From Mr Craig Thomas, Headteacher
Thank you very much for all the positive feedback on our new newsletter format. We hope that it makes it easier for everyone to find out about the wonderful range of activities that our students have been engaged in over the course of this busy term.
Many of the activities have had a real community feel and there have been some amazing fundraising efforts. Thousands of pounds have been raised during this term alone, and it has been wonderful to see people across the school community being involved in such a wide range of charitable and awareness-raising events. It's such an important part of school life and I'd like to thank all the staff that put time and effort into facilitating these opportunities as well as you, as parents and carer, who support the students in their endeavours.
We look forward to welcoming all the students back into school on Tuesday 7th January, but in the meantime can I take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
From Dr Lucy Dickinson, Chair of Governors
Governors spent a morning dropping into lessons during a busy week in early December, with mock exams underway and some students out on a drama trip. Once again, we were impressed with the calm atmosphere around the school site and with the engagement of the staff and students. It was lovely to see Year 7 students, many of whom started learning Mandarin at one of the EPA feeder primary schools, tackling the language with great enthusiasm. We are fortunate to be able to offer our young people such a range of linguistic opportunities (Mandarin, Spanish, French and German), and the experiences and trips which enable them to practise and increase their abilities. In both these lessons and many others we found behaviour and participation to be excellent and we enjoyed seeing the school in action, as well as sampling some excellent lunches from the canteen.
We have also continued to meet at our regular evening meetings, discussing academic outcomes, provision and support for students with special educational needs, and ensuring that our financial resources are used to the best possible effect for all students. With the growth in Sixth Form numbers, we have been looking at how to increase the space available for study and socialising. We are extremely grateful to the Sixth Form student leadership team and students with other voluntary roles for their mentorship and support of younger students. We heard about the new student leadership structure and the opportunities it gives to students to get involved at different ages and levels, progressing their skills and learning from the more experienced members.
Attendance continues to be a focus both nationally and for us – we are pleased that our figures are above those seen across the country, but still recognise that some young people need support to help ensure that they are in school and benefitting from all the academic and extra-curricular opportunities provided. We are fortunate to have a strong pastoral team including a school counsellor, pastoral support workers and student counsellors, as well as the form tutors, heads of year and teams for supporting students with special educational needs and other factors which might make school feel more challenging for them. Families are encouraged to contact the school if their young people are struggling.
Finally, we heard about the many community activities and festive events which have taken place in the run up to Christmas. The food donations received for the food bank were fantastic, and many of you will have seen the amazing food can entry to the village Christmas tree competition – definitely a worthy winner! There has also been a lovely carol service and the annual carol shout and Christmas Jumper Day. Wider links to local groups offer our whole school community the opportunity to get involved, learn new skill and make friends. We encourage anyone who would like to start the New Year with some worthwhile activity to come along to the village hedgerow planting on Sunday 12th January – we have 1km of hedgerow to plant, and will be very grateful for any help (scroll down to 'Community News' below for further details).
The Governors are grateful to all the staff for their hard work and dedicated support of students during another busy and successful year. We would like to wish all of them, as well as our students and their families, a very happy festive season.
From Mr Nash, Head of Design & Technology (D&T)
On Wednesday 20th November, a group of 48 Year 9 D&T students embarked on an unforgettable experience at the Warner Brothers Studio Tour. The day began with an engaging studio workshop that covered everything from initial set and costume design to the final outcomes, which offered students inspiration for their own D&T work and awareness of relevant careers. Students were fascinated to find out some of the secrets behind the making of the Harry Potter films, for example it was revealed that Harry Potter giant, Rubeus Hagrid was sometimes portrayed by a tall rugby player instead of Robbie Coltrane!
After the workshop, students enjoyed a studio tour during which they witnessed film effects in action and even had a chance to practice their broomstick flying skills alongside their peers! A refreshing glass of Butterbeer at the end completing a wonderfully magical day that was enjoyed by all!
From Miss Band, Drama Department
On Friday 13th December, almost 100 Year 7 students embarked on an exciting trip to The North Wall Theatre to watch Creation Theatre's Christmas show, Hansel and Gretel. Despite a flat tyre on the coach before leaving school (a classic Friday the 13th mishap!), the students remained wonderfully behaved. The theatre kindly waited for our arrival before starting the show, ensuring we didn't miss a moment.
The performance was a hit, with everyone thoroughly enjoying the magical production. The highlight for many students was getting to 'high-five' the actors at the end of the show. It was a fantastic trip that left everyone with big smiles and great memories!
Further information about Hansel and Gretel at the North Wall Theatre
From Miss Band, Drama Department
A group of 40 Year 8 students had an exciting day at Chipping Norton Theatre, participating in a pantomime workshop followed by a performance of Jack and the Beanstalk. The workshop kicked off with fun games and discussions about the theatrical devices and techniques used in pantomime. Students then had the chance to put on their own version of Jack and the Beanstalk, complete with wigs and costumes!
Everyone did a fantastic job and thoroughly enjoyed the professional production that followed. It was a wonderful trip that showcased the students' creativity and enthusiasm for drama.
From Miss Band, Drama Department
Drama students from Years 10 to 13 have also been enjoying their trips to the theatre, with a performance of Dracula at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon towards the end of November, followed by War Horse at the Oxford New Theatre.
Both trips provided enrichment opportunities that will support the students' written work in drama. Below are some photos from War Horse.
From Mr Watkins, Head of Geography
Our Year 12 Geography A Level students have been studying an area of East Oxford for their 'Sense of Place' topic, exploring what this area means to local inhabitants and the strength of attachment that people have to it. To enrich their studies, the group went to Oxford to get first hand experience of the local economy, multiculturalism, studentification and gentrification of the area. This also helped students gain an understanding that places don't stand still; they constantly change, and engaged them with thinking about the factors that bring about change in the places we live.
As an unexpected bonus, whilst students were conducting a survey on the Cowley Road just outside a popular music venue, music star Sam Ryder arrived! Sam was due to performance at the O2 that night and very kindly stopped to speak with the students. Much to their delight he also offered them some free tickets so a group went along (including one student's mum!) and they had a fantastic time.
The Cowley Road, East Oxford
The Library
Radcliffe Camera mural
Sam Ryder helps students with their survey
Sam Ryder live later that day at the O2 Academy, Oxford
From Mrs Humm, Head of Learning for Life
During Terms Two and Three, Year 7 students will cover these topics with the Year 7 tutor team on a carousel basis:
Being Healthy- the importance of sleep
Finance - Understanding inflation
Forming positive relationships
Being responsible online – cyberbullying
Being Healthy- Dental Health
Being Healthy- Tobacco
Relationships- Managing Conflict
Towards the end of Term 3, students will begin their lessons which focus on Puberty. In Learning for Life students will look at both the physical and emotional aspects of puberty.
Year 8, 9 and 10 students will continue to follow a carousel of five lessons, each exploring a wide variety of topics.
Further detail can be found on our website - head to the L4L page and scroll down to 'L4L Curriculum in More Detail', then open the link to the relevant year group.
During Term Three, Year 11 students will continue their lessons covering Relationships and Sex Education, including abortion and parenting. They will then begin a new topic looking at Financial Wellbeing.
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.
Through funding from the Department for Education 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
From Mrs Almgill, Head of Music
The annual School Carol Service was a resounding success, filling the St. Leonard’s Church with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The event marked the perfect start to the Christmas season, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our students.
The service began with a stunning solo performance of Once in Royal David’s City by Alice, setting a beautiful tone for the evening. A particular highlight was Elijah’s captivating rendition of the modern carol, Mary Did You Know? His beautiful voice, accompanied by his skilful piano playing, captivated the audience.
The Musical Theatre group brought energy and enthusiasm to the stage with their performance of All I Want for Christmas. The String Group also impressed with their renditions of Angels from the Realms of Glory and Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.
Around the music we had the nine lessons; Bible readings telling the story of Christmas, read by both staff and students. The service concluded with a festive jazz performance featuring soloist Indiya, whose soulful voice had the audience swaying in their seats. The congregational carol The First Nowell, ably accompanied by Sixth Former Mia, brought the service to a joyful close.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of this year’s Carol Service. It was a truly magical evening.
The retiring collection in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) raised £115.35 and contributes to the overall total sum raised as a school.
We are looking for musicians to perform at our next recital, which takes place in Term 3. If any students would like to take part please contact your music teacher for further information, thank you!
From Mrs Clements-Foster, Head of Physical Education
As we approach the end of a fantastic Term 2, we are thrilled to reflect on the outstanding achievements and the dedication shown by our students in a variety of sports. This term has been filled with exciting competitions, new beginnings, and incredible teamwork. Here are some of the highlights:
Our Year 11 boys' football team had a remarkable run in the County Cup, reaching the quarter-finals. Their hard work and determination throughout the competition were truly commendable.
The U13 girls' football team (pictured below) made history by advancing to the County Cup semi-finals, showcasing their exceptional skill and teamwork. In the second round they had a convincing 10 – 1 win over Carterton, followed up by a really exciting 4 – 0 win over St Helen’s and St Katherines. They then went onto play Cherwell in the semi-final and were massively unfortunate to lose 5 -4. They played amazingly, but things just didn’t go their way, so just missed out on a place in the final.
Year 7 students (pictured below) embarked on their rugby journey at Bartholomew this term. They have shown great enthusiasm and potential, and we look forward to seeing their progress in the coming years.
Our Year 9 sport leaders have been exemplary role models, organising and leading various events, including the U11 Sports Hall Athletics and a Boccia tournament. Their leadership and commitment have made a significant impact on the younger students and the wider community.
The U19 basketball team fought hard in a thrilling match against Matthew Arnold School but ultimately fell short. Despite the loss, the team's perseverance and sportsmanship were exemplary.
The Year 7 girls' netball team performed exceptionally well, securing 3rd place in the West Oxfordshire Netball Tournament. A fantastic achievement for their first year of competition!
Meanwhile, our Year 9 girls were crowned champions of the West Oxfordshire Netball Tournament, demonstrating their outstanding skills and teamwork throughout the event.
The Year 8 team played some very tough matches in pool A of their tournament, just missing out on a place in the semi-final.
The friendly fixtures have been going well for all the teams, a mix of successes and defeats, but all the teams have worked really hard. We still have Marlborough to play from the West Oxfordshire Schools the last week of term, then we will arrange some more fixtures in Terms 3 and 4 against other schools
For many of the teams we have rotated players as we have so many really keen players, so we are trying to ensure as many as possible get to play games, but this can impact on them gelling as a team, but we are so proud that we have so many girls coming to training, with approximately 30 Year 7 & 8s, and around ten Year 9s. We also now have around five young leaders helping run the after-school sessions as part of their DofE, which is amazing! Below is a quick round up of the results:
We are immensely proud of all our students for their efforts, whether competing, leading, or simply participating and enjoying sport this term. Thank you to all the staff, parents, and supporters who continue to encourage and inspire our young athletes.
Here’s to another term of sporting excellence at Bartholomew School. Have a wonderful holiday, and we look forward to seeing everyone back on the field, court, or pitch in Term 3!
Year 7 Boys Rugby Team
U13 Girls Football County Cup Team
From Mr Connaughton, PE Department
Bartholomew School would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our students who took part in the Running Home for Christmas Challenge. Over two PE lessons, students completed an incredible 7km run to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA). This inspiring effort was made even more special by the support of our Year 9 Sports Leaders, who organised and ran events throughout the week, ensuring everything ran smoothly. A special thank you goes to Benjamin, Year 7, for capturing the week’s events with his drone footage, which we hope to compile into a short video encapsulating the spirit and success of the challenge.
We also want to congratulate all Year 7 tutor groups for their enthusiastic participation in the interform football competition held during the same week. Both events were organised in memory of former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow, who tragically lost his battle with Motor Neurone Disease earlier this year. These activities not only raised awareness about MND but also brought our school community together to generate vital funds for MNDA.
The combined efforts of the entire Bartholomew School community made this fundraising week a remarkable success. In addition to the Running Home for Christmas Challenge, funds were raised through Mr. Connaughton’s Abingdon Marathon fundraiser, the Music Department’s Christmas Carol Service collection, and the Christmas Hamper Raffle organized by the schools Exams and Data team. Together, these initiatives raised an outstanding total of £3,460 for MNDA, which is a astounding!
We are incredibly grateful to all our students, staff, friends, and family members who supported these events. Your dedication and generosity have made a real difference, and we couldn’t have achieved this without you. Thank you once again for coming together to make this week of fundraising so memorable and impactful. We look forward to sharing the completed video of the Running Home for Christmas Challenge soon!
From Mrs Malik, Head of Science
Earlier this academic year, Bartholomew students were invited to take part in the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) 'School Science Prize 2024' competition back in Term 1. Entrants were tasked with writing a 500-word essay titled, 'Why I Love Science'.
There were around 150 entries, so Emily from Year 7 was delighted to discover recently that she was one of three runners-up from the final 16, against some strong submissions. All winners were invited to a prize-giving ceremony on Friday 13th December, during which the judges commented on Emily's enthusiasm for the subject, which really shone through. Emily chose a robotic hand as her prize and had fun constructing it over the weekend.
Huge congratulations to Emily, this is a superb achievement!
From Mrs Malik, Head of Science
Towards the end of November we hosted an exciting McLaren Automotive Challenge Day for 60 Year 9 students. This hands-on STEM event, run by STEM ambassadors from McLaren, and Smallpeice Trust, provided students with a unique opportunity to transform themselves into designers, engineers, and marketing executives for a day.
Participants worked in teams to design, build, and race their own Formula One cars, exploring energy, motion, and electromagnetism. They faced the challenge of creating the fastest vehicle while meeting strict criteria and promoting their team with sharp branding and smart designs.
Despite some nerves, all students presented in their groups to everyone else. I was impressed at how some students really supported others and it was delightful to see some students come out of themselves as they grew in confidence and were clearly inspired
The event provided a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about materials science, engineering, and potential career paths in higher education and apprenticeships. The day concluded with a thrilling race, with prizes awarded to the winning team.
This memorable experience not only enhanced students' STEM, teamwork and communication skills, but also inspired future engineers and innovators.
From Ms Daniels, Head of Biology & STEM Coordinator
We are very fortunate to be able to offer our Year 9 students another exciting STEM opportunity, this time with Airbus, a global company that designs, manufactures and delivers aerospace products and services. The ten-week programme will take place after school on Wednesdays starting from 22nd January until 23rd April.
Please refer to this letter for further details and if your child is interested, sign up via ParentPay.
We were impressed to find out that Ronnie in Year 7 has started competing on a national level in karting. We found out a bit more from Ronnie's father, who explained, "Ronnie first got into karting two years ago and found himself winning the UK IKR championship which meant a step up to Micromax level for the following season which was this year, and he managed to claim third place in the competitive Shenington Championship and also competing in the National Championships. To compete in karting comes with sacrifice so sometimes Ronnie misses his football matches, plus it costs a lot of money but with the help of sponsors we are able to give him the opportunity to compete at a good level."
As this is only his second season karting, it's a great achievement and he's off to a great start! In terms of ambition for the future, Ronnie's dad says, "Ronnie is steppig up again next season into the faster Rotax Intermax class. Here he will be racing against older drivers up to 13 years old, but testing is going well so far and he is showing he has the pace to run inside the top eight! He would obviously like to make it as a professional racing driver and aim for Formula 1!"
Well done Ronnie and we look forward to hearing more about this in the future.
We are proud to announce that Isla from Year 8 participated in the British Judo Council (BJC) closed national judo competition in November and earned a silver medal in her age and weight category.
Isla's parent said, "She has shown remarkable resilience by competing in several national competitions over the past few years. Her dedication and hard work paid off, and she was thrilled to finally bring home a medal."
Congratulations on this fantastic achievement!
From Miss Palmer, School Counsellor
Bartholomew Sixth Form students have a variety of opportunities to develop their leadership skills. Among other roles available, such as Literacy and Numeracy Ambassadors, Sixth Form students also have the opportunity to train as Student Counsellors. Last year a group of 14 students underwent training with our School Counsellor in basic listening skills, group work, and safeguarding during the summer term, before stepping into their roles in September.
Now in Year 13 and having completed their first term, our Student Counsellors have been instrumental in helping Year 7 students settle into Bartholomew School. Each Year 7 form group is paired with two Year 13 Counsellors who join them during registration on Wednesdays and Fridays. During these sessions, they run activities, build relationships, and provide a listening ear to any Year 7 students in need. Additionally, they have recently launched the popular Year 7 Youth Group.
As the new term begins in January, the Sixth Form Student Counsellors will be on study leave for their A Level mock exams. They will resume their registration duties and Youth Group activities from the week commencing 20th January.
Our Sixth Form Student Counsellors, left to right from the back: Nicole, Tye, Daniel, Starla, Florence, Aisha, Evrae, Evie, Emila, Elsie, Zoe and Emily (missing were Freya and Megan)
From Mrs Miller, Librarian
The Oxfordshire Book Awards (OBA) ceremony took place at Magdalen College School, Oxford and was hosted by the author and OBA ambassador, Jo Cotterill. Five authors gave inspiring talks about their winning books, including Jan Dunning, author of Mirror Me, winner of the secondary book category. Students were given the chance to buy books and have them signed by the authors. The Year 8 book group had a fantastic time, made even better by free cake!
For reading inspiration, look out for the weekly book recommendations in Student News via Google Classroom.
Bartholomew, along with the other West Oxfordshire schools as part of the West Oxfordshire Schools Careers Partnership (WOSCP), organised a Careers Fair on Wednesday 4th December 2024, which was hosted by Abingdon & Witney College at their Witney Campus. This careers event provided an opportunity for students and their parents/carers to engage with organisations offering further and higher education, training, employment and apprenticeships. There were over 45 stands, with representatives from universities, colleges, training providers, and employers..
The evening was well attended with over 400 students registered and initial feedback from the exhibitors present and students attending was very positive. The WOSCP group would like to thank Abingdon & Witney College for hosting this event and for the support their team gave to making it so successful. We would also like to thank our exhibitors, who gave up their time to promote the wide range of Post 16 and Post 18 opportunities.
The WOSCP group look forward to their next event at The Marlborough School, Woodstock, on Thursday 13th March 2025, from 6.00pm, when they will be promoting Apprenticeship Recruitment. Full details to follow shortly.
This term we arranged several presentations for Year 12 students to look at their Post 18 options. These included: a presentation by Oxford Brookes University Outreach Team on applying to university, choosing a course, university life and finance; a visit from the Ask Apprenticeship Team to advise on Higher and Degree apprenticeships; and a presentation from The Hill Group on opportunities within the construction industry, and particularly their Management Degree Apprenticeship.
We were also fortunate to have four members of staff from Siemens Healthineers in school to talk about interview skills. As well as giving a presentation, they also met individually with some Year 12 students who had applied to be interviewed by submitting a CV. The students were given valuable feedback on their individual interview techniques and useful advice on improvements that could be made to their CVs. We would like to thank the members of Siemens Healthineers staff who took part on the day and helped organise the event. A further session to offer additional mock interviews is planned for the New Year.
Year 10 Work Experience takes place from Monday 28th April to Friday 2nd May 2025.
Those students who wanted school to organise a work experience placement for them, handed in their forms at the beginning of term. School has already approached a number of companies to request places and we will endeavour to match these students to placements that meet their preferences. Students arranging their own placement should return the blue application form as soon as possible and no later than Friday 7th February 2025, to allow time for the necessary insurance and health and safety checks. All placements must be registered with school.
Year 12 Work Experience takes place from Monday 7th to Friday 11th July 2025.
Students will be provided with the necessary paperwork in January and are encouraged to start researching possible places; students will be expected to arrange their own placements. Both universities and employers value the skills and insight developed during a recent period of work experience and several HE courses require that students have some experience of the type of work involved. All placements must be registered and checked with school.
Do you work for a company that may be able to offer one of our students a placement for one-week next year?
Work Experience helps students with their transition from school to work, or further education, helps them make decisions about their future and prepares them for the world of work. We are always looking to establish new links with local companies and are particularly eager to hear from anyone who may be able to offer a place to a Year 10 student from 28th April to 2nd May 2025. Please email Linda Williams for further information, as below.
Our Careers Advisor Maggie Nason is in school once or twice a week to deliver Careers Guidance to students, particularly those in Year 11 and the Sixth Form. Maggie offers impartial information, advice and guidance, and can help with applying for jobs, apprenticeships, college courses, training or university. She is currently meeting with Year 11 students and anyone who is unsure of their plans for next year, and would benefit from a meeting with her, should see Mrs Williams in the Careers Office, or email: careers@bartholomew.epatrust.org for an appointment.
From Mrs Furse
Bartholomew School has entered the annual Eynsham Tree Festival for many years and each year a charity is nominated to support. This year was the turn of Eynsham Food Bank. Inspired by this, and our previous food bank donation, we decided to hold a non-uniform day and ask students and staff to bring in an item to donate. The total donations were then split between the Eynsham Food Bank and Witney Food Bank. The Key Stage 3 Art Club agreed to help design and build a giant Christmas tree made from our donations, and used recycled giant tins from our school kitchen to make Pop art-inspired 'baubles'. As you can see from the picture the tree was impressive, and everything was donated to the Eynsham Food Bank afterwards.
We are delighted to announce that our Christmas tree entry won the public vote! Thank you to everyone who contributed to this, either through the donations, creation of the ‘tree’, or visiting the festival and voting for our entry. We received a thank you card from Mr and Mrs Thiele of Eynsham Food Bank, which reads, “On behalf of Eynsham Food Bank a very big thank you to you all for your support and the huge mountain of donations. It will be greatly appreciated by those in need”.
We also receive this thank you from Faye Carrick at the Witney Food Bank, who confirmed the total weight of our donations, "I am writing to say a huge thank you to you all for your most amazing donation that you gave us at the end of November after your Non Uniform Day. It was an absolute pleasure to see you and the children and we were so impressed at your organisation skills to be able to deliver to us the same day as the donations came in. We are so grateful and really appreciate you thinking of us for this event. The total weight of your donation was an incredible 266.10 kg. This is such a huge amount and it will go such a long way in helping so many families and individuals. Please pass on our most grateful thanks to all that are involved and made this happen. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all".
Thank you to everyone for their support and generosity in supporting our local community.
Following damage caused by Storm Bert, Bartholomew School families and friends are invited to roll up their sleeves and help plant nearly one kilometre of hedgerow in a single day! This community event on Sunday 12th January from 10.00am to 3.00pm is being run by the Nature Recovery Network (NRN) and begins with a group briefing at Long Mead, and then takes place on the Neyotts Meadow, which runs from Oxford Road beyond the Talbot Inn to Eynsham Lock.
The Hedge in Time project began during the pandemic in 2020 and has since connected schools and villages across Eynsham with nearly two kilometres of flourishing hedgerows. The initiative aims to restore habitats and link local meadows, rivers and communities with natural corridors.
For further details visit the NRN website www.nature-recovery-network.org or scan the QR code on the poster.