Preptonian 2021-22

Welcome

The Preptonian highlights the breadth of opportunities at Repton Prep and showcases the incredible work undertaken by the whole school community.

When we reflect, it is hard to believe that the pandemic still affected school life well into the academic year, but the pupils have continued to thrive and have shown initiative, resilience and adaptability across all aspects of the curriculum.

It has been an absolute pleasure to be integrated into the School and experience the buzz of this vibrant community over the last two terms – I have felt extremely welcome and I am already proud to call Repton Prep ‘home’. From our very youngest pupils starting in Nursery, to the Year 8s moving on to senior schools, a common theme has been the sense of endeavour and application both within lessons and outside of the classroom. This input is measured differently from year to year, but requires the same amount of commitment and industry in order to develop and grow as a whole person - intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially.

Whilst our Year 8 pupils have new schools to navigate in September, every pupil in each year group will also experience the feeling of change as they transition from one year to another. As I mentioned in my Prizegiving Speech, change is the only constant in life so we should embrace the opportunity it provides and relish each new beginning with resilience and renewed enthusiasm; I will certainly be doing the same!

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition, which I hope you feel is reflective of the unique experience that defines this exciting school.

MRS VICKY HARDING HEAD

Speech Day Scholarship Prizes

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

The Hesse Scholarship

Lawrence R

The Forman Scholarship Aanya R

The Hartley Scholarship Ferial A

The Crompton Scholarship Piers B

Academic Scholarship Zara E

Academic Scholarship Francesca N

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS

Sports Scholarship

Ferial A, Ludo B, Izaan C, Amelie C, Isabel H-S, Mohammed Omaris K, Joseph L, Joseph P, Caleb R, Emily W, Zara E, Ava M

Music Scholarship Aanya R, Zara E, Jack P

Drama Scholarship

Zara E, Jack P, Charlotte C, India S, Harriet F, Emile W

Art Scholarship Hannah C, Barnaby M, Indianna M, Harriet F, Lily-Anne M

Design & Technology Scholarship Sophia C, Jack G, Aanya R, George T

AWARDS TO OTHER PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Drama Scholarship to Framlingham College Ar thur C

Music Scholarship to Harrow School Arun M

Sport Scholarship to Rugby School Ava M

ACADEMIC EXHIBITIONS

Harriet F

Jack P George T

OTHER EXHIBITIONS

Sport Exhibition Eva M, Indianna M, Jack P, Isabella T, India S

Music Exhibition Lawrence R, Ferial A

Music Tuition Award Katherine S

Drama Exhibition Lawrence R, Jemima B

REPTON PREP SCHOLARSHIPS

(Honorary Awards for Year 6 Pupils)

Academic Scholarship Hana C

Music Scholarship Eleanor H, Julius L

Drama Scholarship Scarlett D-S, Sophie P

Sport Scholarship Euan M, Callista R

FAREWELL TO YEAR 8

Leavers' Ball

The culmination of our Year 8’s time at Repton Prep was the Leavers' Ball in June. Pupils arrived with their friends in a parade of amazing vehicles, from a London double decker bus, to a beautifully adorned tractor and even a newly sprayed digger carrying a scene reminiscent of the iconic Central Perk café from FRIENDS!

After a drinks reception, pupils and teachers – who looked resplendent in black tie and gowns – moved through to our dining hall where they were served a delicious three-course dinner prepared by our wonderful catering team led by Head Chef Marcin Hondurek. They then moved to our Theatre for a disco to party the evening away. Thank you to all the teachers, gappies and support staff who made this special event such a memorable occasion.

Broad Haven

The final trip at the end of Year 8 is a real rite of passage. As well as giving pupils some time away to bond with their friends and have some freedom after the pressure of exams, they also get to test their leadership skills, their own resilience and try new and exciting endeavours. This is great preparation for their onward journey to their senior schools. But most of all Broad Haven 2022 was a time to have fun in the most stunning setting under beautiful blue skies. Rock climbing, coasteering, bush craft, archery and paddle boarding were just some of the high octane challenges they tried, but the trip was also peppered with walks on beautiful open beaches of the Pembrokeshire coast.

Memories

I will always remember…

Being the last four year old flower in the flower pot in Reception as everyone else had moved to the age five flower pot! Gotta love an August birthday!

ISABELLA T

I would like to thank… Everyone who has taught and helped me to develop and allow me to be myself!

KITTY S

The advice I’d give my classmates is… Never compare yourself to others, focus on yourself.

SOPHIE P

My proudest moment at Repton Prep is … Captaining the netball team at IAPS.

GRACE O

My funniest moment at Repton Prep… Listening to Daisy singing about her lost boots in the middle of the night, whilst sleeping in tents during the trip to Wales!

INDI M

I will always remember… The amount of fun I have had at Repton Prep, in lessons, extracurricular activities and break times!

FRANCESCA N

My favourite school meal is… Soup and syrup sponge!

AVA M

My silliest moment at Repton Prep was when I … Broke my foot in the lunch queue –although it wasn’t funny at the time… why did I do it in the hockey term?!

BARNABY M

The people I would like to thank are…

Mr Davis for helping me so much with my maths CE exams; Mr Bowles for supporting me so much as a friend and form tutor; Mrs Bloor for always being there with my music since I was 5 years old; Mrs Waldock for being like a third parent to me every Friday (and some Wednesdays) in Flexi and Mrs Lewis for taking care of me when I ripped off my big toenail in Flexi!

ARUN M

I will always remember… Ms McGee’s love for the word SIUUUUU!

JAGO J

The kindest thing anyone did for me at Repton Prep was… Welcome me.

LOCHIE J

The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me at Repton Prep was… Deen was a really good guardian. He’s funny and is still a really good friend.

ARTHUR C

The thing I’ll miss most about Repton Prep is… The grads.

BRADY E

The things I will miss most about Repton Prep are… Playing in the woods, climbing trees and flexi boarding as well as all the kind staff.

HENRY B

FEATURE Jubilee Celebrations

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee was an occasion that no one

Every Repton Prep pupil and member of staff joined in our wonderful celebrations, starting with dressing up in red, white and blue! We were delighted to see our youngest pupils arrive at school in fantastic hats worthy of a royal celebration. The school gathered together under glorious summer skies for a whole school assembly led by Mrs Krbacevic, which included some spectacular musical performances by pupils. Tables in the Assembly Hall groaned under the weight of hundreds of celebratory cakes, from corgis to wedding cakes and children piled their plates high with delicious home-made sausage rolls, sandwiches and sweet treats. The afternoon finished with a traditional fete with games made by the pupils, May Pole dancing and ice cream!

is ever likely to experience again!

LOWER PREP

NURSERY Physical Development

As part of the daily activities in the Nursery, we provide opportunities for children to develop their gross and fine motor skills. Fine tuning these skills are at the heart of our PE lessons, Playdough Disco, Music and Movement, Messy Play and Forest School sessions. During the Summer Term our youngest pupils also had their first experiences of swimming in the newly refurbished pool. Developing physical skills is vital for balance, co-ordination, spatial awareness, writing skills and core strength; the foundations for developing healthy bodies and social and emotional well-being.

Minibeast Adventure Day in the Squirrels

In May, the Squirrels enjoyed their very own Minibeast party. We all arrived dressed as our favourite Minibeasts and took part in a range of activities both inside and outdoors.

Ladybird and bee headband making, sunflower planting and a scavenger hunt were all thoroughly enjoyed by all the children and the staff!

We enjoyed a picnic lunch and even ate some caterpillar cakes...chocolate ones obviously!

Everyone had lots of fun and games to play outside and everyone went home happy having spent an enjoyable, fun day.

Lamb Visit

As Spring sprung and Easter approached, we were very lucky in the Early Years to have a visit from some lambs born at the farm where one of our pupil’s lives. The lambs skipped into a temporary pen inside the Butterflies outdoor play area and Iona proudly explained all about the lambs and the importance of animal husbandry. Thank you, Iona for sharing your lambs and your farming knowledge with your friends and teachers.

NURSERY

NURSERY National Forest Adventure Farm

Great fun was had by all when Early Years visited the National Forest Adventure Farm. We had lots of outdoor adventures by not only meeting the animals, but we had the opportunity to feed them too! Our guides explained the importance of animals and how to look after them. We met farm animals in the paddocks including goats, sheep, pigs, cows and Shetland ponies. We also enjoyed looking around the animal barn at the guinea pigs, chickens and chicks. Everyone loved the tractor ride around the farm with our friends and we spotted lots of interesting scarecrows on our journey.

NURSERY

Christmas 2021: The Wriggly Nativity

We wriggled and giggled our way into the Wriggly Nativity with amazing performances by all the children in the face of the pandemic rules. We might not have had a live audience, but the children sang enthusiastically, and the outfits were stunning. Parents were wowed by their children as the film was available to view online. Unprecedented, but memories created and remembered by all.

RECEPTION Caterpillars

As part of our topic on ‘Minibeasts’, the children were super excited to welcome real caterpillars into the form rooms. We had lots of fun naming our caterpillars and watching them grow and change. On a sunny afternoon, the children were delighted to release the butterflies into the Lower Prep garden. It was a great opportunity for the children to experience at first-hand the life cycle of a butterfly.

NURSERY & RECEPTION

Bear Snores On

During the Michaelmas Term, the children were excited to learn about our new topic, Bears! Everybody brought in a special bear from home that we could introduce to our school friends.

In Reception, our bears were very lucky to be able to join us for a Teddy Bears Picnic at Lakeside. We learnt many facts about lots of different types of bears around the world. Did you know that there are eight species of bears?

In the Nursery, our bears enjoyed having fun at night when we were sleeping. They ate our biscuits, played with our toys and even painted pictures. Each week, we focused on a different bear story. Our favourites were ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ and ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’. Our activities included acting out the Bear Hunt story, making an edible story plate and story board in the woods. One morning though, we were all shocked to see that baby bear’s chair had been broken. The Nursery detectives took the case on! Fingerprints were discovered, clues were recorded, and the engineers were called in to mend the chair. Thank you to all the bears for helping to make the Michaelmas term so much fun.

RECEPTION Science Day

YEAR 1

Trip to Nottingham Castle

As part of our topic on castles, the children in Year One visited Nottingham Castle. The children had great fun exploring the grounds of the castle and taking part in several workshops. They went on a quest to save Robin Hood and tried their hand at virtual archery. They thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of the castle by exploring the underground caves. It was a fantastic day and it brought their learning in the classroom to life.

YEAR 1 Twycross Zoo

YEAR 1

Visiting a Chinese Restaurant

The Year One children enjoyed going to a Chinese restaurant, as part of their topic on food. They learnt how to make dumplings and thoroughly enjoyed trying to eat them using chop sticks. They then enjoyed a range of Chinese food to sample and asked lots of pertinent questions about how it had been made.

YEAR 2

Visit to Repton Science Priory

What makes cars go slower? Why do we need to wear a coat in the winter? Can a solid become a liquid and then a solid again? These were some of the questions the Year Two children found the answers to, when they visited Repton School in the Michaelmas Term. Through a series of fun, hands on activities the children tested the friction of different surfaces when pushing a toy car, tested and recorded the temperature of water bottles with and without insulation and melted chocolate over a small flame. Science really came alive to the children, and they loved being in ‘proper’ Science laboratories.

YEAR 2 Animal Man

LOWER PREP

Ancient Civilization Days

Year 3’s Ancient Egyptian day involved a day of activities and interactive learning. We dressed up as Egyptians, acted out the burial ritual with our own Egyptian Gods, and designed our own Tutankhamun death masks. During our Ancient Greece day we had the privilege of Portal to the Past coming in and leading a range of activities, including the retelling of the birth of the Gods, learning about Greek culture in a treasure hunt, and taking part in our own Greek Olympics.

What a great way to enhance our Year 3 learning.

FREDDIE M

HARRY C

How to Wash a Woolly Mammoth

In English, the children learnt about imperative verbs. We read the book ‘How to Wash a Woolly Mammoth' by Michelle Robinson. The children then had great fun cleaning paint covered toy dinosaurs with toothbrushes and cotton buds. Their final list of instructions was very ROARSOME indeed!

MAGNUS L

ANA D

YEAR 3 / HISTORY

Cave Paintings

After looking at the awesome cave paintings of Lascaux and Chauvet Caves, the children followed a set of instructions to make their own paint made from different soils and animal fat! The children then created their own cave painting of a prehistoric beast they had researched.

“It was amazing! I loved getting wrapped up like an Egyptian mummy - I hope we do it again.”

“It was incredibly fun!”

“The Olympics was great because the team I was in won and Ana got to be a horse!”

“It was cool to learn about Zeus and the man was funny – he went round with bare feet all day!”

YEAR 3

Creswell Crags

Creswell Crags, a limestone gorge and cave system on the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire border, was the destination for the Year 3's first trip. As part of their History curriculum, the children learnt about prehistoric beasts and Early Man, and Creswell Crags provided a real insight into how life might have been 50,000 years ago. For many children, the highlight of the day was visiting the caves which were rather dark! The children enjoyed listening to the guide explaining how their ancestors hunted and fought for survival. They then had the opportunity to hunt a woolly mammoth and construct huts from animal skins.

“I really liked visiting the cave and wearing a helmet with a light on. We had to squeeze through a gap so we could go deep down to the back of the cave. It got darker and darker. The lady then told us a story about a skull of a person who used to live in the cave. It was really scary but interesting.”

GEORGINA P

YEAR 3 / SCIENCE Investigating Our

The children had a messy time creating the digestion system from orange juice, bananas and biscuits. It was great to hear the children use the scientific language when presenting what happens as the food travelled through a pair of tights.

“We built huts using wooden poles and made it warm using animal skins. We tried to hunt a woolly mammoth by throwing a spear. I managed to hit the target but I wouldn’t want to go hunting back then because it would have been very dangerous.”

SIDNEY C

3 World War 2 Experience Day

YEAR 3 / HISTORY Investigating What Early Man Ate

The Year 3 children were completely fooled when they were asked to find out what Early Man ate by dissecting his poo! Noses were held but they all managed to identify the nuts and seeds Early Man used to forage for.

YEAR 4

Celebrating Success

Celebrating success, no matter how big or small is done daily. However, when Year 4 celebrated it with their peers in Year 3 this gave them an extra sense of pride in what they had achieved and how far they had come over the course of the Academic Year.

“I shared my information work about Moles. I was really proud of myself because I had never done such a big piece of writing before. The Year 3’s said my handwriting and presentation was really neat.”

CHRISTINA M

“Georgie asked me many questions about my volcano project and I was able to answer them all.”

EMILY E

YEAR 4

Celebration of India

As part of their Geography topic on India and to further develop Year 4’s understanding of the culture, the children participated in a variety of fun filled activities.

“I enjoyed the dancing, I liked all the moves we had to do, my favourite was the juggling move.”

LILIA R-F

“I enjoyed doing the banghra dancing. We got split into groups and we created our section and my group won for their dance moves.”

QUINN G

“My favourite part of the day was when we dressed up in Indian clothes. I had a blue dress, it was sparkly with sequins. All the clothes were bright. We wore bangles too.”

PAVLA V

“I like the part when we decorated the biscuits and we got to eat them. We also made the clay diva lamps that we were able to decorate.”

ANNIE T

“I showed Year 3 my volcano work, they said that they thought it was really good.”

TEDDY W

IMOGEN D

“I was really proud of myself when I showed the Year 3s my information text about tornadoes.”

YEAR 4

Maths Within Nature

Giving the opportunity to express their mathematical knowledge in a fun filled way helps the children embed their learning.

“I loved learning about money because there are lots of different coins. I learnt how to check my change.”

NOAH C

“We went outside to learn about time. When we made a clock face, I used leaves for the numbers and sticks for the hands.”

MILLIE H

“I like doing our ‘Haribo challenge’. I challenge myself and get sweets when I hit my target.”

ARCHIE N

“I liked learning about clocks as its useful. I can tell the time now.”

CARRICK P

“I like graffiti maths. Writing on the table is fun.”

SOPHIE B

YEAR

4

British History

YEAR 4

Enhancing Cultural Understanding

We are proud of our religious diversity within Repton Prep and we took the opportunity to visit a number of religious places of worship including a Gurdwara and Mosque.

“Did you know -when boys turn 12 or 13 they are given a ‘tallit’? It’s a huge scarf, to put over their head when they pray.”

SOPHIE B

“I was impressed by the people in the Gudwara. They believe everyone is equal and will always serve everyone food. In India they will serve food at any time of day because Sikhs behave just like Guru Nanak.”

SEB C-R

“We saw different kinds of places of worship and watched their rituals and behaviours. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming.”

EMILY P

UPPER PREP

YEAR 5

Theatre Royal Trip

Year 5 went on a trip to The Theatre Royal Nottingham in February to see a magical performance of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. This was to support our teaching of the novel, to consider artistic choices, have an awareness of the different forms and to experience different representations of characters within texts.

YEAR 5

Poems

Pupils were inspired to write their own Magic Box poems, emulating Kit Wright’s style.

My Magic Box

I will put in the box

A silky- silver horse, A vampire on a sunny beach, A rouge-flamingo eating sandy pancakes.

I will put in the box Munch’s The Scream but it’s smiling, Mum’s makeup on a snowman, A grand skiing holiday to Greece.

I will put in the box

A cat’s last meow, The rain’s last drop, Mum’s last happy tear.

I will put in the box A horse’s last neigh, My teacher’s last ‘sit down!’ A happy King in a shack.

My box is fashioned from fire, stars and sea, With ravens in the corners and Snow that you can’t see.

I shall run in my box, Till the moon and sun are no more, Then return home, closing the door.

By Romy S

YEAR 5

Les Trois Petis Coochons

YEAR 5

Instructions Drawing

Year 5 instruction writing saw pupils try to draw an exact replica of a house their partner had sketched, just from their instructions.

Our talented Year 5 pupils wowed their peers by performing the familiar classic fairy tail ‘The Three Little Pigs’ in French!

YEAR 6

Cranedale

Year 6 visited Cranedale in North Yorkshire for two nights in May to carry out field work supporting their classroom topics across science and geography.

During the trip pupils studied the eco-systems of rock pools and rivers, went fossil hunting on the beaches, scrutinized cliff and cave formations, went orienteering and took part in bird watching.

In the evenings everyone was able to relax with their friends while playing tennis, football, rugby and table tennis.

YEAR 6

My Trip to Bosworth Battlefield

On a sunny September day, I was transported back to the 22 August 1485, when the Battle of Bosworth began.

For one day, I became a Stanley. The house I had joined had an important role to play in the Battle of Bosworth. We had to make a hard decision, as Lord Stanley worked in the court of Richard III but he was also a stepfather to Henry Tudor.

That day, I witnessed a fierce battle raging on between the Lancastrians and the Yorkists from the side, as arrows were raining down from the sky, fired by the Yorkists’ longbows. My men and I were waiting patiently for the right moment to charge. Henry saw us lingering on the sidelines, as his men were using their billhooks and other polearms to try and drive the enemy back. As Henry came over towards us to question us about why we weren’t contributing to the battle, Richard saw his chance.

YEAR 6

Board Games

Richard came charging over on his warhorse to finish the battle once and for all. He had already killed Henry’s bodyguard and was advancing on Henry when I leapt into action. He retreated and fell into the marsh, where he sank rapidly because of his heavy armour. I carefully drew my sword and strode towards his head, where I hurriedly cut a wedge from the back. Cautiously, I removed the crown from his malformed head and at that moment, I knew we had won the Battle of Bosworth.

The trip to Bosworth Battlefield allowed me to re-enact the scene from the battle. This learning journey was enticing, and I hope everyone who gets to visit this place will enjoy it as much as I did.

HANA MAE C (6AG)

YEAR 6

Monologues

Year 6 wrote and performed monologues as either Bess or The Highwayman rooted in Alfred Noyes’s famous narrative poem. Some groups utilised the Hall whilst others took to the wonderful grounds to perform.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Performed in our theatre by the Young Shakespeare Company

YEAR 7 Science

Year 7 have enjoyed many opportunities to carry out experiments in science this academic year, including designing their own investigation into separation techniques using sand, iron and salt.

YEAR 6 Whitemoor Lakes

At the beginning of this academic year our Year 6 pupils headed off to Whitemoor Lakes in Staffordshire to build bonds and test themselves. From canoeing and high-ropes, to zip wires and obstacle courses, they worked and laughed as a team and helped each other.

YEAR 7

Quarry Bank Mill

To support their classroom work in History, Year 7 visited Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire. Built in 1784, this is one of the best-preserved textile factories of the Industrial Revolution and was established by Samuel Greg. Year 7 gained insight into the conditions workers laboured under, which were considered very good compared with other factories. The family took a paternalistic attitude to workers, providing medical care and education for the children of workers.

YEAR 7

COP26 Letters

As COP26 - the biggest climate summit in history - took place in Glasgow, Year 7 pupils Lucy H and Isobel E challenged the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, about the UK’s serious plastic waste problem.

They asked for a change in strategy and encouraged him to stop shipping our mountain of 537,000 tonnes of plastic waste overseas. Instead, the 11-year-old pupils suggested Mr Eustice implement initiatives adopted by countries such as the Netherlands and India that have already successfully recycled plastic into new transport networks, including roads and cycle paths.

George Eustice MP responded to their letters with a list of actions that are in place from the UK government to “help reduce the use of plastic in our everyday lives.” In response Isobel said: “We were really pleased to have received the letter from Mr Eustice but disappointed that the government isn’t able to act more quickly to stop, rather than just reduce, the use of single use plastics. We think the government needs to take much stronger action today. We are running out of time and if leaders don’t listen to children like us, we will grow up in a world that is very different from the one they grew up in.”

YEAR 8

Oddballs

The Oddballs team came to visit our Year 7 and 8 pupils in February. The foundation was set up in 2015 to raise awareness of and tackle the stigma of Testicular Cancer. The charity’s schools team gave a talk to pupils as part of the PSHCE curriculum to encourage the boys to check themselves regularly and not to feel embarrassed by reporting any changes to a parent or trusted adult.

YEAR 8

Parliament Trip

Heather Wheeler MP hosted the Year 8’s visit to the House of Commons in May. As well as visiting the Palace of Westminster – the most iconic landmark of British democracy, pupils had an open, insightful and inspiring Q&A session with Heather. During the trip to London the Art Scholars also visited the Tate Modern where they saw Hew Locke’s exhibition – The Procession, which was inspired by his personal experience as a refugee.

YEAR 8

Anglesey

Boarding

Evenings and weekends had never been so action packed with yet another extensive plethora of exciting activities and trips. The warm weather at the beginning and end of the academic year not only meant countless sunny evenings spent relaxing, playing cricket and forming friendships on top field, but also trips to Aqua Parks, a firm favourite with all pupils, camp outs and long country walks.

The boarders also once again celebrated festivals and events throughout the year in style. The Christmas and Halloween feasts were highlights of the calendar, with the haunted ghost walk through the woods testing the bravery of all. The spectacular Chinese New Year celebration brought not only mouth-watering food, but a sea of dazzling red and gold decorations and exciting themed activities, all planned and executed expertly by the boarding pupils.

For the first time in two years, we were privileged to have a full, uninterrupted academic year with the boarding houses once again packed full of friendly chat and laugher.

For the first time, the boarders were also afforded the opportunity to ‘tread the boards’ within one of the magnificent boarding productions. Expertly produced and lead by Mr Pugsley, the pupils were given a taste of the show business lifestyle through partaking in evening script run throughs, dress rehearsals and of course the grand performances themselves.

Yet another tremendous year was had by all, and numerous key, essential values instilled. Lifelong, in some cases international, friendships were cemented, endless fond memories were made and more, compelling evidence supplied to prove that once and for all, boarders of course have more fun!

The Library

A Year in the Life of Repton Prep Library

It has been a busy year in the Library; with Upper Prep pupils able to access the Library at break and lunchtimes, as well as once a week during their English lessons, borrowing of books has more than doubled from last year.

Huge thanks go to our cohort of student librarians. Emily H, Savanna M, Matilda I and Elisa C A have performed their roles with enthusiasm and dedication. They have performed many tasks around the Library; reshelving, issuing and returning books, processing new stock and of course promoting the Library and bookclubs to their fellow pupils.

We now host three weekly bookclubs, one for Year 4, one for Years 5 and 6 and one for Years 7 and 8. This gives us the opportunity to talk about what we’ve been reading, recommend books to our friends and read together. The books we have enjoyed together range from Bad Nana, to Darwin’s Dragons, to Tales of Terror from the Tunnel’s Mouth.

On Roald Dahl Day in September the Library hosted several activities. Our Escape Room activity proved particularly popular; 81 children managed to escape the chokey despite Miss Trunchbull’s best efforts!

During Lent Term, one of our most popular activities was writing flash fiction. Flash fiction tells a story in a very small number of words. We encouraged our Upper Prep pupils to write a story on the theme of ‘Space’ in less than 50 words. The challenge was to tell a complete story, with a start, middle and end, a character and a plot. We held writing workshops in the Library to support children in their writing. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm, and the varied ways in which they interpreted the theme.

Thirty-four stories were submitted and reproduced in a ‘Flash fiction’ booklet, which was given to all pupils on World Book Day. Lucy H (Year 7) was selected as our winner and this is her brilliant story, ‘Thoughts’: ‘5.’ I sighed. ‘4.’ I gulped. ‘3.’ Was this really happening? ‘2.’ I guess so. ‘1.’ BLAST OFF! As the monster of metal left the floor instant regret swallowed me. Is this what I wanted to do with my life? ‘Oh no’ I bellowed. ‘I forgot to feed the cat!’

Summer Term launched with a House book bingo, which saw Tedder ultimately taking the book bingo crown. Pupils were particularly keen to do the ‘reading in an unusual place’ challenge, as demonstrated by Imogen in Year 4, reading ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ in a wardrobe!

Summer Term continued apace, and we were thrilled, and a little bit scared, to invite author Alex Foulkes into our school to meet Years 5 and 6. After we all greeted Alex with our secret signal, she talked to us about her bestselling debut novel ‘Rules for Vampires’. It was particularly inspiring to hear about her journey to become an author and we were all encouraged to follow our own dreams. Along with her assistant, Rodrigo, Alex identified a possible vampire infestation in the school! Our Year 5 and 6 pupils were bursting with questions for Alex; they were all able to meet her and receive a signed copy of ‘Rules for Vampires’.

LOUISE CALVER REPTON PREP LIBRARIAN

World Book Day

This year’s theme for our pupils for World Book Day, was a book called ‘It’s A No Money Day’ – written and illustrated by award-winning author Kate Milner. It was a gentle, poignant and powerful exploration of foodbanks and life for families who live below the poverty line.

Traditionally for World Book Day, pupils are asked to make a costume that transforms them into a character from their favourite book Instead, this year, they made donations to Derby Breakfast Club - an innovative local charity which supports schools across the city to provide funded breakfasts for vulnerable children who would otherwise go hungry.

Following the final count of donations, the Repton Prep community raised £1,468 in order to support the Derby Breakfast Club. This will go towards providing almost 98 children breakfast for an entire academic year. We are extremely proud of the support the whole school community has shown for such a worthy cause.

CREATIVE ARTS

Reflections on Mrs Harding

On Tuesday 24th May musicians throughout the school joined forces to put on a series of concerts in aid of Macmillan Support, in memory of our former colleague Mrs Jan Harding.

Aanya R was taught by Mrs Harding when she was in Nursery. Now in Year 8 and about to move on to senior school, Aanya was fully involved in the concert to celebrate Mrs Harding and reflects on her musical years at Repton Prep:

I have been in Repton Prep since the age of three. I joined in Nursery squirrels where I had Mrs Harding as my teacher. Mrs Harding was one of the nicest teachers I have ever had and even though I was young, I still remember her distinct voice and she will never be forgotten.

Currently, I play six instruments: the piano, violin, french horn, bass guitar, harp and voice. I started playing the violin when I was in reception. As soon as I played the first note, I fell in love with it. Now I am in Year 8 and working for my grade eight. I have had amazing violin teachers in my past years at Repton Prep and I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for them.

I have a strong passion for the french horn and love playing it. In 2019, the brass ensemble went to Ypres to play at the Mennin Gates. Playing at a historic landmark felt incredible (and a little bit daunting to play in front of over 1,000 people). I recently quit piano when I passed grade 5 as I wanted to pursue the harp because the piano and the harp are very similar instruments.

Although I don’t have lessons for the piano anymore, I still love to learn pieces online and play them as I really enjoy it. Just over a year ago, I started playing the bass guitar. I really wanted to join the jazz band and my mum thought that I should start the bass guitar. Playing in the jazz band has been so fun.

On the day of the memorial concert for Mrs Harding, there was a big concert. Starting from Lower Prep Garden, there were little concerts leading up to the big Upper Prep concert. It felt amazing to be playing on stage again as we hadn’t had a proper concert in over three years due to Covid.

After we had dinner, the Repton Prep jazz band were joined by Repton senior pupils to perform quite a few pieces to some people. The people included Mrs Harding’s family and those who meant a lot to her. Playing for them felt like I was giving something back to them.

I have music almost every day. On Monday, I have chamber choir in the morning and brass ensemble in the evening. On Tuesday, I have girls’ choir, a singing lesson and concert band. On Wednesday, there is orchestra in the morning followed by harp ensemble at break. On Thursday, there is jazz band in the morning and string orchestra in the evening. On Friday, I have to wake up very early to get to a violin lesson for 7.50 am.

On top of this, I have my music lessons. I have had amazing opportunities to attend the NCCGB (National Children’s Choir of Great Britain) and the NCCB (National Children’s Concert Band). I’ve also enjoyed participating in the Procorda courses at Leiston Abbey. The NCCGB was online as it was during the first lockdown. It was great to experience their teaching from a different perspective and even though it was all online, they managed to create some fun activities for us all to do, including an online cinema. As well as creating a fun atmosphere, they continued to keep the standards of teaching high and I learned a lot from that experience.

The NCCB was during April 2022. I was a bit scared of going at first but at the end of it, I felt like I had the best time of my life. At the end of NCCB, we have a huge concert to show what we have been learning the whole week. The original location for where it was meant to take place got cancelled as there was a broken organ. In the end, we ended up playing in the Birmingham Conservatoire. It was an amazing experience and I got quite a few compliments after it.

I love music and I have a very strong passion for it but without Mrs Bloor, I wouldn’t have been able to develop this passion for music. She has taught me all I know. Without her, I wouldn’t have been able to pass my grade 5 theory and moved on to the higher grades in my instruments.

Mrs Bloor has given me all the support in the world and I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for her. I am also grateful to all my individual instrumental teachers who have always guided and supported me through my music journey.

MUSIC Grantham Music Festival

The Grantham music festival is a much-loved musical highlight for talented local musicians.

Repton’s Head of Singing, Helen Winter, has a close association with the festival, which was founded by her father, so it was delightful to see that so many of Repton’s pupils from both Prep and Senior perform once again to award-winning standards.

Congratulations to the following pupils:

Senior ensemble: The Reptiles 1st place + trophy

Folk song solo: Emma M 1st place + trophy Pavla V 3rd place

Vocal solo KS4: Liselotte B 2nd place

Vocal solo KS3: Emma M 2nd place

Vocal repertoire KS3: Charlie C-S 1st place Lydia M 2nd place India S, Kitty S and Ella M R joint 3rd place

Vocal repertoire KS4: Lemuel M 1st place

Vocal solo primary school: Pavla V 1st place + trophy Flora S 2nd place Sophie P 3rd place

Songs from the shows primary school: Pavla V 1st place + trophy Flora S 3rd place

Songs from the shows secondary school: Benjamin L 2nd place

Sophie P and Alexa C won their duet class and the trophy. Charlie H won the vocal solo class, with Piers D and Zachary W in 2nd place. Zachary also came 2nd in the Diamond Jubilee class.

In the vocal repertoire KS5 class, Piers D took 2nd place, Charlie H and Zachary W were placed joint 3rd.

Darcy P won the harp class and the trophy and Alana won her class on her flute.

Darcy and Phoenix Z won the strings duet class and the trophy.

MUSIC National Children’s Orchestra

It was fantastic to see our pupils enriching their talents as part of the National Children’s Orchestra.

The NCO comprises over 600 remarkable young musicians, three of whom are Repton Prep pupils, and aims to give children the very best orchestral learning experiences to help them realise their full creative potential.

String musicians Amelie L (Y7), Darcy P (Y5) and Phoenix Z (Y5) were invited to attend the NCO Project ensemble for a weekend of music making, learning, and getting to know talented fellow young musicians. The weekend culminated in a performance to a live audience alongside famous saxophonist Jess Gillam.

MUSIC House Music

Pears School came alive with the Young Musician and House Music competitions.

The audience of parents and pupils, as well as judges - Repton’s Music Fellow, Mr Richard Farr FRSA and Prep’s Director of Music, Mrs Sue Bloor - were treated to an outstanding array of musical talent, including vocalists, strings, woodwind, brass and percussion performances.

The overall winners were Year 5 violinist Phoenix Z for Juniors and for the Seniors, Year 7 pupil Natasha H, who gave an outstanding performance on the kettle drums.

Our Houses then gave high energy performances, bringing the whole school together in song and laughter. Alexander was up first with ‘The Greatest Show’ from box office smash, The Greatest Showman. They were followed by Mountbatten bringing us ‘Naughty’ from West End hit Matilda. Next came Tedder’s rendition of 9-5 by Dolly Parton and finally Wavell brought the House down with ‘You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile’ from the great classic, Annie.

Tedder were crowned winners, with Alexander enjoying second place and Wavell and Mountbatten taking joint third place.

MUSIC Young Musician of the Year 2022

MUSIC

A Concert to Celebrate The Repton Annual Open Gardens

PRESENTED BY THE MUSICIANS OF REPTON PREP SCHOOL

ST WYSTAN’S CHURCH, REPTON / FRIDAY 17TH JUNE

This was indeed a most special concert, our first public concert in over two and a half years. The church was filled with a most enthusiastic audience who had great admiration for our fabulous young musicians who performed. They were truly fine ambassadors for Repton Prep’s Music. Our varied programme also included former Repton Prep pupil, Louis Allen, the development of whose musical journey through senior school has been a pleasure to see.

ORCHESTRA

National Anthem arr. David Good

Prelude from the Te Deum – Charpentier arr Nigel Wicken

Trumpet soloists: Benjamin Lines and Julius Leavesley

HARP SOLO Darcy P

Prelude No.1 - Marcel Tournier

SOPRANO SOLO Zara E

Ave Maria – Bach- Gounod arr Henry Geehl Arun M and Aanya R [Violins] Matthew Y [Cello]

VIOLIN SOLO Phoenix Z Giga from Partita II in D minor – J S Bach

BRASS ENSEMBLE

The Bare Necessities - Terry Gilkyson, arr. Rob Spalton

A Madrigal Suite - Mantovano, Astley, Passereau, arr. Matt Kingston & Rob Spalton

I. Lirum Bililirum

II. Numquam Tibi Dabo

ORGAN SOLO Louis Allen, current Repton School student Toccata in D minor – Bach

YEAR 8 STRING TRIO

Rondeau – Purcell Arun M and Aanya R [Violins] Zara E [Cello]

ERHU SOLO Romeo Chan

Theme from Formula One – Brian Tyler arr Martha Cheng

HARP ENSEMBLE

Greensleeves – Trad arr Jemimah, Aanya, Darcy, Natasha

Mountain Bluebird - Janet Lanier

FRENCH HORN SOLO Aanya R

A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square – Sherwin and Maschwitz arr Iveson

HARP AND VIOLIN DUO

Flow Gently - Traditional Scottish arranged by Sunita Staneslow Darcy P [Harp] and Phoenix Z [violin]

PERCUSSION SOLO Natasha H Primeval Dance – John O’Reilly

CHAMBER CHOIR

Alexander’s Ragtime Band – Irving Berlin arr Kirby Shaw Why we Sing – Greg Gilpin

I Believe – Drake, Graham, Shirl and Stillman arr Hawley Ades

VIOLIN SOLO Arun M Meditation - Massenet

ORCHESTRA

Radetzky March – Strauss arr Richard Meyer

With my most grateful thanks to all who have performed this year. I am incredibly proud of you, the standard of your playing and your dedication.

SUSAN BLOOR, DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

ART Scholars 2022

HARRIET F / REPTON ART SCHOLAR

LILY M / REPTON ART SCHOLAR

INDIANA M / REPTON ART SCHOLAR

AVA M / RUGBY SCHOOL

HANNAH C / REPTON ART SCHOLAR

BARNABY M / REPTON ART SCHOLAR

ABORIGINAL ART / YEAR 6 DISPLAY

NATASHA H / OSTRICH IN PENCIL CRAYON / YEAR 7

Exhibition 2022

Photography competition

This photography competition this year was based on the theme of shapes.

With over 200 entries from across the year groups, it was a tough decision for the judges.

DRAMA Drama Department

Years 1 and 2 took to the stage at Christmas to perform their piece, with Years 3 and 4 performing in the theatre this summer to celebrate their time in Lower Prep. Years 5 and 6 performed in February with their ‘Beasts and Beauties’ performance and Years 7 and 8 took to the stage in May to perform ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

Our Lower Prep Garden Christmas performance was fantastic. It was lovely to see our younger pupils in the theatre having lots of fun on the stage, under the stage lights and in some fabulous costumes!

LAURA TIMMINS HEAD OF DRAMA

DRAMA Drama Awards

Congratulations to Zara E, Jack P, Charlotte C, India S, Harriet F and Emile W for their Drama Scholarships to Repton as well as to Arthur C for his Drama Scholarship to Framlingham College, and to Lawrence R and Jemima B for their Exhibition Awards to Repton. Pupils worked incredibly hard on their monologues and set designs, producing some wonderful characterisations and thorough work. You should all be very proud of yourselves and the best of luck in all of your future Drama endeavours!

DRAMA

Boarders' Play: ‘A Million Dreams’

A big thank you to Mr Pugsley for writing and directing ‘A Million Dreams’ for our boarders! They performed during our Lent Term in the Prep theatre and were fantastic! It was lovely to see the theatre come alive with our Lower Prep audience, and the lighting, set and sound were all fantastic – organised brilliantly by Year 8 pupils. It was wonderful to see pupils in Years 3 to 7 perform so confidently. Well done all!

DRAMA

Lower Prep Summer performance

Pupils in Year 3 and 4 performed a poem and songs to an audience to celebrate their time in Lower Prep. A big thank you to Mrs Hobson for creating and devising this drama piece. Pupils worked hard with Mrs Hobson on this performance, thinking carefully about their vocal delivery, facial expressions and gestures, making for some very impressive performances!

It has been great to be able to open up the theatre at Repton Prep this year to live performances from both Lower Prep and Upper Prep pupils.

DRAMA Beasts and Beauties

Years 5 and 6

In February, a small group of pupils performed in ‘Beasts and Beauties’. After a number of setbacks with pesky COVID, we managed to get on the stage and perform a range of fairy tales to a live audience. All pupils performed brilliantly and adapted really well to a certain someone (!) having to take to the stage last minute. We had worked hard during rehearsals to incorporate a range of physical theatre techniques to retell well-known fairy tales.

Our year 5 pupils performed in ‘The Emperors New Clothes’ and performed seamlessly as an ensemble, focusing on narration and vocal technique.

Our Year 6 pupils took on roles from ‘Hansel and Gretel’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’. In these performances, pupils worked hard to incorporate lifts, chair duet sequences and complex movement to entertain the audience. I was so pleased with how all pupils remained dedicated and focused during rehearsals, making for a well-rounded performance that was slick and impressive.

I was also impressed that a group of Year 7 pupils helped as crew on this production, operating props, lighting and sound for their younger colleagues.

A great sense of teamwork was evident throughout rehearsals and was key in making the final performance a success.

Rehearsing for ‘Beasts and Beauties’ was great – rehearsals were very enjoyable, and we always could always have lots of fun together one way or another. The performance was a bit nerve-wracking though, but it went smoothly as planned!

(Even though Miss Timmins had to fill in for two roles!)

ANDREA W, YEAR 6

‘Beasts and Beauties’ was an excellent production. It was very fun working as a team and sticking together no matter what. Rehearsals were a bit tight but always fun, constantly laughing and having a joyous time. In the end, we pulled it together and put on a spectacular performance.

SAVANNA M AND ELISA C A, YEAR 6

I enjoyed being in the play because the rehearsals were not just working hard, they were fun and you could have a little laugh with your friends while practicing your lines. It took a lot more rehearsals then anticipated but we got there in the end. Miss Timmins did an amazing job in making the plays happen and she even stepped in for two of the roles in our plays. This play would not be possible without: the backstage crew, the audience and mostly Miss Timmins.

ALEXA C, YEAR 6

DRAMA Alice in Wonderland Years

7 and 8

Our senior summer production this year was ‘Alice in Wonderland’. We took elements from Carroll’s first and second novel – ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’ – to merge familiar scenes and characters from both stories. Our aim was to incorporate movement, ensemble work and modernised characters to retell this classic tale. The play was cast in the Michaelmas Term and rehearsals for the show began fully after Christmas. We were delighted to be back on stage again and utilised our stage lights and sound to recreate Alice’s wonderland. Pupils enjoyed using a range of props, but most notably umbrellas which were used in a variety of different ways to represent different characters and locations. The make-up, hair and costume looked brilliant on each pupil and all cast and crew came together on all three nights to present a wonderful performance to packed audiences. Collaboration was key in making this show a success and the support of each cast and crew member was amazing: each helping to run lines, plait hair or even straighten a bald cap! A massive well done to all involved, I was so impressed with how slick the final performances were, and this is due to the dedication and hard work from each one of you during rehearsals.

It was an amazing experience being a part of ‘Alice in Wonderland’. I liked that instead of just having one role, we could play parts in the ensemble. It was my first show at Repton Prep and it went brilliantly.

NATASHA H, YEAR 7

It was the best play experience ever! Miss Timmins shared out the parts evenly, she was organised and we really enjoyed it. We had a brilliant time going through all of the costumes and this play was the best we’ve ever done!

LUCY H AND HEIDI I-O, YEAR 7

LAMDA at Repton Prep

LAMDA has continued to go from strength to strength at Repton Prep. Pupils have taken exams in acting, prose and verse, and musical theatre strands of the award. From Lower Prep to Upper Prep everyone who has dedicated themselves to LAMDA has performed brilliantly in Michaelmas, Lent and Summer examinations. The results have been outstanding, with many Distinctions awarded, which is an enormous accolade given that pupils must work hard outside their lesson and prep time to achieve these results. A huge thank you to Mrs Sekhon and Mrs Winters on all your work with our LAMDA pupils this year.

LAMDA is really fun! Mrs Sekhon is super nice, supportive, fun and kind. It’s really fun to practise a piece and LAMDA is definitely one of the best things to do at school!

GRACIE C, YEAR 5

I really enjoy my LAMDA lessons. Doing LAMDA has helped me a lot as I love acting and even the exams are fun!

SOPHIE B, YEAR 4

STEM Programme Wins National Award

Every school in the UK is eligible to apply for the award, but with a focus on hands-on learning and real-world applications that enable Reptonians to solve material problems facing our generation, STEM at Repton was considered award worthy.

Repton’s Head of Science, Dr Stuart Ingleston-Orme has been instrumental in collaborating closely with colleagues to craft Repton’s world-class STEM programme. He said: “We know there is great demand in the workplace for people who have skills associated with science, technology, engineering and mathematics, even in jobs that aren’t traditionally associated with STEM. Here at Repton these subjects are accessible to every pupil; our full-boarding culture means that departments are open all day, every day to any pupil who wants to use the facilities. We are enormously proud to have been singled out for this award, which pays testament to the high value we place on preparing pupils for life beyond school.”

Headmaster Mark Semmence commented: “Repton’s comprehensive STEM enrichment programme runs from Prep to Upper Sixth. We know that even pupils who choose not to pursue STEM subjects later in their education have a firm grounding in STEM principles to be well prepared for the workplace, so I am enormously grateful to our passionate teachers who continually develop engaging ways of ensuring our curriculum extends beyond what is required to pass an exam.”

Science days for Prep pupils at the senior school include practical lab lessons and visits to the observatory. Year 8 participate in the CREST awards, a scheme to inspire young people to think like scientists and engineers. Prep pupils engage in GreenPower F24 - designing and engineering their own electric cars and racing them at Goodwood and Aintree. F24+ at GCSE level will introduce electronics and gearing.

Pupils benefit from a flexible and creative approach to learning.

STEM AT REPTON PROMOTES LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES.

Repton’s through-school STEM programme has been singled out as the leader in its field having been awarded the Education Business STEM Award 2022.

Greenpower racing at Goodwood

After several long years of enforced absence due to the pandemic, it was a real delight over the Exeat weekend to be able to travel to ‘glorious’ Goodwood in West Sussex with a wonderful group of eager Greenpower engineers and aspiring racing car drivers from Repton Prep.

They were accompanied by the senior school Design Scholars Jacob and Chloe, who provided some much needed experience and insight gained from their time at Repton Prep. Mr Bowles and Mr Chapman helped to guide and encourage the two teams of pupils through a practice session and two long races where both teams worked together, learnt quickly and demonstrated genuine ingenuity and resilience, posting some very competitive lap times, especially in the second race of the day. There were a few hiccups and the occasional crash along the way, and much credit should go to Mr Bowles and Mr Chapman who managed to rebuild the front end of FR7 after an accident during the first race, just in time for the start of the second race! Both teams really enjoyed the whole experience of racing around the famous Goodwood track, and are really looking forward to the next event, building on the strong start they have made to the season.

The resurgence of Greenpower at Repton Prep is well-timed and coincides with a new Greenpower initiative at Repton School, where over 30 pupils have signed up to build a new workshop and kit car, as well as designing and developing a bespoke F24+ car that will be raced by our Sixth Formers. Building on the

strong foundations forged at Repton Prep, we are keen to continue the passion our pupils have developed for engineering, design, and teamwork, and can’t wait for our first car to roll off the production line.

The purpose of Greenpower is to challenge young people enthusiastic about science and engineering to design, build and race electric cars which can be raced at motorsport venues around the country. The Greenpower challenge uses the excitement of motorsport to inspire young people to excel in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM), with over 700 teams throughout the UK and more than 10,000 students taking part each year, from primary school age through to university.

With Repton winning the STEM Award in the 2022 Education Business Awards, in recognition of schools that have ‘excelled in the provision of a first-class environment for teaching STEM subjects including Maths, Technology and Sciences’, the future of STEM and engineering at Repton School has never been brighter!

DR STUART INGLESTON-ORME HEAD OF SCIENCE, REPTON SCHOOL

DANCE SHOW

SPORT

Boys’ Football

A fantastic feast of football occurred this year at Repton Prep and I thought it only right to pick out some of the champagne moments.

The 1st XI displayed some scintillating football but winning the Regional IAPS and reaching the last four of the National competition takes some beating. Throw into the mix a last 16 finish in the ESFA Cup and there is plenty to enjoy.

Our 2nd XI won the inaugural four-team tournament against Yarlet, Derby High and S Anselm’s 1st XI whilst our 3rd XI made the long trip to Packwood Haugh and emerged victorious in one of the best fixtures of the campaign.

The FFL (Foremarke Football League) was a roaring success with Howard T being the stand out player whilst our 4th and 5th XI also recorded successes against Packwood Haugh and had great fun.

Our 11As won the Midlands regional qualifier and enjoyed a fabulous day out at St George’s Park for the national ISFA finals whilst the 11Bs worked hard to record a memorable victory over Priory. Champagne moments for the 10s was a double away win for the As and Bs at Prestfelde who are consistently our toughest opponents on the circuit.

The U8s and U9s also made their first tentative steps on the road to football and the undoubted highlight was a rare

brace of victories against Warwick. Most importantly of all every boy across Year 3-8 represented the school in a football fixture and it was a joy to finally be back out on the grass and teaching them all.

Congratulations also go to Joe P, Ludo B and Izu C who were all selected to represent Midlands ISFA in the national festival at Shrewsbury School in April.

IAN CLARKSON HEAD OF FOOTBALL

Girls’ Football

There were champagne moments aplenty for the girls too. Winning the ISFA Midlands League, winning the ISFA Midlands Regional 7-a-side and, finishing third nationally – a fantastic achievement – in the national finals at the home of England Football, St George’s Park.

Reaching the quarter final in the Sisters ‘n’ Sport Cup was a fabulous achievement for the 1st XI whilst the 2nd XI put on a sizzling Saturday afternoon show at Loughborough High to record a victory.

Our 3rd XI were terrific in winning against QEGS Ashbourne whilst our 4th XI turned on the style beating Derby High in a local derby and our 5th XI were terrific in an enjoyable afternoon at Terra Nova with hot dogs for match tea!

The U11s finished runners up in the inaugural ISFA Midlands League with the champagne performance of the season coming in a victory at Terra Nova on possibly the coldest day of the winter! The Bs turned on the style with a memorable win at Wolverhampton Grammar and our 10As recorded a fabulous win at Fairfield whilst our 10Bs saved their best football performance of the campaign in a classic encounter at Crackley Hall.

The U8s and U9s played a series of festivals against opponents such as Swadlincote Wildcats, Fairfield, Tamworth LFC, RGS Worcester and Twycross House and demonstrated a huge enthusiasm and skill level. This was the first year many of our girls played football and they covered themselves in glory. What an absolute pleasure to teach!

IAN CLARKSON HEAD OF FOOTBALL

SPORT Hockey

What a fantastic year of hockey. I have been incredibly impressed across the teams, U8s through to the Year 8s. It has been wonderful to see so many involved in lessons and fixtures.

The Year 3 and 4 Girls and Boys are an exciting young group coming through the School. They certainly made an impact in their lessons and activities; high energy hockey, with no fear of trying new skills, it’s a joy to witness.

Upper School added to this with some great performances across the year groups in both fixtures and tournaments. Two performances that deserve recognition would be Year 7 and Year 8 Girls.

Firstly, a massive congratulations to the Year 7 Girls on their National title in the IAPS. They played some lovely hockey on the day and displayed superb resilience.

A fantastic achievement by our Year 8 Girls who achieved 1st place in the IAPS Regionals, 2nd Place in the IAPS Nationals and 2nd Place in In2Hockey National Finals. They have been an absolute joy to teach and their achievements this year highlights the talent of this group of young players.

It has been a true pleasure to teach every one of you. Thank you for your efforts this year. Good luck with all your Hockey for the next coming year and I wish all the Year 8s moving on an enjoyable experience continuing their sporting achievements in their senior schools.

RUSSELL ANDERSON HEAD OF HOCKEY

U12 National Champions

The competition took place at Repton, allowing the luxury of home support and a familiar environment to play our matches. After a series of tough and keenly fought group games we went through to the quarter finals as group winners.

The quarter final proved to be a close encounter with RPS starting nervously but finding our confidence as the match progressed. We came through once again with some absolutely superb teamwork, moving the ball quickly and slotting home some great goals.

Progressing to the semi-final, the team knew they were one match away from competing for the trophy and the gold medals. This game they dominated and progressed to compete for the title. There they met a very strong side. However, we were producing some great hockey to dominate and win the match comfortably and be crowned National Champions. A superb team performance and a fabulous reward for a group who worked so hard for one another across the season. Well done to all.

What a day of hockey the U12 girls produced to become IAPS National Hockey Champions.

Netball

U9 Netball

The girls have loved their introduction to netball this year, with some excellent fixtures for them against Pennine Way. The Year 4 girls will thrive in the versatilty matches next year, and we look forward to seeing them develop.

U10 Netball

The girls have begun their netball journey in earnest with enthusiasm; taking to versatility well. Playing versatility netball has allowed them all the opportunity to play a variety of positions, and to get to know the game. So many girls have made good progress this year, with some good fixtures against Bromsgrove, Spratton Hall and the Elms, with every girl having the opportunity to play in a tournament here at Repton Prep.

U11 Netball

All girls in Year 6 have played a mixture of versatility and 7 a side netball in readiness for Year 7 and senior teams. The U11 IAPS team was well contested with so many vying for a spot. After a slow start on the day the girls played in the Regional Plate and were runners up after some super shooting from all the team. Some fantastic netball development from so many this year, with good matches against some good opposition including Bromsgrove and Spratton Hall, with all pupils having the opportunity to play in tournaments held at the Prep School.

U12 Netball

U12 netball has gone from strength to strength this year, the girls have demonstrated a super effort all term, and have made good progress. With good games against Trent, Bromsgrove and Spratton Hall. The U12 IAPS National finals; whilst it may have been the soggiest tournament that we have been to it did not dampen our spirits or our effort. The girls having competed in the strongest round robin group, went into the Bowl competition after 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses. The girls’ play improved so much as the day went on, and were eventual winners of the Bowl, after extra time. A true display of that grit and determination, with some amazing decision making.

U13 Netball

The U13 girls are a talented group, with an outstanding work ethic on a netball court; they have all played their part in a very successful term. Every girl has had the opportunity to play in fixtures this term with fixtures against Derby High, Spratton, Trent and Oakham. The U13A (1st VII) have played some amazing netball and whilst they only won the Terra Nova tournament along with many matches including Derbyshire County squad, they were unlucky not to qualify for IAPS National Finals after losing in the Quarter Final to Spratton Hall.

Cricket

It has been amazing to see the commitment and enthusiasm shown throughout the year groups from Lower Prep through to Upper Prep. We had pupils of all abilities and experience levels come together and get stuck into lessons and fixtures, which was great to see.

The Year 3 and 4s brought great energy to each lesson and threw themselves into every activity, which meant they picked up new skills very quickly. Their competitive nature as year groups pushed their development further and made some game-based activities very exciting! I look forward to seeing them progress further and taking their skills into more fixtures in the future.

Upper Prep definitely caught the cricket bug, which made each lesson and fixture all the more enjoyable. As a collective it was refreshing to see the willingness to improve skills, and the encouragement they gave each other to push themselves further too. This was reflected in a successful term of fixtures where great cricket was played, all the while with smiles on faces. From all the efforts put in by the pupils there were some great achievements to show for it. The U11 Girls won the Hallfield School cricket festival. The U13 Girls came second in the Lady Taverners Regional Indoor competition after triumphing in the County Cup competition.

I know I speak on behalf of the whole sports department when I say it has been a pleasure to teach every one of you. I have been inspired by the passion you have all shown towards cricket and I hope this continues in the future. Thank you for making it such an enjoyable term. Good luck with all your cricket in the coming year, no matter who, what or where you are playing!

ADAM SOUTHORN RESIDENT GRADUATE ASSISTANT

The academic year was topped off with a Summer Term full of cricket, and what a term it was!

SPORT Swimming

Swimming continues to go from strength to strength at Repton Prep. This year we have seen the opening of the pool once again with a new look! We are very much looking forward to the new changing facility also. Lessons have continued for Reception through to Year 3, and in September swimming will again be offered in the curriculum to Years 3 - 8. The activity and swim squad sessions have been well attended throughout the Lent Term, with beginners through to our training squad swimmers regularly accessing the pool.

In March our regional swim squad took part in the qualifying round of the IAPS competition, swimming for qualification times for the finals which were held at the Aquatics Centre in London in June. Nineteen pupils represented Repton at the finals and what a fabulous experience it was for them. Many of our senior swimmers were finalists finishing in the top 8 in their respective event.

SPORT

Tennis European Open Doubles Champion

Our facilities, coaches and sports programme at Repton Prep allow us to maximise our pupils’ potential at whatever level they play. We are proud to coach and support talented Year 7 tennis player Eisha C as she balances her academic work with sporting commitments.

Playing in the Tennis Europe tournament at the Solid Tennis Academy in Rotterdam, Eisha topped her group, beating players from Belgium, Netherlands and Sweden. Her success in the competition meant that she was subsequently accepted into the next tournament main draw at Focus Tennis Academy where she ranked second in the group stages for singles.

Eisha C

In doubles, Eisha paired with a player from Italy and demonstrated her ability to be a fantastic team player, eventually going on to win the finals dropping just eight games.

Repton Prep tennis coach, Ben Rushby, praised Eisha for her commitment and skill: “It is great to see that Eisha’s performance at Solid in Rotterdam gave her confidence in the Focus tournament and we are proud of her for winning the doubles at her very first Tennis Europe event, in her first competition outside of the UK.”

Eisha went on to play in Azores, a Category 1 event, with strong competition from players across Europe.

SPORT

Cross Country National Prep Schools Cross Country at

What a fabulous way to finish our cross-country season with the Annual Prep School National Cross Country Championship. Repton Prep competitors were fabulous; their grit and determination on a tough cross-country course was outstanding. We had some superb results with Sophie P coming 15th in the Girls’ U11 Competition and Euan M 32nd in U11 Boys’ Cross Report. In both events there were over 100 competitors taking part.

We also had great success in the team events with the highlight of this competition being our U11 Girls coming in 10th overall. Sophia T, running a year young in the age group gave a fabulous performance. Jasmine M and Callie R also finished well to give the team a great points total. A superb day with fabulous team commitment and support from all. Well done to all who represented RPS so superbly.

Malvern, March 2022

SPORT

IAPs Triathlon

What a fabulous opportunity for our RPS Triathlon team. The squad ranging from U10s through to U13s competed in early May at Monkton Prep in the National IAPs triathlon event. It proved to be a lovely day and a fabulous experience for this group of pupils. Huge amounts of resilience, determination and sheer grit were on display which was fabulous to see. There were some superb performances with pupils placed in the top 10. Amelia Thompson in the U12 girls event came home with a well-deserved medal. We look forward to opening our triathlon club next year and hope for more pupils taking part in such a great event. A huge thank you must go to Mr Jones, who gave up his time to lead a pre competition session on transitions with the pupils in preparation for the event.

Sports Dinner

The sporting calendar came to a close with the Annual Sports Dinner. We were privileged to be joined by Scott Talbot, Repton’s Director of Swimming and former Olympic coach. Scott gave an inspirational speech recounting his journey in the swimming pool and the highs of lows of being an elite athlete. It was great to be able to celebrate our pupils sporting successes from on and off the sport field, and recognise the many ways that pupils contribute to sport at Repton Prep. The range of sports played has really highlighted the strength of our pupils across the board, as well as characteristics such as sportsmanship, resilience, and persistence. The level of sport on show this year (after having disrupted lessons for the past few years) has also been superb. A huge congratulations and thank you to everyone who has represented Repton Prep on a sport team this year.

Well done to all the award winners this year!

Lower Prep Sports Day

The Lower Prep Sports Day was a huge success! It was so lovely to have all our parents back to support the children in their track and field events. We saw some brilliant battles on the track, and some races finished with a photo finish being needed! On the field, the children jumped and threw brilliantly well. The performances on show were superb, as were the banners to cheer on the Houses! All the children fully participated and, most importantly, enjoyed the afternoon. Well done to everyone involved, and a big congratulations to Wavell for winning!

SPORT

Upper Prep Sports Day

We were back at Shobnall Athletics Track for our Upper Prep Sports Day. There was a great atmosphere with all the Houses cheering on their competitors, as well as having our parents back! The level of athletics on show, as well as the team work and sportsmanship was fantastic. We witnessed a number of school records broken in both the track and field events across all age groups! Well done to all the children who participated and made it a brilliant morning of sport. Congratulations to Ava for winning the Victrix Ludorum and to Joe for winning the Victor Ludorum. Finally, congratulations to Mountbatten for winning the overall Upper Prep Sports Day!

Friends of Repton

Our sincere thanks go to all of the parents who volunteer their time to fundraise for our School as part of Friends of Repton.

We remain enormously grateful to FoR for supporting existing events, such as the Year 7 and 8 performance of Alice in Wonderland by serving refreshments, helping pull together the parents cricket team for the Staff vs Parents fixture on Repton’s 1st XI ground and organising a series of parents breakfasts at Prep, as well as developing exciting new events, such the Summer Fete and Fun Cricket, which took place during the summer term.

A note from the Chair:

Friends of Repton is expanding its role and reach with more staff representatives on the committee, and whilst our core activities remain at Prep we also do joint events with Repton to forge stronger links. The Stock Exchange (uniform second hand shop) is a vital service for parents exclusively run by FoR.

Additionally, we have created a space for parents to have more communication with the new Head

so from September onwards, the first fifteen minutes of every meeting will be protected time for the Head and parents to meet. We will also be offering drop in coffee mornings for parents just to pop into the hall and meet other parents.

I would urge more parents to get involved – we have smaller roles for parents to share their skills and resources but don’t necessarily have a lot of time to devote to FoR.

Please do get in touch with me at forchair@repton.org.uk if you have any ideas, questions or the time to help Friends of Repton.

BAL KANG-MOHR FRIENDS OF REPTON CHAIR

FRIENDS OF REPTON CRICKET

FRIENDS OF REPTON FÊTE

STAFF LEAVERS

Staff Leavers

Rob Relton

Rob has a very caring nature and always put children at the heart of every decision he made at the school. Rob never failed to amaze in the way that he could adapt to varying situations at the drop of a hat, as well as recall the tiniest of detail or reference a pupil instantly along with their talents, achievements, or interests. He always welcomed new and prospective pupils to the school with enthusiasm and interest, often offering strong words of encouragement to help increase confidence and reassure any nervous new pupils.

Rob led the school through what must have been two of the most difficult years that education has seen with the impact of Covid involving numerous lockdowns and the delivery of remote learning. Supported by a strong team, Rob led with a calm and measured approach. Each decision made with thorough and well-balanced thought. In what were unprecedented times, Rob was never shaken, and his ability and willingness to adapt and change ensured that the school supported our pupils and parents well throughout this time. Rob’s attention to detail was impeccable, ensuring high standards and expectations in all areas of school life.

Rob always showed an interest in life outside of work and ensured that a healthy work life balance was achieved as much as possible. There aren’t many of us that don’t know about Rob’s love of cycling and his early morning starts to embrace the local countryside before the school day began. A true example of how to best start a day with a fresh mindset and energetic approach of which he did often.

Jack Johnson

It feels like Jack has been at Repton for longer than the two years, he has made a huge impact not only in boarding, but also on the games field. He has supported the PE Department throughout, in all areas.

Jack’s willingness to take on any challenge is what truly stands out. His willingness to lead groups and deliver sessions for the pupils of Repton Prep during the evenings has been fabulous. His commitment and dedication to the pupils he is working with is visible to all. His encouragement and support whether in the swimming pool, on the Astro or out on the cricket square has been wonderful. The pupils love Jack for this endless support and care.

He will he hugely missed by the children and the PE staff. We all wish Jack the very best as he starts his dream course to complete his training to become a teacher.

SAM MANSFIELD

Jordan Lee-McDonald

Jordan has been a hugely popular and valuable member of staff. Apart from the fact he is an Aston Villa fan, there is much to admire about Jordan. His willingness to throw himself into any job and also willingness to learn any sport mean he leaves Repton Prep with invaluable experience. He had to step up, in particular, in the final term of cricket and his work behind the scenes and in lessons was excellent.

We wish Jordan all the best with his teacher training and I fully expect him to go on and achieve success in whatever role he decides to undertake.

A fellow Brummie, a top chap and all round good egg, Jordan’s impact in 12 months has been hugely impressive.

IAN CLARKSON

Justin Pugsley

Our fond farewells and best wishes go to Justin, who has worked across the school in English, History, Sport and Boarding during his two year tenture. His hands on approach has made him a popular practitioner, bringing History and English to life for his pupils, who are often seen outside of the classroom using our wonderful grounds to recreate historical events or practising plays ready to perform to other year groups, which I’m told are a particular hit with Lower Prep.

His ‘School of Rock’ has reignited some old classics within the Prep School, with many a ten or eleven year old able to sing YMCA and Money Money Money lyrics by heart. His bake offs, discos, golfing, pie-face, water fights, zombie games and incredible stash of sweets put him at the centre of all things fun.

He always has time for the pupils and will be missed by all who have interacted with him. He takes his many years experience to Bilton Grange where we wish him every happiness in his role as Year 4 class teacher.

OLIVIA SLOANE

Mike Casey

After starting with us in 2016 as a Teacher of PE, Mike Casey became Head of Boarding in 2018 and was then appointed as Deputy Head Pastoral and Boarding in 2020.

When the pandemic hit us all in 2020 Mike was instrumental in setting up and organising the school’s key worker provision and contact-tracing, and because of his fantastic logistical abilities during this time he has become affectionately known as ‘The Covid King’!

As Head of Boarding, Mike has reinvigorated the boarding provision and ensured that boarding has a prosperous future ahead of itself at Repton Prep. In this role he’s always put the wellbeing and enjoyment for pupils at the heart of decision making, ensuring that they have a packed and varied program of weekend and evening activities, as well as time with teachers each night to support their academic progress.

Since becoming Deputy Head Pastoral, Mike has had a clear focus on safeguarding, pastoral care and wellbeing throughout the school. He has linked many pupils with external support, counselling and supported many of our families through difficult times, for which they will always be grateful. Mike’s personal love of sailing has enabled pupils to benefit from IAPS sailing competitions and he was a knowledgeable and dependable hockey coach to many over the years.

We wish Mike the best of luck as he takes on a new role as Deputy Head at Hollygirt School in Nottingham, and we have no doubt that many more pupils will be benefitting from his dedication and expertise in the future.

Angie Knowles

Angie joined the Catering team in August 2016. Popular from the outset with staff and pupils alike with her infectious personality and fantastic baking ability out of School hours too.

After six years at the Prep, Angie has decided to take a slightly early retirement and will be greatly missed, we all wish you the very best.

Gemma Mayfield

Gemma has been a fabulous member of the PE team for this past academic year. She has supported behind the scenes on the huge admin load and delivered on the games field to the children. Her love of netball has impacted many pupils and her support and guidance for the girls has been fantastic.

She also loves her swimming and recently travelled down with the IAPs National Swim team, supporting and encouraging those pupils to achieve their very best in such a wonderful competition.

On a department level she has brought fun and laughter into the office along with her beautiful Labrador, Ember. We will miss Gemma and Ember hugely and wish her every happiness and success as she moves onto pastures new outside of teaching.

Thank you for everything you have done for the children at RPS and don’t forget to come and see us.

SAM MANSFIELD

SAMANTHA KRBACEVIC AND KELLEE CAVILL

Jenny began her Foremarke journey when her husband, Paul, was appointed to teach Maths. She and Paul arrived with their three young sons from Nottingham. Initially Jenny split her time doing some supply work whilst continuing with her previous school in Nottingham.

To start with Jenny was based in the Pre-Prep, part time for two years. During this time Jenny quickly showed her high teaching calibre and was also in demand in the Lower School. Her friendly demeanour and kindness came to the fore and she quickly established herself as an excellent addition to the staff room.

Jenny took over the running of Nightingale, the girls’ boarding house, in 2004 and her strong family and maternal instincts ensured that the house was running at full capacity of 32 girls. Interestingly parents recognised that she worked tirelessly to create a home from home atmosphere and were keen to send their young daughters to enjoy the boarding experience. It was testament to her care that half of the girls were aged 7-10 years old. The boarding team at this time, the Martins, Owens and Debenhams, affectionately referred to themselves as ‘the dream team’! She worked tirelessly ensuring that there were varied activities on offer each evening. Her door was open whenever any girl felt homesick or need reassurance about anything. Jenny continued in this role until 2008. As greater demands were being made to spend more time in the classroom and while catering for the changing needs of her own family, Jenny was never one to do anything by halves, therefore Jenny and Paul relinquished running Nightingale to take on a more supportive role helping with duties and activities and moved into the Library Flat. The opportunity to teach Year 3 as a job share arose in 2006. As the outstanding candidate, I was delighted to welcome Jenny to join the Lower School team. Her strong work ethic and friendly personality ensured that she fitted in with ease. Jenny’s attention to detail and meticulous planning are paramount to her and nothing is ever left to chance. She can be found in her classroom at 7.00am each morning, setting up for the day ahead. Her dedication and thoughtfulness towards pupils who had special educational needs were catered for as she made individual prompts to help them.

From April 2009, Jenny became a full time Year 3 teacher. Year 3 is the starting point for Key Stage 2 in the curriculum and is often a large entry point for new children joining Prep, the importance of managing a strong and successful transition programme is vital. Jenny worked closely with the

Pre-Prep team to devise meetings, play times and activities to help often nervous and apprehensive children transition seamlessly into Year 3. Behind the facade of the 1970s grey brickwork, Year 3 is a fun place to be!

Her artistic eye came to the fore when organising displays. Jenny was always looking for new ideas and ways to show off the children’s work in her form room, the corridor and in the Reception area. Her displays were always colourful, interactive and fun. She understood that some children view Mathematics as an enigma. With endless patience and props, she mostly managed to get the children to see this subject as fun.

Understanding that children learn in different ways, she helped to organise living History and Science days, both off site and at Prep, maximising the potential within the school grounds. Jenny was always generous with her time, helping to guide and reassure new staff within the team, sharing resources and being there to give helpful advice.

Jenny became the Junior Activities Co-ordinator from 2015. Her superb organisational skills were often tested to ensure that the majority of children could get their first choice from a very varied activity programme. The varied personnel from the staff room and outside staff had to be organised to ensure each afternoon ran smoothly. She was often outside taking photos of the activities and mounting them onto displays so that parents could enjoy seeing their offspring in action.

Jenny is a close friend to many in each section of school. Whenever there is a social event going on, she always volunteers to help to set up, decorate tables and rooms. These events stretch from the Christmas boarders’ feast, staff Christmas party to the Year 8 Leavers’ Ball. She also played a major role with school plays, helping behind the scenes with costumes, make up and scenery. Over the years she has accompanied many school ski trips during half term of the start of the Easter holidays.

I have had the pleasure of working closely with Jenny when she joined the Lower School team until my retirement in 2019. Jenny was a loyal, trustworthy, committed and hardworking lady and she was an absolute pleasure to work with. I wish her good health and every happiness as she retires from teaching to work alongside her husband and to be able to spend more time with her family. She will be sorely missed at Prep and will be a tough act to follow.

PAULINE CHRISTODOULOU

Jenny Martin

Karen Coombs

Karen Coombs has been a teacher at Repton Prep for 13 years, and in that time she has worn numerous hats, most notably teaching in the English and History departments. She has always given more than her full effort and energy to her work, and the pupils over the years have benefitted hugely from her impeccable organisation, planning and preparation as well as her creativity in all that she delivered.

Karen has also led many whole school events and taken on additional responsibility, from being Head of Wavell for a number of years and putting her creative talents to good use in the House music competition, to leading the house general knowledge quiz. She has always had a passion for instilling general knowledge and a love of literature in the pupils and was a keen member of the ‘Foremarke Book Club’! As Head of History, she has led many school trips, such as Year 7s annual trip to Quarry Bank Mill, but historically she’s supported many more, like the History Mystery Trips to (the clue’s in the name) literally anywhere as long as there were some obscure historical points of interest to learn along the way.

Karen will be best known to many of our pupils as a passionate campaigner for recycling, making the school a greener place, re-wilding and gardening clubs, running the eco-committee and also empowering the pupils to have a voice both locally, nationally and internationally, supporting charities and also writing to MPs to fight for change.

Karen will be sorely missed by staff and pupils alike and the passion that she brings to her work and projects will be hard to replace. We all wish her the best of luck in retirement and hope that her passions will be redirected to projects close to her heart and home in the coming years.

SAMANTHA KRBACEVIC

Morag Dunion

Morag joined the school in January 2006. She was an experienced research scientist with a background in Zoology. Morag thought she might stay just a year, and I am thrilled she chose to stay on and share her expertise for the following 16 years.

Morag has been a very dedicated and inspirational laboratory technician. Her passion for science has shone through everything that she has done for the Science department. This has included many hours in the labs with the children keeping a watchful eye over slightly more hazardous chemistry experiments. As well as pond dipping, woodlice hunting, weekend field trips to North Yorkshire, supporting the children at the National Space Centre and Thinktank, helping to run the Science Chemistry clubs and attending university chemistry competitions with me (we always came away with prizes!). She even gave up her precious holiday time and helped out on the French trip to Normandy and on our school ski trip to Morzine.

Morag organised us, making sure that the Science teachers in the department (and non-scientists when we have needed extra help) have been ready to deliver outstanding practical lessons with all the right kit. She has been an exceptional colleague and friend to many of us here at Repton Prep School.

Morag will be missed, and we wish her all the best in her next adventure.

Margaret Hollyoake

Mrs Hollyoake (or Mrs H to many) has been a stalwart in the boarding community at Repton Prep for a very impressive 17 years. During her time with us she has undoubtedly positively influenced all of the boarders in her care, offering a stable and comforting support each and every evening. Whether it was sewing name labels, helping with evening activities or making jugs of her infamous hot chocolate,

Mrs H did it all to perfection and her cheerful and friendly persona will be sorely missed by all.

Thankfully Mrs Hollyoake won’t be a stranger as, although enjoying a quiet retirement, she will continue to support and assist the boarding pupils in her role as an independent listener.

CLAIRE WALDOCK

Julie Redfern

Julie joined Repton Prep in June 1989. She has spent an incredible 32 years with us and still looks no older than when she joined. As you can imagine Julie became an invaluable member of our domestic staff and huge support for her team members. She arrived early each morning, without fail, in all weathers to serve breakfast to our boarders and boarding staff. She joined the team to look after the whole school through lunch times and to refresh the Staff Common Room kitchen each afternoon.

From her colleague of five years: “She is a bubbly character and nothing was too much trouble. We did have some laughs along the way. Julie will be missed within the team for some time to come!”

Caroline Adams

Caroline began her time at Foremarke, as we were then, as a Junior Matron in January 1990. She has since taken on a variety of roles including Houseparent and medical assistant. When flexi boarding began, Caroline ran the House and mentored the gappers. In 2005 she took up her role in the Nursery. Repton Prep is lucky to have had such a vivacious and kind person who cared for and nurtured all the children she looked after.

All who have worked with her remember with pleasure her never-ending conversation and bubbly nature.

Caroline is part of the exclusive club of staff who have served over two decades at School. Thank you for the fun, laughter and tears. Her huge personality will be greatly missed by all and we wish her every success as she trains to be a Mental Health Nurse.

Zoe Summers

Zoe started her 35-year career at Foremarke Hall back in 1987 when a friend told her about a job working in the evenings on the domestic team. This suited her family life with young children of pre-school age, but once they had started full-time school Zoe increased her hours. Being a wonderful team player, it was noticed that Zoe had many other talents and she was invited to take over the Pre-Prep After School Care from Jan Harding, which she ran alongside her other role on the Domestic Team. She was unstinting in her sense of duty and kept a watchful eye on the children in her care, providing guidance, compassion, and a sense of fun. Zoe ran this single handed and her contribution did not go unnoticed. Before long Richard Theobald and Ann Pellech realised that Zoe would be an asset within the teaching team, and she was invited to apply for a Teaching Assistant position in Pre-Prep.

On the day of the interview, Zoe was summoned to Richard Theobald’s office and after what she described as a ‘good chat’ Zoe was offered the job. On returning to the Pre-Prep Zoe was greeted by Ann Pellech and the rest of the team, who were wise to the job offer, and they were all there to celebrate her new position as Teaching Assistant. Zoe admitted she was so overwhelmed and thrilled, she cried! She said that staff always had been fantastic in the Pre-Prep/ Lower Prep Garden team, ‘like a family,’ which Zoe then became a devoted and much respected member of, for the next 23 years.

Zoe’s energy, love for the job and care for the many hundreds of children she supported and taught, was obvious and was rewarded with the kind words of staff, parents, and pupils. She was described as ‘a talented team player who supported and taught the children with kindness and skill, always great to work with.’ As well as providing support within the form room, she would often be seen taking a moment to read with a child, sitting on the floor of the library playing a game, baking cakes with a group or in a corner having a quiet chat with a pupil who just needed a moment. Always there to support. She was very much loved by her colleagues too, who in return became her ‘support network’ through difficult family times, with two of her daughters having serious health problems. Some of her favourite memories of school were the many school trips to Shugborough Hall and Tamworth Castle to name a few, which although exhausting, were some of what Zoe described as the ‘best bits.’ Her dedication and energy levels never waned, but after Covid and some time furloughed, Zoe decided she would retire at Christmas 2021.

A well-deserved retirement after so many years of kind-hearted service at Foremarke Hall, something she regarded as ‘a work family.’ However, although she misses that sense of belonging to Repton Prep, with her husband Martin, Mum, three daughters and seven grandchildren, Zoe is kept terribly busy; and as her daughter said, ‘definitely living her best life.’ Do not forget to find some time for yourself! Thank you, Zoe, for your dedication, hard work, commitment, kindness and making the difference to so many children, parents, and colleagues’ lives, it has been a privilege to work with you.

ROSIE CLARK

reptonprep.org.uk