St. Christopher`s The Hall School Annual Newsletter Summer 2012

St. Christopher’s The Hall School
Annual Newsletter
Summer 2012
© 2012 St. Christopher’s The Hall School
www.stchristophersthehall.org.uk
As always, it has been a busy and pretty non-stop year, so it is good
to be able to sit down, take a breath, log on and see what has been
achieved by the children.
It has been amazing to think that we have used the new Reception
building for over a year now and the way in which it has been of
benefit to the whole school has been impressive. We were
particularly pleased when it won an RIBA award!
Inevitably, and sadly, we have said ‘farewell’ to some long-standing members of staff;
Mrs Gillow and Mrs Baker from Kindergarten, Mr Sanceau from Y6 and Miss O’Mahony
and we wish them well for their future. We look forward to welcoming new members of
staff in September.
So now, I invite you to make a cup of tea, read on and take
stock of what has been an incredible year.......
Andrew Velasco
Another very happy and
successful year in Lower
Kindergarten, we have had lots of fun playing and
learning together.
As you can see we loved celebrating the Queen's
Diamond Jubilee together, we made flags to wave
and crowns to wear!
Our Fun Day had an Olympic theme, we were all
Olympians for a day.
Look at us on all these different bikes! It was
great and even our teachers were forced to
join
in!
On a personal note, I would like to thank all
the wonderful staff, children and parents
that I have had the pleasure to have worked
with during the last 27 years. I have had a
fantastic time and will miss you all. St
Christopher's will always have a special place
in my heart.
Love from Mrs Gillow.
Upper Kindergarten C had a great year learning lots of new
and exciting things.
In Michaelmas term we all had great fun dressing up for
Roald Dahl Day and performing our Nativity.
In Lent Term our topic was centred around opposites. For
example, we were able to experiment with light and dark in
the play house by sticking black out paper on the windows,
and then we used torches in the dark. Great fun.
Summer term was very very busy and featured the Queen's
Jubilee, Sports Day, the Teddy Bear's Picnic, and we all had
fun at our Olympic Morning where we were all given gold
medals for doing our best.
This concluded another happy year in Upper Kindergarten.
I liked it when
went to Kelsey
Park
I liked making
the torch
work.
I liked
learning
to write.
Doing the
tasting
I liked
playing with
my friends
Working at
the writing
table.
Bike day
was great !
Real science
like the rocket
mouse
I liked
learning
about Miro
Having the
school photo
taken
Playtimes
are the
best bit.
I can read
now
Going to
the
Planetarium
m
Learning about
the planets and
Neil Armstrong
Activities in
the
afternoon
Our Hockney
picture was
fun
The hundred
number square
and splat.
Making
telescopes
and playing
with them.
Taking the
potatoes
out of the
grow bag.
Going to
High Elms
and
painting
Hockney
pictures.
Drawing snails and
making cakes with
the playdough.
Everything
but
especially
when the
snail
slithered up
my arm.
Experiments
in science.
Playing
mums and
dads in
the cafe.
I just love
learning it’s
all fun!
Football
at
playtime.
Learning
to read.
Year 1 have had a wonderful, action packed time. Over
the year there has been plenty of active learning, as the
photos suggest. Both classes have worked closely together
in a variety of activities that have developed their
investigation and collaboration skills. In the Michaelmas
term the children and teachers took part in ‘Roald Dahl’
day and also worked together to produce art inspired by
Andy Goldsworthy. In the Lent term we were lucky to be
able to have some interactive workshops led by Spinnaker
Trust exploring the Easter story as part of the children’s RE
curriculum. We also used any opportunity to investigate
Science concepts, such as air as a force. The Summer term
saw the children enjoying their trip to Hever Castle, where
they were able to identify features of a castle first hand...as
well as have fun in the playground and get wet on the
water maze!!
With such a busy year, it is safe to say the children have had
a lot of fun and have learned so much...definitely time for a
rest before the adventures of Year 2 begin!
Year 2
Hall Place
When we first came into Year 2
everyone was a bit scared. I was
amazed by the Museum of London.
We smelled some awful smells from
one hundred years ago. I loved it.
We went on our coach to
Bexleyheath to Hall Place. We
learned about the seaside then and
now. I’ll tell you about our fantastic
trip. Imagine you were back in
Victorian times. Going to the
seaside was one of the best treats
ever! You see a man in posh clothes
with a big top hat, he is Mr Rich. He
is going to the seaside. You see a
lady with posh clothes with a
bonnet, she is Mr Rich’s friend. She
is going to the seaside. When they
arrived they bought ‘penny a lick’
and showed off their new clothes
and went swimming. What a nice
day!
Amy Woods 2A
Hall Place
We were learning about the seaside
in the Victorian times (1900) and
now (2012). I was a man called ‘Mr
Rich’ and he introduced Bank
holidays. I was wearing a black top
hat, waist-coat and a jacket.
Edward Warner 2C
India Hansra 2C
What it was like in Year 2
Hastings
In Year 2 you go to Hall Place in
Bexleyheath. It is lots of fun. In my
group our leader was Miss Atkinson
and the children were Morgan,
Henry, and Polly and I. When we
went into the garden Morgan
thought there was a maze. It was
like a maze, but the walls were very
low. Morgan was the last one out
and then we played Pooh sticks in
the river then we had to go back to
school.
I loved being in Year 2, we did lots
of things, I especially loved Miss
Atkinson. On Tuesday the 29th May
we went to Hastings. First we went
on the chair-lift, it was a terrifying
sight at first. When we got to the
top we went to the castle ruins and
saw a film on the Battle of Hastings.
On the way down got over my fear
of the lift. After lunch we went to
the Fisherman’s Museum.
Makeda Thomas 2A
St Mary’s Church
At St. Mary’s Church we went on a
nativity play. First we saw Mary
making some bread, and then we
saw the sheep and pretended to be
shepherds. Then we saw an angel
rising up telling Mary she was going
to have a baby. At the end we went
into the kings’ tent we could dress
up as kings. It was brilliant.
Henry Chan 2C
Kirsty Martin 2A
Year 3
September 2012 was a time for new beginnings as 36 pupils excitedly made the transition
to the Prep School and one
new teacher, Mr Gary Iles
began to teach 18 members of
3I. Working very closely with
Mr Chris Organ of 3O, a happy
and rewarding year
has followed in which everyone has benefited from the
wise counsel and learning support of Mrs Rosemary
Smith. Highlights of the Michaelmas Term included a
very enjoyable visit to the British Museum where
pupils marvelled at the size and beauty of the Rosetta
Stone and witnessed for themselves the ginger hair
still growing on a mummified man from the
Egyptian period. All pupils dressed in the style of
Roald Dahl book characters in October to celebrate the author’s birthday and attended for the
first time Christmas celebrations in the Prep School hall with great enthusiasm.
The Lent Term was extremely busy and saw many sporting and academic achievements. 3I
and 3O made a very enjoyable and interesting visit to the National Gallery to look
particularly at the work of artists being studied in lessons. When asked to sketch a drawing of
something they could see, one talented artist produced a gorgeous drawing of Mrs Smith
which seemed an interesting choice when surrounded by so many masterpieces. Back at
school follow up work was done in Sketch Books to an extremely high standard. All pupils
prepared for Easter in a very meaningful way and discussions in RE lessons were stimulating.
The lives of Ghandi, Nelson
Mandella and Martin Luther
King were reflected upon in
a challenging way.
The Summer Term means
examinations, Sports Day,
the tropical heat of
the Swimming Gala and the
Drama Production.
However, the agreed
highlight for everyone was
an overnight stay at
Swattenden. Led by Mr
Organ and in glorious sunshine we all enjoyed 2 days in the Kent countryside, participating in
outdoor activities. The food was plentiful and delicious and almost all of the group enjoyed a
good nights sleep. Special thanks must go to Mrs Smith for so generously joining us on the
trip and for being kind and attentive at all times of night and day. On the penultimate day 3I
and 3O travelled on the 227 bus to Crystal Palace Park for a final fun day together. Everyone
can look back on a wonderful year when great academic progress has been made by
everyone, great sporting success has been enjoyed by both boys and girls teams and strong
friendships have been formed.
Thanks to everyone for their hard work, enthusiasm and support throughout a wonderful year.
MEMORIES OF YEAR 4
When we went to Bignor Roman Villa we had fun dressing up in Roman costumes. Emily Martin
The first school trip we went to in Year 4 was Bignor Roman Villa. It
was really fun because we dressed up in Roman clothes. Later we
ground flour with a stone . It was really hard but it was funny.
Thomas accidently kissed Miss Arnott’ s hand! Sophie Eckel
Really hard but it was really funny. Thomas accidently kissed Miss
One of my memories in Y4 was when I did
hand. 1 drum exam. I was the only
One of my memories Arnott’s
is of my Grade
an advertisement on a chocolate muffin
person in Y4 to pass with merit. Luke Ahearn
with melted chocolate inside... mmmmmm!
Sophie Eckel
Nicholas Smith
When I went to Kingswood we were
doing crate stacking and I got the
highest.
Grace O’Brien
When we went to Kingswood we did an activity called finding fin which is where we visited a river. I
was in a group with Jake, Logan and Emily M and we found a massive freshwater crayfish. Anna
Porritt
I remember when we went to Grosvenor Hall and we went to the curriculum maze and when the
other team went into a room, we had to speak into a microphone to tell them what to do, it was
really fun!!!! Noah Cassidy
At Kingswood when we were at the
pool party I did the most fabulous
dive without a splash. Sophie Ellison
My favourite memory is when we made cakes in
science and decorated them. It took us the whole
afternoon to make them. Indigo Gentry
I remember when I had my favourite lesson ever. It was in ICT when we made our own
video games. My second memory is when I made bread. At first it was all gooey and
sticky. I decided to make mine in the shape of Harry Potter. Thomas Ryland.
We went to Sevenoaks School and I remember Miss Arnott and Thomas doing a Scottish
dance and then they had to roll a heavy ball. The aim of the game was to roll the ball the
furthest. Miss Arnott obviously won! Mia Fitch
We went to the art room and for the first time we started making bread. It was the best.
We were all so excited . It was such great fun. Katy Reeson
When we made bread mine came out like a fat snow man and Jake’s came out and
looked like an angry carrot. Logan Arnold Lee
My favourite memory was when we went to see
the Queen. We walked all the way into Bromley and
we only saw her for about 5 seconds. Beth
Thompson
My favourite moment in Year 4 was in Art . We had to try
out ways to make different water effects. For one we
rubbed the brush in blue paint, then rubbed them in soap
and we painted in a swirly sort of way. Lottie Butler
Good bye Year 4 ! Looking forward to Year 5 in September.
Year 5
Cycling day was great –
we tried a penny farthing
bike, as well as a tandem.
Even though it was raining
we still had lots of fun!!
Our History projects about the
Stuarts and Georgians taught
us interesting facts about
London, and the English
language
Year 5 has been a lot of
hard work, but has also
been great fun !
I’ve loved learning how
to present my work in
the best possible way
One of our best trips
was to La Tasca
where we tasted
tapas
For the Queen’s Diamond
Jubilee we made a portrait
of her using postage
stamps, and called it Queen
of Queens
We’ve learnt lots
of different things
and are now
ready for Year 6
We’ve had a lot of fun
– with Mrs. Purton &
Mr. Woodhead
Thank you both !
5W is the best class ever! Sometimes it’s hard, sometimes it’s easy, but it’s
always fun! Mr.Woodhead makes you feel so welcome. You will remember the
days of Year 5, it’s such an experience! You’ll love Year 5 whatever happens!
Remember to stick to the
POWER!
P= presentation O= organisation W=
work E=effort R= reward. Year 5 has been the best year because we’ve had
so much fun and learned loads!
By Skye Cook & Amy Mason
Katherine Hincks
5W MEMORIES
Year 5 has been hard but enjoyable,
Everyone had a fantastic time!
Although there’s so much homework
Rewards like housepoints are worth it!
Fun is one word to sum up Year 5
I loved every day.
Various types of work,
Everyone loved Spanish!
Remember the POWER of 5W!
Every one of us had great fun.
Friday spellings, 5 revision ones!
Lively atmosphere in the classroom
Every night... homework!
Can you remember your first day?
Truly the best teacher, Mr Woodhead!
I’m so sad to leave
Oh, what a year of laughter!
Nought, one or two,it’s up to you!
Sorry I’m going to miss Year 5!
Herb Macpherson
Year 5 has been an amazing year,
Each day filled with fun activities
A giraffe collects the hats!
Right at the back, is the
Blackpool shrine!
Fridge selection for seat choice,
I’ve enjoyed myself so much.
Very funny and very fair,
Every day is awesome with Mr W!
Power is the key!
One billion...
Wacky ties round his neck!
Excitement when Mr W’s there,
Reflections of 5W have been
amazing!
Haiku
Lion
In the sun he lies,
Waiting for his prey to come.
Lion looks and finds. Tara
Heart
Harsh, hurtful, mean words,
Another heart is broken.
You can hear the cries. Rosa
Birds
Birds pulling up worms.
Young ones calling from their nest,
Singing their sweet tune. Hannah
Elephant
A large elephant,
Sat down to eat his dinner,
Beside a green snake. Matthew
Mum
Like a plant she grows,
Through thick and thin, and through storms.
She stays amazing. Amelia
Planes
Planes flying sky high,
Through the clouds and flying by,
To Australia. Timmy
Tornado
The tornado blows,
Violently it strikes a town.
We’re no longer safe. Alex
Northern Lights
Blue, green velvet night,
Snow glimmers shining brightly,
On hills way above. Millie
Poppies
Red Ribbon glimmers,
A black button holds it firm,
Waving gently, strong. Millie
Owl
Keep quiet, she’s here
With her ‘eyes of wonder’ life
Don’t pounce, or she’s gone. Morenike
Year Six Memories
In Lower Kindergarten, I remember we used to sing ‘There was a princess long ago’. I used to get scared they would
pick me to be the princess.
My favourite year has been Year Six. Here’s an example of why : In a Maths. lesson with Mr. Sanceau, he asked
someone a question. When they got the answer wrong, Mr. Sanceau shouted at the top of his voice,
‘Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!’ and everyone started laughing. Timmy
I joined St. Christopher’s in 2003. I was in Mrs. Gillow’s class. The main events I remember are the Teddybears Picnic
and Sports Day. Sports Day was lots of fun. I really enjoyed the tricycle race and received many sparkly stickers that I
proudly put on my P.E. top. I’m sad to leave St. Christopher’s but excited to move on. Valentine.
In Year Two, the thing I remember most vividly is our trip to Hastings. I remember a group of us going for a ride in one
of the cable cars. It was a very steep route because the cable car went from the bottom near the beach, all the way to the
end at the very top of the hill.
In Year Five, we went to London and to the Houses of Parliament where we had a tour. I remember when we stood on
the balcony, heard Big Ben chime and listened to the echo. Nikki
In Lower Kindergarten, my funniest memory is when we always used to fight over who got the Barbies. In Year Three,
in Miss Arnott’s class, when it was the hottest day of the year, Mrs. Gillow was having a water fight with the Kindies.
Suddenly, Miss Arnott was splashed in the back – then it was war!. Miss Arnott had her water gun and started shooting.
It was extremely funny. Libby
In Year Three, we went to Swattenden and did all sorts of activities, like water-raft and zip-wire. A fake crocodile had
been made in the lake where we went water-rafting and I remember that some people were really scared. In Year Five,
we went on a school trip to a Spanish restaurant. For dessert, I remember having the chocolate fondue – it was
delicious! Sarah
I remember, at Sayers Croft, we had been able to use the rafts without falling in (which might have been something to
do with the fact that we were told there was a crocodile in there!). When we went to sleep, my roommates said that I
was snoring the whole night – I got the most sleep that night!
It is scary starting a new school, especially when there are no friends coming with you. At least no one will be alone
about this and will be as scared as we are. Amy
In Year Six, we went to France and were at a market when I saw a group of people buying whole chicken legs. I wanted
to have one but couldn’t afford it so I went off , borrowed some money from Matthew and bought some sweets. I didn’t
get many though because Dominic ate most of them! Rory
Joining Year Six was such an honour. I felt so proud to be Girls’ Games Captain. I will never forget the time when Sir
read out my name. Maths. with Mr. Sanceau was ‘interesting’. We learned a lot of things but one of my nightmares was
FRACTIONS – dividing them, multiplying them, adding them and taking away!
I’m very excited about starting Bromley High and look forward to English, as my dream is to be an author. So, I hope in
secondary school that I will learn more about writing a proper story. I will miss being at St. Christopher’s but wish all
the best to the Year Fives in the future. Ruby
Y6 children have indulged in a fairly wide range of literary styles throughout the year. These
pieces of writing seem to us to have exhibited particular merit.
The Old Church
I knew I had to do it, I just didn’t have the guts; but I couldn’t let Granddad down. As I gingerly
walked down the aisle my heart was thumping out of my chest. The bright red roses tied to the blue, plastic
chairs mocked me and as I turned toward the long, brown grave, a single tear rolled down my pink cheek.
My mum looked at me, willing me to make my speech. I was shaking so much, but I finally made a
noise. “My granddad was amazing. I was always so close to him and I will never forget him”. It was so hard
for me that I couldn’t make the rest of my speech so I sat down next to my mum, who was blubbing as
always. That was almost two years ago. I remember feeling devastated, I just wanted to cry and cry.
I never used to go to church but I do now. Not to worship God, to worship Granddad. Every time I
go (every Saturday at 4.00pm) it reminds me of Granddad, him cheering me on at a basketball match -even
if they thrashed us. He had the kindest smile, and loving eyes and you would never see him not sucking an
old-fashioned toffee – he loved them.
Although I’m still sad, Grandma and my mum help me through it. I remember that his favourite
drink – sweet, milky tea – was, and still is available at Grandma’s house. It has been tough for her as well.
Granddad was ill – very ill – he had had cancer, that’s why he passed. I’m old enough now to know that
nobody lives forever, but I loved Granddad more than I love myself. He was great.
By Laura Compton, 6SR
The Mad House
My name is Joe Franklin. Five years ago something happened, that changed my life.
I was twelve at the time. There was a ragged mansion that was falling down. There was something about
it that made me curious. It was no more than five hundred yards away. My friend that lived five houses
down from me was interested in it as well. We planned to meet on the 26th of June to investigate. I had just
bought some walky-talkies that had a range of one kilometre; they would be perfect.
It was eight o’clock pm when we met, I walked along to his house. He was ready with two torches. As we
walked towards the mansion down an un made road, we tested the walky-talkies. They were fine. We
reached the house where once there had been a beautiful front garden, it was now a mass of weeds. My
friend knocked, I said,‘ You don’t still think that people live there do you?’
‘No but I was just checking,’ in fact the door was open so we went straight in. It was quite dark so we
turned on our torches. ‘I know,’ I said, ‘why don’t we split up then we can talk to each other through the
walky-talkies.’
‘Great idea,’ said my friend who is actually called Fred. I went upstairs as Fred looked in the downstairs
rooms. The stairs creaked as I walked up them and there was a musty smell that made me sneeze. ‘Hello,’
said Fred.
‘Hello,’ I repeated, ‘everything ok down there?’
‘Yes all fine,’ said Fred, ‘I think I’m in the living room,’
‘Oh right, I’m in a bedroom. There’s not much here,’
‘Nor down here. I’m just going into the kitchen.’ I carried on walking it was just a plain bedroom. ‘Oh my
goodness!’ shouted Fred.’
‘What?’ I yelled back, feeling a little anxious.
‘Get out!’ He screamed.
‘What’s happening?’ I shouted back.
‘There’s blood, blood every where, you need to get out!’ he yelled. It was followed by a silence. I did as I
was told and started walking back but what broke the silence was a yell, ‘aaaaaaaarrrggghhh!’ Fred
screamed through his walky-talky this was followed by a laugh a mean malevolent laugh, ‘ha ha ha ha ha.’ I
sprinted and screamed as I flew down the stairs at top speed. I turned the handle of the door it was locked.
I heard foot steps and turned around, it was a man, his face was covered with blood and he was laughing
that strange mean laugh again. The door was blown open and another man came in, he was holding a gun.
He shot the evil man in the head. ‘Are you all right?’ he said.
‘No not at all,’ I replied in a shaky voice. He picked me up and put me in a car and drove me back to my
house, ‘stay here,’ he went inside. My mum and dad and even my brother ran out. They all got in. ‘Where
are we going?’ I said.
‘To the hospital,’ my dad answered
‘Why?’ I asked.
‘Because I’m sure you’re in a lot of shock.’
When we arrived we all got out apart from the man, ‘wait,’ I said, ‘who are you?’ but he had already driven
off. My only worry now was what an earth had happened to my friend Fred?
Angus Harrington – 6SR
Encounter
“They should be around here somewhere,” I assured my two comrades.
We were pacing down the coast, peering up at the cliffs that I had desperately wanted to explore for many
monotonous years. Now I’d finally been given a chance, on an overcast day in September. I didn’t know
whether I should have brought my friends or not; but then, the more the merrier.
“Is that the one?” enquired Robin, pointing up at a wide, deep cave about ten feet above the ground.
Adam scrunched up his eyes to make his vision better through his thick glasses. He and I peered up and we
spotted what Robin was talking about. I told him this was the right cave and we began to climb.
We swarmed up the cliff, and by the time I had scrambled up, the others were barely halfway. I therefore
gave a helping hand to the two stragglers, and within no time we were all standing on the jagged floor of a
gloomy cave in a tall cliff.
It turned out that Robin didn’t have a torch and Adam had forgotten to bring his, which meant the only
source of light was my flashlight, with low battery, and my emergency candle. However, a horrible thought
had struck me: I had no matches. This exploration had to be quick.
The cave turned out to be much longer than even I had expected. The tunnel twisted and turned like a
snake in deep sleep. We were so exhausted by half-past-eleven we had to sit down and consume our
limited lunch. As well as us, the light’s energy was dying, and after a few minutes of flickering, it was as
dead as a dodo.
Then, heavy footfalls echoed on the ground; the gentle screech of the blade of a knife scratched the wall. I
ran straight away.
Sometimes I ran into a wall. Other times I tripped over rocks. Other times I tripped over Robin or Adam.
But we made it out eventually and we leapt into thin air, before plummeting into the sand. But we were up
in a flash, and we raced to Mum, who was quietly sitting in the car, perusing her new novel.
“Mum! Mum! There was a murderer in the caves!” I cried.
“Oh!” Mum laughed. “Didn’t I tell you about the bats?”
By Jack Cernoch
Blyton House
The last House meeting was a sad time saying goodbye to the Year
6s and thanking the officials for all their hard work during the Year.
It hardly seems possible that less than a year ago we were
welcoming Isabella Garrett, Lucy Brook and Dominic Marshall to
their roles of House Captain, Girls’ and Boys’ Games Captains
respectively. They have all performed their roles admirably and will
be hard acts to follow.
The year has seen some mixed fortunes. We won the House Netball
competition and were runners up in Cricket and Rounders. After the
first round we were in second place in the swimming gala but were
overtaken in the final relay race with only 3 points separating the
bottom 3 houses. It was a similar story at Sports Day but, in true
Blyton spirit, we were not discouraged and accepted defeat
gracefully.
Looking through my archives I found some photos of our Blyton
Officials – they all look so young!!Good bye to all our Year 6s . I wish
you every success in your new schools. Please keep in touch.
I hope you all have a fantastic summer and look forward to seeing
you all in September.
Miss Arnott – Blyton House Mistress
Campbell House Memories .
It has been an extremely busy first year for me as Campbell House
Housemistress. I was more than a little nervous as I faced all fifty six
children and staff at my first House Meeting of the year way back in
September of last year. However, I should not have been worried as the
Campbell children have been a delight to work with. They have all
worked so hard, not just academically, but with thoughtfulness and
originality, so that we have managed to retain the House Points shield for
another year. There have been relatively few demerits, which is very
encouraging. I send my thanks to all the children and may we keep it up
for another year!
I have some exceptional people to thank for making this first year so
special.
Lavinia Hann as House Captain has been an absolute star. She has foot
been a shining example of the qualities expected in a House Captain. The
birthday cards have all been delivered and she has been helpful and
encouraging to all the younger members of the house. Lavinia has also
been an enormous help to me and has regularly put her house duties
before other commitments.
Matthew Scally has been a confident and motivated Boys Games
Captain. Unfortunately Campbell is not at its best in the sporting field,
but Matthew has worked hard to make our boys teams go out and give the
best that they can.
Ruby Hotson has been an extremely encouraging Girls Games Captain
this year. Again, she has had a hard job to fulfill as Campbell does not
always excel on the sports field. Ruby has always appeared calm and
reassuring to the teams she has organised.
Other people who have stood out in this first year are: Katherine Hincks,
working hard to be a huge housepoint winner, Annabel Jeffery, always
unfazed and extremely helpful, James Peduzzi, our very supporting
head boy, Iyunade Tugbobo and Amelia O’Sullivan, for always being
happy and smiling and Lucy Taylor for her willingness to help.
I would also like to thank the entire swimming team who took part in this
years gala. I was so impressed at the way the children raced along the
pool, and my huge thanks go to all the members of the relay team who
did such a magnificent job that we came second! Well done everybody!
Perhaps next year we can try for first place!
We produced a wonderful house assembly last term, all down to the
bright ideas of Henry Molyneux, as we explained to the school all the
famous people who were called Campbell. I had not realised how talented
musically Campbell House is. The playing, singing and readings were a
delight.
It just leaves me to thank all the Campbell children and all the members
of staff yet again for a magnificent year. I am certainly looking forward
to the next.
Martine Sloper.
Campbell House .
HILLARY HOUSE REPORT
We have again worked as a team this year, under the guidance of JAMES ECKEL our HOUSE CAPTAIN, and
LIBBY JONES and OLIVER ARMSTRONG, our GAMES CAPTAINS. They are now leaving us to start at their
secondary schools, and we wish them all the best, and hope that they will keep in touch with us.
Monday assemblies have been a time when we have eagerly awaited the weekly House point results to
see whether James will be standing anywhere other than 4th place! On a few occasions he has moved to
third position, but generally we know our place!! However, there have been some fantastic individual
totals raised by members of the house, and we have again seen the same children standing for applause
regularly each week. Well done to all members for their continued grace in defeat each week!
SPORTS DAY 2012
Whilst we didn’t see the House win the trophy this year, there were some amazing personal
achievements on the track from Hillary members, and a lovely atmosphere during the whole event.
Our entry lap for the start of Olympic Sports Day
Jake Jones sprinting to victory !
Determination from Morenike Tomori
Frankie Talbot – hurdling to success!
Daniel Curtis, Dylan Byford & Kai Bennett
Joshua Tikare
Poppy Merrick leads our Year 3 girls
Relay handovers !
The annual Swimming Gala, was once again a sweltering day! The determination and effort shown by all
members of Hillary House was incredible, and it has to be said that they left their House Mistress in awe of
their achievements. Many of them take after her in their swimming ‘talents’, but at their age she would not
have been competing in public, so she was very proud to walk the pool with them, and see every member
complete their individual length, notching up many ‘firsts’ for a lot of them. When it came to the relay, we
were 2 men down due to illness on the day, but our team of swimmers pulled out all the stops to win that
event. A huge congratulations to them!
Finally, we are very proud of our Hillary member, Joshua Tikare, who has secured a role in the London musical
Matilda, and will be performing during the Michaelmas Term.
From MR.W, the HOUSEMASTER…
A big welcome to all readers of the
From LOUISE, HOUSE CAPTAIN...
Johnson House page. We have enjoyed
To be House Captain, you have to be
great success in the House this year
organised, confident and kind. Organised
and my thanks go to all Johnsonites
because you have to give out birthday cards
who have contributed enthusiastically
on time, arrange Johnson house meeting
in all areas…be they academic,
entertainers, and sort out house assembly.
sporting or performing, simply a great
Confident because every Monday you have
effort by everyone!
to read out the Housepoints loudly in front
An extra special thanks must go to my
of the whole school! Kind to all Johnson
team of helpers. Louise Wilson has
house members, and look after the younger
been a diligent House Captain, and
ones. Although I will be upset to leave
Alexander Smith and Tara Hinds have
Johnson, I will cherish the memories of
organised sporting events admirably.
being House Captain. Whoever takes over,
Indeed, we almost achieved a clean
I’m sure they’ll do a spectacular job! I just
sweep of victories on the sports field
want to say to everyone in Johnson
this year!
House…WELL DONE AND GOOD
Thanks too to staff members for their
LUCK!!! Keep earning those housepoints!
support and assistance towards the
development of the Johnson family!
JOHNSON HOUSEPOINT HEROES
Every Friday Mr.Woodhead receives the housepoints gained by all the classes from their form
teachers and records the results. Then he works out the weekly winner for each year group,
and also who has improved the most from the previous week. These results, the Housepoint
Heroes, are posted on the Johnson notice board for all to see.
In our Johnson house meetings, the overall monthly winner in each year is revealed and
rewarded with a treat and a hearty round of applause. The winners and the runners-up, the
Superstars of the Month, are also posted on the Johnson board.
At the end of every term, the overall champion for each year group receives a Certificate of
Achievement to recognise their excellent effort and attainment.
This year the following pupils have consistently earned high scores in their weekly
housepoint totals and deserve a special mention as our HOUSEPOINT HEROES…
Year 6 – Louise Wilson and Jack Cernoch
Year 2 – Caya Goberdhan and Kitty Rose
Year 5 – Ruby Bell and James McGruer
Year 1 – Sam Coulson and Lauren Prince
Year 4 – Emily Martin and Indigo Gentry
Reception – Rachael Collins and Samuel Ridge
Year 3 – Tom Prince and Max Remfry
*RUBY BELL – School HP Champion*
Well done everyone, keep up the good work, and always remember the BLUE MOTTO…
Don’t score a zero
Be a Housepoint Hero!
Avoid those demerits
To gain us more credits!
From TARA HINDS, GIRLS’ GAMES
CAPTAIN…
From ALEXANDER SMITH, BOYS’
GAMES CAPTAIN…
I am very grateful to be in Johnson House
because of all we have achieved this year. I
think that everyone has tried their hardest in
all subjects, but especially so in sport.
I am proud to say that we won both Lower
and Prep School sports days, and we also
won the Swimming Gala, which was hard
work for everyone. Everyone put in 100%
effort. On top of that the girls won the House
Cross Country and Rounders, and we did our
best in Netball, coming second, so well done
to all those involved for such fantastic
results.
I am very sad to leave but I wish all the best
to the future Girls’ Games Captain. I also
hope Johnson do well in all events next year,
so GOOD LUCK JOHNSON!!!
Johnson are at the end of a very successful
sports campaign and I feel we have done
very well in this year’s sports. With me as
Boys’ Games Captain we have won House
Rugby, Football, Cricket, and also the
Swimming Gala and both Sports Days! I
was so pleased to see us win the Lower
School Sports Day, and it was great
holding the Trophy when we won the Prep
School Sports Day. We were champions at
the Swimming Gala and I held the Cup for
that too!
I think Tara has done a brilliant job as
Girls’ Games Captain and I hope Johnson
win again next year. With Johnson being
the best House – I know we will!
GO JOHNSON!!!
JOHNSON HOUSE SPORTS RESULTS
House Netball
House Cross Country
House Rounders
Lower School Sports
Swimming Gala
2nd
1st
1st
1st
1st
Remember to sing THE JOHNSON JINGLE
BLUE is the colour, JOHNSON is the name,
We work together, and winning is our aim,
So let’s try our best for a housepoint gain,
‘Cause JOHNSON, JOHNSON is our name
House Rugby
House Football
House Cricket
Prep School Sports
1st
1st
1st
1st
And finally… we sadly bid a fond
Johnson farewell to our year 6
superstars as they take their talents
to Secondary School! A big BLUE
“bon voyage” and best wishes to…
Hannah Keyte- JAGs
Louise Wilson- Bromley High
Amelia Sell- Woldingham
Laura Compton- JAGs
Jack Cernoch- Trinity
Tara Hinds- Bromley High
Alexander Smith- Trinity
Abigail Pettyfer- Royal Russell
GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL!
J-O J-O-H
J-O J-O-H
J-O-H-N
J-O-H-N
JOHNSON
JOHNSON
CHARITY & FUNDRAISING - 2011/2012
Parents and pupils have once again shown their generosity for good causes this year, and
our fundraising totals this year are:
£ 1461 for the Dahl Foundation during the Michaelmas Term
£ 1022 for the Marsden Hospital Children’s Centre raised between
January and May half term – a fitting tribute to Rev. Angela Shier-Jones.
£ 6195.55 for the NSPCC raised during the Olympic Challenge, with a further £420.74
raised from donations at the Prep School Play, and in Friday assemblies.
Parents have continued to use the easyfundraising site, and earnt £26.58 this quarter,
as well as a further £69.25 from the envelope recycling of jewellery, mobile phones, and
foreign currency .
In addition to our Charity fundraising, the sale organised by the School Council raised
£460, which will be used to purchase playground toys/equipment in the new school year.
Which makes a grand total of £
9655.07 this year
A huge thank you to you all !
You have also collected:
Boxtops from cereal packets, which have enabled us to purchase over £60 worth of
books for both the lower and prep school libraries
Morrisons Let’s Grow vouchers – enabling the purchase of kit for the Year 3 garden
Over 13,000 Sainsburys Active Kids vouchers which have been used to purchase
playground resources for the prep school.
Nearly 5,000 Tesco for Schools vouchers, which we have used to purchase more
resources for use in RE lessons throughout the school.
HOWEVER – we have again thrown away huge amounts of Tesco and Sainsbury’s
vouchers which were sent in to school too late to be used. Once more there were
items which we were unable to purchase, due to insufficient vouchers ! Please help us
in future campaigns by ensuring that all tokens are in school by the date we publicise
– deadlines really do count when orders have to be sent !
We have also been sending regular packages of postage stamps to Hearing Dogs for the
Deaf, and unwanted spectacles to Sightsavers
KEEP THEM COMING NEXT YEAR !
THE DRAMA DEPARTMENT
It was a busy year in the Drama Department and the children created
lots of imaginative work. The Kindergarten and Lower School really
enjoyed participating in Drama Games and using mime to create
different characters and scenes.
In the Autumn Term, Years Five and Six created
their own advertisements that were filmed and
played back to them on the television. Year 6
entertained the Lower School by presenting
their Fairy Stories. Mrs Hicks was a great
support in their Art lessons, as she helped them
create wonderful Props for their Tales.
In the Summer Term
the whole of the Prep
School went back in
time to 1940 to
present a play about Evacuees. They had great fun learning the songs,
dance moves and lines for this Play. The Production was a success and
great fun was had by all the
cast.
We have had a few ‘firsts’ this year which are of note:
1) First year of having two (brilliant) Music Monitors this year – Sarah and Sophie
have left a hard path to follow with their excellent organisation skills
2) The first carol service in St. George’s, Beckenham
3) The first person to gain 142/150 in a Music Exam (Polly Martin – Grade 1 Violin)
4) The first oboist to be taught in school – Alex Franklin has started with Mrs
Lovett
5) The first time we have needed two days for an examiner at school – we
presented 28 candidates for examination with the Associated Board in the
Summer Term
6) The first batch of Drum candidates for Rock School exams ( all passed, many
Merits)
7) The first batch of Theory candidates – all Merits or Distinctions
In December, after taxing him with many a Nativity Play and Carol Service, we
said a fond farewell to the fabulous Mr Harvey Eagles, who went on to become
Head of Music at Micklefield Prep. We were very pleased to welcome the equally
fabulous Mrs Gilly Gay, from Downsend Lodge, Leatherhead, and, judging by the
Lower School concert and Prize-Giving, music is continuing to matter at St.
Christopher’s The Hall School.
A challenge for those children reading this – if you can write out the following
Common Time rhythm correctly on a stave and give it to Mr Mobbs, you will earn
the first merit of term...
‘’Tea, tea, coffee, tea, coca-cola, coca-cola, sugar-with, tea, with sugar, with
sugar, coffee, tea, coca-cola, sugar with, coffee, tea’’
ICT
Children Experience History in 2012
Year 6 students were able to create interactive multiple choice quizzes using a specialist program in
class. Below are some of the questions they came up with once they had finished their research on
the internet. Test your knowledge (answers at the bottom of the page).
1. When was Queen Elizabeth II born?
a) 21st April 1926
b) 14th September 1927
c) 3rd May 1929
2. When did Elizabeth II become Queen?
a) 1955
b) 1952
c) 1957
3. Who was Queen Elizabeth’s father?
a) George V
b) George VI
c) Edward IV
4. What dog does the Queen like most?
a) Poodle
b) Rottweiler
c) Corgi
f
a
a
The other major event taking place is the 2012 Olympics. Here are a couple of Olympic dreams from
our students:
Answers to quiz: 1.a, 2.b, 3.b, 4.c
Year 2 ended the year learning to talk about the sports they like and don’t like.
Starzia, ‘’J’aime le
roller et la natation.
Je n’aime pas le
skate. J’adore la
Dolapo, ‘’J’adore le football,
la natation, ça va. Je préfère
le rugby. J’aime le basket
ball. Je déteste le cyclisme.’’
danse.‘‘
Kiara, ‘’J’aime le
cyclisme. Je n’aime pas
le rugby. J’adore
l’équitation.’’
Bailey, ‘’J’aime le
roller et le basket.
Je n’aime pas la
natation.’’
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a?
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans un arbre?
Il y a un crocodile.
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans la maison?
Il y a un chien et un éléphant
Earlier on, Year 3 worked to
describe their house. The topic
ended with a video recording of a
class poem with some rather
strange elements!
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans la jungle?
Il y a un éléphant et un serpent.
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans la maison?
Il y a un salon et la cuisine.
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans un arbre?
Il y a un tigre et un crocodile.
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans un arbre?
Il y a un chat et un petit lapin.
Qu’est-ce qu’il y a dans la chambre?
Il y a une armoire, un lit et un petit chat.
Year 6 worked hard in preparation for their trip to Hardelot
in Northern France. Here we see some of their highlights:
James P ‘’The night trail
was really fun; we were
singing at the top of our
voices.’’
Beth ‘’can’t wait to get
home and show my family
the chocolate I bought
from the chocolaterie.’’
Olivia G ‘’the
worst thing
I ate…?
Nothing!’’
Jack ‘’Nausicaa
was really coollots of
different fish.’’
Libby
‘’PGL
rocks!’’
Laura ‘’There were
about 11,500
graves at Étaples.
It was a really
beautiful place and
James E ‘’Had a great
reminded me of
night sleep, can’t wait
how lucky I am.’’
until tomorrow.’’
Oliver ‘’It was the best
day of my life because we
Lucy ‘’For dinner we had
snails. When I first saw the
snail inside the shell, I saw
lots of lumps and that really
put me off. But then I just
gulped it down and it was
sooo delicious.’’
all got muddy on the
obstacle course.’’
Lucy
’F un
R ocks
A wsome
N ever boring
C ool
E xciting!
The season was hindered by inclement weather conditions which wiped out a high percentage of the
matches. However, as always, all of the matches that went ahead produced excellent cricket from
our boys with both bat and ball in hand.
U11
A team that never gave up in their pursuit for victory. A term decimated by poor weather and
cancelled matches gave very few opportunities for the Year 6 boys to ply their trade. Rewards
however came right at the end of term with an excellent victory over St Dunstan's. The team won by
8 wickets with a fantastic display highlighted by Oliver Armstrong who finished the day with an
impressive 36 not out.
U10
The team had an outstanding season both individually and as a unit. With six strike bowlers to
choose from, comprising of both pace and spin, the opposition were always going to be restricted to
limited scoring opportunities. Likewise, on strike, Frankie Talbot and James McGruer combined to
make an aggressive and prolific partnership. On their travels, the boys were victorious over Royal
Russell, St. Dunstan’s and Merton Court and unlucky to lose narrowly to Alleyn’s. Well done to all of
the boys.
U9
A difficult term for our Year 4 with no wins to their credit. Some spirited batting and fine bowling will
see this determined bunch get rewards for their efforts in the future.
U8
A and B exhibited a maturity beyond their years fielding with patience and batting with dexterity.
Both teams continued their unbeaten run in all sports, defeating Alleyn’s, Merton Court and Royal
Russell in the cricket term. A special mention should go to Josh Hutchings and captain Edward Keyte
for adding a touch of class to the occasion and in general to all of the boys who adapted superbly to
the requirements of pairs cricket.
Thank you to all of the parents and supporters who helped to rally the troops throughout the term.
GIRLS’ PE
The girls have had an outstanding year, winning no less than eight tournaments
and being runners up in three. Year 3 and Year 4 have also been unbeaten in
netball matches. In the Summer term, the weather proved the winner with the
Under 11 Athletics and the Under 11 and Under 10 Rounders and many fixtures
cancelled.
Year 6 Winners St. Christopher's Netball Tournament,
Runners Up Streatham and Clapham High Tournament.
Below Left Year 4 Winners at the Royal Russell Netball Tournament.
Above right. St. Christopher’s Year 3 collect their medals at Royal Russell Netball
Tournament.
Under 10 Athletics Runners Up at Alleyn’s. Year 5 were also runners up in the St.
Christopher’s Netball Tournament.
Smiling faces at Cross Country Meeting at Bromley High School.
Year 3 Winners at the Blackheath Prep Mini Tournament. The A team also won the
Royal Russell Netball Tournament
Girls ready for House Cross Country.
Year 4 receive their medals at the St. Dunstan’s Tournament. They also won the St.
Christopher’s Rounders Tournament and the St. Christopher’s Athletics Meeting.
Trip to the Olympics
On Friday 3rd August
Miss Arnott and Mrs
Mitchell took 10 very
excited children to the
Olympic Park to see some ladies basketball. We
were offered the tickets as part of the school’s commitment to London 2012.
Children who had not been successful obtaining tickets were invited to enter
into a ballot explaining why they felt they should be given
the opportunity to be part of the Olympic experience .
The day was quite eventful. Soon after we arrived they
was an almighty downpour and we had to find cover under a
footbridge. Luckily the sun came out soon afterwards so
we could dry out before we went into the coca cola beat
box experience! There were several stations where various
sports were transferred into musical rhythms . At the end
of the experience we were given the chance to have our
photographs taken holding the Olympic torch.
It was then time to go to the basketball arena . We saw
two matches Brazil vs Canada and China vs Turkey. It
was all very exciting and inbetween the games we were
entertained by a skipping team, gymnasts and an
acrobatic basketball team.
After the matches it was time to
go to the shop and then head home.
It was a really exhausting day but a
chance of a lifetime with some fond
memories to treasure.