NOTES FROM Stonyhurst
From the Senior Deputy Head
Dear Stonyhurst Families
It has been another amazing week this week with pupils arriving back refreshed after Slow Down Saturday last weekend. At Assembly, I spoke to the pupils abut the importance of being forces for good in the community and thinking always about their higher purpose. This links in so well with our school ethos. We always encourage the pupils to do as much as they can, to be women and men for others and to do everything for the greater glory of God. This is why they write AMDG (Ad majorem gloriam dei) at the top of all their work, as is custom in all Jesuit schools.
Carrying on in this theme, on Wednesday we marked Red Wednesday. Pupils remembered those who suffer or are persecuted for their faith throughout the world. The College was lit up in red, candles were lit and money raised for this important cause.
On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, LG put on an astonishing and moving performance of Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo. The talent and dedication evident on stage was exceptional and it is so exciting to see what LG will go on to achieve as they progress up the school. Drama at Stonyhurst continues to go from strength to strength.
We are starting to prepare for Campion Day and then Advent, when the College will prepare for the Christmas season. Carol Services, parties and balls will ensure it is a festive time of year, with of course work as usual going on throughout!
With very best wishes
Red WeDnesday
Each year, the College marks Aid to the Church in Need's national campaign, Red Wednesday. Buildings across the country light up in red and people are invited to wear an item of red, to stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians around the world.
Our main College building was illuminated in red, and pupils were invited to wear home clothes with an item of red and to buy tuck to fundraise for this cause.
Slow Down saturday
Last weekend our pupils enjoyed a much-deserved Slow Down Saturday. A welcome pause from their usual timetabled lessons. Instead of the busy routines of a typical school day, they were given the chance to relax, unwind, and recoup after what has been a long, productive, and rewarding term.
Our pupils have worked incredibly hard, showing dedication, resilience, and enthusiasm throughout the term. Offering them this time off was a wonderful way to recognise their efforts and support their wellbeing. The day provided a calm and refreshing break, leaving everyone recharged and ready for the weeks ahead.
Lower Grammar Playroom Presents Private peaceful
This year we are Celebrating 125 years of CCF at Stonyhurst and so it felt fitting that we also acknowledge and celebrate this in out thriving drama department
Step into the world of Private Peaceful, a moving and unforgettable stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s acclaimed novel. Following the story of young Tommo Peaceful, the play takes audiences on a journey from the innocence of childhood in rural England to the harrowing battlefields of the First World War.
Told with honesty, humour, and heartbreaking poignancy, Private Peaceful is both a powerful coming-of-age story and a searing reminder of the human cost of war.
Get your tickets for the final night here.
Stars and Stripes Concert
On Friday 14th, our pupils took to the stage for an excellent Stars and Stripes concert, celebrating the rich diversity of American music. The performance showcased an impressive range of styles and talents.
Our pupils performed with confidence, energy, and real musical flair, demonstrating the hard work they have put into rehearsals.
It was a wonderful celebration of music and creativity, and we are incredibly proud of everyone who took part. Please use the link here to view the concert recording.
Line Competition
This week’s Line Competition took the form of an exciting School Challenge, bringing plenty of energy and friendly rivalry to the day. Fast minds, quick hands, let the buzzer battle begin!
Pupils put their knowledge and reaction skills to the test as they raced to buzz in with the correct answers. The atmosphere was electric, with teams showing impressive teamwork, sharp thinking, and plenty of enthusiasm. It proved to be a fun and engaging challenge for everyone involved.
Stonyhurst Next Innings –
Fundraising
for the Stonyhurst Cricket Pavilion
The Stonyhurst Cricket Pavilion has been a beacon on the Stonyhurst Estate for over 130 years. It is the focal point for key events; it stands up to the incoming snow from Pendle Hill and provides welcome shelter against the Ribble Valley weather. It continues to play a part in key Stonyhurst moments for pupils, OS and staff.
After generations of cricketers using the Pavilion, suffering the piercing grip of boot spikes, and standing strong against the Ribble Valley weather, we were planning to refurbish the Pavilion. However, last summer, the need became more urgent as it suffered two arson attacks – seeing smoke coming out of its beautiful windows was heart wrenching to say the least. It is thanks to the quick action of the Lancashire Fire Brigade that the building was saved and that we can restore it to its former glory for future generations of cricketers to walk those steps and take to the field.
If you would like to support this fundraising initiative, we would be most grateful. Please contact the Development Office or visit our web page here.
Stonyhurst Sport
Swim Captains
Brother and sister duo Harriet and George proudly lead Stonyhurst Swimming as our team captains. Their dedication, teamwork, and passion for the sport set the standard for excellenceinspiring every member of the squad both in and out of the pool.
Hockey Match Report
Our 2nd Team put in a fantastic performance in an exciting end-to-end game that showcased just how far this group has come. From the first whistle, the girls played with energy, confidence and real attacking intent, moving the ball beautifully and linking up with purpose across the pitch. Both sides created chances throughout and the match remained tightly contested from start to finish Our defence worked tirelessly under pressure, while the midfield controlled long stretches of play with smart passing and great composure. Up front, the girls showed excellent teamwork, carving out two well-deserved goals and constantly threatening the opposition circle.
Although the result didn’t quite fall our way, with the game finishing in a narrow 3–2 loss, the performance was full of positives. The determination, effort and quality of hockey on display were outstanding and the team should be incredibly proud of how they played. A brilliant effort from everyone lots to build on and plenty to be excited about for the next fixture against Sedbergh on Wednesday
2nd Team Hockey v Rishworth
Hockey Match Report
A well-fought, end-to-end battle from our 1st team on home turf on Wednesday afternoon. Despite the clinical and composed finishing from Stockport that saw them take the victory, we couldn’t be prouder of how far the girls have come since the start of the season. Their resilience, bounce-back mentality, and positive attitude after every game continue to shine through Players of the match were Lola, voted for by Stockport, and Annabel, awarded by Miss Hartley.
1st Team v Stockport
Rugby Match Report
On Wednesday 12 of November our two senior sides hosted Liverpool College and Crossly Heath. The first XV took on Liverpool College in the quarterfinal of the Lancashire Cup. After a convincing win they extend their cup run into the semi-finals looking to get in the final for a second consecutive year. The 2 XV fell just short to Crossly Heath losing 19-7 in a tough encounter. th nd
On Saturday 15 of November Stonyhurst College took 8 sides to The Kings School, Macclesfield on "Slow-down Saturday". The senior sides travelled light and the fatigue showed as both sides struggled to gain footholds in their matches. The first XV went down early but showed great fight in trying to make a come-back but unfortunately couldn't finish off losing 26-20. The 2 XV travelled with 10 on the back of some injuries and call-ups to the 1 XV. They showed great fight and determination in a 59-17 loss.
The U15s struggled to gain an advantage in their match, although played some of the best rugby of their season so far losing 43-5. The U14s continue to impress taking the sword to King's Mac and winning comfortably 47-5. The U14B still learning their trade but showing strong development in a 47-15 loss.
The U13s put on a clinic in attack turning heads in their 25-10 victory. The U13Bs unfortunately couldn't back this up despite grafting hard and scoring some high-quality trys in their 45-25 loss. The U12s struggled to keep a hand in the contest but had great praise for their defensive efforts losing 305.
21 of our Lower Grammar girls headed to Preston Grasshoppers for the Lancashire Schools T1 Touch Rugby Festival a first taste of competitive rugby for many, and an exciting first step on our journey to the Rosslyn Park 7s this March! With two teams in action the girls were outstanding growing in confidence and skill with every touch of the ball. As th arned wins. Although it was ough! So many positives to buil to Rosslyn.
Netball Match Report
On Saturday, our girls did us proud representing the College at the Lancashire Schools Netball Championships.
U14s showed superb skill on court, securing some great wins and playing with fantastic spirit throughout the day. Although they narrowly missed out on a top-two qualifying spot, their performance was outstanding.
U16s battled incredibly hard against very strong opposition and finished in the top two, earning their place at the North West Finals! An amazing achievement in such a competitive netball county.
Huge congratulations to all our girls involved we’re so proud of you!
Golf
On Wednesday, our Higherline golfers headed up to Appleby Golf Course for the first round of the Swift Golf National Sixes. They were joined by teams from Stonyhurst, Rossall School, and Durham College.
With wind-chill temperatures dropping to –8°C, conditions proved a little too harsh for some of our players to truly showcase their skills. Despite the extreme weather, there were plenty of positives — not least the chance to compete against strong teams and play against such an incredible backdrop.
Tennis
This week, our Boys' U18 A Tennis Team achieved great wins against Altrincham Grammar School, 8-4 (a feat we had never accomplished in 7 years), and Lancaster RGS, 10-2, in the LTA Year 11-13 North of England Championships.
The boys now progress to the knockout stages in January 2026.
Quant Je Puis!
Upcoming Fixtures
Date | Wednesday 10 December th Time | 7pm
Venue | Stonyhurst College
Click here to book your tickets
Monday 15 December - Wednesday 17 December th th
Week Ahead Calendar
The below does not include the sporting fixtures for this week. Please see the Upcoming Fixtures pages for this information
Monday 24th November
International Week All Week
Tuesday 25 November th 19.10
SMH Boarders’ Night Prayers, SMH Chapel
Wednesday 26 November th
All Day
16.30 - 17.30
17.45 - 21.00
19.00 - 20.00
Poetry University of Cambridge Trip
Line Competition: Aloysius House - Articulate
Lower Line and Higher Line - Robert Persons Essay Competition
International Day Fair
Bethany Mass for Departed Loved Ones, Angels’ Chapel
Thursday 27 November th
Friday 28 November th SMH Boarders’ Night Prayers, SMH Chapel 19.10
Saturday 29 November th
16.15 - 17.15
17.15 - 17.30
17.30 - 18.30
18.30 - 22.00
Sacrament of Confession, St Peter’s Church
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, St Peter’s Church
Vigil Mass, St Peter’s Church
Boarding Programme - Decorating for Christmas boarding houses
Sunday 30 November th All Day
11.00 - 12.00 13.00 - 18.00
Parish Mass, St Peter’s Church
One Hope Retreat, Angels’ Chapel
Boarding Trip to Trafford or Ice Skating
Pupil Only Events:
Key Dates this term
Campion Day - Monday 1 December st
Fireworks Evening - Wednesday 5 November th
Stonyhurst Family Events:
Figures Parents’ Weekend - Friday 5 December to Saturday 6 December th th
Farm St Carol Concert - Tuesday 9 December th
Carol Service - Wednesday 10 December th
Winter Ball (Parents Only) - Wednesday 10 December th