Christmas is a wonderful time of year for both students and staff at Bishop Challoner Catholic College. We have so many brilliant events happening as our community comes together to celebrate the season—from a Rudolph Run where the sixth form raised £1,655 for Birmingham’s Hospice, to the annual Christmaths Day, and so much more.
As always, service to others continues to be at the heart of our celebrations, for example, through our Toy Appeal and the Christmas Raffles for Father Hudson. Alongside all this, we have seen countless other instances of kindness and generosity between our students and staff which characterise our community here at Bishop Challoner. When we reflect on the Christmas message of hope, joy, and peace, we reflect on how we strive to live these values every day in our community of faith at Bishop Challoner.
This term has also been an important one academically. Our Year 11 students have made a fantastic start in their mock exams, showing real commitment and determination as they prepare for the challenges ahead. These exams are a key milestone, and it has been inspiring to see the maturity and focus they have brought to this process. Meanwhile, our Year 13 students are now turning their attention to their own mock exams, which will take place after the Christmas break. These assessments will help them consolidate their learning and prepare for the next stage of their journey.
As we enter this Christmas season, we think of spending time with family, friends, and loved ones. It is a time to recognise those who support us and to seek opportunities to help others. I would like to take this moment to thank all the families and friends of our students for your unwavering support throughout the year—it truly makes a difference.
On behalf of the entire school community, I wish you a blessed Christmas and a joyful New Year.
ATTENDANCE RAFFLE WINNERS
Monday 24th November - Friday 28th November
Strive for 5 - £10 Amazon Voucher
Year 7 - Simbarashe C
Year 8 - Toni O
Year 9 - Andrew S
Year 10 - William E
Year 11 - Shakira K
Friday 5th December 2025
In the season of Advent, we remember that Christ comes through us Christ has no body but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which He looks with compassion on this world, Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good, Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are His body. Christ has no body now on earth, but yours. Amen (A prayer of St Teresa of Avila)
Bishop Challoner Sixth Form College
APPLY NOW
PRIORITY DEADLINE
Friday 5th December 2025
MEET THE SIXTH FORM Thursday 19th March, 4pm-5.30pm
SCAN TO APPLY
Tuesday 2nd December - Lunch Queue Jump Pass
Samuel M, Year 8
Wednesday 3rd December - £10 Amazon Voucher
Luke P, Year 7
Thursday 4th December - Chocolate bar for all form members 10TER
Friday 5th December - Retro Game Console
Florence R, Year 9
SIXTH FORM NEWS
RUDOLPH RUN
This month, our sixth form students brought festive spirit and heartfelt purpose to Kings Heath Park as they took part in the annual Rudolf Run, raising an impressive £1,655 for Birmingham Hospice. This local charity is a cause close to our community and holds special significance as we ran in memory of our dear friend, Kevin Cheshire.
With reindeer antlers bouncing, fancy dress costumes on full display, and Christmas music filling the air, students embraced the event with enthusiasm and warmth. Their energy transformed the park into a lively celebration of generosity and togetherness, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season.
The event was brilliantly organised by Miss Jacques, whose dedication ensured everything ran smoothly from the route planning to the festive accessories. A truly memorable afternoon for everyone involved, while also supporting a charity that provides vital care to families across Birmingham.
A huge well done and thank you to all students who took part. Your kindness, community spirit, and willingness to make a difference truly embodies what our sixth form stands for and our commitment to service to others. A final huge thanks to everyone that donated and supported the afternoon.
If you would still like to donate please see the link below: Bishop Challoner Sixth Form is fundraising for Birmingham Hospice
FOLLOW US ON TIK TOK
Our Social Media producers have been doing a great job on Tik Tok promoting our Sixth Form. Follow the link to view our videos.
PILGRIMS OF HOPE SHINE AT THE BDES JUBILEE FINALE EVENT
We were honoured to take part in the BDES Jubilee Year finale. Our Pilgrims of Hope read beautifully as the event was live streamed across all 236 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Birmingham. It was a daunting experience for our pupils, not only being in a recording studio but also feeling the pressure of having just one take! They held their nerves and were a real credit to the Bishop Challoner community, showing true commitment to their faith. Kevin from Fr Hudson Caritas kindly gave us a tour of the grounds, which was a wonderful opportunity to see where some of our fantastic fundraising efforts during the Jubilee Year have made a difference.
Click here to view the event cat Archdiocese of Birmingham - Jubilee Finale EventYouTube
FORM TIME REFLECTION –BEACONS OF HOPE DURING ADVENT
In form time this week, we have reflected on the last Sunday’s Gospel to ask ourselves how we can ‘stay awake’ during this first week of Advent.
Prepare our hearts through prayer - a prayer of thanksgiving and gratitude for what we have or a prayer of hope for ourselves or the world.
Show an act of kindness; Give a compliment, or do something helpful for someone else, visit or get in touch with someone you might not have spent much time with recently, bring in a donation for the Toy Appeal
Stand up for justice and equality in the world. Look up organisations who are working towards promoting peace and dignity for all. How can you support their work?
We encourage families to continue this journey at home by reading and reflecting on the Sunday Gospels together. The Wednesday Word is a weekly resource that helps connect home, school, and parish through the Sunday Gospel. It offers a simple way for families to share scripture and prayer each week.
You can access the resources at: www.wednesdayword. org
WALK WITH HIM DURING ADVENT
During the season of Advent, pupils and staff are invited to join Ellen in the chapel for prayer using the Walk with Me daily Advent reflections. This is a wonderful opportunity to pause during the day and reflect on the meaning of scripture in preparation for Christmas. The reflections, written by Archbishop Bernard Longley in a special Jubilee Advent edition, help us connect deeply with the season’s message. Copies of Walk with Me are also available in local parish churches for anyone who wishes to continue the journey at home.
YOUTH LEADING THE WAY IN FAITH
Our wonderful youth led the parish Mass for the Feast of Christ the King, and it was truly joyful to witness their commitment to faith and their willingness to play an active role in our celebrations. During the Mass, Mr Rowan shared his inspiring faith journey and spoke about how being part of the Kenelm Youth Trust has shaped his ministry. This special celebration marked the beginning of the Alton Castle retreat— read on to find out all about this incredible experience!
EXTENDING THE HAND OF FRIENDSHIP
Last summer, our Pilgrims of Hope teamed up with the children of St Dunstan’s Primary School for a fundraising football tournament, raising money to support a holiday camp for children from Palestine. Last week, our pupils had the incredible opportunity to meet some of these children in person. It was a truly heart-warming and humbling experience to be part of this visit.
FIRST REHEARSAL FOR BORN FOR THIS: A POWERFUL START TO A MOVING PRODUCTION
St Dunstan’s SVP worked tirelessly with the charity CADFA to arrange a day filled with joy and friendship. The children enjoyed games, painted tote bags with colourful handprints, and visited Billesley Tennis Centre - holding a racket for the first time was a new experience for our Palestinian friends, but they were soon smashing aces! The day ended with pizza and fish and chips in the common room, followed by teaching each other dances to Palestinian and UK music. Photos to follow! It was a beautiful celebration of unity and shared humanity. We hope to host similar events in the future, continuing to strengthen bonds between communities because we are all equal in the eyes of God
UPCOMING EVENTS
PREPARING OUR HEARTS FOR CHRISTMAS
This week, Fr Toby, Fr John, and Canon Sean have been in school to hear confessions for our KS3 pupils. It has been both beautiful and inspiring to witness so many young people embrace the Sacrament of Reconciliation as part of their personal preparation for welcoming Christ this Christmas season.
Our local Parishes have their Advent Penitential Services over the coming weeks
Tuesday 16th December 7.30pm St Dunstan’s Kings Heath
Monday 22nd December 7.30pm Our Lady of Lourdes, Yardley Wood
Tuesday 23rd December 7.30pm St Edward’s, Selly Park
We had our first choir rehearsal of Born for This, the moving musical production of the Stations of the Cross. Jo Boyce and Andrew Moss from CJM Music gave our pupils an unforgettable rehearsal experience. Jo reminded us of the brutality and deep emotions associated with the Stations through a powerful narrative, helping everyone to truly express the feelings required for each song.
We are thrilled to be part of this very special 30th Anniversary production! Save the date – Wednesday 25th March 2026. Details about tickets will follow soon. Check out our instagram page
for a clip of some of the music
FAITH FORMATION IN THE FAMILY
Below is a list that reminds us of when and where Mass is celebrated in our local parishes. You may wish to consider using this information to help direct your family to particpate frequently in the celebration of Mass throughout the year.
Joseph and Helen with St Paul’s B30 1JG/ B38 9JB Fr
MESSAGE FROM THE SENDCO
We would like to congratulate Mrs Goetschel, Assistant SENDco, on the birth of a baby boy as she starts her maternity leave.
The SEND team have been busy supporting Year 11 students in their Mock Examinations and the Corrective Reading intervention with a small group of Year 7 continues.
We continue to effectively use the links with external agencies to gain advice and recommendations as to how to support the students with the highest needs. We have had visits from Educational Psychologist, NHS Balance Speech and Language Therapist, Language and Learning Support Service and the Communication and Autism Team.
Mrs Hampson, the school SENDCo will be available for a SENDCO Surgery on Monday 15th December during Parents Consultation Day (this is for students of all year groups not only those on PCD).
Further information on SEND can be found on the Local Authority website: https://www.localofferbirmingham.co.uk/ home/parents-and-carers/
Please see leaflet advertising ADHD support charity.
9am (Ss Joseph and Helen) 11am (St Paul's) 5pm (Ss Joseph and Helen)
SAFEGUARDING AND WELLBEING
SPOTTING SCAMS AND FAKE INFORMATION
Today’s internet can make it hard to tell fact from fiction. Help your child learn to question what they see and to think critically before believing or sharing information. Talk about how scammers and fake accounts often use emotional language or pressure; for example, ‘act now’ messages or ‘too-good-to-be-true’ offers. Show them how to check where a story or message comes from and to look for clues like spelling mistakes or suspicious links. Encouraging curiosity and a healthy dose of scepticism helps them become confident, safe digital citizens.
GET IN TOUCH
In order for us work together, to best support our young people, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have information to share regarding the safeguarding or wellbeing of your child.
This is particularly important if there has been a change in circumstances for the young person.
Please contact Mrs K Peckover, Mrs M Nutt or any DSL or a member of the Wellbeing Team.
YEAR 7, 9 AND 10 PARENT CONSULTATION DAY
Monday 15th December is Parent Consultation Day for Year 7, 9 and 10 students. School will be closed to accommodate the event.
Appointments are now open for PCD. You will need to login using the details that the school holds for your child’s priority 1 contact.
Appointments must be made by the end of the day on Wednesday 10th December, if you have not made an appointment by this date, your child’s Consultation Tutor will make the appointment for you. Students are required to attend in full school uniform.
YEAR 11 MOCKS
Please follow the links below for subject information and guidance on the Year 11 Mocks.
Year 11 - https://bishopchalloner.org.uk/examinationsinformation/year-11-mocks
SAFETY ON DARK NIGHTS
When nights are darker and days are shorter, it’s important, especially for young people, to stay alert and keep safe. Here are some simple, practical safety tips that we suggest you discuss with your child.
Stick to Well-Lit Routes
• Avoid alleys, parks, or areas with poor lighting.
• Walk where there are houses, traffic, or other people around.
Walk with a Friend if possible
• Walking in pairs or groups is always safer
• If no one is available, let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
Keep your Phone Ready but Out of Sight
• Make sure it’s charged.
• Have emergency contacts saved and easy to access.
• Avoid walking while distracted by your phone.
Stay Aware of your Surroundings
• Remove headphones or keep one ear free.
• Notice who is around you and what vehicles are nearby.
Do not Engage with Strangers
• If someone approaches you asking for help, money, or trying to start a conversation remain polite but do not engage. You could reply, “Sorry, I cannot help” or, “I don’t want to talk”.
• Keep a safe distance.
• Never accept rides or gifts from people you don’t know.
Trust your Instincts
• If something feels wrong:
• Cross the street.
• Walk toward a busy area, such as a shop or public place.
• Move to sit next to an adult/nearer the driver on a bus.
Know What to do in an Emergency
• Call emergency services (999) if you feel threatened.
• Shout loudly for help if needed.
Be Careful Near Cars
• Exercise road safety; cross at crossings and do not dash across a road.
• Make sure you can be seen- consider having something reflective on your coat or bag.
• Do not approach a car, even if someone stops and asks for help.
• If a car pulls up beside you, quickly move away in the opposite direction.
Have a Safe Arrival
Routine
• Have house keys ready before you reach home.
• Get inside quickly and lock the door.
Final
Reminder:
• Being aware doesn’t mean being afraid—it means being prepared.
• Stay confident, stay alert, and stay safe.
YEAR GROUP UPDATES
YEAR 10 FOCUS
Since returning in September, Year 10 have made a strong and positive start to their GCSE journey. Students have settled confidently into their option blocks and are engaging well with the increased expectations of Key Stage 4.
It has been especially encouraging to see many students already adopting effective revision routines and demonstrating real commitment in lessons as they prepare for their assessments.
Across the year group, there is a growing sense of maturity, independence, and pride in their learning, which is wonderful to see.
Our Year 10 Parents’ Consultation on Monday 15th December will provide a valuable opportunity for parents and students to meet with subject teachers, discuss progress so far, and identify the best next steps for continued success throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming families into school and working together to ensure every student feels supported, motivated, and confident as they continue their GCSE studies.
YEAR 7 DISCO
YEAR 10 WORK EXPERIENCE
Reminder that all Year 10 students need to be actively looking for a Work Experience placement. They can find out more details on the WEX programme and all relevant paperwork on the link below:
Below are a selection of photos of the final meals made by Year 10 students as part of their BTEC Personal Growth and Well Being - Healthy Meal for a Healthy Mind project.
They were all brilliant. They planned the recipes, budgeted the cost and identified the food groups used. They all contributed to cooking and cleaned up afterwards.
Year 7 students kicked off the festive season in style at our Christmas-themed charity disco. Students arrived dressed in colourful seasonal outfits — from sparkling party dresses to cheerful Christmas jumpers.
Our DJ kept the energy high throughout the evening with a brilliant mix of chart favourites and Christmas classics. The dance floor was busy from start to finish, with students showing off their best moves, laughing with friends, and joining in with group dances that had the whole room involved.
One of the biggest highlights of the night was the fake snow machine, which added a magical touch to the celebration. Students danced and played under a flurry of “snow”, making the event feel like a real winter wonderland.
Most importantly, the disco helped raise money for our chosen School Charity: Father Hudson’s Caritas. Over £200 has been raised from what we have counted so far! We are incredibly proud of the generosity and enthusiasm shown by our Year 7 community. A huge thank you to all parents, staff and volunteers who helped make the evening such a memorable and meaningful event!
LIBRARY NEWS
Well done to the following KS3 students who are our top borrowers this term:
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Helena CCP Jamie CB Lerea CF
Maya P Essey M
Olivia A
Alexander N
Mohammed Eesa S
Lexi S
Students that visit the Library on a Friday lunch time have enjoyed watching Finding Nemo in our Friday Film Club.
OPPORTUNITIES BULLETIN
Please click here to view our latest Opportunities Bulletin. A special mention for UNIFEST 2026 and Gresham Lectures, TED talks and Open Learning courses. Some great subjects covered.
YEAR 11 MOCK UPDATE
We would like to take this opportunity to share how impressed and proud we have been with the progress of our Year 11 students as they complete their mock examinations. This is a significant period for the year group, providing valuable insight into their current strengths and the areas that may require further focus ahead of the summer GCSE examinations.
We want to congratulate Year 11 on their hard work and determination so far. Mock exams can be challenging, but they are an essential step in preparing for the final GCSEs. We are incredibly proud of the mature and committed approach shown by the vast majority of our Year 11 students. Their punctuality, focus, and resilience during this demanding time have been outstanding.
As students move towards the final stages of their mock exam period, we want to wish them all the very best. We hope they continue to approach each exam with confidence, calmness, and determination.
Over the next few weeks, we expect students to continue demonstrating the positive habits they have shown so far. This includes:
• Maintaining strong attendance and punctuality to every exam and lesson.
• Continuing to revise regularly and making use of the study sessions and intervention opportunities provided by staff.
• Demonstrating high standards of behaviour, focus, and respect, both in exams and around school.
The effort students put in now will make a real difference to their outcomes in the summer. We are here to support them every step of the way.
YEAR 7 ENJOY WILD ENCOUNTERS WITH THE ANIMAL MAN!
Last week, our Year 7 students were treated to an unforgettable visit from the Animal Man, bringing the wonders of the animal kingdom right into school. The session was packed with excitement, curiosity, and plenty of hands-on learning opportunities. Throughout the workshop, students had the chance to meet an incredible range of animals including snakes, honey bear, frogs, cockroaches, owls, and many more fascinating creatures. Each encounter offered students a close-up look at animals they might never normally see, sparking both awe and interest.
As part of the experience, students learned about the animals’ habitats, diets, behaviours, and adaptations, exploring how different species survive and thrive in the wild. The Animal Man presenter shared facts, stories, and demonstrations that enriched students’ understanding of the natural world. One of the highlights of the session was the hands-on interaction, where Year 7 pupils were able to carefully touch, hold, or observe the animals under expert guidance. The excitement in the room was clear as students stepped outside their comfort zones and embraced the opportunity to discover more about wildlife.
Thank you to Mrs Jones for organising this event and thank you to all the staff that supported the event.
ALTON CASTLE
On Monday 24th to Wednesday 26th November 2025, 45 students from Year 7 and 8 went on a residential to our diocesan retreat centre Alton Castle.
The theme of the retreat was "Pilgrims of Hope" which gave the students a chance to explore about how they can be young people who bring Hope to others. This was a fitting theme at the end of the Jubilee year of Hope. And the start of Advent where we focus in the first week of Advent on how we can bring Hope to others.
The students took part in a beautiful Mass, meditations and prayers which helped deepen their faith. They also took part in some fun activities such as trekking, biking, archery, indoor climbing which enabled the students to learn new skills. Teamwork really shone through when the students got to try out the low ropes course at Alton Castle as they learnt how to put the faithful virtues into action such as how to be helpful to those on your team to complete the course.
At the end of the residential there were 10 Students who received a gift for displaying out Faithful virtues throughout the residential. Well done to Ava-Mary, Conor, Erin F, Rosie, Jeremiah, Gaby, Ashton, Niall, Cecilia and Erin Q.
All students had a very enjoyable time and learnt more about their faith. We look forward to offering the Alton Castle residential again in November 2026.
SUBJECT FOCUS - RELIGIOUS STUDIES
WELCOME
We are delighted to welcome Miss Long into the RE department! She has wasted no time in embracing the Bishop Challoner way and is already proving to be a brilliant role model for both pupils and staff. Her classes are loving the chance to see their work displayed in ‘God’s Gallery’, celebrating creativity and faith in action.
JESUIT NOVICES
We have also had the pleasure of welcoming Vilem and Anton, Jesuit novices, who have been visiting classes in the RE department to share their inspiring personal call to God. Pupils have engaged with brilliant and insightful questions during these sessions. Vilem and Anton have also led classes in Lectio Divina and guided pupils in Adoration at St Dunstan’s Church, creating meaningful opportunities for prayer and reflection
BISHOP CHALLONER
Year 7 began their Bishop Challoner Catholic College journey by learning about the remarkable man behind the name! Bishop Richard Challoner, who converted to Catholicism at 13 years old, dedicated his life to education—studying, teaching, and even establishing schools. He is remembered for his inspiring words: ‘Sanctity does not so much depend upon doing extraordinary actions, as upon doing our ordinary actions extraordinarily well.’
NETBOOKS
Year 7 are enjoying making use of their netbooks in RE lessons, particularly when it comes to quizzing! Checking understanding in a competitive way –what’s not to love?!
YEAR 8
Year 8 have already tackled the fascinating unit of Creation and Covenant, exploring big questions such as:
• Freedom vs responsibility
• Personal and original sin
• Rules and freedom
• The role of conscience in life and art
• Why baptism matters
Now, they have moved into Prophecy and Promise, uncovering Old Testament prophecies and how they point to Jesus as the Messiah. They are also linking these themes to Advent, discovering how prophecy shapes our seasonal celebrations, music, and traditions. As part of this unit, Year 8 have produced stunning work on the Jesse Tree and St Maximilian Kolbe, where they have also written heartfelt prayers to deepen their understanding and reflection.
YEAR 7
This autumn term, Year 7 pupils have explored the Bible in depth, discovering:
• How it was inspired by God
• What makes up the Canon of Scripture and its fascinating history
• Why translation matters and how it shaped the world
• How the Bible is used today – from prayer to guiding the Magisterium
• And even taking inspiration from early illuminated manuscripts like the Lindisfarne Gospels to create their own beautiful artistic expressions of scripture.
YEAR 9
In the Creation and Covenant unit, Year 9 have been exploring profound themes that shape our understanding of faith and life. They examined the story of Creation in Genesis, reflected on Human Dignity rooted in Imago Dei and how this is expressed through art, and considered the question of when life begins. Students also engaged with pro-life responses to issues of life and death, studied the significance of binding promises, and explored the importance and purpose of the sacrament of matrimony. This unit encouraged thoughtful discussion and deepened their appreciation of Catholic teaching on life, love, and responsibility. Year 9 classes have begun their Prophecy and Promise unit, exploring the vital role of women in Salvation History— from figures like Ruth, Deborah and Esther to Mary, whose ‘yes’ changed the course of history.
YEAR 10
Year 10 students have now completed the first topic of Origin and Meanings where they studied the creation of the earth and religious and non-religious views on the sanctity of life. Students went on to complete an end of unit assessment with many gaining marks to be proud of! Classes are now studying the second topic of Good and Evil where they are given the chance to discuss their opinions on where evil comes from and whether our suffering has meaning or purpose. Students have been fully embracing these conversations which has been wonderful to see!
SPORTS NEWS
FIXTURES
Due to several cancellations due to the recent bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances there were only two fixtures that took place this week.
Year 10 Boys Football
Year 10 Boys played against Lordswood Boys, resulting in a 1-1 draw despite a strong performance from Bishop Challoner.
The player of the match was Joseph C.
Year 8 Boys Football
Year 8 Boys played against Aldridge School which saw an unfortunate 2-0 loss, we put in a hard performance and were unlucky in the game.
Player of the Match was given to Mykey C.
Year 9/10 Girls Football
Well done to the Year 9 & 10 girls team on beating Qeensbridge 0 v 3.
Hatrick scored by Maisy H.
Player(s) of the match - Maisy H & Kivah S.
Bishop Challoner remain top of the U15 Girls Kings Norton & South Birmingham league.
YEAR 11
Year 11 students have completed the topic of Life and Death where they studied the Catholic beliefs of life after death and the significance of the Second Vatican Council on the Catholic Church. Students have since completed an end of unit assessment that has prepared them for the upcoming mock season. Students have been working hard to create revision materials based on Component 1 content that will be useful ahead of their RE mock.
All KS4 students have been regularly engaging with exam practice that develops their skill and understanding of their examinations. This exam practice has led to excellent results in assessed work and students are striving to develop on their feedback.
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY ACTIVITY PROGRAMME
This December, Bishop Challoner will once again be running our Holiday Activity & Food (HAF) Programme to support students and families throughout the Christmas break.
The programme offers:
• A range of sports and physical activity sessions
• Fun, inclusive games and team challenges
• Daily healthy meals provided
• A safe, active and supportive environment
• Fully trained and friendly staff
The holiday club is open to eligible students and provides a fantastic opportunity to stay active, social and energised during the Christmas period — while continuing to build confidence, fitness and friendships.
It is hard to believe that it is already December and it really has been lovely to welcome in Advent as part of our assembly and form resource programme. Please do take a look at everything we have been learning about and exploring over the past two weeks:
All students have been a part of our assembly on Gaming, Gambling and Addiction. This specialised presentation has explored some of the benefits of the gaming world and profiled the work of Dr Jane McGonigal who is an internationally recognised game designer, author, and researcher. She uses gaming to promote mental wellbeing, resilience, and positive behaviour change. We have also explored some of the negative impacts of gaming and the online safety implications. Students should be aiming for a rounded approach to extra curricular pursuits to support their physical and mental wellbeing, so whilst gaming may have its place, we advocate for keeping that balanced with plenty of other activities such as sports, music and reading. For our Key Stage 4 students, the concept of dangers around online gambling have also been explored with
FORM RESOURCES
The Gambling Commission reporting that in the UK children as young as 11 are starting to develop gambling addictions. For example, ‘loot boxes’ on video games or smartphone apps, where you pay money for a ‘mystery’ number of coins, tokens or rewards, can lead to problem gambling.
This week we have learned all about what Advent means and what it means to our Catholic Community. We have had some Year 9s who have bravely delivered the assembly to Years 7 and 8 and explored what the candles in the Advent Wreath all represent. This has been linked to the Faithful Virtues, especially that of being ‘helpful’. Students have listened to a story about a famous chef called Jose Andres who uses his cooking skills to react to natural and catastrophic disasters around the world. For example his company travelled to Haiti to provide emergency meals for those who lost everything during the earthquake. His belief that providing food to those most in need is a basic human right. Students also learnt that not all acts of being helpful need to be large - we will be looking out for small acts of helpfulness over the coming weeks and rewarding these with positive logs.
Last week, during our form resource sessions, students learnt about Parliament Week. They had the opportunity for exploration and discussion with their forms around changes that the Labour government are making and then completed an oracy task where they had to come up with a short speech about what they feel the government need to focus on in the coming months. There was lots of positive feedback that students really relished the challenge and were very forthcoming with their ideasespecially around environmental issues. The session ended with feedback from our whole school council meeting, where school council representatives had a chance to step into the shoes of a Member of Parliament. This week, we have looked at the charity work completed across the school this term from raising money from our ribbon sales for Young Minds to selling poppies for the Royal British Legion and Cafod’s Family Fast Day. Our school charity is Father Hudson’s Caritas and we have had a number of form groups already complete their charity challenge, with plenty more in the pipeline for 2026. The session gave students the opportunity to look at some of the amazing work that Father Hudson’s Caritas does and plan their exciting events with other form members!
STUDENT REWARDS
MOST POSITIVE LOGS
Nyola M-A
Isabella B
Harrison C
Moira C
Keilah F
Jaiden L
Orlaith K
Iyla D
Avani B
Lexi S
Alexander N
Arlo C
Maya P
Tahlia G
Areeb M
Oscar B
Sophie H
Iyla D
Maia-Rose K
Matthan A
Jah-zi W
Ogochim A-I
Cairo H
Anenyasha N
Mykey C
Joey F
Rosie C
Scott G
Megan H
Grace G
Bruna L
Aston M
Markas M
Kayven R
Lily B
Maya D
Mark L
Kayven R
Ethan K
Munana D
Joseph N
Katy A
Felicity C
Muhammad S
Josh VA
Zahra I
Jacob R
Bailey B
Maisie McG
Patrick N
Ailbhe D
Rohi M
Faizan U
Leila E
Isaac P
Nathan H
Omolola J
Elise S
Imogen S
Millie E
Patryk P
Sadi B
Bella F-V
Sophie L
CONSULTATION ON ADMISSIONS ARRANGEMENTS
We are writing to inform you that we are consulting on our school’s proposed admissions arrangements for the 2027/2028 academic year.
We are consulting on our admissions arrangements as we are proposing changes to the Sixth Form entry requirements and are therefore required to consult on these changes as per the School Admissions Code (1 September 2021).
The consultation will take place between Monday 24 November 2025 and will close on Monday 5 January 2026. Birmingham City Council’s School Admissions and Fair Access Service are undertaking the consultation process on our school’s behalf. During the consultation period you can view a copy of our proposed admissions arrangements on their website here: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/Proposed/ non-bcc/2027-2028 and on our school’s website here: https://bishopchalloner.bham.sch.uk/information-about-ourschool/admissions
FIRST AID INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES
Medication; All medication should be handed into first aid and not carried by the students. Exception EpiPen, Asthma inhalers and insulin as well as Tranexamic acid in special circumstances.
Please make sure we have the correct medical information and emergency contact details. If you have changed your phone number or there is any change in medical conditions or concerns, please contact first aid using the enquiries email or the main school phone number.
Please send children into school with a water bottle which they can re-fill at our water stations provided. Alternatively, they can purchase a drink from the school canteen.
Students with Asthma must carry their own personal inhalers with them. This includes offsite activities and school trips to ensure they can participate safely.
Parents/Carers of students with a known allergy must provide school first aid with antihistamine; this also applies to those with anaphylaxis in addition to their EpiPen.
We do not provide liquid paracetamol such as Calpol. If your child cannot take tablets and you would prefer them to have liquid Calpol, please send this in to the school first aider with your childs name on it. This will be kept safe in first aid for your child only.
Any parents/carers or other interested parties wishing to make any comments about our proposed admissions arrangements during the consultation period are welcome to do so by going to Birmingham City Council’s BeHeard website here: https:// www.birminghambeheard.org.uk/bcc/aa2728/
Once the consultation period has closed on 5 January 2026, Birmingham City Council’s School Admissions and Fair Access Service will send our school any comments that have been received during the consultation period. The admission authority for our school will consider these comments before they formally agree (determine) our admissions arrangements by 28 February 2026.
We thank you in advance for your support and engagement with this process. Our determined admissions arrangements for 2027/2028, will be published on our school’s website by 15 March 2026.
FIRST AID AND MOBILE PHONES
Students should not be contacting parents/carers when they feel unwell and requesting to be collected from school. If a student is unwell, they MUST go to the First Aider who will deal with them. If a student is not well enough to stay in school, the First Aider will contact parents/carers to arrange collection.
Students who contact their parents/carer directly and do not follow the procedures in place will be sanctioned, this may result in their mobile phone having to be handed in to the student services office each day. The use of anyone else’s mobile phone risks that person being sanctioned also.
Please do not arrive at school to collect your child unless school have contacted you to do so. We do not have school staff readily available to collect children. Thank you for your support and co-operation.
Any questions or concerns please email them using the main enquiry email for the attention of first aid or call to speak with first aid on the main school number 0121 444 4161.
UNIFORM STANDARDS
Students are required to wear the standard uniform of blazer, tie, white/blue shirt with black straight leg school trousers (not skinny or boot cut) or girls can wear a knee length black pleated school skirt. Girls are also reminded that if they choose to wear a skirt, then they should wear plain, black, opaque tights. Students are reminded that black leather school shoes should be worn and that trainers/trainer style shoes are forbidden.
Please note that school shoes must be kept completely black and boots of any kind are not allowed.
Our uniform requirements are complemented by a smart appearance and as such, hair styles that should not have a distinct contrast in length. Hair that is dyed must be of a natural hair colour and may not contain more than one colour. To avoid a health and safety risk, long hair must not impede vision or cover the face, except for a fringe which must not cover the eyes. Long hair must be tied up for practical lessons. Religious head coverings must be black and securely tied for practical lessons. Hair bands or accessories must be for functional use to secure the hair . Where hairbands are worn they must be black. Headwear that has religious or cultural purpose should be black. The final decision as to whether a particular haircut/style is appropriate is at the discretion of senior staff.
Make up, nail varnish and jewellery are not permitted, with the exception of one pair of plain stud gold or silver earrings which may be worn.
Students found to be wearing an inappropriate item of uniform may be asked to change this or, in some cases, parents/carers will be contacted and requested to bring replacement uniform to school.
We appreciate your support in ensuring that standards of uniform and appearance are maintained.
REPORTING AN ABSENCE
All students are required to attend school/college on time every day. If for any reason your child is unable to attend, please ensure that the school attendance policy is followed, and their absence is reported before the START of the school day (8.40am) and on each day of absence. Please provide a reason for their absence and the likely length of absence, if known.
To report an absence, please call the main school number 0121 444 4161 and select the correct option for your childs year group.
If you receive a text message or phone call from school/college because you have not reported your child’s absence, please contact us on the most appropriate number as detailed above as soon as you can.
Thank you for your co-operation.
SCHOOL REMINDERS
CONTACTING SCHOOL
Communication between home and school is very important, in the event that you need to contact school please be reminded of the following procedures.
School telephone number- 0121 444 4161
Option 1- To report an absence
Option 2- Head of Year/Pastoral concerns/enquiries
Option 3- Sixth Form enquiries
HEAD OF YEAR CONTACT
All Heads of Year and Assistant Heads of Year have teaching commitments; therefore, any Head of Year/ Pastoral enquiries should be directed through Option 2 for students in Year 7-11 or option 3 for students in Year 12 or 13.
If student services staff are not available to answer your call in person, please leave a message with the nature of your enquiry/concern and you will get a call back from the most appropriate member of staff at their earliest convenience. We aim to respond to all contact by the end of the next working day.
SENIOR STAFF CONTACT
Contact with Head of Year and/or Head of Department is expected to have been made before issues are escalated to Senior staff. Should you need to speak to a Senior member of staff, please contact school by phone and select Option 2 or 3, depending on the year group of your child and request a call and the most appropriate Senior member of staff will contact you at their earliest convenience.
MEETING STAFF
Any requests for a face to face meeting with staff should be made using the same contact details as above. Please ensure that the purpose of any meeting request is made clear. A member of staff may contact you before a meeting is arranged if more information is required.
Please do not attend school without an appointment unless there is a safeguarding emergency.
SAFEGUARDING CONCERNS
If you have any safeguarding concerns please contact school and ask to speak to a DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). Mrs Peckover is the Senior DSL.
Autumn Term 2
Every Wednesday Rosary
Every Thursday
Monday 8th December
Wednesday 10th December - Friday 12th December
Thursday 11th December
Monday 15th December
Tuesday 16th December
Wednesday 17th December
Thursday 18th December
Friday 19th December
SIXTH FORM PROMOTIONAL VIDEO
SCHOOL YEAR 2025 TO 2026
AUTUMN TERM 2025
Term ends: Thursday 18th December 2025
SPRING TERM 2026
Term starts: Monday 5 January 2026
Half-term: Monday 16 February 2026 to Friday 20 February 2026
Term ends: Friday 27 March 2026
Community Mass - 11.30am
Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception Sixth Form London Art Trip
Year 12 Soli House Trip
Christmaths Day
School closed Year 7, 9 & 10 Parent Consultation Day
Year 7 & 8 Christmas Mass
Sixth Form Bishop’s Got Talent Year 9, 10 & 11 Christmas Mass
Christmas Cake Raffle
Musical Dementia Trip
Christmas Hamper Raffle - 9BER
Sixth Form Christmas Service
Staff INSET - School Closed
FACILITIES HIRE
We offer a wide range of classes for the local community and our facilities are also available for private hire. For session bookings and all other enquiries please feel free to contact one of the team.
Bishop Challoner Sports Centre is an exciting and innovative sports complex, compromising:A full sized Sports Hall Olympic sized Dojo specifically designed for Martial Arts Meeting Conference Room
