Spring Newsletter 2026

SPRING 2026

SPRING TERM 2026

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD

Our Spring Term has certainly been one of new beginnings, with the announcement of our new school group; Pembroke Education, along with The Downs Preparatory School. Both schools started on Pembroke Road in Clifton, and following our launch in September 2026, the group will provide us with the ability to enhance our provision without compromising either our independence or individuality. You will be hearing more about Pembroke Education over the coming months, but in the

meantime, please take a look at our website by clicking here.

It was super to see so many parents at our Foundation Ball earlier this month. It was a really fun evening and a great opportunity to socialise and fundraise for our 150 Anniversary Appeal. As we head towards our anniversary year, we are busy planning and will ensure we have a host of events for our whole School community to enjoy, including our Clifton Rosarians. th

Yours,

MR WILL PHELAN HEAD

head@cliftonhigh.co.uk

The highlight of the Spring Term for the Development Team is our annual Foundation Day, which provides a focus for our School community to recognise the important role philanthropy has had on our School

This year, Foundation Day fell within British Science Week. The pupils enjoyed exploring and problem-solving through two creative days of investigation. Of course, science is one of the two main pillars of our 150 Anniversary Appeal. Through our Appeal, we aim to redesign and refurbish our current facilities to inspire future generations and create a dedicated space for our Infant and Junior pupils to explore science and the living world. Looking at the joy and th

excitement which filled the children’s faces during Foundation Day, we definitely have lots of budding scientists in our School.

We hosted the first Parents’ Foundation Ball for several years this term. So many of our community supported the Auction and Raffle for which we are very grateful. We were delighted to be joined by Frank, who is a former Bursary pupil for the evening. We have shared his powerful words of thanks with you in this newsletter; he is a true testament to the impact a bursary award can have.

As we head into the Easter Break and hopefully the first glimpses of some spring sunshine, our wonderful

magnolia trees have blossomed across our campus. Look out for a lovely photograph of our Year 1 children playing in the falling blossom in this newsletter.

With my very best wishes to you all,

MRS ELIZABETH BOND DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

ebond@cliftonhigh.co.uk

DIARY DATES

ROSE DAY 2026

BRISTOL

We are delighted to share with you some of our key dates for the next few months.

CATHEDRAL / CLIFTON HIGH SCHOOL: SATURDAY 20 JUNE 2026 TH

We have a number of Clifton Rosarian places available for Rose Day 2026.

As we have several anniversary years returning this June and places are limited, please ensure you email development@cliftonhigh.co.uk at your earliest opportunity to register your interest if you would like to attend.

If you are the Class of 2016, 2006 or 1996, please click your group photo below to sign up for your reunion.

THE CLIFTON HIGH SCHOOL FOUNDATION

FOUNDATION DAY

This year, Foundation Day fell within British Science Week, and what better way to celebrate their 2026 theme and embrace one of our School’s core values of ‘curiosity’ than to explore, investigate and problem-solve.

At the start of the week, we looked at our alumni, the Clifton Rosarians, profiling some of those who have continued to pursue their passion for science through further education and careers. We welcomed back Karthi Suresh, a doctor in Emergency Medicine, who captivated our Excelsior Forum students with tales of her travels to some of the world’s most remote environments as an expedition medic.

After leaving School in 2012, Karthi went on to study medicine abroad, graduating before returning to the UK to complete her Foundation training in the NHS.

She has since been working in Emergency Medicine, building a career at the frontline of acute care Alongside this, Karthi has worked in some of the world’s most remote environments as an expedition medic, as a land search technician and as a rope rescue operator with her local search and rescue team, and she is part of the teaching faculty of a UK organisation that prepares healthcare professionals to work in extreme and austere settings.

“My career has shown me that medicine extends far beyond the walls of a hospital By combining profession with the love of the outdoors, I have been able to build a path that blends clinical practice, ad i d d i ”

KARTHI SURESH (CR, 2012)

It is a real privilege to return and speak to students at the very place where my own journey began. I hope to show that when you think beyond the conventional path, remain resilient, and stay open-minded, the possibilities are far greater than you might imagine Be ready to adapt, embrace challenge, and grow through whatever life places in front of you. That is where opportunity truly lies.

Let’s catch up with a few familiar faces, to see where their passion for science has taken them after leaving Clifton High.

“During Covid, I discovered my love for healthcare whilst working as a nursing assistant. With the help and support of the School, I applied to university and completed a three-year BSc in Paramedic Science, achieving a first-class degree. I now work as a paramedic in Cambridge, and I am ambitious to progress my career in pre-hospital emergency care. ”

BARNEY PICTON (CR ,2019)

PARAMEDIC

“I am so thankful for what the School taught through discovery and asking important questions, as this encouraged my interest in learning about the sciences. Practical sessions allowed me to see how scientific mechanisms work in real life, and our science teachers worked hard to make these engaging and aid our learning. I am now in a degree programme which has allowed me to pursue my interest in Biology and do an exchange year in Australia to further my education, specifically on marine organisms.”

OLIVIA ALLAN (CR, 2023)

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES STUDENT

“Clifton High School shaped my curiosity and inspired my passion for learning. The staff went beyond the typical role, providing opportunities for me to challenge myself and develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue a future in science and engineering."

OLLIE LOCK (CR, 2021)

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING STUDENT

“Having great teaching is critical to becoming a passionate scientist or engineer, and I really had that at Clifton High. Whilst I was at School I jumped at every opportunity I got. The Clifton High opportunities you get are unmatched.”

LUCY SNOW (CR, 2021) JUNIOR DESIGN ENGINEER

“Clifton High gave me the confidence and skills to excel in life and supported me through every hurdle. The School and staff created an incredible environment to learn in and I always think back about my time there positively.”

CAMERON COCKBURN (CR, 2021) GRADUATE PRODUCT ANALYIST, SHELL

“The amazing teachers at School supported me in exploring all my interests, from art clubs to maths competitions, before I found a passion for science that I’ve followed to university. I’m now doing a degree I love and would never have found without the encouragement and opportunity to keep trying new things.”

IZZI REID (CR, 2023) BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES STUDENT

INFANT AND JUNIOR FIZZ POP SCEINCE DAY

CSI SENIOR DAY

FOUNDATION B

A huge thank you to all thos Parents’ Foundation Ball. Th disco at the Bristol Harbour success, raising over £15,000 Anniversary Appeal.

Please click the camera icon more photos from the eveni

FRANK’S STORY

During the Foundation Ball, we were delighted to be joined by Frank, who was one of our Sixth Form Bursary students last year. Frank is currently taking a Gap Year and is working at Clifton High School before heading off to the University of Nottingham to study Geography. Frank shared with guests the true impact a Clifton High School Bursary can have.

“Good evening, everyone. It is a real privilege to stand here to say thank you, not just from me, but on behalf of all Clifton High School bursary students.

Receiving a bursary to attend this School has changed my life Independent schools are often associated with opportunitiesexcellent teaching, amazing facilities, and more activities than you can possibly fit into one week. But for many students, including me, those opportunities would simply remain out of reach without bursaries

Since joining Clifton High, I’ve had the chance to learn from teachers who are not only passionate about their subjects but are also proactive in their teaching methods, providing unmatched support and guidance for every individual

I’ve also been able to explore opportunities I never expected. Some were successes, such as the sixth form choir, the Rambling Rose newspaper and the Model United Nations. Others … well, let’s just say that the rugby team is probably relieved that I focused my attention elsewhere.

I have also taken on leadership opportunities. I will forever remember my stint as captain of the First XI cricket team and my time as Winkworth House Captain, leading them to victory in various events. Although I do think my friends were sick of hearing me shout, “Come on, Winkworth” at the top of my lungs on Sports Day.

But the impact of this School goes far beyond academics and co-curricular activities. Being a part of this community has helped me grow in confidence, meet friends who have broadened my perspective, and learn the importance of resilience and ambition

So tonight, I simply want to say thank you. And if you ’ re ever wondering whether supporting bursaries really makes a difference … I can tell you that it does. I’m standing here because of it”

Your support does something incredibly powerful: it ensures that opportunity is not determined by background, but by potential and determination. It allows students like me to step into an environment that challenges us, inspires us, and helps us discover what we might be capable of.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

To celebrate British Science Week, we delved into our archives and found some wonderful photographs Can any Clifton Rosarians spot themselves or their friends in these images? Let us know by emailing development@cliftonhigh.co.uk

CLIFTON ROSARIANS

CLIFTON ROSARIANS BREAKFASTS

This term, our Sixth Form were joined by Year 10 for our latest Clifton Rosarian Breakfast, where they heard from three inspiring Clifton Rosarians, speaking about further education and future career pathways.

We were delighted to welcome back Sarah Gerrard (née Good Allen), a barrister in the Armed Forces; Fran Funnell, who is currently studying for a PhD in Human Geography at Cardiff University; and Tia Grimmond (née Bernard Hayklan), who has over twenty years of experience in the financial and banking sector

All three alumnae spoke about the importance of resilience, building your own support network and embracing opportunities as they arise. Their honest and thought provoking advice was hugely appreciated by our students. We are extremely grateful to Sarah, Fran and Tia for giving their time to support the next generation

CALLING ALL CLIFTON ROSARIANS

During the next academic year, we will continue to extend our Clifton Rosarian talks to include pupils in Years 10 and 11, and also pupils in our Infant and Junior Schools. We would love to hear from Rosarians who would like to share their experiences with our current Clifton High School pupils. Please click the envelope icon to contact the team:

SARAH GERRARD (NÉE GOOD‑ALLEN) (CR, 2005)

After leaving CHS in 2005, Sarah went on to study Criminology and Law and take her Bar exams She started practising as a barrister three years after her exams and, during that time, worked in Pakistan for a human rights law firm. Upon returning to the UK, Sarah worked as a police officer in the Metropolitan Police and subsequently began practising as a barrister in Albion Chambers, Bristol

“1 loved my time and work there. However, I needed to fulfil a greater sense of adventure and purpose. So, in 2017, I joined the Army Legal Service; since then, I have advised on internal grievance cases, I have prosecuted criminal matters, and I have provided operational law advice to commanders. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since.

Whilst some of the buildings’ use had changed (the reception is no longer in the main building), CHS was as warm, welcoming and vibrant as ever. It clearly still fosters a collegiate environment and was a bright place to be. Aside from the nostalgia, I’d recommend returning wholeheartedly.

I have such fond memories of my time at CHS. How do I pick one memory out of 15 years? I’m going to go for something playful: Climbing the magnolia tree in the prep playground with my friends.

I believe in ‘paying it forward’: if someone does something to help or support you, you should take the opportunity to pass that benefit on to others. I was really supported by CHS in coming up with career ideas I wanted to pursue, and, if I can give back a little something to students, whether it be opening their eyes to jobs they hadn’t considered, helping them realise the opportunities out there are vast, or showing them you don’t necessarily have to get straight A*s to get to where you want to be, then I think supporting events like the Clifton Rosaraian Breakfasts is a fantastic way to do that.”

FRAN FUNNELL (CR, 2022)

Coming back to Clifton High was incredibly nostalgic. It reminded me how lucky I was to experience such a wide range of opportunities - from music in the recording studio, to science in the labs, to the art studios filled with extraordinary student work.

I felt especially grateful to teachers who shaped my path, particularly Mrs Lyons-White and Mrs Giles, whose encouragement and one-to-one support had a lasting impact on me. It was also wonderful to see familiar faces such as Mr Eyers, Mr Cousins, Mr Griffin, Mrs Johnson and Mr Sadler, still bringing passion and care to their subjects.

Returning as a former pupil is powerful because it shows how life unfolds beyond school - how people change, how opportunities open up, and how the school itself continues to evolve.

After School, Fran continued her studies at Cardiff University and graduated in Summer 2025. She is a doctoral researcher, feminist and cultural geographer at Cardiff University, where her work explores how people experience identity, belonging and community in cities. Her PhD focuses on trans and genderdiverse communities, looking at how people create spaces of care, connection and joy, and how these are shaped by social and political change.

“Alongside my research, I lecture at Cardiff University and work as an editor for an academic journal Before starting my PhD, I worked as a research assistant on projects in Bristol and Plymouth, exploring issues such as gender-based violence and urban safety. My undergraduate dissertation, which received a first-class mark, examined the Bristol Rules campaign and how safety, street culture and belonging intersect in the city’s nightlife.

One of my fondest memories is the hockey tour to Barcelona, where I somehow ended up in goal and won woman of the match, despite being a complete novice I am fully committed to the role, with mixed levels of skill but maximum enthusiasm. Another moment that has stayed with me is A level results day, the whole year together, sharing nerves, excitement and relief, and celebrating each other’s successes. It felt like one of those rare days where everything came together: friendship, support and a real sense of community.”

CONGRATULATIONS!

We were delighted to hear that Clifton Rosarian, Professor Tamsin Mather, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s New Year Honours for services to volcanology and the promotion of science.

Tamsin is currently Professor of Earth Sciences at University College, Oxford, and most recently returned to Clifton High School to give our Rose Day address in 2024, when we acknowledged Tamsin’s incredible achievements by naming our Chemistry prize in her honour. We send our warmest congratulations to Tamsin and her family on this well-deserved recognition

To read Tamsin’s own reflections on her time at Clifton High School, please click the book link below to read her Rose Day address from 2024.

WELCOME BACK

We were delighted to welcome back many Clifton Rosarians this term to talk about some exciting projects which are in the pipeline, for tours or for a catch-up and chat with the Development Team. Clifton Rosarians are warmly welcome back to School at any time, please email development@cliftonhigh.co.uk to arrange a visit.

ROSE HARTE (CR, 2019)

Cambridge graduate Rosie is now a published author, art historian and influencer, and it was a pleasure to catch up with her and talk through some exciting projects we are working on to celebrate our 150 anniversary year. th

MARY LAZO, NÉE PEARCE (CR, 1972)

SUE PEARCE (CR, 1975)

Sisters, Mary and Sue, enjoyed a tour of the campus and then spent time sharing some wonderful documents and photos from the School’s history with the Development Team. Their sister Penelope, mother Judith and Mary’s daughter Katherine are also all Clifton Rosarians, and their father Dick Pearce was Chair of Governors. Speaking after the visit, Mary said: “Thank you for showing us round It was a lovely experience, and to see how the School is changing with the times, broadening the curriculum, and offering such welcoming, open and inclusive spaces for the pupils (and teachers). It's so vital to be seen, known, and valued, and it looks as if this is important at CHS today!”

CAROLINE COUNCELL, NÉE SAUNDERS

JUDY SAUNDERS

It was a pleasure to welcome back sisters Caroline and Judy, who attended Clifton High School in the 1960s. The sisters reminisced about their School days, and memories came flooding back when seeing “the stairs to the Headmistress’ Office” and stepping into the “Great Hall” Fundraising for the Sports Complex happened whilst Judy and Caroline were at Clifton High, and they were very impressed with the swimming pool, along with the strength and cardio suites. The sisters finished their tour, finding themselves in photographs from the School archives and shared exercise books and photos of their own.

VICKY STOCKS (CR, 1967)

Following a successful 55 year reunion in 2022, the Class of 1967 are once again returning in 2027 for their 60 year reunion, taking place during the Rose Day weekend next year. Organiser Vicky has already been planning this special day with the Development Team. Look out for further details of their special event in the coming months

CLASS OF 2016

We were delighted to see such a warm response from the Class of 2016 after our recent social media posts reflecting on School life in 2016. Several Rosarians have been in contact with our Development Team and we are pleased to be welcoming them back as special guests at Rose Day in June.

Former Head Girl, Martha Loach, shared: “I can’t quite believe it’s been a decade since we graduated from Clifton High School! It’d be wonderful if you were able to join a reunion on 20 June to connect, catch up and reminisce with our old classmates. I hope to see you then!”

Second

Third

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CLASSES OF 2006 AND 1996

We warmly invite the classes of 2006 and 1996 to attend Rose Day this year, to celebrate thier 20 and 30 year anniversaries of leaving School. To sign up please click the registration buttons below, or email development@cliftonhigh.co.uk for more information.

CLASS OF 2006 REGISTRATION

OF 1996 REGISTRATION

2027 REUNIONS

We are already planning our activities for 2027, including some wonderful reunion events

If you are celebrating a memorable reunion in 2027, please do get in touch now, so that we can help you plan your reunion at School.

Please email us at development@cliftonhigh.co.uk

We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you back to School!

THEN & NOW

As we build up to our 150 anniversary, we are sharing a series of Then & Now moments from our history on our social media channels, as we explore the School’s extensive archives. th

CLIFTON HIGH SCHOOL VS BATH ROYAL SCHOOL HOCKEY MATCH

The first Clifton High School vs Bath Royal School hockey match was played in 1918, ending in a 2–2 draw, with the Shield donated by Major Steele.

This academic year ’ s match was fiercely contested, finishing 1–1 at full time before going into extra time. With just 30 seconds remaining, Clifton High School converted a short corner to secure the win and retain the Shield for another year. A wonderful example of sporting excellence across generations!

THE DINING HALL

Our Dining Hall looks a little different these days following its renovation in Summer 2022. While the familiar arches still frame the space, the original tables have been replaced with modern serveries to support the needs of our pupils today Back in 1965, dining monitors would sit at the head of the long tables to serve lunch, and we believe the arches may even have been painted in House colours at the time!

MAKE SURE YOU FOLLOW US

Keep up to date with alumni and Foundation news by following us on Instagram and Facebook. Please click the social media icons below to follow us!

SCHOOL

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

This year ’ s Senior School production was Charlie and the Chocolate which played to sold out audiences at The Redgrave Theatre in March

As they prepared for their roles, Jacob in Year 12 and Jack in Year 10, reflected on what it has been like to be part of this year ’ s production.

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is such an amazing story that has been a part of many a person ’ s childhood,” said Jacob, who played Willy Wonka. “I find it so wonderful that we, as students, have been given the chance to have a good go at portraying these iconic characters, ones that have been so influential in people's lives and perception of the world.” Speaking about the production, Jack , who played Charlie Bucket said: “Being part of the School production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been such a great experience. I’ve really enjoyed working with people from different year groups and getting to know everybody. I have had lots of fun and am very grateful for the opportunity to play Charlie.”

We were delighted to welcome back Anna Freire Camacho (CR, 2016), a freelance stage manager for the third successive year, to support the cast and share her own experiences of working in theatres with our pupils. “Coming back to Clifton High to work with current pupils is always an utter joy The kindness and collaboration the pupils radiate year after year during the production week is extraordinary. It's a beautiful reminder of what young people can achieve when their interests are nurtured in a professional environment outside the classroom”

BATTLE OF THE BRAINS

This term, saw the final of the Battle of the Brains Interhouse Quiz Competition, bringing together pupils from Years 5 to 13 for an exciting afternoon! The atmosphere was fantastic with plenty of support, friendly rivalry and impressive displays of knowledge throughout the event. After a highly competitive final round, Pears House secured a well deserved victory with a total of 245 points, with Winkworth taking second place with 125 points. Well done to all who took part in the competition. It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm, collaboration and House spirit on display from start to finish.

YEAR 1 STEPS BACK IN TIME

In February, Year 1 stepped back in time for their Victorian Afternoon Both the pupils and staff dressed up in wonderful Victorian costumes, as the children explored life in the Victorian era. They chose their own Victorian names, took part in traditional school lessons with handwriting practice, played with toys from the past and finished the day with a delightful Victorian tea party.

SPRING CONCERT

The music department and our performers have had a busy term, as less than two weeks after Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, our talented musicians took part in our Spring Concert at St George’s Concert Hall in Bristol. Musical performances from our Swing Band, String Group, Cantata, Orchestra and Chamber Choir were interspersed with soloists performing a varied programme from Schmartz and Bizet to Billy Eilish and Coldplay’s Chris Martin.

The evening’s finale was a Combined Choirs rendition of Because the Night which was arranged by Mrs Pieters and included some enthusiastic audience participation.

Thank you so much to all our musicians for another memorable evening

RUGBY SUCCESS

Our rugby teams have had a highly competitive season.

Sol, in Year 13, has been selected for The Lambs RFC National Squad, in their landmark 20 anniversary season. Following two highly competitive assessment days, first at Sherborne School and then at the National Selection Day at Harrow School, Sol represented the South West, playing against the South East and Midlands/North squads. He impressed throughout, featuring in all matches across the second row and back row.

Helena, in Year 10, has been selected for the Bristol Schools Regional Rugby Team. Helena is our U16 Girls Rugby Captain and led the School’s first-ever girls’ team at the Rosslyn Park International 7s. Her commitment and leadership have been instrumental in establishing competitive U16 and U14 girls' rugby teams, as well as inspiring wider enthusiasm for the sport throughout the School.

Well done to both Sol and Helena on their achievements and to the Rugby squad on a very successful season.

Clifton High School is delighted to announce that we are creating a new school group: Pembroke Education with The Downs Preparatory School. Together, we are establishing a group shaped by shared purpose and a forward-looking approach to education, one that strengthens us, opens new opportunities, and ensures both schools remain confident, ambitious and future-ready.

We look forward to sharing the Pembroke Education journey with you.

Please click the logos below to learn more:

Please click the video below to find out more:

Clifton High School Foundation and Clifton Rosarian

WELCOME TO NEW STAFF

We welcomed the following members of staff to Clifton High School during the spring term.

Miss Lara Cross Admissions Officer

Ms Jenny Robertson Development Manager

FAREWELL

Sadly, the following members of staff left Clifton High School this term. We wish them well as on their next venture and welcome them to the Clifton Rosarians!

Mr Chris Pearce Science Teacher

Miss Eve Millward After-School Supervisor

Mrs Laura Clarke PE Teacher

Thank you all for your contributions to Clifton High School and its pupils.