Dr Steve Redman, Head of Physics, explains: "A variety of experiments were designed, the majority of which ran on Raspberry Pi computers. The payload was much lighter than last year, allowing us to achieve a much higher altitude. 

"We significantly surpassed last year’s 27,522m and floated up to an incredible 34,067m before bursting and returning to the Earth’s surface on a lurid pink parachute that rather perplexed the many alpacas who were quietly minding their own business in a neighbouring field in Buckingham.  

"We look forward to reviewing the footage and data from the flight of BerkoHAB2 on Friday 10 June 2016."

A report and video of the first High Altitude Balloon project can be found in the Activities section of the 2015 Digital Berkhamstedian:

Pre-launch preparations.

Pre-launch photo from the on-board Go-Pro camera.

Team photo after the recovery of the HAB2 payload.

This year’s competition was hotly contested and attracted 45 entries, the quality and variety of which was really impressive. The remit was to conjure up (in no more than 1,500 words) an imaginative story based in the Ancient Classical World.

According to Classics teacher, Mrs Hilary McCann, the Year 7 students preferred to focus on some angle of the Destruction of Pompeii in 79AD, having spent a year following the Cambridge Latin course based on this topic. “The recent Classics trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius had definitely given them ample food for thought and inspiration!

“The Year 8s, on the other hand, cast their imaginative nets wider with thrilling stories ranging from revenge from the Underworld to a modern reworking of the Minotaur myth.”

Sophie scooped the prize, however, with her grippingly dramatic ‘Every Picture Tells a Story’, a tale of time-travelling between a dusty modern library and a far more ashen Pompeii.

Pictured below: Mrs McCann and the runners up of the Golden Sponge Stick competition.

To view the videos shown at this year's Speech Day, please click on the link below each image.

Berkhamsted 475 Celebrations

Berkhamsted Art Review 2016

Berkhamsted Music Highlights 2016

Berkhamsted Drama Highlights 2016

Berkhamsted Sports Highlights 2016

Berkhamsted Outdoor Education Highlights 2016

Berkhamsted Extended Curriculum Week 2016

Greene Shoots Theatre return to the Fringe with a radical reinvention of a classic comedy.The Hypochondriac (or Le Malade Imaginaire), originally conceived by Molière as a comedy-ballet, famously satirises the self-proclaimed ‘medicinal miracle makers’ operating in 17th century Paris. It debuted in 1673 with Molière himself in the leading role as the miserly Argan in what turned out to be his final stage performance.

In a thrilling new adaptation by Dawn Wylie and Oliver Pengelly, Molière’s script is reinvented as a fast-paced, fun and frantic piece of high-energy storytelling. The familiar characters of Argan, Toinette and Bèline are re-created in an anachronistic punk-restoration world where their actions are always at the mercy of the mischievous ensemble of watching storytellers. This talented young cast bring the story to life using puppetry, physical theatre and choral work to create an unforgettable new production that will have all the family enthralled.

Greene Shoots Theatre return to the Fringe for their sixth year. Currently comprising 19 actors aged between 17 and 18 from Berkhamsted School in Hertfordshire, the company takes its name from one of its famous ex-pupils Graham Greene. Greene Shoots Theatre has rapidly developed a reputation for reinterpreting classic texts using its trademark slick ensemble performance style and this production plans to be no different. Following a sell-out run in Berkhamsted in December 2015 the company are delighted to be bringing Molière’s The Hypochondriac to the Fringe and are confident that this is their best show yet.

Joe teamed up with the nation’s finest young musicians to perform at the Royal Albert Hall during the BBC Proms.

Recognised as a key performer of the NYO, Joe was described by Telegraph’s John Allison as the ‘steel-nerved organist’.

2015-16 was a busy year for Joe who is also principal horn and keyboardist of the Hertfordshire Schools’ Symphony Orchestra, with whom he played at the Royal Albert Hall. 

He took on the role of Musical Director and conducted the band for the spectacular performance of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ during the summer term, and played for Her Majesty The Queen on several occasions during her visit to Berkhamsted School on Friday 6 May – as the organist accompanying the School’s Chamber Choir during Her Majesty’s visit to St Peter’s Church, as part of a folk duet during the Reception for 120 guests, and he played the piano with cellist Emily Noithip during the private luncheon held in The Queen’s honour.

Almost one grade in six was at A*, more than three quarters A* - B and more than nine in 10 A* - C.

“These results reflect the excellence of the pupils’ academic results, but the students who achieved them were able to continue to flourish in many areas outside the classroom,” said Richard Backhouse, the Principal. “Among those with high grades are the England U19 Lacrosse Captain, others playing sport at the highest level, winners of national academic competitions, budding entrepreneurs, students currently performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival,  Gold DofE Award recipients and others successfully balancing their studies and other pursuits.”

The outgoing Year 13 students included key members of the team who were National U19 Lacrosse National Champions, members of the cast of The Hypochondriac, which this week achieved a five star review at the Edinburgh Festival, the Rugby 7s team who reached the semi-finals of the Rosslyn Park Tournament, and the editorial panel of INK – the School’s successful student-run magazine which was shortlisted in the national 2016 Shine School Media Awards.

“These leavers were the first to go through our Student Consultancy programme, developed with the University of Oxford Careers Service, in which they provided management consultancy to charities, local government and businesses, they gave more than 2600 hours of voluntary work, and were those fortunate to be at the top of the School for the visit of our Patron, Her Majesty the Queen,” added Mr Backhouse.

Mr Richard Petty, Head of Sixth, paid tribute to them: “Not only have these students done very well in their exams, but they showed ambition, leadership, adventure and integrity throughout their time at the School. We wish them well at university – many of them on some of the most selective courses in the country.”

Some examples of the breadth of involvement and talent among this year’s top A Level achievers at Berkhamsted School are highlighted below:

Patrick Kennedy-Hunt – 6 A* in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Further Mathematics (Additional) and Physics; A* in the EPQ. 

Patrick has performed at an exceptional level in both the British Chemistry and Physics Olympiads over a number of years, culminating this year in him winning a Gold award and a place in the second round of the Chemistry Olympiad at Cambridge University in April and securing a Gold in both Paper 1 and 2 of the traditional Physics Olympiad and in the newer British Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad. His Physics performances earned Patrick a place on the five person team that competed in the International Physics Olympiad in Zurich, Switzerland during July. Patrick also achieved a LAMDA Grade 8 with Distinction in Speaking in Public when in Year 12. He has secured a place to study Natural Sciences at Cambridge

Ben van Vlymen– 4 A* in Economics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics. 

Ben this year achieved a Gold in Paper 1 of the British Physics Olympiad and was a member of the Sixth Form Economics team that came third in the area championship semi-final of the Bank of England ‘Target Two Point Zero’ competition. Ben also achieved a LAMDA Grade 8 with Merit in Public Speaking, was awarded colours in the sport of Eton Fives and was judged the best squad commander in the annual Yates Drill competition. He is also a recipient of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Ben will study Economics at Cambridge.

Anna Nicholls– 3 A* in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics; A* in the EPQ. 

Anna is the first girl to represent Berkhamsted School’s 1st XI cricket team and is enjoying her fifth season in the Senior Middlesex Ladies’ squad. She has been part of the England Women's Development Programme (EWDP) for four years and more recently has been selected as part of the Yorkshire Diamonds squad this summer in the first Women's Kia T20 Super League series. She was awarded a Silver medal in the British Chemistry Olympiad and Bronze medal in the British Biology Olympiad. Anna has secured a place to study Medicine at Leeds.

Phoebe Smith – 1 A* in Physical Education and A grades in Biology and Psychology

Phoebe joined Berkhamsted Sixth as a Sports Scholar from Abbot’s Hill and immediately made her mark on the Lacrosse pitch. As captain of the 1st XII this year, Phoebe led her team to victory at the National Championships, the first time in 16 years that Berkhamsted has achieved the most coveted prize in School lacrosse. At a national level Phoebe co-captained the England U19 lacrosse Home Internationals team and was selected for the U19 England Touring squad. Phoebe will study Physiotherapy at Cardiff University.

Elizaveta Timoshchenko - 1 A* in Photography and A grades in Art & Design and Sociology

Elizaveta joined Berkhamsted in Year 12 as an international boarder from Russia; she has thrived at the school, particularly within Berkhamsted’s highly rated art department. She was Photography Editor for INK student magazine and House Captain for the girls’ boarding house. Elizaveta has secured a place to study History of Art at University College London.  

Ralph (Pui Fei) Tam – A* in Mathematics, A grades in Chemistry and Chinese and B in Physics

Another international student who has fared well during his time as a boarder at Berkhamsted, Ralph joined in Year 12 from Hong Kong and has managed to secure a place on the highly selective Pharmacy course at UCL.  

Ed Tidey – A* in History, A in Business Studies and B in Economics

Ed has been a stalwart of rugby at Berkhamsted, representing the 1st XV since he was in Year 11. He was a member of the unbeaten 1st XV in Year 12 and captained the squad during his final year when the team produced another highly successful season, losing just one game out of 15 fixtures. He is part of the Saracens U18 Academy. Ed had the honour of waiting on Her Majesty the Queen’s table during the lunch held as part of her visit to the School on Friday 6 May. He goes on to study Management at Nottingham University.

Other notable results:

The following students achieved at least 3A* and an A grade:

Omar Hatteea  – 3 A* in Chemistry, Mathematics and Further Mathematics and an A in Economics; an A* in the EPQ. Omar plans to study Economics at Cambridge.

Frederick Wilkinson– 3 A* in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and an A in History. Frederick plans to study Medicine at Cambridge.

Anna Broughton– 3 A* in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics and an A in the EPQ. Anna holds a DofE Gold Award and will study Biochemistry at Oxford.

Jeremy Steed– 3 A* in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics. Jeremy achieved a DofE Gold Award and has secured a place to study Materials Science at Oxford.

The following six students achieved at least 2A* and an A grade:

Seoin Chai, Kwun Yin (Jason) Chen, Olivia Iacoponi, Charlotte Lee, Katya Savill, Andrew Wells.

Over and above those mentioned above, the following 24 students achieved at least three A grades (those whose results included an A* grade appear in italics):

Amish Adodra, Imogen Allport (also achieved an A* for her EPQ), Robert Barrow (also achieved an A* for his EPQ), Natasha Blake, Vladyslav Bondarenko, Samantha Bousfield, Jessica Campbell-May, Cheuk Kit (Chucky) Cheung, Scott Duguid, Richard Emanuel, Stuart Frame (also achieved an A* for his EPQ), Nicola Godsell, Verity Greenway (also achieved an A* for her EPQ), Katya Khazaneh, Hip Wing (Zachary)Lau, Hon Yin (James) Leung (also achieved an A for his EPQ), Robert Nash (also achieved an A* for his EPQ), Annabel Prowen, Jack Roalfe, Nicholas Rosenhagen-Christensen, Monty Thompson (also achieved an A for his EPQ), Imogen Tyer, Chloe Vialou-Clark, Frederick Yates (also achieved an A for his EPQ).

More facts and figures:

Percentage of A* grades- 15%

Percentage of A* / A grades -45.5%

Overall pass rate (A* - B)- 75.8%

Overall pass rate (A* - C) -92.5%

Overall pass rate (A* - E) - 99.6%

SCHOLARSHIPS 

Two or more Sixth Form Academic Scholarships (Incent Scholarships) of value up to 100% are available for September 2017 as well as a Full Science Scholarship for talented students who aspire to study Science or Medicine at university – for further details contact the school on 01442 358001.

SIXTH FORM OPEN DAY – Thursday 29 September 2016

Berkhamsted School will hold an Open Day on Thursday 29 September 2016, from 5pm – 7pm for prospective Sixth Form students. On Friday 30 September the Pre-Prep (Haresfoot campus) and Prep will be open to prospective pupils and their parents from 9am - noon, and Senior Girls and Senior Boys from 3.30 pm – 6.30 pm.

Patrick, who joined Berkhamsted in Year 7 from Griffin House School, has secured a place at St John’s College, Cambridge to study Natural Sciences. He achieved A* grades in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Further Mathematics (Additional) and Physics. He also completed an Extended Project Qualification, an evaluation of Einstein’s argument with Nils Bohr, for which he was awarded an A*. 

Richard Petty, Headmaster of Berkhamsted Sixth, is delighted that Patrick has achieved such a stellar set of results. “In many ways it comes as no surprise as Patrick has performed at an exceptional level academically throughout his career at Berkhamsted.” 

Mr Petty explains that Patrick has been among the top performers in both the British Chemistry and Physics Olympiads over a number of years. “It culminated this year in Patrick winning a Gold award and a place in the second round of the Chemistry Olympiad at Cambridge University in April. He also secured a Gold in both Paper 1 and 2 of the traditional Physics Olympiad as well as the newer British Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad.  

“Patrick’s qualities as a scientist are also complemented by his talent for explaining scientific issues: his communication skills are hugely impressive, as shown by his Grade 8 Distinction in the LAMDA Speaking in Public examinations.  It has been such a pleasure for us to work with Patrick.”

His performance in the Physics Olympiads earned Patrick a place on the five person team that competed in the International Physics Olympiad in Zurich, Switzerland during July, although he was unfortunately unable to travel to Zurich due to illness.

Patrick comments: 

Berkhamsted School students are celebrating an excellent set of GCSE results with 34.7% of subjects passed at A* grade and A* - C grades recorded at 97.1%. Over three quarters of the cohort of 169 pupils (131) achieved results that included at least one A* grade.

Principal Richard Backhouse says: 

Nine pupils earned a full house of 10 A*s (excluding Short Course Religious Studies). Congratulations go to Isabel Green, Eloise Groves, Sarah Levin, Sophie Roberts, Ella Taggart and Kathryn Warburton from Berkhamsted Girls and Jonathan Masters, Dominic Peachey and Edmund Wilson from Berkhamsted Boys for achieving a flawless set of grades.

While 24 pupils (14.2%) secured at least eight A* grades, often considered the platform from which Oxbridge applications can be launched, many more students provided further evidence of the School’s firm belief that outstanding academic achievement comes as a consequence rather than instead of an enthusiastic commitment to the wider life of the School community. The following pupils exemplify this and there are many similar examples of students excelling on a number of fronts, as well as the academic:

•Edmund Wilson (11 A*s - including Short Course RS, an A grade in Additional Maths and an A* in the HPQ*) is a talented musician and actor who has delighted audiences with his performances on many occasions since joining the School in Year 7 from Chesham Prep. He achieved his ABRSM Grade 8 with Distinction on the cello and was awarded Arts Colours for his contribution to both music and drama. He also plays the guitar, piano and sings, won the Old Berkhamstedians’ Reading competition and is the Politics editor for INK, the student magazine. Outside of school he has auditioned successfully for the National Youth Music Theatre and the National Youth Theatre. He was a House Prefect in Greenes.

* HPQ – the Higher Project Qualification equates to a GCSE half course

• Dominic Peachey (11 A*s - including Short Course RS and an A grade in Additional Maths) joined Berkhamsted Prep from Swanbourne House in Year 3.  He has represented the School at the Salter’s Chemistry Festival and achieved Gold Awards in the Intermediate Mathematics Challenge.  A member of the School’s 1st XI hockey team, he has also received County honours in hockey. Dominic was School Council Rep for Loxwood in Year 11.

•Jed Thirkettle (10 A*s - including Short Course RS, 1 A grade, an A in Additional Maths and an A in HPQ) was House Captain for Loxwood House and received Arts colours for his contribution to drama at the School. Jed, who joined Berkhamsted from The Beacon in Year 9, has done much to raise awareness of Muscular Dystrophy at the School and has raised thousands in recent years for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. He has also competed for the South of England Para Table Tennis team and has completed the DofE Bronze Award.

•James Doyle (9 A*s - including Short Course RS, 2 A grades, an A in Additional Maths and an A in HPQ) is another talented actor who received Arts Colours this year. Along with Edmund Wilson, James was instrumental in his house, Greenes, winning the House Drama competition last year. He has completed his DofE Bronze Award and is a member of the School’s Climbing Club. He was a House Prefect in Greenes and will take up the role of Culture Editor of INK, the student magazine in Year 12.

•Sam Quinn (8 A*s, 2 A grades and an A in Additional Maths) was House Captain for Cox’s House and has represented the School’s A teams in Rugby, Football and Cricket, and was a member of the cricket squad that toured Sri Lanka during the Easter holidays. Sam joined Berkhamsted in Year 7 from the Gateway School. 

•Kathryn Warburton (10 A*s, an A in Additional Maths and an A* in the HPQ) has performed in numerous concerts, recitals and productions as both a singer and actor. She has achieved a LAMDA Grade 6 with Distinction in Acting and has also completed her DofE Bronze Award. . Kathryn was House Captain for Old Stede.

•Isabel Green (10 A*s) is a musician who has contributed to many concerts and recitals throughout her time at Berkhamsted and was one of the musicians who played during the visit by Her Majesty the Queen in May. She sings, plays the flute to Grade 7 level, has achieved School Colours in both music and sport, a LAMDA Grade 6 with Distinction in Acting and her DofE Bronze Award. Isabel was House Captain for New Stede.

•Alexandra Marriott (9 A*s, 1 A grade, an A in Additional Maths and an A* in the HPQ) is a talented sportswoman who was part of the 1st XII Lacrosse team that won the National Championships earlier in the year. Alexandra has also completed her DofE Bronze Award. Alexandra was a Prefect in Wolstenholme House.

•Madeleine Bentley (10A*s - including Short Course RS - and an A grade) is a talented artist who has won individual prizes for her sculpture and art during her time in senior school. She is also active in drama and coaches younger pupils on drama courses outside of school.  Madeleine, who joined in Year 7 from Bridgewater School, has completed her DofE Bronze Award.

45.6% (77) of the 169 pupils achieved at least eight A*/A grades amongst their results and one in four (43) students achieved at least 10 A*/A passes. 27.8% (47) achieved straight A grades across all of their GCSE subjects.

The following 24 pupils gained results that included eight A* grades or higher (excluding Short Course Religious Studies). All pupils whose names are in italics also achieved an A grade in Additional Mathematics.

•10 A* - Isabel Green, Eloise Groves (11 A* including an A* in French taken in 2014), Sarah Levin, Sophie Roberts, Ella Taggart, Kathryn Warburton (and an A* grade for HPQ), Jonathan Masters, Dominic Peachey and Edmund Wilson (and an A* grade for HPQ).

•9 A* - Madeleine Bentley, Alexandra Marriott (and an A* grade for HPQ), Susannah Taylor, Jed Thirkettle and Emily Williams (and an A* grade for HPQ).

•8 A* - Christopher Cox, James Doyle, Joe Harris, Hannah Lansdell, Eleanor MacKenzie, Sophie Oliver, Samuel Quinn, Emma Tuinema, Lauren Preston and Thomas Ross.

Subjects in which students fared particularly well included English Literature, Modern Foreign Languages, History, Maths and Religious Studies.

The majority of students will go on to study at Berkhamsted Sixth, where 15% of A levels passed last week were graded at A*, 75.8% were at A* - B and nine students with Oxbridge offers secured their places.

Berkhamsted School 2016 GCSE Results

Overall pass rate (A* to C)- 97.1%

Overall pass rate (A* to B)- 88.1%

Overall pass rate at A*/A grades -66.7%

Percentage results at A* grade- 34.7%

 

Sam Spencer (above and far right in the back row in team photo below), Year 11, was selected for the ISFA academy festival at Oakham in August among UK’s top young players. 

The three day event consisted of training and matches involving players who are currently in football academies.Sam played every minute of every match firstly against Rotherham Academy then Bradford and finally Leyton Orient Academy. 

The team competed among 17 of Europe’s strongest nations at the Tudor Grange Leisure Centre in Solihull over bank holiday weekend. 

George Jackson (Year 5) achieved a place in the top 10 in the second round of this national competition, which was hosted at Berkhamsted Prep on Thursday 15 September. 

Competitors were tasked with learning Korean over the summer holidays in preparation for the semi-final. To qualify for the second round, competitors had to achieve top scores in their region in the first round, which required them to learn Romanian.

Last year, Severin was one of 33 children who made it to the final stage from over 1,100 who had taken part in the qualifying rounds around the country. His route to the final required him to learn Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese and finally Modern Arabic.

The national final will take place in London Olympia on 14^th October. Severin will be tested on his knowledge of Swahili, which he has until then to learn.

Well done to all our linguists for their dedication to the competition and good luck Severin for next month!

Berkhamsted’s semi-final competitors (below) were Avaani Khare (Year 5) , Kaja Ziembaczewska (Year 4), George Jackson (Year 5) and Severin Maltere (Year 6).

Headteacher Karen O’Connor is thrilled to be able to share the overwhelmingly positive inspection findings with parents and staff at the start of the new academic year: “All aspects of our Early Years provision were judged as outstanding; I was especially proud of the finding that ‘the emotional well-being of children is a priority in this caring, nurturing setting’ while recognising that we ensure the children ‘make excellent, continuous progress’. It captures our philosophy perfectly.”

The Principal of Berkhamsted Schools Group, Richard Backhouse, is delighted the ISI report acknowledges the exceptional professionalism and dedication of the staff at both the Day Nursery and Pre-Prep: “The inspectors recognised that, underpinning the outstanding personal development, behaviour, welfare and outcomes of the children in our care, is a superb management and staff team who are working hard to maintain the quality of care and breadth of curriculum. It’s clear that children make an outstanding start to their education in Berkhamsted Pre-Prep.”

The Inspection report, which covered Berkhamsted Day Nursery (ages five months to three years) and the Nursery and Reception classes at Berkhamsted Pre-Prep, includes the following accolades:

• “Children at all stages of development within the EYFS make consistently rapid progress in relation to their individual starting points which culminates in almost every child achieving or, in many cases, exceeding the expected levels of development for their age.”
• “Leaders and senior managers have a shared and consistent vision for the continued development of the EYFS, driven by a nurturing and child-centred ethos.  … the quality of the provision is continually monitored to ensure that the high expectations for children’s development and the quality of care and breadth of the curriculum are maintained at the already high levels.”
• "Staff respond positively to children’s exploration and are highly adept at developing children’s self-initiated activities to draw out the learning potential.”
• “Children are confident, independent learners who relish the opportunities provided both indoors and outside. They enjoy coming to school and approach every activity with enthusiasm.”
• “Children demonstrate extensive knowledge of the natural world … Nursery children were able to describe the life cycle of a butterfly using appropriate terminology, and those in Reception named different plants a mini-beasts during a visit to the woodland classroom.”

The short notice inspection of the Berkhamsted Day Nursery and Berkhamsted Pre-Prep, which are part of the Berkhamsted Schools Group, took place on 21 and 22 June. The focus of the interim inspection was compliance with EYFS regulatory requirements. The full report is available via the link below:

Both Berkhamsted Day Nursery and Berkhamsted Pre-Prep will hold Open Mornings on Friday 30 September (9am – noon) and Saturday 1 October (10am – noon). To attend please book online here or call 01442 358001 for more information.

​Sheila started her job at the Boys' School in February 1977 with a background stronger in Chemistry than Physics and among an all-male Science department.

In little time Sheila settled in and developed a close friendship group within the department. With the obvious parallels to the other ‘Fab Four’, Sheila became ‘Ringo’ to the other members of the department - John Hughes, Paul Neeson and George Monk. The Beatles group at Berkhamsted enjoyed what Sheila describes as 10 glorious years working together throughout the late 70s and early 1980s. 

Outside of the lab and classroom setting, her school adventures included trips to Osmington Bay, Skern Lodge and Whipsnade Zoo.  Versatile and explorative by nature Sheila also supplemented her regular job with various roles at the school including working in the kitchen, the boarding house and cleaning.  

At one point, some 12 years into the job, Sheila actually started working as a technician at another school. It lasted just one term, before she returned to Berkhamsted School. The history books should perhaps document this exchange as merely a short term loan! 

In Sheila’s time in the department, the number of classes has risen from 19 to 31 and there are now double the amount of laboratories than there were in 1977.  Now, with practical lessons taking place in at least 50% of all Science lessons at Berkhamsted School, the team of technicians work tirelessly to prepare the equipment and resources for hundreds of students every week. 

In her time at Berkhamsted School Sheila outlasted four department leaders, John Hughes, David Metcalfe, Mike Metcalfe and Karen Best, but the surviving Head of Physics Dr Steve Redman has been left in the unique position of running the department without Sheila and her 40 years of experience. 

Michaelmas is a busy and exciting term in 2016 for the Physics department, which welcomes two new members of staff including the new technician. 

Highlights include a trip to Geneva for 22 Sixth Form students to visit the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), home to the Large Hadron Collider – the world’s largest and most complex experimental facility.

The David Case Pavilion was officially opened by David's brothers, Andi and Richard (above), themselves Old Berkhamstedians (OBs), at an event attended by over 250 guests on Saturday 17 September. The guests included many members of the 1st XV school rugby team captained by David in 1982 as well as James Rodwell, OB and member of the GB Rugby Sevens team that won silver medals at the Rio Olympics.

Rio silver medallist James Rodwell (left) with David Case Pavilion campaign ambassadors, from left Chris Nicholls, Andi Case, Sue Rodwell, Richard Case and Sue Wolstenholme.

The contribution made by members of the Berkhamsted School community in bringing the new pavilion to fruition were acknowledged by the School’s Principal Richard Backhouse: “So many people have given their time, contacts and energy with such generosity. And thank you to those who have given financially. Some have bought bricks, pegs or paving stones. Some donated auction lots, or purchased them.

“Particular and special thanks are due to our major donors, including Mr James Owlett whose generous legacy sponsored the clock tower and whose daughter is with us today, but most especially to the Case family. Without your generosity, we simply wouldn’t be celebrating this amazing building today. You have made this building possible, and we’re all delighted that it will bear your family name; we are so glad that three generations of your family are able to be with us today. On behalf of all pupils present and future, thank you.”

The David Case Pavilion and its clock tower, sponsored by a legacy from Mr James Owlett.

Mr Backhouse added: “The David Case Pavilion stands as a witness to the pursuit of excellence and sportsmanship of our current and future pupils: the building literally looks out across the fields on which they play. But it also stands as a witness to the excellence and sportsmanship of one particular sportsman, who graced these fields over 33 years ago.” 

Richard Case (above) explained why the Pavilion was such a fitting tribute to his brother: “David loved sport. Whether it was rugby, hockey or athletics he always gave his utmost. Striving hard to compete and to win; yet he never lost the sheer joy of playing and he had a strong sense of fair play. To me he will always personify good sportsmanship in all its meanings and he demonstrated the Corinthian spirit.  That is why we think he is a great role model for all who use this wonderful new pavilion. We are sure that this building will witness many triumphs for Berkhamsted. ”

David’s younger brother Andi (above) spoke emotionally about what an inspiration David was to him personally and to others at the school at that time, and how he hopes that this Pavilion gives the School a venue to mark sporting achievements at the School and help inspire future sportsmen and sportswomen. 

Before and after the opening celebrations, triumph and sportsmanship were clearly evident on the pitches of Chesham Road Playing Fields. The 1st, U15A and U14B Lacrosse teams earned victories against North London Collegiate while the 2nd XII won their match against St James Senior Girls’ School. A showcase match between the Berkhamsted School 1st XII Lacrosse team, which won the National Schools Championship in 2016, against a team of Old Berkhamstedian lacrosse players who achieved international representation, resulted in the Internationals winning 7-4 (both teams pictured above). Emma Oakley, who captained the Internationals, accepted the winner's trophy from Mr Backhouse (below). 

On the rugby pitches in the afternoon, Berkhamsted’s teams won nine of 11 matches played against University College School, including a 33-5 win for the 1st XV wearing a special memorial shirt for the game with David Case’s name on the shoulder. A framed version of the same shirt was presented to Andi and Richard Case.

The Pavilion, which includes much-needed changing rooms, a first floor hospitality area with lift access and a balcony overlooking the playing fields, a first aid room and sports equipment storage, was designed by architect Gordon Innes of ConceptWorld and built by Tuskar overseen by the School’s Estates team.

Please find a link below to the report on the 1st XV match v UCS:

Honey Priestnall and Tegan Mcbride have received praise for their singing performance in front of a packed audience of over 500 people at Luton Hoo Hotel.

The pair from Year 9 received compliments from none other than James Bond star Colin Salmon for performances of ‘Don’t Worry About Me’ (Frances) and ‘The Climb’ (Miley Cyrus). 

The event was in support of Keech Hospice Care which raised over £53,000 on the night to fund support for local children and families with terminal and life-limiting conditions.  Honey and Tegan have since been asked to perform by the Sheriff of Bedfordshire at his forthcoming police charity event.

Ben Noithip, Director of Co-curricular Music said; “We are a department that promotes inclusivity as well as excellence and this is the latest in a plentiful stream of pupils who have achieved in local and national participation. 

“Congratulations to Honey and Tegan for their impressive performances in support of this very worthy charity.”  

The school’s first choice goalkeeper will attend a three day training camp at Lilleshall National Sports Centre. Only seven other players in England have reached this level and play in his position.

16 year old Xavi will benefit from high level training by national coaches and he will gain first hand experience of an international training camp environment in preparation for potential future involvement in the national squad. 

Throughout the year Xavi will enjoy an additional training course on a weekly basis working with national coaches in one-to-one sessions. For this he will earn 85 UCAS points. 

Xavi has long since been an integral part of Berkhamsted School’s Hockey teams.  In what was otherwise a tough 2013/14 season for the U14s, The Berkhamstedian reported Xavi’s heroics in goal which led to a call up to the county squad. 

Berkhamsted School is very sad to report the death of Des Keoghane on 11 October 2016 in Watford Hospital after a valiant fight against cancer.  

Des came to Berkhamsted in 1973 as Sergeant Major in the Combined Cadet Corps but had a period away from the School after his son Kevin was tragically killed on the RFA Sir Galahad in the Falklands War in 1982. During this time away, however, Des did not miss a Yates Drill or a General Inspection Day and was a great help supporting the CCF during the following 10 years.

When Fred Charnock took over the CCF in 1992, Des returned to his former job as Sergeant Major until Steve Carter arrived in 2002. Since then, Des continued his involvement with the Yates Drill competition and assistance on GI Day.  He helped with the organisation of seating and all the silverware at these events including for the visit of Her Majesty The Queen in May 2016 by which time he was very unwell. 

Music Award holders hosted the annual Scholars’ Concert on Thursday 6th October in the Old Hall, supported by an audience of parents, staff and friends. Over 25 items of high quality were heard during the evening, with performances from our youngest scholar in Year 4, Lucy Carter, right up to those seasoned veterans in Year 13 such as George Brandon, Bronte Capaldi, Olivia Currie, Alex Burgar, Alice Hart and Sam Cullen.

As always the atmosphere in the Old Hall was fantastic and the standard of performances inspiring for all musicians and audience.

Link below to see a gallery of photos:

Sixth Form House Music Competition

Nash House, overall winners of the Sixth Form House Music competition. 

The end of the first half term means that House Music season is upon us! In House rooms across the campuses, carefully selected pieces are rehearsed and fine-tuned ready for the big day. 

• Best Classical Soloist– Bronte Capaldi (Alto Saxophone), who performed Darius Milhaud’s Braziliera (Spencer)
• Best Soloist– Eloise Groves (Voice and Guitar), who performed Ed Sheeran’s A Team (Churchill)
• Adjudicator’s Discretionary Prize– Jonny Peniket (Voice and Guitar), who performed Damien Rice’s Amie (Nash)
• Best Ensemble– Churchill, who performed Amber Run’s Pilot
• Best House Song– Nash, who performed Queen’s Don’t Stop Me Now
• Best Conductor (The Gibbs Baton) – Alex Burgar, who conducted the Hawks ensemble’s performance of Duncan Sheik (arr. Burgar): Mama Who Bore Me (reprise)
• Overall Winning House (The Greene Cup) – Nash (pictured above)

Look out for further updates on the Girls’ and Boys’ House Music competitions on Thursday 20 October.

Click on the link below to see a gallery of photos and a short video of highlights, set to Eddie Amador's House Music, as played by 'DJ' Ottaway before the adjudicator's decisions were announced:

Sixth Form House Music 2016 from BerkhamstedSchoolsGroupVideo on Vimeo.

Churchill House - Best Ensemble

Eloise Groves (Churchill) - Best Soloist 

Bronte Capaldi (Spencer) - Best Classical Soloist

Berkhamsted School has hosted the The Alderney Bayeux Tapestry Finale, stimulating exciting history lessons for pupils in the local area. 

Housed at the school’s iconic Old Hall, the 10ft hand-stitched tapestry has been on display throughout the week until its return to Alderney. 

Berkhamsted is a historic 1066 location, and the work of art displays the phrase 'Here at Berchehasteda' in reference to the place where the Saxons surrendered to William the Conqueror.

Year 7 pupils from Berkhamsted Girls’ School, who have been studying the Norman conquest, were the first group to visit the tapestry. 

History Teacher Lucy Simson said: “Year 7 have enjoyed researching the Bayeux Tapestry. The Alderney Tapestry shows the pupils how the Norman conquest is still important and relevant today, and through studying it, the pupils are engaging with a broader debate on how historical sources are produced and for what purpose. 

“Seeing The Alderney Tapestry has also brought to life some of the key events at the beginning of William I’s reign in a vivid illustration, including the surrender of the Saxons here in Berkhamsted itself. Emphasising the significance of Berkhamsted in such an important part of English History has been really special.” 

In addition to the public viewing at Berkhamsted’s Civic Centre, the following schools visited Berkhamsted School to see The Alderney Bayeux Tapestry: 

Westbrook Hay

Chesham Prep

The Thomas Coram Church of England School