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Weekly Newsletter

January 31, 2025

Headmaster’s Welcome


Dear Parents and Guardians,

 

We have arrived at the last day of January, which seemed so far away just a few short weeks ago.

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I am pleased there has been a healthy interest in the Bethany trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in July 2026 for pupils in Years 10, 11 and 12. The final deadline for acceptance is Friday 7th February.

 

Year 11 pupils received their trial examination results yesterday morning, and I enjoyed chatting to many parents at the Year 11 Parent Teacher meeting last night. Those who did well got affirmation that their current approaches are paying off, and those who need to improve, for whatever reason, will be getting individualised roadmaps to help them make the necessary progress.

 

Next week is dominated by two events -the whole School production of Little Shop of Horrors and our Open Morning on Saturday.

 

The whole School production is performed on three nights, Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting at 7pm in the Pengelly Performance Centre. Tickets are available electronically and can be purchased by clicking the link further down this newsletter.

 

Our first Open Morning of this calendar year takes place on Saturday 8th February. Buses travel to School one hour later than normal. The Open Morning itself starts at 10am and pupils are free to leave around 12.30pm. This is a compulsory event. Please note: There is no return bus service.

 

We have a healthy number of perspective parents registered to attend this event and so thank you for continuing to spread the good word about Bethany.

 

This weekend, of course, sees the start of the annual Six Nations Rugby tournament. Ireland host England tomorrow, and the Chair of Governors, Jonathan Fenn, and his wife have travelled to Dublin for a few days and are attending the match. I hope they have a terrific time in Ireland and that the result of the rugby match goes Ireland’s way!

 

Have a good weekend.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Francie Healy

Headmaster

Latest Bethany Blog


This week’s blog has been written by Mrs Rendall-Jones, Head of English as an Additional Language (EAL) at Bethany School. She writes about exploring the traditions, celebrations and significance of the Lunar New Year.

It’s Festival Time!
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For many of the international pupils at Bethany School, especially those from China and Hong Kong, this week is the most important in the calendar as it is the time to celebrate Chinese New Year.

 

However, other nationalities, such as Hanseo from South Korea, also celebrate this festival and call it Lunar New Year. The term ‘Lunar New Year’ is increasingly used to refer to festivals in other countries that take place at the same time and with many of the same traditions as in China.

 

 

The tradition that our pupils, such as Karson, usually follow is spending time with family. Indeed at this time in China, South Korea and Malaysia there is a national holiday so lots of people travel back home to celebrate together. The celebration takes place over a number of days but the most important aspect of this festival, for our teenage pupils, is the giving of red envelopes which contain money. Tim and other pupils have assured me that they will be quite a bit richer after 29th January!

 

Another aspect of Lunar New Year is the eating of special food, Nick will be eating dumplings with his family. Not only are these delicious but they represent wealth, as do spring rolls. Noodles are also eaten but must not be cut as noodles represent longevity. 

 

This is the Year of the Snake. What does this mean?

Chinese New Year falls on the 29th January 2025 and marks the start of the Year of the Snake. The Chinese zodiac calendar is different from the Gregorian calendar in that it is a cycle of twelve years and each year is named after an animal. 

 

Similar to the zodiac signs, people believe the year you were born corresponds to the year of the animal and some believe you’ll share certain characteristics with that animal. For example, those born in the Year of the Rat are considered to be creative and resourceful. Snakes are sensitive, effective, and adaptable, positive personality traits often complemented by a considerable intelligence.  

 

Why are the zodiac signs animals? 

The story goes that a race was organised by the Jade Emperor – one of the most important gods in traditional Chinese religion – who invited all the animals in the world to take part.

 

Twelve species turned up at the start line: a pig, dog, rooster, monkey, sheep, horse, snake, dragon, rabbit, tiger, ox and rat.

 

As a reward for turning up, the Emperor named a year in the zodiac after each one, while the race would determine the order each animal would be placed.

 

Which animal are you? 

Each year is represented by one of 12 zodiac animals. Which animals make up the Chinese zodiacs? Check them out below and find out which animal you and your family are.  

 

  • Rat 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020  
  • Ox  1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021  
  • Tiger 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022  
  • Rabbit 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023  
  • Dragon 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024  
  • Snake 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025  
  • Horse 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 
  • Goat 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 
  • Monkey 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 
  • Rooster 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 
  • Dog 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 
  • Pig 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019  

 

For more information on the 12 zodiac animals and their characteristics, check out this website: Click here

 

If you want to wish ‘Happy New Year’ to Davey, from Beijing, you would say: Xin Nian Kuai Le and Gong Xi Fa Cai  (Mandarin) 

 

However, if you would like to say this to students such as Karen or Ryan from Hong Kong  it is: Sun Neen Fai Lo and Gong Hei Faat Coi (Cantonese)

 

This means Happy New Year and I hope you get rich!

 

Mrs Rendall-Jones

Head of EAL 

Latest Sports News


The latest sports news from Bethany School. Another busy week for the various Bethany sports teams as hockey and netball seasons continued. There is also an update from last week’s indoor ‘Chance to Compete’ cricket tournament.

Hockey | Bethany 1st XI v Battle Abbey
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The 1st XI hockey team were the last of the Bethany teams to take on Battle Abbey in what was a week of hockey fixtures against the same opposition.

 

For all of the first half, Battle Abbey moved the ball around quickly and combined with several players (including a few familiar faces from the U15A match!) who had strong close control techniques, Bethany found it hard to get possession, and when they did, the opposition were quick to regain control. Mid way through the first half, Battle Abbey were comfortably ahead 3-0 but for a few good saves from Charlie Eddy and wayward shots, it could have been more.

 

Following a solid half-time team talk on formation, Bethany played the better hockey in the second half. Orchestrated by Josh Hughes, Michael Sargent and David de la Roz Flynn, Bethany began to transfer the ball around the back faster as well as making sharper and earlier passes in midfield and out wide. Bethany’s positive attacking play, led by Jojo Clements-Hunt in particular, stretched the Battle Abbey midfield and put their defenders under pressure more often.

 

Bethany were rewarded for their better hockey with two penalty corners but couldn’t quite make them count or get the goal that their second half display deserved.

 

Final score: Bethany 0-5 Battle Abbey

Coaches Player of the Match: Jojo Clements-Hunt

Hockey | Bethany U15A v Battle Abbey
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The U15A hockey team had their first match of the new season against a well drilled Battle Abbey side. The opposition had two very good players, who controlled almost all their play and if not for them, then the two sides were close in ability.

 

Bethany, despite being under the cosh for most of the first half kept a very solid formation and worked tirelessly on their defensive positioning which meant going into half-time only 2-0 down. Highlights from the first half were Lucien Franklin’s strong and confident goalkeeping along with Jago Veale’s brave and rapid defending of a penalty corner.

 

The half-time talk was based around trying to play the ball wider and making sure the opposition’s playmakers were well marked. The latter was achieved to a greater extent as Battle’s two experienced players had less influence on the game in the second half. On the two occasions when Bethany played the ball wide and moved the ball around quickly, the team entered into Battle Abbey’s scoring ‘D’ each time. Unfortunately, Noah Mund’s two good strikes on goal were well saved.

 

Battle Abbey managed to score 3 more goals, but if it were not for the strong defensive performance from Seb Baines, it may have been many more. Seb led the defensive line by good example and great skill. Special mentions to Winston Boudet-Fenouillet and Henry Greig for defending well despite playing out of position.

 

For most of the team, this is their second season ever playing hockey and the speed of the game can take time to get used to. However, a combination of their footballing experience and overall competitive determination, the U15A will see success on the hockey pitch this season.

 

Final score: Bethany 0-5 Battle Abbey

Player of the Match: Seb Baines

Coaches Playerof the Match: Jago Veale and Winston Boudet-Fenouillet

Hockey | Bethany U15B v Battle Abbey
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The Bethany U15B hockey team travelled to Battle Abbey on Tuesday for a closely contested match. Both teams started brightly, creating chances to take the lead, testing each other’s defences, but solid defensive play ensured the score remained level. In particular, Christopher Hanslip Ward put in a standout performance at the back for Bethany, making several crucial tackles and clearances to keep Battle Abbey at bay.

 

Special mention also goes to Freddy Cavill, who was playing his first match in goal for Bethany. Despite his inexperience in the position, he showed great composure, making a number of excellent saves to deny Battle Abbey’s attackers. His quick reflexes and bravery between the posts were instrumental in keeping the game goalless heading into halftime.

 

The second half saw Battle Abbey come out with a renewed intensity, putting Bethany under sustained pressure. After a period of frantic defending inside the shooting circle, a well-struck shot from Battle Abbey finally found the bottom corner of the net, breaking the deadlock. Bethany responded well to going behind, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. The team built some promising attacking moves and applied pressure in the final third, but despite their best efforts, they were unable to convert their opportunities into a goal.

 

Although the result didn’t go in Bethany’s favour, the overall team performance was encouraging. The players showed noticeable improvement in their individual skills and teamwork as the match progressed. There were plenty of positives to take forward, and the team will be looking to build on this experience as they prepare for their match against Claremont School next week.

 

Final score: Bethany 0-1 Battle Abbey

Player of the Match: Christopher Hanslip Ward

Coaches Player of the Match: Freddy Cavill

Hockey | Bethany U13A v Battle Abbey
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The Bethany U13A hockey team hosted Battle Abbey on Wednesday in what proved to be a highly competitive and hard-fought match. With both teams eager to showcase their skills, the game promised to be an exciting contest. Battle Abbey arrived with a well-drilled and physically strong squad, immediately setting the tempo with their quick attacking play. Bethany found themselves under pressure early on as Battle Abbey moved the ball with pace and precision, taking advantage of defensive gaps to score four early goals within the first 20 minutes.

Despite the tough start, Bethany refused to let their heads drop. They regrouped and began to settle into the game. The defence tightened up, and the midfield started to gain more control, allowing Bethany to create some promising chances before the halftime whistle.

 

After the break, Bethany came out determined to turn the tide of the match. Their passing became more fluid, and they began to apply more pressure in the attacking third. This persistence soon paid off when Andrew Stubblefield produced a moment of brilliance, striking a fantastic goal that lifted the team’s confidence.

 

Bethany continued to push forward, linking up well in midfield and creating further attacking opportunities. Their efforts were rewarded once again when a well-worked team move saw Nico de Widt find the back of the net, capping off an excellent second-half performance.

 

Although the final score stood at Bethany 2–5 Battle Abbey, the game was far more competitive than the score line suggested. Bethany’s spirited response and much-improved second-half display highlighted the team’s potential and resilience. There were plenty of positives to take forward into the next fixture, as they demonstrated their ability to bounce back and compete against strong opposition.

 

Final score: Bethany 2-5 Battle Abbey

Player of the Match: Andrew Stubblefield

Coaches Player of the Match: Oliver Scott

Hockey | Bethany U13B v Battle Abbey
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The U13B hockey team played their first home match of the season in a week of hockey fixture skirmishes versus Battle Abbey. Initially, both teams looked to be evenly matched but as the first half developed, it was Battle Abbey who certainly looked the more experienced and their game played showed that to be the case.

 

Bethany defended very well and with Leo Read in goal, making a number of excellent saves. Battle Abbey were finding it hard to put the ball in the goal despite their relentless attacks. Eventually, Battle Abbey found their way through and took a comfortable 3-0 lead just before half-time. However, just as the half came to an end Bethany were awarded a penalty corner. After a good ball out, there was some scrappy play which saw the U13B’s squeeze the ball home and so go into the break with hope at 3-1.

 

In a scoreless and tighter second half, Bethany played with a lot more intent and spread the ball wider which meant they made their way into the opposition scoring ‘D’ on many more occasions, but they just couldn’t get the final shot away. The U13B’s also began to press their opposition more regularly which forced Battle Abbey into giving the ball away more often.

 

Bethany’s move of the match came from a pass from Leo Rousham to James Cheesbrough (who made a great turn to beat the defender) and drove up field. He then made a great pass into Callum Rae in the scoring ‘D’ who got a shot off which just went wide.

 

The U13B’s played a lot of good hockey in the second half and should take that attacking confidence into their next match.

 

Final score: Bethany 1-3 Battle Abbey

Player of the Match: Rowan Blake

Coaches Player of the Match: The whole team – They grew in confidence as the game went on and played much improved hockey

Hockey | Bethany U13C v Battle Abbey
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In their second fixture of the season, the Bethany U13C hockey team took to the field with a revised squad, eager to build on last week’s strong home performance. With fresh energy, the players were keen to showcase their progress and secure their first win of the campaign.

 

Both teams began the match cautiously, focusing on maintaining possession and building attacking momentum. There were promising passing sequences from both sides as they tested each other’s defences, looking for openings to exploit. Midway through the first half, Battle Abbey managed to break the deadlock, capitalising on a well-worked move to take the lead. However, Bethany quickly regrouped and responded with urgency, pressing forward in search of an equaliser. Their efforts were rewarded just before halftime when a well-placed shot found the back of the net, bringing the score to 1-1 at the break.

 

After the interval, Bethany emerged with renewed confidence and a clear sense of purpose. Their passing became sharper, and they pressed higher up the pitch, applying consistent pressure on Battle Abbey’s defence. With each attack, they looked more dangerous, forcing their opponents into last-ditch defending. As the clock ticked down, Bethany’s persistence finally paid off. With just five minutes left on the clock, they broke through and netted a decisive goal.

 

The final whistle confirmed a well-earned 2-1 victory, marking the first win of the season for the team.

 

Final score: Bethany 2-1 Battle Abbey

Cricket | Bethany U15 | Chance to Compete Tournament
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On Thursday 23rd January, a squad of U15 girls travelled to Ursuline College, Westgate-on-Sea to take part in Kent Cricket’s ‘Chance to Compete’ Indoor Cricket event. Despite being new to the competition and that 99% of the team had not played any proper cricket since May 2024, the team won their first two games with relative ease. This set them up for a great final match.

 


Game One Highlights

 

Batting – Fantastic knocks with lots of sixes and fours from both Isobel Andrews (19*) and Cecily Chettiar (15*). Bowling – Stand out bowler was Amelia Bickford with 2 Wickets and 2 catches alongside excellent fielding from Lean Carnegie (*=Retired)

 

St. Lawrence College (35ao) vs Bethany (64) who won by 29 runs.

 


Game Two Highlights

 

Batting – There was another excellent innings from Isobel Andrews (20*) alongside a stylish knock from Eleni Haines (15*). Bowling – Amiela Bickford continued her excellent bowling by taking a wicket with first ball of the match and Eleni Haines followed up her good batting with an accurate spell of bowling. Isobel Andrews completed a great all-round performance with 2 wickets and 2 catches. There were good moments of fielding from Honor Cassleton Elliott (Catch) and Mia Castle (Run Out).

 

Ursuline College (54ao) vs Bethany (70) who won by 16 runs.

 


Game Three Highlights

 

Bethany went into their final game against Highworth College, an opposition who were also unbeaten, with lots of confidence. Played in excellent spirit, the match did not disappoint. Bethany who batted first, did not get off to the greatest start what with Highworth’s very accurate bowling and some poor running, Bethany lost their first 4 wickets in the first 3 overs with only 11 runs on the scoreboard. However, a steadying partnership between captain Cecily Chettiar and Isobel Andrews (with a big six off the final ball of the innings) managed to get the team up to a competitive total of 48. Highworth College got off to a flyer with a combination of good batting and a few unusual mishaps in the field from Bethany. Halfway through their innings, Highworth were 35 for 1 and only needed 14 runs from 16 balls to complete victory and make it through to Finals Day. However, Bethany had other ideas. Wickets from Honor Cassleton Elliott and Leah Carnegie along with several dot balls now gave Bethany a chance of victory too. And so, it was down to the Final over with the scores level. Isobel Andrews, who had played fantastic cricket all day, bowled a brilliant over with 3 dot balls including a wicket, but just one edged ball meant that Highworth scrapped over the line by 3 runs.

 

The whole team should be extremely proud as they played lots of fantastic cricket and represented both themselves and Bethany brilliantly both on and off the pitch. With the Summer only a few months away, the team can look forward to a successful cricket season!

 

The squad that took part were: Eleni Haines, Verity Davidson, Honor Cassleton Elliott, Cecily Chettiar, Mia Castle, Leah Carnegie, Isobel Andrews, Ruby Peters and Amelia Bickford (thank you to Ms. Tilly Graham for support on the day too).

 

Player of the Day: Isobel Andrews

Coaches Player of the Day: The whole squad

Netball | Bethany U16 v Buckswood
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Following last week’s bad weather, which led to the unfortunate postponement of their opening fixture, the Bethany U16 netball team finally kicked off their season in style with a fantastic and well-deserved win over Buckswood. The team was eager to get back on court, and from the first whistle, they demonstrated great energy and teamwork.

 

Bethany started the game strongly, moving the ball down the court with speed and precision. The attacking players worked tirelessly to create opportunities, transitioning smoothly into the shooting circle, where Olivia James and Summer Stewart-Welch showcased their accuracy and composure, consistently converting chances into goals. The team’s movement and passing were sharp, allowing Bethany to dominate possession and apply constant pressure on their opponents.

 

Defensively, the team were equally impressive, with every player contributing to crucial interceptions and tips all over the court. The defensive unit remained solid, making it difficult for Buckswood to build momentum, and by halftime, Bethany had established a commanding 13-1 lead.

 

Going into the second half, Bethany made some tactical changes, rotating positions slightly in the third quarter to allow players to gain experience in different roles. Despite these adjustments, the team continued to play with intensity and control. By the final quarter, Bethany embraced a versatility approach, giving everyone an opportunity to test their skills in alternative positions. This led to a more evenly contested period, ending with a 6-6 score for the quarter. However, thanks to the early dominance, Bethany’s lead remained secure, and they comfortably saw out the game.

 

It was a fantastic team effort, with every player making valuable contributions both defensively and offensively. A huge well done to the whole squad for their commitment and performance. This result sets a strong foundation for the rest of the season.

 

Final score: Bethany 24-10 Buckswood

Player of the Match: Olivia James

Coaches Player of the Match: Taylor Botha

Netball | Bethany U13A v Radnor House
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In a similar style to last week, Bethany had a slow start to the game, allowing Radnor House to dominate the first quarter and rack up 12 goals on the scoreboard. Despite some good efforts in defence, Bethany struggled to settle into their rhythm early on, and Radnor House took full advantage of their opportunities.

 

Once Bethany found their flow in the second quarter, the defensive efforts significantly improved, limiting Radnor House to just 4 goals. Ella Pantony (GK) had a standout performance, making crucial deflections and capitalising on any loose balls that came her way. Her determination and awareness in the defensive circle helped the team regain possession on multiple occasions. However, moving the ball through the midcourt remained a challenge, as Bethany often got caught behind their players and relied too much on overhead passes, which were easily intercepted by Radnor House’s strong defence.

 

Heading into the third quarter, a tactical change in the attacking end led to a noticeable improvement in movement and positioning. Ciara Carnegie (C) made a real effort to attack the space and position herself in front of her player, allowing for smoother transitions down the court. As a result, the team were able to feed the ball into shooters more effectively, leading to four well-worked goals and securing a draw for the quarter.

 

However, as fatigue set in during the final quarter, Radnor House took control once again, capitalising on tired legs and increasing their lead. Despite best efforts, they managed to break through the Bethany defence and push the final score to 27-5 .

 

Although the result wasn’t in Bethany’s favour, there were plenty of positives to take from the game. Isla Oldridge (WA/GA) was awarded Coaches’ Player for her excellent use of space and composure with the ball under pressure. Her ability to create opportunities and maintain control helped steady the team’s attacking plays.

 

Final score: Bethany 5-27 Radnor House

Player of the Match: Ciara Carnegie

Coaches Player of the Match: Isla Oldridge

Netball | Bethany U13B v Radnor House
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With a full squad of nine players, the Bethany U13B hockey team had plenty of options and flexibility going into their game against Radnor House.

 

The team was full of energy and ready to put last week’s lessons into practice. However, Bethany faced a tough first quarter against a strong Radnor side. Some early passing errors and turnovers allowed Radnor to dominate possession and take a firm lead, ending the first quarter 12-1 in their favour. Despite the score line, the Bethany team kept their heads up.

 

Going into the second quarter, Bethany made a few tactical changes, which paid off brilliantly. The team started to find their rhythm, and their passing improved significantly. This led to a spectacular second-quarter performance, where Bethany outscored Radnor 4-1. Isabelle Hindley was outstanding in attack, showing excellent accuracy and composure with her shooting. At the other end of the court, Ten Shaw Muxchate and Isabella Goodall put in a fantastic defensive effort, making crucial interceptions and blocking several of Radnor’s attempts on goal.

 

Radnor remained a strong opponent throughout the match and continued to apply pressure in the second half. Despite Bethany’s best efforts, they capitalised on their opportunities and maintained control of the game, ultimately securing a 23-6 victory. While the final score may not have been in Bethany’s favour, the team never gave up. Their energy, effort and fighting spirit were clear throughout all four quarters.

 

One of the most encouraging aspects of the game was the noticeable improvement from last week. The team showed better movement on and off the ball, more confident passing and stronger defensive positioning. These are all positive signs as the team continue to grow and develop as a squad.

 

Final score: Bethany 6-23 Radnor House

Player of the Match: Isabella Goodall

Coaches Player of the Match: Tessie O’Shea and Ten Shaw Muxchate

Celebrating Chinese New Year


Thursday 29th January saw the celebration of Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year to many. Bethany joined in with the festivities as an abundance of delicious Chinese delicacies were on offer for all pupils and staff.

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The dining hall was decorated with bright red lanterns, gold accents and banners bearing messages of good fortune.

 

A special shout out to Bethany boarders Tim and Davey, who both did an incredible job in helping out catering staff in ensuring everyone enjoyed their delicious food.

 

For dessert, fortune cookies added an extra touch of fun and excitement to the celebration. Each cookie contained a thoughtful message or prediction for the year ahead, giving pupils a playful glimpse into the future. The fortune cookies were a hit, sparking conversations as everyone eagerly cracked them open to see what their fortune would be.

 

Our pupil librarians also had a great time creating Chinese lanterns for the library to celebrate Chinese New Year.

 

In addition to the lantern-making, there were other fun craft activities, and everyone had the chance to taste some seaweed. To top it off, each participant received a fortune cookie.

 

 

The celebration was a wonderful opportunity for pupils from different cultural backgrounds to learn about and appreciate the customs of Chinese New Year.