Bartholomew School visitor entrance Christmas tree (supplied by Tree Barn, who also supply No. 10 Downing Street!) decorated with baubles designed by students.
Embedded Files
Welcome to The Bartholomew Bulletin, a termly round up of news and highlights for the school community.
Welcome to The Bartholomew Bulletin, a termly round up of news and highlights for the school community.
We hope you enjoy reading about some of the many trips, events and activities that have taken place within the school community over the past few weeks and this gives a flavour of life at Bartholomew.
We hope you enjoy reading about some of the many trips, events and activities that have taken place within the school community over the past few weeks and this gives a flavour of life at Bartholomew.
Previous issues may be accessed via the link at the top right of this page, or via the Newsletters page of our school website: Newsletters - Bartholomew School
Previous issues may be accessed via the link at the top right of this page, or via the Newsletters page of our school website: Newsletters - Bartholomew School
Contents
Foreword from the Headteacher
Foreword from the Headteacher
From Mr Craig Thomas, Deputy CEO and Executive Headteacher
At the end of another busy term, it is nice to reflect on some longstanding Bartholomew traditions and the special place that they have at the heart of our school.
Last week we held our traditional Christmas Carol Service at St Leonard’s Church in the village. It was wonderful to have so many people attend representing the full breadth of our school community. Special thanks to everyone who read or performed and to the Friends of Bartholomew School for providing the festive refreshments. Today we held our traditional Carol Shout during extended breaktimes, and it was as hugely enjoyable as it always has been.
As the EPA Trust grows, my role as Deputy CEO is expanding and I am taking on a wider Executive Leadership role across the Trust’s Secondary provision. Whilst I shall remain as Executive Headteacher of Bartholomew School, I am pleased to announce that the Trustees and Governors have appointed Adam Wood to the position of Head of School from January 2026. This will support day-to day leadership in the school and will help to ensure that Bartholomew continues to offer an excellent education to our students.
I would like to thank everyone for their hard work and support and hope that you all enjoy a well-deserved rest over the break.
Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and we look forward to welcoming staff and students back in school on Tuesday 6th January 2026.
Governing Body Update
Governing Body Update
From Dr Lucy Dickinson, Chair of Governors
The term running up to Christmas is always busy, both academically as well as for festive events and extracurricular activities including concerts and theatre trips. Well done to all the Year 11 students who have got their mocks out of the way, and best wishes to the Year 13s who will need to combine celebrations with continuing their revision over the holiday period. The Carol Concert last week was a lovely end of term event featuring hugely talented performances and readings from students from all year groups. Thanks also to the Friends of Bartholomew for providing refreshments and continuing to raise money for the outdoor project.
Governors have also been busy this term – we welcomed three new Parent Governors, Paddy, Luisa and Mark to our most recent meeting, and are grateful to them for stepping forwards for these roles. Alongside discussions of the curriculum, support for students with additional needs, and of progress and achievement data, we also talked about the growth of the EPA Trust and considered how best to support all of the Secondary Schools in our Trust. Whilst Craig Thomas will remain as Executive Headteacher at Bartholomew, his wider role supporting secondary education across the Trust has been recognised. We are pleased to have supported the Trustees in a decision to add additional leadership capacity at Bartholomew with the appointment of Adam Wood as Head of School. We look forward to continuing to work with him and the Senior Leadership Team in ensuring the best possible educational experience and outcomes for students already at the school, as well as those who choose to apply following the successful Year 7 and Sixth Form Open Evenings.
The school has continued to encourage students to volunteer for and think about the wider community, with another successful collection for the food bank on non-uniform day. It is important to Governors that these opportunities for public engagement and community work are available to all our young people, whether through the work or the school council, the Duke of Edinburgh award or other initiatives. The collaboration with the Nature Recovery Network also continues, and if students (and their families) would like a chance to help our local environmental efforts, and get outside for some fresh air, please join up again for the annual hedgerow planting in January (see flyer below).
Governors would like to take this opportunity to wish all our students, their families and our hard-working staff the very best for Christmas and the New Year.
Subject News
Subject News
Remembrance Day Art Competition
Remembrance Day Art Competition
From Miss Oldroyd, Head of Art
As part of our Remembrance Day commemorations, students from across the school were invited to create a piece of artwork in any medium on the theme of Remembrance.
The response was outstanding, both in terms of the number of entries and the exceptionally high standard of work. Choosing the winning pieces was no easy task, and the Art Department would like to congratulate all students who took part for their creativity, care and thoughtful engagement with the theme.
Please take a moment to scroll through the slides below and enjoy our students' artwork.
It has been a real delight to showcase these powerful pieces in the art studio windows this term, and we are incredibly proud of every student who took part.
The Magical World of Harry Potter
The Magical World of Harry Potter
From Mr Nash, Head of Design & Technology
A group of 48 Year 9 students enjoyed an inspiring visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour on Wednesday 19th November, where design, creativity and a little movie magic came together.
Students took part in a studio workshop exploring the secrets behind the Harry Potter films, from the early stages of set and costume design through to the finished scenes on screen. They also discovered some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts – including the clever techniques used to bring characters such as Rubeus Hagrid to life (a tall rugby player was sometimes used in place of actor Robbie Coltrane!).
The group then explored the studios themselves, seeing film effects in action and even trying out their sword-wielding skills alongside their friends. The visit was, of course, rounded off with a well-earned glass of Butterbeer.
A thoroughly enjoyable and memorable day, bringing classroom learning to life and sparking plenty of creative inspiration.
Year 7 Pantomime trip
Year 7 Pantomime trip
From Ms Band, Teacher of Drama
On Wednesday 17th December, 92 Year 7 students enjoyed a festive visit to see Dick Whittington at the Oxford Playhouse.
This year’s pantomime offered a fun-filled and imaginative twist on the classic tale, with Noel and Liam Gallagher hatching a master plan to take over the world, alongside plenty of humour, audience interaction and some nostalgic 90s tunes that were particularly enjoyed by staff!
The visit was made extra special by seeing one of our own students, Angel L (Year 10), performing as part of the cast. Angel has shown real commitment throughout rehearsals and performances, and it was a pleasure to see their hard work showcased on stage.
As always, our students were fantastic ambassadors for Bartholomew School and thoroughly enjoyed the performance. The trip was a fabulous way to welcome in the Christmas holidays.
A huge thank you to the staff involved during such a busy last week of term. Happy Christmas everyone!
Christmas Carol Service
Christmas Carol Service
From Mrs Almgill, Head of Music
We enjoyed a wonderful Carol Service featuring a rich and varied programme of music, showcasing performers from across the school, from our Year 7 Choir through to Sixth Form singers.
Musical Theatre Group’s a cappella, jazz-inspired rendition of Silent Night received rapturous applause, and thanks go to Sixth Form students Karlanis and Indiya for their leadership and commitment in preparing the group. The String Group performed a beautiful Cornish carol, while the Jazz Band delighted the audience with a jazz arrangement of Away in a Manger. Elijah G’s solo performance was particularly moving, and the Staff Choir rounded off the programme with a French carol arranged by Mr McCoy.
Northmoor Recital
Northmoor Recital
From Mrs Almgill, Head of Music
In November a group of Bartholomew students performed at a fundraising recital at St Denys’ Church, Northmoor, in a truly atmospheric setting, with the church beautifully illuminated by candlelight.
Students performed with confidence and poise, delivering a wide-ranging programme that reflected both their musical skill and versatility. For some, including Freddie and Luxe, this was their first time performing in front of an audience, making their assured performances all the more impressive. Friendships formed on the Cologne trip were also showcased, with Robin and Aysha performing a duet together.
The quality of the performances captivated the audience throughout the evening. There was real piano wizardry from Edwin and Mark, foot-tapping energy in Silas’ cello performance featuring his own folk arrangement, and a striking contrast in style with Elan’s classical guitar piece. The second half featured spine-tingling vocal performances from Karlanis, Freya and Indiya, alongside musical theatre highlights from Freddie and Skye, a delightful harp solo from Hannah, and popular songs performed by Phoebe, Vanessa and Hayley.
The programme ranged from Bach and Holst to Chopin, Puccini and contemporary works, showcasing the exceptional talent, confidence and musical curiosity of our students.
The audience response reflected just how special the evening was, and we are incredibly proud of everyone who took part.
A Look Ahead to Personal Development Lessons in Term 3
A Look Ahead to Personal Development Lessons in Term 3
In Personal Development lessons, students study a range of topics that support their wellbeing, relationships and personal growth. Our spiral curriculum revisits key themes in an age-appropriate way, and is carefully planned in line with DfE guidance and PSHE Association resources.
From Mrs Humm, Head of Personal Development & Citizenship
Year 7
Year 7
Year 7 students will remain with their tutors and continue learning about physical health. They will then begin a short series of lessons exploring the emotional and physical changes associated with puberty, delivered in an age-appropriate and supportive way.
Year 8
Year 8
Year 8 students will continue their Personal Development lessons with their tutors on a carousel basis. Topics covered this term include relationship values, consent and contraception, staying safe (including domestic abuse and the risks of sharing images online), family life, online safety, belonging and community, and emotional health.
Please follow this link to our Year 8 Personal Development carousel showing when each topic is taught.
Year 9
Year 9
Year 9 students will also continue lessons on a carousel basis with their tutors. Topics include drugs education, emotional health (including eating disorders, strategies to support positive wellbeing and managing difficult times), first aid, and relationships, covering respectful relationships, consent, contraception and sexual health.
Please follow this link to our Year 9 Personal Development carousel showing when each topic is taught.
Year 10
Year 10
Year 10 students will continue their Personal Development lessons on a carousel basis. Topics this term include building resilience to gambling, drugs and alcohol, emotional health, understanding why some young people may become involved in gangs, and sex and relationships, including respect, the impact of pornography, consent, and managing conflict and relationship breakdown.
Alongside this, students will continue their personal finance learning during tutor time, before beginning work on how the British political system operates.
Please follow this link to our Year 10 Personal Development carousel showing when each topic is taught.
Year 11
Year 11
Year 11 students will remain with their tutors to begin a series of lessons focused on understanding and preventing extremism. They will also learn about blood, organ and stem cell donation during tutor time, before moving on to sessions covering personal finance.
Year 11 Personal Development visit to The Hill Group
Year 11 Personal Development visit to The Hill Group
From Miss Walton, Aspire Coordinator
Year 11 students enjoyed an engaging visit to The Hill Group’s A40 development site, gaining valuable insight into careers in construction, apprenticeships and post-16 pathways as part of their Personal Development programme.
Thanks to The Hill Group for giving students this opportunity and supporting our careers programme!
PE News
PE News
From Mrs Clements-Foster, Head of Physical Education
It has been a hugely positive and action-packed term for PE and sport at Bartholomew, with students across all year groups throwing themselves into opportunities with energy, commitment and real team spirit.
We have seen fantastic participation in a wide range of fixtures and inter-house competitions, including football, netball, handball, bench ball, boccia, Just Dance and the Run Challenge, that have created a real buzz around school. Our students have represented Bartholomew with pride in fixtures against other schools, showing resilience, sportsmanship and determination throughout.
I am also incredibly proud of our Year 9 Sports Leaders, who have supported the EPA primary Sports Hall Athletics event this term. They have shown maturity, confidence and enthusiasm, acting as outstanding ambassadors for the school and making a real difference to younger pupils’ experiences of sport.
Thank you to every student who has taken part this term — whether competing, leading or supporting their house. Your enthusiasm has been infectious. We’re looking forward to even more fixtures next term, and students should keep an eye out for the new extracurricular clubs listing, which will be shared at the start of Term 3 and on Google Classroom.
Menstruation Products
Menstruation Products
Yellow Bag scheme
Yellow Bag scheme
We operate a ‘yellow bag’ scheme at Bartholomew School whereby students can help themselves to disposable menstruation pads as required. Yellow bags are located around the school site for students to help themselves and they may also go to reception or speak to another member of staff if they require more substantial supplies to have at home.
As part of this DfE funding, we are also able to offer students the chance to try out reusable period underwear.
If you have any questions about accessing menstruation products, please email Mrs Humm, Head of Learning for Life, via the School Office
Year Group News
Year Group News
Year 12 Numeracy and Literacy Ambassadors
Year 12 Numeracy and Literacy Ambassadors
From Mrs McGuinness, Numeracy Across the Curriculum Lead, and Ms Selfe, Director of Reading Across the EPA
Each year, Year 12 students are invited to take on the role of Numeracy and Literacy Ambassadors (pictured below).
Our new groups have been working with Year 7 and 8, from challenging our talented younger students to supporting them in intervention classes, and even helping at after-school clinic, developing their own leadership skills all the while.
It is a real strength of having a Sixth Form within our school, helping to build strong relationships across year groups and a genuine sense of community; our Sixth Form students are proving to be excellent role models.
A huge THANK YOU to these fantastic students for their dedication and enthusiasm. You’re inspiring our younger students every day!
Global Creativity for Climate Justice
Global Creativity for Climate Justice
From Ms Selfe, Director of Reading Across the EPA
We are incredibly proud to celebrate Millie S (Year 13) for her involvement in the international Place4Hope project, a youth-led initiative that brings together young leaders from around the world to explore climate justice, planetary health and creative advocacy through art, storytelling and collaboration.
Place4Hope, run by Rosetta Life, empowers young people aged 15–20 to express their perspectives on environmental issues through creative media and to advocate for change on a global stage. This summer’s programme saw participants from multiple countries co-create artistic works, including a short film highlighting themes of climate and hope.
We are delighted that the film Millie contributed to was featured at this year’s UN Climate Change Conference (COP), showcasing student voices on the international stage. Millie’s involvement is a wonderful example of initiative, creativity and Bartholomew’s commitment to global citizenship.
Huge congratulations to Millie on this achievement — we look forward to seeing her continuing to amplify youth perspectives through art and advocacy.
House News
House News
House Points in Term 2
House Points in Term 2
There have been lots of opportunities for students to contribute to their house so far, including:
Attendance, Bench Ball, Boccia, Careers Detectives (Term 1), Christmas Bauble Competition, Christmas Quiz, European Languages Day Bake Off (Term 1), Football, Handball, Homework, Just Dance, Lesson Contributions, Netball, Remembrance Day Art Competition, Run Challenge, School Community Contributions and Sports Hall Athletics, and the final day of term Christmas Quiz!
Scroll through the slides below to see the results of our inter-house competition and which house currently leads the way with an impressive 14,169 house points!
Coming up in Term 3 - Bartholomew's Got Talent!
Coming up in Term 3 - Bartholomew's Got Talent!
From Mrs Williams, Lead House Coordinator
We’re thrilled to announce Bartholomew's Got Talent, and this year it’s all about House Pride! Each house will be putting forward its most talented performers to compete in a spectacular show in front of a live audience!
We warmly invite you to join us on Wednesday 28th January at 5.30pm in the Main Hall to celebrate the incredible talents within our school community. Please save the date and keep an eye out for further updates about how to purchase tickets - coming soon!
This event promises to be full of entertainment, laughter, and memorable performances. Thank you for your continued support, we can’t wait to see lots of you there!
Library News
Library News
Oxfordshire Book Awards
Oxfordshire Book Awards
From Mrs Smith, Librarian
A group of Year 9 students enjoyed a memorable afternoon attending the Oxfordshire Book Awards 2025 ceremony at Magdalen College School, Oxford.
The awards celebrate a shortlist of fiction titles chosen and voted for by students, which our pupils had been following through last term’s Year 8 Book Group. This year’s winning secondary novel, The Final Year by Matt Goodfellow, was a particular favourite with our students. The event included author talks and book signings, giving students a valuable opportunity to engage directly with writers and celebrate reading in a wider academic setting.
It was a fantastic experience for all involved and a real celebration of reading for pleasure, student voice and a shared love of books.
Careers News
Careers News
West Oxfordshire Schools Careers Partnership (WOSCP) Careers Fair
West Oxfordshire Schools Careers Partnership (WOSCP) Careers Fair
From Mrs Williams, Careers Lead
Bartholomew School, alongside other West Oxfordshire schools, was proud to help organise a large Careers Fair on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, hosted by Abingdon & Witney College at their Witney Campus.
The event brought together over 60 exhibitors from across a wide range of sectors, giving students and parents/carers the opportunity to explore an impressive breadth of post-16 and post-18 pathways. These included Higher Education, Apprenticeships, Engineering and STEM, Construction, Health and Care, Public Services, Creative Industries, Hospitality, IT, Finance and Travel and Tourism.
Students were able to speak directly with representatives from leading universities, alongside local and national employers including Airbus, BMW Mini Plant, Siemens Healthineers, UKAEA, Thames Valley Police, the RAF, South Central Ambulance Service, and Abbott Diabetes Care. Apprenticeship and training providers, including Activate Learning, QA Apprenticeships, ACE Training and Oxfordshire Advanced Skills, were also on hand to offer practical guidance and advice.
The evening was extremely well attended, with over 450 students registered, and early feedback from both exhibitors and attendees was very positive. The WOSCP group would like to thank Abingdon & Witney College for hosting the event and all exhibitors for giving their time to support young people in making informed decisions about their futures.
The next WOSCP event will take place at The Marlborough School, Woodstock, on Thursday 12th March 2026 from 6.00pm, and will focus on Apprenticeship Recruitment. Full details will follow.
Careers Guidance in School
Careers Guidance in School
Our Careers Advisor, Maggie Nason, continues to work closely with students across the school, providing impartial careers information, advice and guidance, particularly for Year 11 and Sixth Form students.
Mrs Nason supports students with exploring their next steps and making informed decisions about college courses, apprenticeships, employment and university, as well as helping with applications and planning beyond Bartholomew. She is currently meeting with Year 11 students, especially those who may be unsure about their plans for next year.
Students who feel they would benefit from a careers guidance appointment should speak to Mrs Williams in the Careers Office, or email careers@bartholomew.epatrust.org to arrange a meeting.
Year 12 Career Pathways Programme
Year 12 Career Pathways Programme
This term, Year 12 students have taken part in a series of sessions designed to help them explore their post-18 pathways and make informed decisions about the future.
Students heard from the Oxford Brookes University Outreach Team, who delivered a presentation covering the university application process, choosing the right course, student life and finance. This was followed by sessions led by InTake Talent, offering valuable insight into Higher and Degree Apprenticeships and alternative routes beyond university.
Next term, we look forward to welcoming Siemens Healthineers, who will be working with students on interview skills and offering mock interviews, giving them practical experience and confidence as they prepare for future applications.
Year 10 Work Experience
Year 10 Work Experience
Year 10 Work Experience will take place from Monday 27th April to Friday 1st May 2026. This important week gives students the opportunity to develop workplace skills, explore possible career paths and gain valuable insight into the world of work.
Students who asked school to help organise a placement submitted their forms earlier this term, and we have already begun contacting employers. We will do our best to match students with placements that reflect their interests wherever possible.
Students arranging their own placements should return the blue Application Form as soon as possible and no later than Friday 6th February 2026, to allow time for the required insurance and health and safety checks. All placements must be registered with school. Parents and carers are also reminded to complete the short online Agreement Form giving consent for their child to take part.
A huge thank you to our employers who have kindly offered placements to our Year 10 students.
We are always keen to develop new links with local employers who could support our students with their work experience. If you work for an organisation that may be able to offer a one-week work experience placement in future please contact Linda Williams, Careers Lead on 00865 733334 or email careers@bartholomew.epatrus.org.
Year 12 Work Experience
Year 12 Work Experience
Year 12 Work Experience will take place from Monday 6th to Friday 10th July 2026. Students received an introduction to work experience in assembly this term and have been provided with further guidance and paperwork via Google Classroom.
Students are expected to arrange their own placements and are encouraged to begin researching opportunities as early as possible. Both universities and employers place high value on recent work experience, and some higher education courses require applicants to have experience related to their chosen field of study.
All placements must be registered with school and approved following the necessary checks.
We are always keen to develop new links with local employers who could support our students with their work experience. If you work for an organisation that may be able to offer a one-week work experience placement to a Year 12 student, please contact Linda Williams, Careers Lead on 00865 733334 or email careers@bartholomew.epatrus.org.
CEIAG Website
CEIAG Website
The Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance section of the school website has information on Post-16 and Post-18 options, including applying to colleges of further education, employment and training opportunities, and local labour market information. The site also includes links to the Oxfordshire and National Apprenticeship Websites: https://www.bartholomew.oxon.sch.uk/347/careers-education-information-advice-and-guidance-ceiag
For information and advice on careers or work experience please contact Mrs Linda Williams on 01865 733334 (direct line) or email careers@bartholomew.epatrust.org
Friends of Bartholomew School (FOBS)
Friends of Bartholomew School (FOBS)
Hello everyone!
We’re the Friends of Bartholomew School (FOBS), a volunteer group made up of parents, carers, staff and friends of the school who work together to raise funds and support projects that enhance the experience of all our students. We’re always looking for new members and volunteers to join us. Whether you’d like to be more involved, help out occasionally, or simply share a fundraising idea, we’d love to hear from you!
This term we have been meeting some new members who have joined, which has been fantastic. We also had the pleasure of attending the Christmas Carol Service and enjoyed serving festive treats whilst be treated to music and singing by a very talented group of students and school staff.
We have also had the pleasure of contacting winners of our 300 club draw. This is a great and easy way to support FOBs.
There are lots of ways to get involved and support the School. We always welcome new ideas and need volunteers to support our fundraising initiatives.
How to get in touch
Email us at: friendsofbartholomewschool.com
Join our Facebook page Friends of Bartholomew School (Eynsham) for news, updates and the 300 Club draw, which takes place monthly.
Support FOBS through Easy Fundraising
Did you know you can raise money for the school just by shopping online?
By signing up to Easy Fundraising and selecting Bartholomew School, Eynsham as your chosen cause, every time you shop with participating retailers, a small donation will be made to FOBS – at no extra cost to you!
It only takes a few minutes to set up, and every little bit really does make a big difference.
Our Current Project: The Great Outdoors Initiative
FOBS are excited to be fundraising for our new Great Outdoors Initiative. Our goal is to help students enjoy more time outside, learning, relaxing, and socialising, in comfort and in all weathers. We are working with school and students to make sure their ideas help shape the project, creating outdoor areas they’ll genuinely love and use, such as an outdoor gym and fitness equipment, benches and seating for social spaces, and a canopy to provide shelter and shade.
We look forward to sharing further updates with you and thank you for your continued support,
The Friends of Bartholomew School
New members and ideas are always welcome, so if you’d like to get involved or just find out more, please get in touch. Our meeting dates are publicised via the weekly newsletter, on the FOBS page of the school website, and on our Facebook page. We look forward to welcoming you!
Alumni News
Alumni News
Exam Certificate Collection - Class of 2025
Exam Certificate Collection - Class of 2025
Former students who took examinations in the summer of 2025 are encouraged to keep updated with news of the GCSE, A Level and BTEC certificates being available for collection via reception. We are likely to receive these from the certificates over the next few weeks and will confirm when they are available our website: www.bartholomew.oxon.sch.uk
Former students who took examinations in the summer of 2025 are encouraged to keep updated with news of the GCSE, A Level and BTEC certificates being available for collection via reception. We are likely to receive these from the certificates over the next few weeks and will confirm when they are available our website: www.bartholomew.oxon.sch.uk
Please share this information widely with those who have left the School, thank you.
Please share this information widely with those who have left the School, thank you.
Sixth Form Open Evening 2025
Sixth Form Open Evening 2025
Sixth Form Open Evening
Sixth Form Open Evening
We were delighted to welcome around 1,000 visitors to our Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 27th November.
As part of the event we made a short film showcasing Sixth Form life, featuring Mrs von der Osten, Deputy Headteacher and Director of Sixth Form, our Sixth Form student presidents, Bea, Elyonna and Ethan, along with members of the student Senior Team; huge thanks to everyone for their contributions!
Applicants have been invited to our Sixth Form Taster Day on Friday 16th January 2026.
For further information about the admissions process or to enquire about our Sixth Form, please contact the Sixth Form Team at sixthform@bartholomew.epatrust.org or visit our Sixth Form Admissions 2026 page
Term Dates 2025-26
Term Dates 2025-26
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