In this week's Roundup:
Head's Welcome | The Week Ahead | Key Term Dates | Noticeboard | Photo of the Week
Nursery & Junior | Senior & Sixth Form | Submit a Story
A message from
Rich Jones, Head.
I am largely a creature of habit, and my routines tend to be pretty consistent. It’s rare that I’m not out of the house by 07:20—lanyard on, keys in hand, and my trusty two-litre bottle of water swinging from my fingers. Though it’s only a short wander up the road, it’s usually quiet, with only the birds and the distant hum of the A1M for company.
Since lockdown (and showing my age), I’ve developed a fondness for birds—jays are a particular favourite—and I’ve even begun to recognise the songs of the regulars. Somewhat embarrassingly, I now use an app called Chirpomatic to help me identify birdsong. It's well used.
But for the past two months, as I’ve walked to work, I’ve heard a bird I just couldn’t identify—a loud, elusive call that would sound every morning. I’d stop, listen, and scan the trees. Nothing. Chirpomatic was no help. For two months, this creature had been squawking at me, and I had no idea what it was. Maybe, just maybe, I’d stumbled across something unusual—some rare migratory species making an unexpected stop on Barrington Road.
Maybe.
It’s one of my favourite words in the English language. Maybe is full of potential. It suggests possibility. It means things are not yet fixed—there’s still space for hope, discovery, and change. It also makes room for generosity: Maybe they’re having a tough day; Maybe they’re rushing for a reason. It opens doors instead of closing them.
Best of all, maybe sparks exploration. Maybe I’ll give this a try; Maybe I’ll go on that trip; Maybe if I give it one more go, it’ll work. “Certainly” can be heavy with limitation, but “maybe” is light, open, and liberating.
At St Chris, maybe is part of our daily vocabulary. It fuels our students’ curiosity, confidence, and willingness to take risks. From the Nursery to the Sixth Form, we see it constantly: students trying something new, doing something daunting, chasing an elusive goal. Maybe is the seed of inspiration that drives them to stretch beyond what they know.
Education shouldn't be about squeezing young minds into fixed moulds to pass exams and nod dutifully. It should be about lighting fires, fuelling ambition, and opening doors. And maybe is the key that unlocks that kind of education.
As for the mystery bird? Well, last Friday I finally solved it. My trusty Chirpomatic had mostly given up, but for a brief, thrilling moment, it suggested I might be hearing a Bearded Vulture. I was elated—until I realised they’re native to East Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and Tibet... not North Hertfordshire.
It turns out the noise came from the handle of my water bottle.
Maybe I should give up ornithology.
Notices
Junior School
Nursery Questionnaire
Hello Junior School families,
Just a quick reminder to complete the questionnaire we emailed on Monday regarding the potential for our Nursery to open during the school holidays.
Your feedback is very important to us, and will help guide our planning. Please complete the form by Friday 23 May.
Thank you to those who have already responded, it’s much appreciated.
Tea @StChris
We look forward to welcoming parents next Monday, 19 May for our Junior School Concert: Tea @StChris
Senior School & Sixth Form
Charity 24 Hour Run is in Full Swing!
Our 24-hour charity run is underway! From 9.00am this morning to 9.00am tomorrow (Saturday 18 May) students, staff and families are running or walking around the athletics track in support of two brilliant charities: TRACKS Autism and Sport in Mind.
Pupils joined in during the school day, with I Group to V Group (Years 7 to 11) running until 9.00pm. Sixth Form and staff are taking on the night shift, camping out on site.
Local pupils are invited back from 7.30am tomorrow for the final stretch, before we all come together for a final lap at 9.00am.
It’s not too late to support the cause!
Sport in Mind Just Giving Page
Make sure you follow us on Instagram for live updates @StChris_School
Thank you to everyone taking part and cheering us on!
Whole School
Thermomix Parent Event - Monday 19 May
Healthy Eating Made Easy!
Final reminder, we're excited to invite St Chris parents to a special Thermomix event on Monday 19 May at 6:00-7:30pm in the School Theatre.
At the event you’ll learn how to create quick, nutritious meals from scratch—effortlessly!
RSVP by emailing becky.belson@stchris.co.uk
We look forward to seeing you there for an inspiring and delicious evening!
Making a Splash with Water Safety Week
From 16–20 June, we’ll be diving into Water Safety Week across the Swim School and school swimming lessons, in support of the RLSS Drowning Prevention Week.
Throughout the week, pupils will take part in dedicated water safety sessions, learning important life-saving skills – from understanding beach flags to practising safe swimming techniques. Some groups will even take to the water in their pyjamas to experience what it feels like to swim in clothes.
Netball Star Natalie Metcalf is Coming to Hertfordshire! - Monday 25 August
We’re excited to announce that England Netball and Manchester Thunder star Natalie Metcalf will be in Hertfordshire for a special coaching event — and it’s open to all students in Year 5 through to Sixth Form (ages 9–16+)!
This is a brilliant opportunity to be coached by one of England’s top players — a Commonwealth Games gold medallist (2018), Netball World Cup silver medallist (2022), and former England co-captain.
📍 Date: Monday 25 August
📍 Venue: Stanborough School, Welwyn Garden City
💷 Cost: £25 per session
Sessions available:
- Ages 9–11 (Years 5–6): 9:00–10:30am
- Ages 11–13 (Years 7–8): 10:45am–12:15pm or 12:45–2:15pm
- Ages 14–16 (Years 9–11+): 2:30–4:00pm
- Back to Netball (open session): 4:30–6:00pm
- Adult Ladies (16+): 6:15–7:45pm
📧 Book your place:
Email hertsnetballevents@gmail.com with your preferred session and time. Please note, bookings are only confirmed once payment is received — and sessions are filling fast!
Wellbeing Hub
Teachers and parents from St Chris are empowered to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people through an innovative online platform provided by The Wellbeing Hub. Parents and guardians can sign up to use The Wellbeing Hub using the button below. We do encourage you to look through the extensive resources available, including podcasts, online courses, events and Q&As.
Further information can be found in a letter from Lizzie Hedderson, Assistant Head (Pupil Development and Wellbeing) here.
Register for the Wellbeing Hub
Free Waterpolo Taster Session - Sunday 25 May; 2:30-3:30
We are really excited to be able to confirm that the free Water Polo taster session with a coach from Hitchin Polo will take place on Sunday 25 May from 14:30pm-15:30pm.
RSVP by Wednesday 21 May; 12noon. Please sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/0e4jqQug0n
For any questions, contact Sarah Armstrong at saraharmstrong@stchris.co.uk
Barracudas Summer Holiday Camp!
Monday 28 July - Friday 22 August | For children aged 4½ to 14
Barracudas Holiday Camp is returning to St Chris this summer!
With over 80 exciting activities to choose from each week – including swimming, motorsports, archery, dance, drama, arts & crafts, an aqua slide and so much more – there’s truly something for everyone. Children can tailor their own day across six activity sessions!
⏰ Standard hours: 8:30am–5:30pm
🌅 Optional Early & Late Clubs: 8am–6pm
💥 Exclusive school discount: Save £20 on a full week or £4 per day with code HSCP25
🔗 Book now: www.barracudas.co.uk
Spaces fill quickly, so don’t miss out – a summer of fun awaits!
The Week Ahead
Nursery & Junior School
- Saturday 17 May: 24 Hour Charity Run
- Monday 19 May: Tea at St Chris (Junior School Music Concert); Thermomix Parent Event
- Tuesday 20 May: G Group (Year 3) Trip to Living Rainforest
- Thursday 22 May: H Group (Year 2) Canal Trip
- Friday 23 May: K Group (Reception) Trip to Whipsnade Zoo
Senior School & Sixth Form
- Saturday 17 May: 24 Hour Charity Run
- Monday 19 May: Thermomix Parent Event
- Tuesday 20 May: IV Group (Year 10) GCSE Drama Devised Performance
- Wednesday 21 May: IV Group (Year 10) Parents' Consultations
- Thursday 22 May: III Group (Year 9) PSHE Drop Down Day
- Friday 23 May: III - V Group (Years 9-11) English GCSE Trip 'An Inspector Calls'
Summer Term Diary
Monday 26 - Friday 30 May | Half term holiday |
Tuesday 3 June |
I Group (Year 7) Trip to Whipsnade Zoo IV Group (Year 10) GCSE Drama Devised Performance |
Wednesday 4 June | III Group (Year 9) Trip to Bletchley Park |
Thursday 5 June | II Group (Year 8) Illustrated Children's Book Workshop |
Friday 6 June | IV Group (Year 10) GCSE Geography Residential Weekend - Norfolk |
Saturday 7 June | IV Group (Year 10) GCSE Geography Residential Weekend - Norfolk |
Sunday 8 June | IV Group (Year 10) GCSE Geography Residential Weekend - Norfolk |
Monday 9 June | I Group (Year 7) Interhouse Swimming Gala |
Tuesday 10 June |
Senior School Sports Day |
Wednesday 11 June |
Junior School Sports Day I Group (Year 7) Trip to Hampton Court Palace II Group (Year 8) Science Trip to Cambridge LAMDA Examinations |
Thursday 12 June |
LAMDA Examinations Sports Award Evening |
Friday 13 June |
LAMDA Examinations IV Group (Year 10) Non-fiction talk and workshop IV Group (Year 10) Silver DofE Practice Expedition |
Saturday 14 June |
IV Group (Year 10) Silver DofE Practice Expedition III Group (Year 9) Bronze DofE Qualifying Expedition |
Sunday 15 June |
IV Group (Year 10) Silver DofE Practice Expedition III Group (Year 9) Bronze DofE Qualifying Expedition |
Monday 16 June |
K Group (Reception) Trip to Wicken Fen Water Safety Week Lower Sixth (Year 12) Mock Exams |
Tuesday 17 June |
Water Safety Week Junior LAMDA Showcase Lower Sixth (Year 12) Mock Exams |
Wednesday 18 June |
Water Safety Week D Group (Year 6) Trip to Sky Studios Lower Sixth (Year 12) Mock Exams G Group (Year 3) Residential to Thriftwood |
Thursday 19 June |
Water Safety Week Lower Sixth (Year 12) Mock Exams G Group (Year 3) Residential to Thriftwood Monte (Nursery) Sports afternoon |
Friday 20 June |
Water Safety Week Lower Sixth (Year 12) Mock Exams G Group (Year 3) Residential to Thriftwood |
Saturday 21 June | St Christopalooza Summer Celebration |
Monday 23 June |
E Group (Year 5) Trip to Woburn Safari Park Senior LAMDA Showcase |
Tuesday 24 June |
GCSE & A Level Art & 3D Design Exhibition I Group (Year 7) Transition Day |
Wednesday 25 June | I Group (Year 7) Transition Day |
Thursday 26 June |
I Group (Year 7) Transition Day Junior School Transition Day I-III (Years 7-8) Lower School Play 'Alice in Wonderland' |
Friday 27 June |
I-III (Years 7-8) Lower School Play 'Alice in Wonderland' V Group (Year 11) to Sixth Form Transition Day K Group (Reception) Morning Talk H Group (Year 2) Camp Out |
Monday 30 June |
K Group (Reception) Trip to Ashwell Springs Senior School Stage and Screen Concert |
Tuesday 1 July | Junior School Summer Gathering |
Wednesday 2 July | E & F Group (Years 4 & 5) Early Transition Event |
Thursday 3 July | V Group - Upper Sixth (Years 11-13) Summer Ball |
Friday 4 July |
H Group (Year 2) Morning Talk I-III Group (Years 7-9) Reports Issued Lower Sixth (Year 12) Mock Reports Issued Senior School ends at 1200 noon for LSP Week |
Saturday 5 July | II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District |
Sunday 6 July |
II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District III Group (Year 9) LSP to Morzine IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Monday 7 July |
LSP Week in Senior School I Group (Year 7) LSP to Les Vosges II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District III Group (Year 9) LSP to Morzine IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) STEM LSP to Geneva IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) LSP to Naples IV Group (Year 10) Elite Sports LSP to Loughborough Lower Sixth (Year 12) LSP to Paris IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Tuesday 8 July |
LSP Week in Senior School I Group (Year 7) LSP to Les Vosges II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District III Group (Year 9) LSP to Morzine IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) STEM LSP to Geneva IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) LSP to Naples IV Group (Year 10) Elite Sports LSP to Loughborough Lower Sixth (Year 12) LSP to Paris IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Wednesday 9 July |
LSP Week in Senior School I Group (Year 7) LSP to Les Vosges II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District III Group (Year 9) LSP to Morzine IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) STEM LSP to Geneva IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) LSP to Naples IV Group (Year 10) Elite Sports LSP to Loughborough Lower Sixth (Year 12) LSP to Paris IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Thursday 10 July |
LSP Week in Senior School I Group (Year 7) LSP to Les Vosges II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District III Group (Year 9) LSP to Morzine IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) STEM LSP to Geneva IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) LSP to Naples IV Group (Year 10) Elite Sports LSP to Loughborough Lower Sixth (Year 12) LSP to Paris V Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Friday 11 July |
1200 noon Academic Year ends I Group (Year 7) LSP to Les Vosges II Group (Year 8) LSP to Yorkshire and Lake District III Group (Year 9) LSP to Morzine Lower Sixth (Year 12) LSP to Paris IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Saturday 12 July | IV Group - Lower Sixth (Years 10-12) Golf LSP to Boston |
Careers Newsletter
Edition #10
Our weekly Careers Newsletter has a different theme and excellent links to further information to help students explore careers they might be interested in. It features up to date Labour Market Information, an Employer Spotlight and a University Spotlight. We encourage you to explore this resource with your child to help spark careers conversations at home.
If you have any further questions about Career Related Learning at St Chris, please contact Lizzie Hedderson.
Major Officials Newsletter
Edition #6
Please click on the link below to find out the latest updates from the St Chris Major Officials.
Nursery & Junior
Sport |
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U11 Rounders Team Shine in Sunshine Victory Our U11 rounders team put in a fantastic performance on Wednesday, securing a well-deserved win against Sherrardswood in the glorious sunshine. In the first innings, the team displayed impressive batting, excellent communication, and sharp fielding to finish ahead with a score of 8 – 5. The momentum carried into the second innings, where both teams battled hard, but our players held their nerve and edged out the opposition with a final score of 10 – 9.5. With excellent teamwork, strong batting, and quick decision-making in the field, the team demonstrated real skill, focus and determination. A huge well done to all the players; a brilliant team effort! |
Nursery (Monte) |
This week in Monte (Nursery), our youngest children have been exploring a very important topic – the effects of plastic pollution on our oceans. Through thoughtful discussions, the children learned about single-use plastics and the importance of recycling and reusing materials. They also considered eco-friendly alternatives, such as swapping plastic bottles for metal ones, showing real care for the environment. Putting their learning into action, the children used recycled materials to create fantastic junk-modelling sea creatures, including colourful octopuses and jellyfish. A meaningful and creative way to reflect on how we can all help protect our oceans! |
Reception (K Group) |
There’s a buzz of excitement in K Group (Reception) this week as the children have welcomed a brand new and rather wriggly class pet! On Monday, a caterpillar was discovered in the outdoor area, sparking a flurry of curiosity and investigation. Together, the class researched what kind of caterpillar it might be and what it likes to eat. After some thoughtful discussion, the children decided it could be a Jersey Moth caterpillar or perhaps a Sycamore Moth. To be sure, they’ve provided a variety of leaves including nettle, dandelion, bramble and ivy, and are keenly observing which ones disappear first. With a safe home, fresh water, and plenty of leafy snacks, the caterpillar is now settling in well. The children are looking forward to watching it grow and change – a wonderful way to connect with nature and learn through hands-on discovery. Later in the week, K Group (Reception) enjoyed some time in the vegetable patch, carefully watering their growing pea plants. Afterwards, they explored rhythm and sound using clapping sticks – with some fantastic listening and even a few brave leaders choosing their own patterns for the class to follow. To finish, the children helped add Hornwort to the pond – a special plant that adds oxygen to the water and helps keep it clean for pond life. A brilliant mix of teamwork, music and care for nature! |
H Group (Year 2) |
In Science this week, H Group (Year 2) took on the Water Wise Challenge with enthusiasm and a clear sense of responsibility. Pupils discovered how much water could be saved simply by turning off the tap while washing their hands, an eye-opening investigation that revealed we can save around four litres each time! It was a powerful reminder that small actions can make a big difference, and the children were proud of their contribution to protecting our planet. |
G Group (Year 3) |
G Group (Year 3) took their science learning outside yesterday to observe and compare different types of leaves — looking closely at shape, size and how many leaves each plant or tree had. They also discovered the difference between evergreen and deciduous trees and learnt about the crucial role leaves play in photosynthesis – helping plants make their own food! |
F Group (Year 4) |
F Group (Year 4) concluded their fascinating Science investigation into tooth decay by examining eggs that had been immersed in different drinks. They made some excellent close observations and were thoughtful in their discussions about what the results might mean for their own dental health. Alongside their Science work, F Group also spent time with Monte (Nursery) as part of our Reading Buddies programme. These sessions were filled with warmth and connection, as the older pupils read stories aloud, asked engaging questions, and even joined in with nursery rhymes like Round and Round the Garden. It was lovely to see the friendships forming between the youngest and older children. |
E Group (Year 5) |
E Group (Year 5) are having a wonderful time on their residential trip to the Isle of Wight – and we couldn’t be prouder of them! This morning, the group enjoyed glorious sunshine down at the beach, where they took to the water for an exciting kayaking session. Later in the day, children showed true bravery and determination as they stepped out of their comfort zones on the Trapeze, tackled the Climbing Wall, and took part in the Low Ropes course – all while encouraging one another every step of the way. There was fantastic teamwork on display during the Sensory Trail, as the children worked together to navigate the course, and plenty of laughter during Archery, where they gave Robin Hood a run for his money! 🏹 The group have also taken part in high-energy activities like Abseiling and the Giant Swing – pushing themselves, cheering each other on, and making memories to last a lifetime. We’re so proud of every single child for their courage, enthusiasm and support of one another throughout this adventure. |
D Group (Year 6) |
D Group (Year 6) enjoyed an unforgettable overnight adventure to the Sealife Centre in Hunstanton. After arriving safely, the children explored the beach, taking in the sights and sounds of the coastline, before delving into the fascinating world of marine life. This hands-on trip not only deepened their understanding of the natural world but also gave them the chance to demonstrate just how thoughtful and considerate they are. We were incredibly proud to receive glowing feedback from both members of the public and staff at the Sealife Centre, who praised the children’s excellent behaviour and warm politeness. One lovely moment stood out: several passers-by stopped to ask how we had encouraged the children to litter pick on the beach. Our answer was simple – we just asked if they’d like to help. They said yes without hesitation. A small gesture, perhaps, but one that speaks volumes. |
Senior & Sixth Form
Jayden Reeves Awarded Gold DofE at Buckingham Palace
Lower Sixth (Year 12) student Jayden Reeves was honoured at Buckingham Palace last Friday, receiving his Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Jayden completed an expedition in the Peak District, earned his black belt in kickboxing, coached young kickboxers in Newmarket, and developed his drumming skills. His dedication and achievement embody the spirit of St Chris!
Helen Pankhurst Visits St Chris
This week, the English Department organised a special talk for our IV Group (Year 10) with Helen Pankhurst, held in the school theatre.
Helen Pankhurst is a renowned women’s rights activist, author, and academic, continuing the legacy of her great-grandmother, Emmeline Pankhurst, and grandmother, Sylvia Pankhurst — both pioneering leaders of the British suffragette movement. Her work spans international development, feminist advocacy, and public education on gender equality.
We are incredibly proud of the respect, intellectual curiosity, and engagement our students demonstrated throughout the session. Their thoughtful questions explored complex and thought-provoking ideas, reflecting a deep understanding of the historical and contemporary issues raised.
Students engaged critically with themes of gender, social change, and personal identity — examining society across time and considering their own beliefs within it.
The integrity, authenticity, and maturity shown by our students were truly exceptional, and this event was a powerful example of their ability to think deeply and independently.
I am incredibly proud of them all.
IV Group Cricket Team Take on District Champions
On Wednesday afternoon, our IV Group (Year 10) cricket team put in a spirited performance against district league champions, Thomas Alleyne’s, in a closely fought match.
Facing a strong side filled with county and regional players, our team showed real discipline with both bat and ball, narrowly missing out as they chased 147 in just 15 overs. It was a fantastic team effort, with everyone playing their part. A special mention goes to Nathanial, who batted with composure and confidence, retiring on 25. Well done, all!
V Group Final Science Lesson
Last Friday, for V Group's (Year 11) last Science lesson before their study leave, we fired a cork (or two) into the ceiling using a camera flash! The class was joined by our Sixth Form chemists who are learning about the chemistry behind this explosive demonstration. We have marked this year's corks with an appropriate drawing to remember this time in history.