison and why regenerative beef production is actually part of the solution. The final event was a talk by eminent polar explorer, photographer and science communicator, Martin Hartley. Martin gave the students a rich appreciation of living in extreme polar places, the cutting edge science being conducted with NASA and the European Space Agency and the speed at which these environments are currently changing. Transport to Tignes last year was a return flight to Geneva with a carbon footprint of 220Kg carbon per person. This year’s journey will be on Eurostar and TGV service from Lille which will see the carbon footprint of the trip drop by 80%.

The SEEd programme continues to give students the opportunity to develop unique ‘green’ knowledge and skills in project management while building demonstrable agency in becoming change makers in our community. There have been some insightful project proposals ranging from measuring the causes of food waste, waste in boarding houses, podcast production and pen recycling. These initiatives are all significant and their impact is greater than the sum of their parts.

Final thanks should go to the sustainability committee who under the leadership of Olivia Horwood provided student voice in environmental matters. There was the opportunity to listen to visiting speakers and visit some incredible environmental projects. Particular highlights were listening to Joy Stone from Alec French Architects who updated us on why the Chellaram Sports Complex is a building to inspire us and our interview with polar explorer,

Martin Hartley. Martin earned Time Magazine’s Environmental Hero Award and has a vast knowledge of living in extreme polar environments and environmental science. He shared some wonderful stories of how fast high latitudes are changing. Galron Lau, Jamie Greengrass and Hattie Wells moderated a wonderful discussion and recorded it for the college podcast series. There was also the opportunity to visit the wonderful Belmont Estate rewilding project.

A busy year for all, but with a greater sense of purpose we strive to build more opportunities next year. We recognise the importance of understanding the role of the natural world and protecting what we love and providing opportunities in an ever changing world. Students at Clifton have the opportunity to play a role and place themselves favourably for the next exciting acceleration.

B Bates

EDIB

It was another busy, exciting and successful year for EDIB at Clifton.

Please find a summary of our progress towards each EDIB mission below.

To educate our community about Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging.

To build a deeper understanding of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) across our community, we’ve implemented a range of initiatives throughout the academic year. These include termly cross-College assemblies for staff, children, and young people, and a dedicated wholestaff INSET in September. Staff also benefit from targeted CPD sessions such as Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) and an insight into the Asian World, both held in April. Parents are engaged through a May CPD session exploring the significance of EDIB, while students participate in year group interventions, such as those delivered to Years 3 and 4 in March, and ongoing house interventions. The Anti-Prejudice Project (APP) runs year-round across the College, reinforcing key themes. Additionally, our EDIB Committee meets weekly to ensure continuous progress and reflection.

To celebrate the contributions of marginalised groups to history and to our contemporary society. To embrace and celebrate Diversity.

Cross-College celebrations for Black History Month. The theme for Black History Month was “Reclaiming Narratives”. This theme focused on acknowledging and correcting historical inaccuracies, highlighting untold success stories, and celebrating the rich complexity of black heritage. It encouraged the black community to take ownership of their stories and ensure their voices are heard.

Last year’s celebration was particularly successful as many stakeholders contributed to the celebration. Therefore the first Black History Month Open Mic night was organised and parents were invited to celebrate with members of our community.

Moon Festival and Lunar New Year. Both events are really important for our Asian pupils.

Last year, once again, we invited the lion dance team, took the students to a local Chinese restaurant and celebrated across the College.

EDIB Celebration Day. This day is a highlight in the school calendar. Each year, Pre-Prep and Prep children take this opportunity to celebrate their nationalities and home

countries. They come to school wearing dresses and outfits representing who they are, allowing them to fully embrace their culture.

Pride week with the “Prism of Light” celebration. The Pride Society organised a cross-College event in April to demonstrate the diversity and promote solidarity at the school. This event was a real success.

African-Caribbean evenings. Last year, our African-Caribbean students (Upper School) requested an event where they could eat the food they normally eat at home and gather with members of the same community to “feel at home”. We organised the event each term and the feedback the Senior Leadership Team received was overwhelmingly positive. We hope to offer this again in the future.

To give voice to all members of our community, providing them with the tools to talk about EDIB in a mature and informed way.

Flair survey

The survey highlights the fact that students are not always aware of how to respond to racist incidents. They also often witness racist incidents at school. Ruth Coomber and Géraldine Maringo have a clear plan of action to address this in the next academic year.

The survey highlights the fact that the staff body at Clifton is not diverse enough.

Further work needs to be done with the People Team this academic year. It is important to attract staff from diverse backgrounds but whilst retaining those that currently work at the College.

Prep EDIB Committee , led by Ernie Tsao and Upper EDIB Committee, led by Géraldine Maringo. A robust programme was put in place at the beginning of the academic year to empower both staff and students to take the lead and educate our community.

Sense of belonging survey

All Upper School pupils completed a sense of belonging survey and it was interesting to see how they feel at school. Overall, most students feel like they belong but some have explained that they find it difficult to make friends and “fit in”. The survey result has been shared with HoMs for reflection and for the implementation of bespoke strategies in their respective houses.

We continue to embed EDIB within the College and the engagement of members of our community clearly shows that EDIB is needed.

G Maringo

Sport

Boys’ Rugby

1st XV

When a team tours you always seem to come back into the term that step ahead and always with an air of confidence. This was certainly the case after three weeks together in South America playing hugely competitive fixtures from Chile and Argentina and also The Colleges first international fixture against Brazil U19 & U17.

However, to meet the reigning Daily Mail and National Cup champions, Harrow, on The Close does not come any more exciting or tougher. In what I must describe as one of the most physical performances I have seen from a Clifton 1st XV. The pack and in particular Leyland, the Arvers and Harrision Jones put in an impressive shift. This memorable victory, our first ever over Harrow, set us off with a skip in our stride.

Next up was the Welsh Champions Llandovery and on a beautiful Friday night in Abergavenny. A really tough encounter as you would expect saw a memorable performance by the three quarters of Freddie St. John, Will Moore and Victor Worsnip. A great win 38-28. With an 8 day turn round we headed to the iconic Busk pitch surrounded by the amphitheatre of the Yorkshire Dales and Sedbergh School. The stage was set for a contest of two inform teams stacked with talent. The game did not let down. Sedbergh’s wide game tested the power of Clifton and the lead exchanged hands constantly. However, it came down to the last minute of the game with Clifton trailing by two and camped on the Sedbergh line. Victory was but a metre away or defeat one mistake… and that is what happened. A turnover with the clock in the red and the try line beckoning. 19-17 Sedbergh deserved winners. It is always hard to raise yourself after a fixture of

such magnitude but to do so with a 4 day turnaround is even harder. However, no better match to play in than the annual Ryan Bresnahan Memorial fixture. This year, for the first time in a while, we played local opposition in Kingswood School from Bath. In what always seems to be the match where the attack clicks and the team puts on an amazing performance in front of the whole school Clifton rode out comfortable winners. The next three weeks before half term saw the team play some of their best rugby including a brilliant win on the Sir Gareth Edwards pitch away at Millfield.

Half term brought a well earned rest prior to what looked like the toughest second half term in a long time. With a Thursday return to school this left little prep for Wellington College, however, the commitment was shown by the team with an evening flood lit session on Tuesday. This laid the platform for a great performance and a sensational winning try from Will Moore that was greeted with its usual crowd celebrations.

A superb squad win against Blundels saw us move into the marquee game of the season, Blackrock at home. A morning fixture on exeat was the perfect day for such a fixture, however, the weather was slightly less in agreement. Heavy winds and much rain was the order of the day. The conditions led to a game of two halves with the visitors pulling away to a 24-0 half time lead. However, the effort and having the conditions proved all that Clifton needed and in what can only be described as a herculean comeback Clifton scored 27 unanswered points. In nail biting last few minutes Blackrock gained field position and held the ball for multiple phases eventually gaining an agonising penalty in front of the posts. Blackrock duly converted and the whistle went.

The Clifton players dropped to the floor as the Blackrock pupils celebrated. Sport is harsh and it could not be more exemplified than on that day. It is cruel as it is equally uplifting and that is what we want for our pupils and no more learning and growing could have happened in any fabricated scheme of work than played out on that day. A memory that will live a lifetime.

Also one thing sport never lets you do is dwell and with the Daily Mail trophy one win away the boys dusted themselves down and focused the week looking forward to Seaford at home. A bonus point win would secure the trophy for the first time in Clifton’s history and also endorse the quality we all knew this team had. In what was a very tough encounter Seaford made every player work their hardest, however, the saying steel sharpens steel was evident. The circuit we played on had made us experienced in dealing with pressure and hard opposition and through the hard work of the forwards the back line played out of their skins securing the Daily Mail Trophy with a 44-13 win.

The final game of the season was an underlights fixture against Terenure College who later in the year would just miss out to Blackrock in the prestigious Leinster Schools Cup Final. The match was played at a ferocious pace with the lead exchanging hands but strangely and almost by fate the match came down to a final penalty kick to Clifton which Lewis Popple sent over to seal a turn of fortunes against the Irish Schools. I guess that is sport and as we were awarded the Daily Mail Trophy at the end of the night we all could reflect on a journey that had started in the foothills of the Andes, through rain forests, the beaches of Brazil, the Dales of Yorkshire to the quiet hush of The Close wow what a team, what a season and what a wonderful bunch of boys. A true credit to Clifton College.

2nd XV

A strong season was on the cards for the 2nd XV very early on; with a South American tour under their belts, there were 40-plus boys at pre-season training, all with aspirations of making their mark on Bigside Rugby. The first fixture against Harrow was a chance to turn around a 0-43 deficit from the previous year. BS2 saw a brilliant performance and a 31-17 victory. Such was the strength in depth of the senior rugby squad, two games were against 1st XVs, Christ College Brecon and St Edward’s, and both were for Daily Mail Cup points. A nervy win away in Wales and a convincing home win against St Edward’s meant that this team could genuinely claim a sizeable part of the

1st XV’s season successes. Only old foes Millfield and Wellington, as well as newer opponents Blackrock, bettered the team this season and there were plenty of highs, notably against Ivybridge 1st XV, Blundell’s and Seaford. The camaraderie and cohesion within the team has made this an exceptionally rewarding and enjoyable season for us as coaches. A special mention to our award winners, Vinny Sims and Wilf Gemmill as well as to our leadership group: Harry Delaney, Harrison Nixon, Michael Rogers, Harri Pollitt and Ted Hallett, who were instrumental in the successes on the field and the creation of such a harmonious group off it. Congratulations to the team on a fantastic season.

A Wagstaff and C Balfour

3rd XV

The 3rd XV enjoyed a thoroughly engaging rugby season, marked by spirited performances and a commendable set of results. Playing a total of nine fixtures which included an Argentinian touring side. As expected, the squad of 36 students showcased both resilience and flair on the pitch. The season kicked off with an impressive statement of intent, securing a dominant 22-7 victory over Clifton High School in a pre-season clash which secured College Road bragging rights for another year. This early success set a positive tone, though a narrow 19-26 loss to Christ College Brecon followed. The team quickly regained their winning momentum with a commanding 54-12 triumph over Bristol Cathedral School on The Close. A fixture against St Edward’s School, Oxford, saw another strong performance,

culminating in a 33-0 victory. Mid-season and a plethora of injuries in key positions brought tougher challenges, with defeats against Millfield School (40-12) and Wellington College (36-7) underscoring a demanding set of away fixtures. However, the side’s determination never wavered. They bounced back with a solid 26-0 win against Taunton School, with captain Alfie Moloney scoring the try of the season from a well planned set piece-routine running in from the halfway line to secure victory. The season concluded on a high note with a well-deserved 24-14 victory over Seaford College. Our player of the season was awarded to captain Alfie Moloney (MH). Our most improved player was awarded to Alfie Kerry (NT). A special thank you to our departing Year 13 players, who have provided a solid foundation for the 3rd XV over the years.

K Smith

“The highlight of the

season

was the first half on the close

against Millfield

where we scored five tries.”

U16A

The season got off to an excellent start with a hard fought win against Harrow where the team defended their line for what seemed like most of the match but especially so in the second half when injuries caused huge disruption. More standard wins were achieved against Llandovery, Ivybridge and Kingswood as well as a close and hard fought one against The Oasis Academy. The highlight of the season was the first half on the close against Millfield where we scored five outstanding tries. We closed out the first half of term at the Millfield invitational event where on the first day we beat Northampton and Terenure before losing 3-0 in awful conditions on the second day to the hosts. The highlight of the second half of term is always the Wellington fixture and this year it went (as has always been the case) to the home side. It was an exceptional game of rugby and to get as close as we did to winningaway from home did the team great credit. The run brought comfortable wins against Blundell’s, Tommies and Seaford as well as a disappointing narrow defeat against a powerful Beechen Cliff side, where despite plenty of opportunities we lost our composure when we needed it most. Overall, it was a great season for a group of boys who have grown up in the last year or so. A number will challenge for the first team next season.

Thanks go to the group, plus the staff who looked after them, namely Jon Hughes, Shay Sainsbury, Dom Harris and most notably James Evans who not only took the lead in developing our style of play, but who also spent hours with individuals working on their specific skills.

A O’Sullivan

U16B

The season started against a powerful Harrow side. We were competitive and lost by five tries to three, showing a lot of grit and determination which was carried into the rest of the term. We then had a competitive loss against Clifton High A team, which allowed nearly 30 players to ‘get a go’, it was just a great opportunity to see a wide range of ability, including some rugby novices playing. Unfortunately, we then had two mismatches; one against an excellent Prior Park A team, who in truth would have challenged our A team. Before half term, we enjoyed a win against Taunton School, and a loss against Millfield, both competitive tussles decided by small moments. The block of fixtures after the break produced three wins (Wellington College, Blundell’s and Seaford College) and one loss (Sir Thomas Rich’s). All were great adverts for B team rugby with meaningful and competitive rugby played by all. A huge thank you to the squad for their resilience and good humour and also to Mr Harris and the energy that he always brings.

U15A

What a truly memorable season it’s been for our rugby squad! We kicked off with a great start, immediately showing a high calibre of players and the potential for a truly successful year. This early promise quickly materialised into a fantastic run of consecutive victories, setting a confident tone for the challenges ahead. However, amidst this early triumph, perhaps a touch of overconfidence crept in, momentarily impacting our ability to consistently play with the togetherness that defines a champion team. This became a crucial learning curve, testing our collective self-belief and momentarily slowing our development. We faced a challenging period, experiencing a series of defeats that served as vital lessons in resilience and teamwork.

Yet it was in these moments of adversity that the true character of our team shone brightest. The undeniable highlights of our season emerged towards the end, particularly in those thrilling matches where we consistently staged courageous second-half comebacks. Time and again, we transformed deficits into near-victories, proving ourselves to be the dominant and composed force on the pitch, even under pressure. These were the moments that truly encapsulated our growth.

Overall, it was a cracking season for a group of young men who have developed and matured significantly, both personally and as players. Many of them

will transition into a different, more competitive, and physical environment next year, where the essence of playing as a cohesive unit will be paramount. This season has undoubtedly provided the foundational grit and understanding they need to excel.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to every member of the squad for their dedication and effort. We also extend our gratitude to the staff who tirelessly looked after and supported them, with special recognition to Sean Varty and Shay Sainsbury. Their commitment not only invested heavily in developing our style of play but also involved countless hours of individual feedback and one-to-one discussions, genuinely helping each student to progress.

Y Diez-Urkidi

U15C

The U15c experienced a curtailed season this year. There were some mix up B and C matches during the term but only two matches for the full C side as several schools couldn’t raise a C side. Training on Tuesday mornings with rugby experts was a fun and purposeful time, Thursdays and Saturdays were given over to developing aspects of game play. Numerous novice players made huge strides forwards and some more experienced players gained useful lessons. We played well to defeat Cheltenham with a strong second half display where Will Gent and Kaya Holt showed high levels of performance and leadership. Our other fixture

“Yet it was in these moments of adversity that the true character of our team shone brightest. ”

was against Wellington College who showed more rugby nous than we did on the day. Use of kicks and a stronger defense ensured we were well beaten but the scoreline was flattering to Wellington. We do hope some pupils continue to develop and play next year.

N Luker and J Gardner

U14A

This season saw the U14A rugby team grow into a well-balanced and dynamic unit. From the outset, the boys embraced structure and discipline, building a solid defensive foundation that allowed them to stay connected under pressure. At the same time, they played with ambition—keeping the ball alive, encouraging creativity, and combining individual flair with collective intent. A commanding 57–14 win over Prior Park marked the start of a strong run, followed by key victories over St Edward’s (52–10), Taunton School (42–19), and Wellington College (54–37). The narrow 12–10 win in the Ryan Bresnahan Memorial Match was a real highlight, showing the team’s grit and composure in tight moments.The season ended on a high with a memorable trip to Devon, where the boys bonded

off the pitch and produced a convincing performance against Kingsbridge RFC. This group has laid the groundwork for future success. Their blend of structure, spirit, and style promises much for the years ahead.

G Turner & M Jones U14B

The season started with a promising win over local neighbours Clifton High, a match played in torrential rain. Despite this, the match set the tone for the season, showcasing some powerful ball carriers and pace throughout the team. This was followed up with a good win away to Christ’s Hospital, with other highlights being wins at Taunton School and Blundell’s. However, fixtures against two of the traditional powerhouses of school rugby, Millfield and Wellington, proved challenging and highlighted that there are areas of organisation and tactical understanding of the game to work on moving forwards. The whole squad contributed to the successes and spirit within both matches and training, but special mentions go to player of the season, Richard Anopueme, and most improved player, Louis Lin.

C Jones and A Summons

Girls’ Hockey

1st XI

The girls 1st XI had high aspirations for the 2024/25 season off the back of the successes of the previous season, when they finished second in the Independent Schools Hockey Cup (ISHC) and the England Hockey Tier 1 competition. The season started well, following their pre-season tour to South Africa, finishing third in the Cape Town International Tournament.

The opening matches for the girls 1st XI were to stretch and challenge them for what was to come, with three tough games against universities, losing narrowly to Exeter University 4-3 and comfortable wins against Bath 4-1 and Bristol 4-3. At the halfway point of the season the girls were five from five in the England Hockey Tier 1 West league, scoring 33 and only conceding two and had advanced to the quarter finals of the ISHC, with a highly anticipated tie against Millfield to come after Christmas.

The Lent Term started well with a 10-0 win against King’s High Warwick, however a toughly fought away loss to Dean Close and a loss to Millfield 2-1 in the ISHC quarters meant the only chance of silverware for the girls was to progress from the West League in second place and have an away quarter final. For this to happen the girls needed to beat Millfield at home by three goals in the highly anticipated Ryan Bresnahan game. It was a great occasion as always and with fantastic support the girls put

in their best performance of the season, however left themselves too much to do. An excellent first half with the home side dominating but not being able to find the net, the pressure grew on the girls knowing they needed to beat the opposition by three. With ten minutes to go the keeper was taken off in hope of changing the girls fortunes but this led to Millfield finding the unoccupied Clifton net. In true Clifton fashion the girls never gave up, Evie Grindal scored an excellent diving reverse from the top of the circle to level the score line and the hosts put on the pressure for the final five minutes with a couple of (correctly) disallowed goals and with an unconverted corner in dead time the score finished 0-0.

There were some fantastic performances during the season with Darcy Shields being awarded the Kerr Cup and Eloise Moat the Catchpole Cup at Big Side. Special mentions must go to Evie Grindal, Emilia Puddicombe, Harri Taylor and Sophie Houghton. As another year passes we must say goodbye to Year 13, who have been fantastic servants to the College over the years and have certainly left the shirt in a better place: Sophie Houghton, Katie Howells, Evie Edwards, Josie Wong, Orla Oswin-Heritage and Eloise Moat.

Many international honours were achieved as well with eight junior internationals in the 1st XI: Evie Grindal (Eng 18/21s), Emilia Puddicombe (Eng 18s), Darcy Shields (Ire 18/21s), Caitlin White (Eng 16s), Meg Titcomb, Ella-Rose Grabham, Orla Oswin-Heritage and Eloise Moat (Wal 18s).

O Keenan and G Catchpole

2nd XI

Following a very successful pre-season tour to South Africa for many of the players in the second team, the girls started the season as they meant to go on, and what a treat it has been! The opening matches saw the team ‘do the double’ over the Taunton schools. Fenella Burgess opened her score book in her debut for the second team against King’s Taunton. The indestructible and highly effective central defensive platform of Bea Willis and Sophie Langley has been a source of frustration for many of the opposing teams. Setting up the transfer perfectly through their persistent grit and determination, Sophia Jeffery and Alice Bratt worked tirelessly to support in defense and set up the attack. The combination of skillful Sophia Harrison effectively dividing the defence in two in pursuit of the circle edge, and Poppy Newman, were often too much to handle, scoring a collective goal count of eight goals between them. A highlight of the season was undoubtedly the Millfield game where all the stars were aligned in the form of a clinical and magical team performance, securing an impressive 4-0 win in what was most definitely the performance of the season.

S Johnson and K Jeffrey

3rd XI

The 3rd XI Hockey team has had an outstanding season, marked by an almost unbeaten run and some truly impressive statistics. With 24 goals scored and only five conceded, the squad demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork throughout the campaign. Notably, the team did not concede a single goal before November, showcasing their solid defensive organisation and discipline on the pitch. The team was led by the wonderful Year 13 captains, Florrie Walsh, Costanza Giugiolli, and Natalia Walker, who have been instrumental in guiding the team. These three players have led by example, both on and off the field, and have been the backbone of the squad.The team also welcomed some new talent this season, with Year 11 players joining the incredible and energetic Year 12s. Their addition brought depth to the team and further strengthened the overall talent pool. The integration of these players has been seamless, and their contribution to the squad has been invaluable. Overall, the 3rd XI Hockey team has shown tremendous growth, skill, but most of all team spirit. Their nearly unbeaten season is a testament to the dedication of each player! The future looks bright for this talented and determined squad, and they are certainly a team to watch in the coming seasons. They really have been a joy to coach.

C Graveney and N Walsh

4th XI

The 4th XI squad closed out an incredible hockey season with a 6-2 record. Led by the efforts of the Year 13 captains, the 4s went into every session and match with determination and grit. Amber Puri and Helen Jones managed to keep spirits high and worked tirelessly to bring positive attitudes and make all members of the squad feel included. With the strength of the squad being the midfield, they were able to dominate position of the ball in most matches through their transition work. The defense was a brick wall led by Grace Garrett in goal and Alana Peto on the pitch. Mitzeee Tadhunter, Harriet Dixon, and Aggie Campbell had stellar performances as forwards and helped to secure numerous goals throughout the season. Notable achievements came from Elaine Wojega (Y12) and her indomitable presence in the midfield and Lottie Burrows (Y11) and her tenacious defending. The season was successful and truly enjoyable for all. The improvement in skill and the perseverance of all of the players was outstanding. This squad was a joy to coach and I look forward to continued success next hockey season!

A Kelly

U16

The U16A hockey team had a very impressive season, culminating in them qualifying for the national finals at Lee Valley. After a good block of preseason training and matches, the team was ready to start their campaign in the England Hockey Tier 1 Competition. They had a promising start in the league with a 6-0 win against Taunton and a 4-0 win over Dean Close. The next game against Marlborough was a tough loss for the girls, however the team remained positive as it was still all to play for to qualify for the next round. The final league game was against Millfield, which was a fiercely competitive encounter where the team put in a solid

performance drawing 1-1 which was enough to qualify for the knockout stages.

The team travelled down to Sutton Valence for a chance to book their spot in the national quarter finals. The defence was held strong by captain Lottie Whatley and some great saves were made from Imogen Davies in goal. Clifton had numerous chances throughout the game, but struggled to convert them into goals. Eventually, they broke the deadlock by a well executed penalty corner from Lara Holt, to win the game 1-0. A home quarter-final was drawn against Marlborough College. The team put in another impressive performance, which was ultimately the game of the season. After losing to them previously, the girls remained positive to win the game 2-0 and qualify for the national finals at Lee Valley.

Clifton faced St George’s, a strong opposition, in the semifinal and narrowly lost 3-1. A medal was still up for grabs as they faced Wellington College in the third and fourth play-off. A much improved performance from the previous day saw plenty of chances created from Jasmine Capps, Lucy Prickett and Sophia Jefferies. A well taken goal from Wellington College saw us narrowly miss

out on third place. To qualify for the finals at Lee Valley and finish fourth in the country was an outstanding achievement and a testament to the hard work the girls have put in throughout the season. The improvements and memories made as a team have been second to none, with many girls still able to play for that age group next year. Well done and thank you to everyone that helped contribute to a very successful season!

R Daniel

U15A

The U15A squad entered the 2024/25 season with high expectations following a strong campaign last year. A solid pre-season, featuring two days of intensive training and an impressive team performance, set the tone for a competitive and determined term.

Throughout the Saturday block fixtures, the team showcased exceptional skill, determination, and squad depth. With a rotational approach, players had opportunities to stretch themselves—whether competing in club hockey or representing the 1st XI. Despite these changes, the team maintained their fighting spirit and technical execution, securing victories in all but

one match. Notable highlights included hard-fought wins against Dean Close (2-0) and Cheltenham College (2-1), with the sole defeat coming in a close contest against Bromsgrove (1-2). Each fixture was highly competitive and played in great spirits.

Their impressive form carried into the Independent School Hockey Cup, where the team embarked on a remarkable run to Finals Day. Victories over Taunton School (2-0), Wellington College (6-2), King’s High School Warwick (3-2), and Newcastle-Under-Lyme School (5-1) secured their place in the prestigious final showdown in Nottingham. Throughout the tournament, they demonstrated outstanding tactical awareness and a collective drive for continuous improvement.

On Finals Day, Clifton faced a strong St George’s side. Despite creating numerous scoring opportunities, a lack of clinical finishing resulted in a 2-2 draw. The subsequent shootout did not go their way, leading to a 3rd/4th place playoff against Bromsgrove—their only previous defeat of the season. Determined to respond, the team delivered a dominant performance, securing a 4-2 victory and claiming an impressive third-place finish.

The team’s outstanding efforts throughout the season have been rightly recognised, with several players earning county, regional, and international honours—a testament to their dedication, talent, and competitive spirit. Beyond these individual achievements, what truly stands out is the unwavering commitment and camaraderie that have defined this group.

I want to extend my thanks to every player for their hard work, perseverance, and dedication. With two intense training sessions plus at least one game each week, this season demanded resilience and teamwork, and the squad has risen to the challenge brilliantly. The mutual support, encouragement, and determination shown by every player have not only led to remarkable individual progress but also fostered an environment where everyone thrives together.

The improvement across the board has been incredible, and it’s been inspiring to see the players push themselves and each other, celebrating successes and overcoming challenges as a unit. Looking ahead, Clifton hockey has an exciting future, with these players making their way into the senior teams, ready to bring their energy, skill, and team-first mentality to the next level.

G Nicholls

U15B

The Under 15B team had an amazing season remaining unbeaten throughout the term. The team spirit and resilience on display was outstanding. This was most apparent in the 1-1 draw against Millfield. The girls were really up against it going into the final minutes 1-0 down, until a remarkable finish by Natasha Gazi saved the day. This team made life very difficult for all their opponents. The midfield was a competitive unit. Aile Chan, Leone Bilke, Darcey Dutton and Kate Yanovskaya were hard to break down and in attack improved their passing game over the term. The captain, Jasmine Side, alongside Sarah Pan and Zara Hogwood, formed an outstanding defence and importantly developed excellent distribution skills. They were also safe in the knowledge of knowing that behind them was Eva Clear who put in some superb performances in goal. The attack was led with skill and tenacity by Marie Jurtin who was rightly promoted to the A team for a number of matches. I would like to thank all the players who played for the B team in 2025. They always played the game with a smile and there was plenty of laughter to go alongside some excellent hockey.

T Hancock

“Throughout the Saturday block fixtures, the team showcased exceptional skill, determination, and squad depth. With a rotational approach, players had opportunities to stretch themselves.”

U15C

The U15C team experienced a demanding yet competitive season. Despite facing tough opponents, their determination and unwavering efforts on the pitch were truly impressive, even when the results didn’t fully reflect their commitment.

The season kicked off with a challenging match against a strong Cheltenham College side, requiring the team to dig deep and remain focused for it to stay competitive. Here, notable performances from Tilly Harris and Ellie Gear in midfield were instrumental in slowing the pace of the opposition which kept the score close. This was followed by a closely contested encounter against Taunton School, which showcased the team’s skill and resilience. Outstanding defensive work from Charlize Ho and Francesca Harris held a strong Taunton attack at bay throughout the first half, while Audrey Xu made several crucial saves in goal. In attack, Amelia Unthank demonstrated excellent control as she carried the ball confidently down the wing before slotting it into the bottom right corner for a welldeserved goal. Throughout the season, Jasmine Appa has made a significant impact all season with her dominance through the

middle and sharp distribution to Gowri Chendrimada on the wing.

The U15C hockey team has demonstrated remarkable growth, resilience, and, above all, a strong sense of team spirit throughout the season.

E Thwaites

U14A

The Clifton College U14 A girls’ hockey team enjoyed an extraordinary season, one that will be remembered for its grit, determination, and unwavering team spirit. From the challenges of preseason to the intensity of the national finals, this group of young athletes rose to every occasion and exceeded all expectations.

The journey began with a tough preseason trip to Belfast, where the team faced some of the best schools in Northern Ireland. The competition was fierce, but the tough matches were exactly what they needed to sharpen their skills and steel their resolve for the season ahead. The team’s resilience during these early encounters laid the foundation for the thrilling campaign that would follow, and it was clear from the outset that this was a side that was prepared to compete at the highest level.

Throughout the season, every player contributed to the team’s success, demonstrating not only individual talent but also a commitment to teamwork. It was impressive to see how players consistently rose to the challenges thrown their way, particularly when injuries to key players threatened to derail their progress. Despite these setbacks, the squad adapted with remarkable composure, and new stars emerged to fill the void. The depth of talent within the team was evident as each member stepped up to support one another, ensuring that no one was ever left behind.

Among the most memorable moments of the season was Garance Berjonneau’s lastminute winner in the semi-final of the National Cup. In a highpressure situation, Berjonneau kept her cool and delivered a stunning finish, securing her place as a key player in the team’s journey to the final. Another unforgettable moment came in the quarter-finals, where captain Lucy Delaney and Issy Salter showcased their penalty shootout heroics. With the game on the line, their poise and accuracy under pressure helped propel the team to a thrilling victory.

But perhaps the most significant achievement of the season was their performance in the National Finals. Facing Repton in front of a large and passionate crowd, the team dug deep in the second half to put up a gritty and determined fight. Their resolve, even when the pressure mounted, was a testament to their preparation and mental toughness. While the final result was not in their favor, coming second in the country marked the best performance by a Clifton College U14 side in ten years – an accomplishment that every member of the team should take immense pride in.

As a whole, this season has been a triumph of teamwork, resilience, and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges, including injuries and tough competition, the U14 A girls’ hockey team showed that they were capable of greatness. The season will go down in history as one of the most successful, and the players should all be incredibly proud of their achievement – second best in the country is no small feat. The future looks incredibly bright for this talented squad.

S Loughrey and C Clark

U14B

The U14B’s had a truly fantastic season, with seven wins and two draws across their nine fixtures, and a goal difference of +20. The epic unbeaten run began with a 7-2 victory away to King’s College Taunton; Matilda Mulready with a hat-trick of goals, and one a piece for Mabel Gemmill, Zara Hakim, Maggie McClure and Heidi Ronayne. The team travelled back to Taunton the following week, this time to face Taunton School. Outstanding defensive work from captain Molly Harding and vice-captain Freddie Wilks kept the home team at bay, and our prowess in front of goal saw us return to Bristol with a 2-1 win. The game of the season came next, when Cheltenham College visited. Clifton found themselves 3-0 down at half time with work to do. This really was a game of two halves, as Clifton returned to the pitch full of determination to put things right. Two goals from McClure and a fierce strike from a short corner from Hakim with 10 minutes to go lent well to an exciting ending. Elizabeth Eagleton in goal was outstanding, as Cheltenham looked set to win it when a through ball was met by their forward player in the dying seconds, but a great smother and save, saw the spoils shared. Further wins came against Redmaids (1-0), Dean Close (6-0), Millfield (1-0) and Bromsgrove (2-0). The final match of the season was away to Blundell’s and pressure was on the Clifton side; could they really become the invincibles? Leela Vero knew the answer to this, scoring twice in quick succession to give us an early lead.

A further two goals in the second half secured a 4-0 victory and an incredible season for all involved. Thank you to all players for your commitment, good humour and willingness to run pitch lengths every single week.

C Bassett

“Every player contributed to the team’s success, demonstrating not only individual talent but also a commitment to teamwork.”

U14C

The U14C hockey team had a great season, marking their first experience playing eleven-a-side hockey. From the outset, the team demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm, commitment, and a willingness to learn, which was evident throughout the term.

The season began well with an equally contested match against Taunton School, where the players quickly adapted to the full-pitch format. Olivia Hodges was a standout performer in attack, using her pace and positioning to create several goal-scoring opportunities. She worked brilliantly alongside Camilla Mistry, who showed great versatility by contributing both in attack and defence. In defence, Daria Satti was a solid and reliable presence. Her calm decision-making and strong tackles helped to anchor the back line. She developed an effective partnership with Sofia Hibbert, who showed great adaptability in supporting both ends of the pitch when needed.

Throughout the season the whole team has encouraged one another, learned from each match, and steadily improved their skills and understanding of the game. It has been a joy to witness their growth.

Boys’ Hockey

1st XI

The boys 1st XI gave an excellent account of themselves this season, they have competed well in two cup competitions, making their way to the third round of the Independent Schools Hockey Cup, beating local rivals BGS on flicks after a highly competitive 1-1 draw, eventually falling to a strong Millfield side in an end to end game. The boys also made their way to the quarter final of the England Hockey Tier 2 competition with excellent performances against the King’s School, Gloucester and Malvern winning 3-0 and 2-0 respectively.

Highlights of the season outside of the cup competition include 4-1 wins over a very strong Katherine Lady Berkeley’s and also a 4-1 win over KES Bath.

Notable performances of the season must go to Mac Isaacs, Josh Bray and Raf Trujillo for his excellent debut season in the 1st XI. The awards for the season were awarded to Adam Wyatt for his outstanding dragflicking, scoring 80% of the team’s goals, as well as his performances for Trinidad and Tobago U21s winning the Panam Cup. Adam claimed the highly prestigious Ryan Bresnahan Cup with the coaches player going to Henry Hammond for his outstanding performances in goal, including saving three BGS strokes in the shoot out win in the ISHC.

A huge thank you to the departing pupils, Henry Hammond, Fin KandavanamLovell and George Herring from Year 13 as well as Harry Edge in Year 11. All have made outstanding contributions to Clifton hockey over the years and their contributions are greatly recognised.

2nd XI

The 2nd XI found themselves unbeaten going into the final game of the season but sadly the accomplished Sherborne team was too good for us on the final day. This didn’t in any way overshadow an enjoyable term of hockey which brought together some very different characters who, on the whole, got on very well with each other. I would like to give special thanks to our four Year 13 boys, Joe White, Ben Russ, Tom Martin and captain Archie Alan for their support of hockey over the years. They have become exceptional young men. There was also some fantastic hockey at times. The team could be emotional, but as you would expect from Clifton teams, they competed hard. The 8-0 win v BGS was the high point in the season. Everything seemed to click and the ball striking of Jack

Benkenstein in getting six of those goals was extraordinary. I would like to pass on my thanks to the efforts of every player who played for the 2s. There are some very skillful players in the group and if they can show some of the commitment in training that they do in games they will certainly produce some very special moments in the future.

T Hancock and T Fyfe

U16

The U16 boys faced several challenges this season, with the squad split between Year 10 and Year 11, making it difficult to train together consistently. Despite this hurdle, the team demonstrated remarkable cohesion and determination, delivering impressive performances throughout the year.

They began the season with a strong showing in indoor hockey, defeating Marlborough in the regional preliminaries, an historic moment which marked the first indoor hockey match played in the new Chellaram Sports Complex. This victory secured their spot in the regional finals at Taunton School, where they competed in a fiercely contested tournament against high-calibre opposition. Although they showed great skill and effort, missed opportunities in front of goal prevented them from advancing further.

Moving into the outdoor season, Clifton entered the England Hockey Tier 2 knockout cup, drawing Collegiate School at home. The match was a tightly contested battle with chances at both ends, but Collegiate capitalised on their opportunities to take a 2-0 lead into the final ten minutes. Clifton responded with incredible determination, scoring twice in the closing moments to force a dramatic shootout. In a tense and fiercely competitive exchange, Collegiate emerged victorious, sending Clifton into the Plate competition.

In the first round of the Plate, Clifton faced a strong Cheltenham College side. Despite their efforts, Cheltenham proved too formidable on the day, bringing Clifton’s campaign to an end.

Although the season had its challenges, the team showed resilience, teamwork, and a fighting spirit in every match. Their ability to overcome obstacles and compete at a high level speaks volumes about their character and determination— qualities that will undoubtedly serve them well as they continue to develop in the sport.

G Nicholls

U15A

The U15A Clifton College hockey team displayed unwavering determination and competitive spirit throughout the entire season. From the first match to the final whistle, they

consistently showcased their ability to rise to challenges and perform at a high level.

Throughout the season, the team remained highly competitive in every fixture, securing impressive victories against Katherine Lady Berkeley’s and Bristol Grammar School. A standout performance came against Millfield, where Clifton triumphed 2-1 thanks to two brilliant goals from William Ede, demonstrating both tactical awareness and clinical finishing.

Their strong form carried into the Independent School Cup competition, where the squad— bolstered by talented Year 9 players stepping up—delivered dominant wins over King’s College Taunton and Warminster School. These victories set up a last-16 clash against King Edward’s School Southampton, played at Clifton College. The match was evenly contested, with Clifton controlling possession and creating several chances. However, two expertly executed penalty corners from a KES Southampton player proved decisive, resulting in a 2-0 defeat. Despite the result, the team displayed resilience, tactical intelligence, and a commendable fighting spirit.

Determined to finish the season on a high, Clifton responded emphatically in their final match, securing a commanding 5-0 victory over Sherborne School. This dominant performance was a fitting end to a successful campaign, highlighting the team’s growth, skill, and unwavering commitment.

With many of these players now progressing into the senior teams, the future of Clifton hockey looks incredibly promising. Their experience, determination, and tactical awareness will undoubtedly strengthen the squads at the next level. As they continue to develop, their ability to compete at a high standard and push each other to improve will be invaluable. Next season is set to be an exciting one, with this talented group ready to make a significant impact.

G Nicholls

U14/15B

The number of 15B boys was low this year so this team joined up with the U14B. The boys in this group worked together against stronger sides from other schools. There was good progress from numerous players and a sense of commitment that was admirable whatever the scoreline. Training was competitive, and fun was had as well as learning about teamwork in the face of adversity. The boys showed good humour and admirable behaviour on and off the field. Well done on a good term’s efforts!

JD Gardner and B Bates

U14A

The Clifton College U14 boys’ Hockey team had a season filled with growth, resilience, and promising performances. One of the standout aspects of their campaign was how well they transitioned from the seven-a-side format to the more demanding eleven-a-side game. The boys adapted quickly, showcasing their skills and teamwork with a series of quality performances across the season.

However, their journey wasn’t without setbacks. Early in the season, they were knocked out of the cup by Marlborough

in a thrilling 5-4 encounter. Despite the defeat, players like Jonty Grindal and Max Davis stood out with exceptional performances, underlining their potential and leadership.

One of the most memorable moments came during a match against Millfield, the eventual National Finals winners. In what was one of the grittiest defensive displays by an U14 side, the team fought valiantly and only lost 2-1. Jack Lockwood delivered a heroic performance in goal, making several crucial saves and ensuring his team kept Millfield on their toes throughout the game. This match encapsulated the team’s never-say-die attitude and demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level.

While the season had its challenges, the U14 Boys’ Hockey team showed immense promise and growth. The collective effort from all players, especially standout individuals like Grindal, Davis, and Lockwood, highlighted a team with great potential. With such a talented and driven group of players, the future looks incredibly bright for this team, and they will undoubtedly continue to build on their successes in the years ahead.

S Loughrey

Netball

1st Team

The 1st netball team, under the leadership of captain Phoebe Smith and vice-captain Megan Whatley, has concluded a season marked by significant success in their regular fixtures, although a disappointing fourth place finish in their group at the regional finals cast a shadow over an otherwise triumphant campaign. A cornerstone of their success throughout the season was the excellent defence provided consistently by Bea Willis, Phoebe Smith, and Nyiema Obika, complemented by strong shooting in attack from Matilda Mortimore, Megan Whatley, and Sophie Langley, and a dynamic centre court presence from Jess Gunter, Romilly Dutton, and Ellie Johnson.

The season commenced with a decisive victory against Cheltenham College, where the team, bolstered by the formidable defensive trio of

Willis, Smith, and Obika, the accurate shooting of Mortimore, Whatley, and Langley, the energetic mid-court work of Gunter, Dutton, and Johnson, and guided by the on-court presence of Smith and Whatley, asserted their dominance early on, securing a comfortable 31-13 win. This strong start, built upon a solid defensive foundation, clinical finishing, and fluid transitions through the centre court, set the tone for the weeks to follow, with another convincing performance against Clifton High School, resulting in a 28-15 victory. The team’s cohesive attacking unit, with key contributions from their shooters facilitated by the work of the centre court, supported by a stifling defense orchestrated effectively by the leadership duo and the defensive prowess of Willis, Smith, and Obika, proved challenging for their opponents.

The winning streak continued with a solid 18-9 triumph over BGS, demonstrating their

ability to control the game and convert opportunities effectively under the joint guidance of Smith and Whatley. Crucial goals from Mortimore and Langley created by the link play of Gunter and Dutton, and the unwavering defensive efforts of Willis and Obika. This was followed by an emphatic 41-16 win against Kingswood, a match that highlighted the team’s attacking prowess, with Mortimore, Whatley, and Langley in fine form, seamlessly connected to the play through the tireless work of the centre court players, and the defensive unit consistently shutting down opposition attacks. King’s Taunton proved a sterner test, but the 1st team’s resilience shone through, securing a 26-16 victory, a testament to their leadership’s influence, the shooters’ accuracy, the crucial interceptions and turnovers secured by Willis, Smith, and Obika, and the vital transitions provided by Johnson in the mid-court.

One of the most closely contested matches of the season came against Royal High School Bath. In a thrilling encounter, the team, spurred on by the unwavering focus of Smith and the support of Whatley, and anchored by the exceptional defensive work of Willis and Obika, coupled with timely goals from Mortimore, Whatley, and Langley, all facilitated by the dynamic movement and passing of Gunter, Dutton, and Johnson, demonstrated exceptional grit and composure under pressure, ultimately clinching a hardfought 32-28 win. This victory underscored their ability to perform at a high level against strong opposition.

The team then returned to more dominant form with a resounding 43-18 victory over Dean Close, showcasing their depth and versatility. The only blemish on their otherwise stellar record came in a tight match against Redmaids’, where they narrowly fell short

with a 26-28 loss, despite the persistent efforts of their defensive unit, the scoring accuracy of Mortimore, Whatley, and Langley, and the tireless running of Gunter, Dutton, and Johnson. This setback, however, appeared to galvanise the team, who bounced back immediately with a commendable 26-22 win against Team Bath ADC, a fixture known for its high intensity.

The subsequent match against Prior Park saw the team deliver a commanding performance, securing a resounding 48-7 victory, the largest winning margin of the season. This display of dominance highlighted the team’s ability to execute their game plan with precision and efficiency, a reflection of the strong leadership provided by their captain and vicecaptain, the consistent shooting accuracy of Mortimore, Whatley, and Langley, the consistently outstanding defensive contributions of Willis and Obika, and the controlling influence of Gunter, Dutton, and Johnson in the centre court. The penultimate match against KES Bath proved to be another challenging encounter, but the 1st team’s tenacity and skill ultimately secured a 39-31 victory.

The season culminated in an international fixture against St Cyprian’s, a touring team from South Africa. In a captivating finale, the 1st team, demonstrated their adaptability and composure against unfamiliar opposition, securing a hard-earned 19-16 victory, providing what should have been a positive end to their year.

However, despite this impressive run of victories, the team’s journey concluded with a disappointing fourth place finish in their group at the regional finals. While the regular season showcased their considerable talent and teamwork, with the exceptional defensive contributions of Bea Willis, Phoebe Smith, and Nyiema Obika, the strong shooting of Matilda Mortimore, Megan Whatley, and Sophie Langley, and the dynamic centre court play of Jess Gunter, Romilly Dutton, and Ellie Johnson being consistent highlights, the Regional Finals presented a tougher challenge, and the desired progression was not achieved. Phoebe Smith and Meg Whatley undoubtedly played crucial roles throughout the season, both on and off the court, and

the balance and contributions across all areas of the court were integral to their successes.

Overall, the 1st Netball team, under the captaincy of Phoebe Smith and vice-captaincy of Meg Whatley, demonstrated significant prowess and achieved a commendable record throughout the majority of the season. The outstanding defensive performances, the consistent shooting accuracy, and the dynamic centre court play were key factors in their many victories. While the outcome of the regional finals was undoubtedly a setback, the numerous wins and the high level of play

exhibited throughout the year are a testament to the hard work, dedication, skill within the squad, and the strong leadership of their captain and vice-captain. The team will no doubt reflect on the regional finals and use the experience, and the strengths across the court, to fuel their ambitions for future competitions.

Well done to Matilda Mortimore, who was selected for Team Bath U17s this season. Romilly Dutton and Nyiema Obika were selected into the Team Bath ADC programme and Ellie Johnson into the Birmingham Panthers ADB programme.

L Turner

“The 1st team’s tenacity and skill ultimately secured a 39-31 victory.”

2nd Team

It has been another term where the 2nd team have been extremely competitive and shown the same ability as other schools 1st Teams. We welcomed Lottie Whatley, Elaine Wojega and Jess Bowen to the team, all of whom brought new skills and experience. The season started well with a convincing win against BGS, 2211 which was followed by some tighter games, in particular against Dauntsey’s School which was a fine display of netball going end to end. Unfortunately, we lost 34- 35 but it was one of the strongest performances of the term. The 2nd team squad benefitted from being twelve players, as we were hit with injuries and illness, to the point where Elaine Wojega played through an ankle injury when up against Marlborough; it wasn’t a surprise that she went on to win the Players’ Player award. The season ended with three strong wins against Prior Park, Bristol Cathedral (1st Team) and an excellent win against KES. A special thank you to Victoire Berjonneau, Sophie Houghton and Eloise Moat, the last game was full of emotion; they have given three years to the 2nd Team and have been key throughout, they will certainly be missed, not just for their skill but for the enthusiasm and commitment they have given in their time here.

K Willis

3rd Team

The 3rd team took to the court this season with fire in their hearts and enough resilience to fill the Pavilion twice over. Spirits were high after an early derby win against BGS, and, with a healthy dose of optimism, hopes of an unbeaten season felt almost within reach. A tricky run of fixtures followed, with narrow losses to strong 2nd teams from QEH and King’s Taunton testing the squad’s resolve. A particularly gruelling and unforgettable away match at Marlborough saw us down to just seven players, yet the team battled on. Despite a heavy defeat, heads stayed high. Through injuries, player rotations, and some impressively creative formations, the team kept showing up, with humour, and a few accidental passes in the wrong direction. It’s a testament to the team spirit that they bounced back to finish the season on a high, notching wellearned wins against Dean Close and Prior Park. Special mention must go to our captains, Fenella Burgess and Poppy Newman, whose leadership and commitment have been invaluable. Our Players of the Season, Tilly Alkin and Poppy Newman, stood out for their relentless energy, courage, and consistency on court. A final shoutout to our incredible

leavers: Evie Edwards, Josie Wong, Molly Eggleston-Davies, Poppy Newman, and Fenella Burgess. They leave behind big bibs to fill. From early triumphs to late-season resilience, this squad proved that netball isn’t just about the scoreline - it’s about spirit, teamwork, and the unrelenting joy of shouting “HOTEL!” mid-match.

C Clark

4th Team

The 4th team put in many strong performances this season showing determination, teamwork, and excellent court coverage against teams like Dean Close, QEH and King Edward’s. Jemima Smith and Florrie Walsh were a formidable duo in the defensive D. Their communication and positioning were outstanding, consistently putting pressure on the opposition’s shooters and making several crucial interceptions. Both players showed great composure under pressure and played a key role in turning defence into attack. The centre court was anchored by Daisy Sears, Alice Bratt, Esme Dyer, and Jay Greengrass, who worked tirelessly to keep the game flowing. Their movement and quick passing helped transition the ball smoothly from defence to attack. In the shooting circle, Mia Collins and Sukie Blackwell rotated well and capitalised on scoring opportunities. Mia’s accurate shooting and smart positioning helped build early momentum. Sukie brought great energy to the circle, combining well with her fellow shooters. We were also very lucky to have Madison Savoury play for the 4th team on a number of occasions!

K Jeffery

5th Team

The 5ths netball team can look back on a strong season, having completed their full fixture list with a good number of wins. Highlights on the court included their victories against BGS (23-10) and QEH (32-12). In these matches, the dynamic shooting partnership of Madison

Savory and Fatima Diallo was a key factor, with outstanding support from the centre court trio of Lottie Burrows, Amelie Weston, and Angel Tolchard, who delivered well-placed passes into the circle. Across the entire season, a solid defensive unit, comprising Bella Ascherl, Bianca Burnei, and Nurandee Wipulasuriya, consistently put in the hard yards to win crucial turnovers. Their strong backline passes were instrumental in transitioning the ball effectively into the mid-court. A special mention must go to Madison, who has been an exceptional Captain, guiding this young team with maturity and inspiring them to achieve success. Here’s hoping we see all these talented players back next year, ready to build on this fantastic foundation and continue their winning streak!

M Beever and S Griffin

15A Netball

The U15A netball team has been a joy to coach this season. Their dedication, energy, and teamwork have been evident throughout, making every training session and match a rewarding experience.

The season commenced with a strong 27-11 victory against BGS, showcasing the team’s potential. Issy Geary, appointed as captain, demonstrated exceptional leadership both on and off the court. Her versatility was highlighted when she seamlessly transitioned from defence to the shooting circle, earning her the first of many Coaches’ Player awards. Darcey Dutton’s performance as WA was instrumental in the team’s success. Her ability to find space and deliver precise passes to the shooters earned her both Players’ and Opposition’s Player awards.

The team followed that game with another outstanding performance, against a very strong Kingswood School. The game was very close, with the team only one goal ahead after the first quarter. It was another fantastic team effort but a special shout out to the

defence, who turned so much ball and allowed the attacking players opportunity to do what they do best. Sophia Jefferies was outstanding. She made so many crucial interceptions and was key to our through court attack. Sophia has had a brilliant season, showing so many improvements in her game. Amelia Unthank at GK had an exceptional game, rebounding every missed shot and constantly disrupting play.

The team then travelled to King’s College, Taunton, where we experienced a toughly fought away loss. Despite the defeat, the team’s resilience was evident, and Poppy Mulready’s performance stood out, earning her the Player of the Match award for her defensive pressure and voice on court.

A significant highlight was the away game against Millfield, where the team secured a 29-21 victory. Freya Wilson’s shooting accuracy from anywhere and everywhere in the shooting circle and Mia Thorpe’s composed performance at C were pivotal in this win. Mia worked tirelessly in both defence and attack, feeding her shooters with ease whenever she hit the circle edge. This game also saw Jasmine Capps play in an unfamiliar role for her, at WD she was outstanding, turning so much ball and then transitioning perfectly into attack.

The team finished the season strong with wins against Taunton School, Prior Park and KES. The away win at Taunton saw Jasmine Side excel in her GS role, shooting at 80% for the game. India Kandavam-Lovell played exceptionally well all season, but this game saw her playing with so much freedom. She worked hard getting free of her opponent and linked her team’s possession from defence to attack.

Throughout the season, the team’s commitment to improvement and their supportive dynamics have been commendable. Their growth, both individually and collectively, has been a

testament to their hard work and passion for the sport. It is encouraging to see so many of the players now trialling to be a part of the elite pathway. I can’t wait to see them representing the school at senior level next year. Well done everyone.

C Wopara

15B Netball

The mighty 15B team had an incredible season during the Lent Term. They worked incredibly well as a team and continued to improve week in and week out. They won seven out of their nine matches and their narrow losses were very early in the term. The girls had convincing wins against KES Bath (33-6), Prior Park (29-9) and Dean Close (26-11), and came away with close wins against tough oppositions, beating Millfield (28-24) and winning a thriller against Kingswood in the dying seconds (15-14). The girls were captained by Marie Jurtin, the player of the season, for her incredible scoring accuracy, was Orla Anderson, and the most improved player was Matilda Serle. A special mention must also go to Natasha Gazi who was a fantastic defensive wall. She was regularly named the opposition’s player of the match. This team was a delight to coach, they were always so positive and it will be great to see them represent Clifton next year in the senior teams.

C McCormack

15C Netball

The 15C team were a delight to coach this season. Their commitment and dedication is commendable. Several players were new to Clifton College, netball was a new sport. Some students transferred basketball skills and the rules of play were quickly learnt and adhered to. Many narrow losses early in the term were made up for with an almighty win during our final game of the season against King Edward’s School, Bath. The team played an absolute blinder, winning 42-15.

The improvement the team made throughout the term was incredible. Each individual has developed a deeper understanding of the game and refined their skills. All players deserve a special mention. Many experienced the captaincy role and were supportive throughout training and during games. They demonstrated respect for the opposing teams and were overall the perfect team. I look forward to seeing their progress as a team next year.

M Armour

15D Netball

The U15D netball team concluded their season demonstrating significant progress and embodying the true spirit of teamwork. For a number of players, this season

marked their first experience not only with netball but also representing the school in a team sport. This presented an initial learning curve, yet the squad embraced the challenge with remarkable enthusiasm.

Throughout the term, the girls consistently displayed a tremendous amount of resilience. Despite facing more experienced opposition in several matches, their determination never wavered. They picked themselves up after setbacks and approached each game with renewed energy and a willingness to learn. Captained by Francesca Harris and vice captain Charlize Ho, the girls should feel proud of the improvements that they made over the course of the season, and I hope to see many of them continuing with their netball in the senior teams next year!

S Breet

U14A Netball

The U14 Netball team has had a successful season, culminating in their qualification for the regional tournament in Bournemouth. This marks the first time in ten years that the team has reached this stage, an impressive achievement for a new squad. At the regional tournament in Bournemouth, the team faced strong competition, but their performance demonstrated the progress they had made

over a short period of time. Although they did not finish as tournament champions, it certainly was a taste of what was to come during the rest of the season. Throughout the season, the team displayed strong teamwork and skill, quickly building chemistry despite being a relatively new group. One of the key highlights of the season was the match against Kingswood (19-17). In this very close encounter, the game was tied going into the final quarter, with both teams exchanging goals. The U14s managed to maintain their composure in the final stages and secured the win, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure, in front of a great home crowd! The team also secured notable victories against Dean Close (3124), Prior Park (31-11), BGS (2214) and KES Bath (27-8), which contributed to their overall successful campaign. These wins were built on solid defence, quick transitions, and effective shooting, with each player contributing to the team’s success. The U14 netball squad has shown considerable talent this season, with all players making significant contributions to the team’s success. With the squad continuing to develop, they will be a team to watch in the coming years as they move through the school. I have really enjoyed coaching such an impressive bunch of players!

C Graveney

U14B Netball

The U14B netball team enjoyed a competitive and rewarding season, playing 13 matches that tested their skill, teamwork, and determination. Throughout the term, the players faced some tough opposition, but their commitment to improving and their strong team spirit ensured they consistently rose to the challenge.

One of the standout performances of the season came during the fixture against Prior Park School. Daisy Ellis was exceptional in defence, showcasing impeccable timing in her interceptions and putting constant pressure on the opposition’s attack. Her tireless work at the back was perfectly complemented by Molly Harding, whose versatility allowed her to adapt brilliantly in both defensive and attacking roles. Another notable match was the closely contested encounter against Dean Close. Jemima Catchpole was a calming and reliable presence in the centre, controlling the pace of the game with her accurate passing and quick decision-making. She linked play beautifully, feeding the ball into the shooting circle with precision. In attack, Molly Smith and Meghan O’Shea formed a dynamic partnership, working seamlessly to create space, take opportunities, and convert crucial goals under pressure. As a team the U14Bs have consistently displayed resilience, discipline, and a willingness to learn. Each player has contributed to the team’s progress and brought their own strengths to the court. The improvements seen throughout the season were a testament to their hard work in training and their commitment to supporting one another on and off the court.

E Thwaites

U14C Netball

The U14 C netball team has shown great progress and commitment throughout the season, finishing with a balanced record of 4 wins and 4 losses across 8 matches. The team demonstrated strong teamwork and skill improvements in each game.

Victories against Millfield (20-8), Dean Close (17-5), and King Edward’s Southampton (9-4) showcased their attacking prowess and defensive pressure.

A particularly close and hardfought match against Dauntsey’s resulted in a narrow 10-9 loss, highlighting their resilience and determination.

Throughout the season, Naomi and Heidi consistently impressed with their strong performances, earning them numerous mentions for Player of the Match. Their contributions were invaluable to the team’s successes. Daria was recognised as the rising star, demonstrating significant improvement over a short period of time and real potential for future development.

Overall, it has been a positive season for the U14 C team, marked by both encouraging wins and valuable learning experiences. With continued dedication, the team has a bright future ahead. I wish them well next year.

R Coomber

U14D Netball

The U14D team had an exciting season with a number of closely-fought fixtures. Many of the players had not represented the school before, and some were new to the sport, but they brought professionalism and enthusiasm to every game. There was a great sense of mutual support and camaraderie amongst the team, and this undoubtedly led to rapid improvement in individual game play as well as match performances. The season concluded with a thrilling 10-9 win against Redmaids, which was a welldeserved demonstration of their commitment and improving skills. Special mention needs

to go to Freya Hill and Nala Tschirner, who received players’ and coaches’ players of the match on numerous occasions for their flexibility and determination on court. As the season developed, Mali Bond, Thea Caudery and Francesca Harrison made great strides with their shooting, and we look forward to seeing them honing their skills still further in year 10. They were ably supported by a tenacious centre court team of Julia Gurung, Jesslyn Tai and Paula Maria Matas Carrasco, and Angel Wai in defence, who were dynamic and committed in their game play, and also made great individual progress. Grace Wong, Darcy and Lola Simpson, and Sofia Hibbert all supported the squad in several games when their other sporting commitments allowed, and brought energy and skill to the team. Thank you to all for your efforts and good humour throughout the season, and we look forward to seeing you thrive again on the netball court next year.

E Hawkins and L Hawkins

Boys’ Football

1st XI

The first XI season began on 14th September with a home fixture against Malvern. This year’s squad was a young one, having lost many Year 13 players the previous year. In fact, eight players in this first match squad were Year 11 players. We drew 3-3 in a match that tested us and also showed that the debutants were more than capable of competing against more senior players.

We then faced back to back cup matches which came along a bit too soon for us. We competed well but unfortunately fell short in both, taking us out of the cup competitions.

We recovered well and enjoyed wins against Bristol Grammar School, King Edward’s School and Taunton among others, in a run that saw us defeated on one other occasion up until Christmas.

In this run Ben Harrigan had been outstanding alongside our developing group. Adam Anabtawi, George Bell, Rhys Pollitt, Varisht Ramdeen and Nathan Daniel, all in Year 11 and stepping into senior football for the first time, acquitted themselves very well.

Our ISFA campaign began in the Lent Term. These matches proved to be very tough to gain results in but our stand out

result was away at Bryanston. Having arrived late, we found ourselves 4-0 down within 25 minutes. We eventually got going and showed great character to compose ourselves and recover. Having started the second half really well we found ourselves 5-2 down but attacking with intent and pressing well as Bryanston attempted to play from the goalkeeper. Jack Williams, in particular pressed strongly, Theo Prole was always on the front foot and we had found a new aggression and desire to not accept our position. Logan Bowden showed excellent work rate and energy as a lone striker and despite not scoring, played his part in our recovery.

The team continued to claw their way back into the match and as Bryanston lost their belief, Clifton gained belief. The goals came and in the last two minutes, Harry Brunskill combined with Hugo Averis to score in a 1v1 against the Bryanston GK. The final two minutes were hectic but we held on and won 6-5, a fantastic and well deserved victory, the highlight of our season.

I am very much looking forward to the next season and working with this young and developing group. Our Under 15A team has had another successful season with an excellent set of results plus four of that squad have played for our under-18 groups this season.

B Clark

2nd XI

The 2nd XI completed a challenging season with 18 fixtures played, recording four wins, three draws, and eleven losses. However, these numbers don’t reflect the full picture. Throughout the season, the squad showed resilience, character, and moments of real promise, despite challenges with consistent selection.

Among the highlights were an emphatic 11-1 win over Sidcot School, a dominant 7-0 victory against Marlborough, and an exciting 5-5 draw against local rivals Queen Elizabeth Hospital School, a true testament to the team’s spirit and attacking flair.

This year also marked the farewell of key senior players. Defenders Alfie Moloney and Harry Pollitt were rock-solid throughout the season and have left big shoes to fill. In midfield, Matty Dixon’s relentless drive and work rate set the tone for the team.

Encouragingly, the squad began to blend experience with emerging talent, with several Year 10 players making impressive debuts. Their integration, alongside a committed group of Year 12s, gives real cause for optimism going into next season.

The coaching team extends their thanks to all players for their efforts and looks forward to building on the foundations laid this year.

M Green

3rd XI

The 3rd XI embarked on a season of significant transition this year, fielding almost an entirely new starting XI to last season’s world beaters.This presented both challenges and opportunities, with a vast contingent of the squad consisting of Year 11 players looking to make their mark. The season saw a mix of results, including a hard-fought friendly loss against QEH (1-2) at the beginning of the season, followed by defeats against Blundell’s School (1-2) and Wycliffe College (1-3). Whilst there were a few more losses, the turning point of the season came with a 4-6

loss to Millfield School on fortress Watson’s where the boys had led 3-1 at one stage and played outstandingly. This formed a solid foundation to build on with a fantastic 3-2 victory over Malvern College the following week and a solid 0-0 draw against Bryanston School.This year has laid a strong foundation for growth, and I am confident that the 3rd XI will return next season with renewed enthusiasm, and more importantly, experience. Player’s player of the Season was awarded to Ciaran West (CB- WiH) and Coach’s player of the season to Francis Allen (GK- MH).

K Smith

“The final two minutes were hectic but we held on and won 6-5”

4th XI

The 4th team enjoyed a season full of determination and growth. They were involved in several hard-fought matches, securing some impressive tight wins that reflected their grit and teamwork. While there were also a few tough losses, some by a wide margin, the boys never let their heads drop. Instead, these results spurred them on to train harder and improve both individually and as a unit. Their attitude, resilience, and willingness to learn were a real credit to them, and the progress made throughout the season was clear to see. With continued effort and commitment, the team is well placed for future success.

J Evans

5th XI

The 5th XI had a season to savour in 2025. With 17 goals scored in only five games, it’s fair to say that this team played positive football. A 1-1 draw against local rivals QEH, with a last minute equaliser from Alfie Bilney, got the season going before the first of two matches against Bromsgrove. The away leg was a dominant performance with Bilney netting a hat-trick in a 5-0 win. The return was a more even affair but still the team showed its class with a 4-2 win. Next up was Malvern, where the team snatched a draw from the jaws of victory, finishing 3-3. The final match was away against a historically strong Sherborne side. The most complete performance, as well as the goal of the season from Freddie Richmond, resulted in a 4-1 win and an unbeaten season!

Thank you for a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable football season, and best of luck in the future to the Year 13 leavers.

C Balfour

Under 15A

The team narrowly missed out on an unbeaten season, losing their final game in March to a strong Sherborne side 1-4. However, throughout the term they showed great levels of skill, resilience and teamwork to all develop as footballers. Of the 35 goals scored, Jacob Winter (ST) was the leading scorer with nine but eleven other players also scored at least one goal each and this is testament to the attacking threat that the team posed but also the large number of players who contested for a place in the match squads.

I was delighted with the positive approach that the group displayed in training sessions and the captain, Obe Tadhunter (ST) set a good example to the others in the team. With three of the team also representing the boys U18 A and B teams during the season, this group of players who clearly enjoy the sport should have a positive influence on the game at Clifton in the coming years. Many thanks to Mr Clark (Head of Football) for his excellent training sessions on Tuesday mornings through the term which the boys responded really positively to and proved invaluable in aiding all the players’ progression.

J Williams

“The most complete performance, as well as the goal of the season from Freddie Richmond, resulted in a 4-1 win and an unbeaten season!”

Girls’ Football

2025 saw the Clifton College girls football squad depart to Milan for their first tour experience.

Linking up with Inter Milan, the 18-player travelling squad enjoyed training sessions at the incredible Konami Youth Development Centre, home of all of Inter’s academy teams, with their trainers leading the sessions. The team were able to watch the U17 Inter girls vs. AC Milan, and also the U19 Inter girls vs. Como; both highlights of the trip.

Fixtures were played against local opposition and the team were lucky enough to experience a Serie A match between Inter and Udinese, with over 71,000 fans inside the stadium. The Clifton players were invited for a behind the scenes tour of the San Siro, and also to Inter HQ, where they enjoyed learning about the history of the club and were able to view all of their trophies, including the Champions League. There was also time for some cultural activities too; with a visit to the beautiful Duomo and to the terraces for views across Milan.

Well done to all players for their impeccable attitudes whilst on tour, and to the staff (Mrs Loisel, Mr Sainsbury and Miss Bassett) for accompanying the players.

1st XI

The third season of girls’ football at Clifton College saw the 1st XI enter a national competition for the first time. Drawn at home to BGS in the ISFA U18 Girls Cup first round, a competitive game was played between both sides. Although Clifton were on the wrong side of the result at the final whistle, special mention must go to new addition Poppy Mulready, who scored both of Clifton goals. Clifton then progressed into the plate side of the draw, travelling to St Edwards in Oxford for round 2. Despite playing the better of the football and dominating the possession, Clifton found themselves on the end of a narrow 1-0 loss. Lots of lessons learned and plenty to build on for next year’s competition.

The 1st XI team were also invited to join the ISFA SouthWest Development League for the first time; which meant home and away ties against Millfield, Taunton School, Kings Taunton, Sherborne and

Bryanston. The first Saturday fixture of the Lent Term was away to Taunton School, and Clifton were keen to start the league strongly. Passing patterns from the training ground began to show, and the work hard mantra was instilled from the beginning. At the end of the game, Clifton were deserved 4-0 winners, a hattrick from Poppy Mulready who continued to show her prowess in front of goal, and a great strike from Harri Ferris, for her first ever Clifton goal.

The games came thick and fast and the following two weekends saw us welcome King’s Taunton, and travel away to Millfield. An excellent team performance against King’s Taunton saw Clifton come away with a 3-0 victory; three different goal scorers in Imogen Davies, Poppy Stevenson and Lulu Thomas. A cold and windy day down at Millfield didn’t stop Clifton’s excellent start to the league, travelling back to BS8 with yet another three points in the bag. Captain Mina Rabiu with a well timed effort, followed by a

solo run and finish that went in off the post from new recruit, Aspen Prole.

The league results continued to go in Clifton’s favour and there were many positive comments from the sidelines about the progress the team were making. A 1-1 draw away to Sherborne, a 2-0 win at home to Bryanston and a 3-0 win away to Kings Taunton, Ellie Read scoring a brace, meant Clifton crept up the table. Millfield travelled to the return fixture with a stronger side than previous, and this proved too tough a test for Clfton, their first loss in the league, the result 3-1. Clifton were at this point second place in the league.

The final match of the season was against the current league leaders, Sherborne. A victory for Clifton would see them leapfrog them and win the league, but a draw or a loss would mean second place was the best possible finish. The game was tense from the beginning with both sides wanting the title. Sherborne scored first and led 1-0 up until half time.

Clifton started the second half with more attack, and levelled after ten minutes through Poppy Mulready. Clifton continued to throw everything forward and were unlucky to concede through a Sherborne counter attack. This did not stop the Clifton team’s efforts, and another through ball to Poppy Mulready was well taken, 2-2 and game on. Clifton produced wave after wave of attack and were unlucky not to get a winner in the closing minutes. Second place in the league secured for Clifton; a great first season representing in the South-West League.

The team, led by Year 13 captain Mina Rabiu, and Year 12 vicecaptains Bella Charleson and Jaimie Roberts, continued to be a pleasure to coach. Jaimie played every available minute and her consistent work rate, leadership and role model manner earned her the well deserved Player of the Season award. Coaches’ Player of the Season went to Year 11 Ellie Read, a player who was consistently the best trainer, maintained an excellent attitude on and off the pitch, and always showed incredible determination to win games.

A massive well done and thank you to all who represented the 1st XI so successfully this year and for your continued commitment to the programme. A total of 22 fixtures across the season.

2nd XI

Having been established last season, the Clifton College 2nd XI had a much fuller fixture programme this year and a committed pool of players from Year 10 upwards. Captained by Year 13 student, Tilly Harris, the squad played seven matches in total, netting 19 times across the games.

The results in the first couple of matches didn’t go Clifton’s way, as the team began to work out best positions for

individual players and came up against teams who had played together for longer. A 5-2 loss to Millfield, 6-1 loss to Cheltenham and 2-0 loss to Bromsgrove all came before the half term break. However, there was a change in fortune after half term and with improved skills and understanding of the game, Clifton secured their first win, 4-2 away to Sherborne. This was the start of a great run and the 2nd XI team certainly began to find the net.

The next game saw Clifton score six goals to Bryanston’s two; Issy Smith, Lilla Dudley-Pun, Annabel Philp, Harriet Dixon and Bea Sheppard Capurro all getting themselves onto the scoresheet. Top goalkeeping from Tilly Harris throughout kept the visitors at bay. The final game of the season for the 2nd XI was at home to Sherborne. Clifton displayed dominance throughout, coming away with a 5-0 victory. The highlight of the match was when Bea Sheppard Capurro scored directly from a corner kick; a first in 2nd XI history! Congratulations to all players who represented the 2nd XI this year.

U15A

The U15 team, made up of players from Years 9 and 10, continued to bring enthusiasm and excitement to both training and match days, resulting in great progress made by this pool of players. The highlight of the season was the match at home to Sherborne where Lily Limage’s effort from the halfway line beat the goalkeeper and rightly earned the goal of the season for this team. The game went on to finish in a fair 1-1 draw.

Next year, the U15 will enter a national competition for the first time and we look forward to seeing how they get on with this new challenge. The future continues to look bright for girls football at Clifton.

C Bassett

“Clifton were keen to start the league strongly. Passing patterns from the training ground began to show, and the work hard mantra was instilled from the beginning.”

Boys’ Cricket

1st XI

The 1st XI cricket season at Clifton College has been exceptional, culminating in a truly special achievement: reaching the Boys U18 T20 National Final at Lord’s. While the final against a strong Rugby School team ended in a disappointing defeat, the journey itself was a testament to the talent, resilience, and teamwork of this close-knit group of players. Many of them will return next year, undoubtedly galvanised by this experience.

Progressing through the national T20 competition is always a formidable challenge, especially in the South West, a region renowned for its strong school cricket tradition. A pivotal moment came in the regional final against Millfield, where Clifton secured a breakthrough victory. Lewis Popple’s superb and calm innings was crucial in chasing down a tricky target, showcasing nerves of steel under pressure.

The team then delivered a strong performance to defeat a highly competitive Wellington College, setting up a national semi-final clash against Epsom College, who were widely tipped as tournament favourites. Our boys, however, played magnificently. Logan Bowden led the charge with a top-class innings of 55, and then our spinners, supported by an incredibly committed fielding unit, stifled the highlyrated Epsom batting line-up, squeezing the life out of their chase. This victory secured our place at Lord’s.

The season itself took a little time to find its rhythm, with early losses against Malvern and Taunton School. These games, though perhaps winnable, served as valuable learning experiences. The team absorbed these lessons, and remarkably, did not lose another match until the final at Lord’s.

One of the most thrilling encounters was a truly remarkable run chase against Kings Taunton. In a T20 match that saw a staggering 480 runs scored in 39.2 overs, the 1st XI successfully chased down 239. Jack Hope Bell’s exceptional 106 off just 53 balls was a highclass innings, complemented by Jack Benkenstein’s explosive 61 off 26 balls.

Beating Millfield away was another significant achievement, where a slightly under-par score was defended superbly. Rhys Baker and Jonty Taylor bowled brilliantly to snuff out Millfield’s reply, demonstrating the depth of our bowling attack.

After half-term, the 1st XI truly hit their stride, playing some outstanding cricket. Individual highlights abounded: Jonty Taylor’s impressive 6/51 against Rugby School in our annual two-day fixture stood out, as did fine centuries from Stan Sainsbury (103) and our captain, Jack Hope Bell (120).

Jack Benkenstein then embarked on a “purple patch” of outstandingly skilful and committed batsmanship. He followed up an unbeaten 145 against Cheltenham College with a superb 187 against Glamorgan U18s. His crucial 95 then rescued the team from a precarious 37/4, guiding them to chase down 219 against Kings Taunton.

This season has been a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent within Clifton College cricket. While the Lord’s final was a tough pill to swallow, the journey and the many memorable performances along the way will undoubtedly inspire this team and future Clifton cricketers.

T Hancock and J Williams

2nd XI

The depth of cricketing talent at the senior level at Clifton College was impressive this season, none more so than within our 2nd XI. This squad consistently produced exceptional cricket, with several players stepping up to the 1st XI and demonstrating their capabilities, sometimes with outstanding performances.

The season kicked off with comfortable victories against Kingswood, Prior Park, and Bradfield College, setting a positive note. Prior Park, however, made the team work for their win, chasing down 91 runs in 20 overs. Stan Sainsbury, Sai Kollareddy, and Nikash Choughule all offered glimpses of their high-class batsmanship. A particular highlight was the victory against Taunton School, played on a glorious, sunny day on the Close. The opposition embodied the spirit of cricket, playing with generosity and sportsmanship while remaining highly competitive. The unbeaten run from 2024 eventually came to an end against Millfield, but not before Stan Sainsbury once again showcased his talent with a fluent 69, proving his class.

The second half of the term presented more challenges due to player unavailability. Despite this, it was a pleasure to welcome Christ College Brecon to the Close, a fixture where the team was bolstered by the welcome addition of a few 1st XI players. The final weekend saw a narrow defeat to King’s Taunton, a testament to the competitive nature of the fixtures.

Throughout the season, George Charles Price stood out as the top wicket-taker. His clever changes of pace consistently bamboozled many batters. Of the batters Stan Sainsbury showed some outstanding touches and became a regular first team player. Nik Choughule played some impressive shots but needs to decide whether he may be served better spending more time in the middle rather than watching from the sidelines. Nathaniel Phillips also contributed some muscular innings’ and kept wicket superbly.

Overall, it’s been a fun and rewarding season for everyone involved, filled with some outstanding cricket. Very well done and thank you to everyone who played.

T Hancock & J Willams

U15A

The U15s came into the season rather low on confidence after a below-par season in Year 9. The first game against Malvern did little to change that, as a batting collapse resulted in an easy win for the travelling opponents. However a Cup T20 win the following week against Collegiate kick-started the season. Three more wins (against Bradfield, QEH and Taunton) followed, with everyone contributing with either bat or ball. The team experienced a bit of a midseason blip, coming a distant second to both Millfield and Marlborough, but this was not enough to dent the spirit of the boys. After half term, the final of the area T20 cup against Beechen Cliff resulted in the most complete team performance and the boys were worthy winners. Christ College Brecon were then swiftly dispatched, but old foes Cheltenham and King’s Taunton proved too much, however the match against the latter produced the game of the season with Clifton falling four runs short of the mammoth 192 set by King’s.

As is now a yearly tradition, the U15s took part in the Magdalen College School Cricket Festival. This was a chance to play schools from outside the usual circuit over two days. Some excellent cricket was played, and the team got a deserved win against The Perse to finish their tour.

Many thanks and congratulations to all the boys for their efforts this season. Batting half centuries from Oscar Johnson, Ed Turner, Harrison Leadbeater and Archie Warby and ten wickets from Turner, Warby, Freddie Unwin, Benji Finlay and Obi Tadhunter were the pick of the individual performances but this was a true team effort throughout the season. Well done to all involved.

C Balfour

U15B

The U15B team have enjoyed a mixed season overall this term as shown by the mixed set of wins, cancellations and losses. There have been individual highlights, like magic spells by McCann and Maqsood and super boundaries by Ede and Unwin. Catches of a brilliant standard have been taken.There have been spells when batting or in the field the opposition have felt under great pressure. However, if we are honest with ourselves we haven’t maintained this enough to fulfil our potential in all games. Different individuals have stolen the limelight in B team games on different occasions showing the similar ability among a large number of C, B and A squad players. Nets and square training have been competitive and have developed the games of numerous boys. Thanks to the cricket staff for their invaluable support all summer on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Concentration and consistency in our game is something we are still all learning and should be the target for Senior Cricket next year.

J Gardner

U15C

Coming to the end of my eleventh auspicious year at Clifton I cannot remember a cricket team that I have enjoyed taking more than this motley crew of marvellousness. Inherited from Mr. Luker, the lads were something of an unknown quantity. Discovery was to be delayed a little owing to the Malvern match having to be cancelled.

Thus it was that our first game against Bradfield College was the most hotly anticipated and talked about fixture around campus. The boys did not disappoint. A superbly tight bowling performance led by Nathaniel Tombomieye, Tom Prewett, Samyo Limbu and Dan Luckock was followed by a buccaneering, rope-clearing, crowd-wowing 59 in 20 balls from Archie Hamilton-Davis before he had to retire and run off to a rugby award ceremony. This seemed to buoy Bradfield briefly and there was a slight resurgence from their bowlers. However, the boys held their nerve and a nerve-assuaging, six-hitting, sang-froid innings from Aaron Mills (South Town) saw us to the finishing post. Victors by four wickets.

Next? The big one! Millfield! Away! The rivalry? Tangible! The boys’ focus? Unflappable. A superb performance which saw Xander Smith and Bailey Dowson both on hat-tricks, with Bailey ultimately polishing off the Millfield resistance with an MVP bowling display. Superb contributions from Dan Luckock, Will Gear and a dogged Lucas Hoyle (with pace and menace) and excellent keeping from Dilwyn Howells - a regular captain and guru amongst his teammates. Great batting contributions from our top order including Will Grey, Xander and Jacob ‘slugger’ Winter and we prevailed by an utterly comprehensive, statement-making, eight wickets.

What followed was what has been called the ‘dark-days’ of our season, at odds with the scorching weather. Though the records will show a 94 run loss and eight wicket loss to Marlborough and Cheltenham respectively, by the last game of the season, the boys had rallied themselves and, with their mojos returned, a resounding eight wicket victory against King’s Taunton was a fitting, and emphatic, way to end the season, Tom Brown starring with the bat.

What a pleasure it has been to coach these boys this season and I cannot wait to see them taking names on The Close in a few years time. Thank you to all who contributed to the team, players and interim-coaches alike, and to Mr. Tim Hancock who spearheaded a superb term of cricket for the boys across the year groups.

D Harris

U14A

Mr Bates and I, alongside three senior professionals (Grindal, Nair, Davis) in the team decided that the best chance of victory lay in winning the toss and putting the opposition into bat. It worked on four of the matches against Bristol Grammar, Bradfield, Taunton and Collegiate. Against Malvern,

King’s Taunton and Millfield we came up against some excellent batters who posed too big a target for our boys to get. Unfortunately Marlborough, Bromsgrove and Kingswood were called off. The runs were mainly scored by Grindal, Davis and Nair and contributions from Leadbeater, Heffernan, Williams, Wells and Patal.

Bowling was in the good hands of Heffernan, Nair, Wells, Wilson, Hobbs and Davies. Nair was a reliable cover point who held on to some fine catches whilst at the same time giving enthusiastic support to our captain, Grindal.

Grindal and Davis were our keepers and we are so lucky to have two quality glove men who shared it around. Jonty Grindal captained well but needs to realise going forward how important it is to climb out of the emotion of his own game and to focus on his team mates’ wellbeing.

We changed things up for the Tour. Anay Nair captained the side and we played four matches in two days. We also decided to bat first if we won the toss.

Haberdashers’ was first up. We posted 162 off 20 overs. Nair and Davis batted beautifully for 54 and 50. We had them 39 for two before a decent partnership got them to 120 for three with a fine

direct hit throw from Leadbeater and then a fine stumping from Grindal off the bowling of Williams set up a tense finish. Needing three off the last over Haberdashers’ crept over the line six wickets down.

In the afternoon we played Ardingly. Nair got a classy 62 in a total of 145. We got Ardingly 28 for two with Heffernan bowling beautifully getting the two wickets. But like in the first game three and four batters came in and put on a partnership of 80 before a top draw run out from Nair and Grindal made it another tense finish. Needing five off the last over they got it with three balls to spare.

Footy in the evening, a hearty dinner and a good rest, bought a bounce in the team on day two.

The Leys were first up. We lost the toss and Leys batted. We bowled and batted brilliantly keeping it tight and got Leys out for 95. We managed to get over the line seven down with extras being the highest score of 35 and a very steady partnership from Davis and Williams. But it was Wells and Heffernan hitting the winning runs.

Our final match was against Berkhamstead. Losing the toss we fielded under the hot sun and mistakes crept in but the boys kept going. Berkhamstead reached 152 from 20 overs. Nair and Davis got us off to a quick start before Nair got bowled by the off spinner for 30. That brought Heffernan in. The boys batted beautifully, putting on a 100 partnership, before Heff got out on the last ball of the 19th over and needing five to win from six balls. First ball was a dot and then Davis hit the sweetest six over long on winning us the game with four balls to spare.

What a fantastic tour. Won two, lost two. All games going to the wire. The boys have been fantastic in their approach to training and their work ethic has been very good this season. Going forward discipline and concentration for longer periods is key but it has been an enjoyable season.

B Bates and R Williams

U14B

The U14B cricket season has drawn to a close, and while the scoreboard might not always reflect it, the team has shown tremendous growth, resilience, and spirit throughout a challenging season.

The U14Bs faced a competitive fixture list, encountering strong opposition. The final record for the season stands at two wins and five losses. In two of these losses, the boys faced a daunting run chase of over 200 and the team’s continued effort in the face of this challenge was commendable. Despite the tough results, there were moments of brilliance and collective effort that stood out. Freddie Miles led the team well, giving clear instructions in the field and always leading by example. With ball in hand, Jed Gomina was a force to be reckoned with. New to the game, he developed a technique which saw him deliver pace and accuracy in the opening spell. Barnaby Vine, Max Hamilton Davies and Thomas Fake showed great consistency in the final matches and took some vital wickets. With the bat, many boys demonstrated the ability to strike the ball hard, however, often the boys struggled to build an innings and conserve their wickets.

The U14B cricket season has been a vital stepping stone for these young cricketers. The focus on development, learning from mistakes, and playing with integrity has

laid a strong foundation for their future in the sport. The experience gained this year, both individually and as a team, will undoubtedly serve them well as they progress through the age groups. Congratulations to all the players for their hard work, commitment, and for representing the school with such pride.

U14C

The 2025 cricket season was a really good one for the U14C team and they all played their part in some excellent wins. The squad were all willing to chip in with runs, bowling and throwing themselves around in the field. Their batting performance against Bradfield College stands out where they played with patience and intelligence to post an impressive total. In training they were mature and applied themselves well and made good progress. On match days they were fine ambassadors for the school and lots of fun was had by all! Overall a top season from a wonderful group of young men the school can be proud of! N Luker

Girls’ Cricket

The season started brightly, where a new fixture against Christ College Brecon ensued and the girls began with a win. Electing to field first, Jaimie Roberts opened her bowling account with two key wickets, with the rest being shared around the team in the spirit of true teamwork! The total was chased down rapidly, might it have had something to do with several of the team having to get to ‘the ball’ in the evening perhaps?

Staying with the Welsh theme the girls played their first 100 ball Cup game against Monmouth School on The Close. The sun shone and Bea Willis scored an impressive 115*. This coupled with some slick team fielding, and bowling by Nurandee Wipulasuriya claiming two important wickets, leading to an encouraging win.

A delightful trip to KES Bath ensued, a super team effort, with many players from the squad opening their batting accounts for the first time in the season. Some great technical batting on display and rapid running between the wickets. Polly Lloyd claimed the highest score with the bat, and with the ball, taking four wickets, was Nurandee Wipulasuriya, an impressive win played with good spirits, maybe the delicious cheese board also helped a little too!

Sadly the winning way was cut a little short in the next two matches. The extras got the better of the team when playing against Cheltenham College, despite this the opposition were forced to play until the last over before reaching the total. King’s Taunton was an extremely close game, despite the best effort of Bea Willis and Sophie Murray’s opening partnership of 96 runs, and an important wicket from Hattie Wells dismissing their opener, Kings chased down the runs with one ball to spare.

Finding their winning ways, the team managed to hold Taunton school to 128 runs, following the early dismissal of their number two batter caught by Bea Willis from the bowling of Sophie Pickering, and their number one batter caught behind by Sophia Jefferies from the bowling of Indie - Rose Murray. Mitzeee Tadhunter was the highest wicket taker with a further 2. With the goal in sight Bella Herring and Sophie Murray set off in hot pursuit with a partnership of 114, 59 and 55* respectively.

The Close beckoned again, this time against Marlborough College. Clifton elected to field first and put Marlborough in to bat and they started in a strong fashion. Clifton needed to find a way to break up their 97 opening partnership, Hattie Wells stepped up and took the wicket of their number two LBW. This was followed by an incredible catch from Matilda Mortimore from Nurandee Wipulasuriya’s bowling. Having a clear run target to chase down Bea Willis and Bella Herring set to work, a partnership of 84* and 52* was enough to claim the win.

Following the withdrawal of teams in round one and two of the 100 Ball Cup, we faced Millfield in the last 16. Sadly we just couldn’t rekindle our batting ways up against some extremely unforgiving bowling and attacking fielding.

The final match of the season saw the girls heading to Bradfield, and it was great to be able to welcome some junior players into the squad too. Choosing to bat first, Daisy Simpkins got the team off to a great start with 39 runs and we were gifted 54 extras resulting in a 125 target for Bradfield to exceed. Bradfiield settled in, before a fantastic catch from Sophia Jefferies off the bowling of Lara Holt in her

debut performance. Jemima Smith dismissed their number 2 batter shortly after, game on! A further wicket and catch from the Lara and Sophia combo, was not quite enough for the win. Great team effort and spirit was shown by all.

As to be expected during the exam season the squad varied from game to game, but what was clear to see was the depth of emerging talent that exists in the players and what a fabulous journey those players have

shown throughout the season and huge thanks must go to all those who played in the 1st XI.

Cricket Awards:

Dolman Cup: Jemima Smith

Best Batter: Bea Willis

Best Bowler: Nurandee Wipulasuriya

Most Improved Player: Mitzee Tadhunter

S Johnson

“Some great technical batting on display and rapid running between the wickets.”

Tennis

U15 Boys

The U15 boys tennis squads started the season with the long away trip to Bromsgrove School, a fixture that always produces competitive and exciting matches. With two squads in action, bragging rights for the bus ride home were up for grabs. The U15A started strongly with Nikhel Douglas and Josh Newman, Clifton’s pair one, winning 6-2. The 2nd pair of Rory Williams and Nicholas Donowho also won their first game. The Clifton team kept up the pressure but were unlucky to lose out 5-4 overall. Next up were the U15B team who showed their prowess, winning the fixture comfortably. All pairs, 1st Michael Yu and Andrew Harris, 2nd Rocco Constable and Oliver Jones and 3rd Jack Griffin and Hinson Ng all recorded wins; an excellent start to their campaign.

The highlight of the season was the away fixture to Sherborne where we had A, B and C sides out for the first time. In rather windy conditions, the play was difficult but it was great to see all players adapting and working together to try and find solutions to the force of the elements. The U15A had their first grass court experience and enjoyed a warm up that was fit for Wimbledon! Nikhel Douglas and Josh Newman continued their fine form from the season with three wins from three. The third pairing of Gil Carre and Ton Pitayanukul also pulled off a win. Despite many close games between all pairs, the result finished 5-4 to Sherborne.

In the B team fixture, Michael Yu and Andrew Harris served up many aces, and worked hard given the conditions. The result for them was three wins from three. At 4-4, the final game of the afternoon saw Rocco Constable and Oliver Jones go to a tie-break, eventually winning 7-6 and clinching a 5-4 win overall for the B squad. In the C team games, 1st pair Chris Martin and Freddy Gill won two out of three matches, and 2nd pairing Will Gent and Harry Kendell beat their first pair 6-2. Special mention to newly formed 3rd pair Pranil Ghale and Sun Zheng who represented the college for the first time.

Congratulations to the following on their end of season awards:

U15A Player of the Season: Nikhel Douglas

U15A Most Improved player: Josh Newman

U14B Player of the Season: Andrew Harris

U14B Most Improved player: Michael Yu

U14C Player of the Season: Chris Martin

U14C Most Improved player: Harry Kendall

C Bassett

“With two squads in action, bragging rights for the bus ride home were up for grabs.”

Athletics

Athletics has gone from strength to strength this season with the influx of a large number of enthusiastic and talented athletes across all age groups. We have been lucky enough to have a squad of over 40 students, meaning that we’ve been able to field fiercely competitive teams at all of our fixtures. Marlborough hosted two Nitro events this season, and our athletes rose to the challenge of these gruelling

team events amazingly. In fact, the Inter boys won the second of these fixtures, clearly having honed their tactics from the first. The annual Millfield Grand Prix was yet another showcase of talent and it was great to see several Clifton athletes achieve podium positions. Both the Inter Girls and Inter Boys teams narrowly missed out on qualifying for the regional finals of the England Schools’ Track & Field Cup. However, several

of our athletes have achieved individual success through the county and regional rounds. As we head on into the Summer holidays, three students are preparing to compete at the national finals in July. Huge congratulations to Ollie Moon for qualifying for the 300m, and the mixed 100m relay, to Darcy Simpson for qualifying for the 800m, and Lola Simpson for qualifying for the 1500m.

Outside of school, it is worth noting that Darcy and Lola Simpson, twins in Year 9, have been selected to represent Team GB at the European Biathle Championships in Turkey in November. The format of this event is run-swim-run, combining their amazing talents in both of these disciplines. We wish them all the very best of luck, they are definitely ones to watch!

E Kenyon

Basketball

House Basketball

The girls House Basketball on Tuesday, 17th June was a thrilling event. The competition consisted of a league, followed by playoffs between the 1st and the 2nd teams to decide an overall winner. West Town fielded a very strong team and with two wins and a draw, they won the league and looked the favourite going into the playoffs. In a tight race between the other three competing houses, Worcester House managed to sneak into second place with two draws and a win. While the league took place on the half court, for the final we went to full court, it was here that Worcester House came into their own, storming up the court. Their fast break game

and persistent attacks were too much for West Town. After a heroic battle, the game ended 8-4 to Worcester House, who are this year’s House Basketball champions!

Boys’ House Basketball 2025 was a similarly epic event on Thursday, 19th June. The competition took the form of a knock-out tournament, as we tipped off the first game between Moberly´s House and Wiseman´s House. The sideline was packed with opposing

teams cheering on the players. Moberly´s won and moved on to the semi-finals, meanwhile School House beat North Town 4-2, while South Town smashed East Town 12-0 before quickly forfeiting their place in the competition, allowing East Town to progress to the semis. In the semi finals, East Town went up against Watson’s, who as the clear favourites had been given a go-by to the semifinals. Watson’s breezed past East Town despite their valiant efforts, winning 12-6. On the

other side of the bracket, in a tight game between Moberly´s and School House, Moberly´s came out on top. Which takes us to the final, where Watson’s matched up against Moberly´s. The game went into extended time for the final and the two teams battled it out under the unforgiving sun for four five minute quarters. This game was a matter of size and strength vs skill and precision. We saw the unstoppable force of the dazzling finishing ability of our Elite Basketball Squad face an immovable object in the form of Clifton rugby players. At half time, the score was 6-6. In the end Moberly’s size and strength, combined with their Year 10 point guard Curtis´s unselfish play, saw them go up 12-10 to win this year’s House basketball competition.

“The sideline was packed with opposing teams cheering on the players.”

Fencing

The Clifton College fencing squad has enjoyed a truly outstanding season, marked by tenacity, skill, and a series of impressive results. Fencing in multiple school matches, the team has shown great progress, culminating in a fantastic performance at the Public Schools Fencing Championships (PSFC). Despite being one of the smallest squads in the top tier, Clifton finished fifth overall, a remarkable achievement.

The squad also proudly took home the Most Improved Girls Points Trophy, reflecting the team’s growing strength. Individual honours were led by Aleksander Ziajowski, crowned Senior Boys Epee Champion and awarded Master at Arms, and Freddie Wilks, who earned

Master at Arms in the MountHaes Girls. Curtis Lai claimed second in Master at Arms and third in Junior Foil, alongside Vera Hsuan (3rd Junior Foil) and Tory Hsuan (3rd Mount-Haes Sabre).

This success builds on last year’s historic season. Many in the squad only began fencing three years ago at Prep School, yet are now winning national accolades.

Among the stars rising through the prep ranks is Eden Lunge (Year 8), who has had a phenomenal three years: winning the British Youth Championships twice, finishing third once, claiming two IAPS titles, and winning the English

Youth Championships. Also making her mark is Althea Hodge (Year 5), who took second place at this year’s IAPS Championships, an exciting sign of what’s to come.

The squad boasts equal numbers of boys and girls, with fencers across all year groups and a promising group of Year 8s joining the senior squad next year.

We warmly congratulate our captains, Alek and Charlie, whose leadership, dedication, and team spirit have been central to this year’s achievements.

It’s also been inspiring to hear of Old Cliftonians continuing their fencing careers, including one who is already a university squad captain in their second year.

Clifton continues to build a competitive and inclusive fencing programme, supporting athletes of all levels. With strong results, a thriving prep pathway, and growing depth, the squad is ready to take on even greater challenges ahead.

R Bernstein

Cross Country

We had yet another wonderful cross country season this year, combining some of our old faithful routes with some new discoveries. We continued with our Parkrun entries, branching out to the slightly flatter Blaise Castle route, and a chance for a couple of PBs from the group. We also entered a new competition for the first time, the England Schools Cross Country National Cup. This was a team competition where the places of your top four runners counted towards your score. With the help of our fantastically strong new joiners in the group, our Intermediate Girls team sped through the local county and regional rounds, and qualified for the National Finals in Leeds. Here they did incredibly well, finishing tenth overall!

Congratulations to Tilly Coomber, Lucy Prickett, Darcy Simpson and Lola Simpson.

Many of these runners, together with a few others, also progressed through the individual rounds of the England Schools’ Cup, with Darcy, Lola and Tilly all qualifying for the national finals in this event, along with Ellie Weston and Fletcher Rogers.

Obviously a cross country season wouldn’t be the same without the annual cross country race, The Pens. This year, we were lucky with the weather before and during the event meaning that there was slightly less mud to deal with. As ever, it was a superb afternoon with some incredible results:

Boys’ Long Pen: Halbie Wagstaff (38 mins 15)

Girls’ Long Pen: Evie Grindal (45 mins 33)

Boys’ Mid Pen: Dillon Scott (19 mins 45)

Girls’ Mid Pen: Tilly Coomber (22 mins 36)

Boys’ Short Pen: Fletcher Rogers (18 mins 07)

Girls’ Short Pen: Lola Simpson (19 mins 04)

E Kenyon

Golf

The golf programme at Clifton College has experienced remarkable growth and success this year, built on the strong foundation of our valued affiliation with Long Ashton Golf Club. This partnership continues to provide our students with access to exceptional facilities and playing opportunities that have been instrumental in developing their skills and passion for the game.

Our teams have achieved great success in matches throughout the year, demonstrating the quality and dedication of players across all levels of the programme. The consistent performance in competitive fixtures reflects the excellent

preparation and commitment shown by every participant in the Clifton golf programme. In total, across various levels, there have been 36 competitive fixtures this year which has seen 27 Clifton students having the opportunity to experience golf in a variety of different competition formats.

Significant progress has been made by all students involved, with improvements evident in both technical ability and course management. The programme has successfully catered to players of varying experience levels, ensuring each individual has developed their game meaningfully over the course of the year.

Special recognition must go to Jack Lockwood and Taylor Hodgson, whose outstanding achievements this year exemplify the potential within our golf programme. Their dedication, skill development, and competitive performances have set an inspiring example for their peers and represent the very best of Clifton golf.

The addition of our on-site golf simulator has proved invaluable, providing year-round training opportunities regardless of weather conditions. This facility has enhanced technical development and allowed for detailed swing analysis that complements our on-course instruction.

Finally, I extend my sincere gratitude to Andy Rudge for his expert coaching and unwavering support throughout the year. His professional guidance and commitment to each student’s development have been fundamental to the programme’s continued success and growth.

J Bobby

Rowing

Rowing is never the easy option, and that holds true at any level. Even for novices, the infamous rowing “faff factor” of getting boats and equipment on the water, coupled with long, arduous ergo sessions, can be a deterrent. However, for those who commit, the calmness of training on the river with likeminded individuals proves a significant draw. Away from the school’s daily hustle, the boat shed truly remains a haven for many Cliftonians.

While the club might not have had the capacity to field as many big boats this year as in recent seasons, this hasn’t diminished the determination of those who participate. Josh Hogwood and Poppy Janke led by example, demonstrating that with focus, the club’s members can achieve their very best. Though results didn’t always go their way, they proved that Clifton can be competitive on the local regatta circuit. Sophia Harrison deserves special credit for her sheer determination; having never picked up an oar until last summer, she quickly became a versatile oarswoman racing in a single, double and quad. Marcus Whittley and Edoardo

Giovarussico have also trained as part of the club, representing the school on a number of occasions gaining their novice pot at Evesham regatta. As these Year 13 rowers leave Clifton, we’re confident it won’t be their last time in a boat.

Amelia Lucas will take the helm as club captain next year, and with a superb win in the WJ17 single sculls event at Worcester Regatta, she certainly has the knowledge and ability to continue to support our younger rowers. Further down the school, we have a superb collection of Year 10 rowers showing great promise. Ellie Gear has truly led this group with her fine technique and a real sense of teamwork, always willing to get on and have a go. She’s put in impressive single scull performances at Worcester and Avon County regattas, and with more time on the water, she’ll continue to improve. A junior quad of Annie Perks, Annabelle Shen, Flora Lean, and Annabel Philp, coxed by Flower Yonge, has also shown that Clifton can be highly competitive in this event. Recent races at Avon County have instilled confidence in them, suggesting

Rackets

The season started well at the beginning of September with a tour to Seacourt on Hayling Island.

Clifton rackets enjoyed another full on programme of fixtures travelling around the country. We battled well, but getting over the line to win was tough. We scrapped and fought hard in games but the majority of the matches we couldn’t achieve that clinical finish.

they could achieve great things with more time in the boat. Jake Howells, Archie Catchpole, and Victor Delmas have also worked incredibly hard in a short period, putting in strong performances at Avon County. This season indicates that the boat club, while in a period of rebuilding, has the potential to produce some very competitive crews. Our recent capacity to offer rowing to Year 7 and 8 students in the Prep School is a positive step, and we hope this will continue to increase the number of pupils taking up the sport in the Upper School. All of this bodes well for next year’s season.

At this point, sincere thanks must go to our dedicated coaching team, though we will unfortunately be losing one valuable member this year. Sinead Lynch has been a stalwart of the club for the past five years, always willing to help in any capacity. From driving a minibus to coxing any crew, her versatility and unwavering support have been greatly valued. Thank you, Sinead, for your time and dedication to the club.

Charlie Read captained the side brilliantly. He was always at the court, working angles with the youngsters and always stayed positive. His game grew in confidence and was a very reliable and loyal Fella.

Halbie Wagstaff worked hard at his game all year. We were very lucky to have James Rossiter and Wilf Walker, from the University of Bristol, and Luke Sutor to put him through his paces. This resulted in a fantastic Queen’s for Halbie at Christmas. He played Henry Henman in the final of the Renny, losing 3/0 but he put up a top draw fight against a very talented winner.

Thanks also extend to the rest of the coaching team: Andrew Marchesi, Sarah West, Joe Lines, Laura Snook, Bradley Wells, and Harry Serle. Being responsible for young people on the water is often a daunting task, but this team handles it with professionalism and takes it all in their stride, ensuring that the experience and joy of rowing continues to be offered to all.

Awards for the 2024-25 season.

Cox of the Year: Flower Yonge

Novice of the Year: Sophia Harrison

Oarswoman of the Year: Amelia Lucas

Oarsman of the Year: Archie Catchpole

Club Regatta Winner: Ellie Gear

The girls were constantly in, getting good court time, practising hard and loved the competition. The eight Year 12 girls will hopefully kick on in their final year come September.

Halbie Wagstaff won the Windows Trophy - Senior Tournament

Gil Carre won the Inverdale RacketJunior Tournament

Jess Gunter won the Beale Board for the girls

Old Cliftonian Society

The year for the Development Team and Old Cliftonian Society began with the opening of the Chellaram Sports Complex at the Sports Ground, which was made possible by the generous donation of Mr Lal Chellaram OC.

The opening of the complex included a special community ceremony with representatives of the Chellaram Foundation and Mrs Peaches Golding OBE CStJ, the Lord-Lieutenant of the County and City of Bristol.

We were also delighted to welcome Laura Gammage as Director of Development. Laura, who joined us from the King’s Trust, brings extensive experience in charitable fundraising and will support the College’s development projects and bursarial provision.

Membership of the Old Cliftonian Society now stands at over 6,600 OCs in 99 countries. We remain proud of our network for life with OCs returning to the College every year for tours, reunions, and more recently to provide career mentorship and support to current pupils and young OCs.

1862 Club

In May, we held our annual 1862 Club lunch at the Pavilion, where we welcomed over 40 members back to the College. Guests enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with fellow members, enjoy lunch, and listen to performances from some of our Music Scholars.

Founded ten years ago, the 1862 Club was established to honour and appreciate those who have included Clifton College in their will. This special recognition allows the College to express gratitude to members during their lifetime. These generous gifts have significantly enriched the lives of Clifton’s pupils and we are deeply grateful to all donors.

A legacy donation is one of the most meaningful and enduring gifts you can make. After ensuring the interests of family and friends, choosing to leave a legacy can be a tax-efficient and straightforward way to make a real difference to Clifton.

Breakfast Club

Our Breakfast Club events have been a popular fixture throughout the calendar. We have held eight breakfasts this academic year, offering opportunities for parents and Old Cliftonians to connect and expand their networks. A highlight of these gatherings is the rich variety of speakers who share their experiences and perspectives. We’ve been privileged to hear fascinating talks covering a broad spectrum, from the world of podcasting to the world of chocolate

Most recently, we were honoured to host Sir John Royce, who provided a captivating look into his career as a High Court judge. Beyond our external speakers, the Breakfast Clubs also serve as an excellent platform to engage with important figures from within the College. We’ve welcomed both Melvyn Roffe,

CEO of the Clifton College Education Group, and James Moore, Director of Performing Arts, shortly after their appointments, giving them a chance to discuss their roles and vision for Clifton.

OC Reunions

In June, we were delighted to welcome back several year groups for long-awaited reunions, including the Class of 1995 and, for the first time, Old Cliftonians who left between 2005 and 2015. We were thrilled to be joined not only by UK-based OCs, but also by former pupils who flew in from Nigeria, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Reunions are always a special event, seeing OCs return to school and reconnect with their peers and create new memories in familiar surroundings. Alongside a reception and dinner, guests enjoyed a special exhibition of photographs from their school days, carefully curated from our archives to spark nostalgia and conversation.

J Pickles Head of Alumni and Community

Valete

Michelle Harris

Michelle arrived in the Modern Languages Faculty at Clifton in 1996 and from the off she proved herself to be a consummate professional. She set high standards, prepared all lessons meticulously and her love of languages, both Spanish and French, made her an effective and inspiring teacher. She was dedicated to her job, always organised, well prepared and committed to getting the best from her pupils, who enjoyed her classes and got good results. Many pupils from her A Level classes went on to study languages at top universities and found themselves ahead of the game, as they had been so well taught, particularly in complex grammar.

She took over as Head of Spanish from 2001 to 2022 and ran the department highly efficiently. She supported all of her colleagues exceptionally well, in particular making sure that the language assistants were involved and content. She ran Argentinian and Mexican exchanges for a number of years, so that the pupils could put their language into practice. One of the most memorable exchanges would probably be the

one in July 1997 when she took a group of seven boys to Argentina for four weeks on her own. They discovered Buenos Aires, went camping in the jungle, went for long walks and even spent time in the Salta desert. A once in a lifetime experience, showing how dedicated Michelle has been during her time at Clifton.

Under her leadership the Spanish department actively took part in the annual debates against other schools, the poetry evenings and ran several trips in addition to the exchanges mentioned earlier. The Modern Language Faculty moved several times over the years ending up at 4/5 Worcester Road, and she handled these relocations really well. She is known for her cooking skills and pupils and teachers alike have enjoyed her baking for many years. Outside the classroom she supported the Community Service programme and passed on some of her culinary skills to pupils in a very popular activity slot. In Worcester House she was a highly reliable tutor for many years who took over the Friday night duty slot and made it her own, thoroughly enjoying chatting to pupils whilst on duty and positively supporting the girls in her tutor group sessions.

During her time at Clifton, Michelle worked with six Heads of Languages and they all commended her hard work and incredible expertise.

Her commitment to languages and her passionate belief that pupils should be steeped in not only the language itself but also the culture of the countries is to be applauded, because so much can be lost in translation as is evident in the world today. She will be greatly missed and we wish her all the best in her retirement.

Géraldine Maringo

Anne John

Anne joined Clifton in 2013 following a history degree at Queen’s College, Cambridge and two years with Teach First in the north east of England. She made an instant impression on us all and gave the History department some much needed dynamism! She proved to be an outstanding and inspirational classroom teacher. Full of ideas and energy, her teaching was creative, challenging and fun - it didn’t take long to win over her new pupils.

It was, therefore, no surprise when she was appointed to be Head of Department in 2016. She was a trail-blazer: the first woman to hold this appointment in Clifton’s history, and it was about time too. Anne was a pleasure to work with and for; she set the tone and provided some seriously impressive leadership of her department and subject. Bonds were strengthened with local schools and the Historical Association, with Anne proactively inviting distinguished guest speakers to school. All of this was done with great enthusiasm and energy - she was always one for an initiative for the department and for our teaching. She took on A Level examining and became quite an expert on the A Level coursework module and the Tudor paper. In essence, Anne built a very happy department, one we all enjoyed working

in where strong and lasting friendships were established.

For the majority of her time at Clifton Anne was a tutor in Oakeley’s House. Her committed support of her tutees and the life of the boarding house was hugely appreciated by all. In later years she moved to Holland’s House, which made life a little easier after her house move to Cardiff and the associated long commute. She used this tutoring expertise when she took on the role of Senior Tutor in the Sixth Form - a role she developed significantly. Anne also made a wide contribution to sport and the co-curriculum through netball, hockey and school societies. One of her proudest achievements was her contribution and leadership of the pupil-led school magazine, the Herald.

Anne was involved in many school trips ranging from the department’s annual Year 9 battlefields trip to Ypres and the Sommes and the Year 10 and 11 visit to Berlin in December, to helping staff the Classics department trip to Italy or the Geography department in Iceland. This love of overseas visits culminated in her very last term at Clifton where she led an extraordinary Sixth Form trip to Washington DC on the eve of the US elections.

Anne became Chair of the SCR in 2020 and worked tirelessly on behalf of the SCR and her colleagues to foster good relations with the leadership team and represent all our interests. We owe her a great deal for her work in this area.

Anne was a tour de force and achieved so much in her eleven years at Clifton. She is and will be seriously missed, but her long commute became just too much and she took the difficult decision to leave and start a new teaching role at Llandaff, close to home and her family. Llandaff’s gain was very much our loss and to say we miss her doesn’t even come close.

Simon Tait

Daisy King

Daisy started her Clifton journey as a child in Wiseman’s House, being the daughter of the HoM, Mr Mike West. After attending Badminton School, Daisy joined Clifton for the Sixth Form and went onto Durham University to study Theology (inspired by the Greenburys, naturally). After her PGCE, Daisy became a Primary School teacher, rising quickly to become Deputy Head of Olveston Primary School. In 2015 she qualified as a SENCO and then Clifton was lucky enough to secure her as Head of Learning Support and Upper School SENCO in 2018.

Since then she has developed the department beyond recognition and doubled the size of the team. This is testament to Daisy’s energy and personality - who wouldn’t want to work for her, especially in the beautiful setting of the Fyffe Centre? The relocation of the department to the heart of the Upper School, for which Daisy fought so hard, has raised the profile considerably and has enhanced the inclusion of pupils with learning needs. She has introduced some significant initiatives such as the CrossCollege SEN Parents’ Breakfasts and forged strong links with the Wellbeing and Safeguarding teams. She naturally fosters excellent relationships with pupils, parents and staff. Daisy has a genuine passion for

supporting those with SEN and championing good practice by always seeking opportunities to advance the teaching methods, attitudes and understanding of all members of the community. Inclusion is at the core of everything Daisy does. She works tirelessly across the whole school to ensure that the transition to Clifton and the pupils’ experiences are positive, which enables them to thrive.

Daisy has made a significant contribution to the cocurriculum, through rowing, cookery and study skills and has been a dedicated tutor in Worcester House. She has embraced all these opportunities with her customary enthusiasm and commitment.

Although she is not going far, she will leave a huge hole in the Learning Support department and, indeed, Clifton College. Our loss is BGS’s gain as Daisy takes up the role of Learning Support teacher, where her skills and experience will be invaluable to the growth of her new department.

We thank Daisy for her dedication and drive, with which she has led the whole school community to embrace Special Educational Needs. She will be hugely missed as a teacher, colleague and friend

Kate Dodd, Charlotte Peploe and Angela White

Sammy Palmer

Sammy Palmer arrived in 2019 and quickly made a strong impression as a marvellous teacher of Chemistry. She managed to enthuse pupils with the subject both in theory work and in practicals. Pupils were superbly prepared for exams ensuring great results, and within a short time she was appointed Head of Department.

Sammy quickly began to develop the department and its resources in her considerate and meticulous way. Her kindness when sharing ideas, new resources and updating the teaching and learning knowledge of the Chemistry team was fantastic. Her use of colour and academic rigour were hallmarks of her development of the department. Pink paper and purple pens had never been used to such wide effect in the Clifton Chemistry Department. Displays were updated to a new standard and the pupils gained a clearer impression of the GCSE and A Level courses as well as Chemistry’s place in the wider society of applications and careers. Her hard work and good

humour meant that she managed the department with unity of purpose, professionalism and clarity.

Outside of the department she was one of the most caring tutors and colleagues in the College. Numerous individuals felt terrific support from her and thrived hugely as a result. Her organisation of fencing alongside a professional coach saw the sport develop in the College to a new level, with numerous pupils participating in competitions to varying degrees of success. Hallward’s House benefited from her experience and wisdom on duty evenings over her years at the College.

We wish her well in her new phase of life, balancing looking after her new daughter with improving pupils in personal tutoring. She will be sorely missed at Clifton. Thanks so much Sammy!

Jay Gardner

Gavin Turner

Dr Gavin Turner came to Clifton in January 2022 from his previous role as Assistant Head Academic at Bradfield College. Gavin worked tirelessly to drive forward the academic life of the school with his characteristic energy and enthusiasm. He instigated detailed reviews of each department and moved to make important changes to the Year 9, 10 and 11 curriculum. His mantra for the pupils of right time, right place, right kit, right attitude became so well known that it even featured in the lyrics of the staff contribution for House Song. Alongside his Geography teaching, Gavin taught PSHE and coached rugby. He was also one of the directors of the English Language Centre. Gavin exemplified a blended living lifestyle and he and his wife Laura, who was Head of Netball, would often be seen in College with their three young daughters. I will particularly miss their visits on a Sunday when Gavin would call in to see me in the office and while we chatted the girls would burble enthusiastically about their week while impressively rearranging everything that wasn’t bolted down, and indeed much that was.

We all wish Gavin, Laura and the family every best wish as he moves to take up the post of Principal Deputy Head at Repton.

Tim Greene

Claire McCormack

When Claire McCormack arrived at Clifton College in September 2020, few could have predicted the profound impact she would make in such a relatively short time. As an outstanding BTEC, A Level and GCSE PE Teacher, Claire brought exceptional expertise and passion to the classroom, inspiring countless pupils to excel in their physical education studies and discover their athletic potential.

Claire’s sporting contributions extended well beyond the classroom. Immediately taking the helm as Head of Netball in 2020, she elevated the programme with her technical knowledge and motivational coaching style. Her versatility as a coach has been remarkable, lending her talents to hockey, swimming, and tennis teams throughout her tenure, with each benefiting immensely from her guidance.

Since September 2021, Claire has excelled as Senior Tutor, a role in which her compassionate leadership truly shone. Her reintroduction of the Year 11 Prom and implementation of termly year group events significantly enhanced pupil experience and fostered a stronger sense of community across Clifton. Simultaneously, as Deputy Designated Safeguarding

Lead since 2020, Claire has been unwavering in her commitment to pupil welfare, creating a safer environment for all.

The boarding community has particularly benefited from Claire’s dedication, with her serving as a Boarding House Tutor in Oakeley’s House for four years and in Watson’s House for one year. Her presence provided stability, support, and guidance to boarding pupils navigating the challenges of life away from home.

Claire’s commitment to inclusion and equality has been transformative. As an educator with the Anti-Prejudice Project and LGBT educator, she has championed diversity and helped Clifton become a more inclusive institution. Claire played a key role in the organization of Clifton’s historic first Pride parade in 2023, an event that will stand as a testament to her legacy.

As Claire departs, we would like to wish her all the very best with the birth of her second child and when the time comes a very happy move back to her beloved Australia. Claire will be greatly missed by the PE department and all the pupils that she has taught over her time at Clifton.

John Bobby

Billie Edwards

Joining part way through the academic year in January 2021, Billie’s first term at Clifton was a particularly strange one; starting in the midst of Covid lockdown meant that Billie did not meet her colleagues - or her pupils - in person for some months. Her early Clifton career comprised several months of daily online teaching from the top floor of an otherwise abandoned 4-5 Worcester Road, and it must have been with a huge amount of relief that she was joined by a full complement of staff and pupils for the summer term. In turn, we were delighted to have another true West-Country representative on board, although this did complicate ‘The Great Scone Cream-or-Jam First’ contention among the Kernow-Devonshire divide. She has not looked back,

and within four short years she has amassed a huge amount of experience and expertise as a highly valued classroom teacher of both English and EAL.

Her pupils have particularly benefited from her hugely organised approach to teaching and learning, her high expectations, her conscientious and personalised approach to looking after each and every one of her pupils, and her excellent classroom management skills. But look a little closer in E22 and you will also find plenty of idiosyncrasies and humorous touches including a ‘phone prison’ and a fulsome collection of hula hoops! Billie has been a committed tutor in Holland’s House, a stalwart supporter of the Clifton Herald Newspaper team, and she is well known to the Sixth Form as an integral member of the Senior Debate Team. What some pupils will not know is that for the past three years Billie has also helped to run Gabblers’ Society, a fantastic after dinner speaking competition which runs across several months and involves over fifteen local schools.

Billie recently got married - which was a huge boon to the department, who got to sample her wonderful cakes as she honed her skills for the prescribed vegan menu - and after a brief return to her beloved Cornwall, she will embark on an exciting move to Australia with her husband, Samson. We will miss her a great deal and she leaves us with our very best wishes and thanks.

Mary Beever, Anna Jamison and Emily Hawkins.

Sinéad Lynch

After reading history at Cambridge University, Sinéad taught at Saffron Walden County High School, Uppingham School and Cheltenham Ladies’ College. She joined Clifton in September 2020 as Head of History and Politics.

This was a very challenging time - the Covid years - and yet from the outset it was clear we were very fortunate to have a truly

inspirational and gifted teacher, and a passionate new head of department. Sinéad’s lessons were creative, fun and fast-paced; she challenged her pupils to think and engage at the highest level. This approach quickly won over her classes and unsurprisingly significant numbers of her pupils have gone on to read history and politics at university.

As head of department, she led us through the challenges of remote learning and the full return to the classroom. Her own creativity was to the fore in every aspect of running an academic department, ranging from lesson planning to schemes of work, assessment and trips to Parliament and various historyrelated events. Above all, Sinéad made us rethink how we did things and placed a premium on enquiry-based learning. Her love of learning was paramount; department meetings always began with a lively discussion of the latest book or podcast that she or we had read or listened to, often distracting us from rather more mundane matters.

Sinéad’s other main responsibility during her time at Clifton was pastoral. She spent two years as the resident tutor in Oakeley’s House and impressed everyone with her commitment and enthusiasm, whether dolling out food during Covid or running aerobics classes in the garden. And always in the company of her much loved dog, Humboldt. Her promotion to assistant in Worcester House followed. She gave this role everything and truly embodied what it means to be a role model leading with both strength, compassion and humour. Her Housemistress describes Sinéad’s contribution: ‘the girls have been incredibly fortunate to benefit from her leadership and guidance and her wisdom, no matter the topic; she has been a constant source of inspiration - Worcester House just won’t be the same without her.’

Throughout her five years at Clifton, Sinéad has been a committed and invaluable contributor to the sport of rowing. She has encouraged novices and new joiners, helping to grow the number of girls joining the boat club. Whether

on the river training pupils or at regattas she has been a hugely positive and encouraging influence.

Sinéad’s decision to step out of teaching (hopefully not for too long) and return to Scotland to follow her own studies presents an exciting opportunity and she has all our best wishes for her new adventure. For the moment, therefore, this is a genuine loss to the teaching profession and certainly a loss to Clifton College and the History and Politics department.

Simon Tait

Greg Laing

A formidable debater and a true intellect, Greg came to Clifton College in September 2021 after a varied and fascinating career which saw him working as a criminal lawyer and as a sub-editor of the UK’s (selfproclaimed) most-visited entertainment-news website.

Greg studied Classics at Oxford, then decided to prove the old adage that with a Classics degree you can do almost anything and put his analytical and persuasive powers into use by defending the accused and immersing himself in celebrity news. He later rediscovered that the true vocation of a Classicist is to pass on the love of ancient Greece and Rome to pupils and decided to retrain as a teacher.

Greg was very able in both Latin and Classical Greek, and also accomplished in Classical Civilisation. He was meticulous with linguistic detail and I enjoyed many discussions on the nuances of translating a difficult turn of phrase from Ovid or Sophocles. Greg was employed by the previous Head of Classics, Thomas Patrick, because, as he put it, ‘we needed someone who could teach both languages to the highest level’. He was extremely reliable, and never let anyone in the department or the pupils down in his teaching or in any other regard.

He also has a wonderful manner: very gentle and very caring. Greg taught Year 7 and 8 in the Pre

for several years as a teacher in Year 8; he was greatly loved and respected as a teacher, but also gave the impression that the unruly prep schoolers would run rings around him in class! Greg was famous for ingenious ways of teaching vocabulary and had a considerable following on Quizlet.

Greg has been an outstanding tutor in Oakeley’s House. The first male tutor to join the team, he has surpassed the House staff’s hopes of how lovely it would be to have him there. The announcement “Mr Laing is on duty tonight” has always met with a cheer from the girls. His warmth, gentle humour and time for everyone has made him invaluable and he will be sorely missed.

Greg was fully committed to the co-curricular life of the school. He loved being a football and tennis coach and he was very proud of the fact his U15A football team had an unbeaten season last year. He also ran the Law Society for several years, preparing carefully for each session, running discussions on varied topics as legal philosophy and the dark arts of court hearings. He supported Classics activities enthusiastically, organising and running trips to local museums and delivering memorable presentations in the Classics masterclass series on several occasions.

Greg was an intellectual force in the Department and across the school, who also threw himself fully into the life of the College. His polite, calm and measured character will be sorely missed as we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

Gabor Tahin

Anna Venn

Anna joined us in the Languages department back in April 2023 as a teacher of French and Year 9 Beginners Spanish, and right from the start, she brought such a fantastic energy and a real depth of experience to our department and quickly became someone staff and pupils all valued.

In the classroom, Anna has an incredible way of inspiring pupils. She sets high expectations, but she also motivates them to push themselves further each and every lesson with her amazing drive. You can really see how much she cares about each pupil; she’s always there to offer that extra support outside of lesson time, making sure no one gets left behind.

Beyond the classroom, Anna has also been a wonderful presence in Worcester House, a dedicated member of the Terriers program, and has led Tuesday HIIT sessions. On top of that, her work as an instructional coach has had a really positive impact on the colleagues she has worked with.

Now, Anna is moving on to an exciting opportunity as Head of MFL at Worle School. We really want to thank her for everything she’s brought to Clifton and for being such a kind and proactive colleague. We’re going to miss her hugely, and we send her our very best wishes for every success, happiness, and fulfilment in her new role.

Hannah Cox

Hannah joined Clifton in September 2023 as teacher of Biology following two years at Sir Bernard Lovell Academy and one year at St Bede’s in Bristol. During her two years at Clifton, Hannah has demonstrated inventive and inspiring lessons to enthuse pupils in the world of biology. With her warm personality and good sense of humour, she has provided a friendly and supportive learning environment with classes engaging well.

Hannah has also contributed to the wider school life as a tutor in both Worcester and South Town, in addition to helping out with DofE and the Environmental Action Group. Hannah is extremely passionate about sustainability initiatives and has campaigned for the school shop to minimise plastic bottle use with refillables and has helped pupils to restore the school pond, create wildflower seed bombs, bird seed fat balls and has planted trees. She has

also assisted with the re-wildling project at Belmont Estate, completed Climate Fresk training and helped to organise and lead Earth Chapel week.

We will certainly miss Hannah, but she now takes up an exciting opportunity at the University of Bristol, undertaking a well-suited MSc in Science Communication for a better planet. We all wish her the very best.

Mal Grohmann

James Willshire

James joined us in September 2023 in the new role of Head of Keyboard, arriving with a vast experience both as a recorded pianist, and a teacher not only in schools but in the London, Welsh and Scottish conservatoires. Of course, the joke was that he was appointed more on the basis of sharing his names with the other Jameses of the music department - Grimwood, Drinkwater and Hills.

He quickly established himself as a piano soloist of immense prowess: witness the Debussy Image played at his first staff concert, with the peak of virtuosity perhaps being a memorable performance of Holst’s Planets in piano duo with his wife Pippa Harrison in the Chapel in 2024. This has borne considerable fruit as he has accompanied so many exam candidates and recitalists, coaching chamber ensembles, as well as preparing a tremendous number of live and videoed applications for Year 13s going onto courses and undergraduate places in UK and Europe.

James’ expertise has spread across the College, teaching from Pre-Prep and Prep to our most advanced pupils, and performing with our top scholars across Bristol, notably in citycentre recitals, charity concerts and the Bristol Young Musician Competition final at the Beacon (with the top two prizes in 2025 going to Clifton pupils).

James’ other super-power was clocking up an immense mileage commuting from Cheltenham each day - often leaving enough

time in the morning to do at least an hour’s personal practice before one-to-one teaching starts at 8am, and sometimes arriving back home very late after concerts, competitions or the Friday Oakely’s boarding duty. This at times was amplified by James continuing to work with the internationally-respected Hebridean Ensemble, requiring mad-cat weekend or exeat dashes up the M74 to Skye or the Orkneys to perform, record or broadcast.

Beyond this, James has been a valued Sixth Form tutor, and a most generous and versatile colleague - including stylish conducting of the Cliftones, a mean show-keyboardist, even revealing himself as a dab hand at Italian opera percussion when required. His colleagues and pupils will sorely miss him, and we wish him the best for his new role at Cheltenham Ladies College.

James Drinkwater

Rosie Beresford

Rosie joined the Learning Support Department in the Upper School in September 2023 as a one-to-one teacher of Maths to meet the ever growing demand for learning support. Her passion, organisation and brilliant teaching meant that she stood out amongst an impressive field of candidates. The skills that she demonstrated at interview were evident throughout her time at Clifton; she built excellent relationships with pupils and staff and showed her passion for maths through an innovative approach to one-toone teaching. She was generous with her knowledge and skills, supporting anyone (pupil or colleague) who needed it whilst also being incredibly receptive to the ideas and expertise of others. She embraced a collaborative working approach and showed genuine interest in the needs and development of not only her oneto-one pupils but also her tutees. Her enthusiasm and enjoyment of the company of young people was evident in her work as a tutor in Holland’s House; she always went above and beyond that which was expected of her.

Rosie proved her excellent communication skills, not only through her written and verbal interactions, but also through British Sign Language which she taught herself in lockdown and shared with pupils as an activity. Many people will not realise the breadth of her talents. She is a gifted singer, gardener, seamstress and player of board games. She has a vast range of hobbies from musical theatre to chicken keeping, reading to home improvements. All of this made her excellent company and she often regaled us with stories of her adventures, particularly with her large, beloved family.

Though Rosie was not at the College for long, her impact was significant and she will be sorely missed. We wish her every success in her new role as a full time Maths teacher at Castlefell, a specialist SEMH and ASC school in South Gloucestershire.

Daisy King and Kate Dodd

Charlotte Lucas

Charlotte joined the college in September 2024 and quickly established herself as an excellent teacher with very high standards. Both her pupils and colleagues have benefited from her warm and supportive nature. After the initial shock of supervising water rugby, Charlotte has thrown herself into being a tutor in Watson’s and she has been exceptionally generous with her time. She has been an active part of the CCF and when not in the classroom can be found coaching football and tennis. Despite only being with us for a short period of time she has made a big impact and her random sayings have become legendary with her pupils. She will be greatly missed and we wish her all the best, as she leaves Clifton to share her expertise at Ashton Park School in September.

Helen Evans

Natalie Ashton-

Eaton

Natalie Ashton Eaton joined the Common Room as Head of Visual Arts in September 2024. Since her arrival, she has made a significant and immediate impact on the College community. As Head of Visual Arts, Natalie has demonstrated excellent leadership, driving forward the faculty with vision and energy. Her teaching across DT, Textiles, and Art has been marked by pedagogy of the highest quality and she brings a genuine and infectious passion for her subject, inspiring pupils of all ages and abilities. Beyond the classroom, Natalie has been an invaluable member of the Wiseman’s house team. She has contributed positively to the boys’ pastoral care, offering unwavering support. Both the pupils and the Wiseman’s house team have greatly appreciated her warm and nurturing presence in the House. As a Year 12 tutor, she has provided excellent guidance and support to her tutees, helping them navigate their Sixth Form studies and prepare for their future. Natalie’s positive approach, her willingness to collaborate, and her commitment to excellence have made her a respected and valued member of the Common Room. We offer our sincere thanks for all that she has contributed to the school during her time at the College, and we wish her the very best in her future endeavours.

Gavin Turner

Helen Vjestica

Helen arrived in September 2024 as maternity cover and quickly made a favourable impression in the department. Warm, organised and caring, she has made a great impact. Pupils have appreciated how knowledgeable and approachable she has been in lessons. She has launched new ideas like an Escape Room for Electrolysis and a clinic to support new Year 9 and 10 pupils, and has taught advanced Chemistry material for Olympiad sessions. Outside of the lab, she has been a well liked Sixth Form tutor and an attentive presence on duty nights in Hallward’s House. Her support of the technicians has been a valuable one and she will be missed. Throughout her time here, Helen’s adaptability and collaborative spirit have made her a trusted and valued colleague. It is no surprise to me with her love for the subject that she has ventured into a PhD, although Australia is a bit far just to escape Clifton! We have no doubt she will bring the same enthusiasm and expertise to her doctoral research, and we wish her every success in this exciting next chapter beyond Clifton.

Jay Gardner

Paul Wigginton

Paul Wigginton joined the Art Department as a part-time Photography Teacher and Studio Technician in 2001 having taught Photography to adults at the Watershed in Bristol.

He proved himself to be a steady and reliable member of the department, hosting regular open studio activities in the afternoons and evenings, as well as clubs which were very popular with pupils of all ages. He was a versatile technician and was often willing to assist staff both in the Ceramics and the Fine Art studios, improvising different

ways of displaying work, solving technical problems and setting up display boards for exhibitions whilst under time pressure. Paul also participated in educational visits to art galleries locally, in London and abroad.

Paul brought excellent subject knowledge of both traditional and contemporary techniques and skills in photography to the department, being at home both in the darkroom and working with Apple Mac computers and his pupils benefitted from his enthusiasm, knowledge and genuine desire to foster an appreciation and passion for the subject.

After having worked for many years in the role of Art Department Technician and Teacher of Photography as an activity, Paul also launched A Level Photography in 2010 and worked hard to build up a brand new course from scratch, which proved to be popular and successful.

Aside from his work in the Art Department Paul’s contributions to school life outside of the classroom were significant. He undertook various photography tasks around the school, sometimes taking publicity photographs of school events and making photographic portraits of various people. He was involved in DofE and accompanied staff and pupils on field trips and residential courses in Britain and Europe. On the pastoral side, Paul served as a tutor to boys from various year groups in East Town and North Town.

Paul will be remembered as a steady and knowledgeable Teacher of Photography and he leaves the Art Department as one of its longest serving members in the history of the school. It will be a very different place without him.

Allan Wilkie

David Saunders

David Saunders joined Clifton College in January 2018 from Caerleon school, after a varied career which had taken him from Head of Drama in Christ’s Hospital to being a short order cook at a beach cafe in Australia.

David has made a far reaching contribution to the drama department over his eight years here, engaging countless pupils in Drama with his limitless enthusiasm for the subject and good humour. Whilst he started in the Upper School, in his second or third year at Clifton, there arose the requirement for someone to pick up some of the Drama teaching in the Prep School, which David took in his stride. Interestingly, he has now taught all year groups from Year 4 upwards, with the exception of the Year 5s! In addition to the curriculum, he has also taught both LAMDA acting and public speaking qualifications, supervised EPQ projects and most notably has directed a vast number of co-curricular plays.

His productions have spanned a range of genres, with his most notable being A Midsummer Night’s Dream performed in the round with real grass laid

on the stage, Chatroom, which tackled the dark theme of online bullying, and most recently, The Trials, which highlighted the current climate crisis and left the audience to reflect on how their actions may be judged by future generations.

In seven years and two terms, he has directed eight plays, one musical and one streamed online showcase instead of the musical in the depths of the 2020 covid lockdowns.

David has been a tutor for both pupils in both East Town and West Town, and has been Head of Drama for two maternity covers, each time also mentoring an ECT within the department.

David is leaving us to take up a Head of Drama position at Abbeywood School, where I have no doubt he will thrive. As the news spread amongst our pupils that he was leaving, one pupil summed up his impact well, saying ‘Sir, you made me want to take Drama’. Dave, you leave a legacy of impactful May productions, and have left an indelible mark on the pupils in whom you have inspired a lifelong love of Drama.

Rhian Orzel