St Benedict's News Lent Term 2026

HEADMASTERS’ INTRODUCTIONS

Looking back over the past few months, I am struck once again by the extraordinary breadth of life at St Benedict’s and by all that our students and staff have achieved together.

This term brought especially welcome news in the form of our Catholic Schools Inspection. We were very proud that the inspectors recognised the strength of the school’s Catholic life and mission, religious education and collective worship. The report will be a heartening affirmation of something that lies at the heart of St Benedict’s: that this is a community shaped by faith, kindness and a deep sense of shared purpose.

There has been much to celebrate in the creative life of the school. Our production of Little Shop of Horrors was a triumph, full of energy, wit and flair, showcasing the depth of talent that exists across the community. The music festival was superb with performances that brought both accomplishment and great enjoyment, while the dance show was quite simply amazing: vibrant, polished and full of confidence. My thanks go to all the pupils and staff whose hard work made these events such memorable successes.

Among the term’s other highlights was the Richard Baker Science Lecture, delivered this year by Roma Agrawal. Her talk on her work in designing The Shard was fascinating and inspiring in equal measure.

There has been much to celebrate in sport too. Despite some distinctly unhelpful weather during the term, our pupils have shown great resilience, commitment and spirit, and have enjoyed some excellent successes. I am grateful to them and to the staff who support and encourage them so generously.

Taken together, these events reflect what a St Benedict’s education is all about: nurturing confidence, discovering talents and striving for excellence in many forms. This term has provided ample evidence of this in action.

I hope you enjoy this edition of St Benedict’s News and all it captures of school life this term. My thanks, as ever, to everyone who contributes to making St Benedict’s such a warm and thriving community.

Wishing you all a happy and blessed Easter.

Joe Smith Headmaster

Our pupils have thrown themselves enthusiastically into every opportunity, whether exploring new ideas in the classroom, performing on stage, or representing the school in sports.

This term’s calendar has been alive with moments that reflect the spirit of St Benedict’s: from the hands-on investigations of STEM Week and the creativity of our Spring Music Concert, to the wonderful School Challenge Quest and the beautiful Lenten Assemblies and the Lenten Reflection. Visits to The Cutty Sark, Windsor Castle, and the Science Museum have helped bring learning to life, while cookery classes with the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts and the excitement of our Dance Shows have encouraged new skills and confidence.

Our sports teams have continued to impress, with notable achievements in cricket, fencing, football, hockey, and netball. The U11 Girls’ Cricket squad’s performance at Lord’s was a highlight, and I for one am delighted that they have once again had the opportunity to play at such a venue steeped in cricket history.

Beyond the academic and co-curricular activities, there has been a strong sense of community spirit. St Benedict’s Day brought us together to raise funds for charities close to our hearts, and your support for our Lenten Appeal and Giving Week has made a real difference. Thank you for your generous support.

This edition of St Benedict’s News offers a window into the life of our school, celebrating the achievements and experiences of pupils across all ages. I hope you enjoy reading about the many ways our young people have grown and flourished this term.

Wishing you and your family a joyful and restful Easter.

With best wishes,

Rob Simmons Junior School Headmaster

From Insight to Impact: Women in Leadership Conference at St Benedict’s

On Friday 13 March, we proudly hosted our first Women in Leadership Conference, Breaking Through: Advancing Gender Equality in Leadership. The event brought together educators and professionals from a range of sectors for a day of discussion, collaboration and shared purpose.

Through a series of inspiring keynote talks and workshops, speakers explored the challenges women face in leadership and the practical steps needed to overcome them.

Highlights included insights from Nadia Nagamootoo on the need for more women leaders, Katie Tomlinson on the power of sponsorship and networking, and Pavita Cooper on driving change at senior levels.

Led by Deputy Head (Academic) Fiona Allen, the conference reflected the school’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and values-led leadership. “My sincere thanks to every speaker, every delegate, and every colleague who helped make this happen. This is what breaking through looks like.”

Delegates left feeling inspired to support and empower the next generation of women leaders.

“Each speaker made me curious to read more, to be bold and reach out more, and to lift my female colleagues up where I can.”

Delegate

“Having two daughters in their early twenties, I feel better equipped to prepare them further for life as a woman in the workplace.”

Delegate

VEX ROBOTICS INNOVATION, TEAMWORK AND SUCCESS

The St Benedict’s VEX Robotics team continues to go from strength to strength, reflecting the school’s Benedictine values of collaboration, perseverance and personal growth. This year’s team brings together students from Form 3 to Upper Sixth, making it both a popular and inclusive club, with all members contributing their ideas and learning from one another.

While some students focus on specific roles such as coding, engineering or driving the robot, everyone is encouraged to take part in every stage of the design and competition process. This collaborative approach helps students develop a wide range of technical and problem-solving skills while supporting each other’s progress as a team.

Each week, the students give up their lunchtimes and after-school hours to design, build and programme their competition robot as they prepare for tournaments.

During the 2025–2026 season, the team competed in the ‘Push Back’ challenge, entering qualifying events at Greig City Academy, City of

London School for Girls and Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet. Their hard work and ingenuity paid off: for the fourth consecutive year, the St Benedict’s team qualified for the VEX UK National Championship, a remarkable achievement that reflects their sustained dedication and skill.

At this year’s VEX UK National Championship in Telford, the team competed over two intense days against 48 of the strongest qualifying

teams from across the country. Demonstrating impressive technical ability, teamwork and resilience throughout the competition, they narrowly missed out on a place in the Round of 16.

“As the Robotics club continues to flourish, we celebrate not only its competitive success but also the spirit of innovation, teamwork and curiosity that defines St Benedict’s. Thank you to the outgoing Upper Sixth students for their professionalism, skill, support, enthusiasm and dedication. Best of luck at university and for all your future design, build, code and compete projects. You have been an inspiration to us all. I look forward to seeing what the team will achieve next season as they continue to rise to new challenges with creativity and determination.” Dr Richard Curtis, Head of Computer Science and Vex Robotics Lead

“I really enjoy VEX Robotics because it lets me build, test and improve my ideas while working as part of a team. Everyone’s ideas matter, and it’s so exciting to see what we can create together.” Sheelun J (U4)

BUDDING CHEFS COOK WITH CHEF ASHLEY

In February, Form 2 pupils began a culinary journey with Chef Ashley Marsh from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts with a series of sessions designed to develop their practical skills and explore the importance of using healthy, balanced ingredients in creating delicious dishes.

Form 2 Cooking Ambassadors, Ifan and Maryam, shared their thoughts:

“For the past few weeks, we have been doing cooking lessons with Chef Ashley which has been really

fun. In our first lesson we tasted lots of different foods, including samphire, radish, bread, tomato and honey. The next week we learned how to make salads using ingredients like cucumber, spinach, grapes and peppers. In our final lesson we did some practical cooking and made gnocchi using spinach, squash and spring onions. It was a great experience and we learned lots about different foods and how to cook them.”

Ifan M

“The cooking lessons were one of the best experiences I have had. We learned about different tastes and even tried herbs like samphire. We also practised our knife skills using techniques called the “bridge” and the “claw”. In our last lesson we made gnocchi, which was really fun and very tasty. The lessons have convinced me to cook more at home with my family because cooking together is much more fun.”

Maryam A

ST BENEDICT’S MUSIC FESTIVAL 2026

At the end of January, our Senior School was filled with the sound of music as more than 240 students from Form 3 to Upper Sixth took part in this year’s Music Festival. Across an inspiring week of performances, students demonstrated not only impressive technical skill but also remarkable confidence, creativity and commitment to their craft.

WINNERS

Flohouse Cup

The Music Festival remains a highlight of the school year and is a joyful reminder of the talent, dedication and enthusiasm that thrive within our community.

From the opening heats to the grand Final, each performance reflected the dedication students have shown in rehearsals and the strength of music-making within the school community.

The week culminated in the Finalists’ Concert on Friday 30 January, a wonderful celebration of achievement. Finalists from the Junior, Intermediate and Senior categories delivered polished and expressive performances, highlighting both individual excellence and the supportive spirit that underpins our Music Department.

Director of Music, Mr Chris Eastwood, praised all those involved: “All of our instrumentalists performed brilliantly and there were some exceptional highlights throughout the week and, inevitably, in the Final. I am extremely grateful to our Heats adjudicators, Rebecca Hardwick, Olivia Bell and Danny Scott, as well as our Finalist adjudicator Andrea Haines, for their comments and support during the week. Congratulations to all who took part and showcased their immense talents.”

Overall winner, Viliam G (U6) spoke about his experience “I really enjoyed listening to so many amazing performances during the week and it was a great opportunity to take part in the festival. Winning the Flohouse cup is a moment I will never forget.”

Viliam G (U6) – Piano Nocturne in Bb minor by Frederic Chopin

Senior Section Cup

Freddie M (U5) – Percussion Seven Days by Sting

Intermediate Section Cup

Xyrissa C (U4) – Brass Song to Lotta by Jan Sandström

Junior Section Cup

Philippa G (F3) – Strings Por una Cabeza by Carlos Gardel

The stage was transformed into ‘Skid Row’ for three unforgettable evenings as Senior School students delivered a vibrant production of Little Shop of Horrors. From the moment the curtain rose, audiences were drawn into the darkly comic world of Seymour (Louis D-S, L6), Audrey (Jessica W, U5) and the unforgettable Audrey II (voiced by Liam T, U6, and puppeteered by Hugh S, U6).

Across all three nights, the cast impressed with strong vocals and sharp comic timing. The leads

brought warmth and energy, while the ensemble added colour and polish to every number. Audrey II was a standout, showcasing impressive technical and theatrical skill.

Behind the scenes, the backstage crew, musicians and technical team worked seamlessly with staff to deliver a slick and professional production.

Director of Drama, Mr Mark Randall, praised the students’ “commitment, energy and professionalism” also stating “the production demanded

so much vocally, physically and dramatically and the cast has risen to every challenge with determination and joy,” highlighting their teamwork and the confidence they developed throughout the process.

Cast members also reflected on the experience. Jessica W described it as “incredible,” while Liam T said “it was unique, loud, chaotic and unforgettable experience.” Louis D-S added that performing a dream role was a “cherished” highlight of his time at school.

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

SPARKING CURIOSITY STEM Week at the Junior School

STEM Week got off to an exciting start in the Junior School, with pupils enjoying a wide range of hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity.

The week began with our Nursery pupils exploring the science of bubbles, discovering how they form and why they float, while Sixth Form students also delighted the Early Years with a live science demonstration that included the ever-popular elephant toothpaste experiment.

Throughout the week, pupils across the Junior School took part in a variety of engaging challenges. From puzzle-solving workshops – where they found themselves “trapped in a

castle” and had to use mathematical reasoning to unlock clues and escape – to investigating the science behind paper aeroplanes, the activities encouraged teamwork, logical thinking and problem-solving.

Working collaboratively, pupils developed resilience and communication skills while exploring the many possibilities within science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The week was rounded off with a wonderful STEM character dress-up day, where pupils proudly arrived dressed as famous scientists, engineers and innovators who inspired them.

STEM Week was a fantastic opportunity to show that science, technology, engineering and maths are not only vital subjects, but also exciting, creative and highly collaborative areas of learning. Well done to all our Junior School pupils for their enthusiasm and teamwork throughout the week.

“During STEM Week we had so much fun being scientists, mathematicians, engineers and tech experts. On Friday, the Maths and Science Ambassadors led a special assembly for the whole Junior School and helped choose the winning costumes with the teachers. We all really enjoyed the week and felt very proud of what we had done.”

Ifan M (F2)

“STEM week was a fun and exciting experience for everyone from Nursery to F2. There were amazing workshops and magnificent costumes. Overall STEM week was excellent, and I would recommend it to other schools as well.”

Julian S (F2)

“STEM week was a week of enjoyment mixed with learning; every year group got a taste of the fun. Activities varied from balloon cars to escape rooms, and everyone had the chance to experience maths, engineering, science and technology.”

Leo R (F2)

How The Nail Built The Shard

“I used to think engineering was about maths and calculations and computing and doing quite technical work. But I soon realised that if you can’t communicate what you are trying to do and you don’t have relationships with people, then you’re not going be able to be a successful engineer”.

Roma Agrawal MBE

On Tuesday 17 March, we were delighted to welcome structural engineer and author Roma Agrawal as our latest Richard Baker Lecture speaker.

Drawing on her work on major projects, including The Shard, Ms Agrawal delivered an engaging talk exploring the history of the humble nail and its vital role in construction. She offered fascinating insights into the engineering challenges and innovations behind one of London’s most iconic buildings.

The evening concluded with a lively Q&A session, with thoughtful questions from both the audience and A Level science and maths students, Dyran B, Riona, E and Emmanuel D.

A passionate advocate for engineering, particularly for young women, Ms Agrawal encouraged more students to consider careers in STEM. Through her talks and books, she aims to spark curiosity about how buildings are designed and built, inspiring the next generation of engineers.

Roma Agrawal MBE

DANCE SHOW 2026

ALL THAT DAZZLES

ALL THAT DAZZLES

DANCE SHOW 2026

This year’s ‘All That Dazzles’ Dance Show brought together students of all ages from across the Junior and Senior Schools for an energetic and vibrant showcase inspired by iconic musicals and legendary performers.

Across two evenings, our talented dancers lit up the stage with creativity, confidence and flair, performing routines from much-loved shows including Grease, Mamma Mia!, Chicago, The Lion King and Six. Blending contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, ballet and street dance, the performance was a dynamic celebration of movement, music and the wonderful talent within our school community.

“I am incredibly proud of the 160 students who took part in this year’s Dance Show. Every one of them sparkled on stage and performed beautifully, bringing huge smiles to the audience. It was wonderful to see the confidence, energy and joy they brought to the performances, and to celebrate all the hard work they had put in over the past few months.” Ms Ruth Kestenbaum, Head of Dance

“Being part of the Dance Show was so special; all the hard work came together and it felt amazing to perform on stage.” Anna K (L5)

JUNIOR SCHOOL SPRING CONCERT

The Sound of the Sixties

This year’s Junior School Spring Concert transported the audience back to the vibrant and transformative 1960s: a decade that reshaped politics, fashion, art and, of course, music.

The evening celebrated the rich diversity of the era, opening with an energetic performance of Pinball Wizard by The Who. This was followed by a beautifully arranged choral rendition of Yesterday by the Schola Choir, capturing the timeless elegance of John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s song writing.

Instrumental performances throughout the concert paid tribute to a range of iconic pieces from the decade, sparking a sense of nostalgia and celebrating the unmistakable sound of the 60s. The programme would not have been complete without a classic from Neil Diamond, with a lively performance of I’m a Believer bringing the concert to a joyful close.

Our Junior School pupils delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing both their musical talent and their enthusiasm. It was a wonderful celebration of their hard work, and a memorable evening for all who attended.

ST BENEDICT’S CCF

“Achieve more than you believe possible”

Foundation Dinner

The Lent term began in style with the Foundation Dinner on 23 January. It was a fantastic evening, made all the more special by the strong turnout of former Cadets, many from more recent years, whose continued loyalty and connection to the CCF remains hugely valued. The Corps of Drums set the tone with a sharp and confident performance, their first formal appearance since Ealing’s Remembrance Sunday parade.

Range Day at Longmoor

On 7 February, Cadets headed to Longmoor for the first training event of 2026. Battling wet and muddy conditions, they showed focus and determination on the range, with

seven of the eight firers successfully achieving their qualifications – an excellent result.

Exercise RECRUIT THUNDER V

The following weekend brought our largest annual field exercise, as 58 recruits travelled to Bramley training area for their first experience of life in the field. From pitching camp to patrolling and firing blank ammunition, Cadets were fully immersed in woodland training. While the relentless cold and rain forced a slightly more luxurious move indoors overnight, spirits remained high and the sense of achievement was clear.

Exercise

WINTER’S BITE X

As the recruits departed, senior Cadets arrived for Exercise WINTER’S BITE X – two days of intense, fast-paced mock battles in bitter conditions. With fewer comforts and no electricity, the challenge was even greater, but so too was the reward. Cadets rose to the occasion, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and leadership throughout.

With continued support from our parents and wider community, exciting developments are on the horizon. New facilities will further enhance training and open up even greater opportunities for our Cadets. The momentum this term has been exceptional – and there is plenty more to come.

Exceptional UKMT Maths Challenge Success

Our students are once again celebrating exceptional success in this year’s UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge, achieving the school’s strongest results to date.

Mathematical Olympiad Excellence

Our Maths students are celebrating outstanding success in national mathematics competitions, with several of them achieving top results in prestigious UK Mathematics Trust Olympiad events.

Students pictured proudly display Certificates of Merit for the Mathematical Competition for Girls and the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls and Certificates of Merit and of Distinction for the Senior British Mathematical Olympiad Round 1.

Particular congratulations go to Jake B (U6) for achieving a Certificate of Distinction, and also to Shuhan H (U5) and Mehdi D (U5), whose Certificates

A total of 143 students from Upper Fourth – Upper Fifth took part in the national competition, earning an impressive 99 awards: 12 Gold, 37 Silver and 50 Bronze.

Ten students have also qualified for the prestigious follow-on rounds, which will take place at the end of March.

Special congratulations go to Shuhan H (U5), who achieved the highest score in the school with an outstanding 104, earning the Best in School award and automatically qualifying for the Maclaurin Olympiad.

The Intermediate Maths Challenge, organised by the UK Mathematics Trust, encourages students to think creatively and apply mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Each year, the competition attracts more than 700,000 students nationwide.

Congratulations to all our students who took part in this inspiring opportunity for young mathematicians.

of Merit in the Senior British Mathematical Olympiad Round 1 are especially impressive given that both students are currently in Year 11, competing successfully at a very high national level.

It is also wonderful to see our Sixth Form Olympiads already looking ahead to their future studies; Jake B hopes to read Mathematics at

university, Henry Y and Alfie S plan to study Computer Science, and Lydia R hopes to pursue a career in Medicine.

“These achievements reflect the enthusiasm, dedication and intellectual curiosity of our students, as well as the strength of mathematics enrichment opportunities at St Benedict’s.” Dr David Robb, Head of Mathematics

ST BENEDICT’S DAY 2026

We celebrated St Benedict’s Day on Friday 20 March, bringing the whole School together for a joyful and meaningful occasion. From Pre-Prep to Sixth Form, pupils marked the day in a true spirit of unity, reflecting the School’s Benedictine values of community, service and togetherness.

The day began with a whole-school Mass, celebrated by Fr Gabriel Everitt from Ampleforth Abbey and offering a moment for reflection and gratitude. This was followed by a lively afternoon of fundraising activities, with something for everyone to enjoy. Pupils took part in a wide range of events, including a Traitors-inspired live experience, dodgeball, escape rooms, “sponge the teacher,” hook-a-duck and a variety of sweet treats – all in support of this year’s chosen charities: HCPT (Hosanna House and Children’s Pilgrimage Trust), Mary’s Meals and The Foundation of Goodness.

Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of students, staff and the wider school community, the day was a great success. More than just a celebration, it was a wonderful reflection of St Benedict’s ethos: encouraging kindness, service and a shared commitment to supporting others.

ST BENEDICT’S

SPORT

NETBALL

It has been a successful and competitive term for netball at St Benedict’s, with strong performances across all age groups.

The 1st VII enjoyed a positive Sisters n Sport campaign, highlighted by an exciting 40 -37 victory over Alleyn’s School. Although they narrowly missed out on a place in the quarter-finals, the team secured impressive wins against Mill Hill, St Edmund’s Ware and KCS, and now look ahead to upcoming tournaments at Tormead and LWS.

The 2nd VII also had a strong season, winning three of their five fixtures, including convincing victories over Reigate Grammar, St Edmund’s Ware and NHEHS. The 4th VII finished on a high, recording wins against Kew House and Downsend School.

At U15 level, all squads performed well, with notable results against Chigwell, Reading Blue Coat and Royal Alexandra & Albert School. The U15A team showed great determination in their Sisters n Sport title defence, despite a tough match against St Teresa’s Effingham.

The U13 and U12 squads enjoyed an outstanding term, achieving a win rate of over 60%. At the Emmaus Schools Tournament, the U13B and U12B teams won the Plate, while the U12A finished first and the U13A placed third in their respective age groups – helping the School retain the Emmaus Cup for a fourth consecutive year. Strong performances were also seen at the Middlesex Emerging Schools Tournament, where the U13C and U12C teams finished sixth and fifth respectively.

Netball Success

Congratulations to Frida B (F3) and Niamh K (F3) on their selection for the London Mavericks U13 Futures Academy.

Huge well done also to Carmela R (U5), who represented Ireland at the beginning of March at the U17 European Championships, an outstanding achievement.

RUGBY

This term has reinforced St Benedict’s reputation as a leading force in rugby, with exceptional performances and silverware across all age groups.

The U12A VII set the tone, winning the Plate at both the Shrewsbury House and Middlesex County tournaments, combining resilience with an exciting attacking style. The U13A VII followed suit, claiming the Plate at Shrewsbury House.

At U14 level, the side produced an outstanding run at the Orleans Park Sevens, recording emphatic victories over Turing House and a 74-0 win against Wilson’s School, before finishing as Cup runners-up to Beechen Cliff School.

HOCKEY

The 1st team secured an impressive third place at the Gordon’s Spring League on 18 March, including a hard-fought 3-2 win over City of London, Freeman’s.

The U13A team narrowly missed out on retaining their London Regional title, losing 2-1 to Harrodian in the final. Alessia was named Player of the Tournament after scoring six goals in five games, while U12 players Evie B and Eva M who played up a year, made a valuable contribution in helping the team reach the final.

The U15 VII also impressed at the John Fisher Founders’ Day Sevens, reaching the Cup semifinals with notable victories over London Oratory, Eton College and Reed’s School.

The U16 VII delivered a superb Lent Term, adding to their Plate runners-up finish at the Gordon’s School Sevens with an unbeaten campaign to win the Middlesex U16 Shield. They were victorious against St James’, Sir Richard Reynolds and London Oratory, before overcoming Isleworth & Syon in the final.

At senior level, the 1st VII enjoyed a standout term. They secured the Middlesex Open U18 Sevens Plate on home soil, defeating London Oratory in the semi-final before overcoming Oaklands College in the final. The squad also impressed at the prestigious Schools’ Championship Sevens at Sixways Stadium, where they faced elite opposition from leading rugby schools and finished Plate runners-up after a demanding two-day programme.

Later in March, they produced a remarkable Cup victory at the King’s Worcester Sevens, overcoming Blundell’s, Bloxham and RGS Worcester and winning a dramatic final on sudden death.

With Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens still to come, the programme carries real momentum into the final weeks of an exceptional season.

Rugby Successes

St Benedict’s continues to be well represented in elite rugby pathways, with 15 players involved in academies including Saracens, Northampton Saints and Harlequins, and a further eight in the Ealing Trailfinders Elite Pathway.

These opportunities provide an excellent platform for pupils to develop their skills and gain valuable high-performance experience alongside their school rugby.

1st XV Captain Daniel L (U6) represented Saracens U18s. Riley C (L6), is part of the Northampton Saints Academy, and Fin B (L6), Theo I (L6), Harry H (L6), Jared B (U6) and Shotaro S (L6) are all involved in the Ealing Trailfinders Elite Pathway.

L

FENCING

St Benedict’s had their most successful Public School Fencing Championships ever this year. 60 fencers competed. Notable results: Jake B 3rd, Krish D 6th, Sammy V 6th, Nathan Y 6th, Kairav L 7th, Marcus L 9th. Most incredibly as a school we won both the Charles Gault Rose Bowl with the second-best overall boys’ result and the Pearson Trophy given to the school with the best overall results across all events!

Our team enjoyed success at the British School Team Championships qualifying teams in all nine mixed/ boys’ categories, winning medals in five events, cementing the school’s reputation as one of the country’s leading fencing programmes.

At the London Youth Championships in January, 32 St Benedict’s fencers were selected to compete, with half qualifying for the national finals taking place in Sheffield this May.

FOOTBALL

National winning medallists from the British School Team Championships where St Benedict’s won more medals than any other school in the Mixed/Boys categories.

Fencing Successes

Individually, several students also achieved notable success.

Ernest O (F3), Marcus L (L4), Carmen C-R (L5) and Oscar C-R (L6) represented Eng or GB abroad, Oscar also selected for the U17 GB Squad.

14 St Benedict’s fencers are now ranked in the UK top 100, with seven in the top 50. Standout rankings include Zachary B (26th, U20 Sabre), Marcus L (24th, U14 Foil) and Oscar C-R (18th, U17 Épée). Bottom of Form

Football has been in full swing throughout the Lent term, with a busy and successful programme of fixtures across all age groups.

A particular highlight has been the school’s first entry into national competitions, with the U13s reaching the semifinals of the ISFA Bowl and the U15s progressing to the quarter-finals after a series of strong performances.

Girls’ football at St Benedict’s continues to go from strength to strength, with growing participation and increasing success in competitive fixtures. The U18 team enjoyed an impressive run in the ISFA Shield, reaching the quarter-finals before losing 8-5 to Godolphin and Latymer.

At senior level, the 1st XI had an excellent season, securing notable victories against strong opposition including John Lyon, Drayton Manor, St Columba’s and Gordon’s. The team has shown real consistency and development throughout, combining disciplined defending with confident attacking play.

Their season was rounded off with a memorable evening fixture against Cardinal Vaughan, played under the lights at Hanwell Town Football Club on 20 March. In an entertaining and nail-biting contest, ending in penalties with both sides agreeing to share result as a 5-5 draw. The occasion proved a fitting finale to the season in a battle for the ‘Dicky Thomas Trophy’.

Across the school, students have shown great commitment, enthusiasm and team spirit, making this a highly successful season for football at St Benedict’s.

NETBALL

It has been a fantastic term for Junior School netball, with strong performances across the age groups with a standout achievement as the U11 team were crowned champions at the annual St Bernard’s Prep Tournament.

IAPS U11 Championships

In March U11 team visited The Marist for the regional round of the IAPS Championships. The girls made an excellent start, securing impressive wins in the pool stages against strong opposition. Progressing to the Plate competition, they continued their fine form and finished the day on a high, claiming the bronze medal; the highest finish ever achieved by a St Benedict’s team at this event.

BOYS’ FOOTBALL

Now in its second year, Junior School Boys’ Football continues to grow as an important part of life at St Benedict’s. Building on the foundations of last year, the boys have developed their skills, teamwork and enthusiasm for the game, showing great commitment despite a wet and unpredictable winter.

Although the weather limited some fixtures, the team still enjoyed competitive matches against strong opposition including St Paul’s, UCS and Highgate. These games provided valuable experience and were played with the determination and resilience we value so highly at St Benedict’s.

Alongside their external fixtures, the boys also enjoyed a lively programme

FENCING

Our Junior School fencers have also enjoyed a successful season, training hard and performing strongly despite a reduced fixture list. Both the Foil A and B teams maintained a 100% win record, with victories against Brentwood and Highgate.

SPORT JUNIOR SCHOOL

A particular highlight of the day was meeting Suzie Liversidge from London Mavericks, making the occasion even more memorable.

U10 Bee Netball Tournament

On 4 March, we hosted our annual U10 Bee Netball Tournament, welcoming 20 teams from across Middlesex for a day of competitive netball. Two St Benedict’s teams took part, representing the school with great determination and teamwork throughout.

The U10A team finished second in their pool and progressed to the Plate semi-final, while the U10B team secured third place in their pool and reached the Shield semi-final.

This year also marked an exciting development as pupils were able to trial Épée during the Lent term before specialising in their chosen weapon from Form 1. The new system has proved very successful, with foil and épée groups now training separately and beginning to compete at nationallevel events.

St Benedict’s also hosted its own tournament during February half term, with strong performances from Julian S (F2) Vevaan A (F2), Mannie S (F1), Viraaj B (F1) and Ethan D (F1) who finished 6th in his first-ever competition.

of in-house matches, including the ever-popular House Football competition, won this year by Fisher House. These matches give every boy the opportunity to represent his House, take part in some friendly rivalry and help bring the whole Junior School community together, with plenty of enthusiastic support from the touchline.

Well done to everyone who has represented the school, their House, or simply taken part in training. We are proud of the resilience, teamwork and positive attitude shown by all the boys this season and look forward to building on this progress next year.

NEWS DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

Dear Families,

Our 2026 Giving Day was a most successful celebration of the St Benedict’s community, raising just over £50,000 (including Gift Aid).

These funds will provide important support to the Bursary Fund and other key areas of the School, helping to ensure that a St Benedict’s education remains accessible to all. We are most grateful to everyone who contributed to this collective effort.

As the term draws to a close, I wish all our families a restful and enjoyable Easter break.

Best wishes,

Tara George Director of Communications

OPA Rugby Festival

Thank you to all who joined us at Perivale for an enjoyable evening of rugby and community spirit.

Congratulations to OPRFC XV on their victory over Middlesex XV, securing the Codd Cup for the third consecutive year. We are also pleased that funds raised during the event will support the Bursary Fund and OPRFC Physiotherapy costs.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

OPA Reunion Dinner – 17 April, Royal Garden Hotel

We look forward to welcoming Old Priorians to join us for our annual Black Tie Dinner which will be held at the Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington.

OPA Golf Day – Friday 12 June, Ealing Golf Club

A highlight of the OPA calendar, offering a day of friendly competitive golf followed by an evening BBQ and prizegiving. Parents, alumni, and friends are warmly invited. Those not playing are very welcome to attend the post-golf BBQ.

Players of all abilities are very welcome.

Old Priorian Cricket Club –Sunday 5 July, St Benedict’s Playing Fields, Perivale

Our Alumni cricket club, OPCC, summer season is now underway. The Club welcomes news members of all playing abilities.

Please do join us join us for the annual fixture between the School First XI and OPCC on Sunday 5 July.

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL