Weekly Newsletter

October 17, 2025

Headmaster’s Welcome

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the last newsletter of this half term.

I write this newsletter piece from Shanghai, China, which is warmer than the UK as well as being 7 hours ahead.

The Bethany performance of the Agatha Christie play And Then There Were None was performed excellently last Friday and Saturday night. The actors were splendidly supported by the pupils behind the scenes, who ensured that the lighting and sound worked perfectly. Well done to everyone involved.

I would also like to compliment the prefect team for organising Wednesday’s charitable fundraising event, during which pupils wore a pink-coloured item and donated money to support breast cancer awareness.

Of course, the start of half term does not mark the start of a break for everyone. I remain in the Far East on pupil recruitment matters, and our footballers headed off to Portugal this afternoon for their football tour. I trust they will have a great time.

Clocks normally go back to winter time on the last Sunday in October each year, and this will therefore happen on Sunday 26th October.

As I am currently in China, I thought I would leave you with a Chinese proverb: “One cannot have both the fish and the bear’s paw”. This means that we cannot have everything we desire in life and must often make choices and prioritise what is most important. How very wise – especially in this social media era.

I hope you all have a most enjoyable fortnight.

Yours sincerely,

Francie Healy

Headmaster

Mr Healy’s Trip to Hong Kong and China

At the end of last week, Bethany Headmaster Mr Healy set off for Hong Kong to begin a busy and exciting trip to Hong Kong and China. His visit includes attending pupil recruitment fairs, catching up with current Bethany families and reconnecting with former pupils, some of whom he even taught many years ago!

After a few days in Hong Kong, Mr Healy continued on to Shanghai to meet more families and agents, and to spend time with Bethany alumni now living and working in China.

Read on for Mr Healy’s reflections, travel stories and a few memorable moments from his journey in his Trip Diary below.

Mr Healy’s Trip Diary

I travelled to Hong Kong on Thursday night last week to attend some pupil recruitment fairs initially in Hong Kong before travelling on to Shanghai.

I attended the first pupil fair on Saturday and Sunday and I’m very grateful to Ann Leung, mother of Karen (Year 12) and Karson (Year 10) for helping me out. Prospective parents really appreciate hearing from other parents at these events. Believe it or not, Ann was a Bethany pupil herself and I taught her Mathematics many years ago.

I flew to Shanghai on Monday evening and visited some agents on Tuesday and later that evening I met former pupil, Alex Lam, and we spent a most enjoyable evening together eating traditional Chinese food while reminiscing about Bethany in the 1990s. I also taught Alex Mathematics.

I am very thankful to the parents of Bingkum (Year 9), who helped me source a guide during my stay in Shanghai. The first taxi I was due to get in Shanghai wanted to charge me 150 RMB (local currency) for a taxi trip. As there is roughly 10RMB to £1 I thought that this was reasonable. Thanks to the local knowledge of my guide, she informed me that the taxi fare was grossly overpriced and that the correct fare was about one third of that. Needless to say I let my guide organise the rest of my taxis!

I attended a pupil recruitment fair in Shanghai on Wednesday, yesterday and today. I will visit some more agents tomorrow before returning to Hong Kong on Sunday where I will spend the week visiting agents and meeting the parents of Hong Kong based pupils. In addition, I am attending a dinner with some former pupils on Saturday 25th October. I will arrive back in the UK on Monday and I hope to be back in the office on Tuesday catching up on all the fun and games I missed whilst I was away!

I’m enjoying every minute of my trip so far, and my travels remind me of just how small and interconnected this world has become. It is unfortunate that national leaders worldwide do not focus on what unites the people of this world rather than highlight and in many cases exaggerate our differences to advance their own political ends.

Mr Healy

Headmaster

Latest Bethany Blog

This week’s blog has been written by Mr Bolton, Head of Year 10 and 11 at Bethany. He writes about the Key Stage 4 highlights of the term so far, including phone pouches, charity walks, online safety talks, pupil-led assemblies and a new revision booklet promoting smart, effective study techniques.

Setting the Standard for Success

What a tremendous start to the academic year it has been for our Key Stage 4 pupils! I have been so impressed with the focus, maturity and enthusiasm shown by both Year 10 and Year 11 as they have settled back into school life.

One of the most noticeable changes this term has been the successful introduction of the phone pouches. Year 10, in particular, deserve real credit for embracing this adjustment so positively. The results have been fantastic, classrooms have felt calmer, conversations more purposeful and the sense of community has grown stronger. The improvement in focus, socialisation and overall work ethic has been clear to see. Superb work, Year 10!

Our annual Charity Walks were another highlight, with pupils across Key Stage 4 showing their generosity of spirit and commitment to the wider school community. Engagement levels were high, and it was heart-warming to see everyone walking, talking and giving their all for good causes.

This term also saw pupils take part in engaging Online Safety Talks. In today’s fast-moving digital world, these sessions are invaluable. Pupils learned about new and emerging online risks and, most importantly, how to stay safe and make responsible choices.

Tutor groups have also been leading the way with some truly outstanding assemblies. Topics have ranged from maintaining a healthy lifestyle to making informed choices about films and video games. What made these assemblies especially impressive was that they were designed and delivered by the pupils themselves. Speaking in front of peers is never easy, but our pupils rose to the challenge brilliantly, a testament to their growing confidence and communication skills.

Perhaps the biggest development this term has been the launch of the new KS4 Revision Booklet. This carefully crafted resource acts as a one-stop shop for effective study techniques across all subjects. It’s been fantastic to see pupils using it to refine their revision habits and take ownership of their learning. I would encourage all parents to take a look, revision has come a long way since our own school days!

The new Revision Booklet offers pupils a range of tried-and-tested strategies to help them revise effectively and efficiently. Here are just a few of the key techniques we are encouraging our KS4 pupils to use:

Spaced Practice: Instead of cramming, revisit topics regularly over time. A little and often helps knowledge stick and reduces stress before exams.

Active Recall: Test yourself rather than re-reading notes. Use flashcards, past paper questions, or even a friend or family member to quiz you.

Interleaving: Mix up your revision subjects. Switching between topics keeps your brain active and helps you make links across different areas of study.

Dual Coding: Combine words and visuals — use diagrams, mind maps, or timelines alongside written notes to boost memory retention.

Past Papers and Exam Practice: Work through previous exam questions under timed conditions. This helps identify gaps in knowledge and builds confidence with exam-style wording.

Chunking and Breaks: Break revision into manageable 25–30 minute sessions with short breaks in between. Focused bursts are far more effective than long, unfocused stretches.

Healthy Habits: Regular sleep, good nutrition, and exercise all play a vital role in keeping minds sharp and focused.

The ‘Teach It’ Method: Try explaining a topic out loud — if you can teach it clearly, you really understand it!

Of course, preparation remains key. Year 11 are now only three months away from their Mock Examinations in January, and half term offers the perfect opportunity to use the Revision Booklet to consolidate knowledge and build confidence. Year 10 may feel their mock exams in February are a long way off, but with just 90 school days to go, time will certainly fly!

As we look ahead to the rest of the term, I could not be prouder of how Year 10 and 11 pupils have started the year, with energy, purpose and positivity. Let’s keep that momentum going. Remember: success is not built in a day, but in the small, consistent steps we take every day toward our goals.

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead for all in Key Stage 4!

Mr Bolton

Head of Year 10 and 11

Latest Sports News

The latest Bethany sports news. Sporting fixtures wound down this week as we the half term break. A total of five football and three hockey matches completed the fixture card this week, as well as a highly entertaining U13 Interhouse Hockey tournament.

Football | Bethany 1st XI v Kent College Canterbury

Bethany’s 1st XI hosted Kent College Canterbury on Thursday afternoon in what proved to be a closely contested and highly tactical encounter. From the opening whistle, both sides showed strong defensive discipline, making for a tight and cagey start with few clear-cut chances.

As the half progressed, Bethany began to grow into the game, moving the ball confidently and pressing higher up the pitch. David de la Roz Flynn and Nick Ewer both came close to breaking the deadlock, with David’s pace and direct running causing particular problems for the Kent defence. At the other end, Kent College threatened just before the interval with a looping effort that grazed the top of Harrison Strange’s crossbar, leaving the teams level at 0–0 at half-time.

The second half began with Kent College pressing forward with renewed energy, testing Bethany’s composure at the back. However, the defensive quartet of Josh Hughes, George Vincent, Toby Castle and Will Sutton remained solid, working cohesively to repel waves of pressure. Harrison Strange was called into action again, producing an excellent reflex save to deny Kent College what looked like a certain opener.

In midfield, Ben Krovina was instrumental in regaining control, his reading of the game and intelligent positioning allowing Bethany to transition effectively from defence to attack. With ten minutes to play, Bethany’s persistence finally paid off. A surging run from Nick Ewer down the left flank saw him drive to the byline before delivering a perfectly weighted cross into the box. Jago Veale brought it under control superbly and fired home to give Bethany a deserved 1–0 lead.

Just when it looked as though Bethany had done enough to claim the victory, Kent College found an equaliser in the final moments, a superb curling effort that found the top corner, leaving the match finely poised at 1–1.

While the late goal denied Bethany the victory, the team can take great pride in a disciplined and determined performance against strong opposition.

Final score: Bethany 1-1 Kent College Canterbury

Player of the Match: Ben Krovina

Coaches Player of the Match: Toby Castle

Football | Bethany U15A v Bede’s

The Bethany U15A team travelled to Bede’s on Monday afternoon for what proved to be a thrilling encounter full of twists and quality football.

Bethany made a sluggish start, and Bede’s were quick to capitalise, two early goals in the opening 15 minutes saw the hosts race into a 2–0 lead. It could have been worse if not for an outstanding reflex save from Xavier Thomas-Bassett, who denied Bede’s a third with a superb stop to keep Bethany in the contest.

An in-game reshuffle then transformed the match. Logan Heath, moving from defence into a more advanced attacking role, completely changed the momentum. Within just 15 minutes, he produced a stunning hat-trick, a combination of power, precision and persistence, to turn the game on its head and send Bethany into the half-time break with a 3–2 lead.

Alongside Logan, Stanley Faulkner worked tirelessly in attack, constantly pressing defenders, linking play intelligently and setting the tone with his relentless energy. His commitment and work rate helped maintain Bethany’s intensity throughout the match and kept Bede’s under pressure during key spells of play.

The second half was a far more even affair, with both teams battling hard in midfield and defences standing firm. Chances were few and far between as the game hung in the balance. Just when it looked as though Bethany would hold on for an away victory, late drama struck, a last-minute penalty for Bede’s was calmly dispatched, bringing the score level at 3–3.

Although the team was disappointed not to take the victory, a draw was ultimately a fair reflection of an excellent contest between two evenly matched sides. Bethany can take real pride in their resilience, teamwork and the way they responded after a difficult start.

Final score: Bethany 3-3 Bede’s

Player of the Match: Logan Heath

Coaches Player of the Match: Stanley Faulkner

Football | Bethany U13A v Somerhill

Bethany’s U13A team travelled to Somerhill on Wednesday afternoon to face a well-drilled and talented side who have been playing together for a number of years. From the outset, it was clear that this would be a challenging encounter, but Bethany approached the task with great determination and resilience.

The home side started strongly, applying sustained pressure and moving the ball with pace and precision. However, Bethany’s defensive organisation and collective work rate kept them in the game. Goalkeeper William Slade was in inspired form, producing a string of superb saves, including two acrobatic stops from close range, to keep the score level for much of the first half. Despite his heroics, Somerhill eventually found a breakthrough just before the interval to lead 1–0 at half-time.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Somerhill dominating possession, but Bethany continued to battle admirably. Connor Matthews typified the team’s spirit, working tirelessly at right back before moving into central midfield, where his energy and commitment helped relieve pressure and drive the team forward when possible. At the back, Oliver Chestnutt was exceptional, making three incredible goal-line clearances to deny certain goals and showing immense bravery in defence.

As the match wore on, Somerhill’s quality and cohesion eventually told, as they added four more goals to seal a 5–0 victory. Despite the scoreline, Bethany’s players could hold their heads high after a display full of grit, teamwork and defensive discipline against one of the strongest opponents they have faced this season.

Final score: Bethany 0-5 Somerhill

Player of the Match: William Slade

Coaches Player of the Match: Connor Matthews

Football | Bethany U13B v Somerhill

Bethany’s U13B team travelled to Somerhill on Wednesday afternoon to take on a very strong and well-organised side. From the opening whistle, it was clear that the hosts had plenty of experience playing together, moving the ball with pace and precision across the large pitch.

Despite the early pressure, Bethany showed tremendous resilience and discipline in defence. The back line stood firm, making numerous key tackles and clearances, while the Bethany goalkeeper produced several excellent saves to keep the game level for much of the first half. Their determination and teamwork frustrated the home side for long spells, though Somerhill eventually managed to find a breakthrough before adding a second just before the interval to make it 2–0 at half-time.

The second half continued in a similar pattern, with Somerhill pressing forward relentlessly. Bethany’s players continued to battle bravely, showing real character and togetherness even as fatigue began to set in. Despite the mounting pressure, the team kept their heads high and never stopped competing for every ball.

As the match wore on, Somerhill’s sharpness in front of goal proved decisive, as they added several more goals in the closing stages to finish 10–0 winners. The score line, however, did not reflect the effort and commitment shown by the Bethany players, who can take great credit for their work ethic and attitude throughout the game.

Final Score: Bethany 0-10 Somerhill

Player of the Match: Wilfrid Davis

Coaches Player of the Match: Alfie Shaw

Football | Bethany U13C v Somerhill

Bethany’s U13C side travelled to Somerhill on Wednesday for what proved to be a challenging but valuable learning experience against a very strong and well-drilled opposition. From the opening minutes, it was clear that Somerhill’s cohesion and attacking intent would test Bethany’s defensive organisation to the limit.

To their immense credit, Bethany rose to the occasion with determination and teamwork. The defensive unit held firm for long spells, with several players throwing themselves into tackles and blocks to keep the home side at bay. The Bethany goalkeeper produced a string of fine saves to keep the score level early on, denying what looked like certain goals. Despite their resilience, Somerhill’s pressure eventually told, as they managed to find the net twice before half-time to take a 2–0 advantage.

The second half saw Bethany continue to fight hard, showing real spirit even as the game became increasingly one-sided. Players tracked back tirelessly, supported one another, and refused to let their heads drop. Although Somerhill were clinical in front of goal, adding further strikes to extend their lead, Bethany’s commitment and attitude never wavered.

Every player can take pride in their effort and perseverance throughout the match. It was a testing afternoon, but one that will undoubtedly strengthen the team’s understanding of positioning, teamwork and resilience moving forward.

Final score: Bethany 0-6 Somerhill

Player of the Match: Rafe Broad

Coaches Player of the Match: Wilbur Smith

Hockey | Bethany 1st XI v Claremont

In their final fixture before the half-term break, the 1st XI hockey team faced Claremont in a fast-paced and competitive encounter. From the first whistle, both teams played with intensity, maintaining a high tempo throughout the match.

Bethany demonstrated excellent teamwork and cohesion and in contrast, Claremont relied more on individual flair, with several players showing impressive stick skills, which was probably the difference between the two teams.

Despite the score line, Bethany had several standout moments. A superb pass/kick out from goalkeeper Eleni Haines out wide sparked a promising attacking early in the first half. Maisie Frankum was a constant driving force in all areas of the pitch, her outstanding stick skills and vision shining throughout the game. Mia Castle was a commanding presence in the centre of the pitch and was often at the centre of Bethany attacks or breaking up similar moves from Claremont.

Defensively, Cecily Chettiar, Verity Davidson and Summer Stewart-Welch put in a great shift, working tirelessly to repel Claremont’s attacks, particularly in the second half. Claremont managed to score twice in each half, but Bethany finished the game strongly. Their efforts were rewarded when Maisie Frankum converted from the extended play of a Penalty Corner just as the final whistle blew.

VIDEO: Maisie scores for Bethany

Final score: Bethany 1-4 Claremont

Player of the Match: Mia Castle

Coaches Players of the Match: Verity Davidson

Hockey | Bethany 2nd XI v Claremont

While the 1st XI battled it out on Pitch 1 against Claremont’s first team, Bethany’s 2nd XI took to Pitch 2 for an exciting six-a-side encounter against Claremont’s 2nd XI.

The match began at a lively tempo, with Claremont starting strongly and taking an early lead. Despite finding themselves 3–0 down, Bethany refused to let their heads drop. Instead, they rallied superbly, tightening their structure and countering with sharp passing and intelligent movement. In midfield, Lily Marshall and Rose Pettit worked tirelessly to regain possession and link play, while Gabby Alfageme made several brave saves in goal to keep the team in contention.

Bethany’s persistence soon paid off. Bea Flanders showed her attacking instinct with a smart finish to pull a goal back, before Hazeley Kalisch struck again moments later, driving through the Claremont defence and slotting the ball home to make it 3–2. With momentum now on their side, Bethany pressed hard for the equaliser, creating a handful of chances late on. Despite their best efforts, the elusive third goal wouldn’t come, but the team could be proud of their performance, having pushed their opponents right to the final whistle.

Afterwards, the players took part in a friendly mixed game, with Claremont and Bethany combining teams in great sporting spirit. It was fantastic to see both sets of players enjoying the game, demonstrating camaraderie, sportsmanship and a shared love for hockey.

This fixture was another excellent example of how much progress Bethany’s senior players have made this term. Their resilience, teamwork and enjoyment of the sport continue to shine through every performance.

Final score: Bethany 2-3 Claremont

Hockey | Bethany U15A v Buckswood

The U15A hockey team ended this half-term on a high with a solid win against Buckswood School at Marden. Both teams took time to get into the game with lots of players trying to get a touch of the ball in often congested areas of the pitch.

But it was Bethany who broke the deadlock, with a well taken goal from Fifi Seymour, who along with Immy Morgan, Betsy Spruce and Dasha Hordiienko have developed into a strong midfield grouping. There were further goals in the match from Beatrice Kay, Immy Morgan and Darcey Stone (taking her season tally to nine goals with 4 games left to play!). The standout moment in the game came from Immy Morgan with her impressive stick skills, as she skilfully manoeuvred through Buckswood players to initiate another attacking play for the U15A’s.

As the game entered the final quarter, Buckswood pushed hard to find a goal but with couldn’t get through Bethany’s strong defensive line and excellent saves from goalkeeper, Isobel Andrews.

It has been wonderful to watch how much, the U15A’s have progressed over the weeks, with all players getting used to their respective positions alongside positive teamwork and regular encouragement of each other. They can look forward with confidence to the remainder of the season.

Final score: Bethany 4-0 Buckswood

Player of the Match: Darcey Stone and Isabelle Hindley

Coaches Players of the Match: Fifi Seymour and Immy Morgan

Interhouse Hockey | Kiplings v Roberts v Speakers

On Wednesday, all Year 7 and 8 girls took to the astro for the eagerly anticipated U13 Inter-House Hockey Competition. Whether representing Kiplings, Roberts or Speakers, every player gave their absolute best in what proved to be a fantastic afternoon of hockey and house spirit.

Across all three fixtures, there were moments of excellent skill, teamwork and determination on display. The girls showcased how much progress they’ve made over the past seven weeks of lessons and games sessions, moving the ball confidently and working hard for their teams. Each match was closely contested, with plenty of excitement, end-to-end play and some superb goals.

After an afternoon of competitive and good-natured hockey, Roberts emerged as overall champions, securing first place with two impressive wins. Speakers finished a very close second, only edged out on goal difference, while Kiplings followed just behind after a series of spirited performances.

It was a brilliant event to be part of, full of energy, enthusiasm, and teamwork, a true reflection of Bethany’s sporting values. Well done to everyone who took part and represented their houses with pride!

Final Standings:

1st – Roberts

2nd – Speakers

3rd – Kiplings

Bethany Boarders Perfect Pumpkin Picking

Bethany’s boarders went to Ladysden Farm last Saturday morning to participate in some pumpkin picking. After establishing that this may be both cold and muddy, several of the pupils decided on emergency pre-departure wardrobe changes, and departed promptly fifteen minutes late.

Huge fields of pumpkins and various spooky Halloween installations were on view. The pupils chose suitable pumpkins for the Orchard pumpkin carving competition. Hot chocolate and various snacks were enjoyed by one and all (although Mr Davies was very disappointed to find that no-one brought him back one of the magnificent Ladysden Belgian buns).

The standard of pumpkin carving was extremely high and fiercely competitive. Everyone produced memorable designs and it was incredibly hard to pick the winners but after some significant debate Mr Forde, Mr Thomas and Mr Davies managed to agree on three joint-winners. Congratulations to our winners Xavi, Emma and the duo of Blanche and Chems, but well done to everyone because the pumpkins all looked fantastic.

BookTrust’s Bookbuzz Programme

BookTrust’s Bookbuzz programme is a fantastic opportunity for our Year 7 pupils, allowing them to choose a free book of their choice.

Each year, pupils can select one title from a carefully curated list of 16 excellent books, chosen by a panel of librarians and teachers. By allowing pupils to choose a book they’re genuinely interested in, we aim to help nurture a lifelong love of reading.

We hope they enjoy their books!

Lauren’s Spooktacular Display

We are incredibly proud of Lauren, one of our dedicated pupils who continues to demonstrate the values of commitment and community service beyond her Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Although she has officially completed her DofE volunteering requirements, Lauren has chosen to carry on giving her time each Saturday at her local Barnardo’s charity shop

Last weekend, Lauren was entrusted with a special responsibility: designing and dressing one of the store’s main display windows with a Halloween theme. She embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and creativity, and the result was both eye-catching and festive.

The shop manager has since been in touch with Lauren’s parents to let them know that Lauren’s display was so impressive, it has been shared across other Barnardo’s stores. Colleagues across the network have responded with praise and admiration, sending back a flurry of likes and heart emojis. One comment in particular stood out, describing Lauren’s work as “incredibly creative.”

Well done, Lauren, your quiet dedication inspires us all.

Toby Wins Nando’s Cup

Every half-term we celebrate those in the Sixth Form who have received merits from their teachers for good deeds – be it amazing prep, perseverance in lessons, conduct on a trip or being a good citizen and helping a peer/teacher. This half-term has been record breaking with over 600 Merits being issued to the Sixth Form! This is testament to how well they have settled but also how nice they are as a group.

Each time a Sixth Former gets a Merit their name goes into the hat for the ‘Nando’s Cup for Merits’ and we have a lucky draw on the last assembly of term for a £20 Nando’s voucher! The winner this term was Year 12 pupil, Toby – congratulations Toby!

I look forward to even more Merits next term and the next lucky draw.

Mr Duff

Head of Sixth Form

Reverse Movember

Each half term, our Prefects are challenged to organise a charity event, and for Autumn Term 2 they’ve chosen Movember — with a twist, thanks to our new Sixth Form uniform and appearance guidelines policy!

Over the summer, we modernised the Sixth Form uniform guidelines, making blazers and ties optional and allowing sensible facial hair. The Sixth Form still look every bit business smart, and have been enthusiastically (if not always successfully!) attempting to grow moustaches and goatees.

To make things more exciting, if our JustGiving page reaches certain fundraising targets, Prefects, and even members of staff, will be shaving off their facial hair (at home, of course, and returning the next day clean-shaven!). Some persuasion was required, especially as Mr Davies has had his goatee since 1993, but the brave volunteers below have committed to the cause in support of the Movember Foundation, which raises awareness and funds for men’s mental health, suicide prevention, and prostate and testicular cancer.

We’ve agreed on the following goals:

£50 – All Prefects shave

£100 – Mr Allsopp

£200 – Mr Duff

£300 – Mr Evans

£400 – Mr Bell

£500 – Mr Beckham

£600 – Mr Khan

£700 – Mr Davies

£800 – Mr Roberts

Please do give generously to this wonderful cause via our JustGiving page (link below). 100% of proceeds go directly to the Movember charity.

We hope this fun initiative not only raises funds but also encourages everyone, especially men, to talk more openly about their mental health, both inside and outside of school.

Mr Duff

Head of Sixth Form

The Sky’s The Limit For Media and Drama Pupils

On Wednesday 15th October, our Sixth Form Media Studies and Drama pupils headed to Sky Studios, Elstree for a truly unforgettable experience – and they absolutely loved it!

From the moment we arrived, the excitement was buzzing. Pupils were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the incredible studio spaces and learned about the huge range of careers that make film and TV drama happen. Beyond the expected roles like directing, acting and editing, they discovered some of the more surprising jobs too, such as script supervisors, prosthetics artists, continuity coordinators and even entertainment lawyers. It was a real eye-opener into the creative and technical teamwork that goes into every production.

One of the highlights of the day was creating their own pitch film. Working in small teams, pupils showed off their creativity, collaboration and confidence as they developed and presented their ideas. The teamwork was outstanding, and the energy throughout the day was infectious!

Although we didn’t spot any celebrities, we did get a sneak peek at something exciting – filming is currently underway for Werwulf!

The pupils were a credit to the school, engaging brilliantly with every part of the experience and asking thoughtful, enthusiastic questions. It was a day full of learning, laughter and inspiration – one that will stay with them as they continue to explore their future in the creative industries.

Mrs Shapland

Head of English and Media Studies

Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None

On Friday and Saturday night last week audiences were entertained with two nights of murder and mayhem. Performances by pupils in Years 11 to 13 wowed everyone who was lucky enough to see the show.

Particularly noteworthy were Verity playing Vera Claythorne, Zebedee playing Captain Philip Lombard and Lewis playing Emily Brent; but the entire cast showcased their immense talents and kept audiences guessing until the very last minute when it was revealed who the real murder was….Justice Lavinia Wargrave played by AJ, had, in fact faked her own death.

AJ, a late addition in this role, pulled the wool over everyone’s eyes as she, patiently and following the nursery rhyme ‘Ten Little Soldier Boys’ bumped them off one by one: Thomas (Marston) – poisoned; Gabi (Mrs Rogers) – poisoned; Ethan (General Mackenzie) – stabbed; Thomas (Rogers) – killed by an axe while chopping sticks; Lewis (Emily Brent) – drugs in her cup of tea/hypodermic syringe/bee sting; AJ (Judge Wargrave) – shot; Susanna (Detective Inspector Gertrude Henrietta Blore) – head crushed in by a clock; Zebedee (Captain Philip Lombard) – shot; Verity (Vera Claythorne) – hung.

Saturday’s audience cheered as the murderer got her comeuppance and was duly shot a second time (this time not resurrecting from the dead).

However, this being Bethany School – it was truly a team effort with a number of pupils and staff involved backstage, with technical elements (lights, sound etc), with costumes, hair and make up and front of house; and showcasing the talents throughout the school; all led by Mr Willis (director of the show); Mrs Rendall-Jones (assistant director) and Mr Ramsden (technical director).

Thanks to everyone involved. It really was an unforgettable evening.

Mr Willis

Show Director

Pupils of the Week

Each week in Assembly, ‘Pupil of the Week’ awards are given to pupils across the various year groups who have been nominated by their tutor.

This could go to an individual who has perhaps shone that week academically; demonstrated the values of kindness, tolerance, and respect particularly well; or represented the school or county in a positive way.

Bethany Pupils of the Week

Year 7 Pupil of the Week is Edward

Edward has accrued the highest number of Merits in Year 7 which reflects the excellent effort that he has been putting in. A deserving Pupil of the Week. well done, Edward!

Year 7 Pupil of the Week is Ben

Ben has impressed all of the Year 7 team with his efforts for ‘Wear Something Pink’ day. He threw himself whole heartedly into raising awareness of this important cause. Well done, Ben!

Year 8 Pupil of the Week is Lily

Lily has worked extremely hard throughout the half term achieving a brilliant set of grades. Lily has also fought off hundreds of other actors to achieve a part in the Trinty Youth Theatre’s Christmas production of Nativity! The Musical. We are very proud of you Lily. Well done and good luck with your rehearsals.

Year 9 Pupil of the Week is Ollie

Ollie has immersed himself in the life of the school since starting in September. He has integrated well with his year group, settled brilliantly, helped backstage in the most recent play as well as receiving excellent grades. Well done, Ollie!

Key Stage 4 Pupil of the Week is Thomas

Thomas led on the technical aspects of “And Then Were None” and provided support to younger pupils operating lighting and sound equipment. Thomas was able to catch up on lessons when he was rehearsing and ensure high quality work was achieved. Well done. Thomas!

Orchard Boarder of the Week is Karen

The final GOAT for the first half of term is the wonderful Karen, who achieved a perfect prep effort average grade of 4.00. We should also mention that she’s hugely polite, friendly and ultra-reliable! Well done, Karen!

Christmas Wreath Making: Tickets Available

Why not kick off the Christmas festivities by joining FOBS on Thursday 27th November to create a luxury Christmas wreath whilst enjoying a glass or two of bubbly with mince pies, accompanied by some festive music!

Find out more and book tickets

This is a popular FOBS fundraising event in partnership with Bethany’s Young Enterprise team, and aims to raise funds for their new company.

You will each receive a bespoke wreath box tailored to the colour theme of your choice, you will have a pre mossed ring and everything you need to create a truly luxury wreath, with help on hand if you need it.

Book now and make a Christmas wreath with a difference this year!

Get tickets

Bethany Parent Online Safety Hub

This week, we’re highlighting Snapchat – with tips and tricks for safe use of this application.

Snapchat is a popular social media platform that allows users to send disappearing photos and videos, known as ‘snaps’, to friends. The platform offers a range of creative tools, including filters, lenses and augmented reality features to alter appearances. Users can share their daily lives through Stories, which disappear after 24 hours, and connect with friends through instant messaging, voice, and video calls.

Snapchat

A Frightfully Delicious Feast

At Bethany, our lunchtime experience was transformed into a spooky spectacle thanks to our dedicated caterers, Holroyd Howe. They truly embraced the Halloween spirit, turning the dining hall into a festive and fun environment that brought smiles (and maybe a few gasps) to everyone’s faces. The creativity on display was exceptional — from eerie decorations to a menu filled with frightfully delightful surprises.

The team at Holroyd Howe went above and beyond to make the meal feel like an event in itself, bringing a touch of theatre and excitement to an ordinary lunch break. Events like these remind us of the creativity and dedication that our catering team brings to the table every day.

Lost Property

We have added a new Lost Items application, available via the button below or on MySchoolPortal. This application allows parents, and pupils, to check if we have found your lost item(s).

If you spot something that is yours, please send your child to the Lost Property Office (top of the Food Tech/Textiles building) between 1.30pm and 2pm.

Access the items list by either logging into the parent portal and then heading to School Information where the list can be accessed or by clicking the button below.

Any items left over from last academic year will disappear from the list after October.

Items that cannot be reunited with their owner will be donated to charity.

Bethany School Lost Property

Prayer Requests

If you would like the chaplain to pray for you or for someone you know, you can send your prayer requests to him using the link below and he will include them in his prayers for the school. All submissions are anonymous and won’t be seen by anyone other than the chaplain.

Submit a Prayer Request Form

Prayer Group

Upcoming Events

Click here for Bethany calendar

Visit us

Be at Bethany

A Level Results: Record-Breaking Success for Bethany’s Class of 2026

Bethany ISI Inspection 2026

Bethany Enrichment Week

Junior Production Is A Technicolour Triumph

Georgie Shortlisted for UCA Competition

Hattie Stars at Young Fashion Designer UK Competition

Darcey’s Open Water Swimming Success

Weekly Newsletter

Headmaster’s Welcome

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Miss Kaycey Offen

Cleaner

Miss Maria Cotterill

Cleaner

Miss Paula Whitehead

Cleaner

Miss Stacey Kirby

Cleaner

Mr Andrew Austen

Maintenance

Bio

Mr Barry Gregory

Minibus Driver

Mr Christian Hindley

Minibus Driver

Mr Danny Sears

Maintenance Co-ordinator

Bio

Mr Ian Butler

Minibus Driver

Mr Jakub Sleczka

Maintenance

Mr James Harris

Minibus Driver, Caretaker and Compliance Officer

Mr Jonathon Bourne

Head Groundsman

Bio

Mr Mark Stubblefield

Minibus Driver

Mr Martin Sunderland

Minibus Driver

Mr Matt Tatnell

Minibus Driver

Mr Nigel Edwards

Minibus Driver

Mr Richard Smith

Minibus Driver

Bio

Mr Vinny Boxall

Minibus Driver

Mrs Jane Marrable

Cleaner

Bio

Mrs Karina Austen

Lead Housekeeper, The Orchard

Bio

Mrs Lucia Jaramba

Cleaner

Mrs Sarah Butler

Minibus Driver

Mrs Sarah J Butler

Cleaner

Mrs Shirley Goldsmith

Cleaner

Mrs Sue Wilson

Cleaner

Bio

Mrs Tracey Masterman

Cleaning Manager

Dr Clare Notley

Lead Teacher of Biology

Bio

Miss Leaf Ye Zhao

Teacher of Maths

Bio

Miss Mathilda Fuller

Teacher of Mathematics, Second Assistant Housemistress The Orchard

Bio

Miss Sam King

Head of Girls’ Sport, Head of Year 8 & 9