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TheHALLIFORDIAN

Introduction

Contents Introduction.......................................................................................................... page 4 Autumn Highlights.............................................................................................. page 17 Spring Highlights................................................................................................. page 53 Summer Highlights............................................................................................ page 94 Art Exhibition..................................................................................................... page 140 House Reports................................................................................................... page 170 Old Hallifordians............................................................................................... page 178

TheHALLIFORDIAN genuine kindness, reach far beyond the classroom. They are life lessons of lasting value. It is my hope that these qualities will continue to guide and inspire Hallifordians for many years to come, in ways no technology or algorithm could ever replicate. I am particularly proud that the school is thriving, with student numbers at their highest level in Halliford’s history. Our financial position is exceptionally strong, thanks in no small part to the tireless dedication and expertise of our Bursar, Elspeth Sanders, a trusted colleague and dear friend. I am equally delighted that, through the efforts of our staff and Prefects, we were awarded the rare distinction of a Significant Strength in our most recent Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection, a wonderful recognition of the exceptional work taking place across the school.

Foreword

by Mr James Davies, Headmaster As I sit down to write my final Foreword for The Hallifordian, I do so with a mixture of emotion. There is undoubtedly sadness in bringing this chapter to a close, but it is far outweighed by a deep sense of gratitude and immense pride. Reflecting on my nine years as Headmaster, I am reminded of just how much Halliford School has grown and developed during that time, and I sincerely hope that the changes we have embraced have strengthened and enriched our community. Much has evolved over the years. We have welcomed new facilities, embraced fresh approaches and set ever higher aspirations. Yet despite these developments, the essence of Halliford has remained steadfast. It continues to be a place where young people are given the space to grow, to make mistakes, to learn from them, and ultimately to discover who they are. Our recent school video captures this beautifully, celebrating not only the remarkable spirit of our community but also the unique contribution each individual makes. Together, those individual gifts create something truly special and make Halliford an extraordinary place to belong. The strongest schools are those that never become complacent. They continue to question, adapt and evolve. Throughout my time here, I have sought to encourage students to step beyond what feels familiar and comfortable, and to approach new opportunities with courage and curiosity. The qualities they develop at Halliford, resilience, imagination, collaboration and

Achievements such as these are never the result of one person alone. They are built on the commitment, energy and goodwill of an entire community. I would therefore like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played a part in helping Halliford remain such a vibrant, forward-looking and successful school. One of the great privileges of education is that you never truly know where a student’s journey will lead. As I have met prospective pupils over the years, I have often wondered what the future holds for them, yet the answer is always full of surprises. Following those journeys and celebrating those successes has been one of the greatest joys of my career. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, on the stage, in rehearsals, or simply through the countless cheerful greetings exchanged around the school each day, I have found immense joy in being part of this community. It has been a genuine privilege to serve as your Headmaster, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have shared in so many memorable moments over the years. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Hallifordian, and I send my warmest good wishes for all that lies ahead.

James Davies Headmaster

A Hallifordian Reflects You met me first for an interview, a handshake meant for me, not just for show, Bracken barking before any formal words, and suddenly the school felt like somewhere I belonged. You stood at the gate and said “hello”, reminded me to tuck in my shirt with a smile, laughed with me about music, awards, and beginnings, and made even my first day feel familiar. You were there in classrooms and concerts, teaching more than notes, more than lines on a page, showing me how to try something new without hesitation, how to carry myself with warmth and respect. On trips you encouraged resilience; a snail tasted, a stage stepped onto, a risk taken, you cheered me on from sidelines and applauded me in concert halls, making memories that stretched beyond lessons. You guided me when the year felt uncertain, steady when things were unclear, always noticing, always listening, quietly helping me find my direction. There were small moments that stayed; a tie straightened, a word of praise in passing, a reminder that effort matters, that kindness matters, and that I was seen and known by you. You welcomed me back with that same steady presence. The handshake unchanged, firm and real, whether rescuing a shoe from a tree or stepping forward without hesitation to save a life. In music rooms and on distant trips, you gave your time, your knowledge, your belief, inspiring me to be more than I’d expected, and showing, in a moment, exactly what care can mean. The challenges of these years, guided within clear and steady boundaries, your honest words, often difficult, always given with purpose. Assemblies that stayed with us, thoughtful and personal, each one landing differently, but meaning something to all. When exams approached, your message never changed, “Effort first, results will come.” You helped our families stand alongside us through that pressure, and in the hall, your presence made it feel manageable. By the time we knew you best, through shared jokes, music, and generosity, we saw a Headmaster who came as he was and who will go as all he can be. As our time here drew to a close, the message remained, familiar, but understood more deeply now. We leave not only qualified, but prepared for what comes next, with character, with perspective, with more than grades on a page. Always, there was the welcome; in interviews, on gates, in passing moments, a sense that each person mattered individually, that this was a place we all could step into fully. Always, there was the encouragement; to try, to perform, to speak, to improve, to take part in something larger than yourself, and to discover what we were capable of becoming. And always, there was the kindness; in conversations, in gestures, in quiet support, a presence that shaped the feel of the school, and will stay long after today.

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Phoebe Clark Head Prefect The last two years of my life have flown by, which is never something I expected to say when I chose to study A Levels. I believe that this is all down to the immense support and encouragement that I have received throughout my time here at Halliford. A Levels are difficult, but my subject teachers always took the time to check in on me throughout the journey. Whether that was personally checking up, or even something as small as buying Haribo sweets for our triple Friday afternoon lessons, my teachers always did their best to ensure that I was coping well with my A Levels, and being the only girl in some of my classes… My form tutor, Mr Watson, always created a positive environment for everyone, even at 8.30 on a Monday morning, and he has always given up his time and effort to help or advise me whenever I was in need. Mr Davies always provided a helping hand and is someone who will be missed thoroughly next year. This goes for all the staff at Halliford who ensure that nothing goes unnoticed and have contributed to making my time at Halliford truly special. Something else that has made my time at Halliford truly special is all the people that I have met. I remember the inflatable activity day just before joining Lower Sixth, when everyone was having so much fun and friendships were already forming. It was an accurate insight into what my time at Halliford would look like with all the incredible people there. I have many fond memories from my time at Halliford. All the sports events that took place, with a noticeable mention of me falling flat on my face at sports day in Lower Sixth. As well as the end-of-year touch rugby game against the teachers and

House football. I also took the opportunity to complete my gold DofE, and whilst I can’t quite say that it produced some of my fondest memories, it’s an achievement that I am proud of, and I’m thankful to Halliford for supporting me through it. But my favourite memories have come from my time in the sixth form common room. Whether that be the varied conversations or lunch times that weren’t spent at catch-ups or just being surrounded by people that made me happy. I am also thankful to Halliford for supporting me in my role as Head Prefect. As only the second-ever female Head Prefect, I had some pretty big shoes to fill. This role has provided me with many opportunities to strengthen my public speaking and leadership skills and has taught me lifelong lessons about working with a team. Halliford has provided me with so many opportunities and helped me in every way that they could for my future. Not only supporting me through my exams, but also by having weekly lecture periods to show me endless options of what my future could look like. I was given infinite support writing my personal statement, which went as far as being told to restart and try again… as well as help with UCAS applications and research into my year out. I can’t quite put into words how thankful I am for Halliford’s support and opportunities over the last two years, and it will forever be a special place to me and one that I will miss greatly next year.

Introduction

Jack Farrow Head Prefect Looking back over the past seven years, it really doesn’t feel like it was that long ago I was in Shepperton for my interview, then my entrance exam, and then trying on the school uniform for the first time. People always say time flies when you’re having fun, so that must be why, as I have been given too many incredible memories to recall during my time here. From day one inside the classroom, I slowly developed an affinity for my subjects; a curiosity that I still find embedded in me now and one that I know will stay deep inside of me as my journey continues to university next year. A huge part of this is due to the relationships I built with my teachers, all of whom are extremely passionate about their subjects, and, as a younger student, their passion must have rubbed off on me, too. Halliford has allowed me to do so much across all areas of school life. In Year 7, I was given the opportunity to sing a solo in both the House and class singing competitions, and I was introduced to rugby for the first time. The careful and nurturing coaching helped me enormously, eventually enabling me to represent the school and captain a team. This was the same for football and cricket, and it is a testament to the amazing sports department, which has been a staple in my time here. The fact that at Halliford you can play all three of the main sports at different ability levels throughout the year and have your chance to represent the school is something which cannot be replicated as well as it is here anywhere else. I want to give a massive thank you to all the teachers who have been involved in sporting events during my time here. After what seemed like only days ago, Theo, Liv, Phoebe and I were appointed senior prefects, and I think I speak for all of us when I say it has been one of the greatest privileges of our lives. It has allowed us to develop immensely as people and given us so many amazing opportunities, such as running our own one-off charity events. On a personal level, it has helped me grow in ways I didn’t know I could. I want to thank all my fellow prefects, and especially Liv, Theo and Phoebe, for helping to better the school and for working so diligently this past year. Finally, a massive thank you to Mr Davies. The vast majority of my experiences here can be directly attributed to him. Through the hard work, dedication, and advice he has demonstrated, he has helped mould my future, and I wish him all the best as he moves on next year. As I move on, I know that Halliford has given me the necessary skills, experience, and confidence to succeed at university and, hopefully, in life in general. Thank you, and Up the Ford! 7

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Olivia Skinner Deputy Head Prefect School has been far more than just a place of education for me; it has been a place of both academic and personal development. During my two years at Halliford, I have gained confidence, developed lifelong friendships, and learned valuable lessons both inside and outside the classroom that I will carry with me into the future. Looking back, it is difficult to believe how quickly those two years have passed, and it astonishes me how much I have changed since joining the school. Halliford has always been known for its close-knit community, but experiencing this first-hand has shown me why it is regarded as such a special place. Having the opportunity to complete my Sixth Form journey here has played a significant role in shaping my character and increasing my confidence. The supportive environment created by both staff and students helped me feel part of the community, especially as the only girl in a Design Technology workshop surrounded by boys, which can be very intimidating! Working alongside teachers in a collaborative and encouraging atmosphere was something I had never experienced to the same extent at my previous schools. Not only is there constant encouragement to succeed, but achievements are also recognised and celebrated, creating an environment in which students feel valued and motivated to reach their full potential. The friendships I have formed will always be one of the most rewarding aspects of my time at Halliford. Whether it was persevering through lessons such as triple Psychology in the afternoon, having a gossip during study periods, or simply

spending every day together, the people around me made my Sixth Form journey. Through both the challenges and successes, they became a source of support and happiness that I will always appreciate. Although our paths may now lead in different directions, I know many of these friendships will last long past our time at school. Beyond the classroom, Halliford offered a wide range of opportunities that helped us develop important qualities such as teamwork, resilience, leadership, and independence. Taking part in events, sports, and other activities gave me experiences that I will always look back on fondly. One moment that stands out in particular was the ski trip to Canada. Although my skiing was cut short by an injury, I still enjoyed the trip and shared a fantastic experience with my friends. Halliford places a strong emphasis on helping students make informed decisions about their next steps. A week of work experience, organised and supported by the school, gave me valuable insight into a career path that genuinely interested me. As a result, I decided to study Interior Design at university. With the support of my teachers and family, I was guided through the UCAS process, which helped make what could have been a stressful experience feel much more manageable. As my time at Halliford comes to an end, I would like to thank the entire Halliford community. The school has not only prepared me academically for the next stage of my education but has also instilled values that will remain with me throughout my life.

Introduction

Theodore Maroussas Deputy Head Prefect It is hard to believe how quickly my time at Halliford has gone. It feels like only yesterday that I was arriving on my first day, feeling both nervous and excited about what lay ahead. I still remember trying to find my way around, meeting new friends, and wondering what the next few years would bring. Looking back now, it is incredible to see how much I have grown, both academically and personally. The years have flown by, filled with challenges, opportunities, friendships, and memories that I will carry with me long after leaving school. Sport has played a huge role in my school experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed representing the school in rugby, football, and cricket. Being part of these teams has taught me the importance of teamwork, commitment, and perseverance. Whether it was training sessions after school, competitive fixtures, or celebrating victories together with my friends, sport has created some of my most enjoyable memories. The friendships formed through sport and the lessons learned on and off the field have been just as valuable as anything learned in the classroom. Sport has given me experiences and friendships that I know will stay with me long after I leave school. There have been many memorable moments throughout my time at school. The rugby tour to Argentina in Year 11 was undoubtedly a highlight and an experience I will never forget. The various school trips have also provided countless stories that will continue to be talked about for years to come, from running out of water in Ypres to the bus nearly tipping over to the famous car park cricket matches in Wales. These shared experiences brought people together and created memories beyond the classroom. Alongside these trips, I have many great memories of specific lessons and classes that I am sure I will look back on with great fondness in years to come. Finally, I would like to thank all the teachers who have supported me throughout my time at Halliford. Their dedication, patience, and willingness to go above and beyond have had a huge impact on both my education and personal development. They have encouraged me to challenge myself, helped me through difficult moments, and celebrated successes along the way. The strong relationships between students and staff are one of the things that make Halliford such a special place. I am incredibly grateful for everything the teachers have done for me and for helping shape the person I am today. As I leave, I will take with me many happy memories and a genuine appreciation for all they have contributed to my journey. I would also like to thank Mr Davies for everything he has done to help turn Halliford into the great school it is today, and I wish him the best of luck in his new role at Wells Cathedral School.

TheHALLIFORDIAN is a testament to our unwavering dedication to providing an exceptional educational experience for our students. There is a warmth at Halliford School that is difficult to put into words yet felt by everyone who walks through its doors. This was beautifully illustrated at our Offer Holders Event for prospective Year 7 students held in February. When our Head Prefect was unable to attend due to illness, our Deputy Head Prefect Theodore stepped forward without hesitation, speaking with genuine pride that captivated the room. Later, during the Parent Q&A, the student panel were asked a simple but revealing question: ‘Is there anything you would change about Halliford?’ The young Hallifordians paused, searching for an answer, but they could not think of a single thing. Then Theodore spoke up. With complete sincerity and not a moment’s doubt, he said, ‘I would like to have one more year here.’ It was a small moment, and one that reminded us all just how special our community truly feels.

Editorial

by Mrs Olivia Oakley Marketing & Communications Manager As we celebrate another truly remarkable year at Halliford School, it is clear that our community continues to flourish. From our inspiring art exhibition and impressive sporting achievements to our captivating musical and dramatic performances, our students have once again demonstrated their breadth of talent, passion and creativity. We have ventured beyond the classroom, embarking on enriching international trips to Germany, Iceland, France, Belgium and Italy. Through these adventures, our students have enriched their learning beyond the classroom and created cherished memories that will remain with them for years to come. We were delighted to receive a ‘Significant Strength in Pupil Leadership’ in our latest ISI report which builds upon our last report in 2022 when we were rated ‘Excellent in all areas’. We are also honoured to share that, for the sixth consecutive year, Halliford has been recognised by the prestigious Independent School of the Year Awards. This year we have been commended as the Independent School of the Year for Student Careers. We eagerly anticipate the announcement of the finalists in September. We were also delighted to receive the news that we were selected as a Finalist in the Education Choices Awards in the category of Opportunities in Art and Music. Being recognised

Once again, I have personally experienced our warm-hearted admissions process. From open events, interview, scholarship days, entrance examination day, taster day and finally the offer letter, Mr Davies and Mrs Clatworthy have supported my family with genuine care at every stage, and I am delighted and so proud that my youngest son will be joining the Halliford community in Year 7 this September. Watching my eldest son thrive in Year 9, happy, confident, and fully immersed in life at Halliford, only deepens my excitement for the experiences that await his younger brother. It is with both gratitude and sadness that we wished Mrs Clatworthy a very happy retirement back in February. It has been a privilege to share an office with her for the past six years, and her kindness and dedication have touched so many families. Likewise, with heartfelt thanks and sadness I would like to wish Mr Davies all the very best with his new Headship at Wells Cathedral School. His dedication to the school community and his genuine care for every individual have left a lasting impression on us all, and he will always remain a valued part of our school story. In their honour we will continue to uphold our thoughtful admissions process, one that places families and students firmly at its heart. As Editor of The Hallifordian, it is my pleasure to share these incredible stories and reflect on the memories we have created as a community throughout the year. None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our exceptional teaching and support staff, ably led by Mr Davies and the Senior Management Team. Please enjoy this edition of The Hallifordian.

Introduction

Welcome to New Staff Following the news that Mr Davies is stepping down as Headmaster, we are pleased to welcome Dr Millan Sachania as our Headmaster for the Autumn Term 2026. Dr Sachania is a Governor with over 15 years’ association with Halliford School. Dr Sachania served for over twelve years as Headmaster of two London HMC schools. In these roles, he improved academic outcomes at both schools, securing record levels of attainment at GCSE and A Level. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a Freeman of the City of London, and a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Musicians. He serves as a Reporting Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate and has published over 30 critical editions of works by composers such as Stravinsky and Poulenc. Following a very successful recruitment process, the Governors of Halliford School are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Richard Amlot, who will take up the position of Headmaster in January 2027. Mr Amlot is currently Deputy Head and Designated Safeguarding Lead at King’s College School, Wimbledon, and brings 25 years of experience as an English teacher and school leader across both the maintained and independent sectors. Prior to this, he held a number of senior roles at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School, including Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Head of Sixth Form. Across his career, he has developed systems to support student wellbeing, progress, and engagement, led significant improvements in teaching and learning, and strengthened university admissions processes. In addition to his leadership roles, Mr Amlot is a Team Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate and serves as a Governor in both the state and independent sectors. He writes regularly for educational publications and speaks at conferences, contributing to wider professional dialogue about the future of education. A passionate advocate for an education that nurtures identity, purpose, character, and future-ready skills, he brings a clear and thoughtful vision to his work. Mr Amlot read Theology at Mansfield College, Oxford, before completing his PGCE at Homerton College, Cambridge. He is married to Belita, and they have two children. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, running, theatre, windsurfing and skiing. We are pleased to welcome Mr Ben Wassell to Halliford as our Director of Sport. Mr Wassell joins us from St James Senior Boys’ School, having been there for 20 years as a PE teacher, Form Tutor, Head of Year and then Director of Sport. He has a BSc (Hons) from Brunel University in Sports Science, a Master’s Diploma in Education Management at King’s College, London and is currently threequarters of the way through a Master’s in Education Management and Leadership at King’s College, London. Outside the classroom, he loves all sports but especially rugby. He enjoys being in the mountains, either hiking, climbing or snowboarding and loves the sea, swimming, surfing, and more recently learning to scuba dive. He reads widely and is also learning Spanish. We are pleased to welcome Miss Beth Tiller to Halliford as our Head of Drama. Miss Tiller joins us from Hampton School, having previously worked at St John’s Leatherhead and Ryde School with Upper Chine, bringing with her a wealth of experience in delivering engaging and dynamic Drama provision. She is particularly looking forward to working with and directing the talented students at Halliford. Outside of the classroom, Miss Tiller enjoys reading, travelling the world during school holidays, spending time with her dogs, and has a particular fondness for potatoes in all forms - especially chips. We are pleased to welcome Miss Nichola Holgate-Smith as Head of English. After graduating from Newcastle University in 2012, she trained as a teacher and has been teaching English ever since. In recent years, she has also been involved in the leadership of safeguarding and pastoral care at Queen’s Gate and St Catherine’s School; however, she is now very keen to return to her academic routes and to lead the English department at Halliford School. Away from the classroom, Miss Holgate-Smith enjoys skiing in the fresh mountain air and dancing. She also recently welcomed her baby into the world and is enjoying watching him grow. Mr Gethyn Jones joins us as Head of Physics. Mr Jones started teaching in Wales but has worked in London for most of his career. He most recently worked as a Teacher of Physics at Surbiton High School and, before that, was Director of Physics at Harris City Academy Crystal Palace. He is the co-author of Cracking Key Concepts in Secondary Science (2021). In his spare time, he enjoys reading and occasionally treading the boards as an actor. We welcome Mr Stuart Graham as Teacher of Chemistry. Mr Graham has a degree in Chemistry and Chemical Science and a higher diploma in Physical Science education. He has taught Physics and Chemistry in South Africa for 16 years and in the UK for 14 years teaching AQA, Edexcel and OCR syllabuses both at GCSE and A Level. In his spare time, he loves running, rugby, cricket and travelling, especially to experience other cultures, and has coached county champions in cricket and cross-country. We are pleased to welcome back Mr David Hellier as Teacher of History and Politics, having previously worked at Halliford as a maternitycover History teacher. He brings extensive experience gained through teaching and leadership roles across both UK and international educational settings. Outside the classroom, he is a keen cyclist and is looking forward to his daily commute along the river. Mrs Balbir Sadhu joins us as Teacher of Mathematics. Armed with a BSc in Mathematics, Mrs Sadhu has dedicated the past 27 years to teaching the subject she loves across various secondary schools and sixth-form colleges. She looks forward to bringing this 11

TheHALLIFORDIAN experience to the classroom to help students flourish and find their own passion for mathematics. On a personal note, Mrs Sadhu enjoys maintaining a healthy lifestyle through the gym, Pilates, and yoga. She also deeply values community service and has worked as a trained NHS volunteer chaplain, bringing comfort and joy to patients. She is eager to contribute to the vibrant co-curricular and community life at Halliford. We welcome Mr Neil Yeo as Teacher of Geography. Mr Yeo studied Geography at Loughborough University before completing his PGCE at the University of Nottingham. Over the past 30 years, he has taught Geography and Science in both the UK and Spain, where he lived for ten years and held a range of leadership positions. His professional interests include meteorology, climate change and environmental issues, and he enjoys sharing these passions with students. Outside school, he is a keen traveller and enjoys CrossFit, reading and exploring new places.

New Responsibilities Mrs Chloe Moore was appointed Head of Chemistry. Having completed his teacher training, Mr Jack Perks joins us as a Teacher of Sport and History. Miss Sophie Jenkins has been appointed Head of Wadham House.

Staff Farewells It is with both appreciation and a sense of loss that our Headmaster, Mr James Davies, will be leaving Halliford to take up an exciting new role as Headmaster of Wells Cathedral School from September 2026. During his nine-year Headship, Mr Davies has shown exceptional dedication, leadership, and care for our entire school community. His vision and commitment have helped shape the school into the thriving and supportive environment we are proud to be part of today. From championing academic excellence to nurturing the wellbeing of every student, his impact has been both profound and lasting. Under his leadership, we have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and continued to grow together as a community to the largest roll in the history of the school. In particular, Mr Davies has led us through three inspections where the school received our first ever rating of ‘Excellent in all areas’ and this year, we were awarded the highly coveted accolade of a ‘Significant Strength for Pupil Leadership’, of which James is extraordinarily proud. While we are naturally sorry to see him go, we are also excited for him as he begins this next chapter. We know he will bring the same passion, integrity, and inspiration to his new role as he has shown here. On behalf of all staff, we thank James for his outstanding contribution to Halliford School and wish him every success and happiness in the future. In February, we bid a fond farewell to Mrs Fran Clatworthy, who has guided thousands of families through our warm and welcoming admissions process during her time as Registrar. Mrs Clatworthy joined Halliford in 2008 as School Administrator. She went on to become Halliford School Registrar in 2012, a role in which she has touched the lives of countless students and parents with her exceptional care and compassion. Her warmth, dedication, and unfailing support will be deeply missed by colleagues, parents, and students alike. We extend our heartfelt thanks for her many years of service and wish Mrs Clatworthy and her husband, Peter, every happiness as they relocate to Dorset to enjoy a well-earned and fulfilling retirement. We would like to wish Mr Vince Harden-Chaters, Head of Science & Physics, all the very best as he and his family relocate to the Caribbean. While we are very sorry to see him go, we are excited for them as they embark on this new and exciting chapter. During his twelve and a half years at Halliford, Mr Harden-Chaters has been an inspiring and dedicated leader of the Science department. His enthusiasm for the subject has played a key role in fostering curiosity, resilience, and a love of scientific inquiry among our students. We wish him and his family every happiness and success as they settle into their new life in the Caymans. We say goodbye to Miss Helen Foster, Head of Chemistry, who is about to embark on an exciting period of travel. While we are naturally very sorry to see her go, we are delighted that she is taking this opportunity to explore new experiences, and we wish her the very best with her journey ahead. Her passion for Chemistry, combined with her commitment to academic excellence, has made a lasting impact on her students. We wish her safe travels, wonderful adventures, and every happiness in this exciting new chapter. We bid Mrs Donna Mitchelmore, Head of English, a fond farewell as she takes up a new role at Philip Southcote School. We are 12

Introduction delighted that she has been offered this exciting opportunity and wish her every success in this next stage of her career. Over the last ten years, Mrs Mitchelmore has been instrumental in developing a rich and engaging curriculum at Halliford as well as fostering a genuine love of reading and writing across the school, and we thank her for her hard work and dedication. We also say goodbye to Mr Richard Cook, Director of Sport, who will be relocating to Brighton to be nearer his family. Under his leadership, sport has continued to thrive at Halliford, with many memorable achievements and experiences for students at all levels, and we wish him every success as he begins his next chapter.

Staff News We extend our congratulations to Mr James Hoare and Alice on their marriage and the joyful arrival of their daughter, Pearl. Congratulations to Mr Matt Shales on his marriage to Britt. Congratulations to Miss Hannah Jones on her marriage to Bill.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Krish Palial, 7R I chose Halliford as my school because it has a warm-hearted environment that gives me a strong sense of belonging. I was particularly impressed by the friendly atmosphere, the sense of community, and the emphasis on both academic achievement and personal development. The teachers and classmates were very supportive and helped me settle in, especially during the first few weeks. Older students and form tutors were always willing to offer guidance, which made the transition smooth and enjoyable. I enjoy Maths and Science the most. I like Maths because it challenges me to think logically and solve problems step by step, which I find very satisfying. I enjoy Science because it helps me understand how the world works through experiments and practical learning, making lessons interesting and engaging. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because it has given me a supportive and friendly environment where I feel encouraged to learn and be myself. I have enjoyed the lessons, the clubs, and making new friends, and the school has helped me grow both academically and personally.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Oscar Dean, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because I experienced the warm community and the kind teachers at the open day, but most importantly, I tasted the food! I am involved in lots of clubs and sports, including cricket, athletics and Art Scholars Club. There are too many Halliford highlights to choose from, but my top three are Movember, the Year 7 & 8 Disco, and Inter-House Cross Country. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because it is a great community.

TheHALLIFORDIAN

Speech Day 2026 – Prize Winners –

Achievement Prize

7D �� Arthur Burniston 7G �� Rory Barnes 7R ��Fred Keane 7W ��Jasper Millard 8D �� Noah Fry 8G ��Max Miller 8R ��Noah Hinnigan 8W �� Jake Ritchie 9D �� Ted Young 9G �� Finlay Lehunte 9R �� Lucas Gower 9W ��Sam Elliott 10D �� Tom Leicester 10G ��Tommy Hawksley 10R ��Noah Edwards 10W �� Barnaby Pedlar 11D ��George Sanders 11G �� Morris Hyde 11R �� James Williams 11W �� Max McLean

Progress Prize

7D ��George Howard Bibby 7G �� Arthur Easton 7R ��Rory Hewertson 7W �� David John 8D ��Saavan Handa 8G ��David Mallington 8R �� Joshua Tattersall 8W �� James Armstrong 9D �� Mason Wolton 9G ��Tom Jackson 9R �� Maxi Docherty 9W ��Murdo Thomson 10D ��Fraser Greany 10G ��Ruark MacDonald 10R �� Edward Lamb 10W ��Gaius Aloysius 11D �� Rocco Maroussas 11G �� Jack O’Connor 11R ��Bertie Reynolds 11W ��Oscar Lewitt

– Year 11 Prize Winners – Art Prize.............................................................................................. Baxter Bell Biology Prize.............................................................................. Hayden Sanghera Business Studies Prize.......................................................................... Ryan Karki Chemistry Prize............................................................................... Ben Snowball Classical Civilisation Prize.................................................................Max McLean Computer Science Prize...................................................................... Denis Lynch Ken Russell Prize for Design Technology.............................................Theo Fuller Drama Prize................................................................................ Casper Hewitson English Prize..........................................................................Matthew Cummings French Prize.................................................................................... Samuel Renno Geography Prize............................................................................James Williams German Prize.......................................................................... Christopher Ellison Valerie Brooking History Prize ..........................................................Felix Farrant Norma Cook Prize for Latin...................................................... William Stevenson Mathematics Prize.........................................................................Keelan Thomas Sally Crosby Prize for the Most Improved Mathematician............ Teddy Docherty Music Prize.................................................................................... Joshua Oldham Physical Education Prize.......................................................................Theo Clark Physics Prize..................................................................................Keelan Thomas Religious Studies Prize.........................................................................Jamie Lewis Guy Valadon Prize for Science............................................................ Morris Hyde Spanish Prize................................................................................George Sanders

Introduction

– Upper Sixth Prize Winners – Jonathan Hobbs Memorial Prize for Art............................................Aaric Thomas Biology Prize............................................................................... Alexander White Business Studies Prize......................................................................... Alex Murat Chemistry Prize................................................................................ Oliver Taylor Classical Civilisation Prize........................................................ Darcey Armstrong Computer Science Prize......................................................................... Ryan Choi Design Technology Prize................................................................... Jakob Holder Drama Prize.............................................................................................Toby Hill Economics Prize...................................................................................Jack Farrow Neil Jones Memorial Prize for English Literature.............................Charlie Walsh Extended Project Qualification Prize................................................Phoebe Clark Wendy Simmons Prize for French.....................................................Hector Rutter Geography Prize..................................................................................... Jake Dale John Lewis Prize for History...................................................................Jack Gyles Mathematics Prize.......................................................................... Josh Hawksley Bahadur Sunderji Prize for Further Mathematics................................. Louis Clark Music Technology Prize ..................................................................... Ruaridh Bell Music Prize.................................................................................Laurence Hodson Physical Education Prize................................................................... Oliver White Physics Prize................................................................................... Josh Hawksley Oliver Griffin Prize for Politics.......................................................... Emily Wilkes Psychology Prize................................................................................. Dayan Nana Religious Studies Prize..............................................................................Vee Bull Spanish Prize................................................................................ Alex Ampleford

– School Prizes – Blackeney Shield for Best Sporting Newcomer............................................ Wilf Jennings Hardy Shield for Junior Rugby...................................................................... Charlie Freer Etherton Shield for Outstanding Sportsman.............................................. Lucas Symons Nicks Plate for Sportsmanship......................................................................Oliver White Owen Cup for Rugby................................................................................... Josh Morrison Nauticalia Bat for Cricket.................................................................Theodore Maroussas Football Captains Cup.................................................................................. Charlie Scott Richard Talbot Tankard.......................................... Theodore Maroussas & Josh Morrison Junior Music Award........................................................................... Montagu Pailthorpe Senior Music Award...............................................................................Laurence Hodson Junior Drama Award......................................................................................Ethan Parker Senior Drama Award........................................................................................ Joe Arbiter Phil Abbott Award for Outstanding Contribution to Technical Theatre ....... Thomas Reid Creative Writing (Alex Hitchens Prize)........................................................Eddie Perkins Shepperton Aurora Rotary Community Service Shield................................ Bill Ferguson Trophy for Service to the School.................................................................Olivia Skinner John Crook Prize for Improvement........................................................Thomas O’Connor Headmaster’s Prize......................................................................................Phoebe Clark Headmaster’s Prize.........................................................................................Jack Farrow

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Upper Sixth Leavers - University Places University

Course

University of Bath

Economics with Politics

University of Birmingham

Sport, Coaching Sciences and Business

University of Bristol

Accounting and Management, Criminology

UWE Bristol

Filmmaking

University of Cambridge

Mathematics

University of Edinburgh

Spanish and Politics

University of Exeter

Business, Criminology, Economics and Politics, Exercise and Sport Sciences, Finance, Finance with Industrial Experience, Finance: Business Management, History, Politics

Hartpury University

Equine Performance and Coaching

University of the Highlands & Islands

Golf Management

University of Kent

Psychology

Lancaster University

Criminology, Physics

University of Leeds

Geography, Product Design

Leeds Conservatoire

Music Production

University of Liverpool

Economics with French, History, Mechanical Engineering, Philosophy, Philosophy and Politics, Physics with Astronomy

Liverpool John Moores University

Sport and Exercise Science

Loughborough University

Aeronautical Engineering, Product Design Engineering

University of Manchester

Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Experience

University of Nottingham

Architecture, Business and Management, Economics, Film & Screen Studies, Psychology

Nottingham Trent University

Product Design, Psychology with Counselling

University of Oxford

Economics and Management

Oxford Brookes University

Photography, Sport and Exercise Science

Queen Mary University of London

Applied Artificial Intelligence with Foundation

University of Reading

Computer Science, Economics

Royal Holloway, University of London

Law, Modern Languages & History, Politics and International Relations

University of Sheffield

Biological Sciences, Physics

University of Southampton

Mechanical Engineering / Automotive with Industrial Placement Year

Swansea University

Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Sport & Exercise Science

University of Warwick

Biomedical Science, Politics, Philosophy and Law (PPL)

York St John University

Interior Design

UCL (University College London)

Biomedical Sciences

Autumn Highlights

Upper Sixth Psychology Trip to Brunel University by Darcey Armstrong, Upper Sixth

In September, the Upper Sixth Psychology students went on a trip to Brunel University to extend the Biopsychology content taught in lessons. We met Dr Julio Rodriguez Larios, who introduced us to the different branches of psychology, including clinical psychology and forensic psychology, and explained the professions associated with each. We then explored the university’s labs and were shown how to set up and use an EEG machine and even helped put the electrodes into the cap and wire them up. The lab assistant who was wearing the EEG electrodes then performed behaviours that we were able to directly see change his brainwave activity in different areas of the brain, such as closing his eyes. This really helped deepen our understanding of what we were learning, as we had firsthand experience with this method of studying brain functions. Overall, we had a great day, which contributed well to our studies.

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Harvest Festival

by Vee Bull and Josh Hawksley, Charity Prefects

As your 2025 Charity Prefects, we are incredibly proud to look back to Harvest Festival as one of our most successful and engaging events this year. Thanks to you, we created a new Halliford record of 28 boxes, and an extraordinary total of 1,877 items: nearly four items per student! We continue to congratulate Wadham House for donating 525 items over the course of the week, crowning themselves the first winners of our Inter-House Harvest Festival Competition. This is a remarkable achievement for Wadham’s House Captain, Jakob Holder, and Acting Head of House, Mr Slocock. Your warm-heartedness and generosity meant that our local food banks were stocked with everyday essentials we often take for granted, such as body wash and toothpaste, as well as Day

a wide variety of food to support our community through the cold winter months. We are beyond grateful to every one of you who donated, and to the outstanding teachers and prefects of our Halliford community who helped to make Harvest Festival the success that it was; we truly could not have done it without you. We do not doubt that you will make the next Harvest Festival even better.

Desborough

Greville

Russell

Wadham

Total

Mon

245

Tue

138

330

Wed

141

344

Thu

120

357

Fri

151

111

133

206

601

TOTAL

506

426

420

525

1877

Autumn Highlights

Year 8 Trip to Hampton Court Palace

by Mrs Fenella Wilbraham, Head of History & Politics

Year 8 enjoyed a fantastic day at Hampton Court Palace in October as part of their study of the Tudors. We were particularly fortunate with the weather: clear skies and warm autumn sunshine provided the perfect backdrop for a day of historical exploration and outdoor activities. The students spent the day investigating one of the most important surviving Tudor palaces, bringing to life many of the topics they have been studying in History lessons this term. As always, the popular Religious Rollercoaster workshop helped students make sense of the dramatic religious changes that took place under the Tudor monarchs and encouraged them to think about what it must have been like to live through such periods of uncertainty. Our guides were extremely complimentary about the boys’ knowledge, engagement and willingness to contribute to discussions throughout the session. The boys also explored the Tudor Palace independently, visiting Henry VIII’s apartments, the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal and the famous Tudor kitchens. They approached the day with enthusiasm and curiosity, asking thoughtful questions and making clear connections between what they were seeing and the work they

have been completing in the classroom. After lunch, attention turned to the gardens and, of course, Hampton Court’s famous maze. What has become something of a Halliford tradition reached new heights this year as the boys enthusiastically challenged themselves to complete lap after lap of the maze. In a remarkable display of determination, competitiveness and energy, this year’s cohort succeeded in breaking previous school records for maze laps, setting a new benchmark for future Year 8 historians to try to surpass. The day concluded with a visit to the gift shop before the journey back to school. The students were a credit to the school throughout the visit, demonstrating excellent behaviour, genuine intellectual curiosity and a great sense of fun. They returned tired but with a much deeper understanding of Tudor England and the world of Hampton Court Palace. 19

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Wadham House winners

Inter-House Song Contest 2025 by Laurence Hodson, Upper Sixth

This term has been very busy in the music department, starting with the annual Inter-House Song Contest, judged by our esteemed guest and former music teacher, Mr Dacey. This year’s theme was songs used in films, and the Year 7 classes were the first to take the stage. With two songs, both being from The Greatest Showman - 7K performing This Is Me with Mr Wright and 7L performing A Million Dreams with Dr Shaw - the standards were very high, and the competition was tight. However, the class that emerged victorious was 7J who sang Eye Of The Tiger by Survivor from the film Rocky. Led by Mr Davies, the performance incorporated costume, props and choreography and was a fantastic way to open the afternoon. In a similar fashion, Year 8 followed afterwards with yet another set of fantastic performances. 8J brought power to their rendition of Smash Mouth’s All Star from Shrek as did 8K with their performance of Billy Ocean’s When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Gets Going. 8L also captivated the audience with an excellent rendition of Africa by Toto from the film Moonfall. It was yet another tough decision for Mr Dacey, who crowned 8J as the winners with their excellent performance of All Star. In the House songs, Desborough then kicked off the main show

with an energetic and powerful performance of From Now On from The Greatest Showman. With an opening solo by Billy Dobby and Ted Young contrasting later with the whole House and lively band playing together, it was a strong act to follow. Still, Greville stepped up to the challenge and next performed Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now by Starship from the 80s film Mannequin. With a band force of ten players, including custom-arranged trumpets and three keyboards, it was a fantastic challenge in the competition. Russell was next, performing I Just Can’t Wait to Be King from The Lion King. With energetic chorus vocals provided by the rest of the House, the duo of Arno Nurijanyan in Year 8 and James Grant in Lower Sixth took the spotlight in the leading solo roles and added great character and charisma to the song. However, despite the extremely tough competition, it was Wadham House who were victorious, performing Valerie by The Zutons from the film 27 Dresses. Conducted by House Captain, Jakob Holder and supported by a fantastic band, the piece featured a range of great solos, smaller groups and whole House singing and was a deserving success.

Autumn Highlights

Greville House band winners The final performances were the Band songs, and Desborough opened strong again with a James Bond track of Paul McCartney’s Live and Let Die. Billy Dobby led the band on both piano and vocals, with Leo Yeats and siblings Anya and Denis Lynch on guitars and bass, Ruaridh Bell and Nick Bootle-Wilbraham on trumpet and trombone and Tristan Bush on drums. Successfully navigating tricky tempo changes and a custom arrangement, it was a fantastic opener. Russell competed with another Bond song of You Know My Name by Chris Cornell. With a strong frontman debut from Toby Hill, joined by William PascoeWatson, the two provided fantastic vocals alongside Nat Kinmont and Alfie Westen on guitars, Krishan Chowdhri on drums and Hector Rutter on keys. Wadham brought flair and passion to their rendition of The Chain by Fleetwood Mac from

Guardians of the Galaxy. With duet harmonies between Elijah Wilkinson and Joanne Lee, accompanied by a fantastic guitar solo from Aaric Thomas and drums provided by Seb Roberts, it was a competitive contender for first place. However, the band that Mr Dacey chose as the winner was Greville, performing Don’t You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds from The Breakfast Club. David Mallington played keys supporting me on piano and vocals, with Louis Clark, Oli Fenton and Arlo West providing the tight rhythm section on drums, guitar and bass. Overall, it was a fantastic afternoon of music and a brilliant display of Halliford’s creativity, and great way to end the final week of half term.

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Inter-House Pumpkin Carving Competition by Ms Tamarind Hetherington, Head of Art

1st - Eliot Tidhar - 7D

In October, the Art Department proudly hosted our annual Inter-House Pumpkin Carving Competition, a muchloved event that showcases the incredible creativity of our students. The Inter-House Pumpkin Carving Competition featured an array of unique and skilfully carved pumpkins, with participants of all ages demonstrating their artistic flair. As always, sustainability is at the heart of the competition and we encouraged our students to carve, cook and grow for a greener tomorrow. To help reduce waste, we shared a selection of delicious pumpkin recipes so those tasty pumpkin insides could be transformed into delicious dishes the whole family would love. Students and staff were asked to carve their pumpkins and bring their creations to school to display them in the courtyard. Finally, the challenging task of selecting the winning designs fell to Mr Davies, never an 22

easy job given the extraordinary talent on display! The winners of the Inter-House Pumpkin Carving Competition were… 1st - Eliot Tidhar in 7D for his Lorax design, taking inspiration from our ‘Cut Your Carbon’ month assembly featuring the Lorax 2nd - Oscar Dean in 7R for his Homer Simpson design 3rd - Raffi Cole in 8R for his seriously spooky design Sustainability Prize - Alfie Smith in 8D for his pumpkin cake Congratulations to our students and well done to Desborough House.

Autumn Highlights

Aaric Thomas - U6W

Alex Srivastava - 8G

Alfie Smith - 8D

Arthur Hetherington-Johns - 11D

Ben Telling - 7G

Dexter Perkins - 9R

1st - Eliot Tidhar - 7D

Henry Kiddle - 8W

Jago Hammill - 7W

Jamie Williams -7W

Krishan Chowdhri - 8R

Maxi Docherty - 9R

Max Gardner- 7G

Mrs Morris

Oliver Kipps - 8W

2nd - Oscar Dean - 7R

3rd - Raffi Cole - 7R

Rajan Grewal - 8G

Rayen Prema - 8G

Sam Freeman - 8J 23

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GCSE History Trip to Berlin by Mrs Fenella Wilbraham, Head of History & Politics

The GCSE History trip to Berlin took place at the beginning of the October half term, with a group of Year 10 and Year 11 students setting off on an incredibly early flight to Germany. Despite the early start, spirits were high, and the boys were eager to experience first-hand the history they have been studying in the classroom. From the moment we arrived, Berlin proved to be the perfect setting for immersive historical learning. Our trip began with a walking tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering students a powerful introduction to Berlin’s complex and layered past. Moving through sites that have witnessed imperial grandeur, Nazi dictatorship and Cold War division, the boys were able to contextualise their GCSE studies in a vivid and tangible way. Following a well-earned pizza dinner, we rounded off the evening with a visit to the famous TV Tower. Seeing the city skyline illuminated at night was a memorable experience and a fitting introduction to a capital shaped by both division and reunification. It also gave students a sense of Berlin as a modern, vibrant city, built upon the foundations of its turbulent past. Exhausted from our early start and action-packed schedule, we returned to our city centre hotel for a well-earned rest. The second day formed the emotional and educational heart of

the trip with a deeply moving visit to the former Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Guided by an expert who provided sensitive and insightful historical context, students were given the opportunity to reflect on the realities of Nazi persecution and the human impact of the regime they have studied. The boys conducted themselves with maturity and respect throughout the visit, exemplifying the Hallifordian values we are so proud of. It was clear that the experience left a lasting impression on everyone in the group. In the afternoon, the focus shifted to Cold War history with a visit to the former Stasi Headquarters. Here, students learned about the extent of state surveillance in East Germany and the realities of life under an authoritarian regime. The exhibits helped bring to life the abstract concepts studied in lessons, highlighting the personal stories of those who lived under constant observation. That evening offered a chance to relax and enjoy some friendly

Autumn Highlights

competition at the bowling alley. There were some excellent performances on display, with several students coming close to an upset, although Mr Watson ultimately held onto his title… just! Our final day continued the theme of Cold War Berlin, beginning with a visit to the Berlin Wall Memorial. Standing at a preserved section of the Wall allowed students to visualise the physical and ideological divide that once split the city. After the visit to the Wall, we then visited Bebelplatz, the site of the 1933 Nazi book burnings. Here, students saw the poignant underground memorial, an empty library of white shelves visible through a glass pane in the square, symbolising the loss of knowledge and culture under the Nazi regime. It provided a powerful moment of reflection and a reminder of the importance of intellectual freedom. A particular highlight for many on this last day was the interactive DDR Museum. Its hands-on exhibits gave students a fascinating insight into everyday life in East Germany, from

education and employment to leisure and home life. Being able to sit in a Trabant car or explore a recreated apartment helped bring the past to life in an engaging and memorable way. On our way back to the hotel for our final check-out, we walked the 1.5 km of the East Side Gallery, now the world’s largest openair art gallery, where vibrant murals traced onto the remnants of the Berlin Wall transform a symbol of division into one of creativity and unity. Overall, it was an excellent trip which not only deepened students’ understanding of key GCSE topics, particularly Weimar and Nazi Germany and the Cold War, but also created lasting memories. The boys were a credit to the school throughout, demonstrating curiosity, respect and enthusiasm at every stage of the visit. My thanks to Mr Watson and Ms Teale for all their hard work, support and energy on the trip, and we look forward to returning to Berlin with a new generation of GCSE students in 2027.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Fred Keane, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because I thought it was a good school and I really liked all the teachers and facilities, plus it had really good food. I found it easy to settle in despite not knowing anyone, thanks to my brilliant form tutor! The lessons I like the most are English and Maths because they are useful subjects and I am good at them. The biggest difference between Halliford School and my previous school is that here I get more attention because of the smaller classes. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because I really like it and hope to stay until the end of Sixth Form and I really enjoy all the lessons and learning new things from my great teachers.

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Halliford Students Set Sail on Historic Vessel Moosk by Mr James Davies, Headmaster

A small group of Halliford students embarked on an unforgettable sailing adventure in October, combining teamwork, resilience and hands-on maritime learning aboard the historic vessel Moosk. I was delighted to be joined by Lower Sixth students Rohan Needs and Lucas Symons, Leon Bleach in Year 10 and Year 9 students Edward Buxton and William Reeve. The trip began on Sunday 19 October, with a 10am departure from Halliford for Plymouth Yacht Haven. After a lunch stop en route, we arrived at 4pm to board Moosk, a beautifully restored gaff yawl built in 1906. Originally constructed as a gentleman’s cruiser, Moosk is now listed on the National Historic Ships Register and was fully restored by the Island Trust in 2018. Once on board, the boys settled into life at sea and we were joined by two professional sailors for the duration of the voyage. A full safety briefing followed, along with the issuing of wet weather gear and lifejackets, before final preparations were made for the days ahead. Over the course of the week, our students took part in a wide range of sailing activities and workshops. Each day began with breakfast before heading out under sail, with practical instruction woven throughout the voyage. Highlights included a navigation workshop on Monday, knotting skills on Tuesday and overnight passage planning on Wednesday, when we undertook an overnight sail. On Thursday, the group enjoyed

time ashore before returning to the vessel for the evening. Life on board Moosk required full teamwork and cooperation. The boys shared responsibility for keeping the boat tidy, as well as taking part in cooking and cleaning duties. For all, this meant stepping outside their comfort zones, developing confidence, problem-solving skills and a strong sense of responsibility. The voyage concluded on Friday 24 October, with breakfast followed by a final sail back into Plymouth Harbour. After a clean-down and debrief, we departed at 12.30pm, stopping for lunch before arriving back at Halliford School late afternoon. The sailing trip proved to be a challenging yet highly rewarding experience, offering us all the chance to develop teamwork, resilience and practical seamanship skills while living and working aboard a historic vessel. An adventure few will forget, although perhaps the weather could have been kinder!

Autumn Highlights

Upper Sixth Politics trip to Parliament and the Supreme Court by Mrs Fenella Wilbraham, Head of History & Politics

On Tuesday 4 November, Ms Teale and I took our Upper Sixth Politics students to two of the UK’s most significant institutions: the Houses of Parliament and the Supreme Court. We began our day at Parliament, entering through the Sovereign’s Entrance, the same route taken by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. Although we were unable to access the House of Commons chamber owing to new restrictions following a recent security incident, we were still able to explore the heart of British democracy. Our students were reminded that Parliament is open to all: anyone can observe debates from the public gallery, and petitions can lead to real parliamentary discussion. We continued into the House of Lords, where appointed peers scrutinise legislation. It was particularly exciting to see printed copies of bills we had studied in class, including the Assisted Dying Bill, ready for debate. Westminster Hall, the oldest part of Parliament, provided a powerful historical moment, as students stood where Charles I was tried for treason and where the late Queen lay in state. After the tour, students took part in a manifesto-writing workshop. The winning group made up of Rafferty Dinnen, Freddie Keane-Brown, Alex Slobodianiuk, and Cassius BuckleWright, proposed a bold and progressive policy platform, though some of their tax proposals raised eyebrows. Following a walk up Whitehall (with a brief detour to McDonald’s at Henry’s request), we arrived at the Supreme Court. This institution doesn’t decide guilt or innocence, but instead interprets complex legal issues, often involving constitutional law or human rights. We were fortunate to sit in on a live case concerning the legality of stripping citizenship from someone convicted of a serious crime. The visit highlighted the impartiality of the judiciary and the importance of the rule of law. Students saw firsthand how judges operate independently of politics and how their decisions can shape national policy and protect individual rights. Both visits encouraged students to reflect on their role as citizens. These institutions are not distant or abstract, they are central to our freedoms and responsibilities. Whether through voting, campaigning, or simply staying informed, we all have a part to play in sustaining democracy and justice. 27

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Winter Concert by Mr Alastair Wright, Director of Music In November, the Sports Hall was once again transformed into a vibrant concert venue for our annual Winter Concert. Expertly compèred by Mr Fulford, the evening showcased an impressive range of musical talent from across the school, with performances spanning classical, jazz, choral and rock. The concert opened in dramatic fashion with the Chamber Orchestra, whose spirited performances of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Mussorgsky’s Night on the Bare Mountain immediately captured the audience’s attention. This was followed by an accomplished piano performance from Monty Pailthorpe, whose rendition of Paul Harvey’s Rumba Toccata displayed an excellent jazz feel. The String Ensemble then brought warmth to Strauss’s beloved Blue Danube, while Oliver Kipps and Mr Davies delighted the audience with a stylish and characterful performance of Moszkowski’s Spanish Dance No. 1. The Brass Ensemble injected energy and fun into the programme with a lively rendition of Elton John’s Crocodile Rock, before Arno Nurijanyan impressed with a polished performance of Telemann’s Vivace from Fantasia No. 9. A particular highlight of the first half was the woodwind duet from Win Taylor and Hector Rutter, whose performance of selections from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons displayed excellent ensemble playing and musical communication.

Barbershop then provided a change of mood with a beautiful performance of Simon & Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water, before Mr Balecke’s Percussion Ensemble delivered Matt Curley’s energetic and rhythmically vibrant 9 Volt. James Grant followed with a heartfelt rendition of Mike Batt’s Bright Eyes, showcasing the expressive quality and maturity of his voice. The Chamber Choir rounded off the Classical section of the evening with a sensitive performance of John Rutter’s For the Beauty of the Earth. Jazz Band followed with spirited performances of In the Mood and Minnie the Moocher, with excellent solos from Louis Clark and William Pascoe-Watson. Their infectious energy set the perfect scene for the performances by our Year 7 classes, who revisited their Inter-House Song Contest pieces with great enthusiasm. The second half of the evening concluded with the ever-popular rock bands. The Year 8/9 Rock Band opened proceedings with energetic performances of Don’t Stop Me Now and Hold the Line, featuring some excellent guitar playing from Leo Yeats.

Autumn Highlights

The Year 9 Rock Band followed with confident interpretations of Where Is My Mind? and Money for Nothing, with Ted Young leading expertly on vocals. The Year 10/11 Rock Band maintained the momentum with dynamic renditions of Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor and Can’t Stop. Led by Tobi Smith’s rich vocals, supported by Tristan Bush’s outstanding drumming and Alfie Westen’s excellent lead guitar work, the band demonstrated impressive technical skill and stage presence. The Lower Sixth Rock Band delivered a particularly varied set, moving effortlessly between Radiohead’s The Daily Mail, The Raconteurs’ The Switch and the Spur and the classic American Pie. Strong vocals from Elijah Wilkinson, assured technical drumming from Seb Roberts and accomplished bass playing from Denis Lynch combined to create one of the most polished performances of the evening. Finally, the Senior Rock Band brought the evening to a memorable close with performances of Magnificent (She Says), Have a Nice Day and No Surprises. Once again led by exuberant frontman Billy Dobby, with Laurence Hodson, Aaric Thomas, Seb Roberts and Denis Lynch providing superb accompaniment, their musical assurance, maturity and obvious enjoyment provided a fitting finale to a concert that celebrated the remarkable breadth of musical life at Halliford.

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A Level Science Live Trip by Dr Simon Brooks, Head of Biology On Friday 21 November, our Lower Sixth Biology students travelled to the Apollo Theatre in London, currently home to the musical Wicked, for the A Level Science Live conference. Throughout the day, students heard from a range of leading experts whose research spans evolutionary biology, comparative cognition, and neuroendocrinology. The event opened with a fascinating talk by Dr Adam Rutherford, who explored the complexity of human evolutionary trees. He discussed the many human species that once coexisted, from Homo neanderthalensis to the ‘Phantom human’, a species predicted from genetic evidence found in a fragment of Denisovan bone. Dr Rutherford explained how these groups frequently exchanged genetic material and how modern Homo sapiens represent the last surviving lineage. Drawing comparisons with Darwin’s first 1837 evolutionary tree, he highlighted just how intricate our understanding has become. He also brought humour to the session, debunking celebrity Danny Dyer’s excitement at discovering he was descended from Edward III, pointing out that statistically, almost anyone with British ancestry is too. Professor Gillian Forrester followed with an engaging talk on detecting biological stress, an area closely connected to both Biology and Psychology. She introduced the ‘nasal dip’, a measurable drop in temperature around the nose that occurs

under stress, demonstrated live using thermal imaging on brave volunteer teachers. Professor Forrester showed how the technique provides an objective alternative to wellbeing surveys and how it is even reproducible in non-human great apes, where dominant males show the most pronounced nasal dips as they remain alert for danger. The final talk of the day was delivered by Professor Giles Yeo from Cambridge, who tackled the question of whether obesity is truly a choice. Discussing the powerful influence of genotype, he explained why our biology often drives us to seek food even when full. Using Labrador retrievers as a model, Professor Yeo illustrated how deletions of both copies of the POMC gene lead to increased appetite and an average weight gain of 4kg, an example of how genetics can strongly shape behaviour. The trip provided a rich, thought-provoking experience, offering students deeper insight into modern scientific research and its relevance to their studies.

Autumn Highlights

A Day of Geography at the Royal Geographical Society by Alex Ampleford and Max Lewis, Upper Sixth On Wednesday 26 November, our A Level Geography students enjoyed an inspiring and academically enriching day at the Royal Geographical Society in London, led by Mr Aarons. The programme combined interactive learning with expert-led lectures, making it a truly memorable experience. Morning Session: Good COP, Bad COP The day began with Good COP, Bad COP: Modelling Climate Negotiations, an engaging workshop that placed students in the role of global decision-makers. Using the EN-ROADS climate simulation model, participants from many schools across the country explored the challenges of international climate agreements and debated solutions to tackle global warming. This hands-on activity brought the complexities of climate governance to life and deepened understanding of sustainability issues, including the opportunities and challenges they entail.

Afternoon Session: A Level Study Day In the afternoon, students attended the popular A Level Study Day, which featured three focused lectures on Hazards, Changing Places, and Global Governance—key topics for the A Level syllabus.

The event concluded with a practical session on exam technique and strategies for success, equipping students with valuable tools for their upcoming examinations.

Beyond the Classroom Between sessions, students had the chance to explore the sights around the Royal Geographical Society, including the iconic Royal Albert Hall and the nearby Albert Memorial. Lunch was enjoyed at Imperial College Library Café, offering a glimpse of life at one of the world’s leading universities. This combination of interactive workshops, expert insights, and cultural experiences made the day an unforgettable opportunity for our Geography students. A huge thank you to Mr Aarons for organising such a rewarding and inspiring trip!

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Year 8 Shakespeare-ience by Mr Rob Bateman, Acting Head of Drama This term, Year 8 students have risen brilliantly to the challenge of performing A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Tempest, and Macbeth—three of Shakespeare’s most enduring plays. Their commitment, creativity, and collaborative spirit have made this a truly impressive term of drama. In A Midsummer Night’s Dream, students embraced the play’s humour, magic, and mischief. They worked with enthusiasm to capture the playful chaos of the fairy world, the confusion of the lovers, and the comedic charm of the mechanicals. Their ability to balance Shakespearean language with expressive physicality resulted in lively and engaging performances. The journey continued with The Tempest, set on an enchanted island filled with wonder and mystery. Students demonstrated strong imagination as they explored Prospero’s power, Ariel’s ethereal grace, Caliban’s complexity, and the rich tapestry of characters that inhabit the island. Through thoughtful character work and simple yet atmospheric staging, they created a vivid world that captivated their audience. Finally, Year 8 ventured into the dark and haunting world of Macbeth. Their spooky and atmospheric production showcased their ability to build tension, mood, and dramatic contrast. From

the unsettling presence of the witches to Macbeth’s internal turmoil, students handled the play’s intensity with maturity and focus. Their work with voice, movement, and emotional detail revealed a deepening understanding of dramatic technique. Across all three plays, our Year 8 students have demonstrated remarkable courage and skill in tackling texts written more than 400 years ago. They engaged with challenging language, complex characters, and imaginative worlds, transforming them into performances that were expressive, confident, and full of creative insight. Year 8 should be extremely proud of their achievements; Mrs Gillies and I certainly are. Their performances celebrate not only their developing artistry but also the enduring power of Shakespeare’s stories and the joy of bringing them to life on stage.

Autumn Highlights

Movember

by Mr Harry Churchill, Movember Coordinator

As the leaves fell and the chill of winter crept in, November once again transformed into Movember here at Halliford. This annual campaign has become a cornerstone of our Autumn Term, and this year was no exception. With the excitement of previous successes still fresh in our minds, the school was buzzing to see what creative and wacky challenges would emerge to raise funds for this incredible cause. Our efforts this year truly reflected Halliford’s values: resilience in braving chilly conditions, warm-heartedness in supporting one another, teamwork across students and staff, creativity in designing new games, and respect for the cause we champion. We kicked off the month with an assembly centred around the importance of the Movember campaign, men’s mental health and forms of cancer which are prevalent in younger people. There was also a change this year. With the ever-growing number of girls in the Sixth Form it felt only right to ensure the whole school body was represented. With this in mind we also raised money for the Coppa Feel campaign this November. This is a charity supporting women and girls battling with breast cancer and holds many of the same values as the Movember initiative. The in-school activities kicked off with the ever-popular MO Darts. Students channelled their inner Luke Littler, stepping up to the oche and aiming darts at moustache-clad targets of their favourite teachers. The accuracy on display was impressive, and

the event raised a fantastic £105 for the Movember Foundation and Coppa Feel. Week two saw the return of Whack A Tash. This fan favourite gave students the chance to release any pent-up frustrations by whacking teachers on the head, all in the name of fundraising. The laughter and energy around the courtyard were infectious, and the ever-growing line of students queueing for the event added £109 to our growing total. On 20 November, things got a little wetter with Dunk A MO. In typical fashion, this was the coldest day of 2025 so far. Students lined up to test their aim, throwing balls at a target to release a bucket of water over a brave teacher’s head. Despite the chilly conditions, staff volunteered with smiles, showing resilience and respect for the cause. Special mention must go to all of the staff who took part, in particular to Mr Perks who proved the most popular target throughout the afternoon! This game proved hugely popular, raising £215. 33

TheHALLIFORDIAN The following week introduced a brand-new challenge: Penalty Shoot-Tash. Students took to the football pitch to try and hit pictures of teachers’ faces attached to the goal. With cheers ringing out and some spectacular shots finding their mark, this creative twist on a classic sport brought in £121. Our grand finale came on Friday 28 November with the annual MOfti Day and MOnut Sale. Students donned their finest attire and some truly outrageous moustaches, while the Prefect team and staff worked tirelessly to ensure the MOnuts sold out before the end of break. Special mention must go the Charity Prefects Vee Bull and Josh Hawksley who have been superb this year in organising events, drumming up support and working tirelessly to make the month a success. The final day alone raised an incredible £1,500, a testament to the enthusiasm and generosity of our community. Alongside these in-school events, online donations have continued to pour in, adding a further £2,000 to the total. And let’s not forget the ever popular Trying for Movember initiative! Our Year 7 teams scored an impressive 175 points, resulting in £1,750 raised thanks to the generosity of our anonymous donor. With the Inter-House Competition still to come, we cannot wait to see how much more we will add to this already amazing figure. So far, our combined efforts have raised over £5,800, with more to come as the final points are tallied. This money will go towards changing lives, supporting men’s mental health and tackling diseases such as prostate, testicular and breast cancer. A huge thank you to every student, parent, and staff member who played a part in this year’s campaign. Your resilience, warmheartedness, teamwork, creativity, and respect make Halliford truly special. I cannot wait to see what we achieve next year!

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Bertie Edwards, 7R I decided to join Halliford School for the simple fact that it’s smaller than other schools. Yet this doesn’t make it cramped, but cosy, not standoffish, but welcoming. Oh, I mustn’t forget the food, the food at Halliford is next level, from spaghetti bolognese and chicken curry to hot dogs or cheeseburgers and chips. Oh, and the doughnuts, I couldn’t possibly choose a word to describe them. At first, I thought Halliford was going to be like all the other schools, a busy place with a collection of boys who are keen to go home, but no, after an open morning, I realised that the students at Halliford loved their school, respected it, and enjoyed the duration of lessons.

Autumn Highlights

Year 10 Trip to Cadbury World

by Mr Sean Slocock, Assistant Head Co-Curricular and Teacher of Business Studies

The Year 10 Business Studies trip to Cadbury World began with what can only be described as ‘a valuable learning opportunity in patience’ though most students simply called it ‘annoying’. As our coach trundled towards Birmingham, minding its own business, a passing car decided to liberate it of its wing mirror. With a dramatic clunk and a collective gasp from 45 teenagers, our day of intellectual curiosity quickly became a masterclass in unexpected delays. An hour later, a replacement coach arrived, but, in true tragic fashion, we had already missed the all-important marketing talk, arguably the central purpose of the trip. Undeterred, we pressed on in the noble pursuit of knowledge…and chocolate. Upon arrival, spirits lifted as we entered the Rainforest Zone, a surprisingly immersive exhibit that whisked us from Birmingham to the Amazon in seconds. Here, students learned how the humble cocoa bean transformed over centuries from a bitter drink enjoyed by ancient civilisations to the silky bars we inhale today. History suddenly became delicious, and several students expressed genuine academic enthusiasm. The journey continued through Cadbury’s story – a tale of marketing brilliance, Quaker values, and purple branding so iconic it should probably have its own national holiday. We watched videos charting the company’s evolution from John Cadbury’s small Birmingham shop to the global confectionery empire responsible for approximately half of Year 10’s daily calorie intake. The footage was informative and inspiring, though occasionally overshadowed by students whispering, ‘Do you think there’ll be free samples soon?’ Fortunately, there were. Students were unleashed into the chocolate-crafting area where they received a cup of warm, melted chocolate with two toppings of their choice. Choices ranged from sensible (marshmallows) to slightly chaotic (a handful of jelly

babies submerged like victims in quicksand). They then had the chance to write their name in chocolate – with some students producing elegant scripts and others creating symbols that can only be described as ‘interpretive’. A Cadbury chocolatier then demonstrated the art of tempering – the delicate process of cooling and shaping chocolate. Students tried their own versions, most of which looked less like glossy confectionery and more like abstract sculpture. Nevertheless, the value of intellectual curiosity was proudly on display. After all, experimenting (and failing) is how learning happens, especially when you can eat the evidence. The 4D cinema experience followed, complete with vibrating seats, wind blasts, and a virtual chocolate rollercoaster. Students emerged thrilled and only mildly dizzy, ready for the grand finale: the gift shop. Despite teachers gently suggesting not to spend too much, many students approached the task with the energy of stockbrokers on the trading floor, with Bobby Nash achieving legendary status by spending almost £50 on chocolate, instantly becoming both a hero and a cautionary tale. The journey home was lively. As the sugar surged through the students’ veins, the coach transformed into a travelling karaoke booth, proving once again that scientific curiosity is real: teachers were genuinely curious as to how so much noise could come from so few people. Despite the rocky start, the trip was a confectionery-fuelled success. We learned, we laughed, we ate – and most importantly, our intellectual curiosity was well and truly fed, along with everything else. 35

TheHALLIFORDIAN

Mapping Success: Geography WorldWise Quiz by Mr Guy Boyes, Director of Teaching and Learning, and Teacher of Geography

Monday 12 December marked a proud moment for our school as two Geography quiz teams stormed the regional round of the Geographical Association WorldWise Quiz, finishing first and second out of 22 teams! The competition featured seven demanding rounds on topics such as Sustainable Development Goals, global trade, famous landmarks, recent weather events, and fieldwork techniques. Both teams impressed with their knowledge and quick thinking throughout. The nail-biting finale came when Ted Young clinched victory by identifying the Liver Building in Liverpool from just a tiny photo snippet, earning eight decisive points and securing the top spot! Congratulations to: • Winners: Ted Young, Rajan Deol, and Harry Farrow • Runners-up: Hugo Hawksley, Archie Smith, and William Pascoe-Watson Also joining the celebrations are Rajan Grewal, Krishan Bhatt, Josh Hayes, Edward Buxton, and Leo Yeats, who will all receive certificates for their fantastic efforts. This achievement truly puts our school on the map. Well done, everyone! 36

Autumn Highlights

Inter-House Christmas Card Competition by Ms Tamarind Hetherington, Head of Art

Following the October half term break, the Art Department launched the festive season with this year’s InterHouse Christmas Card Design Competition. Inspired by the theme ‘Rocking Around the Christmas Tree’, students were encouraged to produce creative and original designs that reflected the joy and excitement of Christmas. Following the submission of numerous outstanding entries, Mr Davies had the challenging task of selecting the winning design. After much deliberation, congratulations go to Arthur Hetherington-Johns in 11D who was awarded first prize. As the recipient of first prize, Arthur had the honour of his design being used for the Halliford Christmas Card, an honour of which to be proud. Congratulations also go to our highly commended entries - James Grant in L6R, Raffi Cole in 8R and Jago Hammill in 7W. The Inter-House Christmas Card Design Competition was a great success, bringing the school community together in the spirit of Christmas and celebrating the Hallifordian value of creativity. Congratulations to Arthur, James, Raffi and Jago for their fantastic designs and for contributing to the success of the competition. A great win for Desborough House. 37

HALLIFORD LIFE

New Year 7 Sports Morning

Courtyard Chess

Happy New Year 7 Stud

ents Enjoying Tuck

Year 8 Sustainability Club

Autumn Highlights

HALLIFORD LIFE

Show R

Conspiracy Club

Christmas Jumper Day

acism T

he Red

Card

Movember Madness! Remembrance Service

TheHALLIFORDIAN 1XI match against King Edwards Southampton

Autumn Term Sports Report by Mr Richard Cook, Director of Sport Rugby Season 2025

RUGBY

As I reflect on this term at Halliford School, I am immensely proud of the achievements and progress we have made together. Sport continues to be a cornerstone of life at Halliford, and this term has exemplified the values that define us with teamwork, resilience, and determination all being huge pillars of what defines us across Halliford Sport. Rugby has taken centre stage with an incredible array of fixtures across all age groups, including a superb National Cup run for our U14s and a memorable Middlesex Bowl triumph for our U12s. Netball continues to flourish, offering more opportunities for students to shine, while the opening of the Harry Gibbons Fitness Suite has transformed training and access to Strength & Conditioning provision across all sports. One notable statistic is that 71% of our Year 7 students represented Halliford in at least one rugby fixture this term. With many students taking on rugby for the first time, this is a huge achievement and testament to the inclusive, thriving environment we are building, especially given the current state of concern amongst youth rugby nationwide. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our students and the tireless commitment of our PE and Games staff. I would also like to pay special tribute to a remarkable cohort of Upper Sixth students who have represented Halliford rugby with honour and tradition throughout their time here. Their leadership and example have left a lasting legacy, influencing younger age groups and shaping the culture of sport across the school. They have been outstanding role models who genuinely care about their impact, and for that, I am deeply grateful. Looking ahead, there is plenty to be excited about next term, with Football and Rugby 7s set to take centre stage. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to making this term so memorable. I cannot wait to see what 2026 brings for Halliford Sport.

1XV RUGBY

Preparations for the 2025–26 Halliford School 1st XV rugby season began on 12 August with a newly assembled squad under the leadership of Captain Josh Morrison. The pre-season programme was comprehensive, comprising six structured sessions in August that combined field-based rugby with S&C to build physical conditioning and technical proficiency. This new approach ensured the senior playing group entered the season ready to tackle the demands ahead. The programme concluded with a full training day at Caterham School, which featured an intensive conditioning block followed by high-quality on-field sessions against Caterham’s 1st XV. Position-specific training for forwards and backs was complemented by competitive conditioned games, providing an excellent platform for skill refinement and team cohesion. This pre-season phase laid a strong foundation for what would prove to be a challenging and rewarding season.

Autumn Sports Report The opening fixture saw Halliford face Radnor House in the first round of the National Vase, and the team delivered a dominant performance, winning 41–5. The attacking play was full of flair, orchestrated brilliantly by Year 11 Leo Smith, while Billy Dobby earned Man of the Match for his outstanding defensive contribution. This emphatic start set high expectations for the weeks ahead. Next came an away trip to Tiffin in the Saturday Rugby Block, where Halliford produced an excellent display of grit and determination on both sides of the ball. Captain Josh Morrison scored the team’s only try, diving over in the corner, but despite their efforts, Halliford fell narrowly short, losing 8–7. Costly errors proved decisive in what felt like one that got away. Determined to bounce back, Halliford travelled to Gunnersbury Catholic School and delivered a resounding 40–0 victory. The team played some outstanding running rugby, scoring a series of excellent tries. A highlight of the day was the 1st XV debut of Year 11 back-row forward Tom Aris, who impressed with a strong performance in attack and defence. The National Bowl second-round clash against Reed’s School presented a stern test. Halliford struggled with errors and inconsistency, resulting in missed opportunities and a 10–39 defeat. Despite the scoreline, there were positives amongst the performance, with Year 11 Ethan Johnson making his 1XV debut and having a big impact off the bench. Theo Maroussas earned the Man of the Match award on the day for his composure under pressure and ability to beat multiple defenders every time he got the ball. Another close contest followed a week later against a Hampton School team in our fifth game of the season. Halliford led 17–15 going into the final 20 minutes, only for two soft tries to swing the game Hampton’s way. The final score of 30–17 did not reflect the team’s effort and quality throughout much of the match. Year 11 student Josh Berresford made an impressive debut from the bench, showcasing strong ball carrying skills a real highlight in an excellent overall performance. Billy Dobby stood out again as the pick of the bunch, delivering a commanding defensive display that earned him Man of the Match honours. The home fixture against London Oratory School was a rollercoaster. Halliford started brilliantly, racing into a 12–5 halftime lead thanks to tries from Charlie Moria and Theo Maroussas. However, two quick tries from the visitors after the break put Halliford under pressure. A moment of individual brilliance from JJ Lam-Denham brought the score to 19–20 with five minutes remaining, but an overthrow at a lineout allowed London Oratory to score with the last play of the game. JJ Lam-Denham deservedly took Man of the Match for his outstanding defensive contribution. The away trip to Churcher’s College, always a tough fixture, was one of Halliford’s best performances of the season despite the narrow 15–6 defeat. Facing a much bigger side, the team’s defensive effort was exceptional, with special mentions to Tom Aris and Will Slater for their defensive performance. Two penalties from Jack Giddens kept the game close, but dominant scrummaging and a powerful maul from the opposition proved decisive. This was another match that could have gone Halliford’s way and offered valuable lessons in both attack and defence for the group. A strong week of training set the stage for a highly anticipated home clash against Windsor Boys, a fixture with added spice due to club rivalries and former Halliford students in the opposition ranks. In torrential rain, Halliford’s game management made the difference. Full-back Theo Maroussas scored two tries, capping off a brilliant season of personal growth, while Vice-Captain Jake Dale powered over late on to seal a memorable 21–0 win at home in front of a big crowd. The season finale brought local rivals St George’s Weybridge to Halliford. Playing into a strong wind, the team found themselves 33–0 down at halftime, a tough pill to swallow. However, the second half was a testament to Halliford’s character. With the wind at their backs, Leo Smith crossed for the first try after the best attacking sequence of the game. Then, Theo Maroussas produced a stunning solo effort, beating five or six defenders to score. Although the final score was 40–14, Halliford won the second half 14–7, showing how far the group had come and ending the season on a positive. As we say goodbye to this exceptional rugby cohort, we celebrate their contribution to Halliford’s rugby programme. Their commitment, resilience, and passion have left a lasting legacy. The progress made during the 2025–26 season as a team is a credit to their hard work, and we wish them every success in their future rugby journeys.

TheHALLIFORDIAN

U16 RUGBY

The Halliford School U16A rugby team has shown great commitment and resilience throughout the 2025/26 season. Despite a challenging fixture list and several cancellations, the squad has continued to demonstrate teamwork, determination, and a desire to play a Barbarian-style of ‘run it from anywhere’, which has been very entertaining to watch. The season started at Weybridge Vandals with the visit of Tiffin. The team started the match strongly, with aggressive, attacking rugby; however, a charge-down and an intercept proved decisive, and we were defeated 5-17. A spirited performance overall with strong phases of play, but Tiffin proved too clinical in attack. Next came a trip to Hampton. Arguably, this was our best performance with the ball in hand; however, we were unable to convert possession and territory into points. Although rugby is a team game, Hampton showed that one exceptional player can make a huge impact, and he was the final difference between the two sides. After half term, we were faced with a visit to London Oratory School. Once again, showing excellent attacking intent, we started the game strongly. Halliford battled hard and scored two well-earned tries, but London Oratory’s pace and power were decisive in inflicting a 12–35 defeat. Churcher’s College were the next visitors to Vandals. This was a very tight contest dominated by defence on both sides. Halliford held firm for long periods but couldn’t convert opportunities into points. Churcher’s made their way into a 0-12 lead early in the second half, before the match was abandoned due to an injury and an ambulance needed to be called, thankfully no long-term damage was suffered. For the final game of the season, we took on local foe St George’s. Unfortunately, the first half didn’t quite go to plan, with some missteps and a few questionable calls against us. Despite this, the boys regrouped at halftime, and some senior squad members urged passion and commitment in the second half. This is exactly what entailed, with Halliford steamrolling through St George’s defence, leaving a mark on those who tried to stop them, getting themselves back into the game before narrowly losing 24-31. The second half summed up what they had learnt over the last five years of rugby at Halliford, demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and respect! A small squad of players was used throughout the season, and they remained committed to the end. The team was well led up front by Josh Berresford, Ethan Johnson, and Charlie Crawford, with Jack O’Connor, Harvey Connop, and Aidan Sairanen Fuller providing both attacking and defensive threats in the backline. Hopefully, several of the boys will make an impact on the First Team next season, and there is plenty of potential in the coming years.

U15 RUGBY

The Halliford U15 rugby squads demonstrated resilience, determination, and flashes of brilliance throughout a season filled with challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons. Both the A and B teams embodied the school’s core values of teamwork, respect, and perseverance. The A team began with a tough away fixture against Claires Court. Despite a spirited start, their pace and precision proved decisive, and Halliford fell 42–0. The boys refused to let this loss define them. With renewed determination, they bounced back in training, ready for the next challenge. Against Tiffin, Alfie Granger returned as a powerful midfield runner, making an immediate impact with strong carries and big tackles. Halliford dominated much of the game, but Alfie Granger’s unfortunate arm injury disrupted continuity, allowing Tiffin to capitalise and take a narrow win. In the National Cup Round 1, Halliford faced Ibstock Place School in a thrilling contest. Missing key players through injury, the team applied early pressure, forcing turnovers and moving the ball wide for Samir Al-Falaki to score in the opening minutes. Aron Drishti added another under the posts, but Ibstock fought back to lead 17–14. With minutes remaining, Leo Bamber produced a stunning run from the 10-metre line to score the winning try in the corner. The 19–17 victory was a testament to their resilience and belief. Round 2 brought Wimbledon College. Still missing key players, but with Zac Wiffen back in the team, Halliford battled bravely against an excellent Wimbledon side with speed and power out wide. The 52–14 loss did not reflect the character the team showed. Zac’s two tries and James Higgins’ defensive heroics were highlights in a game that tested their spirit and resolve. November delivered two standout performances. Against Salesian College, Halliford raced to a 17–0 lead

Autumn Sports Report with relentless pressure and clinical finishing. Salesian rallied to 17–14, but Halliford’s defence held firm and two more tries sealed a 32–19 victory. The win came at a cost, with front-row stalwart Zain Abou Hasan dislocating his shoulder again. Zac Wiffen and Aron Drishti earned joint Man of the Match for their impact. A week later, Windsor Boys’ School arrived for a close contest. Gus Matthews stepped up from the B team and impressed with strong scrummaging. Halliford struck first through Lucas Leverett after a powerful maul, leading 5–0 at half-time. The second half saw Alfie Granger, back from injury, scoring two quick tries and converting penalties to secure a 23–10 win. His attacking flair earned him Man of the Match, though it proved his last game after another injury, this time breaking his thumb. Although there were defeats along the way, the season offered valuable lessons in resilience and teamwork. The campaign concluded against St George’s College Weybridge. Despite a 35–0 loss, the scoreline flattered the opposition. Halliford defended valiantly, making countless tackles. Barnaby Pedlar excelled at fullback with fearless defensive work, while Henry Sykes’ breakdown tenacity and Charlie Hoyne’s powerful carries frustrated St George’s. With only two substitutes, fatigue led to late tries, but the effort was immense. Across all fixtures, individual brilliance shone, Samir Al-Falaki’s kicking, Alfie Granger’s attacking runs, Zac Wiffen’s sidesteps, Barnaby Pedlar’s game control, James Higgins’ defensive grit, and Hamish Monypenny’s outstanding leadership. More importantly, the squad grew together, learning from setbacks and celebrating successes. They carry forward the values that define Halliford rugby: respect, commitment, and pride. The U15B squad faced a challenging yet rewarding season marked by determination and growth. Despite cancellations and tough fixtures, the team showed spirit throughout and continued to develop their skills and understanding of the game. The season began with a pre-season internal match on 6 September, followed by a fixture against Emanuel School that was cancelled. Their first competitive outing came on 13 September against Claires Court at Maidenhead Rugby Club. Despite a valiant effort, Halliford lost 0–25. A narrow home defeat to Tiffin followed, 17–22, where the boys showed real promise with strong attacking play. Several October fixtures were cancelled, but training continued with focus and energy. On 8 November, Halliford travelled to Barn Elms to face London Oratory. After conceding two early tries, Halliford fought back. Robert Senior’s tactical kicking and forward dominance in scrums and mauls turned the tide, leading to two well-earned tries—one from Charlie Watson after a brilliant sidestep and another from Gus Matthews following a penalty. Despite these efforts, Oratory pulled ahead late, ending 12–34. Niam Thakrar-Vara earned Man of the Match for his outstanding tackles. The following week, Halliford hosted Churcher’s College in the toughest game of the season. Despite strong defensive efforts early on, repeated penalties allowed Churcher’s to capitalise, resulting in a resounding defeat. While harsh, the boys showed commendable perseverance. The highlight came on 20 November against Hampton School. In a thrilling contest, Halliford responded to an early Hampton try with quick scores of our own. Luca Brief crossed the line twice, Tom Aynge added another, and Alfie Granger—fresh back from injury—slotted a crucial penalty from 30 yards to give Halliford a slender lead. The final ten minutes were tense, but defensive grit held firm, securing a memorable 29–28 victory. Luca Brief and Gus Matthews were joint Men of the Match for attacking flair and counter-rucking heroics.

TheHALLIFORDIAN Unfortunately, the final fixture against Windsor Boys’ School was cancelled, limiting preparation for the concluding match against St George’s Weybridge, which ended in defeat. Despite this, the season showcased resilience and improvement. From hard-fought losses to an unforgettable win, the U15Bs embodied Halliford rugby values: commitment, teamwork, and pride. Well done to all players for their effort and determination. These experiences have laid strong foundations, and we look forward to building on them for an even stronger season next year.

U14 RUGBY

This year has been another excellent one for the U14 side. Coming into the year, the group had not been beaten since early on in their Year 7 season, but with the national cup entered and some tough fixtures on the horizon, it was set up to be a cracker of a term. The season began with one of the toughest fixtures of the year against a physically dominant Claires Court side. This was one of the only games the boys had failed to win the year before, ending in a hotly contested draw. This year, though, new additions such as Ethan Majid, Jackson Dunlop and Archie Dehlsen added a new dynamic to the side, and the boys entered the game in high spirits. It was an end-to-end affair, but eventually the team came through as 24-19 winners, conversions from captain Ahi Lloyd proving crucial. The rest of the first half term saw the group go from strength to strength, putting in some incredibly impressive performances on both sides of the ball. Highlights included an impressive win against a strong Hampton side and progression through the first two rounds of the national cup, leaving the side in with a last 16 fixture against Gordon’s to look forward to in the second half of term. Immediately after the half term break, the boys had what would prove to be the most difficult week of the season. With three fixtures and the Middlesex Festival in the space of just eight days, the depth and ability of the squad were set to be tested to the max. Fixtures against Gordon’s and Churcher’s College were both tightly contested, but unfortunately, both ended in narrow losses for the group. This period of back-to-back losses was something the boys had not previously experienced and served as a stern test of their resilience and ability to stick together as a team. In addition, the second half of the season saw the intensity of the schedule catch up with the group, as they were plagued by injury, illness, and unavailability. In total, only five players managed to play in every fixture, with numerous B-team players stepping in and taking on key roles in the squad throughout the second half of the season. This ever-changing squad is a testament to the depth of talent the year group possesses. Reliable players were crucial, typified by Jasper Burke stepping into the 10 shirt on numerous occasions and doing so with great success, which highlights how far the group has come. In spite of these challenges, the boys responded to the disappointment of the first week brilliantly, winning every game in the lead-up to the season’s final game. This saw the group head over to St George’s to play against a strong opposition. Fielding a bare 15 players, owing to illness and injury, the boys were up against it from the start. In typical fashion, this did not faze them; they put in one of the best performances of the season and only fell short owing to not getting the rub of the green on the day and a few key decisions in the game. It would be remiss not to mention certain individuals when reviewing this season’s success. The pack has been truly immense, winning scrums, creating turnovers, and making metres on almost every carry. William Reeve, Alex Kent and Ted Young have been just some of the standout performers, giving everything each week and showing the Hallifordian value of resilience in spades. New additions Ethan Majid and Jackson Dunlop have also been supreme, the former earning the pack leader position for his outstanding ability to lead by example, and the latter scoring an impressive 13 tries in twelve games this season. In the backs, the new half-back combination of Archie Dehlsen and Ahi Lloyd has been outstanding; their decision-making, delivery, and calm under pressure have made the team tick all season. Outside them, the dynamic duo of Ben Slater and Charlie Freer have been dominant in the centres, with Ben Slater leading the line in defence with bravery and a tackling power far above his station, and Charlie Freer dancing around defenders with ease. Finally, the running power of the back three has added a balance to the side, with Nicholas Shahverdian enjoying a rich try-scoring record with nine tries under his belt. Another real highlight of the season has been the B team squad. Year 9 can be a tricky time for B team rugby, but this group have bucked the trend, securing some impressive wins and, more than anything,

Autumn Sports Report showing real development in their ability. Wins against Gunnersbury and Churcher’s College were just two of the many highlights the team enjoyed. Leaders Jasper Burke and Toby Chahrvin have kept the group going all year and deserve huge credit for their attitude throughout. Others who found themselves on the B team at the start of the year cemented their place as A team starters by the end of the year. Max Williams and James Marney were just two of the many who stepped up throughout the season and did so seamlessly. In training, the B team frequently went toe-to-toe with the A team and, on occasion, even came out on top, once again highlighting the true strength of this year group and its depth of talent. All in all, it has been a positive year of development for the U14s, gelling together with new faces and personalities, learning how to play full 15-a-side rugby and how to deal with the adversity felt in defeat. I have been supremely proud of the group and am excited to see what they can do as they progress through the school.

U13 RUGBY

The U13s were a fantastic group this year and demonstrated their commitment to the season from the first training session. Following a largely positive season last year, the boys were keen to maintain this momentum and appeared up for the challenge of moving up an age group. The cohort was consistently offered the option of training in preparation for fixtures or honing their skills in a development group, yet the split has never been so one-sided. Players were regularly reminded that squads would rotate and that playing time might be limited, but many of the boys simply wanted to challenge themselves and improve their skills and rugby competencies. Led by Captain Harry Monypenny, the season started off with some extremely competitive fixtures against Claires Court and Tiffin. A close loss was followed by a thoroughly deserved, well-fought draw, signalling promising signs of what was to come. There was a real cohesiveness within this team, and the support for one another was undeniable. The boys welcomed Hudson Pooley Sweales to the team as a new student, and he proved instrumental throughout the season, playing in nearly every role. As Vice-Captain, Hudson supported Harry by offering to lead by example, in whichever role he was given. Early-season injuries to Jacob Wiffen, Noah Grozev, and Theo Boulton required rotating a few positions, and the group had to address these concerns collectively. One of the highlights of the season was the dominant display away at Gunnersbury, where the boys came together as one, playing the game at pace in every aspect. Attacking lines were direct, turnovers were successful, and the defence was unbreakable. On a small pitch, space was still created, and several players scored with precision. The pick of these was Arnie Appleyard, Max Miller, and Ossie Constable, showing the dominance of the front-row power those boys delivered all season, ensuring we often played on the front foot. Ossie was one of the players of the season and will no doubt be a big player in years to come, combining strength, power, pace, and a real willingness to learn the intricacies of rugby. Unfortunately, a week off meant momentum was lost, and perhaps a little too much confidence was taken into a tough encounter against local rivals, Hampton. Despite some resolute defending throughout, the pace of their full-back was simply too much, and we could not find the answer. This group could not dwell on this for long, though, as the half term break followed, but there was little rest as they headed off on tour. Harry writes, ‘At the start of the half term, the U13 Rugby team went on tour to Bath and Bristol. Highlights included attending the Premiership Rugby match, having great fun bowling, and the amazing food at ZaZa Bazaar, which we all loved. On Saturday, we played a strong rugby club with mixed sides and performed well, winning two of the three matches. On the final day, the Bs had a big match, which they unfortunately lost. Then the As came up against a large Chipping Sodbury RFC side, which was a hard encounter due to their size, but we triumphed 30-25. The whole tour was great, and thank you so much to the staff who gave up their time to take us away.’ The next match was much anticipated following what felt like several weeks of no rugby, and it was a tough encounter away at London Oratory. With Craven Cottage as the backdrop across the river, the boys seemed a little intimidated. This evaporated as soon as the game started, though, and a lung-busting run down the wing from Player of the Match, Thomas Crosby, settled the nerves. It was this pace and the width of the boys’ play that gave them confidence to use the ball quickly and test the opposition’s defence. Another attack down the wing saw another score, then Oliver Kipps added another as both players showed the skillset of young men who have covered positions wherever they were selected. It was not all oneway traffic, though, and this completely shifted in the second half, where the boys resolutely defended for almost the entire period. A breakaway try from the breakthrough player of the season, Ben Hales, highlighted the progress he has made as a rugby player throughout the season. 45

TheHALLIFORDIAN Unfortunately, the season ended in a bit of a whimper, as a big loss to Churcher’s College, an underwhelming performance at the Middlesex Festival and the cancellation of the home fixture against St George’s saw the curtain come down on a mixed season. Plenty of promise shown, but also lots to work on ahead of next season as they move to full-sided rugby as U14s. The U13Bs had a similar season in terms of results this year, but were much more competitive in many of their matches. A superb performance in their opening match of the season against Claires Court was certainly one of the highlights, demonstrating that whichever players were selected, they played with enthusiasm and enjoyment. There was a lot of rotation due to the sheer number of boys that wanted to play on a weekly basis, but the core of the team, led by Patrick Donnelly, Henry Goodfellow and Raffi Cole, ensured that there was rarely a beat missed. This was evident in the first half of the season, as they saw a 25-5 victory in their opening match, followed by a closely fought 20-20 draw with Tiffin. This preceded an emphatic 30-20 victory over Gunnersbury and, finally, an extremely tight one-score loss to Hampton. Many of these points came from the free-flowing running of George Childs, who spent time in both the A and B teams this year, offering running at pace, which always troubled the opposition’s defensive line. Defensively, this team was superb and rarely took a step back when confronted with much bigger opponents. Thomas Pearson, Alfie Smith, Hassan Waheed and Xander Bliss were the pick of the forwards and ensured that their pack was always up to the task of competing for the gain line and ensuring ball security.

U12 RUGBY

The Year 7s have embraced rugby brilliantly this term, showing enthusiasm, resilience and steady growth in both skill and attitude. From the very first training session, their eagerness to learn and willingness to throw themselves into the game were clear to see. Their commitment was evident throughout the season, with the majority (71%) of the year group representing Halliford in a competitive rugby fixture, and 22 boys featuring for the A team at different points. This not only highlights the depth of talent within the year group but also the healthy competition for places and the determination shown by so many boys to improve in training sessions and earn their spots on each team. A core group of students across the year never missed a single training session or match, constantly striving to develop their understanding of the game and refine their skills come rain or shine. Their dedication and positive attitude made them a pleasure to coach and displayed the Halliford values with aplomb, which will serve them well in the years ahead. The A team’s journey was a story of resilience and growth. After a tough opening defeat to Claires Court, they responded in the best possible way, embarking on an unbeaten run that included a hard-fought draw against Tiffin and a commanding 40–15 win over Gunnersbury with plenty of free-flowing rugby and individual brilliance. Even in challenging fixtures against Hampton and London Oratory, the boys showed tactical improvement and growing confidence as a team. One of the standout performances came against Salesian College, where they produced an impressive display of structured rugby and teamwork, only conceding in the final play to draw 35–35. A huge highlight was their trip to Churcher’s College, where, despite the scoreline, the A team delivered their best performance of the year. They never gave up, backed each other throughout and stuck to their plans as a team, eventually scoring a well-deserved try at the end to round off a superb team move. It was a moment that brilliantly summed up their team spirit and the development they have made as a group throughout the term.

Autumn Sports Report Their crowning achievement came at the eagerly anticipated Middlesex Festival at Grasshoppers RFC, where they finished the season on a high by winning the Bowl competition. The boys claimed three victories from five games, including a brilliant opening win against Fulham Boys, who went on to top the group. Wins also came against Ealing Fields and Turing School, and every player contributed to what was a fantastic day of rugby. When it really mattered, the whole team stood up and displayed outstanding team spirit and determination, showing how far they have come as a group since the start of the term. Individual contributions were equally impressive. Joint captain Jack Matthews led with respect, maturity and composure throughout the season, while Teddy Macson’s aggression in defence, Shaan Chavda’s physicality in the forwards and George Bibby’s rugby intelligence and selflessness stood out. William Cook showed remarkable improvement, learning the values of selfless play and becoming a key link in the team’s attacking shape. In the backs, Wilf Jennings, David John, Nye Williams and Jake Dale combined pace and creativity, while Freddie McAsey brought explosive power at centre. Arthur Easton was a rock in defence, and Seb McDonnell developed into a quietly capable assassin at the breakdown, regularly turning over possession in Halliford’s favour. Shaan ended the season as the team’s top try scorer, a testament to his determination and hard work in training, responding brilliantly to feedback and improving his skillset considerably throughout the term. Special mentions also go to Teilo Thomas, Rory Barnes and Oscar Dean, who earned A team spots through hard work and resilience, proving that dedication pays off and showing there is plenty more to come from this team in the future. All the boys demonstrated fantastic attitude and laid strong foundations for the future. This is a year group full of athletic potential and one to watch as they move up the school. Most of all, it was great to see this team turn up to every single session with smiles on their faces, enjoying each other’s company, the camaraderie that comes with team sport and generally having fun. They will love their journey through Halliford School if this term is anything to go by, and I really look forward to seeing what they can achieve. Beyond the A team, the B team enjoyed a season full of hard-fought matches, mixing narrow defeats with some excellent victories. Their progress was clear to see, and a standout performance came in the determined win against Salesian College, where they demonstrated excellent work at the breakdown and attacked space with pace, skills we have been focusing on in training all year. It was also rewarding to see players progress from the B team to become regulars in the A team, with names such as Rory Barnes, Teilo Thomas, Ben Gibson and Matthew Hamilton-Dyson standing out for their development and commitment. Other players who impressed this season include Dylan Nagra, Henry Court, Quinn Spraggs and Jack Want, all of whom showed resilience and continuous improvement throughout the year and are knocking on the door of the A team.

TheHALLIFORDIAN The C team also made fantastic progress, with many boys taking part in rugby for the first time. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and numbers at training were consistently strong. Wins over Hampton and Tiffin were particular highlights, and the effort and teamwork shown throughout the season were commendable. Standout performers included Ayden Ali, Thomas Galbiati, Aden Al-Falaki, Efrem Rosculete and Harry Winters, all of whom displayed commitment and were great team players throughout the term. Efrem Rosculete, in particular, was praised for his consistency and attitude, embodying the values we look for in Halliford rugby. Although not every result went their way this term, the boys created memories that will last a lifetime. From their very first fixture representing Halliford in September to the thrill of scoring their first try, experiencing their first away trip and, for some, lifting their first trophy, these moments truly capture the essence of Halliford School sport and why it is so special. They are milestones that will stay with them for years to come and mark the beginning of what promises to be an exciting rugby journey.

Netball Season: A Winning Year for Our Girls’ Team This year’s netball season has been nothing short of spectacular for our girls’ games. Competing against strong schools such as Reed’s and Notre Dame, the team demonstrated skill, determination, and teamwork throughout every match.

NETBALL

Miss Jenkins, Netball Lead

One of the season’s highlights was our thrilling victory over Reed’s, which we secured with an impressive 11–7 win. The game showcased not only our players’ talent but also their resilience under pressure. Every pass, every shot, and every defensive move reflected the hard work put in during training sessions. A huge part of this success can be credited to the wise and steady leadership of our Captain, Olivia Skinner. Her guidance, both on and off the court, helped the team gel and play with confidence and unity. But what truly sets this team apart is its commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. From the very first practice, the players have prioritised respect for one another’s strengths and worked hard to ensure that everyone feels valued. This sense of camaraderie has been the foundation of their success. Whether celebrating a great shot or encouraging each other after a tough moment, the team has shown what it means to be true team players. Adding to the excitement, the squad proudly debuted new uniforms this season. Wearing them gave us an extra boost of pride and spirit, and they truly represent the professionalism and enthusiasm of our players. As the season closes, we look back with pride and forward with anticipation. The team is already buzzing with excitement for next year’s challenges. With the same dedication, respect, and teamwork, we are confident that the next season will be even more successful.

Autumn Sports Report

Hallifordian Sporting Achievements Cairbre continues to shine on the golf course, stepping up two age groups to represent Middlesex U16s and delivering a superb debut season. His skill, resilience, and rapid rise from U14s show real promise for the future.

GOLF

Cairbre Smith French, Year 9 Congratulations to Jack Giddens, who, after a successful nomination and trial period, has been selected for the ISFA U17 National Squad for their upcoming three-day training camp at Loughborough University. Jack is one of only two goalkeepers and played a huge part in the 1st XI last year—a fantastic achievement!

FOOTBALL

Jack Giddens, Lower Sixth Sam enjoyed a great summer of sailing and continued his success into the autumn. He finished 7th at the Topper World Championships in Medemblik and 9th at the six-day Topper National Championships in Scotland.

SAILING

Sam Dence, Year 10

Huge congratulations to Harry, now the Topper National Champion 2025! After an incredible summer, he placed 8th at the Topper Worlds, 16th at the ILCA4 UK Nationals, and dominated the Topper Nationals with an 11-point lead.

SAILING

Harry Dence, Year 11

TheHALLIFORDIAN Congratulations to Nelson, who was awarded Driver of the Day for his class at the British Karting Championship. He also appeared on the award-winning podcast The Hidden 20%, sharing how motorsport has transformed his life, a young driver with a bright future ahead!

KARTING

Nelson Taylor, Year 8

CROSSCOUNTRY

Josh impressed at the Hampton Court 10K, finishing in 38:44 to take 1st in his age group and 11th overall. He also placed 39th out of 199 runners in the U15 Boys category at the London Youth Games Cross Country at Parliament Hill, completing the 3K course in 11:23 and helping Richmond Boys secure team gold.

Josh Cain, Year 10

CROSSCOUNTRY

Congratulations to Leon, who competed at the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Cross Country Championships, finishing 13th with a time of 16:20 on a tough, hilly 4.4km course.

CROSSCOUNTRY

George continues to progress as an endurance athlete, placing 1st in the U18 category and 4th overall at the Run Reigate 5k in September with a time of 19:26 on a challenging course.

Leon Bleach, Year 10

George Cotton, Lower Sixth

Autumn Sports Report Congratulations to Theodore, a key part of the 1st XV success in recent years, who has been selected for the U18 Surrey Rugby County Programme. Starting rugby in Year 7, Theodore has progressed from the U12B team to the regional county programme in just a few years— an outstanding achievement!

RUGBY

Theodore Maroussas, Upper Sixth

Congratulations to Archie, who has been selected for the Berkshire U14 Hockey Squad for the forthcoming season. All that hard work is paying off—well done, Archie!

HOCKEY

Archie Smith, Year 9

Huge congratulations to Nicholas and Charlie on re-selection to the Surrey Hockey pathway for 2025. Both boys stood out from over 50 players to make the final 25, having helped Surrey U13s win every match in the South East League last season.

Darcie has had an outstanding season, finishing 10th in Op Club 4+ at The Fours Head (430+ crews on the Championship Course) and 3rd in Op 8+ at Teddington Head over 5200m in tough conditions. She also attended WOXCON 2025 and is applying for GB trials in 2026—a fantastic achievement!

HOCKEY

Nicholas Shahverdian & Charlie Freer, Year 9

ROWING

Darcie Bateman, Upper Sixth

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SAILING

Lucas competed in the ILCA 6 National Open Series this autumn, finishing 4th in the U19 category at the final event in a fleet of 86 sailors. He now looks forward to winter training with the British Sailing Team Performance Development Squad and the ILCA UK National Training Group, including a New Year camp in Portugal.

CRICKET

Congratulations to Alfie and Leo, whose Sunbury CC side were crowned National T20 champions at Lord’s at the end of the summer, a fantastic achievement and brilliant representation of Halliford on the main stage at the home of cricket!

Lucas Symons, Lower Sixth

Alfie Granger, Year 10 & Leo Pearson, Year 11

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Rohan Trikala, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because it was my first choice. I really liked the school when I visited, and it was helpful that I knew some people who were joining too. My favourite lesson is PE because I am a sporty person, and love playing football. Movember was such fun and definitely a Halliford highlight, and I am really looking forward to the Year 7 trip to France. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because I have made so many good friends.

Spring Highlights

Halliford School Awarded A ‘Significant Strength in Pupil Leadership’ by Mr James Davies, Headmaster We were delighted to share the outcome of our recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) visit to Halliford School. Independent schools are inspected every three years and, following our last inspection in 2022 where the school was judged to be excellent in all areas, the inspection framework has since changed. One-word qualitative judgements have been removed, and inspections now simply determine whether a school meets the incredibly rigorous Independent School Standards Regulations. Following our inspection in November, we were pleased to share that Halliford School was judged to have met these standards. The highest accolade came in the form of Halliford School being awarded a ‘significant strength’. A significant strength is an area of provision that demonstrates a deep understanding of aspirations for students’ development of knowledge, skills, and understanding, with a demonstrably clear and highly beneficial impact for students. Such recognition is rare, goes well beyond what would typically be seen in other schools, and is therefore subject to rigorous quality assurance by the Independent Schools

Inspectorate. We are absolutely thrilled that Halliford School was awarded our significant strength for ‘the development of pupils’ leadership skills, enabling pupils to articulate their opinions and ideas with confidence, contribute meaningfully to decision-making and play a substantial role in the school and wider community’. In a world where warm-hearted leadership can sometimes feel in short supply, we are thrilled that our work in this vital area of education has been recognised in such exceptional terms. It truly underlines our vision for every member of the school community to feel valued as an individual and to be able to ‘come as you are and go as all you can be’. 53

TheHALLIFORDIAN We are especially pleased that our commitment to developing intellectual curiosity, alongside our distinctive approach of being academically ambitious while remaining academically sensitive and tailoring expectations to each individual student, has also been recognised. We know that our students achieve exceptional value-added outcomes at both GCSE and A Level, and following meticulous scrutiny of our results, we are delighted that the report concludes that ‘GCSE and A Level results are consistently above national outcomes, particularly in the higher grades’. This validation of our approach in combining high expectations with a deep understanding of each student as an individual, while also offering a rich range of opportunities to develop character is superb.

The Linguistics Olympiad

by Mr Igor Arriandiaga, Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages

In January, the whole of Year 8 and double linguists in Year 10 took part in the United Kingdom Linguistics Olympiad at Breakthrough and Foundation level, respectively. Competition was fierce, and this year’s problems involved Lithuanian, Naijá (a creole language from Nigeria), Korean (in Hangul alphabet format), Finnish, and Romanian. All teams engaged in different ones, but their favourite was Korean, without a doubt. Logic, problem-solving and a flair mixed in a combination that allowed several of the teams to reach Bronze level overall in the country, with thresholds that reflected the difficulty of the tasks. Our congratulations to all participants for their resilience and teamwork. The experience will impact their language learning positively and provide perspective on how diverse and enriching world languages are.

Spring Highlights

Trip to Hamilton the Musical by Mr Alastair Wright, Director of Music

In January, a group of 40 students from Years 7 to Upper Sixth enjoyed an unforgettable visit to London to see the award-winning musical Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre. Accompanied by Dr Shaw, Mr Cook and Ms Hetherington, we travelled by train before making our way to the theatre for what proved to be a truly outstanding musical theatre experience. From the moment the curtain rose, Hamilton captivated the students with its powerful storytelling, energetic choreography and fantastic musical score. The production’s unique blend of hiphop, rap and traditional musical theatre created an exciting performance that kept everyone enthralled throughout. Highlights included the spectacular ensemble numbers and the emotional performances of key songs such as Burn and It’s Quiet Uptown. Students were particularly impressed by the exceptional talent of the cast and the creativity of the staging. The trip was a fantastic opportunity for students across all year groups to experience world-class theatre and share their enthusiasm for the performing arts. 55

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Halliford School’s Electrifying Production of Little Shop of Horrors by Mr Andy Carroll and Mr Rob Bateman, Directors Our Drama and Music Departments recently captivated audiences with a sensational production of the cult classic musical Little Shop of Horrors. Performed in our state-of-the-art theatre, the show brought the quirky, darkly comedic tale to life with energy, talent, and a touch of theatrical magic. Set in the gritty streets of Skid Row, Little Shop of Horrors tells the story of Seymour, a shy florist’s assistant who discovers a mysterious plant with a voracious appetite for blood, and eventually, people. As the plant, Audrey II, grows larger and more demanding, Seymour’s rise to fame comes at a terrifying cost. The musical, with its catchy doo-wop-inspired score by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, blends horror, comedy, and romance in a way that has made it a favourite for decades. From the opening number to the final curtain, the cast delivered a performance brimming with confidence and charisma. The role of Seymour was portrayed by Lawrence Hodson in Upper Sixth with heartfelt sincerity and strong vocal control, capturing the character’s journey from timid underdog

Spring Highlights

to desperate man caught in a monstrous bargain. His love interest, Audrey, was brought to life with both vulnerability and charm by Emily Jesshop in Lower Sixth, her rendition of Suddenly, Seymour a standout moment of emotional depth. But it was the larger-than-life Audrey II that truly stole the show. Voiced by Elijah Wilkinson in Lower Sixth, and operated by Daniel Wheeler, Casper Hewitson and Ethan Smith, our team of skilful stagehands, the plant evolved from a small potted curiosity to an enormous, puppeteered monster, complete with booming voice. The technical team deserves special praise for their seamless integration of lighting, sound, and puppetry, creating a truly immersive experience. A standout performance came from Upper Sixth student Joe Arbiter, who delivered a scene-stealing portrayal of the sadistic dentist, Orin Scrivello. Dressed in a sharp leather jacket and wielding a terrifyingly oversized drill, Joe embraced the role with energy and dark comic flair. Despite the character’s villainy, Joe’s confident stage presence and impeccable timing earned him some of the biggest laughs of the night. The ensemble cast shone throughout, particularly the trio of street urchins, Crystal, Ronnie, and Cedric, who served as a sassy chorus, guiding the audience

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through the story with tight harmonies and sharp choreography.

technicians mastering lighting cues and soundscapes, this has truly been a whole school achievement. Little Shop of Horrors thrives on bold choices, and our cast and crew have embraced every opportunity to push themselves creatively.

Equally impressive was the production’s attention to detail. The set design transformed the stage into a convincing 1960s urban landscape, complete with a fully functional flower shop. Costumes were period-perfect, and the band, led by Musical Director and Conductor Mr Wright, delivered a superb performance of the iconic score.

The audience members left the theatre buzzing with excitement. One prospective Year 7 student commented, ‘It was so good, I want to see it again!’

One of the greatest joys of directing at Halliford is witnessing students grow both as performers and as people. From the leads learning the vocal demands of an iconic score, to ensemble members shaping the heartbeat of Skid Row, to

With its blend of humour, horror, and heart, Halliford’s Little Shop of Horrors was not just a school production, it was a professional-calibre performance that showcased the creativity, commitment, and sheer joy of our young performers.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Joseph Sloman, 7R I decided to come to Halliford because my older brother is here, and I am really pleased I did because the teachers and sport are amazing. I love getting the chance to play rugby, football, cricket, volleyball and badminton. The biggest difference between Halliford School and my previous school is that Halliford is bigger and better! My highlight so far is scoring eight tries in the Rugby 7s tournament.

Spring Highlights

Pinewood Film Studios Futures Festival by Ms Tamarind Hetherington, Head of Art

26 Art and Drama students visited Pinewood Film Studios for its Futures Festival, one of Europe’s largest careers events for students aspiring to work in the Film & TV industries. Our students had the unique opportunity to explore the world- Arthur Hetherington Johns, Year 11: renowned studios, meet industry professionals, discover a ‘Going to Pinewood Studios was an incredible experience and range of career pathways, and engage with universities and definitely a day I won’t forget. There was so much to see and do, Pinewood’s own on-site college. They also gained valuable and it was amazing to get behind the scenes and experience what hands-on experience using professional equipment and taking it is like to be part of a real film production. I particularly enjoyed part in industry-led activities. getting involved in filming a live-action scene and seeing the Highlights of the day included photo opportunities with iconic incredible sets, props and technology used in the industry. It was easily one of the best school trips I have ever been on!’ film props, costumes and characters, filming a live-action scene alongside a full cast and crew, discovering cutting- Bella Devereux, Lower Sixth: edge CGI technology, and watching an exhilarating live stunt ‘I had an absolutely amazing time at Pinewood Studios! The whole performance on the iconic 007 Stage. day was such an exciting experience and gave me a fantastic insight At the home of super spies, superheroes and galaxies far, far into the huge range of careers available within the media industry. I loved exploring the studios, taking photos with characters from away, our students left feeling inspired, excited and motivated popular films and hearing directly from professionals working in by the incredible range of opportunities available within the the industry. I came away feeling incredibly inspired, motivated screen industries. It was a truly memorable experience and an and excited about my future career!’ invaluable insight into the exciting careers that await them.

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Year 11 Geography Field Trip to the London Docklands by Ethan Johnson, Year 11

A cool, bright Tuesday morning greeted the Year 11 Geographers as we set off to investigate how and why the quality of life varies within the Docklands. With the area offering some of the starkest contrasts in London, between corporate districts, residential zones and regenerated waterfronts, it provided the perfect setting for meaningful fieldwork. The day began at Reuters Plaza in Canary Wharf, where we collected our first set of environmental quality data. The impressive skyline, the constant flow of commuters and the carefully maintained surroundings gave us an immediate sense of how urban regeneration can influence both the physical environment and day‑to‑day experience. Working in small groups, we completed questionnaires, shopping surveys and Environmental Quality Surveys to assess how this commercial hub shapes quality of life for those who work and live there. Then a short walk took us to Millwall Dock. Compared to Canary Wharf, this area offered a noticeably calmer environment: wider stretches of open water, quieter paths and a stronger residential character. We noted how these features influenced their environmental quality scores and considered how access to green spaces contributes to a sense of wellbeing. The contrast with their earlier data helped spark discussions about the uneven patterns of regeneration and who benefits most from them. 60

By 1pm, we arrived at the London Docklands Museum for lunch. This stop provided not only a welcome break but also valuable historical context, helping to understand how past economic change, industrial decline and regeneration policies have shaped present‑day quality of life across the Docklands. The afternoon ended with a final walk along the nearby riverside, where we reflected on the varying experiences of people who live, work or travel through the area. The differences we observed ranging from noise and crowding levels to access to open space and housing types will now feed directly into our GCSE work on quality‑of‑life inequalities in urban environments. Overall, it was a fascinating and highly informative visit. A big thank you to the Geography Department team for organising such a well-run trip and congratulations to my fellow students for their enthusiasm, curiosity, and high level of fieldwork throughout the day.

Spring Highlights

Art Trip to Hayward Gallery and Tate Modern by Ms Tamarind Hetherington, Head of Art

Halliford Art & Design students from Years 11 and Upper Sixth enjoyed an inspiring day exploring the Hayward Gallery and Tate Modern in February, as part of their studies. At the Hayward Gallery, our students explored the work of two internationally celebrated artists, Chiharu Shiota and Yin Xiuzhen, whose work transforms everyday materials into extraordinary, large-scale installations. Works including The Locked Room (2016), During Sleep (2002) and Introspective Cavity (2008) encouraged our students to think differently about materials, scale and the ways artists can communicate ideas. Throughout the visit, Hallifordians used their sketchbooks and journals to record observations, capture their responses and develop ideas for their own work. The exhibition provided valuable inspiration for upcoming examination pieces, while encouraging our students to consider how artists respond to materials, spaces and personal experiences. The visit continued at Tate Modern, where students explored the collection and discovered further ideas to inform their individual lines of inquiry. Seeing such a diverse range of work first-hand gives our students fresh perspectives to take back into the studio.

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Battle of the Bands 2026 by Mr Alastair Wright, Director of Music

The annual Battle of the Bands at Halliford School delivered a blistering night of live music, impressive talent, and electrifying stage presence as students from Year 8 through to the Sixth Form took to the stage for the school’s biggest rock musical event of the year. Parents, staff, and students packed into the John Crook Theatre for an evening that celebrated musicianship, collaboration, and the youthful energy of rock and pop anthems spanning five decades. The night opened with The Junior Rock Band, whose confidence and enthusiasm set the tone from the first downbeat. Launching into the Ramones’ Blitzkrieg Bop, lead singer Arno Nurijanyan in Year 8 had the audience chanting ‘Hey! Ho! Let’s Go!’ from the start. They followed with a melodic take on Sweet Child O’ Mine, showcasing impressive guitar work from Leo Yeats in Year 9, before closing with a crowd‑pleasing rendition of Smoke On The Water. Their performance proved that even the youngest musicians at Halliford can command the stage. Next came the first of two Year 9 Rock Bands, who delivered a thoughtful, well‑balanced set. Lead singer Ted Young’s interpretation of Arctic Monkeys’ A Certain Romance brought a reflective, indie charm to the evening, while Parklife by Blur injected humour and swagger, complete with spoken‑word verses that had the crowd grinning. 62

Year 9 Rock Band 2 followed with perhaps one of the most nostalgic sets of the night. Ethan Parker’s lively performance of Bryan Adams’ Summer of ’69 earned one of the loudest sing‑alongs of the evening, while the band’s high‑octane finish of Ozzy Osbourne’s Crazy Train showcased Ethan’s amazing vocal range, and another impressive lead guitar solo. The atmosphere shifted into polished pop‑rock as we welcomed the girls from The St. Catherine’s Rock Band, who brought boundless energy to Paramore’s Still Into You. Their harmonies shone, and they kept the momentum high with a passionate performance of Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On A Prayer, complete with soaring vocals on the iconic chorus. Later in the evening, the Year 10 & 11 Rock Band delivered one of the most musically complex sets. Their rendition of Arctic Monkeys’ Fluorescent Adolescent was full of charm, followed by a powerful and technically strong performance of Iron Maiden’s The Trooper. Lead singer Tobi Smith closed sentimentally

Spring Highlights

with There Is a Light That Never Goes Out, displaying excellent control and emotional maturity. The Lower Sixth Rock Band took the show to new heights with a four‑song powerhouse set. Elijah Wilkinson kicked things off with the raucous I Predict A Riot, moved into the bass‑driven intensity of Muse’s Hysteria, and Sofia Savarino charmed the audience with Blondie’s Call Me. But it was their ambitious and bold performance of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody with James Grant on vocals and keyboard, that brought the house down and left the audience cheering long after the final note. Closing the evening, the Senior Rock Band with frontman Billy Dobby and Laurence Hodson on keys delivered a festival‑worthy finale. They opened with The Stone Roses’ Love Spreads, transitioned smoothly into Paolo Nutini’s New Shoes, and impressed with a heartfelt version of Everlong. Their performance of Comfortably Numb featured an exceptional guitar solo from Aaric Thomas alongside Joanne Lee on the keyboard, and they ended the night with Kasabian’s fiery anthem Fire, sending the audience home buzzing. As the applause settled, the audience played an active role by voting for their favourite performances in a whole host of categories. After a short pause, our amazing compères, Upper Sixth students Joe Arbiter and Phoebe Clark announced the results and this year, the honours went to the performers who closed the show. Congratulations to our Senior Rock Band on taking the titles of Best Band and Best Stage Presence. Their musicianship, confidence, and chemistry brought the perfect finale to an unforgettable evening. With so much talent on display across all age groups, this year’s Battle of the Bands proved once again that the musical future at Halliford School is bright and brilliantly loud.

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Spelthorne School Forum with Lincoln Jopp MP by James Grant, Lower Sixth

On Friday 16 March, Ewan and I accompanied the Headmaster to the illustrious Shepperton Studios to meet Lincoln Jopp MP as part of a forum involving local students and schools. The morning began with a brief survey assessing current political awareness and understanding, followed by an exercise in which participants introduced their school counterparts and outlined their ambitions for the future. A discussion then ensued, with Mr Jopp posing questions about the challenges faced by our generation, particularly phone use, artificial intelligence, and social media. We were invited to share our views on current affairs, including the prospect of an under16s social media ban and what regulations should govern smartphone use in schools. Mr Jopp also encouraged debate on the risks posed by AI, particularly its potential to replace jobs and the sectors most vulnerable to automation. This was followed by a question-and-answer session in which Mr Jopp spoke passionately on a range of topics, including university tuition fees and local issues. When asked about recent military developments in the Middle East and the UK’s capacity to respond, former army colonel Mr Jopp provided an engaging and informed perspective on the nation’s military capabilities. After being offered an excellent selection of sandwiches, we departed the venue satisfied that we had been given the opportunity to present our viewpoints to a Member of Parliament, and pleased that our questions and concerns about the future had been recognised and addressed.

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Upper Sixth Biology Field Trip by Dr Simon Brooks, Head of Biology Our Upper Sixth Biology students spent two productive days in March at Bushy Park as part of their A Level studies. The trip was run by the Field Studies Council (FSC) and expertly delivered by Oliver, our FSC tutor, who guided the group through an intensive programme of advanced fieldwork techniques. This enabled students to complete one of their Required Practicals while gaining hands on experience in ecological investigation. Under Oliver’s knowledgeable instruction, students were introduced to a range of field study methods before planning and carrying out their own inquiry into the biodiversity of several ponds within the park. They practised both random and systematic sampling, used identification keys to classify plant and invertebrate species, and collected data on species density and percentage cover. They also explored a variety of abiotic factors using equipment such as light meters and temperature probes. Throughout the course, students had the opportunity to apply and extend their quantitative skills by performing detailed statistical analyses on the data they gathered. They calculated and compared species diversity between different habitats, bringing together mathematical techniques and ecological theory in a meaningful context. In addition, they completed risk assessments and critically evaluated their methods, strengthening their overall working scientifically skills.

STUDENT REFLECTIONS ‘The Field Studies Council course was varied and interesting, covering both plant and animal sampling, with the opportunity to design and carry out our own experiment. Oli was a great teachervery helpful with identifying species and excellent at explaining the statistical tests clearly’ - Xander White, U6R ‘Over the course of two days, we were able to test and develop our skills in planning and carrying out Required Practicals, as well as revise how both abiotic and biotic factors influence plant and animal abundance in the green surroundings of The Stockyard in Bushy Park. On the first day, we used methods such as stratified sampling with quadrats to investigate how variables like soil depth and trampling affected plant height. On the second day, we moved to the ponds to explore how light intensity influences the abundance of terrestrial invertebrates. Both days were thoroughly enjoyable and provided a valuable refresher on key Ecology content ahead of this summer’s exams!’ - Theodore Maroussas, U6D

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Halliford Young Musician Competition by Mr Alastair Wright, Director of Music The Colin Squire Recital Hall came alive with the sound of music during the highly anticipated Young Musician Competition. The event showcased an impressive array of talent from students across the school as they took to the stage to demonstrate their musical ability. The Colin Squire Recital Hall once again came alive with music for the annual Halliford Young Musician Competition. The event showcased an impressive array of talent from students across the school, who performed music spanning a wide variety of styles and genres. The quality of performances throughout the evening was superb, with every competitor displaying remarkable musicality and commitment. We were delighted to welcome Helen SandersHewett as our guest judge. Her thoughtful and insightful feedback was both encouraging and inspiring for all performers. As ever, the Newcomer category opened the evening with a diverse selection of performances. Starting off the concert, William Grant gave an exciting rendition on the piano of Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King. Following in the footsteps of his older brother James, who has delighted Halliford audiences with his musical performances over many years, William demonstrated that musical talent certainly runs in the family. Oscar Dean then impressed with a confident performance on the trumpet of the

iconic James Bond Theme, earning him Highly Commended in the category. This was followed by Aden Al-Falaki, who captivated both audience and judge with an assured and expressive piano performance of Billie Eilish’s No Time to Die, securing the cup for Newcomer winner. Alex Wemyss completed the category with a spirited performance of Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers, showcasing a voice with tremendous potential. The Junior category featured some outstanding performances. Highlights included Shantiya Sahiholnasab’s atmospheric interpretation of Hans Zimmer’s Interstellar on the piano, Ryan Sekhon’s accomplished piano performance of Benda’s Allegro Assai, and William Pascoe-Watson’s elegant saxophone rendition of Bologne’s Sonata for the Harp with obbligato Flute. David Mallington performed Mozart’s Rondo Alla Turca on the piano with remarkable energy and flair, while Arno Nurijanyan gave a stylish and technically assured performance of Por Una Cabeza on the violin. Win Taylor’s beautifully sensitive interpretation of

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Secret Vale on the clarinet was another memorable contribution. Monty Pailthorpe earned a Highly Commended award for his characterful and jazzy performance on the piano of Linus and Lucy, while Oliver Kipps’ outstanding piano rendition of Joanne MacGregor’s Lowside Blues demonstrated exceptional musical control and stylistic understanding, earning him the cup for Junior winner. The Intermediate category may have been small in number, but it was exceptionally strong in quality. Ollie Browning delivered an entertaining piano performance of the Wallace and Gromit Theme, while Alfie Westen wowed the audience with a mesmerising display of guitar flair in his rendition of Iron Maiden’s The Trooper. The category winner was Raphie Scott, whose beautifully expressive performance on the cello of Squire’s Danse Rustique showcased both technical assurance and musical maturity. The Senior category provided a fitting conclusion to the evening, with performances displaying a high level of musicianship and artistic confidence. Elijah Wilkinson’s wonderfully engaging vocal performance of Michael in the Bathroom earned him the Highly Commended award, while Seb Roberts demonstrated remarkable technical skill in his performance of the incredibly complex Caravan, a piece renowned for its demanding rhythms, speed and technical challenges for drummers. James Grant teamed up with Mr Davies to deliver a thoughtful and moving interpretation of Vaughan Williams’ Is My Team Ploughing, showcasing his rich and beautiful baritone voice. Having grown to love the piece while studying it for A Level Music, James arranged the work himself, demonstrating a talent for musical arrangement. Hector Rutter, who was preparing

for his A Level Music recital on flute, performed the aria from Rutter’s Suite Antique with refinement and poise. He displayed a wonderful tone and excellent control, delivering a mature and highly musical performance. Emily Wilkes also impressed with a powerful vocal performance of Breathe from In the Heights. The Senior Winner was Laurence Hodson, whose original composition Let Me In stood out for its creativity, musicianship and moving performance, bringing the competition to a memorable conclusion. Congratulations to all performers for their hard work, commitment and musical achievements. Sincere thanks go to Helen Sanders-Hewett for her expert adjudication, and to all staff, accompanists, parents and supporters who helped make the evening such a success.

TheHALLIFORDIAN 1st - Felix Lancy, U6W

Inter-House Photography Competition 2026 by Ms Tamarind Hetherington, Head of Art

This year’s Inter-House Photography Competition invited students to explore the theme of ‘Symmetry’, encouraging them to express their creativity through the camera lens. The challenge inspired students to observe the world around them more closely and present their own interpretations of this striking visual concept. Symmetry is a compelling element in photography, capable of producing powerful and visually engaging images. Students responded enthusiastically, drawing inspiration from a wide variety of objects, surfaces and settings. From calm reflections on water to the bold lines of glass architecture, the entries demonstrated thoughtful composition and an impressive understanding of balance and form. The submissions were judged by Mr Davies, who considered creativity, technical skill and originality. He was particularly impressed by the breadth of ideas and techniques on display, noting how students experimented confidently and moved beyond conventional approaches to offer personal and imaginative responses to the theme.

The competition provided a valuable opportunity for students to develop their photographic skills while exploring their artistic interests. It also promoted a strong sense of collaboration, pride and friendly competition across the Houses. Congratulations to the prize winners: First place - Felix Lancy in U6W Second place - Laurence Hodson in U6G Third place - Matthew Hamilton-Dyson in 7G At Halliford School, we are proud to offer opportunities that encourage students to grow, develop new skills and realise their potential. I would like to congratulate all participants for their enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment in representing their Houses.

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2nd - Laurence Hodson, U6G

3rd - Matthew Hamilton-Dyson, 7G

Aaric Thomas, U6W

Aden Al-Falaki, 7G

Eliot Tidhar, 7D

Finlay Lehunte, 9G

Harvey Graham, 8W

James Grant, L6R

Noah Hinnigan, 8R

Oran West, 8G

Sam Freeman, 8G

William Smith, 8R

Xander Bliss, 8W

Felix Lancy, U6W

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Computer Science at Halliford School

by Mr Tony Lyons, Head of Computer Science and Ms Kate Gerry, Teacher of Computer Science

Computer Science plays a vital role in modern life, and students at Halliford are encouraged to experiment, collaborate and think critically, developing both confidence and resilience as they tackle increasingly complex problems through hands-on activities. Students explore how programming underpins games, animations and digital design, helping them to see how Computer Science intersects with subjects such as Art, Maths and Science. Practical tasks allow our students to bring ideas to life on screen, reinforcing the idea that Computer Science is a powerful tool for innovation and self-expression. ‘Computer Science is definitely one of the most action-packed subjects Halliford has to offer! We have covered a variety of interactive topics, including block coding using Scratch, racing track game designing, Livery design in Excel as Pixel Art as well as data analysis on spreadsheets. I personally love our topics, because they are heavily tailored to each of our strengths and building our weaknesses, and the usage of more fluid, practical lessons heavily enhance our creative opportunities. Seeing the work our class and others have produced and presented only accentuates the creativity and intellectual curiosity that is encouraged. Whether we are designing a Formula 1 car, or coding a pitlane on the track with obstacles, it is certainly an exceptional subject and one that I really enjoy. The teacher is the best.’ - Eliot Tidhar, 7D A key element of Computer Science at Halliford is the involvement of Sixth Form students, who play an active role in mentoring younger students. Acting as digital leaders, Sixth Formers support lessons and activities by offering guidance, troubleshooting code and sharing their own experiences of studying Computer Science at a higher level. This peer mentoring approach not only helps younger students build confidence and independence but also reinforces a strong sense of community and collaboration across the school. For the Sixth Form mentors, the experience develops valuable leadership and communication skills, while demonstrating how knowledge sharing and teamwork are central to success in Computer Science and beyond. ‘I am in the final stages of my Computer Science A Level, in Upper Sixth, here at Halliford school. I remember starting in Year 7 and creating projects in Scratch, wanting to know more about coding and game design. My journey through the school has seen some highs with interesting and stimulating projects that have challenged my thought processes to moments of frustration and needing to be resilient to debug and resolve glitches with programs and code! This project is the culmination of all my study, hard work, teacher-led support and guidance and something of which I am immensely proud.’ - Ryan Choi, U6W

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A Level Music Technology Trip to Audient Studios by Mr St. John DeZilva, Teacher of Music Technology Our annual trip, as with previous studio trips, featured a full schedule of activities for our A Level Music Technology students. After a short journey along the M3 to just outside Basingstoke in the Hampshire countryside, we were greeted by both the Marketing Manager and General Manager with a brief tour of the facilities. The first talk was provided by Gerald, who has been making mixing desks for Audient since the 70s. He highlighted the changes from analogue to digital and how the elements of the analogue consoles had been incorporated into their latest models. Questions from Billy Dobby and Old Hallifordian Will Jackson sparked debate on the matter, showing that the students were considering it in a wider context. Part of the day was a careers talk by the Marketing Manager, Damien, who blended his past experiences as a music producer and later related posts to highlight the life and business skills required to remain resilient yet creative in the face of a changing music industry.

additional doughnuts, the students broke out into two groups and had the chance to mix on a 24-track mixing desk with the audio stems from Massive Attack’s Teardrops. Here, they demonstrated and applied their equalisation and balance skills. Upstairs in the Surround sound studio, they had a novel listening experience with Atmos mixes played through an array of carefully placed speakers, which immerse you in sound and different source signals. The students were able to consolidate some of the curriculum they are now completing in respect of Coursework and understand how a larger studio compares to our smaller projectbased studio at Halliford.

After a short lunch, which Audient kindly supplemented with

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EPQ Poster Presentation Evening by Mrs Jennifer Piddock, Teacher of MFL and EPQ Coordinator

We were delighted to welcome Governor Kay Green to judge the third annual Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Poster Presentation Evening in the Woodward Building on Wednesday 25 March. The evening provides an excellent opportunity for our Lower Sixth students working towards the EPQ to hone their presentation skills ahead of the formal presentation element of the qualification, which takes place after the Easter holidays.

pilots and why ADHD is underdiagnosed in females compared to males.

Students created carefully crafted posters that demonstrated both the key skills they have developed over the course of the year, such as research and time management, and their main findings for the research questions they decided to investigate.

The room showcasing the work of students who had chosen to create an artefact as part of their EPQ proved particularly popular. Guests thoroughly enjoyed watching extracts from a film made on a small budget, viewing a 3D-printed remotecontrol car, and even playing a platforming computer game, all devised by our students.

Parents, members of staff, and our judge were highly impressed by the confident and knowledgeable presentations on a wide range of topics. These ranged from the most significant change Napoleon made to European political systems and the influence of music on political and humanitarian movements in the 20th and 21st centuries, to whether AI is replacing or complementing

The award for the Best Artefact Presentation went to Thiago Martins with his poster on his prototype of a hovercraft. The Parents’ Choice Award was won by Liam Nicklette-Doyle, while Highly Commended Presentation Awards were awarded to James Grant and Ryan Mills. The overall Best Presentation Award was won by Emily Magnani.

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Sixth Form French Exchange Trip by Shayeri Sharma, Lower Sixth

The Lower Sixth French class embarked on an exciting trip to Paris the week before the Easter break. This was an excellent opportunity for us to immerse ourselves in the French language and culture whilst also gaining valuable work experience. We travelled via the Eurostar from London to Paris, and each of us stayed with a French family for a week. Participating in an exchange was a surreal experience, as nothing can truly prepare you for speaking French all day every day – no matter how much last-minute advice we received from Madame Wain and Madame Lamy! Staying with our exchange partners gave us the chance to explore Paris with our very own tour guides, and each of us spent an enjoyable weekend touring the French capital. Rohan visited the Louvre – even catching a glimpse of La Joconde (or the Mona Lisa for the non-Frenchies) - whilst Herbert marvelled at La Tour Eiffel, and I journeyed through Le Quartier Latin. Whilst the visits were most certainly memorable, what was equally unforgettable was, of course, the food. Eating crêpes whilst people-watching beside Le Panthéon was an unequivocally (perhaps stereotypically) French experience. Moreover, persuading Madame Lamy to take us to the boulangerie after a tiring day at work was a highlight of the trip; we ate baguettes by an idyllic lake – the perfect respite from the lively students at our school. Our week ended with a game of bowling - this was great fun until we were absolutely crushed by Team France.

Throughout the week, we volunteered at a French primary school. We sat in lessons and assisted the teachers. Although the days seemed intimidating at first – lasting from 8.30 in the morning to 5.45 in the afternoon – they included a two-hour lunch and at least two 30-minute breaks. How French! We spent most days helping in different lessons – sometimes standing at the front of the class, with the French students posing to us some interesting questions in even more interesting English and sometimes sitting at the back of the class – definitely not dozing off. I spent most of the time helping with the maternelle, which is the nursery, whilst Rohan and Herbert enjoyed the company of the CPs – or Year 2 in England. Break times were fun - when we were hiding away from the kids, of course. Overall, we had a great time at the school, and while the food was, at times, barely edible, the children were full of energy, and the teachers ensured that we spoke absolutely zero English – as they couldn’t either. This was an incredible experience which pushed our French skills to entirely new levels and gave us an insight into French culture. None of this would have been possible, however, without the effort and hard work of Madame Lamy, so we would like to thank her once more for putting up with us all week. 73

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Arts Week

by Ms Tamarind Hetherington, Head of Art

The Art Department hosted an exhilarating Arts Week in the last week of term, featuring a diverse array of events that captivated students and staff alike. From hands-on workshops to enlightening talks, the weeklong celebration showcased Halliford’s commitment to cultivating artistic expression and appreciation. Throughout the week, students were invited to take part in the Group Mosaic Project, a collaborative piece that quickly became a focal point of Arts Week. Students from across year groups added individual tiles to form a striking mosaic of the Halliford crest, symbolising unity, school pride and the value of every student’s contribution. The project not only allowed students to engage creatively outside the classroom, but also highlighted the power of teamwork, as each small addition played an important role in completing the final artwork. One standout event was the leather craft workshop, where students learned the intricate art of leatherworking under the guidance of a skilled artisan. Both GCSE and A Level Art students had the opportunity to create their own unique leather wallet and thoroughly enjoyed learning this new craft. In an illuminating talk, Model Maker & Set Dresser Angela Jacavou shared valuable insights on the creative process behind crafting intricate scale models for film, theatre, and architecture. Students were captivated by the behind-the-scenes look into this fascinating field, sparking inspiration for future artistic careers. 74

An arts film screening of Fantastic Mr Fox provided an opportunity for students to appreciate the fusion of storytelling and visual artistry. Through its distinctive animation style and engaging narrative, the film encouraged students to think critically about how artistic choices shape mood, character and meaning on screen. Finally, the staff weaving workshop offered staff members an opportunity to step into the creative spotlight themselves. This hands-on session allowed staff to experiment with texture, colour and pattern while learning a new skill in a relaxed environment. The workshop not only celebrated creativity at all levels of the school community but also reinforced the spirit of participation and lifelong learning that Arts Week aims to inspire. Through Arts Week, Halliford School demonstrated its dedication to providing a well-rounded education that nurtures the creative potential of its students. By creating an environment where the arts are valued and celebrated, we encourage our students to explore their talents and passions, ensuring they become wellrounded individuals with a deep appreciation for the arts.

Spring Highlights

The Halliford School Ski & Snowboard Trip to Italy by Mr Sean Slocock, Assistant Head Co-Curricular

The Halliford School Ski & Snowboard Trip 2026 transported students and staff to the spectacular resort of Passo Tonale in Italy, a destination known for its reliable pistes, bright alpine scenery and wide open slopes. Spirits were high from the outset, and the trip became a memorable blend of adventure, challenge and pure Halliford character. Remarkably, and for the first time in many years, the entire week passed with no hospital visits whatsoever, an achievement celebrated almost as enthusiastically as the skiing itself. The weather throughout the week was spectacular, with uninterrupted sunshine from the first morning to the last. While no new snow fell during the trip, the resort’s grooming team worked wonders each night to keep the pistes smooth and skiable. As the days progressed, the lack of fresh snowfall became more visible across the mountains, with brown patches creeping further down the slopes, but the pistes themselves remained in good condition thanks to the groomers’ tireless efforts. Skiers quickly learned that the best conditions were found in the crisp morning corduroy, while afternoons took on the more challenging texture of slush mixed with determination. The top group embraced the conditions with enthusiasm and

recorded speeds of up to a thrilling 105 km/h, while those brave enough, including Mr Wright and Mr Watson, tackled the black runs down to Ponte di Legno with gusto, enjoying just as much adrenaline fuelled skiing as their peers charging down the everpopular Husky Run. The journey out to Italy was exceptionally smooth, with the entire group travelling together on one flight from Heathrow to Milan, a logistical rarity that briefly made the staff question whether they had mistakenly joined the wrong school group. The return journey, however, provided enough drama to fill several chapters of a Halliford memoir. Two separate flights were booked out of Venice Airport and reaching them required a descent down mountain roads so twisty and unpredictable they could have been designed by a hyperactive mongoose. The first group, departing at 1.30am, battled relentless hairpin bends

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that tested even the most resilient stomachs. Even the typically unshakeable Mr Watson succumbed to the motion, proving that no human, no matter how heroic, is immune to Italian mountain roads at that hour. The second group faced similar conditions but added a moment of pure Halliford legend when the new EES system caused delays, resulting in Mrs Turner Smith sprinting up an escalator the wrong way, clutching a Year 7 student under one arm and her bags under the other, leaving a colourful trail of sweets and lollies behind her like a Whippersnapper powered avalanche. Witnesses reported the spectacle as a perfect blend of athleticism, urgency and comic energy. Once in resort, students enjoyed an exceptional week on the slopes. The instructors exhibited remarkable patience and expertise, even when confronted with bursts of excited younger skiers. For the first time in Halliford ski trip history, two evenings of night skiing lit up the mountains in dazzling style. Beneath the floodlights, the slopes transformed into a glowing alpine stage where students carved, raced and occasionally face planted with theatrical flair. Off the slopes, the group enjoyed the much loved annual events: the traditional quiz night, the always popular music bingo evening and an enthusiastic sledging session that produced as many laughs as snowploughs, yet astonishingly, still resulted in no hospital visits. A major highlight of the week was the Halliford Cup, held for the first time on a thrilling ski cross course. Sixteen of the strongest skiers entered the knockout competition, launching into rolling jumps, sweeping banked corners and head to head battles that provided edge of your seat excitement. The semi finals delivered exceptional performances, with Emily Magnani skiing with smooth precision to defeat Sam Eaton, while Ewan Hill edged past Andrew Razza in a fierce contest. The final became an all Wadham showdown, with Emily leading confidently from the very start. Just as victory appeared certain, a lost snowboarder drifted into her path like a confused doppelgänger, forcing her to slow down to avoid a collision. This moment allowed Ewan to cross the line first, but in a superb display of sportsmanship

he immediately acknowledged that Emily had been the rightful winner throughout. The 2026 Halliford Cup was therefore awarded to the thoroughly deserving Emily Magnani and Wadham House for the second, consecutive year. The trip also recognised many outstanding individuals. Emily Magnani claimed the prestigious MOSS Award, while George Regan was celebrated as Best Tourist. The impeccably organised duo of Finlay Lehunte and Eddie Harrop earned the Neatest Room Award. Best Newcomer accolades went to the impressive pair of Harry Monypenny (Junior) and Amelie Lewis (Senior), and the Ski Patrol Award for helping others was rightfully awarded to the ever-supportive Barney Brown. Halliford Values Awards celebrated excellence across the school’s ethos: Creativity was awarded to David Mallington, teamwork to Gabe Wittrock, resilience to William Smith, intellectual curiosity to Leo Yeats, warm heartedness to Saavan Handa and respect to Harry Palmer. The staff nominated Teacher Awards highlighted the achievements of Ewan Hill for Mr Churchill, Will Slater for Mr Howard, Thomas Pearson for Ms Jenkins, Austin Gardner for Mr Martin, Charlie Freer for Mr Slocock, Bella Devereux for Mrs Turner Smith, Benjamin Hupe for Mr Watson and Kaelen Ratcliffe for Mr Wright. Passo Tonale proved the ideal backdrop for a week filled with learning, laughter and unforgettable adventure. Students tackled every challenge with courage and enthusiasm, staff navigated unexpected twists, from slushy slopes to escalator sprints, with admirable composure, and a wonderful sense of community grew across the group each day. With glorious sunshine, rapid ski cross racing, thrilling black run descents, laughter filled sledging, classic games nights, two magical nights of skiing under the stars and, incredibly, zero hospital trips, the 2026 Halliford Ski & Snowboard Trip was another triumph in the school’s proud tradition of mountain adventures. We look forward eagerly to 2027, hopefully with gentler roads, another week of sunshine and even more memories waiting to be made.

Spring Highlights

Classics Trip to Greece by Eddie Perkins, Year 11

Over the Easter holidays, the GCSE Classics students had the pleasure of travelling with both Mrs Rooke and Mr Lyons to Greece to visit the different sites that we study throughout our GCSE course. After a short flight, we touched down in Athens in the evening and set out on the coach to the first of many hotels. Once rooms had been allocated, we turned in for the night, after a game of Uno. Our first proper day was spent enjoying the Theatre of Dionysus, the Acropolis, and its neighbouring museum. In the Acropolis museum, we were able to see not only the ancient ruins that sat above it, but also an abundance of sculpture found on the acropolis around the Parthenon. Unfortunately, our second day was cut short by Storm Erminio, and we had to change our plans to visit Delphi in the mountains. However, I would argue that this led to us seeing one of the most beautiful views in Athens, as we sat on the hill next to the Acropolis and watched the sunset on the Pynx Hill where democracy was invented and the first votes ever were cast. On our third day, we pushed through the rain and headed to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens where we were able to see an array of funerary monuments and free-standing statues of the gods as well as all of the gold found in the Bronze Age site of Mycenae. The following day, we headed to Olympia and visited both the archaeological site and museum. Despite the pouring rain, we powered through a race at the site of the first Olympics, no less! Despite being very wet, and some of us forgetting to bring a coat, we were all very pleased with the trip so far. On our fifth day, we visited possibly the best site on the whole trip: Mycenae, where we were able to really familiarise ourselves with such a key location on our course. We also paid a visit to the nearby tholos tomb, where we were able not only to look inside

but also to climb on top of it! When arriving back at the hotel, we were met with another school deciding to run around and scream throughout the entire hotel. Mrs Rooke channelled her inner Hera and spoke with the manager of the hotel, after which the screaming swiftly stopped. Thank you, Ma’am; you saved our sleep schedules that day. Our final day saw us stopping off at the awfully empty Tiryns Citadel, which was quite an imposing sight, with its enormous Cyclopean walls and several sally ports. However, some of the Year 11 students (including yours truly) had not quite had their adventurous spirit diminished just yet. And so, noticing the incredibly tall, castle-topped mountain, we set out and scaled the entire thing, spending some time taking in the frankly breathtaking view before heading back down, still with time to spare. Quite the impressive feat, if you ask me, but I might just be biased. We finished the trip by stopping at the Temple of Poseidon, where we found the graffiti of Lord Byron and took one last photo together before heading to the airport. In some cruel twist of fate, Zeus decided he was not done messing with us quite yet and promptly delayed our flight, so we were all able to relax in the airport and get some food before finally boarding our plane home. Overall, this trip was fantastic. Not only did we get to see many amazing sights, but we also got to eat some amazing food, climb an enormous mountain, and have a lot of fun with our friends. So, thank you to Mrs Rooke, Mr Lyons, and Mr Slocock for organising and taking us on this very enjoyable trip. 77

HALLIFORD LIFE

GCSE & A Leve

l Presentation Ev

ening

International Women’s Day Assembly Warhamme r

Saturday Adventure Series Computer Science session

Year 8 Language Olym

piad

Alliance Clu

Spring Highlights

HALLIFORD LIFE

Charity Week - Sponge a teache with Greville House

Handwriting Club with Mrs Pea

Lego Club on M

ufti Day

Careers & Croissants Even

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Spring Term Sports Report by Mr Richard Cook, Director of Sport As the Spring Term draws to a close, it is a pleasure to reflect on what has been an exceptionally busy and encouraging period of sport at Halliford School. Across all year groups, our students have demonstrated outstanding enthusiasm, resilience and pride in representing the school, and I am delighted to share the highlights of another successful term across our sporting programme. Football has once again played a key role within the school’s sporting life, with strong participation and clear development evident across all age groups. Senior football benefitted from renewed energy and investment, and our teams demonstrated growing maturity, cohesion and determination throughout the season. Across the school, players responded positively to both success and challenge, finishing the term with confidence and laying excellent foundations for the future. Alongside this, there were several notable team performances, particularly at U15 level, where both squads enjoyed unbeaten seasons, showcasing discipline, balance and consistency. Further down the school, younger age groups continued to develop positively, adapting well to new formats, improving tactical understanding and displaying a strong appetite to learn. Across all teams, commitment to training, teamwork and representing the school with pride were clear strengths. Beyond football, the Spring Term has been rich in sporting variety and success. Netball continued to develop strongly, with the 1st VII showing determination and improvement throughout the season. This term also saw Halliford’s first climbing competitions, superbly organised and resulting in excellent individual and team performances against strong opposition. Rugby Sevens remained a highlight of the term, with Halliford teams competing at county and national level, including appearances at Rosslyn Park and Millfield, while the Senior Floodlit 7s once again provided a memorable occasion for the whole school community. We have also celebrated individual successes in cross-country and athletics, with several students achieving recognition at regional level. Inter-House sport continues to be a vibrant and important aspect of school life, with competitions in football, basketball and cross-country generating excellent levels of enthusiasm, competition and camaraderie. None of this would be possible without the unwavering dedication of our PE and Games staff, whose professionalism and commitment underpin everything we achieve in sport at Halliford. Their work, both on and off the field, ensures that students are supported, challenged and encouraged to thrive, and I thank them sincerely for their continued efforts. As we look ahead to the summer term, there is much to be excited about, with an expanded programme across cricket, athletics and tennis, including our first entries into the Surrey Schools Tennis Leagues. I would like to congratulate every student who has represented the school this term and to thank our senior players who are moving on for the standards and leadership they have shown. The future of sport at Halliford is incredibly bright, and I look forward to building on this momentum in the months ahead.

Spring Sports Report

Football Season 2025

FOOTBALL 1st XI Mr Morriss/ Mr Churchill

Played

Won

Drawn

Lost

Goals For

Goals Against

Goals Difference

-7

The senior football season has not started with as much anticipation and excitement for a long time. An exciting group of young players were bolstered by some of the long-standing members, along with new investment and a real impetus to make changes following the last few seasons. Training was to be held at the 4G Xcel facility in Walton-on-Thames, setting the standard for the new and upcoming season. Squad selection was going to be competitive with the largest Sixth Form to date, ultimately leading to the school putting out 1st – 4th XI’s and a further 30+ students participating in recreational football on a Wednesday afternoon. Three Upper Sixth players stood out for captaincy potential, having been involved with the team since Year 11. Daniel Gray was instrumental in getting the season prepared and pushing the new training facility to the Director of Sport. Theo Maroussas has been a key figure in the squad and was very much looking forward to being on the same team as his younger brother, Rocco. Charlie Scott was given the armband though, and despite having to overcome injury concerns, led the team with a maturity and calmness that his older brother had done only a few years ago. The first fixture of the season was, in what is becoming a regular opener, versus Emanuel and always a great test of the early-season training. We travelled over to Blagdons Sports Ground and seemed overwhelmed by the playing facilities that we forgot how to actually play. Once the boys got into the game, they started passing the ball around nicely, with an excellently taken goal by Aiden Sairanen Fuller. Against a much bigger school and one that is always competitive, it was a great yardstick. This confidence carried into the next match against LVS, the first league fixture of the campaign at our home from home, the Xcel match pitch. Scoring within ten minutes seems to scare the players, though, and no one quite knew how to deal with the positive start. This led to some costly errors in our defence, and we soon found ourselves 1-3 down and struggling to find any foot in the game. Fortunately, the senior members of the team, such as Josh Morrison, Charlie Scott, and Freddie Nash, stood up and encouraged the new members to show selfbelief. James Laws, Jamie Lewis, and Joe Kennedy then got on the scoresheet, showing what this young team could achieve. Unfortunately, despite going into the final ten minutes at 4-4 and pushing hard, some controversial decisions left the team frustrated in what should have been an opening win of the season. This momentum and enthusiasm were short-lived, coming back down to earth with a thud against a very impressive Shiplake 1st XI. A disheartening 1-7 loss meant going back to the drawing board for tactics and how we were to play this season, but compliments to an exceptionally good opponent, who thoroughly deserved the league title, as well as their double cup win. Another home match saw Holyport visit Church Road, and all the hard work in training, tactical discussions, and classroom VEO analysis sessions was potentially wasted as we conceded early on. However, the players stuck to the task and made an energetic recovery, going into half-time with a well-deserved lead. They controlled the game from half-time and continued to exert their dominance with a further two goals from Freddie Nash and Rocco Maroussas. The next league game saw the team travel to Reddam House in Wokingham, one of the further away days. Despite the long journey, early possession led to chances, but they were simply not taken. Despite going 1-0 up and utterly dominating the game throughout, a tense final few minutes saw a costly error, and a game that should always have been a win finished in a 1-1 draw. A catch-up week in the league saw an empty Wednesday and a friendly fixture against Tiffin School, hosted at the Xcel stadium pitch. A fantastic facility and one that shows the progress that the senior football is making at Halliford, but unfortunately, a few errors meant that we found ourselves behind in the match and having to fight for our chances. Jake Symington gambled and was rewarded with a tap-in from a back pass. This was followed by an excellent piece of wing play by Joe Kennedy, who crossed to Freddie Nash, who calmly finished, but it still left them 2-4 down going into the break. Despite the best efforts, the opposition could not be broken down in the second half, so, despite being camped in the opposition’s half, the result ended 2-4. The final league match of the campaign was a 3rd place play-off against Burnham Grammar at home. This was due to be a twoleg final, but the opposition was unable to fulfil the final match, so all was to play for. This was the most

TheHALLIFORDIAN fairly contested match of the season, with both teams very much looking to attack and put pressure on the defensive line. Charlie Scott played the season alongside Baxter Bell, and this partnership was the foundation upon which our backline was built. They complemented each other superbly and dovetailed beautifully as they met every challenge, clearance, and pass execution with determination and purpose. The final match of the season was a block fixture against Wimbledon College and was part of a doubleheader. The boys watched the conclusion of the U15s match whilst warming up and saw them finish their season victoriously. This was particularly poignant as several of this squad had been invited to senior training the week before, as we look to transition the players into the senior setup next season. It was a terrific opportunity to see what some of these players will bring to the table next year and how this 1st XI can continue to develop and push on. Unfortunately, an external referee got lost on the way to the ground, and the late kick-off, followed by a particularly controversial offside decision and a penalty all in quick succession, put the team on the back foot. Jack Giddens produced an excellent save from the penalty, though, and this was the kick-start that everybody needed. With that, the Upper Sixth students playing their final football match for Halliford really set the tone, and the younger members of the squad followed with enthusiasm and vigour. Jake Symington was once again one of the standout performers and capped off three years in the side as one of the most naturally gifted footballers we have had the pleasure to watch. It was from one of his many runs that the equaliser was scored, and this scoreline remained for the entirety of the match, up until the final minute. It was then a case of déjà vu as a loose ball and a defensive mismatch saw their striker beat the oncoming keeper and slide it in, compounding a 1-2 loss. It was a disappointing finish to what was largely a positive season and one that showed tremendous commitment, improvement, and enjoyment playing and representing senior football at Halliford. A large contingent of this team has earned their place in the Headmaster’s Select XI this season, and this has reflected their efforts, commitment and playing ability not just within the matches, but at training and setting the standard for the school, going out every week to represent the Halliford 1st XI. ‘This season has been a great journey for the 1st XI, which has been defined by growth and hard work. Our performances have only improved as the game weeks have gone on, from Emanuel at the start of the season, with sharper decision-making and a fantastic level of teamwork that has shone through. Multiple games should have gone our way; however, through every tough moment or narrow draw, we stayed committed and came back stronger every time. Every single player who put on the shirt gave 100%, and we all could not be prouder of one another and the season we have had.’ Charlie Scott, 1st XI Captain 2026

2nd XI Mr Cook

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Goals Difference

-5

A commonly used phrase in football is that it’s a game of two halves. On this occasion, the same applies neatly to the 2nd XI, except instead of a match, it was the entire season that played out like a dramatic Netflix mini-series: a shaky opening episode, a character-building middle, and then a finale packed with plot twists. This year’s side was fantastically led by 2nd XI veterans who gave everything for the shirt; Captain Jack Gyles, Jack Farrow, Harry Baker, Freddie Golding and later, Alex Murat. They were the father figures of the squad, minus the car, the mortgage, and the bad knees, guiding a relatively young group of Year 11 and Lower Sixth students who were sometimes too talented for their own good, but occasionally looked like they were also still getting used to the idea that the pitch is full-size. At the back, Joseph Kalenderidis, Harry Baker, Milo Ketteringham, and Ben Snowball formed a solid defensive line that gave the team real stability. But special mention goes to Ben Snowball, whose resemblance to ‘Prime Gareth Bale’ was uncanny: lung-busting runs from deep, a wand of a left foot, and a haircut of someone who’s thought about becoming a winger but then remembered he likes tackling people far too much. And then there was Theo Clark. Possibly the greatest 2nd XI goalkeeper Halliford has ever seen. Dependable,

Spring Sports Report brave, and at times cruelly audacious with his shot-stopping. Theo produced two moments that will go down in Halliford folklore: a heroic penalty save away at Emanuel and later another at Salesian, both in controversial circumstances. In many seasons, he would have been the 1st XI keeper without question. Theo was undoubtedly a heroic victim of Halliford’s unprecedentedly strong goalkeeping depth this year, but his time will certainly come again, I am sure. In midfield, the dependable trio of Harry Jennings, Jack Gyles and Jonty Wright marshalled everything with the calm authority of three boys who look like they have been playing senior football since Year 7. Add in the youthful dynamism of Xander Gavey and the box-to-box power of Theo Bavister, and the team had an engine room with real energy and flair that dominated in the second half of the season and was ultimately a huge part of the team’s success. Up front, Freddie Golding led the line magnificently. His hat-trick against Reddam in the final game was the ideal sign-off: three goals, three celebrations, and at least three teammates claiming they provided the assist, although Archit Dalvi could absolutely feel hard done by for at least one of those. George Clark and George Regan offered blistering pace and relentless pressing. George Clark ended the season with two goals, both from under two yards, both into empty nets, both celebrated as though scored in the Champions League final. A true poacher’s poacher. Honourable mentions also go to Charlie Crawford and Kai Scanlen, who drifted between squads with the usefulness and reliability of high-quality utility players, the true James Milners of the Halliford School football programme. This squad has enormous potential. Many of the younger players grew hugely in confidence, and several now look primed to challenge for 1st XI spots next season. The season highlights included: a strong win over Burnham Grammar, an 8–1 demolition of Reddam House, and a 1–0 win over Claires Court in trenchwarfare-like conditions. Despite these victories, it was, ironically, the defeats to Emanuel and Shiplake that taught the most. The boys learned that grafting for every loose ball, every second ball, and scrapping for every 50/50 was actually what shaped the second-half-of-the-season resurgence. The 2nd XI has and will always be the perfect balance of competitiveness and enjoyment, a place where football is taken seriously, but not so seriously that you can’t laugh at yourself afterwards if you make a mistake. This year’s camaraderie was exceptional, driven by leadership, effort, and the collective understanding that running hard usually solves most problems. Take that same teamwork, belief, and mid-season work rate into next year, and who knows what this group can achieve next year. To the Upper Sixth leaving us at the end of the year - your leadership on and off the field, resilience in tough moments, and ability to inspire your teammates were crucial to the team’s development. You showcased Halliford School’s values excellently, demonstrating teamwork, respect, and determination.

3rd XI Mr Fieldhouse

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-17

The Halliford School 3rd XI enjoyed a season marked by determination, development, and moments of genuine quality throughout the 2025/26 campaign. Facing a demanding schedule both home and away, the squad demonstrated resilience and a growing maturity as they navigated a variety of strong opponents. The season began on a positive note with a competitive 2–2 draw against Emanuel School on Wednesday 14 January. In a performance that showed early attacking promise, Halliford battled back from behind with two well-taken goals from Man of the Match Jack O’Connor, securing a deserved result and providing a valuable confidence boost ahead of league action. League play opened with a challenging fixture at home to Shiplake College on Wednesday 28 January. Despite spells of controlled possession and several strong individual displays, most notably from Man of the Match Xander Gavey, Halliford struggled defensively and ultimately fell to a heavy 2–7 defeat. Goals from Jack O’Connor and Xander Gavey offered some consolation, and the match served as an important learning moment for the squad. The response to that setback was outstanding. Travelling to Taplow Sports Ground, Halliford delivered 83

TheHALLIFORDIAN their performance of the season with an impressive 4–1 victory over Claires Court. Clinical finishing from Harvey Connop, Andrew Razza, Jack O’Connor, and Charlie Moria, combined with disciplined defending, secured a well-earned first league win and injected much -needed momentum. For the second consecutive week, Xander Gavey was named Man of the Match, recognising another influential midfield display. A challenging mid-season spell brought a series of tough matchups against high-calibre opponents. Despite a bright start away at Burnham Grammar, Halliford were unable to withstand Burnham’s sustained attacking pressure, resulting in a 4–1 defeat. Max Lewis provided the team’s only goal, while Kai Scanlen delivered the standout performance on an otherwise difficult afternoon for the squad. A week later, Halliford were back on the road against a strong Holyport side. A much-improved defensive display kept the contest tight for long periods, but Holyport’s quality eventually told as they secured a 3–0 win. Returning home on Wednesday, 4 March, and low in confidence, the Halliford 3rd XI endured a difficult afternoon at Church Road. Salesian College 3rd XI capitalised ruthlessly on defensive errors and outperformed Halliford in every area of the pitch. Mistakes at the back were compounded by stretches of poor ball retention and, at times, a lack of personal fitness. Though challenging, these matches tested the squad’s resilience, and the players continued to show strong commitment as they prepared for a tricky away fixture at LVS Ascot. A week later, Halliford battled hard away at LVS Ascot, creating several chances and showing determination both in and out of possession. Despite their efforts, the pressure wasn’t enough to turn chances into goals, and they were defeated 4–1 by a talented LVS outfit. The team finished the season on a positive note with a spirited 2–2 draw away at Claremont Fan Court on Wednesday 18 March. Halliford twice took the lead, demonstrating renewed organisation and energy along with clear signs of development since January. The result reflected the character, teamwork, and growing confidence the squad had built over a demanding season. While results were mixed, the campaign featured evident progress, memorable performances, and a strong sense of togetherness. The highlight undoubtedly came in the impressive 4–1 away victory at Claires Court, but the determination shown throughout tougher fixtures was equally commendable. With greater positional understanding, resilience, and teamwork now established, a solid foundation has been laid for further progress. Armed with this season’s experience, the Halliford 3rd XI will look to build on their efforts and come back stronger in the 2026/27 season.

4th XI Mr Shales

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The 4XI season can be summarised as somewhat of a mixed bag. Two wins, one draw, and three losses were not a fair reflection of the effort and enthusiasm the boys showed towards the league campaign. A trip to Claires Court started well, with the side racing into a two-goal lead. However, complacency got the better of the side, and some defensive lapses saw Claires Court rally with three goals of their own, leading to defeat. The boys bounced back quickly with a strong display at LVS, on a pitch that can be described as boggy to say the least! This played into our hands, and we clung on to a deserved 2-1 victory. The visit of Claremont followed, and with it, one of the truly great 4XI performances of all time. Everything we touched seemingly turned into gold as we romped home to a 9-2 victory. Any hopes of challenging for the title soon came crashing back down to earth as league leaders Salesian showed at least 2XI-level footballing ability in their 4-2 victory. A trip to Leighton Park followed, where once again, despite a dominant display, we were unable to secure the deserved victory as they equalised with the last kick of the game for a 3-3 draw. Hearing of the side’s class and calibre, Reddam House decided not to make the journey to face us, leaving us with one final game at home to Shiplake. Sadly, much like against Salesian, the boys worked hard but lost 4-2 to the better side.

Spring Sports Report

U15 Mr Morriss

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Goals Difference

The U15s have been a wonderfully enthusiastic group of players to work with this season, demonstrating the Halliford Value of being a Team Player at every opportunity. With thirty students at training every week, to making themselves available for fixtures, to organising themselves when others were injured or ill. They were particularly flexible in the early part of the season, with a number of fixtures postponed or cancelled due to inclement weather. Once the season properly started, though, the team committed to the tactics and played superbly from the first whistle of the opening game away to Ewell Castle to the final whistle of the concluding game away at Wimbledon College. In these fixtures, the boys won eight from eight, scoring 31 and conceding only six. Dan Gillam and Freddie McTavish shared time between the sticks and provided a strong foundation for the players in front of them, giving them plenty of confidence in their shot-stopping. Playing three at the back can sometimes be a risky strategy, but with the ever-present trio of Josh Wells, Samir Al-Falaki, and Will Andrews, chances were kept to a minimum, and the goals-against column is a testament to this. Their positioning was outstanding throughout, but it was their communication with each other and with the players in front of them that led to such confidence that they were always willing to meet and make a challenge. At the other end of the pitch, Alfie Granger was an outstanding target man and Number 9, scoring six goals, including an outrageous effort from within his own half in the 3-1 victory against Emanuel. Ben Blackman was equally effective as a wide attacking threat and contributed as many assists as goals throughout the season. His pace and determination to retain the ball meant he was constantly an outlet for the team, with great confidence in knowing there would likely be an end product. This squad showed real character throughout the season, though, as it was not always as comfortable as the scorelines suggested. Two of the games saw the boys go behind to early goals, which meant they had to collect themselves as a team, fix the issues and then come together as one to get back into the game, and ultimately go on to win the match. This team trait did set them up brilliantly for many of the other games this year, though. The aim of every match was to start attacking and force the opposition into mistakes, which worked on almost every occasion. The team benefitted from several own goals this year due to high pressure, and putting the ball in areas where anything could happen. There is always a fine line between confidence and arrogance in a game where you are winning so early, but this determined team trait meant that they always considered how best to win and how the game could be managed with possession and authority, to not allow the opponents back into the game and frustrate them throughout. This was especially evident in the Salesian College game at home, which was one of the matches of the season encompassing an all-round team performance and led superbly by Captain, Oliver Browning. Oliver played in a midfield that constantly rotated throughout the season as several players found themselves either in the central partnership or pushed slightly higher into the two Number 10 roles. The role of these four players as a box with which the team needed to work around, meant that it did not seem to matter which one of the players fulfilled the position, or which position they fulfilled. Oliver, Bobby Nash, Luca Brief, Ruark MacDonald, Nicholas Lam, Jacob Rice all assumed these roles throughout the season. The most enjoyable aspect of this relationship within the midfield, was that everyone supported each other on and off the pitch. They worked tirelessly backing each other up in games, winning lost balls or passing to one another. But they also showed patience if named on the bench or stepped up if one was unavailable. Many of these players were invited to join the senior training session on a Monday evening, which was both a privilege and reward for their commitment this season. It was a fantastic opportunity to see what the senior setup looked like ahead of potentially being involved and a part of it next season. It also gave them the chance to pit their footballing ability against their older and more experienced counterparts. They did not shy away from this challenge and appeared to fit in seamlessly, giving further optimism for the seasons ahead as senior players. A large contingent of this team has also earned their place in the Headmaster’s Select XI this season and this has reflected their efforts and playing ability in not just an unbeaten season, but in winning every match. It should be understood though, that this was a particularly hard selection process and to nominate one or two always felt difficult on those not included, as it was very much a squad effort this season and every player contributed and drove the standard. The future of the Halliford Senior XI’s is bright though and it adds to the excitement for next season and beyond. 85

TheHALLIFORDIAN ‘The 2026 football season has been a great season for Year 10 with eight wins from eight games. This year we began playing with a back three and this proved to work well bringing a new attacking style to our game as we scored 31 goals with many goals coming from Ben, Alfie, Jacob, many lethal headers from Samir as well as many other people scoring to help the team make the unbeaten season possible. However, it wasn’t just our attacking that was strong because our defence was a brick wall as we only conceded six goals thanks to players like Dan Gillam and his safe hands in goal or Will Andrews and his rock-solid defence. The season also brought many memorable moments, like Alfie’s 60-yard goal, Bobby Nash scoring from a corner, Nicholas Lam breaking through into the A team and one St James’ student becoming a home and away fan. Finally, thank you to Mr Morriss for coaching us throughout this amazing season making us all better footballers and well done to everyone who played for the team, representing the school and helping us complete the unbeaten season.’ Oliver Browning, U15’s Captain 2026

B team Played

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The U15Bs have had a wonderful campaign and enjoyed many successes along the way. It was also very reflective of the way the entire year group committed to the season, training in considerable numbers from the start and being ever dependable on match day when called upon and selected. The start of the season saw many games called off due to poor weather, and this did not help squad selection or consistency, as it was difficult to pick a squad of 16 from over 25 who were training. Rotation was the key, and with it, the players involved did extremely well at finding their tactics at the start of every game. Much like the A team, this team went from strength to strength and managed an unbeaten season, winning five from six along the way. A goal difference of +10 also showed their attacking flair and how each game was won with significant style and goal threat. Captain Charlie Watson and self-appointed tactics co-ordinator Lucas Leverett ensured that every week the starting team was as strong as could be. This meant that every match started with a solid base from Charlie in goal, right down the spine of the team to Lucas, who was spearheading the attack. Regular appearances from Noah Edwards, Fraser Greany and Anaay Bathia meant there was always some consistency in the defensive line and the middle of the park. The rest of the squad rotated in and out depending on the fixture list, and in total, over 30 players represented this team throughout the season. There were several excellent victories along the way, but the highlights were definitely the home wins against Salesian College and local rivals, Claremont Fan Court.

U14 Mr Churchill/ Mr Wright

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-10

This season has been a disjointed one for the U14 group, with poor weather disrupting fixtures and, as a result, making fluency difficult to come by. The group is full of talent, and the early stages of the season showed this in abundance. A thumping 10–1 win over Claires Court got the season off to a flying start, and this was quickly backed up by a 7–5 victory over local rivals Claremont Fan Court. In both fixtures, new joiners Alex Wardrop and Harry Palmer combined to great effect down the left-hand side, providing a dangerous attacking threat that was characteristic of the first half of the season. In the engine room, Rajan Deol worked tirelessly to turn over possession, giving Finn Baker and Sam Elliott the platform to once again prove elusive in the middle of the park. The second half of the season brought with it some stiffer challenges in the form of Salesian College and Thamesmead. Despite a commanding performance away in Farnborough, the boys tasted defeat for the first time, running out 3–0 losers. This part of the season also saw a number of the squad fall victim to knee injuries. With Alex Wardrop and Ben Slater facing long spells on the sidelines, the front three took on a

Spring Sports Report new look as we headed into this tough run of games. The squad continued to dig deep and fought bravely in both fixtures. This determination was rewarded by an excellent whole-squad outing against St James’, which saw them run out commanding winners. The final game of the season brought one of the most pleasing performances against a strong Wimbledon College side. From the first minute, the boys were excellent, racing into a three-goal lead before the half-time whistle. This commanding start was further solidified in the second half, where the boys added to their tally and ran out comfortable 4–0 winners, securing a well-earned first clean sheet of the season. It would be wrong to conclude without mentioning some of the other outstanding performers this year. Jasper Burke earned his place in the Headmaster’s XI, putting in a string of outstanding performances between the sticks, showing his progression with both his hands and feet in this pivotal position. James Marney was also an excellent addition, consistently threatening down both the left and right flanks and adding goals and assists almost every time he stepped onto the pitch. On the whole, it has been a hugely positive season for the U14As, with performances going from strength to strength as we built towards the end-of-season tour to Köln. This provided an opportunity to finish the season on a real high and bring the group together to celebrate an excellent year.

B team Played

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The U14Bs have enjoyed a successful season, winning three out of their four games. Unfortunately, poor weather curtailed early-season fixtures, though attendance at training remained outstanding, with 50 students regularly taking part. Our first two belated fixtures produced excellent results, with a 7–1 win against Claremont followed by a 5–3 victory over Salesian College, featuring a hat-trick from William Pascoe-Watson. A 4–1 loss to Thamesmead proved a minor blip, and we ended the season on a high with a superb 6–0 win against Wimbledon College. Ted Young captained the team expertly throughout the campaign, and there were some standout individual performances. Leandro Hall was a constant threat down the right wing, scoring twice in the final fixture. His call-up to the A team was thoroughly deserved. Ahi Lloyd was creative in the Number 10 position, scoring crucial goals as well as acting as the heartbeat of the side. William Pascoe-Watson finished as top scorer thanks to his predatory instincts. Honourable mentions must also go to Archie Dehlsen for his industriousness in central midfield, Arlo West for his trickery and creativity on the wing, and Maxi Docherty for his work rate and determination in midfield. The team now heads towards the end-of-season tour to Köln with real optimism, excitement, and confidence in what they can achieve next.

U13 Mr Cook

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-3

On reflection, it may have been a slight culture shock for this year’s U13A team, having employed the free-flowing possession-based style ‘Pep Ball’ under the superb tutelage of Mr Churchill last season, to be straight into the gritty, ‘fight for every ball’ counter-attacking ‘Dyche Ball’ under Mr Cook. That said, despite some challenges along the way, the final 2-0 victory over a very strong Thamesmead side featuring several promising academy players was a huge highlight of the season and will certainly live long in the memory of all who played and battled hard for the win. Despite some narrow losses early in the season, which were further disrupted by weather conditions over the new year, consistency was challenging. However, the comprehensive 5-0 victory over Claremont was a huge confidence boost 87

TheHALLIFORDIAN for the team. This was also a game that William Smith, a solid presence at the centre of defence all year, will remember for a long time, scoring a range effort from just inside his own half. Defensively, the team was solid throughout the season, with Jacob Wiffen, Max Miller (who also played striker!) and Noah Grozev making up the majority of the back four. Despite some frustrating performances and narrow losses, the boys battled hard and gave a strong account of themselves throughout the season. In midfield, the dynamic duo of Oliver Malthouse and Wilf Nercessian commanded the centre of the pitch, creating space and time on the ball for others, often doing the hard yards to bring others into play. Captain Theo Boulton had another commanding season, leading the boys both on and off the pitch with a responsibility beyond his years. Theo also really stepped up in the final game against Thamesmead and rallied the troops brilliantly, reaching a level that ensured the team clicked and signing off the season in style. In the final third, goals were at times hard to come by. However, the pace and power of Ben Hales, the trickery and quick feet of Theo Chandler, alongside the relentless work rate of Aaryan Patel, were a handful for defences this season. Results on paper may not tell the full story of the U13A team’s season, and there are still plenty of positives to come from this group. Adapting to 11-a-side and fullsized goals was a challenge at times, although this year group has a fantastic attitude to development and has shown remarkable improvement throughout the season, both individually and as a team. B team Played

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C team Played

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-9

The U13B team, much like many other teams in the school in early January, were the unfortunate recipient of waterlogged pitches and postponements. Despite the frustration, much like the A team, when they finally were able to play fixtures, they did not disappoint and always gave a strong account of themselves in both ability and effort. Comprehensive wins against Claires Court, Claremont and LVS Ascot gave the team confidence and often competition for places was hotly contested and there was very little between boys that were involved in the A team. Special mentions to Owen Strack, Harry Monypenny, George Childs and Captain Patrick Smith who all earnt opportunities in the A team following impressive performances across the season, showcasing the narrow gap between the sides, as well as the depth in talent in this age group. Standouts for the B and C team this term were the dynamism and skill of Sam Freeman and Saavan Handa, the goal poaching instincts of Raffi Cole and William Nettleton, and a solid defensive unit made up of Oran West, Arnie Appleyard, Patrick Donnelly and Oliver Kipps. The C team also had a solid win away at Claremont. At training each week, there were consistently 40 to 50 boys, come rain or shine, with over 70% of the year group representing a football team in a competitive fixture at some point this term, screaming volumes for the desire to represent the school across this year group, boding brilliantly for the future of sport at the school. Well done, boys!

U12 Mr Fieldhouse

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Goals Difference

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The 2025/26 season proved to be a year of development, resilience, and teamwork for the Halliford School U12A football squad. Entering the world of competitive nine-a-side football, the team featured 20 committed players who demonstrated determination throughout a challenging fixture list marked by postponements, tough opponents, and moments of real individual brilliance. Despite results not always going Halliford’s way, the players learned to compete physically, improve

Spring Sports Report tactically, and work as a cohesive unit, key foundations for future success. The campaign was heavily disrupted by weather-related postponements and pitch-availability issues, with four fixtures postponed between late January and early February. However, the matches that were played gave the squad valuable experience, often against strong competition. The opening fixture of 2026 was a tough initiation, with Emanuel proving a physically strong and clinical opponent. Despite the scoreline being heavily in Emanuel’s favour, Halliford competed bravely. Seb McDonnell scored a well-taken consolation goal and worked tirelessly up front. A quick turnaround saw the team travel to Maidenhead Rugby Club to play a competitive Claires Court side. A more organised defensive shape was evident, and Halliford created several chances on the break. David John’s energy and determination earned him a deserved Man of the Match award on the day. On Friday 23 January, our U12A–D teams were due to travel to Tiffin School, but poor weather caused the first of several postponements, resulting in no competitive outing until late February, with four matches in a row cancelled. After a wet and windy half term, the U12s began the second half of term with a trip to Hampton School on Friday 27 February. A much-improved attacking display saw Halliford score twice – a goal from Ayden Ali and an excellent overhead kick from defender David John, one he will surely never forget and undoubtedly the goal of the season. For long spells, the team competed well against a physical and well-drilled Hampton side, eventually losing 5–2. This fixture marked the team’s strongest all-round performance to date. Two weeks later, away at Salesian College on Saturday 7 March, the team went behind early but dug deep to get themselves back into the game. Demonstrating encouraging attacking intent through midfield – with a standout performance from debutant Freddie McAsey – Halliford equalised through an excellent free-kick from Oscar Browning. Defensively, the team worked well under pressure, while Man of the Match Shaan Chavda delivered a superb display of intelligent positioning, physicality, and leadership at the back. With an entire year of growth behind them, the players now have a strong foundation for future development. The lessons learned this season – discipline, teamwork, tactical awareness, and resilience – will be crucial as the squad continues its footballing journey and begins preparing for the move to elevena-side football in later years. The coaching staff commend every player for their effort, sportsmanship, and commitment to Halliford School football throughout the season. Despite tough results, the squad maintained an excellent attitude, supporting teammates, showing respect for opponents, and displaying resilience every week. B team Played

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The Halliford School U12B team enjoyed a competitive and spirited 2025/26 football season, showing clear development, resilience, and teamwork across a wide variety of fixtures. Despite several matches being postponed due to weather, the boys demonstrated strong commitment and delivered several highly encouraging performances. The campaign began with a fixture against Emanuel School in January. Despite a determined effort, the U12B team fell to a 2–5 defeat, with moments of promising build-up play from midfielder Charlie Cox hinting at progress to come. Postponements continued to disrupt the rhythm of the early season. However, a major turning point arrived when Halliford travelled to Maidenhead Rugby Club to face Claires Court School. Playing with attacking confidence and excellent teamwork, the U12Bs delivered an emphatic 5–1 victory – their first win of the season – including an impressive strike from Ayden Ali from outside the box. The match showcased strong pressing, sharp counter-attacks, and an organised defensive unit led by Sam Winters, which restricted the opposition to limited chances. This result set a positive tone for the remainder of the term. One of the standout fixtures of the year came in late February away at Hampton School. In a dramatic, endto-end contest filled with goals and momentum swings, Halliford emerged with an impressive 5–4 win.

TheHALLIFORDIAN The boys showed excellent determination to edge a match that could have gone either way, demonstrating improved composure in key moments. Two weeks later, Halliford earned a hard-fought 2–2 draw against Salesian College. The team battled well in midfield and created numerous opportunities, demonstrating both resilience and a growing understanding of team shape and movement. Captain Ben Gibson led superbly in midfield, supplying winger Henry Court, who produced a stellar performance. Ultimately, Man of the Match went to Harry Winters for one of his consistently outstanding defensive displays throughout the season. The final fixture of the term took place in March against Wimbledon College. Despite a bright start and spells of encouraging play, Halliford were unable to convert their chances and were defeated 1–5. Even so, the performance contained plenty of positives, with the boys continuing to work hard until the final whistle. Although the season featured several postponements, the matches played showed clear development in the squad’s teamwork, decision-making, and confidence on the ball. The two excellent victories, particularly the thrilling win over Hampton School, stand out as highlights of a promising year for the group. Leaders clearly emerged, with Freddie McAsey, Jack Matthews, and Ben Gibson organising the squad well on and off the field. The boys should be proud of their efforts, attitude, and improvements throughout the campaign. C team Played

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The U12C team has gone from strength to strength this season, showing determination, teamwork, and steady improvement throughout. A tough opening loss to Emanuel became the spark they needed, motivating the boys to work harder and raise their game. Their response was clear in the fixtures against Claremont and Hampton, where the team communicated brilliantly, controlled possession, and moved the ball confidently up the pitch, securing strong and welldeserved wins. At the back, Fred Keane had an excellent season in goal, making crucial saves and keeping our goals conceded impressively low. In front of him, William Cook showed exceptional defensive awareness, while George Bibby and Teilo Thomas formed a reliable centre-back pairing, working tirelessly to keep danger away from goal. In midfield, Efrem Rosculete and Rory Barnes were consistently dependable, contributing effectively in both defence and attack. Jack Hayden and Aden Al-Falaki impressed with their outstanding stamina, winning tackles and driving the team forward. Up front, Harry Offland and Hari Haddock lifted the team with multiple goals, showing how persistence and positivity can change a game. D team Played

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The Halliford School U12D team has experienced a varied and eventful set of fixtures throughout the 2025/26 season, taking on a challenging schedule of away matches against strong opposition. Despite mixed results, the squad has shown resilience, steady improvement, and moments of real promise. The opening fixture of the term in January against Emanuel School was unfortunately postponed. The team had prepared well, and the boys were disappointed not to begin their campaign, but the delay provided additional time to train and gel as a group. Halliford’s first completed match of the season came against a strong Emanuel side. Despite the difficult scoreline, the boys battled hard and found the net once, showing determination in attack. The game served as a learning opportunity, highlighting areas for defensive organisation and positioning, while also praising

Spring Sports Report the team for playing with spirit throughout. Halliford bounced back in spectacular style with a dominant 10–0 win over Claremont Fan Court. It was a complete performance, featuring clinical attacking play and disciplined defending throughout. The team showed excellent teamwork, smart passing combinations, and impressive finishing. This convincing victory highlighted the group’s potential when confidence and structure come together. The final recorded fixture saw Halliford face a talented Hampton School side. Despite a strong work ethic and periods of positive play, the opposition proved too strong on the day, coming away 6–0 winners. Nonetheless, Halliford continued to show improved organisation and growing cohesion, particularly in midfield transitions and defensive resilience under pressure. While results have varied, the standout 10–0 victory shows what the squad is capable of achieving. With more matches to come, there is strong optimism that the team will continue to grow in confidence, sharpen its tactical understanding, and build momentum for next season.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Teilo Thomas, 7R I decided to come to Halliford because I had heard amazing things about the school in the past. My first impression was that everyone was incredibly friendly and kind, and it is true, everyone is very welcoming here. The lessons I enjoy the most are DT, Games and History because I find them very engaging and interesting. I love all the clubs on offer too, particularly rugby, cricket, athletics, debating, and chess. My Halliford highlight so far is making the A team in rugby.

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Spring Sport Individual Successes

ATHLETICS

Leon Bleach, Year 10

Congratulations to Leon in Year 10, who took part in an indoor athletics meeting at the prestigious Lee Valley Athletics Track. This was his first-ever indoor meeting and he was required to move up an age group to the U17 category. Despite these significant challenges, he came in a very respectable 10th out of 25 in the 800m, smashing his personal best by seven seconds. Well done, Leon!

Congratulations to Bertie & Oliver, who were part of the J16 4x crew from Molesey Boat Club, which won gold at Teddington Head at the end of 2025. They won with an impressive time over 30 seconds faster than the nearest competitor crew.

ROWING

Bertie Reynolds & Oliver Slaymaker, Year 11

FOOTBALL

Theo Boulton, Year 8

We are thrilled to share that Theo in Year 8 has been selected for the London Region squad for the ISFA Football National Festival this Easter. Theo is also on trial with the Arsenal Academy Development Squad. We are incredibly proud of his hard work and commitment!

Spring Sports Report February marked the last netball game for our incredible Upper Sixth girls, a group who have shown resilience and teamwork throughout the season. A special shout‑out to our brilliant captain, Olivia Skinner, whose leadership and dedication have lifted the whole squad.

After successful summer trials, Nicholas in Year 9 was selected for the UK Lions U14 Hockey squad, touring Malaga and competing at an indoor tournament in Nottingham just before Christmas, where he was top goal scorer. An incredible achievement and exciting opportunities ahead.

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Nicholas Shahverdian, Year 9

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Alfie Donnelly, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because it is a small school with lots of opportunities, and all the staff and students are friendly and happy to help. It was incredibly easy to make friends, and my form tutor massively helped me to settle into Halliford School. The subjects I enjoy the most are Maths, Art and History, as I find it interesting to learn about the times before us, and I love creating my own artwork. Although I don’t take part in many sports, I go to Film Club, Exceptional Performers, and I was involved in the Inter-House Quiz. My Halliford highlight so far is Russell House winning the Year 7 InterHouse Rugby Competition because it brought us together as a form group. I am really looking forward to the trip to France with the whole of Year 7 at the end of the year.

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Halliford Racing Takes to the Track by Mr Mo Qureshi, Teacher of Design & Technology

This year marked an exciting milestone for Halliford School’s Design & Technology department as our Year 10 Greenpower F24 team took their electric race car to Mallory Park for its first official test day. After two months of dedication since receiving the kit in January, the students finally had the opportunity to see their hard work come to life on the circuit. The Greenpower Challenge provides students with the opportunity to design, build and race an electric vehicle, applying engineering principles in a real-world environment. While the car begins as a standard kit, the team has worked tirelessly to develop it into a competitive vehicle, carefully considering weight reduction, aerodynamics and reliability. One of the most distinctive features is the streamlined pointed nose cone, designed to reduce drag and improve efficiency, while the body panels have been securely riveted into place in preparation for future modifications. From the outset, the project demanded commitment well beyond the classroom. Harry King, Chris Ritchie, Tommy Hawksley and Arjan Inder Rieden worked closely together throughout the build, helping to assemble the vehicle and refine its design through a series of modifications as the project developed. Their collaborative approach ensured the kart was 94

well prepared for its first appearance on track. Equally important was the testing programme, with Josh Cain, Oliver Vamvadelis and Ben Raubenheimer taking turns behind the wheel to evaluate the car’s handling and performance. Their feedback proved invaluable, allowing the team to identify areas for improvement and make practical adjustments, including fine-tuning the brakes and reducing friction caused by chain rub. This iterative process of testing, analysing and refining mirrored the engineering practices used within the motorsport industry. The test day at Mallory Park brought together over 50 schools from across the country, offering an excellent opportunity for students to learn from other teams and gain valuable experience ahead of their first competitive heat at Dunsfold Park this September. Despite experiencing every type of British

Summer Highlights weather, from sunshine and heavy rain to hail and strong winds, the Halliford team embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and professionalism. The twelve Year 10 students each played an important role throughout the project and on the day itself. Alongside the drivers, students worked as pit crew, designers and members of the media team, demonstrating that successful engineering relies on collaboration as much as technical ability. During testing, the team diagnosed and resolved minor issues, including brake adjustments and reducing friction caused by chain rub, developing the problem-solving skills that are central to engineering. Perhaps the greatest achievement of the day was the reliability of the car. Despite it being the team’s first outing, the kart completed the entire test day without suffering a single mechanical breakdown, a testament to the careful preparation and teamwork that had gone into the project. Looking ahead, the team is already developing the next iteration of the vehicle. Among the planned improvements is a cooling system designed by Team Leader Lewis Cain, which channels airflow through the body panels towards the electric motor to improve cooling and maintain efficiency during races. Future upgrades will also incorporate components manufactured using 3D printing and laser cutting, giving students further opportunities to apply CAD and advanced manufacturing techniques. Beyond the racetrack, the Greenpower project exemplifies Halliford’s commitment to experiential learning. Students have applied classroom knowledge to genuine engineering challenges while developing teamwork, communication,

resilience and project management skills that will serve them well in higher education and future STEM careers. With a successful first test behind them and exciting developments already in progress, Halliford Racing now looks ahead with confidence to its first competitive Greenpower heat at Dunsfold Park in September. We look forward to seeing the team continue to refine the vehicle and build on the strong foundations established during this successful debut on track.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Harry Offland, 7R My first impressions of Halliford School were really good. I wanted to come to Halliford from the start. It was very easy to make friends, and my form tutor helped me settle in. I enjoy Art the most because I like drawing and painting, and I’m involved with rugby, cricket and football. My Halliford highlight so far is all the new friends I have made. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because it is a really nice school, and I suggest other children come here because it has an amazing environment with great students and teachers.

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Lower Sixth Geography Fieldwork to Hayling Island by Mr Guy Boyes, Director of Teaching and Learning

The Lower Sixth geographers got their A Level Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) underway with a productive field trip to Hayling Island in April. The visit allowed students to explore a wide range of coastal processes and management strategies while gaining valuable experience in the fieldwork techniques that may underpin their independent investigations over the coming months. Throughout the day, students engaged in a variety of practical data collection activities designed to develop their understanding of how coastlines are shaped and managed. One key investigation focused on sediment characteristics along the beach. Using callipers and pebble gauges, students measured the size and shape of pebbles at different locations across the beach profile. This enabled them to examine how longshore drift and wave action influence sediment distribution, testing whether pebble size changed with distance

Summer Highlights along the shoreline and considering the relationship between sediment characteristics and coastal energy levels. Students also conducted detailed beach transects, stretching measuring tapes from the backshore to the water’s edge and recording changes in beach gradient at regular intervals. These measurements allowed them to construct accurate beach profiles and assess how the shape of the beach varies in response to physical processes and human intervention. Working in small groups, they developed their confidence in using specialist equipment while also learning the importance of collecting reliable and systematic geographical data. A major focus of the day was the investigation of coastal management. Hayling Island provides excellent opportunities to study a variety of coastal defence strategies, and students assessed the effectiveness of both wooden and rock groynes in trapping sediment transported by longshore drift. By measuring sediment depths and beach heights on either side of the groynes, they were able to evaluate how successfully these structures interrupt sediment movement and contribute to beach accretion. Students discussed the advantages and limitations of different groyne types, considering factors such as durability, maintenance costs and environmental impacts, while reflecting on how coastal managers balance protection and sustainability. The group also examined the condition and maintenance of a range of coastal defences. Students carried out systematic quality surveys of sea walls, groynes and other protective structures, assessing their physical condition and identifying evidence of repairs, weathering and damage. They considered how effective ongoing maintenance appears to be and evaluated whether the defences were fit for purpose in protecting the

coastline from erosion and flooding. This provided an excellent opportunity to apply theoretical classroom knowledge to realworld coastal management challenges. In addition to investigating physical geography, students explored aspects of human geography through environmental quality and housing surveys. They assessed the condition and characteristics of residential areas close to the coastline, recording factors such as property maintenance, building quality, environmental attractiveness and evidence of investment. These observations prompted valuable discussions about the relationship between coastal environments, property values and perceptions of place, as well as the social and economic factors that influence coastal communities. No trip to the seaside would be complete without fish and chips, although the local seagulls predictably attempted to claim their share of the group’s lunch. While the geography was undoubtedly the main attraction, it was equally pleasing to see Hallifordian values displayed throughout the day. Students readily helped lift a man in a wheelchair up a set of steps and later chased down pieces of rubbish blown away by strong coastal winds, returning them to an elderly couple before they could disappear along the seafront. The trip provided an excellent start to the NEA process, allowing students to refine fieldwork techniques, practise data collection methods and begin thinking critically about possible investigation questions. Most importantly, it gave them the opportunity to experience geography beyond the classroom, applying their knowledge in a dynamic coastal environment while demonstrating the character, teamwork and community spirit that are hallmarks of Hallifordians.

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Young Enterprise by Shayeri Sharma, Lower Sixth

This year, a group of business-minded and entrepreneurial Lower Sixth students, under the name Hallivate, founded the next best thing to hit the market. As a part of the widely recognised Young Enterprise initiative, within which student companies compete with others all over the country, Grow a Greeting sold seed-embedded greeting cards for all occasions: you receive the card, plant it in the ground, and watch as the wildflowers appear. I know this sounds highly impressive, but what is perhaps even more impressive is that we managed to decide on a business in the first place. Nonetheless, once operations kicked off, we were selling greeting cards left, right and centre. The fact that we launched just before Mother’s Day and that our cards were serendipitously decorated with floral stencils played a big part in that (fate, what can I say). This initial boom in demand set us up perfectly for a period of continuous production and sales. In the end, we sold a few hundred cards to our faithful school community – leaving us prepared for the next stage of the competition: the Surrey Business Showcase. Once we realised that we were, in fact, determined to come home with at least one or two awards to prove the success of our business, the Hallivate team spent weeks perfecting our pitch, presentation, business plan and stand. We were running around the school like headless chickens in aprons, trying to attend every online meeting while manufacturing our one-of-a-kind product. We were stressing over our interview with the judges and could never get our presentation to quite four minutes. In short, this preparation period was rough to say the least. That is probably why Mr Bignell decided to lessen the immense pressure we were feeling in the run-up to this major event. Mr Bignell almost certainly believed in our company so much that he thought we were too good for the Surrey Young Enterprise Showcase (held at Epsom College). Therefore, he decided to instead take us to Esher College – because nothing screams best YE team quite like five eager students, suits and all, rolling up to an unassuming school with a stack of seed cards and a presentation deck. Perhaps it was that, or maybe that Mr Bignell was so jealous of our glory that he attempted to sabotage our success. We’ll never know (but I highly encourage you to ask him). Once we finally reached Epsom College, we stunned and captivated. Following an intense, Dragon’s Den-style interview, we set up a stand showcasing our brand before performing our well-rehearsed presentation to the audience of judges and schools (which was carried by the flawless clicking of James Laws and the concerning PowerPoint skills of Jack Crichton).

At the end of the evening, the awards were announced. I am beyond pleased, if not still in some disbelief, to say that we took home not one, not two, but three awards – excluding the one everyone received for participating. We were awarded Best Presentation, Best Use of Sustainability, and Best Student Company in Surrey. This meant that we qualified to return for Round Two. This time, the South-East Showcase. For this stage, we travelled into London and underwent a similar judging process - this time, however, without Mr Bignell trying to jeopardise the team. Although we still did phenomenally well, the competition was definitely at a higher standard. In the end, we took home the Best Presentation Award. This nicely marked the end of Hallivate’s Grow a Greeting enterprise. As Hallivate’s Managing Director, I would like to say how extremely proud I am of our team. Thank you to James Laws, Lucas Bullen, Jack Crichton and Thiago Martins for embodying all things Grow a Greeting at the showcases. And thank you also to the entire Young Enterprise team. We couldn’t have done it without you. Finally, thank you to Mr Bignell: we could not have asked for a better source of support and wisdom throughout the process. Your belief in our company was exceptional – so much so that you tried making us less intimidating to give the other teams a chance.

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An Inspiring Geopolitics Visit from Rear Admiral Simon Ancona CBE by Jacob Hollyhead, Lower Sixth

In May, a group of 14 Lower Sixth Geography and Politics students had the privilege of attending a fascinating talk delivered by Rear Admiral Simon Ancona CBE, former Assistant Chief of Defence Staff. For anyone with an interest in global affairs, or a possible future in the military, it was an unforgettable and genuinely inspiring experience. From the outset, the session felt very different from an ordinary lesson. Drawing on a distinguished career in the Royal Navy, Rear Admiral Ancona spoke with real authority, having commanded major warships including HMS Illustrious, HMS Birmingham, HMS Newcastle, and HMS Cumberland. What made this even more compelling was the breadth of his operational experience. He served during the Falklands War as well as both Gulf Wars, giving him first-hand insight into some of the most significant military conflicts of recent decades. Hearing these experiences brought an authenticity that simply cannot be replicated in textbooks. What stood out most was the range of themes he explored. The talk extended far beyond naval operations, delving into geopolitics, diplomacy, leadership, and risk management. Rear Admiral Ancona explained how modern military roles are deeply intertwined with international relations, where decisions are rarely made in isolation. For Geography and Politics students, this connection between global power structures, resources and conflict was particularly engaging and helped bring the subjects vividly to life. One especially interesting aspect of the talk was his insight into how high-level meetings, particularly at places like the Pentagon are conducted. He described how such meetings are typically structured, fast-paced and highly focused, with clear objectives and a strong emphasis on concise communication and

decision-making. It was fascinating to hear how even at the very top levels of global defence, success often depends on clarity, preparation, and the ability to respond quickly under pressure. Leadership was another major theme. Rear Admiral Ancona spoke about the importance of making difficult decisions in uncertain and high-stakes environments, often with significant consequences. The responsibility of commanding large crews at sea, sometimes in conflict situations, highlighted the level of trust and accountability placed on military leaders. These insights were not only relevant for those considering the armed forces, but for anyone thinking about future leadership roles. For students like me who are curious about a potential career in the military, the talk was particularly motivating. It opened our eyes to the wide range of opportunities available within the armed service, from operational roles at sea to strategic positions shaping global defence policy. The combination of travel, responsibility, and the chance to engage directly with world events made this pathway seem both exciting and meaningful. To thank him for his visit, students presented Rear Admiral Ancona with a bottle of Lamb’s Navy Rum, an appropriately nautical gesture to mark the occasion. Overall, the talk was an eye-opening experience that brought Geography and Politics into a real-world context. It left many of us not only with a deeper understanding of global affairs, but also with a renewed curiosity about where our studies might take us.

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Halliford Music Department’s Trip to Wells Cathedral by Dr Emma Shaw, Teacher of Music

On Saturday 6 June, members of the Halliford Chamber Choir travelled to Wells Cathedral in Somerset to sing with the renowned composer Bob Chilcott. Accompanied by Mr Davies, Mr Wright, Mrs Crosbie and myself, the students spent the day rehearsing Chilcott’s Cries of London and A Little Jazz Mass alongside other Chilcott fans. Sight-singing in Latin to Samba rhythms was a real challenge, but students rose to it admirably and represented Halliford very well during the informal performance. At lunchtime, we enjoyed a break in the atmospheric surroundings of the Cathedral’s basement before taking the opportunity to explore some of the magnificent spaces within this historic building. The beauty and scale of Wells Cathedral provided an inspiring setting for a day of music-making. Following the performance, we were treated to a tour of Wells

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Cathedral School, giving students an insight into its rich history and impressive facilities. A brief visit to the high street for some cake and fudge shopping was followed by delicious pizza at a cozy Italian restaurant. The students were particularly interested to see the school where Mr Davies will soon be taking up his new Headship and were fascinated by the historic architecture. Although the weather was far from kind, with torrential rain accompanying much of the day, spirits remained high throughout. Singing under the direction of such a celebrated composer and experiencing the remarkable acoustics of a world-renowned cathedral made this a memorable and enriching experience for all involved. The students were excellent ambassadors for Halliford, and I was immensely proud of everything they achieved.

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Year 10 Geography Field Trip by Gobind Sahota, Year 10

21 Year 10 geographers recently headed to the River Tillingbourne near Box Hill for a day of GCSE fieldwork. Travelling in two minibuses with Mr Aarons and Mr Boyes, the group set out to investigate how river characteristics change downstream, collecting the kind of primary data required for their GCSE studies. We visited three sites along the river, measuring width, depth and velocity at each location. Our first stop was Crossways Farm, where we enjoyed seeing many of the river features we have studied in lessons out in the real world. We then travelled to Abinger Hammer to continue our measurements before enjoying lunch beside the village cricket green. The local Post Office certainly appreciated the arrival of 21 hungry geographers! The final fieldwork site was the picturesque village of Shere, famous for appearing in films including The Holiday and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason. After collecting our final set of data, we visited the source of the River Tillingbourne and explored a range of upper-course river features, including the Tillingbourne waterfall. The trip was an excellent opportunity for us to develop our fieldwork skills, work as geographers in the field and bring classroom learning to life in one of Surrey’s most beautiful landscapes. 101

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Halliford’s National Year of Reading by Mrs Tiffany Howkins (MCLIP), Librarian In this, the National Year of Reading, it is safe to say that here at Halliford we have gone “all in”! With Mrs Barnes joining the team in September, and her relentless determination to ensure that no student leaves the LRC without a book, along with inspired book displays, the introduction of The Halliford 100 Reading Passport, and Mrs Gillies’ popular Chocolate Challenge, we have seen borrowing increase by a massive 46%. With Key Stage 3 students driving borrowing volumes through ever-popular titles such as The Hunger Games, Coraline and Matt Goodfellow’s The Final Year, it is particularly pleasing to see the number of borrowers increasing among our more senior students. Borrowing among students in Years 10 to Upper Sixth has increased by an impressive 64%, with David Smith’s Free Lunch proving the most popular title among Sixth Form students. With some great new resources on their way for September, we are hopeful that this increased engagement will continue.

It was a difficult task finding an author to follow the amazing visit we enjoyed from Chris Bradford, but after some very enthusiastic feedback from Year 11 students, we welcomed the wonderful Joseph Elliott in November. Joseph is a familiar face from the BBC’s Swashbuckle series and has written several acclaimed books. His achievements include nominations for the 2021 CILIP Carnegie Medal and the 2021 Branford Boase Award, while his series The Good Hawk was selected as an Outstanding Book for Young People with Disabilities.

We kicked off the year with the exciting Book Buzz event organised by the BookTrust. Students in Years 7 and 8 learned about 16 inspiring titles, and each student chose their favourite to keep. This year’s top picks were Sharna Jackson’s The Nine-Night Mystery, Ross Montgomery’s I Am Rebel, and Ashley Thorpe’s The Boy to Beat the Gods, which came joint third alongside The Big Book of Useless Knowledge.

Upon his arrival, I noticed that his voice sounded somewhat hoarse, hinting that he might not be feeling at his best. Much to the whole school’s delight, he delivered a fantastic assembly detailing his transition from actor to screenwriter and novelist, finishing with a rousing reading from The Good Hawk. Joseph led writing workshops throughout the day on the theme of mythical creatures, working with our Year 7 students. At lunchtime, he met

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Summer Highlights informally with students in the LRC and enthusiastically engaged with everyone who came along to have a book or bookmark signed. As the day wore on, it became clear that Joseph was more under the weather than he had initially let on, but that did not stop him. He kept the energy high right to the very end and could not have been a more motivational or gracious guest. Alfie Donnelly in 7R gave this wonderful feedback: “Joseph Elliott’s visit to Halliford School was incredibly engaging, fun and inspiring. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing his thoughts on creative writing, and I will make sure to take his advice on board in the future. I would also like to thank him for his mind-blowing stories about his acting career and the work that went into his thrilling book series. I found his insights into his books fascinating, and I will certainly read them in the future.” Once again, we entered the National Reading Championship Quiz 2026 with two teams of four students drawn from Years 7, 8 and 9. Returning entrants Murdo Thomson and Rayen Prema led their teams, consisting of Hassan Waheed, Eliot Tidhar, Harry Scoones, Ben Jackson, Hugo Hawksley and Oscar Luxton, through a gruelling two-hour challenge with enthusiasm and determination. While the national final in London still eludes us, I have no doubt that we will continue to give it our all in next year’s regional heat. There was a nail-biting finish to our annual World Book Day Quiz, hosted once again by the ineffable Mr Hoare. Initially, it appeared that our Year 7 team, The Mockingbirds, consisting of Rory Barnes, Eliot Tidhar, Freddie McAsey and Ben Jackson, had secured victory. However, after a recount, it was revealed that the competition had ended in a tie between our youngest and oldest teams. The returning Fellowship of the Quiz, led by James Grant and supported by Lucas Bullen, James Dow and Emily Magnani, shared the honours. With The Fellowship of the Quiz determined to reclaim their crown outright, we hope to see both teams return next year for another exciting contest. Our annual Year 7 trip to The Story Museum in Oxford took place in early May and once again proved a great success. Students enjoyed exploring the How to Train Your Dragon gallery and learned about creating fantasy worlds through a map-making workshop led by The Story Museum staff. They were also treated to a Wonder Walk around Oxford, visiting literary locations connected to renowned authors including Katherine Rundell, C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, Philip Pullman and Kiran Millwood Hargrave. During the walk, students learned key facts about the writers’ lives and discovered how simply observing the world around them can inspire ideas for great works of fiction.

demonstrated their love of books through regular borrowing, writing reviews and discussing literature at length with teachers and peers; and our most outstanding student, Sam Freeman, who achieved superstar Word Millionaire status by reading the highest number of words in Key Stage 3 this academic year. We were so impressed by some of our Sixth Form readers that we invited them to join the celebration and speak to younger students about their love of reading and the role it plays in both their studies and personal lives. Each of these students spoke from the heart and no doubt inspired our younger readers to continue developing their own love of books. Our thanks go to Anya Lynch, Nat Kinmont, Jack Crichton and Emily Magnani for sharing their experiences. We are yet to determine the theme for next year’s celebration, but we are already looking forward to building on such a successful year of reading and recognising even more students for their enthusiasm and engagement. The summer term proved to be our busiest yet, not least because the multiple heatwaves drove even more students into the cool, air-conditioned LRC. If they thought they were in for a leisurely lunchtime, Mrs Barnes had other ideas! To keep students engaged, out came additional chess boards, jigsaws, Scrabble sets, magazines and origami activities. Students who made the mistake of loitering by the bookshelves swiftly found a book thrust into their hands and were ushered to a seat, where they soon found themselves transported to another world. In June 2026, the National Literacy Trust published its latest figures on reading among young people. While daily reading levels still lag significantly behind those of a decade ago, early signs suggest that increasing numbers of young people are reading, or beginning to read, for enjoyment. We hope to build on this momentum as we head into the Autumn Term with not one, but two author visits planned for September 2026. Keep reading!

Following the success of last year’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Reading Celebration for Key Stage 3 students, we were keen to repeat the experience for our deserving readers this year. With a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory theme, the LRC was brought to life with Oompa Loompas, colourful balloons and festive decorations. Mrs Gillies led the celebrations and presented certificates to students for consistent effort, resilience and a positive attitude towards reading; avid readers who have

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Halliford Careers Programme

by Mrs Chloe Moore, Head of Futures and Exceptional Performers

At Halliford School, preparing students for life beyond the classroom is at the heart of everything we do. Our careers and post-school support programme is built around a simple but powerful belief: every student is unique, and their future journey should be too. We were delighted that this year Halliford’s Student Careers Programme with its personalised approach, exceptional opportunities and expert guidance, was recognised through a commendation in the Independent School of the Year Awards. What sets our careers provision apart is the way it is fully woven into school life. Rather than being a one-off event or a series of isolated activities, careers education is an ongoing journey that begins in the lower school and continues through to Sixth Form. Through dedicated tutor activities, PSHE lessons, UCAS preparation and platforms such as Unifrog, students are encouraged to explore their strengths, interests and ambitions, enabling them to make informed decisions about their futures. A cornerstone of the programme is the individual support each student receives. Through personalised guidance, one-to-one careers interviews and ongoing mentoring, students benefit from tailored advice that reflects their aspirations, talents and goals. Whether considering university, apprenticeships or

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alternative pathways, every student is supported in finding the route that is right for them. Throughout the 2025–26 academic year, Halliford has continued to innovate and expand its careers offering. New initiatives such as Careers and Croissants have provided an informal and welcoming environment for students to meet professionals, ask questions and gain valuable insights into different industries. Meanwhile, Interview Skills Week, led by our Head of Futures, has equipped students with the confidence and practical experience needed to navigate real-world recruitment processes successfully. Our annual University and Careers Fair, which welcomed local state schools alongside Halliford students, has further strengthened our commitment to broadening horizons and fostering community engagement. Students have had the opportunity to connect with a wide range of universities, employers and training providers, helping them to explore possibilities they may not previously have considered.

Summer Highlights The programme is further enriched through an outstanding calendar of guest speakers, offering students first-hand insight into a variety of professions and emerging industries. Our Exceptional Performers Programme also provides ambitious students with specialist workshops and expert guidance, helping them prepare for competitive university courses and the evolving demands of the modern workplace. For Sixth Form students, a dedicated super-curricular programme and comprehensive booklet encourage wider reading, independent research and intellectual curiosity, while structured careers activities for Years 7–11 ensure that students develop knowledge and confidence progressively throughout their time at the school. The impact of Halliford’s careers programme is clear. Students leave school not only with strong academic qualifications, but also with the confidence, resilience and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through meaningful engagement with employers, universities and industry experts, they develop vital communication, networking and decision-making skills, while gaining a deeper understanding of both established and emerging career pathways. These outcomes are reflected in the success of our students, with 96% securing their first-choice university destination. Importantly, our focus is not simply on helping students gain entry to the most prestigious institutions, but on ensuring they find the courses and destinations that best suit their ambitions, interests and potential. By combining personal guidance, innovative programming, real-world experiences and a commitment to nurturing every individual’s aspirations, Halliford School continues to set the standard for outstanding careers education. The result is a generation of young people who are ambitious, informed and ready to shape their futures with confidence.

Orwell Youth Prize

by Mrs Fenella Wilbraham, Head of History & Politics

Our A Level Politics and English students were encouraged to enter this year’s Orwell Youth Prize, writing on the theme of ‘Truth’. James Grant in Lower Sixth was shortlisted from 1,300 entries. The Orwell Prizes, awarded by the Orwell Foundation, are hugely prestigious, awarded each year to the books and journalism which best meet George Orwell’s ambition ‘to make political writing into art’ and the Youth Prize aims to encourage and inspire young writers as the political thinkers of the future. Congratulations to James on this tremendous achievement.

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Academic Collaboration Week by Mr Guy Boyes, Director of Teaching and Learning

Despite challenging temperatures, this year’s collaboration week rekindled some old favourites and continued the new tradition of each year group having a collaborative trip as part of their week. Year 8 began the week with a collaborative trip to the Science Museum, where they were inspired by an IMAX viewing of A Beautiful Earth on one of Europe’s biggest screens. They followed this up with their own Odyssey across a range of activities and then created a stop-motion animation. Towards the end of the week, they were joined by the Year 9 September 2026 joiners, who got fully involved in a range of challenges as Mr Wright became ‘Taskmaster’ for the day. Year 8 were delighted to see the return of Diplomacy at the end of their week, with almost all students convinced they had learnt lessons from the previous year. The competitive nature of Hallifordians was evident as each country fought for supremacy across Europe. Year 7 enjoyed being introduced to the game of diplomacy towards the end of their week, before they finished with a debut activity led by the MFL department, titled ‘Inter-railing through Europe.’ The students budgeted, learnt about cultures and language and then ‘visited cities’ in the afternoon. This was an enjoyable end to the week, following the well-established Apprentice style Cereal Box task and I, Robot. Their week was broken up by a trip to Hayling Island to assess coastal defences, build and fly kites, 106

write poetry, and consider the economic benefits and social wellbeing of coastal landscapes. Year 9 entered a Dystopian World through the Hunger Games, although, fortunately, no human sacrifices were made. Their trip to the Imperial War Museum, a day spent creating an Asthma App, and the more positive creation of a Utopian world completed their week. Many thanks must go to all staff for putting together such a wide range of academic and inspirational activities. Over 100 students have reflected on the week, with comments including: ‘I have really enjoyed this week, combining creativity and resilience with the opportunity to collaborate with others in many different ways.’ ‘I really enjoyed academic collaboration week as I thought it included a perfect blend of the Halliford values.’ ‘As a more “academic” student than a “sporty” student, I have thoroughly enjoyed Academic Collaboration week, and I loved the break from lessons - especially in the heat.’

Summer Highlights

The Summer Concert by Elijah Wilkinson, Lower Sixth

On Friday 26 June, Halliford musicians braved the excruciating heat to perform in the annual Summer Concert, which despite being conducted in a borderline sauna was a roaring success. After a slightly delayed start to prevent as much heat stroke as possible, the night began with a variety of classical performances. The audience were delighted with performances from the ensembles including the Chamber Orchestra and Choir, String, Piano, and Percussion ensembles, Barbershop, and a stand-out performance from the jazz band which had toes tapping as far as the eye can see. We also enjoyed various solo performances ranging from the carefree and upbeat Linus and Lucy performed by Monty Pailthorpe to the bittersweet and moving Homeward Bound performed and arranged by James Grant. After a brief intermission from the oppressing heat of the Sports Hall to the slightly less oppressing heat of the courtyard, the night was carried to a climactic close by the rock bands. A huge variety of artist’s songs were performed from Van Halen to David Bowie, to a ferocious performance of Metallica’s For Whom the

Bell Tolls by the Year 10/11 band. There was a truly amazing show of talent from, in my opinion, one of the greatest crops of bands the school has ever seen. Heads were banging, phone lights were shining, and guitar strings were snapping from sheer shredding power, and we couldn’t have asked for a better end to the night. I want to extend a huge thank you to Mr Wright, Dr Shaw, Mr DeZilva, Mr Davies, Mr Jarvis and his tech team, the peripatetic staff, the PTA, the catering staff, and the premises team for all their hard work into making the best night possible. Thanks also to all the amazing musicians who performed. It was an incredible show for Mr Davies’ last Halliford concert and it was, safe to say, a night to be remembered, not just for the thirty-five-plus-degree heat!

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Year 7 Trip to France by Mr James Davies, Headmaster

It was a joy to take our Year 7 students to Northern France for their end of year trip, providing them with a memorable opportunity to celebrate a fantastic first year at Halliford. Throughout the visit, students enjoyed spending quality time together, strengthening friendships and creating lasting memories while exploring a different country and culture. From experiencing everyday life in France to discovering local customs, cuisine and landmarks, the trip offered a valuable insight into French culture. It also gave students the chance to put their classroom learning into practice, building confidence in their French language skills through real-life conversations and interactions. The enthusiasm, curiosity and positive attitude shown by our students made the trip a wonderful success for all involved. Here some students tell us about their trip highlights; ‘The 2026 trip to France was one of the most memorable experiences of Year 7. It kicked off with an early-morning start at Halliford School. Excitement buzzed in the air as everyone planned their late-night adventures. Those plans didn’t last long! After spending our evenings playing cricket on the beach until 11 o’clock, we were all completely exhausted. One of the best highlights of the trip was visiting Nausicaá, the incredible aquarium in France. We saw the huge tanks filled with sharks, rays, and all kinds of fascinating fish. We also explored one of France’s signature markets where all of us had to haggle in

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French with a little help from our teachers. I will remember these moments for the rest of my life.’ - George Bibby, 7D ‘What a trip! My highlights of the Year 7 French trip were: playing football on the beach, seeing stingrays at the aquarium, visiting the local town and market and last but not least, making chocolate at the chocolate factory in Belgium. Visiting the snail farm was an interesting experience! Personally, eating snails isn’t up my street. However, several brave souls weren’t put off and gave them a try. Many thanks to all the teachers who organised the trip and came along. The Year 7 French trip was a very fun and memorable few days.’ - David John, 7W

Summer Highlights

Year 8 Activity Week Trip by Mr Sean Slocock, Assistant Head Co-Curricular

This year’s Year 8 Activity Week trip to Manchester proved to be an unforgettable adventure, packed with excitement, learning and plenty of laughter. Over three action-filled days, students experienced everything from thrilling rollercoasters and a fascinating museum to sporting landmarks and outdoor adventures. Our trip began with an eagerly anticipated visit to Alton Towers. Despite some nervous anticipation from a few students, it did not take long for everyone to embrace the excitement. The park’s biggest attractions proved incredibly popular, with The Smiler, Thirteen, Wicker Man and Rita emerging as particular favourites. Throughout the day, students demonstrated great resilience by stepping outside their comfort zones, supporting one another and making memories that will undoubtedly last for years to come. After an exhilarating day of rides and adventure, the group headed to Pizza Express for a well-deserved feast. The opportunity to sit down together and reflect on the day’s excitement was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Following dinner, we made our way to the YHA in Manchester’s Potato Wharf. To the disappointment of some, there were, in fact, no potatoes in sight! Nevertheless, the hostel provided a comfortable base, and students settled in well, ready for another busy day ahead. Day two began with an amazing visit to the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester. The museum offered an excellent

opportunity for students to explore the worlds of physics, engineering and technological innovation through a wide range of hands-on, interactive exhibits. Students immersed themselves in the activities and embraced the chance to experiment, investigate and discover. One particularly fascinating aspect of the visit was the collection of historic locomotives. Students were intrigued to learn about one engine that was sent to South Africa in 1929 and played a significant role in supporting the country’s growing gold, diamond and coal mining industries. It was also returned to the UK due to Apartheid which some students were given a brief history lesson about. Demonstrations explaining the operation of steam locomotives brought engineering concepts to life, while a highly entertaining presentation explored Manchester’s pivotal role in the cotton industry and the city’s place at the heart of the Industrial Revolution. Following an educational morning, students enjoyed some wellearned relaxation in the park. Thanks go to Mr Perks, who arrived exceptionally well prepared, complete with cricket equipment, rugby balls, footballs and spikeball sets. The afternoon was filled with friendly competition, teamwork and plenty of

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energy as students made the most of the sunshine and open space. The day’s activities continued with a visit to the Etihad Stadium. The tour proved highly entertaining and gave students a fascinating insight into one of the country’s leading sporting venues. They learned about the history and development of Manchester City and discovered how the stadium was being transformed in preparation for a Take That concert. This led to, potentially, the quote of the trip, ‘Who is Take That?’ During the tour, students were fortunate enough to visit several exclusive areas, including the Chairman’s Lounge, the VIP seating area and the home team dressing room. However, perhaps the most memorable moment was the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to glimpse Pep Guardiola’s office. There was also, somewhat mysteriously, an inordinate number of footballs purchased from the club shop. Whether this was because they were surprisingly inexpensive, because they carried Manchester City badges, or because they may somehow have been made from oil remains open to debate! The evening concluded with another excellent meal, with students choosing between burgers, macaroni cheese and bangers and mash at Bill’s Restaurant. Afterwards, everyone headed to the Odeon cinema to watch Toy Story 5, providing the perfect opportunity to relax after another busy and enjoyable day. Our final day began with a visit to Go Ape. Students took part in the wonderfully named Baboonzled activity before heading into the trees to tackle the treetop courses and zip wires. As with the rides at Alton Towers, many students challenged themselves, demonstrated courage and encouraged their friends throughout the activities. Although the journey home was long, it was accompanied by tired smiles and plenty of stories from an unforgettable three days. The trip was a tremendous success and showcased our Year 8 students at their very best. Their enthusiasm, behaviour, willingness to embrace new experiences and support for one another were exemplary throughout. Most importantly, we returned with very happy children, countless memories and a strong sense of shared adventure.

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Summer Highlights

Year 9 Activities Week: Ypres Battlefields Tour

by Mrs Fenella Wilbraham, Head of History & Politics

The History Department was delighted to return to Ypres with Year 9 at the end of June for our annual battlefields trip. The visit forms an important part of the boys’ understanding of the First World War, allowing them to move beyond the classroom and experience the landscapes, cemeteries and memorials that have become so central to our remembrance of the conflict. After an early start and a smooth journey across the Channel, our first destination was the Passchendaele Museum. Through artefacts, reconstructed trenches and underground dugouts, the museum helped the boys develop a deeper understanding of trench warfare and the realities of life on the Western Front. We then visited Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world. The scale of the site, with its endless rows of white headstones, made a powerful impression on the students. From there we travelled to Langemark German Cemetery, where the darker stones and more sombre atmosphere offered an interesting contrast and prompted thoughtful discussion about remembrance and loss. At Langemark, the site of the first large-scale use of poison gas in warfare in 1915, our guides Craig and Ian demonstrated the evolution of gas masks and explained the challenges soldiers faced in adapting to this terrifying new weapon. A particularly poignant moment of the visit came during the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate, where Daniel Goose and Maxi Docherty had the

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honour of laying a wreath on behalf of the School. They carried out this responsibility with great maturity and respect. The occasion held special significance for Daniel, who had researched his own family’s connection to the war and discovered that his great-grandfather had been wounded fighting in the Ypres Salient in 1917. We were delighted to include a photograph of him alongside the Halliford wreath, creating a powerful link between personal remembrance and the wider acts of commemoration that continue to take place in Ypres more than a century later. The second day began at Hill 62, where the boys explored preserved trenches and tunnels dating from the First World War. The winding communication trenches and fascinating collection of artefacts in the adjoining museum proved to be one of the highlights of the trip. We then visited Essex Farm Cemetery, famous as the place where John McCrae wrote In Flanders Fields. The visit was made particularly memorable by Ted Young, who gave a moving reading of the poem beside the site where it was written, helping the boys reflect on the experiences of those who fought in the Ypres Salient and the enduring power of remembrance through literature. After lunch in Ypres, we visited the outstanding In Flanders Fields Museum. Through interactive exhibits and personal stories, the museum brought to life the experiences of soldiers and civilians caught up in the conflict. The students engaged thoughtfully throughout and impressed museum staff with both their enthusiasm and the quality of their questions. Before beginning the journey home, we made one final stop at a local chocolate shop, which was understandably a popular part of the itinerary.

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The boys were a credit to the School throughout the visit. Their behaviour, curiosity and willingness to engage with often challenging aspects of the First World War reflected the very best of Hallifordian values. I would also like to thank my colleagues for their support and enthusiasm throughout the trip, which ensured its smooth running and success. Like all the best history trips, we returned tired but with a far greater understanding of the people, places and events that shaped the First World War.

Summer Highlights

Year 10 Trip to Rockley

by Mr Harry Churchill, Teacher of Mathematics and PE

In the early hours of Monday morning, a group of Year 10 students arrived at the school gates, slightly bleary-eyed but full of excitement for what promised to be an unforgettable few days at Rockley Adventure Centre in Dorset. Following the loading of bags and the usual pre-trip enthusiasm, students boarded the coach and began the journey to the south coast, accompanied by plenty of conversation, laughter and an eclectic soundtrack provided by the group’s resident DJs. Upon arrival at Rockley, students quickly settled into their surroundings and were introduced to the centre before beginning an action-packed programme of outdoor activities. Set on the stunning Dorset coastline, the centre provided the perfect backdrop for students to challenge themselves, develop new skills and enjoy experiences that many had never encountered before. The water-based activities proved particularly popular. The everentertaining Mega SUP sessions saw students attempting to work together while balancing on giant paddleboards, often with hilarious consequences. Kayaking gave students the opportunity to explore the water while developing confidence, communication and teamwork skills. Whether racing friends, testing their balance or simply enjoying being out on the water, students embraced every challenge with enthusiasm. Away from the shoreline, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones on the climbing and abseiling tower.

Many demonstrated tremendous courage and resilience as they tackled heights that initially seemed daunting. Watching students encourage one another, celebrate successes and overcome personal challenges was one of the highlights of the trip. Archery Tag brought a competitive edge to proceedings, while a range of team-building activities on the field required students to communicate effectively, solve problems and work together to achieve a common goal. As enjoyable as the daytime activities were, the evenings undoubtedly provided some of the most memorable moments of the trip. Free from the distractions of screens and everyday routines, students spent time enjoying the simple pleasure of being outdoors with friends. Games were organised across the site, laughter echoed around the grounds and students embraced the opportunity to simply be children for a little while longer. One particular highlight was gathering around the campfire, where marshmallows were toasted and stories shared as the sun began to set over the Dorset countryside. Accommodation for the trip was provided in traditional yurts, which quickly became a favourite feature amongst the students. For

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many, sleeping in the spacious circular tents added an extra sense of adventure to the experience and helped create a real outdoor expedition atmosphere. Although a brief spell of overnight rain provided a useful lesson about the importance of keeping shoes inside rather than outside the tent, spirits remained high and the episode became another story to add to the growing collection of trip memories. Throughout the visit, students represented the school exceptionally well. They approached every activity with enthusiasm, demonstrated resilience when faced with challenges and consistently showed respect for both the Rockley staff and their peers. It was particularly pleasing to see students supporting one another, celebrating each other’s successes and displaying the teamwork and character that make this year group such a pleasure to work with.

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As the trip drew to a close and students boarded the coaches for the journey home, there was a clear sense of achievement mixed with a little disappointment that the adventure had come to an end. The two days had flown by, packed with challenge, excitement and opportunities to create lasting memories with friends. The Rockley trip once again proved to be a tremendous success. It provided students with opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and teamwork while enjoying a wide range of exciting outdoor activities. Most importantly, it allowed them to spend valuable time together away from the classroom, creating memories and experiences that will remain with them long after the end of Year 10. The students should be extremely proud of the way they conducted themselves throughout the trip and were fantastic ambassadors for the school from start to finish.

Summer Highlights

Lower Sixth Activity Days by Mr Andy Carroll, Head of Sixth Form

The Lower Sixth enjoyed two fantastic days of activities, creating memories that will last long after the end of the academic year. Students travelled to the beautiful Piddinghoe Lake near Brighton for an action-packed day of watersports. Throughout the day, they took part in kayaking, sailing, canoeing and paddleboarding, embracing new challenges and developing their confidence on the water. The weather was perfect, matching the positive atmosphere and enthusiasm shown by all involved. Students encouraged one another throughout the day and demonstrated excellent resilience, teamwork and determination. The quote of the day came from one student who, after completing his activities, laughed and said, ‘Did you see me channel my inner Moana?’ Safe to say, good fun was had by all. Tuesday saw the return of the ever-popular London Challenge. Teams travelled across the capital, navigating London’s transport network while collecting points by visiting famous landmarks and completing a range of bonus missions. Students were photographed with iconic sights, mounted soldiers and even Paddington Bear as they raced against the clock to maximise their scores. Despite the warm temperatures, every team showed outstanding perseverance, communication and teamwork

throughout the day. The challenge brought out a healthy competitive spirit among both students and staff, with everyone determined to claim victory. One student summed up the experience perfectly, saying, ‘The London Challenge was awesome. It was brilliant exploring the city with my friends and racing against the other teams – it felt like being on our own version of The Apprentice!’ There was also drama right up until the end of the competition. Mr Carroll’s team appeared to be in contention for a strong finish but were ultimately disqualified after returning to the rendezvous point late, much to the amusement of the other teams. After a closely fought contest, the overall winners were Mrs Moore’s team, who finished with an impressive 31 points. Congratulations to all students for their enthusiasm, positivity and teamwork across both days, and a special well done to Mrs Moore’s team on their victory. Their winners’ medals were thoroughly deserved.

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Sustainability at Halliford School by Mr Guy Boyes, Director of Teaching and Learning

This year, Halliford School has continued to strengthen its commitment to sustainability through a wide range of initiatives designed to educate students, encourage environmental responsibility, enhance biodiversity, reduce waste, and lower our carbon footprint. Education and Awareness A key focus has been fostering a culture of environmental awareness across the school community. Sustainability has become an increasingly visible part of school life, with paper and photocopying usage now shared with staff to help monitor and reduce consumption. The Year 8 Sustainability Club has played a central role in driving change, monitoring electrical use, promoting energy-saving signage, supporting biodiversity projects, and helping to coordinate many of the school’s environmental initiatives. The club has been supported by Eco-Prefect Miles Cobley, whose enthusiasm and leadership have been invaluable. Students were treated to a video ‘from Sir David Attenborough’ on his 100th Birthday, which reminded them of all the good things they are already doing, as well as the areas where we can improve. As part of Academic Collaboration Week, students took part in a Climate Change Day, that included a mock international climate conference where students represented different countries and debated solutions to global environmental challenges. Sustainability merits were also introduced to recognise and reward positive environmental actions. The school’s values were given an environmental focus through a specially designed sustainability poster, while eco-representatives in every class encouraged simple but effective habits such as turning off lights and closing windows during colder weather to avoid unnecessary energy use.

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Summer Highlights

Students also attended an assembly exploring the environmental impact of artificial intelligence, prompting thoughtful discussion about the relationship between technology and sustainability.

cans in the Dining Hall during the Christmas Lunch and at other occasions when canned drinks were provided, such as Chinese New Year celebrations.

Biodiversity

Community Action

Improving biodiversity on the school site has been another major achievement this year. Students built bird boxes and established a dedicated biodiversity area featuring bug hotels, bird feeders, wildflowers, and spring bulbs to create habitats for local wildlife.

Students have also demonstrated their commitment to the wider community through local litter-picking activities, helping to keep the surrounding area clean while promoting civic responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Tree planting and conservation efforts have continued to flourish. Students monitored the growth of more than 400 trees planted on the school grounds, replacing any dead saplings and clearing weeds during the summer months to ensure healthy development.

Reducing Our Carbon Footprint

To raise awareness of the importance of trees, the school held a tree-dressing event and an assembly highlighting the vital role trees play in combating climate change. The assembly even featured a special appearance by the Lorax, portrayed by EcoPrefect Miles Cobley. These efforts have brought Halliford School within just one point of achieving the next level of accreditation in the Woodland Trust Green Tree Schools Award. Reducing Waste The school has taken practical steps to improve recycling and reduce waste at major events. Dedicated recycling stations were provided at both the Summer Concert and Speech Day, enabling visitors to separate different types of waste responsibly. Additional recycling initiatives included collection points for

Halliford School continues to explore ways of reducing its environmental impact. Initiatives this year included a regular Meat Free Day, encouraging students and staff to consider the environmental benefits of more sustainable food choices. The school has also encouraged thoughtful and responsible use of artificial intelligence, recognising that reducing unnecessary reliance on energy-intensive technologies can contribute to lowering overall carbon emissions. Looking Ahead The progress made this year reflects the enthusiasm and dedication of students and staff across the school. From biodiversity projects and tree planting to waste reduction and environmental education, Halliford School is continuing to develop a culture in which sustainability is a shared responsibility. With strong foundations now in place, we look forward to building on these achievements and making an even greater positive impact in the years ahead.

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Duke of Edinburgh Over two exciting weekends in the beautiful Surrey Hills, our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award participants demonstrated exactly what it means to be a Hallifordian. Bronze Award by Mr Sam Watson, Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator Facing the challenges of navigating unfamiliar routes, carrying heavy rucksacks and spending long days on foot, the students consistently embodied the Halliford values through their resilience, creativity, teamwork, care and kindness. The expeditions provided plenty of opportunities for students to step outside their comfort zones. Long distances, warm weather and demanding terrain tested both physical and mental endurance. However, every challenge was met with determination and positivity. Students showed remarkable resilience throughout, encouraging one another to keep going when the walking became tough and maintaining excellent spirits from start to finish. One of the highlights of both weekends was the creativity displayed at the campsites. After a full day of hiking, students produced an impressive range of meals that went far beyond the basics. From inventive pasta dishes to hearty breakfasts, participants demonstrated excellent planning, organisation and culinary flair. In particular, one group prepared a steak dinner that was cooked to such a high standard that even Gordon Ramsay would have been proud. The outstanding quality of many of the meals became a real talking point and showcased the students’ resourcefulness in the outdoors. 118

Perhaps most impressive of all was the way students worked together as teams. Throughout the expeditions, groups supported one another every step of the way. Whether helping with navigation, sharing encouragement on difficult sections of the route or working together to set up camp, every participant played an important role. The care and kindness shown towards fellow team members was exceptional, with students continually looking out for one another and ensuring that nobody was left behind. These expeditions were about far more than simply completing a route. They provided an opportunity for students to develop confidence, independence and leadership whilst putting the Halliford values into practice. The maturity, camaraderie and determination demonstrated over both weekends were a credit to the students, their families and the school community. Congratulations to all those involved on a highly successful pair of expeditions. They should be immensely proud of their achievements and of the way they represented Halliford School. The staff were delighted to witness such outstanding examples of resilience, creativity, teamwork, care and kindness, and we look forward to seeing the students continue their DofE journey in the future.

Summer Highlights

Silver Award, by Edward Goy, Year 10

Gold Award, by Thiago Martins, Upper Sixth

Our DofE Silver expedition is definitely something I’ll remember. Our group completed our practice expedition in the Surrey Hills and our qualifying expedition in the New Forest.

In August, the Gold DofE students set out on an unforgettable walk through the Lake District. We set out from Staveley train station on Saturday morning and eventually arrived at our destination, Windermere train station on Tuesday afternoon. Although the two stations are only around 6km apart as the crow flies, our route was far from direct. Instead, we covered 66km and over 2,550m of elevation as we made our way across the fells and through some of the Lake District’s most spectacular scenery.

The walking was much harder than most of us expected. Our bags felt ridiculously heavy, especially when we had to climb some pretty challenging hills. Every time we thought we’d reached the top, there seemed to be another one waiting for us. The weather didn’t help either. One minute it was sunny; the next, it was raining. There were a few disagreements along the way as everyone became tired and started losing patience, but we always managed to sort things out and keep going. Navigation wasn’t perfect either and there were a couple of moments when nobody seemed completely sure where we were. Somehow, the wrong direction always seemed to involve walking uphill.

Over the course of the walk, we climbed mountains, stumbled our way back down them, crossed Lake Windermere on a ferry, and consumed what can only be described as an enormous quantity of snacks while taking in some truly incredible views. The scenery was spectacular, and despite the aching legs and constant fatigue, every climb was rewarded with another amazing panorama of the surrounding landscape.

One of the highlights was staying at a Caravan Club campsite, where all the groups cooked pasta for dinner. After a whole day of walking, it tasted far better than it probably should have. We also saw plenty of streams, horses, and cows along the routes, which made a nice change from hearing Nathan’s voice. The evenings were probably the funniest part of the expedition. There were plenty of tent shenanigans, football, and other memorable moments.

It was undoubtedly one of the most physically and mentally demanding experiences many of us had ever faced. There were moments when the distance seemed endless and the next hill looked far steeper than it had any right to be. However, those challenges were exactly what made the experience so memorable. The shared determination, the laughs along the way, and the sense of achievement at the end made it one of the most enjoyable and rewarding things we have ever done.

Overall, the expedition was challenging, tiring, and sometimes frustrating, but it was also a really rewarding experience. We learned how to work together, solve problems, and survive several days of walking with heavy bags without completely falling apart.

Of course, not every memory was quite so inspirational. If I were to do it again, I would prefer not to be woken up by a teammate informing me that the food he had left outside overnight had attracted a badger, and that he had then calmly watched it thoroughly enjoy what was supposed to be my lunch for the day. Needless to say, my enthusiasm for wildlife was somewhat diminished after that particular encounter.

A big thank you to Madame Lamy and the team from Pringles Peaks for their support and encouragement throughout the expedition.

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PTA Year in Review

by Mrs Wendy Ratcliff-Luiz, Outgoing PTA Chairperson

As I finally hang up my PTA stilettos, writing this final PTA Chairperson’s Year in Review, it feels bittersweet to be looking back not just on the past year, but on the past six years at the helm of the PTA. When I joined the PTA, we were still in the midst of Covid lockdowns. As restrictions eased, we began the process of emerging from its shadow, rebuilding our volunteer network and bringing parents back together again. After volunteering as a vaccinator, it felt a natural progression to suggest to Mr Davies that parents could help test the students each day as they returned to school; an idea which the school took up with gusto, and boy, did our parents sign up! We got through those somewhat snotty and PPE-laden days, with an army of parent volunteers doing their bit to get the students safely back through the school gates. It is this amazing community that enjoyed some wonderfully chaotic quiz nights where points were earned painting rainbows blindfolded or completing a crossword puzzle while doing push-ups. When the weather took a turn and our New Family Fun Day inflatables moved into the sports hall, I really began to worry that the combination of trainers, socks and sweat might begin to peel the paint off the walls. This past year, there was certainly no shortage of enthusiasm for a good PTA bar, although getting enough people through the door to make some of our events viable could prove challenging! This was perhaps demonstrated more than in any other year, with our Quiz Night and Spring Ball being cancelled due to low numbers. While disappointing, this is a reminder of the financial pressures on families in the current climate. Thankfully, when it mattered, our community came through. Our Race Night was a huge success, with a brilliant team of volunteers making the evening what it was. Our Outdoor Cinema was another great success, bringing families, including our new Year 7 pupils, together for a relaxed evening and reminding us exactly what

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Summer Highlights the PTA is all about: creating opportunities for parents, children and the wider school community to spend time together and have some fun. And that, ultimately, is what I will take away from my time as Chairperson. The PTA has never been simply about fundraising. Of course, any money we can raise is useful, but the real value is in creating those opportunities to meet people, welcome new families and enjoy being part of our school community. My personal reward has been the friendships I have made along the way. I have met some truly wonderful people through the PTA, and I very much hope these friendships will continue long after my last days at Halliford. I am particularly proud that, after early days finding myself running bars or events with limited helpers and support, we have managed to rebuild a fantastic group of regular volunteers. I would like to say a very sincere thank you to everyone who has volunteered, supported, attended, organised, poured drinks, served food, bought tickets, helped clear up and generally made the Halliford PTA what it is. A personal thank you to my faithful ‘regulars’, Yana Linch and Kasia Miller, who have both been such reliable and enthusiastic supporters throughout the last few years. Thanks also to our brilliant Treasurer, John Vamvadelis, whose steady hand keeps the finances moving behind the scenes, and to Sara Grant, who continues to show inexplicable patience and care in running our (quite lucrative) secondhand uniform sales. Thank you also to Sheena Prema, who is kindly giving her time to manage our PTA communications and newsletter. A special thank you must also go to our wonderful Chef and his team for their continued efforts, tea, cakes and occasional sugar rush! Leaving Halliford is something I never expected to find quite so difficult, but it is made easier knowing I can hand over the reins to the very capable Mel Barry. She is already proving to be exceptionally organised, and I have every confidence that the PTA is in very safe hands. I wish her every success and, perhaps more importantly, hope she has as much fun with it as I have. May the next generation of volunteers continue to grow, support Mel and keep the spirit of the PTA alive and kicking!

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Harry Peart, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because I thought it was a really good school and it would benefit my learning. I found it easy to make friends, plus some of my friends from my previous school also joined Halliford, which was great. I enjoy Music the most because it is a really engaging lesson and very practical, and I am involved in lots of clubs like Build Your Own Guitar Club and Uno Club, and I play rugby and cricket. The biggest differences between Halliford School and my previous school are the amazing facilities here and the size of the school. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because I have made lots of friends and have had amazing opportunities.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Seb McDonnell, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because it is a lovely community - it just felt warm, and it was the right school for me. I really enjoy PE, Maths, Computer Science and German because the teachers are all really nice and I learn well with them. During my time here, I am most looking forward to my academic progress, the sports progress and making even more new friends. I am really pleased I came to Halliford School because there are so many opportunities here and it makes me happy.

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Year 7 & 8 Disco with Notre Dame Sch

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Summer Term Sports Report by Mr Richard Cook, Director of Sport As I reflect on my final term as Director of Sport at Halliford School, I do so with a great sense of pride, gratitude, and admiration for our students. This term has once again captured the very best of what Halliford School sport can offer, a combination of commitment, enjoyment, resilience, and shared success. Halliford continues to demonstrate that it is not the size of the school that defines its sporting impact, but the spirit within it. Throughout this Summer Term, our students have embraced every opportunity to compete, to improve, and to support one another. Whether in training, fixtures, or competitions, their attitude and energy have been consistently outstanding, and it is this culture that makes sport here so special. Cricket and athletics have, once again, been at the forefront of our summer programme. The cricket season has been particularly memorable, with strong performances across all year groups and a clear sense of progression from our youngest players through to the 1st XI. The 1st XI themselves delivered some outstanding performances, including a hard-fought draw against MCC, a fixture that continues to hold real significance for the school and reflected the group’s determination and character. Across the programme, there have been many encouraging signs, with the U13A, U14A, U15A and U15B sides all enjoying highly successful seasons, each achieving win percentages comfortably above 75%, which speaks volumes about the strength and depth of cricket at Halliford at present. The U15 squad, in particular, have had a superb term. Their performances on the field have been consistently strong, but what has stood out most has been their togetherness, leadership and maturity. This was exemplified during their tour to Guernsey, which provided not only a series of competitive fixtures but also a memorable shared experience that the boys will carry with them for many years. The way in which they represented the school, both on and off the field, was a source of immense pride. In athletics, it has been encouraging to see so many students representing Halliford with enthusiasm and pride across the Claremont meetings and wider county competitions. There have been some excellent team performances, particularly from the Year 9 group, who secured a superb second-place finish, while the Year 10 team also performed strongly, finishing third. Alongside this, a number of students have delivered outstanding individual performances across track and field, demonstrating both talent and a real commitment to improvement, with several athletes achieving event victories and contributing to strong relay performances. Beyond our traditional core summer sports, it has been especially pleasing to see continued growth and success across a range of activities. Golf has enjoyed another excellent year, with participation continuing to rise and students competing impressively at both regional and national levels. There have been some outstanding individual achievements, including a podium finish at the prestigious HG Trophy and success at county level, all of which reflect the dedication of the players and the strength of the programme as a whole. Tennis has also reached an important milestone, with Halliford entering the Surrey Schools League for the first time. This has provided invaluable competitive experience for our players and marks a significant step 124

Summer Sports Report forward for the sport within the school. Alongside this, the Inter-House competition brought a real sense of energy and community, with closely contested matches and excellent participation across the board. It has also been fantastic to see the return and growth of climbing within the school. This has quickly become a popular and inclusive activity, giving students another opportunity to challenge themselves and try something new. For many, this has been their first experience of competition in the sport, and while results were not the primary focus, the progress, resilience and teamwork shown throughout the year have been genuinely impressive. As I bring this chapter to a close, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our students, who are at the heart of everything we do. Their enthusiasm, resilience, and willingness to represent Halliford with pride have made this role such a privilege. I am equally grateful to the PE and wider Games staff for their dedication and commitment, and to the entire Halliford community for their continued support. It has been a genuine honour to serve as Director of Sport at Halliford School. I leave with great confidence in the future of sport at the school, knowing that it is in excellent hands and will continue to thrive. I look forward to seeing the next stages of its journey and the continued success of all those involved.

CRICKET 1st XI Mr Shales and Mr Churchill

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Report written by 1st XI Captain – Theodore Maroussas: After a successful pre-season of winter nets, the 1st XI began their season with an away fixture at Pangbourne College, the old school of our coach for the day, Mr Cook. After losing the toss, we were asked to bowl first on a green pitch with a thick, wet, and slow outfield. The bowling attack rose superbly to the challenge, dismissing the opposition for just 73. The match marked the emergence of the ‘Spin Twins’ partnership, with James Haines claiming an outstanding five-wicket haul on debut, well supported by Leo Pearson. Chasing a modest target, the batting lineup made light work of the task, with valuable contributions throughout the order. Caleb Baker’s winter net sessions were clearly paying dividends as he launched a huge six to help guide us to victory. Our next match was against Ibstock Place in the first round of the National T20 Cup. Bowling first on a ground with a notably short leg-side boundary, the team worked tirelessly to restrict the opposition to 148. Once again, wickets came from James Haines and Leo Pearson, continuing their excellent early-season form. The run chase started cautiously, but a blistering innings of 79 from George Clark, who expertly exploited the short boundary, swung the game in our favour and secured progression to the next round. In the following round of the cup, we faced KGS. Bowling first yet again, we produced another disciplined performance, restricting them to 139. Wickets were shared between James Haines, Leo Pearson and Freddie Golding, continuing the excellent form of the bowling unit. Despite the useful contributions of 41 from Charlie Scott and 39 from Ben Snowball, we were unfortunately unable to chase down the target and lost narrowly. Back at home, we hosted Salesian College. Despite a slightly delayed start, the boys quickly settled into the game. A strong all-round bowling display saw Salesian College dismissed for just 89, with Freddie Golding taking two wickets and Leo Pearson leading the way with three more. In reply, a controlled and mature half century from James Haines ensured a comfortable chase and another victory. The highlight of the season was the annual MCC fixture at Shepperton. Bowling first, the team produced an outstanding performance to restrict MCC to 201 for 7, their lowest total against us in recent years. Every bowler contributed, backed by excellent fielding throughout the innings, resulting in us conceding only 7 extras in 44 overs. The ‘Spin Twins’ once again played a major role, taking two wickets each while delivering 40 per cent of the overs. James Haines also took a sharp slip catch off Leo Pearson’s bowling to claim the prize wicket of Old Hallifordian and former 1st XI captain Chris Cole. After enjoying the excellent 125

TheHALLIFORDIAN hospitality provided at lunch, opening batters Archit Dalvi and Rajveer Johal successfully negotiated the new ball before wickets began to fall. However, determined and resilient batting from James Haines and Caleb Baker ensured we batted through to the end to secure a hard-earned draw, only the third time a Halliford 1st XI has achieved this. The next fixture of the season saw us travel away to Gordon’s School. With several players unavailable due to examinations, the team faced a challenging task. Gordon’s posted 162, with Leo Pearson producing another excellent spell of 2 for 12 in difficult bowling conditions. Unfortunately, our batting innings never quite gained momentum, and we fell short of the target. Ben Snowball was the standout performer, carrying his bat for a well-earned 50 not out and showing great temperament throughout the innings. Special mention must go to Year 10 Jacob Rice, who stepped into the team at short notice and did not look out of place in the slightest, opening the bowling and supporting Ben Snowball in the run chase. It is a superb achievement to play senior sport at such a young age, and I am sure he will play a huge part in the team again next year. As captain, I would like to thank everyone who has represented the 1st XI this year, whether it was for the first time in Year 11 or in their final term in Upper Sixth at the end of their illustrious Halliford career. Every player has been a privilege to captain and has demonstrated the Halliford values superbly, whether ball or bat in hand. Additionally, I would like to thank Mr Shales for giving me the opportunity to lead this team, and to Mr Churchill and Mr Cook for their time and support in managing and coaching the team. This team leaves senior cricket at Halliford in a very strong position, and with the current Year 10 students stepping into the team next year, I have no doubt that this form will continue to progress and go from strength to strength.

U15 Mr Cook

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The U15s have had a highly successful season both on and off the field. Led impressively by their fearless captain Samir Al-Falaki, they have been a real pleasure to coach this term. They are a talented and motivated group, and the future looks very positive as they transition into senior cricket in 2027 and combine with an already very strong senior cricket squad. There is a real sense of excitement around what this group can go on to achieve together at Halliford. Competition for places in the A team has been excellent throughout the season, ensuring that standards have remained consistently high. Places have been hotly contested at both training and in match selection, with players pushing each other to improve week on week. Training sessions have been very well attended, with a genuine enthusiasm to learn, develop and refine both individual skills and team play. This attitude has been a key factor in the success the group have enjoyed this year. It has been a season built on batting excellence, with a number of outstanding individual and team performances contributing to a very strong overall win percentage. The ever-dependable Robert Senior finished as the leading run scorer with 161 runs at an average of 26.8, showing great consistency at the crease across the term. He was closely followed by the powerful ball striking of Zain Abou Hasan, who compiled 146 runs at an impressive average of 36.5, combining composure with attacking play. Captain Samir Al-Falaki also made valuable contributions with the bat, providing a cool and calm presence in the side, averaging 37 and leading from the front when it mattered most. Further contributions came from the dependable and consistent Jacob Rice and James Higgins, who amassed a combined 220 runs between them at averages of 30 and 23.5, respectively. The team’s ability to build partnerships and provide stability in the middle order has been invaluable to their success. There have also been several memorable individual performances across the season. Zain Abou Hasan’s well-constructed 54 against Elizabeth College was a tour standout, while Findlay Llewellyn produced a blistering unbeaten 50 against Claires Court. Robert Senior also recorded two half-centuries against Elizabeth College and

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Summer Sports Report Dunottar, alongside further contributions from Alfie Granger against Tiffin and Samir Al-Falaki, whose unbeaten 55 against Elizabeth College was a standout innings under pressure, taking the team over the line on the final ball of the innings at eight wickets down. A real captain’s masterclass. U15A There were also important individual contributions from Tom Turner, who made a fluent 42 not out against Guernsey, and Ollie Browning, whose agricultural style innings of 39 put Claires Court to the sword. Jacob Rice also produced an unbeaten 38 against Dunottar, which helped guide the team to victory. What has stood out most is the depth within the batting line-up, with players stepping up at important moments throughout the season and ensuring the team has remained competitive in every fixture, often finding a way to get over the line in close games. With the ball, there have been a number of notable performances which have complemented the strong batting displays. Tommy Hawksley led the way, taking nine wickets at an average of 17.78, including a superb spell of 4 for 17 against Claremont, which demonstrated excellent control and intent, blowing away their top order and swinging the game in Halliford’s favour with the new ball. Captain Samir Al-Falaki also contributed well throughout the season with the ball, taking seven wickets at an average of 15.71, often breaking important partnerships at key moments. Arjan Thandi and Gobind Sahota were equally influential, each claiming seven wickets and averaging 19.43 and 22.14, respectively, providing consistency and reliability throughout the innings. There were also quietly effective contributions throughout the season from Ollie Browning and Josh Wells, helping to keep things tight and take wickets at important moments. Team highlights have included convincing victories against Dunottar, Salesian College, Claremont and Claires Court, as well as a particularly hard-fought and well-deserved win over Tiffin, even though the team were not at their collective best. Each of these fixtures brought different challenges, and the boys showed resilience, teamwork and a willingness to compete throughout. Undoubtedly, one of the defining moments of the season was the cricket tour to Guernsey in late June. This marked the first time Halliford has visited Guernsey, following previous tours to Jersey in recent years. The tour was an outstanding success from start to finish, and the boys represented the school exceptionally well both on and off the field. We were very well hosted by Elizabeth College, playing two competitive fixtures across the first two days, followed by a third match against a Guernsey U15 side. The standard of cricket was excellent, and the experience of playing in a different environment against strong opposition added real value to the tour. Huge thanks must go to Mr Shales for his exceptional organisation in ensuring that everything ran smoothly and that the boys had such a memorable experience. The tour was an outstandingly positive experience for the group. Not only did they play some very good cricket, but they also conducted themselves superbly throughout, showing maturity, respect and a genuine appreciation for the opportunity. It is clear that this group enjoys playing together and takes pride in representing the school. It is safe to say this will be a trip they remember for many years to come.

Year 10 Cricket Tour Report written by Joshua Wells: On 19 June at 4.45am, 13 Halliford cricketers assembled in the school car park, accompanied by team manager Mr Freddie McTavish, who was injured in the lead-up to the trip. Led by tour organiser Mr Shales and coach Mr Cook, the group set off for Gatwick, arriving in good time before a short flight to Guernsey. Upon arrival, the team began the tour with a SUP session, initially expected to be a gentle introduction. However, it quickly became a lively, highly competitive team-bonding activity at sea. Spirits were high from the outset, and the session set the tone for an enjoyable and well-connected squad. Following this, the team travelled to Elizabeth College, where they met players and staff ahead of the upcoming fixtures. After lunch, an energetic warm-up session took place, giving the squad a chance to

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TheHALLIFORDIAN adjust to local conditions before the opening match. Day 1 Captain Samir Al-Falaki won the toss and elected to bat. Halliford posted 129–9, a total that ultimately proved below par. There were positive contributions, notably from James Higgins, who scored a brisk 30, and Nathan Farquharson, who added 32. However, regular wickets made it difficult to sustain momentum. In response, Elizabeth College demonstrated its batting strength, chasing the target efficiently inside 17 overs. Despite early discipline from Samir Al-Falaki and Arjan Thandi, the opposition built strong partnerships and secured a comfortable win. James Higgins was named Player of the Match for his valuable innings. Day 2 Determined to improve, the squad approached Day 2 with renewed focus. After a productive team discussion the previous evening, Halliford elected to field first under overcast conditions. The bowlers responded excellently. Samir Al-Falaki (three wickets) and Arjan Thandi (two wickets) led a disciplined attack, supported well by the rest of the bowling unit. Elizabeth College declared after 42 overs, setting Halliford a challenging target of 237 from 38 overs. The run chase was a highlight of the tour. Zain Abou Hasan led the way with a well-constructed halfcentury, demonstrating patience and composure. Robert Senior also contributed a crucial 30 runs, while captain Samir Al-Falaki played a decisive innings under pressure. Jacob Rice supported well, particularly in his running between the wickets. The match came down to the final over, with 15 runs required. The captain remained calm at the crease, finding boundaries to keep the chase alive. With two runs needed from the final delivery, Arjan Thandi struck the winning runs, prompting celebrations both on and off the field. It was a memorable victory built on resilience and teamwork, and a game none of us will forget. Day 3 The final day presented the biggest challenge: Halliford U15 vs Guernsey U15. Halliford’s innings began steadily, with a strong opening partnership between Tommy Hawksley and Zain Abou Hasan laying an excellent foundation. James Higgins looked to accelerate but fell early. However, Tom Turner and Robert Senior both made valuable contributions, scoring 40 apiece and helping the team post an impressive total of 259. The bowlers then delivered a disciplined performance to defend the score. Guernsey were unable to maintain the required run rate, with wickets shared across the attack. Notable performances came from Samir Al- Falaki, Tommy Hawksley, and Nathan Farquharson, who all contributed effectively with the ball. The result ensured Halliford finished the tour on a high. Tour Awards •

Best Tourist: Josh Cain, for his tireless work behind the stumps across an extended number of overs

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Best Bowler: Gobind Sahota, for consistent seam bowling throughout the tour and the season

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Best Batsman: Zain Abou Hasan, for his development, composure, and key innings on tour.

A sincere thank you goes to Mr Shales for organising such a successful trip, and to Elizabeth College for their warm hospitality throughout. Finally, special thanks to Mr Cook for his outstanding commitment to the team this season—his contribution has been greatly appreciated by all.

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U15B It has been an unfortunate season for the U15B team, with limited opportunities due to opposition being unable to raise sides or to the weather affecting their fixtures. However, when they did take to the field, performances were very positive overall, mirroring the standards set by the A team. There were some notable highlights from their limited fixtures, particularly the resounding 56-run victory over local rivals Claremont Fan Court and the well-earned five-wicket win over Tiffin. Ed Goy deserves special mention for his blistering 50 not out for the B team at Claremont. There were also runs and wickets in the same game for Tobi Smith, and, alongside Ed Goy and Charlie Watson, were thoroughly deserving of their call-ups to the A team at different points in the season. Lucas Leverett also deserves a mention for his bruising 70 runs against Churchers College on the final weekend fixture of the year. The only defeat for the B team came against the Ibstock U15A side, suffering a narrow loss despite a spirited batting performance. Highlights came from Aarush Biija and Ruark MacDonald, who steadied the innings from 44 for 8 to 102 all out, narrowly falling short of the target but showing real determination and resilience. There is a strong sense of unity within this year group, and the A and B teams have often been interchangeable. With Duke of Edinburgh commitments affecting availability on certain weekends, players regularly stepped in, and there was always quality within the group to maintain strong and competitive sides without significantly impacting overall team performance. Overall, this has been a highly impressive season for the U15 group. They have developed both individually and collectively, shown real commitment, and built a strong foundation as they move into senior cricket and beyond. If they continue to approach their cricket with the same attitude, enthusiasm and genuine love of the game, then there is no doubt that they will go on to achieve even greater success in the years ahead.

U14 Mr Fieldhouse

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U14A - The U14A cricket team have enjoyed a successful and rewarding 2025/26 season, finishing with an impressive 67% win ratio after winning four of their six completed fixtures. Despite a disrupted start to the term due to Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, the group showed resilience, commitment, and significant development as both individuals and a team as the season progressed. The season began with a challenging fixture against a strong Tiffin School side. Batting first, Tiffin posted an imposing total of 174 for 1, capitalising on some inconsistent bowling. In response, Halliford struggled to build momentum, reaching 50 in the first ten overs and ultimately falling short despite a top score of 33 from Milan Sangha. While the 71-run defeat was disappointing, it provided valuable learning opportunities that the team carried forward. A much-improved performance followed away at Salesian College. Batting first, the team produced an excellent total of 154, driven by a powerful 52 from Jackson Dunlop. With the ball, Halliford applied early pressure, reducing the opposition to 1–2 and maintaining control throughout. A standout spell from Krrish Patel, who took three wickets for just six runs, helped secure a comfortable 34-run victory and highlighted the team’s growing confidence. After a weather interruption, the team returned to action against Claremont Fan Court School at Shepperton CC. Batting proved challenging on a difficult pitch, with Adam Povey’s unbeaten 52 the

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TheHALLIFORDIAN standout contribution in a modest total of 102. The bowlers responded admirably, with Charlie Freer delivering an economical spell, and the game went down to a tense finish. Despite a narrow four-run defeat, the performance demonstrated resilience and a strong competitive edge within the team. A highlight of the season came in a 100-ball match against St George’s Weybridge. Halliford set the tone early with the ball, taking two quick wickets and restricting the opposition to 116 for 6. In response, the chase required composure under pressure. Captain Krrish Patel led superbly, guiding the team to victory off the final ball with a calm, unbeaten 18. Earlier, Win Taylor had impressed with figures of 3 for 15, earning Man of the Match honours. Following another weather cancellation, the team produced their most dominant performance of the season away at Claires Court. Batting with intent, Halliford posted a remarkable 205 for 2, with Charlie Freer, Adam Povey, and Jackson Dunlop all retiring on 50. While the fielding performance did not match the exceptional batting display, with several missed chances, the bowlers still ensured a convincing 108run victory. The match highlighted the team’s batting depth and attacking mindset. The final away fixture of the season saw Halliford take on Ibstock Place School. After an early setback with the loss of a wicket, the team recovered well, led by a composed 36 from Krrish Patel and an important unbeaten 28 from Sam Sloman, finishing on 154. The bowlers then delivered a disciplined performance, with Win Taylor and Milan Sangha setting the tone early with Sangha taking two wickets in his first over. Ibstock were bowled out for 100, securing a well-earned three-wicket win to close the season on a high. Overall, this has been a highly positive season for the U14A cricket team. The group demonstrated excellent resilience, teamwork, and a clear willingness to learn and improve following early setbacks. Key strengths included strong batting performances throughout the middle of the season and increasingly disciplined bowling displays. While fielding consistency remains an area for development as the team move into U14 next year, the squad should take great pride in their achievements, particularly their ability to compete under pressure and deliver in key moments. With continued commitment and focus, this group has a strong foundation for future success. B Played

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U14B - The U14B Cricket team have been an absolute delight to coach this season. With 27 players representing the team across six fixtures, a genuine sense of team player spirit has been evident throughout. Every student has contributed positively, supporting one another with respect and creating a strong, inclusive environment. Despite some challenging results, the group’s resilience and determination to improve have been clear week on week, reflected in the consistently high attendance at training and their willingness to learn. The season began on 27 April at Church Road against a strong Tiffin School side. Halliford posted 92 from their 18 overs, with Ethan Majid top-scoring with 18. Although the bowlers started positively, they were unable to apply sustained pressure, and Tiffin reached the target in twelve overs. Tommy Bokenham impressed with a controlled spell of three overs for eleven runs. Ethan Majid was named Player of the Match for his all-round effort. On 16 May, away at Claremont Fan Court, the team showed promising signs with the ball, taking early wickets and demonstrating good discipline. However, Claremont recovered to 146/7. In reply, Halliford fought hard, with William Reeve showing great resilience in the middle order with an unbeaten 27. Player of the match William Pascoe-Watson’s excellent spell, including three wickets in a single over, highlighted the team’s growing confidence and commitment. Just a few days later, on 19 May, the team hosted St George’s Weybridge in a rain-affected fixture. Batting contributions from Henry Page (25) and Ethan Majid (22) helped Halliford reach 94. Alex Wardrop made an outstanding start with a wicket from the first ball, demonstrating both skill and focus. Despite the opposition successfully chasing the total, the team continued to display a warm heart in their encouragement of one another and a positive attitude under pressure. 130

Summer Sports Report The highlight of the season came on 20 June, with a well-earned victory away at Ibstock Place School. A superb bowling and fielding performance, led by Miles King (two overs, zero runs) and Ethan Majid (two wickets), saw Ibstock dismissed for 70. The reply was confident and composed, with Player of the Match Henry Page (25), William Reeve, and Ethan Majid guiding the team to a convincing nine wicket win. This result was a testament to the team’s development, hard work, and collective belief across the season. A season of growth and development for the U14B team, defined by excellent teamwork, strong character, and increasing confidence. While results were mixed, the players’ resilience, respect, and commitment to improvement were outstanding, culminating in a well-deserved victory and a highly positive team culture throughout.

U13 Mr Perks

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U13A - It has been a really positive and enjoyable season for the Year 8 cricket group, with the boys showing great commitment, improvement and a strong competitive edge across all fixtures. From the outset, there was a clear sense that this was a talented group who were willing to learn and develop, and that has been reflected in both the results and the overall standard of performances. What has stood out most is how much the group have progressed together and the pride they have taken in representing the school. One of the biggest strengths of the season has been the consistency shown with the bat. Students such as Amar Jodh Sahota, Harry Monypenny and Aarav Rathi have regularly contributed strong scores, setting solid foundations and, in a number of games, putting the U13A team in dominant positions. They have also shown a willingness to take responsibility at the top of the order and have set the tone well for the rest of the side. Krishan Bhatt also deserves recognition for stepping up in key moments, particularly on more challenging wickets, showing good composure and maturity for his age group. His ability to build an innings has been very valuable when conditions have not always been straightforward, and he has been a regular and calm presence in the side. With the ball, the team has also been very effective and disciplined. Rajan Grewal has been a standout performer throughout the season, consistently taking wickets and maintaining control in his overs. His accuracy and calm approach have made him a reliable option in key moments. Support from bowlers George Everett and Oliver Kipps has ensured that pressure has been applied from both ends, which has been crucial in defending totals and keeping opposition sides in check. The overall bowling unit has worked well together, showing a clear understanding of their roles within the team.

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TheHALLIFORDIAN The only real setback of the season came in a close early-season game against Tiffin, which proved to be a valuable learning experience for the group. The boys competed well and showed that they could match a strong side, but it also highlighted the importance of maintaining concentration in the field for the full duration of a game. Since then, there has been a noticeable improvement in their focus, communication and effort in the field, which has helped them close out games more effectively and build greater confidence. What has been particularly pleasing is how the boys have responded to challenges. After the defeat to Tiffin, they showed great resilience, bouncing back with a series of convincing performances against Fulham Boys, Claremont, Clares Court and Ibstock. Their ability to take on feedback, reflect on their performances and apply it in subsequent games has been a real strength and reflects a strong growth mindset within the group. There is a clear desire to improve, which will stand them in good stead as they continue to develop. Overall, this has been a very successful season in terms of wins, but, more importantly, one in which the boys have developed both their skills and their understanding of the game. They have played with a positive attitude, supported each other well and represented the Halliford values at all times. It has been a pleasure to work with this group, and there is a lot to be excited about as they continue to develop their cricket moving forward.

B Played

Won

Drawn

Tied

Lost

Abandoned

U13B - It has also been a really pleasing season for the U13B team, with the boys showing strong improvement, commitment, and a great attitude across their five fixtures, winning four games and losing only to a strong Tiffin side. What has been particularly encouraging is the way in which confidence has grown across the group as the season has progressed. A standout moment was the excellent win at St George’s Weybridge, which highlighted how much the group has developed both in confidence and in their understanding of the game. A key strength of this team has been the willingness to learn and take on new roles for the benefit of the side. Ali Taylor has adapted well to wicketkeeping this year and has improved significantly as the season has progressed, showing bravery and a strong work ethic behind the stumps. Players such as William Nettleton and Arnie Appleyard have also made a real impact with the ball, with Arnie contributing some powerful, positive batting when required. Alfie Smith and Patrick Smith have both been consistent contributors across the season, offering reliability and effort in all aspects of the game. Rayen Prema has been outstanding as captain, developing brilliantly over the year by taking ownership on the field, confidently setting fields himself and making excellent bowling changes at key moments. His leadership has allowed others to grow in confidence, and he has set a strong example through both his attitude and application. The boys have made really good progress overall, with a clear focus on development, teamwork and 132

Summer Sports Report enjoyment. They have approached both training and fixtures in the right spirit, supported each other well, and represented the school fantastically. They should be very proud of the progress they have made over the course of the season and of the positive habits they are building as young cricketers.

U12 Mr Churchill

A Played

Won

Drawn

Tied

Lost

Abandoned

U12A - This year has been another successful one for Halliford’s youngest students. With winter nets starting after Christmas, the boys have been diligently working on their batting and bowling, eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Summer Term. As the rain ceased and the sun began to shine, it was finally time to unleash the ever passionate U12 group for their first fixtures of the season, which came in the form of a double header at home against a strong Dunottar side. The A team started confidently, posting a competitive total with captain Luis Wanigesekera showcasing his ability with the bat, scoring a valuable 40 on debut. This was then backed up with an excellent performance with the ball, where the bowlers opened their Halliford accounts, sharing the wickets around in a dominant and well deserved victory. The B team battled valiantly but fell to a narrow defeat in their first outing. Some excellent individual performances, however, set the platform for what was proving to be a positive and encouraging season. As the season progressed, the A team continued to go from strength to strength with both bat and ball, racking up impressive victories over Salesian, Fulham Boys, Claires Court and Ibstock. With the ball, opening bowlers Wilf Jennings and David John have been superb, keeping things tight during the first six overs and each taking wickets at regular intervals. One particular highlight was David’s outstanding 4 for 8 against Claires Court, which highlighted his discipline in line and length, as well as his willingness to attack the stumps at every opportunity. With the bat, standout performers were Henry Court and Joseph Sloman, who both contributed valuable runs at the top of the order this season. Joseph’s impressive back to back fifties were another of the season’s outstanding achievements and bode well for the team moving forwards. These two have not been the only contributors with the bat though. One of the major strengths of the team is the genuine depth in the batting line up, and this has been called upon regularly this season. Valuable contributions have come from the lower order in almost all of the victories the team have earned this year, demonstrating a strong collective approach and resilience throughout. It would be remiss to sum up the A team season without a special mention of Seb McDonnell. As the season began, one notable absence in the team was that of a wicketkeeper. Seb stepped into this role having never performed it before and has been truly superb. His willingness to learn and develop has been a real highlight of the season and has allowed the team to flourish in their respective roles. On the whole, this has been a very positive season for the U12A team, competing in every game they have played and growing in confidence and stature as the season has progressed. The future is bright for these young Hallifordians, and I am excited to see what they can achieve moving forward as they continue their development. U12B - Away from the success enjoyed by the A team, it has also been fantastic to see the sheer number of students who have shown a passion for cricket this year. The B team have enjoyed an excellent season, earning wins against Claremont and KGS. This has been thanks to a range of different players, but special mentions must go to Harry Winters, Jake Dale and Oscar Dean, all of whom have been outstanding over the course of the season and have shown great commitment throughout. One particular highlight for the year group as a whole was getting five teams out to represent the school against KGS. This is the first time in the school’s history that A to E teams have taken part in fixtures, and it is a true testament to the engagement, enthusiasm and passion the group have shown for cricket this season.

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Headmaster’s Cricket XI

CRICKET

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Robert Senior Year 10 Batsman

Amar Jodh Sahota Year 8 Batsman

Zain Abou Hasan Year 10 Batsman

Harry Monypenny Year 8 Wicketkeeper & Batsman

Krishan Bhatt Year 8 All Rounder

Samir Al-Falaki Year 10 All Rounder

James Haines Year 11 All Rounder

Leo Pearson Year 11 Bowler

Rajan Grewal Year 8 Bowler

David John Year 7 Bowler

Win Taylor Year 9 Bowler

Theodore Maroussas Upper Sixth All Rounder

Summer Sports Report Athletics - This term, students across Years 7-10 have represented the school at inter-school athletics meetings, demonstrating strong commitment and steady progress. During the Summer Term, students competed at the Claremont Athletics meets, held on Thursday evenings throughout the term, where athletes accumulated points for their team scores across a range of track and field events contested by local schools. Our Year 9 and 10 athletes competed in two fixtures, with mixed overall results. Year 9 secured an excellent 2nd place overall, while Year 10 finished 3rd in their team event. Competition was fierce in the older age groups, with athletes well prepared for the format. There were several standout individual performances. Leon Bleach was particularly impressive, winning both of his 800m races against strong opposition. Charlie Watson demonstrated consistency and quality by winning the javelin in both meetings. Barney Brown secured victory in the high jump at one event, following on from his success last year. Charlie Freer produced a determined run to finish 2nd in the 300m against an outstanding race winner. Field events also saw success, with Jackson Dunlop winning the shot put in his first competitive senior school event. James Marney impressed across multiple disciplines in his first competitive event, finishing 3rd in the hurdles and also taking 3rd in the javelin with his first competitive throw. Ted Young has made a significant improvement this season, achieving 3rd place in the 100m and contributing to a strong 2nd place finish in the 4x100m relay.

ATHLETICS

Mr Morriss

Years 7 and 8 were unfortunately limited to just one meeting due to poor weather later in the term, but still produced encouraging performances and gained valuable experience in this format of event. Theo Boulton finished 2nd in the 800m, while Thomas Crosby was a standout in the field, winning the shot put. Joseph Sloman performed well in the high jump, and Ademidayo Adegbayibi finished 3rd in the 100m. Although the team did not manage to podium, Halliford values were clear to see, with students representing the school with a superb attitude. Overall, it has been a positive term with a number of excellent individual performances and clear signs of development across all year groups. We look forward to building on this progress in future fixtures.

Climbing - This year saw the welcome return of Climbing to Halliford’s Senior Games programme and Junior Clubs, and it has been fantastic to see so many students getting involved. Throughout the year, students have trained regularly both on the school climbing wall and, at times, at White Spider in Kingston, developing their skills in top-rope and bouldering while taking part in a range of fun and challenging activities. Their enthusiasm and commitment have been impressive, with climbers of all abilities making excellent progress. We were fortunate to compete in two competitions this year, one at White Spider and another at High Sports in Brighton. Although we did not achieve any podium finishes, most of our team were competing for the very first time and should be incredibly proud of stepping up to represent the school. The experience gained was invaluable and helped the boys grow in confidence. Following the first competition, the team returned stronger and more determined, showing great resilience and a wonderful sense of teamwork. The encouragement and support they showed each other throughout the year have been a real highlight.

CLIMBING

Miss Ratford

Our after-school club has welcomed both experienced climbers and complete beginners, all of whom have progressed through the climbing grades. Many students have also attended sessions as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award programme. It has been a brilliant year for climbing at Halliford. If you fancy giving it a go, be sure to sign up next year! 135

TheHALLIFORDIAN Golf - This year has seen continued growth and development in the Halliford golf programme, with increased participation and a number of strong performances across a range of competitions. Earlier in the year, the team competed in the first round of the National Matchplay competition, travelling to Fulwell to face Hampton. Halliford made an excellent start, leading all three matches after nine holes, but the contest tightened considerably on the back nine. The fixture ultimately came down to the 18th hole in the final match, where Halliford were narrowly defeated by a single point.

GOLF

Mr Churchill

The team then progressed into the Plate competition, where they faced Claremont in the semi-final. Competing in a Stableford matchplay format, our players were required to concede a significant number of shots, placing them at a disadvantage. Despite this, the boys performed admirably, with all three matches extending to the 17th hole. Once again, the outcome was decided in the final pairing on the 18th, resulting in another narrow defeat. In other competitions, the junior pairing of Max Miller and Harvey Graham has been a consistent standout. They secured a top ten finish in the ISGA Pairs Stableford and followed this with an excellent top five placing in the ISGA National Junior Stableford competition. The highlight of the year was the HG Trophy, a national event bringing together some of the best independent school golfers at the prestigious St Ives Hunts Golf Club in Cambridgeshire. The open links style par 72 course presented a significant challenge, made even more demanding by high temperatures and firm greens. Despite these conditions, all six Halliford players returned strong scores, with four posting rounds of +10 and one at +9, placing them within the top 30 nationally. The standout performance came from Cairbre Smith French, whose round of +3 earned him third place in the nett U18 competition and the title of U15 winner, a remarkable achievement given the strength of the field. Participation in the after-school golf programme has continued to grow in popularity. Thanks go to Mr Shales for his organisation, and to Mr Hewitt and Mr Wheeler for their continued commitment to delivering weekly sessions. This sustained engagement at the foundation level is an extremely positive sign for the future of golf at Halliford. Individual success away from school has also been notable. Tobi Chahvrin was crowned Middlesex Under 15 Champion, while Cairbre Smith French has made exceptional progress, reducing his handicap to an impressive +6. Encouragingly, the number of students representing the school in competitive golf has more than doubled compared with last year. In addition, the school’s new affiliation with SchoolsGolf will further expand opportunities for players to compete in Halliford colours in the coming seasons. Overall, it has been a year of clear progress for golf at Halliford. With participation on the rise and a talented group of players continuing to develop, the programme is well placed for ongoing success in the years ahead.

MY HALLIFORD SCHOOL STORY

Wilf Jennings, 7R I decided to come to Halliford School because it made me feel at home and was the right school for me. My first impression was that the school was very warm and welcoming, and now that I am here, I can say it is true! It was very easy to make friends because everyone was new to the school. My favourite subjects are PE, Games and Drama, and I love being involved in the many clubs on offer, including football, cricket, basketball, choir and touch typing to name just a few! There are lots of things to look forward to, and I cannot wait for the Year 7 trip to France.

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Summer Sports Report Tennis - The Halliford Tennis Club has continued to grow and thrive this year, with a record number of students signing up during the Summer Term. It has been especially pleasing to welcome a new group of junior players, including several complete beginners, alongside our more experienced students. All ability levels are well supported, and our coach, Rory, ensures that each player develops their technique week by week, resulting in clear, consistent improvement across the club. A key focus this term has been on developing doubles play. Students have worked hard to improve their positioning, communication, and effectiveness at the net, and this progress has been evident in both training and match play. The highlight of the term was Halliford’s first-ever participation in the Surrey School Tennis League at both U14 and U15, marking an important milestone for the school’s sporting programme. Although we did not secure a trophy on this occasion, all players were enthusiastic and committed, and the experience of playing competitive fixtures against new opposition proved invaluable. We are excited to build on this foundation as we look ahead to further competitive opportunities next year.

TENNIS

Mrs Whitticase

The term concluded with the Inter-House Tournament, which produced a series of closely contested matches. Desborough emerged as champions with a narrow 10–8 victory over Russell, while Wadham finished third and Greville fourth. In addition, the Under 15 team took part in friendly fixtures against Ibstock, competing in eight singles matches with mixed results but plenty of positive performances. We look forward to continuing this progress in the Autumn Term. Alongside our regular Wednesday sessions, we hope to invite selected students to participate in Elite Tennis.

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Summer Sport Individual Successes Congratulations to Sam who has had a great start to the 2026 sailing season. He won the Topper National event, NS2, in March at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, competing against 132 other sailors. The following weekend, he won the first of the 2026 National ILCA 4 Opens, competing against 68 sailors. Switching between boats from week to week and competing at the top of the fleet is a great achievement. Well done also to his brother Harry, who came 7th, sailing the ILCA 6 at the RYA Youth Nationals.

SAILING

Sam Dence, Year 10

Congratulations to Ossie who took first place at the Thames Ditton Regatta this weekend in J13 x 4 for Walton Rowing Club. This was his first regatta, and he hopes for many more to come.

ROWING

Ossie Constable, Year 8

James competed in the British Gymnastics NDP Acro Finals in Stoke-on-Trent and came away the National G3 Men’s Group Champion with a huge score and gold medal-winning performance. Congratulations to James and his fellow gymnasts on this amazing achievement

GYMNASTICS

James Armstrong, Year 8

Congratulations to Henry who took part in his club judo tournament and secured a fantastic Gold medal in his category! His performance showcased impressive technique, determination, and all-round athletic ability. Well done, Henry!

JUDO

Henry Kiddle, Year 8 138

Summer Sports Report Well done to all the Team Halliford runners who successfully completed the Mini London Marathon course in April. Most importantly, everyone had plenty of fun while achieving a fantastic personal accomplishment.

Another strong half term for George with PBs galore: 10:00 (3000m), 53.5 (4x400 leg win), 17:53 debut 5000m, 4:28 (U18 Surrey 1500m, 9th) & a huge 2:03.89 (800m ) at Woking AC champs. Fantastic week of hard racing in the heat.

ATHLETICS

George Cotton, Lower Sixth

Sports Day Time/ Distance/ Height

Trophy/Shield